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LHSGBOPC BYLAWS Approved March 2024

 

General Meeting 2/15/24

Financial Reports

Board Members in attendance:  Allen Frank, Bill Lennox, Tina Martucci, Jacqui Fortsch, Cory Dailey, Jeanette Dennis, and Joyce James

 

Tina welcomed everyone to the meeting and asked for a motion to approve last month’s minutes.    It was noted that per the by-laws, even though there is a motion and a second, there still needs to be a vote from the overall assembly. A motion was made by AnnaLisa Kelly-Covatta,  seconded by Sue Testa, and approved by the group.

 

Cory reported that there are no new updates on volunteer needs.

 

Jacqui reported updated fundraisers.  Mateys pizza runs from now until the 19th.  Pampered Chef will start March 1 and will benefit student accounts.  Mr. Sticky’s sticky buns will be March 27, flowers May 12, and salsa May 5.  Be on the lookout for emails.

 

Jeanette presented the Treasurer’s report and the budget comparison.  Per the bylaws, the treasurer’s report does not need a monthly approval since it is just reporting the income vs expenses for the month.

 

Sue Testa pointed out some ways to present the report that would make it more transparent and easier for everyone to understand, such as reporting incomes as separate lines items and identifying what the income was from (ie fair share, Bingo, bandstand) and display them on separate pages as well as breaking out fund raising efforts on separate line items.   Sue also made suggestions on budget structure and expressed some frustration in how fair share cost is calculated each year especially and how fair share money is used.  Sue and Jeanette will connect on how ro make the discussed changes.

 

Currently the bandstand income is negative.  but that was explained as we made large purchases in order to restock the inventory for the remainder of the year and going forward. 

 

Speaking of bandstand inventory, we are still in need of a parent or two to take over the inventory process.   Please let Cory know if you’re interested.

 

Allen spoke of including the directors in the conversations on the finances.  We want to be able to alleviate financial burden situations when we can.  That means taking some of the stress off of families, taking care of the instrument side of things and getting gear to where it should be.

 

For pipers, we are looking at forming a partnership with a company in Scotland willing to work with us to get pipes.

 

Reminder to please check the weekly bulletin for information.  There is a lot going on and many questions can be answered with the information that gets passed along weekly.

 

District orchestra went extremely well.  The students said that it was the best one they attended.  There were 104 students from 26 schools from Berks to Carbon county.  All the volunteers student and adult made everything run smoothly.  Thank you.

 

Big congratulations for the 4 students moving on to regionals.  They are…

 

Tom Cramer

Andrew Fortsh

Ethan Hawkes

Casey Huey

 

Regional band is next Thursday at Eastern York HS.  LHS has 4 students going to that.  We have 10 students in county band on March 16.

 

Pipes and drums gigs start picking up in March with the Red Hot Chili Pipers March 7 and continuing with the parade of shamrocks.

 

The band spring concert is 4/5 and 4/6.  The orchestra concert is 4/26 and the orchestra pops concert is 5/3.  It will be held bak in the memorial gym.

 

Encourage your students to practice at home.  It just supplements the efforts going on at school rehearsals.

 

Summer band will begin 8/5.  Next year’s band numbers will remain about the same .  The incoming class was 4th graders during the pandemic.  The orchestra numbers will go up because they were able to have more instruction during the pandemic.

 

Trip discussions are being held.  Waiting for approval from BASD.  Planning for about a year out.  Allen is planning to lay out a 3-4 trip plan.  This will aid families in preparing financially.

 

Bill asked that if your child is preparing to study music after graduation, to please let the directors know.   The process isn’t straightforward, prep work needs to be done in order to make sure your student is prepared.

 

For new business. Sue Testa took the floor to walk the group through the suggested changes that were made when the bylaws committee met.   Allen pulled up the changes on the screen for everyone to see while Sue explained the

changes.  The bylaws will be voted on at the next meeting, but we wanted to inform the group of the potential changes being made and what will be voted on.

 

A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Sue Testa, seconded by Eleanor Mayer and approved by the group.

 

Board members in attendance:  Bill Lennox, Tina Martucci, Jacqui Fortsch, Cory Dailey, Jeanette Dennis and Joyce James

January Treasurers Report

Tina called the meeting to order.  The minutes from last month’s meeting are on the website. The Treasurer’s report is also attached on the website.

