Today I had the rare privilege of an almost-private concert by the Marching 110 ' in New Jersey. They arrived at a little past 10 a.m. at a high school football field in Rutherford, N.J., to practice for their October 5 halftime performance for the NY Giants. There were a total of three spectators: my brother, sister-in-law and I. It was a cold, overcast, dreary day until the 110 arrived. Their practice, viewed from wherever I chose to stand, was something I will never forget. As a former resident of Parks Hall ' actually, one of the last ' I remember the daily practices at the intramural fields that Parks overlooked, but that was 30 years ago and at times not well received. Today's practice was sublime. The weather was ignored and I just could appreciate the skill, dedication and effort of the Most Exciting Band in the Land again.
I would like to express my gratitude to Dr. Suk, the staff and all the men and women composing the band. You choked me up and brought a tear to my eye, and I thank you all for that. Thanks especially for playing Stand Up and Cheer; it's still the most rousing song I know.
This Sunday as my son and I sit in the stands watching the 110, we'll enjoy halftime more than the game ' just like the old days at OU.
Douglas F. Job is a 1978 alumnus of Ohio University and writes from Hackensack, N.J.
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Letter to the Editor
