ICE DAY EDITION! (new info as of 12/21)

Hello everyone!


First of all,  HOLY SMOKES WAS THAT AN AWESOME CONCERT!

Very rarely does every single aspect of an event go better than I expected. SO PROUD of the performances our kids put on, the music we made, and just as importantly, the way they conducted themselves off stage as well.

Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on who you ask), there was an ICE DAY today, cancelling school.  Because of the unexpected nature of this AOGD, many students did not take home their instrument.  With auditions coming up almost directly after break ends, it is important for these students to get their instrument.

Here is what I can offer as a solution:

The only days that the school is actually closed completely are Christmas day, New Years day, and "the eves" of both those holidays.  Students and/or parents should be able to gain access to the school, find either a secretary or custodian, and get into the band room. THE NEXT "SURE THING" TIME TO GET INTO THE SCHOOL IS FRIDAY DECEMBER 27th 8AM-3PM.

If there is a bigger problem than that, I can be reached on my cell (many students and parents have my number.  This sounds cryptic, but please ask around other band people until you find one that knows, I don't want to give it out over the internet).  Do not bother trying on Christmas, New Years or "The Eves" as I will not be answering the phone or answering any messages on those days.  Do not call me just to get into the school, as instructions for that situation have been provided above.

OK... now that that little piece of business is taken care of, Let me get back to the warm fuzzy part of this post:

-FANTASTIC CONCERT.  Lets do it again soon!

-You will do great on your auditions (if you practice :)

-Thank you for another year of fantastic memories and music.  I am always grateful for the opportunity to work with such fantastic young musicians and their parents.

-May your holidays be everything you hoped for and may we meet again safely in the new year.

Mr. Smigell


  

Ghirardelli & Spirit Cups

Chocolate is in the band room. Anyone that ordered the mix of chocolate chips there was a change. The company ran out of white chocolate chips. They replaced them w/milk chocolate chips. Sorry for the inconvenience. They were not sure when the white chocolate would be available again.

Spirit Cups will be in the band room on Friday! Please make sure you pick them up before the break.

Ghirardelli Chocolate will be in the band room tonight for pick up.
If you see a few students & parents unloading, please feel free to pitch in and help carry into the band room.

Spirit cups should be here this week too.

Donations

The upcoming concert is the only concert of the year that the band is hoping for some donations. Look for a band student with giant present boxes to deposit donations. The band is grateful for any amount. It will be used for music and other various items that are needed.
We'd also love it if a few families could send in some small candy canes. We'll hand these out as a thank you when families donate.
Another item we need are AAA Batteries, 9 Volt Batteries and Ear Plugs. The batteries, we only need a few. Ear plugs, we'd appreciate as many as we can get. If you have any questions please email Christyne MacDermaid at christynemacdermaid@gmail.com or 734-476-0312.
Please read all of Mr. Smigell's important post below.

NEWS BULLETIN!

Hey folks!

Thought I would drop a line and update you on a few things coming up: PLEASE READ ALL OF IT!!


#1 LIVINGSTON COUNTY HONORS BAND
This is a group of the finest players from the five county high schools.  Conveniently, auditions and two of the rehearsals are held here at Howell High School.  Audition sheets have been passed out.  Any questions about auditions should be directed to Mr. Smigell.

12/11/2013 (tomorrow) tryouts here in Howell 4pm-8pm

12/16/2013 rehearsal 7-9pm here in Howell

1/13/2014        7-9pm Here

1/25/2014  8am-3pm at fowlerville HS

1/27/2014 Rehearsal 8:00-2pm At Fowlerville. Concert 7pm at Fowlerville HS


#1a MARCHING BAND WON "BEST USE OF MUSIC" IN THE FANTASY OF LIGHTS PARADE 2013 :D


#2. OUR HOLIDAY CONCERT

Is TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17TH, 7PM IN HOWELL HS AUDITORIUM
The report time is 6:30 PM.  This Concert will be approximately 2 hours.

CONCERT ATTIRE IS REQUIRED FOR THIS CONCERT.  THAT MEANS THAT PERCUSSION ENSEMBLE WEARS ALL BLACK, CONCERT AND SYMPHONIC BANDS WEAR BLACK PANTS, THEIR WHITE FORMAL SHIRT, AND A BOWTIE.  WIND ENSEMBLE WEARS THIER BLACK JACKET, BLACK PANTS, WHITE FORMAL SHIRT, AND A BOWTIE.  Any questions, please see Mr. Smigell

Mixed Bags

Mixed Bags are in. They'll be sorted tonight. If you're at the booster meeting, you can help sort them and then take your order. Or, please pick up tomorrow. They'll be sorted by student name.

Booster Meeting

Booster meeting is this Wednesday, December 4, 2013 at 6:30 pm. Please feel free to join us to see how you can help the boosters. We'll be in the band room.

REPORT TIME FOR THE PARADE TODAY!

Hello Everyone!


The report time (which, by the way has been announced for 5 days in class... just sayin' kids..)

for the parade tonight is 5 pm at the Howell High School Band room.  Please do not be late to this as they close Grand River at 5 pm.

You may bring your own hat and gloves, which we will hide right before we step off.  You may wear some layers underneath your uniform, but no sweat shirts, hoodies, or jeans!

ok.. see you there!


-Smigell

Mixed Bags

The Mixed Bag fundraiser has shipped.
Fed-Ex did not give a specific arrival date, but they're on the way.
We'll let you know as soon as they're in.

Concert Uniform Shirt / Tie

The concert uniform for both Symphonic and Concert band includes a white formal shirt and a black bow tie.  All members of the ensembles are required to have these.

A representative from the Brighton Tux Shop will be coming during 6th hr tomorrow, November 22nd to fit Concert Band.

