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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: 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: |
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GARRY OWEN BRASS https://pioneer-corps.org/join/music-auditionmaterials/category/14-garry-owen.html GARRY OWEN PERCUSSION: https://pioneer-corps.org/join/music-audition-materials/category/16-gary-owen.html STARS & STRIPES BRASS: https://pioneer-corps.org/join/music-audition-materials/category/15-stars-and-stripes.html STARS & STRIPES PERCUSSION: https://pioneer-corps.org/join/music-audition-materials/category/17-stars-and-stripes.html It would be ideal for anyone participating in the parade to come to Pioneerland on Saturday afternoon (March 16th) for a uniform fitting and possible rehearsal. Otherwise, all parade participants will have to arrive very early Sunday morning as we have to leave by 9:30am for Chicago! HOUSING: You have several options: You can stay at Pioneerland’s Staff Headquarters, or there will be a special rate for you to stay at the Econo-Lodge by Milwaukee’s Airport. The hotel is conveniently located about 4 minutes away from Pioneerland. APPLY: If you have not done so already, please fill out the application for marching in the parade. Again, here is how: You can also call the Pioneer Office (414-327-2847) to let us know that you are coming, or how we can be of help to you. TEACHING STAFF FOR THE PARADE: BRASS: Randall Bennett & Cecil Austin PERCUSSION: Andy Stawick (#1711) GUARD: Lisa “Janasik” Savage.(#1881) WHO’S WELCOME: All current members, alumni, new members, and teaching staff past and present are urged to come back and march with your Pioneer Family! The parade, as a lot of you remember, is hard to describe. After the parade we will be going to former Drum Major, Jacqui Bilder’s (#1787) restaurant for a celebration even better than the parade! Here’s your opportunity to have a special time and reunion with your corps! |
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SOUTH AFRICA’S FIELD BAND FOUNDATION: They shared the news with us that 2017 Pioneer Mellophone Johannes Motlthabane (#2641) was among 5 South African staff who took tests from the Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM). He received two distinctions and two merits. The S.A. Field Band Foundation has 23 units that compete. 11 are chosen to compete in the championship through video auditions. The winning group this year is called Black Like Me Soweto Field Band. They won the brass, percussion, and front ensemble caption awards. |
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DIRECTORS WANTED: Would you like to direct a Winter Guard Program, a WGI Drum Line, a WGI Winds Group (small ensemble), or be a part of the Corps getting back into the DCI area? We are searching for leadership and instructional help….Opportunity is here…Call 414-327-2847 (office) or 414-333-2235 (cell) for more details. |
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THANK YOU: We would like to thank all of you who attended the funerals of Al Dobyns, Patty Lonzaga, John Noonan, and Maxine Acevedo. These do not operate on a schedule, so I understand the effort it takes in one’s life to attend services. The Pioneer sent green and white floral displays to each service with the words, “On behalf of the whole corps, in appreciation of their time spent with the corps.” In the case of Al Dobyns former Pioneer Contra and recently Pioneer board member (#1171), there was a Celebration of Life held at the Thomas More High School Auditorium. Everyone brought a pot-luck dish to pass and Roman brought 120 Green doughnuts, a tradition that Al would have appreciated. Roman and others spoke words about Al’s many contributions during his time with the Pioneer. |
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JOEY TACKETT: Former tuba player and drum major for Pioneer (#2291) has been chosen as a member of the Brass Instructional Staff of River City Rhythm Drum and Bugle Corps in Anoka, Minnesota for this summer! Congratulations and teach them how to be Better Every Day! |
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ROSE BOWL PARADE: Did you happen to see Marianna and Shaka (#2652) former Pioneer members marching with their band from Puerto Rico? It was a remarkable honor for any band who has the opportunity to participate in this traditional festival parade fully televised nationally. |
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BINGO CANCELED TWICE: Our Wednesday Bingo was canceled at the Lions Club two weeks in a row because of extreme cold and snow, and our Saturday Bingo at the United Senior Center had a modest crowd. Volunteers are always welcome to come help! |
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Start with a smile at Smile.Amazon.com and Amazon donates a portion of what you spend to the Pioneer! You benefit because of the many deals that you can receive from them and Pioneer benefits from Amazon’s donations. |
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VEHICLE NUMBERS: Do you ever wonder why our buses, trucks, and golf carts are numbered? It is the order in which we purchased them. The last bus that we bought last year (#75) is a 1995 MCI 55 passenger coach. Since 1961 many vehicles have come and gone. They have included Pioneer II vehicles, trailers, campers, and golf carts. A lot of vehicles and miles have gone so far as we approach our 2019 season. Vehicle #1 was a Yellow School Bus that ran for 4 years as a combination passenger bus and equipment hauler carried in the rear of the bus having removed several seats in the back. |
