Concert update

Hi all,

A message from Brian Griffiths about the weather and this week’s concerts:

1) No Band concert tonight. We may seek an alternate January concert date. If so, we will try to announce it prior to winter vacation.

2) If school is in session tomorrow, and if the orchestra concert goes ahead as planned, the Symphony Orchestra will be invited to play on the concert. We will discuss the availability of wind personnel Tuesday morning in Wind Ensemble.

Enjoy the day off!

Forwarded by Shannon & Kami

UPDATE at 6:15: School has been cancelled for tomorrow

WSHS Band Bulletin

Festival of Lights Parade (Santa Hats Needed!)
WSHS band students will be marching in Salem’s Festival of Lights Parade. Please see the attached flyer for details. Students should bring Santa hats. If you have extra to share, please bring them! We have only 46 in stock, but we need 114.
Percussion Fundraiser Meeting

Saturday, Dec. 13, 8:30 am, there will be a meeting about the “Christmas Drums” percussion fundraiser at WSHS.

Concerts/Dates
Winter Band & Advanced Symphony Orchestra Concert - Monday, Dec. 15, 7:30 pm
Orchestra Concert - Tuesday, Dec. 16, 7:00 pm
Choir Concert - Wednesday, Dec. 17, 7:00 pm

Please note: Due to schedule conflicts, the Advanced Symphony Orchestra (stings and winds) will be performing Monday night instead of the regular scheduled Tuesday. Marching band DVDs and Jazz CDs (“Strike up the Band”) will be on sale at the concert. Bring your checkbooks!
Concert Etiquette

A few reminders about concert etiquette to help make the performances more enjoyable for all:

· Please arrive on time and plan to stay for the entire concert.
· If you must enter or leave the auditorium during a concert, please do so between songs.
· Please silence all cell phones.
· Please do not interrupt performances with flash photography.
· Please enjoy the performances these young musicians have worked so hard to prepare!

Free Babysitting Available
At our Winter Band Concert, Monday, December 15, babysitting is available in the Commons thanks to West teacher Tara Vaughn and her Titan Tots high school students. BABYSITTING IS FREE and available to those under the age of six. It is available from 6:45 through the concert’s end. Children can stay in babysitting for the whole concert, or can go to the babysitting area if they are too wriggly to stay in the auditorium. Please email Kami Hettwer at mkhett@aol.com if you wish to reserve a spot for your child/children.

New Fundraiser – SCRIP Program
To help raise money for the band program we will be starting up a new “SCRIP” program. It's an easy what to raise money for special needs, such as fees for festivals, sectional coaches, and trips. Scrip is a dollar for dollar exchange—cash or check for the very same value of gift cards of your choice at over 250 participating stores. We will need people willing to pick up our scrip orders once a week at the warehouse located in Tigard just off of I-5. If you work in the Tigard/Portland area this is a great opportunity for you to volunteer. Contact Kami Hettwer if you are willing to help!

Christmas Tree Sales
Come and join the West Salem Winter Percussion & Guard at the West Salem Lions Tree Lot at the West Salem True Value store on Wallace Road. We still have many trees left, and all of the proceeds get split between WS Lions, a WS Cub Scout Troup, a WS Boy Scout Troup, the WSHS Grad Party, and the WS Winter Ensembles. Please tell your friends and family to buy from the WS True Value Lot. It is open 10-7 Daily. If you show up and there is no one there, please come back; we are trying to staff all shifts but it can be hard!

Wind Ensemble Spring Trip
More information will be coming soon about the Wind Ensemble Spring Trip. The dates are April 3-6 to Seattle for the Heritage Festival. Stay tuned!

Booster Meetings
Monthly Booster meetings are on the first Tuesday of the Month at 6:30 in the WSHS Band Room. All parents, stepparents, or guardians of all students who participate in West Salem High School band, drumline, and colorguard activities are welcome to attend. Please join us!

WSHS Band Bulletin

Since I’ve had no time to send out a regular newsletter, this is just a reminder of the monthly (first Tuesday) Band Booster meeting. The agenda is attached if you are interested in input on any category listed, or come and add your own item to the agenda. Below are the particulars for tonight’s meeting:

Ø What: Band Booster Meeting (TONIGHT @ 6:30 p.m., 2 December 2008)
Ø When: Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Ø Start Time: 6:30 p.m.
Ø End Time: Approximately 8:00 p.m.
Ø Where: WSHS “Band Room”

If you have any questions, please direct them to Kami Hettwer at mkhett@aol.com.

