March 31 - Parades, Chapter 1
by Verne James
(Editor's note: March doesn't end until we all decide it does - the ultimate antithesis of aging out. As long as entries for March Moments keep coming in, March keeps going, too.)
I don't recall the exact events which lead up to it, but it happened either after a show or after a practice. It possibly happened at other times, but this was the only time I had the experience of it.
One evening, a number of members drove on over to a nearby downtown area (in GPS Navigation Systems, we now call them "City Centers") and decided to have parade down the main street. Not sure who all was there but it was one of the coolest things I did while in the Saints.
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Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 30 - Memories from 1974, Chapter 2
March 30 - Memories from 1974, Chapter 2
by Jim Piccolo
The Eastern States Championships
Another memory from 1974 was the 1974 Eastern States Championship, which was held in Mahanoy City, PA. We had just won the Garden State Championship on the night before. We did an okay performance in prelims. I remember in particular the voice of our horn instructor coming out from the crowd when one of the baritone players started early in The Desert Song. We lost in the prelims to the Belvederes by 6 tenths of a point.
Needless to say the corps was primed and ready to go for finals that evening. After all we were the Garden State Champs! We rehearsed as if no one was going to beat us … not even the Santa Clara Vanguard who had won DCI Finals that year. There was a corps watching us and you could just see the fear in their eyes! We have to compete against them?
After we broke for dinner the clouds started to gray up and the rains came! The show was called off and because the Belvederes were defending Champs, and winners of the prelims, they were crowned the 1974 Eastern States Champions!
But I think the corps learned valuable lessons from the World Open and the Eastern States because look what happened in 75!
Comments or questions about our March Moments series? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
by Jim Piccolo
The Eastern States Championships
Another memory from 1974 was the 1974 Eastern States Championship, which was held in Mahanoy City, PA. We had just won the Garden State Championship on the night before. We did an okay performance in prelims. I remember in particular the voice of our horn instructor coming out from the crowd when one of the baritone players started early in The Desert Song. We lost in the prelims to the Belvederes by 6 tenths of a point.
Needless to say the corps was primed and ready to go for finals that evening. After all we were the Garden State Champs! We rehearsed as if no one was going to beat us … not even the Santa Clara Vanguard who had won DCI Finals that year. There was a corps watching us and you could just see the fear in their eyes! We have to compete against them?
After we broke for dinner the clouds started to gray up and the rains came! The show was called off and because the Belvederes were defending Champs, and winners of the prelims, they were crowned the 1974 Eastern States Champions!
But I think the corps learned valuable lessons from the World Open and the Eastern States because look what happened in 75!
Comments or questions about our March Moments series? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 29 - Memories from 1976, Chapter 2
March 29 - Memories from 1976, Chapter 2
by Mary Cassidy Ryan
1976 - a great year! And, always have a Plan B.
One of my best thoughts was our stop at the University of Wisconsin, Whitewater. What a difference it made to be off the gym floors and in actual beds! I recall that the practice field was great as well as the laundry room (luxury items when on the tour)! My roommate was Diane Markowitz (hope spelling is right). I would love to hear from her!
When the season concluded in Wildwood, it taught me how important it is to have a "Plan B" in place. Although I practiced with you all over and over, I had limited time with Duke E's Jitterbug+++. When called upon to do it alone in Wildwood, I really messed up! My right arm went into denial. I did a poor job! With much thanks to all of you, the performance was great! Afterwards, Mr. Kadash picked me up and you all applauded! I recall putting my shako over my face, wishing I did a better job! Thanks!
Last summer I moved back to San Antonio, Texas, after a one year venture to Louisiana. Our city will host the DCI southwest regional contest on July 18th. If you plan a visit anytime, let me know, I would love to hear from you. Cell: 210-632-3848 email mmc_ryan @att.net.
Comments or questions about our March Moments series? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
by Mary Cassidy Ryan
1976 - a great year! And, always have a Plan B.
One of my best thoughts was our stop at the University of Wisconsin, Whitewater. What a difference it made to be off the gym floors and in actual beds! I recall that the practice field was great as well as the laundry room (luxury items when on the tour)! My roommate was Diane Markowitz (hope spelling is right). I would love to hear from her!
When the season concluded in Wildwood, it taught me how important it is to have a "Plan B" in place. Although I practiced with you all over and over, I had limited time with Duke E's Jitterbug+++. When called upon to do it alone in Wildwood, I really messed up! My right arm went into denial. I did a poor job! With much thanks to all of you, the performance was great! Afterwards, Mr. Kadash picked me up and you all applauded! I recall putting my shako over my face, wishing I did a better job! Thanks!
Last summer I moved back to San Antonio, Texas, after a one year venture to Louisiana. Our city will host the DCI southwest regional contest on July 18th. If you plan a visit anytime, let me know, I would love to hear from you. Cell: 210-632-3848 email mmc_ryan @att.net.
Comments or questions about our March Moments series? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 28 - Memories from 1976
March 28 - Memories from 1976, Chapter 1
by Craig "Clav" Stephens
1976 - Troy, NY.
I "felt" it. Anyone that has ever had a horn to their lips knows what I mean. I realize I was only a 4th baritone at the time, but I "felt" it.
I don't think I was the only one as we walked off the field with a confidence / exuberance that permeated the whole corps.
I myself had blood down the front of my uniform and pouring out of my spit valve as my braces of that time had gotten the better of my inner lips.
As I walked to the bathroom to clean up I wore my blood as a badge of honor. For the first time I felt I had given all I had to give (hence the blood. :p).
Sidebar: Despite the torn lips I had felt like I played OUT (insert Tommy Swan voice there) and hit every note as well as I was able.
We won category after category, but somehow lost to Garfield by the slimmest of margins.
I went from the highest high to the lowest low that night.
I have the worst memory of anyone walking the face of the earth that has not be stricken by AZ, but I remember that night with ultimate clarity.
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by Craig "Clav" Stephens
1976 - Troy, NY.
I "felt" it. Anyone that has ever had a horn to their lips knows what I mean. I realize I was only a 4th baritone at the time, but I "felt" it.
I don't think I was the only one as we walked off the field with a confidence / exuberance that permeated the whole corps.
I myself had blood down the front of my uniform and pouring out of my spit valve as my braces of that time had gotten the better of my inner lips.
As I walked to the bathroom to clean up I wore my blood as a badge of honor. For the first time I felt I had given all I had to give (hence the blood. :p).
Sidebar: Despite the torn lips I had felt like I played OUT (insert Tommy Swan voice there) and hit every note as well as I was able.
We won category after category, but somehow lost to Garfield by the slimmest of margins.
I went from the highest high to the lowest low that night.
I have the worst memory of anyone walking the face of the earth that has not be stricken by AZ, but I remember that night with ultimate clarity.
