Daily Freeman-Journal photo by Jane Curtis: Vocal music students from the Webster City High School stopped by the Daily Freeman-Journal during their mission to spread Christmas cheer throughout Webster City. The carolers who sang at the Daily Freeman -Journal on Tuesday were front row from left to right: Mishelle Rich, Ariauna Reed, Anna Irvin, Lila Venegas. In the back row were Jordan Prine, Jack Barner and Rinoa Rayger.

The warm, rich smiles and carols which flowed from Webster City’s young musicians Tuesday, certainly brightened the day from all who heard them.

This holiday cheer may have contributed to the melting snow, as musicians from the Webster City High School made the rounds, spreading joy with songs celebrating Christmas.

The carolers were a surprise to most of the stops, as originally the carolers were to be out earlier in December.

“We were initially planning to go out on December 4,” Aaron McCullough, Webster City High School vocal music instructor said, “We had some weather then, so we pushed it to Tuesday.”

McCullough, who is new to the Webster City High School this year, continue the effort from last year.

“This is the second year that we have done this,” McCullough said. “Greta (Nelson) had a parent volunteer to drive students around and spread some holiday cheer.”

Nelson, who now is teaching at Waverly-Shell Rock, was the vocal music instructor McCullough replaced.

“We had a list of businesses that were visited before,” McCullough explained, “But there was also a group of instrumentalists playing Christmas music in town too.”

The singers also brought news of their Music Boosters’ Patron program. As in most school programs these days, outside funds are needed to support special activities, such as trips, guest clinicians, and honor groups.

“Kaitlyn Abens, myself and Megan Cain (middle school vocal music) all participate with this,” he explained. “It’s mainly raising money for the high school activities.”

During this school year, six Webster City High School students were accepted into the All State chorus and band in addition to two alternates. Expenses for attending All State rehearsals and performances were covered by the Boosters.

“When we had kids make Allstate, we had to raise the money for the hotel rooms, a meal and snacks while we were down there,” McCullough explained.

The Boosters also pay for instrument repair and purchasing new instruments. When there are special musical programs, such as the Variety show, school musical productions or any other extra program costs, this is where their money is spent.

The Music Boosters board consists of five members and the two staff members. “We usually have 10 to 20 people show up at these meetings,” he said.

Anyone can donate to the Music Boosters Music Patron program. Both the choir and the band programs are supported through the boosters.

Donations can be sent to the Webster City Music Booster Fund at Enhance Hamilton County Foundation, 501 Bank Street #1, Webster City, Iowa 50595.

A form can be picked up from the high school office, and payment can be dropped off at the main office of the Webster City High School. A QR code is also available to donate online.