 

Motion to approve the minutes – Zuzana Hawkes

Second – Tracy Lussier

 

Cory has asked for 1 or 2 parents (preferably not parents of seniors) to work on bandstand inventory.    

 

We are co-hosting district orchestra with Freedom on Feb 8 through Feb 10.   We will be providing snacks along with Freedom’s hospitality committee.

 

There will be a dine to donate at Red Robin on Airport Road from 5-9 on 1/30.

 

Red Hot Chili Pipers tickets will be $25.  We have 130 tickets for the March 7 concert

 

Jacqui highlighted the current and upcoming fundraisers.  

 

CURRENT

Soup (2/10 delivery)

Pierogies (2/12 delivery)

Krispy Kreme (2/12 delivery)

UPCOMING

Matey’s

Mr. Sticky’s sticky buns

Pampered chef (first 2 weeks of March-direct to student not the general fund)

 

ONGOING

WaWa 

Giant

Candy

Shop Rite

 

Jeanette mentioned there was not much activity in December.  There were questions about additional Bingo expenses and the Give Butter deposit.   Jeanette will update for next month.  She is also hoping to have the budget comparison next month.

 

Mr. Lennox invited everyone to the January Jams concert at Northeast on 1/30 at 7pm.  It will feature Liberty Jams, Jazz, Acapella, Pipes and Fist Co.  It will be a full day for the students.  They will be performing during the school day at Broughal and at Northeast.

 

The district band concert is this Saturday 1/13.  Tickets will be available online.

 

Summer band starts August 5.

 

Next payment for the senior NYC trip is due 2/15.

 

Every student except majorettes, pipes, and percussion, should have submitted an audition.  Please check in with your students to make sure they completed the assignments.

 

Big thank you to the LHSGBOCP for the equipment purchases.  It feels good to be able to fill needs.

 

Going forward there will be a guitar class on the course selection.

 

Sue Testa reminded everyone that the bylaws committee will be meeting on Tuesday of next week.  It’s not too late to join.

 

Thank you to the director and the students who played for the swim meet benefitting the John Jones memorial.

 

Motion to adjourn – Sue Testa 

Second – Suzanna Hawkes

Board members in attendance: Allen Frank, Bill Lennox, Jacqui Fortsch, Cory Dailey, Jeanette Dennis, and Joyce James

 

Cory called the meeting to order in Tina’s absence.   She asked for approval of the minutes from last month.   A motion to approve was made by Annalisa Kelly-Covatta, second by Todd Snyder

 

Cory gave the update that Bingo was a huge success.  Right now there are no immediate needs for parent volunteers.

 

There were two cemetery lots remaining from the flower sale if anyone is interested in purchasing them.

 

Jacqui gave an update about fundraisers.  Current fundraisers are on the website like Gertrude Hawk and Wawa.   We took a break for Dec and Jan.   Upcoming fundraisers will be 

 

Pizza

Soup

Pierogies

Krispy Kreme

Pampered Chef

Mr. Sticky’s sticky buns

 

It was asked if there could be a fundraiser done that specifically favors the students’ accounts rather than the general fund.  Jacqui said that is something that can be taken into consideration going forward.  Fundraising has been low this year.

 

Jeanette presented the Treasurer’s report.  The Bingo portion of the Treasurer’s report was discussed at great length within the meeting.   All of the Bingo proceeds/expenses are accounted for except the deposit from Give Butter.  That was made later and will be reflected in December’s report.   It seems that the breakdown for Bingo was a bit confusing.  A request was made to have it displayed in a spreadsheet form and itemized more to allow for future planning (ie less basket quantity but more basket quality if raffle tickets didn’t sell).   Another point to encourage itemizing was the general terms used, such as one time fundraiser doesn’t give much information.   On a positive note, the proceeds from Bingo bought us instruments such as our new suspended cymbal as well as miscellaneous orchestra needs.   

 

A question was asked about how we are doing financially versus what was budgeted.  Jeanette mentioned she was planning a budget comparison for mid year.  The by-laws say it should be presented monthly. Jeanette will work  on setting up the Treasurer’s report in spreadsheet form going forward.  Motion to approve Treasurer’s report Annalisa Kelly-Covatta, second by Eleanor Mayer

 

The question was asked about what donation can be made by the organization to make the band and orchestra needs met.   Once a budget vs actual comparison is done, this topic will be revisited.

