Drums Along the Mohawk will celebrate its 25th anniversary on Wednesday, July 30, 2003 in Rome, N.Y. More than 100,000 fans, 150 corps and 20,000 corps members have enjoyed this classic drum corps show, which takes place at Rome Free Academy Stadium. Throughout the years, Drums Along the Mohawk has welcomed drum and bugles corps from United States, Canada, the Netherlands, and Japan. Behind the scenes of all 24 Drums Along the Mohawk shows thus far has been show volunteer director Claudette Wire. Wire said, "Fans won't be disappointed especially with the festive atmosphere we are going to create for this celebration show! We are really excited!" Not only is Wire known for her efforts with Drums Along the Mohawk, she is known throughout the drum corps activity. She has assisted several show promoters to develop their shows into major community events and is consulted for her opinions from across the country. She was an original member of the first Task Force for Drum Corps International Show Promoters and is currently a member of that group, now called Tour Event Partners (TEP). Wire first became involved because her children marched in Avant Garde drum and bugle corps, and started her drum corps "career" as a fund-raiser. Through her contributions and continuation of the event, it has become one of the best in the Northeast. Claudette's children are Pam (South Carolina), Jeffrey (New Jersey), Christopher (Florida) and Scott (Michigan). She also has seven grandchildren. In her "day job," Wire is director of charter sales for Coach USA of Central New York. Tickets for Drums Along the Mohawk can be ordered by calling 315.339.6484 or through Gillette's Food Market, the Rome Area Chamber of Commerce, Rome Savings Bank -New Hartford Branch and at Rome Free Academy Stadium (from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. every day until the show). Major sponsors of Drums Along the Mohawk are WKTV-Newschannel 2, Observer Dispatch, Regent Broadcasting Company (WLZW, WFRG, WIBX, and Oldiez 96) ASI NEXTEL Telephone and Active Defense. Wire said fans are encouraged to "come early and stay late" to enjoy the festivities of the evening. The Boston Crusaders are hosting a music workshop at 3 p.m. the day of the show, and anyone can attend. The eight corps that will perform at Drums Along the Mohawk are the Boston Crusaders, Bluecoats, Madison Scouts, Capital Regiment, Southwind, Mandarins, Pioneer and Troopers.