Monday, July 31, 2006

More galleries

Four new photo galleries under the '2006' link in the right sidebar. These are from Bobbie and Mark T, Peter H, and Jody G. I'll get around to mine from Rockford and tour one of these days. I hope before Madison.

david

Today is Monday, July 31; it's a show day

We are in Salem, Virginia.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.


Weather report and forecast for Salem

Click for Google map of Salem. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.


Today's Menu
Breakfast
Egg and cheese sandwich with ham or sausage
Leftover muffins and sausage
Hash browns

Lunch
Fish sandwich
Potato salad
Chips
Cucumber salad
Scotch-a-roos

Dinner
Lasagne
Lettuce salad
Bread sticks

Snack
Chicken nuggets (that's the way to use them up, Barry)

Today's Schedule
7:20 Wake
7:30 Stretch
8 Breakfast
9 Rehearsal
11:30 Lunch
12:30 Rehearsal
3:30 Dinner/pack/load/clean
5:15 Depart
5:45 Warmup
7:45 Gate
8:02 Performance
8:45 Snack
10:30 Depart

Today's Cooks
Barry, head cook
Jim J.
Shari
Dianne
Jack

Today's News
Jack says the view from the cooktruck in Virginia is "gorgeous." They can see the corps rehearse on the field with mountains rising up the the background.

Please send cookies.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Sunday, July 30, 2006

Today is Sunday, July 30; it’s a laundry day

We are in Salem, Virginia.

photo
Photo by Rod R.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.


Today's Menu
Breakfast
Blueberry muffin or orange-cranberry muffin
Sausage

Lunch
Grilled cheese
Potato wedges
Fruit

Dinner
Must goes, or more aptly named, "The Best of Barry"

Snack
Ice cream sundaes

Today's Schedule
9:30 - Wake and cals
10:00 - Breakfast
11:00 - Rehearsal
1:30 - Lunch
2:30 - Sectionals
5:00 - Dinner
6:00 - Laundry!
10:30 - Snack
11:45 - Lights out

Today's Cooks
Barry, head cook
Jim J.
Shari
Dianne
Jack

Today's News
Happy birthday to Chris T!!

The corps did end up staying in Georgia until the very end of the Atlanta event, and didn't leave until after 11 PM. So, they arrived in Salem at about 8:30 AM this morning. The cooks got right to work, while the staff and kids got one hour of floor time.

We're sounding the cookie alarm once again - if you will be visiting the Colts anytime soon, please consider bringing some cookies (about 340 to be exact). The level of donations we receive is truly amazing; thank you to everyone for your very kind generosity!!

Well, David will resume posting tomorrow as he has retutrned from tour. Thanks for following along with me and supporting the Colts! See you in Madison!!! Rod


As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Saturday, July 29, 2006

Today is Saturday, July 29; it’s a show day

We are in Atlanta, Georgia.

photo
Photo by Rod R.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Atlanta

Click for Google map of Atlanta. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
English muffins
Hash brown patty
Sausage links
Apple juice

Lunch
Hot dogs
Mac and cheese
Scooteroos ('got me on that one)
And something else yet to be determined

Dinner
Chicken breast
Scalloped potatoes
Corn
Warm lemon cake

Snack
Tortilla chips
with chilli and/or cheese sauce

Today's Schedule
7:20 - Wake/cals
7:45 - Breakfast
8:45 - Warm-up
9:15 - Rehearsal and run-through
10:00 - Load for show
11:00 - Lunch
11:45 - Depart for show site
12:45 - Warm-up
2:45 - Gate
3:07 - Perform
4:15 - Report to busses

The remainder of the schedule is open, depending on whether the Colts perform in the evening or not. They will leave early if they don't perform (it's a 400+ mile drive to the next site), but let's hope they have to stay and perform in the evening!!!!

Today's Cooks
Barry
Jim J.
Shari
Dianne
Jack
David & Jody S. left early this morning

Today's News
The corps arrived at 5:30 AM. The kids got almost two hours floor time, but no rest for the cooks; they stayed up and got breakfast ready while the kids and staff slept. I asked Jack a silly question - "Is it hot there"? Why YES, Rod, it is!!!!

We're in Lilburn, GA today, a suburb of Atlanta.

Last evening, the rehearsal had to be suspended for 30-45 minutes due to thunder and lightening in the area. They lost most of their audience, but resumed practice after the threat was over.

Thanks to Bobby and Mark T. for the donations of gatorade and bananas.

John and Suzie drive.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Friday, July 28, 2006

Donations

Catching up on a few donation thank you's from Siloam Springs....

Thanks to the Veg-all and Allens Canning Companies who donated little debbie cakes, baked beans, italian green beans, veg-all vegetable mixture, and shoestring potatoes.

Also, our thanks to the Owasso Oklahoma Band, who donated cases of fruit cocktail.

If we missed thanking you, please know we deeply appreciate any and all donations!!!!

Atlanta Housing Finalized

Click here or the title above for information on the confirmed housing for Atlanta. Check back at colts.org for further updates.

Today is Friday, July 28; it’s a rehearsal day

We are in Prateville, Alabama.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Eggs with ham and cheese
cinnamon muffins

Lunch
Hot dogs
Mac and cheese (a huge hit with the kids)
Fruit cup

Supper (we're in the south, after all)
Kung pao beef
Sweet and sour chicken
Rice
Egg roll
Matrix cake

Snack
Pizza

Today's Schedule
7:45 - Wake and cals
8:30 - Breakfast
9:30 - Rehearsal
12:00 - Lunch (percussion lunch served on location at stadium - 4 miles away)
1:00 - Rehearsal
5:05 - Supper
5:45 - Depart for stadium
6:00 - Warm-up
6:30 - Ensemble
8:45 - Run-through
9:30 - Snack/pack/load
11:15 - Depart

Today's Cooks
Barry
Jim J.
Shari
Dianne
Jack (arriving this afternoon)
David
Jody S.
And Carole back as a guest cook!

Today's News
It's a bright, sunny day, with high puffy clouds, and of course, it's hot. The kids are hard at work and glad to be working back at their normal pace, after yesterday's unplanned down time.

Message on the cook truck board says "Please, when inside the school building, you must wear a shirt".

David said the people here are just "wonderful". Again, it's a small town, and their hospitality is amazing. They have been so helpful and generous with their facilities and time. David said that the band director even called a doctor in town, allowing a medical visit to be done in a doctor's office, with an appointment, instead of waiting at a clinic. Just one of many examples of the good people encountered on tour.

Jude helped serve lunch today, as the kitchen staff had to split up to be able to serve lunch to percussion members at the stadium. Everyone pitches in to get it done.

Last night, David said the exterior lighting was limited at the school, so the brass line set up their horn arc, literally within a foot of the front of the cook truck. It was "very loud" and "very cool", he said. It's the little things that make us so happy.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Thursday, July 27, 2006

Today is Thursday, July 27; it’s a rehearsal day (well, night actually)

We are in Prattville, Alabama.

photo
Photo by Rod R.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
On the bus

Lunch
On the road

Dinner
Ham
Scalloped potatoes
Peas and carrots
Corn bread

Snack
Meatball sub sandwich
Tater tots

Tonight's Schedule
8:00 PM - Dinner
9:00 - Sectional
11:00 - Snack
12:15 - Lights out

Today's Cooks
Barry, head cook
Jim J.
Shari
David
Jody S.

