<div><strong>Thank you!</strong> If nothing else comes from this, I want to start by saying thank you. <em>Thank you,</em> for taking the time to hear my story.
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>When I was 11 years old, my Yia Yia handed me her late father’s trumpet. While I never had the chance to meet him, I am extremely proud to be his great-grandson and namesake. He served in the United States Army 2nd generation, son of a Greek immigrant, for over 20 years. Great Papou was a Sergeant, 1st class and played the trumpet. It meant so much to me, to follow in his musical footsteps. However, I wasn’t quite as skilled on the trumpet as he was, but I loved playing an instrument regardless. 
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>During my middle school years, I had a difficult time making friends. I wasn’t into things that other kids my age enjoyed, and that made me the subject of less than kind attention. Music was the one thing that made sense. I felt like it was hard for people to connect with me, but band was where I fit in. Being in band has given me lifelong relationships and a strong sense of camaraderie. When I am playing music, I can express myself differently, happiness flows through my veins. 
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>When I started high school, I gave the trumpet another chance, but I continued to struggle. My band director recommended I switch to baritone, and ultimately to tuba. I now triple these 3 instruments with the tuba being my favorite. It has a greater range and there is a lot more I can do with the sound. 
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>I am currently a rising senior at Lecanto High School in Lecanto, FL. During my junior year this year, my marching band (which includes my younger brother, Shane, on percussion) made it to the state finals for the first time in history. I never thought I could be prouder. That was until this week when I found out that two of my bandmates and I were the first students from Citrus County to be selected for the <strong>Macy’s Great American Marching Band</strong>. A small number of students are chosen from every state, and only so many are chosen for each instrument. Ever since I can remember, my family and I have spent every Thanksgiving morning watching Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Now, having the opportunity to perform in it is something I never could have imagined. It’s <strong>mind-blowing</strong>!
</div>
<div> 
</div>
<div>With this tremendous opportunity, comes great financial responsibility. This includes the entrance fee, travel to NY, and any food not covered by the entrance fee. I am grateful to my hardworking parents, who have supported my brother and me through our musical journeys, always putting our needs before their own. However, this is one financial commitment I’d like to make by raising my own funds.  
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>I would be devastated to miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and because of that, I am reaching out for any support possible. I would be forever grateful for your contributions or for sharing my story. Just know that when I am playing my tuba on Herald Square this November 23rd, I’ll be thinking of you and your generosity. Every time I cherish that memory, I’ll be thanking <em>you</em>. 
</div>
<div><br />
</div>
<div>Sincerely,
</div>
<div>Apostolos Lesser, age 17
</div>
<div><br />
</div>

Nicole Hahn

Robert Taylor

Rebecca Jackson

Kaytlyn Phillips

Timothy Gilbert

ty hamilton

Caren Galit

Bonnie Levin

Sandra Manetta

Jill Kearns

Lori Lind

cynthia dickerson

Nancy Huff

Cindy Monroe

Wanda Fisher

Maida Velez-Kopet

Tina Giardino-Hughes

Aunt Helene and Uncle Paul Lesser

Megan DiMiceli

Caroline Bice

Macy's Great American Marching Band

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