Late, late edition

Competition Wrap-Up at U of O’s Festival of Bands Reaps Prelim Sweep, 2A Championship
(Contributor: Jesse Seeley)
Although this late edition brings old news, it can’t go without saying how stellar the WSHS Marching Band performed in this, their final competitive performance of the year. In the same fashion of the three previous competitions, the band placed first in high score in the preliminary show. Going out in final performance style, the band took EVERY SINGLE “Caption Award” for their performances. Placing 4th overall in finals competition with the highest score in the school’s history, the final performance garnered a score of 90+ points, separating them just a few points from the “Open” class powerhouse bands. During the finals award ceremony, the band was presented their 2A Championship trophy and ALSO won the “Best Solo” award for all of the soloists playing in the show.

Picture of the Week
(Contributor: WSHS Marching Band, photo by Kami Hettwer)
2A Champs!!! After a preliminary sweep of all caption awards and high score, WSHS Marching Band was presented with the Championship Trophy for winning the overall points in the 2A Competition group. Great job kids! The inscription reads “NAFPA 2008 AA Class Champions”

Winter Drumline Information Meeting, Monday, Nov. 10
(Contributor: Alan Keown, Jesse Seeley)
There will be a short meeting at 6:00 p.m. in the Commons to gather and give out information on this year’s Winter Drumline. Discussed at this past Tuesday’s band meeting, the color guard and drum line will compete in separate classes and be separate from each other. The color guard will have a separate meeting and notification. If you have any interest for this year’s Winter Drum Line, this is the meeting you must attend to gather the necessary information, costs, preliminary schedule, and more.

Jazz Workshop, Tuesday, Nov. 11
(Contributor: Mr. Griffiths)
Although Tuesday, Nov. 11, is a no-school day, there will be a Jazz Workshop. Other useful information:

Jazz Ensemble Fall Workshop
Call time 8:45am
Dismiss 6:00pm
Bring lunch or pizza money

Futures: Jazz Ensemble to WOU on Nov. 20, time TBA

Band Awards Night—Nov. 13
(Contributor: Kami Hettwer)
This year’s band awards will be held at 7 p.m. (to approximately 9 p.m.) in the school Commons area. We understand this conflicts with the “Crystal Apple” awards rally for Mr. Rundquist, but there was no other reasonable date available to schedule this differently. Please join us to honor the band members and the entire team of our 2A champs!

Auction—Sold Out!
(Contributor: Scotti Rylands)
Looks like tickets are sold out (if you missed out and really want to go, let me know, there may be some tickets available but not at specific tables). Music Boosters has three tables this year that is one more than last year. Thanks everyone! That is great! However, we are still in need of donations, big or small—all are appreciated. Just e-mail Scotti at ndrsmom@comcast.net or give her a call at (503) 269-0887. The deadline for items to be considered for verbal auction is the 6th (Scotti needs them by that date) for the silent auction the 13th. We have some great auction items, about 5 or 6 right now, let’s shoot for 10.

We still need a few volunteers to help set up the morning of the auction from about 8am-11am, parents and or students are welcome. Please let Scotti know if you can help. Thanks, everyone!

WSHS Band Bulletin

Regularly scheduled “Band Meeting” rescheduled for Thursday, November 6th
(Contributor: Kami Hettwer, Jesse Seeley)
Due to the obvious conflict with Election Day 2008, the regularly scheduled “first Tuesday” Band Meeting will yield to this more important day. Therefore, the “Band Meeting” for the month of November has been rescheduled to this Thursday, November 6th at 6:30 p.m. in the band room. Basically same time and place, just a different day for this month only. Sorry for the late notice or any inconvenience this may have caused.

Some confusion over “Band Awards” date/time
(Contributor: Jesse Seeley)
There seems to be a little mix-up in dates and times for this year’s WSHS Band Awards. This will be re-communicated in the regular newsletter later this week and/or at the Band Meeting on Thursday (mentioned immediately above).

Band Newsletter #10

Marching Band Takes Home More Awards at OSU Competition
(Contributor: Jesse Seeley)
In another stunning performance, the WSHS Marching Band took home preliminary honors, placing first in the Preliminary competition. The percussion (drum line and "pit") took the "High Percussion" caption award in BOTH the preliminary and finals competition, impressively topping even the more sophisticated "Open" class larger bands. If you can join us for the final competition of the year, please do come down to the University of Oregon to cheer on the WSHS Marching Band!! See next article for more information on the event.

