First Night Board Makes Donations to School Music Programs

First Night Alexandria has donated $3,000 to music programs at three area schools.

Thanks to two very successful years at the First Night event, which brings entertainment and activities to Alexandria on New Year’s Eve, the organization’s board of directors voted to contribute to the endeavors “since First Night is all about the performing arts,” said Board President Kerry Donley of and vice mayor of the city.

A $1,500 check was presented to Brian Thomas, chair of the music department and band director at , where the funds will be divided equally among the band, orchestra and choir.

Anne Provencher accepted a $750 check for and Patricia Williamson accepted the same amount for Francis Hammond Middle School.

Last December, two students from T.C. Williams assisted First Night. Senior Lauran McCracken wrote clues for the afternoon fun hunt and junior Keira Moran performed at .

In addition to the school donations, First Night shared the past two years successes with all performers.

“After several years of cold rainy weather and small crowds, all of the performers took a 10 percent cut in their fees to help us out,” said Ann Dorman, a founder of Meetings and Events of Distinction, which puts together the First Night program. "When the weather worked in our favor and the crowds swelled, we wanted to show our appreciation to the performers by giving each of them a small bonus.”