Islettes Elite

Islettes Elite 2007-2008 News Page
Director: Heidi Sue Mumm
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Islettes Elite Continue Long Tradition of Baton Twirling
By Shelbey Bidell

Islettes Host Miss Majorette of NY - 2009

(left) Islanders Anna Nicolia, Alyssa Fuoco, Alissa Bailey, Laura Dolan and Morgan Proctor where awarded trophies and sashes in the Miss Majorette of New York Pageant
(right) Rose Queens of New York (Back) Anna Nicolia, Shelbi Milkas; (front) Allison Ewert and Miranda Proctor
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   The Islettes Elites hosted the Miss Majorette of New York Competition on Sunday, April 27th, 2009 at Williamsville North High School for the second consecutive year. The Islettes parent volunteers under the direction of coach Heidi Sue Mumm were responsible for the tremendous task of designing programs, tee-shirts, providing food and decorations, tabulating and results board and various other tasks, while their children competed in the full day of individual and group baton twirling events.
   The annual competition attracts twirlers from around the state and Canada, many who participate in a notable Miss Majorette of New York pageant; highlighting the combined skill of modeling, interview, twirling and strutting and qualifying them for the National pageant. The national pageant will be held in July in South Bend, Indiana.
   Five Island girls shined as they were presented Miss Majorette of New York sashes, awards and flowers as pictured: Alissa Bailey Intermediate Junior, Alyssa Fuoco Beginner Junior, Laura Dolan Novice Junior, Anna Nicolia Novice Preteen and Morgan Proctor Novice Little Miss Majorette of New York. Morgan is a member of the Ambassador’s Twirling team while all others are members of the Islettes Elite of Grand Island. Other non-resident winners and members of the Islettes Elite included Sr. Novice Samantha Kenyon, Jenna Demer Intermediate Juvenile, Katrina Buczkowski Pre-teen, and Madi Buczkowski Junior Miss Majorette of New York.
   For excellence in modeling and interview skills, the following were crowned Rose Queens of New York: Anna Nicolia Pre-teen Rose Queen, Shelbi Milkas Junior Rose Queen, Alison Ewert Juvenile Rose Queen and Miranda Proctor Little Rose Queen. Miranda is a member of the Ambassador’s Twirling Corps, Alison is a member of the Niagara Royalettes while Anna and Shelbi are members of the Islettes’ Elite Majorettes.
   The Islettes Elite competed in several team events winning 1st place in Jr. large Beginner Dance Twirl, Juvenile Parade Corps, Jr. Parade Corps, Sr. Beginner Large Dance Twirl and Sr. Beginner Large Team Twirl.
   The Mistress of Ceremonies was Heidi Sue Mumm with Contest Director Isabel Dettmer, joined by awards presenter Mr. Jeff Matiash (2009 World Bronze Medalist and member of the Niagara Royalettes). The proceeds from the event will help finance the Islettes Elite corps events and equipment.
   "A special thank you to our many solo coaches: Kelli Russell, Karen Scalise, Rebecca Sobol, Alissa Bailey and Madi Buczkowski and our special team coach Miss Heidi Sue Mumm."
   The girls are continuing to prepare for the Regional competition to be held in Beaver Falls, PA in June.

Islettes Win At Twirl Mania - 2009

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The dream of head Coach Heidi Sue Mumm of the Islettes Elite Majorettes was to take a team to a very special competition, the famed Twirl Mania (Feb. 13-16), where twirlers are offered a chance to compete with others from all over the nation and the world at the renowned Wide World of Sports complex in Disney World Orlando. To read about this fantastic dream-come-true for not only Coach Heidi Sue, but for her students and parents, see Islettes Win At Twirl Mania. Several photos and complete results are included.

Twirlers Compete At Disney World - 2008

2008 Twirlmania Soloists (left) Shelbi Milkas, Rebecca Sobol, Heidi Sue Mumm
(front) Heather Murray at Epcot

The 2009 Twirlmania Islettes Mouseketters Team Top Row: Colin Stutz, Madi Buczkowski, Shelbi Milkas, Katrina Buczkowski, Samantha Kenyon, Molly Wynne, Alissa Bailey, Rebecca Sobol Forth Row: Anna Nicolia, Miranda Veech, Leah Stutz, Bethany Wynne, Alyssa Fuoco, Stefani Rhodes, Laura Dolan, Macaila Mitchell, Coach Heidi Sue Mumm Third Row: Emily Fuoco, Emily-jo Scheffler, April Mott, Julie LaValee, Second Row: Erin Tierney, Ashley Giambra, Joelle Scheffler, Biranna Hayes, Alexis Tierney, Heather Murray Front: Abigail Casey, Jenna DuQuin, Kate Giambra