 

The budget discussion segued nicely into the by-laws discussion.  Sue is organizing the by-laws committee and it will be meeting in January.  The by-laws are designed to keep the LHSGBOPC moving in the right direction.  Any changes to the by-laws gets voted on in March at the general meeting.  Elections are held in April.  Please let Sue know if you would like to be part of the committee.  It’s open to anyone.

 

Allen mentioned that there is a winter concert evening rehearsal Thursday from 5-8:30 for the orchestra and choir.  Tickets to the concert are $10 general admission, $5 students and seniors and free for under 12.  Tickets can be purchased in advance which cuts down on the line out the door in the cold.  There is a basketball game on Friday so parking is likely to be limited.  Report time for Friday is 6:00 and 1:00 for Sunday.

 

LHS along with FHS is hosting the District 10 orchestra concert Feb 8-10 at Northeast Middle School.  Auditions were just held for district band and orchestra.  We’re proud to say we have 9 band members and 5 orchestra members who qualified.   Jazz auditions are due Friday.

 

There are wheels in motion to start planning a trip for next year.  No announcement yet as nothing has been finalized.

 

Caroling will be happening around Bethlehem next week.

 

Red Hot Chili Pipers tickets go on sale in January.  We have already been invited to participate in 2025.

 

Bill mentioned purchasing mouthpieces and reeds as stocking stuffers.  Don’t buy instruments on Amazon.  If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. 

 

Motion to adjourn Sue Testa, second Tracy Lussier

December Corrected

Board members in attendance: Allen Frank, Bill Lennox, Jacqui Fortsch, Cory Dailey, Jeanette Dennis, and Joyce James

 

Cory called the meeting to order in Tina’s absence.   She asked for approval of the minutes from last month.   A motion to approve was made by Annalisa Kelly-Covatta, second by Todd Snyder

 

Cory gave the update that Bingo was a huge success.  Right now there are no immediate needs for parent volunteers.

 

There were two cemetery lots remaining from the flower sale if anyone is interested in purchasing them.

 

Jacqui gave an update about fundraisers.  Current fundraisers are on the website like Gertrude Hawk and Wawa.   We took a break for Dec and Jan.   Upcoming fundraisers will be 

 

Pizza

Soup

Pierogies

Krispy Kreme

Pampered Chef

Mr. Sticky’s sticky buns

 

It was asked if there could be a fundraiser done that specifically favors the students’ accounts rather than the general fund.  Jacqui said that is something that can be taken into consideration going forward.  Fundraising has been low this year.

 

Jeanette presented the Treasurer’s report.  The Bingo portion of the Treasurer’s report was discussed at great length within the meeting.   All of the Bingo proceeds/expenses are accounted for except the deposit from Give Butter.  That was made later and will be reflected in December’s report.   It seems that the breakdown for Bingo was a bit confusing.  A request was made to have it displayed in a spreadsheet form and itemized more to allow for future planning (ie less basket quantity but more basket quality if raffle tickets didn’t sell).   Another point to encourage itemizing was the general terms used, such as one time fundraiser doesn’t give much information.   On a positive note, the proceeds from Bingo bought us instruments such as our new suspended cymbal as well as miscellaneous orchestra needs.   

 

A question was asked about how we are doing financially versus what was budgeted.  Jeanette mentioned she was planning a budget comparison for mid year.  The by-laws say it should be presented monthly. Jeanette will work  on setting up the Treasurer’s report in spreadsheet form going forward.  Motion to approve Treasurer’s report Annalisa Kelly-Covatta, second by Eleanor Mayer

 

The question was asked about what donation can be made by the organization to make the band and orchestra needs met.   Once a budget vs actual comparison is done, this topic will be revisited.

 

The budget discussion segued nicely into the by-laws discussion.  Sue is organizing the by-laws committee and it will be meeting in January.  The by-laws are designed to keep the LHSGBOPC moving in the right direction.  Any changes to the by-laws gets voted on in March at the general meeting.  Elections are held in April.  Please let Sue know if you would like to be part of the committee.  It’s open to anyone.

 

Allen mentioned that there is a winter concert evening rehearsal Thursday from 5-8:30 for the orchestra and choir.  Tickets to the concert are $10 general admission, $5 students and seniors and free for under 12.  Tickets can be purchased in advance which cuts down on the line out the door in the cold.  There is a basketball game on Friday so parking is likely to be limited.  Report time for Friday is 6:00 and 1:00 for Sunday.

