Wednesday August 17

Ladies and Gentlemen, Mustangs and otherwise. Those readers in the work force, today's blog pertains to you especially. Today at band camp, was Hump Day. Yes, the 8 to 5 work and step size lifestyles are similar indeed. Wednesday went slowly, and as we attempted to tackle slow and difficult marching and drill, it was as though we were scaling a hill. But the foundations of this band, let me tell you, are strong. And as you can tell by reading this, I survived Hump Day. I have two encouraging anecdotes for you and then I must log off for bedtime. First, I shared with my friend today that I am genuinely excited to perform for the parents on Friday evening. With all the hard work we have put in, I can stand by that for most of the ensemble. Secondly, and in a similar vein, there is a slow movement of the show, the ballad. And in the ballad there is rising action to a point of musical climax. At this point, our wonderful color guard spins and tosses simply gorgeously styled flags. I saw them perform today from my spot on the ladder and audibly gasped. It was wonderful. It will be a great performance, and I cannot wait to see you there.

Josiah

Band Camp 2011

Hello all - I'm a few days late with my blog but felt since it was mid-week, it was still is a good time to share with you how it has been going thus far at Band Camp 2011. Sunday was a little choatic at first as the excitement and frenzy of the band was felt. We had all of the returning band members staking their claim of the field in order to set up camp, and the incoming freshman members were all smiles and ready to start an experience of a lifetime. As they settled in, off it went. I know I am being redundant with a comment about the weather, but we could not have ordered a more gorgeous week and it is evident by the kids' (and staff) tans. I have taken a few pictures that I share with you now and will have more later. Please feel free to come by at any time and watch how they learn their drill and practice their music, and by Friday, you will be amazed as to how far they have come.

Tuesday August 16

Welcome all readers to day two of camp! Two things today stuck out personally and made today a very special time. Number one, the weather was perfect. Simply gorgeous out on the field, and even more so in the shade. It was summer-y and warm but not too hot to do work, it was sunny, but with some scattered cloud cover, I remarked at lunch that it was very good. Secondly, as Drum Major one of my responsibilities is to let people know when their breaks end, and remind them how much time is left so that the rehearsal can move along. I choose to do this by running across the field yelling the amount of time remaining. What was special about today was that during my run, a freshman came up and ran and yelled along with me. This was encouraging to me in that I knew that I was supported by the band, and I knew that this individual understood the importance of maximizing time, and having some fun while doing so. Energies remain high, we were able to learn 9 more pages of drill today, setting us about halfway through the show. I am excited for tomorrow after such a good day today. Thank you for your time, you will hear from me tomorrow.

Josiah

It’s Picture Time!

Download the Picture Day Order Form here.
We will have our pictures taken on Tues. August 23rd, starting at 4:50p.m.  (Practice starts at 6 p.m.)  If your section is scheduled before practice, make sure you arrive at school in enough time to get dressed.
Look below for your scheduled picture time.  The time listed below is the actual picture time!
Please report for your section’s picture time even if you are not buying any individual pictures.  We will be taking section pictures.  (You can purchase a picture of just your section.)
Things to remember:

• Bring your order form!
• Bring the payment!
• Be ready at your scheduled time.  That means uniform on and instrument in hand.  You will need them for the pictures!
• If ordering section pictures, please indicate the section on the order form.   Percussion section:  Please indicate whether you want Pit, Battery or complete percussion section picture.

Things to think about/decide before you have your picture taken:

• Do you want a full body or just upper body picture?
• Do you want your instrument in the picture?  (bring instrument for section photo)
• Hat on or off?
• Smile or no smile?
• Sections, how do you want your sections set up for the section picture?  (subject to photographer’s o.k.)      

SECTION	TIME
Color Guard	4:50
Drum Majors	5:20
Flutes	5:30
Clarinets	5:40
Alto Sax	5:50
Low Reeds	6:00
Trumpets	6:10
Mellos	6:20
Trombones	6:30
Baritones	6:40
Sousas	6:50
Pit	7:00
Battery	7:20

Color Guard:  at this time it has not been decided what you will be wearing for your pictures.   Please check with your leaders closer to the date.
You may download the picture order form here.  Please print it out and bring it with your payment on picture day.  Extra copies will be available in the band room.
If you have any questions, you can reach me at gen-pictures@mustangbandboosters.com or 630-400-2141.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation on Tuesday!
Diane Foernssler

Marching Mustangs Schedule, Week of August 22nd

An itinerary has been posted for the practices and events scheduled through the week of August 22nd. 

Download the schedule here.

Colorguard Update- Monday, August 15

Hello, everybody! I am Anna Burton, colorguard captain and blogger for the section. Things are crazy and exciting for our section, there's a lot going on! Today we completed our opener by ending with a great flag feature that is looking really good. We also began working on our soloist Becca Swick's solo in the "production" part of the show. Dancers began learning work for the same part, and flags began their choreography on "jungle sticks" as we like to call them, but in actuality they're just large poles. We will continue to add dance work and fill in the little spots and transitions that we have open, but otherwise most of our show is done!

