Interstatesmen Add Another Victory
DCN August 8, 1962 issue

CORTLAND, N.Y., July 21 - The Skyrocketing Interstatesmen tonight added the Third Annual Matador Review Championship to their growing list of victories as they handily defeated the New York State American Legion Champion Rochester Crusaders by a near two point margin.

It was a clean sweep for the "I-Men", who also captured the "High Horn", "High Drum", and "Best Color Guard" trophies.

The victory this evening was the fourth straight for the Interstatesmen, who have compiled an enviable record of five firsts and two seconds. They already hold victories over such nationally prominent corps as the Archer-Epler Musketeers, Reilly Raiders, Baltimore Yankee Rebels and Canada's National Champion Royalaires.

Les Diplomates 1962

Les Diplomates De Quebec In Action - These pictures, taken by Quebec's photographer Roland Dore, show the only senior drum corps of Quebec City in action during some of their performances. From the top: The corps is shown during the retreat ceremony in Sherbrooke, Quebec. The next two pictures are from a parade in Montreal June 24. Drum major Guy Cote conducting the concert during the baritone solo of "Summertime". And below, color sergeant Patrick Rouleau leading his color guard on their appearance for the benefit of the crew on the Canadian Aircraft Carrier, "S.S. Bonaventure", anchored in the Quebec Harbor.
DCN August 8, 1962 issue

Wandering With The Waters
By Betty and Joe Waters
DCN Aug. 8, 1962 issue

ROCHESTER, N.Y., July 11 - The Baranard Fire Department of Greece, New York had the really big one as far as fireman's parades are concerned in the Flower City. So big that we won't take up too much space with it.

Here is a list of the drum corps present with the Crusaders taking the honors:Blue Angels of Greece, N.Y. - Emerald Cadets of Rochester, N.Y. - Hi Tones of Hamlin, N.Y. - Crusaders of Irondequoit, N.Y. - Rancheros of Nunda, N.Y. - Melodiers of Lackawanna, N.Y. - Dutchtown Lancers of Rochester, N.Y. - TCI Geneseeans of Rochester, N.Y. - Alpine Girls of Irondequoit, N.Y. - Grey Knights of Rochester, N.Y. - Sabers of Spencerport, N.Y. - Excaliburs of Palmyra, N.Y. - and Father Kelly's Boys of Batavia, N.Y.

FALCONER, N.Y., July 21 - 5th Annual Bugler's Holiday - This contest saw an upset - something there hasn't been much of this year.In most of our wanderings we have been able to come pretty close to the outcome before the contest started. We enjoyed very much seeing the Appleknockers of Geneva, N.Y. come out on top over some highly touted competition. Even though a score of 73.80 won the contest, Geneva really looked good. Their "Jezebel", Hawaiian War Chant" and their trademark, "Apple Blossom Time" are still music to these old ears even though they have been around quite a while. Music-wise, Geneva is and always has been a good crowd pleaser. In our opinion, a stronger drum line and some brushing up on drill will have them scoring much higher.

In second with 71.90, the Grey Knights of Rochester, N.Y. just didn't have it on this particular night. Every corps is entitled to a bad night once in a while and this was the Knights.

Due to unforeseen parking problems, having to rush out and move the Lark, we had the misfortune of missing the Kingsmen of Hamburg, N.Y. This was a blow to us because we had looked forward all evening to seeing their routine. Herewith, except our apologies, but all we can give you is their score of 67.90 for third place.

The Flying Dutchmen from Kitchner, Waterloo nosed out the Black Knights of Salamanca, N.Y. by .15 for fourth place.

In exhibition and acting as host corps for the evening were the fabulous Toronto Optimists.

BATAVIA, N.Y., July 28 - Operation Minneapolis - as you probably can tell by the title, the proceeds of this contest will help to send Father Kelly's Boys to Minneapolis for the VFW Nationals. The competing units were the Crusaders of Irondequoit, N.Y., 79.5; the Grey Knights of Rochester, N.Y., 75.8; the Niagara Memorial Militaires 72.3; the Jesters, Toronto, 67.95; and the Black Knights of Salamanca, N.Y. with 57.75.

What makes a championship corps? We reported a few weeks ago that the Crusaders, after some unfavorable scores, decided to change some of their routine in the middle of the season. This is the first time we have seen them in over a month. The color guard part of the routine has been completely changed. At least 50% of the drill has been changed - solos have been added to the concert of "And The Angels Sing", and additional GE drum work has been added. All this sounds like a corps preparing for a new season. Bear in mind all these changes were made in the middle of the competitive season, and accomplished in less time than it takes most corps to learn one new number. This is what makes a championship corps. Not only the ability of the instructors can accomplish this - the drive and the know-how of each corps member from the quartermaster throughout the entire reins of the organization is reflected in the new look of the Crusaders. Under these trying circumstances, the Crusaders have been out of first place only three times this season. Two of those losses were to the same corps. Under normal circumstances, they would again win the State Championship, but then this year's New York State is abnormal to say the least.

The Grey Knights seem to have lost most of their drive shown at the first of the season. As we have said before, they have a well balanced show, both music-wise and M&M. Pick them up, boys, the season is getting short.