 

LHS along with FHS is hosting the District 10 orchestra concert Feb 8-10 at Northeast Middle School.  Auditions were just held for district band and orchestra.  We’re proud to say we have 9 band members and 5 orchestra members who qualified.   Jazz auditions are due Friday.

 

There are wheels in motion to start planning a trip for next year.  No announcement yet as nothing has been finalized.

 

Caroling will be happening around Bethlehem next week.

 

Red Hot Chili Pipers tickets go on sale in January.  We have already been invited to participate in 2025.

 

Bill mentioned purchasing mouthpieces and reeds as stocking stuffers.  Don’t buy instruments on Amazon.  If the deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. 

 

Motion to adjourn Sue Testa, second Tracy Lussier

December Treasurer Report

LHSGBOPC Meeting – November 6, 2023

 

Board members in attendance – Allen Frank, Bill Lennox, Tina Martucci, Jacqui Fortsch, Cory Dailey, Jeanette Dennis, and Joyce James

 

Tina called the meeting to order. Welcome to everyone in person and on zoom.  Looking for motion to approve last month’s minutes.

 

Motion to approve – Christine D’Annibale

Second – Eleanor Mayer

 

Cory updated the group about Bingo.  Currently, we have 60 gift baskets to raffle.   We need people to make the meat for marching tacos and to make cabbage and noodles.  Bingo will be held on Nov 19.  Community service hours are available to students who volunteer that day.  We will have Bingo card dabbers for purchase.

 

General fundraiser with Kendra Scott kicked off yesterday.  They are a nationally known jewelry company.  They also sell colognes.    They personalized 3 colors of gems for the jewelry for us.   Items can be purchased in person or online and we will receive 20% as long as the code is used.

 

Salsa and Pocono Cheesecake pick up is this Saturday.   Fundraising orders for hoagies and soup as well as for winter flowers are due this Sunday.

 

Jeanette presented the Treasurer’s report.   The general fund pays for instrument needs (replacing / fixing) Currently we have $9,700+ in instrumental needs. 

 

Motion to approve – Sue Testa 

Second – Tracy Lussier

 

There’s a possibility that the BASD might purchase some instruments.  We are currently in wait and see mode on that.  More to come.   We will accept used instruments (except maybe pianos). 

 

Now that football season is over, many thanks and praise was given to:

 

Roadies

Bandstand

Bus chaperones

Sue Testa (press box)

Behind the scenes 

Parent volunteers

 

2024 band Camp kicks off August 5.

 

Upcoming performances for our various groups include:

 

Mayor’s Christmas tree decorating at City Hall, 

Veteran’s Day events at Hanover, Moravian, Sterling Hills retirement

Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce annual event at Wind Creek

 

Come see Radium Girls by the LHS Theatre Group on Nov 16 and 18

 

In preparation for the winter concert, 7am rehearsals will be used for Jazz band and for sectionals.  Tickets for the concert are available in advance or at the door.  A bit better to buy in advance to avoid standing in line in the cold.  Dress rehearsal is Dec 14 from 5:00-8:30.  Concerts are Dec 15 @ 7pm and Dec 17 @ 2pm.

 

Band App expectations – Notifications are turned off after 10 pm.  Each year using it is a learning year.  Before asking questions, please check previous posts and bulletins.  Many times the topic has probably already been addressed.   There are currently 500 members on the app between band and orchestra.  Try to post only questions that could benefit the entire group.  We don’t want people turning off notifications and missing an important post.  If there is a question or school related issue with your child, please don’t use the band app, please send an E-mail to both directors. 

 

There will be a bulletin posted weekly with the latest schedule and other pertinent information / news.

 

Encourage your child to adhere to the school district-wide cell phone use rules.

 

Please join us at Nitschmann Middle School for the First Co concert on Nov 14 @ 7pm.  Report time is 6pm.  The concert may start a few minutes late to give Radium Girls cast members time to finish rehearsal and get to the concert.  And to avoid excess noise, please silence cell phones.  

