Season's Greeting,The alumni and fan base of the Madison Scouts is the most geographically diverse it has ever been in its 70 year history. Because distance limits the opportunities to serve the corps directly, I am often asked, “How can I help?” This is the first of four communications over the upcoming season that is intended to help you understand the ways in which you can assist the Madison Scouts.

Step 1 – An End of Year Financial ContributionAs we approach the end of the year, a financial contribution to the Scouts is both beneficial to the corps operations and yourself. The Madison Scouts are a 501(c)(3) non-profit, meaning that any financial contribution made to the Scouts in 2007 can be deducted as charitable giving on your upcoming tax return.Make no mistake about it; the activity of drum corps is expensive. But every year the Scouts continue to use this educational vehicle to teach our members important musical, performance and life skills. Indeed, we also deliver an exciting product for our fans. This upcoming year we expect to reach out to more young adults through a variety of educational initiatives taught through the corps and its staff.But it does take money for us to keep this operation in full gear. The off-season brings cash flow challenges as performance fees and souvenir sales drop off considerably. The Scouts ran a balanced budget in 2007 and have implemented new financial controls to restore its history of financial strength.We are currently revamping the alumni and booster clubs and expect to announce a variety of 70th anniversary events planned for 2008. Until those plans are finalized, the corps is asking you for an end-of year financial donation at an amount you feel comfortable contributing.Donations can be made via check, credit card or even corporate stocks. The donation of corporate stock (as opposed to selling it and donating the money) is really quite clever in that you will avoid paying capital gains on that stock and the corps would not incur capital gains either. It’s like adding an additional 15% to your donation!You can donate directly by sending payment to or contacting us with your credit card information at:Madison Scouts Donation4606 Pflaum RoadMadison, WI 53718(608) 237-8774Donate OnlineAnd lastly, please help us move some of our remaining souvenirs stock by doing some of your Holiday shopping at our online store. If each reader of this email were to purchase one item at the store, it would generate a lot of cash flow for the corps. You can take advantage of a number of discounted items at:Shop OnlineA very happy holiday season to you and yours.May You Never Walk Alone…Jeff SpanosExecutive DirectorMadison Scouts Drum & Bugle Corps