As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, the Pioneer Drum And Bugle Corps community is gearing up for celebrations and reunions. While a parade might not be on the cards this year, several exciting options are available for members and supporters to connect, reminisce, and celebrate their shared history with the pioneer drum and bugle corps.
Milwaukee Area Gathering: Pizza, Music, and Memories
For those in and around Milwaukee, a casual and fun gathering is planned at Pipe Organ Pizza, located at 4553 S. 108th Street. On Sunday, March 16th, from 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm, attendees can enjoy free pizza and great music. The pioneer drum and bugle corps is generously providing the pizza, and a cash bar will be available for those wanting beverages. This event is designed to be flexible – come early or arrive later, the aim is to maximize connection and conversation. It’s a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with old friends, share life updates, and maybe even spot some familiar faces from years past, including Diana Kuupinski (#214), John Schoenknecht (#444), Murray Davis, and Roman & Sue. Don’t forget to wear green and show your pioneer drum and bugle corps pride by sporting your jacket or shirt!
Chicago Area Meet-Up: Hospitality at Natural Law Bar & Grill
Chicago-area members and anyone willing to travel are invited to a special gathering hosted by Drum Major Jackie Bilder (#1787). On St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Jackie’s successful establishment, “Natural Law Bar & Grill,” situated at 13404 Olde Western Avenue in Blue Island, IL, will be offering a complimentary buffet to all pioneer drum and bugle corps enthusiasts. This is a wonderful chance to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in good company and enjoy the hospitality of a fellow corps member.
Pioneer Power Pack Bingo: A Night of Fun and Fundraising
For a different kind of excitement, the Pioneer Bingo will host a special “Power Pack” session on Saturday night, March 15th, in Milwaukee (Cudahy). Starting at 6:00 pm at TAJ PALACE, 3665 EAST GRANGE AVENUE CUDAHY 53110, the evening will feature two regular sessions, the Progressive Jackpot, and the Power Pack, with a total prize pool of $4,000 or more. This event supports the pioneer drum and bugle corps and offers a fun night out with a chance to win while meeting fellow supporters.
Belle City Brass Irish Concert: A Prelude to Festivities
Adding to the weekend’s musical offerings, before the Milwaukee Pizza Party on Sunday, March 16th, consider attending the Belle City Brass Band’s Irish Concert in Racine. Starting at 3:00 pm in the Bedford Auditorium at PARKSIDE SCHOOL in Racine, this concert is a donation-based event showcasing a first-class performance. The Belle City Brass Band has strong ties to the pioneer drum and bugle corps, founded by former Pioneer arranger Ken Norman and currently led by former Pioneer Brass Instructor (1982 – 1994), Jim (Mertz) Mertins. Eric (#1028), a former pioneer drum and bugle corps member, is now a featured euphonium soloist in the band. With around 50 brass musicians, this concert promises a rich and enjoyable experience, perfectly setting the stage for the Pioneer Pizza Party afterward.
Pioneerland Wedding: Celebrating Love in a Familiar Place
In June of last year, Pioneerland was the beautiful setting for a special occasion: the wedding of Drum Major Nick Fugh (Little Bear) and Madiline Bruens. The all-purpose garage at Pioneerland was transformed into an elegant wedding hall for approximately 170 guests, largely from Illinois. Nick and Madiline, now residing in Fisher, Illinois, where Nick owns a welding shop and is involved in local farming, created a lasting memory in a place significant to the pioneer drum and bugle corps community.
Image: Nick and Madiline’s wedding at Pioneerland, showcasing the beautifully decorated venue.
KB Bus Company Expansion at Pioneerland
KB Bus Company, a familiar presence at Pioneerland, is expanding its operations. Now boasting nine late-model MCI motorcoach buses, they have constructed a well-insulated maintenance and repair area within Pioneerland. This development signifies growth and continued activity at the Pioneerland site.
New Entrance Gate Enhancements at Pioneerland
To improve security and manage access, a new heavy-duty sliding entrance gate has been installed at the vehicle entrance of Pioneerland. This gate aims to deter unauthorized access and prevent illegal dumping, ensuring Pioneerland remains a clean and welcoming space.
Remembering Dave Richards: A Pioneer in Drum Corps
Image: A photo of Dave Richards, a respected figure in the drum and bugle corps community.
