Optimist Band performing National Anthem at the Blind
Olympics
| Year | 1997 | 1998 | 1999 | 2000 | 2001 | 2002 |
| Members | 0 | 13 | 24 |
In 1997, Gerry/Betsy/Don looked at each other and,
completely uninformed, took on the challenge of re-starting the OPTIMIST YOUTH BAND. We
found some drums and some knowledge of the prior band. Two years of working with the kids
at WILSON up to 3 days per week, driving them many miles to practices and events, looking
for donations and help with driving and food has been rewarded with a bunch of kids that
are enjoying themselves, learning music and relationship teamwork. We are awarding
ourselves a well done for the completion of phase I of this project We will not tell you
about phases II and III as the thought scares us. You will hear from us as we need your
support.
As to support, we are very proud of the many Optimists and music friends that have given of their time, energy and money. Also we must mention that ten Optimist clubs have donated money. The La Jolla Music store has donated many instruments which are invaluable.
All of this has been completed on a minimum of money. Instruments and uniforms are expensive. As of now we have not spent any money on instruments except drum harnesses. Uniforms are T-shirts and inexpensive windbreakers.
More: We think we can handle more students and would like to have musicians from other areas of town. Please get the word out. We also would want more Optimist participation. Call us at (619) 232-3036.
We have an active Board of Directors and I know I speak for them as well as for myself in saying I am extremely pleased with our accomplishments and wish to congratulate all of you for your participation and contributions.
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We are pleased to announce two new associate instructors. Tia Gardner and Kyle
Blase are both music graduates, play and instruct musical instruments and have
incredible skills to work with teenagers.
We have been marching and training for five years with about one event or parade
per month. We are now scheduling the Blind Olympics April 5, Lakeside Parade
April 26, Kensington Memorial Day Parade May 26, La Mesa Flag Day Parade June
14. Anyone have any others? We are growing and need more uniforms, more music
stands and instruments.