Saturday, in the park - I think it was the 32nd of July ...
OK, you all know I can be flexible when it comes to the number of days in a month (xref: Saints Scribblings, March 2009).
ANYWAY, gentle reminder - we're gathering in the park near J Birney Crum Stadium today at 3 pm ... only an hour from Saintsville.
Take 287N to 78W to exit 55 (Cedar Crest Blvd) towards Allentown. Follow S Cedar Crest Blvd for about a mile, and make a right onto Hamilton Blvd (Rt 222N). About 3/4 mile later, you'll see the park (and, probably, a dozen corps going through their warmups). We'll be between the pond and the pool (W Hamilton / Ott). If you get there and need to find us, my cell is (spelling out to avoid the spammers) nine zero eight, two two nine, seven one five four.
It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood, a beautiful day for ... you get it. No excuses that you don't want to go to the show - just don't go to the show!
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Showing posts with label corps. Show all posts
Showing posts with label corps. Show all posts
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Tuesday Trivia: June 30, 2009
We had two members respond to last week's Tuesday Trivia - double the response of the week before!
Here's last week's two-part question:
How many NJ AL championships did the Saints win, and in what years?
From Pete Chez:
Jo, If I remember correctly (and maybe I'm not - the 70s were a lot of fun you know), you could either compete in the show OR the parade. So my guess is '69. Purely a guess. If I'm way off base, DON"T PRINT THIS !!!! thanks.
From Jackie Bodzas:
To answer your question: 26 World Series championships and 39 American League pennants. Ooops ... I think that is the Yanks, not us.
And now, for the official answer:
Thanks to my little brothers for responding!
Now, for next week's question (and I DO know the answer to this one!):
What corps used horns from the disbanded Saints in their DCI Championships alumni performance?
Remember ... prizes, prizes, we have no prizes!
Ready to send in your answers? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com by the end of the day (whatever your time zone) on Monday, July 6th.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Here's last week's two-part question:
How many NJ AL championships did the Saints win, and in what years?
From Pete Chez:
Jo, If I remember correctly (and maybe I'm not - the 70s were a lot of fun you know), you could either compete in the show OR the parade. So my guess is '69. Purely a guess. If I'm way off base, DON"T PRINT THIS !!!! thanks.
From Jackie Bodzas:
To answer your question: 26 World Series championships and 39 American League pennants. Ooops ... I think that is the Yanks, not us.
And now, for the official answer:
I have no clue. I had forgotten about the either-or stipulation - thanks to Pete for the reminder, and to Jackie for confirmation. As far as how many and what years, the only one I can remember for sure is the guard field championship we won in 1973 (see the picture from the balcony at the Cara Mara below). We may also have won the guard title in 1972, but can't really say for sure. I seem to remember at least one parade win (could be the 1969 thing that Pete remembers), and I thought the corps won the field show once as well (1976?).
Thanks to my little brothers for responding!
Now, for next week's question (and I DO know the answer to this one!):
What corps used horns from the disbanded Saints in their DCI Championships alumni performance?
Remember ... prizes, prizes, we have no prizes!
Ready to send in your answers? Click here to submit, or if that doesn't work, send them to joparente DOT saintsdrumcorps AT gmail DOT com by the end of the day (whatever your time zone) on Monday, July 6th.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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 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!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Tuesday Trivia: Pre-Corps, Post-Corps, and all-round Corps
Four members responded to last week's question ... thanks!
Pete Crafts: Pete came to the Saints from the Silver Lancers (Middlesex NJ). Pete made the trek south on 287 to join us along with fellow Lancers Jimmy Pic, Marty Straka, Darlene Stover, Alfie Hankerson, and Lorraine Porowski (Lorraine, we're still looking to connect with you!). While Pete did some roadie stuff with rock bands post-Saints, he didn't march again.
Judy Stewart Sgammato: The Saints was Judy's first corps, but definitely not her last. She headed north to march with the Garfield Cadets and Bushwackers, and eventually served on the Board and as a Business Manager for DCA Corps Carolina Gold. These days, she considers herself a proud Crossmen parent.
