WSHS marching band surprises Lake Ridge supporter with a visit

In previous years, the Woodbridge Senior High School homecoming parade would mass at the intersection of Deepford Drive and Governors Court in Lake Ridge. But changes imposed on the parade route shortened the parade, which made a longtime Lake Ridge resident sad.

This fact was brought to the attention of Nancy Ro, president of WSHS Band Boosters, Inc., by Lake Ridge resident Raymond Battistoni during the band’s annual Tag Day in September.

Mr. Battistoni, who lives on Deepford Drive, expressed his disappointment with parade organizers for adjusting the starting point for the parade.  His complaint…he has donated to the band since he moved to this neighborhood in 1979 but he no longer gets to see or hear the band now that the parade route has been adjusted. Would the band, he asked, come to his street and perform?

On Oct. 12, 2012, the Woodbridge homecoming parade commenced, continuing a 47-year tradition.  Mr. Battistoni’s wishes came true as the Might Viking Marching Band played in front of his residence and posed for pictures with him as a way of saying "thank you" for his continued support throughout the years.

The band played several musical pieces including the traditional WSHS fight songs, "Tthe Horse" and "On Wisconsin," as well as selections from their award-winning field show, including the themes from Batman and Beetlejuice by composer Danny Elfman.

Mr. Battistoni truly appreciated the band's performance in front of his home and is still hopeful that the parade route will be adjusted to its original starting point.  This way Mr. Battistoni can enjoy the parade from his front porch.