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LVW End-of-Season Farewell Supper

7/3/2025

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It's been a wonderful season and we'd like to celebrate! On July 4th the band will be returning to Kettle Moraine Lutheran High School right around supper time. We will be ordering hot fried chicken and invite any parents and siblings who are intending to pick their band kids up to join us for this final meal.  (This meal is not intended for extended family as the Friends and Family Day meal was.)

So that we can plan for accurate food count, we would like to know how many are planning on eating.  It is only necessary to fill out the form below if you plan on eating. 

The meal will include water and lemonade, fried chicken, mac and cheese, and...watermelon!  We are asking for a $5 donation per person (cash or check only, please) to help cover the cost of the meal. A collection for this donation will be received at the event.  Current LVW members do not have to pay.
Farewell Supper Sign Up
Schedule for July 4

  • 6:30 AM  Wake Up, shower, eat breakfast
  • 7:15 AM  Change into uniform
  • 7:45 AM   Buses arrive KMLC
  • 8:00 AM   Load Buses
  • 8:15 AM   Depart for Cedarburg Parade Line Up (Ozaukee County Fairgrounds on Washington Ave)
  • 8:30 AM Arrive line up, unload, warm up.  Buses go to the parade disband area (TBD)
  • 10:00 AM Cedarburg Hometown Parade begins - LVW is #48 in this parade
  • 11:30 AM Parade ends.  Load and travel to Hartford Parade Line Up 
  • 12:15 PM Arrive Hartford Parade Line Up.  Lunch served at the line up area.  Buses go to the parade disband area.
  • 2:00 PM Hartford July 4th Parade begins - LVW is #47 in this parade.
  • 3:30 PM After Parade Ends - Load and travel to KML
  • 4:00 PM Arrive at KML - Change out of uniform.  Begin Packing.
  • 5:00 PM LVW End of the Year Family Picnic
  • 6:00 PM  Clean Facility, Pack, and Load
  • 7:00 PM Depart for FVL
  • 8:30 PM Arrive FVL.  There may be a stop in FDL along the way.

Transportation Home Following the Farewell Supper
Buses will be returning to FVL following the meal by approximately 8:30 PM.  It may be earlier pending the actual departure time from KML.  For all other schools, check with your transportation coordinator for arrival times following the parade. All of our non-FVL students are either riding with parents or will ride home with others from their area.   If you will be picking up your LVW member following the Farewell Supper, the pick up point will be Kettle Moraine Lutheran HS, 3399 Division Road, Jackson, WI 53037.  

Final Band Checkout
The LVW Members will meet as a group for Final Announcements before they will be dismissed.  That will be following the meal, and after the school has been cleaned and given the OK.  Please don't ask to take your children home unless there are circumstances which require an early departure.  We want the full band to be together for the final singing of the Doxology!

Checkout Procedures
If you are going to be picked up following the parade, and are not returning on the bus or with your school’s transportation, the following procedures MUST be followed:
1.  Your parents must pick you up where we are changing out of uniform. For this weekend, that will be on Friday, July 4, at KML If you are picking up your child at KML, you must be there when the band is ready to leave. If you are not there when the band is ready to leave, your child will come with the band.
2.   Your parents must check you out with the attendance chaperone from your bus. This must be done with you and your parent present.
3.  If your parents are not there when the band is ready to leave, you will come with us. We leave no one behind – EVER!
4.  You may not ride home with anyone else other than your parents UNLESS you have a written permission signed by your parents, and UNLESS that written permission is put into our hands. Parents may also email either Mr. Neujahr or Mr. Klemp, or text Mr. Neujahr at 920-740-3924 with that information.  Parents from KML may email Mrs. Hohenstein, and parents from MLHS may email Miss Scharf.  If you are bringing a signed note, DON’T FORGET THE NOTE AT HOME, because there are NO EXCEPTIONS!


End of the 2025 LVW Season - To God Alone Be The Glory!
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Information for July 1 - 4

6/24/2025

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Please refer to the previous post for information regarding June 26 - June 30, including packing lists, daily itineraries, bag lunch, worship, spending money, and so on.  The previous post also had information for the Lake Mills and Kenosha parades, as well as the trip to Great America.  Emergency contact numbers are also listed in the previous post.

We also kindly ask you to review the LVW Family and Friends - Parade Etiquette found on the homepage and also in this blog.  With so many parades coming up in the next week, we want to make sure that everyone is aware of what is acceptable before, during, and after parades.  Thank you so much for your cooperation!

Students from FVL, WLA, NLHS, Homeschool, and others who are riding (or are NOT riding) the buses from FVL to KML on Thursday are reminded to fill out the FVL Bus Plan form

Tuesday, July 1
Today is a rehearsal day.  We are also going to perform for the staff and residents at the Cedar Community in West Band.

