June 8, 2004 > East Bay Scout Band to Appear at Niles Flagpole Dedication

by Ceri Hitchcock-Hodgson

Those who attend the Niles Flagpole dedication ceremonies on June 12 will be treated to more than the sight of civic pride in action. Musical accompaniment will be provided by a unique band - the East Bay Scout Band. This group (Venture Troop 224) is one of only three scout bands in the United States to be designated as an official Scout band. The band consists of forty-six musicians who converge from all over the Bay Area to play in the prestigious ensemble.

Recently the band performed for the 60th Anniversary of D-Day held June 6th aboard the SS Jeremiah O'Brien, the only surviving operational member of the Normandy invasion fleet. Aside from the Niles Flagpole dedication, you can catch them at the Alameda County Fair on June 26 and the Fourth of July festivities in the Brookvale neighborhood of Fremont. They will also be performing at numerous other events throughout the year.

The band welcomes new musicians to audition on any instrument. Auditions for the East Bay Scout Band are at the beginning of the Saturday rehearsals held at Washington Township Veterans' Memorial Building. To learn more about becoming a member of the band, contact group President Harrison Cheng at harryyc@pacbell.net.

The East Bay Scout Band is always interested in performing at new places. To have them perform for your next community event contact Adult Supervisor, Michael Toschak at toschak@sbcglobal.net.