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BAND NEWSLETTER – SEPTEMBER 2008
High School Band Camp
This year’s high school band camp was another great success. The highlight for me, personally
is always watching the parents march around the field with their child’s instruments. It’s
always fun for me to see the looks on the guest marchers faces as they gain a new appreciation
for the demands on marching bands today. Thanks to all the parents and friends who helped in
any way with the success of the camp. A special thank you to the parents who helped me with
the band during the week!
Junior High Band Camp
These three days of camp was also very successful for the Junior High Band. If your child missed
this week, they will be able to catch up by our first performance on September 19th.
Congratulations to Ethan Hutchinson who was selected as this years’ field commander for the
junior high band.
Volley for a Cure
The HS Marching Band will be performing in the HS gymnasium as part of the Volleyball’s “Volley
for a Cure.” The date is Thursday September 18th right after practice. We will be complete our
performance by 4:20pm but the students are welcome to stay for the rest of the event and cheer
on the Redskin Volleyball team.
Raffle Ticket Information from Mark Kryling
When selling a ticket, give the ticket to the purchaser and you fill out the stub
completely. Write your name on the back of the stub.Be sure to understand the information on
the ticket itself (i.e. prizes, drawing date, etc.) Please give your ticket stubs and money in a
SEALED envelope with your name on the envelope to Mark Kryling on or before September 12. Mark
will be in the band room after practices once school starts to collect money. (Usually Tues. and
Thurs.) For every ticket you (parent) sell, you earn $5.00 towards your child’s individual
account. You may sell as many tickets as you like. If you need more, contact Mark Kryling at
mwkryling@juno.com or call 745-1324. Katie or Noley Kryling will bring you more tickets.
IF YOU DON'T THINK YOU'RE GOING TO SELL, DON'T TAKE THE TICKETS. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR
ANY UNRETURNED TICKETS OR STUBS ($10 EACH)
Band Jackets
Anyone interested in ordering a Utica Band Jacket should contact Dush’s directly. They can take
the orders at anytime throughout the fall. The jacket is red and has the band logo on the left
side with the students name on the right side. The cost is estimated at around $50.00 and is
usually available in 5-7 working days after the order is placed.
Music Booster Help Forms
The Music Boosters sent home a letter to all HS band parents requesting help with various
projects in the music booster organization. If you have not returned this letter, please do so
ASAP. A self addressed stamped envelope was enclosed for your convenience. . Please support
your children by working in the stand.
Band Website
Check out the teacher web site for all Band information. It has all the performance dates and
information for the instrumental music department. There are many ways to open this site.
Please add this site to your desktop for quick reference:
Go to: www.Northfork.k12.oh.us
Click on YOUR SCHOOL
Click on UTICA JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL
Click on TEACHER WEB PAGES
Click on Mr. McLeish
Spaghetti Supper
The Music Boosters are sponsoring a spaghetti supper on Friday night, September 19th before the
home football game. The boosters will soon send home a separate form requesting help with food
donations or to work at the event. All profits from this event will support the High School
Disney Trip in December. Please return the forms immediately to the band room in order to
adequately plan for purchases and amounts. The Junior High Band and the High School bands will
perform at 5:30 p.m. at the Fire House and then following the performance; both bands will
return to the high school and prepare for the football game. Our neighboring band Northridge
will also be performing with us at the fire station. Then be sure to attend the football game
and watch the Jr. High Band performing at halftime with the H.S. Band. The Junior High Band
members will be free to leave or watch the game from the home stand following the half-time
performance. The band room will be open following half time for the students to return their
instruments. All parents are invited to this important performance.
Music Boosters
The Music Boosters hold their monthly meetings on the second Tuesday of every month in the HS
band room. (This Tuesday the 9th) All parents are encouraged to attend and help support the
music department at Utica JH & HS. This is a busy fall and we can always use a few more
volunteers to help out with the various booster projects.
Pickerington Marching Band Competition
The Redskins will be returning to the OMEA marching Band competition circuit on Saturday,
September20th. More information will be sent home soon once I receive all the necessary times
of the contest. Please plan on supporting our Marching Redskins as they enter the OMEA
competition arena. A separate paper with directions will be passed out the week with exact
times for departure. This is Pickerington Central HS, not Pickerington North like last year.
We do know the contest starts at 5:00pm.
Junior High Performances
The Junior High Band will be performing twice this month. Friday, September the 19th at the
Utica Firehouse as well as half-time of the varsity football game. The other performance will
be the Utica Homecoming “Pet Parade” at 11:00am on Saturday September 27th. These important
performances will be the marching band portion of the junior high band program. Please put these
dates on your calendar now.
Redskin Magnets
The boosters still have some magnets left for purchase to show your support for Utica Redskins.
These can be placed on the back of your cars to show your support. The cost of these is $3.00.
These can be purchased from Mr. McLeish or at the Football concession stands.
Performances This Month Include:
September 12 – HS Marching Band at East Knox
September 19 – JH/HS Marching Band performance at Utica Firehouse - 5:45
September 19 – JH/HS Bands perform at halftime of the Northridge Game
September 20 - HS Marching band to Pickerington – 5:00pm
September 24 – HS Marching Band in the Utica Homecoming Parade – 6:30pm
September 26 – HS Marching Band Home with Loudonville – Alumni band
September 27 - JH Marching Band in the Pet Parade - 11:00am
August Band Newsletter
Band Picture
The HS Marching Band picture will be taken on Monday the 11th at 8:30am. Seniors will be
taken at 7:30am on that Monday. The envelopes with ordering information were passed out to all
band members last week. Remember, all band members are expected to be in the picture, however no
one is obligated to purchase any packages. All you need for the band picture is the band
jacket, band pants, Black gloves, black shoes & socks and instrument. Color Guard only needs
their tunic, black pants, black gloves, black shoes and black socks and flag. Field
commanders...your uniforms!
HS Band Camp
What to Bring: Drill charts and drill papers, Water bottles, Sunglasses, sun block, instrument,
lyres, flag poles, tape, drum keys, and music. We are not held responsible for the loss or
damage to stereos/CD players. (Woodwinds - Bring plenty of reeds; visit
your music store before camp) Please eat a good breakfast before coming to camp. Band camp
starts at 8:00am sharp! Do not be late and attendance is required for this important week.
