Getting new look

Jay County High School marching band is hoping to have new uniforms for 2015.
The new uniform, which is pictured at left, costs $400 each, and director Kelly Smeltzer said the band is looking to purchase at least 170.
The band booster club is working to raise $80,000 to purchase the new band uniforms, new color guard uniforms and to repaint the band trailers.
Jennifer Schug, band booster club president, said the organization is contacting businesses and service organizations to collect donations for the new uniforms and several community events have donated some profits to the fundraiser.
“We’re doing a lot of stuff,” she said.
Band director Kelly Smeltzer said the Marching Patriots have used their current uniforms since they were purchased in 2000.
“They’ve seen their lifespan,” he said. “They’ve worn well but it’s time to go again here.”
The band staff at JCHS worked with a company in Missouri to design the new uniforms, which are machine washable and have adjustable pant legs and sleeves. They should last 10 to 15 years, Smeltzer said.
“They really have advanced a lot over the years,” he added.
And he’s excited to present a new uniform to the community.
“We tend to be one of the groups that are out in the public a lot, and we want to show our pride for Jay County,” he said. “Hopefully the community will be excited about it.”[[In-content Ad]]