High School Marching Band

I was never a very good instrumentalist in the high school band. That's why I presume I was selected to be the drum major of the marching band instead. Plus, I think I was better suited to talk rather than play the clarinet.

The drum major position had its benefits. I didn't have to work nearly as hard as the other band members. In fact, I spent most of my three-year tenure bossing people around. The hardest part of being the drum major was maintaining friendly relationships with my peers since I was responsible for constantly barking out instructions.

I had the pleasure to attend the state high school marching band competition in Whitewater,WI, last weekend. The most exciting time to be in a marching band was the competitions. Sure, parades are fun, but there is nothing like the demonstration of more than 150 people making precise maneuvers on a football field over about a 12-minute period, playing instruments and twirling flags in unison - all while in step.

The one thing that was apparent last weekend as I watched bands of all sizes perform was, that, just like athletes and technology, marching bands are a lot better today than they were three decades ago. And the drum majors were especially proficient.

The other thing I realized is that a good marching band is like a well-run business. Like a small company, every band member knows their part and is committed to the end goal. Although the local band I was rooting for didn't win the competition, vast improvement was shown throughout the season. It would be what any good manager would ask of his/her staff.

For those who enjoy parades, I highly recommend attending a marching band competition. The memories, and the lessons learned, can be priceless.

RANDOM THOUGHT: I know there must be some people who like Sarah Palin, but I can't help but laugh out loud every time one of her sound bites gets played during the evening news. Maybe it's just me, but I can't help but think about the famous Tina Fey impersonation of the former Alaskan governor on 2008 episodes of "Saturday Night Live".

CLARIFICATION: Some of you who may be interested in joining an investment club that I discussed in last week's editorial asked whether it was for individuals or businesses. The intent of the new club would be for individuals only. You can contact me at: djrtbl@yahoo.com