February, 2007

Dear Music Parent,

As Music Booster President, my major responsibility is to guide the Booster Organization in supporting the music department at BHS.  That support encompasses a broad range of responsibilities and commitments in an effort to provide our children the highest level of music education possible.  This task is not only challenging, but also demands a high level of commitment.

As a parent, my responsibilities and commitments are the same:  to provide my child the best possible education. I want my child to have the most positive music experience I can provide.  It is important to me as a parent to not only know my child will look back and have positive memories of his musical experience at BHS, but also have a strong foundation for the years to come.

The Music Booster Organization has faced many changes in the last few years.  We too had to adjust to a much larger student population in the new high school.  Supporting 200+ music students is a challenge.  The demands and requirements of such a large student body require a high level of dedication.  We are fortunate to have what I consider an outstanding group of Booster Officers and Chairs.  The dedication and commitment of these parents is second to none.  Also, we are equally fortunate to have the many parents that volunteer their time and support throughout the school year.  You know who you are, and I sincerely thank you.

However, as with most support organizations, we face the never-ending challenge of providing adequate financial support. Our financial support of the music program covers many different areas.  Uniforms, instruments, music accompaniment, scholarships for private lessons, equipment, transportation, etc., all demand a significant level of financial support.  The Directors’ and school / district budgets do carry the lion’s share of this financial burden.  However, as with so many aspects of our lives, costs continue to increase and money runs out.

The Booster Organization establishes a yearly budget in an attempt to cover the difference between the school’s budget and the financial reality of supporting our large music program. Monies raised by the Boosters is done primarily through fundraising.  We, as an organization, pride ourselves in being able to raise 70% of our budget with Sunday evening Bingo.

We own the Sunday evening Bingo license for the Bingo hall located in Bolingbrook.  This license requires us to commit to staffing the operation every Sunday evening of the year.  The rewards are substantial. If it were not for Bingo, this money would have to be raised through more traditional methods of fundraising such as; selling candles, candy, wrapping paper, holiday decorations, etc.  We know other organizations in which your child is involved use such means, and we don’t want to add to that financial burden.

In an effort to continue this outstanding fundraising opportunity, we are asking for your help.  Staffing Bingo always has been and continues to be a challenge.  If we can’t staff adequately and consistently, we will lose our Bingo license.  If this happens, and we can’t raise money through other fundraising efforts, the Booster Organization will financially crumble and the effects to the music program would be devastating.

Again, we need your help.  We simply need more volunteers who can firmly commit to one Sunday evening every other month for about 3 to 5 hours.  One evening every other month.  That’s all.  The work is easy - very easy, and it is fun!  It is a social atmosphere, and you would be volunteering with other parents.  It’s a great way to get to know other music parents.  Complimentary snacks and soft drinks are provided for volunteers.

But most importantly, it provides our children, music directors, and school the support they deserve.  And that’s what it’s all about, supporting our children. It’s all about the kids. As a parent, what could be more rewarding?

Below, I’ve included Janet Petrick’s contact information.  Janet’s responsibility is to coordinate all the bingo staffing.  She can provide you with details and answer  your questions about Bingo and other volunteer opportunities the Boosters have to offer. Of course you can also contact me or any of the Booster Officers. 

Make a difference.  Volunteer.  Be part of a special time in your child’s life. You will be glad you did!

We look forward to hearing from you.  Remember – It’s all about the kids!

Sincerely,

Joe Petrick

President – BHS Music Boosters

630–739 –3486

jquad250@comcast.net

Janet Petrick

Bingo Staffing Coordinator

630-739-3486

janetmp@comcast.net