News From the Top

EXCITING ♣ INCREDIBLE ♣ AWESOME!!!
I am still feeling all of these at the same time at and from our Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The Corps’ day ran as smoothly as a mid-tour contest day. Clockwork, Schedule Awareness and the high spirited 50 plus people clearly exhibited the purpose of being, “Better Every Day!” If you missed this, I feel sorry for you. It could be said that it was an experience of a lifetime!
 

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL DAY TO BE IRISH IT WAS!
We started the day in sunny weather and left early after a breakfast of “Green Doughnuts” and “Orange” Sunny Delight. The day wouldn’t be right without some challenges to be met. Challenge #1: The O’Hare Oasis is gone!!! It is torn down and most likely will be reconstructed. But a trailer marked, “Bathrooms”, helped to solve this most needed challenge! There were lots of cars at the mall parking lot and on schedule!
 

AT CHICAGO:
The rehearsal time was well spent. The 22 brass sounded awesome! They led by Dr. Cecil Austin and Randall Bennett. The percussion led by Andy Stawick #1711, Nick Fugh #2213, and Jen Tarka#1777 plus many other new recruits from Milwaukee’s Marshall High School did a remarkable job of coordination. The tempo was strong and everyone finished the parade (even the (ageless age-outs!) Our guard was small (5) but very talented. They were led by some dedicated vets including Jalissa Bishop #1815, Lisa Janasik #1881, and Ronald Raymond #2491. They put on a great show! The brass were the showpiece. There were 7 mellophones and some strong squealing lead trumpets that have “Garry Owen,” a bone-chilling ending.  Our Drum Major for the day was Jessie Marsala #2208. This former Pioneer drum major has not lost her touch! She looked military clean and kept the corps steady on the street. Josh Pier made our traditional diamond parade formation look precise which added to the solid sounds helped by our talented veterans.
 

POST PARADE PARTY!
After the parade, former Drum Major Jackie Bilder#1787 invited everyone to her bar/restaurant, Natural Law in Blue Island, Illinois for a get-together. She made broasted chicken and spiced potatoes, as well as home- made Green shakes for all. A big surprise was that Jackie had an Irish folk band who created mind-boggling volume of sound (Loud is Good!) Right  The party concluded with a presentation plaque to Roman, Sue, and Murray for all they do/have done for the corps, past, present, and future. Jackie also gave an unexpected huge, fragrant, bouquet of flowers to these unexpected and very appreciative people.

EXTRA APPLAUSE!
It was awesome and heartfelt to have members of the Pioneer Family come from long distances to once again be with their Pioneer brothers and sisters. Randall Bennett drove all night from Albany, NY. Amber Heidenreiter #2483 from NY, Lance Reisetter #2352 from Oklahoma, and Jessica Neises #2914 from Kansas. My apology if I have missed someone!
 

DAPHNE:
Please say an extra prayer for our famous cook extraordinaire, Daphne Allen. She was involved in a serious auto accident and will be going for surgery to repair her right arm’s rotator cuff.
 

GOOD DEED!
During St. Patrick’s week, Pioneer sponsored all of the pizza for the monthly meeting of Chicago’s Olde-Time Corps Veterans. Besides, great fans of the pioneer Corps, occasional $$$ sponsors, and most importantly these drum corps vets are the keepers of the spirit of drum & bugle corps as a life commitment. Credit for this 276th consecutive Tuesday night get-together goes to Mr. Ami Menie and Fred Schroeter. Both of these gentlemen marched in the Chicago Royal Aires Drum and Bugle Corps. Fred goes back to the Austin Grenadiers and Skokie Indians, all Midwest Chicago area corps of the past!
 
 
BREAKING NEWS…….
The list of 17 ideas for Pioneer to do this summer and future will be paired down shortly as discussions for Pioneer Power will be made….
 

LEST WE FORGET…..
Thank you so much to many adults who came and helped the Corps look so good and perform flawlessly. The Uniform Fitters, Bus Drivers, and Equipment Distributers. While there was no cooking involved, the cooking helpers carried the banner and American Flag for the entire parade! Yes, Pioneer Pride is strong and deep….more to come!
 

UNBELIEVABLE BUT FINALLY!!!
Pioneer Corps Jackets are being mailed out this week! Finally we found a new source to continue our 58 year old traditional bright Kelly Green jackets. This was quite a challenge, but we persevered….and succeeded!
 