The band camp show for all parents and band supporters will begin at 5:00pm in the HS parking
lot. This is always a lot of fun and a chance to see what they learned in one week. The band
camp party will be held on Saturday night August 16th at the Vickers house on Chestnut Hills
Road. More details about this event will follow later. The estimated time is 5:30 – 8:30pm
Florida Trip
Just a reminder, the next payment for the Florida trip is $75.00 on September 2nd. If you
already have $75.00 in your music booster account, then you do not need to make a payment. The
music boosters have offered many chances for everyone to earn money towards their personal trip.
If money is tight right now, then make sure your son or daughter participates in some of the
projects coming up. We are trying to help everyone make this trip affordable.
Candy Sale – already completed
Elder Beerman Sale – already completed
Spring Track Concession stand – already completed
Meat sale – already completed
Hartford Fair Concession Stand – completed soon
Raffle – Starting on August 15th.
Band bowl-a-thon – coming on August 14th – forms were passed out.
Fall concession stand – coming in August. Sign up now!
The following sales are complete and money goes directly to the bus transportation: So
far we have $8,600.00 towards the needed $12,000.00. However keep in mind, we will likely have
to pay a fuel surcharge.
Mulch Sale – Complete
Garage Sale – Complete 800.00
Stone Brothers Pizza Night – Tuesday’s and still going on!
Car Wash – Complete 1,214.29
Marching Band Festival – September 6th
Golf Outing – Coming August 17th 2,081.51
Spaghetti Supper - Coming on September 19th
Hartford Fair
The McKean Community Organization has a food stand at the 150th Hartford Fair. They have
given the music booster organization 3 days to fill shifts and work this booth. In return for
working a shift, you will receive $25.00 into your music booster account for the Florida trip.
If a parent and a student work, then you will receive $50.00 into your account. This is for
parents and or students to work the shifts. Thanks to everyone who worked a shift.
Music Booster sign-up sheet
The Music Boosters mailed their volunteer letter to every band member’s home on July 29th.
The letter will allow you the opportunity to sign up to work in the concession stand, work the
spaghetti supper, the marching band preview, as well as chaperone bus trips. I believe it is the
responsibility of all band parents to help out wherever needed. Remember, we are doing all of
this for our kids and we need everyone’s help. Please sign up somewhere and return the paper
ASAP.
Summer Uniforms
All HS band members will be wearing their summer uniforms this year at the
first few hot games. They will be passed out during band camp week.
Band Shirts:
All parents and friends of the band will have an opportunity to purchase the official band
T-shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies. We will take orders at the Friday night performance of band
camp. Please plan on paying if you place an order.
Golf Outing
North Fork Music Boosters Golf Outing will be held on Sunday August 17th at Chapel Hill
Golf Course in Mt. Vernon. It will be a Four Person Scramble-Shotgun Start starting at 1:30
P.M. (Registration 12:30). The cost is $280.00 per foursome which includes 18 holes of golf
with GPS cart, meal and drink, prizes. This is a fundraiser to help pay for the transportation
cost for the Florida trip.
Please make checks payable by August 8th to: North Fork Music Boosters, 52 Lincoln
Dr., Newark, Ohio 43055. Any questions please call Mike at 740-366-0994.We are also looking
for some hole sponsors for this event. If you know of anyone or business that might be
interested, contact Mike Swartz
Bowl-a-thon
The band will have a bowling night to earn money for their trip. This will be held on
August 14th at the bowling alley on 21st street. We hope all band members will participate in
this event. This will be the 3rd year we have help this opportunity for the kids. Again, all
profits go directly into your personal Florida trip account. (Except the $7.00 fee per person)
Pledge sheets were passed on July 30th in band.
Car wash
The Marching Band car wash in July was a huge success. $1,214.29 was collected in the 3 car
washes with the woodwind section collecting the most money. Thanks to everyone who supported
this event. All profits will go directly towards the bus cost for the Disney trip.
Elementary School Building Dedications
The High School Marching band will be performing at the both the elementary building
dedications on Sunday August 24th. Band members will only be expected to attend one of the
dedications as we will split the band in half. Summer uniforms will be worn at this event. The
exact times for the dedication are Newton at 1:00 and Utica at 2:30. The ceremony should only
last about 30 minutes at each school.
JH Band Camp
What to Bring: Instrument, music, and tennis shoes. Band practice starts at 1:00 pm to
3pm in the band room. This is an opportunity to learn the music and meet new friends before
school starts in September. The dates for these practices are August 19, 20, and 21st.
HS Band Practice times change
The HS band practice schedule after band camp is as following:
Tuesday the 19th – 6:00pm – 8:30pm
Wednesday the 20th - 6:00pm – 8:30pm
Thursday the 21st - 6:00pm – 8:30pm
Friday the 22nd – First football performance @ Utica. Meet in the band room at 6:00pm to get
dressed.
Sunday the 24th – Elementary school building dedications.
Music Booster Meeting
The North Fork Music Boosters will hold their monthly meeting on Tuesday August 12th at
7:00pm in the band room. All parents of JH/HS as well as friends of the band are encouraged to
attend.
July Band Newsletter
We have a great start to our 2008 Marching Band Season. I appreciate
everyone who looked at their music before our practices began. The month’s
of June/July and August are the months where I believe in the
saying “Championships are won when the stands are empty”. If you failed to
read the music before now, I would suggest you begin to practice. We need
to have the following songs memorized before camp!
All The Billy Joel Music
Fight Song
Alma Mater
Star Spangled Banner
Bend Me, Shape Me.
Uniforms
All uniforms are presently being issued. You may get fitted for your
uniform on Monday’s opposite of your practice time or at Noon. The
following schedule is an example:
8:30 - 10:30 - Percussion practice only. Any horn player that needs their
uniform should come between these times.
10:30 - Noon - All woodwinds & brass practice. Any percussion that needs
their uniform should come between these times.