The pioneer drum and bugle corps community mourns the passing of Mr. Dave Richards in October. Dave, St. Pat’s first brass instructor and arranger, and organizer of a successful “Judges’ Reunion” in Racine, WI, passed away from a heart attack. A talented musician and former mailman, Dave contributed significantly to numerous top drum corps, creating highly entertaining shows. He was also a respected brass judge across the country. Dave’s funeral featured a recording of him singing “A Closer Walk With Thee,” reflecting the sentiments of those present. His tenor voice, generous sharing of knowledge and experiences, and impactful leadership cemented his status as an icon in the drum and bugle corps activity. Dave Richards will be deeply missed by the pioneer drum and bugle corps family and the wider community.
Historical Glimpse: Milwaukee Sentinel, 1876
Image: An excerpt from the Milwaukee Sentinel newspaper dated October 22, 1876, highlighting local history.
An interesting historical artifact, an excerpt from the Milwaukee Sentinel newspaper dated October 22, 1876, offers a glimpse into the past. This piece of history connects to the roots of the community that fostered the pioneer drum and bugle corps, reminding us of the rich heritage of the area.
Reflections on St. Patrick’s Parish and History
Image: An older photograph of the St. Patrick’s Parish school building.
Image: Exterior view of St. Patrick’s Church.
Image: St. Patrick’s Color Guard performing, showcasing their skills and dedication.
The building referred to as “the school” in earlier notes, with its recognizable stained-glass window frames in the gym, remains largely unchanged and continues to be a valuable structure. Its availability was a blessing for the St. Pat’s Corps from its inception. These images and notes provide a historical context to the pioneer drum and bugle corps and its origins within the St. Patrick’s Parish community.
Celebrating Individuals: Larry Madrano, Roman & Jesse Philips, Sue & Cecil
Image: A portrait of Larry Madrano, member #467 of the Pioneer Drum and Bugle Corps.
Image: A photo of Roman and Jesse Philips, dedicated supporters of the Pioneer Drum and Bugle Corps, member #727.
Image: A picture of Sue and Cecil, members of the Pioneer Drum and Bugle Corps community.
These images celebrate individuals who are part of the pioneer drum and bugle corps family, highlighting long-time members and supporters like Larry Madrano (#467), Roman & Jesse Philips (#727), and Sue & Cecil. Their contributions and presence enrich the Pioneer community.
Wedding Memories: Nancy & Randy and a Pioneer Trailer
Image: A wedding photograph of Nancy and Randy, celebrating their special day.
Image: A photograph of the Pioneer Drum Corps trailer, evoking memories of tours and performances.
More wedding memories are shared with a photo of Nancy & Randy’s wedding. Additionally, a nostalgic image of the Pioneer trailer prompts reflection and shared memories. Roman encourages anyone with stories related to the trailer to reach out.
1983 Pioneer Drumline: A Throwback to Excellence
Image: The 1983 Pioneer Drumline in performance, showcasing their talent and precision.
A photograph of the 1983 Pioneer Drumline serves as a powerful reminder of the corps’ long-standing tradition of excellence and performance quality.
“Better Every Day” Patch: A Motto to Live By
Image: A close-up of the Pioneer “Better Every Day” patch, symbolizing continuous improvement.
The “Better Every Day” patch encapsulates the ethos of the pioneer drum and bugle corps, representing a commitment to continuous improvement and dedication.
Roman and Drum Major Nick: Leadership Connection
Image: A photo of Roman and Drum Major Nick, highlighting the connection between leadership and members.
This image of Roman and Drum Major Nick emphasizes the bond between leadership and members within the pioneer drum and bugle corps.
Pio Semi: A Question of Location
Image: A photograph of the Pioneer semi-truck, with a question about its location of the photo.
An image of the Pio semi-truck prompts a question about where it was photographed, inviting further engagement and shared knowledge within the community.
St Pat’s Patch: Symbol of Heritage
Image: A close-up of the St. Pat’s Patch, an emblem representing the corps’ heritage and tradition.
Finally, the St. Pat’s Patch serves as a lasting emblem of the heritage and traditions of the St. Patrick’s – Pioneer Drum and Bugle Corps.
The upcoming gatherings and shared memories underscore the enduring spirit of the pioneer drum and bugle corps community. These events offer valuable opportunities to reconnect, celebrate, and honor the legacy of this cherished organization.