You are not obligated to by a shirt from Brighton Tux Shop.. However you will have a hard time finding a better price. It costs $19 for the shirt and the tie.

Payment is not necessary at the fitting. It will be collected when we receive the shirts.

ATTN: Ghirardelli Fundraiser Due Dates Changed!!

The Ghirardelli Fundraiser is due on Monday November 25th with a grace period of one day (Tues Nov ,26th). We apologize for the inconvenience for not being able to sell over Thanksgiving, but the company will not distribute product without getting the money first. In order to make sure we have the chocolate by the holidays, we have to have it in this early.

ATTN: New FoL Practice Times

Fantasy of Lights Parade Practice times are now:

Thursday November 21st @ 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Friday November 22nd @ 2:30pm - 3:30pm
Monday November 25th @ 2:30pm - 3:30pm

These are the new dates/times - disregard the others that have been posted/written. Sorry for the inconvenience.

EMU CLINIC DAY INFORMATION

Hello Everyone!

Many of you (or your children) have elected to attend EMU's Music Clinic Day this Saturday.  Here is a link to all of that information:

http://www.emich.edu/musicdance/documents/clinicday2013.pdf

Here also are the directions to the Alexander Music Building at EMU (it is a pretty sweet interactive map thingy... just put "alexander" in the search window and it will give you visual and written directions)

http://www.emich.edu/maps/

Good luck and enjoy!

Charms/student accounts

Here's how to get into your student accounts.....

www.charmsoffice.com
click Enter/Login
click Parents/students/members on that drop down
Howellhsband is your School Code
Student Area Password is your students Howell High School number. Your student most likely knows this. Or, it can be found on your progress report, or report cards.
Now you can check on their finances. How much is in their account. Print a form to request that money be moved out of Charms account to pay for Boston, music lessons etc. If it's music lessons or music items please include a receipt. If it's Boston, and it's the first payment, please have ALL of your information filled out for Boston. Turn this in together so we can keep track of who's going to Boston, and how you've paid. We will then turn over to the treasurer to have the funds transfered properly. If you have any questions about using Charms, please contact Christyne MacDermaid christynemacdermaid@gmail.com, or 734-476-0312.

Pasta is sorted in the band room and ready to be picked up. Popcorn should be sorted and ready sometime next week.

Senior Show Video?

Hey Everyone,

I was wondering if anyone or their parents recorded the half time show of the last home game / Senior Show. My recording didn't come out and I would like to document the show in my portfolio. If anyone has a copy - could you please send it to me via email at: thejadegecko@gmail.com

It's been an awesome season guys -I can't wait to grow with the program! Already got big plans for next year!

Thanks,

Nicole / Jade

Pasta, Booster Meeting, Boston

Nov. 6, 2013
Pasta Pick Up during the booster meeting.
6pm Booster Meeting
7pm Boston Meeting

Missed Cookie Dough Pick up?

Anyone that did not make it to pick up cookie dough at the designated time, Christyne MacDermaid went to the school, picked it up and put it in her freezer. You can contact her at 734-476-0312 to make arrangements to pick it up. Please leave a time that might work out for you when leaving a voicemail or text and I will get back to you as soon as I can. There is a lot of cookie dough that wasn't picked up. If it could be picked up soon I'd appreciate that.
734-476-0312

HOCKEY BAND EDITION

Hello All!


Here is the lowdown on hockey band (my apologies for the "after the fact" post, it was not intentional)


1.Your child has already auditioned or not auditioned for this group.  At the bottom of this post is the roster.
2. The next rehearsals are tomorrow (10/30/13) from 6pm-8pm and NOW JUST ADDED THURSDAY OCT 31 from 2:30-4:00pm

3.  The Game itself is University of Michigan vs. Michigan Tech.  We will be representing the University of Michigan and subbing for the Hockey Pep Band.  The game is at Yost Ice Arena in Ann Arbor MI.

4.  We are being driven by bus to Ann Arbor, with a few of the children being driven by chaperone.  If you are adamant about your child not being driven by a chaperone (we do screen them), please let me know so i can make sure they ride the bus.

5. Report time is this Saturday, Nov 1. at 4:30 PM.  Bus will depart at 5:00 pm.

6.  The game is at 7PM.  Tickets are available through through the University of Michigan Ticket Office (google-able) if you would like to come watch!

7. Your child will receive a box lunch, a t-shirt, and a ride to the game.  Such a deal!

8.  Return time is anywhere from 10:30-11:30 so make sure to be checking for those texts around that time :)


ok here is the roster:

Hockey Band 2013

Flute

Emily Dascenzo

Charlie Garlock

Lydia Miller

Sierra Rivera

Jennifer Esch

Casey Lehman

Clarinets

Amanda Lavigne

Caitlyn Allison

Nick Lellie

Maria Klein

Kim Kenney

Tessa Beard

Bri Koslowski

Kinsey Boutelle

Saxohpones

Kousa Yamaoka

Rosie Hersch

Mark Carr

Kelsey Murphy

Brendan Norwood

Lina Brinkman

Rebecca Spoor

Britney Winters

Hanna Allison

Max Wagner

Dan Rose

Troy van Valkenburg

Kathleen Issenegger

Pat Crilly

John Kuzmich

Trumpets

Katy Michaels

Chris Klug

Lucas Chacone

Jacob Rushlow

Kip Rux

Julia Etema

Anne Potts

Abby Mulaney

Amber Farchione

Horn

Alex Patton

Jake Lachowicz

Cam Papson

Maddie timmerman

Lilly Lemadeline

Sara Hoffman

Trombone

Jack Porath

Rick Wellington

Geno Chandler

Joe Schell

Mitch Spangler

Sean O’Connor*

Euph

Nick Mulaney

Joe Harvey

Tuba

Dan Grigsby

Natalie Dunn

Ben Allegoet

Jared Duncan

Maddie A2Z

Matt Allegoet

Snares

Paul Brown

Connor Norton

Tenors

Joe Bartkowiak

Basses

Connor O’Brien

Katy Ray

Justin Allegoet

Brad Albrant

Hayden Macdermaid

Cymbals

Jake Humphries

Pit

Patty Issenegger

-Go BLUE!