Pete Chez: While late with his response, it still is notable. The Saints was also his first drum corps (he claims to only have been 8 years old at the time, yet he carries on like he's older than me these days ... I digress). After 1977, he joined the Marines Corps (yes, Pete, I'll also count it towards marching!). Starting in 1982, he marched with Reading Bucs with both Mickey and Goober (the last time the Chez brothers marched together). He currently plays with Melrose Blackhawks with a bunch of other Saints, and also appears as a guest lead baritone for Brooklyn United, Lambertville Volunteers, and St Lucy's Cadets Alumni Corps.
Jackie Bodzas: Here's his response, intact:
And now for Jackie's Trivia questions:
Pete Crafts: Pete came to the Saints from the Silver Lancers (Middlesex NJ). Pete made the trek south on 287 to join us along with fellow Lancers Jimmy Pic, Marty Straka, Darlene Stover, Alfie Hankerson, and Lorraine Porowski (Lorraine, we're still looking to connect with you!). While Pete did some roadie stuff with rock bands post-Saints, he didn't march again.
Judy Stewart Sgammato: The Saints was Judy's first corps, but definitely not her last. She headed north to march with the Garfield Cadets and Bushwackers, and eventually served on the Board and as a Business Manager for DCA Corps Carolina Gold. These days, she considers herself a proud Crossmen parent.
Pete Chez: While late with his response, it still is notable. The Saints was also his first drum corps (he claims to only have been 8 years old at the time, yet he carries on like he's older than me these days ... I digress). After 1977, he joined the Marines Corps (yes, Pete, I'll also count it towards marching!). Starting in 1982, he marched with Reading Bucs with both Mickey and Goober (the last time the Chez brothers marched together). He currently plays with Melrose Blackhawks with a bunch of other Saints, and also appears as a guest lead baritone for Brooklyn United, Lambertville Volunteers, and St Lucy's Cadets Alumni Corps.
The Saints was my first and last drum corps.
Blue and Gold satin to wool cadet to orange and black polyester. Hmmm.
First day to last, Stout Hearted Men to Send in the Clowns.
First Fords parade to our last gig in Wildwood,
with a gazillion shows in between.
Ludwig to Ludwig.
I could sit here and name first and last instructors / directors.
It sure is a boatload or busload, as the case may be,
of simply fantastic people.
Started out too young and ended up too old.
Thought about Senior corps, kept putting it off:
College / rock band / more college / bluegrass band x6 /
more college / wife / demanding career / 1st kid / new job/
2nd kid / world golf tour (just kidding) /
little league coaching and so it goes ...
Thought about Senior corps, kept putting it off.
If there was a Saints Sr Corps, my heart my have been more in it.
In other words, I would have joined in a second!
Blue and Gold satin to wool cadet to orange and black polyester. Hmmm.
First day to last, Stout Hearted Men to Send in the Clowns.
First Fords parade to our last gig in Wildwood,
with a gazillion shows in between.
Ludwig to Ludwig.
I could sit here and name first and last instructors / directors.
It sure is a boatload or busload, as the case may be,
of simply fantastic people.
Started out too young and ended up too old.
Thought about Senior corps, kept putting it off:
College / rock band / more college / bluegrass band x6 /
more college / wife / demanding career / 1st kid / new job/
2nd kid / world golf tour (just kidding) /
little league coaching and so it goes ...
Thought about Senior corps, kept putting it off.
If there was a Saints Sr Corps, my heart my have been more in it.
In other words, I would have joined in a second!
And now for Jackie's Trivia questions:
What senior corps did some of our instructors march in,
and for bonus points, what junior corps did they march with?
and for bonus points, what junior corps did they march with?
Click here to respond to this week's Trivia questions ... remember our slogan: Prizes, prizes, we have no prizes!
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Tuesday Trivia: From Where, To Where
As a warm-up to some new Trivia questions submitted during the Christmas break, here's an easy one:
This is more data mining that real trivia, truth be told. I could start the list, but because I never marched before or after my blue-n-gold years, it just didn't seem right for me to be telling your stories ...
