After reading his column in Tuesday's edition of The Daily Collegian, I have reached the conclusion that Jeff Frantz's claim that he has a "deep respect for the pep bands" is totally false.

If he had any respect for them at all he would not insult them, along with cheerleaders as he did in the column.

I am not sure why, being the women's basketball writer, Frantz feels himself to have the authority to write about pep bands, their music selection and cheerleaders. I am assuming that he, like the rest of Penn State, realizes that there is not much that the Lady Lions can be criticized for, and as a result has turned to insulting the "auxiliary entertainment."

First of all, our pep band does not play the 1812 Overture or the "Empirical March." I believe he is confusing these selections with the "20th Century Fox Fanfare" and a Star Wars medley that includes the "Imperial March." As for "Pinball Wizard," I'm glad he enjoys it. It is a favorite of many current pep band members and alumni.

Frantz's comments on other Big Ten pep bands were also disrespectful. Putting down another organization is the absolute worst way to make your own appear better. His comments about the size, talent and age of the Minnesota and Northwestern pep bands made me conclude that he knows very little about what it means to be a member of a musical group such as a pep band. Current Big Ten bands are part of a long line of tradition and pride and are by far some of the greatest bands in the country. I'm sure all current members as well as directors and alumni would agree. Up to date and factual information about any Big Ten band can be found at www.blueband.psu. edu/links.html.

Finally, his insulting remarks directed at the Big Ten cheerleading squads was an egregious mistake. Whereas he claims to have respect for pep bands, he obviously has no respect for cheerleaders.

Again, he must have no idea what it takes to be a member of that type of organization. Cheerleaders represent school spirit, which again, Frantz must be lacking if he insists on putting down one school to raise another.

Making fun of another school's spirit organizations falls under the category of acts that "bring shame" to the university.

This is worse than insulting Penn State. I encourage Frantz to think again before taking on the responsibility of reorganizing pep bands, critiquing music selections, choosing cheerleading attire and making rude comments toward other universities as a representative of Penn State.