WHAT IS DCA
Drum Corps Associates (DCA) is a competitive drum corps circuit comprised of "all age" drum & bugle corps from all over the US and Canada. Members of DCA compete annually for the DCA World Championship over Labor Day Weekend. DCA was founded in 1964, and strives to bring the best “The finest Drum & Bugle Corps in the United States and Canada” to its fans using entertainment as a primary goal. DCA performances are unique and represent “state of the art” in mass appeal drum and bugle corps. DCA strives to provide performers with stimulating and rewarding social experiences, to provide a competitive outlet for performers and to entertain and excite the audience.
ATTENDANCE
In order to perform to our fullest potential and pursue excellence it is expected that all members attend all scheduled rehearsals, parades, exhibitions and competitions. Drum Corps is a highly competitive activity, and the organization expends a great deal of time, energy and funding to put the corps on the field. All rehearsals are critical to the development of the type of program that Fusion Core wants to develop for the members and our fans. Attendance is crucial to that process. Therefore, members must agree to attend all rehearsals.
Should it be necessary to miss ANY rehearsals, the member agrees to contact the Program Coordinator and Caption Heads to obtain appropriate permission. Excessive absenteeism hurts the entire organization as well as your fellow members. If member find himself or herself in a situation that will require that they miss a significant amount of rehearsals or hours during rehearsals (which is also disruptive to the rehearsal process), the member should speak with Director, Holly Marino. We want to work with you, which is one of the reasons that we give you the schedule so far in advance.
The Administration and Caption Heads reserve the right to review all extenuating circumstances when considering your request.
CELL PHONE USE
Use of cell phones during rehearsal/parades/exhibitions/performances is prohibited unless there are special circumstances. If this is the case, please speak to your Caption Head &/or Show Coordinator prior to rehearsal.
CONFLICTS
We realize that during the course of the year, there may be family, work or school commitments that may conflict with a corps event. Fusion Core is a WEEKEND DRUM CORPS ACTIVITY, and 99% of your time commitment will be from Friday night through Sunday evening. An occasional event may be scheduled for a week night, and we will rehearse all day on the Friday before DCA Championships (Labor Day Weekend 2009) Other than that, all our activities will be on the weekends.
Weekend drum corps enables you to work full time during the week. Please arrange your full time, part time or school-time work hours so that they will not conflict with rehearsals, competitions or other events.
If you have a conflict with your school band activities during a camp or rehearsal weekend or other scheduled event, you should attend the school band event, and then do whatever is possible to attend the rest of the camp or rehearsal. If you are going to school, your priority is school, and we support you in your educational efforts. Fusion Core is an extension of your educational experience, and should similarly be treated with the respect it deserves. Similarly, if you are unexpectedly called into work, please do whatever is possible to attend the rest of the camp or rehearsal.
COMMUNICATION
It is not the responsibility of the Fusion Core Organization to call you or remind you about rehearsals or commitments (unless there has been an unscheduled change of time or venue). It is your responsibility to remain current on all communication posted via email, corpdata.net or verbally announced at rehearsals. Communication is vital to any organizations success; we provide many avenues to communicate with the membership; however, you must be a participant as well. Emails, announcements and member information are maintained via the corps management system at corpdata.net
Important phone numbers and email addresses of the Administration and Caption Heads can be found on corpdata.net
CORPS WEBSITE & DATA MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
Fusion Core has its own website, http://www.fusioncorenj.homestead.com The website is maintained by our Webmaster and Assistant Webmaster, and is constantly updated with news, scheduling, etc. Our primary source for communicating with members is thru the corps management system at corpdata.net. Corps Data is a state-of-the-art business application with which Fusion utilizes to maintain membership information, corps business, financial responsibilities, corps news, calendar of events including rehearsals, parades, shows and activities, membership forms plus much more. Members can access, track and pay dues on-line as well. Members and applicants will be provided access to data management system. During introductory period limited access will be granted until submission of Membership Commitment Agreement. Access will continue for active members in “good standing”. As with any forum, it is important to communicate with fellow members in a respectful, responsible manner; vulgarity, profanity will not be permitted nor is the website a place to post personal gripes with a fellow member or the administration. Any questions regarding the use and rules of the website should be directed to the Webmaster.