Also this week we have a lot more staff in, which is giving us much more individual time and more experts on certain areas of colorguard work. We are progressing so quickly, and it's awesome to see how well everyone is doing.-- the freshmen especially. Look for more updates this week from me, and have a good day!
-Anna Burton

Band Camp Day 2 (Superhero Day)

Hey Everyone,

I'm Maddie Snyder and Im the sousaphone section leader in the Marching Mustangs. If one word could sum up todays events, Im pretty sure "long" would do just fine. Im always suprised how school and band camp always make the hours in the day grow longer. I guess it comes out of all the hard work we do, because today we actually learned about 9 pages of drill or so. Maybe even more. Nothings ever clear after a day of band camp, anyone can attest to that. But we had a fun packed day of basics in the morning along with drill learning. And the marching mustangs sure stayed on top of their game. We started to learn the drill to the second peice in our show "production". We had fun attempting to tribal dance while marching to our next set. But even after this day of band camp i do have a confession, even i am coming home tonight with sunburn. And beleive me when i tell you i am not alone. There was surely no shortage of beet red arms, shoulders, and legs. i think some of us have to learn that there needs to be a re-application of sunblock after 4 hours in the sun. But you learn something new everyday. But we have been having great weather, dont get me wrong. Being a senior, this is probably one of the best band camp weathers i have had so far. But its still only day two. And we still have plenty more to go. Until next time :)

Monday August 15

Hello students, parents, family friends and fans of DGS Mustangs Music! My name is Josiah Williams, and I am proud to be Drum Major of the 2011 Marching Mustangs. Today was the first full day of our camp, a full day being 13 hours from 8 A.M. to 9 P.M.. It was also Superhero day, wherein the members are encouraged to dress as their favorite hero. There were marching Batmen and Supermen and women, as well as the Flash, Green Lantern, and Spiderman. As serious and intense as marching band is in nature, it's wonderful to have the spirit day as a tradition. Another tradition we do as a band is end our music rehearsal at 9 o'clock with the warm-up chorale from Jupiter. If you are not familiar with Gustav Holst's Jupiter, I highly suggest you check it out. The chorale is simply beautiful, and the sound of the band, overwhelming. Moments like that as well as crazy running members and capes and masks remind us what this activity is all about: enjoyment. We work hard so that we can look back and enjoy. Hopefully through this blog you guys can vicariously enjoy, without having to work as hard as the Marching Mustangs. Thank you for reading, until tomorrow night!

Ladies and Gentleman, Please Start Your Engines...

Day one of DGS Marching Mustangs Band Camp 2011 is upon us and I assume that many other members of the band have been scrambling around with their parents trying to find the bug-spray, sweatshirt and other marching band necessities. That's just me? Okay...
Anyways I don't think that the band could be more blessed with the weather this week (apart from a little bit of rain) for two reasons. First, overcast means no sun and no sun means NO SUNBURN which is always a plus when we're going to be outside for thirteen hours each day. As the week goes on and the sun does come out the leadership team is making it a point to remind their section and members of the band in general to apply and reapply sunscreen this year. The second reason this weather is perfect is the cool temperatures allow for members to focus completely and not have to think about the heat.
All in all, I am very excited for this week because the level of passion and discipline in the band this year is unparallelled to any year before. That fact alone will allow us a whole be the best band we can be to get ready for the season.
-Marissa Jama
Clarinet Section Leader

Band Camp Begins–Look for Student Updates

The 2011 Marching Mustangs Season officially gets under way with the opening of this year’s Band Camp Sunday, August 14th.   This week, the band will devote over 74 hours to learning the drill and music for this year’s show, RIVER VISIONS.

Several students have volunteered to share their impressions of Band Camp and the upcoming season.  Check back throughout the week for the latest from our Marching Mustangs at Band Camp 2011.

2011 Marching Mustang Band Camp Aug. 14-19

 

Band Camp begins on Sunday, August 14th, and runs through Friday, August 19th.

 

Band Camp will take place at Lakeview Junior High, 701 Plainfield Rd in Downers Grove.
Download the Band Camp Schedule & Instructions here.

All information and reference materials will be posted here for your convenience. Check back throughout the week for any updates.  And please plan to join your student for the Family Picnic and Show Preview on Friday evening, August 19th.

Special Old Uniform Fitting–Saturday Aug. 13th

A Special Fitting Session for Old Uniforms has been scheduled for this Saturday, August 13th.

In order to fit our old uniforms for use in inclement weather, or with a muddy field at an away competition, we are requesting that all wind and percussion Marching Mustang members be fitted according to the schedule below.  Color Guard members do not need to attend this fitting.

Please Note: This is a CORRECTED DATE compared to the handout distributed to students at this week’s practice.

Seniors	10:00am – 11:15am
Juniors	11:15am – 12:30pm
Sophomores	12:30pm – 1:45pm
Freshmen	1:45pm – 4:00pm

Parents with questions about the uniforms and fittings should contact our uniform co-chair, Mary Coley, by phone at (630) 567-3418 or email at exec-uniforms@mustangbandboosters.com.

2nd Annual DGS Band Boosters Golf Outing and Dinner

Come Golf with your Friends -- including Band Alumni!
Download the Golf Outing Reservation Form here.

The 2^nd Annual DGS Band Booster Golf Outing will be held on Sunday, July 31, 2011 at Twin Lakes Golf Course (9 Holes) in Westmont. The first group is scheduled to tee off at 12:00 pm (Noon). 

