June 4, 2012 Dear EA Band and Guard Parents, Students, Families and Staff: On behalf of my family, I want to say

Thank You to all for the privilege and honor it has been for us to participate with you in the EA Band and Guard during the last eight years. To be honest, it was something we never expected, given that our daughters were both in the orchestra. But were very glad that they joined the Band because it has been one of the most enjoyable experiences we could have ever had together and with you during their high school years. Let me also say Thank You for the wonderful gifts you presented to Sharman and me at our annual EA Band Banquet in May. Youll be pleased to know that Norbert (Sorry, Lynne. Priscilla didnt seem to work for us!) is alive and well at this writing, and we hope he will be with us for a long time to come. And the (Gone!) fishing hat and (Dont Stop Believing) poster are now proudly adorning my office as a daily reminder of your good wishes and our time, work and fun together. Time, work and fun are three words that not only summarize my time with the Band, but also characterize what it takes to make the Band and our Band Parents Association successful and moving forward. Time, for sure, because success is not gained quickly. Work, absolutely, because there can be no success without it. And fun, without question, for the friendships made and the satisfaction gained through commitment to help our students, staff, music program, school and community. I sincerely encourage you to join with your new officers (Bill Kendall-President, Andrea Nicholson-Vice President, Julie Loya-Treasurer, and Diana Connell-Secretary) and all of our many Committee Chairs for the work that is ahead to continue to make our Band and Band Parents Association great. No effort is too small or unimportant. JUNE 14, 2012, is a big day, because it is your parents and students organizational meeting for the upcoming 2012-13 Band and Guard year. I hope you will be there to support your leaders and to become an important part of the team. (Thats the fourth word team. And its the only way to succeed together.) You wont regret it. I surely didnt, but rather loved every minute of it. Thank you so much again from Sharman, Molly, Annie and me, and we wish you, your family, and the EA Band and Guard Gods blessings and Godspeed! With great respect and in deepest thanks, I remain Yours most sincerely,

Matthew M. Polka Immediate Past President, East Allegheny Band Parents Association, Inc. 1002 Taylor Street North Versailles, PA 15137-2130 412-735-0401