GENERAL/ ON LINE CONDUCT
While the corps encourages camaraderie between other drum corps, it is important to remember you are always representing Fusion Core. Do not act in any manner that would be detrimental to the image or reputation of Fusion Core. This includes behavior or statements in any medium including the Internet (RAMD, DCP, Face Book, My Space, Corps Reps etc.) While your comments there may reflect just your thoughts; they are also interpreted to represent the entire corp. Think before communicating, if your statements are “questionable”, do not identify yourself as a member of any specific corps.
Members must not divulge corps policies, practices, or complaints regarding the corps in any public forum whether it be the Internet, intranet or publicly. Failure to adhere to this request may result in dismissal from the organization. It can be detrimental to the organization and to the morale of the corps as a whole. Should you have any questions or concerns please speak to someone on the Administration.
Each member must represent the Corps in a respectable and professional manner at all times; on and off the field. Always be considerate and thoughtful to your fellow members, staff, administration, Board of Directors, fans and more importantly, other corps. Since Fusion Core is a volunteer organization, the behavior of its members and volunteers are their individual responsibility; the Fusion Core Organization will not be held responsible or liable for the inappropriate behavior of any of its members or volunteers.
DUES
Dues are $450 a year which is low compared to most other competitive drum corps. Effective with the 2009 season, dues includes all transportation expenses when buses are provided (excluding championship weekend) as well as fees for school/facilities when overnight is required for parades or shows. Previously transportation expenses including bus fees were not included in dues and average to approximately $380 per member; $90 of which were paid by members outside dues. Dues can be reduced &/or earned up to $325 thru the Dues Reduction Incentive Programs outlined below. Dues and additional expenses can be raised thru family/friend sponsorships and fundraising. If you pay your dues by February 14 above amount will be discounted to $400 a year. We strongly encourage you to take advantage of discount.
Fusion Core is a 501©3 non-profit organization of the Internal Revenue Code. Note: It is prudent to take advantage of the Dues Reduction Programs to assist you in meeting your financial obligation. Any donations you obtain thru sponsorships are tax deductible for the donor to the fullest extent by law.
A $50 deposit applied to dues is payable after evaluations and before taking equipment home. You will be required to sign an equipment rental/release agreement that tracks the serial number of the equipment. Note, all equipment is the property of Fusion Core and is “loaned” to you as a member in good standing for the 2009 season; failure to return the equipment when requested will result in prosecution to the fullest extend of the law.
Members are expected to pay approximately $15-$25 per weekend rehearsal towards your dues which will help you pay your dues off by the due date. Dues can be paid at each rehearsal or thru pay pal which is recommended (note; small additional fee when paying online). It is your responsibility to remain current on your dues and make payments on a regular basis to the dues administrator. Dues status can be tracked on line thru corps management system corpdata.net
Dues will NOT be pro-rated if individual joins anytime after open house or participates on a limited basis. Each member or candidate is expected to pay weekly dues of not less than $15 while considering membership with Fusion Core.
Dues must be paid by the first weekend in July in order to march. You will not be permitted to participate unless you make arrangements to pay dues; no exceptions. If there are mitigating circumstances which prevent you from doing this, arrangements for a confidential discussion with the dues administrator should be made as early as possible. Dues are not refundable, unless serious/catastrophic illness or injury preventing a member from continuing the season. After receipt of a physician’s certification of your disability, dues will be refunded on a pro-rated, case-by-case basis as determined by the Corps Administration.
Dues helps the corps pay for: instruments, instructors, insurance, uniforms, use of rehearsal facilities, including electric, janitorial fees, etc; equipment repair, flags, corps required overnight lodging (non-hotel) transportation expenses (excluding championship weekend) etc.
