Sean Kelly

Hey, my name is Sean Kelly. I am the Section leader of

Drum line for our school. The trip to Washington D.C. was an honor we were proud accept.

We toured all over the city, including the Washington Monument, the Thomas Jefferson Monument, the Smithsonian Museums, and Vietnam Memorial.  I realized what sacrifices were made in order for us to have our freedoms. Then came parade day...which turned out to be awesome :D! We were doing a pretty good job throughout the parade, but right as the spot light hit us as we marched towards the president, we lit that place up. It was great to represent Colorado,  and I hope that we made everyone proud of us. There is no better way to graduate than knowing that we have accomplished as much as we have throughout this year. Thank you everyone for your support and donations.  I felt as if all of Colorado was there in Washington with us.  We could not have done it without you.  Thank you,

Sean Kelly

Kyle: Giving it Our All

This is Kyle Stolz!!! Band this year was by far my most memorable and favorite experience that i have ever had. In my mind, this band is my family. We have been through good and bad times. After Laramie it seemed like all we wanted to do was quit but we knew it was just us speaking out of being so tired. Every band member this year gave it their all. I have respect for everyone in this band. They are definitely my family. I will miss every one whether they're a senior or an underclassman. I would also like to thank our wonderful band directors Mr. Drase and Mrs. Claeys. They helped form this wonderful band and now look at us. If anything they deserve all of the credit for all that our band has done this year.


[Kyle was a member of the "pit" during the season and switched to marching cymbals for the inaugural parade. Like many other band members, he helped raise funds for the trip. The top photo shows him outside King Soopers.]

Priscilla: On Early Practices

Our biggest challenge getting ready for this trip was waking up early for more of those zero hour (7 am) practices. My favorite practice before leaving for DC was the last one, because it was the last one and now I'll be able to sleep a little longer again.

When we get to DC, I'm looking forward to going to the Smithsonian because it is so big and has so many interesting things to see.

[This blog entry was dictated enroute to DC. Priscilla plays the flute. At some point, I need to follow up with her and ask whether getting up at 4 or 5 am in Washington has affected her thinking about sleeping in until 7! Priscilla also wins the award for appearing in the most photos with Governor and Mrs Ritter.]

Katrina: On Flag Twirling

When we're twirling our flags, we have to be really "snappy" with our motions. It's important to be precise so we look good. That can be hard. I think the Visual Ensemble improved a lot over the season and our confidence increased. When we won State, I was kind of shocked. In fact, everyone seemed shocked and then we started moving around and congratulating people and being excited. It was amazing. I'm really glad we got picked to go to Washington. I hope we do good and don't make mistakes in front of the president.




[Katrina Hocking is a freshman member of the Visual Ensemble. She originally dictated this blog entry enroute to DC.]

Paul: Drumline

The drumline is very hard work compared to most musicians because we have to do different marching techniques than everyone else in the band such as crab walking (side-to-side stepping). Being with other musicians who share the same instrument was fun.

My mom was one of the people who came up with the idea of trying to get this band to Washington DC. She comes up with lots of ideas. Sometimes you think, "No way". And then her idea turns out to be a good one.

[Paul Fuerstenberger often helps move instruments other than his own on and off the field at MB competitions. He also added a certain excitement to the band directors' morning on Inauguration Day -- they know what I mean! ;^) His mom, Pat, is in the picture below with Paul and Governor Ritter.]

Ben: Stars and Stripes

Being part of the marching band is kind of a new experience for me. I was part of a band in Middle School but nothing quite like this. Going to Washington DC and being amongst greatness on this level is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and it is very exciting. Carrying the American flag in the parade is an honor. The flag symbolizes the country and is our band's connection to the President. I'll remember this forever.

[Ben Martin is a remarkable singing talent, sings in WHS vocal jazz and choir groups, and had the starring male role in the WHS production of "Anything Goes". During the MB season, he narrated the Four Freedoms.]

Connor: Band Awesomeness

Hi, its me Connor, the really really tall trumpet. I just wanted to let all you guys reading this know that this was, by far, the best band year....no...the best year of my life so far thanks to all of the amazing oportunities presented by working with such an

awesome group.

I really couldn't ask for a more enjoyable and

memorable senior year, and its not even over yet! I love all of you and hope that you have successful and long full lives :)

[Connor Netherton is quiet and unassuming but strikes a pose while playing and marching that epitomizes the "Pride of Windsor".]