Comments or questions about our March Moments series? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Friday, March 27, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 27 - A Couple More Tales
March 27 - A Couple More Tales
by Bill Berliner
Story edited for content: One of the Chez brothers got extremely wasted at a party, which might have been at Kubinak's (editor's note: I removed the name so there's only a one out of three chance of getting it right in the case of background checks). We dragged him up to his front porch, rang the bell, and bolted (nice guys that we were …). That led to a new dance number — “Do the Chez.” According to Peaches, they still laugh about it ... although I suspect Mrs. Chez is still pissed.
Recruiting, Saints-Style: Andy Vescey had one of the old-style VW vans, and he used to haul a bunch of us (me, KMRO, LOIS REED?!, etc.) back and forth to practice. A few times, we had our horns with us — around 2:00 AM, we’d set up in front of a fraternity house in New Brunswick and play the off-the-line. We considered it a form of PR work for the corps …
Comments or questions about our March Moments series? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
by Bill Berliner
Story edited for content: One of the Chez brothers got extremely wasted at a party, which might have been at Kubinak's (editor's note: I removed the name so there's only a one out of three chance of getting it right in the case of background checks). We dragged him up to his front porch, rang the bell, and bolted (nice guys that we were …). That led to a new dance number — “Do the Chez.” According to Peaches, they still laugh about it ... although I suspect Mrs. Chez is still pissed.
Recruiting, Saints-Style: Andy Vescey had one of the old-style VW vans, and he used to haul a bunch of us (me, KMRO, LOIS REED?!, etc.) back and forth to practice. A few times, we had our horns with us — around 2:00 AM, we’d set up in front of a fraternity house in New Brunswick and play the off-the-line. We considered it a form of PR work for the corps …
Comments or questions about our March Moments series? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 26 - My First Time, Chapter 6
March 26 - My First Time, Chapter 6
by Craig "Clav" Stephens
I still remember how incensed (no pun intended) I was when we marched into the Garden State championships and saw off to the side the Crossmen burning a Saints T-shirt on a cross.
I vividly recall the memory of stomping on Crossmen and Bridgemen buttons as we headed towards the field.
I remember inspections.
My most vivid memory is seeing The Saints for the first time. It was at the Garden State Championships. The only reason I could even tolerate going to the show was because, well ... it was at Wildwood.
I watched with detached boredom the expected drudgery of one corps after another.
Then The Saints took the line. I knew I should look interested as my brother was marching (The Skull aka Art Stephens).
Then 6 notes were played that took my breath away and changed my life forever.
I know ... dramatic much? LOL But it's the truth. For if I had not heard that off the line I'd have never met my wife.
I blame ya'll and will never forgive you!!
LOL
j/k
Sort of ... *whistles*
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
by Craig "Clav" Stephens
I still remember how incensed (no pun intended) I was when we marched into the Garden State championships and saw off to the side the Crossmen burning a Saints T-shirt on a cross.
I vividly recall the memory of stomping on Crossmen and Bridgemen buttons as we headed towards the field.
I remember inspections.
My most vivid memory is seeing The Saints for the first time. It was at the Garden State Championships. The only reason I could even tolerate going to the show was because, well ... it was at Wildwood.
I watched with detached boredom the expected drudgery of one corps after another.
Then The Saints took the line. I knew I should look interested as my brother was marching (The Skull aka Art Stephens).
Then 6 notes were played that took my breath away and changed my life forever.
I know ... dramatic much? LOL But it's the truth. For if I had not heard that off the line I'd have never met my wife.
I blame ya'll and will never forgive you!!
LOL
j/k
Sort of ... *whistles*
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 25 - Memories from 1974, Chapter 2
March 25 - Memories from 1974, Chapter 2
by JoAnne Parente
Missing the World Open
Where's the irony in this? Two original members miss the chance to march in the World Open, our first world-class competition.
My absence from the field started about a week earlier. The morning of the Dream (again, another first for the corps), I literally collapsed in my parents' living room with a fever of a bazillion point nine. Calling Ralph Fair to tell him was almost comical - he kept asking me if I was sure I wasn't able to march as I was propped up against the wall while on the phone with him ... eventually he got the message.
Many of us are old enough to remember where they were when they found out Kennedy was shot (in my 3rd grade classroom, coloring with Robert Warshany, and at Perth Amboy General Hospital after Karen's tonsil surgery when we found out JFK had died). I also remember where I was when Nixon resigned - the evening of his announcement (August 8) and his departure from the White House (August 9), I was isolated from all but my mother, trying to keep from infecting the rest of the world with that nasty liver thing I had going.
The phone calls kept coming from members of the Board while you were all in Massachusetts, with the first one bringing news of Jackie Bodzas's unfortunate accident playing football or whatever it was at some rest area (Jackie, did I get the story right?). The highs of winning the prelims, and the horror of what happened at finals, left me as excited and disappointed as all of you.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
by JoAnne Parente
Missing the World Open
Where's the irony in this? Two original members miss the chance to march in the World Open, our first world-class competition.
My absence from the field started about a week earlier. The morning of the Dream (again, another first for the corps), I literally collapsed in my parents' living room with a fever of a bazillion point nine. Calling Ralph Fair to tell him was almost comical - he kept asking me if I was sure I wasn't able to march as I was propped up against the wall while on the phone with him ... eventually he got the message.
Many of us are old enough to remember where they were when they found out Kennedy was shot (in my 3rd grade classroom, coloring with Robert Warshany, and at Perth Amboy General Hospital after Karen's tonsil surgery when we found out JFK had died). I also remember where I was when Nixon resigned - the evening of his announcement (August 8) and his departure from the White House (August 9), I was isolated from all but my mother, trying to keep from infecting the rest of the world with that nasty liver thing I had going.
The phone calls kept coming from members of the Board while you were all in Massachusetts, with the first one bringing news of Jackie Bodzas's unfortunate accident playing football or whatever it was at some rest area (Jackie, did I get the story right?). The highs of winning the prelims, and the horror of what happened at finals, left me as excited and disappointed as all of you.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 24 - Mazur's Birdbaths
March 24 - Mazur's Birdbaths
by Bill Berliner
Over the years, I “borrowed” about 8 birdbaths from Mark Mazur’s lawn. One time was the toughest, though. It was the middle of the winter, and the ground was frozen — when the birdbath came out of the ground, it came out with about 20 cubic feet of frozen dirt, and left what looked like a bomb crater in the lawn. We (maybe Jim Brady) almost got hernias trying to get it in my trunk.
Sorry, Maze…
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by Bill Berliner
Over the years, I “borrowed” about 8 birdbaths from Mark Mazur’s lawn. One time was the toughest, though. It was the middle of the winter, and the ground was frozen — when the birdbath came out of the ground, it came out with about 20 cubic feet of frozen dirt, and left what looked like a bomb crater in the lawn. We (maybe Jim Brady) almost got hernias trying to get it in my trunk.
Sorry, Maze…
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Monday, March 23, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 23 - Memories from 1974, Chapter 1
March 23 - Memories from 1974, Chapter 1
by Jim Piccolo
The World Open
As I sit typing this and listening to our corps from 1974 Dream, it brings back so many memories.