Some examples of costs of equipment/expenses are:
Brass Instruments Percussion Instruments
Trumpets - $800-1200 Tenor Drum - $1850 Mellophone Horn - $1125 Bass Drum - $920-1350 Euphs/Baritones - $1850 Cymbals - $100 - $500 pr Tubas - $4,000 Full set of horns - $40,000-$60,000 Full set of drum equipment-$15,000 - $20,000 Full Set Pit Equipment - $25,000
Full Set Pit Equipment - $25,000 Color Guard Other
Rifles - $40-50 each Uniforms Flags - $ 40-80 each Instructor costs Sabers - $ 300 - $500 each Insurance Transportation costDUES REDUCTION/INCENTIVE PROGRAMS
Early Payment Discount - $50 will be deducted from dues when paid in full by February 14.
Family Discount - $ 50 per person will be deducted from dues when two or more members from the same “household” are participating; subject to a maximum of $100 per family.
Member Incentive - $25 incentive will be applied to dues for a 2008 member in good standing who recommends a new member for the 2009 season. New member is required to stay the entire season in order for incentive to be applied. Pending credit will be held against July installment with the stipulation that failure of new member to fulfill their responsibilities will result in balance of monies due be paid no later than September 15, 2009.
Personal Horn Incentive - Discount as follows will be deducted from July installment of dues as follows for those members who use their personal Bb silver front facing horn for the 2009 season.
Trumpet/Mellophone $ 25
Baritone/Euphonium $ 75
Family/Friends Sponsorship - Sponsorship explaining the member’s involvement in the activity and benefits is available to solicit donations from local business’, family and friends. Use of this form is strongly advised. Every $5 helps!! All donations are tax deductible as per mitted by law for the donor.
Parade/Exhibition Participation Incentive - Participation in parades/exhibitions is part of your membership commitment. Income from parades is 85% of our budget and therefore important to the financial stability of the organization. 100% of all monies earned go into running the corps. As such, to encourage 100% participation by all the members, the following reductions can be earned based upon participation throughout the season. Members who participate in parades during the period March 2009 thru July 31st 2009 can earn the below amounts towards the 2009 dues. Participation in parades during the period August 1st 2009 thru November 30th 2009 will earn below amounts towards their 2010 dues.
Helping Hands Incentive- Many hands/individuals are needed to assist in the “day to day” of drum corps. Help is needed in all areas including loading and unloading the truck, picking up/policing the practice area, lining the field, bus coordinator etc. As participating members each of us is asked to share in these responsibilities however there are a few key positions which require consistency to ensure efficiency in running of the corps. The following key positions are available to members who are willing work off a portion of their dues. Interested members should be willing and able to follow thru on task without supervision on a regular basis. Interested members should complete Helping Hands Application found on corps data management system, corpdata.net and email Director and Administrative Assistant for consideration.
Truck Driver – Individual person(s) would be responsible for driving the truck/trailer(s) to & from shows/rehearsals. A valid license is required with less than 2 points. (Preferred driver is a family member(s) over age of 30). Individual(s) would be responsible for having truck/trailer(s) at designated location one hour prior to scheduled rehearsal/shows.
Unloading Truck* – (4 positions available) – Individuals responsible for coming to all rehearsals one hour prior to scheduled start to unload the truck as directed by truck coordinator. Unloading also includes shows/parades and exhibitions.
Loading Truck* – (4 positions available) – Individuals responsible for loading truck, as directed by truck coordinator, immediately following all rehearsals, exhibitions, parades/shows.
Truck* Coordinator – (2 positions available) – Individuals are responsible for coordinating, tracking and scheduling coverage with “team” to load and unload at all times.
