DOUGLAS, Ala. (WHNT) — The Pride of Douglas Marching Band is four months away from performing at the Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Hawaii. With around $225,000 in travel expenses left to fundraise, they’re asking the community to help.
“We’re a growing program and we’re trying to let our kids know that they’re deserving of the same things that other programs are,” said Band Director Jesse Tiner. “We’ve done some things, but this is definitely the biggest for us.”
The Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade takes place in Waikiki on December 7th. Tiner said the band was invited to attend after submitting recordings of their performances.
Sophomore Max Rodriguez said the band was overjoyed when they heard the news at their Christmas concert.
“Everyone was like, you know, cheering because like, this is new,” he said. “Douglas High School going to Hawaii is something I never thought about here in my years of marching band and I’m really excited.”
Freshman Drum Major MaKynli Beard will be lead the drum section in the Memorial Parade. She said she’s nervous but excited for the opportunity to practice leadership.
“I will up-bring kids and everybody else and will definitely be serious when I need to be, but other than that, just have fun until the serious parts come.”
Tiner said the band has raised roughly $50,000 of their $275,000 goal and are planning several fundraising events over the summer, including a Band Bazar May 30 and 31 at the VFW Fairgrounds in Boaz.
“I think pretty soon we’re gonna cross 50 vendors, some larger food trucks, lots of arts and crafts, live music throughout both days, lots of kids activities,” he said.
Tiner said the band is also hosting a benefit concert on June 28 featuring local bands and a range of genres.
For more information on ticket sales, upcoming fundraisers, and how to support the Pride of Douglas Marching Band, visit their website or Facebook page.
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