-Smigell

ATTN: Boston Meeting

The Boston meeting has been moved from November 13th TO November 6th. It will still be at 7pm in the band room. Sorry for the inconvenience!

GAME DAY SCHEDULE

Hello all!

Here is the long awaited game day schedule:



KIDS:

5:00 pm report at the stadium field (not in the band room at 5, not getting out the instrument at 5, on the field ready to go at 5PM:)

5:30 tailgate

5:55 Uniforms

6:20 assemble for stepoff/inspection

6:25 step off for stadium

6:30 arrive at stadium/assemble parents

6:40 Senior/Parent appreciation ceremony

6:50 pregame

7:00 Kickoff

9:30 ish Done



PARENTS OF SENIORS:

YOUR REPORT TIME FOR THE CEREMONY IS AT 6:25 AT THE FENCE ON THE BAND'S SIDE OF THE STANDS.  PLEASE MAKE SURE YOUR CHILD HAS PROPERLY FILLED OUT THE FORM BEFORE THIS TIME OR YOUR NAMES WILL NOT BE READ OFF ACCURATELY.  Thank you for all the time and support you have shown these four years for your child and for this program!  See posts below for tailgate information and other tasty bits of information!

It is going to be cold!  We suggest for your child TWO THIN LAYERS underneath the uniform on top and ONE THIN LAYER underneath the uniform pants.  Thin includes long underwear, "underarmor", long sleeve t-shirts, spandex.  Wearing sweatshirts and jeans underneath the uniform can possibly hurt the uniforms and will end up constricting blood flow and making them colder!

Students will be allowed to bring their own gloves and hats to conceal in their uniform and put on while in the stands.  PLEASE DO NOT BRING RIDICULOUSLY LARGE HATS AND PUFFY GLOVES THAT WILL NOT FIT UNDER THE UNIFORM.

And finally and most importantly:

NO EXTRA WARM CLOTHING SHOULD BE VISIBLE OUTSIDE THE UNIFORM WHILE WE ARE PARADING TO THE FIELD OR WHILE ON THE FIELD.

Hope this helps!  Hockey Band final information will be posted very very soon!

-Smigell

Boston Meeting

The parent meeting for the Boston trip is scheduled!
November 13, 2013
7pm
High School Band Room

Cookie Pick Up Correction

I'm sorry about the confusion! The cookie pick up is NOT tomorrow! Cookie pick up is October 28, 2013 at 3pm. Hopefully this gives you more time to arrange to have the frozen cookie dough picked up by 3pm.

Cookie Pick Up
October 28, 2013
3pm
Howell High Band Room

Fundraisers

Yankee Candles are in!
Please make sure that your student's name is on the box that you take. Some students may have 1 of 3 boxes, or something like that. Make sure you get all boxes!!

Cookie Dough pick up will be at 3pm Monday Oct. 21. Please make arrangements to have someone pick up your frozen cookie dough order. The booster parent that will be in the band room for that needs to leave shortly after pick up.
Profit on cookie dough was $4.78 due to shipping costs.

Candles

Yankee Candles shipped today. We'll post when they arrive.

Yankee candles have been processed. Waiting on delivery. We'll let you know as soon as they're in. Please read the concert post below!!

Tonight's MB Practice

Practice is only from 6:30pm - 8pm. Please dress warm - we will be outside! It is starting to cool off and weather is suppose to be in the low 50s/high 40s. 

Massive newsflash!

Hello everyone!


There is a concert this week! (Thursday 10/17/2013) This should not be a massive newsflash.  The massive newsflash is that it starts at 7:30 PM  unlike other concerts.  Report time for performers is 7:00pm.  This is to give us a little time to breathe after the parent teacher conference.  No worries, the whole thing will be done by 9pm.  All day groups PLUS the marching band will be performing, so come on out!  It should be great!  Dress code for THIS concert is "dress nicely".  That means:

-No Tshirts
-No jeans
-no sweatshirts
-no tennis shoes
-school-code appropriate clothing

So shirt and tie, slacks and blouse, skirt and blouse, khakis and sweater, slacks and a nice shirt are all fine.  Minimum would be khakis and a polo shirt with collar.

Also, don't forget that there IS Marching band rehearsal tomorrow (monday 10/14/2013) from 6:30-8:45 ish


Ok folks, Have a good week and GOOOOOOO HIGHLANDERS!!!!


-Smigell

P.s. Great job at brighton last Friday!  I could not have asked for more from you kids.  You played great, cheered your hearts out, and were classy too!

p.p.s  We won the Mikey's burger challenge!  WOOT!

P.P.P.S  Don't forget, i don't facebook, but i do Tweet.  You can follow me on Twitter at @smigellj I always link posts to the blog and give out lightning updates from there. :)

HOWELL VS. BRIGHTON TONIGHT AT BRIGHTON!

Hello all!