University of Oregon's "Festival of Bands" Competition and Rehearsal Information Saturday (November 1st)
(Contributor: Jesse Seeley, U of O Band Web site)
The weather doesn't look like it will be as cooperative as the several competitions before, but all competitors will have the same disadvantage with the expected rain (see NOAA forecast info in next article). The band has been practicing hard on this week's "days off" and will have one final run at the football game this Friday night (also slated as "Seniors Night"). The students already have their call times for the Friday rehearsal and game time call times; the call time for the Saturday competition will not be until 0900. It was originally stated as 0930, but the exact call time is subject to change to 0900. We had a lucky draw and the band's first performance in prelimaries isn't until 4:44 p.m.. Below are some useful links to the University of Oregon site specifically for the "Fessss-tival of Bands".

Schedule of Band Performances: http://www.uoregon.edu/~music/downloads/band/Competetion%20Schedule.pdf
Main Page for Festival of Bands (prices, etc): http://www.uoregon.edu/~music/AcademicStudies/Ensembles/AthleticBands/fobabout.htm

• Friday, October 31st, @ ~1500 and 1530—Call times for most band members—warm up for football game, final rehearsal
• Saturday, November 1st Band Call Times TBD, but plan on 0900—bus and load information TBD by Band Directors

Weather Catches up to Marching Band—Rain Expected
(Contributor: Jesse Seeley)
Below is a snapshot of what is forecast from NOAA (as of 2127, 30 October). If you'd like an up-to-the-minute update for yourself as we approach the competition, go to www.noaa.gov and enter in the zip code 97403 (for the U of O area) in the upper-left to get a forecast.

Friday: Rain likely, mainly before 11am. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 60. East southeast wind 8 to 10 mph becoming south southwest. Chance of precipitation is 70 percent. Friday Night: A 20 percent chance of rain after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 48. South southeast wind around 9 mph.
Saturday: Rain, mainly after 11am. High near 60. South southeast wind
between 9 and 11 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.
Saturday Night: Rain. Low around 46. South wind between 10 and 17 mph,
with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80 percent.

Picture of the Week
(Contributor: Joe Gottsch)
Judgment Day — With one of the field judges right on the spot, there is little room for error on the "visuals" portion by the Color Guard in yet another of their precise movements, colorful, and outstanding performances.

If you'd like to see more pictures, please visit WestSidePhoto.net and check out the other band and sporting events.

Auction—Sold Out!
(Contributor: Scotti Rylands)
Looks like tickets are sold out (if you missed out and really want to go, let me know, there may be some tickets available but not at specific tables). Music Boosters has three tables this year that is 1 more than last year. Thanks everyone!! That is great! However, we are still in need of donations, big or small—all are appreciated. Just e-mail Scotti at ndrsmom@comcast.net or give her a call at (503) 269-0887. The deadline for items to be considered for verbal auction is the 6th (Scotti needs them by that date) for the silent auction the 13th. We have some great auction items, about 5 or 6 right now, let's shoot for 10.

We still need a few volunteers to help set up the morning of the auction from about 8am-11am, parents and or students are welcome. Please let Scotti know if you can help. Thank everyone!!!

Wreath Sales Still Ongoing—Deadline Extended Past October 31st
(Contributor: Sheila Muller)
Since the short school week due to conferences, the sale and collection activity will be extended until Monday. Parents are welcome to contact me over the weekend if they prefer to drop orders off to me. Otherwise they need to be in the band box by end of school Monday. If you send out an email in the next few day, please pass on the information. I can be reached at (503) 364-4760 or email at mullersg@comcast.net

URGENT MESSAGE

It has come to our attention that the "director ladder" used by the drum majors is in dire need of repair, preferably replacement. With this close to the competition I am sending out this to all parents in hopes that someone MIGHT have one of these "platform ladders" either at home, or possibly be able to borrow one at work. Chances are these are at commercial sites and not your normal home ladder.

If someone DOES have a link to obtaining one, we need it by TONIGHT J
-- kind of an emergency of course. Attempts to obtain a new one appears that it takes two weeks to order. So if we could borrow an existing one for several days, this would be IDEAL. Please contact Marty Stipe directly at marty.stipe@state.or.us . If he doesn't reply soon enough or it might be after normal work hours, please call him directly at (503) 508-6062.