Reservation Deadline is July 17, 2011.

Later that afternoon, after that great golf game, the Boosters are hosting a buffet dinner with a cash bar at Gatto’s Restaurant on Main Street in Downers Grove starting at 5:00 p.m.

Participating in the golf portion of this event is available to everyone, including DGS alumni, so we encourage you to invite your family and friends to join us for a day of fun and friendship. If you don’t have a foursome we will be more than happy to arrange one for you. Participation in dinner is for those 21 years old and above.

COSTS:

• Golf only: $20.00 per person – includes 9 holes of golf and 2 soft drink beverages of your choice.
• Dinner only: $20.00 per person – includes a buffet style dinner (with cash bar). NOTE: Dinner is an Adults Only event. Persons under 21 will not be allowed to participate.
• Dinner & Golf together: $40.00 per person.

Sponsorships:  Sponsor a hole for $100 per hole. Only 9 available – so get your preferred hole early!
Raffle:  Any and all donations for the raffle are also welcome.

Download the Golf Outing Reservation Form here.

Refunds will be given in the event of cancellation due to weather of the golf portion only -- Dinner will be held regardless of weather

For questions or for more information about donations or sponsorships, please contact our event coordinators, Wally Olewinski and Cathy Jama, at:
gen-specialevents@mustangbandboosters.com 

THANK YOU – LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING YOU FOR A GREAT DAY!!

2011 Show Shirt Design Contest Announced–Entries Due By Tuesday, June 21st

Each year the band t-shirt or “Show Shirt” has a student created design on the front.  All students are invited to submit their design for this year’s show, “River Visions”.

                Design Specifications
Text:             2011 Marching Mustangs - River Visions 
Size:               Print your electronic design on an 11” by 8½” sheet (horizontal or landscape) 
Medium:     If you use pencil, colored pencils, or markers, etc. please scan your design and submit it as a jpeg or pdf file 
Colors:          Up to 5 colors can work including black and/or white

Submissions can be sent to Mr. Roselieb – croselieb@csd99.org
or Mrs. Jama – cathyjama@comcast.net

Please submit your completed show shirt design by e-mail by
Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Show Shirt Design Contest Flyer

Seniors: All Student Account Refund Requests Due by May 15th

Important Links:
Updated Student Account Balances 
Student Account Refund Request Form 
More Info from the Boosters Website
email the VP-Student Accounts

Student Account Balances have been updated through May 6th, including earnings from this year’s Plant Sale and April Market Day.  You may check your Student Account Balance here.

As a reminder, May 15th is the deadline for graduating seniors to request reimbursement from their Student Account.  Seniors may also request that any balance in their account be transferred to the account of a younger sibling in next year’s band programs.

Student Account funds may be used for any band-related fees (fundraising expectations, fees, lessons, equipment, music camps, trips, etc.)  To obtain reimbursement, simply submit a completed Student Account Refund Request Form.  Completed forms may be dropped off in the Band Room Mailbox in the Communication Center, or sent by email to the VP of Student Accounts at Exec-StudentAccts@MustangBandBoosters.com

For additional information on Student Accounts (what they are, how they accrue, etc.) please visit the Student Accounts Page of our Band Booster website.

April Issue of FANFARE Newsletter Posted

A new issue of the Fanfare Newsletter has just been released. Fanfare is published about 6 times per year and includes a variety of important, interesting information for DGS’ Band Families.

Click the following to: go directly to the April Issue of Fanfare.

To browse prior issues of Fanfare dating back to 2003: go to the Fanfare Newsletter Page

For further information about the Fanfare Newsletter, or if you have ideas for an article in a future issue, please email Kathy Gabric.

Marching Band Scholarships Available–Deadline April 15th

The following was sent via email by Cathy Jama, Band Booster President

For those of you who have made the decision to join the DGS Marching Mustangs, I would like to offer you the opportunity to apply for a Marching Band scholarship from the Mustang Band Boosters. 

Applications are now being accepted through April 15, 2011 for the Marching Band scholarship which has a value of up to $200 that is applied towards your Marching Band fee.  The application may be found on the DGS website at:  http://www.csd99.k12.il.us/south/.  Search for Fine Arts under the Academics tab at the top of the page and when you get to the Fine Arts page, click on the Band Blackboard tab on the right-hand side.  (Or click here to go directly to the Band Blackboard page.)  The scholarship application and information is found on the Band page under the scholarship tab.

However, in order to be eligible for a scholarship, a student must have fulfilled a minimum of three (3) volunteer opportunities, i.e. "Service Credits" as indicated below.   Such Service Credits must be completed prior to the final payment deadline date of June 10, 2011.  The Service Credits are tracked by the Vice President of Membership with input provided by the various Directors and/or fundraiser chairperson. 

Upcoming opportunities to earn Service Credits are Market Day, Plant Sale or Band Director and/or other volunteer opportunity assistance, to name just a few.   Even though you are still at your respective schools, you are considered a Marching Mustang and may participate in these fundraising events to obtain your Service Credits.

If interested, please send the completed application to:

Craig Roselieb
Downers Grove South High School
1436 Norfolk Street
Downers Grove, IL  60516

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.