 

Simple instrument repairs can maybe be done by Mr. Lennox.  Other repairs, take instruments to Nazareth Music Store.  Reeds and mouthpieces can make a difference in instrument performance. (and they make great stocking stuffers)

 

Motion to adjourn – Sue Testa

Second – Todd Snyder

 

LSHGBOPC General Meeting – 10/12/2023

 

Board members in attendance – Allen Frank, Bill Lennox, Tina Martucci, Jacqui Fortsch, Cory Dailey, Jeanette Dennis, and Joyce James

 

Tina welcomed everyone and called the meeting to order.   

Motion made to approve last month’s minutes was made by Annalisa Kelly-Cavotta

Second by Tracy Lussier

 

Cory updated everyone that the online clothing sale closes tomorrow.  The pipes/drums clothing orders closed a while ago.

 

3rd qtr donations have been amazing this year.  Thank you to all of the parents for donating and for volunteering.  This year for Liberty/Freedom game, we have salty snacks.  Look for a sign up genius to donate.   

 

There will be a Google doc sent for bingo volunteers.  For bingo, we have the students participating by donating items for raffle baskets.  Each section has a different theme.  Please check with your kids to see what their section’s theme is.

 

Jacqui gave the update for current fundraisers.  Maddie’s strudel pickup is Saturday from 10-10:30.  The truck is coming early so pickup may be sooner.  Will update through the band app.

 

Three fundraisers for November

Apple dumplings

Salsa

Pocono cheesecake

 

December fundraisers

Winter flowers

Hoagies

 

Fair share is due by the end of the month.  E-mail reminders will be going out soon.  There are 129 who still haven’t paid.  If there are funds in the Charms account, they can be used to pay fairshare, but you have to request a transfer which triggers an E-mail to Jacqui to complete the transfer.  Jacqui or Jeanette can check to see who has funds available.   They can also answer questions.  Partial payments are tricky to do, but it is possible.

 

Jeanette presented last month Treasurer’s report.   Motion made to accept by Annalisa Kelly-Cavotta.  Second by Shelly Hever.

 

We are purchasing a Clover system to accept credit card payments at fundraisers.  

 

Mr. Frank gave us the latest schedule rundown. 

 

Next week is a pretty slow week.  Taking advantage of that before the busy week of LHS/FHS spirit week.

 

Report time for Emmaus is 4:30.

Departure 5:-5:30

We perform first at halftime

 

We have two parades to do.  We are missing kids.  The Hellertown parade is October 22 at 2:00. We will meet at Saucon Valley. We are looking into getting one bus so students who don’t have transportation will be able to attend.

 

Liberty/Freedom week

October 24 combined rehearsal with Freedom.  

October 25 is National Honor Society

October 26 is the bonfire

         We are outside at 6

         Bonfire festivities start at 6:30 with senior recognition

         Bonfire lit around 7

 

Seniors can decorate the band room from 7-10

It has been stressed that we are decorating not vandalizing houses for the 49 seniors

 

On game day for LHS/FHS, we report at 10.  The luncheon is at 11.  Party band plays at 11:30.  Pregame step off is 12:30.  Kickoff is at 1.

 

Bethlehem Halloween parade is Sunday at 2:00.  We will meet at the parade.  The school will be open for about a half hour for anyone needing to get instruments.

 

Upcoming potential events / interest in LHSGB

Veterans Day

Cops n Kids

In February, we, along with Freedom will be co-hosting the PMEA district 10 orchestra concert.   Northeast middle school will be the venue.  We will need volunteers to help.  Students can get community service hours.

Nov 14 is the First Co. concert at Nitschmann

 

Lots of pep band opportunities have been happening.  Just this week, there were 3 ½ hours of pep band.  Great opportunity to support the many teams here at Liberty.

 

The leadership team was brought in early one morning to participate in a leadership workshop. Learned about community first, music second.

 

Mr. Lennox reminded everyone to make sure students are wearing black socks and a band t-shirt.  There are too many students showing up without black socks and with random t-shirts.  We are running low on supplies (band aids) to cover piercings.  

 

Motion to adjourn was made by Tracy Lussier.  Second by Shelly Hever.

 

LHSGB&OPC General Meeting – 9/12/23

 

Board Members in attendance : Allen Frank, Bill Lennox, Tina Martucci, Jacqui Fortsch, Cory Dailey, Jeanette Dennis, and Joyce James (zoom)

 

Reminder for those on Zoom…Questions can be thrown into the chat at any time.   Reminder to speakers…Repeat questions from zoom and band room prior to answering so that everyone can hear.