It needs to be approximately six feet at the "platform". You've all seen it at the performances, we just wanted to make sure all know of what we're speaking about. The failure of this piece of equipment with one of the drum majors on it would be devastating as you might imagine.

Thanks in advance for ANY assistance you might be able to provide at this emergency request.

Jesse Seeley

Band Newsletter #8

A Growing Trend? WSHS Band Takes 1st Place at PCI !
(Contributor: Jesse Seeley, Kami Hettwer)
More hard work, and yet another pay off for the musicians of the WSHS Marching Band as they took home the big trophy for their overall preliminary and finals performances. Sweeping nearly every “caption award” in the preliminary of finals competition, each and every marching band and color guard member contributed in this overall team effort in “High Visuals,” “High General Effect” and “High Percussion.”

Featured in the Statesman Journal, more play-by-play details can be read at Statesman Journal Article -- it will probably only be available until the 19th of October.

PCI Band Retreat – A Sprague High School and PCI tradition, all bands meet on the field for announcements of the finals placements

Picture of the Week
(Contributor: Joe Gottsch, Sharon Anderson, Jesse Seeley)
Rain, rain, go away—In their Thursday football game performance, photographer Joe Gottsch captured this picture and the beautiful combination effect of light and water in the sousaphone section. Luckily, the rain has only been on our games and some practices J

If you’d like to see more pictures, please visit WestSidePhoto.net and check out the other band pictures..Pictures specific to the PCI competition (over 90 pictures) can be viewed here: WestSidePhoto--PCI Competition

Practice and Competition Schedule for week of October 20th
(Contributor: Mr. Griffiths, Kami Hettwer)
The normal rehearsal schedule for Mondays and Wednesdays remains at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. There is still a pending rehearsal to be held on Friday and the equipment will be loaded after that rehearsal in preparation for the early call time for the competition on Saturday, October 25th at OSU. A draft of the schedule is attached and currently shows a call time at the school for 6 a.m. on Saturday (yes, that is MORNING, or 0600). Please review the attached schedule and direct any questions you may have to Kami Hettwer (mkhett@aol.com) or Dr. Nail (nail_ike@salkeiz.k12.or.us)

Looking Forward. . .upcoming dates

• Oct 24th; All; Pre-Competition rehearsal; Load trucks/trailers after rehearsal
• Oct 25th; All; OSU Competition, Corvallis; 6:00 Saturday morning; slated for 11:22 performance
• Oct 28th; All; Band Recording Session; Announcement by directors to update

Auction Update
(Contributor: Scotti Rylands)
Remember the date: November 22, 2008—The end of October is sneaking up on us. To be considered for the live auction all donations must be turned in by November 1st and “Silent Auction” by November 7th. We have received some great donations for Music Boosters including a Guided Fishing Trip (waiting for more details), 5 nights at a Sunriver Condo (sleeps 8), gift baskets, and more. We still need a lot more though. If you have a donation or can get one for us, please let Scotti know. She has the donation forms that also act as a tax deductible receipt.

And with all those great prizes who would want to miss the fun? There are still tickets available. Music Boosters are trying hard to fill our second table. Please contact Scotti with the names of each person you need a ticket for. She will give you the information at that time for payment on the tickets. Remember it is $30 per person and does include dinner.

If you have already bought a ticket and want to part of our tables, please let us know. The more tickets we sell the higher our portion of the donations will be. For each full table we get 100% of the money raised for 1 item of our choice, from our donations. You can see why we want to fill as many tables as possible. You can contact Scotti at ndrsmom@comcast.net or by phone at (503) 269-0887 or (503) 581-4118.

Wreath Sales Update
(Contributor: Sheila Muller)
REMINDER—Keep selling those wreaths and poinsettias! Turn-in day is Halloween. Questions? Sheila Muller at (503) 364-4760 or email at mullersg@comcast.net

Band Newsletter #7

Pacific Coast Invitational Competition

(Contributor: Mr. Griffiths)

The full schedule of events for the upcoming Saturday competition is attached as a “Word” document—please send Jesse email if you need a different format or cannot read the attachment. He can be reached at jesse.seeley@gmail.com. Please read the entire document carefully as there are different call times for the various teams.

Sale Ending on Entertainment Books!