Noon - 1:00 - Any one who still needs a uniform should be fitted
6-8pm - Color Guard
Things that need returned ASAP.
a. The band handbook's back page with parent signature.
b. The uniform policy paper with parent’s signature. If you have your
uniform now, you should already have this paper. Otherwise you will receive
the paper once you get assigned a uniform.
c. Your marching band forms are due July 12th! You may bring them to Monday
the 14th practice instead of mailing them. Make sure I have the medical
form along with the information page with payment. If money is tight right
now, you may make the payment in installments.
Florida Trip
Just a reminder, the next payment for the Florida trip is $75.00 on
September 2nd. If you already have $75.00 in your music booster account,
then you do not need to make a payment. The music boosters have offered many
chances for everyone to earn money towards their personal trip. If money is
tight right now, then make sure your son or daughter participates in some of
the projects coming up. We are trying to help everyone make this trip
affordable.
Candy Sale – already completed
Elder Beerman Sale – already completed
Spring Track Concession stand – already completed
Meat sale – already completed
Hartford Fair Concession Stand – coming soon, however you must sign up for a
slot.
Raffle – Coming soon
Band bowl-a-thon – coming in August
Fall concession stand – coming in August
The following sales are complete and money goes directly to the bus
transportation: So far we have $7,400.00 towards the needed $12,000.00.
However keep in mind, we will likely have to pay a fuel surcharge.
Mulch Sale – Complete
Garage Sale – Complete
Car Wash – coming in July
Marching Band Festival - September
Golf Outing – Coming August 17th
Spaghetti Supper - Coming in September
Hartford Fair
The McKean Community Organization has a food stand at the 150th
Hartford Fair. They have given the music booster organization 3 days to
fill shifts and work this booth. In return for working a shift, you will
receive $25.00 into your music booster account for the Florida trip. If a
parent and a student works, then you will receive $50.00 into your account.
This is for parents and or students to work the shifts. Tuesday the 5th of
August is the only day we have some open times. All the shifts on Wednesday
the 6th and Thursday the 7th are filled. Contact Mr. McLeish immediately if
you would like one of the last spots to earn money for your trip.
Music Booster sign-up sheet
The Music Boosters are in the process of finalizing their volunteer
letter. The letter will allow you the opportunity to sign up to work in the
concession stand, work the spaghetti supper, the marching band preview, as
well as chaperone bus trips. I believe it is the responsibility of all band
parents to help out wherever needed. Remember, we are doing all of this for
our kids and we need everyone’s help. Once you receive the letter, please
sign up somewhere and return the paper ASAP.
Summer Uniforms
All band members will be wearing their summer uniforms this year at the
first few hot games. The last day we will be measuring for these shorts
will be on Monday the 14th at the practice. If you miss these measuring
times, we will guess at your size.
Band Shirts:
All parents and friends of the band will have an opportunity to
purchase the official band T-shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies. They will
take orders at the Friday night performance of band camp. Please plan on
paying if you place an order.
Band Camp Meals
Sandy Spence is again in charge of band camp meals. If you are
interested in helping out, just sign the bottom portion of the camp form and
Sandy will be in contact with you. If you forgot to sign up and you are
interested, contact Sandy Spence at sandyspence@alltel.net
Golf Outing
North Fork Music Boosters Golf Outing will be held on Sunday August
17th at Chapel Hill Golf Course in Mt. Vernon. It will be a Four Person
Scramble-Shotgun Start starting at 1:30 P.M. (Registration 12:30). The cost
is $280.00 per foursome which includes 18 holes of golf with GPS cart, meal
and drink, prizes. This is a fundraiser to help pay for the transportation
cost for the Florida trip.
Please make checks payable by August 8th to: North Fork Music
Boosters, 52 Lincoln Dr., Newark, Ohio 43055. Any questions please call
Mike at 740-366-0994.We are also looking for some hole sponsors for this
event. If you know of anyone or business that might be interested, contact
Mike Swartz
Bowl-a-thon
The band will have a bowling night to earn money for their trip. This
will be held in August and looks to be an exciting evening. We hope all
band members will participate in this event. This will be the 3rd year we
have help this opportunity for the kids. Again, all profits goes directly
into your personal Florida trip account.
Car wash
The Marching Band will be holding three different car washes during the
month of July. One for the Brass, one for the Woodwinds, and one for the
Percussion & Color guard. Each band member is obviously only responsible
for only one of these. Please make sure your son or daughter participates.
All profits will go towards the bus transportation.
April Band Newsletter - 2008
District Concert Band
The blizzard of “08 cancelled our big weekend of this year’s concert band adjudication.
Since performances all around the state of Ohio were cancelled, OMEA is allowing bands wishing
to continue on to the state level of adjudication to advance. Our HS Concert Band is
scheduled to perform at the State Concert Band Contest on Friday April 25th at Gahanna Lincoln
High School. An exact performance time will be announced soon. We certainly hope many of you
will attend this very prestigious event in a couple weeks.
Junior High Band “Pops Concert”
The junior High band presented their concert on March 18th. The high school
concert was invited to perform since their original concert was cancelled due to the weather.
Thanks to all the parents and friends who supported this performance.
Jazz Band
The Jazz Band will be performing at the Mt. Vernon Pop’s & Tops on Friday April 11th.
This performance will feature the Mt. Vernon Junior High Jazz band as well as their high school
band. The Utica HS Jazz Band will perform as a special guest. The evening starts at 7:30pm in
the Mt. Vernon Middle School cafeteria.
Junior High Solo and Ensemble
Many junior high musicians will be participating in the District 10 Solo and Ensemble
Adjudication on Saturday, April 5th at River View High School. The exact performance times have
been passed out to students as well as driving directions. The bus will depart from the Utica
Band room at 6:45 am. Parents are permitted to sign their child out after their performance at
River View. Otherwise, the bus will return to UHS approximately 5:45pm. We will leave River
View after our last performers rating has been received.
Field Commander and Drum Line Tryouts
Congratulations to Geoffrey Mitchell and Bret Irvine for being selected as next years
marching band field commanders. Marching percussion auditions will be held in early May. The
exact date will be announced soon. Practice and help sessions will begin soon after school.
Mr. McLeish will help anyone who can attend the group sessions. These help session are not
required, but would certainly help students to be better prepared.
