Aylsworth
receives recognition from local church
By: Jermaine Williams
info@blackhawkbrigade.com
SV Brigade Media Relations
FRENCH LICK, Indiana – Luke Aylsworth,
director of bands at Springs Valley High School, was awarded
the Barnabas Award by the Living Waters Assembly of God
in French Lick on Sunday morning, November 18.
Aylsworth is a member of the Springs Valley
United Methodist Church in French Lick. However, the Barnabas
Award nominations were open to any community leader. The
award is given to a member of the community who makes a
definite and strong influence and impact in the community
with Christian values, valuable service, and powerful ministry,
yet is not recognized as a leader in the church.
This is not about titles or a personal
drive for recognition, but is about giving honor where honor
is due. It is all about focusing our community on the good
things that are happening around us, rather than the bad.
Aylsworth was honored with letters written
by members of the band, parents, and members of the community
saluting him for his hard work and efforts for the community
of Springs Valley. Many members also played in a band during
the service.
“You [Mr. Aylsworth] have taught
me responsibility, self discipline, teamwork, and the true
meaning of hard work,” wrote Brigade alumna Elizabeth
McElroy. “I have taken these lessons with me after
graduation and I still put them to use constantly in my
current college education.” McElroy currently attends
Purdue University.
The members of the baritone sections wrote
in a letter to Aylsworth that, “We would like to thank
you for being there for us and putting up with us. We will
always remember what you have done for us and the entire
band."
Aylsworth is being honored with this award
because of his leadership and impact he has had with the
students of Springs Valley Community Schools and the Blackhawk
Brigade. As director, Aylsworth has guided the Brigade from
a 40-member District Division II band to the 80-member 2007
Class “D” state runner-up.
Not only has the marching band regained
its swagger across the state of Indiana, the band program
itself has grown leaps and bounds as well. Today, there
are close to 300 students playing an instrument each day
in the high school band room. These range from fifth graders
to seniors.
Aylsworth was also nominated for the Indiana
State University Outstanding Teacher Award last week which
was recognized by the Springs Valley School Board at this
month’s meeting.
NOTE: Article published in the Springs Valley Herald and
Bedford Times-Mail.
Contest Results can be found at:
Indiana
Marching.com and/or
Simply
Instrumental.com
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