News : VS Band trip progresses \'as usual\' in Orlando, 30 minute from tragic shooting

It was somber on the busses carrying Vinton-Shellsburg High School Marching Band and Choir members upon the group's arrival in Orlando, Florida, for the long-anticipated trip to Disney World.

"Overall, the mood is good," said VS parent and chaperone Randy Scheel. "However flags are all half mast. The story is dominating all the news outlets."

"They determined it was a targeted attack specifically towards the LGBT community and that it wouldn't affect our students or anyone involved with our trip," said VS Band Director Nick Waymire. The students are staying near Disney, about a half-hour drive from the downtown area where the mass shooting claimed 49 lives before police killed the shooter early Sunday morning. Media reports in Orlando advise tourists to be prepared for tighter security at attractions such as Disney World. "I will admit it was a weird feeling hearing and seeing the story break early Sunday morning knowing you are traveling to the same city, especially before many details were known," said Scheel. The students remain on their schedule "as usual," combining business and fun, says Scheel. The sight-seeing activities began early today. Band members will march on Tuesday; the choir will sing on Wednesday. On Tuesday, the band will march in the Disney Festival Fantasy Pre-Parade during a day-long visit to the Magic Kingdom. The students will also ride the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and see the fireworks and Wishes Nighttime Spectacular on Tuesday.