George,

As usual it was political correctness, intolerance, and in general the lack of a sense of humor by the UVa Administration and Athletic Department running rampant that led to the demise of the Pep Band. The $22 million was the final blow. As usual, when you clear things away, it is all about the money. Actually the Pep Band has been dead for a long time. Ever since the Athletic department started censoring the Pep Band's material they haven't been that funny. Despite all the furor over their Continental Tire Bowl performance, the script was approved by both the Athletic department and Tire Bowl Officials. West Virginia just has too thin a skin. I have heard that the University of Pittsburgh makes fun of West Virginia on a regular basis. West Virginia just needs to get its act together and return the zingers rather than be a bunch of whiners. Even Former Rector John Ackerly said he didn't understand what everybody was getting so upset about and that the skit was pretty tame. Poking fun at Marvin Mandel with a director in prison garb & handcuffs and playing Jailhouse Rock at Maryland was pretty funny in my opinion. My favorite was when George Rennick directed the band with a giant pencil.

Though I am sorry to see the Pep Band go, without a free hand they were already gone. I have become a fan of marching bands over the past 4 years as both of my sons have played in one of the best (if not the best) marching band in Virginia: the award winning Charlottesville High School Marching Black Knights. I only hope UVa can do as well as CHS. They can if they get smart and hire Vince Tornello. There is and should be a place for the Pep Band. Though they aren't going to march at half time of football games, the marching band isn't going to perform at basketball games. The Pep band also goes to lacrosse and other sporting events. They have contributed a lot to school spirit over the years for example at Pep rallies on the Mall. I am most grateful to the Pep Band for encouraging me on during the 10 miler.

Also it is disgraceful that the Pep Band was denied access to its own instruments with no notice. Littlepaige's explanation was pure bull. That sort of garbage wouldn't have happened if Terry Holland had still been Athletic Director.

Have a nice day,

Downing Smith (electronic mail, April 28, 2003)

Note: See also, Scott Hayes Champions the Virginia Pep Band.