By Thomas R. Betty
In Motion Staff Writer
Photo by Thomas Betty
Teaching kids to play the drums at the Midtown Culture and Education Center in Daytona Beach just got easier thanks to a generous donation by the Daytona State College’s Falcon Veterans Club.
At the end of summer, a complete “child’s” size drum kit was presented to the director of music,Shamisai Chipudhla, by the Veterans Club President Myriam Ray.
The Veterans Club was made aware of the need by one of their members who was active in the remodeling of the facility at 925 George W. Engram Blvd., Daytona Beach. The newly renovated center offers recreation and education areas that benefit inner-city children in the Daytona Beach area. PepsiCo made a donation of $54,000 to outfit the Center with a state-of-the-art recording studio. along with various musical instruments.
“This new drum kit will allow us to have a teacher sit side-by-side with a young student, making it more practical to teach the skills necessary to master drums,” Chipudhla says.
The Center opened for business on Aug. 12 and those interested in contributing to its cause or in using the facility can call 386-671-5542 to inquire about needs and future events.
Newly established last academic year, the DSC Veterans Center has become a place for hope and comfort for those returning to civilian life. Each of our DSC Veterans is working on their educational journey and has found DSC to be their new home. Through the Veterans Center the College has encountered many men and women who have served their country and now find themselves at a crossroads, and at times even homeless.
Through the support of AFC faculty organization and Veterans Center staff , a summer food drive was held for the campus center. But it is always in need of contributions to further its cause. The Veterans Center daily provides coffee and light snacks, such as cookies, peanut butter and crackers, for those who may be in need. The Center finds its pantry empty many times and is always seeking donations.
Become a member of the Friends of the DSC Veterans Center and make a small donation of coffee, cookies, peanut butter,and crackers. Any and all donations are welcomed and appreciated. The Veterans Center is located in Building 130, adjacent to the cafeteria.
For information, contact Suzette Cameron at ext. 7301 or cameros@daytonastate.edu or LeeAnn Davis at ext. 3403 or davisl@daytonastate.edu.