So, how about it? Click here to respond.
Thanks!
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
What corps did you march with pre-Saints? How about after?
This is more data mining that real trivia, truth be told. I could start the list, but because I never marched before or after my blue-n-gold years, it just didn't seem right for me to be telling your stories ...
So, how about it? Click here to respond.
Thanks!
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Tuesday Trivia: 1976 DCIs
So, for this week at least, Tuesday Trivia is back!
I was going through some of my leftover vacation change earlier, and I came across a Bicentennial Quarter (remember them?).
Here's the question: Besides the Bicentennial, what was the big thing going on in Philadelphia while we were marching in DCIs (August 1976)?
Hint: If memory serves, it was SO big a deal that some of the parents didn't want their kids to march.
Since we're not using the e-mail account for reunion planning right now, send your guesses by Monday, August 25th to saintsreunion@gmail.com. Remember ... prizes, prizes, we have no prizes!
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
PS - As always, suggestions for future Tuesday Trivia questions are appreciated. Send them along with your answer to this week's question!
I was going through some of my leftover vacation change earlier, and I came across a Bicentennial Quarter (remember them?).
Here's the question: Besides the Bicentennial, what was the big thing going on in Philadelphia while we were marching in DCIs (August 1976)?
Hint: If memory serves, it was SO big a deal that some of the parents didn't want their kids to march.
Since we're not using the e-mail account for reunion planning right now, send your guesses by Monday, August 25th to saintsreunion@gmail.com. Remember ... prizes, prizes, we have no prizes!
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
PS - As always, suggestions for future Tuesday Trivia questions are appreciated. Send them along with your answer to this week's question!
Monday, August 4, 2008
Buses, Jackets, and Whatnot
Judy Stewart, I saw your son on Saturday!
Well, that's a bit of an exaggeration. I saw your son's bus.
I was headed to Lancaster PA for my business partner's birthday celebration (don't worry, Gerry, I won't tell anyone you now carry a Medicare card!). Heading south on Rt 222, I noticed a bus heading north, and a second, and a third, and a truck ... Crossmen. They were on their way, I guess, to DCI East. The thing that was comical is that when I saw the first bus, I thought I was imagining things when I saw their logo.
See, even after all these years, I STILL look at buses as they pass by, or try to read the backs of jackets, to see if there's a corps name there somewhere. I was just surprised that all those years of giving myself whiplash paid off for once!
I'll be watching for Troopers while in Wyoming this week and next ... I'll let you know how I did when I get back.
In the meantime, keep sending Rocky those Reunion pix!
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Well, that's a bit of an exaggeration. I saw your son's bus.
I was headed to Lancaster PA for my business partner's birthday celebration (don't worry, Gerry, I won't tell anyone you now carry a Medicare card!). Heading south on Rt 222, I noticed a bus heading north, and a second, and a third, and a truck ... Crossmen. They were on their way, I guess, to DCI East. The thing that was comical is that when I saw the first bus, I thought I was imagining things when I saw their logo.
See, even after all these years, I STILL look at buses as they pass by, or try to read the backs of jackets, to see if there's a corps name there somewhere. I was just surprised that all those years of giving myself whiplash paid off for once!
I'll be watching for Troopers while in Wyoming this week and next ... I'll let you know how I did when I get back.
In the meantime, keep sending Rocky those Reunion pix!
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Friday, July 25, 2008
Weekend Wonderings: A Week Later
What is it about what we had together that prompts - even compels - us to reconnect?
Our time marching with the Saints, for many of us, represented our only corps membership experience. Some enriched our ranks having marched other places, and others moved on to other corps (either junior or senior) after leaving.
And then, there's the story about the guy from Blessed Sac who was convinced he'd make our mellophone line as a walk-on ...
I digress.
There's something about our shared experiences as Saints that, 41 years after we started and 31 years after we last fielded a corps, still pulls us together in ways corps today just don't. It even evokes an incredibly deep Guest Book posting from the person who's arguably the instructor most closely identified with our summer successes.
