The following is a statement from Warren County High School Director of Bands Mr. Duane Farnham (provided by the WC School system):
For those who may not know me, I am Duane Farnham, the Director of Bands at Warren County High School. I am incredibly proud of our students and the hard work they put in throughout the year, whether they are performing in the football stands, taking the field at halftime or competitions, or volunteering in the concession stand and fair booth.
Because misinformation and speculation have begun circulating, I would like to provide some clarification regarding the band’s activities at the Warren County A&L Fair.
The Fair Board received complaints regarding a chant led by our students at the band’s booth and asked us to refrain from using it. The concerns did not come from one individual or organization but from several fairgoers. Having worked at the fair for 27 years, I understand that the fair is a lively and often loud environment. However, I also recognize that repeated shouting near dining areas and neighboring booths can be bothersome. There have been times in previous years when I have asked students to tone down the chant, and this year, the matter was addressed before I could do so. We respect the Fair Board’s request, and we will adapt.
I'm aware of comments suggesting the decision represents an infringement upon our rights. From my perspective, this situation is not about limiting anyone’s freedom of expression. It is about ensuring that our enthusiasm does not prevent others from enjoying the fair. I want our students to understand the importance of respecting the people around them and treating others as they would want to be treated. That is a lesson I reinforce with them regularly, and I am addressing this situation with them directly.
The Warren County High School Band Boosters had voted to donate funds collected at the booth to the DeKalb County High School Band. However, the necessary documentation has not yet been received, so that donation cannot move forward at this time. We have developed an alternate plan for the funds while remaining hopeful that we will hear from the DeKalb County Band soon.
What began as a simple matter has grown far beyond what it should have. Some conversations are setting an example that concerns me: that when we disagree with a decision, it is acceptable to bash, belittle or demean others until we get the outcome we want. That is not the example I want for my band or my students.
This situation comes down to respect - respect for the people around us and respect for ourselves. Please do not shout at other booths, confront fair workers or take any action that could negatively affect others because of this matter. Our students need to see that they are supported because of their dedication, character and accomplishments, not solely because of a chant.
Perhaps this is simply an opportunity for us to be creative and begin a new tradition. I am working on another way for our students to show their appreciation for the community’s donations while remaining respectful of neighboring booths and fair attendees.
I hope everyone will continue to visit and support the Warren County High School Band while enjoying everything our Warren County A&L Fair has to offer. Every person working long hours to serve the thousands of people attending the fair deserves our appreciation and respect.
I ask our community to help demonstrate that respect through our words, comments and actions throughout the remainder of the week. We may not always agree, but we can still choose to treat one another as neighbors.
The above picture of a statement posted at the band boosters booth this weekend has prompted massive social media response over the weekend.