  • 7:30 AM   Wake up, shower, eat breakfast
  • 8:30 AM   Rehearsal Day Begins
  • 12:00 PM  Lunch
  • 1:00 PM   Rehearsal Day continues
  • 2:15 PM   Load truck
  • 2:30 PM   Load Buses
  • 2:40 PM   Depart for Cedar Community
  • 3:00 PM   Arrive Cedar Community, unload
  • 3:30 PM   Warm Up and Concert
  • 4:30 PM   Load Truck and Buses
  • 4:40  PM  Depart
  • 5:00 PM   Arrive KML
  • 5:30 PM   Supper
  • 6:30 PM   Rehearsal
  • 9:00 PM   Devotion, Snack, Showers
  • 10:30 PM Lights Out

Performance at Cedar Community
LVW will be providing a performance for the residents at Cedar Community near West Bend.  Cedar Community is a retirement community offering everything from independent living to memory care.  Anita Cook, mother of LVW Color Guard member Helena Cook, is the Life Enrichment Specialist there.  She helped to coordinate our appearance at Cedar Community.  LVW will be playing their warm up music, drum cadences, and parade tunes for the performance.  In addition, the LVW members will be putting together some smaller ensemble groups.  A highlight of our performances at these kinds of communities is our opportunity to visit with the residents and the staff for a time.  The students enjoy that chance to "let their light shine" as we mingle and share a little about LVW, as well as listen to the stories and memories that the residents share with them.

A Special Note for Parents and other Friends of LVW -
 - This is not a public performance.  We want our members to give their entire focus to the residents of Cedar Community, rather than their families.  Some of you may have relatives at these homes, and if so, you are more than welcome to come and enjoy the performances!  One of the benefits of playing at retirement communities is that the kids will have that chance to mingle with the residents briefly following their performance.  Therefore, we kindly ask that you don't try to attend this performance (unless you have a relative there).  We thank you for your cooperation!

Wednesday, July 2
Today is a rehearsal day.  This evening LVW performs at the Rotary Music Festival Drum Corps Show in Cedarburg!

  • 7:30 AM   Wake up, shower, eat breakfast
  • 8:30 AM   Rehearsal Day Begins
  • 12:00 PM  Lunch
  • 1:00 PM   Rehearsal Day continues
  • 3:00 PM  Time to Shower, relax time, Load Truck
  • 3:30 PM   Change into Halves
  • 4:00 PM  Supper
  • 4:45 PM   Buses arrive at KML, Load
  • 5:00 PM   Depart for First Immanuel Lutheran Church and School.  
  • 5:15 PM   Unload.  Buses remain there until the show is over.
  • 7:00 PM   Rotary Music Festival Show Begins - LVW's performance time is 7:10 PM
  • 7:25 PM   Change out of uniform - go back to the stadium to watch the remainder of the show
  • 9:45 PM   Load buses
  • 10:00 PM  Depart for KML
  • 10:15 PM   Arrive KML, change out of uniform
  • 10:45 PM   Season-Ending Traditions, Handing out Crosses
  • 12:00 PM   Lights Out

Thursday, July 3
Today is a rehearsal day.  This evening we will be marching in the Menomonee Falls Independence Day Parade!

Menomonee Falls Independence Day Parade Staging and Parade Line Up Information
​
  • 8:30 AM   Wake up, shower, eat breakfast
  • 9:30 AM   Rehearsal Day Begins
  • 12:00 PM  Lunch
  • 1:00 PM   Rehearsal Day continues
  • 2:15 PM   Get into Uniform
  • 2:45 PM   Begin Taking LVW Group, Section, and School Photos
  • 3:30 PM.  Load Truck - change back into halves for the meal
  • 4:00 PM.  Supper (in halves)
  • 4:30 PM   Buses arrive KML
  • 4:45 PM   Load Buses
  • 5:00 PM   Depart for Bethlehem Evangelical Lutheran School, N84 W15252 Menomonee Ave, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051
  • 5:20 PM   Arrive Bethlehem Lutheran School, Unload
  • 5:30 PM   Parade Prep and Warm Up.  LVW is #18 in this parade.
  • 7:00 PM   Parade begins – Parade ends at Menomonee Falls HS, W142 N8101 Merrimac Dr, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051.  
  • 9:15 PM   Load buses and return to KML
  • 9:45 PM   Arrive KML.  Change out of Uniform
  • 10:15 PM  Devotion, Snack, Shower
  • 11:00 PM  Lights Out

Friday, July 4
Happy Birthday, America!  Today we conclude our season by marching in the Cedarburg July 4 Parade and the Hartford July 4 Parade.  We will say our goodbyes with a season-ending picnic before heading home.

Cedarburg July 4th Parade and Hometown Celebration
Cedarburg 4th of July Parade Route
Cedarburg Staging Information and Parade Line Up
Hartford Parade Staging Information and Parade Line Up.  Line up information also has the parade route information.

