When Chinese President Hu Jintao arrives in Chicago Thursday evening, not only will he be greeted by the mayor, the governor and civic and business leaders, but also by a group of young people from far South Suburban Richton Park.
The Rich South High School band will perform in honor of the foreign leader during welcoming ceremonies at the Peninsula Hotel and the Chicago Hilton.
Their performance is at the request of the Chinese Commerce of Chicago.
"We are indeed honored and privileged to be a part of such a monumental event," said Rich South band director Yolandus Douglas. "What an honor for our school, our district and our community."
Hu's two-day visit to Chicago, his only destination outside of Washington, D.C., is intended to strengthen economic ties between the two countries.