Regards,

Cathy Jama
Band Booster President

Spring Plant Sale in Full Bloom–Orders Due April 8th

Spring is coming, and so is our Annual Plant Sale

This year’s Annual Plant Sale has officially begun! Order Forms, Sales Information, and full Plant Descriptions with pictures are now available on the Band Boosters website at http://www.mustangbandboosters.com/plants.

The sale is open to all students in the Band, Choir and Orchestra Programs. This is an important fundraiser for the Band Boosters and a great way to build the balance in your Student Account. For all students, 50% of the profit is credited directly to the seller’s Student Account and the other 50% goes to the Mustang Band Boosters’ General Fund.

This year orders are due on Friday April 8th, giving you time to sell through Spring Break and Easter. Plants will be available for pick-up at DGS on Saturday April 30th, the week before Mother’s Day. Take advantage of any warm weather before then by selling to your relatives, friends, neighbors, teachers, co-workers, etc. Remember to mention that we will hold all checks until April 8th, so it’s OK to get your order in early. It also helps to offer to deliver the plants to the people who buy them from you.

Once again we’re offering your favorite annual flower flats, geraniums, wave petunias and more! In addition to the most popular selections, we’ve added some new colors and combinations, and are also offering bell peppers and several tomatoes for the very first time!

If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at the number listed below, or email us at Gen-Plants@MustangBandBoosters.com

Bill & Charlene Kubik
Plant Sale Co-chairs
(630) 985-2860

Reminder: Butter Braids Orders Due March 8th

The Butter Braids Fundraiser is nearing an end.  Orders are due by Tuesday, March 8th, and samples will again be available at the Concert on March 3rd.  For more information and order forms, please click here to see the full article.

Buona Beef Benefits DGS Bands Monday Feb. 21st

Present the attached flyer when you place your order – download the flyer here.

Hello Band Families and Friends!
Kick the snow off your shoes and join the party for a Buona winter restaurant fundraiser on Monday, February 21, 2011. The eat’n starts at 10:30 AM and lasts till the close of business at 10:30 PM at the Buona restaurant located at 7417 Cass Avenue in Darien. This is a day off from school for our students, so it is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a tasty meal with family and friends. The Downers Grove South High School Bands will receive 15% to 25% of our sales, so the more people who come to Buona on February 21st, the more money Buona donates to our bands.

Present the attached flyer when you place your order – download the flyer here.

We all have to eat, so why not bring your appetite to Buona in Darien and help the bands at DGS. Your support, and your talents, contribute to such a fine music program at our school. Thank you for your continuous support. See you there!
Sincerely,
Debbie Spiewak
Restaurant Fundraiser Coordinator

February 2011 Issue of Fanfare Newsletter Posted

Posted by DGSMBB at 9:38 PM

A new issue of the Fanfare Newsletter has just been released.  Fanfare is published about 6 times per year and includes a variety of important, interesting information for DGS’ Band Families.

Click the following to: go directly to the February Issue of Fanfare.

To browse prior issues of Fanfare to 2003: go to the Fanfare Newsletter Page

For further information about the Fanfare Newsletter, or if you have ideas for an article in a future issue, please email Kathy Gabric.

Butter Braids are Back! Orders Due March 8th

Now is your chance to stock up on those mini logs of deliciousness that magically grow in size overnight and allow you to wake up and enjoy a yummy treat! Great for dessert as well.

They come in a variety of flavors: Apple, Cherry, Cinnamon, Cream Cheese, Raspberry, and introducing Almond Crème.

Click here to Download the Order Form.

The cost for each Butter Braid is $11.00, of which $2.00 goes directly to your student’s account. Samples will be available for tasting at each of the upcoming band concerts, February 10th and March 3rd.

Orders are due by March 8th and must be prepaid – make checks payable to “Mustang Band Boosters”. Delivery will be Saturday, March 19th from 10 to 11 a.m. in the DGS Cafeteria. Remember, the dough is perishable and needs to be placed into your freezer within 3 hours of delivery.

Butter Braids are a great treat to have on hand, and will last 3-4 months in your freezer. Now is your chance to stock up, enjoy, as well as contribute to our band program.  THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!!

For more information, please contact Nadine Bahaveolos, our Butter Braid Chairperson.

email: Gen-Butterbraids@mustangbandboosters.com
Home: (630)985-0980
Cell: (708)205-2240

Click here to Download the Butter Braids Order Form.

Marching Mustangs Recruitment Meeting–Tuesday Feb 8th @ 7:00pm in Auditorium

The 2011 Marching Mustangs will hold their Recruitment & Kickoff Meeting Tuesday, February 8, 2011 at 7:00 pm in the Auditorium.  This meeting is for all prospective members of the 2011-2012 Marching Mustangs, including incoming freshmen.

Topics to be covered include:

• Meet the Staff & Student Leaders
• Learn the schedule for the fall season including trips and band camp
• Review the procedures for Marching Band Contract
• Complete the paperwork and begin your membership
• Meet the student leadership selected for this coming season
• Hear about the 2011 Competition Show
• Mark your calendars for the “Get Acquainted Night” – Tuesday, February 22, 2011 from 6 – 8 pm @ DGS Band Room

Band Concert Dinners Now Available

NOTE: Dinner for the March 3rd Concert has been cancelled due to low interest.

