BAND CAMP questions????

Contact Carol Stone at 734.604.3546/cell or at 517.540.6734/home.

Julie

The banquet last night was possible to due Becky Chappel. She used Fazoli's located in Lansing for the catering. Josh Fenn's(senior)sister works there and was happy to coordinate. Should you need catering for your senior or any event for that matter contact Sara Doccan at 517.231.0237 or 517.394.0539. And at the last minute Becky, Charles and Kim were not able to even attend! So thank you, thank you, thank you!!

Thanks to all who came to help set up, check people in and clean up afterward. What a great group of people as always...so I don't feel so bad leaving. Jason and the bandos are in good hands. I have enjoyed meeting and knowing you and your children.

Julie Dennis

Band Banquet is this Wednesday. Still interested in attending? Contact Becky Chappel at 517.304.0537 to purchase tickets for dinner. If you do not wish to come for dinner, you are still welcome to attend the award ceremony and powerpoint presentation by Kim Hagadorn.

Julie

EVERYONE IN MARCHING BAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

REPORT TIME FOR THE PARADE IS 8:45!!!!!

Tell everyone you know, sorry for the late notice

Kat

Memorial Day picnic!!

$5. to enter and that may mean per car? That is the rule.

Hot dogs, buns and chips will be provided.

It would be appreciated if you brought something to pass!!!!!!! and drink!!! Carol Stone is coordinating the food. Thanks!!!!

Julie Dennis

CONCERT is tonight at 7:30 at the HS auditorium.

Dress is black and white.

Bring your forms and payment too if you plan on attending the banquet next week!!!!

Cookie donations appreciated :)

Speaking of Memorial Day picnic: ultimate frisbee and the usual water balloons I am sure, no shaving cream that stings the eyes(not that I know if it does or not). Will be held after uniforms are back at the high school. You will need to find a ride there. We need someone to coordinate food or dishes to be passed. Carol Stone is checking into renting the pavillion. If there is no one to coordinate donations of food you will be required to bring your lunch, treats and beverages. Water will be provided for those marching during the parade and at the cemetary as needed. Email if you want to coordinate this event.

Julie
americanframingco@charter.net

Read the detailed message below from your director.

Hello everybody!

Here are a few tidbits of important information regarding the last events of this school year:

LOCK IN!
May 9th-10th
Parker High School Gym/Pool etc...
Check-in time: 7:45pm
Begin: 8:00pm
Pick-up: 5:00am (May 10th)
Activities Include:
-Swimming -Video Games (BYOS(Bring you own system)projectors and TVs provided) - Movies - Gym like activities - Tomfoolery (supervised, naturally) -Gigantic q-tip battle arena - SWEET BANDS! - FOOD - (Füd) - phood - Fewd - fOOd - fude - fΘΘD - Card Games -
Price: 12$ American currency
Permission Slips are available at TFMS, HWMS, and HHS Band Rooms
Bring money and permission slips to the lock in, do not try to hand them in prior to this wonderful event.

MEMORIAL DAY REHEARSALS
May 20th, 21st, and 22nd after school 3-4pm at the "Stealth Field" Parker High School
MEMORIAL DAY PARADE/PICNIC
May 26th Downtown Howell
Uniform situation TBA
somewhere around 9:30am
ends around 11-12ish
Picnic TBA

FINAL CONCERT!
May 22nd
7pm
Howell High School Auditorium
Uniform - black and white, yes bow ties, yes tux shirts, yes black shoes and socks, yes suit jacket(for WE), black skirts (REQUIRED for WE), yes black pants for everyone else (skirts optional).
Report time TBA

BANQUET!
May 28th
See below for additional information

Band Camp
235$
August 11th-14th
More information to follow relatively soon

Ballonfest volunteers are needed! Pam Glynn is interested in helpers for this summer's fundraiser the last weekend of June. If you are interested in working with Pam please email her at pamelajglynn@hotmail.com

Band Booster meeting!
Thursday, May 1, in the Parker band room at 7:00. Topics to discuss are nominating and electing board members which is imperative to the future of the Band Boosters. Three positions to fill in order to replace the senior parents leaving. While you may not be interested in a position you may be interested in supporting the program and Mr. Smigell. Next month is the last meeting of the year and then plans for the next school year take place...the move(?), band camp, etc.

Band Lock In is scheduled for May 9th!!!!!

We need parental help! Details to follow on the blog soon. Jess Kobylarz and her father are organizing.

HEY SENIORS!!!!!!!!!!!

Kim Hagadorn NEEDS your senior and baby picures ASAP!!!! Please email them to Kim at bandnerdsaresexy@charter.net or put them in the band room mailbox. ALL PICTURES NEED TO BE IN BY EITHER FRIDAY APR. 25 OR MONDAY APR 28!! If Kim does not get the pictures by Monday YOU WILL NOT BE IN THE SENIOR SLIDESHOW. We are running out of time and you do not want to be left out of the slideshow because you did not get your picture in in enough time. Talk to Kim if you have a problem with this due date.

Thank you,
Kim Hagadorn

Hello Everyone!

Couple of pieces of information for you all:

DRUMLINE:
If you are in drumline or are interested in drumline for next year here here is a little more of the schedule.
Kim (our coach) is just finishing up with finals at EMU next week, so we are doing a one time initial help session (actually playing this time) next monday from 8-9 pm in the Parker Band Room. After checking everyone's schedules, Kim and I found that wednesdays from 4:30-6:30 are best for almost everyone. I realize that this is a church night, but most of the people I asked said that their church functions begin between 7 and 7:30. If there needs to be a little "flex" to make that work, we are cool with that. Audition packets are available at the high school band room and I (Mr. Smigell) will be VISITING BOTH MIDDLE SCHOOLS this Friday, so I will bring along a bunch of audition packets with me to distribute.


DRUM MAJOR CANDIDATES:
If you are at least a sophomore this year (going to be a junior or senior next year) and have been in the marching band at least one year, you are elligible to audition for a position as one of the HHSMB DRUM MAJORS. We have room to take either one or two additional next year, as the most excellent Michael Brown will be returning for his second and senior year as one of our Drum Majors. The first informational and instructional meeting/clinic regarding drum major auditions will be held tomorrow from 3-3:30 PM in the Parker Band room. More info regarding auditions forthcoming.

HOWELLPALOOZA READ READ READ READ READ READ!!:
One of the coolest concerts of the year! ROck bands... SKetch comedy, Dance, Percussion, Flags, Twirlers, ODD TALENTS, singing, and surprise guests are on the docket! If you are involved with the show, dress rehearsal is next thursday, April 24 from 5-9PM (We always used to give it 2 hours and then it always ran 4 with all the light cues, so we are being honest). THE SHOW ITSELF IS NExT FRIDAY APRIL 25th, At 7:18PM (semi-nutty show, so semi-nutty time but that will be the starting time). TICKETS (yes this one we charge for because of the props and extra doo-dads we use in the show) are $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children! EIGHTH GRADE BAND STUDENTS.. if you bring someone with you, YOU GET IN FREE!


Okay folks... that is it for now... coming up, Lock in (we think it is going to be may 9th, but don't quote us yet, it is almost set in stone), banquet, final concert, memorial day parade, graduation, colorguard tryouts, band camp fees, and lots of other things!


-Smigell

P.s... MAKE SURE TO CHECK OUT THE ENTRY BELOW!! There is a choir concert tomorrow night and it should be SWWWEEEEET!

"With A Voice Singing" choir concert on Thursday , April 17th. Many fine band students are performing including two of our very own instrument soloists. Starts at 7:00 p.m. in the "old" Howell High School auditorium.

HELLO EVERYBODY!!!

JUST A REMINDER THAT THERE WILL BE THE FIRST DRUMLINE MEETING OF THE YEAR FOR PROSPECTIVE 08-09 MEMBERS THIS THURSDAY APRIL 10TH, 2008 FROM 6-8PM IN THE PARKER HIGH SCHOOL BAND ROOM. TRYOUTS WILL BE A CUMULATIVE PROCESS (IF YOU ARE CURRENTLY AN EIGHTH GRADER, DO NOT WORRY, WE WILL TEACH YOU FIRST BEFORE YOU AUDITION) OVER THE NEXT FEW WEEKS. THE FIRST PORTION OF THE MEETING WILL BE INFORMATIONAL, WITH THE SECOND TWO THIRDS BEGINNING THE FUNDAMENTALS OF INSTRUCTION. ALL 8TH GRADE BAND MEMBERS FROM TFMS AND HWMS ARE INVITED TO CHECK IT OUT!!! ALL HHS BAND MEMBERS ARE OBVIOUSLY INVITED AS WELL!!! NO PREVIOUS DRUM EXPERIENCE REQUIRED, BUT PRIOR EXPERIENCE OBVIOUSLY HELPS. HARD WORK AND DEDICATION IN THE END ARE MOST IMPORTANT.