Tonight the Highlanders take on the Bulldogs over at Brighton HS.  Scroll down a couple weeks for details on how away pep band works (band members wear their band shirt, students must take their instrument home after school, students must find their own ride, students get in for free.  Students are supervised until the end of the game, but not afterward).  Report time is 6:30 pm at the away (visitor) gate.  Let's support our Highlanders and be classy in the process :)

Here is the google maps link:

https://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Howell+High+School,+West+Grand+River+Avenue,+Howell,+MI&daddr=Brighton+High+School,+Brighton+Road,+Brighton,+MI&hl=en&geocode=FVBGigIdIBT_-iH5-oC7fUmRtClpfXl_xzgjiDH5-oC7fUmRtA%3BFRTyiAIdTmMB-yG614PMqEg3MCmzini7mk8jiDG614PMqEg3MA&aq=0&oq=Brighton+HS&sll=42.606986,-83.938974&sspn=0.068732,0.105228&vpsrc=0&mra=ls&ie=UTF8&t=m&z=12&layer=c&ei=DOhXUoHAO4GIwgHF7IGoDw&pw=2

-Smigell

New Fundraiser

Mrs. Sumner has set up another awesome fundraiser! It is in the band room this morning. Please pick it up and pay close attention to the turn in dates. We've been getting a few late ones. We don't want you to miss out on your hard work. Students, watch the dates! Mom, Dad, Aunts/Uncles, and the rest of the family don't want to miss out on these awesome things they think they've purchased. This next fundraiser is called Mixed Bags and they're super cool!!

Friendly Reminder

Please remember that there is practice tonight 6:30pm - 8:30pm. The rain has moved off. Remember to dress warmly. :)

Updates

Basket Raffle
October 17, 2013
Fall Band Concert
AMAZING Fundraiser!!

If you'd like to donate a basket, please contact The Sumner's, threeleg@att.net.
Any basket is acceptable.
Gift Card Basket
Movie Night Basket
Michigan Basket
Music Basket

Ask for donations from local businesses that incorporate your theme if you have one. Go in with other band families and do a Giant Basket. Anything goes. It's all to make money for our band program.

Anyone who helps out in anyway with our band, please fill out a background check and hand it directly to Christyne MacDermaid or Francine Sumner. This includes, serving food at tailgates, enjoying tailgates w/students, handing out uniforms, getting water to the stands before games and many other ways you might come into contact with the band students. Thank you!! christynemacdermaid@gmail.com

Last tailgate October 25. Pizza night and senior night.
Please place $3 per person in an envelope labeled PIZZA NIGHT w/your name and place it in the band mailbox. We need to get a count of how many people will be eating with us before the next tailgate. Please turn in by, October 18.
More details on Senior Night coming soon!

Hey Folks!

Well the longest day of the year is upon us!


Here is the lowdown on HOMECOMING!!




This Friday, if your child is in marching band, they will be at the school THE ENTIRE DAY straight through until evening and the game.  Here are the things they need:


1.Their instrument/Equipment

2. Black Socks

3. Appropriate Black Shoes

4. Current band shirt

5. Change of clothes in case it gets wet.


Starting 7th hour on friday 10/4/2013,  the band will be on duty. Here is how it goes:

1:15-2:16 Pep rally (All students get their instruments when students are dismissed)

2:30-3:30 Homecoming dress rehearsal

3:30-4:00 get into uniforms

4:15 get picked up by bus

5:00 Parade

5:30 arrive back at high school  GET FED AT FRIED CHICKEN TAILGATE YEEAAHHHH!

6:00 Get dressed back up

6:25 step off for stadium

6:45 PERFORM ELTON JOH SHOW FOR FINAL TIME!  (Please note, we are performing our show during PREGAME not halftime!!!0

7:00 game (Hopefully win)

9:30 ish Dismissed.  Longest day of the year over


All of this is subject to change depending on the weather.   CHECK THIS BLOG FREQUENTLY!!

you can also subscribe to me on twitter (@smigellj) as I will be tweeting as well.


ok folks, hope this helps.

In the next installment, Chairs, grading rationales, Hockey Band, The First Concert, and The fantasy of lights!!!


-Smigell

Tailgate update

We still need
3 bowls cut up fruit
3 dozen rolls
1 tray of Mac & cheese

Please contact the Sumner's to donate
threeleg@att.net

NO GRAND BLANC PEP BAND THIS WEEK AND OTHER NEWS....

Hi folks!

NO GRAND BLANC PEP BAND AND A LITTLE HOMECOMING INFO:
Unfortunately, we could not get the proper personnel to sign up for Grand Blanc (this frequently happens with this location since it is so far away).  Therefore, the band will NOT be performing there on Friday.  Our next performance is the following Friday, Oct. 4.  This will be Homecoming versus Milford.  *Please note that we will be performing the Elton John Show for the final time during pregame of Homecoming, as half time will be court adoration and other activities* much more information about homecoming on the way..


CHAIRS

I am going to have the chairs posted hopefully by Monday.  Sorry for all of those people who have been on pins and needles.



READ BELOW FOR TAILGATE INFORMATION!

Tailgate Oct. 4, 2013

Homecoming Tailgate

Needed:
3lbs Coleslaw
3lbs Potato Salad
3lbs Macaroni Salad
4 trays Macaroni and Cheese
3 Bowls Cut up Fruit
15 Dozen Rolls
3 Large containers Butter
15 Packages Cookies

Chicken is being donated by Band Boosters.

Please contact The Sumner Family w/the item you will be donating. threeleg@att.net

Homecoming tailgate and step-off usually starts a little earlier, approx 30 min earlier. Please plan accordingly.

Band students do march in the Homecoming Parade downtown. That normally starts at 4pm. We will keep you posted as it gets closer.

