"Best Damn Band In The Land" comes to Woodmore High School

Woodmore High School and The Ohio State Alumni Club of Ottawa County will host to the Pride of the Buckeyes -- The Ohio State University Marching Band on Friday, October 17th.

Elmore native and Assistant Marching Band Director Jon Waters could not be more excited about returning to his Alma Mater as leader of the most prestigious collegiate marching bands in the United States.

"I'm so happy they are allowing me to come home." Jon said during a phone conversation Monday morning. "The timing was perfect. We (OSUMB) are traveling to Michigan State University for a Saturday football game, the Wildcats play at home on Friday and the Ottawa County Alumni are willing to host us for the second time in three years. This is a great tool for me to reach current high school students in the area who may want to continue their marching band experience at the university level.

Over the next few months I'll be working very closely with the Woodmore and Lakota High School Band Directors to get their kids involved with ours on the field that night."

Mike Libben, Co-President of the OSU Club in Ottawa County and OSUMB Alumni said, "I remember what the away game trips were like for the band. I know what I liked and disliked about them and want to make sure we create a positive memory of our area for the current band members and directors. It says a great deal that we did something right in 2006 that they want to come back to Ottawa County so soon."

Co-President of the OSU Alumni Club of Ottawa County, Mike Snider, says "I have absolutely no musical talent what so ever. I guess that's why I admire the young men and women in the (OSLJ) marching band. They put a tremendous amount of time and effort in to what they do. They are such wonderful ambassadors for my university. I agree with (Mike) Libben 100%. This is our way to pay forward. I too want this event to be a positive memory for everyone."

Ralph Myers, Woodmore High School Principal, was stunned when he learned of the OSU Marching Band's planned visit. "It was my second day as Principal and 'the Mikes' called to see if we were interested in hosting the OSUMB. I really thought someone was playing a joke on me. Then, as they started to talk about the need for additional parking, food, security, sponsors, lodging I realized quite quickly this wasn't a joke. As I learn more about how this will impact our students and community, I'm excited and appreciative of this opportunity."

Ken Emerine, Woodmore High School Marching Band Director, said, "It's not every day 'The Best Damn Band In The Land' calls and wants to play at your high school. This is going to be an amazing experience for our kids. The tradition, excellence and pride that the OSU Marching Band represents will certainly not be lost on our kids."

For more information or to assist in sponsorship opportunities please contact Mike Libben: 419-898-8400 or Mike Snider: 419-734-0515 and GO BUCKS!