The Pitman High School Band, known as the “Marching Pride” was recently invited to the 2012 National Independence Day Parade in Washington D.C. following a recommendation from Governor Jerry Brown.   

The Marching Pride hopes to raise $100,000 in order to make the trip to the nation’s capital. Tonight the band will celebrate its nomination and kick off its massive fundraising effort with a free concert. The event will be held at 5:30 p.m. at the Stanislaus County Fairgrounds in Turlock on the Midway at 900 North Broadway Ave.

Scheduled speakers are Mayor John Lazar; Dana Ferreira, field representation for Congressman Jeff Denham; Sonny DaMarto, Turlock Unified School District superintendent; Jennifer Carlson, field representative for Supervisor Vito Chiesa; Frank Alvarez from the American GI Forum; Mike Lynch, Turlock Chamber of Commerce Chair; and Steven Nascimento, district director for Congressman Dennis Cardoza.

To contact Jonathan McCorkell, e-mail jmccorkell@turlockjournal.com or call 634-9141 ext. 2015.