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    Three Grand Island twirlers from the Islettes Elite traveled to Disney World in Florida earlier this year to compete in the famed Twirl Mania competition at the Wide World of Sports Complex. Rebecca Sobol, Shelbi Milkas and Heather Murray joined Coach Heidi Sue Mumm and hundreds of twirlers from around the world to compete in various solo events including the Miss Twirl Mania prize (consisting of modeling, twirling and strutting).
   A highlight for the twirlers included twirling in the Disney parade down Main Street USA. After the competition, the girls enjoyed a few days of play in the parks.
   Coach Mumm also participated in the event as a contest judge.
   This February a large contingency of Islettes and their families plan on attending Twirl Mania 2009 to compete in team events for the first time, along with various solo events. They will participate in the Electric Lights Parade as a team. Fundraising is underway (including Great American magazine sales, Chocolate House candy bars, Tupperware, Zappa Snacks, etc.) to assist the twirlers in the dream to participate and twirl at Disney World. The Islettes greatly appreciate the support of their families, friends and business community im assisting with their goals.

Islettes Elite Awards Banquet - 2008

(left) Rebecca Sobol and Emelie-jo Scheffler National Corp Princess
(right) Award Winners pictured: Coach Heidi Sue Mumm, Jay Giambra, Rebecca Sobol, Alyssa Fuoco, Katrina Buczkowski, Shelbi Milkas, Bethany Wynne, Ashley Giambra, Emily Kurtzhalts and Katelyn Giambra

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   The Islettes Elite gathered at Trinity Methodist Church on Sunday, October 5, 2008 for what they refer to as the ‘night of nights’: the annual awards banquet and celebration. Each member of the Islettes including twirlers, guard members and volunteers, were honored for their participation and achievements throughout the season. Each youth member received an award highlighting their accomplishments. Marching Style excellence awards were given to Eden Johnson, Makenna Scalise, Brianna Hays, Jessica Surace, Joelle Scheffler, Laura Dolan, Maddy Buczkowski, and Matthew Hays. Showmanship accolades went to Abigail Casey, Abigail Krull, Victoria Aronica, Claire O’Connor, Julianna Passarelli, April Mott, Jenna Demer, Anna Nicolia, Stefani Rhodes, and Alissa Bailey. Routine Master status was earned by Katelyn Giambra, Emily Kurtzhalts, Julianne LaVallee, Heather Murray, and Samantha Kenyon.
   Corps Spirit was given to Jordyn Giambra, Amanda Passarelli, Emily Fuoco, Katrina Buczkowski, Rebecca Sobol, and Colin Stutz. Leadership awards where earned by Jenna Giambra, Ashley Giambra, Beth Wynne, Alyssa Fuoco, Shelbi Milkas and Ashley Dragonette. Most Improved was presented to Jenna DuQuin, Allison Dragonette, Sarah Bazemore, Olivia Johnson, Alexis Tierney, Miranda Veach, Emelie-jo Scheffler, Leah Stutz, Molly Wynne and Kaila Veach.
   Distinguishing awards of honor voted upon by the team members were given to those whose potential and dedication to the team makes him/her invaluable to his/her unit: the Tiny Tot’s ‘Starlette’ award was received by Katelyn Giambra while Emily Kurtzhalts received the Juvenile’s ‘Shooting Star’ award. The Rising Star award went to Ashley Giambra and the ‘Shining Star’ award went to Bethany Wynne. The senior’s ‘Super Star’ award went to Shelbi Milkas. The ‘All Star’ Award (presented to a national team member) was won by Katrina Buczkowski.
   Given by the team members to a member that has been an outstanding example to his/her fellow members, young and old, and who has been a positive role model both in and out of the team is the ‘Most Valuable Islette’ award and it was presented to Miss Alyssa Fuoco.
   Miss Rebecca Sobol was honored to be selected for the ‘Fred Mumm VIP - Very Important Person Award’. The coveted ‘Director’s Award’ award is given by Coach Heidi Sue Mumm to a member who has exhibited excellence in achievement, responsibility and effort. This season the honor went to Mr. Jay Giambra.
   As attendance is so important to team sports, top attendance winners were honored. As their award, they will be joining Miss Heidi for a fun filled day at Pumpkin Village.
   In appreciation for their special contributions to the team honors went out to Don Kenyon, Cindy Wynne, Sue Murray, Ginger Stutz, The Stutz Family, Cindy and Rob Wynne, Ann DuQuin, Mike Rhodes, The Mott Family, Cheryl Bailey and Jay and Carol Giambra. The Warm & Fuzzy award also went to the Mott Family for all their support and work promoting the Islettes Elite.
   A special thank you went to Jan Mumm. Rebecca Sobol and Emelie-jo Scheffler were honored for their win at Nationals and were given sashes for Senior and Juvenile Corps Princesses USA. Miss Lady Bugs were also honored which included Emily Kurtzhalts, Ashley Giambra and Bethany Wynne.
   Special recognition was given to the senior line who placed 1st at the Peach Festival Parade in Lewiston. Accolades also went to teaching staff, parent coordinators, parent volunteers and chaperones.
   The new season of the Islettes begins Thursday, Oct 9, 2008 with practices at the old Trinity Church. "We are pleased to welcome new members to the 2008-2009," a spokesman for the group said this week. For additional information, contact Miss Heidi Sue Mumm at isletteselite@aol.com.