One in particular was at the 1974 World Open. It was the first time the corps had an extended overnight trip; President Nixon had resigned while we were in there also. We were staying in Lynn, Massachusetts for the World Open which was actually being held in Lowell which was about 30-45 minutes away. The Manning Bowl in Lynn was a mess! They were repairing it as I recall.
Anyway, we placed 1st in Prelims (remember changing the drill down to 8 1/2 minutes for that?) with a score of 70.150. Our nearest competitor was the CW Townsmen with a 68.45. After we performed at finals the corps felt we did a good job and had a great chance at winning.
We are on retreat and the scores were announced. We come in 2nd place with a score of 63.3 to the Keystone Regiment. The future Crossmen, who placed 3rd in prelims with a 66.650, won the finals with a 65.65! We dropped almost 7 points from prelims. We were shocked to say the least!
The night was a clear but dewy night and you could see the moisture build-up on the instruments. Keystone was standing next to us in retreat and suddenly I had noticed that one of our tymp players was writing on the head of his tymp and leaning it in the direction of Keystone so that they could see what he was writing. I am sure it wasn't pleasantries of congratulations. One of our Drum Majors saw this also and told the tymp player to stop and he graciously did.
We came off the field and we really showed our class! The horn line picked up our horns as if we were marching in a parade and when we stopped, we picked up our legs as if we were competing! Putting the instruments away and riding on the bus back to Lynn was very sobering experience. It was so quiet that you could hear a pin drop! Everyone went to bed as soon as we got back.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
by Jim Piccolo
The World Open
As I sit typing this and listening to our corps from 1974 Dream, it brings back so many memories.
One in particular was at the 1974 World Open. It was the first time the corps had an extended overnight trip; President Nixon had resigned while we were in there also. We were staying in Lynn, Massachusetts for the World Open which was actually being held in Lowell which was about 30-45 minutes away. The Manning Bowl in Lynn was a mess! They were repairing it as I recall.
Anyway, we placed 1st in Prelims (remember changing the drill down to 8 1/2 minutes for that?) with a score of 70.150. Our nearest competitor was the CW Townsmen with a 68.45. After we performed at finals the corps felt we did a good job and had a great chance at winning.
We are on retreat and the scores were announced. We come in 2nd place with a score of 63.3 to the Keystone Regiment. The future Crossmen, who placed 3rd in prelims with a 66.650, won the finals with a 65.65! We dropped almost 7 points from prelims. We were shocked to say the least!
The night was a clear but dewy night and you could see the moisture build-up on the instruments. Keystone was standing next to us in retreat and suddenly I had noticed that one of our tymp players was writing on the head of his tymp and leaning it in the direction of Keystone so that they could see what he was writing. I am sure it wasn't pleasantries of congratulations. One of our Drum Majors saw this also and told the tymp player to stop and he graciously did.
We came off the field and we really showed our class! The horn line picked up our horns as if we were marching in a parade and when we stopped, we picked up our legs as if we were competing! Putting the instruments away and riding on the bus back to Lynn was very sobering experience. It was so quiet that you could hear a pin drop! Everyone went to bed as soon as we got back.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 22 - My First Time, Chapter 5
March 22 - My First Time, Chapter 5, with a postscript
by Bill Berliner and Pete Crafts
From Bill:
I still remember having a big rousing party in (and on top of) the buses after the Atlantic City show in ’75, when we crushed the Cross-boys by about 8 points or so. This was also the first show I ever marched. Could not believe how heavy a contra could get after 13 minutes or so.
From Pete:
My favorite show is when we whipped everyone's butt in the Atlantic City Convention Hall in '74 or '75.
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by Bill Berliner and Pete Crafts
From Bill:
I still remember having a big rousing party in (and on top of) the buses after the Atlantic City show in ’75, when we crushed the Cross-boys by about 8 points or so. This was also the first show I ever marched. Could not believe how heavy a contra could get after 13 minutes or so.
From Pete:
My favorite show is when we whipped everyone's butt in the Atlantic City Convention Hall in '74 or '75.
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Saturday, March 21, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 21 - Recurring Dreams, Chapter 1
March 21 - Recurring Dreams, Chapter 1
by Jack Bodzas
(Editor's Note: You know you have them. There's even a group out on Facebook about drum corps recurring dreams. Send yours in.)
I have a recurring drum corps dream, and it gets scarier every time I have it - but I love it just the same.
Goes like this:
My dream always starts where I am in the kitchen / drum room of the OLP Annex, learning new drum parts for the new season. I come to realize that at the end of April I will age out, and I should tell somebody.
But I really don’t want to turn myself in. I still want to play on. It was the good ol’ days and I knew it. Pete, Joey, Eric, Mike, Brad, Danny, Gary, Gary, Gary, and Gary . . .they are all there and all are still kids (even Peaches playing cymbals!).
It all seems so real except for the fact that I am fifty-something, have a lot less hair and the uniform doesn’t even come close to fitting.
Then I wake up.
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by Jack Bodzas
(Editor's Note: You know you have them. There's even a group out on Facebook about drum corps recurring dreams. Send yours in.)
I have a recurring drum corps dream, and it gets scarier every time I have it - but I love it just the same.
Goes like this:
My dream always starts where I am in the kitchen / drum room of the OLP Annex, learning new drum parts for the new season. I come to realize that at the end of April I will age out, and I should tell somebody.
But I really don’t want to turn myself in. I still want to play on. It was the good ol’ days and I knew it. Pete, Joey, Eric, Mike, Brad, Danny, Gary, Gary, Gary, and Gary . . .they are all there and all are still kids (even Peaches playing cymbals!).
It all seems so real except for the fact that I am fifty-something, have a lot less hair and the uniform doesn’t even come close to fitting.
Then I wake up.
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Friday, March 20, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 20 - A Favorite Marching Memory, Chapter 2
March 20 - A Favorite Marching Memory, Chapter 2
by Bill Berliner
(Editor's Note: Keep on sending in those favorite moments from parades or competitions!).
Jim Brady at DCI Prelims in 1975: Jimmy wanted to put a little tag on the end of his solo in the Ellington medley. Mr. Swan told him not to do it, but Gus Wilkie liked it. Not only did he play it, he turned and played it right at Mr. Swan! Of course, it was great, and old Bucky could only smile and fix his comb-over.
Great memories of great friends …
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by Bill Berliner
(Editor's Note: Keep on sending in those favorite moments from parades or competitions!).
Jim Brady at DCI Prelims in 1975: Jimmy wanted to put a little tag on the end of his solo in the Ellington medley. Mr. Swan told him not to do it, but Gus Wilkie liked it. Not only did he play it, he turned and played it right at Mr. Swan! Of course, it was great, and old Bucky could only smile and fix his comb-over.
Great memories of great friends …
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Thursday, March 19, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 19 - Name Changes, Chapter 1
March 19 - Name Changes, Chapter 1
by JoAnne Parente
(Editor's Note: No surprise - lots of us still are known by the other names we acquired while with the Saints. This is my story.)
