Sunday, October 30th, 2016

Yesterday marked the third year in a row in which I helped push my aunt LaVonne in her wheelchair as she participated in the Iowa State Alumni Band halftime show for the homecoming football game.  I was never in the band or anything myself, but now you could say that I'm an honorary member.  Because the game's kickoff was set for 11:00, we had to start our day EARLY.  LaVonne, aunt Susan, and their friend Gail all picked my up at 5:30 in the morning so we could make it over to the practice facility by 6:00.  There we spent quite a while going over the formations and practicing the music for our halftime show.  This year it was pretty easy to learn because LaVonne and I basically stayed on the same spot of the field for the halftime performance (we were on the North 35 yard line).  Compared to past years where we had to move 5 yards this way, and 5 yards that way, it was pretty nice.  There was once where we did have to turn 180 degrees a couple of times, but that was about it.

Here I am with LaVonne as the band practices early in the morning.

I stood with LaVonne along the East sideline for the game.  This was our view of the game during the first half. If you look close you can see the ball in the air during a punt.  

Here is a photo that Susan took of the band during halftime.  LaVonne and I are at the corner of the "S" along the 35 yard line.

Here is LaVonne, her friend Gail, and myself standing by the Jack Trice statue near the football stadium.

As for the game itself, the Cyclones came up on the short end of the stick against the Kansas State Wildcats, 26-31.  I wasn't expecting much from the team as they have not done well at all this year (the team is now 1-7).  I enjoyed last year's homecoming game much better when ISU defeated Texas.