(Contributor: Kathi Robbins)

ATTENTION ENTERTAINMENT BOOK SELLERS!! Our Entertainment Book Sale will be ending Monday, October 13th. All money and unsold books are due at that time. Any unsold books will need to be returned in perfect condition (so that they can still be sold) in order to get full credit, or the cost of the book will be added to the student's account. Any questions call or e-mail Kathi Robbins, 503-999-4199, soggyloafer@comcast.net

Picture of the Week

(Contributor: Joe Gottsch, Jesse Seeley)

Keeping the beat—As part of the “pit” duties between songs, Joey plays an integral part in keeping the beat as the pit and marching band transition to the next song at the Sunset Classic at Hillsboro Stadium September 27^th.

If you’d like to see more pictures, please visit WestSidePhoto.net and check out the other band pictures..

Wreath and Poinsettia Sales Annual Fundraiser

(Contributor: Sheila Muller)

It's that time of year…wreath and poinsettia sales—a favorite of many! Packets containing all the information and forms were available for your student to take home this past week (week of Oct. 1st). All profits from this sale go directly into student accounts for use to pay for trips or fair share. Turn forms and money in anytime, but they are due by October 31^st. Please mark your calendar with this date! There is a slight typographical error on the form in our favor—the turn-in sheet states the “Mixed Fruit Wreath” is $35, but it is actually $30 like the order form states. Please correct your turn-in form as needed please. If you need more forms or have any questions please contact:

Sheila Muller
503-364-4760
mullersg@comcast.net

Free, Entertaining, or Educational Events Upcoming

(Contributor: Mr. Griffiths)

There are several events that have come across the music department that many of you may find interest in. Some are free, all are no doubt entertaining and/or educational. The IDEAL would be all three, which will be the first event below: “Trombones de Costa Rica”, a master class for ALL musicians entitled “Having Fun with Breathing.” The flier appears below

Several other events are upcoming soon:

• Dallas Brass in Concert at North Salem High School October 16^th, 2008 (7 p.m.)

• The above “Trombones de Costa Rica, Friday October 17^th @ 8 p.m.

All other details are in the attached “Upcoming Concert & Music Events”. Please send Jesse email if you need a different format or cannot read the attachment. He can be reached at jesse.seeley@gmail.com.

Auction Update

(Contributor: Scotti Rylands)

Just a reminder about the Titan Dinner & Auction, the event is on Nov. 22^nd at 5pm it is called a “Evening of Elegance” at the Salem Convention Center. For those of you who are not familiar with it, it is an adult night out (who of us does not enjoy that) and semi-formal attire is suggested, so break out those fancy duds and come have a “elegant” (really fun) evening. For those of you interested there will be a “no host” bar. We have heard it is a very fun night.

Last year Band Boosters had two tables; let’s see if we can get three or four together this year. For every table we fill we get 100% of the proceeds for one of our donated auction items, of our choice. The are 8 seats to a table, if you have a group of friends you would like to sit with now is the time to get them all together while there are still full tables left. Tickets are $30 per person, if you wish to purchase a whole table the cost is $240. Seats are going quickly so don’t wait.

If you have already bought tickets and would like to be part of the Band Booster table(s) PLEASE let Scotti know how many tickets you bought and the names of the people that will be attending. We can then have you placed at a Band Booster table. This way Band Boosters gets credit for full tables. J

We hear there are some great items that are going to be part of the auction. We are still in need of donations; if you would like to make a donation, or are available to help out with rounding some up, please let Scotti know. She has the donation forms. Please remember donations are tax deductible.

We also need a few student and parent volunteers to help set up the auction tables on the morning of the event at about 8 a.m. until we are done. Please let her know if you are available to help with any of these volunteer opportunities. For tickets, donations, volunteers and questions please contact Scotti Rylands at ndrsmom@comcast.net or you can reach her by phone at (503) 269-0887 or (503) 581-4118.

Looking Forward. . .upcoming dates

Below is an excerpt of the information that was handed out at “Parent Night.” It will be updated periodically and appear here regularly in the weekly newsletter.