-ALSO, ALL SKIT IDEAS, MC REQUESTS AND DEMO TAPES FOR HOWELLPALOOZA (This year it is April 25) ARE DUE NO LATER THAN MONDAY, APRIL 14, 2008.

ALL QUESTIONS PLEASE EMAIL ME, MR. SMIGELL AT SMIGELLJ@HOWELLSCHOOLS.COM

-Smigell

BAND BANQUET!

Help needed to set up for the band banquet to be held on the evening of May 28. Becky Chappel is coordinating the food etc. but has a conflict and will not be attending. Please contact her directly should you wish to help. Becky 552.7463 or DNRChappel@prodigy.net.

Seniors!and/or Senior Parents!!!
Get your baby photos and a wallet sized Senior Photo to Kim Hagadorn via the Mailbox ASAP! She is working on the powerpoint presentation for the banquet. Deadline is April 18 in order to be included. Thanks Kimmy

BOOSTER MEETING - Thursday 3-27 at 7 PM in the Parker Band Room-
The "agenda" is not long - we need to wrap up a few things and talk about end of year stuff, before we look ahead to next year...

ALL ARE WELCOME - ! \ MANY are needed !

HELLO EVERYONE!!! FIRST OF ALL, IF YOU ARE GOING TO NEW YORK, READ THE ENTRY BELOW AS WELL!!!

OK, HERE IS THE NEWS:

THE MEETING TIME FOR TOMORROW IS BACK TO 6:00PM AT THE PARKER BAND ROOM. AFTER THINKING ABOUT IT, A HURRIED, FRAZZLED RUN-THROUGH IS GOING TO DO MORE HARM THAN GOOD. YOU SOUNDED GOOD AFTER THIS EVENING'S REHEARSAL, AND WE WILL RUN WITH THAT. WE WILL HAVE TIME TO WARM UP AT THE CLINIC.

OK... NOW READ THE ENTRY BELOW!!

-SMigell

NEW YORK INFO ! READ UP!

I spoke to Tina, our tour guide today and the deal on changing clothes is:

1. You will NOT have access to your large luggage that will be under the bus until AFTER the theatre on Thursday night, when we actually check into the hotel. You should take everything you need to get ready for the theatre with you in a carry on bag and keep it on the bus with you as we travel.

2. The plan is for us to meet the busses near Central Park BEFORE dinner on Thursday. We can have guys change first, then kick 'em out and have the girls change. KEEP IT SIMPLE! It's Concert dress code : no jeans, tennis shoes, tee shirts, hats, or other school inappropriate dress!

3. When you leave the hotel on Friday AM, it will be the same deal. Carry anything you need for the day onto the bus with you. We will change the same way after our clinic and BEFORE dinner at BB King and the Philharmonic performance.

4. When you leave the hotel Saturday Am - we are NOT coming back, so be all packed! Carry on will not need to be packed for changing, as we do not plan a changing stop before the dinner cruise. (Jeans and nice shirt are OK - but remember you ARE expected to look presentable). BUT you will need everything you want to have with you on the ride home.

5. Bring comfortable walking shoes! Thursday and Saturday involve a lot of walking around the city.

6. Mr. Smigell says jeans and a nice top are OK for all things EXCEPT the theatre and the Philharmonic performance.

7. Vegetarians?!? YOU MUST LET MR. Smigell know your requests TODAY so we can tell restaurants.



That's all we know for now!


Bert S.

Pit band provides island sound for the musical "Once on This Island"

So along with band festival events and preparing the students going to New York, Mr. Smigell has been working for a few months on the music preparation for the upcoming musical this weekend at the HHS auditorium. *whew!* just to name a few activities...

The selected Pit Band are as follows:

Synthesier: Rachel Nelson
Flute/ Alto Flute/Piccolo: Kim Hagadorn
Oboe: Michelle Garrett
Clarinet: Kat Jakrezwski
Percussion: Laura Cuthbertson
Lona Czerwinski
Guitar: Joe Hillier
Bass: Justin Brandt
Accompanist: Diane Ives

Josh Fenn worked on the program and poster design
and Kim Chappel is working as a Tech assistant for sound and lights.

Charles Chappel, Ben Dennis, Andrea Conroy, Jess Kobylarz, Britney Randall join the group of 45 performers in this story. What a great collaberation bringing together the arts to "tell the story".
Performances are this Friday and Saturday at 7:00 and Sunday at 2:00. For tickets call 540.8383 or purchase at the door for a buck more.

THREE CHEERS FOR HOWELL BANDS!!!

It's all finished folks! District festival is done (sigh of relief) and ALL OF THE BANDS EARNED A MEDAL for the second year in a row! On top of that, all of the bands' grades were the same or better than last year, even with the reduced rehearsal time and other crazy challenges we have had this year. The last two weeks have been really hairy with the preparation for our new york trip, the musical, and festival. I know that many kids out there have had to set other things aside in order to get all of this music in good shape. Don't think all of your hard work and sacrifice went unnoticed. I am also pleased and relieved that our efforts were reflected in our scores at festival (Because many times life doesn't work that way. Fortunately it did this time!). Words cannot express how proud I am of all our dear Highlander Bandos! Massive thanks and respect goes to those students and parents who helped as equipment crew or chaperones! Special thanks to the "Minions" for all of the pre-festival prep! Special big BIG thanks to Brian Roskamp, who is the only person besides myself to go to all three of our festival events... twice to help out and once to perform!

Continuing with the heaping of praise, I was told by several Groves HS band boosters that our kids were polite and well behaved. Even the sight reading judge said they were friendly and attentive. As I have said before, The conduct of my students off the stage and in the community is just as important (okay, not quite but REALLY close) as their conduct and performance onstage. Kids, keep it up, being nice really does pay off! Parents, the children's good behavior is a wonderful reflection on you. Congratulations!


OK... so below are the scores

(oh, by the way, there are four scores given to each band. Three of them are based on their concert performance, and one of them is for their score in sight reading. Scores are given on a scale of 1-5, with five being a "poor" performance and one being a "superior" performance)


Friday February 29, 2008

HHS Concert Band (MSBOA CLASS D): Concert Scores 2, 2, 2 Sight reading 2 OVERALL RATING *2* (Red Medal) Hooray!

HHS Wind Ensemble (MSBOA CLASS AA) Concert Scores 1, 1, 2 Sight Reading 2 OVERALL RATING *1* (Blue Medal) Hooray!

Saturday, March 1, 2008

HHS Symphonic Band (MSBOA CLASS B) Concert Scores 2,2,2 Sight Reading 2 OVERALL RATING *2* (Red Medal) Hooray!

More blog entries to come with info on New York, The Musical, Lock in, Marching band for next year, and many many other interesting and fast approaching things!

-Oh and did I mention I was proud of everybody?

-Peace,

Smigell

Here is the link to the website for Birmingham Groves HS for Directions to FESTIVAL this weekend -
Get there and cheer 'em on!


http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?formtype=address&addtohistory=&address=20500%20W%2013%20Mile%20Rd&city=Beverly%20Hills&state=MI&zipcode=48025%2d3830&country=US&geodiff=1

Bert S.

Hello all! This is the information for festival!


Concert Band:
Friday Feb 29 2008
Report Time: 4:10pm at Parker HS
Leave Parker at 4:45pm
Arrive Birmingham Groves HS at 6PM
Perform 7pm
8PM Go home
9PM arrive home


Symphonic Band

Sat march 1st 2008
Report time 12:30pm parker hs
depart 1:00pm
Arrive 2:00 at Birmingham groves HS
Perform 3:00
4:45 leave for home
5:45 Arrive at parker HS

Wind ensemble:
Friday feb 29 2008

6:30pm Report time at parker HS
7pm leave for Birmingham Groves HS
8PM Arrive at Birmingham Groves HS
9:10 Perform
10:30 leave for home
11:30 HOME! (Perky HS)

Ok..

IF you did not get to the meeting last week - and you are going to New York - there is an info packet in Mr. Smigell's Office with YOUR name on it - Pick it up! Take it home and bring the forms back into school ASAP - PUT THE FORMS IN THE MAILBOX PLEASE !

Thanks -
Bert S

Hello everyone!

Please read this announcement carefully as I don't want ay mixups...

Rehearsal for New York is ON for tonight (7-8:30PM)

In light of the winter storm watch.. The rehearsal for tomorrow morning is CANCELLED

ok... that's it for now. I was hoping we would get some more snow days (sarcasm)... arrgh!


-Smigell

New York students! If you did not attend the meeting last night, there will be information sent to you.

Also, Mr. Smigell stated last night that there are some required practices for the upcoming trip since representatives from the three bands will be performing together for the first time. He has selected five dates and times and three are required in order to go on the trip. They are as follows:

Monday, February 25, 7-8:30 p.m.
Tuesday, February 26, 6:30-8:00 a.m.
Wednesday, February 27, 6:30-8:00 a.m.
Monday, March 10, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
Tuesday, March 11, 7:00-8:30 p.m.

