The Newton County High School Band is set to make history, thanks to the generosity of several donors who helped the group raise the funds needed for a trip to New Orleans to play at the Sugar Bowl on Jan. 4.

“I am pleased to announce that we have received over $9,000 in donations,” said band director Jason Smith in an e-mail. “We are well on our way to represent Newton High School and the entire Covington community!”

The 45 students, eight of whom are seniors, will perform with 18 other bands from across the country. The band is scheduled to play a four-minute medley with the other student musicians during the mass performance, as well as perform some standalone pieces in the historic French Quarter and at a gazebo on the Mississippi River.

The bank will use the extra money they received for incidentals that may occur on the trip and what is left will be used for the band in some capacity. Smith said that he would sit down with the band booster finance committee to discuss that at a later date. Students are scheduled to leave for the Sugar Bowl at 11:30 p.m. New Year’s Night.

            “We cannot say thank you enough!” said Smith.