• Oct 9 All Mini Camp Noon – 4 p.m. Directors handouts or verbal instructions override this notice
  
• Oct. 9 All Home Game—Football 5:45 p.m. After “Mini Camp” dinner time
  
• Oct 10 All Mini Camp Noon-6 p.m. Directors handouts or verbal instructions override this notice
  
• Oct 10 All students & crews Load equipment ~ 6:30 p.m. Equipment load, prepare for PCI
  
• Oct 11 All PCI Competition (at Sprague H.S.) See attached schedule Call times to be announced by directors
  
• Oct 25 All OSU Competition (Corvallis) TBD

Schedule for Mini-Camp & PACIFIC COAST INVITATIONAL Show
Oct. 9-11, 2008

Thursday, Oct. 9 – Mini-Camp Part I 

• Noon Rehearsal – Full ensemble
  
• 4:00 Dinner Break
  
• 5:45 Call Time
  
• 7:00 Game 

Friday, Oct. 10 – Mini-Camp Part II

• Noon Rehearsal – Full ensemble
  
• 6:00 Rehearsal ends 
  
• Load for Show 

Saturday, Oct. 11 – PCI (Sprague H.S.)

• Please eat a solid breakfast before you come. (Protein and fruits – no sugary carbs). 
  
• Bring a sack lunch from home (again, a healthy meal, please).
  
• Label your duffel or backpack with your name. You need to fit everything into one bag. You will also be carrying your uniform bag.
  
• 7:45 Colorguard / Battery call time: hair & makeup / drum warm-up & tune. 
  
• 8:15 Winds Call time. Check-in and drop off gear at “A” wing. Go to stadium w. equipment.
  
• 8:30 Practice Field rehearsal.
  
• 10:00 Break rehearsal.
  
• 10:15 Load drums. Change into uniforms. Big Snack. Load buses

Note: Please wear underclothing that will permit you to change into and out of uniform in public: Girls—shells and boxers/or leggings; Boys—PE shorts/t-shirts.

• 11:00 Depart West
  
• 11:30 Arrive Sprague Percussion / Guard warm-up
  
• 11:45 Winds: stash gear; brief visual warm-up
  
• 12:15 Warm up – Music
  
• 12:45 Pit moves to Gate
  
• 1:00 Gate
  
• 1:10 Preliminary Performance:
  
• 2:00 Awards
  
• 2:20 Dinner Break 

Our evening schedule, including dinner time, changing, warm-up, performance, and loading, will depend on our placement in Prelims and a random draw.

• Finals run between 3:45 and 7:15, with a FULL BAND RETREAT at 7:05 p.m. 
  
• 7:45 Pack up to leave
  
• 8:30 Arrive back at West and unload. 

As with all trips and events, our arrival time is a “best guess” based on available information. All students will help unload and store all equipment. After all gear is stowed, the entire ensemble will meet in the band room to dismiss.

On this and every other occasion when we will be representing West Salem and the WSHS Band Program as a group, the highest standards of behavior are expected. All school rules for acceptable behavior apply on this and every field trip. Contact a director immediately regarding anything out of the ordinary, especially threatening or abusive behavior. Do not leave the group for any reason without Mr. Nail's/Mr. Griffiths’ knowledge and permission. If you will not return home on the bus, you must have a note granting parental approval before we leave West.

The Four Deadly Sins of Band Travel
(1.) Use of any controlled substance, 

(2.) Refusing directions from chaperones or staff, 

(3.) Any sexual impropriety,

(4.) Deliberate destruction of property.

Be safe, be courteous and behave well.

Band Newsletter #6

WSHS Band Takes 1^st Place in Sunset Classic Preliminary Contest

(Contributor: Jesse Seeley, Kami Hettwer)

The hard work already started to show, AND pay off when the WSHS Marching band took 1^st place honors in 2A division in the preliminary competition at last Saturday’s Sunset Classic competition. This placement qualified them to compete in the evening’s final competition where all qualifiers were placed in the “Open” class where it is very difficult to compete against the size of those “Open Class” bands. But our musicians made us proud placing 4^th overall against the strongest marching bands in the Northwest. We’ve only just begun!!! Great job WSHS Band! We’re all very proud of you. For a more detailed look at the scores and the placement of all the schools, please see the attached “08_SUNSET_FINALS” document.

New Sponsor Joins Support of WSHS Band !

(Contributor: Jesse Seeley)

We were in need of a place to call “home” to our latest acquisition of the “Big Red” trailer for the duration of the season, and our local friends at Highway 22 Storage stepped up to give it a safe place to park in between competitions. So if you have any storage needs, please keep this sponsor in mind if you have any storage needs and tell them that you appreciate their support of WSHS Band activities.

Pictures of the Week

(Contributor: Joe Gottsch, Sharon Anderson, Jesse Seeley)

There were a couple of events this past week, so we have a couple of “Pictures of the Week”—one from the Tom McCall ceremony at Riverfront Park last Friday and one from the competition in Hillsboro on Saturday.

