[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 165 (Tuesday, December 14, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2129]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   IN RECOGNITION OF THE SCOTIA BAND

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                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 14, 2010

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Madam Speaker, I rise today in 
recognition of the 75th anniversary of the Scotia Band, a community 
band formed in Humboldt County, California in 1935. The Scotia Band is 
a living legacy of America's musical heritage and a fixture on the 
North Coast of California.
  The 35-piece, marching Scotia Band was established in 1935 by 
employees of The Pacific Lumber Company, later welcoming other 
musicians of the community. Women were encouraged to join during World 
War II, with the first woman president, Alice Gunnerson, serving from 
1950-51. Local students have also participated, establishing the Scotia 
Band as an important part of music education in the region. Over the 
years, the band has involved over 700 musicians and conducted over 
3,600 rehearsals.
  In 1960, Sewell Lufkin was appointed band leader. A local elementary 
school teacher and World War II veteran, he instilled his abiding 
appreciation for music in his students. After his death in 1978, the 
Scotia Band established the Sewell Lufkin Memorial Scholarship, which 
continues to support Humboldt County students pursuing music education.
  The Scotia Band continues to perform traditional and contemporary 
concert music at annual events and one-time commemorations throughout 
the county. Under the leadership of the current band leader, Michael 
McClimon, smaller ensembles have been formed, including the Scotia 
Dixieland Band, the Tijuana Brass Group, the Scotia Brass Choir, the 
Scotia Ragtime Band and the Saxophone Quartet.
  Humboldt County is proud to be the home of the Scotia Band, an 
historic and cultural institution that over the years has enriched the 
lives of many thousands of people. From the Blessing of the Fleet to 
the Fortuna Apple Harvest Festival, the Scotia Band has performed at 
hundreds of community functions that celebrate the cultural richness of 
the region. Their music continues to touch new generations and remind 
us of the traditions that make America great.
  Madam Speaker, it is appropriate at this time to recognize the Scotia 
Band on the occasion of its 75th anniversary of outstanding musical 
performance and education to our community.

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