JAZZ IT UP – The Kingfisher High School jazz band took part in the state jazz band competition for the first time in many years on April 25 at the University of Central Oklahoma. The group played three pieces: “All of Me,” “Blues in Hoss Flat” and “My Last Nickel.” They earned an excellent rating for their performance. Their director, Dakota Horn, said he was pleased with their rating and performance. “None of them had ever gone to a jazz contest,” Horn noted. “This year was the first in many years that jazz band was included in the high school class schedule, thanks to Mrs. Erin Michael.” Michael was the KHS assistant principal to start the year, but is now principal at the upper elementary. Those who took part in the contest were, from left: front row, Horn, KC Ortega, Ana Cuellar, Erica Jenkins-Farris, Tommy Anderman and Erin Bollenbach; and back row, Blake Mayfield, Jonathan Owens, Andrew Osborn, Clayton Weinmeister and Ryder Price. [Photo provided]