In Saturday’s 1^st place performance at Hillsboro Stadium, the drum line performed as an overall 2^nd place in the Open Finals where the band still placed 4^th against very tough and competent opposition from Skyview and Evergreen high schools. (Photo: Joe Gottsch)

Megan Norman performs her solo under the direction of Anna Stipe at this past Friday’s ceremony at Riverfront Park for the unveiling of the Governor Tom McCall statue. (Photo: Sharon Anderson).

If you’d like to see more pictures, please visit WestSidePhoto.net and check out the other band pictures..

Reminder—Band Booster Meeting Next Tuesday (October 7^th)

(Contributor: Kami Hettwer)

We have a band booster meeting in the band room Tuesday, October 7 at 6:30. All parents of band students are invited to attend or send agenda items in advance for discussion to mkhett@aol.com

Short School Week Next Week—Longer Practices Slated

(Contributor: Brian Griffiths, Kami Hettwer)

Next week’s shortened school week (no regular school Thursday & Friday) is the traditional opportunity for more focused rehearsal on the upcoming competitions with the “Mini Camp”. In addition to the normally scheduled rehearsals on Monday and Wednesday, below is the tentative schedule for the entire week. The below schedule is subject to change as the week develops, but will be updated in next week’s communication to the students from the directors and/or in next week’s newsletter

Monday, October 6th, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. (regular time)

Wednesday, , October 8th, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. (regular time)

Thursday, October 9th, “Mini Camp”  noon to – 4:00 p.m., dinner break, game at night—final call time TBA

Friday, October 10th, “Mini Camp” noon to – 6:00 p.m.,; prepare for weekend competition

Saturday, October 11^th, COMPETITION call time TBA (circa 7:30 a.m.)

Looking Forward. . .upcoming dates

Date	Group	Event	Call Time	Notes
Oct 9th	All	Mini Camp	Noon – 4 p.m.
“ “	All	Home Game—Football	TBD	After “Mini Camp”, dinner break
Oct 10th	All	Mini Camp (Part II)	Noon – 6:00 p.m.
Oct 11th	All	PCI Competition	TBD	Load equipment after “Mini Camp” on Friday

Band Newsletter #5

Friday Events—September 26^th

(Contributor: Brian Griffiths, Jesse Seeley)

1. Wind Ensemble Performance—Friday Morning @ “Tom McCall Statue”

7:35 Wind ensemble rehearsal.

9:00 Wind ensemble load.

9:15 Wind ensemble departs for Tom McCall statue performance.

11:15 Wind ensemble returns. Unload and return to class.

2. Friday Competition Prepà Rehearsal Update & Itinerary-- In earlier communications to the students and in a special “WSHS Bulletin” sent earlier via email, the change in the schedule was already announced due to a field scheduling conflict. Below is the more detailed schedule, which can also be found on the attached “Sunset Classic 2008 Itinerary” document.

4:00 Battery warm-up & rehearsal.

5:00 Winds, Pit, & Guard rehearsal in stadium (rehearsal begins at 5:00—do not be late!)

All instruments, flags, and props!

7:00 Rehearsal ends. Load up begins.

All students will be dismissed by their section leaders after all section load duties are complete.

It is likely that pit percussion will be the longest load, and that the pit will have a later call time

in the morning.

Parents—We can always use a few more hands to get the equipment loaded onto the trucks and trailers, so why not drop by after Friday’s rehearsal to see if there is a need for an additional hand. More hands make for small work J If all goes as in the past, we are normally out of there no later than an hour after the load starts.

Important Information for this Saturday’s Competition—Ready to Roll

(Contributor: Brian Griffiths, Jesse Seeley, Linda Burr)

Attached please find the schedule of events and a recap of the “rules of the road” for this Saturday’s competition. This was the same information that will be (was) handed out at the Wednesday evening rehearsal, but we wanted to make sure all had ample time to review it in case it didn’t make it’s way to the kitchen table from the practice field J. Please see the attached document for more information and details. If for some reason you cannot read the attached, please send email to jesse.seeley@gmail.com for a different formatted copy. Hopefully ONE of the attached should be viewable by all. One bottom take away from the document is the “call time” for Saturday—0800 or 8:00 a.m. on Saturday morning. For those wishing even more information on the upcoming competition, please check out the website at http://www.sambanotes.org/sunsetclassic/default.htm

Cookie Monster Needs Help: Special Requests for Competition Preparation, Tasks, and other Help

(Contributors: Kami Hettwer, Nicole Bess, Connie Phillips)

We are in need of 9 dozen cookies for Saturday's competition day. Please email Nicole Bess at Nicol.Bess@qwest.com so she knows how many people have committed to making cookie. Cookies can be placed in a big Ziploc bag and brought to the school on the evening of Friday's rehearsal or on Saturday to the cooking trailer at our tent site.

