Hawthorne Muchachos Foundation Formed
After nearly 35 years, the Hawthorne Muchachos Drum and Bugle corps will once again don their sequined boleros and red pleated bell bottoms.
Initially formed in the 1950’s and starting out as a parade corps, the Muchachos through the years grew to be an Eastern powerhouse in the world of drum corps.
On Sunday April 29th, 2012, gathered at the Community Church in Glen Rock, a group of 20 alumni of the legendary Hawthorne Muchachos to form The Muchachos Foundation with the mandate to promote and to foster the fundamental principals of drum corps. The purpose of this organization will also provide any alumni the opportunity to perform once again along with those who wish to become a Muchacho. The trustees shared that this will be a major undertaking that is not unrealistic but will come with sacrifice and a large time commitment.
A scholarship fund has been established and it was agreed that 25% of all donations, contributions, gifts and fund raisers will be dedicated to the scholarship fund.
A Board of Directors were elected in accordance with the newly adopted by-laws. The foundation has filed papers to incorporate in the State of New Jersey and will pursue the status of a Not for profit as defined and governed for all 501C3 corporations and organizations.
Anyone who was a member of the corps or affiliated in any way inclusive of parents and family clubs has been encouraged to participate. Recognizing the Hawthorne Muchachos did not exist as an island on its own, and the dues paying members were just one part of a multifaceted organization that was rich in spirit and blessed with many talented people. It took many hands to field the Hawthorne Muchachos and will need those willing hands again.
The initial officers are; Erik Soldwedel, President, Joe Gizzi, Vice President, JoAnn Nicoletti, Secretary and Hank Bignell, Treasurer. All who attended had opportunity to share their concerns and dreams – no one was excluded in the process. The trustees noted the texture and vintage of the Muchachos ranges from 1957 to 1978 – not just one corps but many that made ONE DRUM CORPS.
We say with one voice, “WATCH WHAT HAPPENS”.
