Bill Clinton had just been inaugurated as the nation’s 42nd president, Garth Brooks was riding high on the country music charts and the Potterville High School marching band purchased new uniforms. 1993 was a memorable year for many reasons, but the Vikings have been holding onto those uniforms for 22 years.
It may be time to let them go.
In fact, that is exactly what band members are hoping to do. In an effort to raise enough money to purchase new uniforms and provide some much needed TLC to aging instruments, the Potterville Music Boosters have taken to the web via the crowdfunding site, GoFundMe. They have established a $30,000 goal and had managed to raise more than $2,000 in 10 days.
The ultimate goal is to have new uniforms — Zoot Suits — by the time the band heads to Orlando for the Character Parade at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom next spring. The uniforms selected cost $405 each and the band needs enough to outfit 55 members. Average instrument repair is $160.
“Our current uniforms are clearly past their prime and are showing their age,” stated Kristal Anspach, Potterville Music Boosters president. “Split pant and coat seams, ragged cuffs on pant legs and coat sleeves, buttons falling off, broken zippers, broken straps and other parts on hand, and kids not having uniforms that fit properly are just some of our problems.”
The boosters are looking for sponsors to help complete the project, though they will accept donations in any amount. Corporate, individual or family sponsors can donate at a number of levels: $405 for a full uniform; $225 for a marching coat; $110 for marching bib pants; $45 for a marching hat; or $25 for a plume.
Visit www.GoFundMe.com/6u52y7e8 to donate online or make checks payable to Potterville Music and mail to: Potterville Music Booster, 420 N High St., Potterville, MI 48876.