Bus Coordinator – (2 positions available) – Individuals responsible for maintaining bus etiquette while traveling with corps. This includes coordinating loading and unloading of bus at all times, including bays, as well as making sure bus is left clean after use. Assistant Webmaster – (1 position available) – Individual responsible for assisting the webmaster in maintaining current information on the corps websites as directed. *Includes trailerDues/Expenses Fund Raisers In addition to the expected participation by all members in raising funds towards the 2009 Campaign the following fund raisers will be available to members to apply towards their dues: These opportunities can offset dues and expenses of the individual member. A percentage of these fundraisers will be allocated specifically for the member dues/expenses. All funds raised over the cost of dues can be used towards DCA Hotel and bus fees. The following are some of the key events to be held in 2009.
● Bowl-a-thon (January/May)
● March-a-thon (July 4th weekend)
● Candy Sale (March/April)
CORE FUNDS RAISING (2009 Campaign)
It is expected that all members participate in fund raising campaigns to raise funds for equipment and supplies for the organization and members as a whole. In addition to parades and fundraiser's maintaining equipment that will ensure the future of the organization is key to providing the best drum corps experience to all the members. The following are some of the key events/fundraisers for 2009.
50/50 Raffle (Details pending)Booster SalesBrunch Event (Tentative January) Goodsearch.com OTHER ADDITIONAL EXPENSES** (Estimated)
**Note; 100% of sponsorship earned after dues is paid in full as outlined in Dues Section, may be applied towards your DCA Hotel and Bus Transportations expenses.
PRACTICE
Members are expected to practice at home between rehearsals in order to learn and memorize all music/work etc, and personally improve his or her expertise on the chosen instrument/piece of equipment. Rehearsals are for REHEARSING; we practice at home.
Caption heads reserve the right to change any member’s position within the corps at any time. Some changes are necessary to benefit the corps’ program, and may reflect other personnel changes that have taken place. Should a change be necessary, the staff will make every effort to communicate with the member personally, and try to accommodate the member to his/her satisfaction to the extent that it does not take away from the corps’ performance level.
All members are expected to be on time for all rehearsals and be prepared to begin at the designated time.
REHEARSAL ETIQUETTE
As indicted above, all members are expected to be on time for all rehearsals and be prepared to begin at the designated time. Since this is a weekend activity it is important to rehearse efficiently and effectively. It is not the amount of hours that are “clocked in” but rather what we accomplish in the designated amount of time. In order to keep practice to a minimal amount of hours, it is imperative that all members come to rehearsal well-rested, focused and ready to work. Silent rehearsals are encouraged and expected at each and every rehearsal whether it be a sectional rehearsal or field rehearsal. Cell phones should be placed on vibrate and are discouraged during rehearsal unless necessary. All members are expected to be respectful to their co-members as well as to Staff and Administration. While we understand the need to ask questions, there is an appropriate time, place and person to address your questions or concerns. At no time should any member “tech” or criticize another member. The Fusion Core organization has gone to great lengths to provide qualified professional instructors and technicians; these are the persons to which all questions or inquiries should be addressed.
PARADES/EXHIBITIONS
In addition to fundraising the corps makes money marching in parades and performing in exhibitions. Parades/exhibitions are mandatory; participation in same are reflected in dues. Parades are the biggest moneymaker we have; therefore, each member must make a commitment to attend parades. Because parades are not “booked” many months in advance the parade schedule will be adjusted on an on-going basis. As with payment of dues, the more funds that the corps can raise, the more things the corps can do for YOU. If we have less, we have to make do with less. This is your corps, and the success of your corps depends upon the efforts of the entire TEAM.
During parades/exhibitions, you are representing Fusion Core, proper etiquette while performing at these events is required at all times. The Fusion Core performance season (including parades) is from Memorial Day thru November – some parades are already booked through November 2009.
PARADE/EXHIBITION ETIQUETTE
Upon arrival proceed to get equipment from truck. Cases are handed to individual (s) who are loading/unloading the truck to make sure equipment is not lying in the middle of the street. It is your responsibility to make sure equipment is on truck and secure from damage or theft before and after parade/exhibition.
DO NOT BLOW OR BANG your instruments in order to hear and follow instruction; you are always performing and representing the Core at all times. As a unit we will warm up together walking/marching single file to designated area. Once in warm up area, focus on proper technique whether it be breathing, playing or marching. While marching in parade talking should be kept to a minimum since this can be distracting as well as unprofessional to the marching members and the audience/sponsor who is paying us to perform.
