Marching Lancers to raise funds

The September floods did more than just rain on the Lake Park High School Marching Band's parade, so to speak.

The harsh weather also forced the band to cancel its biggest fundraiser of the year: The Lancer Joust.

The annual marching band contest, which attracts competitors from across the country, helps fund the Lancers' budget for competition travel, uniforms and instrument repair.

To help make up for their loss, the Lancer marching band will host a spaghetti dinner fundraiser from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, in the Lake Park High School West Campus cafeteria.

"We hope to raise some of the funds that were lost," said Melinda Pyde, president of the band auxiliary. "The Joust is our biggest fundraiser, and we typically make $30,000 to $35,000 on this event."

The dinner menu includes pasta, bread, salad, dessert and a drink. The event also features musical entertainment and a drawing with prizes.

Earlier this month, the band held another fundraiser. As part of the Contestathon, members solicited donations from family and friends living outside the Lake Park community.

Now they hope their neighbors will be supportive, too.

"We are hoping for a good turnout on Saturday because we know how supportive the Lake Park communities are of the marching band," Pyde said.

Lake Park's west campus is at 500 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. Tickets cost $10 for adults and $5 for children younger than 12 and seniors.

For details, visit lphs.org.