They don't have all the money yet, but the University of Utah marching band says they are going to perform in Barack Obama's Presidential Inaugural Parade on January 20^th in Washington DC. Intense fundraising to get the band there is paying off!

The band is only about $14,000 short of their goal for this trip, and there's been an outpouring of support. The estimated cost for the trip is $154,000, which includes flights and hotel rooms for 130 band members.

Within days of returning from performing at the Sugar Bowl, the University of Utah Marching Utes had been invited to board another plane and march in the presidential inaugural parade in Washington, D.C.

"In the financial year that we've had with budget cuts and money being tight everywhere, there's no university money available to support the band. We'll have to rely on external sources," said Robert Walzel, director of the U. School of Music.

"It would be a great opportunity for our students to be able to represent the state in what looks to be a landmark event," he said.  Personally I believe the Athletic Department should have supported a bit of that funding as the band supports all the teams all year long.

But Ute fans are answering the challenge. Last night, Cold Stone Creamery held a fundraiser for the band. "We're season football ticket holders. We just wanted to support the band," said Cold Stone patron Jeremy Newman.

Applebee's restaurant and others have also done their part to contribute. So far, the Marching Utes think they've raised $140,000, and support keeps pouring in.

"It's history making, number one; our first black president and they get to go and be a part of that celebration, so I think it's wonderful," said Darline Christensen, who works at the University of Utah as reported by KSL-TV.

The $140,000 raised does not include tonight's efforts, which will certainly help. The band says they've already accepted the invitation, now they need Ute fans to pull through. Go Utes!

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