September 2023 Newsletter: Contest Information
Bentonville West Band — September 17, 2023
There is a lot of REALLY important information included below;
we recommend keeping it handy as we get into contest season.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Quarterly Band Family Meeting
In addition to the contest information included in this month’s newsletter, you won’t want to miss the upcoming Band Family Meeting. We will meet on Sep. 26th at 6:30 in the band hall. When the meeting concludes, parents can move to the football stadium to watch the end of practice. See you there!
Final Prop Build Day Sept. 23rd
Meet at the Skillet on 9/23 at 8 AM to finish up our props so that any remaining details can be finalized before the first contest.
Individual Fundraiser: Abby Candles, Sept. 20 to Oct. 25
Students will receive 40-50% of the profits, which they can apply directly to their band fees. Abby Candle products are perfect for Holiday gifts, birthdays, and special occasions! Shop online or by catalog so you can sell to friends or family anywhere.
Earn Toward Your Band Fees
A month’s worth of concession signup opportunities was JUST added to our website. When you sign up, be sure to select if you want your time to go toward an Account Credit, Donation, or Volunteer/Community Service.
All band families have an obligation to work at least 1 shift during the season.
Miscellaneous Program Needs
Our concessions manager is currently in need of a medium to large stand-up deep freezer and iPad chargers. If you’re able to help, please contact AJ at concessions@wolverinebandboosters.com.
Save the Date: PopUp on Oct. 3rd
Swing by PopUp on Oct 3 and tell them that you’re there to support the Midnight Regiment Band. They will donate 25% of the profits back to our program!
URGENT Financials Update: Fees & Contests
Our program relies on band fees to cover costs related to contests, bus transportation, meals, and hotels. Unfortunately, we still have several band members who have not paid their fair share fees, and it directly affects our budget for the BOA trip. Please pay your student’s account balance or arrange a payment plan with Mr. Ortiz immediately.
Upcoming Contests: Important Dates & Links
Owasso Marching Invitational – September 30th
Preliminary performance is currently scheduled for 2 PM. Tickets can be purchased online HERE or at the gate. Price is $15 for an all-day wristband.
Visit their event website for more information.
RE: PARKING (From the Contest Director)
Owasso Schools will be taping off the area near the pond west of the stadium. Spectators will not be allowed to park in the grassy area on the West Campus this year. We will still park those with a handicapped sticker in the West lot and bring them to the stadium via a golf cart. Grass parking is not allowed. We are working with our FFA folks (their property is directly east of the high school) to set up VIP parking opportunities. We will offer FREE shuttle parking to various churches near the contest.
Bentonville Marching Invitational – October 7th
Bentonville High School. Check their website for information on tickets and scheduling HERE.
Midnight Regiment Marching Invitational – October 14th
We are hosting this event and will also perform as an exposition. The University of Arkansas Razorback Band will also be performing. Students will be able to earn community service hours by helping at various stations throughout the day. Other students are also welcome to volunteer. Signups will go out soon.
ASBOA Marching Assessment – October 17th
Rogers High School.
BOA St. Louis, MO Super Regional Championship – October 27-29th
Our preliminary performance time will be Saturday at 10:45 AM. Tickets can be purchased on the BOA websiteor at the ticket office. Please note that The Dome at America’s Center has a clear bag policy.
Band members will be staying at the Marriott St. Louis Grand downtown. Family members are not permitted to enter student hotel rooms.
If you have never attended a BOA contest before, this event will host some of the most outstanding bands in the region; you won’t want to miss it!
Arkansas State Marching Contest – October 30th
War Memorial Stadium. Times and ticketing TBD.
Contest Tips and Fast FAQs
· Not every venue accepts cash or credit cards. Come prepared for both, as some students may want to purchase souvenirs or visit the concession stand.
· Triple-check that your student has black socks, marching shoes, and extra deodorant (We suggest marking their name on the inside of shoes with a Sharpie.)
· Students are expected to ride to and from the contest with the band and stay with the band, directors, and chaperones for the entire duration of each contest. Band members may not leave without pre-arranged permission from Mr. Ortiz.
· Consider sending a portable charger for phones and other electronic devices.
· Students are fed at contests but are free to bring additional snacks if they like.
· DO make tons of noise when our band goes onto the field. Spectators are encouraged to cheer and clap during the show.
· DO NOT enter or leave the bleachers during performances; only move before/after each band performs.
· DO NOT talk when a band is performing on the field.
· DO clap for all of the bands; we’re here to support everyone!
· Wear your show shirt and bring your rally towel or other flair; we want to see you!
· Many band families try to sit together during the contest and/or move closer to the front during our performance times.