  • 6:30 AM  Wake Up, shower, eat breakfast
  • 7:15 AM  Change into uniform
  • 7:45 AM   Buses arrive KMLC
  • 8:00 AM   Load Buses
  • 8:15 AM   Depart for Cedarburg Parade Line Up (Ozaukee County Fairgrounds on Washington Ave)
  • 8:30 AM Arrive line up, unload, warm up.  Buses go to the parade disband area (TBD)
  • 10:00 AM Cedarburg Hometown Parade begins - LVW is #48 our of 79 units.  The Madison Scouts are #79.
  • 11:30 AM Parade ends.  Load and travel to Hartford Parade Line Up 
  • 12:15 PM Arrive Hartford Parade Line Up.  Lunch served at the line up area.  Buses go to the parade disband area.
  • 2:00 PM Hartford July 4th Parade begins - LVW is #47 in this parade.
  • 3:30 PM After Parade Ends - Load and travel to KML
  • 4:00 PM Arrive at KML - Change out of uniform.  Begin Packing.
  • 5:00 PM LVW End of the Year Family Picnic
  • 6:00 PM  Clean Facility, Pack, and Load
  • 7:00 PM Depart for FVL
  • 8:30 PM Arrive FVL.  There may be a stop in FDL along the way.

End of the 2025 LVW Season - To God Alone Be The Glory!

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LVW Camp #3 and Information for Lake Mills, Kenosha, and Great America

6/23/2025

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This post will contain information for the first half of our season-ending "tour", which will begin this Thursday, June 26, and will conclude with our final parades on Friday, July 4.  Information for July 1 - 4 will be posted separately.  That post will contain information for the final events of the season, including the Cedarburg show and parade, and the parades in Menomonee Falls and Harford.

First, our staff and members need to be commended for their work this past weekend!  Even though it was hotter and more humid than we have experienced so far this year (actually in MANY years!), they rose to the occasion and accomplished so much.  The main focus for the weekend was learning and memorizing the music and visuals for Fantasia in G, the final musical selection to be added for this summer.  Thankfully we had the full use of the FVL Campus, including both gyms and the Timothy Trout Sports Center.  That beautiful addition to the FVL Campus has become a vital space for our Color Guard to practice and is large enough for indoor visual rehearsals.  Our band did some work outside - mainly in the morning hours before the real heat set in - so that we could get used to the hotter and more humid weather which we will certainly experience before the season is over.

We also want to thank our volunteers for their continued work this summer.  Although we didn't have any parades this weekend, they worked diligently behind the scenes to make sure the camp progressed on schedule and as planned.  Thanks for Mr. Klemp for his continued work as head of volunteers and head chaperon; to Mrs. Klemp for her awesome work as our head of food service; her army of cooks, servers, food preparers, and dishwashers; to those that have donated food and other meal supplies; to Mr. Schmidt and Mr. Bonson for fixing and repairing LVW carts as needed for smooth operation; to Mr. Adrian and Miss McCabe for their work with the uniforms; and to everyone else who continues to support LVW with their prayers, time, and talents.

Ticket Information for the Rotary Music Festival, Wednesday, July 2

Tickets for the July 2 show in Cedarburg will be distributed digitally on Thursday or Friday, June 26 or 27.  The tickets will be sent to the email provided when reserving and/or paying for the tickets.  These digital tickets are your tickets to get into the show.  You will be able to print them or save them to your phone.  Please do not lose the tickets or the email that you will receive!  Once I have transferred your tickets, I will not be able to send them again.

Volunteer Spots for the Rest of the Season

The Volunteer sign up has been updated with needs for the rest of the summer.  There are plenty of spots open!   Pick your favorite spots before they get taken!

LVW Volunteer Sign Up Form

Summary of June 26 - June 30 Events

​LVW Camp #3 begins this Thursday, June 26, at 10:00 AM.  This camp, and the housing for the remainder of the season, will take place at Kettle Moraine LHS.  The band will remain together until the season ends on July 4.  They will need to pack for 8 days, one Concert Performance at the Rotary Music Festival, three parades in Menomonee Falls, Cedarburg, and Hartford, and an additional standstill performance for the residents and staff at Cedar Community in West Band.

