The following letter was emailed to Nathan Harris, Lakewood Ranger Marching Band Director, on October 4th following the marching band's performance at the Lakewood vs. Rocky River football game. Many thanks to the Russells of Rocky River for taking the time to put their kind thoughts in writing. Members of the Lakewood Ranger Marching Band continue to inspire, and people are noticing!
Mr. Harris,
We’ve just arrived home from the Rocky River/Lakewood game, and had to send you a note. (Sorry about the game, but we loved your show.)
We’re writing because we noticed that one of your band members is visually impaired. Transfixed by the musician and his helper, we were thrilled to see them nail a complex and demanding show. They were Awesome! Brilliant! Outstanding!
You didn’t merely “accommodate” him. You didn’t hide this kid off in a corner beyond the 35 yard line and the back hash. You put him front and center, and let him show the world what he could do if given half a chance.
You and your band showed us what very best spirit that must animate Lakewood High School looks like. Things like tenacity, courage, and optimism. Your band should be proud, as should you, your colleagues, the band’s parents & boosters, and Lakewood Schools.
Clearly y’all are doing important, meaningful things that won’t show up on a state report card. While that’s not fair, it’ll be fine in the end. The Lord knows when you’re doing those things. The parents of your students affected know, even if the kids might be ungrateful little so-and-so's at times. And, sometimes even people from the other school notice too. God bless you all.
Most sincerely yours,
Kathleen & Michael Russell
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Catch the Lakewood Ranger Marching Band at one of their remaining 2013 performances: 10/18 vs Brecksville (away), 10/25 vs Midview (away), 11/1 vs North Ridgeville (home, Senior Night), and at the End of Season Concert on November 7th at 7:30pm in the LHS Main Gym. The band will also perform at the November 11th Veterans Day Ceremony at Lakewood Park and in the Light Up Lakewood parade on December 7th.
For more information, find Lakewood Ranger Marching Band on Facebook or visit http://lakewoodrmb.wix.com/lrmb.