Tonight's News
We made it!!!!! Today is officially declared "Thank a driver day". The journey was much longer than expected, and the drivers really earned their keep today. Thank you everyone!

The kids are in great spirits. Reports are that one bus watched upwards of 10 movies, while another braided just about everyone's hair. They were really ready to get to work; all that sitting around just isn't normal for a drum corps on the road, and they couldn't wait to get going tonight!

A guest cook tonight: Carol B (Jack B's Mom), was nearby on a business trip, and just happened to stop by and got cooking right away!

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Colts on TV in Missouri

Also from the main Colts web site. Click here to watch the Colts on a news segment from Columbia, MO. Very cool and nicely done. Enjoy!!!!

Atlanta Housing Update

Click here or on the link above to read an update on the Colts main web site regarding a change in housing for Atlanta. DCI is having to do some last minute scrambling to find places for all the corps after several schools were unable to host.

Today is Thursday, July 27, and we're at Wal-Mart!!!

Yes, you read right, we're at Wal-Mart!

Last night, after a scheduled rest stop, one of the busses would not start. Luckily, this happened at the gas station, so they had resources available to assist. Even so, it took four hours before the problem was identified and corrected (fuel filter replaced).

So, right now the corps has taken over a Wal-Mart for a break. The cooks served a breakfast of PB&J and bananas earlier this morning. During the four-hour gas station stop, some of the kids grabbed their sleeping bags and sacked out on the ground; what the heck, four hours floor time is priceless, no matter where it is.

I'll give you an update when I hear more about today's remaining schedule. They are currently near Holly Springs, Mississippi, and have an estimated 3-4 hours of travel remaining. Luckily, there's no competition tonight!

Rod

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

Today is Wednesday, July 26; it’s a show day

We are in Siloam Springs, Arkansas.

photo
Photo by Rod R.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Siloam Springs

Click for Google map of Siloam Springs. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Pancakes
Bacon
Leftover blintzes and waffles

Snack
Sandwich
Fruit in a cup

Lunch
Taco salad
with lettuce, tomoato, salsa, and sour cream

Dinner
Oven fried chicken
Green beans
Mashed potatoes
Rolls


Today's Schedule
7:00 - Arrived at Siloam Springs
9:00 - Wake (the kids, that is - the cooks never went to bed)
9:10 - Breakfast
10:00 - Rehearsal
11:45 - Snack
12:45 - Ensemble
2:15 - Run-through
2:45 - Lunch/pack/load
4:30 - Depart for show site
5:45 - Arrive at show site / warm-up
7:52 - At gate
7:57 - Perform
8:30 - Dinner
10:00 - Depart for Arkansas (12 hour drive)


Today's Cooks
Barry, head cook
Jim R.
Shari
Jody S.
David
Marlin R. and Jim J. went home today

Today's News
A very busy day for the cooks. David and I finally connected at 4:20 this afternoon, 10 minutes before they were leaving the housing site. As you can see from the schedule, the first three meals of the day were pretty close together!

There must be a story behind why last nights dinner menu is being served tonight, but I didn't have time to get it. If I do, I'll pass it along!

Thank you to John D., brother of a drumline member, for the donation of bananas, apples, and gatorade.

Last nights show was good, David said. It was a very windy Texas night, making it pretty difficult for the guard.

The corps is scheduled to arrive in Arkansas at approximately 10 AM tomorrow morning. The cooks are preparing "breakfast in a bag" for the kids to carry with them on the bus.

It is still...... HOT .........

John and Suzie drive.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Tuesday, July 25, 2006

Today is Tuesday, July 25; it’s a show day

We are in Wichita Falls, Texas.

photo
Photo by Rod R.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Wichita Falls

Click for Google map of Wichita Falls. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Breakfast burrito

Snack
Chicken nuggets
Fruit cup
Cut vegetables
Leftover cookies and pudding

Lunch
Pizza (provided by local band program)

Dinner
Oven fried chicken
Green beans
Mashed potatoes
Roll


Today's Schedule
7:20 - Wake
7:30 - Stretch
8:00 - Breakfast
8:15 - Staff meeting
9:00 - Rehearsal
12:00 - 12:30 - Brass snack
12:15 - 12:45 - Percussion snack
12:30 - 1:00 - Guard snack
1:00 - Ensemble
2:30 - Run-through
3:00 - Lunch/pack/load
4:45 - Depart
7:39 - Gate
7:54 - Performance
8:30 - Dinner
11:00 - Depart

Today's Cooks
Barry, head cook
Jim R.
Marlin R.
Jim J.
Shari
Jody S.
David

Today's News
David said they passed a bank yesterday afternoon on the way to store, and the temperature showed 100 degrees; it warms quickly and there have been many 100+ days in a row. He said "it's dry and feels like you're being baked".

David also noted that this section of tour feels like "the longest time in one state; we've been in Texas for almost a week!".

The local band kids served lunch yesterday and will again today. The people there have just been wonderful; a very friendly place. A nice small town with that small town hospitality.


John and Suzie drive.


As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Monday, July 24, 2006

Today is Monday, July 24; it’s a rehearsal day

We are in Wichita Falls, Texas.

photo
Photo by Rod R.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Wichita Falls

Click for Google map of Wichita Falls. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Berry mock blintzes
Leftover sausage links
Apple wedges

Lunch
2 BBQ sandwiches and chips (provided by local band program!)
Potato salad
Canned Fruit

Dinner
Tamale pie
Corn
Lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and salsa
Banana pudding

Snack
Pretzels with cheese sauce

Today's Schedule
8:20 - Wake and cals
9:00 - Breakfast
10:00 - Visual
1:30 - Lunch
2:30 - Sectionals
5:00 - Dinner
6:00 - Warm-up
6:30 - Ensemble
9:30 - Run-through
10:00 - Snack
11:30 - Lights-out

Today's Cooks
Barry, head cook
Jim R.
Marlin R.
Jim J.
Shari
Jody S.
David

Today's News
It's a bright, sunny day with high clouds. It's hot, but not too bad - about 90. The school is nice and big, with a good stadium. The cooks and staff are staying in a different building, so they get showers to themselves (only a cook would understand the significance!). The band director and everyone there have been very accommodating.

Oh, we're actually staying in a town called Windthorst, TX.

The corps arrived about 4 AM. The kids had a great free day. Some experiences included walking along the River Walk, shopping, eating of course, seeing a movie, and many others. A good time, and well-deserved break was had by all.

John and Suzie drive.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Sunday, July 23, 2006

Today is Sunday, July 23; it’s a free day

We are in San Antonio, Texas.

photo
Photo by Rod R.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for San Antonio

Click for Google map of San Antonio. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Waffles
Sausage Links
Assorted breads
Apple juice (instead of the traditional orange juice)

Snack
Corn dogs
Chicken sandwiches
Chicken nuggets
Apples, bananas, watermelon
Gatorade


Today's Schedule
8:30 - Wake
8:35 - Breakfast
9:35 - Sectional
10:45 - Snack/pack/load
12:15 - Depart
1:15 - Arrive at River Walk
9:15 - Be back at bus in Alamo Dome parking lot
9:30 - Depart

Today's Cooks
Marlin, head cook
Barry
Jim J.
Tom R.
Marie
Carol
Jim R.
Bev
Jody S.
David

Today's News
Happy birthday to Alex R. (that's my boy!), and our Cooktruck driver Bob D.!!!