COMMERATIVE PATCH….
A patch is being designed for all those who performed in the Chicago St. Patrick’s Parade. Heck yes! It’s worth it. We looked great and under the circumstances we want to remember this for many years. Garry Owen says, “Great Job!”

smile amazonPlease take a few minutes to read below the information as to how you can get good products at good prices, and help The Pioneer Corps at the same time. All of the items on the regular Amazon. Com you can get here at smile.amazon.com. Try it out and help your Corps!

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HAPPY SPRINGTIME AND BETTER EVERY DAY!
Garry Owen

parade pic

TEN DAYS LEFT…before the St. Patrick’s Day! We have 72 people so far and more are welcome!
 
FLYING IN?…We can help you with pick-ups at both O’Hare and Milwaukee airports. But you will need to call us (414) 333-2235.
 
UNIFORM FITTING… To repeat what has been said, “We are fitting uniforms on Saturday, March 16th at Pioneerland from 3:00 pm until 9:00 pm CDT. We also will be fitting uniforms at Pioneerland on Sunday Morning from 7:00 am until 8:30 am.
 
BRING WITH YOU… Black socks (we have extra), Black shoes (we have extra) mouthpieces, sticks & mallets, unitards.
 
REHEARSAL…We will rehearse on Saturday evening a bit as well as on Sunday morning. Of course DRESS WARMLY!
 
DRIVING?... If you are driving and want to follow the buses to Chicago on Sunday, that’s ok. We will stop at the usual closed mall before the parade and take you back to your cars after the parade. This will be a memorable day, performing together again, being with your Pioneer Family once more, and enjoying a great party afterwards! It should be an awesome time for everyone.
 
HELP NEEDED….We need some people to come and help fit uniforms, issue the brass and equipment, and other chores! Could some people who have loads of ”Corps Spirit” call the OFFICE: 414-327-2847 or MY CELL: 414-333-2235 and help volunteer Saturday and Sunday!
 
BINGO HELP ALSO!....On Saturday night, March 16th ,from 5:30-9:30 pm, we also need a few hands to replace those who are helping with uniforms. It takes place at the United Seniors Bingo Hall on 4515 W. Forest Home Avenue in Milwaukee.
 

amazon smile amazon thankyou

Amazon donates 0.5% of the price of your eligible AmazonSmile purchases to the charitable organization of your choice. AmazonSmile is the same Amazon you know. Same products, same prices, same service. Support your charitable organization by starting your shopping at: smile.amazon.com… Thank you all who have been shopping here and helping the corps at the same time! There’s no extra fee to use this service. You can get all of the same products that are listed in Amazon’s regular website. I’ll bet you can even get some great Easter Candy for your basket from them!

CORPS JACKETS….are being worked on! Some might be ready for you at the parade. Otherwise they will have them shipped to you. Your patience has been extraordinary and I cannot thank you enough!
 
WE ARE TALKING....with some individuals about being in charge of the Pioneer Corps, Winter Drumline, Color Guard, and MACBDA summer marching band circuit, DCA Solo/Ensemble Group, and even a parade/camp weekend that will end with a trip to Mackinaw Island??? Spread the word. Pioneer is alive and moving forward!
 
NOT FOR SALE….We are not selling our instruments/equipment. However, renting out some of them might be possible. Our buses continue to run, helping people who need it. Our land is available for soccer, football, marching bands, corps,or even just parking spaces.
 
racine scoutsRACINE SCOUTS…..has a winter percussion line that Pioneer buses # 69 & 75 have and are taking to St. Louis, MO, St. Paul, MN, and the WGI Regional in Bourbonnais IL. We are happy to be of help to them. We wish them well in their upcoming contests.
REFLECTIONS…. ON LAST SUMMER

♣ The huge colorful Dragon Prop is on everyone’s top of the list.

♣  But we did purchase new Uniform Pants from Fred J. Miller Company. They are a bit narrower than the old ones. They are made of very durable material, easily washed, and they made everyone look slim and trim!

♣  Likewise, our new Jupiter Brass Instruments were especially appreciated. Our old set of Selmer (King) horns were in good condition and now being used in the marching band activities in Oklahoma and Alabama. Maypex (Jupiter) Brass is every bit as good as their percussion products.

