2022 Organizational Meeting

Hello!

I am writing to everyone to let you know we have just confirmed that we will be able to use the Elks Lodge again this year for rehearsals and meetings, so we are having an organizational meeting this coming Tuesday, the 29th of March at the Elks Lodge in Dunkirk at 7PM.

Anyone who is interested is welcome! At this time, it’s still unclear how the season will unfold and if we have enough members to participate in parades so come to the meeting if you can! That should help us determine how to proceed.

At this time we are hoping to have 4 rehearsals leading up to the Memorial Day Parade in Dunkirk. April 19th, 26th, May 10thand 24th and the Parade on the 30th. Other offers are coming in and it seems like many of the places that we have marched before will be having parades again this year.

Hope to see you there!

Dave Fridmann

WNY Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps seeks new members

https://www.observertoday.com/news/local-region/2020/02/wny-alumni-drum-and-bugle-corps-seeks-new-members/

WNYALU1-1100x825.jpg

The WNY Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps has begun preparing for their 2020 season. This includes adding a new song, “Copacabana” to the repertoire which includes “Hang ‘Em High/Mag 7,” “New York, New York,” “America,”“Gonna Fly Now,” “Sunrise Lady” and “Elk’s Parade.” The corps is always looking for new members. If you’re a current horn player or drummer you can bring your playing to the next level by playing in the drum corps. The corps is free to participate in. Jack Kujawa, corps advisor, stated, “This corps is so much fun to be around and the talent is incredible. This is the perfect time to join because you have a lot of time to learn the music.” Dave Fridmann will again serve as corps director. Dave also works with the drum line and is the drum sergeant. The horn instructor/arranger position is again in the capable hands of Jonathon Fridmann and Mateo Mendez. Friends and family members are welcome to all corps functions. If interested, email wnyalumni@gmail.com. You don’t want to miss out on this great opportunity!

Elks Lodge reports successful open house, Flag Day ceremony

https://www.observertoday.com/news/local-region/2019/06/elks-lodge-reports-successful-open-house-flag-day-ceremony/

JUN 26, 2019

The Elks Lodge had extended an invitation to the whole north county of Chautauqua to attend an open house on June 8. This event was well attended by members and many new faces who were impressed with the organization and hospitality. The open house was so successful, six people requested to become part of this Elks Lodge membership.

The annual Flag Day ceremony was held on June 15 at the Dunkirk Historical Lighthouse. The weather was very over cast, gray, a little windy and chilly,but no rain. The perfect setting for the flags to be honored and retired. The one thing missing was the rockets red glare.

Despite the weather, many people were in attendance for this very powerful ceremony. The Western New York Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps provided patriotic music and Taps. The National Anthem and God Bless America were sung by Kira Kuhlman, Matthew Helwig, Addison Helwig, Matthew Levan, Megan Levan, Kim Levan, and Leah Pawlak. The Knights of Columbus were honor guards and posted the colors. Wolf Den Pack 267, with Brandon LeBeau, Pack Master retired the flags. The Elks officers led the ceremony. 

Bruce Kaus,Sr of the United States Marine Corps was the featured speaker followed by Edwin Ramos, City Clerk representing the City of Dunkirk. Upon completion of the ceremony, everyone in attendance was invited back to the lodge for hotdogs and hamburgers. The Elks thanks everyone who participated in the ceremony and Dave Briska for his continued assistance with the use of the Lighthouse.

Coming Aug. 3 is a rib barbecue dinner. Tired of the chicken dinners? Come and have ribs fresh off the grill. Mark your calendar and more information to follow.

City Memorial Day parade lineup set

https://www.observertoday.com/news/local-region/2019/05/city-memorial-day-parade-lineup-set/

The annual Memorial Day service and parade will be Monday at Memorial Park in Dunkirk. Services will start at 10 a.m., the parade will follow at approximately 11 a.m.

The Parade will turn on to Central Avenue and proceed south to Fifth Street. The Parade turns East on Fifth Street and disbands at Washington Park.

In case of inclement weather the parade will be canceled.

Should the inclement weather continue, Memorial Day Services will be at the John T. Murray VFW Post 1017, 111-113 Deer St. Dunkirk .

