Early in the 1990s, band parents Bob and Vicki May had a vision for the Lakeshore Band. They knew the band needed a means of transporting all their equipment to competitions, and a semi-trailer would be just the thing. Bob found the first trailer, and since another band parent was a graphic designer, the first customized Lakeshore Band trailer was soon a reality.
A decade later, that trailer was no longer big enough for the band, as enrollment had grown from 91 to 235 – thanks to the guidance of Lori VonKoenig. Not only did instruments need to be transported, but also uniforms and sound equipment. Band parent Mark Mabry found the new trailer, and became its caretaker and driver for the next 25 years. He outfitted it with lights, ramps, and interior hangers.
Why is the band trailer
so important?
Not only does it transport all the uniforms, flags, and sound equipment, but it also serves as a billboard for the school district and band program when it is off site. It is a source of pride for the band, parents, alumni, and the entire community. Matt Pagel, the current director of bands for Lakeshore, says “The trailer is an outward representation of the pride the community takes in the program and the high standard of excellence to which we hold ourselves.”
Until this year, no extensive maintenance had been done on the trailer since its purchase. After two decades of travel, including 16 trips to Disney World in Florida and adventures to Washington DC and Arizona, it was definitely time! The band contracted with Premier Graphics of Grand Rapids to do the new graphic wrap, and K & R of Holland for the joint repairs, sand blasting, rust removal, and other repairs. The trailer is now finished, and made its first road trip to a band competition in October.
The trailer repairs came at a cost of $25,000 to the band program. To help offset some of these costs, sponsors may “purchase” their name/company logo to be placed on the back doors of the trailer. The cost of this decal is $2,000. The Lakeshore Excellence Foundation joined fellow sponsors Red Coach Donuts and the LECO Corporation in donating to the cause to help support our high school band. Additional sponsorships are available and appreciated.
If anyone is interested in becoming a sponsor, please contact band director Matt Pagel at mpagel@lpslancer.net. Next time you drive by the high school when the band is going to a competition, take a look at the beautiful new trailer, and as always, Go Band!
2023 Art Around Town