For a short time, it appeared as though the annual Labor Day parade band competition would be canceled due to a lack of funds.
In the past, $10,000 was donated to the contest by the Tulsa-based union but budget cuts were announced ending that source of revenue.
Linda Gerster said the AFL-CIO has announced a single donation of $5,000 and letters have been sent to other union offices asking for their help.
The money is awarded to the marching band winners following the parade.
“I hope we can get more bands if we get more money,” she told members of the city council Tuesday.
Gerster and Tom Taton are heading up the Henryetta Labor Day School Band Competition committee. They are asking anyone locally who would like to donate to that fund to contact them.
“The money is being deposited in a special account at the bank and will be accounted for if asked,” she said.
The goal is for $10,000 but Gerster said any amount donated would be appreciated.
“All money goes to the bands. If there is any left, it will be saved and put toward next year,” she added.