Central Indiana Track Show Association has contacted band directors to let them know that all summer events and contests sponsored by CITSA are suspended for the summer. This includes competitions at Centerville, Muncie, Winchester, Jay County and Anderson as well as a clinic at Monroe Central.
“This decision was made by the executive board of CITSA in light of our current situation regarding the COVID-19 virus,” Northeastern band director Dan Merkamp said in a statement on Facebook. “I know these individuals well and I know that this was an extremely difficult decision for them to make. Clearly, they made this decision to protect our students and communities.
Those cancellations have prompted Northeastern’s band department staff and school administration to make several adjustments to their summer schedule, including the cancelation of the school’s band camp at the Raper Center. Several factors contributed to canceling Northeastern’s camp, such as the uncertainty of the 4-H Fair’s need to use the facility and possible rescheduling of the Wayne County 4-H Fair. Additional considerations involving scheduling and expenses went into this decision.
“No one ever anticipated the challenges we face as a band, a community and a country,” the statement said. “It is an unfortunate turn of events and our fans, families and community will no doubt miss these annual summer events. But please, keep in mind there are things far more precious to consider here like the health and safety of our friends and families.”