LETTER:"Homecoming festivities were magical

To the Editor:

The Homecoming festivities of Friday, Oct. 5, were the nicest and most memorable I have ever attended. This is a recognition and thank you to all who were responsible.

Noteworthy was the evidence of excellent planning, coordination and execution of all events by all participants, including the cheerleaders and the football team itself.

The Honor Guard presentation with introduction of some of New Richmond’s own veterans; the beautiful echo-taps played by two bugle players – their clarion notes echoing across the cold night air reminding all of us of the enormous sacrifices made so we can live in a free country – and the national anthem sung in perfect four-part harmony by a high school choral group; were special events appreciated by all.

During halftime the high school band, in full dress uniforms, performed and were then joined by the entire middle school band, in full dress uniforms, a delightful ceremony of colorful pageantry, great music and strong drum beat to help keep everyone’s toes tapping and spirits warm.

Many families, friends, relatives braved the cold and packed the stadium with all manner of blankets and warm weather gear to support and encourage our team and each other. The decency, goodness and civility was unmistakably represented in this evening’s activities.

All of the good activities could not make the ugliness or shock of a few face-mask penalties on the very first play of the game. Another face-mask penalty occurred later in the game as well as several holding penalties. I cannot believe this type of defensive behavior is endorsed by the WIAA.

This is an old adage that came to mind during the game: In the game of life it is not so much about whether you win or lose – It is more about how you play the game.

When the final whistle blew I still felt the magic of Homecoming 2012. I also felt proud to be a part of the New Richmond community.

Donna Kier

New Richmond

Tags: letters to the editor, opinion