Spring Concert
The final concert band performance for the HS/JH bands will be on Sunday May 4th at
3:00pm. Both bands and the HS Jazz Band have some new and exciting music to be performed. We
will also recognize all our graduating seniors and their parents during the concert. Please
plan on the special afternoon of music.
Color Guard
Congratulations to the nine members of next years color guard. Special congratulations
to Crystal LaPointe for being selected as next year’s color guard captain.
Mulch Sale
The music Boosters are selling mulch to help pay for the bus transportation to Florida.
We are selling 2 cubic foot bags of cypress mulch and black mulch. The sale is running from
now until April 21st. The bags will be delivered to the high school on Saturday May 10th. Mr.
McLeish has plenty of order forms available at the school. For any other questions, please
contact Lois Pennell at 967-9985 or Sandy Spence at 366-0045.
Candy Sale
The students are currently selling candy bars to help pay their way to Florida. All
profits from the candy sale go directly into the student’s personal account with the music
boosters. This is an opportunity to help pay for your child’s trip in a once in a lifetime
performance. Candy bars are passed out in the morning before school by Belinda Carr and Sharon
Naylor. We will continue to sell the candy until all the boxes are gone.
Florida Trip
A reminder - all next year band members need to turn in their intentions about
participation in the Florida trip. Before Mr. McLeish can open seats up to chaperones, he must
know how many seats will be filled by band members. It is our hope that all band members
experience this trip in December. If anyone has financial difficulties regarding the cost of
the trip, please contact Mr. McLeish privately. The music boosters and other outside supporters
want to make sure everyone in the band has the opportunity to participate.
Calendar Sales
The Music Booster calendar will not be sold next year. The boosters have agreed to
table this project for a year and re-evaluate it next year. This project requires a lot of work
and no one volunteered to chair this project.
Summer Band and Band Camp
High School summer practices for next year are basically the same as in the past. The
color guard will likely meet once a week in the month of June. The percussion will begin
practices twice a week in mid July. The horn players will have a practice once a week during
July. Pre-band camp will be held July 28 –31 at the high school. Practices will likely be held
in the morning. The week of August 4-8 we will not rehearse due the Hartford Fair. The
required band camp week begins on August 11-15th from 8am – 4pm at the high school. Next years
competition show will be titled: “The Music of Billy Joel”. Music to be featured is Piano Man,
Pressure, She’s Got A Way, and Uptown Girl/Piano Man. The music is being especially arranged
for this years’ band and we anticipate a very exciting season.
Music Boosters
The North Fork Music Boosters will hold their monthly meeting on
Tuesday April 8th. The meeting will be held at 7:00pm in the band room.
Please plan on attending and support our music department. Election of offices, the Candy
Sale, Mulch sale and various other items are planned for the agenda.
Attention Junior High and High School Band Parents:
Help is needed from 9:00 a.m. to Noon this Saturday, April 5th, to clean the concession stands
to prepare them for track season. The first track event is coming soon, and the stands need a
good cleaning and going over before they will be ready for use. If you could come up to the
school to help at any point Saturday morning, we would greatly appreciate it. Cleaning supplies
and tools will be available.
Profits from the concession stands generate a large portion of the funds needed to maintain the
music programs at Utica. Please get involved and offer your time and skills to this important
project. Volunteers to work in the stands are always needed. The home track events are noted
below. Please contact Priscilla Hare (priscilla@jcc.com or 587-0051), or Sandy Spence
(spences@denison.edu or 366-0045) if you are available to work at any of these events.
Volunteering your time to work at the concession stands for track events and football games also
allows you to earn money toward your child's band account, which can be applied to band camp
fees, marching band shoes, uniform cleaning, trips (including Disney), and more.
April 10 - Utica H.S. Track Invitational (hosting 10 schools!) 4:30 p.m. (a few folks would be
needed from 3:00 on to set up) This is a huge event requiring many volunteers.
April 23 - J.H. Track Meet, 4:30 p.m. (a few volunteers would be needed from 3:00 on to set up)
April 30 - J.H. Track Meet, 4:30 p.m.
( " " " " " " " " " " " " )
May 8 - J.H. Track Meet, 4:30 p.m.
( " " " " " " " " " " " " )
Please call Priscilla or Sandy with any questions.
Upcoming Performances:
Saturday April 5th – JH Solo and Ensemble at River View
Wednesday April 11th – Jazz Band performance Mt. Vernon HS
Sunday April 13th – North Fork Celebration
Friday April 25th – State Concert Band Contest at Gahanna-Lincoln HS
Sunday May 4 – Spring Concert – JH/HS bands – 3:00pm
Tuesday May 13th – HS Band Banquet – 7:00pm
Saturday May 24 – Marching Band in the Ice Cream Festival Parade
Monday May 26– Marching Band – Memorial Day Performance
Music in Our Schools Month March – 2008
UTICA BAND NEWSLETTER
JAZZ BAND FESTIVAL
The fourth annual Utica Jazz Band Festival held on Saturday, February 23rd was a big success.
Performing to a full house were bands from Mount Vernon HS, Central Crossing HS, Heath HS, and
our 8th Grade Jazz band as well as the Utica HS Jazz band. Thanks to everyone that helped make
this year’s event a big success, especially to Raye Hufford for organizing the food portion of
the event.
DISTRICT BAND ADJUDICATION
The high school concert band will be performing their competition music on
Friday, March 7th at 7:00 pm in the high school gym. This will give the band
the opportunity to perform their music before their adjudicated performance the next morning.
The Band will travel to Newark to participate in the District 10 large group contest. The band
will perform at 10:00 am Saturday, March 8th. Those bands receiving a superior rating will
advance to the state level. All parents are invited to attend this free performance at Newark
High School. Remember, No video taping/photography or recording of any kind is permitted.
JUNIOR HIGH BAND CONCERT
The Junior High Concert Band will present their annual “Pops Concert” on
Tuesday, March 18th at 7:00 pm. This concert will be held in the high school gymnasium.
NORTH FORK CELEBRATION
The North Fork community will again be holding a celebration on Sunday, April 13th. The JH & HS
Jazz bands, as well as the JH & HS concert bands will be performing. An exact time of
performance will be announced soon. The time frame of the event is from 2-4 pm.