Thursday, June 26 - Camp #3 begins at KML, 10:00 AM
Friday, June 27 - Camp #3 continues at KML, all day
Saturday, June 28 - Lake Mills Town and Country Days Parade, 10:30 AM (Free Time at the carnival following the parade)
Sunday, June 29 - Kenosha Civic Veterans Parade, 1:00 PM
Monday, June 30 - Trip to Six Flags Great America  

Housing and Emergency Contact Information:

Kettle Moraine Lutheran HS (Thursday, June 26 - Friday, July 4)
3399 Division Rd,
Jackson, WI 53037


Emergency contact information:
James Neujahr Mobile Phone - 920-740-3924
​James Neujahr Email - [email protected]

Mr. Timothy Klemp Mobile Phone - 920-948-4077
Mr. Timothy Klemp Email - [email protected]


Packing List

It is VERY IMPORTANT that you have your luggage, backpacks, sleeping bags, etc. LABELED WITH YOUR NAME and SCHOOL!  It is likely that, due to our packing situation on school buses, your gear will not all be together.  There will also be times when some gear must go on certain buses, and even certain bays underneath a certain bus.  So labeling your gear will be required.  Please get luggage tags or use another system that works for you.  THANK YOU FOR COMPLYING WITH THIS SIMPLE REQUEST!

1    Sleeping bag and pillow
2.  TWIN SIZE Air mattress (optional) - We are again asking our members to bring twin/full size air mattersses only.  No Double-wide Queen and King size mattresses allowed.  PLEASE CONSIDER OUR SPACE LIMITATIONS!
3.    ONE suitcase and ONE SMALL Carry-on bag (for bus travel and change of clothes) - PLEASE NOTE – we will have limited space for the the last week as we travel on school buses.  If your sleeping bag/pillow fit into your suitcase, please pack it that way.
4.    All personal items as needed (towel, soap and shampoo, change of clothes, shower flip flops, DEODORANT, etc.)
5.    BLACK SHOES AND SOCKS, BLACK A-4 COMPRESSION SHIRTS, BLACK GLOVES, GUARD APPAREL, ETC. (we have FIVE parades on this trip!).  It would be wise to plan on hand-washing your uniform socks/A4 shirts a few times on this trip.  Packing a small bottle of Woolite or laundry detergent would be a good idea.
6.    LVW 2025 Season T-Shirt - we will wear this as our "uniform" for the Cedar Community performance on Tuesday, July 1
7.    Instruments, music, etc.
8.    Water jugs, sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, comfortable marching shoes, hats, etc.
9.  Enough comfortable clothing for eight total days, which includes three full rehearsal days and several shorter rehearsals
10.  BAG LUNCH FOR THURSDAY, JUNE 26


Transportation to KML on Thursday, June 26

Two buses will be traveling from FVL to KML on Thursday, June 26.  FVL, NLHS, WLA, and Homeschool students should use this form, as well as any other riders that may be taking the bus.

On Thursday, June 26, students who are riding the bus should arrive at FVL no later than 7:45 AM to load luggage and instruments on the bus.  There will not be a truck, so all equipment will be loaded onto the bus.  The bus will leave promptly at 8:00.  The buses will stop at the Fond du Lac Kwik Trip (Hickory Street Exit) at approximately 8:45 AM, and will arrive at KML by about 9:30 AM.  The buses will then return empty, so don't leave anything on the bus!

If for some reason students are driving to KML and NOT taking the FVL bus, indicate NO on the bus question and then put the reason why in the space provided at the bottom of the form.  Students should have their parent send a text to Mr. Neujahr (920-740-3924) or send an email to Mr. Neujahr ([email protected]) with the permission to drive.  Students who may be riding with another student should ALSO have their parents send a text or email to Mr. Neujahr.

Students, Staff, and Volunteers who will be riding the bus should fill out the form at the link below.

FVL Bus Plan - LVW Camp #3 June 26 to KML

Worship Service

LVW will be holding a worship service at KML on Sunday evening.  Pastor Nate Wordell, from WLC, will be officiating that service.  He is the son of LVW Director Keith Wordell, and is also an LVW Alum!  We look forward to this special service.  Since the service will be held at KML, special clothing is not required.

June 26 - June 30 Daily Schedule and Itinerary

Thursday, June 26 - 2 School Buses from FVL to KML
  • 7:45 AM Arrive at FVL to load luggage and instruments
  • 8:00 AM Depart for Kettle Moraine LHS, 3399 Division Rd, Jackson, WI 53037
  • 8:45 AM Stop at Kwik Trip, Hickory Street Exit in Fond du Lac to pick up two riders, then continue to KMLHS
  • 9:30 AM Arrive KMLHS, unload.  
  • 10:00 AM Announcements
  • 10:15 AM Rehearsal Day Begins
  • 12:30 PM Bag Lunch
  • 1:30 PM Rehearsal
  • 5:00 PM Supper
  • 6:00 PM Rehearsal
  • 9:00 PM Devotion, Snack, Showers
  • 10:30 PM Lights out

Friday, June 27

Schedule will be similar to Thursday, with wake-up at 7:30 AM
Rehearsal continues all day, with Lunch at Noon and Supper at 5:00 PM
Lights out will be 10:30 PM

Saturday, June 28
Today the band is going to Lake Mills, WI to march in the Town and Country Days Parade.  We will also spend some free time at the carnival following the parade.  The band members will all receive $10 for their lunch to spend at the carnival.  This will be their only lunch, so the money is needed for food.  If they want additional spending money, please plan accordingly.

