The formation of this unique group of music students into a premier marching band that performed before hundreds of thousands of people, as well as the television cameras of the world, has truly been a signature project of MD 37 during the past two years. Young musicians ranging in age from 8th graders to seniors in high school, encompassing the entire state of Montana and the Province of Alberta, were given the opportunity to participate in this very unique adventure. The students were selected from audition tapes and written applications and were organized into what eventually became known as the Multiple District 37 Lions All Star Marching Band. Lion Shawn Hansen, band leader at Anaconda High School, was the genius who molded this very diverse group into the band of distinction that they became. During their inaugural year, 66 young musicians from generally smaller Montana communities like Winnett, Corvallis, Lolo, Culbertson, Pony, Plains, Deer Lodge, Huntley, Mosby, Anaconda, Florence, Butte, Worden & Conrad were joined with students from Pincher Creek and Champion, Alberta to form our first ever MD band. These young future Lions are a tribute to their communities and the excellent band programs conducted in their areas. Our first year activities culminated with our students marching in down town Denver as well as being one of only two North American groups selected to perform at the International President’s Festival at our 86th annual convention. Our 2004 program saw our group grow from 66 to 80 students with increased international participation from students representing Edmonton, Ledue, Warm Springs, Pinesdale, Wibaux, Lambert, and Billings & Big Timber. Over the course of two full weeks these young people spent hundreds of hours in practice and rehearsals. They performed in 9 concerts as well as their major performances in the Detroit and Calgary Stampede parades. Their activities in what was affectionately referred to as “The North American Tour” will be remembered by Lions and students alike for years to come.

2008 Band Program Currently plans are in the works for a summer band program in 2008. Details will be posted once it is known.

How can you help?

In my humble opinion, this band program has been a resounding success! Again, in my opinion, this program is one of the most successful programs serving youth in our MD and certainly is making a difference in the lives of the students ‘We Serve’. The contributions these young people are making and will make to their high schools and communities will continue for many years because we, as Lions, cared enough to provide them with this very unique learning and growing experience. If this program is to continue and grow, we need the help of the Lions of this great MD. First, we still have openings and opportunities for additional young people to participate and be part of this year’s band. A letter explaining how to get involved and refer students has been sent to every Lions Club in our MD. Please look for it and pass the material on. Our second request for help is financial! Again, our letter to the clubs explains our needs. Please help as much as possible. As a suggestion, please consider and remember that donations of three to five hundred dollars when grouped with dozens of others from throughout our districts add up quickly and enable us to continue to serve our young people and to provide this wonderful opportunity for future leaders and Lions. Lions or clubs requesting additional information, please contact: Lion Steve Hadnagy – Chairperson MD 37 Lions All Star Band 833 West Quartz Street Butte, MT 59701 Phone: 406-782-0134 Email: jshadnagy@msn.com