On behalf of the North Okanagan Pipes and Drums, I would like to thank the City of Vernon for its donation of $3,000 for the purchase of kilts for our band.
In the same vein, I’d also like to thank the local Army, Navy and Air Force Veterans in for their $500 donation. Together, we were able to purchase seven kilts and one kiltie for all of our junior members.
I praise this city council for its foresight into helping our organization to build a safe, enjoyable environment for our young people to interact with older adults and contribute to our community, learning about the culture and being able to learn very interesting, complex musical instruments.
Our band has grown in just three years to 27 members, our eight youth members and adults ranging all the way up to 82-years-old.
It takes about $2,000 to outfit each member in proper Highland kit. We are very fortunate to have had three sets of bagpipes and two drums donated to the band for our youth members who cannot afford to buy instruments of their own. We can supply instruction but the instruments and uniforms are quite costly.
The public is invited out to see how our group is progressing and to enjoy the music with a little Irish flair for St. Patrick’s Day.
We are having a recital March 16 at Knox Presbyterian Church, 3701 32nd Ave. (Alexis Park), starting at 7 p.m. Admission is by donation so come out and enjoy an evening with the North Okanagan Pipes and Drums.
Pipe Major Don MacLeod
North Okanagan Pipe and Drums
