NEW: MORE THAN 20 BANDS TO MARCH IN MENNO FRIDAY

Nearly two dozen middle school and high school bands will be marching when Menno Band Day returns to Fifth Street this Friday, Oct. 6. The processional will make its way south beginning at 10 a.m. The Menno Marching Band will lead the way but will not take part in the competition, nor will the marching band from Yankton. All others will be judged in four divisions: Middle School, Class C, Class B and Class A.

Those taking part in the Middle School class are: Centerville, Canistota, Tea Area and Yankton. Class C participants include Irene-Wakonda, Gayville-Volin, Duebrook, Canistota, Sioux Falls Lutheran, Tri-Valley, Colman-Egan and Parkston. Class B bands are Scotland, Alcester-Hudson and Centerville, while Class A will include Pierre, McCook Central, Dakota Valley and Tea Area. First- and second-place trophies will be awarded in each class, and plaques will be awarded for Best Winds, Percussion, Color Guard and Drum Major. The highest scoring band among all class will receive the Sweepstakes Award.

One other award will be given: The Eldon Samp Crowd Please Award will go to the most entertaining band, with the recipient receiving a donation by Rollyn Samp, Samp Law Firm and the family of Elden Samp.

Following the parade of bands, a drum line battle will take place at the football field.