2008:
2008 saw the majority of members being those who graduated from the “pan classes”. The experienced players like Sade, Ashley, Antoinette, Kish and Carol continued for the majority of the year but eventually stopped to focus on their personal lives. This resulted in us not participating in some of the expected performances such as Pan Masters Jamboree, DC Caribbean Carnival Pan Jam and the Harbor View Festival. The time was spent developing the skills of these new members: Jordan, Ellan, Kamesha, Jamilla, Gregory, Marcus, Cordeaire, Arnette, Donell and Ayanna, who was the youngest of the experienced group that continued. As the year progressed Jaisyn, Marx and Jenna joined the group graduating from the then "pan classes” Under the guidance of Wentworth Richardson, musical arranger this group continued to grow and become skillful. With this growth taking place it was decided that we begin taking performances so that they will develop the experiences needed to be professional in what they do.
On February 7, 2008 we were invited to perform at the White House at the Helping America’s Youth Event organized by the chairperson for the program, Mrs. Laura Bush, the First Lady. This event was hosted by President George Bush and the first Lady in the Gold Room of the East Wing of the White House. STVYSO were represented by Ayanna Allyne, Elan Coleman, Sade Mc Farlane, Carol Fields, Antoinette Walters, Dalkish George, Jonathan Gomez, Gregory Lumpkins and Anthony and Anita Mc Farlane. After much security checks and verification of all concerned prior too and on the day off, we did our performance to outstanding applause and congratulations from the President and First Lady and all the invited press and guest from around the country. Photographs were taken with the president and first lady in the Blue Room. Each participant received copies of these photographs. After the performance the president and first lady joined us on stage hugging us as photos were taken.
With the arrival of new parents energy surged through the group and all looked forward to a great year ahead. We received the $1,500 from the Community Arts Grant provided by the Office of Promotion and the Arts together with the Mayor’s office. We were also approved for the Family League of Baltimore / ROOTS grant for $13,200. Two fundraisers came off, a bus trip to Atlantic City and a raffle. Both activities were okay but could have been more successful if all concerned gave more of themselves. Donations were received by some of our supporters throughout the year. The Board of Directors experienced some changes with Ori shabazz, Claudette Caldwell, and David Wyche (died during the year) no longer being with us. We had the pleasure of having the following persons join the board during the year: Vivian Walters, Trevor Allyne, Dalkish and Simonese George, Jill Warzer, Jerilyn Jeffers and Kamesha Norris.
Our performances at the Inner Harbor were not as strong as the years before but nevertheless we did perform occasionally. Our pan classes continued at 3907 Hamilton Ave. Our classes were not as large as previously. There is need for more promotion and marketing in this area. “Feeding the Homeles” program continues with great success. Anita Mc Farlane and Vivian Walters continue to lead the way. Much assistance comes from the Allyne family, Nika Smith family and ably supported by Risa and Adrienne other parents who make themselves available. 2008 saw us having insurance for the first time. Through the ROOTS grant we were able to join the Greater Insurance Co. who has insured the organization to the tune of $3,000,000. We also joined the National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts, an organization that promotes the arts and artists nationally.
The “panyard” has become a feature in the activities of the organization. On account of two individuals who live in close vicinity to the “panyard” we are forced to sound proof the building so that minimum sound does not travel outside. We continue to spend funds to ensure that this happens. It’s an on going process and special thanks must be expressed to the many individuals both from the organization and outside the organization that make themselves available to see this through. Our musical arranger, Wentworth Richardson continues to do a great job.
Preparation for our concert carded for December 7, 2008 was in full swing but had to be postponed to January, 2009 in order that more tickets could be sold. We look forward to July 2009 when we will be celebrating our 10th anniversary.
In general 2008 was a great year. Our performance at the White House was the highlight for the organization. The growth of the new members has provided the band with the potential to be the best ever. As we move forward into 2009 STVYSO will be at the helm of things again. The production of the DVD from the concert and possibly a CD during the year will be there to showcase our talents. Participation in Panmasters Jamboree, Washington DC pan jam, Harbor View Festival and the 1st Night in Williamsburg will indicate our return to supremacy.
SEE YOU IN 2009. GREAT THINGS LIE AHEAD. THATS MY BAND