David reports that it is HOT! Yesterday, he told me, it looked like rain, and they even saw lots of lightening, forcing them inside, but alas no rain fell - how cruel - they needed the relief from the heat. But despite the heat, all are doing well.

Yesterday was a good day. The corps was very upbeat after their performance. The official cooks take on the show was that is was "fabulous". Even though they missed performing in the evening by one spot, the kids remain upbeat; "things are moving in the right direction".

After the performance yesterday, the cooks had to race back and prepare dinner and snack. It was indeed a race, but all worked out well. Dinner was beef stew, and snack was egg rolls with a special dessert of brownies "ala mode dome".

David told me that all the kids are spruced up today, really looking forward to their free day in San Antonio.

Shari H. arrives to cook and Suzie M. arrives to drive.

John and Suzie drive.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Admiration from Holland

Finally I got to see you guys performing in San Antonio via the season pass on DCI
WAUW!!!
is the only thing what comes to my mind.
Goosebumps all over tears running out of my eyes are my first emotions.
Greg was writing that you were going fast. It is more like a high speed train coming towards you.
Those 2,5 minutes of streaming video impressed me so much, what a potential and challenging show. Hot Hot Hot, spicy and sizling stuff.
Cooks I can imagine the joy when they practice whole day long in front of our kitchen.
It makes me want to book the first flight and join in.
Hope you all can handle the heat down south, flipping burgers and pancackes.
Keep that red machine running
Olaf "Alf" Nahon

Saturday, July 22, 2006

Today is Saturday, July 22; it’s a show day

We are in San Antonio, Texas.
Actually, our housing site is in Natalia, TX (a town about 30 miles southwest of San Antonio).

photo
Photo by Rod R.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for San Antonio

Click for Google map of San Antonio. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Egg bake
Homemade bread

Lunch
Chicken breast patty sandwich
Potato wedges
Watermelon

Dinner
To be determined

Snack
To be determined

Today's Schedule
Note: The schedule and meals for this afternoon and evening will not be determined until the preliminary competition is completed. Those results decide whether the Colts perform in the evening or not.

6:50 – Wake
7:00 – Stretch
7:30 – Breakfast
8:30 – Warm-up
9:00 – Ensemble
10:05 – Shower/pack/load
11:00 – Lunch
11:50 – Depart for San Antonio
12:50 – Warm-up
2:50 – Gate
3:07 – Perform


Today's Cooks
Marlin, head cook
Barry
Jim J.
Tom R.
Marie
Carol
Jim R.
Bev
Jody S.
David

Today's News

Happy birthday to Jocelyn A.!!!

Samuel Hazo, composer of the closer, Ride, worked with the corps again yesterday. He spent quality time with the brass and percussion; everyone agreed it was fabulous and extremely helpful!

Devon and Darren (sons of someone from the school in Natalia; 8 and 9 years old) helped carry things and served as guides during the Colts stay – thanks guys!

Good luck today, Colts!!!

John drives (kind of).


As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Friday, July 21, 2006

Today is Friday, July 21; it’s a rehearsal day

We are in San Antonio, Texas.

photo
Photo by Rod R.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for San Antonio

Click for Google map of San Antonio. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Cinnamon Rolls
Bacon

Lunch
Pizzaburger Sandwiches
BLT Salad
Leftover BBQ
Popsicles

Dinner
Meatloaf
Broccoli & Rice
Breadsticks

Snack
Corn Dogs (Pronto Pups up here in Minnesoooota)
Mini-sandwiches

Today's Schedule
9:20 Wake
9:30 Stretch
10:00 Breakfast
10:15 Staff Meeting
11:00 Sectionals
2:00 Lunch
3:00 Visual
6:00 Dinner
7:00 Ensemble
9:30 Runthrough
10:00 Snack
11:30 Lights out

Today's Cooks
Marlin, head cook
Barry
Jim J.
Tom R.
Marie
Carol
Jim R.
Bev
Jody S.
David

Today's News
David reports that it's "bright and hot with a few clouds, and a possible thundershower later".

Welcome to arriving cooks Barry and Jim J. They are arriving just in time. Today we have a Food Drop. That always results in extra work for the cooks. The good news is that we are not moving until Sunday, so the cooks have plenty of time to store all the new supplies before the trucks are rolling again.

All of these have happened already today:
Thermo King wouldn't start due to a dead battery;
Food Drop completed;
When David and Tom R. were in the freezer organizing, we blew a breaker so it got "very dark" in the freezer.

Very large "KUDOS" to the Natalia High School staff. The school has been very helpful and just great to work with. They adjusted the AC in the sleeping rooms; provided a jumper/charger for the Thermo King; letting us use their walk-in freezer to store our food until the Thermo King is working; every little request or question has been met with a "can do" attitude.

If you're coming to visit the Corps, a reminder that fresh fruit and vegetables are always appreciated.

John drives (still).

Today's donations:
Ron & Gail Poling - 24 cases (24 bottles, each) of Gatorade

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Today is Thursday,July 20; it’s a show day

We are in Dallas, Texas.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Dallas

Click for Google map of Dallas. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
French Toast
Walnut Topping
Sausage
Fruit (mostly bananas)

Snack
Chicken Nuggets
Variety of Fruits

Lunch
Sausage & Rice & Vegetable
Rolls
Pudding

Dinner
Z-rib on a Hoagie Bun
Tater Tots
Green Bean Casserole

Today's Schedule
10:00 Breakfast
1:00 Brass Snack
1:15 Percussion Snack
1:30 Guard Snack
3:30 Runthrough
4:00 Lunch
5:45 Depart for Show Site
8:48 Performance
9:30 Dinner
11:30 Depart for San Antonio

Today's Cooks
Marlin, head cook
Jim R.
David
Jody S.
Tom R.
Marie
Carol
Bev

Today's News

Welcome to arriving cooks, David & Jody S.

Mike Grimes talked with the Corps last night after the show concerning their good progress. The Guard is leading the way by being in 2nd place, only 1 pt. behind the Cadets.

Jason Buckingham is flying the lone star flag on the cook truck. Other than being in Texas for the first of six days, not sure of the significance.

We've had wonderful band directors at the housing sites. For today, they've arranged for us to have access to the ice machine-a nice gesture given today's high of 102.

Gaylen & Diane S. (parents of Grant, contra) donated assorted cereals.

John drives.


