Music to our ears!

This week the Vandalia-Butler Foundation celebrated two grants — $3,558 for band percussion instruments for Morton musicians and $2,750 for band bells, a stand and xylophone replacements for Butler band members.

“Today’s Middle School drummers will be tomorrow’s high school percussionists performing at the Performing Arts Theater. Congratulations!” said Jean Maychack on behalf of the A.R.T. Fund.

Added Dan Brinker, director of bands: “Our Butler and Morton Band Department is so thankful for the support of our community (through Abbey Financial Credit Union, VISIONS, A.R.T., The American Legion and the countless others) who allow us the opportunities to succeed. These grants will help us revitalize a large chunk of our equipment that hundreds of students will use over the coming years. We couldn’t be more grateful to have their support.”

It’s time to strike up the band.

(Photos by Mary Stephens, Vandalia-Butler City Schools. Top photo (l-r) Candice Farst, co-president of the Vandalia-Butler Foundation; Denise Eder, chair of the education committee of the Vandalia-Butler Foundation; Jean Maychack, VISIONS committee member and representative for A.R.T.; Dan Brinker, director of bands; and Alicia Hawkins and Gary Harper of American Legion Post 668. Left photo: Dan Brinker, director of bands; Blanca Criner and Patty Anderson from Abbey Credit Union; Buck Williamson, principal at Butler High School; and Candice Farst, co-president of the Vandalia-Butler Foundation. Right photo: Blanca Criner and Patty Anderson from Abbey Credit Union with band members.)