Again, select three from above to attend.

Also, Parents, the information may state they will leave from Howell. It will be from Parker promptly that evening!!!!!!

Any questions, please contact Mr. Smigell at his email at smigellj@howellschools.com.

Julie Dennis

ATTENTION - ANYONE GOING TO NEW YORK or planning on being in band next year - at any Howell High School!

Parents Meeting Thursday - 2-21- at 7 PM - in Band Room at Parker - New York Info and Booster info that you all need !

We will strive for a quick meeting - giving you the stuff you need to know and no more!
But we really need to have you there...

Bert S.

HELLO ALL!

Smigell Here! I am in the band office today but THE STUDENTS ARE ON BREAK!! This means that along with doing a bunch of ProDev (shop-talk for Professional Development... Ha ha) curricular stuff, I am catching up on a bunch of OLD BUSINESS. If you have been trying to get in touch with me.. THIS IS THE DAY!!! Email me at smigellj@howellschools.com. I am checking the email constantly!!! I am sorry if you are on my backlog, I am trying feverishly squeeze every drop out of this day to take care of unfinished business, because although I think kids are WONDERFUL, it is hard to get office work done while they are around. The direct line to my office in the band room is 517 540-8338. I don't check that voicemail very often, but I am in my office all day today, so if I don't pick up, just keep calling (I must be in the bathroom or something). I will pick up. I really want to make sure that folks (students and parents alike) feel like they can contact me because I know sometimes it can be hard to reach me. I do care, I really do. Just lots of stuff going on, and the squeaky... well you know how that goes.

ANYWAY, I have sopme great news for the people in the General Band Classes (Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Wind Ensemble). Mr. Kobylarz recorded the concert (Thanks Dude!) and Brian Roskamp uploaded the video onto YOUTUBE!! (Again, THANKS DUDE!) I would like the students to watch the video and if they have comments on what we can work do to get better to please write a response on Brian's blog. All of the instructions and how to do it is on the POST BELOW THIS ONE!! I really think this will be a good tool in our preparation for festival. 200-some sets of ears and eyes are better than one for listening and critiqueing our music. FOR THAT MATTER, parents, I know a lot of you are former or even current bandos yourself! Even if you are not, if you heard something at the concert that you think we are missing, chime in on the response blog!

-Smigell

Hello, This is Brian Roskamp.

I've uploaded the videos onto YouTube and have set up a blog so we can all post comments. The blog is at hhsbandsetup.blogspot.com

Or you can go directly to YouTube (comments disabled): youtube.com/trekkie1701D
(and while you're there you can check out my other videos :-D )

Please feel free to post comments on all the bands.

Smigell's Snow Day Edition:

Ok folks.. who would have thought we would be missing THIS much school? This obviously puts a bit of a crimp in our festival preperation, but we can only do what we can do. The big thing will be GETTING SOMETHING DONE during class tomorrow (today if you are reading this Friday morning) and not taking forever to get our heads screwed on straight. If we hit the ground running, we should be ok. Just be ready to go and don't be a distraction, be an asset!

couple reminders:

-If you are doing state solo and ensemble, we will need to scramble tomorrow morning to get the check in and send it out. The deadline has not passed and I would not be surprised if the extend it anyway.

-I just read the previous post and it looks like Bert already stole my thunder, which is fine. READ THE POST BELOW.

-WE HAVE A CONCERT NEXT WEDNESDAY... Wear something nice!

-Yes, we will be wearing our formal uniforms. IF you are new to the band program at the high school, that means black pants, a white formal shirt and a black bowtie. We will be quicky placing orders so we can look good for festival. A shirt with a bowtie runs about $18.00.

Festival is going to be feb 29th for Wind Ensemble (in the evening) and March first for Concert Band and Symphonic Band. Permission slips and other knick knacks soon to follow.



OK... that is about it. See you tomorrow!


-Smigell

Happy (?) Snowday - AGAIN!
Ok- one more day off school - But band business must go on....
RAFFLE TICKETS- should have been turned in by now - BUT due to missed days and fog and such, I will take tickets and $ over the weekend or DROP DEAD LAST DAY on Monday - I have more tickets available for anyone that needs them - but call my cell to request them - 517 304 3521

NY $ is also past due - Mrs. Glynn needs your final payment ASAP -

OK- enough business - Go build a snowman or something !

Bert S.

Hello everybody!

Smigell here! Long time no blog! Anyway, thanks for all of the well wishes from people who asked about my health. For those of you who don't know, I sprained my bad falling down as I was walking out of my house. The chiropractor really did a good job, and I should be back on monday. I have some information about solo and ensemble for you!

If you do not know your time (I am not sure how you possibly could not know by now, the sheets have been in the front of the band room for a week), you can call me on my cell and I will help you out. I cannot post it here, but many bandos know it and can give it to you. If you do not know any bandos who have my cell #, you can email me at jsmigell@mac.com and I will call you back.

If you just need directions, goto http://walledlake.k12.mi.us/pdfs/WLNdirect.pfd for a map.

Since I haven't been in school, I haven't been able to do my normal check of people's events to make sure they are qualified. Here are the guidelines or a self check. If you have any questions, call my cell and I will make sure to check my email before then end of tonight as well:

1. Pieces must be a minimum of two minutes long and should not be longer that 5.5 minutes
2. You need to have an original score to give to the judge. It must have both the piano part and the solo pat on the same sheet. If you are playing in an ensemble, you still need the SCORE. A copy of the part will not be sufficient for the judge.
3. Make sure your measures are numbered.
4. Put the name of your school on your music.
5. If you made many many cuts in a piece (to reduce time) please give me a call to make sure that you don't get disqualified for "arranging"
6. Make sure ti show up at least 1/2 hour early, as things will be crazy.
7. Make sure to wear something nice for your performance!
8. DO NOT ACCOST OR APPROACH THE JUDGE IN ANY MANNER! If you disagree with your score, let me deal with it later, there is nothing you will be able to do at that time.

Just a warning, I heard from Rick Pethoud that the proceedings for S&E tonight were cancelled because of the snow, and they are allowing people to come tomorrow and "fit in when they can" It is going to be a MADHOUSE, so show up ready for action.

As for everything else that is band, check back on the blog soon for a "state of the band" address from your's truly. Things are going very well considering all of the challenges we have had o face this year. I will be providing a calendar for the rest of the year and other information that can help some of your questions.

Finally, I wanted to let everyone know (if you haven't already figured this one out) that the howellhighlanderbands.org website is longer current or being updated. I have been trying to get in touch with Mr. Sequin to take the site down. For now, please come directly to this blog for you info to avoid confusion.


Ok... that's it for now!!!
Enjoy the snow day!

-Smigell

PANCAKE NIGHT(S) once again at the McDonald's restaurant in Brighton. The nights are Monday the 28th and Tuesday the 29th between 5-8. Tickets are available through Pam Glynn and at the door both nights. Help is also needed by parents or students to sell tickets at the doors also.

Call Pam for tickets or to volunteer @ 517.861.1675

Meeting tonight at the Howell Library to discuss issues on the possiblities of splitting the Howell HS and Parker campuses. Options are detailed on the HPS website and last night's meeting on the Press and Argus. Meeting to hear your concerns is from 5-7p.m. Other optional meetings are listed on the Press and Argus and will be updated here as they approach. Hopefully all can combine this meeting and perhaps the McDonald's fundraiser together!

Julie

Fundraiser Tonight at the Brighton McDonalds!

This is a Pancake dinner provided by the Band Boosters from the hours of 4-7p.m. Tickets are on sale at the door, so just show up! Any parent or band student available to help or that want to attend please contact Pam Glynn @517.861.1675.

NEW YORK TRAVELERS! and all others...

1. Smigell is bouncing off the wall at the awesomeness of the Theater Tix we got - "Young Frankenstein" - the hot ticket on Broadway this year ! Ask him about it at your own risk...

2. SELL RAFFLE Tickets - this WILL get you some money for your account, and EVERYONE going needs to sell at least 10 tickets.

3. MONEY and the stubs are due Feb 1st. Put 'em in an envelope in the Bandroom Mailbox! You can, and should, turn in money and stubs as soon as you get them!

4. IF you want more tickets - email Bert at magefire@hughes.net and let me know how many more you want

5. Any band student can sell raffle tickets - money goes into your band account. Call or email Bert for tickets!

Happy New Year !

Happy New (York:)Year!!!!!

Check out the Howell School's new format to it's website. Check back here for current band news on upcoming meetings, New York trip, etc. Remember your $raffle$ tickets! Contact Bert @ 517.304.3521.

The second annual Merry Tuba Christmas takes place at 2 p.m. Saturday at the amphitheater of the historical Livingston County Courthouse on Grand River Avenue in downtown Howell. It has been noted too that if the weather is bad they may perform in the Howell Opera House. Three or more of our fine band students are performing. Stop by!