PEP BAND POSSIBILITIES AND EMU CLINIC DAY

Hello all,

Normally we go to away football games.  Sometimes they are very far away and we have to do a check.   This weeks game is at GRAND BLANC.  This is usually one of the ones that we do not make it to, but I check each year for interest.  There is a sign up sheet in the band room.  ONLY SIGN UP ON THE SHEET IF YOU CAN FOR SURE GO.  That means that you have told your parents where it is and they are willing to drive you there and back (GB is near Flint).  If you were going to be driving, you need to make sure your parents will let you drive that far (another reason).  I will check on Thursday for the amount of interest and make an announcement at the end of the day.  We will definitely be going to Brighton and probably the crossover game if it is close.

Pizza Pick Up

Pick up for pizza has changed!
October 1, 2013
5:30pm
Howell High Band Room
Please share this with other band members!

GREAT JOB TONIGHT!! I WAS SO PROUD OF YOU!  Especially in the rain!  Especially those who stayed for the whole game!


I have one correction to make, THE HOCKEY GIG IS ACTUALLY NOVEMBER 2, 2013.  I goofed!


More info to come....

ATTN: No 8th Graders Tonight

Unfortunately due to tonight's weather forecast - we will NOT be having eight graders perform with us tonight. Their respective directors have agreed and will be telling them this news at school today. 

IMPORTANT:  THE HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND WILL BE REPORTING RAIN OR SHINE! THE HIGH SCHOOLERS WILL REPORT TO HHS BAND ROOM REGARDLESS OF THE WEATHER AT 5PM. 

Please read the post below this for details of tonight's outline. 

If there are any other changes regarding tonight due to the weather - it will be announced here. (i.e. game postponed, halftime show cancelled, etc.).  Please be prepared to pick up your child if this happens. 

Go Highlanders! 

- Jade

GAME DAY ITINERARY

Hello all! 

Well, unfortunately, it looks like things are going to get a little wet tomorrow... 

Highlanders are tough!  We are going to make every effort to perform at least in part tomorrow evening. 

Having said that:  The itinerary for tomorrow (Sept 20th, 2013) 

IMPORTANT:  THE HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND WILL BE REPORTING RAIN OR SHINE, THE EIGHTH GRADERS MAY HAVE THEIR PORTION CANCELLED, BUT THE HIGH SCHOOLERS WILL REPORT TO HHS BAND ROOM REGARDLESS OF THE WEATHER.

(middle schoolers check this blog at about noon tomorrow for the final call)

ok moving on

REPORT TIME FOR ALL: 5PM at the stadium

(DON'T FORGET YOUR BLACK SHOES AND SOCKS!!!

Run through 5PM

Tailgate/food 5:30PM

Into uniforms 6:00PM

Step off: 6:30PM

Pregame:  around 6:45PM

Kickoff: 7:00 PM

Half time: around 7:45PM or 8:00PM  if the eighth graders are with us, they will perform with us (Yay!)

after half time, the eighth graders will be released to return to the band room and go home.  Any eighth graders are welcome to stay and play with us (weather permitting) IF THEIR PARENT(S) ARE ON THE PREMISES.

Done: Approx 9-9:30 pm. Please be in the vicinity to pick up your child near this time.

NOTE: ALTHOUGH THE HS BAND WILL BE PERFORMING AT LEAST PREGAME TOMORROW,  THE WEATHER OUTLOOK IS VERY UNCERTAIN.  HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS MAY CUT OUR EVENING SHORT.  PLEASE BE READY TO COME GET YOUR CHILD IF THIS HAPPENS.  I promise I will not put your kid in danger or harms way tomorrow.  If it is lightning out at the game, we will follow MHSAA Guidelines to the letter.  

Ok that is about it... See you tomorrow and GO HIGHLANDERS!!!

-Smigell

Drum Lessons

Our very own drumline coach, Kim Zepp, has three openings for lessons!
$30 per lesson
Please contact her @ 517-404-6001, or kimberlyzepp@gmail.com

Tailgate

Howell Band families are amazing!
The only items we need help with are Mac & Cheese and Cut Up Fruit.
If you can donate, please email Mark & Anne Michaels at mamichaels@charter.net
If you can't donate, we ask for a $2 donation at the tailgate.
Thanks!

Tailgate Sept 20

The following items are needed for our next home game. We will need a lot of help. The 8th graders will be our guest this weekend. They'll eat w/us and march with us.

Pulled Pork has already been donated!
We need
22 dozen Hamburger Buns
Mac and Cheese 6 Large trays
Fruit, cut up 15 people
Cookies, 15 packs
Gatorade, powdered, big can for mixing into 5 Gallon Jugs. 2 people

Please keep in mind our nut allergies and fish/seafood allergies amongst our band when preparing food.

Numerous cases of water are needed to finish the season. We don't have enough for this next home game. Water and Gatorade can be dropped off after practice any night.

Please contact Mark and Anne Michaels to let them know what you can bring. mamichaels@charter.net Mark and Anne will need a lot of help setting up too! We normally start setting up around 3pm and serve food around 5-5:30pm. Thanks Mark and Anne for running this tailgate!!

Feel free to stick around before and after any home game. Adults are always appreciated to hand out/collect uniforms, get water and ice to the stands, rope the stands off for the band, and loading and unloading all of the items needed for the band. Thank you!

$2 donation for anyone not sending in food items to donate!!

OUR FIRST AWAY PEP BAND!

Hello everyone!

Tomorrow is Howell Football at Hartland HS!  All band members are invited to participate:

https://maps.google.com/maps?q=10635+Dunham+Road,+Hartland,+MI+48353&hl=en&sll=42.597103,-83.747749&sspn=0.010014,0.019741&hnear=10635+Dunham+Rd,+Hartland,+Livingston,+Michigan+48353&t=m&z=16

That is the google maps link to directions.

Info:

-Kids need to take their instruments home at the end of the day, as I will be meeting the kids at the site in Hartland.

