Email Subject Line:  Attention Flag Pageant and Macy’s Tag Alongs

Greetings!

You have received this email because your online band profile lists you as either a marching member of the National Flag Pageant (NFP) or as a Macy’s Tag Along who won’t be performing with the band.

We need everyone to double check their online profiles now.  If you are planning to participate in the NFP, be sure your online profile lists your band section as National Flag Pageant, and please read the FAQ’s below.  If you already know you won’t be marching, be sure your profile lists you as a Macy’s TAG ALONG and you can stop reading this note now (but please read all future general band emails!).

 National Flag Pageant Frequent Asked Questions:

 What is the National Flag Pageant?

The National Flag Pageant (NFP) is the name given to a collection of ceremonial flags that includes a replica of every flag ever flown over the United States, dating all the way back to the 13 Original Colonies. This group marches together, in lines of about 10 members, in the back of the band’s parade formation.  Collectively, this group creates an emotional and patriotic scene, and is the final and lasting impression of our band that parade spectators see as we march by.   

 What are the requirements to be a member?

No previous marching band experience is necessary but members should be able to meet the following basic requirements:

• Have the ability to walk 3 miles

• Not suffer from neck, back or leg ailments (neck straps are worn by the group so that the bottom tip of flag is carried in a pouch near the belly button)
• Have sufficient strength and endurance to hold upright a six pound pole/flag for long periods – both standing still and on the march
• Have the ability to use peripheral vision and maintain awareness of fellow NFP members

 When does the NFP start practicing?

The SPRING band season is completely OPTIONAL for the NFP.  You are more than welcome to participate in the Spring, but it’s perfectly acceptable to wait and march in the Fall as we shift into high gear with Macy’s preparation.   If you want to march in the Spring, practices begin on the first day that the entire band meets – March 4^th.   If you choose to wait until the Fall, the first practice is September 9^th, 2008.

 What is our rehearsal and performance schedule?     

Please read and reserve the dates that are listed on the 2008 Rehearsal and Performance Schedule, found on the website. 

 What if I have to miss a practice?

Our attendance policy is that members can miss one practice and still march in the group.  Of course, there are exceptions but overall, we have to take our attendance policy seriously due to fairness to the whole group.

 Where does the NFP rehearse?

Always at the same location as the full band.  Locations are noted on the 2008 Rehearsal and Performance Schedule.

 What uniform does the NFP wear?

The NFP wears the same uniform as our band musicians.  In the Spring, this includes a band polo shirt, band cap, navy-blue Dockers pants, and white socks/shoes.  (The band mass orders the shirts and hats for you to purchase.)  The “winter” uniform that will be worn in the Fall and at Macy’s will be unveiled for everyone at the band Christmas Party (see website calendar for details).   The cost of the winter uniform is built in to your package price for the Macy’s trip.

 How do I find out information about the other auxiliary groups?

Click here to see a list of minimum performance requirements for each group.

 I’m very excited about the National Flag Pageant and to welcome you as a performer in our band. You’ll have a fantastic experience!  If you have any additional questions, feel free to go to the website and send an email via the “contact us” button.

 I look forward to meeting and working with you as we jointly embark on the marching band adventure of a lifetime – our journey to Macy’s, 2008.   

 Many thanks,

J.F. Thomas

Auxiliary/Visual Coordinator

Second Time Arounders Marching Band