COLOR GUARD TRYOUTS
High school color guard tryouts will be held on March 31, April 1 and tryouts on April 2nd.
Students currently in grades 8 – 11 are eligible to audition. Audition packets are available in
the band room.
FIELD COMMANDER TRYOUTS
Tryouts for the marching band field commander will be on Wednesday March 19th after school.
Anyone interested in auditioning should receive a packet from Mr. McLeish.
FLORIDA TRIP TO DISNEY WORLD
I would like to clarify something about the Florida trip. If you purchase the packet from the
tour company, you must do everything the same time as the full group. This means, meals, hotel
check in, park admission, etc. The hotel check-in will not be until about 9:30 pm on Saturday
night. You must also be with the group for all meals away from the hotel. Transportation to
all of the band events will only be available to those who pay for the bus seat. If you plan
to fly to Florida or drive separately and if you purchase the package you will need to arrive at
the event the same time as the band in order to use the package.
Some parents have requested signing out band members in order to stay longer in Florida.
You are free to sign your child out anytime during the last day. However, please note, the
total transportation cost of the trip will not change, as this has already been set by the tour
company.
MUSIC BOOSTERS MEETING
The North Fork Music Boosters will meet for their monthly meeting on
Tuesday, March 11th at 7:00 pm. The meeting will be held in the band room. Different money
making opportunities will be discussed at this meeting for the Florida trip. Please attend and
support your musicians in the North Fork School System.
UP-COMING PERFORMANCES
Friday March 7 – HS Concert Band & Jazz band performance – 7:00pm
Saturday March 8 – HS Concert band to Newark - 10:00am
Thurs, Fri, Sat March 13,14,& 15 – School musical – “Guys and Dolls” –7:30pm
Tuesday March 18 – JH Band Concert – 7:00pm HS gym
Saturday April 5 – Junior High Solo and Ensemble at River View
Friday April 11 – Jazz Band to Mt. Vernon – 7:00pm
Sunday April 13 – North Fork Celebration – 2-4pm
Sunday May 4 – Spring Concert – JH/HS bands – 3:00pm
Tuesday May 13 – HS Band Banquet – 7:00pm
Saturday May 24 – Marching Band in the Ice Cream Festival Parade
Monday May 26 – Marching Band – Memorial Day Performance
February Band Newsletter - 2008
High School Solo and Ensemble
The band recently participated in the OMEA District 10 Solo and Ensemble
Adjudication. The event was held at Granville High School on February 2nd. The band members
brought home a total of 67 individual medals for their performances on the day.
All events are divided up into three classifications of music, A, B, and C with
class A being the most difficult. Other music educators from throughout Ohio adjudicate the
performances. All performances are rated from 1 to 5 with a “1” rating being classified as
Superior. Those rated Superior and Excellent received individual medals for their performances.
The following individuals received a “1” or superior rating on their class A solo:
Kenny Flanagan-Snare Drum, Cody Smith-Timpani, Bret Irvine-Euphonium, Mary Slebodnik-Clarinet,
Percussion Ensemble-Head Talk, and Saxophone Trio.
Excellent ratings (“2”) in class A Literature were awarded to Josh Reynolds- F-
Horn, Geoffrey Mitchell-Alto sax, Brendan Straley - Snare Drum, and the Clarinet Choir.
The following individuals received a “1” or superior rating on their class B solo:
Korey Brand-Tenor saxophone, Jared Chambers-Trombone, Daniel Pargeon-Tuba, Amanda Harrison-
Marimba, Matt Dodsworth-Alto Sax, Amy Andres-Alto Sax, Ashley Cope-Flute, Sam Spence-Timpani,
Katie Kryling-Trumpet, and the Brass Sextet.
Excellent ratings (“2”) in class B Literature were awarded to Alex Ward-French Horn,
Kennan Belau-Trumpet, Emily Porter-String Bass, Colton Pennell-Trumpet, Amber Gordon-Flute,
Shawn Painter-Trombone, and the Percussion Ensemble.
Good ratings (“3”) in class B were awarded to Danny Steele-Trombone, Heather Biggers-
Alto Sax, and Brooke Perkins-Snare Drum.
The following individuals received a “1” or superior rating on their class C solo:
Samantha Neikirk-Bass Clarinet, Katie Carder-Flute, Katie Nelson-Alto Sax, and Stephan Markin-
Tuba.
Excellent ratings (“2”) in class C Literature were awarded to Cullen Carter-Alto
Sax, Brooke Perkins-Timpani, Johnny Taylor-Multiple Percussion, Austin Boggs-Tuba and Laura
Spence-Piano.
Good ratings (“3”) in class C were awarded to Emily Hare-French Horn, Andrew Shorts-
Flute, and the Brass Quartet.
Comments only were given to Johnny Taylor on the Marimba.
Band Trip to Florida
The band will depart from Utica on December 26, 2008 and return on December 31st. The band will
march in "Mickey's Once Upon A Christmastime" Parade on Sunday December the 28th. The band
will also visit the following parks: Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studio.
More information will be available soon. Details and estimated costs will be brought up at
Tuesday’s booster meeting. The transportation cost alone to get the band to Florida is
$14,000.00. The music boosters are going to work extremely hard to cover this cost. We need
many parents to get involved and help out with money making projects to see this become a
reality for next year’s band. The first opportunity to help raise money is the Jazz Festival in
two weeks. Please volunteer to help, or financially support this event. We are already
accepting donations to help cover the cost of this transportation. If you, your business, or a
friend would like to donate, send it to the high school care of Thomas McLeish. Checks should
be payable to the North Fork Music Boosters.
Jazz Festival—February 23rd
The Fourth Annual Utica Jazz Festival will be held on Saturday, February 23rd. We
will host more jazz bands at this year’s event. The annual event features a unique atmosphere
where guests can have dinner while enjoying an “Evening of Jazz”.
The festival will begin at 5:00pm in the high school cafeteria. Dinner and refreshments
will be available throughout the evening. The cost of the event is $5.00 for adults and $2.00
for students and senior citizens, children under age 3 are admitted free. Bands attending will
be the Mt. Vernon HS Jazz Band, Heath High School Jazz band, Central Crossing HS Jazz Band the
Utica 8th grade Jazz band, and the UHS Jazz band.