This year’s Parade Marshal is Jack Sievert Commander, D.J.V.C.

The 2019 Co-Parade Marshals are: Richard Makuch, Michael McGrath, Dennis Mulkin and David Dow.

The 2019 Memorial Day Parade Captain is Jack Hood.

The Division Marshals are: 1st Division Marshal – Brayden Manzella, city of Dunkirk; 2nd Division Marshal – Lee Woodard, city of Dunkirk; 3rd Division Marshal – Donovan Daily, city of Dunkirk; 4th Division Marshal – Mr. Michael Edwards, City of Dunkirk Fire Chief.

The public is invited to attend and the Dunkirk Joint Veterans Council urges the public to fly the Flag this Memorial Day. God bless our veterans and this great nation of ours.

Division Line-Ups are as follows:

City Official – Honorable Mayor Willie Rosas

City Official – Mr. David Ortolano, Police Chief lined up on Lake Shore Drive West

Followed by Dunkirk Joint Veterans Council Honor Guard and Dunkirk High School JROTC honor guard and cadets

Followed by: Cars:

Parade Marshal: Mr. Jack Sievert, commander D.J.V.C. Parade Co-Marshal Richard Makuch, D.J.V.C.,Asst. H.G. Cdr. Parade Co-Marshal David Taber, D.J.V.C. Asst. H.G. Cdr. Escorted by Rhonda Daminski, VFW Past President 1017 Auxiliary

Followed by Grand Marshal Edward Long Jr., 159th Field Artilery, U.S. Army, Korean War veteran, escorted by Carol Hood D.O.D. (Ret.)

Master of Ceremonies, Mr. John D’Agostino, D.J.V.C. and Publisher OBSERVER.

Lt. Christopher Wilson, USCG Sea Partners

City of Dunkirk Common Council members.

City of Dunkirk fire chief Michael Edwards.

Professional Fire Fighters Local 616

Greater Buffalo Firefighter Pipe & Drum Corps

Veterans requiring transportation: CARTS buses will begin loading veterans at approximately 10:45 a.m.

DAV –in cars or CARTS

World War II veterans in cars or CARTS

Korean War veterans in cars or CARTS

Vietnam veterans in cars or CARTS

Hamburg Kingsmen Drum and Bugle Corps, led by Leon Trzewieczynski

1st Division — Forms on Pelican Street at Lake Shore Drive West.

Officers and Veterans from WWII, Korean War, Vietnam, Cold War, Global War on Terror, including Iraq and Afghanistan will be part of the All Veterans Honor Guard.

Flag Review: Elks, BPO 922 Dunkirk, N.Y. Flag Review.

Dunkirk Little League, T-Ball led by Gary Haase, president.

DHS — 2019 State Champion girls bowling team.

2nd Division — Forms on Swan Street at Lake Shore Drive West.

Sons of Liberty Motorcycle Riders

North Coast Brass Co. Musicians Thomas Davenport director.

Girl Scouts of America: Donna Banach Advisor, Girl Scouts Troop 20158.

Girl Scouts of America: Led by Kathy Reisenweber Advisor Troup 20258.

Girl Scouts of America: Led by Jenn Scroll, Susan Bennett, advisors, Troop 20033.

Girl Scouts of America: Led by Morgan Gennock, advisor, Troop 20237 with members from Tri-County Service Unit 20292 and 20312.

Dunkirk High School Marching Band, led by Jenniene Scarem, director.

Hot Rod Club Association

3rd Division — Forms on Dove Street at Lake Shore Drive West.

LoGuidice Education Criminal Justice Program, Led by Jennie Alessi, Teacher.

Iglesias Getsemani Children’s Ministries children and Float, led by Pastor Carlos Llera.

Upward Bound Program, Patricia Messina Program Coordinator; Loretta Torain, Director, and Patricia Messina, program coordinator.

Dunkirk-Fredonia Meals On Wheels Van

Western N.Y. Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps: led by Mr. David Fridmann.

