Stone Memorial High School Band Director Elana Douglas is leading a fundraising effort to raise $20,000 for new uniforms.
Douglas said the current athletic-style shirts used by the band typically have a lifespan of five to eight years and are now in poor condition. Douglas said the total cost for a full set of new uniforms, including hats, was estimated at $20,000. As a newer school, Douglas said the Panthers’ marching band is important for establishing a sense of school pride.
“Uniforms can be quite expensive,” Douglas said. “One single uniform is about $450, hat and all. And that’s a lot. So, we were estimated $26,000 for uniforms. We put the hats on the back burner for a little bit until we can just get the uniforms because you know, our old ones, they’re in pretty rough shape.”
Douglas said the band has 68 students signed up for the upcoming fall season, which is an increase of 20 students from last year. Douglas said the program would have run out of its existing inventory because there were not enough uniforms in storage to outfit the expanding group.
“I think it gives them a sense of pride,” Douglas said. “When I showed the kiddos a picture of the new uniform, they were all so excited, and I think it just gives them a huge sense of pride and to wear that uniform is an honor because it’s hard work.”
Douglas said she personally worked to design the new look, which features a traditional black and gold color scheme. Douglas said the design incorporates a panther claw motif to maintain a connection to the school’s previous uniforms.
“Little by little, we’re growing, which is also why we needed new uniforms because if we have 68 signed up, that was not enough uniforms for us that we had in our band uniform room,” Douglas said. “So which is great.”
Douglas said the band serves an essential role at the school by supporting the football team and providing entertainment during halftime shows. Douglas said these performances also serve as preparation for the band’s Saturday competitions.
“A band program to any school is essential because what we’re there for in the stands during football games, we’re there to support the football team,” Douglas said. “The kids, they love just making noise and it’s just an all-around experience.”
Douglas said the community in Cumberland County has shown strong support for the schools and the arts through donations. Douglas said she is looking forward to the start of band camp and the opportunity to see the band grow during the fall season.
“We really don’t have anything until band camp starts up and then of course our first football game is hopefully when we’ll maybe get to show off the new uniforms,” Douglas said.
