[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 120 (Wednesday, September 15, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1885]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 THE TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY MARCHING BAND RECEIVES THE NATION'S HIGHEST 
                  HONOR FOR COLLEGIATE MARCHING BANDS

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                           HON. LARRY COMBEST

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                     Wednesday, September 15, 1999

  Mr. COMBEST. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Texas Tech 
University Marching Band. The ``Goin' Band from Raiderland'' has 
received the Sudler Intercollegiate Marching Band Trophy, the Nation's 
highest and most coveted award for college and university marching 
bands. This award is given annually to a college or university marching 
band ``that has demonstrated particular excellence over a period of 
many years.'' It is appropriate to take a moment to acknowledge and 
celebrate the accomplishments of this distinguished group.
  The ``Goin' Band'' consists of more than 400 members and is led by 
Mr. Keith Bearden, who is in his 19th year as director. The band was 
formed the year Texas Tech University opened its doors to students, and 
this year, the ``Goin' Band from Raiderland'' celebrates its 75th 
anniversary. The Sudler Trophy is an honor not only for the current 
band members but also for the band's alumni in recognition of many 
years of outstanding performances.
  The Texas Tech marching band has received numerous invitations to 
perform throughout the world. In recent years, the ``Goin' Band'' has 
performed during halftime shows for the Dallas Cowboys, the Houston 
Oilers and the Denver Broncos. In addition, the marching band has 
performed at the All American, Cotton, Copper, Sun, Alamo, and 
Independence Bowls and was the lead band at the Battle of Flowers 
Parade for the Fiesta Celebration in San Antonio. The band has even 
marched in the inaugural parades of Governor Ann Richards and Governor 
George W. Bush.
  All marching band directors in NCAA schools participated in the 
selection of the Sudler Trophy award by completing ballots. The ballots 
were then sent to a committee and the final decision was made during 
the Midwest Band & Orchestra Clinic in Chicago last December. The 
presentation of the award will be on Saturday, September 18 in 
conjunction with Alumni Band Day.
  The ``Goin' Band from Raiderland'' has displayed dedication and 
commitment to excellence for many years. Through hard work and 
discipline, the band has accomplished much and is very deserving of 
this award. I would like to congratulate each member and alumni of the 
Texas Tech University Marching Band.

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