Wake Up! Waukesha

A small Christmas tree appeared outside my office this afternoon. 18" tall, it was fairly non-descript. Two or three strands of lights, and I felt the pressures of the afternoon lift ever so slightly. What a nice feeling!

It's the Holiday Season!

My mind drifted from the ever-present emails and blinking voice-mail light. A warm spirit was intruding into my workspace, and I welcomed this much-needed change. I realized that Cindy and Trisha and others were sending their own signals via that tree. When I finally emerged, most had left for the day. The tree lights were uplugged. As I exited, my eyes took notice that other areas in the offices were in the process of holiday transformation as well. The need or desire to decorate had obviously taken hold.

My usual drive home includes an "all-call" home to alert them to my imminent arrival. That time is also spent in review of the day while planning the AM of the next day. The goal? - Purge the workday memories and come home "fresh". Too often, "fresh" is a matter of degrees.

Today's drive was different. I was deeply appreciative others were restoring a balance to the workday madness of late. Tomorrow loomed brighter. The day's reflections were solely centered on my memories of Christmases past. I think I surprised my wife by getting a few chores done willingly. There was enough energy left to write this blog!

That little ol' 18" tree really had an impact!

Now I can't wait for the personalized Christmas stockings with the surprise daily treats in them...

Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday wrapped with warm memories of years past. This year, add Packers football, family, a 4-day holiday (for many), and "Black Friday" shopping.

There is one more "experience" for the family, friends, and participants involved in the WSMA State Marching Band Championships held recently in Whitewater. Waukesha District programming on channel 13 will be showing the performances of the Waukesha South, West, and North Marching Bands numerous times beginning this Holiday weekend.

Enjoy these incredible performances and marvel at the quality of the performances. They truly reflect the adage - Practice...practice...practice!

While enjoying this show, please take a moment to recognize that the filming and editing to get this show to the airwaves was also done by high school students! Numerous students from the West telecommunication classes were involved and this is a showcase of their work. The "Education Connection" series is a remarkable collaboration between the Waukesha School District and the Waukesha Education Foundation. With software provided by grants from the WEF, these students bring the face of education that much closer to the Community at large.

 Search out the WSMA Band finals on channel 13 and add one more memory to your list of Holiday experiences!

The Waukesha Education Foundation held it's third "Celebration of Excellence" on November 4th. The theme: "Today's Students  -  Tomorrow's Stars!". This Event brings the Community together in an incredible outpouring of support for the students in our community. Business people, students, parents, elected officials, teachers, administrators,and more came to Waukesha North and were treated to an educational, colorful, and entertaining evening,

The student-driven Hall of Excellence gave us "oldsters" a peek into the happenings within the Waukesha School District classrooms. Beaming and eager to talk, these students brought their programs alive for the visitors and charmed us all in the process. They also gained a little insight in the "How to's" of preparing a trade show program and display. Definitely a "win-win" for all.

Waukesha North graciously hosted the event and their Northstar State Marching Band Champions blew the roof of the fieldhouse after dinner! Student's interacted and served dinner, tended water glasses,and brought the face of education that much closer to each table. Honorees included the WEF "Partners in Education" Heidi Laabs, and Jill and Gary Beres from Culver's - Waukesha. Former Waukesha School Board President Mr. Bill Domina presented Superintendent Mr. David Schmidt with a recognition for David's vision and support for the WEF - A standing ovation followed.

Auctions, raffles, and more completed the evening and sent attendees home commenting on "the students..."   There was little doubt that we were truly in the company of ..."Tomorrow's Stars!"