Whatever it is, I'm glad for what it is, and I'm glad you continue to stop by Scribblings for a visit. I'm as excited to see how many of you pop in to check out what's going on here as you might be when there's a new posting.
Thanks for being part of my family. See you at the next Reunion, if not before.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Our time marching with the Saints, for many of us, represented our only corps membership experience. Some enriched our ranks having marched other places, and others moved on to other corps (either junior or senior) after leaving.
And then, there's the story about the guy from Blessed Sac who was convinced he'd make our mellophone line as a walk-on ...
I digress.
There's something about our shared experiences as Saints that, 41 years after we started and 31 years after we last fielded a corps, still pulls us together in ways corps today just don't. It even evokes an incredibly deep Guest Book posting from the person who's arguably the instructor most closely identified with our summer successes.
Whatever it is, I'm glad for what it is, and I'm glad you continue to stop by Scribblings for a visit. I'm as excited to see how many of you pop in to check out what's going on here as you might be when there's a new posting.
Thanks for being part of my family. See you at the next Reunion, if not before.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Tuesday Trivia: Registrations by Sections
Here's the Saints Summer Reunion Registration Roster by sections ... the list is current and in order of sign-up through 6:30 am on June 12th.
Yes, I know some of you marched in more than one section ... if you want me to move you around, let me know.
Corps Support (board, instructors, parents, friends, etc.):
Yes, I know some of you marched in more than one section ... if you want me to move you around, let me know.
Corps Support (board, instructors, parents, friends, etc.):
- Ray and Joan Chmieleski (whole day)
- Lillian Stratton (whole day)
- Tom Swan (whole day)
- George Lopez (whole day)
- Alvina Chesnovitz (whole day)
- Gary Sattur (whole day)
- JoAnne Parente (whole day)
- Denise Normandia Dune (whole day)
- Valerie Fair (whole day)
- Allison Pehlert Knapp (dinner)
- Kim Mega Trimblett (whole day)
- Dawn Fair (whole day)
- Denise Lopez (whole day)
- Jill Fair Shelley (picnic)
- Lorraine Fastuca Ravino (whole day)
- Maureen Fastuca (whole day)
- Priscilla French Lyons (whole day)
- Janet Matelski (whole day)
- Barbara Jackson Piccolo (whole day)
- Terri Moon (whole day)
- Danny Dube (whole day)
- Debbie Reybert Bartlett (whole day)
- Bob Matelski (whole day)
- Jack Bodzas (whole day)
- Mark (Rocky) Chiocchi (dinner)
- Donna Stratton Ellis (whole day)
- Mike Matelski (whole day)
- Mike Fastuca (whole day)
- Sue Brady (whole day)
- Jim Trimblett (whole day)
- Tom (Mouse) Noel (whole day)
- Chris Karol-Miller (picnic)
- Althea Mazar (whole day)
- Rene Meyer DeLucia (dinner / possibly earlier)
- Mickey Chez (whole day)
- Pete Chez (whole day)
- Wayne Fair (whole day)
- Jimmy Piccolo (whole day)
- Dave Brady (whole day)
- Mike Wargo (whole day)
- Alan (Goober) Chez
As mentioned last week, many of the folks above are bringing main squeezes, family, and / or friends to part of the day's events at Sewaren Park and Post 471, Iselin.
Gentle reminder: Have you registered yet? What are you waiting for? Is your name missing from above even though you think you registered?
To register, click here for the Survey Monkey link, or visit the Saints home page at www.saintsdrumcorps.com. Any Saints, family of Saints, and friends of Saints are welcome!
Questions about the reunion or willing to help out? Contact us at saintsreunion@gmail.com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
Friday, October 12, 2007
Weekend Wonderings: Dream Jobs
If you're already making money "doing" corps or something related to the skills you picked up back then, think of this Scribblings entry as some sort of validation if you'd like.
For the rest of us, here are two questions for you: If someone told you at this moment that your ideal job in corps / guard is available to you for the asking, what would it be? Also, do you take it, or keep doing what you're doing right now?
