Resident is grateful for child’s participation in band

School band programs teach children not only how to play an instrument, but also more life-essential skills on how to work with other people, and how to work as a group. The school band program in Jackson also teaches children that the reward of investing time and effort is success. The success of the Jackson Memorial High School marching band program is evident by consistent awards won in competition and the repeat invitations it receives to perform at major venues.

I cannot think of another group that should have enjoyed exhibiting their well-honed skills in their hometown more than the Jackson Memorial High School marching band on Jackson Day. Unfortunately, I understand the attack on the World Trade Center affected the band’s schedule, as it did many others.

For the Jackson Memorial High School marching band, the day designated as Jackson Day included the parade, a previously scheduled emendatory session and the football game originally scheduled for the night before. For the children in the band and for the solemnity of the time, the correct although disappointing decision was to remove the band from the parade.

As to the issue of financial support, the Jackson Memorial High School marching band must continue to raise much of the money required by its program. All the kids in the band participate in fund-raising, because Jackson’s program is an exceptional opportunity for children to acquire skills and have experiences that would otherwise remain unrealized.

I am very grateful my children participate in this enriching program. I encourage other parents to enroll their children in their school bands. I thank the people of Jackson for their support of the Jackson Memorial High School marching band.

The dividends are citizens that Jackson Township can proudly call its own. If you doubt this claim, come to a high school football game or band competition. See and hear for yourself how competently these hard working kids perform, and how well they represent the great community of Jackson Township.

David McPolin

Jackson