By Jill Fox
Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School’s Eagle Regiment Marching Band is eager to perform at the 2022 London New Year’s Day Parade and seeking support from the community in getting there.
To raise money for the trip, students are selling poinsettia plants for the holiday season. Each fresh and cheerful plant is $20 and comes with large red blooms.
Originally planned this year, their trip to London was postponed due to Covid-19.
Typically attracting around 1 million spectators, the 2021 parade will only be held in front of an invited audience and screened online.
“We had the trip lined up, and everything was canceled, so we’re basically starting over from a fundraising perspective,” said Franci Gargaro, London trip coordinator.
The group needs to raise about $200,000 to take all 150 Eagle Regiment participants to the parade, which is made up of around 10,000 performers along a two-mile route.
“It gives an opportunity for the kids to showcase their talents and represent Coral Springs and Parkland,” said Gargaro.
With their usual car washes and other fundraisers canceled, the students and their parents are looking for the community to step up.
“It’s just a huge opportunity for kids to see London as well as have the opportunity to showcase themselves in an international parade,” said Gargaro.
Poinciana orders must be placed by December 4 and can be picked up on December 8. Email Charlene Brighton to purchase a poinsettia or visit stonemandouglasband.com to donate.
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