The Natchez Festival of Music wants to thank a group of people who have supported the festival for many years — the alumni of Margaret Martin School. These alumni came to the aide of the Festival 10 years ago when the festival began to restore the building.

Different classes restored rooms and decorated with memorabilia of individual classes. Those rooms are still intact.

In August 2009 the alumni was called on again for help with the Margaret Martin Performing Arts Center.

A large group of local alumni came and toured the building. A committee was formed consisting of Floyd Eppinette, Fred Foster, Gene McGehee and Mr. & Mrs. Wallace Willard. This group sought the help of former Mayor Tony Byrne who agreed to be in charge of fundraising.

A contest of most amounts donated among former graduating classes began. Former Mayor Byrne made personal calls, as well as, letters to many people. He was able to raise more than $6,000 for improvements.

Decisions were made with the help of alum Pat Wise, retired commercial interior decorator, and the improvements were accomplished. The building now has freshly painted baths and a room for board meetings and other events.

From 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. tonight the festival invites all alumni to a reception recognizing the Class of 1954 for securing the most money and to honor all alumni.

This reception will be in Room 107 which is one of the rooms that has been improved as a result of this effort.

The program for this years festival has a complete list of donations. So please, alumni come to our reception, get a program and let us express our thanks.

Charlotte Copeland

building chairman