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October 18, 2006 Dear Friends, It is my pleasure to invite you back to Jacksonville State University for our 50th Reunion Anniversary. It is my hope this reunion gathering will give old friends the chance to reconnect in the place where their relationships were first forged. Another hope is that alumni will be given an opportunity to remember the role the Marching Southerners has played in their lives and to come to know the band in its contemporary, yet traditional, form. Because the band today is as dynamic as it was fifty years ago, we thought it would be memorable for alumni to visit the registration table at a time when the current Southerners were rehearsing. Over this reunion weekend there will be opportunities not just to rekindle friendships with beloved band members, but also to connect with faculty, both past and present. You will also have the opportunity to witness the recognition of our Charter Members, those that envisioned the Marching Southerners family tree in the year 1956. Through you, we will be reminded of the Southerners impressive continuity and proud tradition, and I hope it will be reassuring for you to see us as we are today. I'm convinced that you will be especially impressed by the excitement that this event has sparked in our current students. Come back to Jacksonville State this November. We will be delighted to welcome you home. Sincerely,  Hello Marching Southerners Alumni, The year 2006 marks the 50th Anniversary of The Marching Southerners at Jacksonville State University. "Gather In" as we celebrate this golden anniversary, and the memories that have been created by one of the strongest marching programs in the country. We invite everyone to share in this important milestone and take pride in the ways which they have contributed to its success. The year 2006 will be a historic year to remember our past, celebrate our present, and build our future. Half a century ago, Dr. John Finley had a grand vision - he was going to change the sound and the marching style of what was the norm for a band during the 1950’s. Few could have imagined the impact his vision would have on the band program. Since 1956, the Marching Southerners has continued the tradition of excellence that began with the foresight and dedication of Dr. David L. Walters. The philosophies of Dr. Finley and Dr. Walters are still used today. Registration for the two-day event begins on the eve of the JSU - Samford football game. Afterwards, please join us for a casual family cook-out at Gamecock field behind Paul Snow Stadium. It will be wonderful to see the faces of friends we have not seen in years, while hearing the sounds of the current Marching Southerners echoing in the background. Immediately following the cook-out, and for the first time, five decades of Southerners will blanket the field of Paul Snow Stadium for our first rehearsal. Travel back in time with us as we honor our Charter Members. These talented individuals ignited the torch that has been passed down for five decades from one Southerner to another. Their role in creating school spirit and pride is immeasurable. Without them, we would not be the "family" we are today. Last year, the stadium’s renovation included the installation of artificial turf. It will be a memorable experience to see the field transition from green to red when the Southerners alumni take the field. With pride and anticipation, I would like to extend an invitation to all alumni (brass, woodwinds, percussion, ballerinas, color guard, and majorettes) to attend the Anniversary Reunion. Sincerely,
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