Grand Island High School Vikingettes Place 2nd at Nationals - August 2008

(left photo) Molly, Rebecca, Shelbi and Alissa are joined at AYOP by twirlers Samantha Kenyon and Alyssa Fuoco
(center photo)Molly, Shelbi, Alissa, Mr. Williamson, Rebecca and Mrs. Wynne - The Vikingettes were pleasantly surprised when their science teacher showed up to cheer them on! Mr. Williamson was conducting research at the University of Notre Dame this summer.
(right photo) Grand Island Vikingettes are (back) Molly Wynne and Shelbi Milkas; (front) Alissa Bailey and Captain Rebecca Sobol
   The Vikingettes, Grand Island High School’s new baton team, traveled to South Bend, Indiana this past July to compete at the AYOP Competition (America’s Youth on Parade). As the most prestigious twirling event of the year, AYOP brings together the best baton athletes, teams and corps for a series of National and World Championship contests. The national event was held in the Athletic and Convocation centers on the University of Notre Dame campus.
   New to AYOP this year was the 2008 USA High School Twirling Championships. The Vikingettes twirled to a mix of Celtic inspired tunes bringing home second place in the High School Line, Dance Twirl contest.
   The team is under the direction of high school teacher Cindy Wynne. In addition to the high school event, each girl competed in solo competitions, and as members of The Islettes Elite Majorettes of Grand Island, directed by Heidi Sue Mumm.

Islettes Compete In National Baton Twirling Championships - 2008

(kneeling) Rebecca Sobol; (first row) Joelle-yvette Scheffler; (2nd row) Jena Demer, Heather Murray; (3rd Row) Emily Fuoco, Leah Stutz, Bethany Wynne, Emilie-jo Scheffler; (4th row) Anna Nicolia, Alyssa Fuoco, Stefani Rhodes, Laura Dolan; (5th row) Maddy Buczkowski, Shelbi Milkas, Katrina Buczkowski, Samantha Kenyon, Molly Wynne, Alissa Bailey; (top) drummer Colin Stutz and Coach Heidi Sue Mumm

(left) Islettes Rebecca Sobol and Emilie-jo Scheffler were awarded the prestigious Corps Princess of the Year award. (right) Alissa Bailey and Jena Demer represented the New York in the Miss Majorette of America beginner pageant (Not shown) Maddy Buczkowski represented NY in the Advanced Pageant.

Jena Demer won 1st place in Jazz Solor for her interpretation of Dorothy in "The Wiz"

The Islettes Drill Team received a 1st place team win - (front) Joelle-yvette Scheffler, Heather Murray, Emilie-jo Scheffler, Jena Demer, Molly Wynne, Emily Fuoco; (2nd row) Alyssa Fuoco, Anna Nicolia, Leah Stutz, Laura Dolan; (3rd row) Alissa Bailey, Shelbi Milkas, Stefani Rhodes; (top) Rebecca Sobol, Samantha Kenyon, Molly Wynne; (standing) drummer Colin Stutz and Coach Heidi Sue Mumm<br> Click photos for larger view

Members of the Islettes Elite All Star National Team competed in the America's Youth On Parade (AYOP) championships in July 2008. See "Islettes At AYOP" for story.

Islettes Elite Basket Raffle, Ice Cream Social - 2008
The Islettes Elite will host a basket raffle and ice cream social tonight (Thursday, July 10) from 6-8 p.m. at Trinity UM Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road.

