image

Southern Local’s annual band banquet was a heartwarming celebration bringing together students, families, and faculty to honor the accomplishments of the band program throughout the year. The event, held on April 24, 2025, provided a wonderful way to recognize all band students' dedication and musical growth.

The evening began with a delicious potluck dinner as families and students mingled and shared stories from the year. During the ceremony portion, the band director at Southern High School, Mr. Dodson, acknowledged important people who helped and supported the band throughout the past year. He then recognized each student in grades 7th through 12th by giving heartfelt remarks about their progress and achievements throughout the year and presenting them with achievement awards.

A highlight of the evening was the special recognition given to graduating seniors, who each received personalized awards commemorating their years of service to the band program.

Students recognized are as follows:

7th grade

Lily Koren, Skylar Morrison

8th grade

Lilly Forester, Lincoln Full, Dayton Reiber, Bethany Roberts, McKenzie Timmons-Cogar, Riley Tucker, Caleb Richmond

9th grade

Damien Gilland, Myla Manley, Isabella Morrison, Emma Leachman, Ashlyn Laudermilt, Jacob Porter, Aiden Dodson, Blake Hudson, Dylan Garner, Jace Smith, Gaven Reynolds-Eblin

10th grade

Sophie Popp, Dalen Gibson

11th grade

Collin Smith, Tristan Moore

12th grade

Amanti Hayes, David Hair, Corey Seth, Sky Dailey

This annual tradition continues to strengthen the bonds between band members and provides a meaningful way to celebrate the artistic and personal development of students who dedicate countless hours to perfecting their craft.