So many super, super people thru so many years. A place to grow musically, a place for fun, a place to make lifetime friendships, a place to learn about yourself and grow.
For me, I had the opportunity to have the times of my life to perform as a snare drummer in the 1968 National Champion Sunrisers, and to serve as a drum instructor 1978-1979, 1982-1984, and as a consultant in 1995.
I was privileged to be inspired by John Sasso, Orus Cavnor, the legendary Gery Shellmar, and Dennis DeLucia, the amazingly talented Dave Franceschina, Frank Dorritie, John Arietano, Billy Cobham, and Wayne Downey.
To experience so many talented fellow corps members and to be exposed to so many truly unique people with names like Coolbreeze, Bushelhead, Pookie, Stuie, Gourlay, Stan, Milton.
Now I can really appreciate the dedication and sacrifices of corps leaders like Gary Williams, Al Beck, Bill Costello, George Knoebel, John Kelley, Mike DeLorenzo, Joe Verlezza, and Chuck Cook. Thank You, Sunrisers. Thanks for the friendships you’ve given me, the great performance opportunities and all the beautiful memories.
Sunrisers – what a great recipe for touching people and making a real difference in people’s lives. Thank you for touching mine!
Chet Doboe (creator of the "Hip Pickles Percussion Ensemble")
