Marc Hoover
I have followed the Super Bowl for more than 20 years. The NFL has changed dramatically since my childhood. I can remember when only true NFL fans followed the Super Bowl. No one hyped it as much in the past. For instance, Super Bowls played in the 70s and 80s didn’t have spectacular half time performances or great commercials.

Today, we should declare Super Bowl Sunday a national holiday. Besides, what other holiday has more than 100 million observers? Regardless of age or gender, the Super Bowl brings together family members, friends, and co-workers just like Christmas and Thanksgiving.

Today, the Super Bowl has become the most viewed program on television. More than 100 million people from around the globe will tune in for the funny commercials, Lady Gaga, Beyoncé, Bruno Mars, and Coldplay.

And then you have the game itself. The Broncos against the Carolina Panthers turned out to be a defensive battle. After winning his second Super Bowl 24-10, Peyton Manning will probably retire since he has nothing else to accomplish.

I have watched great players like Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, Brett Favre, and John Elway play in past Super Bowls. Today’s talented players include Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Eli Manning, Cam Newton, and Drew Brees. The latest generation of players are bigger and stronger than past players, but today’s games are just as exciting. So who else thinks we should make the Super Bowl a national holiday?

Marc is a grandparent and longtime resident of Clermont County. Visit his author page at http://www.lifewithgrandpa.com and his blog at http://www.wisegrandpa.com.