Facebook. That magical, virtual place where my two names are colliding over and over again. Nick, Tony, and everyone else out there who are confused by my name, this one's for you ...
Today, on the feast day of my adopted patron Saint Joseph, I'll share with you all how I went from Marilyn to JoAnne. (stop snickering!)
Ralph Fair came to the Saints in mid-1968, and primarily worked with what we called the Big Guard. I was with the Little Guard, or Guide-Ons, at the time, and still remember how thrilled I was when Ralph asked me to march with the Big Guard after their first winter season ended in Spring 1969.
Around the same time, a new member named Joann (last name intentionally omitted) joined the guard. Other than the color of our hair, we looked NOTHING alike. For some reason, Ralph called her Marilyn, and me ... well, you figure it out.
She quit after only a few weeks. My name went with her.
It got to the point that people had to refer to me as "Marilyn, the one you call Joann," for Ralph to know who they were talking about. That shortened to "the one you call Joann." Finally, once I accepted the idea that Ralph was NEVER going to call me Marilyn, I embraced the name change with my own spelling.
Since the JoAnne thing happened the summer before I started at St Mary's, I used that name all through high school and college. Even though my parents never changed how they addressed me (the first few times people called the house asking for JoAnne, my parents would tell them they had the wrong number), somehow my two youngest sisters (born in 1969) didn't realize my first name was Marilyn until their first day of kindergarten - that's a story I'll save until the next time I see you.
When I started working for the federal government after graduation, it became too cumbersome to use a non-legal name. That's when I went back to the M-word. To this day, I respond to people based on the name used when we were introduced.
Which do I identify with more? Depends on the situation, but most of the time it's JoAnne ...
Ralph, thanks ... I think
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
by JoAnne Parente
(Editor's Note: No surprise - lots of us still are known by the other names we acquired while with the Saints. This is my story.)
Facebook. That magical, virtual place where my two names are colliding over and over again. Nick, Tony, and everyone else out there who are confused by my name, this one's for you ...
Today, on the feast day of my adopted patron Saint Joseph, I'll share with you all how I went from Marilyn to JoAnne. (stop snickering!)
Ralph Fair came to the Saints in mid-1968, and primarily worked with what we called the Big Guard. I was with the Little Guard, or Guide-Ons, at the time, and still remember how thrilled I was when Ralph asked me to march with the Big Guard after their first winter season ended in Spring 1969.
Around the same time, a new member named Joann (last name intentionally omitted) joined the guard. Other than the color of our hair, we looked NOTHING alike. For some reason, Ralph called her Marilyn, and me ... well, you figure it out.
She quit after only a few weeks. My name went with her.
It got to the point that people had to refer to me as "Marilyn, the one you call Joann," for Ralph to know who they were talking about. That shortened to "the one you call Joann." Finally, once I accepted the idea that Ralph was NEVER going to call me Marilyn, I embraced the name change with my own spelling.
Since the JoAnne thing happened the summer before I started at St Mary's, I used that name all through high school and college. Even though my parents never changed how they addressed me (the first few times people called the house asking for JoAnne, my parents would tell them they had the wrong number), somehow my two youngest sisters (born in 1969) didn't realize my first name was Marilyn until their first day of kindergarten - that's a story I'll save until the next time I see you.
When I started working for the federal government after graduation, it became too cumbersome to use a non-legal name. That's when I went back to the M-word. To this day, I respond to people based on the name used when we were introduced.
Which do I identify with more? Depends on the situation, but most of the time it's JoAnne ...
Ralph, thanks ... I think
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 18 - On Tour, Chapter 1
March 18 - On Tour, Chapter 1
by Bill Berliner
(Editor's Note: The title comes from me. I'm sure many of you have other tour-based stories - send them in already!).
Running from Sheriff Crockett: That was in ’76, the second year we stayed in Prospect, OH. He chased us all night after he caught us skinny-dipping in the community pool, and was shining his searchlight — it felt like something from “The Great Escape.” Also, when I say “all night,” I’m not exaggerating. Every time we thought we lost him, his car came out of some alley, and we had to run like hell.
I lost most of a pair of jeans on a metal fence that I hit sometime that night. I don’t remember who I was with (Pic? Peaches? Mongo?), but I remember finally hiding out in a church loft until the sun came up. He was relentless … as was Ray Kadash when we came staggering back in the morning. (“Where were you #!@&! guys?!)
Great memories of great friends…
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
by Bill Berliner
(Editor's Note: The title comes from me. I'm sure many of you have other tour-based stories - send them in already!).
Running from Sheriff Crockett: That was in ’76, the second year we stayed in Prospect, OH. He chased us all night after he caught us skinny-dipping in the community pool, and was shining his searchlight — it felt like something from “The Great Escape.” Also, when I say “all night,” I’m not exaggerating. Every time we thought we lost him, his car came out of some alley, and we had to run like hell.
I lost most of a pair of jeans on a metal fence that I hit sometime that night. I don’t remember who I was with (Pic? Peaches? Mongo?), but I remember finally hiding out in a church loft until the sun came up. He was relentless … as was Ray Kadash when we came staggering back in the morning. (“Where were you #!@&! guys?!)
Great memories of great friends…
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 17 - Wardrobe Malfunctions, Chapter 1
March 17 - Wardrobe Malfunctions, Chapter 1
by Jack Bodzas
(Editor's Note: The title comes from me. I'm sure many of you have other uniform-based stories - send them in already!).
I think it was a Bayonne show. I ripped or split my pants right before we were to enter competition. Both Mrs. Chez and Mrs. Maloney pinned / sewed the rip in question while I still had the trousers on ... drum, shako and all!
Never saw Mr. Kelly laugh so hard. He held it in for quite a while, but he just eventually burst out. The funny / scary part is that they sewed the uniform to my shorts!
Ah, the good old days.+/-
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
by Jack Bodzas
(Editor's Note: The title comes from me. I'm sure many of you have other uniform-based stories - send them in already!).
I think it was a Bayonne show. I ripped or split my pants right before we were to enter competition. Both Mrs. Chez and Mrs. Maloney pinned / sewed the rip in question while I still had the trousers on ... drum, shako and all!
Never saw Mr. Kelly laugh so hard. He held it in for quite a while, but he just eventually burst out. The funny / scary part is that they sewed the uniform to my shorts!
Ah, the good old days.+/-
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Monday, March 16, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 16 - My First Time, Chapter 4
March 16 - My First Time, Chapter 4
by JoAnne Parente
Let's jump to the first time the Saints Guard competed down Wildwood at Legions - I think it was September 1970.
Summer guard was very different than winter guard that season - while we were still performing the Manual of Arms on the floor, we had already made the leap to taped music by then. In a reversal of fortunes, Legion rules called for a posting of colors, with cadence provided by up to three drummers.