 

Tina opened the meeting welcoming everyone present and on zoom.  She asked for approval of last month’s minutes.  

 

Motion to approve: Sue Testa.   Second: Tom Snyder

 

Cory thanked the parent volunteers who have helped out so far this year and mentioned how nice it was to see new faces join in.   There are many opportunities to help out and all help is greatly appreciated.

 

Upcoming band general fund fundraisers:

 

Bingo is being moved to the 5th of November

 

11/5 – 11/11 Jewelry from Kendra Scott at the Lehigh Valley Mall.  We will receive 20% and they are specializing some colors for us.

 

Dine to donate – 

10/12 Buffalo Wild Wings Easton

11/19 Mod Pizza Airport Road

12/7 PJ Welihan’s

Jan 2024 Flying Pig – Date to be announced later

 

Jacqui discussed the Charms system informing everyone that Charms can be utilized for fundraiser announcements, fair share payments, accounting of all funds for students as well as another means of communication with parents.  Instructions for accessing Charms were put into the chat.  If anyone had a Charms account before, an E-mail link was sent to the parent E-mail address on file.  For new accounts, an E-mail was sent to the student’s BASD account.  This is only good for 24 hours.   If beyond 24 hours, E-mail Jacqui for a reset.  If families have more than one student, let Jacqui know because the students’ accounts can be linked. 

 

Questions were asked about Charms:

Balance in accounts can be used to pay fair share. After sign in on main screen, request to transfer funds and an E-mail will automatically be sent to Jacqui.

Credit cards can be used.  Charms was bought out by another company.  Currently the credit card function still works.  There is a fee involved (3.5%?).

Charms login info is on the LHSGBOPC website.

Jacqui will resend e-mails to student accounts if needed.

Mr. Frank will screenshot if needed to show step by step.

Anyone having issues, send a screenshot to Jacqui, be patient and give her a chance to research and respond.

 

Current and upcoming individual fundraisers:

 

Maddie’s Strudel – orders due 9/24

Flowers are 3 times a year

      Mums (fall)

      Poinsettias – need a coordinator for that as Cory is unable to do delivery

      Hanging baskets (spring)

 

Jeanette presented the Treasurer’s Report.  There were issues with carwash purchases.  The ordered hoses didn’t get delivered in time, so we purchased from the store directly.  There will be a credit on the Treasurer’s report in September.  We were not billed twice for the same thing.

 

Motion to approve Treasurer’s report:  Sue Testa   Second: Joe Testa

 

Mr. Frank reminded everyone that open house is tomorrow at Liberty.

 

We lost a rehearsal with the power outage today.  So we are going into Saturday’s game with one rehearsal.  We are the visiting team against BeCa.  We will not perform our standard pregame.  We may do our halftime show in the pregame slot in order to extend the courtesy to BeCa for their halftime show.  We will send communication through the band app once confirmed.  If so, step off will be 6:45.

 

Snow day information – When there is a snow day, the district gets off the standard 6-day cycle.  Mr. Frank and Mr. Lennox will keep students informed of which day of the cycle we are on.   When there is a snow day or a delayed opening, there is no 7am rehearsal.

 

All events currently scheduled for the band are on the calendar.  For the orchestra, the calendar is not yet up to date.  

 

Pep band gigs are popping up all the time.  They are often last minute and may not make it to the performance calendar online.  The first pep band is the “Pink Out” with volleyball on Wednesday at 6:30.   Students are encouraged to participate whenever possible.  Street clothes are worn and not uniforms.  It’s fun to do, shows school spirit, is a great opportunity to play more often, the more the merrier.

 

The band is growing!!  Since the beginning of the year we have had 3-4 new    members join.  We also have a need for instruments.   The BASD is seeing there are needs and is really great about helping out and maintaining a sense of camaraderie.  Having more kids than instruments is a great problem to have.  All of the middle schools have been donating their extra instruments for our use.  We have even borrowed from Freedom High School.  We are still in need of piccolos.