The Niagra Memorial Militaires - what an unusual drum corps. For those who haven't heard and I doubt there are many, the new look of the Militaires - straw hats, candy-striped blouses, white pants, red socks and white shoes. A lot of their drill is old as far as drum corps is concerned, such as the shoulder rest ala Reilly, and the old scatter routine, but the way they are presented, makes them seem fresh and different. Music is strictly gay nineties. "Memories", "I Want A Girl", "Swanee River", "That Old Gang Of Mine", "After The Ball" and exit to "Bye Bye Blues". The purist will be strictly against this corps, but we can see no more gimmicks than bongos, outsized horns and what have you.

The Jesters from Toronto have a real jazzy arrangement featuring both baritones and soprano solos. Another arrangement of "Exodus" sounded very good. The oldie of "I'll See You In My Dreams" is their exit. Looking forward to seeing more of this corps in the future.

Understand that the Black Knights of Salamanca are going to take two weeks off to do a little brushing up and see if they can't get out of the fifties.

The Emerald Cadets of Rochester, N.Y. were one of the exhibition corps. Strictly Irish theme - "Irish Lullaby", nice little dance step to "Kerry Dancers", "Does Your Mother Come From Ireland", and others. This is the only coed horn line we have seen this season.

Each member of Father Kelly's Boys was introduced to the audience by name from the starting line. As usual, they outscored every corps in the contest.

- - - Remember, talk is cheap, because the supply always exceeds the demand. Hang in there.

Hooten Leads Rebels To Hershey Win
DCN Aug. 8, 1962 issue

Hershey, Pa., July 7 - With a rousing "Rebel Yell" and "Wild Bill" Hooten to boot, the Yankee Rebels of Baltimore, Md., surged past the West Reading "Buccaneers" by .734 of a point to win first place here tonight at Hershey Stadium.

Third place went to the Pittsburgh "Rockets", followed by the Conn. Hurricanes and Salamanca Black Knights in that order.

CONTEST HIGHLIGHTS:
Both Rebels and Reading have plenty of G.E. throughout their entire show . . . Hurricanes sporting new uniforms and looking very flashy . . . Pittsburgh's soloist, one of the best in the business . . . Much talk of the previous contest out here, but all corps conducted themselves like perfect gentlemen at retreat, etc. . . Strange thing - No official tabulators and no breakdown sheets until the managers appeared at the meeting following the contest. Chief Judge Brady and Mr. Green of the "Chocloteers" to be complimented on efforts . . . Nine members of the "Rockets" dropped following their show . . . "Belles" of St. Mary's turned in sparkling exhibition . . . Ditto, host corps . . .

The Scores:
Yankee Rebels .................... 87.800
Buccaneers ......................... 87.066
Rockets .............................. 86.566
Hurricanes ......................... 82.350
Black Knights .................... 76.983

Marion Cadets, Mt. Healthy Win Ohio Legion Show
DCN Aug. 8, 1962 issue

Columbus, Ohio, July 21 - The Ohio Legion held their annual championship contests here today, with 26 entrants in the various categories.

Low scores in the corps contest were a surprise to the many fans in the stands but in general the contest was well run by the contest committee.

The results:
Junior Corps
1. Marion Cadets, Post 162, Marion ... 66.98
2. Blue Devils, Post 96, Lima .............. 44.05
3. Post 513, My. Healthy .................... 27.51

Senior Corps
1. Men of Ohio, Post 513, Mt. Healthy 56.8
2. Post 85, Newark ............................ 46.49
3. Sabres, Post 97, Cardington ......... 46.28
4. Cardinals, Post 535, Bellville ........ 39.63

Junior Guard
1. Marion Cadets, Post 162, Marion ... 90.6
2. Post 91, Berea ................................ 82.9
3. Post 221, Massillon ........................ 82.5
4. Post 29, Zanesville ......................... 79.65

Senior Guard
1. Post 421, Parkview(Cleveland) .... 90.2
2. Post 243, Galion .......................... 83.7
3. Post 320, Maumee ...................... 77.75
4. Post 340, Holgate ........................ 74.89

Junior Drill Teams
1. Post 29, Zanesville ..................... 85.98
2. Post 450, Milford ........................ 82.04
3. Post 513, Mt. Healthy ................ 71.4
4. Post 521, Shadyside .................. 70.95

Whaling City Report
By Richie Antone
DCN Aug. 8, 1962 issue

The biggest news from the area is that one of the first Northeastern Circuit contests will be held Aug. 18, at Sargent Field, New Bedford, Mass., under the auspices of the Jolly Whalers.

The corps scheduled to appear are Kingsmen, Fitchburg, Mass.; Thunderbirds, Somerville, Mass.; Vagabonds, Torrington, Conn.; Buccaneers, Bath Maine; and the Wanderers, New Rochelle, New York. There will also be exhibitions by the I.C. "Reveries" of Revere, Mass., and the Jolly Whalers.

We would like to urge you to attend and help to promote corps interest in an area that has few contests.

