Parkland, FL, May 1, 2006 -- Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School has a band program that is not only among the top music programs in Broward County, but is among the top music programs in the state of Florida. Their success is not new. When visiting the band room at the high school, it’s hard to miss the hundreds of trophies that are proudly on display. Included is a Class 4A state championship trophy from 2004 and a class 4A runner up trophy from 2005. This past year’s trophy was won despite numerous obstacles such as a large freshman class with little or no marching band experience and countless hours of practice being cancelled due to hurricane and other weather related impacts. “The kids worked hard this past season. It really takes dedication to be part of a program like this.” says John Rusnak, band director at Stoneman Douglas High. Worked is an understatement. Last summer, the band members spent many grueling, hot days working on their music and drill.

Unfortunately, work and dedication is not all it takes to get to the state finals and to achieve the success that the band has enjoyed. “Most people don’t realize,” says Rusnak, “the huge financial commitment involved in running a program like this.” Gone are the days when the bulk of the expenses were subsidized by the school district. “It costs money to transport the band, fix and replace instruments and equipment, hire instructors, and to replace uniforms that are now outdated.” “Add to that the unexpected impact of repairing the band’s equipment truck damaged by the hurricane, and of losing our largest fund-raiser for the year due to scheduling difficulties, and the result is a significant funding problem.” While the band parent’s association is working hard to raise money for the coming year, additional sources of funding need to be found to enable the same level of success for next year.

Others in the community are joining in the effort to help the band. Media Design Concepts, an Audio/Video Marketing and Consulting Company, is offering a $5000 donation to MEPA (Marching Eagles Parent’s Association) for every complete home theater room purchased through their referrals. In addition, Media Design Concepts is also offering a generous donation for all work received from MEPA such as multi-media systems, home automation, and multi room audio systems.

Lawrence Zwerin, a band parent and owner of Media Design Concepts, hopes that his offer will help the band reach their ultimate goals. “We’ve worked on projects as far away as Newfoundland, Canada” says Mr. Zwerin, “but it gives us the most satisfaction to do projects right here in South Florida that could help support kids in our local community.” Mr. Zwerin also noted that Media Design Concepts would consider the same donation program for other charitable organizations. “I like programs that benefit children.” says Mr. Zwerin. With over 2,000 new home builds coming to Parkland/Coral Springs, this offer could really help the cause!

For more information about the program, please contact Tim Abram, President of the Marching Eagles Parent Association at 954-346-4908.

For more information on Media Design Concepts, please visit their website at http://www.mediadesignconcepts.net.