For Immediate Release:

Saturday, December 6, 2008

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) congratulated the Evergreen High School Marching Band and Color Guard on being selected to perform at the Presidential Inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama on January 20th, 2008.

“This is so exciting for the students, teachers and parents of Evergreen High School,” said Senator Murray. “On January 20th, the Evergreen Marching Band will truly have a role in making history. The Evergreen Marching Band’s hard work, determined fundraising, and commitment to excellence earned them this recognition. I’m looking forward to them making our whole state proud as they perform for the nation.”

Bands wishing to participate in the parade submitted an application to the  Armed Forces Inaugural Committee (AFIC) which then assisted the Presidential Inaugural Committee in reviewing all of the groups’ applications. The AFIC utilized their expertise to help assess the presentation skills of marching bands, musical acts and drill teams. The Evergreen High School Band is the four-time winner of the Pacific Northwest Marching Band Title, and the winner of many other multi-state band competitions.

Senator Murray worked to help support the band’s efforts by writing to the Chairman of the AFIC to highlight their accomplishments and dedication to representing Washington state at the Inauguration.

The following is a copy of Senator Murray’s letter:  

November 21, 2008

Major General Richard J. Rowe
Chairman, Armed Forces Inaugural Committee
103 3rd Ave. SW
Fort McNair, Washington DC 20319-5058

Major General Rowe:

I am writing in strong support of the Evergreen High School Marching Band in their efforts to be included in the 56th Presidential Inaugural Parade.  I request that you please forward this letter to the Presidential Inaugural Committee, which will determine which schools may participate in this historic event.

As the four-time winner of the Pacific Northwest Marching Band Title, and the winner of many other multi-state band competitions, the Evergreen High School band has proved its excellence as a group.  It is well-traveled, having performed in Oregon, California, Canada, and even Hawaii, where it performed on the anniversary of the Pearl Harbor attacks. 

The Evergreen High School Marching Band’s dedication and initiative in seeking the honor of a place in the Inaugural Parade has been impressive.  It started fundraising in February, and it also involved the local community in its efforts, earning the support of the local American Legion.  Due to the band’s commitment, as well as its style and spirit, I am confident that it would be an excellent representative of Washington state on this momentous occasion.

I look forward to your consideration of the Evergreen High School Marching Band to participate in the 56th Presidential Inaugural Parade.

Sincerely, 

Patty Murray
United States Senate