Julie

A bit more on the raffle:
Tickets cost $5 each
Every student going to New York will be asked to sell a minimum of 10 tickets. They will come home through school on TUESDAY - (school for Monday was cancelled at 7 PM tonight!)

Ticket money will be due Feb 1st.

Anyone who has NOT paid for marching uniforms to be cleaned MUST pay before we can accept the second payment on the New York Trip. Second deposit is due as soon as you come back from Christmas break!

Happy Snow Day!

Bert

For all band members: Don't forget to get your tickets for the New York New York raffle drawing to be held at the next concert February 13, 2008! Earn money for your band account or the New York trip!! Get them now and sell them over the holiday break to family and friends :)

First prize is $750.00 cash
Second prize is $100.00 cash
Third prize is $50.00 cash

Contact Bert Schomberger at 517.304.3521 or Julie Dennis 517.303.4850

There is no band booster meeting scheduled for Thursday, December 13th.

HELLO EVERYONE!! READ THE POST BELOW. THERE IS... I REPEAT, IS A CONCERT TONIGHT. Roads right now are pretty good, and all other events are still happening, so... Let's have a concert!

PARENTS! This was announced to all classes! At this early hour the concert is still on! However, adminstration could call it off as late as 5:00p.m. due to inclement weather. Report time is 6:30 at the Old Howell High School. Drop off students at the auditorium door by the "ROCK" ( for Freshman parents the side of the school facing the football field.) There is a lot of construction going on and feel this is appropriate. When coming to the show, please park in the parking lot on that side also. No parking in the parking lot by the flag pole, signs are posted to that effect.

Please remember to dress appropriately. Dressy!

Cookie or holiday treats appreciated!

PLEASE CHECK THIS BLOG BEFORE LEAVING TO DROP OFF YOUR STUDENT! AN UPDATE WILL BE POSTED AS SOON AS THE WORD IS RECEIVED!

To add to the Concert info! Donations of cookies will be gladly accepted that night to partake in before and after the performance. Please bring as early as you can! The kids need to be there earlier so send them in with them. Louis and I will be there at 6:00 to set up.

Call me for info:
Julie Dennis
517.303.4850

Please scroll down for important info on LV auditions and a help for moving the instruments etc. for the concert!

Hello Music Playing Earthlings and Parents...

Here is all we know about Livingston County Honors Band 2007-2008:

Livingston County Honors Band
2007-2008 Audition and Performance Information

What: The Livingston County Honors Band is comprised of students from the five current high schools in Livingston County. It is a great opportunity for meeting new people, playing with great musicians, and… YOU GET A PIN!

Who: Any band member in the Howell High School Instrumental Program

Where: Fowlerville High School and Performing Arts Center

When: Auditions are Wed, Dec 12, anytime between 4:30-8:00PM. The reading session is Monday, Jan 14, Time TBA. The all day rehearsals are on Saturday, Jan 19 8:30Am-3Pm and Mon Jan 21 from 8am-3pm.

Audition materials available in the band room. Make sure to read the entire page for requirements.

Performance is on Monday, Jan 21 at 7:30 PM in the Fowlerville Performing Arts Center.

CD’s will be available after the performance for a nominal fee.

Good Luck!

Address for Fowlerville High School is as follows:

Fowlerville High School
700 N Grand Ave, Fowlerville, MI

517-223-6002

This information is also available in the band room on a white piece of 8x11.5 inch printer paper in the same location that all important papers are located. (The music stand at the front of the room)

There ya go,

Kat Jak

New York is rolling... Hooray! A few more fundraisers are being planned to help get you there.

And now closer to home...

Concert, Tuesday Dec. 11th at 7 PM is at THE OLD HOWELL HIGH SCHOOL ! IN the NEW old Auditorium...please pass this on to parents, grandma and anyone who be be lost if you don't tell them about the location!

DRESS CODE - dressy clothes - not uniforms, but please remember "nice" clothes for the night

AND - logistics..we have to MOVE stands, percussion equipment, chairs and misc. musical stuff TO Howell High on Tuesday - so hands are needed at 3 PM to make this happen. Really pass this on to any parents that might be able to help !

Rock Smigell's house (musically that is)

The buses are full for New York!!!!! Yeah!

Update at 1:54! Only a few seats left for New York!!! If you are interested and can get the deposit to Pam ASAP you can still go! Pam Glynn 517.861.1675


Hope you read the past blog that the NEW YORK DEPOSIT is due today as mentioned at the informational meeting! This gives the tour group confirmation on the amount of students and chaperones which then determines the bottom line amount and the success of performance for this trip.

Little Caesar pizza kits will be in tomorrow hopefully around 2:00 at the loading dock by the band room. Please make arrangements to pick up tomorrow in the band room since there is no area to store anytime after tomorrow. Becky C. could use help with distribution, so if you intend on picking up your order please consider staying and helping!

Julie Dennis
517.303.4850

POP Can drive this weekend? If you are interested in coordinating this fundraiser contact Darcy Leyder at leyder@juno.com for details.

PLEASE SCROLL DOWN FOR NEW YORK TRIP UPDATE!

Parade was GREAT - Highlanders were the best looking entry, besides those Clydesdales, that is! THANKS to all of you and special thanks to Ms. Love for pulling it all together in Mr. Smigell's absence !

Now, onward and upward to NEW YORK!
$100 deposit is due December 3rd, that's MONDAY! Checks made out to Howell High School Bands, and put in the band room mailbox.

If you need the info again and it is not on the website by the time you read this, email Bert S.at magefire@hughes.net and I will send it on to you.

Final price depends on how many are going, so we have to get all deposits in before we know.

Happy December - see you at the concert on the 11th!

Bert S

Parade update:

1. As of today, the Parade manager was trying to get us to leave Parker 15 minutes early, but in return for this they will allow the busses to stay at the parking lot so we can stay on them if the weather is wet until closer to parade time. Please arrive at Parker NO LATER THAN 4:45 in case this is happening!

2. We are traveling on two busses, not three, so we may need help getting instruments to town. Also, we will need help with uniforms.

2. As of next year ALL people walking the parade route will be required to have some type of light on them - so we are AHEAD of the game, and this year glow necklaces will be given to each band member and every parent walking with the band. Please don't bring your own lights , we are going for the "uniform" look !

3. UNIFORMS - MANY people have not paid for the cleaning of their uniform. We must have your $20 by December 1st! Coupon books will be available at the school before and after the parade.

4. Be advised, per the parade gurus, Grand River will close down early this year to accommodate the Budweiser Clydesdale's. Get to town early if you are coming to watch!

Happy Thanksgiving to all !

Bert

For all the Marching Band Members attending the Fantasy of Lights Parade on Friday, November 23, this is what I know:

• Report Time: 4:45 pm
• Report Location: Howell High School Parker Campus, Band Room, the loading dock doors should be open.
• When you report get your uniform, instrument, and be ready to load the buses.
• The parade starts at 7 pm.
• We are Number 22 in the parade. This is somewhere in the middle.
• We hope to leave the parade for the school around 8:15 pm.
• For those parents who are coming out to watch, the roads are closed off at 6 pm so get there early and get a great seat to watch the festivities and cheer on our Highlanders.
• I'm soooooo excited to see you all there!

More information to come . . .

Ms. Love

Three things not to forget:
Little Caesar pizza fundraiser! Order forms in band room. Orders due by the 26th.

Snedicor booklets. Contact Bert(546.1993)to purchase since she is tracking. The coupon book covers the cost of cleaning and then some great coupons to use or pass on. Remember this is a fundraiser open to all band students. So every book sold after the first(this pertains to marching band students), a portion is put into student acct. Everyone else each book sold, again, a portion goes into acct.

Spiritwear available. Grey personalized hoodie($35.00)and plaid fleece pants($25.00). Contact me at 517.303.4850/americanframingco@charter.net.

Oh yeah, fourth is to view the pics on 8eight8.com (senior night is not on there yet) from the football games and MillerMediavision.com.

Hello Everyone!

Here is some more information on the events coming up for the band program:

-Tomorrow, The wind ensemble will be performing for a veteran's day assembly. At the conclusion of 1st hour, the people involved in the perfomance should immedietly go down to the band room, get out their instrument, then go down to the field house. The assembly will take all of 2nd hour. DRESS IS; SOMETHING NICE!! (dress code for the first concert.)

-The jazz band auditions are wrapped up and results will be posted on monday after lunch. The first rehearsal will be on Nov. 26th, 2007.

Rehearsals for the Fantasy of Lights parade are Tuesday, 11/13/07 3pm-4pm, Wednesday 11/14, 11:00am-12:00 (because of halfday), and Thursday, 11/15, 3-4pm. The parade is on the day after Thanksgiving Friday, 11/23/07. More information on the parade itself very soon.