As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Today is Wednesday, July 19; it’s a show day

We are in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Broken Arrow

Click for Google map of Broken Arrow. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Sausage patties
Assorted homemade breads
Banana

Lunch
Chicken Parmesan over spaghetti
Garlic Bread
Lettuce salad

Dinner
Hamburger/Cheeseburger
Pasta salad
Fruit cup
Cookies

Snack
Pizza
Popsicles

Today's Schedule
8:50 Wake
9 Stretch
9:30 Breakfast
10:30 Vis
12:30 Lunch
1:30 Sectionals
2:30 Ensemble
4:10 Runthrough
4:40 Dinner/pack/clean/load
6:25 Depart
7:10 Warmup
9:10 Gate
9:25 Performance
10:45 Snack
12:15 Depart

Today's Cooks
Marlin, head cook
Tom R.
Jim R.
Marie
Carol
Bev

Today's News

Happy Birthday Nathan Ripley!

Last night's show was fantastic. The kids looked great. The show was delayed an hour because of the heat, though. Reports are that it's not quite as hot today.

The corps is at Will Rogers Junior High School in Claremore, OK, today. Marie says the facilities are wonderful.

John drives.


Today's donations:

Claremore OK band boosters: bananas, oranges, and fruit
Dave R., Colt from '94: Bananas
Matt W's family: Apples, pineapples, and watermelon
Nick H's family: Apples, oranges, bananas, pineapple, and lettuce


As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

Today is Tuesday, July 18; it's a show day

We are in Pittsburg, Kansas.

photo
Photo by Rod R.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Pittsburg

Click for Google map of Pittsburg. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Breakfast souffle
Banana or orange

Midday snack
Watermelon and crackers
(given to them at a break to refill water bottles with water and ICE from the donation yesterday)

Lunch
Grilled cheese sandwiches
Pasta salad
Chips

Dinner
Fake steak
Potatoes and gravy
Corn
Ice cream

Today's Schedule
9:20 Wake
9:30 Stretch
10 Breakfast
11:05 Vis
12:05 Warmup and sectionals
1 Ensemble
3 Runthrough
3:20 Lunch/pack/load/clean
5:05 Depart for stadium
5:15 Warmup
7:17 Gate
7:32 Performance and critique
8 Dinner
10 Depart for Broken Arrow

Today's Cooks
Marlin, head cook
Marie
Carol
Bev
Tom R.
Jim R.

Today's News

Marlin is the new head cook. Welcome! Marie says "The 'other four' head cooks were glad to give up the job."

It's as hot as Hades, Marie said. That's as close as I could come to getting her to curse the weather. Bev says she never curses but the heat is giving her second thoughts about that.

The ice donated in Lawrence is the hit of this leg of tour. The corps is getting it in their water bottles every time they fill up. "The heat was terrible but the ice was a hit," Marie says. "Every break we give them ice if we can."

200 people turned out to see the Colts rehearse at KU stadium last night. Marie says the corps looked really sharp in the big stadium under the lights. The food truck is set up in Pittsburg today so that the cooks can see the corps. That's always a plus.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Monday, July 17, 2006

New galleries

Rod R has contributed photos for 6 new galleries from his time on tour. When did he find time to cook?

Find the new postings by clicking on the '2006' link in the right sidebar.

Enjoy.

Article about Hazo visit at colts.org

There's a nice article about the day composer Samuel Hazo spent with the Colts recently over at colts.org. Click on this post's title to see the whole story.

My favorite quote: "This was as fine an arranging job of my music as I have ever heard. Plus, the group plays extremely well. It was a rejuvenating day for me."

Don't look at the weather forecast for Lawrence

It's for 101 degrees and sun.

Poor kids. Poor cooks.

Today is Monday, July 17; it's a rehearsal day

We are in Lawrence, Kansas.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Lawrence

Click for Google map of Lawrence. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Egg wrap
Breakfast meat surprise
Homemade banana and pumpkin breads from Aunt Carol (It's Adam R's aunt but it's really like she is everybody's Aunt Carol)

Lunch
Chicken nuggets
Tater tots
Fruit cup

Dinner
Pizza hot dish (this sounds awesome)
Green beans
Garlic bread
Cookies

Snack
Potato skins
Watermelon

Today's Schedule
9:20 Wake & stretch
10 Breakfast
11 Rehearsal
2 Lunch
3 Rehearsal
6 Dinner
7 Depart for KU stadium
8-11 Rehearse at KU stadium
11:30 Leave for high school
Midnight snack/pack/clean/load
1:30 Depart for Pittsburg

Today's Cooks
Marie
Carol
Bev
Tom R.

Guest cooks
John R.
Jannette W, friend of Matt M

Today's News

The corps received a donation of 1600 pounds of ice from the River City Ice Co. -- 200 8-pound bags. Seems like the ice company had a little problem with one of their refrigerated trucks and the Colts were the beneficiary. Seems fair after yesterday...

Oh, yesterday. I know I have a rule that nothing bad ever happens on the Virtual Cooktruck, but you have to know about the above and beyond efforts of the entire, ever-changing cook crew on Sunday. If you look at yesterday's post, it's nothing like what happen on the way to Saydel and at Saydel yesterday. We leave it as a monument to hope and planning. The cook trailer blew two tires around Grinnell, on I-80 on the way to Saydel -- about 55 miles east of its intended destination. So, the cook crew, headed up by Jody G and Carole B, gathered milk, cereal, juice, bananas, oranges, grapes, and the utensils needed to serve them and piled them in a van and headed for Saydel. Jody G called Jody and David S in West Des Moines and asked for 180 donuts or sweet rolls to go -- this was about 8 a.m. and breakfast was at 10. We went to to the local Hy-Vee where we used charm and a debit card to make off with 11 dozen rolls and donuts from one store on short or little notice. We stopped at another Hy-Vee and supplemented with 3 dozen more and we were off to Saydel High School. Tom R, who had driven from Michigan much of the night, was waiting for us and the kitchen crew arrived a few minutes later.

Matt T opened up the school and let us into the kitchen where we used a refrigerator for the milk and we set up a serving line, peanut butter and jelly table, and a cereal table just in time for the kids to get up and eat.

The tires were changed on cook trailer and it arrived in time to be set up and cookin' for lunch/snack. Tammy C brought Marie and Carol with her from Omaha when she was picking up Tom C from tour. She and Tom stayed and helped through lunch. Jody G was leaving and Carole B was supposed to leave but she picked up her car and stayed until late into the night. Diane K and Kayleen showed up to help. The Ferrells from Saydel were around all day to help with meals and take care of things in the school. (We won't go into what kind of things were taken care of in the school. You had to be there to get the full experience.) Greg brought Bev. Jody and David stayed until dinner time and then took their boys to do laundry while the rest of the corps (except for a few others who live nearby) loaded up on buses and headed off for laundry. While they were gone, Marie, Carol, Carole, Bev, Tom, Diane and Kayleen whipped up pizza for snack, stowed all the donations, and generally got the truck ready to go on the road again. And it was accomplished with surprisingly little grumping or panic.

I tell this tale not to toot our own horns. This is just to reinforce the fact that the unusual is the typical on tour. This really does happen quite often on tour. Plans, menus, schedules -- hell, everything -- changes on tour. But the bottom line is that the moms and dads and aunts and friends who volunteer on tour do one thing really, really well -- take care of our kids. They just do what has to be done to get the corps fed and happy and down the road.

Thanks to everyone who pitched in yesterday. Everyone who brought things, cooked, loaded and unloaded, planned, plumbed, sweated, sought shade -- just did everything so our kids could have a positive experience. Oh, and the kids gave the cook trailer a round of applause when it showed up. I like to think it was for us too.