Islettes Reunion - 2008
An Islettes Reunion for all past and current members of the Islettes Elite is being planned for Saturday, August 23, 2008. Email IslettesReunion@gmail.com for further information.

Islettes at Regionals - 2008

Back: Alissa Bailey, Rebecca Sobol, Samantha Kenyon, Shelbi Milkas, Alyssa Fuoco, Katrina Buczkowski;
Middle: Emilie-jo Scheffler, Heather Murray;
Front: Maddy Buczkowski
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   The weekend of April 25th, nine members of Grand Island's own Islettes Elite Majorettes traveled to Beaver Falls, PA to compete in the North Atlantic Regional (NAR) Baton Twirling competition. They participated in the annual event in both team and solo events against twirlers from New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
   The team, coached by Heidi Sue Mumm of Grand Island, took 1st place in all three group events entered including: NAR Half Time Pompon Jr. Division, NAR Small Dance Twirl Senior Advanced and NAR Small Dance Twirl Beginner Senior.
   Solo highlights in various age divisions and levels included Alissa Bailey (13-15) 1st place in Open Intermediate X-strut, 2nd place in Advanced Best Appearing and NAR Adv. Basic strut, and 3rd place in Open Advanced Modeling. Maddy and Katrina Buczkowski received a 2nd place in the NAR Duet Twirling Competition. Earning a 1st place in the NAR Nov X-strut, 2nd & 3rd in Open Nov Strut and 3rd Beg Open Modeling was Alyssa Fuoco (13-15). Heather Murray (10-12) received a 1st place in NAR Beg. Modeling, 2nd NAR Beg Military, 2nd in NA Beg Regional Military strut and 3rd place in the NAR Novice Pageant (consisting of solo twirl, strut and modeling with interview). Emilie-jo Scheffler (7-9) earned a first place win in open solo beg 7-9, placed 2nd in NAR regional xstrut and 3rd in NAR regional solo both beg 7-9. Emilie-jo also won a 2nd place in Open Beg. X-Strut and 3rd in NAR Beginner Pageant (consisting of solo twirl, strut and modeling with interview). Rebecca Sobol (16+) 1st Adv Open Basic Strut, 1st place NAR Adv. Military strut, 3rd place in Advanced Modeling.
   Samantha Kenyon (13-15), and Shelbi Milkas (13-15) participated in both team and solo events. Unfortunately, Miss Milkas cracked her hip bone during one of her solo performances and was unable to participate the remainder of the weekend, proving baton twirling can be a strenuous and demanding sport. Our best wishes go out to Shelbi for a speedy recovery and a quick return to baton.
   These girls along with nine others will travel to South Bend Indiana in July 2008 to compete in the National Championships.

Islettes Host Miss Majorette of NY - March 2008
   The Islettes Elite took on a monumental task of hosting the Miss Majorette of New York Competition at Williamsville North High School on Sunday, March 30th. The Islettes parent volunteers, under the Direction of Heidi Sue Mumm, were responsible for designing programs, tee-shirts, providing food, decorations, tabulating and results board and various other tasks, while their children competed in the full day of individual and group baton twirling events. The annual competition attracts twirlers from around the state, participating in an historic pageant; highlighting the combined skill of modeling, interview, twirling and strutting.
   Five Island girls shined as they were awarded Miss Majorette sashes as pictured: Alissa Bailey, Beg. Junior; Alyssa Fuoco, Novice Junior; Anna Nicolia, Novice Preteen; and Alison Ewert, Beg. Little Miss Majorette of New York. Also Islander Miranda Proctor won Nov. Little Miss Majorette of New York. Other non-resident winners included Jenna Demer, Beg. Juvenile; and Maddy Buczkowski, Junior Miss Majorette of New York.
   For excellence in modeling and interview skills, the following Islettes were crowned Rose Queen: Emilee-jo Scheffler, Adv. Juvenile; Heather Murray, Beg. Juvenile; Katrina Buczkowski, Adv. Preteen; and Maddy Buczkowski, Adv. Junior Rose Queen.

