Hello everyone,
We received an email a few days ago from Eagle Village. They informed us that they would be suspending all overnight camp accommodations until at least August 31st, 2020. Unfortunately that means that we will not be having away band camp this year. I am heartbroken. This is the first time in about 19 years that the Howell Marching Band will have to have a "Home Camp". I waited a few days to make sure that it truly was the case and that there would not be some miracle announcement from the Governor to change EV's mind. I guess I am relieved that I did not have to make the decision, because I was having a hard time trying to figure out how we could pull it off and still keep everyone safe.
Obviously this is disappointing. However, one thing that the age of COVID-19 has taught me is that one must keep moving forward even when one get's kicked in the guts. First, a little bit of good news, then what we currently (that word has become much more important hasn't it?) planning for the fall.
THE BAD NEWS:
-You already heard. No away band camp. :((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((((
THE GOOD NEWS:
-Our state is among the best right now for containing the virus. This gives us the best chance to have band in some form in the fall.
-I received a letter from the district about a week ago that I am employed for the 20-21 school year! They're bringing me back and paying me, so there is a near 100% certainty that there will be SOME KIND of band for all of our talented young folk to play in. THERE WILL BE MUSIC AGAIN IN THE FALL.
-Believe it or not, things are actually fairly optimistic for marching band in the fall. This situation literally changes weekly, however. Thus, our current plans by necessity are a shade vague. Please continue to be patient. We will inform you about what we are doing as soon as we become confident that the situation is fairly concrete.
-Howell Bands has the BEST kids in the UNIVERSE and we will figure out a way to return.
THE PLAN FOR MARCHING BAND (As of today 3:39pm EST 6/24/2020):
-WE ARE STILL HAVING HOME CAMP THE EXACT SAME DAYS AS "NORMAL" BAND CAMP. If you were signed up for band camp, PLEASE DO NOT CHANGE YOUR PLANS! One of the reasons we have away camp is so 99% of our band there for rehearsals. Work shifts, surprise camping trips, tiddlywinks team practice, and cousin Sally's socially distanced birthday party are not excusable reasons. Assume that you will be occupied 8am-8pm.
-If you paid for band camp by check WE ARE SHREDDING them (literally) and starting the process over. If you paid by paypal online, we will be contacting you to see how you want your refund. If you paid by money order, we will be issuing a refund by school check and it will be in the mail by July 1st. Band camp is still going to cost money but will be SIGNIFICANTLY CHEAPER (less than half). We still have to hire instructors, pay for music, equipment, cleaning, tshirts, etc. We will let you know how much it is a few weeks before camp, and everyone can re-submit payment. I know that is crummy, but it is the best idea we can think of.
-We will still need chaperones at times for Home Camp, but obviously less and not for the whole day. Parents that had signed up to chaperone away camp will be contacted soon to confirm involvement in home camp. You are different from the kids, as you need to put food on the table. If you have to work or take care of kids, just let us know so we can find replacements for you.
- KIDS READ THIS: Finally, if for some reason this change of plans has caused you to want to change your roster status (You want to rejoin marching band or quit) PLEASE LET US KNOW IMMEDIATELY since we are starting the show selection and drill writing process.
Ok, That's all I got right now. I'll let you know what's next as soon as the info is solid. Stay safe, keep a stiff upper lip everybody, it's going to be ok! We are going to make wonderful lemonade from all these lemons I promise you!
Hang in there,
-Smigell
