Three southern Illinois band instructors were part of the Saluting America's Band Directors marching band and float which won the Tournament of Roses Parade’s Showmanship Award on New Year's Day.
Gretchen Bennett from Benton High School, her father, David Cozby, who directs the band at Akin Grade School and Nashville High School band director Steve Browne were part of the group of up to 300 band directors across the country on a custom-designed animated float.
The parade's Showmanship Award goes to the entry with the most outstanding display of showmanship and entertainment.
