Other districts, community help CISD band’s bus crash victims

A fundraiser sponsored by the Channelview Band Boosters for those affected by a major charter bus crash involving Channelview Falcon Band members and chaperones was one of many activities held recently to support the group.
A fundraiser sponsored by the Channelview Band Boosters for those affected by a major charter bus crash involving Channelview Falcon Band members and chaperones was one of many activities held recently to support the group.

By Mark Kramer, Channelview ISD Public Relations

After the Channelview High School Falcon Marching Band was involved in a major bus accident while returning home from Walt Disney World in Orlando, Fla. on March 13, they are receiving some help from many friends.

Goose Creek CISD, La Porte ISD, Pasadena ISD, Sheldon ISD and Texas City ISD are all lending equipment to the Channelview Band until they are able to replace the instruments that were destroyed in the crash. The instruments will quickly be put to good use as Falcon Band members are scheduled to participate in the University Interscholastic League Wind Ensemble contest April 25-27.

In addition, North Shore Senior High School Band Director Shane Gorforth and Crosby High School Band Director Kevin Knight are working together with the Channelview Band to prepare them for the UIL Wind Ensemble event. Falcon Band Director Aaron suffered major injuries in the bus accident and is recovering at an area rehabilitation facility.

“We are very appreciative of everyone’s willingness to help out,” said Jennifer Tunink, Channelview ISD’s fine arts director. “The outpouring of support from so many districts, businesses and the community has truly been a blessing to all of us.”

Several local restaurants held fundraisers during the week of March 19-24 to provide assistance to the Channelview band. The local Chick-Fil-A stores raised over $8,000 that will provide extra financial support during this time. The Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant is providing 20 percent of its sales toward assisting the band. Las Palomas Mexican Restaurant is donating 20 percent of its profits from its lunch and dinner sales on March 28 to the Channelview Band Boosters.

On Saturday, March 24, the Band Boosters held a Barbecue Benefit and Silent Action at SterlingWood Church. All proceeds from the event will go toward assisting band families affected by the accident.

“Our district extends a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to all of the people that have reached out to help over the past couple of weeks,” said Greg Ollis, Channelview ISD Superintendent. “The caring nature of all of those in our district and our community has really shined through during this time of need.”