Tuesday, September 01, 2009

Hi All,
WOW! September is here! The beginning of school is almost upon us and you know what that means, FOOTBALL and TAILGATING! For any "newbees" out there here's how is goes; starting Sept. 11 and for the next three games, we are at home. As a band parent for the past 6 years, tailgating is the funnest part of it. We, as the "band parents" help to provide food for our totally awesome marching band students. Here is the menu for the home games: Tacos--Sept 11; Hot Dogs & Hamburgers--Sept. 18 & Chicken--Sept. 25, (which is also Homecomming!) Our last home game, which is not until the middle of October will be "The Senior Show". More details to follow on that later. Here is what I need from you guys: donations of the food and drinks. For the Taco meal, anything from cheese, lettuce, tomatoe, taco sauce, nacho chips, to desserts. Please let me know what you would like to bring or I suggest something for you to brings, so we don't any up with too many duplicates. Here is how the Tailgating goes: the kids pratice for about an hour right after school, we feed them and then they get into uniform. Parents are totally invited to stay for the tailgating and "party with the band"!
We are are also asking for donations of water for the kids as that is needed for them in the stands during the game, althought we have plenty for the first game! Here is my e-mail: dnrchappel@prodigy.net and my cell phone #517-304-0537 or home phone #517-552-7463. Please let me know if you have any questions at all,
Becky Chappel

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Hello everybody!

Just wanted to let you know the rehearsal times fir next week:

Tuesday sept 1st.. 7:30-9:30 am

wednesday sept 2nd, 2:00-3:30 pm. NOTE THE CHANGE!

Thursday sept 3rd 2:00-3:30 again not in the morning! Tell all your friends!

Our first pep band engagement is next thursday sept. 3. It is a road game (away). It is optional. I will be posting more information about it very soon.

Finally, we took pictures of the band yesterday. We are finally going to have official pictures in the yearbook and athletic program! Of you would like to purchase the pictures from lifetouch, pick up a flyer at the next rehearsal.

Ok I think that's about it for now!

-Smigell

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Hey Marching Band!

We will be getting our picture taken in full uniform tomorrow during practice. Make sure to wear black shoes and socks to practice!!! Pass the word so everyone knows!
Thanks!

Saturday, August 22, 2009


Hey Band!

A photo group room has just been created on snapfish for you to enjoy and share your band photos the link is: http://howellhighbands.snapfish.com/snapfish/otsc=SYE/otsi=CRI

I have uploaded photos from Band Camp. I will also be making copies of the slideshow shown at band camp. These will be available to you at a low or no cost (I'll know soon).

Several people asked for copies of the videos shown in the slide show, you can view these on YouTube. Search for howellhighbands. (For some reason it does not show up on iPhone YouTube search)

Don't forget Marching Band Practice this week: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday at 7:30-9:30am.

Friday, August 21, 2009

FYI: Our campers are on their way home. Buses departed at approximately 12:45 p.m. They should arrive back at the High School some time between 3:00 & 3:30 p.m.

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Thanks to everyone who volunteered at Melonfest. We will return cans when we return from Band Camp. Mrs.Stone will have your shift totals then.

-Mrs. Taylor

Friday, August 14, 2009

Band Camp Update

In case you missed it at practice, all buildings/dorms are air conditioned at our new camp. So no need for fans unless you'd like a small one.

See you all bright and early on Monday at 7:00 am for check- in. Buses
will leave at 8:00 am.

Thursday, August 06, 2009

EASY Band Fundraiser @ Melonfest
Fri-Sat-Sun, August 14,15,& 16

Band members needed for 2 hour shifts(or less, depending on how quick you get it done!) throughout Melonfest to pick up Pop cans at designated sites throughout downtown, replace liners and put cans in designated storage area.

Easy way to earn $$$ for upcoming band trip this year or next year's Band Camp!

All $$$ earned will be divided between workers and put into your student account.

Email Mrs. Taylor @ rl.taylor@comcast.net or call 548-0423 with day preference and shifts will be assigned.

Hurry! Limited shifts available!!!

Wednesday, August 05, 2009

ATTENTION PARENTS: Newbie day is for you too. . . . If you're new to the marching band program and would like more info or have any questions, plan on attending the first 30 minutes of Newbie Day (8:00 a.m.). Mr. Smigell will go over everything you need to know about Marching Band and will answer any questions you might have.

Tuesday, August 04, 2009

NEWBIE DAY UPDATE: (Thursday, August 13th) Please be sure to bring your instrument and a water bottle. A pizza lunch will be available for $3 or you can bring your own lunch (no refrigeration available so please plan accordingly). Don't forget to bring sunscreen & sunglasses and wear comfortable shoes - no sandals or flipflops.

Monday, August 03, 2009

Band Camp Update: Here's the scoop you've all been waiting for. Reporting time for band camp is 7:00 a.m. on Monday, August 17th at the 'tailgate' entrance to the Band Room at Howell High School. Buses will depart promptly at 8:00 a.m.