Dinners will be available for students and/or families on the upcoming Band Concert dates:

Thursday, February 10 (Concert Band/Wind Ensemble)Thursday, March 3 (Symphonic Band/Wind Symphony)
5 – 6:30 p.m.

Would you like to avoid cooking dinner before a band concert? Or, if your band member is staying after school the day of the concert, would you like to avoid running dinner over?

If so, have we got a deal for you!

For just $5 per person, your band member and/or your family can enjoy a delicious Italian Beef Dinner from Doggie Diner in Woodridge!! Dinner will include:

• Italian Beef Sandwich
• Pasta (side)*
• Salad
• Lemonade

*For vegetarian dinners, a larger serving of pasta will be served

In addition, chips will be available for $.50 each.

So we can plan how much to order, please complete the attached Order Form and send with your payment to DGS by Monday, February 7 for the CB/WE dinner or by Monday, February 28 for the SB/WS dinner – either in the Band Boosters mailbox, or mail to : Mustang Band Boosters, c/o Craig Roselieb, Downers Grove South High School, 1436 Norfolk, Downers Grove, IL 60616

Questions: email Lynn Filla-Clark at lynnfclark-001@hotmail.com

Download the Order Form here

December 2010 Issue of Fanfare Newsletter Posted

A new issue of the Fanfare Newsletter has just been released.  Fanfare is published about 6 times per year and includes a variety of important, interesting information for DGS’ Band Families.

Click the following to: go directly to the December Issue of Fanfare

To browse prior issues of Fanfare to 2003: go to the Fanfare Newsletter Page

For further information about the Fanfare Newsletter, or if you have ideas for an article in a future issue, please email Kathy Gabric.

“Beyond The Storm” DVD Set Available Soon

Coming Soon -- a DVD Set capturing the entire 2010 Marching Mustangs season.

(Note: Further details and a link to an order form will be posted here as soon as the Final Cost is announced.)

The “Beyond The Storm” DVD Set will include:

Band Camp Family Night

Senior Night at the Football Opener

Cross Town Classic

Homecoming

Lake Park Lancer Joust

Morton Invitational

Prospect Knight of Champions

Music Bowl

University of Illinois Marching Band Championship

Special Turf Practice

ISU State Championship

Banquet Fall Show DVD (the one viewed at the Banquet)

Performances by the U of I Marching Illini and the ISU Big Red Marching Machine

CD of Photographs to download and print for your scrapbooks

And a Surprise Bonus Feature

This DVD Set is heartwarmingly being made and it truly captures this remarkable season.

Cost is yet to be determined (it will be no more than $15.00). If you have questions or would like to place an order, please send an email to Nancy Segredo at gen-video@mustangbandboosters.com

This post will be updated with a link to an order form as soon as the final cost is announced.

Gourmet’s Delight Cheesecakes are Back!

The Cheesecakes that everyone loves are back!
The Mustang Band Boosters are once again selling delicious Gourmet’s Delight cheesecakes, just in time for the holidays.  Samples of most of the offerings will be available outside the Auditorium at the Band Concerts on November 10th & 16th. 

This year we are offering a variety of cheesecakes in two sizes – Regular: These large 9” cheesecakes weigh from 3-1/2 to 4 lbs., and are pre-cut into 14 servings – available in 14 varieties.
Mini:  These 7” cheesecakes weigh from 22-24 oz., and are pre-cut into 6-8 servings – available in 7 varieties.

Download the Order Form for Regular (9” size) Cheesecakes
Download the Order Form for Mini (7” size) Cheesecakes
Download the Selling Tips / Information Flyer
View Cheesecake Details on the Gourmet’s Delight Website

Paid Orders are due in by Wednesday, December 1st, with all checks payable to the MUSTANG BAND BOOSTERS.  Orders should be placed in the Band Mailbox on the Communication Table outside the Band Room.  Cheesecakes will be available for pick-up on Friday, December 10th from 6:30-7:30 pm in the Student Café at DGS.

Cheesecakes are available in the following sizes and varieties:

Variety	Regular	Mini
Cherry	--	x
Chocolate Chip	x	x
Cookies & Crème	x	x
Key Lime	x	x
Strawberry	x	x
Traditional	x	x
Turtle	x	x
Blueberry	x	--
Chocolate Marble	x	--
Mint Chocolate Chip	x	--
Pecan Caramel	x	--
Pineapple Coconut Crème	x	--
Pumpkin	x	--
Raspberry Fudge	x	--
Variety (7 flavors)	x	--

The Boosters earn $5.50 for each regular cheesecake and $4.00 for each mini cheesecake sold.  Funds are split evenly between the Mustang Band Boosters and the student’s band account.  For more information, please contact our Cheesecake Coordinator, Kathy Miles at
Gen-Cheesecakes@MustangBandBoosters.com

Friends of Fine Arts Poinsettia Sale Under Way

Here is another student account fund raising opportunity.  The annual Friends of Fine Arts Poinsettia Sale is going on right now.

To qualify to earn money for your student account, simply sell 2 or more poinsettias.  Each poinsettia sells for $12.00 and yields $4.00 profit.  The first $4.00 goes to the Friends of Fine Arts.  But YOU earn 100% of the profit after that. 

