fraber

One thing I have noticed in this thread - I don't think that there was a response from and Management personnel (other than Lee) and none from music arrangers and drill creators. The input that these people would be able to give are the most important and informative. Knowing their mindset and reasons are key. As either marching members or the viewing public, we perform what we are given. It may be a note-for-note rendition, modified, or even an original composition. Same for a drill. I'd truly love to hear from the "powers that be" in this regard. Frank

Marianne - A well deserved and earned recognition. Conrgatulations!!

Ohmarie - As one of the "I remember when" crowd, you and all of the current members do us proud. Your work ethic, devotion and dedication are so appreciated by us in the Alumni. The Alumni covers EVERY decade of Hawthorne's existence, and we are always proud of you guys. Remember - we were what was, you are what is. 2008 will be great!!!

As always a fantastic job. Those of us that attended, as well as those that were unable to, appreciate all the time, work and effort that you put in. You are rapidly becoming/have become the Moe Knox of this era - and we all know how important Moe has been to our little hobby/avocation/addiction. Continue with your good work and hope to see you soon!

I might have missed this, but what about George Hayek from the Cabs? He just celebrated his 61st yer with the Cabs and Cabs Alumni. That does NOT count time served in Junior corps BEFORE WWII. Can anyone top that?

How about 3 words - Apple Blossom White

Thanks, we try. Frank

It shouldn't be necessary, but... why not have the announcer instruct the stands on what is and isn't proper during a performance? No talking, standing, leaving the stands, etc. Place people in charge of the stand entrances and NOT allow anyone to enter the stands during a performance. If the announcement is made several times before and during the performances, maybe we will be able to educate the patrons and improve everyones appreciation of the corps presentations. If my memory isn't failing, wasn't that almost standard practice?

THAT is what it's ALL ABOUT. Bust your butt for countless hours, in the cold and heat, for 15 MINUTES of glory. You don't have to be a soloist in any section. The thrill of going out there, doing your best, will always be with you. However, the first performance WILL ALWAYS be special in your life. I hope that this is just the start of a long and glorious career (er, hobby).

My first "show" performance was WAY back in 1962. I was 12, the corps was 2 years old. NO ONE in the corps had ever performed a drill. We were young, ignorant and fearless! We were on the starting line, waiting for the "other" exhibition corps to finish. Waiting in the hot sun, wearing wool cadet style uniforms, wishing the "other" corps would finish so we could go on. We had learned only the first half of a show, but we were so proud and anxious. I was impressed by the "other" corps performance. The ONLY thing I remember is their hats "floating" on a cloud of dust. Finally it was our turn. Of course, we were not nearly the caliber of the other corps that marched that day, but we didn't care. Again the benefit of being VERY young. You will NEVER NEVER ever forget the first time. It will be forever burned into your mind and soul. You will do fine, once you actually start your performance. You will be so involved with what you are doing that your nerves will disappear. Oh, I forgot to mention that the "other" exhibition corps was the Hawthorne Caballeros!