Donations sought for new band uniforms

The Maryville High School Band has begun a quest to acquire new uniforms.

Uniforms currently worn by the marching Spoofhounds were purchased 13 years ago, and after annual hemmings and cleanings, along with wear and tear from sporting events and competitions, the outfits have become badly worn.

"The pants are falling apart," said Kara Puche, who is helping lead a fundraising drive for new uniforms. "After taking out the hems every year to have them cleaned, they just don't hold together anymore."

The goal is to purchase 110 new uniforms at a total cost of $53,000.

MHS is providing $26,000, almost half the cost, and Nodaway Valley Bank chipped in another $2,000. That leaves $25,000 to be raised by band members and boosters.

For now, the drive consists of pledge cards and coupons available at all Maryville R-II School District buildings.

On Monday March 18, Pizza Hut in Maryville will give the band 20 percent of all sales receipts for the day when customers present a valid coupon.

Director of Bands Burke Shouse said the uniforms are not only tattered but out of date.

"What we want made is a more contemporary look," Shouse said. "We wanted something to grow with what we're doing and that keeps up with what other competitive bands have."

The new look will eliminate the color white, making it easier to keep uniforms clean.

Outfits will consist of black pants, a black-and-green jacket, a gold sash and a large gold "M" on the front left side of the jacket.

Boosters, including Puche and Stephanie Shields, are reaching out to alumni and community members for for help and have created a presence on Facebook and the MHS website.

They are mailing out pledge cards and hope to have all the money raised by the May 1 uniform order deadline.

The band has grown during the past several years, and boosters want the new uniforms to reflect the organization's success.

"Our thought was to get uniforms that are custom-made and fit what we do," Shouse said. "We are really growing, and we think new uniforms will help us continue to grow."

If the band fund drive reaches its goal, the old uniforms will be sold off. Anyone interested can contact Shouse through the high school at (660) 562-3511.

"We are really excited because our program is growing," Puche said. "These new uniforms are going to look sharp. We're feeling very blessed, and the kids will feel good in new uniforms."

To make a donation in any amount, call Puche at (660) 562-1252 or 582-4821, Shields at 582-3318 or the high school office.