Here are some revisionist criteria to consider, if needed, to help you to dream a bit and decide if working in corps or guard is for you:
For the rest of us, here are two questions for you: If someone told you at this moment that your ideal job in corps / guard is available to you for the asking, what would it be? Also, do you take it, or keep doing what you're doing right now?
Here are some revisionist criteria to consider, if needed, to help you to dream a bit and decide if working in corps or guard is for you:
- You're physically / mentally healthy enough, and have all the skills needed to do the work.
- If you'd like to do it full-time, you can afford to do the work without pay, or they're paying you more than enough to do it.
- If you're interested in part-time work, the schedule around everything else that you want or need to do will accommodate the gig with no problem.
- Corps and guard culture (for lack of a better term) is exactly what you want it to be - like we remember it from the mid-70s, as it progressed during the 80s, as it is now, etc. (This item was added for those who just don't like what corps and guard have become.)
- The important people in your life are fully supportive of your decision to take the gig.
If I've left something off the list that poses a potential barrier for you, feel free to add it as you consider your career change ...
I haven't thought about this topic in quite awhile. Time spent over the past few weeks has brought me back there, and I find myself wondering. If you're looking for my answer, you'll have to wait a bit - I want to savor the possibilities for just a tad longer before making my decision.
I hope you'll share your dreams with us - feel free to use the Comments area below, the Guest Book on www.saintsdrumcorps.com, or get in touch with me directly at joparente.saintsdrumcorps@gmail.com.
All for now - corpsdially yours from jo!
PS: In case you're wondering, right now there are 47 people registered for the November reunion. About 20% are members who are coming in from outside the greater Jersey metropolitan area. The first wave of people who registered can be found in last week's Tuesday Trivia (scroll down below). An updated list will be posted here as part of the October 16th Tuesday Trivia, so stay tuned!
Monday, October 1, 2007
Monday MatchUps - Bottoms Up pt 2
Mondays like this are fun for me -- Tom (Mouse) Noel, Donna (Stratton) Ellis, and Lori Deren found their way home this week! Mouse was featured in our August 20th Monday MatchUps and found out about the site from a co-worker who also was involved in drum corps. Mouse paid it forward by calling Donna Stratton yesterday (Monday MatchUps, July 30th), who has already posted info for the Where Are They Now page out on www.saintsdrumcorps.com. Lori found us through Gary. Welcome Home Lori, Donna, and Mouse!
We're jumping back to the Bottoms-Up approach this week. Using the existing roster, these folks have not made their presence known yet on the site. Just like the last Bottoms-Up, their names are in reverse alphabetical order. If you know how to find them, let me know at joparente.saintsdrumcorps@gmail.com. Thanks!
We're jumping back to the Bottoms-Up approach this week. Using the existing roster, these folks have not made their presence known yet on the site. Just like the last Bottoms-Up, their names are in reverse alphabetical order. If you know how to find them, let me know at joparente.saintsdrumcorps@gmail.com. Thanks!
- Rose Ann Wolff (twirlers)
- Tim Stead (horn line)
- Sam Spann (drum line)
- Suzi Silagyi (twirlers)
- John Sherry (drum line)
- Jim Schneider (drum line)
- David Russo (horn line)
- Susan Roberts (color guard)
- Lynn Rivas (color guard)
- Karen Reilly (color guard)
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Tuesday Trivia - September 18, 2007
I'm sitting here at my desk, shaking my head and cracking up over the interest in last week's Tuesday Trivia ... for two simple questions to grab the attention they have is quite fun for me!
From several variations on Jo, this one's too easy, to a message that came in just after midnight from someone anxious to know if they had won this week, it's heartening to know many of you are enjoying this trip down memory lane.
So, here goes ...
From several variations on Jo, this one's too easy, to a message that came in just after midnight from someone anxious to know if they had won this week, it's heartening to know many of you are enjoying this trip down memory lane.
So, here goes ...
- Part 1: What horns did we replace with when we bought our mellophones?
French horns - Part 2: What was the major defining characteristic about the players in our mellophone line that made it unique in corpsdom at the time?