The next concert is coming up Dec. 11, 2007. It will be at 7pm and we are hoping to have it at the NEWLY REFURBISHED HOWELL HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM at OLD HOWELL HIGH SCHOOL! Cross your fingers...


ok.. that should be it for now...

-Smigell

Hello Everyone!

Great job EVERYBODY at the concert! Kids, you sounded GREAT! Parents, you helped a TON!! Hooray! In all seriousness, I thought things went very well. A nice first concert and the new space worked better than I thought it would. We are still going to use the old (but newly refitted!) Howell Auditorium for the rest of our concerts, but it was a nice change.


SO HERE IS THE BIG ANNOUNCEMENT::::::::::::
NEW YORK PARENT (and student) MEETING IS NEXT THURSDAY NOVEMBER 8TH!!!! 7 PM!!! WOOT! Anyone who wants to go to New York with the Howell Band needs to come to this meeting!
(It will be in the Parker band room)
Incidentally, the date is March 12-15 2008!!

There will be representatives from the touring company that is helping us set up the trip... Items to be discussed will be the itinerary, the cost, fundraising opportunities and anything else you would like ask.

Some other pieces of new include:

-Jazz band tryouts will occur next Wednesday. Tryout pieces are being distributed today.

-The SOLO AND ENSEMBLE application deadline is coming up. People interested in S&E should talk to Mr. Smigell SOON

More info on the way. Get in the habit of checking the blog, because other items like Livingston county honors band, Irish music ensemble, and Howellpalooza are on their way!!

-Smigell

FOUND....at the concert last night, was someone's checkbook register. No name or identifying info. Call or email me, I will deliver.

Julie Dennis
517.546.0996 home
517.303.4850 cell
americanframingco@charter.net

For cookie donations for tomorrow's concert please contact me by call or email.
Concert starts at 7:00 so please bring by 6:15.

Julie Dennis
517.303.4850
americanframingco@charter.net

See directors comments below about concert check in and attire!

Welcome to the "As much information that I can give you" version of the band blog:

First: Hockey band people read the permission slip in the last post!

Second: PEP BAND FOR TONIGHT, is optional BUT WE NEED YOU TONIGHT! The game is at home Vs. Catholic Central. Report time is 6:30PM BECAUSE IT IS A MHSAA PLAYOFF GAME YOU MUST WEAR YOUR PIRATE MARCHING BAND SHIRT TO GAIN ENTRANCE TO THE GAME. WE WILL MEET IN THE BAND ROOM AT PARKER AT 6:30

Third: There is a concert coming up NEXT TUSDAY Oct 30th. It is at Parker HS at 7PM. All concert band, percussion ensemble, Symponic Band, and Wind Ensemble members are REQUIRED to perform. Report time is 6:30 Pm in the Parker Band Room. Attire is "wear something nice" for this particular concert. This means:

-no jeans
-no tennis shoes
-no t-shirts
-no jogging pants/sweats
-School appropriate
-no shorts
-NO Saggy pants

THINGS THAT ARE NICE TO WEAR:

-nice corduroy (sp?)
-khaki pants
-shirt with tie
-appropriate skirt and blouse... etc.
-Appropriate slacks/sweater etc.
-Coat and tie if you feel like it.

A full suit or tuxedo is probably a little much but if you want to snazz it up, that is cool.

The New York Trip "new date" is very close to being solidified. Please stay tuned, it will be posted as soon as I have SOLID info.


ok.. I think that is it...

Smigell!

HELLO EVERYBODY! THIS IS THE AFORMENTIONED HOCKEY BAND PERMISSION SLIP. THIS IS ONLY FOR PEOPLE IN THE HOCKEY BAND. PARENTS, IF YOU ARE UNSURE, ASK YOUR CHILD:

_____________________________________________________________________________________


HOCKEY BAND PERMISSION SLIP OCT. 27, 2007

I give my child ________________________ permission to go to Ann Arbor, MI to play for the University of Michigan Hockey team. The band will leave by bus at 6:30 PM (REPORT TIME IS 6:30). The game is at 8:30 at YOST ICE ARENA. The band will return by 12:00 midnight.

SIGNED__________________________________



Initial here if you are taking your child home in your own vehicle after the game.


______________________ (initial)

Tag Day Thanks...
to all of the parents who drove,fetched, fed and CLEANED on Saturday. With their help we delivered a small army of bandos to downtown Howell who raised just over $1800.00 for their student accounts! The Boosters voted at the last meeting to pay all expenses for this Tag Day out of our own money, and to not take the usual split of the proceeds from the day, so ALL of the money raised will go to the students. As of right now I figure it will come out to about $25 per shift worked...I'm not going to get to the exact number 'till next week, sorry! We'll keep you posted... I was proud of the way you all worked together, and have heard from several businesses that were genuinely happy to have you at their doors! There ARE great things happening in Howell schools, you are proof.

Bert S.

Hello Everyone!

Well, I can't believe that we are almost at the end of the main marching season already! It really has been a lot of fun. Here is all the news and information that I an think of right now:

GAMEDAY INFORMATION FOR FRIDAY, OCT 19, 2007:

FIRST OFF, READ THE LAST TWO POSTS!
next...
Runthrough/Practice: 3:00PM at parker stadium
4:00 band dismissed until report time
5:00 ish... tailgate begins.. Senior parents, make sure to come get a piece of cake!
6:00 Everyone report in... put on uniforms
6:20 Step off
6:30 Senior recognition ceremony... Senior Parents, please be at the back gates of the Parker stadium by this time. We will enter the stadioum together and have a nice little event.
6:45 Pregame
7:00 Kick off

OK.. on to some other pieces of news:

Hockey band is coming up (This is when the Howell band traves to Ann Arbor to sub for the Unversity of Michigan Hockey Pep band). Audition pieces have been passed out. Auditions will take place next monday, Oct. 22. Rehearsals will be tues, wed, and thurs next week during normal MB time (3-4:30PM) The actual date is next saturday, Oct 27th, 2007. We will probably be leavin Howell around 5pm that day.

Our first "sit down" concert of the year is oct 30th, at 7 pm in the Parker auditorium. More information forthcoming.

Jazz band auditions will take place after the first concert.

The New York trip was originally scheduled for the weekend of april 27th 2008. Because of a scheduling conflict with prom (the date for prom was scheduled two years ago and then not put on the school calendar. Due to a contract, the school cannot change the date of prom), we are going tohave to change the date for our trip. We will have a solid date by next week. in two weeks, we will have a parent/student meeting to re-inform everyone, and in about three weeks, the first $50.00 non-refundable deposit wil be due (other future payments may be refundable depending on date of cancellation, for those of you wondering).

Ok. I think that is it...

see you tomorrow!

-Smigell

BAND SPIRITWEAR will be available to view and place orders at Friday's game. If you wish to purchase right now, please contact me via email and I will proceed. Payment to be received before order will be placed. Great way to show your Band pride and great Christmas gifts(if you can wait that long!) Oh, did I mention Howell Highlander stadium blankets? Four are left!

Snedicor coupons books will be available(after kids are dressed) You will need this coupon book purchased before signing out and having uniform cleaned. Recommend to take in for maintenance and cleaning would be after MB has finished performing this season. Next time to wear will be Fantasy of Lights and then a long stored time until Memorial Day parade. It is most important to maintain for long storage. These books can be purchased in quantities by anyone in the Band! Contact Bert anytime at 546.1993 for purchase or details of this fundraiser.

Also, Senior group pics and great candid band photos can be viewed on 8eight8.com and purchased directly by contacting Richard Lim or see him at the tailgate also. Also check Millermediavision.com also for updated photos.

Julie Dennis
517.546.0996

scroll down to view previous post from Bertie. Carol needs food for Friday and she needs drivers for Saturday!

FRIDAY 10-19 "Seniors Night" final regular home game !

Carol Stone has volunteered to organize the tailgate, as our usual hostess (Mrs. Dennis) has a senior, and therefore gets the night "off" - The menu is as follows, please bring what you can. All Seniors, please invite your parents & siblings to eat with the band. We will most likely eat around 5PM - if that changes, I'll post the time here.....

Please email to let her know what you can bring.... or leave a message with Bert @ 546-1993


Swedish Meatballs
Baked Beans
Macaroni & Cheese (Stoffers Family Size -need two more. they were a huge hit last year)
Tossed Salad & dressings
Rolls & Butter
Cider
Bottled Water

CStone@ci.howell.mi.us

Thanks, Bert

From a TOTALLY Biased fan:

The Highlanders looked great Tuesday night at Walled Lake - did you hear the standing "O" they got? - Drumline with blindfolds! Awesome ! Parents and fans alike were proud of you ALL!

Please check back here soon for info on the Tailgate for the Senior Game - Friday Oct 19- we will need food! All Seniors parents are invited to join us.

