By Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
The Westfield High School (WHS) Stage Band kicked off the Westfield Rotary Club Foundation’s 52nd Annual Breakfast. The event was held at WHS cafeteria on March 4, 2018, and raised scholarship and grant money for Westfield High School graduates.
“It used to be called ‘Pancake Day,’ but people were coming for the bands, so we changed it to ‘Breakfast with the Bands,’” said Michael Miller, Grants Chairman, “It’s a fun morning.”
In addition to the WHS Stage Band, live music was provided by WHS Jazz I and WHS Jazz II Ensembles; Roosevelt Intermediate School’s Jazz I and Jazz II Ensembles; Edison Intermediate School Jazz Ensemble; and the Blue Devil Treble.
From 8 a.m. to noon, close to 500 people came through the doors to enjoy a free breakfast and enjoy the music. Breakfast was provided by Rock n Joe Coffee Bar and Stop & Shop. Rotary Member David Foltz provided breakfast for band members. “It’s a meet and greet; brings people together,” said Foltz.
James and Janice Nusse have been coming to the breakfasts ever since their daughter won a scholarship 20 years ago. “We’re always interested in supporting,” said Janice.
Mary Ellen O’Boyle, who is on the scholarship committee, said, “It’s just so wonderful, listening to all the bands. They work so hard and this is their opportunity to shine.”
Rotary Club of Westfield consultant, Chang Kun Shih, said he expected to generate a net contribution from the event to total about $8000 to $ 9000, which will be used for the Community Grants and the Westfield Rotary Scholarship Program for Westfield High School graduates.
In the past, The Westfield Rotary Club Foundation has awarded more than $2.6 million in college scholarships and $200,000 to local non-profits, advancing the quality of life in the community.
The Rotary Club of Westfield was founded in 1921 when its members joined together to provide service to both the local and international community. The Rotarian motto, “Service Above Self,” reflects these goals. For more information on the Rotary Club of Westfield, visit: westfieldrotary.com
Photos by Maryanne Christiano-Mistretta
(above) Michael Miller, Grants Chairman.
(above) David Foltz, Rotary Club of Westfield member.
(above) Rock n Joe Coffee Bar participated in providing coffee for the breakfast.
(above) Deirdre Gelinne, Rotary Club of Westfield member.
(above, l-r) Janice and James Nusse.
(above) Mary Ellen O’Boyle, Scholarship Committee.
(above) Breakfast with the Bands.
(above) Families having fun.
