[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 87 (Thursday, May 23, 2019)]
[Senate]
[Page S3081]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING PURDUE UNIVERSITY'S ALL-AMERICAN MARCHING BAND.

  Mr. BRAUN. Mr. President, I rise today to celebrate the talent and 
steadfast dedication of Purdue University's All-American Marching Band, 
which will be performing for the 100th time at the 103rd Running of the 
Indy 500.
  Every year, the ``Greatest Spectacle in Racing'' attracts hundreds of 
thousands of fans to our State's capital. Throughout the last century, 
Purdue University's marching band has become an indispensable part of 
the annual festivities with their highly anticipated performance of 
traditional Indy 500 songs and other popular hits.
  I commend the efforts and hard work put forth by the band's nearly 
300 members. Their dedication in rehearsal is sure to pay off when they 
take to the famed Indy Motor Speedway this Sunday, welcoming spectators 
from around the world with familiar favorites, including the now 
customary performance of the classic ``Back Home Again in Indiana.''
  I especially commend the Purdue University marching band directors, 
past and present, whose work make this tradition possible. This year, 
the band will be led by the acclaimed Hoosier, Jay Gephart, professor 
of music, and Al Wright, chair director of bands and orchestras at 
Purdue University. I am sure that under his direction, the All-American 
band will do Indiana proud.
  I also recognize Purdue University's first marching band director, 
the late Paul Spotts Emrick, who initially forged the relationship 
between the University and the speedway. He directed Purdue's first 
performance at the famed 500-mile race in 1919, 100 years ago.
  I applaud Purdue University's marching band for each year dedicating 
themselves to sharing our Hoosier traditions and heritage with millions 
of viewers around the world. I extend my thanks to all who ensure that 
the tradition endures, and I look forward to another great performance 
this weekend from the Boilermakers. Go Boilers.
  I suggest the absence of a quorum.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will call the roll.
  The senior assistant legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll.
  Mr. KAINE. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for 
the quorum call be rescinded.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.

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