Islanders Alissa Bailey, Alyssa Fuoco, Anna Nicolia and Allison Ewert (not shown Miranda Proctor) were awarded trophies and sashes in the Miss Majorette of New York Pageant
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Islettes solo participants with awards and medals earned at Miss Majorette of New York Back row: Maddy Buczkowski, Stephanie Rhodes, Alyssa Fuoco, Alissa Bailey, Samantha Kenyon, Shelby Milkas, Rebecca Sobol, Molly Wynne, Katina Buczkowski 3rd row: Clair O'Connor, Heather Murray, Jenna Demer, Emilee-jo Scheffler, April Mott 2nd row: Emily Fuoco, Julianne LaVallee, Bethany Wynne, Leah Stutz, Anna Nicolia, Laura Dolan Front: Brianna Hays, Joelle-yvette Scheffler
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   In Team Events the Islettes' Elite won the Junior Parade Corps Championship, Junior Street Corps Championship and the Junior Beg. Large Dance Twirl Championship.
   The proceeds of the event will assist the Islettes National Team in their trip to the National Baton Championships this summer. "We would like to thank the many local sponsors who assisted us with donations and advertisements. A special thank you to our many solo coaches, our special team coach, Miss Heidi Sue Mumm, and the team's adopted Grandmother, Janet Mumm.
   The girls are continuing to prepare for the Regional competition being held in Beaver Falls, PA at the end of the month. The National team is also looking forward to participating in the National and World Championships in Indiana this summer and at Disney World next February.

Islettes Enter State Twirling Championships - March 2008

(front left) Heather Murray, Clair O’Connor, Joelle-yvette Scheffler; (middle) Emily Fuoco, Bethany Wynne, Leah Stutz, Emelie-jo Scheffler; (back) Laura Dolan, Shelby Milkas, Stefanie Rhodes, Alissa Bailey, Molly Wynne, Samantha Kenyon, Rebecca Sobol, Anna Nicolia
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Islettes New York State Queens Shelbi Milkas, Alissa Bailey, Rebecca Sobol and Emilie-jo Scheffler (front). Not pictured: Katrina Buczkowski
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   Despite the snow storm and inclement weather, dozens of twirlers from across the Empire State descended on Williamsville East High School to participate in the New York State Baton Twirling Championships on Sunday, March 9th. Grand Island’s own Islettes Elite were present to compete in team and solo events.
   This was the first time that the championships where held in the Western New York area and the Islettes Elite team proudly received a 1st place in Jr. Parade Corps, Beg. Jr. Lg. Dance Twirl and Adv. Sr. Large Dance Twirl.
   New York State Queens were named for their expertise in modeling and interview skills including Islette members Alissa Bailey, Katrina Buczkowski, Shelbi Milkas, Emelie-jo Scheffler, and Rebecca Sobol.
   The Islettes solo twirlers excelled in New York State Events and received 1st place rankings in the following events:
Alissa Bailey (13-15 age group): beg solo, int. X-strut, advanced basic strut, and beg military strut
Maddy Buczkowski (13-15 age group): advanced X-strut, and adv solo
Shelbi Milkas (13-15 age group): beg X-strut
Heather Murray (7-9 age group); novice military strut
Emelie-jo Scheffler (7-9 age group): beg solo, advanced flag, beg X-strut, int. basic strut, intermediate military strut, beg hoop and show twirl
Joelle-yvette Scheffler (0-6 age group): beg flag
Rebecca Sobol (16+ age group): intermediate solo
Leah Stutz (10-12 age group): novice solo, and novice military strut
   Laura Dolan, Alyssa Fuoco, Emily Fuoco, Brianna Hays, Samantha Kenyon, April Mott, Anna Nicolia, Molly Wynne and Bethany Wynne also participated and placed very well in several NYS and open events.
   The Islettes Elite team is coached by Heidi Sue Mumm and the soloists are taught by a variety of local twirling instructors.
   The team and the soloists are now hard at work rehearsing and practicing for the prestigious Miss Majorette of New York competition which will be held at Williamsville North High School on Sunday, March 30 and hosted by the Islettes. The public is always welcome to come and watch and learn about the sport of baton twirling.