Brian: The Other Award

If there was an award for the longest 5 days of sleep deprivation and mediocre meals, we would be taking 1st.

[Brian Hasstedt is a mellophone player and has a quirky sense of humor. I asked him to write a blog entry with a twist!

After our Monday evening formal dinner, Brian was called upon to get the members of the Visual Ensemble smiling for their photo shoot. He performed a bit too brilliantly and had the young ladies squirming and laughing in tears by strutting around, imitating a British chicken squawking 'Allo Gubnah'.

He may have slept through the dinners because most people thought they were very good ;^)]

Rachelle: United we Stand.

It's my senior year, and I must say it has been like a dream. Our band has achieved unbelievable things this year from taking the State Championship title to being selected for the Inaugural Parade, to getting record numbers of students into Nortern League Honor Band and All-State. And what is the secret to our success? Our band stands united, and everyone is focused on a common goal and the vision of excellence and pride laid out by the directors and staff. Our band can do anything, overcome any obstacle, and reach any height because despite our differences, we stand together. We're in this together and I take comfort in knowing that 100 or so band members, staff, directors and parents all have my back. And not only do we have each other, but we have the community of Windsor supporting us. We are immeasurably grateful; we couldn't have made it to Washington DC without our town.

So I was asked to write this blog not only to reflect on the year a little but also on the banquet we had the night before the Inaugural Parade. We all dressed up tht night and everyone looked abosolutely beautiful. We enjoyed an amazing gourmet chicken dinner, and we all just spent the evening relaxing and reveling in comradery. That night we also voted on different awards, one of which I received (section leader). I'm honored, and I'd expecially like to thank my section of saxophones: BJ, Christian, Neal, Alex, Michael, Joel, Connor, Geoff, and Anna. You guys are an absolutely fantastic group of individuals. I appreciate you so much.

To the whole band staff: I love you all, I have you in my heart, and it has been an honor.

[Rachelle was not only voted "Exemplary Section Leader" by the saxaphone players but also received the Director's Award by Matt Drase and Melissa Claeys for her accomplishments and contributions to the band in general. In her junior year, she also was a drum major.]

Geoffrey: A Great Experience

The parade experience for me was great. I loved the support we got from the crowd, Windsor people and strangers alike. It was also amazing we got to march in the parade for the first African-American President. It was a great time. I got to see a lot of neat sights and enjoy DC. It was great that we pulled together as a band and pulled this off.

[Geoffrey plays the alto sax and has been inspired to try out for section leader next year. In the photo, he shares a laugh with snare drummer, Sarah Elens.]

Larissa: Freaking Fantastic

Being a senior, this whole season has just been freaking fantastic. Looking back to my freshman year, I would have never seen myself where I am now. Especially with the DC trip. It was the most amazing experience I have ever experienced ... yeah. Anyway, I'd like to thank the community and everyone who supported us. I know we wouldn't have done what we did without you. I'd also like to let my fellow band members know that I love all of you so much. You all helped make my senior year as awesome as it was. I think of you all as family. Also, Drase and Claeys, I love you two. You are such a good team. I would follow you both into battle (or battle of the bands ... ha ha ha.) I'll miss everyone, but don't worry I will come back and visit.

Larissa Saxton

[Larissa plays the mellophone. During her junior year, she also was a drum major. She has a hysterical sense of humor and her friends used to call her 'Bob'.]

Wendy: Sweet Toppings

I never thought Pennsylvania Ave would be closed off for me, a small town, big dreams girl. This was the extra sugar sprinkles on top of the frosting of the 7-layered cake of my senior year. It was amazing to travel with my favorite people to one of my favorite places.

Back in May when the tornado hit, my mind had not the imagination to fathom this year. We had all our winning competitions and then we won the state championship, a feat in itself! Who needed Washington? Obviously, they needed us ;^).

I just want to thank my amazing community along with all of the parents, directors, and donations that made this once in a lifetime opportunity possible. Without you guys, our chances would be unobtainable.

I love you all! Wendy Jones.

[Wendy is a senior and captain of the Visual Ensemble. Her leadership, positive spirit and winning smile will be missed.]

