MVHS Band/Orchestra Students Perform In San Diego

By VICTORIA PRAY

Moapa Valley Progress

MVHS band and orchestra students pose for a photo after performing on board the U.S.S. Midway in San Diego, CA during a recent trip taken by the group.

Members of the Moapa Valley High School band and orchestra programs travelled to San Diego over Thanksgiving weekend for a combined performance in the area. On Monday morning, November 26, the students had the rare opportunity to perform on the U.S.S. Midway for its veterans and daily visitors from around the world.

After the group was finished playing on the Midway, the students got to either take a self-guided tour of the ship, or to be guided by a retired service volunteer. One of these tour guides was Glenn Casey. Casey was the co-pilot on the “Old 66” helicopter that pulled the Apollo 12 astronauts out of the Pacific Ocean on November 24, 1967. He described the moment as “one of the greatest moments in my life, to be able to get the astronauts and then afterward meet them.”

The students enjoyed his stories, especially knowing he was part of such an historical event. He helped them to feel like they were there in the moment with him.

After taking a tour on the U.S.S. Midway, the group stopped at Seaport Village for some Christmas shopping and lunch. Then they loaded the bus to go to the Old Town San Diego Historical Park. There, students had the opportunity to visit museums, historical sights, and stores, and eat at one of the many restaurants in the area.

On Tuesday, the students boarded the bus for the historic oceanfront amusement Belmont Park. They were able to ride rides, eat carnival food, and take lots of pictures at the many photo booths and stands.
From there the students went to the San Diego Harbor to board a dinner cruise that took them around San Diego Bay.

Later that evening, they went to the historic Old Globe Theatre to attend The Grinch, A Musical, a tradition for the San Diego’s holiday season for 20 years.

After the play, the group traveled north to Valencia, stayed the night, and woke up early to go to Magic Mountain theme park before heading back home.
“I couldn’t have asked for a better group of kids to take on this trip,” Delgadillo said. “I am so grateful for the students’ dedication. They have made me a proud teacher by showing how well they can represent Moapa Valley High School and show such great respect for the men and women that serve our country.”

The trip was a success and the opportunity to have the students share their talents in California was great.