 

Parade time is fast approaching.  We kick it off with the Celtic Classic parade on the 23rd.  Step off will be at 11:30.   After that we will have the Hellertown and Bethlehem Halloween parades at the end of October.  We do not throw candy at the parades and while we do not have parents walking directly behind the band, they walk on the sidewalks near the band to help with any issues that arise.   A few other things to note about the parades…

 

The Hellertown parade ends on a hill.  Make sure students eat breakfast on the 23rd for the Celtic Classic parade.  Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.  Get out and keep moving to get used to the constant movement of parade marching.  Some years the weather cooperates and it’s beautiful parade weather.  Other times, it’s still hot.   We will be notified by the city of any weather cancellations.

 

Security concerns still exist for drop offs.   The doors do not open until 6:40.  Please don’t drop off until after that point.  And please don’t drop off in the athletic or teachers’ lot.  Too many cars.  Drop off points are Grenadier Blvd or in front off the school, but not in the bus channel.

 

Mr. Frank then introduced Mr. Kenn Miller who has been taking some wonderful photos of the band kids in action, as a whole band, and close ups.  He has been posting them online for everyone to view.  Thank you Kenn.

 

Christmas City studios will be rescheduled for a time during first block for the whole band photo and certain sectionals.  In prior years individual photos have been taken, but there is not enough time this year.

 

Mr. Frank will have seniors report a little early for the game the weekend so Cory can take their photos for the posters we hang at the Liberty/Freedom game.

 

Mr. Lennox wrapped up the meeting by mentioning some extra stuff that happens at the end of the day.   There are scale rehearsals Tuesdays and Thursdays.   This is mostly necessary in order to participate in PMEA.   If your child has plans to try out for PMEA, they should have already been practicing scales.   These after school practices are to enhance that.   There will also be low brass sectionals and percussion sectionals after school.   First company is leading sectionals on the fly.

 

To stay informed, check the website, subscribe to the calendar, join the band app.

 

Motion to adjourn: Marilyn Kelly-Cavotta   Second: Tracy Luisser

 

LHSGBOPC

Board Meeting

6/1/2023

In attendance…Tina Martucci, Cory Daily, Nikki Giannaras, Jacqui Fortsch, Jeanette Dennis, Allen Frank, William Lennox

 

Tina Martucci-President

Welcome everyone! 

 

Treasurer–Jeanette Dennis

Jeanette projected the 2023-2024 Budget on the Zoom screen for the band parents to see. She stated that we moved some categories around in order for the budget to make sense. We had 180 students with a $150 Fair Share. (SEE PROJECTED BUDGET–ATTACHED). Last month’s meeting notes state all of the changes in the budget. 

 

Sue Testa asked about the actual income that came in, not including Fair Share. She wants to know why Fair Share is going up when there is a healthy amount of money in the account.

Jeanette stated that actual income will not be part of this year’s budget, but it will be included in next year’s budget (starting income). This is because the new board took over this year and inherited the books from the previous board. In addition, the Charms software, which is excellent, was implemented mid year, so we only have data from when we started using the new software system. Also, there are new budget lines that are brand new that are guiding us to raise the Fair Share in order to cover rising costs.

Mr. Frank stated that as we look forward, the board is positively looking at an increase in the band, and due to that increase, we are looking at replacing many instruments. We see the surplus, but we need to be cautious because of the purchases that we need to make. We are looking at multiple pipes and percussion instruments. We need the surplus in order to fix our instruments as well. 

Sue Testa stated that all money that is made without Fair Share needs to be shared with the parents. Jacqui Fortsch stated that we inherited this budget and we need to revamp it. We also cannot hold a lot of money in the account because of our status. 

Sue Testa understands that we adjusted things because of  expenses. Fair Share should not pay for everything. It is important to know what is coming in above Fair Share so that we do not burden the parents with a high Fair Share cost, especially with parents that have more than one child. Sue stated that she is having a hard time passing the budget because of this.

Tina asked Jeanette if she could make a spreadsheet to answer Sue’s questions. Jeanette said she could…but it would not be easy. This budget was hard to work with and it was handed to us. Sue commended the board on their hard work. She understands…she just is unclear on the surplus being what it is…yet we are raising Fair Share. She understands why we are increasing the budget, but why are we raising Fair Share when we are making money in other areas? 