APPLICATION/AGREEMENT FORMS
Each member must fill out & return the following forms; forms are available on corps data management system; corpdata.net
Membership Commitment Agreement
Equipment Uniform Rental Agreement
Medical Release Information & Consent Agreement
DCA Corps Member Audio-Visual Release Agreement (2008/2009 term)
No equipment will be handed out permanently until all forms are filled out properly, signed and submitted to administration.
Signature of member or of parent or legal guardian conveys an agreement between all parties that Fusion Core, its members, executive committee, agents, board of directors, instructional staff, and all other volunteers or affiliates and any one else with whom Fusion Core has agreed to include as an additional insured shall be held harmless from any and all damages, medical bills and liability, whether deemed negligent or not, which are sustained by any member while participating in the sport of drum corps. This includes all bodily injury and property damage sustained as a result of the use of any and all property, equipment, mobile equipment, vehicles (hired, owned or non-owned).
Drum corps is a time consuming hobby and activity. Know NOW what you or your child is committing to for the season to avoid disappointment-either for the corps or for the member.
Note; Please complete all forms and submit to administration within 30 days of joining. Electronic copies can be emailed and submitted as authorization to agree. If you are under the age of 18 parents must email forms accordingly as authorization. EXCEPTION: MEDICAL
FORM – original signed forms are required to be on file. Please therefore turn in signed originals to administration.
MEDICAL FORM
One of the most important pieces of paper the corps can collect is the signed Medical Release form. Without full knowledge of a member’s medical needs or problems, we cannot be expected to adequately seek care for a member when we do not know his or her medical history. All information will be kept confidential, and will travel with the corps to all functions.
If an emergency arises, it may be difficult to reach either parents or other family members in order to give permission for treatment. HOSPITALS WILL NOT TREAT A PATIENT WITHOUT CONSENT.
The Membership Medical Information and Consent Form authorizes Fusion Core to seek emergency medical treatment on a member’s behalf, and gives permission to any qualified health professional or hospital to give emergency treatment (including injections, anesthesia, or surgery, as needed) only if the member is unable to give consent at the time of emergency. It also clarifies that payment for any and all medical expenses are not the responsibility of the Fusion Core Organization, but will remain the responsibility of the member and/or his/her insurer or legal guardian.
If a member is less than eighteen (18) years of age, their legal parent or legal guardian must also read and sign this Medical Information and Consent Form.
The drum & bugle corps activity is a very physical one. All members are encouraged to and should consult with their physician before participating in this sport. If approved by your doctor, it is also suggested you proactively participate in a fitness/nutrition program throughout the year in order to meet the physical challenges associated with the sport of drum corp.
If any member is over the age of 50 a medical release from their primary care physician may be required prior to participation. The Fusion Core Organization also reserves the right to request a medical release form from ANY other member whom they feel based on their medical history may be considered “high risk” for this strenuous activity. Failure to provide release, when requested, will result in member not participating in all aspects of the “sport” until release is provided to the Director.
EQUIPMENT/UNIFORM RENTAL USE AGREEMENT
The Membership Agreement for Equipment and Uniform Rental outlines the responsibility of the member for his/her equipment and uniform. Normal upkeep/maintenance of any equipment/uniform owned by the corps while in the member’s possession is the sole responsibility of the member. While in the members’ possession, normal upkeep of any corps equipment/uniform will be the responsibility of the member. Member will be held financially responsible for loss, theft, and damage to as a result of misuse, carelessness, or neglect of equipment/uniform.
The member agrees to return any and all pieces of equipment in the same condition, less normal wear and tear, under which it is issued and further agrees to return all equipment either upon request of a member of the executive committee or the instructional staff, at the completion of the 2009 season. The member is advised that if he or she fails to produce any property belonging to Fusion Core, or if he/ she recklessly damages any equipment (beyond normal wear and tear), that member will be charged for the full replacement value or repair cost, of the item(s) along with any collection or attorney fees incurred in the process. The replacement cost of a uniform is approximately $200. Horn/Equipment replacement cost is as referenced under Dues section above.