For a couple of weeks before the contest, I had a recurring dream that our flag poles wouldn't fit in the stantions. My fear multiplied when Ralph Fair told us we'd be using the Colleens' stantions instead of our own during the show.
I shared my concerns with Ralph and Tony more than once those last couple of weeks before heading down to Maxwell Field (truth be told, I probably made them crazy over it), and even asked a couple (or a hundred) times if they measured everything.
Then, it happened.
Instead of our normal, small-profile plastic endcaps, nice-white-brand-new cane tips with a broader diameter were placed on the bottom of our poles after our last pre-show rehearsal - all the better to help us get through inspection.
The flags didn't start falling until the forward march after posting colors. As we headed away from the stantions (a mandatory move), every flag dropped except the National Colors. Terry Gyorfy held the American flag erect and balanced on the top of the stantion as she took her two steps away from and back to the posting line.
Given the hefty penalties (lack of posting as well as dropped equipment), we withdrew from the competition after leaving the field.
I still carry the lessons learned with me, over three decades later.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
by JoAnne Parente
Let's jump to the first time the Saints Guard competed down Wildwood at Legions - I think it was September 1970.
Summer guard was very different than winter guard that season - while we were still performing the Manual of Arms on the floor, we had already made the leap to taped music by then. In a reversal of fortunes, Legion rules called for a posting of colors, with cadence provided by up to three drummers.
For a couple of weeks before the contest, I had a recurring dream that our flag poles wouldn't fit in the stantions. My fear multiplied when Ralph Fair told us we'd be using the Colleens' stantions instead of our own during the show.
I shared my concerns with Ralph and Tony more than once those last couple of weeks before heading down to Maxwell Field (truth be told, I probably made them crazy over it), and even asked a couple (or a hundred) times if they measured everything.
Then, it happened.
Instead of our normal, small-profile plastic endcaps, nice-white-brand-new cane tips with a broader diameter were placed on the bottom of our poles after our last pre-show rehearsal - all the better to help us get through inspection.
The flags didn't start falling until the forward march after posting colors. As we headed away from the stantions (a mandatory move), every flag dropped except the National Colors. Terry Gyorfy held the American flag erect and balanced on the top of the stantion as she took her two steps away from and back to the posting line.
Given the hefty penalties (lack of posting as well as dropped equipment), we withdrew from the competition after leaving the field.
I still carry the lessons learned with me, over three decades later.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 15 - My First Time, Chapter 3
March 15 - My First Time, Chapter 3
by JoAnne Parente
It was the day of the FCBBBL (Fords-Clara Barton Boys Baseball League) start-of-season parade ... April 1968.
That morning, we attended Mass together - in uniform - at Our Lady of Peace Church. Pews were reserved for us, and I think we processed in together just before Mass started. Afterwards, we gathered on the steps of the grammar school just next door for our first group picture.
So many significant moments of my life have taken place in that church - four sacraments; 8th grade graduation; baptisms, weddings, and funerals for family and friends.
That blessed gathering of never-had-marched-before kids made what I'm writing today possible. Carrying my guide-on pole with its pennant flag that afternoon in our very first parade, I never could have imagined any of this.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
by JoAnne Parente
It was the day of the FCBBBL (Fords-Clara Barton Boys Baseball League) start-of-season parade ... April 1968.
That morning, we attended Mass together - in uniform - at Our Lady of Peace Church. Pews were reserved for us, and I think we processed in together just before Mass started. Afterwards, we gathered on the steps of the grammar school just next door for our first group picture.
So many significant moments of my life have taken place in that church - four sacraments; 8th grade graduation; baptisms, weddings, and funerals for family and friends.
That blessed gathering of never-had-marched-before kids made what I'm writing today possible. Carrying my guide-on pole with its pennant flag that afternoon in our very first parade, I never could have imagined any of this.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
March Moments 2009 : March 14 - Indoor Shows, Chapter 1
March 14 - Indoor Shows, Chapter 1
by JoAnne Parente
This moment came to me courtesy of Jimmy Pic, who sent along some audio files of the corps from the 1973 Season.
Marching in the NJJCGEA (National Judges Junior Color Guard and Ensemble Association - NJA for short), a good number of our shows were split in two. The first half of the evening was devoted to the color guards, with the time after intermission filled with ensemble competition.
Listening to the NJA Chapter 3 and All-Chapter audio recordings, I was flooded with memories of how supportive we all were of each other. Whether it was any of our three guards or the ensemble on the floor, the rest of us were all there in the stands. We collectively knew when to hold our breath and watch or listen, and when to scream appreciation for a part of drill or music that was difficult or critical to the outcome of the performance.
Up until now, I don't believe I've thought all that much about how often many of you just traveled to shows to cheer the rest of us on. The Saints Guard had the most shows of all during the winter season - even when Sematics, Phase III, and the ensemble weren't competing (like when we marched out of circuit), you all made the bus trip with us.
Support breeds confidence. Confidence breeds success.
Thanks for being there.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
by JoAnne Parente
This moment came to me courtesy of Jimmy Pic, who sent along some audio files of the corps from the 1973 Season.
Marching in the NJJCGEA (National Judges Junior Color Guard and Ensemble Association - NJA for short), a good number of our shows were split in two. The first half of the evening was devoted to the color guards, with the time after intermission filled with ensemble competition.
Listening to the NJA Chapter 3 and All-Chapter audio recordings, I was flooded with memories of how supportive we all were of each other. Whether it was any of our three guards or the ensemble on the floor, the rest of us were all there in the stands. We collectively knew when to hold our breath and watch or listen, and when to scream appreciation for a part of drill or music that was difficult or critical to the outcome of the performance.
Up until now, I don't believe I've thought all that much about how often many of you just traveled to shows to cheer the rest of us on. The Saints Guard had the most shows of all during the winter season - even when Sematics, Phase III, and the ensemble weren't competing (like when we marched out of circuit), you all made the bus trip with us.
Support breeds confidence. Confidence breeds success.
Thanks for being there.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Friday, March 13, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 13 - My First Time, Chapter 2
March 13 - My First Time, Chapter 2
by Pete Crafts
This is not a favorite marching moment by any means.
It was June 1973. Pic had talked me into joining and I had only been to a few practices. I took the ride to the Meadowlarks show in Secaucus. There were a few holes in the show and somehow the ladies put a uniform together for me and I was asked to just hold a horn and march through the show.
I was so proud how I made it through and boasting how I marched lifting my legs high. Then a few weeks later someone came up with a photo from Moe Knox pointing out how I was out of step. I swear to this day it was Ed Philpot in that photo.
Take care!
Pete Crafts
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
by Pete Crafts
This is not a favorite marching moment by any means.
It was June 1973. Pic had talked me into joining and I had only been to a few practices. I took the ride to the Meadowlarks show in Secaucus. There were a few holes in the show and somehow the ladies put a uniform together for me and I was asked to just hold a horn and march through the show.
I was so proud how I made it through and boasting how I marched lifting my legs high. Then a few weeks later someone came up with a photo from Moe Knox pointing out how I was out of step. I swear to this day it was Ed Philpot in that photo.
