The Star - News, views and advertising of the Grand Coulee Dam Area

Lake Roosevelt Schools received a $6,000 check from a grant from the Music Matters Distribution Fund at their holiday band and choir concert on Dec. 13.

"I was very happy and excited, and started a shopping list immediately," said music teacher Karen Pace. "I have already purchased some new instruments and will be purchasing a set of acoustical sound shells to go around the performers."

Pace plans to reapply for the same grant for next school year.

"It is a team effort, as I have to have principal, superintendent, and board approval for my plan," Pace added. "I am very grateful for the continued support of the music department here by the school community and the local community."

Pace explained that music teachers pay dues to the Washington Music Educators Association and contribute to a fund called Music Matters, from which the grant money comes. Schools in the state with 65 percent or more of their students receiving free lunches can apply for the grant.

The large novelty check was presented to Pace during the holiday concert by Jonathan McBride, current president of WMEA and the music teacher in Pateros, Wash.

"He is also a composer and we have performed his music," Pace added.