Tim McLoone, everybody's favorite band leader, kicked off the Sunday Showcase held at Red Bank Regional on Feb. 26, by saying that he admired how the high school valued the performing arts.

"What a great place to go," he said before launching an afternoon of eclectic performances by RBR students -- from spine tingling arias and readings of original work to a rousing finale in song -- mixed in with some songs from McLoone and his back up group the Shirleys.

According to Education Foundation President Paul Noglows, the organization, which provides grants to teachers for innovative educational initiatives, has raised over $60,000 over the last three years. Last year the RBR Education Foundation funded a MacLab for students with 15 Apple iMac computers.