Legendary Lake Mills Town and Country Days - This link contains general parade information, festival information, and a map of the parade route.
Town and Country Days Parade Line Up

  • 6:30 AM Wake Up, Shower, Eat
  • 7:15 AM Change into uniform
  • 7:45 AM Buses Arrive at KMLHS, 3399 Division Road, Jackson, WI 53037
  • 8:00 AM Depart for Lake Mills, WI
  • 9:15 AM Arrive Lake Mills, WI.  Line Up for parade is on E Lake Park Place.  LVW is #42 of 75 units in the parade
  • 10:30 AM Town and Country Days Parade Begins.  Parade runs north on Main Street.  
  • 12:00 PM Change out of uniform at Lakeside LHS
  • 1:00 PM  Free Time at Commons Park - Lunch on your own - Purchased with the $10 we will give each member
  • 4:00 PM Load and depart for KMLHS
  • 5:15 PM Arrive KML
  • 6:00 PM  Supper
  • 7:00 PM Rehearsal
  • 9:00 PM Devotion, Snack, Showers
  • 10:30 PM Lights out

Sunday, June 29
Today the band is marching the Civic Veterans Parade in Kenosha, WI.  The link contains Civic Veterans Parade information and Parade Route Maps
Link to Parade Staging and Disband Area
Link to Parade Line Up - LVW is #1 in Division #1 out of Five Divisions

  • 7:00 AM Wake Up, Shower, Eat
  • 8:00 AM Short Rehearsal TBD
  • 9:30 AM Buses Arrive KMLHS to load
  • 9:45 AM Depart for Kenosha.  Line up will be in the area of Pennoyer Park, 3601 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI 53140.  
  • 11:30 AM Arrive Parade Line Up, unload.  Parade disband area, near Simmons Neighborhood Library, 711 59th Pl, Kenosha, WI 53140.  
  • 11:45 AM Lunch at warm up site
  • 12:15 PM Pre-Parade Warm Up
  • 1:00 PM Civic Veterans Parade Begins.  LVW Spot in parade is #1 in Division 1!  We will be leading the parade! 
  • 3:00 PM  Parade Ends - Load Truck and Buses
  • 3:30 PM Depart for KMLHS
  • 5:00 PM. Arrive KML, change out of uniform
  • 6:00 PM  Supper
  • 7:00 PM Free Time until Worship
  • 7:30 PM Worship Service led by Pastor Nate Wordell
  • 8:00 PM MOVIE NIGHT!!!!!
  • ​10:30 PM Lights out

Monday, June 30
Trip to Six Flags Great Americal. LVW will provide Lunch and Supper.  Members may wish to bring extra spending money for the day at the park.
  • 7:00 AM  Wake up, shower, eat breakfast
  • 8:15 AM. Load Buses
  • 8:30 AM. Depart for Six Flags Great America
  • 10:00 AM. Arrive Six Flags Great America
  • 12:00 - 1:30  LVW staff, members, and volunteers report to buses for Lunch
  • 6:00 PM. Load the buses and depart for fast food restaurant (TBD)
  • 7:30 PM. Depart for KML after supper
  • 9:00 PM  Arrive KML
  • 9:30 PM Evening Devotion and Snack
  • 10:30 PM  Lights Out

More detailed information for July 1 - 4 will be posted by the end of Tuesday, June 24.
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Friends and Family Day - Weather Update

6/19/2025

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​We are truly excited for our upcoming weekend!  We will be learning the visuals and finishing the music for our third performance piece, "Fantasia in G".  We spent time on the music last week, but focused primarily on the visual and music for the two songs we played for the first three parades.

The LVW Staff has been discussing the possibility of modifying our Friends and Family Day performance on Sunday.  With the Heat Index reaching 95 - 100 degrees, we may not be able to carry out the warm up and performance as outlined earlier.  We WILL still go on with the meal and the performance, but will likely be modified to keep our members and guests (especially grandparents!) safe.

If necessary, our performance may take place in either the FVL Gymnasium or the Timothy Trout Sports Center.  Both spaces are air conditioned and large enough for our music and visual performances.  We will need to decide on Sunday if we do a march around the track or any other performance outside.

If necessary, we MAY do our performance in the Seasonal T-Shirt.  Therefore, all LVW Members should pack their Seasonal T-Shirt for this weekend.  We ask that members also bring a "nice" pair of shorts to wear with the T-shirt.  Caps and sunglasses may also be worn for the performance if we are outside.

The stretch of hot weather lasting from Saturday through Monday is the hottest stretch of its kind since 2012!  None of us are used to this kind of weather, and we certainly don't want to put anyone's health and safety at risk.  There are no other activities at FVL this weekend that will prohibit our use of the FVL gymnasiums and the Timothy Trout Center.  So we can use those spaces for visual rehearsals when necessary.