That being said, welcome aboard new tour director Mike F. How was your first day?

Donations besides those listed above: fruit cups from the family of John W and bananas and watermelon from Peter H

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Sunday, July 16, 2006

Today is Sunday, July 16; it's rehearsal/laundry day

We are in Saydel, Iowa.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Saydel

Click for Google map of Saydel. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Egg wrap
Leftover muffins
Bacon
Potato cakes
Fruit

Lunch
Potato skins
Mustgos

Dinner
Ravioli
Salad
Garlic bread
Canned fruit

Today's Schedule
10 Breakfast
1:30 Lunch
5 Dinner
6 Laundry

Today's Cooks
Jody G, head cook
Carole
Tom R.

Carol and Marie arrive from Omaha about 11
David and Jody S is as guest cooks

Today's News

There will be more detail after we've been out to see the corps today. But the update will be later on. So enjoy the sneak peek.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Saturday, July 15, 2006

Pass the fruit, please

If you're anywhere close by in the next few days (Des Moines or Lawrence or Pittsburg or Broken Arrow), the corps cooks could use a donation of fresh fruit. They've been trying to give the Colts a whole piece of fresh fruit every morning, and supplies are running low.

Bananas, oranges, and apples are the best choice for fruit donations.

Thanks from the Colts and the cooks!

Today is Saturday, July 15; it's a show day

We are in Battle Creek, Michigan.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Battle Creek

Click for Google map of Battle Creek. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Muffin
Bacon
Whole orange or whole banana

Lunch
Pulled pork BBQ sandwiches
Corn
Tropical fruit
Veggies and dip
Hostess cupcake or Twinkie

Dinner
Corn dogs (with the Colt Cadets -- Jody G says, "We're making 600 corndogs!")
Fries
Baked beans
Cookies

Today's Schedule
9:30 Breakfast
10:30 Warmup
11 Ensemble
1:20 Runthrough
1:45 Lunch/clean/pack/load
3 OUT OF BUILDING
3:30 Depart
4:30 Warmup
6:25 Gate
6:40 Performance
7:30 Dinner
10:15 Depart

Today's Cooks
Jody G, head cook
Lori, leaving with Colt Cadets tonight
Carole
Tom R. arriving
Tom C. and John L. driving

Today's News

Let's hear it for Jody G's crew. They're doing a bang-up job with a steadily dwindling cook staff.

Jody G says "It's blooming hot" today in Michigan. "The sun is just beating down. At least the wind isn't blowing." Apparently, the wind about blew them all away in Indiana yesterday. It really is getting to be the dog days of summer. And we're headed for Texas by the end of next week.

The corps got in about 3:30 a.m. today, just about on schedule. There was a flat tire on one of the buses, but they got it taken care of in the parking lot of the show so there was no lost time on the road.

Jody G says the dinner provided by the band boosters in Indiana yesterday was fantastic and the boosters said they'd provide food again next year. Jody says she wants to sign up for that week right now.

Lauren and Sue sewing.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Friday, July 14, 2006

Today is Friday, July 14; it's a show day

We are in Decatur, Indiana.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Decatur

Click for Google map of Decatur. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Waffles
Potato patties
Fruit

Lunch
Hamburgers donated by local band boosters
Veggies and dip
Ice cream

Dinner
Taryaki chicken
Rice-broccoli casserole
Applesauce

Snack
Bottle of Gatorade
Cheese and peanut butter crackers
Cream puffs

Today's Schedule
9:30 Stretch
10 Breakfast
11 Vis
12 All back (?)
1-1:30 Brass snack
1:15-1:45 Percussion snack
1:30-2 Guard snack
2:05 Ensemble
4:10 Runthrough
4:30 Lunch/pack/clean/load
5:45 OUT OF BUILDING
6:15 Depart
7 Warmup
8:50 Gate
9:05 Performance
9:30 Dinner
11 Depart

Today's Cooks
Jody G, head cook
Lori
Carole
Scott P.
Donna leaving today
Tom C. and John L. driving

Today's News

Happy Birthday, Samantha C!

Got in about 6:30 a.m.

Lauren and Sue sewing. Hooray for the super sewing crew.

David A's family brought Starbucks for the cooks
The Caseys brought two cartons of bananas

There was a big crowd for the dog and pony show in uniform last night. Lots of good comments on the show. We estimate 45 percent of the show is changed from the first half of the year. A lot to get done in four days. Way to go Colts!

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Thursday, July 13, 2006

Today is Thursday, July 13; it's the final day in mid-season camp

We are in Roselle, Illinois.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Roselle

Click for Google map of Roselle. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Eggs with fajita meat
Bacon
Leftover cinnamon rolls and English muffins

Lunch
Tortellini and beef casserole
Fruit salad
White poke cake with Cool Whip frosting

Dinner
Fish
Vegetable
Orange sherbet salad
Brownies from Jacob G's mom

Snack
Pretzels with "one of those sort of cheddar cheesy kinds of thing"

Today's Schedule
7:50 Wake
8 Stretch
8:30 Breakfast
8:45 Staff meeting
9:30 Sectionals
12:30 Lunch
1:30 Vis
5 Dinner
6 Ensemble/warmup/dress (the runthrough tonight is in full uniform INCLUDING the completed color guard skirts for As Time Goes By. Way to go sewing crew!)
7:30 Runthrough
9:30 Snack/pack/clean/load
11 Depart

Today's Cooks
Jody G., head cook
Lori
Carole
Donna
Scott
Tom C.

Today's News


John L. and Tom C. drive.
Lauren and Sue P. sewing.

The pies donated by the Naperville families were a big hit.

Scooter's family also brought fruit cocktail, grapes and kiwi, Gatorade, bowls, and Starbucks Frappicino for the cooks

The cooks served breakfast last night for snack. The blueberry pancakes were a hit -- something the cooks will do again, Jody G said -- but they did get some strange reactions. One of the first corps members through the line said: "Breakfast? Did I just wake up? Do we have block next? What are you doing to us?" Corps kids. They think they're sooooooooo funny in the food line. And they are.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Wednesday, July 12, 2006

Today is Wednesday, June 12; it's mid-season camp

We are in Roselle, Illinois.

photo
Photo by Bobbie and Mark T.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Roselle

Click for Google map of Roselle. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Cinnamon twists
Sausage patties
Banana

Lunch
Breaded pork chops
Vegetable pasta salad

Dinner
Ham
Au gratin potatoes
Cole slaw
Pies brought by the Naperville parents

Snack
Blueberry pancakes

Today's Schedule
7:50 Wake
8 Stretch
8:30 Breakfast
8:45 Staff meeting
9:30 Lunch
12:30 Lunch
1:30 Sectionals
5 Dinner
6 Ensemble
8:45 Runthrough
9:15 Vis
11:15 Snack
12:15 Lights out

Today's Cooks
Jody G., head cook
Lori
Carole
Donna
Scott
Tom C.

Today's News


John L. and Tom C. drive.
Lauren and Sue P. sewing.

