Hurricanes Hold “Back To Glory” Event

To start off the Memorial Day weekend, the Connecticut Hurricanes were treated to an evening of reliving the glory days of the past champion Hurricane corps. Several hundred corps members, Hurricane Hall of Fame members, World Drum Corps Hall of Fame members,family and friends turned out for this special night. Art Hylwa who started in 1954 with the corps and who will be inducted into the World Drum Corps Hall of Fame in August spoke of the very early years and the challenges they faced. Former DCA Vice President Bob Glovna spoke on the dedication that is needed to be a successful unit while John Fisher gave a statistical overview of the Hurricanes in the 1960’s. Gail Bottillo spoke on the early years of female members being allowed in the color guard as they won their caption at DCA finals in 1980,1981, and 1982.

Corps director, Bernie Malesky challenged the corps to build on last years success and with dedication and hard work they can reach the next level in DCA competition. Board of Directors Chairman, Tom Gabianelli, felt that this event should be used to enlighten the new and younger members of the corps and to bring their attention to the rich history of the Hurricanes. To conclude this event the 2008 Hurricanes performed their 2008 program and not too many dry eyes were spotted in the crowd after the finished "Mag 7". Look for a full detailed report on this great evening from fellow DCW staff writer Timothy "Ace" Holleran in an upcoming issue of Drum Corps World.