differences, and shared the instruction staff and rehearsal facilities with the Caballeros The Muchachos were instantly successful, totally dominating the entry-level circuit they initially competed in with two undefeated seasons their first two years out. From there they moved into a more challenging circuit. One of the most popular and sought after junior corps, the Muchachos were eventually a member of DCI, the top junior circuit, and placed as high as fourth in 1974, a considerable achievement, given the incredible competition within that organization. Unfortunately, the Hawthorne Muchachos were disqualified during the 1975 season due to allowing an over-aged snare drummer to participate in their program. After a placement of 21st in the 1976 season the corps folded. The Hawthorne Caballeros Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps The Caballeros have maintained a strong alumni association for many years. In 1994, the Association spawned another unit, the Caballeros Alumni Drum & Bugle Corps. Organized by a small but enthusiastic group of former corps members, the Alumni Corps quickly grew and continues to grow, currently numbering close to one-hundred members. The corps has been in great demand from the start, but unlike the competition corps, the Alumni Corps maintains a somewhat less rigorous schedule, and is strictly an exhibition and parade corps. In addition to assisting the competition corps wherever and whenever possible, one of the purposes for launching the Alumni Corps was to return to some of the great music from the fifties, sixties and seventies; bringing back memories for older players and fans, and exposing younger fans to the music that made the Caballeros famous in earlier years. Unlike other so-called "alumni" corps which are open to anyone, membership in the Caballeros Alumni Corps is open only to former playing members of the competition corps. Famous alumni James Russo: Drum major of the Caballeros for 33 years before his retirement in 2003. Inducted into the World Drum Corps Hall of Fame in 1993. Frank Ponzo: Lead soprano and soloist, formerly a member of the Long Island Sunrisers, switched affiliation to the "Cabs" after the 1989 DCA season. Inducted into the Buglers Hall of Fame in 2005, the New Jersey Drum & Bugle Corps Hall of Fame in 2006, and the World Drum Corps Hall of Fame in 2014. Louie Storck: Former drum major and staff coordinator of the Caballeros, World Drum Corps Hall of Fame member. Chris Bernotas: Former member, soloist,