Take care!
Pete Crafts
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 12 - A Favorite Marching Memory, Chapter 1
March 12 - A Favorite Marching Memory, Chapter 1
by Jim Piccolo
It was the summer of '74 (ah, my favorite!). We were at a Friday night competition somewhere in South Jersey - Haddonfield I believe.
We were 'bout half-way through the show and all of the sudden I blanked out! I didn't know where I was in the drill. I finally caught my bearings and finished the show.
When we got off the field, Mr. Fair was standing there waiting for me. Boy did he give me an earful! Luckily, we won the the show over the 507 Hornets (now the Crossmen).
This is one of many of the wonderful Saints marching memories I have.
Mr. Fair, I still love you!
Jimmy Pic
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
by Jim Piccolo
It was the summer of '74 (ah, my favorite!). We were at a Friday night competition somewhere in South Jersey - Haddonfield I believe.
We were 'bout half-way through the show and all of the sudden I blanked out! I didn't know where I was in the drill. I finally caught my bearings and finished the show.
When we got off the field, Mr. Fair was standing there waiting for me. Boy did he give me an earful! Luckily, we won the the show over the 507 Hornets (now the Crossmen).
This is one of many of the wonderful Saints marching memories I have.
Mr. Fair, I still love you!
Jimmy Pic
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 11 - Fundraising, Chapter 1
March 11 - Fundraising, Chapter 1
by JoAnne Parente
(Editor's Note: There are LOTS of memories around fundraising. Help me out and send in some of your own).
Tag Day.
Those two words still send shivers down my spine.
After awhile I got used to it, and maybe even enjoyed a moment or two collecting spare change and the occasional "paper money" at the intersection of Route 1 and Avenel Street, location of the Avenel Firehouse.
Those white canisters, securely taped shut, were used over and over and over again. Most of us were honest about what we collected ... others, well, you know who you are.
Like many of you, I take pity on any and everyone out there collecting at intersections and Shop Rite entrance ways. I'll dig into my purse and add something to their canister, hoping I make their day as much as others used to do for me over thirty years ago.
Tagging. An experience I sure don't forget and am glad to leave behind.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
by JoAnne Parente
(Editor's Note: There are LOTS of memories around fundraising. Help me out and send in some of your own).
Tag Day.
Those two words still send shivers down my spine.
After awhile I got used to it, and maybe even enjoyed a moment or two collecting spare change and the occasional "paper money" at the intersection of Route 1 and Avenel Street, location of the Avenel Firehouse.
Those white canisters, securely taped shut, were used over and over and over again. Most of us were honest about what we collected ... others, well, you know who you are.
Like many of you, I take pity on any and everyone out there collecting at intersections and Shop Rite entrance ways. I'll dig into my purse and add something to their canister, hoping I make their day as much as others used to do for me over thirty years ago.
Tagging. An experience I sure don't forget and am glad to leave behind.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 10 - Footwear, Chapter 2
March 10 - Footwear, Chapter 2
by Rhonda (Yates) Breen-Simone
(Editor's Note: The first chapter of Footwear appeared on March 8th).
Uniforms, Uniforms!
For those of you who attended the mini reunion you’ll know my heart belongs to the English Riding boot. And Jo has the picture to prove it!
I found them very comfortable to march in, and if I had known about the liquid floor wax, I’m sure Karen wouldn’t have had to give me such a hard time about my shine factor. Still, I have great memories of getting ready for inspection and of stashing a bit of nylons in my boots for quick touch ups (no jokes about stuffing my boots ‘cause I had such skinny legs that my boots would smack my calves).
I loved marching with you guys and I can’t think of a better way to spend the summer.
Thanks for the memories,
Rhonda
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
by Rhonda (Yates) Breen-Simone
(Editor's Note: The first chapter of Footwear appeared on March 8th).
Uniforms, Uniforms!
For those of you who attended the mini reunion you’ll know my heart belongs to the English Riding boot. And Jo has the picture to prove it!
I found them very comfortable to march in, and if I had known about the liquid floor wax, I’m sure Karen wouldn’t have had to give me such a hard time about my shine factor. Still, I have great memories of getting ready for inspection and of stashing a bit of nylons in my boots for quick touch ups (no jokes about stuffing my boots ‘cause I had such skinny legs that my boots would smack my calves).
I loved marching with you guys and I can’t think of a better way to spend the summer.
Thanks for the memories,
Rhonda
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
Monday, March 9, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 9 - Tradeoffs
March 9 - Tradeoffs
by JoAnne Parente
On this day back in 1974, we all gathered at Herbert Hoover Junior High in Edison for our annual Flying Silks show. I can't tell you what guards and ensembles competed, but I remember most of the rest of that evening more clearly than what I did yesterday.
That show was the first time I was able to successfully integrate my dating life and drum corps life. Most guys I dated back then didn't get it. Just one did (thanks!).
Winter season, in particular, meant tradeoffs for me. Marching with the guard translated to missing dances, concerts, job opportunities, and whatever else most people in high school and college get a chance to do when not studying (OK, I realize many of us didn't study as much as we should have, but that's the topic for another Scribblings entry).
It wasn't just competitions that stood in the way of non-corps social events - I missed a high school prom because it was held the same night as a practice for a major show. I'm sure most of you can name at least as many tradeoffs you made as I can.
Eventually, I traded off drum corps, leaving my post at DCA behind to continue developing a relationship with the man who became my husband. Nineteen years of marriage later, Richard is finally getting to know many of you - and it's about time.
The tradeoffs have all been worth it for me. I hope the same is true for you.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
by JoAnne Parente
On this day back in 1974, we all gathered at Herbert Hoover Junior High in Edison for our annual Flying Silks show. I can't tell you what guards and ensembles competed, but I remember most of the rest of that evening more clearly than what I did yesterday.
That show was the first time I was able to successfully integrate my dating life and drum corps life. Most guys I dated back then didn't get it. Just one did (thanks!).
Winter season, in particular, meant tradeoffs for me. Marching with the guard translated to missing dances, concerts, job opportunities, and whatever else most people in high school and college get a chance to do when not studying (OK, I realize many of us didn't study as much as we should have, but that's the topic for another Scribblings entry).
It wasn't just competitions that stood in the way of non-corps social events - I missed a high school prom because it was held the same night as a practice for a major show. I'm sure most of you can name at least as many tradeoffs you made as I can.
Eventually, I traded off drum corps, leaving my post at DCA behind to continue developing a relationship with the man who became my husband. Nineteen years of marriage later, Richard is finally getting to know many of you - and it's about time.
The tradeoffs have all been worth it for me. I hope the same is true for you.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Sunday, March 8, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 8 - Footwear, Chapter 1
March 8 - Footwear, Chapter 1
by JoAnne Parente
There's been more than a bit of discussion among us about changes to our uniforms over the years - two different styles of satin blouses, the cadet uniforms, the orange outfits, and the various interim uniforms when the new ones weren't done.