Jacqui Fortsch stated that we needed to pay $3,000+ to cover the expenses of the concert. We had smaller student numbers, but concert expenses stayed the same. We tried to cover the expenses, and then we had to raise the Fair Share. Cory Dailey stated that some of the money in the budget is in student accounts. It does not belong to us to pay our bills. Sue Testa challenged the board to not raise Fair Share, but to wait until next year when we see what the projected/actual income is and make up for it that way. Cory Dailey stated that the General Fund does not make a lot of money with fundraisers. Jacqui Fortsch stated that less than 20% goes into the General Fund. Most of the money goes back to the kids in their accounts. Tina Martucci asked if we could create a budget that states what comes out of Fair Share/General Fund? Can this be done? Sue Testa stated that all you need to do is add two more line items for General Fund Income/Fair Share Income so that we can get a good estimate to see what the total amount is and what we need to make. Jacqui stated that we started using Charms mid year and do not have that data yet. We will for next year.

Jeanette will now review next year’s budget (SEE ATTACHED BUDGET).

Projected band participants for next year is 185 students with a Fair Share of $170. There will be 15 orchestra students at $85 per student. 

Projected budget $51, 945.00.

Sue Testa asked about concert expenses–lighting. Where does the projected number $5,000 come from when we spent $4,000 last year? Jeanette stated that it was for inflation and just in case we need to cover more for the concert next year.

Also, why did we spend $4,000 on instrument equipment previously and then it was raised to $5,500? Mr. Frank stated that when we look at instrument purchases versus this section here…this category covers bagpipe reeds, wrapping snare drums, sticks, etc. that with an increase in student numbers and band sections (drummers increase to 33 next year),  we need to make sure that we have parts for instruments in order for students to be successful. We need to get our program back up to the standard. Sue Testa asked if this is because of the rising number of students or because we need to get the instruments back to the standard that we used to have. Mr. Frank stated that it is a yes to both questions. The bagpipes are a huge cost…and we need to be sure that they have the items that they need. We need to purchase two new bass drums, two new cymbals…so some items are yearly items, but some of it is us getting our program back to where it should be. It may not be as frequent once we get it back up. 

Mr. Lennox stated that the prices are going up because of maintenance expenses. We want to have cleaning kits, etc. for kids. It is important for kids to clean their instruments. We need to have things available for the kids to do this. It would be nice if we had these items to give the kids instead of them buying everything on their own. Sue Testa stated that a separate line item needs to be added so that we need to know what is needed…and do we need another fundraiser in order to have these items taken care of? Maintenance of the band and instruments is key. Taking care of instruments is very important. Mr. Frank stated that what the district gives our program is not a lot, and we rely on the band parent organization for that help. This will be a multiyear process–getting the kids to the point where they have good instruments to play in all areas. 

Tina asked if Fair Share will be paying for everything next year. If there is enough money in the General Fund, why are we raising the Fair Share? Is there a surplus? Jeanette stated that the amount coming in from Fair Share is less than the budget amount. Sue Testa stated that it is important to understand what can come out of the General Fund. We need to wait until next year to raise the Fair Share. Cory Dailey stated that the amount in the General Fund is also holding the money that is to be refunded to the parents from the trip. Moving forward, we will need to make some changes. We realize that. Jeanette stated that not all students pay the Fair Share, so that is a problem. The budget is projected…but we may not get it because some students did not pay their fair share for last year and some for a few years.

Sue Testa would not motion to pass the budget because of the raised Fair Share. Cory asked if any parent would make a motion to pass the budget. No one raised a hand to pass the budget. Tina asked the total amount that will be increased if we raise the Fair Share. Sue Testa said the difference is $4,000. Jacqui stated that this is the amount that we covered for the concert and lighting. That is why it was increased. Tina stated that you can fundraise the $170 Fair Share. It is quite easy. We offer lots of opportunities. 

The concert expenses were not the only items in the budget that increased.

Becky Sullivan stated that not all students can fundraise because they need parent participation. That is sometimes hard. Becky stated that the extra $20 is an investment in her kid…and it can be lowered in the future. Because the records are not available…why hurt the kids? Let’s say that if at the end of this year the Fair Share did not need to be $170…we can lower it in the future. 

Becky Sullivan made a motion to approve the budget. Brenda LaBar seconded the motion.

Voting —9 Yes (Jacqui, Yi-Wen, Tina, Nikki, Deena, Cory, Jeanette, Mr. Frank, Becky)

    6 N0 (Diane, Christine, Christian/Nicole, Sue/Joe)

It is stated that in the future we will look at the budget and hopefully lower the Fair Share for the 2024-2025 school year. 

Adjourn–Sue Testa/Joe Testa