As always - LVW Members should make sure they are well-hydrated before tomorrow!

Thank you for your understanding!  If you have questions, please don't hesitate to ask.
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Camp #2 Information

6/17/2025

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​The first week of our summer season was AWESOME!  Thanks to Michelle Klemp and our army of volunteer support staff for making sure the kids were fed; to Chuck and Gretchen Adrian, Rachel McCabe, and the rest of our uniform crew for helping them look awesome in uniforms; to those with the band on the parade routes; and to Tim Klemp, Tim Schmidt,  and Jim Pape, who prepared the truck, and made sure that we have everything in place for our first three parades. 

Thanks also to our director staff for their attention to detail and providing our kids with excellent instruction!  In just a few short days, they steadily brought the band from a collection of inexperienced students from many schools to the entertaining group we know as Lutheran Vanguard of Wisconsin!  The transformation is truly remarkable, and will continue throughout the season in a forward direction.

Last, but certainly not least, thanks go to the members of LVW!  The members have taken on this responsibility of carrying on the LVW traditions with an enthusiasm and a desire to be the absolute best that we can be.  And that will be AWESOME by the end of the summer!  We always knew that LVW was a "Crowd Favorite" on the parade route, and this year we hope to be even more so.

LVW Volunteer Needs
Please check the Volunteer Sign Up form.  We still have many open spots for the summer, including some spots for this coming weekend.

LVW Member Excused Absence Form
As with any summer activity, families may plan on special trips or vacations that may cause members to miss rehearsal days or performances, or even a portion of a day.  We understand, but it is good to know ahead of time so that we can plan for their absence.  If your LVW Member will be missing for any of our scheduled days, or part of a day, please fill out the LVW Rehearsal/Performance Excused Absence Form.  This form will always be on the website's homepage for the rest of the season.


Camp #2 Information
Rehearsal will begin on Friday, June 20 at 10:00 AM, and will take place at Fox Valley Lutheran HS.  Times for Saturday and Sunday are listed below.  The short weekend will conclude following the LVW Friends and Family Day on Sunday afternoon.

Camp Schedule
Friday, June 20 - Rehearsal from 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday, June 21 - Rehearsal from 8:30 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday, June 22 - Rehearsal from 8:30 AM to 11:00 AM
Sunday, June 22 - LVW Friends and Family Day Meal and Performance - beginning at 12:00 Noon.

Transportation to FVL on Friday, June 14
Students from WLHS, SLHS, LPS, KML, Homeschool Students, and WLA who wish to ride the KML Buses should follow these directions. These two buses will begin at KML.  Mrs. Hohenstein will again coordinate that bus and it's riders.  The link below will take you to the sign up sheet for the KML bus riders

KML Bus Plan

Arrive at KML at 7:45 AM for a 8:00 AM departure (Rehearsal begins at 10AM)
Stop at Fond du Lac Kwik Trip AROUND 8:45 AM to pick up people.

Please Note - There will not be a return KML bus trip on Sunday following the LVW Friends and Family Day. Most parents will be at the performance that afternoon.  Please make arrangements for a ride home if your parents will not be able to attend.

Students should pack a bag lunch for Friday.  All other meals will be provided by LVW.  The members will again stay overnight at FVL.  Students should remember to pack everything needed for three days of camp.  The packing list for this past week will be a good reference for this week as well, with the main differences being we have only three days together, and one performance in uniform instead of three parades.

Worship Service
LVW will be attending worship at Mount Olive Lutheran Church on Saturday night.  The dress for this service is casual.  

Don't forget to bring the following as well:
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat and Sunglasses
  • Large water jug

Students should make sure to take care of themselves before returning to camp.  They were instructed to drink plenty of water so they can be fully hydrated.  We had relatively nice weather this first week, and next week looks like it will be quite a bit warmer and higher humidity.  Students should also remember especially to bring sunscreen (at least SPF 30), sunglasses, and hats as we will be spending the majority of our time outside.

End of Weekend Dismissal Procedures
When parents are picking up their children at the end of a weekend or following a parade, there are many tasks that must be taken care of before students may leave.  These include work crews (cleaning, truck loading, kitchen help, and so on), as well as closing announcements for the entire band.  Therefore, students will not be dismissed until the "all clear" is given.  That will typically be after the band sings the Doxology.  

So, parents (or car pool drivers), please be aware that your child may not be able to visit with you at our dismissal site before these things are done.  We kindly ask that parents and other groupies allow for these things to happen, and try to not "get in the way" of LVW business that has to happen following our last event of a weekend or performance.  We thank you in advance for your cooperation!
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LVW Family and Friends - Parade Etiquette

6/17/2025

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The LVW 2025 summer season is off to a great start!  The first few days of Band Camp saw tremendous growth, and the band marched successfully under the Lord's guidance in our first three parades of the summer.