-This is not a field trip, so kids need to either drive themselves or find a ride with their parents (just as if they were in the student section of the stands).  They will be supervised by myself from the beginning of the game to the last buzzer.

-Students need to wear their current 2013-14 band shirt to identify themselves.  All students playing in the band get in for free.

-REPORT TIME IS 6:30 PM AT THE VISITOR GATE AT HARTLAND STADIUM.

-Check the blog before you leave for the game if there is bad weather, as cancellations will be posted here!

-Everyone always has a blast, so don't be afraid to try it out.

SEE YOU THERE!

-Smigell

COMPLIMENTS AND IMPORTANT NEWSFLASH!!! PLEASE READ!

Hello everyone! 

HOLY COW WAS THAT A GREAT GAME LAST NIGHT! (This post was edited with new info as of 1:03pm, so read it all again) The kids were fantastic!  I was so proud of them!  We performed well, they conducted themselves in a classy manner, and we won! (Have I told you lately you are good kids and I am proud of you?) Great job highlanders!  Big thanks goes out to the parents who took time out on a Friday to make things happen.  There is no way I could run this program without you!

OK.. the NEWSFLASH: Certain dates are being added/ changed to the calendar:

#1.  April 29 is no longer Collage, it is the dress rehearsal for Collage.  Collage is now two days later, May 1st, 2014.

#2.  WE GOT OUR HOCKEY BAND DATE CONFIRMED!  Our game this year is November 1st, 2013  University of Michigan vs. Michigan Tech.  More info forthcoming...

#3. We are looking at April 23-27, 2014 for the Boston Trip.  If you are in any part of the HHS band program, you are eligible to go on this trip.  Much more information  forthcoming.  

And finally, a look at whats ahead:

Next week (9/9 - 9/13):

All day classes have either playing tests (percusssion) or auditions (Bands) starting Tuesday.  They were given the audition pieces Friday and will have Monday in class to work on it.  We want to get through these auditions as quickly as possible in order to get to the real deal!

Marching band has rehearsal on Monday from 6:30-9pm, Tues-Thurs from 2:30pm-3:30pm.  Friday there is no rehearsal, but there is our first away football game pep band gig at Hartland.  This is COMPLETELY optional, but a lot of kids do go because it is a blast.  They have to find their own ride to and from the game, but they get in for free and are supervised during the game up until the final buzzer).  More information on that is forthcoming.

THERE WILL BE A SENIOR MEETING at 6 pm on Monday 9/9 (half hour before MB rehearsal) to discuss the senior show.  Please tell all your senior buds that this is on!

OK... hope this helps!  We'll see how long I can maintain the super informative posts.  I am trying (for the 50th time) to turn over a new leaf :-p (yeah, that's an emote.  This is a casual blog :-D )

Go Highlanders!

-Smigell

First Home Game
Sept. 6, 2013
Report time 5pm
Dress in khaki shorts that are appropriate length (they should be as long as the end of your fingertips when at your side), your new, sweet shirt, all black shoes and socks.
Sweet shirt will be handed out after practice Thursday. Please don't forget it on Friday!!

We will be having a tailgate before step-off. If you aren't bringing an item to contribute, we ask for a $2 donation if able. Any extra parents that can help set up, please arrive between 3:30-4pm.

Can't wait to see all of the band's hard work on the field!

Band Booster Meeting
Sept. 4, 2012
6:30pm
Band Room
New parents & students are welcome!

Cases of water and Gatorade donations are appreciated for the marching band.
Please drop off in the band room.

Tailgate

Thanks to all who are able to help out next week!
We only need sliced chicken, cooked w/a fajita spice packet now.
In addition to a peanut allergy, there is also a shrimp allergy. Fish sauce is used in a lot of things.
If we could check our labels when donating, that'd be great!

TAILGATE

For those new to marching band, the boosters arrange a tailgate to feed the students before home games. We need your help to pull it off! The following is a list of what is needed. If you need to email me, Christyne MacDermaid, to let me know what item you'll take off of my list please do so. christynemacdermaid@gmail.com Or, the drum majors can give you or your student a sticky note with an item on it tomorrow.

Sept. 6, 2013
MENU Chicken Fajitas and Desserts

These are the items we are needing help with.
The Chicken, Peppers, and Onions need to be there by 4pm. Then I can reheat the chicken if needed.
The other items need to be there by 4:30pm.
We usually eat between 5-6pm.

10 people 3 Pounds Chicken, sliced and cooked w/a fajita packet
1 person 1 head of shredded Lettuce
5 people 2 bags Shredded Cheese
3 people container Sour Cream
2 people Salsa
6 people 40 Soft Tacos
2 people 3 chopped tomatoes
1 person 2 Green Pepper, sliced
1 person 2 Red Peppers, sliced
1 person 2 Orange Peppers, sliced
1 person 2 Yellow Peppers, sliced
1 person 2 Onions, sliced
6 people Dessert, cookies, brownies etc

When cooking any items this year, please be aware that there are peanut allergies amongst our students. If it's a dessert, just label if it has nuts in it, or don't use nuts.

We ask for a $2 donation per student if you do not bring an item to donate.

Please read the cancellation post and text, tweet, post, or cl everyone you know in marching band, especially freshmen.

NEWSFLASH! Practice tomorrow (8/28/13) is cancelled. there WILL be practice Thursday morning 8/29/13 from 7:30-9:30 am.

Extra Rehersals

Band Camp 2013 was a success! Thank you everyone for your hardwork - but we need some more time to prepare our upcoming show.

