Back   New band director proves to be an asset 
    by Johanna Gray, Staff Writer ~~ Monahans News ~~ October 1, 2004

The Monahans Loboes' new band director is an asset to the organization according to Margie Shawn, Twirling coach.  "The kids really like him; he is young and energetic." Margie said.

"Mr. Whitaker is really cool.  The band has improved a lot," said Brianna Andrews.

"He is a very good motivator.  He is really nice and cool.  The band has gotten a lot better," said Shayla Skinner.  Both are band students at Monahans high school.

Jeff Whitaker was born and raised in Andrews, Texas.  He went to Angelo State for 5 years before graduating in 2001.

He then taught as Assistant Director at Midland Lee High School before coming to Monahans.

"I learned more from Randy Stories in the 3 years that I was at Lee than I did in all of college." said Whitaker.

Jeff was in the band playing tuba through Jr. High, High school and college.  He now plays the baritone, a smaller version of the tuba.  He explains the main reason he uses it is because it is easier to move and teach with.

During high school Jeff Doughten, Whitaker's band director, told him he would make a good director.  Whitaker said he thought Doughten was crazy.

"Ray Lashaway is a big part of what I am doing.  He made me love being in the band.  Dois Pace, and Jim Harvey were also big influences.  Good teachers make a big difference in high school," Whitaker said of his former high school teachers.

"Dan Gibbs came over to Lee late in the year telling me me would love to have you.  It was a big step up for me so I took the job."

"Gibbs has been invaluable to me.  He is a big part of what we are doing.  He deserves a lot of credit," added Whitaker about the former MHS band director.

Whitaker went on to speak of the kids.  "The kids are what makes it work.  This is an Incredible group of kids.  With a group like this you can do anything.  I love them all to death.  They are wonderful.  It makes my job easier because they want to be here.  That's neat."

Jeff is living alone and says he doesn't have a lot of time for fun.  He occasionally goes to Odessa for dinner and a movie and is currently painting his home.

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