As we complete the 2025 season, we want to share with all of you some things to consider when attending a parade to watch LVW perform.
  • We absolutely LOVE the friends and family of LVW and how much you support the band!  We want you to have the most enjoyable experience possible!
  • Before the Parade Begins
    • If you are in the area where LVW is warming up, you may not be able to visit with your son or daughter
    • You may enjoy the sights and sounds, but please give us some space
    • This is not a good time to try to get individual pictures with your LVW Member.  Take some photos and videos of the process if you wish!
  • While the Parade is in Progress
    • It may not be possible for you to “follow along” with the band
      • There will likely be other spectators along the route enjoying the parade
      • There may not be sidewalk space on which to walk
      • Please do not walk in the street to follow LVW.  That space is reserved for staff, directors, and official LVW Volunteers for that parade
    • ALWAYS be respectful of other parade-goers
      • Do not walk in front of spectators that have positioned themselves in a spot from which to watch the parade.  They have often had that spot reserved for hours, or in the case of some parades, a day or two!
      • If there is room, you should try to walk behind spectators
      • If you want to get a video or pictures of the band as they pass by, find a location that has fewer spectators and there is easy access to the street without hindering others’ viewing experience
    • It is best to find a place from which to watch the parade and stay in that area
      • It’s more fun if you can find other LVW family and friends with which to enjoy the parade!
      • Wear your LVW Gear and Bling so other LVW fiends can find you!
      • Cheer as loud as you can for LVW, but also for all of the other bands.  They work as hard as we do, and they also appreciate the love!
  • After the Parade is Over
    • The LVW Members have lots to do before they get back on the bus
      • Staff and Volunteers need to check on the well-being of the LVW members.  Some may need assistance.
      • All of the LVW members need to gather for post-parade announcements
      • All LVW members have specific tasks to take care of
        • Casing instruments and other equipment
        • Prepping the truck for loading/getting equipment to where it needs to be in a short amount of time
        • Taking care of their uniform pieces - sometimes they need to be loaded into specific boxes or bins
      • Friends and family members, all of the above tasks must be done BEFORE they are free to mingle with you.
      • Don’t be offended if your favorite LVW Member doesn’t immediately try to find you when a parade is done.  There is work to do.
      • You may be able to get some pictures, but don’t assume that your LVW Member can do that when it is most convenient for you.  
      • There will be time to mingle, but maybe not much time.  We often have a schedule to keep, and sometimes we have another performance or event that we need to get to on time.
So again, we truly appreciate all of the support that we ALWAYS receive from our army of “Groupies”, and we hope that you all continue to show up in such large numbers and cheer us on.  We needed to send out this reminder for long-time groupies.  You may already know the “drill”.  But we have a HUGE number of brand-new LVW members, and therefore new LVW parents and relatives for whom this is a new experience.  We also have to be careful so as to not offend others who are simply there to enjoy a parade (especially when so many of our supporters are wearing LVW clothing!)
​

Thanks for understanding, and we hope to see you at our parades this summer!  Let Your Light Shine!
​
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LVW Friends and Family Day

6/16/2025

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​Since it is difficult for friends and family to "get up close and personal" to LVW for pictures and videos, especially during a performance, LVW will be presenting a special performance so that you will be able to do so.

It will take place at Fox Valley Lutheran High School on Sunday, June 22.

Schedule for the LVW Friends and Family Performance
  • 12:00 - 1:30 PM - Cookout Meal for LVW Members, Friends, and Family
  • 1:30 - 2:00 PM - LVW members change into uniform
  • 2:00 - 3:00 PM - LVW Friends and Family Performance
  • 3:00 - 4:00 PM - LVW Members change out of uniform, pack gear, clean facility
  • 4:00 - 4:15 PM - Dismissal

Meal for All
LVW will be cooking hot dogs and hamburgers for this meal.  Our plan is that the LVW members eat at the same time as our guests for the afternoon.  So they will be able to eat with their family, especially if grandparents or other family or friends are attending.  It will be a fairly informal meal.

To help cover the cost of meat, buns, and condiments, we are asking for a $5 donation per person for the meal.  LVW members will not need to pay this since it is included in their summer fees.

In the spirit of true "Lutheran Tradition", we are also making this into an optional Pot Luck.  So if you are so inclined (not required), you may bring a side dish or a dessert to share with the rest.  

So that we can plan for that meal, we would like to know how many are planning on eating.  It is only necessary to fill out the form below if you plan on eating.  There is an additional question for you to indicate if you would be bringing a side dish or a dessert.  

