The University of Texas Longhorn Alumni Band

2010 was a memorable year for LHAB. We participated in several community and volunteer events, awarded over $30,000.00 in scholarships to deserving Longhorn Band students, and had a wonderful time during our alumni band reunion. Although the time of the game was early (causing most of us to get little or no sleep for that 4:00 a.m. practice), we were all in good spirits and had a fun time practicing and learning the half time show. It was great that the weather cooperated with us, and we were able to make it through our show without any rain! If you have not seen the video of our performance, please watch it on YouTube under LONGHORN ALUMNI BAND 2010. You will be truly impressed!

As many of you know, our Friday night gathering in the North End Zone of DKR Texas Memorial Stadium on October 22nd was the second time we hosted the LHAB Family Fun Bash. It was a great success, and the children were able to have fun and be present while their parents participated in our annual business meeting and rehearsal. We had lots of cheerleaders present, along with Hook 'Em, who were there to take pictures with our members and the kiddos. The cheerleaders even led us in a pep rally that helped us all get excited for the game! Thanks to all of you who attended the Friday night function.

As many of you already know, we were able to recognize the 2010-2011 LHAB scholarship recipients during our joint rehearsal with LHB on Saturday morning. We also had most of our named scholarship donors present to actually meet the student who was selected to receive their scholarship. It was exciting and rewarding to see the students who were receiving the named and general scholarships, as well as to have LHAB and LHB there for the presentation.

I am looking forward to serving as the LHAB President this year. Here's to a great 2011!

Hook ‘em,
Janice McKennon
Feature Twirler, 1976-1978
LHAB President 2010-2011

For us to do this, a great many things had to be in place. First, we couldn't do it without the enthusiasm and support from all our members. It is tough to come into town, party until 8:00 or 9:00 p.m. and then make that 4:00 a.m. start time! The LHAB Officers had everything set up so we can get right to work. However, on behalf of the drum majors and show writers, we want to especially thank those who volunteered to use their skills as section leaders.

We can't set up and troubleshoot these shows from the ladder. We aren't even sure how many people we'll have until that morning. We depend on the section leaders to solve most of the problems on the field so we can concentrate on getting the show started and the routines learned. Often, it is their experience that solves some of the big problems, too. Every year we have dedicated folks who step up to the plate to do their part, even though it costs them sleep and time with their friends to make that early section leader meeting where the old members try to learn how to do an 8 count turn and the newer ones figure out a 6 step countermarch. We learn from each other.

This is the 43rd year I've been involved in some capacity with our halftime show. I've watched the LHAB grow from about 75 people to our current size. From the beginning, we have depended on our volunteer section leaders to teach the shows and organize the band on the field. Today, we are at a size and under time constraints that simply would preclude doing a show without the efforts of the section leaders. Thanks to all of you for volunteering to serve, and for those who would like to help next year, don't be shy! Section Leader is not an inherited position, although now that we have some third generation members…It might look that way! Step up and volunteer; I know you'll have a great time as well as help the LHAB do a great job at Band Day .

Scott Harmon
Drum Major

We finished the year with another very successful run at the UT Club. We had more people each and every week. They always appreciate our participation at this event, even though the season was not as good as we had hoped for.

On December 14th we took our group to the Tower for the Tower Band to play Christmas carols. This year was different since they were doing renovations at the top so we played from the balcony off the President's office. It worked out very well. Thanks to Mr. Crockett for helping arrange that yearly event again.

We are looking forward to another busy year. Thanks to all those who have helped out this past year, and we hope you will continue to support us in these very important events that raise money for our scholarship fund.

Hook ‘em!
George Moxley
LHAB Austin Area Rep