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Buck Wild
“Buck ‘n The System” fronted by Frank DePeder, an officer in 001, rocked the Lodge 7 St. Patrick’s Day party.
Lodge 7 St. Patrick’s Day party rocks with good times, great band
The songs that 1st District Officer Frank DePeder played with his band to rock the Lodge 7 St. Patrick’s Day Party gave mem- bers attending the event on March 17 at the FOP Hall a feeling that struck a chord, as well as a chord.
“Every song was one of those that if I was out with my girl- friends, it would be like, “Oh, my God,’” exclaimed Cricket Oboikovitz, administrative assistant for Chicago Lodge 7, who helped Financial Secretary Mike Garza organize the event. “Ev- erything they played, people were singing along. And we didn’t stop dancing.”
Just by virtue of its name, “Buck ‘n The System,” the band made a statement that created a cathartic experience for those who attended. And so did the music for what was one of the Lodge’s most festive St. Paddy’s parties ever.
More than 100 people came and had what Garza called “good times and good corned beef.” The CPD Pipes and Drums also entertained to enhance the holiday feeling that seems to date back to the turn of the century, when many of those who em- igrated from Ireland to Chicago made law enforcement their chosen profession.
But the holiday has grown to be even more significant, which was heightened with every note from the bands.
“I think it’s one of those classic days people identify with and remember going out and hanging with their buddies,” Oboiko- vitz submitted. “And the FOP party was a great place to do that with your family and your law enforcement family.”
The way “Buck ‘n The System” played on seemed to indicate that the band took this party personally. And it was. DePeder and Lodge 7 First Vice President Pat Murray used to be partners in 001.
The St. Patrick’s Day revelry also reverberated from the FOP Hall. Officers from sheriff’s departments in Illinois and from
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The CPD Pipes and Drums band brought the traditional flavor to the St. Pat’s party.
departments in the Chicago suburbs joined the festivities. And Garza noted that a group of officers from New York City dropped by to share a beverage.
Garza also represented the Chicago FOP in the St. Patrick’s Day parade on the south side, while Lodge 7 President Kevin Graham marched in the north side parade.
“It was nice to see everybody come together, and everyone really had a good time,” Oboikovitz added.
As to whether the experience can be replicated, the Lodge might bring the band for another event soon. There’s no doubt that members will feel a need for “Buck ‘n The System.” d