AREA NEWS -
Shame to see Golden Raiders, an up-and-coming Junior Corps in R.I. Assn. Circuit, having difficulties, seemingly caused by addition of some glory seekers. Why do we have to have those clowns around? Royal Lancers from R.I. acquiring many new horns.

R.I. Musketeers sound as if there is another "no-competing season" coming up! Understand they are in need of some new horn men.

Holy Rosary Caballeros, looking forward to a good year, have joined the ranks of the new All-American Circuit.

Jolly Whalers, last years' R.I. Assn. Champs, have resigned, due to the confliction of dates between R.I. and the other two Circuits to which they belong - the Northeastern and All-American. While on the subject of R.I. Assn., it's sad to note that they only have two contests in addition to the Championship, and with a 60% eligibility ruling, the Championship might be void of much senior competition.

The Fairhaven, Mass. Sesquicentennial Parade, due for July 29th, has one of the best lineup of corps for a parade in this area - with the exception of a state convention. Corps scheduled to appear are Jolly Whalers, Somerville T-Birds, Worcester Crusaders, Norwood Debonnaires, R.I. Musketeers, Fairhaven Legion Juniors, Blue Angels, Yankee Division, Gilbert Perry, with a few more corps pending replies.

Attended the T-Birds meet in Somerville on July 7. The results of the contest were Jolly Whalers, 5th; Vagabonds, 4th; Kingsmen, 3rd; Troopers, 2nd; Conn. Yankees, 1st.

Look forward to the Buccaneers meet, Aug 4.

Drum Corps Quotes
By Jerry Dreva
DCN August 8, 1962 issue

Now that the halfway mark of the '62 season has been reached, it might be appropriate to take a pre-convention look at the Midwest and at those corps that will be in strong contention as finalists in Minneapolis.

At this time a very strong representation of Midwest corps can be expected to compete at Minneapolis. At least eight have a good chance to make finals. Let's take a look at that group and its chances now.

Still on top in the Midwest, although not nearly as strongly as last year, are the Cavaliers; and they can be expected to give everyone a run for their money at Nationals. Although they are far from unbeatable, the Cavies still possess that combination of a high quality performance plus good execution that could well give them a repeat of last years' victory.
The loss of two veterans in the snare line has weakened it somewhat, but it shouldn't be enough to hurt them greatly. Again look for the Cavaliers in the top three.

Rated a close second to the Cavaliers in the Midwest are the Royal Airs. Strong M&M, fine GE show, plus the top drum line in the Midwest should easily give them a place in the top five. The only thing that might possibly hinder the Airs from going all the way at Minny is their relative newness to National competition. Possibly bugles will be their weak caption, but their nearly flawless execution in M&M should boost their score sufficiently to see them two or three notches up from their seventh place finish last year.

Always a favorite VFW competitor, the Black Knights will again present a strong show. The Knights have gained some needed points on the bugle sheets with their cut of twelve men from last years' 39 man horn line. How much this will effect their GE score is still to be seen. The Knights would be doing very well if they can repeat their fifth in Miami.

Greatly improved from previous years in all but one caption are the Madison Scouts. The new uniforms and music have added "class" that was formerly lacking. If the drumming caption was reduced to five points, I'd bet Madison for the top three; but, unfortunately, a corps doesn't become a National champ with outstanding marks in three captions and a lousy one in the other. The horn line is undoubtedly the best in the Midwest, and the M&M has been much improved with the elimination of several of the old "typically Madison" maneuvers; but unless a vast improvement is made in the drum line in the next weeks, look for Madison in the bottom half of the finalists.

Returning to VFW Nationals after a year's absence, will be the Norwood Park Imperials. Although in a rebuilding phase, the Imps have been a consistently good performer this year. Fine M&M plus a good GE show should again place them in the top ten. The new repertoire is both different and interesting, and Rick Maass had written a drill that fits the music very well. Be sure to look for the Imperials' new uniforms. They help greatly in getting across the "new look of Norwood."

The Kilts of Racine should produce some results on the sheets that will be exactly the opposite of last year. Formerly weak, the drum line is now the Kilties' pride and joy. Their always fine horn line is lacking something this year due mainly to the difficulty of their music. The M&M has been steadily improving under the tutelage of Carl Last. High drums, the best drill in the Midwest, and a little bit of their fine reputation should all combine to squeeze the Kilts into finals.

A corps that will really have to fight for a place in the night show, but could very well get it, is the Racine Scouts. Equally fine drums and horns, with a very appealing repertoire, could be just enough to push them across. Against them is their newness at National Competitions and their poorly constructed drill. Watch these boys, though - with a good show they could pull a few upsets. Listen especially to their soloist in "Sweet Georgia Brown."

The last of the midwest corps that you might be seeing in the finals is the Vanguard. This year is proving to be a real fight for the kids from Skokie as they have been defeated by a couple of the "lesser" Illinois corps. But they have been recovering beautifully, and by the middle of August should be just about where they belong in the rating of Illinois corps. Lots of spirit and memories of Logan Square could land the Vanguard a niche in finals.

So there you have a little preview of what to look for at Minneapolis. Expect anywhere from four to six midwest units in the top ten, with lots more "comers" not making the night show.

1962 Conn. Hurricanes

DCN August 8, 1962 issue