Samuel R. Hazo, the composer of 'Ride', was in all day yesterday to work with the corps on changes to the show. He talked to the corps a lot about the genesis of the piece and stayed until after 11 p.m. He had a lot of good inspirational words for the Colts.

It rained most of the day yesterday, and it was cloudy again this morning, but the cooks were hopeful it was going to clear off later. Jody G is yelling at the ovens this morning becasue they didn't want to start up and run. (Did anyone check to make sure there was gas in the tanks?)

Jenny A. stopped by to visit yesterday and everyone was excited to see her. She left a note for the Colts on the board: "Hey, family. Keep working your tails off. Please don't take anything for granted. I love you all with all my heart. Love, Jenny."

The corps is working really, really hard in mid-season camp. The whole show has been revamped. 'Ride' has been completely changed. And most of the changes were already on the field last night! The changes were not in for the run-through last night, but the Colts stayed after the run-through and worked on the show more and got all of them in. Way to work Colts!

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

CT talks to DCI.ORG

Chris Tanner of the Colts crazy cymbal line is featured in an interview of dci.org. Click on the title of this post to go directly to the page.

New galleries

Two new collections of pictures in the Gallery today. Click on the '2006' in the right sidebar to see photos from the July 4 parade in Northbrook, Ill., and a collection from Bobbie T. from Dubuque, Indy, and Rock Island. I've still got a collection from Patricia A., photos from homeshow and from Rockford to get organized. Those should be in the 2006 Gallery in the next few days.
Enjoy.

The Colts Virtual Cooktruck Photo Squad

Today is Tuesday, July 11; it's mid-season camp

We are in Roselle, Illinois.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Roselle

Click for Google map of Roselle. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
English mufins
Bacon
Fruit: choice of apple, orange, or banana

Lunch
Beef stew with special meat
Fruit salad
Bread sticks
Dessert

Dinner
Spaghetti and meatballs
Texas toast
Lemon cake

Snack
Ice cream cones

Today's Schedule
7:20 Wake
7:30 Stretch
9 Vis
12:30 Lunch
1:30 Sectionals
5 Dinner
7 Ensemble
8:45 Runthrough
9:15 Vis
11 Snack
12 Lights out

Today's Cooks
Jody G., head cook
Lori
Carole
Donna
Scott

Today's News

Happy 21st birthday Deanna M!

Happy Birthday Mike F!

John L. and Tom C. drive.
Lauren and Sue P. sewing. Pat R. and Jill in as guests to sew.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Monday, July 10, 2006

Today is Monday, July 10; it’s laundry day

We are in Roselle, Illinois.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Roselle

Click for Google map of Roselle. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
French toast
Leftover breakfast meats
Bananas

Lunch
Leftovers

Dinner
Hot dogs
French fries
Romaine salad
M&M bars

Snack
Pretzels and cheese

Today's Schedule
8:20 Wake
8:30 Breakfast
9:30 Laundry
2 Lunch
3 Sectionals
6 Dinner
7 Ensemble
8:45 Runthrough
9:15 Vis
11:15 Snack
12:20 Lights out

Today's Cooks
Jody G., head cook
Lori
Carole
Donna
Scott
Rod leaves today

Today's News

John L. and Tom C. drive.
Lauren and Sue P. sewing.

Lots of donations. Please understand if we don't acknowledge your donation by name, it doesn't mean we don't appreciate it. It just means that our mode of communication (cel phone and voicemail some days) with the real cooktruck isn't the best. We really, really need your donations and really, really appreciate them. That said, here are some thank yous:

Betty & Bill for the bananas
Ashley J. for Gatorade
The families of Ashely J. for cereal, apples, and peanut butter and of Brandon R. for Gatorade. There's more, but they're in my notebook at home right now. I'll catch up.

The show in Rockford was fantastic. The Reginment-dominated crowd stood and roared for our kids. There were all sort of positive comments from the crowd about our kids and their show. I thought the Colts were great last night. I always do, but this was even better than I've seen them this year. They have a chance to be something special. They just have to go get it.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Sunday, July 09, 2006

Today is Sunday, July 9; it’s a show day

We are in Rockford, Illinois.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Rockford

Click for Google map of Rockford. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Bagels and cream cheese
Breads (donated blueberry bread, zuccini bread, carrot bread, etc.)
Bacon
Fruit

Lunch
Salisbury steak
Mashed potatoes and gravy
Green bean casserole
Cupcakes for Brianna's birthday

Dinner
Taco salad with chicken and beef fajita meat on the side
Bread sticks
Apple pie

Snack
Chicken nuggets
Crackers

Today's Schedule
9:20 Wake
9:30 Breakfast
10:30 Vis
Noon Snack
12:30 Sectionals
1:30 Ensemble
3:30 Lunch/pack/load/clean
5:15 Depart for stadium
6 Warmup
7:55 Gate
8:06 Performance
8:45 Dinner
10:15 Depart for Roselle, Illinois (wait, the same state two days in a row? How did that happen?)

Today's Cooks
Jody G., head cook
Lori arrives
Tom T.
Penny
Roger
Donna
Scott
Rod

Today's News

Happy Birthday Brianna S.

John L. and Tom C. drive.
Lauren and Sue P. sewing.

Rod this morning: "The board says we're still in Indy. We'll have to fix that."

The parking site in Indy was a 15-minute walk each way for the corps and the cooks. Seems that they're building a new stadium in the lot where we used to park and the old one was still there for the kids to perform in...

Rod says the performance was great and got a big response from the crowd. "It was nice to see them in a big stadium," he says.

They had pizza delivered to the parking lot for the after the performance meal. "The kids were incredibly -- I don't know the word to use, but they were extremely pleased with the pizza. Kids from other corps were walking by, saying, 'Pizza!' "

Good drive to Illinois. The corps got in about 15 minutes early.

Donations came from the families of corps members:

John W. -- the breakfast breads
Chris J. -- bacon and cookies
Becky D. -- cookies
Bryan B. -- bananas

A comment that cooks will understand: Rod and Bill spent about three hours in the freezer at home show Friday putting away and arranging a huge food drop. Since then, Rod has pretty much lived in the freezer "because everything Jody G. has asked for is either on the bottom or in the back." Such is the life of a cook on the road.

There are new pictures from the Chicago parades and from home show but Jody S. and I are still on the road and won't have a chance to get the galleries up until we're back home. Thanks for your patience.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Saturday, July 08, 2006

Today is Saturday, July 8; it’s a show day

We are in Indianapolis, Indiana.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Indianapolis

Click for Google map of Indianapolis. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Egg bake
Muffins
Sausage links

Lunch
Butt chops
Potato salad
Chips
Canned fruit

Dinner
Pizza with the Colt Cadets (delivered to show site)
Ravioli
Lettuce salad

Today's Schedule
Arrived in Indiana at 8:30-8:45 a.m. Sign on the cooktruck board featured a large, red IU (Indiana University) symbol and a note that the corps was now in Eastern Daylight Time. Not like yesterday and not like last year. (Indianapolis now goes on daylight time, unlike years past.)

