In less than three minutes Thursday night, the Eustis City Commission and community members fully funded a new trailer wrap for the Eustis High School Band, showing off what community is all about.

Chris Orr, president of the Music Association of Eustis, which supports the band program, presented the request to commissioners, explaining that the current trailer’s ripped paint and faded appearance did not reflect the pride of the nearly 100-year-old band program.

“I went into the meeting hopeful the city would contribute at least in part to wrap the band trailer,” Chris says. “I didn’t expect it would all be taken care of. We’ve never raised that much money that quickly. Typically we do a bake sale, stand there three hours, and it takes eight volunteers and several hours of prep work to make $50. This was the exact opposite.”

Chris says two commissioners are former band parents, and the band has always had a warm relationship with the city.

“I didn’t have any expectation, but it never hurts to ask,” he says.

As soon as he finished speaking, Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri pledged $500. A local restaurant owner matched the amount, and then another resident offered $250.

“It felt like an auction,” Chris says. “By the time I turned back around, commissioners were pledging from their discretionary funds. Basically we got what we needed right there. The whole process couldn’t have been more than a minute after my request.”

The band had been $2,200 short of the amount needed for the wrap. Wrap Masters in Eustis offered the group a sponsorship that cut the cost in half, making the goal more attainable after the initial $8,000 quote.

“A lot of credit goes to them,” Chris says. “When we started this process, the band program was heading into its 100th year, and it was important to have the trailer look better. It was almost embarrassing before.”

The new design will feature a dark blue graphic wrap with the band’s shield logo, and “Eustis High School Band” will be prominently displayed on the back, something that Chris is personally excited about.

“I’m one of the trailer pullers and when I’m following behind the buses, many people think I’m just a pushy lawn maintenance guy because I’m trying to keep up with them,” Chris says. “I’m hoping now they will see I’m with them.”

The trailer is essential for hauling instruments, uniforms, and equipment to football games, parades and competitions.

Chris says the quick show of support speaks volumes.

“The whole reason we exist is to support the band program and keep band fees as low as possible for students,” he says. “This was just incredible to see happen so fast, and the generosity hasn’t gone unnoticed.”