Hey Band!

We’re probably long overdue for an update of any kind, but with so much of our world in flux, we honestly didn’t have much to say (well, maybe not as a Board, even though there are a number of us that are never at a loss for words). So we’ve been following all of the recommendations and mandates and checking in on each other every now and then in the background.

Given where we are in the calendar year (it’s mid-August in case any of you have lost track), it’s right about now that you would start to hear from us about all of the usual activities that come with the end of Summer and beginning of Fall. Here we are! Except this time, we’re not here to deliver the usual message.

We are fairly confident that everybody knew that it was only a matter of time before this announcement came, but here it is anyway:

The GTBAA Executive Board has unanimously agreed to forego the typical Alumni Band program which takes place at Homecoming and will not be assembling in-person in order to protect the health of our membership, families, and friends, as the world continues to navigate life with COVID-19. While most messages in this vein have included words to the effect of “it was a difficult decision,” this one does not. This was a fairly easy decision for us as a Board and we feel that this is the correct decision and the best one we could make for all involved.

Now, just because we’re not planning our normal program doesn’t mean we’re not going to do anything at all. In the next several weeks, the Board will be working to lay out a plan to hold a virtual annual business meeting and elections for members at large (it’s an even year!). In addition, we’ll be looking for other ideas on how we can engage virtually with Band Alumni and the active Yellow Jacket Marching Band. Stay tuned for more information!

We sincerely hope that you will make every effort to keep yourselves and your family safe and healthy as we all work to defeat COVID-19.

As always, please do not hesitate to reach out to any one of us with any questions, concerns, or feedback.

Ramble This Way, Ramble That Way, Ramble Off the Field!

The GTBAA Executive Board

John Gorta, Executive Director Jen Isaacs, Secretary Jason Morcos, Treasurer Sam “Fireball” Feuer Julie Filipek Wes Hunt Heidy Lopez Amanda Verdin