If the member is less than eighteen (18) years of age, their legal parent or legal guardian must also read and agree to the terms of this agreement, and indicate such agreement by their signature in addition to the members’. The parent or purported legal guardian shall ultimately be held responsible for all terms of this agreement on behalf of the member.
Uniforms shall be kept clean and wrinkle free, and will be kept in good quality garment bag for travel. Hats shall be kept boxed and away from excessive heat (i.e.; car window, in direct sun, etc.) Gloves and accessories must be kept clean and in good condition. Shoes should be polished and dirt free.
It is understood that any piece of equipment owned by the corps may be necessary for use at any given rehearsal. If for any reason, the member is not able to attend a given rehearsal, the equipment issued to him/her may be requested to be returned so it may be used.
DRUG ANDALCOHOL PROHIBITED
Use of illegal drugs is STRICTLY forbidden and is considered grounds for dismissal. Use of alcoholic beverages is forbidden by all members under the age of twenty-one (21); we reserve the right to search personal belongings in the event alcohol use by minors is suspected. Use of alcoholic beverages is forbidden by all members before and during rehearsal time, or prior to a performance. For those age twenty-one (21) and above, we expect members to be sensible and responsible. DO NOT DRINK AND DRIVE. Use of alcohol or tobacco is strictly prohibited at any schools the corps should use for rehearsals or any performances.
HARRASSMENT/DISCRIMINATION
The treatment of all with respect and dignity are important to any organization. Harassment of any kind and any other form of discrimination is prohibited.
The Fusion Core Organization has a zero tolerance policy for harassment or discrimination on the basis of sex or gender of any member, volunteer or instructional staff. This zero tolerance for harassing or discriminatory conduct also applies to harassment or discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, marital status, sexual preference, religion, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Any conduct which is inappropriate, demeaning or disruptive will not be tolerated. We expect everyone to act with mutual respect and concern for each other and in compliance with our policy prohibiting discrimination. It is everyone’s responsibility to avoid acts of harassment or disrespect.
Any violation of Fusion Core’s non-harassment and alcohol/illegal drug polices will result in immediate expulsion from the corps. Expelled members are responsible for arranging their own transportation home regardless of the location of the Corps, and will forfeit all dues/fees paid.
Also note, any sexual or romantic involvement between adult members, staff and volunteers less than 18 years of age is unacceptable and prohibited. Failure of any person to comply with this policy is grounds for immediate dismissal. In such cases, the Director will notify the parents/legal guardian of the minor.
PARENTAL/FAMILY INVOLVEMENT
The Fusion Core Organization strongly encourages parents, family and friends in supporting the activity. This support is important not only to the individual member but also to the corps as a whole. The Fusion Family and Friends Committee is a vital part of the organizations success. This committee provides support and assistance to the membership in the form of sewing, baking, cooking & food preparation on an as needed basis. Committee also coordinates sales of souvenirs and corps memorabilia at shows. One of the most important aspects of the Fusion Core organization is the feeling of belonging to the “Fusion family”; we warmly embrace each member’s family as well. Members whose parents/family know participate and understand the organization, the member’s responsibilities and scheduling tend to more successfully complete the season, and also have a more fulfilling experience with the corps.
SECTION LEADERS – LIAISON
Section leaders shall be nominated by the caption head and confirmed by Director to assist the administration in the following areas. These individuals should posses’ leadership qualities, be a member in “good standing”, shown exemplary behavior (past and present) as it relates to building a positive team environment and be well respected by their fellow members. These individuals shall be role models to the membership and “lead” by example.
