As a fundraiser, the band will sell mattresses from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Feb. 4 in the main gym.
“The fundraiser is a part of our overall fundraising package for the year,” head director Andy Sealy said. “We haven’t done it in several years, but this will be our fourth version of it. [The] last one was before [COVID-19], probably in 2017 or 2018.”
The main gym will be set up to mimic a showroom. People will be able to walk around and try mattresses from competitive name brands, similar to mattress stores. Along with mattresses, there will be pillows, mattress protectors, bed frames and adjustable power bases for sale.
“What’s really important is for everyone to come out and see it,” Sealy said. “If you’re in need of bedding, pillows or something like that, it’s a great opportunity not only to make the purchase you need, but to help the band at the same time.”
The fundraiser is being held to generate funds for the operating costs of the band. The money raised will also be used for repairs and upgrades on the equipment trailer.
“I’m hoping that we make about $30,000 or $35,000 overall,” Sealy said. “The expenses we’re operating on cost us around $140,000 to go to San Antonio for the band. [They] are some major league expenses.”
Unlike past fundraisers, like selling Butter Braids and cookie dough, the only thing required of the students is to provide contacts for outreach.
“This fundraiser is different from any we’ve done in the past,” freshman Thomas Du Fief said. “Even though it requires a little bit more organization on the band’s part, it’s tremendously easier for us and the buyers.”
Compared to the rest of the band, the student officers’ roles in the fundraiser are different. They have been spreading the word and will be volunteering on the day of the event to help guide everyone around the setup.
“Being an officer for this one, whereas for other ones I was a student, this one is a lot more behind the scenes type of work in regards to spreading the word,” drum major Noorain Aziz said. “ [Getting] it to be as successful as possible is the biggest difference.”
The band program hopes to continue this fundraiser in the future based on how successful it is this year. If continued, it will be put in a rotation to be held every other year or every three to four years.
“It’s a really unique opportunity to come and not only help the band, but also buy something that you really need that’s a long-term purchase for your family,” Sealy said. “Anybody can purchase them.”
