By SANDRA THAMES / Community Columnist

In these days of “watching our pennies,” it has become nearly impossible to entertain ourselves on a budget. Going out to eat or a trip to the movies are two places where expenses can mount up quickly. On April 9, the Thompson High School Southern Knights Jazz Band will host an evening of jazz and hot java with a variety of decadent desserts. There will also be a silent auction. One might win a free dinner, a pedicure or manicure, a vacation package, various gift items and unique donations from area businesses and individuals.

There will be two full sets of jazz under the leadership of longtime THS band director Jon Bubbett, with the majority of the music being jazz with which we are familiar. “A Train”, “Tuxedo Junction, etc.”. Because of acoustics, the Thompson Middle School cafeteria will be used for this high school fundraiser. This will not be a typical fundraiser. Tables will be decorated in candles and twinkle lights and “servers” will be in uniform. An intimate setting with a club atmosphere is the goal.

The fundraiser will help with upgrading instruments or perhaps purchase more “real” instrument chairs. As with any class, there is always a list a mile long filled with needs and wishes. This is the third year for Java and Jazz with the goal being to make the event bigger and better each year with an appealing program and successful turnout.

Many band parents, volunteers, local businesses and students are working hard in planning a gala event for a reasonable price. Cheesecake, key lime pie, red velvet cake, chocolate cake, hot coffee, unexpected ambience and a program of delightful music by talented young people await you on Saturday, April 9 at 7 p.m. (Remember, Thompson Middle School cafeteria-incognito). Doors open at 6:30 p.m., so be early.

The jazz band (mostly juniors and seniors) is comprised of trumpet, sax, trombone, drums, keyboard, guitar and bass instruments. Several of the seniors have already accepted music scholarships to various colleges and universities. On April 8, the Thompson High School Jazz Band will perform in the Jazz Hall of Fame Band Competition in Birmingham, so they will have great last-minute competitive practice. Sounds like a winner.

Tickets may be purchased from any Thompson High School band member or by calling Thompson High School and leave a message for Renee Brown at 682-5700.

Community columnist Sandra Thames can be reached by e–mail at bobthames1942@yahoo.com.