Check-in: Students will be required to check in before boarding the bus. If you haven't already done so, please be sure to turn in your completed medical forms. Students will not be allowed to board the bus without a completed form. Please note: The form requires a signature by a parent/guardian. Parents dropping off their students might want to wait until after they've checked in before leaving to be sure that all the necessary forms are completed.

Return: Anticipated return time: Between 3:00 p.m - 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21st. Check the blog as we'll post the most up-to-date information as it's available on Friday.

Things to Bring: Instrument, extra instrument parts (like reeds, neck straps, oil, sticks, etc), bedding (pillow, sleeping bag/blanket, sheet), towel(s), jacket (you'll march even if its cold and/or rainy), sunscreen, insect repellant, flashlight, water bottle (with name on it), music flip folder, pencil, clothing, swim suit, sunglasses, TWO pairs of shoes that can bet dirty.

PLEASE DON'T BRING: Televisions; video games, stereos; coolers; food/snacks (will be provided); cigarettes, alochol, drugs, weapons/knives, or anything else forbidden in the school Code of Conduct.

FYI: There's still time to vote for your favorite destination for the 2009/2010 Band Trip. Boston is leading by a very slight margin with Disney World and New York close behind. E-mail your vote to cstone827@yahoo.com.

If you have any questions, please contact me at (734) 604-3546 (cell) or by e-mail at cstone827@yahoo.com

Have fun,
Carol

Friday, July 31, 2009

Marching Band Season is beginning soon! Before heading off to band camp we have three very important dates.

Wednesday, August 12
This is Squad Leader Day. If you passed the squad leader test you MUST attended. This is mandatory attendance! Show up from 8:00-12:00

Thursday, August 13
This is Newbie Day. We will meet to practice marching techniques before band camp and learn some of the new music for our season. It will go from 8:00-11:00 then there will be a short lunch break and then restart from 12:00-2:00. Though this is not mandatory, it is highly suggested that you attend.

Friday, August 14
This is Erribody (Everybody) Day. Primarily a follow-up of newbie day, going over commands, marching, and music. It will go from 8:00-12:00

For all three days we will meet at Howell High School. Bring water and your instrument please.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

VOTE NOW: Here's your chance. . .tell us where you'd like 09/10 band trip to be. Here are your choices. . . . .
  • Boston
  • Branson, Missouri (supposed to be lots of fun with shows, theme parks, etc)
  • Disney World
  • Toronto (if info from Secretary of State is correct, passport would not be needed)
  • New York
  • Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island
  • Chicago
  • Other (please specify)

Please note: Fund raising opportunities will be provided to offset the cost of the trip. E-mail me your choice: cstone827@yahoo.com

Hope you're having a great summer.

Friday, June 19, 2009

Band Booster Update: As you may be aware, the Howell Band Boosters Association has been dealing with a very difficult situation during the past school year. Pamela Glynn, the former treasurer has not turned over any financial records for the period covering July of 2007 through August of 2008. In seeking to resolve this issue, the Band Booster Board has sought assistance from the School Administration and in conjunction with them has received legal advice from three different attorneys. Based on the advice received, the likelihood that we will be successful in obtaining the records and verifying the financial transactions of the 07/08 school year is slim. Further, pursuing the necessary legal actions would expend all of our existing funds or more. Clearly, these funds would be better spent in ways that directly benefit our band students.

In pursuing resolution of this situation, the attorneys brought to light several issues regarding the structure of the Howell High Band Boosters that need resolution. At the Band Booster meeting held on Tuesday, June 16, 2009, it was determined that Howell Band Boosters would suspend operations during the 09/10 school year as the Board works to resolve these issues. It is our hope to emerge from this transition as a stronger, more viable support arm for Howell High Band Programs.

In the meantime, the support of band parents is needed more than ever so that programs like the Marching Band tailgates, Senior recognition night, the Memorial Day Picnic, and the Band Banquet can continue. At the current time, we are seeking donations of bottled water for use at Marching Band Camp and at Marching Band performances during the upcoming football season. Please check the band blog for updates and for other opportunities to support the Howell High Band Programs.

Thank you for your patience and support during the past year. Please contact me if you have any questions or need any additional information.

Carol Stone
Treasurer
Howell Band Boosters
(734) 604-3546
e-mail: cstone827@yahoo.com

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Special Band Booster Meeting: Tuesday, June 16, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. - 2nd floor conference room of Howell City Hall, 611 E. Grand River, Howell, MI. We will provide an update on the situation with the financial records for the 07-08 school year and if time permits, will discuss future fundraising opportunities.

Hope to see you there.

Carol Stone
Band Camp Update: If you haven't registered for the 2009 Marching Band Camp, there's still time. We have to submit the registration forms and final payment to the School by Friday, 6/19/09. If you have questions or need registration forms, please contact me ASAP. e-mail: cstone827@yahoo.com, cell phone: 734-604-3546, office phone: 517-540-6734.

Thanks,
Carol Stone

Tuesday, June 09, 2009

Hello Everyone!

