20 DECEMBER 2024 By Rachael Bouley With the opportunity to attend an Imagination Campus Performing Arts Workshop on the horizon, the Spirit of Arcadia Marching Band is raising funds for a field trip to California – and, more specifically, to the Happiest Place on Earth. Arcadia Instrumental Band Booster President Tess Calvert explained that the instrumental workshop would be a great source of inspiration for the band, which has earned five state titles in the last eight years. “Unfortunately, we weren’t able to compete this year due to our smaller numbers, but we’re working hard to rebuild the program and aim to be back in competition next year,” Calvert said. “In the meantime, the band has been performing at football games and delivering a halftime show.” As part of those efforts, the Disney fundraiser aims to support and grow the band program while helping students pursue their passion for music through a renowned instrumental workshop. “Students get to experience a professional recording studio environment, work with industry experts, and learn valuable musical skills,” Calvert said. “This trip is about encouraging our students to dream big, develop their talents, and see what’s possible through their dedication to music.” The AHS marching band, including the color guard, has 32 students. They show up for early morning practice four days a week and perform at every football game, even though they didn’t have the chance to compete this year. Calvert believes the students’ unwavering commitment proves they will make the most of their trip, where they will learn advanced skills such as ensemble performance and intonation. “The Disney Imagination Campus workshop is an incredible opportunity for our students to be inspired and see where their passion for music can take them,” Calvert said. “This trip enhances their musical abilities and teaches teamwork, focus, and perseverance – skills they’ll carry into school and life.” During the workshop, students will study and exclusively play Disney music to learn what it’s like to work in the music industry. They will be treated as professionals, which Calvert hopes will boost their confidence and give them insight into how far music can take them. “Disney is the trip we all look forward to every two years,” senior drum major Cora Reiter said. “We get to play music and enjoy the park, but the hardest part is raising the money to go. I hope we reach our goal this year!” With every donation bringing them closer to their Disney dream, the band is grateful for ongoing community support to ease the financial burden and fuel their dedication. The funds – while supporting the trip – will also help them buy music, hire choreographers, build props, and pay for entrance fees. The goal is $12,000; as of mid-November, they have raised close to $4,000. “Add to that the costs of feeding the band after long, exhausting days and renting U-Hauls to travel, not to mention the countless hours spent packing, unpacking, and performing in over 100-degree heat,” Calvert said. “It’s a labor of love, and everyone – students, parents, and volunteers – works incredibly hard to make it happen.” While they work toward reaching their goal, the band is eager to keep building and inspiring the next generation of musicians, with many marching band students participating in upcoming middle school visits and zero-hour Jazz Band practice next semester. “We miss being out there and can’t wait to bring the energy and excitement back next year,” Calvert said. app.fanangel.com/campaigns/4436/ Help Spirit of Arcadia Marching Band meet its $12K goal! After boosting school spirit with football halftime shows, the Spirit of Arcadia Marching Band has started a fundraising campaign for an instrumental workshop at Disneyland. PHOTO COURTESY OF TESS CALVERT

N O W – D E C 3 1 Enjoy a month-long holiday extravaganza featuring stunning décor, the best in dining and shopping, and more than 45 incredible events! oldtownscottsdale • #SCOTTSDAZZLE Check out the dazzling event lineup SCOTTSDAZZLE.COM JOLLY TAMALES COOKING CLASS Marshall Way Bridge · 7124 E Stetson Dr Saturday, Dec 7 | 11:00 AM – NOON Barrio Queen brings the delicious flavors of its authentic, Mexican cuisine to Scottsdazzle with a hands-on tamale and guacamole cooking class, led by Chef Mata. SCOTTSDAZZLE STROLL Scottsdale Waterfront Canal Bank Saturday, Dec 7, 14, 21 | 6:00 – 9:00 PM With live music leading your step, grab a sweet treat and stroll along the canal gazing in awe at the live entertainment and capturing memories in front of the 36-foot Scottsdazzle tree. PANCAKES & PAJAMAS WITH SANTA Marshall Way Bridge · 7124 E Stetson Dr Saturday, Dec 14 | Various times Kids of all ages are encouraged to wear holiday-themed pajamas for a festive breakfast that features a meet and greet with Santa Claus, dance performances and crafts. HOLLY JOLLY DIY DÉCOR Marshall Way Bridge · 7124 E Stetson Dr Saturday, Dec 14 | 2:00 – 5:00 PM Enjoy live holiday music while professional artists from Scottsdale Artists’ School lead attendees in decorating and creating their very own unique holiday decoration. PEPPERMINT PLAZA Entertainment District Saturday, Dec 14 | 9:00 – 11:00 PM The bars and clubs in the Entertainment District add a dash of spice to your night with peppermint-themed cocktails, discounts and street entertainment. 21+ SPARKLE & SPIN SCAVENGER HUNTS Marshall Way Bridge · 7124 E Stetson Dr Sunday, Dec 15 and Saturday, Dec 21 | 9:00 – 11:00 AM Discover Old Town in a whole new way! This holiday headscratcher invites guests to hop on their bikes and spin around Old Town for a seasonal scavenger hunt. SHOW STOPPER SHAKE Hotel Valley Ho Sunday, Dec 15 – Saturday, Dec 28 | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Indulge over a Scottsdale favorite, the iconic Hotel Valley Ho “Show Stopper” Shake. It’s an over-the-top delight with house- made ingredients piled on top. CANDLE POURING CLASS Marshall Way Bridge · 7124 E Stetson Dr Sunday, Dec 15 | NOON – 1:00 PM Join Light + Bark Candle Co. during this interactive workshop where guests select and blend their favorite holiday scents to create a beautiful 9-ounce custom soy candle. DAZZLING MAGIC SHOWS Marshall Way Bridge · 7124 E Stetson Dr Sunday, Dec 15 | 3:00 & 4:00 PM Master Magician Craig Davis presents a 45 minute, highly entertaining show, packed with comedy and remarkable performances that will keep spectators on the edge of their seats. PUBLIC MENORAH LIGHTING Soleri Plaza · 4420 N Scottsdale Rd Sunday, Dec 29 | 4:30 – 6:30 PM Join Chabad of South Scottsdale for a family-friendly evening celebrating Hanukkah.