Ferris group to perform at convention
The Ferris Wind Ensemble has been chosen as one of two bands from the region to be featured at the Northwest convention of the Music Educators National Conference to be held in Bellevue, Wash., in February.
The wind ensemble is directed by Ben Brueggemeier, now in his eighth year at Ferris. The band’s 60 members play brass, woodwind and percussion instruments.
It’s believed that this may be the first time in about 50 years that a Spokane band has qualified to play at the convention.
“I talked to several music directors who have taught for a number of years in the district, and they think it’s probably in that range. They can’t remember who did it last,” Brueggemeier said.
In the past, Spokane has however, been represented by choirs and chamber orchestras.
Brueggemeier said he submitted tapes of the band’s recordings from last year’s concerts and the regional band festival to the MENC. A panel of band directors chose from recordings presented from middle schools, high schools and colleges from Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and Alaska.
Gonzaga Prep students receive Ignatian Service Award
Seniors Robert House and Charlena Cleveland are recipients of the Ignatian Service Award, which honors students who best represent the Ignatian spirit of community service and being a “person for others.”
House is the son of Creigh and Jan House. Neil Kempen, director of community service at Gonzaga Prep, nominated House, stating, “He is constantly volunteering for various projects, far surpassing what is expected of him. He can be trusted to represent the school well and to get a job done to perfection.”
Cleveland is the daughter of Charles and Joyce Cleveland. Kempen nominated her saying, “Charlena is an excellent choice for the Ignatian Service Award. She is an inspirational young woman with a bright future ahead of her.
“Charlena has participated in an impressive list of volunteer activities and has become a well-rounded member of our community.”
Volunteer literacy tutor training
No special training is required to become a volunteer with Spokane Public Schools, but for those who want to become literacy volunteers, a free training session may help them feel more confident in their role.
Training sessions will be offered next Thursday, from 9 to 11 a.m., at KSPS, 3911 S. Regal St., or from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m. in the Spokane Teachers Credit Union auditorium, 106 W. Nora Ave.
Applications will be available for those who have not yet completed one. The last session will be held Dec. 2, same times, same places. Volunteers need not attend both sessions but are encouraged to do so.