LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION congratulating the East Ramapo Central School
District Marching Band upon the occasion of capturing Division 1 of the
Musical Arts Conference Marching Band Championship on November 14, 2009

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize the dedi-
cation and commitment of our young people who distinguish themselves
through excellence in musical competition; and
WHEREAS, Music competition provides an opportunity for students to
exhibit their practical skills to an audience, thereby giving them a
sense of pride in their hard work and efforts; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to congratu-
late the East Ramapo Central School District Marching Band upon the
occasion of capturing Division 1 of the Musical Arts Conference Marching
Band Championship in Bridgeport, Connecticut on Saturday, November 14,
2009; and
WHEREAS, The East Ramapo Central School District Marching Band,
directed by Michael E. Smith, comprises students from ages 11 through
17; fifty-three students perform in the band and color guard, with
another four working the pit crew; throughout the year, the band
performs at high school football games, marches in parades and performs
at numerous events in the community; and
WHEREAS, The spectacular win at the Musical Arts Conference Division 1
Championship marked the culmination of the Band's competitive season, in
which they competed or performed in 11 events, winning first place in
three competitions and earning ratings of "outstanding" in two exhibi-
tions; and
WHEREAS, In addition to winning the Championship, the East Ramapo
Central School District Marching Band also won special awards for Best
Music, Best Overall Effort, and, for the third year in a row, Best Drum
Major, commanding special congratulations to Drum Major Marilyn Dizon
and Assistant Drum Majors Nitin John and Keith Watford; and
WHEREAS, Earlier in November, the East Ramapo Central School District
Marching Band was the only New York State marching band invited to "The
Battle of the Bands" in Philadelphia; the band participated with four
high schools and four colleges and were voted "Best High School Band";
Trumpeter Brandon Hunt was selected to perform the Star Spangled Banner
at the event; and
WHEREAS, Extraordinary talent, dedication, and countless hours of
practice have made the East Ramapo Central School District Marching Band
the outstanding ensemble it is today; and
WHEREAS, The members work hard at their music rehearsals, classroom
assignments and practice sessions, fully aware that the amount of time
and energy they are willing to expend directly affects the quality of
their music; and
WHEREAS, Each of the young musicians in the East Ramapo Central School
District Marching Band is deserving of his or her own recognition and
spotlight, for their remarkable commitment and hours of practice in
perfecting their musical abilities; and
WHEREAS, All this success would not have been possible without the
active and encouraging support of its Director, Michael E. Smith, who
has devoted his time and energies to developing the talents of his
students; and
WHEREAS, The members of the East Ramapo Central School District March-
ing Band represent the best development of the potential which is inher-
ent in our most precious resource, our youth; and

WHEREAS, Poised eagerly with enthusiasm and determined purpose, the
members of the East Ramapo Central School District Marching Band now
stand honorably, with just pride in their accomplishments and in eager
anticipation of future challenges, understanding and appreciating the
caring counsel and support provided by their teachers and parents; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate the East Ramapo Central School District Marching Band upon
the occasion of capturing Division 1 of the Musical Arts Conference
Marching Band Championship on November 14, 2009; and be it further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to Michael E. Smith, Director of the East Ramapo Central School
District Marching Band.