Fellow alums,
Fifty years ago this month, a 30-year-old high school band director from Michigan set foot on the USC campus to lead the Trojan Marching Band.
He never left.
Today, as he prepares for retirement, Dr. Arthur C. Bartner is also approaching his 80th birthday. And who better to help him celebrate that milestone than the TMB alums who have heard him encourage, cajole and congratulate the Spirit of Troy for five decades.
It is my pleasure, on behalf of the Trojan Marching Band Alumni Association, to invite all TMB alums help Dr. Bartner celebrate either in person or from a distance. Here’s how:
Drive by, say “hi”: Join in a drive-by, vehicle-based salute for the Man on the Ladder at Hesse Community Park in Rancho Palos Verdes on Sunday, Aug. 30, Please arrive by 2 p.m. at the staging area on Locklenna Lane off Hawthorne Boulevard. A volunteer will give you further directions. The County of Los Angeles has its own rules that must be followed, otherwise you may be required to take a lap:
- Stay in your car. No convertibles or open-air vehicles allowed. And fasten your seat belt.
- The TMBAA must make sure that everyone – including participants and volunteers – follows face-covering and social distancing requirements. Obey the rules and keep us out of trouble.
- If you open your windows – probably a good idea if you want Art to hear you – wear a mask when talking to a TMBAA volunteer. Let’s not get each other sick.
- OK. we’re just kidding about taking a lap. But follow the rules. The city has been very gracious in helping us put this together.
You’re free to decorate your car if you feel so inclined, but no need to go all Rose Parade on us. And remember, we are in public. Being there is what matters. To RSVP and participate in the parade, please let us know at [email protected]
Shoot a selfie: Not in the area? No problem. Grab your phone, tablet or computer and shoot a short video to share your best wishes with Art in a video birthday card from the TMBAA. Keep it short; no more than 60 seconds or so. Send it to Roberta and Charlie Ortega at [email protected] no later than Wednesday, Aug. 26. They’ll put all submissions together into a reel that we’ll share with Art.
Art is eagerly looking forward to these events and seeing alums in person or on video. He’s requested no personal gifts. Just your thoughts.
Hoping that you can participate. Take care, and Fight On!
Rick Nordin
President, TMBAA