The HHS Marching Band will have extra rehearsals this coming week. They are the following:

Monday August 26th - 7:30am to 9:30am
Wednesday August 28th - 6pm to 8pm
Thursday August 29th - 7:30am to 9:30am

These rehearsals are important. If you have any conflict, please e-mail Mr. Smigell at smigellj@howellschools.com.

Bring sunscreen, tennis shoes (no sandals), your instrument, music and coords. Be ready on time for each rehearsal.

- Nicole ( Jade )

Headed back from camp!!
We left at 1pm. We should be back at 4pm.

'twas the night before band camp and all all through the house.... Not a creature was.. CABRERA WALKOFF HOMR RUN! OMGOMG!

IMPORTANT NEWS FLASH!

Newbie Day Rehearsal will conclude at 12pm (NOON). If new members have not been fitted for their uniforms yet, they can stay and be fitted at that point. This will continue until around 2pm.

Mrs. A-Z needs help w/uniforms on Friday.
Please contact her if you can help!
517-546-6059 Lisa's home.

Band Camp is HERE!

Hey all!

Tomorrow kicks off the first day of Pre Band Camp! If you are a Squad Leader or Drum Major - your report time tomorrow ( Aug 15th ) for SQUAD LEADER DAY is 8:00 am opening.  Rehearsal begins at 8:30- Don't be late!

Friday is NEWBIE DAY ( Aug 16th ) for all incoming freshmen and new members of the marching band. Mr Smigell will be answering any question you may have at 8:00 am.  Rehearsal starts at 8:30.

We should be done by 2pm on both days, although if we work hard, we could be done earlier.

Remember to wear tennis shoes (no sandals!) and bring your instrument and a water bottle.  We WILL be outside - so wear sunscreen and clothes for the weather. Sunglasses are fine.

For EVERYONE: On Sunday, August 18 - Please report at 7:30am SHARP. We will check in, turn medication into the nurse if needed, and load up! We want to make it on the road ASAP to be able to unpack before our lunch time. You do NOT want to be the person that makes the band late to lunch.

The weather seems to be cooler than past years - but like always, Michigan weather is unpredictable. Make sure you are prepared for cooler than average weather in the evening.  Highs are supposed to be in the 80's, lows in the 50's.  Please look to the Band Camp Packing List for help and guidelines - and remember to follow school rules while packing.

Drumline / Pit : As Kim Zepp has mentioned - your report time is 7:15am to help load your instruments.


~ Nicole Prewett

* I am helping Mr. Smigell at Band Camp as a technician and will be working with the band this season as a drill writer/ editor. I am excited to be able to meet you all (if I haven't met you yet) at Band Camp and can't wait for what awaits this season.

Band Camp!

It's almost here!!
Please report at 7:30am SHARP on August 18, 2013.
We will check in, turn medication into nurse if needed, and load up!!

Newbie Day, Friday August 16, 2013.
Please be at the High School Band room at 9am.  Parents if you'd like to come at 8:30am for any last minute questions, this is the perfect time to do this.  See you there!!

We will return from camp on Thursday, August 22, 2013.  We will post on the blog what time the buses are heading out from Hersey, MI after lunch.  We encourage the students on the bus to text or call when we are close to St. Johns, which is just North of Lansing.  Their is always a parent willing to loan their phone on the bus if needed.

LONG TIME NO SEE!  Squad leader lists and the promise of more info:


Hello everyone!  So sorry for the long delay of info, but here is the squad leader list.  Individuals on this list are slated to be squad leader candidates through band camp.  One of the requirements is that they attend both the SQUAD LEADER DAY (Aug  15, 8:30am-2:00pm) and the NEWBIE DAY (Aug 16th, 8:30am-2:00PM).  Of course, nothing is perfect.  If you think you have been left off this list in error, please contact me at jsmigell@mac.com

This list is hand typed (did you ever think there would be a term like that?), so sorry for spelling and punctuation issues

Kaitlyn Sumner (DM)

Britney Winters

Mitch Spangler

Jake Humphries

Dan Grigsby

Patty Isenegger

Joe Bartkowiak

Katie Ray

Kayla Finch

Connor Norton

Zach Palmieri

Emily House

Sierra Avery

Kim Kenney

Sydney Thames

Maddie Atkins

Eliza Bengala

Rosie Hersch

Kelsey Murphy

Natalie Dunn

maddie a2z 

Amanda Levigne

Lydia Miller

Kaitlyn Allison

Lucas Chacon

Kris Klug

Charley Garlock

Katy Michaels (DM)

Brie Heslip

Dylan Williams

Alex Patton

Melissa Kutchey

Jack Porath

Rick Wellington

Paul Brown

Jake BofenKamp (DM)

Seth milano 

Anne Potts 

brittney Kelley
Sawyer Wiles
Ashley Quick Drossart
Drew Mcdonald
Jordan Pudvay

-Smigell

Band Camp

Band Camp preparations begin for students in exactly ONE MONTH!  Here's the break down.....

Thurs.  August 15, 2013 9am to 2pm Leadership Day - Squad Leaders 

Fri. August 16, 2013 9am to 2pm Everyone who's new to Marching Band, Squad Leaders and Drum Majors

Sunday August 18, 2013 leave early for band camp.  Parents check students in please.  It will be early in morning, we'll post that time asap.  

August 22, 2013 Return from camp in the afternoon.  

August 23, 2013 Make Up day for high school orientation 8am to 11am Howell High 10-12 Building

If the make-up day doesn't work for your family, please know that your student's ID from last year will work for the coming school year.  

Balloonfest Adults Needed!

We desperately still need adults for Saturday, June 29, 2013!  The 2 shifts are 1:30-6pm and 6pm to 10pm. We'd love to have you for both!!  We do not have any adult signed up for those 2 shifts yet.  I wouldn't want to cancel this day on the kids because we don't have enough adult help.  Please contact Christyne MacDermaid 734-476-0312 if you can help.

