Two volunteers were honored at the Jordan-Elbridge Marching Eagles banquet held Saturday, Nov. 13.
The following comes from a speech prepared by J-E Marching Eagles seniors, banquet chair Gina Clifford and band booster president Jonna Weaver:
“[Vicki and Judy] have given their time and talents to ensure the success of the students at Jordan-Elbridge. Through the years you can find them cutting miles of fabric, sewing for days on end, washing cars, measuring and pinning uniforms, driving kids back and forth (that aren’t their own), making picture buttons, selling fruit, working at the dome…
The hundreds of young people whose lives they have touched remember their warmth and encouragement, their laughter and compassion, and of course, their generous hearts!
…Through all the changes — 10 different band directors — they have remained steadfast and consistent.”
“As we honor our students for all their accomplishments, we sometimes forget that if it wasn’t for certain people that support the program on a daily, yearly basis, the program wouldn’t be,” said parent volunteer Mary Jo Wick. “With that said, we took the time on Saturday to honor two very special woman who have a part of this organization for more than 61 years combined.”
Those women are Vickie Jewett, with 35 years of service, and Judy Strazzere, with 26.
“Vickie has not had a child in the band since 1990 and still is very active,” Wick said. “Judy has not had a child in [the band] since 1993,” but her granddaughter has been in the band since 2009.
Each received flowers, thank you cards from each member of the band, a necklace designed and made by the band booster president, a standing ovation and many hugs from grateful students and parents.
