Jackson band members make community proud

Most people may never know what it feels like to participate in an event of national significance, but one group of young people in Jackson certainly does.

The Jackson Memorial High School marching band, which has performed on major stages in the metropolitan region for years, stepped into history on Jan. 20.

On a cold afternoon in the nation’s capital, the marching Jaguars represented the state of New Jersey in the inaugural parade that marked the official start of President George W. Bush’s second term.

It was a day that the band members’ advisers, school administrators, parents and family members will remember for decades to come.

The Jaguar band has a proud tradition of achievement — one that is all the more impressive when one considers that the membership of the band, like all high school activities, changes from year to year.

The enthusiastic participation and commitment Jackson’s young musicians make is and should always be a source of pride to the community.

The tired old saw that no good news ever comes out about young people in our schools just doesn’t hold true. Jackson schools have much to be proud of, and the Jaguar band is right there at the top of the list.

Band director Bud McCormack, his staff, the high school administration, the Jackson Board of Education and the parents who support their children in this worthwhile effort are to be commended. They well understand that lessons in high school are not only learned in the classroom.

Al Kolb, the president of the band parents association, described the enthusiastic welcome home the band members received upon their return to Jackson in the early morning hours of Jan. 21.

Parents met the band at Glory’s Market with headlights flashing and horns honking.

“It was a big deal for the kids,” Kolb said. “They got a kick out of it. It was something really special they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.”

For a group of students who must have a lot of great memories of their time with the Jackson band, Jan. 20, 2005, will forever be at the head of the list.

Our congratulations go out to all associated with the band.