Here are the placements for next year. If your name has been left off the list, please email me at jsmigell@mac.com:

2009-2010 Howell High School
Symphonic Band
(Members listed by section in ALPHABETICAL ORDER)
Oboe
Brandon Pajur

Flutes
Felicia Buxton
Abbey Good
Audra Hudson
Tiffany Jones
Rebecca Kempf
Renee Ketchel
Lauren Koivu
Allison Kucera
Lauren Lys
Alyssa Mcqueen
Carolyn Prince
Darian Wolfe

Clarinets
Brittany Faba
Amanda Fauer
Danielle Mcfarland*
Darian Meininger
Henry Palmer
Kyle Robeson
Zach Wolverton

Saxophone
Mike Barrow
Cody MacDonald
Hannah Newman
Nick Jordan
Ken Schell
Saxophones cont.
Austyn Rupert
Brenden Van Eseley
Chris Wolak
John Yelinek

Trumpets
Steve Donovan
Casey Epperson
Lucy Gonzales
Alex Hayden
Kyle Maltby
Cody Murphy
Josh Queener
Victor Trapp
Jarred Trella

Horns
Libby Smith
Paul Buckner

Trombones
Kyle Brenner*
Caelen Dingman
Katie Gardner
Matt Jefferson*
Justin Kinnick
Alan Laverty
Carly Lehman

Euphonium
Bonnie Gregory
Tyler Mitchell
Jake Richardson

Tuba
Nick Monak

Percussion
Taylor Godfrey
Rest of Symph Band Percussion TBA Due to talks regarding percussion ensemble and soforth

The Following people and anyone with an asterisk next to their name need to speak with Mr. Smigell pending placement:
Jennifer Jennison*
Courtney Jacobsen
Jenna McLellan
Ashley Alcott

2009-2010 Howell High School Wind Ensemble
(Members listed by section in ALPHABETICAL ORDER)


Oboe
Josie Doefer

Flute
Kim Chappel
Ashley Garcia
Amy Henton
Libby Hobson
Nora Kandler
Abbey Michaels
Brittany Randall

Clarinet
Justin Brandt
Emily Brogan
Katelyn Green
Carly Jakrzewski
Kirsten Manos
Natalie Mcarty
Andrew Meagher
Therese Mqueen
Morgan Rote
Paige Williams

Bassoon
Joe Swift

Saxophones
Katie Bondie
Bobbie Fillinger
Jonathan Lewis
Nick Leyder
Brian Rowe
Saxophones cont.
Alex Thomas
Clayton Woll

Trumpets
Joe Brennan
David Bruce
John Galubensky
Katie Heslip
Kathleen Janowieki
Kevin Leahy
Marcus Wendel

Horns
Jacob Bair
Crystal Reimel
Jonathan Weidemann

Trombones
Evan Clifton
Connor Harlow
Trevor Smith
Troy Taylor
Sarah Williams

Euphoniums
Sean Hamman
Katie Kubiak

Tuba
Jamie Holdwick
Andrew Stone

Percussion…
Katie Schiebold
Matt Graham
The rest are TBA Due to certain discussions I need to have over who is in perc ensemble and who is in Wind ensemble

ok... more information on everything soon!

-Smigell

Tuesday, June 02, 2009

Hello Everyone!

First of all, CONGRATULATIONS TO MIKE BROWN, THIS YEAR'S WINNER OF THE JOHN PHILLIP SOUSA AWARD! Mike was the Drum Major of our marching band, the principal saxophonist in our wind ensemble and participated in numerous other activities and groups within the program. He is a great kid, a great musician, and we wish him the best!

As we wrap up the year, I will be thanking people on this blog. I would like to take this time thank two individuals and their companies:

Jim Gilligan and SNEDICOR'S CLEANERS for his continued ALMOST UNREAL support of our program through cleaning our uniforms. Even though times are tough, he has not wavered in his service and generosity. From the bottom of our hearts here at Howell Bands, THANK YOU!

Band Parent Alum Bruce Hundley and ADVANCE METAL ALLOYS for lending us all those great pieces of metal that the percussion class played during our last performance. THANK YOU!!

Next time we will thank boosters, parents and adults that helped the program!

-Smigell

Sunday, May 31, 2009

Senior Presentation. If you're interested in a copy on DVD, which will include the HHS Bands Promo video, email Trekkie at trekker670@yahoo.com




Trekkie!
-Brian Roskamp

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

IMPORTANT INFO

All band members:

CONCERT TOMORROW
Thursday, May 21st
7pm

Report 6:30, Jazz Band 6:00 pm.


MARCHING BAND

Memorial Day Parade

Report to school 9:00am

Bus leaves at 9:30 to parade

Step Off 10:00am

Parade ends 11:30am

Bus returns to High School 12 noon

FREE Picnic at Howell City Park, immediately after
(See earlier posts)


All MB members: there is still time to sign up for Band Camp!!!
See Smigell for forms. We need YOU next year!!!