All the members were female
The first person to respond with the correct answer this week was ... Billy Meyer! Other two-parts-right participants were Pete Crafts, Goober Chez, and Althea. Those who at least got Part 2 right were Judy Stewart Sgammato and Jackie Bodzas.
Some background on Part 2 provided by Althea: I think our first French horn line was me, Denise Holton, Donna Kurucz (sp?), maybe Mary Harkins. Sue Hickey and Chris Quadt joined us later. We were all females from the beginning as far as I can remember, which continued in the mellophone line - 16 of us at our largest.
There was a question posted by Jackie which I couldn't answer: did we ever have some type of smaller baritone horn?
A quick note -- a VERY good trivia question has been submitted this past week ... for reasons that will make sense, I'm postponing using it until September 25th.
In the meantime, here's what I think is probably a fairly easy, one-part question for this week:
- One of the songs in our repertoire that was NOT used in field competition was the Theme from the Mickey Mouse Club. Why did we learn it to begin with?
When responding, please use Trivia in the Subject line of your e-mail. Send your responses to joparente.saintsdrumcorps@gmail.com.
Hope to see many of you this Friday at the Annex!
All for now -- corpsdially yours from jo!
PS: The answer to Jackie's question about the small baris has been submitted by Billy Meyer -- Yes, we all (except Mike Wargo, I think) had a slide / valve baritone about the size of a french horn in the early years. Thanks, Jackie, for remembering, and Billy for filling in the gaps!
Monday, September 17, 2007
Monday MatchUps - One-of-a-Kind ... part two
Monday, Monday ...
First, we had a match last week! Doreen Derlak (Lang) found us on September 13th. She's in North Carolina now -- see the entry in Where Are They Now on www.saintsdrumcorps.com. Welcome home Doreen!
This week, we're continuing with the one-of-a-kind theme. These ten members have unique last names on our member roster -- unique, that is, in that no one else has the same last name. If you have clues on how to contact any of them, let me know at joparente.saintsdrumcorps@gmail.com. Thanks!
First, we had a match last week! Doreen Derlak (Lang) found us on September 13th. She's in North Carolina now -- see the entry in Where Are They Now on www.saintsdrumcorps.com. Welcome home Doreen!
This week, we're continuing with the one-of-a-kind theme. These ten members have unique last names on our member roster -- unique, that is, in that no one else has the same last name. If you have clues on how to contact any of them, let me know at joparente.saintsdrumcorps@gmail.com. Thanks!
- Kenneth Egan (horn line)
- Nancy Estock (color guard)
- Maureen Farrow (color guard)
- Jack Foley (drum line)
- Rosemary Gallagher (color guard)
- Barbara Gaweda (color guard)
- Barbara Gibbons (color guard)
- Sandy Gigantino (color guard)
- Herb Gunther (horn line)
- Donna Helwig (color guard)
All for now -- corpsdially yours from jo!
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Weekend Wonderings: Then and Now
Yesterday, I had the great and good fortune to spend a few hours with some folks you probably know. We hung out in the food court at Bridgewater Commons, exchanging career and job hunting experiences with one another. Before we departed, there were hugs, gratitude shared, and plans to meet again. My response back at one point -- That's what family does -- is one I've used quite a bit during the six months that www.saintsdrumcorps.com has been up and running.
I've spent a bit of time thinking about this, and in particular, what's it like to become JoAnne again to so many people (my husband and most others use my given name these days). When the opportunity started to present itself for us to get back together after all this time, a big part of me was excited to reconnect with all of you. The rest of me, though, experienced more than a wee bit of trepidation at the very thought of a reunion -- or even planning for one -- after all this time.
Some of my reaction was very ego-driven -- Lord knows I'm not in my best marching shape these days at age 52 and years of doing nothing but sitting in meetings and eating. A small bit of anxiety came from the idea of connecting with a handful of people from corps with whom, quite honestly, I didn't really have a warm-and-fuzzy relationship when we marched together. I'm guessing at least as many people felt the same way about me back then ... after all, I got a pie in the face at one point that proved it.
