Update of Municipal Band -- Mayor Resolved to Find a Solution

Last night in City Council, Mayor Bob Foster stated that he is committed to finding a solution to the funding of the Long Beach Municipal Band.

In the meantime, here is a copy of the letter I am sending to Long Beach businesses in hopes they will step up and provide sponsorships:

Because your company operates in the City of Long Beach you understand how important it is to have programs which celebrate the history of this great city and which also enrich the quality of life for our residents.

That's why I am contacting you today. One of the last remaining historical icons in our city -- the Long Beach Municipal Band -- is facing economic problems which seriously threaten  its future.

This is no ordinary band. Every summer thousands of people gather on a weekly basis throughout parks in the City of Long Beach to listen to the finest Municipal Bands in the nation.  For the last 101 years, the Long Beach Municipal Band has brought enjoyment to community members of all ages. This wonderful ensemble include the best of the Southern California's symphony, studio recording and jazz performers. This diversity of talent provides Long Beach audiences with impressive concerts of jazz, movie, musical and light classical literature.

However, after 101 years of music, the future of the Long Beach Municipal Band is in jeopardy.  Historically the band has been funded at taxpayer expense.  Unfortunately, these difficult economic times have resulted in the City Manager recommending that the current level of funding for the Municipal Band not be sustained. 

We need a corporate partner or several corporate partners to help us maintain this rich tradition of music and culture.  Rescuing the Long Beach Municipal Band would bring a great deal of notoriety to your company and help continue the tradition of music, family and the great out doors.

Please contact my office to discuss how we can arrange your sponsorship. My Chief of Staff, Josh Butler, can be reached at: 562-570-6932.  I want to thank you in advance for your consideration of this special sponsorship opportunity.

  Regards,


  Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske

P.S. To the people who are circulating comments that "Schipske's facts are not accurate" about the Municipal Band costs -- I would kindly remind you that they aren't my figures or facts. They come from the City Manager. So if anyone out there can provide different amounts that it costs to hold the band series each summer, please let me, the Mayor and the other members of the City Council know.