It’s that time of the year already-time to start voting for the 2009 Bands of the Year.

This year, we’re going to do it a little differently. We’ve added (or are in the process of adding) every band that has competed this season to the database, and they are all eligible for consideration. Results from Bands of America Regionals and Grand Nationals may be taken into consideration. Also, this year, we’re going to make it an online ballot, and the current plan is to open it Wednesday, October 28th, and close it the Wednesday after Grand Nationals. Also, if some members of your staff would like to vote, that is fine as well. We’re hoping to have somewhere in the neighborhood of 25 -30voters-both ILmarching staff and directors alike. Your votes are completely anonymous, and will only be seen by Mark and I. We currently have somewhere in the neighborhood of 20 voters, I believe. We would like a few more! If you (or one of your staff members) would like to be included in the voting, email me at balash@ilmarching.com so I will be able to send you a link to the ballot when it goes live.

All voters fall into the following categories:

Illinois Marching Online Staff

Current Illinois Band Staff (HS or College)

Retired Illinois Band Directors (HS or College, still residing in Illinois)

Other highly qualified individuals (judges and the like)