These plants are beautiful to decorate your own home as well as to give as gifts.  So contact all of your family, friends, and neighbors.

Download the Poinsettia Order Form here.
Order forms are also available through your Fine Arts teacher / the Fine Arts Office.

Order deadline is Wednesday, December 1, 2010. 
Payment is due with your order.  Please make checks payable to DGS Fine Arts.

Orders may be turned in to Mrs. Sejnost in the Fine Arts Office, or they may be mailed directly to:

Glenn Williams, Chairperson
Fine Arts Department
Downers Grove South High School
1436 Norfolk Street
Downers Grove, IL  60516

Make sure your NAME and Musical Ensemble information is on the order form in order to get credit for the sale.

Delivery of your poinsettias is on Thursday evening, December 9th following the  Holiday Concert or Friday morning, December 10th in room B122.  If you have any questions, please contact Kelly Snyder at 630-985-7202

Mustang Ladies Shopping Party Sunday Nov. 21st

To RSVP, please choose a link and click:

Yes - I will see you there!
Yes - I will attend and bring a guest!
Yes - I will attend and bring 2 guests!
Yes - I will attend and bring 3 guests!

Get some Holiday Shopping done, and Raise Money for the Bands!

Please join us Sunday, November 21, from 2:00 - 4:00 pm for the first annual Mustang Ladies Shopping Party. Come and browse thousands of holiday decorations, ornaments, designer inspired handbags, jewelry, and gifts...all at warehouse prices! Enjoy light refreshments and non-alcoholic beverages...free of charge! Listen to the smooth sounds of a DGS jazz combo...free of charge! This event is being hosted by Eye 4 Style, on behalf of the Mustang Band Boosters. We will receive a portion of the total sales from this event to help support the band programs at DGS. All merchandise on display is ready to take home. No pre-ordering, and no sales presentations to attend. Eye 4 Style looks like a warehouse on the outside...but when you step inside you will be amazed! The store is beautiful, the merchandise is gorgeous, and the prices are incredible!
The Elliot Bild and Mike Ruth Jazz Combos will perform during the party!
Give a small donation at the door and receive a fun game card! Win an Eye 4 Style Gift Card!

Website Link:  http://www.eye4s.com/directions.htm

QUESTIONS?

Contact:  Charlene Kubik
Email:  eye4style55@gmail.com
Phone:  630-453-0092
Website: www.eye4s.com/directions.htm

WHEN IS IT?

Beginning:  Sunday November 21st, 2010 at 2:00pm
Ending:  Sunday November 21st, 2010 at 4:00pm
RSVP Deadline:  Wednesday November 17th, 2010 at 7:00pm

WHERE IS IT?

EYE 4 STYLE, 60 Shore Drive, Burr Ridge, IL 60527
phone: (630) 734-0800

Eye4Style is located in a warehouse style building in Burr Ridge, on the corner of Shore Drive and S. Frontage Road, just south of I-55 and east of Route 83/Kingery Highway. (It's in the same building as Corvette Mike.) www.eye4s.com/directions.htm

From Downers Grove South High School:
Take 63rd Street East to Rt. 83/Kingery Hwy. Turn Right and drive South on Rt. 83, past I-55. The first stoplight past I-55 is S. Frontage Road. Turn Left on S. Frontage Rd. Follow S. Fontage Road about 1/2 mile until you reach Eye 4 Style. The building is on the corner of Shore Drive and S. Frontage Road. The parking lot is on the right. If you pass the parking lot and reach Shore Drive, turn right on Shore Drive and then turn right again into the back entrance of the parking lot.

WHO CAN I BRING?

Please forward this invitation to your female family, friends, co-workers and neighbors. The more the merrier! If you have a special man in your life that loves to shop, invite him, too! Please respond that you are attending, and the number of guests you are bringing. Eye 4 Style is generously providing free food and non-alcoholic beverages, and wishes to accommodate our entire group.

TO RSVP, CLICK THE LINK AT THE TOP OF THE PAGE.

--

Charlene Kubik
Eye 4 Style
(630) 453-0092
www.eye4s.com

ISU Videos Available at 55% Discount! The Boosters are placing a Group Order- ISU Prelims & Finals DVDs priced @ $20 ea vs $45. Watch email for details.

ISU Updates

The band left ISU around 12:30am, expecting a 2hr 15min return trip -
Current ETA approx. 2:45am. Will update the blog again if any changes.
PARENTS - When picking up your students this morning, PLEASE let's get out of our cars and welcome them back with our Applause & Congratulations.
How did the band do last night? In Prelims, they took 3rd Place in Class 6A and earned their first Finals Appearance (at least the first in this generation!) as one of the Top 14 Bands of the day. In Finals Competition, the band scored 11th Overall. Congratulations to Mr. Roselieb, to the Entire Staff, to all the Parent Volunteers, and especially to all the Students who finally found the rainbows Beyond The Storm.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2010

Posted by DGSMBB at 10:55 PM
Band looks & sounds great in FINALS! Will stay through end. ETA 2:15? Will be updated later.

Posted by DGSMBB at 8:51 PM
8:30- Finals begins. DGS to play 7th, approx 9:50pm. 70 degrees, full moon, beautiful night for history!