♣  Another accomplishment was the asphalt road from our multipurpose building to the tower next to the 50 yard line. If you were a pit player, pushing the mallet instruments up to the rehearsal fields was almost effortless compared to the old stone road with ruts, standing water, etc. So there was no extra stress on the ankles and muscles this year!

♣  Also our Bus #75, a huge 55 passenger motor coach looked awesome and ran well until the Wausau Show when the air-conditioning unit went out. Never-the-less it was a great addition to the fleet.

♣  Cheers for another great Color Guard Costume made by the Fred J. Miller Company and skillfully designed by our own Ja’Malh Wallace along with Michael Cesario. They looked great and were vital to the entire show design.

♣  Yes we have memories of our Pioneer summer of 2018. Please accept a sincere thank you who were there and made it happen.

HELP!!! Does anyone have a recording of our, “GOOD MORNING” song? We would love to copy it for our slow-developing Tour Video.
 
OUR FUTURE…. I’ll bet that some of you might have some great ideas that can be added to the 17 concepts to move Pioneer forward with some wholesome and beneficial activities for youth and adults alike! So, let us know what you think or if you want to find out what the 17 proposals are that have already been given, call the OFFICE 414-327-2847. Murray and/or Roman would be glad share what others have suggested and especially desire getting ideas with you. Please, no mail, texts, or messages. This matter concerning our future is serious and speaking in person with you is much desired. Your input is valuable and appreciated by your Pioneer Family!!!
 

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SEE YOU ALL FOR THE CHICAGO ST. PATRICK’S PARADE
MARCH 17TH
BETTER EVERY DAY!
Garry Owen

WE ARE GOING TO DO IT!

We have 60 people so far…. and we need more to march in the annual Southside Chicago St. Patrick’s Day parade!  Persons interested in participating in the parade can complete the Parade Application by clicking on the button below:

Parade Application

We will either march, or potentially sit on a trailer (more info to follow). The music for the parade, GARRY OWEN and STARS & STRIPES is online:

Here is the public communication from DCI dated January 10th, 2019

“After thoughtful deliberation this afternoon, the voting membership of Drum Corps International revoked the membership of Pioneer Drum & Bugle Corps. As a result, the corps will no longer be permitted to participate in DCI.

In August of 2018, Pioneer received disciplinary action for policy violations, resulting in suspension from all DCI activities. Today’s action by the voting membership reflects the commitment of Drum Corps International to maintain the standards of excellence for all participating organizations.

Should Pioneer make operational and administrative improvements that meet DCI standards, it will be eligible to re-apply for Open Class participation for the 2020 season.”

It was a dark day in the history of the DCI Drum and Bugle Corps Activity because they sacrificed one of their own……

Merry Christmas to Everyone!

From The Top

It is that time of the year to wish everyone you know a joyous, pleasant, and hearty “Thank You” for being part of your life’s experiences this past year. Pioneer Corps also has a large list that is too numerous to mention everyone, but I would like to give a special mention to Bill Strube, Ron Ruggles, Tim Osterbeck, Lisa Savage, Dr. Cecil Austin, Murray Davis, and Roman Blenski for their efforts in dealing with Drum Corps International. While no additional information has yet been determined, it will be coming at the DCI Annual Convention in January in Indianapolis, IN. No doubt that this has become a gut-wrenching experience these past 4 months…... But rest assured that Pioneer will continue to serve youth many more years in addition to the previous 58. This holiday season, everyone should demonstrate “Class” and don’t forget to be, “Better Every Day”!

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SHOP AT AMAZON SMILE and they will make a donation to the PIONEER CORPS!  Here is the link: https://smile.amazon.com/

amazon smile

SUPPORT THE CORPS ON AMAZON SMILE
Yes, Amazon Smile gives the Corps .05% of eligible purchases you make in the form of a monthly check to the Pioneer. It is a foundation by Amazon to benefit not-profits like the Pioneer. There is no fee to use this service. As we are getting closer to the holidays and lots of shopping to be done, please use it. It will benefit you as well as the Pioneer. Here is a link: https://smile.amazon.com/

