SCHEDULE UPDATE
Dear Athens Drive Band student and parent,There is a wonderful band saying that goes: “If the storm does not have a name, we march through it!” Unfortunately, the weather system that is going to invade our area later today and tomorrow has a name… Thanks Ophelia! UGH!!!!
After checking with several professional sources about the likelihood of staying dry tomorrow, I have decided to amend the schedule as printed below, with an added rehearsal on Monday. Even if the rain lets up in the afternoon, our practice field is going to be very wet, and we are not permitted to use the stadium (in the evening) because marching for hours on a wet field may damage the expense turf. No stadium, no lights = no evening block.
“MINI-CAMP 9-4:30”
Saturday, Sept. 23, 2023
8:45am Report to band room.
9:00am Rehearsal INDOORS; Parent breakfast
Noon Lunch (on own)
1:30pm Rehearsal INDOORS, Students will try on uniforms
4:30pm Dismissal
“ADDED REHEARSAL 10AM-2PM”
Monday, Sept. 25, 2023
9:30am Field Crew and Front Ensemble report
9:45am Report to band room to get instruments, drill folders, markers, etc.
10:00am Rehearsal on practice field with EVERYONE. We will “pause” for a light snack to be eaten at the practice field around Noon. BRING A LIGHT SNACK!!!
2:00pm Dismissal
For Saturday: Students may eat on campus or leave campus for LUNCH. Although there should be sufficient time to “eat out,” please think ahead as to where you might like to dine so that you have enough time to drive safely and eat a decent meal. There is really no problem with hanging out in the band room!
Be sure to have your UNIFORM at school on Saturday as we will be checking the fit for each student. We will be performing in full dress for the football game next Friday and our first competition on Saturday.
For Monday: I realize that this is a religious holiday and a “last minute” scheduling amendment. I have asked our section leaders to provide transportation to and from rehearsal if necessary. Perhaps we can be creative with carpools; the students can check with each other on Saturday for rides. The time (10-2) was strongly favored by many of our older students due to previous commitments on Monday afternoon, when we normally do not have rehearsal.
I believe it is self-explanatory as to why we would need the Monday rehearsal with our first competition being next Saturday. The adage “the show must go on” is certainly relevant in this case…we’ve got to do what it takes to be prepared for our first adjudicated performance. I’m sure we are not the only band in this situation. I really appreciate your help in making this work.
I’ll be sending home a letter about the football game and competition next weekend early next week. Busy, fun times! Ya gotta luv it!
“Rain, rain, go away!!!”
