JoeSop1 Posted August 28, 2013 Share Posted August 28, 2013 (edited) Happy DCA week drum corps fans! I wanted to take a moment to publicly thank the Empire Statesmen organization for (what will be this weekend) 13 seasons of fun, memories, growth and opportunity. I came into the organization in the fall of 2000. Vince Bruni took an interest in me through an introduction from Tom Peashey. My father (Joe Pero Sr.) had been a minion of Mr. B's in the 70's with the Rochester Crusaders, so I'd know about his reputation since I can remember! That first year shifted my life, career and goals. Throughout the years, the Statesmen gave me the opportunity to develop my solo playing and stage style; which I continue to use to this day in my band. The groups reputation for entertainment value was a perfect fit. Looking back, I couldn't have asked for a more appropriate pairing. This weekend, I'll be "suiting up" one last time for Empire's farewell show. I know the rush of memories that will flash through me when we release from that final chord. This weekend may yield a few more hugs and tears than usual, but there's one thing that won't change. The Empire Statesmen's desire to entertain YOU; leaving you exhilarated and humming a familiar tune. People always ask me, "What was the high point"? The Championship in 04? the trip to Europe in 01'? Our run on America's Got Talent? The inauguration? Brigs playing to us in 03' on the field? It was all of it. The tears, the trips, the friendship, failures and victories, watching thousands of fans JUMP to their feet, the pain of loosing Mr. B on DCA weekend 03'. Stories you'd only find in a book. For a bunch of guys in 1983 from Rochester, NY with a vision and a dream - it was all worth it. Sticking with tradition, my motto for the weekend will be:; Play HIGH or go HOME. Much love and we'll see you in Annapolis, MD. Joey Edited August 28, 2013 by JoeSop1 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Fran Haring Posted August 29, 2013 Share Posted August 29, 2013 Well-said, Joey. I cannot wait to see you guys in Annapolis!!! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
UNCGQ Posted August 29, 2013 Share Posted August 29, 2013 Joey, thanks to all for the memories, your friends at Carolina Gold will be looking for ya ;) -Larry 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Florida Sun Posted August 29, 2013 Share Posted August 29, 2013 Joey wish you and all the Statesmen the best always ,Your shows throught the years brought the crowd up to there feet .The drums soundin like helicoptors .The jets dance from Westside Story ,The witch from Oz the corps may be gone but the memories live on ,My personnel wishes to All ,And to all a good night . 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
scrappyslap Posted August 30, 2013 Share Posted August 30, 2013 Wish I could be there to hear it. Do it up Joey!!! Statesmen have a GREAT last show. 7 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CarolinaCorpsRule Posted August 31, 2013 Share Posted August 31, 2013 Thanks for entertaining us in Charlotte for the Tour of Champions VIP reception and Loud, Live and Cool! Maybe when the dust settles we hook up the U-Haul and move you and your friends to the Carolina's for your next chapter! Imagine...shorter winters and judging by 2013...a pretty good brand of drum corps down here! Best of luck this weekend! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CorpsBuff Posted August 31, 2013 Share Posted August 31, 2013 Great performance at Lake Forest last night, best of luck this weekend! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
doctortelco Posted September 2, 2013 Share Posted September 2, 2013 As a fan thank you for giving us the performance of a lifetime. If I had only seen Empire Statesmen last night; that alone would have been worth the 10 hour round trip yesterday. Scott Smith 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
cybersnyder Posted September 2, 2013 Share Posted September 2, 2013 Last night was my first DCA event. Was sad to learn that it was Empire's last performance, but I was thankful to have been able to witness it. It was a great performance. Talk about going out with a bang! 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sarnia sam Posted September 2, 2013 Share Posted September 2, 2013 Joey, it was nice to meet you again on Sunday. More so because my timing of showing up at Empire's rehearsal was minutes before the impromptu Elk's Parade rendition - almost choked me up. And thank you to the Empire organization for making room for my son to march with you this year, he had a blast and will always have some special memories of being part of the last season. Regards, John 1 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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