alumni meeting

PIONEER ALUMNI MEETING
The Pioneer’s Alumni Meeting was a success. In attendance, 52 extraordinary people made up of marching members and staff made the trip to Pioneerland and met in our all-purpose building. There were Pioneer Family Members from every decade of the corps’ 57 year history, mainly from the 1960’s, and ‘70’s. Those from the 60’s & ‘70’s won the attendance prize. Our new Corps Director, Bill Strube #284, spoke eloquently and distinctively like a school principal (that he was). He was conveying all of the details concerning the DCI suspension. Tim Osterbeck #1145 handle the role of alumni chairman for answering the many questions and concerns of those who attended. Roman Blenski covered information about last season’s (2018) happenings. He also discussed the financial income and expenditures. Josh Pier, our staff coordinator also talked about the rehearsal and touring matters. So check the meeting report for more details.

In attendance were some nice surprises: The Ruggles family, our first out of the area members of the 1990’s, Attorney Jennifer Collins, Pioneer trumpet player in the 1990’s, “Nebraska” Elizabeth Regier #2295 front ensemble 2013,’14,’16 season as section leader. She works at Marquette University as a researcher. Also Amanda Burton # 1605, 2002-2005 trumpet player, our current visual staff person as well as being recently married! Two of our oldest Pioneer members present were Barbara (Foloran) Szymanski #190 and Bill Nylund #159

amazon smile
SUPPORT THE CORPS ON AMAZON!
Amazon Smile is a website operated by Amazon that lets customers enjoy the same wide selection of products, low prices, and convenient shopping features as on Amazon.com. The difference is that when you shop on Amazon Smile (smile.amazon.com), the Amazon Smile Foundation will donate 0.5% of the price of eligible purchases to the charitable organization of your choice. There are no extra fees using Amazon Smile. This will help the Corps pay for many unexpected expenses that pop up. Once you navigate to Amazon Smile, you can set your purchases to support Pioneer!
alumni meeting
ALUMNI BOOSTER MEETING SATURDAY, OCTOBER 20th
PIONEERLAND AT 1:00 PM
An open discussion will be held about this past season, our current status with DCI, and future options. If you have questions, input, ideas, want to be informed, and/or would like to be volunteer, this will be a great time to do so.

There will be some great German bratwurst and Coke a Cola available for you beginning at noon. Also a delayed order of Pioneer Hoodies have arrived in all sizes that can be purchased for $30.00. This will be an excellent opportunity to meet old friends (not that they are old!)

If you cannot make it, but still have some particular questions, email them either to our Corps’ Office: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or to our Alumni Leader and Webmaster, Mr. Tim Osterbeck: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. He also donates his time and talents to be in charge of our website.

celtic dragon
THE DRAGON HAS BEEN SOLD!!!
The Muskegon, Michigan High School’s Marching Band has purchased our dragon. Chris, the bus driver, and Roman delivered all of the parts last Saturday. Memories of loading, unloading and assembling by the pioneer members who did it will be featured in our tour video. Thank you, Dave Campbell, Josh Pier, and JaMalh’ Wallace for you guys making it happen!
dragon drum head
HEADS ARE STILL AVAILABLE!
Drum heads that is!
If you would like a souvenir ”Dragon” bass drum head there is a limited quantity available for $25.00 + shipping. Just email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call the Office at 414-327-2847. These heads will bring back great memories for many years to come.
onyx revised
MARCHING TALENT!
The premier winter guard, ONYX, will be featuring a lot of Pioneer talent.This all-age main unit includes our Caption Head, JaMalh’ Wallace, Kelsey Arnony#2166, and the Staff Member of the Year, Jamison Washington who are all performing.
60 days
PAYMENT PLAN REMINDER
It has been exactly 60 days since the end of our 2017 season. The Seventeen (17) members who are on the Payment Plan need to take care of business….Please contact Mr. Eric Haelman: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or the Office: 414-327-2847
tour video
2018 TOUR VIDEO
The Pioneer 2018 Tour Video is a work in progress. If you have not received your patch or group photo, please call the Office: 414-327-2847 or Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
electronics
PIONEER CORPS ELECTRONICS
A BIG CHEER!
Cheers to the 19 people who contributed a grand total of $2,524.00 to our electronics fund drive. Headed by Pioneer Sound Engineer, Rob McCowan # 2426, this enabled us to purchase more equipment for the fast-growing electronics area in the world of drum corps. Please note the large number of Alumni who answered Rob’s call to contribute:

Jane Paglia
KC Keele # 2613
Bryden Vitense #2359
Ryan Gilbert Johnson #1160
Kathryn Andrea #112
Chase Kapteyn # 2469
Dubravko Zaja # 1680
Cathlyn Clark #967
Leigh Kahre
Karen Elsby #571
John Humphrey
Michael Sevcik $1568
Jon Berg #1629
Malcom Liest #463
Jessica Neises #2514
John Schoenknecht #444
Michael Twigg #1146
Ripen Washlaski
Steve Koszewski #111

atoka
ATOKA HIGH SCHOOL BAND
FIRST PLACE
OKLAHOMA STATE BAND CHAMPIONSHIP

Under the direction of Pioneer Alumnus, Sam Karafotis, #1799, the Atoka High School won the Oklahoma State Championship last weekend. We thank Mr. Karafotis for housing our Corps this past summer while in the DCI World Class Tour. The stadium he had us rehearse on was exceptional! Congratulations Sam and the Atoka High School Band!

clean up
CLEAN UP HELP NEEDED
Help is needs this coming weekend from 9:00 – 3:00 pm at Pioneerland to get ready for our Alumni/Booster meeting that will be held on Saturday, October 20th. Come on down! Every hand helps. And if you are in the mood you may also track to the stop sign!
support
THANK YOU FOR THE SUPPORT!
Support has been incredible in the forms of email, letters, telephone calls, and even visits to our corps office, showing support for the Pioneer. We cannot thank you enough!
food
bikeLife is like riding a bicycle...

You need to keep pedaling to keep your balance!

-Albert Einstein

Better Every Day!
Garry Owen

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music Good Morning…Good Morning…and How Do You Do! music

GROUP PHOTOS:
The group photos taken by Jolesch Photography are included on this page. Known for their great framing and color, they have been taking pictures of Pioneer for years. They can be ordered including your personal photo by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..  Check out their great offers for the group pictures with your personal action shot on the same frame. Thanks to Mr. Mark Jolesch & team for all of your kindness and efforts to enhance our corps!
 

PIONEER MEMBER SHAMROCKS:
These shamrock necklaces with your member numbers can be ordered from Ms Christina Ballengee # 2231 by visiting:
http://www.candybandsouvies.com/en/pioneer-necklace-c-10/member-necklace-p-67
 

ALUMNI MEETING:
This meeting will take place at PIONEERLAND on OCTOBER 20th at 1:00 pm. The agenda will be our current direction, 2019 season, and most importantly, your questions and answers. For our version of Pioneer Octoberfest, you will be treated to authentic German Usinger Bratwursts and soda starting at Noon. Come and meet old friends and take part in looking at Pioneer’s future.

GOOD DEEDS:
Once again we have lent our snare drums to Milwaukee’s Humbolt Park Middle School. The students are led and taught by Pioneer Alumnus Dennis Newman # 234.
Our Front Ensemble rack, a marimba, and our tenor drums are being used by Sussex Hamilton High School. They are being instructed by our Caption Head, Josh Pier and Roman Blenski III #701. The electronics are being set up by Alex Sylvester # 2429 and Rob McCowen #2426.

$$$ HELLO! $$$
Those members who are on the payment plan, and those who wanted extra time to finish paying their summer fees, Mr. Eric Haelman says that it’s time to pay NOW..36 days since the end of the season. Send all or part of it now!

LONG TIME AGO…
Baritone player Jessie Reyes # 666, has contacted our office to be of help with our challenges. He lives in Franklin, Wisconsin and will be with us at our October 20th Alumni Meeting. He was a hard-working member of our corps in the 1960’s and early ‘70’s.

MORE WINNERS:
No I did not forget our Color Guard in the banquet reports. All 20 of them were superb this past summer. They were led by 6-year vet Ally Farrand #2300. The guard had a remarkable attendance record and was the strongest section next to our amazing cymbal line. Caption Head, JaMalh’ Wallace, Kelsey Arnony #2166, Lisa Janasik ##1881, and Jamison Washington presented the awards. It was especially noticed how well-dressed everyone was for the semi-formal occasion.

Alayna Bryant #2726 won the best flag award by the member vote, staff attitude and staff ability captions. This was Alayna’s first season.

