As some of you may know our local university Jacksonville State University has a world class marching band. In fact, they are so good they've been invited to travel half way around the world to ring in the New Year. Each of the 200+ band members attending is responsible for paying his or her $3000 fee. The last payment is due November 1 and many do not have the cash.
As a member of Leadership Calhoun County, I believe it is my responsibility to help make this happen. During our last meeting we visited area industries and learned from one of our speakers that if something benefits one of our cities, it benefits all of Calhoun County. This is definitely the case with a world class event such as the one the Southerners will attend.
In the next few days, I will be receiving a list from Ken Bodiford the director of bands which will state how much is owed by each individual student and the students major. What I propose is that the student will be matched with a business similar to their major of study. The business will then pay all or part of the remainder of the student's fee with the agreement that the student will "work off" the debt at the rate of $10 per hour. It is a win-win situation. The student works for the money, gets experience in the field and makes valuable connections; the business gets someone that is eager to learn the business and makes lasting connections with potential employess and builds loyalty with future Calhoun County residents.
Please let me know if you are interested in participating in "No Band Member Left Behind"
You are so fantastic. I just spoke to a student who has only paid $600 of the $3000 and is trying to fund raise the rest by the deadline. I hope he and others will benefit from this. Thank you for making a difference for the community and helping these wonderful, talented students.
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