Bandettes in danger
The very last all-girl corps, the Bandettes Drum & Bugle Corps is in danger of becoming inactive before the season starts. After a successful season in 2004, the Bandettes have run into problems with fundraising, and returning members.
Due to the location of the corps, and the continuing deterioration of Canadian and US corps, recruiting has also been increasingly difficult. Much funding was lost after Canadian laws changed last year, presenting new problems with bingo, one of the corps' main money raisers. Bingo revenues have been significantly down since then, and following an unsuccessful raffle fundraiser, the Bandettes have been driven further into financial problems.
Several members are also beginning new stages in life, whether school, careers, personal financial issues, or other reasons, many will not be returning this year. Currently, the Bandettes compete in division III of Drum Corps International's summer tour.
Unfortunately, the Bandettes will not be able to field a corps this season without the required 30 members needed to tour. After the last winter camp, the Bandettes stand at 21 members, and have openings in all sections of the corps, with the most needed in the hornline. (Source: drumcorpsplanet.com)
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