I don't think we've talked much about footwear, and strange as it may sound, it's among my more vivid memories from back then.
First, the white bucks ... even though I wore boots my entire Saints career, I still make sure my shoes are laced the same way. I also remember the angst over "natural" versus "white" along the soles and heels - all to make sure we survived inspection as tick-free as possible.
Next, the horse-and-buggy boots ... again, we had the same polish-or-no-polish deal along the soles and heels that the horn and drum lines faced. What we put up with that they never did were those ugly rub burns along the tops of the boots. I swear I still have faint scars all these years later.
Finally, to the English riding boots ... it was a matter of pride - especially during winter season - that our boots were the shiniest out there. I still smile on occasion when I see a bottle of liquid floor wax - the product of choice to preserve that spit-shine finish.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
by JoAnne Parente
There's been more than a bit of discussion among us about changes to our uniforms over the years - two different styles of satin blouses, the cadet uniforms, the orange outfits, and the various interim uniforms when the new ones weren't done.
I don't think we've talked much about footwear, and strange as it may sound, it's among my more vivid memories from back then.
First, the white bucks ... even though I wore boots my entire Saints career, I still make sure my shoes are laced the same way. I also remember the angst over "natural" versus "white" along the soles and heels - all to make sure we survived inspection as tick-free as possible.
Next, the horse-and-buggy boots ... again, we had the same polish-or-no-polish deal along the soles and heels that the horn and drum lines faced. What we put up with that they never did were those ugly rub burns along the tops of the boots. I swear I still have faint scars all these years later.
Finally, to the English riding boots ... it was a matter of pride - especially during winter season - that our boots were the shiniest out there. I still smile on occasion when I see a bottle of liquid floor wax - the product of choice to preserve that spit-shine finish.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Saturday, March 7, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 7 - Show Me the Way to Go Home
March 7 - Show Me the Way to Go Home
by Jack Bodzas
(Editor's Note: This came along with no added narrative, so I'm adding it).
Especially for those of you out there who haven't been in the area for awhile, here's a link for you:
http://tinyurl.com/OLPAnnex
If your browser has TinyUrl suppressed, here's a link to get to the full link:
http://preview.tinyurl.com/OLPAnnex
I have tested both myself and can assure you they're virus-free (the origin for the link was created by Jackie on Google Maps).
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
by Jack Bodzas
(Editor's Note: This came along with no added narrative, so I'm adding it).
Especially for those of you out there who haven't been in the area for awhile, here's a link for you:
http://tinyurl.com/OLPAnnex
If your browser has TinyUrl suppressed, here's a link to get to the full link:
http://preview.tinyurl.com/OLPAnnex
I have tested both myself and can assure you they're virus-free (the origin for the link was created by Jackie on Google Maps).
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Friday, March 6, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 6 - El Khobar Lives
March 6 - El Khobar Lives
by jo
Desert Song and El Khobar are among my favorite memories of what happened OFF the field in 1974.
The winter before, we were all told to report to the Annex to see a movie. No one was excused, and no one was told what it was all about. A couple hours later, we walked out of the Annex with a clear vision of what Desert Song really meant.
For the first time, we were asked to keep a secret about our summer repertoire, and keep it we did. It was the year we really turned the corner as a competitive corps, and I'm still sad about missing half that summer season (again, apologies to those who had to get shots after I got sick!).
At every guard show that winter, Karen and I hung the bright green El Khobar Lives! banner somewhere prominent on the gym wall. Didn't matter who asked about it, we always answered the same way - come see us this summer and find out for yourself. Worth Ake was close to bribing me for the lead on the story, and I wouldn't budge.
Another part of the memory, of course, was the standup recruiting soldier cutout that we -ehem- borrowed from the Armory where we practiced summer drill. He fulfilled his duties admirably at the NJA championships in Wildwood that May, fully dressed for the occasion.
I'll leave the summer season memories for that year to those who were active participants in pulling it off. Looking at what DCIs have become, we were YEARS ahead of the game.
left to right: JoAnne Parente, Soldier Boy El Khobar, Terry Gyorfy
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
by jo
Desert Song and El Khobar are among my favorite memories of what happened OFF the field in 1974.
The winter before, we were all told to report to the Annex to see a movie. No one was excused, and no one was told what it was all about. A couple hours later, we walked out of the Annex with a clear vision of what Desert Song really meant.
For the first time, we were asked to keep a secret about our summer repertoire, and keep it we did. It was the year we really turned the corner as a competitive corps, and I'm still sad about missing half that summer season (again, apologies to those who had to get shots after I got sick!).
At every guard show that winter, Karen and I hung the bright green El Khobar Lives! banner somewhere prominent on the gym wall. Didn't matter who asked about it, we always answered the same way - come see us this summer and find out for yourself. Worth Ake was close to bribing me for the lead on the story, and I wouldn't budge.
Another part of the memory, of course, was the standup recruiting soldier cutout that we -ehem- borrowed from the Armory where we practiced summer drill. He fulfilled his duties admirably at the NJA championships in Wildwood that May, fully dressed for the occasion.
I'll leave the summer season memories for that year to those who were active participants in pulling it off. Looking at what DCIs have become, we were YEARS ahead of the game.
left to right: JoAnne Parente, Soldier Boy El Khobar, Terry GyorfyInterested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 5 - My First Time, Chapter 1
March 5 - My First Time, Chapter 1
by Verne James
(Editor's Note: Another theme I'm sure will pop up is the one suggested today by Verne. Again, I'm going with the Chapter thing).
So, what's our favorite day this month? March Fourth (forth) of course!
I remember my first field competition (or at least I think I do). It was in New London, Connecticut in 1976 (May - Memorial Day weekend?). We had four Contras (i.e., the Beast), Bluto, Mongo, Bozo and me. It was a foggy night and I recall the lights and the excitement of performing.
Certainly, Garfield must have been there and I believe the Muchachos as well (their last season). It took me years afterward to find the name of the Muchachos tune that stuck in my mind from that season, "Pines of the Appian Way" (any idea on how to get a recording of them playing that?). The sound of a corps playing away from the audience always has a very unique tone to it and this is how I remember hearing this song (didn't we usually sit in the back bleachers after a performance?).
We opened with Grieg and also did Ellington & eventually My Way (I think?). Later that season we changed the finale. I believe this was also the last year of going "Off The Line". Are current drum corps members familiar with this term, i.e., "What is their Off the Line?". I still hold Tom Swan's arrangements in high regard!! They were fantastic. The way he weaved together the Ellington songs was brilliant.
Though it ultimately ended up being a somewhat disappointing season, it was great for me and it was fun to watch Mongo donate to the cause at the end of most shows ;-) I also preferred the traditional uniforms that year and are still in awe at the talents of my fellow musicians and color guard.
Thanks!!
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
by Verne James
(Editor's Note: Another theme I'm sure will pop up is the one suggested today by Verne. Again, I'm going with the Chapter thing).