Islettes Awards Celebration - 2007

Shown front left are Emily Fuoco, Joelle Scheffler, Makenna Scalise and Claire O’Conner; (back) Beth Wynne, Brianna Guagliano, Rebecca Sobol, and Alissa Bailey; (Top) Coach Heidi Sue Mumm. Missing from the photo are Kevin Kemp and Paul Duquin
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   The Islettes Elite gathered at Trinity Methodist Church on Saturday, September 22, 2007 for what they refer to as the ‘night of nights’: the annual awards banquet and celebration. Each member of the Islettes including twirlers, guard members and volunteers were honored for their participation and achievements throughout the season. Each youth member received an award highlighting their accomplishments: Showmanship awards were given to Izabella Thompson, Allison Dragonette, Sarah Bazemore, Cloey Olkowski, Natalia Andriaccio, Laura Dolan, Molly Wynne, Ashley Dragonette, and Eric Scalise. Corps spirit awards went to Abigail Krull, Claire McCaffery, Gillian Worrall, April Mott, Maren Russell, Emily Fuoco, Samantha Kenyon, and Leah Stutz. Awards for excellence in marching style were given to Katelyn Giambra, Alexis Kowalak, Julianna Passarelli, Amanda Passarelli, Anna Nicolia, Alissa Bailey, Leanna Lang, Stefani Rhodes, and Hayleyann Seal. Leadership awards went to Lysette Withrow, Joelle Scheffler, Jessica Surace, Jordyn Giambra, Beth Wynne, Rebecca Sobol, and Colin Stutz. Routine masters were Jenna Giambra, Emily Kurtzhalts, Claire O’Connor, Ashley Giambra, Emelie-Jo Scheffler, and Shelbi Milkas. Makenna Scalise, Biranna Hays, Olivia Johnson, Erika Seal, Julianne LaVallee, Heather Murray, Ashley Young, Alyssa Fuoco, Brianna Guagliano, and Matthew Hays received Most Improved awards.
   Distinguishing awards of honor voted upon by the team members were given to those whose potential and dedication to the team makes him/her invaluable to his/her unit: the Tiny Tot’s ‘Starlette’ award was received by Makenna Scalise, and Joelle Scheffler received the Juvenile’s ‘Shooting Star’ award. The Rising Star award went to Claire O’Conner and the ‘Shining Star’ award went to Emily Fuoco. The senior’s ‘Super Star’ award went to Alissa Bailey. The ‘All Star’ Award (presented to a national team member) was won by Brianna Guagliano.
   Given by the team members to a member who has been an outstanding example to his/her fellow members, young and old, and who has been a positive role model both in and out of the team is the ‘Most Valuable Islette’ award and it was presented to Miss Bethany Wynne.
   Mr. Kevin Kemp and Mr. Paul Duquin, step fathers to Islette members, were honored to be selected for the ‘Fred Mumm VIP- Very Important Person Award’.
   The coveted ‘Director’s Award’ award is given by Coach Heidi Sue Mumm to a member who has exhibited excellence in achievement, responsibility an effort. This season the honor went to Miss Rebecca Sobol.
   As attendance is so important to team sports, top attendance winners were honored. As their award, they will be going to the corn maze this coming weekend for an evening of fun.
   The team said thank you to their Coach and Team Leader, Miss Heidi Sue Mumm, by presenting her with a gift certificate to a spa for much needed pampering after a long season.
   Special recognition was given to the Senior line who placed 1st at the Peach Festival Parade in Lewiston. Accolades also went to teaching staff, parent coordinators, parent volunteers and chaperones.
   The new season of the Islettes begins Thursday, Oct 4th, 2007 with practices at the old Trinity Church. We are pleased to welcome new members to the 2007-2008. Contact Miss Heidi Sue Mumm at isletteselite@aol.com for additional information.

