By Mike Hutchens, UC Schools Communications Director
Union City, Tenn.–Jason Deem is a firm believer in the old adage of “when you look good, you play good.”
He also values the importance of a first impression.
The Union City High School has unveiled the new look they will have this fall. The directors feel this new uniform will keep the band on the cutting edge visually and enhance the overall style of the band.
Veteran Union City High School Band Director Jason Deem said, “A special thanks goes to Mr. Wes Kennedy and the Union City Board of Education for the purchase of the new uniforms.”
Deem is counting on both parts of that equation continuing after ordering new custom-designed uniforms for members of his widely respected program.
Fred J. Miller – the world’s leader in marching band uniform design and manufacturing – is responsible for the pending new look of the Marching Golden Tornadoes.
The use of a lighter fabric was the significant focus of Deem when he first contacted the Miamisburg, Ohio, company. He chose from three options before more than 100 new uniforms were then ordered.
Delivery time for the new togs is slated before the band’s first competition of 2022, on Sept. 17.
“The biggest thing for me is that 80 percent of our contest season is held during the hottest part of the fall,” Deem said. “My personal belief is that when students are comfortable, they’re more focused and perform at their best. They certainly aren’t at their best when they’re hot and miserable.
“These new uniforms are cutting-edge designed. They incorporated our school colors well, and I truly believe every student will look like a million dollars.”
Deem expressed his appreciation to the top administration of UC Schools as well as board members Karl Ullrich, Cathy Waggoner, Scott Gilliam, Dr. Wright Jernigan, Rev. Curtis McLendon, Dr. John Clendenin and Bedford Dunavant for their continued support of the program.
“What (Director of Schools) Mr. (Wes) Kennedy, (Assistant Director) Mr. (Michael Paul) Miller, and (UCHS Principal) Mr. (Jacob) Cross continually do for our band is remarkable,” Deem added. “Their support, along with that of the board, is truly instrumental in our continued success.”