The last three years have been very successful and we look forward to hosting
another great Jazz Festival here at Utica. All profits from this years festival will help pay
for the bus transportation to Florida
Jr. High School Solo and Ensemble
The date for this years S & E is April 5th at River View High School. Those musician’s
interested in participating should contact Mr. McLeish ASAP. Music is in the process of being
passed out to interested musicians. Mr. McLeish will be available after school to help
ensembles prepare for this years event. Soloists will also need to find a time for Mr. McLeish
to help them individually prepare their solo. Again, private lessons are certainly encouraged
to further help the student to be prepared!
Pep Band
This year’s pep band had a very successful season. This year’s group played for both boys
and girls varsity games. Congratulations to all athletes and musicians on a great season.
Jazz Band
This year’s jazz band is currently securing performance opportunities for this year. If
you have a performance request, contact Mr. McLeish. The nextJazz Band performance will be at
the Jazz Festival followed by another performance scheduled for March 7th. They will also be
performing at the Mount Vernon Jazz evening on Friday April11th.
Concert Band
The High School Concert Band will be performing twice in March. The band will perform
their competition music on Friday March 7th at 7:00 pm in the HS gym. Saturday, March 8th they
will travel to Newark High School for adjudication at the district level. Those bands receiving
a superior rating will advance to the state competition for concert bands. The public is invited
to attend and support the concert band during this very important performance.
Outstanding Fees
There are many students who have outstanding bills with the music booster
organization. Dry-cleaning, reeds, band shirts, cancelled solo’s, marching band fees, shoes and
various other items. A letter will be sent home to all those with money still owed to the
organization. Please return the money quickly to the Music Boosters Organization. Smaller
payments will also be accepted if necessary.
Music Boosters
The next Music Booster meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 12th at 7:00pm in the
band room. (executive board meeting will be held at 6:30) Items to be discussed will be fund-
raising ideas for the bus transportation to Florida, The Jazz Festival, and the Florida
Itinerary. Please plan to attend and thank you for your continued support for our programs.
Upcoming Performances
Saturday February 23 – UHS Jazz Band Festival - 5:00pm
Friday March 7 – HS Concert Band Concert - 7:00pm
Saturday March 8 – HS Concert Band - District Contest – Newark (morning)
March 13, 14, 15 – School Musical – Guys & Dolls
Tuesday March 18 – JH Band “Pops Concert” – 7:00pm
January Newsletter - 2008
Disney....A Dream will come true again!
Four years ago the marching band took a trip to Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Last
spring we made a video tape and submitted it to Disney requesting a possible performance. Well,
I officially received the news today (1-11-08) that we were invited back and are scheduled to
perform in "Mickey's Once Upon A Christmastime" Parade on Sunday December 28th in the Magic
Kingdom. We are now in the process of putting together a trip itinerary. We are scheduled to
depart on December 26th and return home on December 31st, 2008. The trip will include the
performance day at the Magic Kingdom, then visits to Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's
Hollywood Studio. More details will become available soon.
High School Solo and Ensemble Event
Many high school musicians will be performing at Granville High School on
Saturday February 2nd. This is again the site for this year's OMEA Solo and Ensemble
Adjudicated Event. All events will be scheduled between 8:00 a.m. and
4:00 p.m. A bus will be at the school for all band members to depart at
7:00 a.m. We will load the buses at 6:45 a.m. and arrive at Granville by 7:30am.
The bus will return in late afternoon to UHS with an exact return arrival time to be announced
at a later date.
All musicians will be assigned a performance time. Parents and friends may attend this
free performance, however there are some important rules that MUST be followed: No Camera’s,
video taping, tape recording of any events, doing so will disqualify that performer and possibly
the entire school. To be safe, DO NOT BRING THESE DEVISES! Cell phones MUST be turned off in
the performance areas. We are also required to have an adult chaperone present for the entire
day in our homeroom. Please sign up for a one half hour time slot if you are able to help out.
Yard Sign
The music boosters have recently received a new shipment of white yard signs with
lettering on both sides. They come with the medal stand and hopefully everyone will purchase
one and show your support of the band. The signs reads, "Proud Supporter of the Redskin band"
and they sell for $15.00. Contact Mr. McLeish if you would like to have one for your yard.
Jazz Festival—February 23rd
Plans are in progress for the fourth annual Utica Jazz Festival. This festival has featured
many different schools over the past three years. This year we have the following bands
committed to the festival: Heath HS, Mt. Vernon HS, Utica JH Jazz band and the Utica HS jazz
band. We hope to add additional performance groups before the end of January. The festival will
begin at 5:00 p.m. in the high school cafeteria. Food will be available for purchase throughout
the evening. The cost of the event is $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for students and senior
citizens.
Pep Band
This year’s pep band season is in full swing. The band will have six performances this month
at the boys and girls basketball games. Check the music booster calendar or the band -site for
exact performance dates.
Jazz Band
This year’s jazz band is still securing performance opportunities for this school year. If you
have a performance request, contact Mr. McLeish.
High School Concert Band
The High School Concert Band will be performing twice in March. The band will perform their
competition music on Friday March 7th at 7:00 pm in the HS gym. Saturday March 8th they will
travel to Newark High School and be adjudicated at the district level. Those bands receiving a
superior rating will advance to the state competition for concert bands. Please plan to be there
and support the concert band during this very important performance.
Junior High Concert Band
The band will be rehearsing for their annual concert to be held on Tuesday March 18th at
7:00pm. This “Pops Concert” will feature eight selections and has always been a delightful
evening. The Junior High Jazz band will make their final appearance at this concert. Please put
this important date on your calendars.
Marching Band DVD’s
There are a still few of the Marching Band DVD's available. This fall was a wonderful season
with many special memories. The cost of this DVD is $5.00. Thanks to Chuck Brand for putting
this together for the Music Boosters. Contact Mr. McLeish for your copy.