Club 716 Car Club

Jeep Club

4th Division — Forms on Plover Street at Lake Shore Drive West

Dunkirk City of Fire Trucks

East Town of Dunkirk Fire Department

West Town of Dunkirk Fire Department

Pillar of Fire Fellowship – Pastor J. Wentz

Dunkirk Police Car

WNY Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps readies for 2019 season

http://www.observertoday.com/news/local-region/2019/05/wny-alumni-drum-and-bugle-corps-readies-for-2019-season/

MAY 1, 2019

The WNY Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps has been preparing for the 2019 season with regular rehearsals at the Elks lodge on Central Avenue since January this year.

Continuing the long tradition of Drum Corps in the area, The WNY Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps is a corps that has members of all ages and experience who are interested in having fun, marching in parades, and making music.

Dave Fridmann, Corps Director, offered his overview of this year’s corps, “We’ve been growing little by little for over the past few years. This year’s corps has really solidified as a unit. Our retention has created a consistency in our performance that has not been possible in the past.” he stated. “Our sound and musicality are on a new level that we have never been able to achieve before.”

The group is seeking new members to be part of the alumni family. The next practice is May 7, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 428 Central Ave., Dunkirk, and the first parade is Memorial Day in Dunkirk. If interested, contact the corps at wnyalumni@gmail.com

Have fun this summer. Join today!

2019 Winter/Spring Rehearsal Schedule

Announcing our 2019 Winter/Spring Rehearsal Schedule! Our first rehearsal will be Tuesday, January 15th 7:30-9PM at the Elks Club in Dunkirk. Looking forward to a great year!
https://wnydrumcorps.wordpress.com/rehearsal-schedule/

2019 Rehearsal Schedule
schedule subject to change
Tuesday, January 15th 7:30-9PM
Tuesday, January 29th 7:30-9PM
Tuesday, February 12th 7:30-9PM
Tuesday, February 26th 7:30-9PM
Tuesday, March 12th 7:30-9PM
Tuesday, March 26th 7:30-9PM
Tuesday, April 9th 7:30-9PM
Tuesday, April 23rd 7:30-9PM
Tuesday, May 7th 7:30-9PM
Tuesday, May 14th 7:30-9PM
Tuesday, May 21st 7:30-9PM
Monday, May 27th Memorial Day SEASON BEGINS!!!

Location: Elk’s Lodge #922, 428 Central Ave. Dunkirk, NY

Lineup announced for city Memorial Day parade

http://www.observertoday.com/news/local-region/2018/05/lineup-announced-for-city-memorial-day-parade/

MAY 27, 2018
The annual Memorial Day service and parade will be Monday at Memorial Park in Dunkirk. Services will start at 10 a.m., the parade will follow at approximately 11 a.m.

The Parade will turn on to Central Avenue and proceed south to Fifth Street. The Parade turns East on Fifth Street and disbands at Washington Park.

In case of inclement weather the parade will be canceled.

Should the inclement weather continue, Memorial Day Services will be at the John T. Murray VFW Post 1017, 111-113 Deer St. Dunkirk .

This year’s Parade Marshal is Jack Sievert Commander, D.J.V.C.

The 2018 Co-Parade Marshals are: Richard Makuch, Michael McGrath, Dennis Mulkin and David Dow.

The 2018 Memorial Day Parade Captain is Jack Hood.

The Division Marshals are 1st Division TBA, Michael McGrath, Thomas Haynes and Fire Chief Michael Edwards.

1st Division Marshal – TBA

2nd Division Marshal – Michael McGrath Commander VFW post 1017.

3rd Division Marshal – Mr. Thomas Haynes, D.J.V.C. Trustee and Sgt.-at-Arms.

4th Division Marshal – Mr. Michael Edwards, City of Dunkirk Fire Chief.

The public is invited to attend and the Dunkirk Joint Veterans Council urges the public to fly the Flag this Memorial Day. God bless our veterans and this great nation of ours.

Division Line-Ups are as follows:

City Official – Honorable Mayor Willie Rosas

City Official – Mr. David Ortolano, Police Chief lined up on Lake Shore Drive West.

Followed by Dunkirk Joint Veterans Council Honor Guard, Mr. David Huels, D.J.V.C. Honor Guard. Liaison Officer and Trustee;

Mr. Tom Rugani; D.J.V.C. Honor Guard;

Mr. Ronnie Rollins D.J.V.C. Honor Guard;

Mr. Kenneth DeLong, Armorer D.J.V.C.

