At 10:25 a.m., the Black Foxes and Marching Storm flooded the campus with sounds of the cymbals, chants, bass and snare drums. All in celebration for the press conference officially announcing the band into the 120th Tournament of Roses Parade on Jan.1, 2009, in Pasadena, Calif.
The press conference was held at the flagpole in front of the A.I. Thomas Administration. The band opened up, as Jasmine Dixon gave the welcome and introduction of guests. In attendance was the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade President, Mr. Ronald “Corky” Conzonire, along with his wife of 45 years, Marilyn. President Wright provided campus greetings, as Mayor Frank Jackson followed with city greetings. Conzonire and director of the band Professor George Edwards followed with remarks, as the band closed out the program with a variety of songs.
At noon, a luncheon was held in the president’s dining hall. “It was incredibly wonderful, the people are so nice, anything you need they go out of their way. The students also helped make the experience great,” said Conzonire when speaking about his trip to Prairie View. “I love the band’s enthusiasm, exciting music, and I know everyone’s going to get excited when they come to the parade. They will be the first band marching in the parade. I want the band to have a great time, and when you march around the corner, remember that view for the rest of your life.”
Professor George Edwards was elated to have such an honor bestowed upon the Marching Storm. “It’s indescribable, it’s a dream and fantasy that came to life. Something you dream up as a kid, and when it comes to life, it makes hard work worthwhile,” Edwards said.
Edwards spoke of the hard work it took for the band to receive such a reward. “It never stops, the dues are monumental, but the rewards are as good as it gets. They may not be monetary, but how do you put a price on pride? Most people apply, but we got invited.”