Music Boosters
The music boosters will hold their monthly meeting on Tuesday the 12th of February. The meeting
will be held at 7:00 p.m. in the band room. We will hopefully have more details available at
this meeting. I would like to encourage more parents/friends to attend these meetings. Our
plans are for the bus cost to be paid for by the music booster organization and not by the band
members. (Estimated at $14,000.00) In the fall our booster attendance was around 25 members,
the last two months we have seen a major decrease in attendance because of few activities during
the winter months. However with the Florida trip now in December, we need lots of booster
support to make this dream become a reality. Please mark this date on your calendar in
February!
Upcoming Performances
January 17, 22,24,29,31 – Pep Band
February 23 – Utica Jazz Festival
March 7 – HS Band Concert – 7:00 p.m.
March 8 – HS Band Contest at Newark
March 18 – JH Band Concert
DECEMBER BAND NEWSLETTER - 2007
The Junior and Senior High School bands held their annual “Christmas Concert” on Sunday December
2nd at 3:00pm. The concert was extremely well supported by the community. Thanks to everyone
for attending this big event and hopefully we started your holiday season off on the right note.
Utica Christmas Walk
Unfortunately the weather prohibited the marching band from attending this year’s event.
However, thanks to the Brass Choir for performing on behalf of the band. Josh Reynolds, Colton
Pennell, Daniel Pargeon, Shawn Painter, Bret Irvine and Kennan Belau braved the weather and
played carrols for the community and ushered in Santa Claus.
Private Lessons
Please take advantage of the many instrumental teachers in our area. I have a
list of qualified teachers. These will not only benefit your child, but also improve the
overall quality of the band program here at Utica. I will send home the list of the instructors
if you are interested.
District 10 Honor Band
Eight band members were selected from our school to represent Utica in this years O.M.E.A.
District 10 Honors band. District 10 represents eight different counties surrounding Licking
County. Representing the high school was Emily Porter, Daniel Pargeon, Mary Slebodnik, Bret
Irvine and Josh Reynolds. The junior high members were Taylor Hufford, Jenny Bricker, and
Nathan Wolfe. These band members rehearsed and performed at Mount Vernon Nazarene University on
December 1st.
Marching Band DVD’s
The Marching Band DVD's will be available soon. Many thanks to Chuck Brand for taking on this
enormous project for the band. This fall was a wonderful season with many special memories.
The cost of this DVD is $5.00. Contact Mr. McLeish for your copy.
Pep Band
This year’s pep band began their season on November 27th at the girl’s varsity game. All pep
band performances are posted on the band web-site. Please show your support for the pep band
and the basketball teams by attending the games.
Jazz Band
This year’s jazz band is currently securing performance opportunities for the school year. If
you have a performance request, contact Mr. McLeish. The Jazz Band will be hosting their 4th
annual Jazz Festival on Saturday February 23rd.
Suggested Christmas Wish List for Musicians
All musicians can use a metronome/tuner. This small electronic device can be found at a music
store. Woodwind players can always use extra reeds. Clarinets– Mitchell Laurie size 3. Alto
Saxes—Rico Royal size 2 1/2. Clarinets, Saxes, Flutes can use a new cleaning swab and cleaning
equipment. Brass—Al Cass valve oil and a cleaning kit. Percussion—stick bag, mallets, and a
drum key.
High School Solo and Ensemble
The date for this years S & E is February 2nd at Granville High School. Music has already been
passed out, however there is still time to add a solo. Students should check with Mr. McLeish
for help in selecting a solo. Mr. McLeish will be available after school to help soloist and
ensembles prepare for this big event. Each soloist must play for Mr. McLeish, Miss Clawson, or
Mrs. Mead once a week beginning the first week in December. Again, private lessons outside of
this time will certainly help the student be prepared!
Music Boosters
The Music Boosters will meet for their monthly meeting on Tuesday the 11th of December. All
parents and friends of a music student in the North Fork School System are invited to attend.
The meeting begins at 7:00 p.m. in the high school band room.
Raincoats
Please remind your son or daughter to return their raincoat to Mr. McLeish ASAP. We are
finished wearing these for the season and they need to be turned back in for inventory.
Merry Christmas
On behalf of Kathy and myself, we would like to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season!
We certainly appreciate this community and all of the tremendous support you have shown to the
music department.
Upcoming Band Performances
Wednesday, December 6 – HS Marching Band in Utica – 6:00pm
Thursday, December 13 – Newton Elementary Band Concert – 7:00pm
Friday, December 14 – Pep Band – 6:00pm
Tuesday, December 18 – Pep Band – 6:00pm
Thursday, December 20 – Utica Elementary Band Concert – 7:00pm
UTICA BAND NEWSLETTER – November 2007
Marching Band ’07 Completed
The 2007 marching band season is now history. This very busy season which
began in July has come to a halt after the State Marching Band Finals on November 3rd. The
Marching Redskins received an overall rating of “Excellent” or “II” for their performance in
Dublin. All the marching band members will receive a medal for their performance in the State
Finals. The band earned the right to participate by receiving a superior rating at the Newark
Marching Band Invitational. The marching band also received a 2nd place trophy at the
Zanesville competition as well as the Newark competition. Thanks to all the spirited supporters
who traveled to the competitions to cheer on the Redskins.
The marching band has one more performance on December 5th. The band will be marching in
downtown Utica as we escort in Santa Clause to the community. The exact performance time will
be announced at a later date.
Marching Band DVD’s
The music boosters will be selling DVD’s of this past year marching band
performances. These should be available in a couple weeks. It will include all the
performances as well as the band video shown at the concert.
Dry-Cleaning Fees
Just a reminder that all band members must pay their fee for dry-cleaning their band uniforms.
The total cost is $15.00, which covers 3 cleanings throughout the year.
Color guard members and cheerleaders should check their cost (which is posted
on the band office door).
Pep Band
The Pep band will be performing at 10 separate basketball games this
season. The exact dates and games are listed on the band web-site. The first practice for this
group will be Tuesday November 15th from 2:45 – 4:00 p.m. All other practices for this band
will take place during the JV games prior to the performance.
Jazz Band
The jazz band will begin practice on the 13th of November from 2:30 -3:30 p.m. This band will
rehearse every Tuesday after school. Their first performance will be on December 2nd.
