Zuni band trying to raise funds to perform at inaugural

The Zuni Pueblo Band marches along Historic Rt. 66 in downtown Gallup during 83rd Annual Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial day parade. The band has been invited to perform during President Bush's inauguration in Wahsington D.C. (Photo by Jeff Jones/Independent)

By Pamela G. Dempsey
Staff Writer

ZUNI — Nearly $23,000 stands between the Zuni Pueblo Band and a chance to perform in the 55th Inaugural Parade.

"We were humbled by both the talent and the great enthusiasm from groups across the country who applied to participate in this year's inaugural parade," stated Greg Jenkins, executive director of the 55th Presidential Inaugural Committee in a December press release. "We've worked hard to make sure there is ample representation from across America and believe the talent and efforts of all will ensure the 2005 Inaugural Parade reflects both the values and skill of our great nation."

So far, more than 70 bands and performers from 47 states and Washington D.C. are scheduled to perform in the parade, set for Jan. 20. when President George W. Bush will take the oath of office for a second term.

The Zuni Pueblo Band is the only performance from the State of New Mexico.

"This is a big thing for Zuni, Gallup, and the state," said Mark Romancito, the long-time band director. "We're not only representing (them), we're also representing the other pueblos."

Unfortunately, the limited resources of the band may eliminate it from the parade line-up.

The band needs almost $23,000 to make the trip and plan to leave on Jan. 18.

"When we were invited, we knew financially, we couldn't make it," Romancito said. "But this is a privilege and an honor and we said, 'let's try to.'"

Expenses include a chartered bus from Albuquerque to Washington D.C. to haul 30 members with equipment and supplies as well as meals and lodging. Hotel rates, Romancito said, top $200 a night for a four-person room. An estimated 10 rooms are needed.

The band is planning to drive straight-through to save costs and will leave Washington D.C. on Jan. 21.

"We really need the support," Romancito said.

The band was originally known as the Inter-Tribal Band, made up of members from the Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni tribes. During the 1950's , however, Zuni broke off to create its own band. It's been marching ever since.

The band, Romancito said, plays "old-time" military style marches and is made up of interested community members. The oldest one is nearly 70-years old and the youngest is still in elementary school, he said.

Band members have jumped in with fund-raising efforts, selling raffle-tickets and rallying donations from local businesses.

A roadblock donation drive will be held Saturday and a benefit concert and bake sale held on Sunday at the Zuni Tribal Building starting at 1 p.m.

"I haven't given up yet," Romancito said. "I hope we can go."

For more information contact Mark Romancito at (505) 782-5694 or (505) 870-2287; Raeleva Sanchez at (505) 862-2167; or Delbert Quam at (505) 863-1422 ext. 4202

To contact reporter Pam Dempsey, call (505) 879-1707 or email pamelagdempsey@msn.com