So, what's our favorite day this month? March Fourth (forth) of course!
I remember my first field competition (or at least I think I do). It was in New London, Connecticut in 1976 (May - Memorial Day weekend?). We had four Contras (i.e., the Beast), Bluto, Mongo, Bozo and me. It was a foggy night and I recall the lights and the excitement of performing.
Certainly, Garfield must have been there and I believe the Muchachos as well (their last season). It took me years afterward to find the name of the Muchachos tune that stuck in my mind from that season, "Pines of the Appian Way" (any idea on how to get a recording of them playing that?). The sound of a corps playing away from the audience always has a very unique tone to it and this is how I remember hearing this song (didn't we usually sit in the back bleachers after a performance?).
We opened with Grieg and also did Ellington & eventually My Way (I think?). Later that season we changed the finale. I believe this was also the last year of going "Off The Line". Are current drum corps members familiar with this term, i.e., "What is their Off the Line?". I still hold Tom Swan's arrangements in high regard!! They were fantastic. The way he weaved together the Ellington songs was brilliant.
Though it ultimately ended up being a somewhat disappointing season, it was great for me and it was fun to watch Mongo donate to the cause at the end of most shows ;-) I also preferred the traditional uniforms that year and are still in awe at the talents of my fellow musicians and color guard.
Thanks!!
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 4 - Days of the Week, Saints-Style
March 4 - Days of the Week, Saints-Style
(by Pete Chesnovitz)
(Editor's note: This March Moment was submitted as part of last week's Tuesday Trivia bonus question)
All winter season weekends were the same back then:
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
(by Pete Chesnovitz)
(Editor's note: This March Moment was submitted as part of last week's Tuesday Trivia bonus question)
All winter season weekends were the same back then:
- Saturday - horn practice at the Annex, then board the bus for a color guard show
- Sunday - another show
- Monday - a day off (we all hung out at the Annex anyway)
- Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday - color guard practices that we hung out at
- Friday - was horn rehearsal
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Tuesday Trivia: Saints Winter Guard Show
Here's last week's question:
The summer show that we held was called Music In Splendor. What did we call the winter guard show we sponsored each year?
Bonus points: It was held the same weekend every year. What weekend was that?
First, the bonus points - no one got this part right. The show was held the second Saturday of March each year. Lots of good guesses, though!
Now, to the first part - the show was called Flying Silks. As rightly pointed out by Jackie Bodzas, the name for the show was coined by my all-time favorite boss, Jean French. Also chiming in with the right answer were Jimmy Pic and Pete Chez (who claimed to be too young to remember the weekend we held it ... hmmm).
Thanks to you all!
Given that the postings for this month are now dedicated to our favorite marching moments, Tuesday Trivia will be put on hold until April.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
The summer show that we held was called Music In Splendor. What did we call the winter guard show we sponsored each year?
Bonus points: It was held the same weekend every year. What weekend was that?
First, the bonus points - no one got this part right. The show was held the second Saturday of March each year. Lots of good guesses, though!
Now, to the first part - the show was called Flying Silks. As rightly pointed out by Jackie Bodzas, the name for the show was coined by my all-time favorite boss, Jean French. Also chiming in with the right answer were Jimmy Pic and Pete Chez (who claimed to be too young to remember the weekend we held it ... hmmm).
Thanks to you all!
Given that the postings for this month are now dedicated to our favorite marching moments, Tuesday Trivia will be put on hold until April.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Monday, March 2, 2009
March Moments 2009: March 2 - Tony Fills In, Chapter 1
March 2 - Tony Fills In, Chapter 1
by Jack Bodzas
(Editor's Note: There are lots of times that Tony Cataneo filled in for one of us over the years. To keep all the stories straight, I labeled this one Chapter 1).
In the first season that the Saints fielded tymps, Eric, for probably a better-than-damn-good reason, could not make a show. Tony Cataneo stepped up to help.
He just so happened to have a uniform left over from the previous color guard season (there is a picture in the Photo Gallery to prove this), so we taught him most of the parts on the bus ride to the show (I think it was Moonachie). He taught the marching drill to us originally; therefore he already knew where to go. If he was about to forget a drum part, he just signaled, shot me a frantic look, and I reached over and banged a few notes on his drum.
Ahhh, the good old days +/-.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
by Jack Bodzas
(Editor's Note: There are lots of times that Tony Cataneo filled in for one of us over the years. To keep all the stories straight, I labeled this one Chapter 1).
In the first season that the Saints fielded tymps, Eric, for probably a better-than-damn-good reason, could not make a show. Tony Cataneo stepped up to help.
He just so happened to have a uniform left over from the previous color guard season (there is a picture in the Photo Gallery to prove this), so we taught him most of the parts on the bus ride to the show (I think it was Moonachie). He taught the marching drill to us originally; therefore he already knew where to go. If he was about to forget a drum part, he just signaled, shot me a frantic look, and I reached over and banged a few notes on his drum.
Ahhh, the good old days +/-.
Interested in submitting your own favorite memories for March Moments? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Sunday, March 1, 2009
March Moments 2009 - March 1 (by jo)
March 1 - Off The Line
(by jo)
Call it cliche, but I think we can have some fun with this.
It's March, as in MARCH. How lucky are we Saints - a holy day of obligation named after us (All Saints Day on November 1 each year, on Mr. French's birthday no less), and a WHOLE MONTH named for the thing we loved to do together for about 10 years.
Here's what I'm suggesting - a WHOLE MONTH of your trivia, memories, whatever.
Call it a month of March Moments.
Submit your favorite marching moments. The only two restrictions are that is has to pass my editing sensibilities in a public forum (don't worry - I can clean up MANY a story), and it must be about your time with the Saints. After all, it's only fair. If you have a favorite marching moment that came from another corps or band, submit it to their blog.
Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com. I think you get how to connect the pieces together for the e-mail (trying to keep the amount of spam to a minimum).
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
(by jo)
Call it cliche, but I think we can have some fun with this.
It's March, as in MARCH. How lucky are we Saints - a holy day of obligation named after us (All Saints Day on November 1 each year, on Mr. French's birthday no less), and a WHOLE MONTH named for the thing we loved to do together for about 10 years.
Here's what I'm suggesting - a WHOLE MONTH of your trivia, memories, whatever.
Call it a month of March Moments.
Submit your favorite marching moments. The only two restrictions are that is has to pass my editing sensibilities in a public forum (don't worry - I can clean up MANY a story), and it must be about your time with the Saints. After all, it's only fair. If you have a favorite marching moment that came from another corps or band, submit it to their blog.
- It can be a big deal, a small (up until now) private thing, or anything in between.
- It can be written or a photo
- It will have your name associated with it unless you ask to submit anonymously (I'd offer your name with big shiny lighting, but that's what Sue Brady does for a living and I don't want to compete with an expert!)
Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com. I think you get how to connect the pieces together for the e-mail (trying to keep the amount of spam to a minimum).
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
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