The Friends and Family Performance
Between 2:00 and 3:00, LVW will go through a shortened version of their "pre-parade" warm up routine.  For this, the winds, percussion, and color guard warm up separately.  This portion of the warm up is normally done in "half uniform".  After the warm up, the band will be getting into full uniform and then marching our own little parade around the FVL track.  For this performance, you are welcome to come down to the track and get some "action photos and videos" from up close.  We simply ask that you do not go on the track, but stay off to the side (on the football field) to get your pictures and video.  After that, we may also set up in a "concert formation" and do a standstill performance of our music.

In case of inclement weather, the FVL gymnasium and Trout Sports Center is available.  We would modify our warm up and performance to work inside those spaces.

We hope to see you there.  Don't forget to bring your camera!

​Indicate your attendance on the form below.
LVW Friends and Family Day Registration
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LVW Friends and Family Day

6/12/2025

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Friends and Family Day was so well received last year that we're doing it again!

Join us June 22 at the FVL campus.  This is a great opportunity to experience the entirety of our season's music and marching, get close-up action pictures, and enjoy fellowship with a meal together.

 So that we can plan for that noon picnic, we would like to know how many are planning on eating.  It is only necessary to fill out the form below if you plan on eating. 

The meal will include water and lemonade, hot dogs, hamburgers, buns, condiments. Friends and family are encouraged to sign up (on an additional form to be sent out in the near future) and bring a side or dessert   We are also asking for a $5 donation per person (cash or check only, please) to help cover the cost of the meal.  LVW members do not have to pay.
​
Friends and Family Day
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DCI Participant Waiver - MUST Complete by May 30

5/23/2025

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PLEASE NOTE - ALL LVW MEMBERS and STAFF MEMBERS who will be going to the Cedarburg show MUST FILL OUT THIS FORM.  This does not include volunteers and/or family members who have purchased tickets for the show.  This is only performing members and the director staff.

ALSO PLEASE NOTE - this must be submitted by May 30.  Many of our parents have already submitted the information for their LVW Member.  If so - THANK YOU!

Filling out this form is a requirement, so please take care of this ASAP.  For LVW Members who are younger than 18, a parent must also be present when filling out the form.  LVW Members who ARE 18 as of MAY 30 can fill out the form on their own.

For minors, parents will be asked to enter the student's name, email, and date of birth, in addition to your name, address, email, phone number, and signature.

For LVW Members who may turn 18 in the near future - this form should be filled out for their age AS OF MAY 30.

Members or staff who do not fill out this form will risk NOT being credentialed and therefore NOT allowed entry into the show in the seats provided for staff and members.

After completing the form, the participant email (LVW Member or Staff Member) provided will receive a confirmation email.  

If you have any questions, please let me know.  Thank you!

INFORMATION FROM DCI

NEW THIS YEAR:
We are using a Formstack form to collect individual waivers for each performer and staff member. This form will also serve as your official roster for credentialing.

Each individual must complete the form by Thursday, May 30.

Everyone attending the event with your ensemble (performer, staff, volunteer) must complete this form by the deadline. This replaces any paper/scanned waivers from the past and we will use the submissions from this form to use as your ensemble's roster for credentialing purposes. Anyone who does not complete the form by May 30 is at risk to not receive a credential and possibly could not be permitted entry to the event. I will keep you updated on how many submissions you have and the names on your roster the week prior to May 30 so you can check in with your group. 

Participants who are minors will have to have a parent/guardian contact information collected and a matching signature on their submission. 
Individual Participation Waiver Link
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VIBES Earplugs - Sale #2 Open until Midnight on June 16

5/22/2025

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Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs (seen on TV's Shark Tank) are discreet, reusable earplugs designed for musicians - instead of blocking and muffling sound like traditional foam earplugs, Vibes reduce the volume of loud live music to a safer and more comfortable level that prevents permanent hearing damage, while still allowing you to hear yourself and the rest of the ensemble play clearly. 
Each pair of Vibes also includes:
  • Three sizes of interchangeable eartips to ensure a proper fit for any sized ear
  • Attachable cord that allow the earplugs to be hung around the neck and prevents them from getting lost
  • Pocket-sized carrying case
Vibes are trusted by over 300 of the country's top high school and college band programs (including schools like U of Alabama, U of Texas, Indiana U, and UW-Eau Claire), professional orchestras, military bands, independent WGI ensembles, and DCI drum corps.
Lutheran Vanguard of Wisconsin members (and their families) and staff are eligible to purchase Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs at the price of $17.00/pair, discounted from the standard price of $28.95/pair. All orders must be placed by end of day on Monday, June 16. Staff will distribute the earplugs to the those who place orders.
​

Click this link to learn more about Vibes Hi-Fidelity Earplugs and to place your order.
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    James Neujahr

    Hello everyone!  Thanks for visiting the Blog!  I have been a director for LVW since 1987, and Executive Director since 1998.  I am the band director at Fox Valley Lutheran High School in Appleton, WI, a position I have held also since 1998.  Come back often!

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