Posted by DGSMBB at 8:26 PM
DGS scores 3rd Place in 6A- Band to compete again in FINALS!

ISU State of Illinois Marching Band Championships – Oct. 23rd

LIVE ISU UPDATES via TWITTER posted at right ==>
ISU Resumes after 2-1/2 hr Rain Delay

UPDATED SAT. Oct. 23rd:

We are indeed “Beyond The Storm”… The ISU Competition was delayed by rain shortly after the 1A/2A awards were announced.  The Competition has just resumed outdoors at about 1:15PM with Antioch (3A), and is running approx. 2-1/2 hours behind schedule.  Assuming all bands stayed through the rain delay (iffy), this would delay DGS’ performance until around 8:00PM.

LIVE ISU UPDATES via TWITTER posted at right ==>

Our updates from DGSMBB, and those from ILMarching.com, will be posted live on the Twitter feed to the right.  Please look there for updated info regarding the schedule, results, and our band’s return to DGS.  To follow this information on your cell phone, text “FOLLOW dgsmbb” and “FOLLOW ilmarching” to 40404.

Original article follows below:

Storm clouds roll into the Bloomington / Normal area this weekend.  The Marching Mustangs conclude their competition season this Saturday, October 23rd at Illinois State University in the 45th Annual State of Illinois Marching Band Championships.  Illinois State is located in Normal, IL, about 115 miles SW of Downers Grove.

DGS is the last of 42 bands scheduled in the Preliminary Round.  The band performs at 5:37pm, followed by ISU’s Big Red Marching Machine at 5:51pm, and the Awards Announcements at around 6:05pm.  14 of the highest-scoring bands (7 from classes 1A-4A, and 7 from classes 5A-6A) will then perform again in Finals Competition beginning at 7:15pm.  If you're travelling to watch as a spectator, dress warmly (Finals should end around 10:30) and cheer proudly for your Marching Mustangs.
Please Note:  A separate ticket is required to watch the Finals Competition.  Tickets are priced as follows:
  Adults:  $10 Prelims, $10 Finals, $15 Combo (Prelims & Finals)
  Seniors (55+):  $5 Prelims, $5 Finals, $10 Combo
  Children 12 and under are free

Students should bring a sack lunch to practice in the morning.  Dinner at ISU will be provided by the Mustang Band Boosters. The band is expected to return to DGS around 1:15am.

Tentative Schedule
9:45 AM Rehearsal @ DGS
11:30 AM Final Run Through – eat sack lunch (bring from home)
12:45 PM Depart DGS for Illinois State University
5:37 PM Performance
6:00 PM Preliminary Awards Announced
7:15 PM Finals Competition Begins
11:00 PM Load busses and return to DGS
1:15 AM Estimated Return to DGS

-- THE BLOG WILL BE UPDATED WITH COMPETITION RESULTS WHEN ANNOUNCED (after 6:15pm), and AGAIN LATER WITH AN UPDATED ETA --

Links & Downloads
1. Saturday's Itinerary
2. Map & Directions to Illinois State University
3. ISU State Marching Championships Website & Ticket Information
4. Schedule of Competing Bands (pdf file)

Driving Directions to Illinois State University
Take I-355 SOUTH toward the Stevenson Expy for 4.5 mi (partial toll rd)
Take the I-55 SOUTH Exit (towards St.Louis)
Continue SOUTH on I-55 for 104.4 mi
At Exit 164/165, Take ramp RIGHT for US-51-Br toward Bloomington-Normal 0.6 mi
Turn LEFT onto US-51 Bus / N Main St for 2.1 mi
Turn LEFT onto W College Ave and follow the signs & cars to Hancock Stadium
Estimated Travel from DGS: 115 miles / 1 hr 45 min

Wind Ensemble at North Central College, Thursday Nov. 11th

Greetings Wind Ensemble Members and Families,
Attached is an itinerary for our upcoming concert at North Central College on Thursday, November 11, 2010.
Students will need to plan on arriving at Wentz Concert Hall at 3:45 pm.  Parents may arrive beginning at 7:30 pm, with the concert beginning at 8:00 pm. 

Download the Itinerary

All students (excluding large percussion) will be responsible for transporting their instruments, music and concert clothing to and from the concert.  In return, their is no admission fee, and the students will receive a complimentary dinner (see attachment). 
We are looking forward to this tremendous opportunity to perform in an accoustically wonderful environment and hearing their college group as well.
See you soon,
Craig Roselieb

Marching Rehearsal Change – Wed., Oct 20th

Attention Marching Mustangs,

To cap off the rehearsals for our truly remarkable season, we have been able to secure the Benedictine University Turf Stadium for a rehearsal this week.  The only catch is that it is available on Wednesday, Oct 20.  So we have made the following switch in our schedule this week:

Thursday, Oct 21 Rehearsal 6-9 pm – CANCELLED

Wednesday, Oct 20 – Rehearsal from 6 – 9:30 pm  - ADDED

Our rehearsal will begin at DGS at 6 pm.  We will carpool over to Benedictine University and use the band trailer and Van #1 for pit equipment and large drums. 

