The Colorado House of Representatives recently declared August 1 through August 7 "Drum Corps International Week" in Colorado. The resolution was sponsored by Rep. Betty Boyd (D-Lakewood).

Colorado Rep. Betty Boyd, Blue Knight member Nick Hinman and Blue Knights' executive director Mark Arnold.
Aaron Greco, a former Blue Knight who works in the Colorado House of Representatives' Democratic Caucus, wrote, "I can't tell you how cool it is for me to see these two worlds (politics and drum corps) meet. I'm sure most corps alums will attest that their experience with Blue Knights had a significant impact on their life. I'm no different, and even catch myself dreaming about the corps from time to time. Even after only one season, the hard work, dedication, pride and sense of fraternity stays with me. "Seeing the tribute on the floor this morning, as well as seeing Mr. Arnold brings back those crazy late night rehearsals, showering in cold water with 50 other irritated people, living in sleeping bag communes on gym floors, and getting to gawk at the gorgeous color guard members every day." Here is the full text of the resolution:
Shading denotes HOUSE amendment. Double underlining denotes SENATE amendment.
Wheras drum corps had their beginning after WWI, when veterans formed corps to perform in patriotic parades; Whereas, during the 1960s and 1970s, drum corps evolved from quasimilitary drill formations performing marching music to a full range of musical repertoires by composers as diverse as the Beatles and Tchaikovsky; Whereas 2004 is Drum Corps International's 32nd season of competition, providing great entertainment value to audiences across the United States; Whereas Drum Corps International provides the talented performers, all under the age of 22, the opportunity to devote their entire summer to one of the most positive, life-changing experiences in which a young person can participate; Whereas Drum Corps International finals can be considered the "Super Bowl" of pageantry arts; Whereas the 2004 Drum Corps International World Championships will take place in Denver, August 3-7, with competitions at INVESCO Field at Mile High and All-City Stadium; Whereas more than 25,000 out-of-area people will attend, the largest-expected convention attendance at an event in Denver this year; Whereas more than $12 million of economic impact is anticipated; now, therefore, be it resolved by the House of Representatives of the 64th general assembly of the State of Colorado, the Senate concurring herein:

That the General Assembly hereby declares the week of August 1-7, 2004, as Drum Corps International Week in the State of Colorado. Be it further resolved that copies of this joint resolution be sent to Drum Corps International, the Blue Knights Drum and Bugle Corps and the Denver Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau.