DAVE BENJAMIN Jackson Liberty High School senior Paul Maier performs for the Jackson Township Council after receiving a certificate of merit from the governing body. JACKSON — It is not too often that a high school trombonist gets feature billing at a government meeting, but Jackson Liberty High School senior Paul Maier had that honor at the March 24 Township Council meeting.

Maier was recognized by the council for his performance with the U.S. Army All- American Marching Band, which performed at the U.S. Army All-American Bowl. The football game featuring high school standouts was played at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, on Jan. 3.

The band featured the nation's top 97 high school marching musicians from more than 500 high school students who applied for the honor. Maier was the only student chosen from New Jersey.

All expenses for the musicians and the high school football players who participated in the U.S. Army All-American Bowl were paid for by the bowl game committee.

Maier performed "The Star-Spangled Banner" for the council members and those in attendance at the March 24 meeting.

Council President Mike Kafton informed those in attendance of the honor that Maier received by performing with the U.S. Army All-American Marching Band. He said Maier was nominated for the honor by his music teacher and band director Scott Katona.

"I am very proud of all the musical accomplishments our students make, but I am especially proud of Paul," said Katona. "He is a hard worker and a dedicated musician and he deserves this honor. We are very proud that you represented Jackson."

Kafton and the other council members presented Maier with a certificate of merit.

Councilman Scott Martin said Maier did a great job and noted that the young man is also a talented actor.

"Many people don't know that Paul is an accomplished actor," said Martin. "He performed last year for the Jackson Liberty Drama Club in 'The Pajama Game' and also in this year's performance of 'Anything Goes.' He did an outstanding job in both of those performances."

Maier then played an encore, a portion of the John Philip Sousa march "Stars and Stripes Forever," for the council.

— Dave Benjamin