Daniel: CBS Early Show

Hi, this is Daniel Kelly

It was cool to be in front of the capitol. this is a picture of me at attention when we were on CBS Early Show . It was really awesome because there could have been a man in china watching me/us then. It was major uber coolness

Inauguaration evening

Jan 20 approximately 8 PM. (This is the third of three blogs about inauguration day. To read in order scroll down to "Inauguration Morning".)

After the long but wonderful day, we loaded onto the busses and went to the Kennedy Center For Performing Arts where we ate at the cafeteria. There was an observation deck which wrapped around the outside of the building so we could go outside for a nice cold view.

This is Mrs Kacmarsky with three of the eight students for whom she was responsible. The are (from left to right) Vince R, AH, and Daniel K.

After dinner we went back to hotel, packed up the uniforms and instruments and loaded up the truck. Everyone went right to bed. We have a 5 AM wake up call and we leave the hotel at 6 AM for our flight out of Baltimore......we are axpected to arrive at DIA around noon wednesday.

Inauguration afternoon/parade

Westin coming off parade route at the end. The kids had early day, late night and another early day tomorrow. So I will just get some pics up for you to see and sort out some other time as it is really late here and we are up again at 5 AM to make our flight.

Student Comments can be added in the future

Another shot - this one of VE.

Rear half of band. For the most part, the students said they hardly noticed the cold. A large band from Florida was staying in our hotel and they had difficulty dealing with the cold - were not really prepared.

Several students including Chris P and Cody N coming off the route. They were so happy and excited.

Inauguration morning

(Posted by Sue kelly)

jan 20....approximately 6:30 AM. Well another early day, ate and got on the busses. The bus left in the dark so this is the best picuture - just wanted to give you the sense of how early the band left. It was quite cold.

This is a picture from the stands loooking away from parade towards the security gate. To prevent crowding and crushing, many people were kept off the pared route. This included thousands who had purchased tickets to get into bleacher seat. Several in our group had bleacher seats and were lucky enough to get through security. Many bleacher seats were empty because the people outside could not get in to their seats.

The parade was delayed quite a bit, so by the time WHS passed, it was already dark. This was the best shot I could get. I think Tom Moos hass a better one...I just wanted to get something on line tonight for you to see.

As Im sure you saw yourself...the band performed fabulously. They sounded much stronger than I had anticipated.

Here's another view

Evan, Kyle and Betsy Markey

(January 20 approximately 11 AM) Heyyyyyyyy, family and all! That's me, Evan. Yes, my smile is kinda goofy. Today we went around and toured all of the memorials and monuments after getting up at the insane, ridiculous hour of 4:00 ( I got up at 4:30). It was sobering to think about all of the tragedies that were experienced in the Korean and Vietnam Wars... that's my tidbit of the day.

(Evan on the right here) She liked my shirt. Betsy Markey, one of Colorado's representatives, liked my Leonardo shirt. What a nice lady!

Hi this is Kyle and I am to the left of Betsy Markey!!! (on her right side). It was really awesome to meet Betsy Markey. She was really interesting and unbelievably polite. I look forward to future visits and conversations with her and the other Colorado representatives...... I also would like to thank my mom, aunt andy, and all of the other people who helped me get here!!!!!!!!

Gym Practice

After touring the monumets we headed out to practice some more. Here is the VE practicing in a local gymnasium. We had planned to go outside, but it just started snowing. And though the weather is very cold, we are actually more concerned about keeping our uniforms in excellent condition for our performance tomorrow. So practice was inside. There is a huge Martin Luther King Celebration Program going on concomittmantly in this school.

After getting up at 4 AM ( see earlier post) playing for TV, then touring, and then practicing.....the band was pretty tired. There were few minutes to rest while waiting for GovernorRitter. The floor was a little hard, but everyone was able to get comfortable. This arrangement looks a bit like a basket weave?

Here is Sarah Posing with Governor Ritter. The Governor and Mrs. Ritter came to our practice site today at luchtime. The band gave a private performance of two 0f the "Four Freedoms" for the Governor and Mrs. Ritter. The Governor spoke to us and told us how proud he was of us. He said that the story of how Windsor overcame the tornado was inspirational, and that there is a sort of parrallell to what is going on in America today. He said the country can work together to overcome obstacles. Governor Ritter took the time to shake the hand of every WHS Marching Band member and posed for pictures with many of us. Mrs. Ritter posed with us too. They were so gracious and nice, and made everyone feel very special.