TAG DAY - is Sat 10-20-07 We have slots for 92 kids to make $ - If you have NOT signed up yet - do it MONDAY in the Band Room - Don't miss out on starting a New York trip fund -ALL BAND MEMBERS CAN WORK TAG DAY!

Bert S.

The address is 600 Beck Rd. for all you mapquesters! Scrool down for today's festival info.

Julie

ALL THE INFORMATION YOU WANTED TO KNOW ABOUT MARCHING FESTIVAL BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK...

For a quick little feather in your cap kids, cut right to the end of this post...

Thank you Bert for the partial but much more timely post... I deleted it only to avert confusion...

Ok.. Here is what I know about festival. If you have any other questions, please email me at smigellj@howellschools.com

(In no particular order)

-All marching Band Students are excused from 6th hour on Tuesday, Oct. 9 2007. Go directly from 5th hour to marching band

-During 6th hour, we will practice just a little bit more, then pack up

-The busses will pick us up and go at 4PM

-Walled Lake Western HS is located at 600 Beck rd, Walled Lake, MI 48390 (for you mapquest folks)

-We warm up at 5:10 pm and perform at 5:45PM

-Kids will either want to bring a snack for the bus or a little cash for after the festival (we will stop at fast food on the way back)

-We hope to be back around 8PM

-If you want to go home with your parents (or some other adult that your parents trust), you need to present a note from your parents giving permission to either leave with them or the adult of your choice. All students must go on the bus TO the festival

-EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO CHEER US ON!!! PARENTS, LOVED ONES, COMPLETE STRANGERS!!! COME ONE, COME ALL!

-Color Guard, don't forget your blindfolds

-Everyone in marching band is invited to wear nice clothes during the day. Not required, just invited.

-Make sure to also bring your marching black shoes, black socks, and green band shirt to wear under your uniform

-Weather should be PERFECT for our uniforms and for marching... Woot!

-There will be no Marching band practice on Wednesday, OCT 10th enjoy!

-There will be no drumline on thursday, Oct. 11, enjoy!

-THERE WILL BE GENERAL (everybody has to be at it) MARCHING BAND PRACTICE on Thursday, oct 11, 2007

-There are two pep bands this week (both optional) JV football at home on thursday night, and Away Varsity football on Friday night.

-EVERYONE DRINK LOTS OF WATER TONIGHT!!! We Sweated and performed our fannies off!! Make sure to rehydrate!

WHAT A WONDERFUL REHEARSAL!!! I am so proud of all of you, and you know I mean it!!!

I can't wait for tomorrow (today, technically)!!!!!

-SMigell

Hey everyone!

Here is some important information:

We are doing things a little differently for the Brighton Game tomorrow:

(obviously, this is the for marching band kids and thier parents)
#1. The run through will happen RIGHT AFTER SCHOOL from 3pm to 4pm-ish. This is the mandatory pregame practice. At this point, the kids will be dismissed until 6 oclock. At six, the kids need to report to the band room to get into their uniforms (more on that later)

#2. the tailgate will be occurring at the same time it always does. Kids (and parents) if you want to eat, you may want to come back a little earlier than 6pm.

OK.. HUGE UNIFORM ANNOUNCEMENT!!! There is supposed to be a record high tomorrow... thus, as before, we are "hedging our bets" until the last moment. EVERY MEMEBR OF THE MARCHING BAND NEEDS TO BRING THEIR GREEN BAND SHIRT (this years's shirt), KHAKI SHORTS, BLACK SHOES AND BLACK SOCKS. If it is too hot near game time, we may have the kids march in the alternate uniform. If kids don't bring the alternate uniform, we will be forced to all wear the SWELTERING uniforms if it is too hot.

LAST THING BOG ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR NOW:

#3. MARCHING FESTIVAL IS NEXT TUESDAY OCT 9. Performance is at 5:30 ish pm at walled lake western. The kids will be leaving almost straight after school. More info forthcoming.

#4. There will be no practice next wednesday, october 10th.

ok... that's it for now!

-Smigell

Watch your mail box in the next few days for BAND information. This is for all band families, marching or not....Info on 2 fundraisers, Band Calendar, and more. Even a small "contest" hidden in the info sheet ....

Thanks, Bert S
517 546 1993

OCTOBER 5 TAILGATE ITEMS NEEDED:HAMBURGER BUNS FOR 120 HUNGRY KIDS(We are serving sloppy joes)
CHIPS
VEGGIE TRAYS
CHEESE AND CRACKERS
PORK AND BEANS?
POTATO SALADS...
ETC.(WHATEVER YOU HAVE IN MIND)
PLATES AND NAPKINS

OF COURSE WE NEED WATER!!!!!

LAST HOME GAME IS OCTOBER 19TH. THAT IS SENIOR NIGHT! ALL SENIOR PARENTS AND FAMILIES ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND FOR A SMALL SEND OFF TO THE SENIOR MARCHING BAND MEMBERS :(

CALL or email ME ASAP FOR DONATIONS!

Julie Dennis
americanframingco@charter.net
517.303.4850 cell/leave detailed message

Candid Band photos:(amended 9/26)

There were some pictures taken of the band at the last two home football games bytwo photographers. MillerMediavision.com has them posted on their website to view now along with football etc. Another local photographer, Richard Lim has taken some also and are currently posted on his proof viewing gallery. That gallery is 8eight8.com. Check out both! Our band website contains picks currently from last year by parents Bob Schiebold, Rick Kobylarz etc. The Press and Argus has given a few photos in their photo galllery every Friday too. The website will be updated soon with pics from drum major, band camp and the parades to get us up to speed. Keep checking!

Julie

Please scroll down and review last director's blog...if you haven't already.

Hello Everybody,

As always.. READ THE POST BELOW THIS ONE!!! It explains a lot about the uniform situation, and provides a nice game recap. I was particularly proud of the kids for WORKING THIER BEHINDS OFF on Friday. Even when they were thrown a few curve balls, they adapted nicely. GREAT JOB!

Couple pieces of news.....


#1. I will not be in regular school tomorrow (Monday, sept. 23, 2007), but I WILL BE THERE FOR THE EVENING MARCHING BAND REHEARSAL... which brings us to the second big piece of news:

#2. We are going to adding a half hour to every one of our rehearsals until we are done with festival (Oct. 9). Here are the reasons:

a. We have a great show but by my count we have lost a week and a day of regular rehearsals due to the new building growing pains.

b. We have an exceptional group of kids and we want them to do well at festival

c. We only 9 rehearsals left (just about 2 weeks) and the big event in our season is done. I know it is a bit of an inconvenience, but I am hoping that people will understand and will appreciate the results in the end.

so, that means that the practice schedule looks like this for the next two weeks

Monday 5:30-8:30pm at the Parker football field.
Tuesday-Thursday 3-4:30pm at the stealth field.

Kids (and parents), if you have conflicts with either your job or school, please let me know. Otherwise, I expect to see everyone there during the new times. I understand that some of you will have to leave early because of some things that you cannot get out of this week, but please make an effort first, and let me know if you are leaving early.

ok... I think that is it for now... more information soon!

-Smigell

I can't begin to list the many parents that donated, coordinated the food, helped by walking in the parade, talked with 8th grade parents, worked the uniforms with Bert Schomberger before and afterward! Thank you, your kids appreciate and notice! It can get crazy and we love it!

Speaking of uniforms, if you haven't received a copy of the letter that details the fundraiser between Snedicors and the band boosters please contact myself or Bert(517.546.1993/magefire@hughes.net)to find out the details. It is possible that this information will be mailed within a week to your home. MB students, after selling the first book will be entitled to cleanings, repairs etc. of their uniform along with submitting the profits to their student account. Non marching band students can also benefit after the sale of the first book. Student accounts can be applied to the New York trip or music related needs only. Details to follow.

Spiritwear, whether band booster Tshirts, flannel bottoms and hoodies are available too. We have a few orders and will be placing it shortly. Parents, yes you are a band booster member as a band parent. We don't ask for much just to support you child in the program, so order a shirt! The cost is not for profit. The flannel bottoms can be personalized along with the hoodie and there will be samples at the next band booster meeting. Even though you may have placed an order of the spiritwear at orientation or wish to purchase now please contact me ASAP! Turnaround time is quick! great gifts for your kids or yourself.

Also, if any parent wants to see a Kodak moment? Get to the loading dock after a win and watch how proud the band is with their hats on backwards and then allowed to dance to their own music. Awesome! great job with the craziness yesterday Mr. Smigell! that was lots of work on your part!

Julie Dennis
517.546.0996 home before 8:30
517.303.4850 cell anytime
americanframingco@charter.net

Food update
We are good with:
Mostacholli
garlic bread
napkins and plates
a salad

Could use a more desserts, another salad with toppings
and lots of WATER!
Please bring items to the tailgate area by 3:oo.(I will be there at 2:30 if you want to earlier) We may not notice items placed in the band room. If your child is bringing to school, please have them set in the instrument room by our pile of items along the wall :). Mr. Smigell is kind enough not to complain about this. Only two more games after Friday.

