By SANDRA THAMES / Community Columnist

Jon Bubbett, band director at Thompson High School for more than 20 years, has an ongoing project at school.

The band program is self-sufficient from the Shelby County School System and the city of Alabaster.

Right now our band members are wearing uniforms purchased in 1995 (that’s before some members were even born!).

Our band is a pre-eminent ambassador representing our city at concerts, festivals, the Christmas parade, all THS football games and the governor’s inaugural parade.

In 2011 the concert section of the band attended the National Concert Band Festival in Indianapolis, Ind.

“Fees and monies generated by the booster club (average 75 to 80 members) is barely enough to cover the cost of running our program,” said Bubbett. “It will be impossible for us to raise the $70,000 needed for new uniforms without the generosity of the Alabaster community.”

The Marching Southern Sounds includes not only the marching band but also the symphonic band, wind band, jazz band, winter guard, concert band, majorettes, Warriorettes (dance team) and the color guard. Two hundred of our kids need a lot of help.

In today’s economy, the $350 estimate for band fees and instrument expense will about drain some folks’ finances. Fruit sales, barbecue sales, Zaxby’s night, wreath sales and of course profits from the concession can keep the band afloat, but new uniforms are badly needed and with that purchase comes a large responsibility. Uniforms will be ordered from Fred J. Miller, a very well-known and reputable company.

Corporate and individual sponsors and contributors are needed. If you think your money won’t count, you’re wrong.

THS is full of pride. Let’s show it by helping provide these talented and dedicated youngsters our support.

Contact Jon Bubbett at 682-5700 for further information on how you can help.