Additional Request-- We are in need of “string lighting” and extension cords for the tents at our competitions. If anyone can loan work lights and extension cords please label them with your name and bring them on Friday night at the end of rehearsal or Saturday at the competition. For questions, please contact Kami Hettwer at mkhett@aol.com

One More Request—Connie Phillips is the bus chaperone coordinator and since we have a competition coming up, we need volunteers to ride the buses up and back with the students. We need 2 to 3 parents for each competition and that anyone interested can call Connie at 503-391-6082. This Saturday is our first need for chaperones!

One More Time... Don’t forget: All Band Members Must Have Black Socks!

(Contributor: Deanna Garney)

Please remember to bring black socks when dressing in uniform. No ankle-length or “quarter socks”. They must cover your ankles completely. Pick up a bag of inexpensive black cotton socks from Target, Fred Meyers, Wal-Mart.... You will need to have 2-3 on hand at competitions. There is nothing worse then spending a entire day marching in wet socks. We also need to have some in stock at school to help out those who do forget theirs, so if some of you could donate a bag that would be great. If their are any questions or concerns regarding uniforms please contact me at anytimeà Deanna Garney at dg5758@comcast.net

Picture of the Week

(Contributor: Joe Gottsch, Jesse Seeley)

The Band’s All Here—Well, kind of. . . from as close up as possible to enable

face recognition, most all of the marching band are at their “spot” in the

stands at last week’s football game. So far no rain. . . help keep your

fingers crossed for continued good weather.

If you’d like to see more pictures, please visit WestSidePhoto.net and check out the other band pictures, pictures of band camp, and oh yeah, there are some of the football games (and other events throughout the year) too.

Titan Auction—Update

(Contributor: Scotti Rylands)

Just a reminder about the Titan Dinner & Auction, the event is on Nov. 22^nd at 5pm it is called a “Evening of Elegance”. For those of you who are not familiar with it, it is an adult night out (who of us does not enjoy that) and semi-formal attire is suggested, so break out those fancy duds and come have a “elegant” (really fun) evening. For those of you interested there will be a “no host” bar.

Last year Band Boosters had two tables; let’s see if we can get three or four together this year. For every table we fill we get 100% of the proceeds for one of our donated auction items, of our choice. The are 8 seats to a table, if you have a group of friends you would like to sit with now is the time to get them all together while there are still full tables left. Tickets are $30 per person, if you wish to purchase a whole table the cost is $240. Seats are going quickly so don’t wait. If you have already bought tickets and would like to be part of the Band Booster table please let Scotti know how many tickets you bought and the names of the people that will be attending. We can then have you placed at a Band Booster table.

We hear there are some great items that are going to be part of the auction. We are still in need of donations; if you would like to make a donation, or are available to help out with rounding some up, please let Scotti know. She has the donation forms. Please remember donations are tax deductible. We also need a few student and parent volunteers to help set up the auction tables on the morning of the event at about 8 am until we are done. Please let her know if you are available to help with this.

For tickets, donations, volunteers and questions please contact Scotti Rylands at ndrsmom@comcast.net or you can reach her by phone at (503) 269-0887 or (503) 581-4118.

Thank you. We hope to see all of you there.

Encore Postingà Entertainment Books?? Need some? Need More?

(Contributor: Kathi Robbins)

Sales of books ending soon!!!! If you need more “Entertainment Books”, turn some money in, or have questions, please contact Kathi Robbins directly at email address soggyloafer@comcast.net

Looking Forward. . .upcoming dates

Below is an excerpt of the information that was handed out at “Parent Night”. It will be updated periodically and appear here regularly in the weekly newsletter

THIS WEEK

Date	Group	Event	Call Time	Notes
Sept 19th	All	Home Game—Football	0800 at WSHS
Sept 27th	All	Sunset Classic, Hillsboro, OR	TBD
Oct 9th	All	Mini Camp	Noon – 4 p.m.
“ “	All	Home Game—Football	TBD	After “Mini Camp”