KIDS, remember to bring or preferably wear your pirate shirt, bring or wear your khaki shorts, black socks and solid black shoes Friday (you have the Pep assembly anyway!), weather permitting just in case.

Look for updates even the day of.
Julie Dennis
517.303.4850 leave a message
americanframingco@charter.net

scroll down to the directors notes for the remainder of the week and Homecoming please!

Food Menu for Friday!


Need:
Mostacholli
Garlic bread
tossed salad with selection of toppings
cookies/doughnuts
gatorade or lemonade mix for 5qts. containers
foam bowls(200 ct or more)
small cups(200 ct. or more)
napkins
and WATER, WATER, WATER!!!

Right now we have one large pan of mostacholli and strudel from Pam Glynn
Pan of mostacholli from Mrs. Kobylarz

Help is needed to feed, help with uniforms, greet 8th graders, ride the bus with directors and walk the parade route with the kids.

Donations of food and times call or email me.

Julie Dennis
517.303.4850 cell
517.546.0996 before 8:30 p.m.
americanframingco@charter.net

Please scroll below for the director's comments about Homecoming practice and Friday's happenings!

Hello everyone!


Here is the Homecoming edition of the blog (yay!)

Wednesday: Rehearsal for HSMB (High School Marching Band) from 3-4 pm Start inside for film then outside

Thursday: Rehearsal for HSMB from 3-4pm Outside
Drumline rehearsal 6:30-8:30PM

Friday: HOMECOMING!!! High Schoolers please read all of this! Middle schoolers, please read all of this!
6th hour all HSMB goto the pep rally.
Right after school HSMB rehearses at the parker football field
Around 3:30 HSMB (only) gets fed and gets into uniforms
4:30ish HSMB gets on bus
5:30 HSMB steps off for the homecoming parade (begins at Paige Field, ends at the Presb. Church)
5:45 MIDDLE SCHOOLERS arrive at parker high school and drop their things off at the band room. Pick up a donut at the tailgate (only light snacks available before the game).Goto the "Stealth Field" People will be there to show you. UNIFORM FOR MIDDLE SCHOOLERS TO BE DETERMINED BY THEIR MS DIRECTOR (Mr. Stimson/Mr. Marzewski). It will probably be something like a Howell Band shirt and either jeans or shorts.
6:00 EVERYBODY PRACTICES AT THE STEALTH FIELD
6:30 Step-off for the stadium Middle school parents, the performing eighth graders get in free, but unfortunately if you want to watch them, you have to pay.
6:45 PREGAME WITH THE HSMB AND THEIR WONDERFUL MIDDLE SCHOOL GUESTS!!!
7:00 Kickoff
Around 7:40ish (could be later or earlier) Halftime and homecoming wonderfulness.
9-9:30ish game over. Please pick up your child promptly, as they lock the building up tight at 10pm nowadays.

Couple of other facts:

HSMB will be wearing their actual Marching Uniforms. The forecast is still favorable at this time. HOWEVER, PLEASE BRING YOUR 07-08 BAND SHIRT AND KHAKI SHORTS IN CASE THE WEATHER IS DIFFERENT. Please do not worry, we will not bake you! (or your child)

HSMB will be fed at the early tailgate (menu and details to come soon). Only snacks will be provided for everyone at the later tailgate (Again, more info to come)

Ok.. In reference to all of the people waiting for audition postings, they might come tonight, they might be up tomorrow on the blog. I will try hard to add them up tonight.

Also.... please mark oct 9th on your calendar... HSMB has MARCHING FESTIVAL THAT DAY.

Finally, Angie Kimball (bagpiper teacher extraordinaire) is back in town. Josie and Kaitlyn are currently our only two pipers (glad to have them!). We need a few more pipers! Angie is giving lessons and has asked me to post her contact #s:

517 618 9019 (home)

Angie, I wasn't sure if you wanted the cell posted as well, let me know (smigellj@howellschools.com) if you do.

OK... I think that is it!!!

-Smigell

p.s. HOORAY FOR EIGHTH GRADERS!! You all marched pretty well! It was cool to meet you all and work with you for a little bit. You all need to join marching band next year!! AWESOME!!!!

Hey All!

First of all READ THE POST BELOW THIS ONE!!! I cannot thank the parents that have helped me enough!! Holy cow would I be lost without you (those parents listed below plus many more, but especially those listed below).

Thanks to ALL OF THE KIDS FOR A GREAT SHOW ON FRIDAY!!! I know a little of it was stressful, but you really came through! The team is going to win some, and lose some. Don't let that affect the way you feel about your performance! SUPER DOOPER! Still lots of dings, but coming along nicely. We hopefully will have some film to look at and we can address things sometime on Monday.

Speaking of Monday, That is the rehearsal with our future Bandos, the EIGHTH GRADERS!!! Hooray! The practice goes from 5:30PM-8PM monday 9/17/07. The eighth graders will be practicing with us until 7:30. We will do a little bit on our own after they are done. It will begin in the Parker Band ROOM at 5:30 SHARP/

Rehearsals tues, wed, and thurs next week are normal (3pm-4pm, at the bus lot "stealth" field).

This is also the week of HOMECOMING. Much more info will be coming very soon, but basically FRIDAY IS THE LONGEST DAY OF THE YEAR FOR MARCHING BAND PEOPLE. They have the pep assembly, the parade, and the game, with almost no breaks in between. They will not have any time to go home in between, so they must have everything with them. It is fun, but exhausting. Again, more info about uniforms, stepoff times, and everything else by tuesday at the latest, but keep in mind FRIDAY IS TOTALLY OCCUPIED BY HOMECOMING (Don't worry, it's cool, I just want to get the point across).

In the day classes, we are still doing auditions for placements. I hope to be done either tomorrow or Tuesday. Percussion class is busy performing their first playing tests of the year and researching pieces for our upcoming "video game" concert.


Seniors who want a rec letter for college, get in touch with me soon (at least to let me know when you need it). I write a decent rec letter, but if they all come at once, it gets tough

Seniors who want to major in music WE NEED TO TALK SOON about your auditions and which schools you want to send applications. I would really like to help you on this. Please let me know.

NEW YORK TRIP INFORMATION AND A FULL YEAR CALENDAR WILL BE AVAILABLE SOON!

Props go out to my staff, Michelle, Elise, and Quade!

Julie and Bert... What else can I say about how wonderful you two are?

Sue, constant medstaff! Thanks!

Louis... Sweet website!

My Bosses Mr. Smith, Mrs. Anderson, Mr. Sharp, Mr. Borders, and Mr. Shrock I know you are doing the best you can! Keep it up!


Last but CERTAINLY not least (In no particular order): Thanks to Joe, Mike, Kat, Matt, Gary, Jess, Jack, Tim, Will, Michelle, Kim, Laura, Kevin,Lauren, Jeremy, Ben, Britanny and anyone else I have forgotten (I know I have forgotten somebody... no biggy let me know and I will edit you into the post) THE MINION CORPS!!!! Making every day great and better than expected.

Oh yes, finally, I have a really crazy idea that would be life changing if we could pull it off. Goto this address:

http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=132227881&blogID=310603189

it is my myspace blog. It is about my idea for a human-powered concert tour.

ok... I think that is it.

Until very soon,

-Smigell

Thanks to all the parents who donated food for the tailgate last night! Pam and Rayna Glynn, James Donovan, Louis Sequin(and son), Sherri Kobylarz, Connie Brown(last I saw) and others came early to prepare and served the food. I was inside (all too much this past and last week)with crazy Bert Schomberger unpacking and organizing the uniforms. Giselle Palmer, Joann Radelt, Rita Ogg, Bea Cuthbertson, Elinor Block, Bob Schiebold (and others I may have missed)were instrumental in fitting the newbies. We hope to address additional tweeks on the previous band kids this week. Be patient kiddos :)

Friday the 21st is Homecoming and 8th grade night. Already Pam Glynn offerred to make a large pan of mostacholli and apple strudel(MMmmm!). Additional suggestions were tossed salads and garlic bread. Treats and coffee for the parents will be provided. Monday night the blog will detail more. Suggestions are always appreciated.

Please RSVP food and attendance because parents are always welcome.

Hey, thanks Mr. Smigell for keeping it together for the kids amidst all the craziness. You are appreciated!

Julie Dennis
517.303.4850

FOOD FOR FRIDAY! Kids show your parents :)

We are going to prepare subs of turkey and ham. We currently have lots of meat and about 100 buns. (there are approximately 120 kids and a half doz. assistants to feed) Cider will be served along with lemonade and water of course.

Needed condiments are as follows:
cheese
Shredded lettuce
mustard
tomato slices
more sub buns
(3)pasta, potato, or reg. salads
(3)fruit platters
(3)veggie platters
*identify your dishes if you wish them returned. they will be left in the band room for pick up after the game.

