By Michelle Donaghey Correspondent
BREMEN — The Bremen Band program has given a lot to the community, so the Bremen Lions Club decided to give something back to them.
Lions Club President Jim Richardson presented Bremen High School Drum Major Alexandra Buck and Bremen Schools Band Director Matt Sutton a check during a surprise presentation between jazz band performances at the fall band concert Thursday evening, Nov. 5. On stage with Richardson from the Lions Club were Bob Schulte, vice president, secretary Peg Schulte and tailtwister Don Nunemaker.

Before presenting the check, Richardson explained that Bremen Lions Club is part of the international philanthropic organization, saying, ”we give out money usually for leader dogs, cancer control and diabetes but another big thing is the youth of the community. This past year we found out the Bremen High School Band is planning a trip to New York City. And we thought they would help them out with a little bit of a monetary amount so we are donating to the Bremen High School Band a check for $4,000.”
The announcement was met with applause and thankful shouting from the audience which took the Lions members and the band director and drum major aback for a few moments before Sutton took the microphone to say a few words concerning the gesture.
“I just have to thank you guys publicly for this. This is an incredible thing for us. It helps us. Every penny counts and this will go a long ways. Here’s helping us have the playing of this great band in New York for all to hear. Without donations like this and work from people in the community we wouldn’t be here today,” said Sutton.
Richardson noted that Lions Club treasurer Paul Rowe was to present the check as well but was under the weather and could not attend. Rowe was one of the first members of the Bremen High School Band, noted Richardson, who added that he wished he could be there for the presentation.