Islettes Compete at National Championships - 2007

Islettes Elite All Star Team: (Back Row) Brianna Guagliano, Samantha Kenyon, Rebecca Sobol, Shelby Milkas, Alissa Bailey, Molly Wynne, Leanna Lang, Coach Heidi Sue Mumm; (middle row) Stephanie Rhodes, Laura Dolan, Natalia Andriaccio, Anna Nicolia, Ashley Young, Alyssa Fuoco; (front Row) Emily Fuoco, Emilie-Jo Scheffler, Joelle Scheffler, Heather Murray, Bethany Wynne, and Leah Stutz (not pictured Master Colin Stutz)
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Miss Majorettes of New York: Alissa Bailey and Rebecca Sobol
   The Islettes Elite traveled to South Bend, Indiana to compete in National Baton Twirling Championships beginning July 16. The week-long event was held at the famed Notre Dame University athletic complex with over 5,000 twirlers from all over the country and the world participating in both team and individual events in national and world championships.
   It was a long and hard week of competition and the Islettes Elite All Star team was rewarded with the following placements:
Beginner Dance Twirl Team Small Senior 1st, Rifle Junior 1st and 2nd, Rifle Juvenile 2nd, Drill Team (freestyle) 2nd, Flag Corps 4th, Parade Corps 6th, Dance Twirl Small Beginner Juvenile 7th, Twirl Team Large Beginner 8th, Junior dance line 8th, and Junior Pom Pon Team 10th.
   Islettes team coaches attending event included Coach Heidi Sue Mumm, Chelsea Russell and Rebecca Sobol.
   Islettes Elite team members Alissa Bailey and Rebecca Sobol represented New York in the Miss Majorette of America competition in their respective age groups and levels competing in modeling (with interview), X-strut and twirling.
   Many individual metals were earned by Islette team members in their specific age groups and ability levels including:
Natalia Andriaccio - 10th in rifle
Alissa Bailey - 2nd in sabre, 5th in solo twirling, 5th in rifle, 8th in solo dance, 8th in flag baton and 9th in color guard
Laura Dolan, Anna Nicolia and Alyssa Fuoco -6th in dance trio
Alyssa Fuoco - 8th in sabre
Samantha Kenyon - 9th in rifle Shelbi Milkas and Rebecca Sobol - 5th in dance duet
Heather Murray - 9th rifle
Stefani Rhodes - 7th sabre
Emelie-Jo Scheffler - 2nd flag baton, 3rd rifle, 4th hoop baton, 4th dance solo, 5th 2 baton, and 9th solo twirling
Joelle Scheffler - 2nd hoop baton, 2nd flag baton, 3rd dance solo
Rebecca Sobol - 2nd pageant modeling (w/interview) and 8th rifle
Colin Stutz - 1st multiple toms, 2nd multi drums and 4th in snare
Leah Stutz - 7th rifle and 9th sabre
Beth Wynne - 6th corps princess
Molly Wynne - 8th corp princess and 10th sabre
Ashley Young - 8th rifle.
   The Islettes Elite express their thanks to all of their sponsors and supporters including Fuccillo Chevrolet. A special thanks to all their families and friends who supported them during their countless fundraising events. The Islettes Elite very appreciated chaperones and parent supporters include: Ginger Stutz, Sue Murray, Judy Nicolia, Meg Dolan, Cheryl Bailey, Lisa Guagliano, Eric Scheffler, Cindy Wynne, Ann and Paul Duquin, Mr and Mrs. Lang, Judy Kenyon, Meranka Andriaccio, and Heather Murray’s grandparents. Joining the Islettes Elite team in special events are Maddy Buczkowski, Katrina Buczkowski, Chelsea Russell and Jenna Demer.
   Watch for the Islettes at the Niagara Falls Air Show, Erie County Fair, Toy Fest Parade in East Aurora and the Peach Festival in Lewiston. The Islettes will begin a new season in early October 2007. Contact Miss Heidi Sue Mumm for more information at isletteselite@aol.com.

Miss Grand Island Majorettes Named - 2007

2007 Miss Grand Island Majorettes pictured (left left) are Joelle-Yvette Scheffler and Emelie-Jo Scheffler; (back) Alyssa Fuoco, Rebecca Sobol and Alissa Bailey
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   The Islettes Elite hosted a Spring Twirling Festival on Sunday, May 1st. The day-long event attracted twirlers from the region to compete in solo as well as group events. Miss Heidi Sue Mumm, the coach of the Islettes Elite, also served as contest director and organizer.
   A pageant was held during the event to name 2007 Miss Grand Island Majorette and was open to Grand Island residents only who competed in modeling and solo twirling to earn the title and tiara.
   Joelle-Yvette Scheffler was crowned Little Miss Grand Island Majorette, Juvenile Miss Grand Island Majorette is Emelie-Jo Scheffler, Pre-Teen Miss Grand Island Majorette was awarded to Alyssa Fuoco, Junior Miss Grand Island Majorette is Alissa Ann Bailey and the Senior Miss Grand Island title went to Rebecca Sobol.
   This event helped raise much needed funds for the upcoming national championships in South Bend, Indiana in July. "Thank you to all the parent volunteers for their participation and help with all aspects of the event. Your efforts are making these girls dreams become reality," a spokesman for the group said this week.