9:30 Stretch
10 Breakfast
11 Vis
12:30 Sectionals
1:35 Ensemble
3:20 Runthrough
3:45 Lunch/pack/load/clean
5:35 Depart for stadium
6:20 Warmup
8:20 Gate
8:50 Performance
9:45 Dinner
Midnight depart for Rockford, Illinois

Today's Cooks
Jody G., head cook
Donna
Penny
Roger
John L.
Tom T.
Tom C.
Scott

Guest cooks: Barry, Barry's mom, Jim J.

Today saw the return of the cooktruck board nazi. I don't think there's been a sighting since last year's finals in Massachusetts. The dry-erase board on the right side of the cooktruck was cleaned this morning, there was a note: "Nearly clean board courtesy of the board nazi."

Today's News

Roger and John L. drive.

Welcome new cook Donna!

Home show was great. Lots of friends, family, and fans showed up to support the Colts. Greg said it was a record crowd for Music on the March. The P.A. announcer had to ask people to squeeze in to make more room in the Dubuque Senior stands. Even with that, Colts parents were sitting and standing on the grassy area east of the grandstand because people were standing two and three deep at the top of the stadium. Way to go, Dubuque.

The Colts played a killer show. They just keep getting better and better. And the encore was really fun and got the crowd going. The corps played Windsprints and Ride and then were joined by the Colt Cadets for Freebird, which has now become a fixture. They closed the encore with a moving version of the corps song, Morning.

Then corps members had time to hang with family and friends. Lots of former Colts turned out to support the corps. There's really an excitement surrounding them this year. It's a great year to be a Colt.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Friday, July 07, 2006

Today is Friday, July 7; it’s HOME SHOW day

We are in Dubuque, Iowa.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Dubuque

Click for Google map of Dubuque. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Biscuits ala Roger D.
Gravy ala sausage (oooh la-la)
Fruit ala your choice

Lunch
Turkey noodle hot dish
Green beans
Fruit

Dinner
Brats and hot dogs (donated by boosters)
Tater tots
Baked beans

Snack
Chicken nuggets
Sandwich mustgo
Apple pie ala mode with donated pies and ice cream

Today's Schedule
7:30 Stretch
8 Breakfast
9 Sectionals
12 Lunch
1 Vis
2:30 Ensemble
4:30 Runthrough
4:50 Dinner/pack/load/clean
6:35 Warmup
7:11 Watch Colt Cadets perform
8:35 Gate
8:49 Perform/encore/critique
9:45 Snack
11:15 Depart

Today's Cooks
Luba and Jody G., head cook
Tom C.
Scott
Mike
Lauren
Bill
Penny
Roger
Tom T.
John C.
Rod
Guest cooks: Marie, John, Carol, and Jody S.

Today's News

Happy Birthday Matt C.

Roger and John L. drive.

Thanks Luba for a wonderful week as head cook. Goodbye to Luba, Bill, Mike, Lauren. Thanks for ALL the help. Welcome to new cooks Tom C. and Scott and driver John L. And a big thanks to all the guest cooks who showed up to help.

Donations are still welcome. Fruit and Gatorade and COOKIES are on the wish list. Dropt them today at home show, in Indy on Saturday, or at the Rockford show Sunday night. Or next week at mid-season camp in Roselle, Ill. Thanks so much for all your support.

Found on the side of the cooktruck: "It's time to burn down a house (in 11 minutes). When will it happen? -- Ben Franklin, July 4.

New drink flavors (I know Mike R. has been on tour now):
I Can't Believe It's Not Water
Gatorade - Nectar of the Gods
Dr. Pepper's Evil Twin
Water Direct from the Factory to You

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Thursday, July 06, 2006

Fruit and cookies

I know we said not to bring cookies until further notice. Well, consider your self noticed.

The cooktruck crew called this evening and said they'd love to get some more donations -- especially fruit and cookies. Bill said he can't find any more cookies on the truck and that it would be good to get some more fruit donations too.

You guys responded when we asked for donations other than cookies. I expect no less this time.

Thanks a whole bunch for everything you do for our kids.

The Virtual Cooktruck Information and Begging Team

p.s. If you do bring donations, please attach a note with your name and what you brought so we can collect them and thank you properly. We're afraid we miss thanking some people or we get who brought what mixed up when we receive a lot of donations at the same time.

Today is Thursday, July 6; it’s a rehearsal day

We are in Rock Island, Illinois.

photo
Navy Pier photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Rock Island

Click for Google map of Rock Island. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Meal 1
Cinnamon pancakes
Bacon
Fruit and granola cups
Breakfast mustgo

Meal 2
Mac & cheese
Applesauce
Mustgo

Meal 3
Pulled pork
Homemade potato salad
Cheerio bars

Meal 4
Fajitas

Today's Schedule
8:50 Wake
9 Stretch
9:30 Meal 1
10:30 Sectionals
1:30 Meal 2
2:30 Vis
5:30 Meal 3
6:30 Warmup
7:30 Dog and pony
9:30 Runthrough
10 Meal 4/clean/pack/load
11 Depart for Dubuque

Today's Cooks
Luba, head cook
Bill
Lauren
Mike
Penny
Roger
Tom T.
Rod

Guest cooks: John, Marie, and Carol

Today's News

Roger and Tom T. drive.

Bill says the corps arrive in Rock Island about 4-4:30 a.m., but he didn't know much about it since the cooks got in early and went to bed and none of the corps was up when he called in this morning. Everything seems to be great on tour.

There are pictures from Navy Pier up under the '2006' galleries link at the right. Be sure to look over there from time to time because I don't always have time to put up a separate reminder. (Especially when posting from a motel room on the outskirts of Chicago.)

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Wednesday, July 05, 2006

Today is Wednesday, July 5; it’s a free day

We are in Chicago, Illinois.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Chicago

Click for Google map of Chicago. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Egg bake
Lauren's homemade grilled hashbrowns
Sausage

Lunch
Sack lunch

Today's Schedule
7:30 Breakfast/pack/clean/load
9:15 Depart for Navy Pier
1:15 Performance on Navy Pier in downtown Chicago (it rocked)
Depart for Rock Island, Ill., after Navy Pier fireworks. (About 11 p.m.)

Today's Cooks
Luba, head cook
Bill
Lauren
Mike
Roger
Penny
Rod

Today's News

(The cooktruck posting is late today because Rod, Bill, and I ended up with the corps on the same day. It was great. Maybe we need to expand the crew.)

Happy Birthday Ryan D.

Roger and Tom T. drive.

Navy Pier was a cook deal. The Colts got applause from the crowd just for warming up in horn arc. The kids went nuts for our drumline. The crowd (well, at least one person in the crowd) started shouting for a Colts encore of 'Freebird' as soon as they finished playing through the show. And I wasn't disappointed. (That's my boys in the bari ensemble up front.)


As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Tuesday, July 04, 2006

Parade schedule

For those of you in the Chicago area who can still get out to see a parade today, the lineup they have at the housing site is the same as the one at colts.org. For those of you who don't want to wander over and find it:

Corps A
9 Vernon Hills
1 Rolling Meadows
2:30 Northbrook (full corps)
6:30 Wheeling (full corps)

Corps B
10 Lake Bluff
Noon Deerfield
2:30 Northbrook (full corps)
6:30 Wheeling (full corps)

I don't have a list of who is in Corps A and Corps B. Sorry.