● Inter-sectional communication – contact members in section regarding section only communication as
well as any last minute changes in rehearsal
● Collect & track dues for section
● Obtain medical forms and various other required documentation/forms/email etc. for section
● Maintain rehearsal attendance for section
● Responsible for implementation of safety guidelines as outlined in member handbook including over- night lodging
● Emergency facilities attendance – in the event of an emergency at any facility individual responsible for making sure
all members in section are accounted for at “meeting point”.
SAFETY/ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES:
Fusion Core is committed to providing a safe environment for our members. We have adopted the following guidelines to ensure the safety of our membership.
● Sneakers should be worn at all times during rehearsal
● Aggressive or hostile behavior (direct or indirect) that creates a reasonable fear of injury to another person or
subjects another individual to emotion distress is prohibited
● Damage or theft to another persons property is prohibited
● “Horseplay” or other conduct that may be dangerous to others is prohibited
● Insubordination of any like or kind will not be tolerated towards staff, administration or board members
● Overnight lodging &/or sleeping arrangements when provided or arranged by the corps shall be set by the administration
taking into consideration age & gender. All members under the age of 21 shall sleep in designated areas
segregating boys and girls. These guidelines will also be in place as respects hotel accommodations whether
provided at the expense of the corps or paid personally by the members. Room checks and/or curfews
may be implemented to ensure the safety of all members.
● Fire/Emergency Safety Drills may be implemented to ensure that guidelines set forth under Fire Safety are familiar
to all of the membership.
Anyone determined or suspected of violating these guidelines will be subject to prompt disciplinary action up to and including possible suspension or expulsion from corps.
FIRE/EMERGENCY SAFETY*:
In the event of a fire or emergency all members should immediately exit the facilities by the closest exit (closing any doors behind them). Gather directly across street adjacent to main entrance of building in order to make sure all traveling with corps are accounted for. Use the shortest route and safest route to exit. If staying in a hotel, review fire exits provided in room immediately to be familiar with emergency evacuation plan posted and exit routes. If you must escape through smoke, remember to crawl low, under the smoke and keep your mouth covered. When you come to a closed door, use the back of your hand to feel the top of the door, the doorknob and the crack between the door and door frame to make sure that fire is not on the other side. If it feels hot, use your secondary escape route. Even if the door feels cool, open it carefully. Brace your shoulder against the door and open it slowly. If heat and smoke come in, slam the door and make sure it is securely closed, then use your alternate escape route. Do not use elevators; utilize stairs. If trapped in hotel room and are unable to leave the building create an area of refuge. Seal the room. Use wet cloth to stuff around cracks in doors and seal up vents to protect against smoke. Do not break windows. Flames and smoke can come back in from the outside. If you need air, open the window a crack. Stay low under smoke. The freshest air is near the floor. Keep a wet cloth over your nose and mouth, breath through your nose only. Signal for help. Use the telephone or hang something in window.
*The following are safety recommendations and do not constitute a formal fire/emergency program by Fusion Core, its affiliates, administration or board of directors. While traveling with the corps all reasonable measures are taken to ensure a safe drum corps environment. Review U.S.Fire Administration Fire Safety topics http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/ is suggested by all membership and staff prior to or while traveling with the corps.
WHAT TO BRING
Winter/Spring Indoor Rehearsals, members should wear comfortable and warm clothes. Bring: pens and paper; a water jug; all the necessary materials, such as music, mouthpieces, sticks, flags, rifles, gloves etc; folding music stand if you have one.
Spring/Summer Outdoor Rehearsals, members should prepare for all types of weather – warm, cold or brutally hot. Bring rain gear. Bring an extra set of clothing and socks/shoes to change into if necessary. Wear a hat while in the sun. Pack sunscreen and bug repellent. Although water will be available at the rehearsal field, we strongly recommend that each member brings a personal water jug as well as personal reusable cup.
The corps breaks for lunch and dinner when appropriate to the schedule. We encourage members to pack a cooler with food items, fruits, drinks, snacks and water jug. Not only is this more affordable (cheaper) for the member, this also allows the member to rest while eating his or her meal instead of running around to fast food restaurants, and ensures that most member return on time for rehearsal to resume. During rehearsals the corps does get water breaks and eating healthy snacks in between will help your stamina and endurance.
