Utes still need $65,000 for a D.C. trip

The Marching Utes are more than halfway to collecting the necessary $150,000 to make it to the presidential inauguration in Washington, D.C.

A tentative itinerary has been set up for when the Utes arrive in Virginia, thanks to University of Utah alumnus Sherm Smith, who has spent countless hours arranging transportation and housing options for the 128-member band.

"I wouldn't say I'm crazy-hysterical, but I love the team and the university, so why not put this together for them," Smith said. He's excited for the group to experience a historical event by participating in the parade, and he's included a tour of Gettysburg for them as well.

The university needs only to finalize a chartered flight for the band to Washington Dulles International Airport, where the plan is they'll fly in Jan. 18 and be taken by bus to an LDS stake center in Leesburg, for staging. Members of Smith's stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints will be housing the Utes for the two nights they're in town.

"There are some University of Utah supporters out here and a lot of people with ties to Utah, and I'm sure they'll be willing to help how they can," he said. Smith happened upon a sudden cancellation of three buses out of New Jersey and immediately contacted the U. to book the available transportation.

"The entire system is built around buses," Smith said. "They're going to need a bus to get anywhere in D.C."

In addition to Smith's help, the band has received more than $85,000 in gifts and donations, which puts them well on their way to making history.

Two local eating establishments have committed to donate a portion of their proceeds next week and hundreds of fans have already stepped up.

Applebee's locations in Utah, from St. George to Ogden, will donate 10 percent of earnings throughout the day Monday. The following day, Tuesday, Cold Stone Creamery will give the Utes a portion of sales made from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at locations in Utah, Salt Lake, Davis and Tooele counties.

The University of Utah marching band has received just over $85,000 in gifts and pledges since an invitation was received last weekend to play in the presidential inauguration parade .

"This is an amazing honor for the University of Utah and the students who work so hard throughout the year," said U. band director Brian Sproul. "It is a privilege for the state of Utah to have a representative at this historic event, and if we are fortunate enough to take part, we will make everyone proud."

Hundreds of parade entries, representing nearly all 50 states, will march down Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House, following President-elect Barack Obama prior to his official inauguration on Jan. 20.

The band needs another $65,000 to get there and donations can be made online at www.utah.edu, or by calling 800-716-0377.

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E-mail: wleonard@desnews.com