Benedictine stadium is located at the corner of Maple Ave (55^th St) and Yackley Rd. in Lisle.  Students and parents are encourage to park behind the stadium in the South Parking lot which is located off of an access road that is west of Yackley, by turning left off of Maple.

Parents are encouraged to come support the band and view the last hour of rehearsal from 8:30 – 9:30 pm in the stands.  You can then bring your students home from the Benedictine Stadium.

Thanks for making this switch possible.  Your flexibility is greatly appreciated as we all want the best possible experience for our marching band students this week in the final push to ISU.  Having Thursday night free also gives students the night before the end of the quarter to complete all assignments and homework.  We will still rehearse on Friday, Oct 22 from 4-7 pm at DGS.

Thanks again,

Mr. Roselieb

Illini Marching Band Championships- Oct. 16th

Competition Summary

Class 6A: DGS Marching Mustangs take 2nd Place in Class 6A  with a score of 88.9, behind Waubonsie Valley (89.7).
Classes 4A-6A:
DGS’ score is 3rd Place overall in Large Band Division (Classes 4A-6A), behind Waubonsie Valley and Grand Champion Prospect (92.6 – 5A).
Overall Competition: 
DGS’ score is 4th highest of all 46 bands in competition, behind leaders listed above and Class 1A-3A Grand Champion Morton (92.7 - 3A).

Updated Sun., 10/17

11:30AM  The buses have stopped at a Rest Area just outside of Kankakee. Updated ETA at DGS is approx. 12:35 PM

10:00AM  The Band left the hotels in Champaign at around 9:30 AM.  Current ETA at DGS is approx. 12:15 PM

Posted by DGSMBB at 8:44 PM

DGS awarded 2nd Place in class 6A, also Highest Combined Music Score in 6A. Band looked & sounded great, as did alumni in Marching Illini!

Original Article Starts Here:

Congratulations to everyone who volunteered to help make this year’s Music Bowl an outstanding success.  The visiting bands and fans seemed very appreciative, the weather could not have been any better, and our band looked and sounded terrific!

Now, it’s time for a shift in the weather as the STORM FRONT moves south to Champaign-Urbana for the Illini Marching Band Championships.  The competition will be held at Memorial Stadium (1401 S 1st St) on the campus of the University of Illinois in Champaign.  (View map & directions.) 

The band will leave Saturday, stay overnight in Champaign, and return to DGS on Sunday.  (View the Itinerary.)  This is the next to last competition, and the last chance to see our Marching Mustangs before ISU.  Event Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students/children (children 3 and under are free).  Parking is located directly south of the Stadium in the Assembly Hall parking lots.

DGS is in the last grouping of bands and is scheduled to perform at 6:59pm.  The Marching Illini perform at approx. 7:45pm, followed by the Awards Presentation. (View schedule of bands.)   Please note:  These times are approximate.  There are 46 bands scheduled and timing could shift early or late by the end of the day.

-- The BLOG will be updated with Competition Results when announced (after 9pm Saturday), and again on Sunday with an updated ETA for the return to DGS --

Links & Downloads
Illini Championships Itinerary for Saturday & Sunday
Map & Driving Directions to Memorial Stadium at U of I
General Information for Bands & Spectators

Saturday, October 16th
  9:30 AM   Rehearsal begins at DGS with stretching
   1:30 PM   Depart for Champaign, IL
   6:59 PM   Class 6A Performance
  7:45 PM    Marching Illini Performance and Awards
Sunday, October 17, 2010
  9:30 AM   Depart for Home
12:00 PM   Estimated arrival time at DGS

Student Notes:

* Bring a sack lunch for after the morning rehearsal, and be sure to eat a good breakfast before arriving at DGS in the morning.
* Bring a small overnight bag – (it all has to fit on your bus!)
* Your Saturday night dinner, and Sunday morning breakfast are already paid for.
* Please represent your band, school and community with pride and respect in everything you do, all weekend.

View Directions to Illini Marching Band Championships in a larger map

Save The Date - Fall Banquet Thurs. Oct. 28th

Download the RSVP Form Here.

This year’s Fall Banquet is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 28th from 6pm-9pm at the DGS Cafetorium.  Advance ticket reservations are due by Oct. 21st for $15 each, a $3 discount.  After Oct. 21st, tickets must be purchased at the door for $18 each.
Download the RSVP Form Here.

New this year will be a raffle of themed baskets donated by each of the Sections.  The funds raised from this basket raffle directly benefit the DGS Marching Mustangs.  For more details on the raffle basket project, view the raffle basket flyer here. 

If you have any questions, please contact this year's Fall Banquet Co-Chairs, Mary Jane Worek and Mary Clare Kastenholz. 

9th Annual Music Bowl – Oct. 9th

The Marching Mustangs Itinerary for Music Bowl Saturday has just been released, and is available in Word & pdf formats.

Download the Music Bowl Itinerary (word) here. 
Download the Music Bowl Itinerary (pdf) here.

TBD AM        Sectionals – Breakfast plans by section leaders
10:00 AM   Rehearsal @ DGS begins
1:00 PM       Rehearsal ends

7:15 PM       Begin changing into uniform in the band room
9:15 PM       Performance Begins
9:50 PM      Awards conclude – change out of uniform
10:15 PM    Clean-up begins by sections (see Itinerary)