All members should bring their 3-ring binders, dot books, drill sheets and any other materials necessary for your section, such as: Brass Players: mouthpieces, valve oil (inexpensive at any music store), pen, music, folding music stand. Drummers: practice pad, sticks or mallets. Color Guard: flags, rifles, sabers and other materials as directed. All members should make sure these are marked with your name.
For Competition Weekends: As above for Spring/Summer Rehearsals, plus bring: extra change of clothing – including clothing for late nights and riding home on the bus; shower and personal toiletry supplies, including towel, extra money for snacks or souvenirs bought at the show. If riding the bus, you might want to bring a blanket and pillow for comfort. On the occasion that the corps stays overnight, bring all of the above plus a sleeping bag, air mattress or blanket as preferred.
Fusion Core is a 501©3 non-profit educational, musical performance organization who competes within the DCA Circuit. Newly formed in 2007, Fusion was successful in earning High Caption Awards in brass, visual and guard at the 2008 Championships in Rochester, NY. Fusion is governed by an Administration and Board of Directors who volunteer their time, knowledge and experience in order to provide the best drum corps experience to all our members. Fusion brings together members of all ages to accomplish a common goal. Through teamwork, dedication, perseverance and the pursuit of excellence we all enjoy the sport of Drum Corps!
WHO IS FUSION CORE
If you are looking for a place to belong, for a place to improve your personal abilities, entertain thru music, color guard/dance, achieve team goals & spirit, develop leadership skills that will allow you to become leaders within your community, for a place to meet people that will change your life forever .............. and very likely be a part of your life for a long time ................
Fusion may be the place for you.
*Handbook may not be published without the written consent of Fusion Core NJ
Updated July 14, 2009
SUMMARY
Thank you for considering Fusion Core “All Age” Drum & Bugle Corps! We hope this handbook answers any questions you might have about the Organization. Please feel free to contact the Administration or any Caption Head or Staff member if you have additional questions.
Fusion is dedicated to providing the best drum corps experience to all members while providing world-class championship caliber instruction and programming.
Photos by Dave Rice ©
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2009 MEMBER HANDBOOK & FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
The following are membership guidelines while participating in Fusion Core Drum & Bugle Corps.
(The Administration reserves the right to make changes at any time as it deems necessary)
% of Attendance Parades
Amount Earned TowardsDues
100%
90%
80%
$100
$ 90
$ 50
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Hotel accommodations for Championship Weekend$100 (meals & transportation excluded (4 persons to room) Food must be arranged and paid for by the member.
Corps T/Shirt for under uniform-$ 15-$20 (Ea) (You may wish to purchase extra for those days where we have several parades in summer)
Bus Transportation for Championship Weekendcost of bus is approximately $75 per person for corps members; if space permits family & friends may join the corps; however the cost is approximately $100 per person for non-corps members. **Actual cost to be determined; subject to actual cost/expenses.
Local Hotel Accommodations – (If applicable) During summer weekends (including winter camps) some of the members who travel distances choose to stay overnight at a local hotel. For those who wish to “room” for the weekend at a local hotel the corps will try to obtain discount accommodations. Please note, the cost of which is the responsibility of each member(s) for paying at the time of booking. Each “room” will be responsible for making arrangements directly with hotel and providing credit card information accordingly
Marching/Uniform Shoes - $25-$40
Dot Book - $2-$3
Gloves - $5 - $8 (Brass & Guard)
Black Socks - $5
Uniform Head Wear – (To be determined, if applicable)
Activities Committee Events – The activities committee coordinates non-drum corps activities and community participation events throughout the season for members to get to know each other off the practice field. All expenses and transportation are the responsibility of member if they choose to participate. Events may include trip to Dorney Park, Hershey Park, Zoo, local movie night or theme day on the bus. It may also include events during rehearsals; hat day, group lunch etc. Participation is at the discretion of each member.
