Oodles of Noodles helps Italy Band meet their financial goal
Emily has style — Emily Stiles shows off the keylime pie that was auctioned for $150. The Gladiator Regiment Band sponsored “Oodles of Noodles” Spaghetti Dinner at the Uptown Cafe Saturday night. All proceeds go towards the band’s expenses during the year. (Anne Sutherland)
The action at the Uptown Cafe was busy on Saturday night to say the least. The streets were humming with business for the Italy High School Regiment Band. Band boosters of all varieties came together for a good cause.
The Gladiator Regiment Band Boosters with the help of friends, family and the community met their goal and then some this weekend. Band Booster member, Shirley Cullom donated her time and talents taking donations at the door of the Uptown Cafe, “We made around $1200 this year. We met our goal of $1000, which is what we achieved last year,” she said.
Shirley also commented on how wonderful the community supported the band, “We’ve been busy all night. We started about 5:00 and have been packed the whole time.” Assorted prizes were raffled throughout the evening, which included a 19" flat-screen TV, IPOD, Chili’s restaurant certificate, $100 Visa card, camera and homemade pies. The prizes were furnished by Clover Stiles, Kathy Haight and Flossie Gowan.
In addition to an Italian supper of spaghetti, the hungry crowd was also treated to live music from band members. Band director, Jesus Perez, said, “We’ve had a good turnout this year. It was great to have the kids play. The community was able to see what they are investing in this year.” Courtney Johnson and Kierra Wilson, 7th graders, were among some of the students that performed solos and duet on flutes. Juan Suaste, 7th grader, performed on trumpet and Collier Jacinto and Taz Martinez, 11th graders, performed on trumpets. The evening was filled with music from many students.
Band parent, Billy Burkhalter, emceed the affair and helped raise money at auction time of the evening. He was able to deliver one-liners with a great reception from the crowd. Perez said, “Mr. Burkhalter is probably responsible for 20% of our revenue. He is a great emcee and entertainer. He’s a hoot!”
The 3rd Annual Spaghetti feast helps band members with necessities, band trips or anything needed during the year. Band parents cook and the band members waitress, serve and perform cleanup. Everyone gets together and has a great time. The band is appreciative for all the support received and hope to have as great a turnout next year. Go ahead and pencil it on your calender and plan to be here next year. It’s a lot of fun.