Balloonfest

Balloonfest Volunteer Meeting

June 25, 2013

7pm

High School Band Room

Please attend the volunteer meeting to receive your parking pass and tshirt for the balloonfest.  We will also tell you where to park and where to meet for your shift.  

Banquet Pics

Seniors & parents please get your baby pic & senior pics into Mrs. Miller by Saturday!!
slmiller122963@gmail.com
Any other pics you may want to see included in the slide show at banquet, send them to her & we'll see what we can do!!!
Thank you!!

Banquet & Picnic

Banquet
I will be at the school today to pick up all of the banquet RSVP's from the mailbox.
If you still want to be in my count that is less expensive, get your form in today!!  Final count must be given to the caterer tonight!!  Please call or text if you need to drop it off to me, tonight only!!  734-476-0312 Mrs. MacDermaid

Picnic
Please have your student pick a food item off of the bulletin board for the picnic on Memorial Day.
Your family is welcome to attend.
Start - After they are changed out of their uniforms
Where - Howell City Park
Bring - Food item you picked, $1/per person for donation, & fun picnic stuff!
This is not a school run event.  Please understand that adults will be at the site, but we are all responsible for our own family's behavior.  (Normally not a problem w/this great group!)

Important Info

Basket Raffle at the Concert this Tuesday!
Bring your money to buy tickets for the Basket Raffle.  There are always band needs, especially at the end of the year.  Please donate and you might win a really cool basket!  If you'd like to donate a basket, please contact Mrs. Sumner!  Her info was in a post below.  For a band this size, hopefully there will be numerous basket donations.  You must be present to win!

Please come to the concert, this Tuesday, ready to sign up to donate a dish to pass at the annual Memorial Day Picnic.  This takes place right after the Parade that morning, in the city park.

Memorial Day Parade practice is as follows:
Monday May 20, Tuesday May 21, and Thursday May 23, 2013 2:30-3:30pm.
Report Time before the parade on Memorial Day May 27, 2013 9am sharp!
Chaperone's needed to assist the band on the parade route.  Contact Christyne MacDermaid 734-476-0312, text or call.

Band Banquet forms are in the band room, and are due soon! Please email christynemacdermaid@gmail.com if you'd like me to email you the form.

 

 

Band Banquet

The date is set! The caterer is being confirmed!
May 29, 2013
6:30pm
Howell High Cafeteria

Invites that need a response/rsvp will be available tomorrow afternoon if I can confirm w/caterer.
Thanks to all who've been patient while waiting for us to give you the best banquet possible.

Thirty-One Fundraiser Update

Dear Thirty One Fundraiser participants,

Thank you so much for being a part of this fundraiser.  Unfortunately we did not sell the necessary number of raffle tickets to provide all prizes offered. Carolyn Bishop has worked very hard to help us keep the most important aspect of this fundraiser -- the $3 to your student account for each ticket sold!

 

So to keep this important detail, adjustments had to be made.  The following are the updated prize awards:

 

The Raffle will be for 15 days stating on May 6!  This allows the raffle ticket holders a chance at the most popular Thirty one Products, and a great chance to win to boot!

Our top seller has received $40 in free Thirty One product.

Those that sold 12 raffle tickets received a free Pro-duffle bag personalized for free.

The student receives $3 for each ticket sold awarded to their student account. 

 

Please note, Carolyn Bishop has also offered a party booking incentive.  If any parties are booked and at the time of booking the hostess mentions “HHS BAND” Carolyn will honor $50 credit to that individuals band account, payable at the time of the qualifying party held prior to August 1, 2013.

Contact Carolyn at 517-749-0051 or at bishopkids4@gmail.com if you are interested.

Thank you.  If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Lisa Arszulowicz at 517-546-6059 or scrappina2z@comcast.net

Lock In & Fundraiser

Lock In tomorrow night!!!  We can't wait!!
8pm check in and sign up for the Balloon Fest
Turn in your 31 Fundraiser!!  We don't want to postpone this, make sure you are selling those last few tickets to raise money for your band account!!
See you tomorrow night!

Band Banquet Date Change

We are really sorry to mess up anyone's calendar, but we have to cancel the Band Banquet that was scheduled for May 9, 2013.  There were too many conflicts for our Senior Band students.  We will try to reschedule towards the end of May. This way, we can all enjoy each other's company and celebrate the year properly.

HOWELLPALOOZA TONIGHT!!! PLEASE READ!

Ok so if you hate reading long posts, here is the short version:

Howellpalooza is a great hidden gem of a concert that features all of our non traditional musical groups along with various other talent.  It is the band's variety show.  We have worked very hard to put it together, but I did a terrible job of publicizing it.  IT IS TONIGHT AT 7PM IN THE HHS AUDITORIUM.  It's free, and its always interesting and entertaining.  We would really appreciate it if you came out and joined us!

Read on if you want to hear more:

Some of the acts that will be there tonight:

Howell percussion ensemble

(they will be doing 2 "stomp" style numbers and an exiting legit piece as well!)

Howell Jazz Band

(performing "Caravan" and a cool funk tune)

Howell Flag Corp

Howell Twirler Corp

"lightsaber guy" (he was very popular last year at the talent show and he returns for his encore tour)

The award winning scout comedy show

Howell School of Rock 

performing original and cover tunes at a very high level of epicness

Howell Choir's "calamity" 

HHS choir's premier men's a cappella group

and last but not least, 

Howell Bluegrass (with real banjos, fiddles, mandolins!)

It really is a hidden gem.  You should come check it out.  Save our concert from being underpopulated.

Regards,

Jason