Any of the above donations or your suggested items to bring to feed the kids would be appreciated. (treats are okay too) Stick around too, parents are always welcome.

They eat immediately at 5:30, so anything should be there by 4:30-5:00 please. I will be there by 4:00 to set up and make subs. Your help is appreciated to :)

Call to let me know what you will bring.

Julie Dennis
517.546.0996 before 9:00 p.m.
517.303.4850 cell anytime and please leave a message with your phone number if you want a call back.

Always scroll down to previous blogs....just so you don't miss anything important!!!!!

Hello!

Hey, I just wanted everybody that sent me CARPOOL emails to know that I sent them all to Mr. Sequin, our fabulous webmaster of www.howellhighlanderbands.org. If you are having trouble getting a ride (or ride for your kids) with the new schedules, take a look two or three posts ago on this blog!

More info about everything coming up very soon (including a CALENDAR!!! WOW!)


-Smigell

p.s. The Kraken drill almost worked!! A little tweeking and it should be sweet!

Game is on. No tornado. If you want to come to Milford, go ahead! Great fun awaits.

Hello All,
Pep Band will happen UNLESS it is raining at 6:30. It looks like the rain will blow over by then anyway, no worries.
Game's at Milford, maps in the band room, provide your own transportaton... yadda yadda yadda
GO HOWELL!!!
Kat

Newest Info Installment!


Hello everyone! Here is the latest and most up to date information I can give you!


#1. It has ended up that Wind Ensemble will NOT be performing for the Sept. 11 ceremony. There are simply too many other obligations we have to meet right now, and the performance space was the wrong size for our group.

#2. The "ad-hoc-grass-roots" Jazz Band (Veteran memebers of Jazz Band or Band Veterans who are interested) WILL be performing at the Parker High School dedication ceremony on Sunday Sept 9th at 1:45pm. Report time will be 1:15PM in the Parker High Band room. WE WILL BE PRACTICING FROM 3:00-4:30PM TOMORROW, FRIDAY, SEPT 7!!!

#3. There is a pep band away game TOMORROW NIGHT FRIDAY SEPT 7th, 2007 IN MILFORD. Kids must wear their band shirt (the pirate one) in order to get in for free. They also must sign up at school beforehand so we know how many kids are coming. REPORT TIME AT MILFORD HS is 6:30PM AT THE MAIN TICKET GATE. Maps to Milford High will be available in school. Please read the post about 2 or 3 back to learn more about pep band. I must say, these are usually SUPER DOOPER (sp?) FUN!!!

#4. Auditions for all bands (concert, symphonic, and wind ensemble) will begin on Tuesday, Sept 11. Audition pieces will be passed out tomorrow in class.

#5. MB PRACTICE SCHEDULE FOR NEXT WEEK
Monday 9/10/07: Evening rehearsal 5:30-8PM at parker football field
Tuesday 9/11/07: 3-4pm SOMEWHERE AT PARKER IF WE HAVE TO LINE THE CAFETERIA AND MARCH THERE!!
Wed 9/12/07: Same as Tuesday
Thurs9/13/07: Same as Tuesday
Friday9/14/07 HOME GAME VS NOVI: Current report time is 4:30PM Current uniform is same as last week (Pirate band shirt, COMPLETELY BLACK SHOES, Black Socks, Khaki shorts. PLEASE KEEP IN MIND that we are now enforcing the strict uniform policy, students will not be allowed to march if they do not have the right uniform. Tailgate will begin around 5:20PM (more info on that soon) Stepoff will be at around 6:45 and the game usually ends around 9:30PM.

#6. I will not be in school during the normal school day tomorrow. I WILL BE AT THE AFTER SCHOOL JAZZ BAND REHEARSAL AND AT THE PEP GAME!!!! HAVE NO FEAR.

#7. I am forwarding the carpool requests to Mr. Sequin. Please read the blog below and other previous blogs for important info....


Ok.. I think that is it. Sorry for being cranky today kids, I am trying to make sure you get you the best situation possible, I promise.

Hey Everybody!!!

I have an interesting idea... There are a lot of people who have been asking me about having trouble finding rides both to school (for zero hour) and after school (i.e. marching band). Suddenly it dawned on me: "Hey, we have an enormous pool of people with same problems but lots of combined rescources... Let's use our size to our advantage!!!"

OK.. I may live to regret this, but I am going to propose that we set up a forum or something to pair up these people with each other... Band power in action!!

Send me an email (smigellj@howellschools.com) with "CARPOOL" in all caps in the subject line. Let me know where you live (general area) and what time your kid needs a ride. I will forward these postings to Mr. Sequin and see if he he can make a bulletin board out of them... hopefully this can help everyone get to school more conveniently... (Louis, sorry if this catches you off guard, but I will forget if I don't post this now).

What do you think?

-Smigell

Hello Everybody!

I can't tell you how pleased I was with every single aspect of the game, because there isn't a word for GALACTICALLY PLEASED! The parents who helped before, during, and after the game made the impossible possible. The KIDS... HOLY SMOKES! Now, nobody get a big head (We have a LONG way to go!), but that was the best first performance I have seen out of this marching band. If we continue to work hard and practice well, I know we will be able to achieve our goals (and play a really SWEET show!). Thanks to every single person involved!

OK... this is the kind of year that will keep us busy (and surprised) from the first day until the very last one in June. I want you all to know that in addition to trying new and wonderful things and making all kinds of music with the kids, one of my big personal goals is to keep the students and parents better informed. Having said that, I have only little bits of information for you because a lot of things are still changing minute to minute. Parker is a cool building, but it is a new building, and it will take at least a few weeks before things settle down. Here is the best that I can offer for you right now:

#1. Rehearsals at this point will begin at 3:00PM and end at 4:00 except on Fridays and Mondays. Monday rehearsal will be in the evening and friday will either have a home game or a pep game, so there usually is just a report time. Friday will be slightly different each week.

#2. There IS rehearsal tomorrow at 3:00 PM in the Parker Band Room. We will not be marching but BRING YOUR INSTRUMENT!! It will go unil 4:00PM. 9th graders don't forget to get on the bus to get to parker for 6th hour. There will not be school provided transportation after marching band practice. Most people either carpool with parents or drive themselves. Please let me know in class if you have problems.

#3. If you heard rumors about us practicing in the parking lot, those rumors are mostly true(Don't worry! It works great and many many bands do this, including U of M!). However, they have not gotten around to painting the lines for us, so we are trying to find an alternative rehearsal spot that does not have conflicts. This will be an up to the minute thing so please CHECK THIS BLOG frequently!

#4. The Monday rehearsal time will be set very soon, as soon as I can get an administrator to give his/her blessing.

#5. The Auditorium at Old Howell High School will not be ready for the fall, so this has a large effect on our calendar. we hope to have the SOLID calendar up and out to you by the end of this week. One thing is for certain, the musical will not be in the fall, it will be in the early spring. I think that our first concert ensemble ("sit-down band") performance will stay at the same time and date, but be performed at Parker HS (This coming Oct. 30th 7:00pm)

#6. The next performance for the Marching Band is an optional one. It is the away game at Milford HS, this Friday, Sept. 7th. For those who have not gone to an away game, they are a lot of fun, it is a more relaxed atmosphere and the kids earn points toward their Varsity letter in band. The game is usually free for the kids but they have to find their own way to the game. More information on this by tomorrow.

#7. The next MANDATORY performance of the Marching Band is next Friday Sept 14th, Vs. Novi. Report times and such will be forthcoming.

#8. WE HAVE LOCKABLE LOCKERS THIS YEAR! However I am not sure if we are going to be provided locks... more info on that very soon.

OK... That is it for now. If you have any questions, please email me at smigellj@howellschools.com or jsmigell@mac.com. The phones have been a little nutty at Parker and I cannot guarantee that you will get through.

-Smigell

P.s. Thank you for all of the kind words and support regarding my crazy week(almost dead dog, really dead deer, no power, etc)! It humbled me, becuase I know that many of you are in a bigger jam than me ALL THE TIME. Times are a little tough in Michigan and in Livingston Schools, and I want you to know that your stories of overcoming things inspires me to do my very best for you all (Or your kids, depending on who is reading this!). That's a promise! Hang in there! It will be alright in the end!

Hope you had a great weekend!

Thanks to all parents who donated the huge selection of donuts, ice, water and cider and also to the Looney Baker who donated 8 doz. for the tailgate at the first football game. Next tailgate will be sub sandwiches so far. Look for blog as that gets closer.

Practices for Marching band will be after school for an hour or so. (let me confirm the days before I commit). Freshman, you are there with Mr. Smigell sixth hour so stay if you are in Marching Band.

Any seamstresses with some time during the day (or if you can take some home at your leisure?) to help with uniforms? Contact Bert Schomberger @ 517.304.3521 or Julie Dennis @ 517.546.0996.