Islanders Compete For Miss Majorette of New York - 2007

(left) Katelyn Benns, Rebecca Sobol, Alissa Bailey, Molly Wynne and in front Allison Ewert
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   The Island’s own twirling athletes were awarded the coveted Miss Majorette of New York the past weekend at a state wide competition held at Williamsville North High School. Winners included Alissa Bailey (Beg 13-15), Katelyn Benns (Beg 10-12), Allison Ewert (Beg 0-6), Rebecca Sobol (Int 16+), and Molly Wynne (Nov 13-15). They were presented trophies and sashes after competing in three events (solo twirling 40%, modeling with interview 20% and strutting 40%) for a combined total granting them the title of Miss Majorette of New York. Each state winner is eligible to go on to the Miss Majorette of America held in South Bend Indiana this July at the famed Notre Dame University to compete with other state and regional title holders from around the country.
   Bailey and Sobol are coached by Kelli Russell of Williamsville and Wynne is coached by her teammate Rebecca Sobol of Grand Island. The twirlers are members of the Islettes Elite directed by Heidi Sue Mumm. Ewert is coached by Judy Evens of Niagara Falls and is a member of the Niagara Royalettes. Benns is a soloist coached by Lisa Wasson Rivera of Lewiston.
   Islanders, Alissa Bailey and Allison Ewert were also crowned Rose Queen for outstanding modeling and interview. They received a sash, trophy and tiara for their efforts.
   Other Island athletes who competed for Miss Majorette of New York included Emelie-Jo Scheffler, Erika Ewert, Shelbi Mikas, Joelle-Yvette Scheffler, Emily Fuoco, Heather Murray, Bethany Wynne, Laura Dolan, Alyssa Fuoco, and Anna Nicola.
   Emelie-Jo Scheffler win in Miss Majorette solo and Alyssa Fuoco wins in Miss Majorette modeling and solo twirling where recognized with 1st place metals.
   The Islettes Elite National Team competed in group events including pom-pom, dance twirl and parade corps.

Island Twirlers Compete In Twirlmania Contests at Disney World - 2007

Rebecca Sobol and Alissa Bailey compete at the Milkhouse in the Wide World of Sports Complex - (right) Awards ceremony held on the stage of the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular at Disney-MGM Studios

Alissa Bailey, Heidi Sue Mumm and Rebecca Sobol celebrate after the parade in front of Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom
(right) Alissa gets a hug from Tigger.

Heidi Sue Mumm judges soloists at the Milkhouse.

Click photo for larger view
   Island athletes Alissa Bailey, 14 and Rebecca Sobol, 16 competed at Twirl Mania in the Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida February 16–19, 2007.
   The event included soloists and teams from around the world competing in the sport of baton twirling. Over the four-day event the girls competed for the title of Miss Twirl Mania in their respective divisions and age groups. Other open events included solo twirling, X-strut, basic strut, military strut, and best appearing.
   Alissa Bailey brought home a 2nd place medal in military strut and a 4th place medal in auxiliary rifle solo. She also placed 6th in Miss Twirl Mania. Rebecca Sobol earned a 2nd place medal for basic strut among the thousand twirlers attending. The awards ceremony was held on the stage of the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular in Disney-MGM Studios.
   Miss Heidi Sue Mumm, coach of the Grand Island Islettes Elite, was selected from judges across the continent to travel to Orlando to adjudicate various events at the prestigious competition.
   As part of the ‘Year of a Million Dreams,’ Heidi Sue was granted a wish come true when she was given the special privilege to live her dream by marching in the Disney Parade down Main Street USA with the teams and soloists including Alissa Bailey and Rebecca Sobol and other young twirlers from around the world.
   The girls' solo coach is Mrs. Kelli Russell who also attended the event to support her athletes.
   After the competition all enjoyed time in Walt Disney World for fun, celebration and a magical time.

Islettes Star Fire Performs - 2007

Members of the The Star Fires are (front) Alissa Fuoco, Stephanie Rhodes, Alissa Bailey; (back) Shelby Milkas, Molly Wynne, Rebecca Sobol, Samantha Kenyon
Click photo for larger view
The Star Fires, an elite assembly of twirlers from the Islettes premiered their group number at a twirling competition on Sunday, February 11, 2007 at Williamsville East High School. Set to the tune Ramalama (Bang Bang) the Islettes wowed the crowd with their unique style and zombie like costuming and make up. Comments from the judges included ‘awesome exchanges’, ‘cool music’ and ‘good teamwork’. The group will continue to prefect their routine in hope of performing at the national competition in South Bend, Indiana in July.
The team is coached by Heidi Sue Mumm and choreography for the routine was done by world renowned twirler Chelsea Russell. Members include; Alissa Bailey, Alissa Fuoco, Samantha Kenyon, Shelby Milkas, Stephanie Rhodes, Rebecca Sobol and Molly Wynne.

If you are a member of this organization, we need your help. GIECOM.Net has partnered with the Connections program to help Grand Island as a community "Get it Together." Please visit our website G-I-Together.ORG and fill out our SURVEY. Every group on Grand Island will have its own FREE web page showing: meeting times and location, contact persons, your mission statement and a listing of events. We will also be linking your news events that appear in the local media and on IsledeGrande.Com, Grand Island's E-News Source, to your page, maintaining an archived journal of pictures and news. This is the perfect opportunity for your group to connect with potential new members and the community.