Tenaha band recognized by TISD Board
tee's meeting in Tenaha. Recognized were directors (front, from left) Kasi
Sanford (Asst.), Rhonda Cates (Dir.) and Eric Sanford (Asst.). Also shown
are (back, from left), Board President Bo Morris, Aaron Roland, June Swint
and Mark Looney. (Photo by John Krueger)
TENAHA -- The Tenaha 'Roarin' Band from Tiger Land' was recognized during Monday night's monthly board of trustee meeting as the directors of the band were honored for their band's accomplishments this fall during competition and a fourth-place finish at the Class 1A State Marching Band Contest held Nov. 3 in the San Antonio Alamodome.
Having secured a position in preliminary rounds by receiving straight 1’s at the Region 21 marching contest held on Oct. 17 in Nacogdoches, and finishing in the top three during the Area C Marching Band Contest held on Oct. 24 in Longview, the Tiger band advanced to the final level of State competition.
Only sixteen bands battle it out to be called the best in Texas. Only seven would advance to the final rounds. Tenaha and Carlisle, two top bands in the district, would make the cut. They also happen to be the only Military style marching band to make the final round. With a nearly flawless performance, they would finish fourth overall.
The band was under the on field direction of senior Drum Major Eddie Flores.
“The Tenaha High School Band is like a machine in terms of precision and excellence,” stated judges. The Tenaha High School Band is the premier band of East Texas. With 68 members strong, they have proven that they are one of the best 1A bands in the state of Texas and the best Military Style marching band in Texas.
TISD School Board President Bo Morris stated at Monday's presentation to Band Director Rhonda Cates, and assistant directors Eric Sanford and Kasi Trent, that the Tiger band has changed the way people view this extracurricular activity.
"On behalf of the Board, we're really tickled to death of ya'll performance in San Antonio," Morris stated. "I can remember in years' past that at halftime [of football games], everybody had to go to the restroom and to the snack bar when the band came out. But nobody leaves now.
"You all have done a tremendous job and we're deeply proud of you."