THE BAND

Since 2000, I've been the voice of the Rittman Indians Marching Band. I started my duties when my daughter was in the 11th grade. I figured it would be two years and out, but now I am starting my 7th season.

I've enjoyed watching the students I work with grow into responsible young adults. I have also enjoyed working with Ed Sims, the director of the band. He knows what's most important, which are the students, and in most cases their names are the only ones to appear in the scripts I read for the shows.

The Rittman Band is a show band, and as such don't enter in band competitions, but go to plenty of shows. We all find that we have alot of admirers, from other bands to band parents to Fox 8 weatherman Dick Goddard, who has emceed several of our shows throughout the years.

My style of announcing is somewhat unique. I feel that I have to help out the microphone, so I have the tendancy to yell into it. It works however, as I've gotten compliments from many. And I've been told that it helps to energize the band.

I've learned over the past six years that even though I should do my best that it's not about me. It's about the hard working students that comprise the band, and thats the way it should be.

Supporting the band is a very dedicated group of folks. They are the Rittman Band Boosters, and not only do they assure that the band gets the best support possible, but they've taken excellent care of me in the past. If any band boosters read this blog, I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

The band has already played one show this season, and will be performing at halftime during all home games for the Rittman Fighting Indians football team, along with other shows.