[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 132 (Tuesday, September 16, 2014)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1411]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           CELEBRATING 160 YEARS OF THE DeKALB MUNICIPAL BAND

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                          HON. ADAM KINZINGER

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Tuesday, September 16, 2014

  Mr. KINZINGER of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to rise today 
in celebration of the DeKalb Municipal Band as they celebrate 160 years 
of concerts this December.
   From humble beginnings as the Silver Cornet Band in 1854, the DeKalb 
Municipal Band has a history as interesting and unique as its many 
members. In its early years it was the official band of the Third 
Regiment of the Illinois National Guard, and was later renamed the 
DeKalb Military Band following the return of musicians who served in 
World War I. In the 1930s, Hopkins Park was built and the band found a 
permanent home for concerts. Since then, Hopkins Park has been 
outfitted with a wooden shell, funded by the band members themselves, 
which was eventually upgraded to the current concrete and steel band 
shell that includes seating for 3,000 to enjoy today's concerts.
   As one of the most historic bands in the Midwest, the DeKalb 
Municipal Band keeps the tradition of providing music and entertainment 
to DeKalb and the surrounding communities alive with their annual 
summer concert series, including their July 4th Fireworks Spectacular. 
The commitment of the musicians, conductors, and volunteers who have 
helped the Municipal Band survive and thrive for 160 years is to be 
commended. DeKalb and the surrounding communities can take pride in the 
Band's historic traditions and I know we can all look forward to many 
more decades of music in Hopkins Park.
   Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Illinois' Sixteenth District of Illinois, 
I wish to express our appreciation and sincere congratulations to all 
those who have helped make the DeKalb Municipal Band a success over the 
past 160 years.

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