Kodi Mink #2670, won the best rifle award by also taking the lead in voting by the members, staff ability, and staff attitude.

Grace McCoy #2675 was the best saber, winning the same 3 captions. There were so many talented people in the color guard area! Grace was also the 2nd runner up for Rookie of the Year.

 

Down a Bit,
But
“Better Every Day”

Garry Owen

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It is exciting to get together with 100 + extra-ordinary human beings this weekend. All of them are people like you who have the drive and strong desire to perform at a high level of excellence with their drum, horn, or auxiliary equipment!

 

CHECK LIST

____TOUR FEE BALANCE: Your balance is critical to the Corps” success. Every supply vendor we have wants to be paid C.O.D. and wants either cash or credit card. I you have not already, please do so this coming Friday night. (If you really want to use Pay-Pal, be sure to add the extra fee!)

 

____HOW MUCH CLOTHES, ETC.: Less is better as far as your personal items. The entire corps does their laundry and has a Wal-Mart stop about every 9-10 days.

 

____MEDICAL/PHYSICAL/INSURANCE: Make sure we have a copy of the filled Physical, Medical Consent forms and your medical insurance card.

 

____YOUR NAME SHIRT: Bring your Name Shirt from camp. There will be a lot of new people who would like to know you.

 

____TRANSPORTATION: Be sure to check ahead of time, the time that your mode of transportation to Milwaukee leaves giving you plenty of time to arrive at camp on time. If you are car-pooling with someone, be sure to do the right thing and help pay them for some gas or toll fees. So be prompt, if not early, arriving here.

 

____FINAL CHECK: Give it one more try with your friends and acquaintances whose plans might have changed and would like to march this summer.

 

____MEMORIZED MUSIC: Please be sure to have your parts for both GARRY OWEN and STARS & STRIPES memorized for our Monday Memorial Day Parade in Wauconda, IL. The parade begins at 10:00 am. If you can remember, bring your MARCHING SHOES along. Our new ones are on back-order.

 

expo

TOMMY THOMPSON YOUTH CENTER

CORPS HOUSING: For the first part of our Spring Training, the corps will be staying at the Wisconsin’s State Fair TOMMY THOMPSON YOUTH CENTER, a beautiful facility located in West Allis, a Milwaukee suburb. After that we will stay at the CUDAHY MIDDLE SCHOOL.

 

Amazon Smile Logo

AMAZON SMILE:  Please have both you and your parents, relatives, friends, etc. sign up for smile.amazon.com Then, for whatever purchases you/they make, a portion of the payment will be donated to your Pioneer Corps. It’s just another way of being Better Every Day for your Corps.

 

WE NEED: Volunteers to help us with some basic health/first-aid/and member’s welfare issues during our Spring Training and Summer Tour. If they can give a day, few days, or a week, it would help out a lot! If you have any leads please call our office: 414-327-2847

 

WE NEED: Bus and Truck drivers, also for one weekend, one week, or more for the summer. If you have any leads please call our office: 414-327-2847. If they have a CDL, that is best. Or if they have a regular driver’s license, they can help in other ways.

 

MORE HELP NEEDED: Back-field Conductors as well as people in all sections are needed. We may have some spots to replace some who have decided not to march, or because of lack of money or family conflicts cannot. We want every spot filled. Marching in your Pioneer Corps will change you and build a life time of memories. You asking them may be something that will cause them to remember you forever. Be a friend and do it!

 

BETTER EVERY DAY!
RB

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PIONEER/DCI RELATIONSHIP:

An interim Board has been formed. We have received, reviewed, and are developing a comprehensive plan to address Drum Corps International's suspension reinstatement terms.

We are seeking individuals who have knowledge, experience, and expertise in the following areas of; administration, education, non profit boards, finance, fund raising, public relations, communications, media, transportation, health and wellness plans, first aid, food service, alumni organizations, and of course, drum corps, to assist in the process of developing policies and procedures specific to these areas.

If you are interested in assisting us, please respond by completing the VOLUNTEER APPLICATION found under the Contribute tab on the Pioneer website. Your information will be given to the appropriate committee. We will contact you shortly. Thank you.
 