Holiday Concert
The Junior High Band, along with the High School Concert Band will hold
their annual Holiday concert on Sunday December 2nd at 3:00pm. The concert
will be held in the high school gymnasium. The required uniforms will be worn by all members.
High School Solo & Ensemble
February 2nd is the date for this years S & E performance. All HS band members should have
their solos at this point. Ensemble will be organizing very soon. Practice now and be prepared!
Auditions
The high school band members are currently finishing up auditions. Any student who feels they
had a bad audition is welcome to challenge in 2 weeks. Please review the band handbook for the
challenge procedure.
Honors Band
The District 10 JH and HS honor band members were recently announced by the selection
committee. The junior high members selected were Taylor Hufford on Clarinet, Jenny Bricker on
French Horn and Nathan Wolfe on Trumpet. High school members were required to audition along
with students from 8 surrounding counties. Those selected to the HS honor Band were Mary
Slebodnik on Clarinet, Josh Reynolds on French Horn, Bret Irvine on Baritone, Daniel Pargeon on
tuba and Emily Porter on string bass. These members accepted in this honor band will perform on
Saturday December 1st at Mount Vernon Nazarene University. Those members selected will also
have a rehearsal on Tuesday November 27th in the evening.
Music Boosters
The Music Boosters will hold their monthly meeting on Tuesday the 13th at
7:00PM in the HS band room. All parents are encouraged to attend and help
support the music department at Utica JH & HS. Reports about the many fall
projects will be discussed at this meeting.
Upcoming Performances
November 27 – Pep band
December 1st – Select band members to Mount Vernon
December 2nd – HS/JH Band Concert – 3:00pm
December 3rd – Pep band
December 5th – Marching Band performance in Utica at 6:00pm
December 14th – Pep band
December 18th – Pep band
BAND NEWSLETTER – October 2007
A NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR
August and September were very busy & hot months for the band department.
A few of the events included:
• six football game half-time performances
• a spaghetti supper featuring the JH and HS Bands
• JH/HS band combined half-time performance
• H.S. Band performed at the Utica Marching Band Festival
• H. S. Band performed at the Pickerington North Band Competition
• HS Band performed in the Utica Homecoming Parade
• JH Band performed in the Homecoming Pet Parade.
We want to especially thank our parents and Music Boosters for their continued support. In
addition to attending all of the above events and supporting their kids – they worked in the
concessions stands, chaperoned bus trips, braided hair, set up the pit, cared for and passed out
uniforms, cooked spaghetti and helped with numerous other items.
This year would not be possible without all of the hours and hours of help you have given to
make our season a success. While the year is winding down, we still have some of our biggest
performances coming up and we will continue to need assistance and support. One thing we know
for sure is that there is a great difference in our marching bands performance when an audience
is there cheering them on. You, the audience, have the power to change a mediocre performance
into a superior performance. Please get involved and jump on our bandwagon. Our kids need and
appreciate your support!
DRY-CLEANING
Many high school band members have not paid their required dry-cleaning fee. Please send
in a check for $15.00 to cover the cost of three cleanings. The next cleaning will be after
the marching season is complete. The final cleaning will be at the end of the school year.
Make checks payable to the North Fork Music Boosters.
SPAGHETTI SUPPER
The Music Boosters sponsored a very successful spaghetti supper in September. Thanks to
Tina Pargeon for being the chairwomen for this project. We also appreciate the many volunteers
who helped make this evening a success. Thanks to everyone who attended and supported the
marching bands.
BAND JACKETS
If you would like to order a Utica Band Jacket please contact Dush Design’s directly. The
jacket is red and has the band logo on the left side with the students name
on the right side. The cost is approximately $40.00 and is usually
available in 5-7 working days after the order is placed. (depending upon the size)
MUSIC BOOSTERS
The Music Boosters will hold their monthly meeting on Tuesday the 9th of October at 7:00PM
in the HS band room. All parents are encouraged to attend and help
support the music department at Utica JH & HS. As you can see this is a busy fall and we
can always use a few more volunteers to help out with the various booster projects.
UTICA MARCHING BAND PREVIEW
The marching band had a solid performance at our Band Preview. We are certainly thankful
for the cooperation of the weather. T-shirts are now 1/2 price and are available for sale from
this memorable event.
PICKERINGTON NORTH MARCHING BAND COMPETITION
The Redskins competed in the Pickerington competition and did not place in their class.
Thanks to all the parents and friends who attended this performance. Your support was
tremendous and made a huge impact on our kid’s performance.
CENTURY RESOURCES
The Century Resource products were delivered on Wednesday the 4th of October.
Money needs to be collected and returned in the envelope provided as soon as possible. Thanks to
everyone who supported this project.
ZANESVILLE/NEWARK MARCHING BAND COMPETITION
The Redskin Marching Band will have two more competitions on October 6th at
Zanesville High School and October 20th at Newark High School. These contests will
be the bands last opportunity to qualify for the State Marching band Finals. The competition
will begin at 5:00pm at Zanesville and 1:00 at the Newark competition. If the band qualifies
for the State Finals, they will be held on either October 27th or November 3rd in Columbus.
REDSKIN MAGNETS
The boosters still have a few magnets left to sell. Contact Mr. McLeish to purchase one
and show your support for Utica Redskins. These can be placed on the back of your vehicle. The
cost is $3.00.
MARCHING BAND CONCERT
The Redskin Marching Band will hold their final concert in the gymnasium on
October 18th at 7:00pm. This concert will feature all the music performed
during the 2007 season. Marching band awards will also be presented as well
as a power point presentation of this season. Your attendance at this concert is encouraged.
BAND WEBSITE (already has 7,591 hits)
Check out the teacher web site for all performance dates and information for
the instrumental music performance dates and information:
PERFORMANCES THIS MONTH INCLUDES:
October 5 – Alumni Band night – Halftime of the Danville game
October 6 – Marching band competition at Zanesville
October 12 - Football game away at Fredericktown
October 18 – HS marching Band Concert – 7:00pm
October 19 – Home football performance at Johnstown (Senior night)
Parents meet at the stadium gate at 6:45 for the pre-game ceremony
October 20 – Marching Band competition at Newark – 1:00pm
October 26 - Away football performance with Centerburg.
October 27 or November 3 - State finals for the marching band - ??
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