Followed by: Cars:

Parade Marshal: Mr. Jack Sievert, commander D.J.V.C. Parade Co-Marshal Richard Makuch, D.J.V.C.,Asst. H.G. Cdr. Parade Co-Marshal David Taber, D.J.V.C. Asst. H.G. Cdr. Escorted by Rhonda Daminski, VFW Past President 1017 Auxiliary.

Followed by Grand Marshals Anthony Spann and Ray Davis Jr. escorted by Carol Hood D.O.D. (Ret.)

Master of Ceremonies, Mr. John D’Agostino, D.J.V.C. and Publisher OBSERVER.

Lt. Christopher Wilson, USCG Sea Partners

Limousine carrying city officials.

Followed by:

1st Division — Forms on Pelican Street at Lake Shore Drive West.

Those marching in the 1st Division report to David Dow for instructions on who to follow.

All Veterans Honor Guard Led by James Lemanski, Cdr. American Legion Post 62

Officers and Veterans from WWII, Korean War, Vietnam, Cold War, Global War on Terror, including Iraq and Afghanistan will be part of the All Veterans Honor Guard.

Flag Review: Elks, BPO 922 Dunkirk, N.Y. Flag Review.

Hamburg Kingsman Drum and Bugle Corp, led by Mr. Leon Trzewieczynski.

City of Dunkirk Fire Chief Mike Edwards, Professional Fire Fighters Local 616.

Greater Buffalo Firefighter Pipe & Drum

Veterans Requiring Transportation:

C.A.R.T.S. Buses will begin loading Veterans at approximately 10:45 a.m. C.A.R.T.S. has been graciously arranged by Mr. Cory Leymeister Resource Assistant.

D.A.V.: In Cars or C.A.R.T.S.

Mr. Leroy Foster – U.S.A.F. Veteran (Ret.)

Mrs. Ruthann Foster

World War II restored Willie’s Jeep driven by Craig Sutton with passenger Lynn Watrous, Korean War veteran serving in the Army, and great-grandson Connor Sutton of Fredonia.

WWII Veterans in Cars or C.A.R.T.S.

Korean War Veterans: In Cars or C.A.R.T.S.

Vietnam Veterans: In Cars or C.A.R.T.S.

Club 716 Street Rods Custom Cars

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Dunkirk Flotilla 34 Dunkirk, N.Y. Mr. Doug Hamernick, Commander.

Dunkirk Little League, T-ball led by Gary Haase, President.

Dunkirk J.R.O.T.C, Led by SFC Frank Torrain, U.S Army(Ret.)

2nd Division Parade: Co-Parade Marshal Michael McGrath D.J.V.C.

Forms on: Swan Street at Lake Shore Drive West.

Those marching in the 2nd- Division report to Dave Taber for instructions on who to follow:

North Coast Brass Co. Musicians Thomas Davenport director.

Girl Scouts of America: Donna Banach Advisor, Girl Scouts Troop 20158.

Girl Scouts of America: Led by Kathy Reisenweber Advisor Troup 20237

Chautauqua Hurricane: Led by Nancy Rosario.

Dunkirk Middle School Band: led by director Mary Brock.

3rd Division Parade Marshal – Mr. Thomas Haynes, D.J.V.C. Trustee and Council Sgt-at-Arms

Forms on: Dove Street at Lake Shore Drive West

LoGuidice Education Criminal Justice Program, Led by Jennie Alessi, Teacher.

Iglesias Getsemani Children’s Ministries children and Float

Upward Bound Program, Patricia Messina Program Coordinator; Loretta Torain, Director

Dunkirk Fredonia Meals On Wheels Van

Western N.Y. Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps: led by Mr. Jack Kujawa.

4th Division Parade Marshal Mr. Michael Edwards, Fire Chief City of Dunkirk.

Forms on: Plover Street at Lake Shore Drive West

Dunkirk City of Fire Trucks

East Town of Dunkirk Fire Dept.

West Town of Dunkirk fire Dept.

Fredonia Fire Dept.

Dunkirk Police Car

Pillar of Fire Fellowship – Pastor J. Wentz.