Introducing Fralinger’s Captain and Presentation Director!

Thomas D’Amore, and Jack Mills

Thomas D’Amore - Captain

Thomas officially joined the band in September 2000 as an alto saxophone player. His first year as a costumed performer was 2002 where he debuted as a dancer. For the past 8 years, Thomas played his saxophone during the year and performed as a dancer on New Year's Day. He was elected Captain in March 2009, following Bill Bowen’s retirement after 27 consecutive years of leadership as the “winningest” String Band Captain in Mummers history. Needless to say, Thomas is excited about the opportunity to continue Fralinger’s winning ways.

Thomas' election as Captain is a major accomplishment. In his first parade as Captain at 21 years old, Thomas became the second-youngest captain in Fralinger history behind Joseph A. Ferko (1915-1921). He also became one of only a handful of Captains in String Band history to win first prize in his very first year as Captain, taking home first prize honors in the 2010 New Years Day Parade.

Thomas has plenty of support as he leads the talented Fralinger organization of 150 members to achieving an unprecedented ninth-consecutive first prize. The entire D'Amore Family will also lend their support as Mom Karen D'Amore cheers her sons Thomas, Anthony III, Christopher, and husband Anthony Jr. on New Year's Day.

I look forward to the challenge of leading a great organization and being part of something very special. Fralinger has many great members, musicians and marshals, who dedicate their time and effort to produce a spectacular show. I am honored and excited to be part of the Fralinger experience".

Happy New Year everyone!

Jack Mills — Presentation Director

Jack was elected Presentation Director in March 2009. His responsibilities include developing and integrating the overall production presentation, including band drills dancer choreography and props. He was one of a few select members who Presentation Director Emeritus, Mike Rayer, relied upon to assist in developing previous Fralinger productions.

Jack has over 25 years of experience as a String Band Mummer, with 15 years at Fralinger. He plays the banjo but has many other talents. During the year, Jack plays a key role in client and public relations for Fralinger as Master of Ceremonies at band concerts and as Assistant Captain for parades and other band events.

He is also a dedicated family man. Jack resides in Marlton, NJ with wife Colleen and daughter Capri. His father, Jack, Sr. and Grandfather Joe are members of the Polish American String Band.

Jack earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business/Sports Management and Master's Degree in Education from Wilmington University in Delaware. He is a career educator as both teacher and administrator in the Evesham, Voorhees, Berlin Township and Winslow School Districts. Regarding NYD 2010, Jack says ’Presentation Director is just another member of the Fralinger team that strives for Fralinger excellence. My frame of mind is to seize the day, entertain the crowds, and make the members who passed before us proud.”

On New Year's Day 2010, Jack led the band to First Prize honors in his first year as Presentation Director. Congratulations, Jack!