Criticize Judging, Handling Of Money At Conn. Pre-Convention Legion Parley
By Tom Gilmartin

DCN July 11, 1962

Waterbury, Conn., June 21 - A preliminary contest meeting for the state American Legion convention was held here today with delegates from three senior corps and one junior corps in attendance. They were the Bridgeport P.A.L. Cadets, Bridgeport Troopers, Fletcher Raiders and the Charter Oak Sabers. According to one corps representative, the reason why many corps could not be present was because of a short advance notice. He said that three corps had only a 24 hours or less notice of the meeting.

The stormy session got under way with complaints being issued over the high prices for judges, the use of out-of-state judges, handling of money and the general running of the contest. A spokesman at the meeting noted that issues became so hot that American Legion Music Chairman, Bill Moran, stated at one point in the meeting that he would resign. Two of the corps present stressed the fact that they did not wish to compete under the present set-up of the state championship contest, but they also noted they would abide by the wishes of their sponsoring Legion Posts.

The meeting ended in a split of those present with one group stating that they would compete under the present rulings and the other announcing they would strive to improve the present set-up.

It was announced at this meeting that the contest will be held on July 14, in Waterbury, Conn., with a color guard contest in the afternoon and the drum corps competition in the evening. There will be junior and senior classes.