Chelsea: Infrequent Flyer

It was a really bumpy flight and I felt a little light-headed during the takeoff and landing but it was a fun experience while we were up in the air. I'm looking forward to seeing the Pentagon becuase I've seen it in the movies and I think it would be a fun place to visit.

[Chelsea plays the flute in the Marching Band. She said this was only her 2nd time flying. -- Editor]

Monday January 19

MONDAY JANUARY 19. 6AM We woke up bright and early at 4 AM , grabbed our box breakfast and boarded the busses to go to the National Mall for an appearance on CBS The Early Show. It was quite cold - upper 20s which in the East feels much colder than in Colorado. The mall was fairly empty due to the early hour. After warming up our insturments and stretching our bodies we played on and off for approximatly a half hour. We mostly stood still and we were inthe background for the entire first half hour of

Here is the drumline practicing in front of the Washington Monument. The Washington Monument is on the west end of the mall and the capitol is on the east end....so depending on which way you take the picture, you have one or the other as the background. (I think if you click on the picture it wil enlarge to see faces.?) Here you can see Travis, R.J., Paul, ...., and Dallas. The producers were

Here is the trombone section to the right and trumpets to the left. You can see the capital building in the rear of the picture.

We proudly displayed the American Flag and the Colorado State Flag. This show required a long period of standing in the freezing cold.

The Bethesda Marriott

Checking in Saturday, January 17.

The Trip to Washington.

The trip began bright and early as students showed up at the High School at 6:00 am Saturday, Jan 17. The cooridors outside the bandroom were congested with the approximately 100 travelers completing luggage tags, eating breakfast, and performing the carefully orchestrated steps to ensure a complete and smooth departure.

The students boarded school buses for the drive to Denver International airport. We had a police escort out of town which was very exciting. Getting the royal treatment ain't all bad!

At DIA the students picked up lunch at one or another of the concourse "diners". The excitement in the waiting area grew as the the students first learned they had been invited to play for the Early Show on CBS on Monday morning. The downside? Waking up at 4:15 am to don uniforms and ride the buses from the hotel to the Washington DC Mall. The vast majority figured the cost was well worth the extra moment of fame.

[Twins Renae and Kayla Walker enjoy a light-hearted moment at DIA while awaiting the plane]

The trip was very smooth. We ate dinner and now are settled in all snug at our hotel. It is soo exciting to be here and to be part of history.



The trip was very smooth. We ate dinner and now are settled in all snug at our hotel. It is soo exciting to be here and to be part of history.

Thank you to all for your help and support and a special hello to all of you following our blogs - hopefully we'll get some good pictures tomorrow!!! We have practice in the morning tomorrow. Good night!

Daniel Kelly

my name us daniel kellly. i play the trombone and it is fun. this is going to be awesome and thank you for all of your donations and everything. it is very much appreciated. that pretty much sums it up, and once again thank you

Investments

Financial advisors encourage investing in the future. But sometimes, the future can invest in the present.

Grandview Elementary School received a surprise visit by WHS Marching Band drum majors, Megan Minear and Tyler Mayle who visited music teacher, Sue Loucks' first period 5th grade music class. The drum majors taught the kids how the band is called to order and directed them in the William Tell Overature. Several in the class indicated an interest in joining the high school band programs someday. Who knows? A little investment by these WHS leaders today may have inspired some future band leaders!

The four elementary school principals, David Grubbs (Grandview), Dan Cox (Mountain View), Tammy Seib (Skyview), and Dan Seegmiller (Tozer) coordinated a "loose change" drive with the music staffs at their respective schools. The high school and middle school have also helped with similar fundraising. A big thanks to all the students in all the schools for their generous help!

The Grandview 5th graders thanked their "Pride of Windsor" visitors by presenting the proceeds of Grandview's fund raising drive. The "future" in fact invested in the "present".

Loading The Truck

Here we are loading the instrument truck.  It left this morning and is being driven across the country by the Loftus family.  The rest of us fly out early tomorrow morning and will meet up in Bethesda Maryland....probably in the evening.  Safe driving Monty and Cindy!  We heard today that Congresswoman Markey is going to join us for dinner on Sunday and that Governor Ritter will come see us rehearse on Monday morning.  We are so honored and proud!!!  make sure you follow along as we intend to continue posting blogs so you can enjoy this trip too!!!!