Every now and then, a particular issue or event sparks a firestorm of discussion and controversy on our Web site. The Cheese Days parade, and more specifically the Monroe High School bands performance in it, seems to be the new hot topic of talk.
Some people are upset that the Monroe High School band did not march in the parade, but instead played from a truck and trailer. Others are bothered that the parade is too long, and uninteresting in too many parts.
I admit to being torn on the high school band issue. Heres why.
Of my four years of marching in the Lanark High School (Ill.) band, the one experience I remember the most was being in the Cheese Days parade. It was either 1980 or 1982, I cant say for sure. And I cant remember whether I was lugging a big bass drum or had tri-toms resting on my shoulders.
What I do remember is that it was the longest parade, by far, I ever marched in. I remember it was extremely warm. I remember we stood in parade formation for a long, long time before beginning to march.
I remember our uniforms, which included a blue suit coat, blue suit pants, a heavy white and blue overlay, spats for our black marching shoes and a tall, white furry shaker hat. I remember it was hotter than hell in that outfit, which was soaked by the end of the parade. Drummers dont get a break. When the bands not playing a song, theres a cadence to play.
I remember feeling unspeakable relief when the parade was finished. I dont remember eating cheese curds, but I probably did.
So I hear all of those folks who are traditionalists, and prefer their bands marching. Kids these days should do things the same way we did, right?
Yeah, right.
I also can relate those who think its unfair, or just plain mean, to be so critical of the kids. I dont remember anyone ever complaining when the sports teams would sit in the back of a truck during a parade. Were they resting for the big game? The marching band plays in those, too.
One of our readers also just made a point I was hoping would enter into the conversation the marching band technically was a budget casualty in the Monroe school district, though funds from CHIME also technically continue to support the teaching position. Its a little bit unclear about whether there should even be the expectation of a Monroe High School marching band in the parade. Its a question for a reporter to be asking.
I know Im getting old when I have thoughts like ... none of the high school bands march with the precision and determination that I remember employing when I was in high school. But then again maybe the old marching Beavers of LHS looked as rag tag as some bands these days look to me.
For the record, I prefer my parade bands marching in step, but its not something I get upset about when the situation falls somewhere short. I think its great for people to be having the argument, about whether the band should march or ride. Id just appreciate it if people didnt try to imply that the kids are lazy, or shirking their responsibilities. Thats unfair.
Thats it for now. Im going to get back to reading your comments. I see theres another one waiting for my approval ...
Some people are upset that the Monroe High School band did not march in the parade, but instead played from a truck and trailer. Others are bothered that the parade is too long, and uninteresting in too many parts.
I admit to being torn on the high school band issue. Heres why.
Of my four years of marching in the Lanark High School (Ill.) band, the one experience I remember the most was being in the Cheese Days parade. It was either 1980 or 1982, I cant say for sure. And I cant remember whether I was lugging a big bass drum or had tri-toms resting on my shoulders.
What I do remember is that it was the longest parade, by far, I ever marched in. I remember it was extremely warm. I remember we stood in parade formation for a long, long time before beginning to march.
I remember our uniforms, which included a blue suit coat, blue suit pants, a heavy white and blue overlay, spats for our black marching shoes and a tall, white furry shaker hat. I remember it was hotter than hell in that outfit, which was soaked by the end of the parade. Drummers dont get a break. When the bands not playing a song, theres a cadence to play.
I remember feeling unspeakable relief when the parade was finished. I dont remember eating cheese curds, but I probably did.
So I hear all of those folks who are traditionalists, and prefer their bands marching. Kids these days should do things the same way we did, right?
Yeah, right.
I also can relate those who think its unfair, or just plain mean, to be so critical of the kids. I dont remember anyone ever complaining when the sports teams would sit in the back of a truck during a parade. Were they resting for the big game? The marching band plays in those, too.
One of our readers also just made a point I was hoping would enter into the conversation the marching band technically was a budget casualty in the Monroe school district, though funds from CHIME also technically continue to support the teaching position. Its a little bit unclear about whether there should even be the expectation of a Monroe High School marching band in the parade. Its a question for a reporter to be asking.
I know Im getting old when I have thoughts like ... none of the high school bands march with the precision and determination that I remember employing when I was in high school. But then again maybe the old marching Beavers of LHS looked as rag tag as some bands these days look to me.
For the record, I prefer my parade bands marching in step, but its not something I get upset about when the situation falls somewhere short. I think its great for people to be having the argument, about whether the band should march or ride. Id just appreciate it if people didnt try to imply that the kids are lazy, or shirking their responsibilities. Thats unfair.
Thats it for now. Im going to get back to reading your comments. I see theres another one waiting for my approval ...
