For many years as owners of The Band Box in Wenatchee, Jim and Lorrie provided free emergency repair service and instrument and equipment loans to band directors and students participating in the Washington State Apple Blossom parades. From 1959 to 1966, Jim was band director at Mason, then Eastmont school districts, the most fulfilling musical work experience of his life. They co-founded the Wenatchee British Brass Band in 1983 and were members of the board for 15 years, Jim serving as board chair.