Great things happen over thirty years, though. We grow up, we get wiser, we value each other for who we were and more importantly, who we've become. We forgive, and ask forgiveness through our words and actions. We put aside anger, hurts, and what used to seem like huge age differences to become comfortable companions on this shared journey.
Bottom line -- families grow together, get along together, and get disturbed, pre-turbed, post-turbed, and all-around turbed with one another. It doesn't change that they're still connected through it all.
At the end of the day, without a doubt, even after all this time, here's the reality: If one of us needs something, we're each there to offer a hand ... a warm meal ... congratulations for small and big things ... a couch to sleep on ... a couple extra dollars to put gas in the car ... listening without judgment ... a shoulder to cry on ... a recipe ... a hug ... and lots of stuff I can't even begin to list.
Just like the old days, that's what family does.
All for now -- corpsdially yours from jo!
I've spent a bit of time thinking about this, and in particular, what's it like to become JoAnne again to so many people (my husband and most others use my given name these days). When the opportunity started to present itself for us to get back together after all this time, a big part of me was excited to reconnect with all of you. The rest of me, though, experienced more than a wee bit of trepidation at the very thought of a reunion -- or even planning for one -- after all this time.
Some of my reaction was very ego-driven -- Lord knows I'm not in my best marching shape these days at age 52 and years of doing nothing but sitting in meetings and eating. A small bit of anxiety came from the idea of connecting with a handful of people from corps with whom, quite honestly, I didn't really have a warm-and-fuzzy relationship when we marched together. I'm guessing at least as many people felt the same way about me back then ... after all, I got a pie in the face at one point that proved it.
Great things happen over thirty years, though. We grow up, we get wiser, we value each other for who we were and more importantly, who we've become. We forgive, and ask forgiveness through our words and actions. We put aside anger, hurts, and what used to seem like huge age differences to become comfortable companions on this shared journey.
Bottom line -- families grow together, get along together, and get disturbed, pre-turbed, post-turbed, and all-around turbed with one another. It doesn't change that they're still connected through it all.
At the end of the day, without a doubt, even after all this time, here's the reality: If one of us needs something, we're each there to offer a hand ... a warm meal ... congratulations for small and big things ... a couch to sleep on ... a couple extra dollars to put gas in the car ... listening without judgment ... a shoulder to cry on ... a recipe ... a hug ... and lots of stuff I can't even begin to list.
Just like the old days, that's what family does.
All for now -- corpsdially yours from jo!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Tuesday Trivia - September 11, 2007
Last week's results ... the overwhelming winner is Althea Mazar! Champ, since your answers are more thorough than mine, I'll use yours!
This week's trivia question -- an easy two-parter:
All for now -- corpsdially yours from jo!
- Part 1: In what city were the competitions held?
Wildwood - Part 2: What was the name of the field where the competitions were held?
Maxwell Field - Part 3: What two field competitions were held that weekend?
There were at least 3 - State American Legion Jr., Sr., and Color Guard
(note from Jo -- I was only looking for guard and corps ... Thea was more precise) - Part 4: Who was the weekend's sponsor?
American Legion - Part 5: Who was our first sponsor?
Father and Son (I think) Post 324, Edison - Part 6: Who was our last sponsor?
T. Nulty Post 471, Iselin - Part 7: What were you required to do on Saturday afternoon?
March the parade down Atlantic Avenue - Part 8: Besides the reviewing stand, what was one required "stop and play" location for the parade?
Kellys until they closed during the parade due to "shenanigans" by the "seniors", then the Garden State Bar. FYI - Kellys is open again during the whole weekend now that we "seniors" are better behaved.
(note from Jo -- either Kelly's or the Garden State were acceptable answers. Thea included both) - Part 9: Where did most of us go on Saturday evening?
The Boardwalk, after going to the hotel where our Legion Post stayed (the Olympic) to play a concert
(note from Jo -- either the concert or the Boardwalk were acceptable answers. Thea included both)
This week's trivia question -- an easy two-parter:
- Part 1: What horns did we replace with when we bought our mellophones?
- Part 2: What was the major defining characteristic about the players in our mellophone line that made it unique in corpsdom at the time?
All for now -- corpsdially yours from jo!
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