As far back as she can remember, Katie Schisler has watched the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade on television in the comfort of her family’s Oak Harbor living room.
Next week, she’ll enjoy a more intimate vantage point — smack dab in the middle of all of the giant floats and performers in New York City.
Schisler, a senior at Oak Harbor High School, will be participating in the 90th annual parade as a member of the Spirit of America cheer team.
She is one of 450 high school and all-star cheerleaders between the ages of 14-18 from across the country who were selected to be part of the special unit.
Her status as varsity team captain and attendance at national cheerleading camps made her eligible for the invitation.
“I’m definitely really excited about going,” Schisler, 17, said. “It’s a big opportunity for me to meet a bunch of people who all love doing the same thing that I do.”
Her Big Apple itinerary is extensive, including trips to the Empire State Building, a Broadway show, Radio City Music Hall, a Statue of Liberty harbor cruise, even a visit to the set of the Today Show.
The cheerleaders will be staying six nights together at the New York Hilton Midtown.
“It’s kind of funny because that’s where Donald Trump gave his acceptance speech,” said Michelle Schisler, Katie’s mom. “It’s really a huge place. There will be 450 cheerleaders and, I believe, 600 dancers. There are, I believe, 1,900 rooms in this hotel and 1,000 cheerleaders are going to take over.”
The trip isn’t cheap, costing the Schislers close to $5,000 to send their daughter and pay for an all-inclusive package.
Michelle and her husband, Jerry Schisler, are going, too.
“She’s the last of four,” Michelle said. “We’re a little attached.”
The parade will be shown on NBC starting at noon Pacific time.
“We watch it every year while mom is cooking Thanksgiving dinner,” Katie said. “Now with us going, it’s going to be me on TV instead. It’s awesome.”
Schisler is one of five girls from Washington who were selected. She will be rooming with three cheerleaders from California and meeting new people who thrive on rallying others.
“I’m excited,” she said. “I feel like it’s going to be a pumped up environment.”
