Board of Recreation Donates Money to Band Program

Hopatcong's Board of Recreation granted the Hopatcong High School Band and Parents Organization $500 at Tuesday's meeting at borough hall.

"I just wish it could be more," board member Don Bogardus said.

Tom Dougherty, one of the program's representatives, asked the board for a donation early in the meeting. The district chopped the high school's marching band for the upcoming year due to budget cuts.

Dougherty said the program was struggling to cover equipment costs.

"It's greatly appreciated," he said. "It's going to go a long way. I guarantee it."

The board seemed willing to help after Dougherty's plea. But Bogardus got the wheels rolling with a motion for a $500 donation, which the board backed unanimously.

Bogardus, a 48-year resident, said he couldn't remember the last time a non-sports-oriented program approached the board about relief.

"[But] that's all part of recreation," he said. "It's not just baseball, football, basketball—whatever we may think it is. That's just how some people [get involved].

"Since I've been here we've supported every sports program or anything that's come through the door without question."