Being a member in a band that has earned national and international recognition is something to be forever remembered — especially when it provides opportunities to play in Rose Bowl parades and events in London, England.

Recognition of the high school marching band performances can be attributed to the direction of Parker Bixby. However, the opportunity to travel to distant locations can also be attributed to the support of a community that is proud of its band (members). Band family members who will be home during the July 9 Summer Celebration have the opportunity to give back to the community. All that is required is to attend a two-hour rehearsal Thursday evening, July 7, with the other community volunteers, and about four hours on Saturday morning, July 9, playing the five-block long parade route to some very appreciative fans. (Other high school volunteers in the parade are the Cheer and Drill Team.)

The value of giving back to the community for its support is something I learned as a member of the Husky Marching Band in 1936. Without media and public contributions, we would not have been able to go the 1937 Rose Bowl. The Husky learned its lesson then and has participated in all Seattle Summer festivals (Seafair) ever since. Seattle high schools have an All City Band comprised of high school volunteers wanting to perform as a way of showing appreciation for  community support during the year.

I offer any Mercer Island high school band member the opportunity of making sure that we have a respectable community marching band  in this year’s parade.

Please phone me at (206) 232-0762 or email me at bertpound@yahoo.com ASAP.

Bert Pound