In 1985, a
young boy involved in student government at a local junior high
school was heavily involved in a discussion about their canteens.
The discussion surrounded Disc Jockeys who were very expensive,
lacked the kind of music the student body desired and were not
consistent. Steve Allard, Student Body Vice President of Alicia
Intermediate School, had a brainstorm. He thought, "Why not
play music ourselves. We have the equipment; my best friend's
mother has all the music we like; and we can save money."
After some discussion, the student body officers decided to give
the idea a try. The worst that could happen had already happened…
a bad dance.
Steve and his best friend, Thomas, were determined to have a successful
dance. Weeks before the canteen, the two friends spent countless
hours surveying students for their favorite songs. They carefully
audited the music requests and arranged them in order so they
would sound the best. They spent several hours recording music
onto cassette because they only had one record player. The date
of the canteen rolled around. The excitement was felt among fellow
students, as they knew one of their own would play the music they
wanted. No more hassling with other DJ's to play their favorite
songs. After two-and-one-half hours, much stress between Steve
and Thomas and several liters of soda, the last song ended. To
their surprise, the audience burst into a loud cheer and a standing
ovation. The dance was a success! And to show gratitude, the Student
Body Advisor paid each of them $40.00 each. The boys were elated
because at age thirteen, $40.00 appeared more like a million dollars.
Due to their success, they were asked to perform at the remaining
school dances for the year.
Read
more...TSPDJ.com - Future and Present