Today is Tuesday, July 4; it’s Chicagoland parade day

We are in Chicago, Illinois.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Chicago

Click for Google map of Chicago. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Breakfast pizza
Fruit: choice of banana, apple, or orange

Lunch
Sack lunch sandwiches and treats on the road

Snack
Pizza between late parades

Traditional 4th of July Thanksgiving Dinner
Turkey and dressing
Mashed potatoes and gravy
Corn
Fruit parfait (if they can find the pudding on the truck)

Today's Schedule
7 Breakfast
7:45 Corps meeting
8 Buses depart for parades
(as far as I know right now, the parade lineup is the same as posted on colts.org. If that changes before 11 a.m., I'll post a note. After that, we're off for Northbrook.)
There are sack lunches and water on the buses. (Cups courtesy of Bill)
Pizza before 6:30 parade.
9:30 Dinner (not snack)

Today's Cooks
Luba, head cook
Bill
Lauren
Mike
Penny
Roger
Tom

Today's News

Happy Birthday Matt W. (aka Darkside)

Roger and Tom drive. Tom apparently hit every bump between Milwaukee and Chicago last night. He knows the territory. They got in about midnight, so there was some down time.

Cooks are cleaning and organizing today while the corps is off marching. And preparing a big turkey dinner.

IT'S A LITTLE KNOWN FACT: According to a notice on the side of the cooktruck today (courtesy of Mike R., I suspect) that, "On this day in 1776, the Declaration of Independence was signed in a hurry so that they could get to a hot fife and drum show that night."

See some of you today along the parade route. Or come out to the school at dinner time.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Monday, July 03, 2006

Help wanted

Colts parents planning to attend the home show -- Music on the March -- on Friday in Dubuque are welcome and encouraged to help out with the many jobs it takes to put on a first-class drum corps performance. Colt Cadet parents, Colts parents from Dubuque and surrounding areas, and other volunteers make up the bulk of the workers at MOM, but other members of the Colts family should pitch in.

There are not 'slots' now scheduled for Colts parents to work concessions or other jobs, but you're quite welcome to pitch in. Help is especially needed during the time the Colt Cadets perform -- so the Cadet parents can go watch their kids -- and during intermission when things get really busy.

Thanks for any help you can give us with this. See you at the show on Friday. The Colts are scheduled to play the encore again, so maybe we'll get to hear Freebird.

Today is Monday, July 3; it’s a show day

We are in Cedarburg, Wisconsin.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Cedarburg

Click for Google map of Cedarburg. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Cinnamon struesel
Banana

Lunch
Beef ravioli
Bread sticks
Salad (with craisins, almonds, spinach, Chinese noodles, Madarin oranges)
Pudding-fruit parfait

Dinner
Beef or chicken philly sandwiches
Cottage cheese
Chips/dip
Brownies (courtesy of Gretchen and Jackie's mom)

Snack
Corn dogs (with Cadets)

Today's Schedule
7:20 Wake
7:30 Stretch
8 Breakfast
9 Sectionals
11:30 Lunch (or meal 2)
12:30 Vis
2 Ensemble
3:45 Runthrough
4:05 Dinner/clean/pack/load
5:50 Warmup
7:50 Gate
8:03 Performance
8:30 Snack
10 Depart for Vernon Hills, Illinois

Today's Cooks
Luba, head cook
Bill
Lauren
Mike
Penny
Roger
John C.
Tom T.

Today's News

Roger and Tom T. drive.

Left Madison at 10:30 and arrived at the housing site at 12:30 last night. Pretty smooth going. The Colt Cadets left before the Colts and arrived after. Don't know what's up with that.

Partly cloudy this morning for the Colts. Nice and cool, Bill reports.

Good cook crew. Really coming together for the parade-filled week.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Sunday, July 02, 2006

Today is Sunday, July 2; it’s a show day

We are in Madison, Wisconsin.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Madison

Click for Google map of Madison. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Waffles and pancakes
Sausage
Banana or orange

Lunch
2 hotdogs
Caribbean cole slaw
Chips and salsa

Dinner
Chicken breast
Rice pilaf
Fresh fruit salad
Cake of some kind

Snack
Pretzels with cheese

Today's Schedule
8:15 Wake
8:30 Stretch
9 Breakfast
10 Vis
12-12:30 Brass lunch
12:15-12:45 Perc lunch
12:30-1 Guard lunch
1 Ensemble
3 Dinner/pack/clean/load
3:45 Depart
6:05 Warmup
8:05 Gate
8:15 Performance
8:45 Snack
10:15 Depart

Today's Cooks
Luba, head cook
Bill
Lauren
Mike
Penny
John C.

Today's News

Roger and Tom T. drive.

The symphony concert in Dubuque last night went great, despite a slight rain interruption in the middle. The crowd, as it is wont to do, went nuts for Freebird. We ought to record that and put it up on iTunes....

There was a Wal-mart stop last night on the trip to Madison. Bananas were 22 cnets a pound, so Luba loaded up on them for breakfast this morning.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.

Saturday, July 01, 2006

Today is Saturday, July 1; it’s symphony performance day

We are in Dubuque, Iowa.

photo
Photo by David S.

Click HERE to open a full-size image in a new window.

Weather report and forecast for Dubuque

Click for Google map of Dubuque. With Google maps you can zoom in and out on a location. Click and hold on the map to drag the map in the window.

Today's Menu
Breakfast
Mustgos: French toast, breakfast burritos, bagels, muffins, egg bake, pancakes, oatmeal, quiche ('And everything got totally eaten,' Lauren says.)

Lunch
Butt chops
Green beans
Cookies

Dinner
Chicken nuggets
French fries
Watermelon
Dessert of some sort

Snack
New head cook's choice

Today's Schedule
9 Wake
9:15 Breakfast
10:15 Brass warmup; guard on field; perc rehearse
10:30 Brass rehearsal
12:30 Lunch
1:30 Brass sectionals; guard on field; perc rehearse
3 Brass depart for fairgrounds
3:30 Brass rehearse at fairgrounds
4:30 Dinner for brass/perc
5:15 Guard dinner and shower
5:30 Brass/perc depart for farigrounds
6 Brass/perc arrive at fairgrounds
6:45 Guard depart for fairgrounds
7:15 Performance
10 Snack/pack/load
11:30 Depart for Madison, Wisconsin

Today's Cooks
Lauren, outgoing head cook; Luba, incoming head cook
Bill
Mike
Penny
John C.
Amy
Patty
Tom T.

Today's News

Roger and Tom T. drive.

New head cook! Welcome Luba and a big thanks to Lauren for jumping in and taking over. Sounds like they had a good week.

Lots of great cooks leaving today. I know they'll miss Amy, Patty, and Bruce. But they're pickup up Bill, John C. and Mike R., so one great crew replaces another.

Suzie called (from the cooler -- hey, sometimes on tour you take your quiet moments where you can) last night. Olaf had called from the Netherlands to wish the corps well and say he hoped to be back to work with us next summer. Cool! Suzie also said thanks to the Colts for letting her come and work and say she'd miss everybody terribly until she comes back on to drive later in tour.

As always, check colts.org for the latest official word on tour news, housing sites, mail drops, or other corps information.