BINGO:

Bingo is sponsored by the Pioneer Corps most Wednesdays at the St. Francis Lions Club located at 3476 E. Howard Ave Saint Francis, WI It begins at 6:30 pm. Every Saturday evening the Pioneer hosts bingo at the United Seniors Center at 4515 W. Forest Home Ave. in Milwaukee. Our Saturday night bingo also begins at 6:30 pm We would very much like to welcome you to come and play bingo, or help us as floor workers, which are especially needed!
 

MEETING WITH DCI:
Pioneer has met with Drum Corps International to discuss the conditions for reinstatement. Please watch for updates on our site.

 

57th ANNUAL BANQUET
Several firsts took place amidst Pioneer’s 57th Corps Banquet:

  • This was the first time the banquet was held on the night of Prelims held at the German Rathskeller in Indianapolis, Indiana.
  • We had the highest attendance (165+) ever since we’ve held the banquet in Indianapolis.
  • We were surprised with a great display of flowers donated by Pioneer Alumni Dan Zaja # 1680, and Jenny Cooper #1946. Each age-out received a beautiful corsage in Corps colors, and a nice spray of flowers were set at the speaker’s podium for Sue and Roman Blenski. This was truly a “Class” act on the part of these two Pioneer Alumni.
  • All were treated to a delicious authentic German feast including Weiner schnitzel, stuffed roasted chicken, and German chocolate caked topped with awesome frosting.
  • After the meal, Roman Blenski explained the 50 year system of how results were made from the member’ votes of each other in their section. Staff ratings of member attitude also was considered as well as the members’ valuable attendance records.
     

THE FOUR LEADERSHIP AWARDS

VETERAN OF THE YEAR: Chase Ruth #2459 Trumpet
1st Runner Up Ally Farrand #2300 Guard
2nd Runner Up Evan Pliska #2616 Cymbals
Presented by Josh Pier, Pioneer's Visual Caption Head
       
ROOKIE OF THE YEAR: Calvin Campos #2707 Trumpet
1st Runner Up: Morgan Boyers #2691 Mellophone
2nd Runner Up:
(3 Way Tie!)
Grace McCoy #2675 Guard
Larry Smith #2731 Snare
Matt Allman #2696 Snare
Presented by Jalissa Bishop, Pioneer's Tour Director
       
STAFF MEMBER OF THE YEAR: Jamison Washington Guard Tech  
1st Runner Up Zach Hewitt Snare Tech  
2nd Runner Up Ja'Malh Wallace Gaurd Caption  Head  
Presented by Dave Campbell, Pioneer's Program Coordinator
       
BEST SECTION LEADER Chase Ruth #2459 Trumpet
1st Runner Up Evan Pliska #2616 Cymbals
2nd Runner Up Julie Perez #2413 Mellophone
Presented by Josh Pier, Pioneer's Visual Caption Head
       

CHARITY:
Pioneer Transportation Manager Charity Brooks has been having medical treatments and needs some Pioneer cheer! I am sure that she’d really like to hear from you! So if you’d send her a friend request and message on Facebook, that would be awesome. Just type in CHARITY BROOKS and you can be in contact with her. She is Pioneer family like all of you!
 

CORPS JACKETS:
GOOD NEWS! The restoration company who is taking care of our former jacket company who had a bad fire, destroying just about everything, found the hard drives of our embroiderer, Rob Szczech’s ( Pioneer alumnus’) computer. It appears that the Pioneer Jacket designs very well might have been saved (hopefully!). Now we will look for a new embroiderer.
 

BASS DRUM HEADS:
How would you like to have a genuine Irish Dragon Bass Drum Head that was used by our Pioneer Corps’ 2018 Bass Drum Line! We will send you one with your choice of size for $25.00 + shipping. Contact the Pioneer Office if you are interested (414) 327-2847. If there’s no answer at the time you call, just leave a message and we’ll get right back to you! This is a great way to remember your awesome 2018 show!
 

2018 DUES PAYMENT PLANS ARE DUE:
Eric Haelman, the gentleman who collected your camp fees and dues, says to remind those of you who asked for extra time on paying your summer fees to do so now. Bills need to be paid.
 

THANK YOU LORD
FOR THE TOGETHERNESS AND FRIENDSHIP
WE SHARE AMONG THE HARDWORKING MEMBERS
OF THE CORPS…THE CORPS ITSELF