Rick Jack

That’s the way Jim is. I and two others lived with him at the Seefeldt house while in Madison. When Jim went to the Colts, he completely changed the way the corps worked, the uniform change and quality of people around him in the right places. They had a robust board and people with open minds. Did the same thing at Star albeit with some big money from Bill Cook. But still the same recipe for success. Then Brass Theater with the Canadian Brass and the the incredible Blast! Success follows him. It’s in his DNA. As a Scout brother, a Seefeldt brother and a class person, I am immensely proud of this man that came from a mid level Iowa corps, to who he is today. James Mason, I salute you. ⚜️⚜️⚜️

Exactly. “You know who”couldn’t take the fact that James Mason was doing what he couldn’t do and fired James Mason. James had a five year plan and it was working. I, with three other Scouts lived with James at Jim and Jean Seefeldts. James put together a stellar group of instructors, something that the Scouts claim they have now, which is laughable. Even Boerma couldn’t fix this sinking ship. I for one believe the nail in the coffin was being inclusive to females. I’m not a sexist, but I believe The Madison Scouts in name should have been left as is and a new corps name introduced. Supposedly the influx of females was going to “save the day”. If I wanted to be in a corps with females in 1974 I would have joined the Blue Devils or SCV. I wanted to be a MADISON SCOUT because there was class and strength and power there. Bill Howard was the driving force as director and was highly respected in the drum corps world. Here’s something I have “heard” that should bring fear to every corps. I have “heard” that a certain someone wants to take the job of another Scout alum, Dan Acheson, whom I marched with, and become the head of DCI. Let that sink in. Heaven help us all. Once again, the young members are not to blame for the misguided, empty promises of those in charge. The Madison Scouts are now a feeder corps. And will be until massive changes are made. I’m not holding my breath. Is anyone?