In certain moments, we cannot help but stop and reset our definitions, priorities, and maybe even life direction. Time stands still as our daily routine is shaken when we hear someone dear to us has passed away without warning. This recently happened to many Madison Scouts alumni who knew David Wayne Ramthun (1975-1982 alumnus). Anyone who met David would agree that he was a kind, collected, and witty person who led by example during his amazing eight-year marching career in the Madison Scouts. He preceded those years by marching for three years in the Madison Boy/Junior Scouts. Every one of his eleven years, David played baritone and played lead position for almost all those years. He had a sound unique to his voice as he sang through the horn. Interestingly, his tone was the same as his horn when you heard him sing. He truly was born to play that horn. (There were definitely an extra couple of O's in his smooth sound) During some of those down moments that every season has, David would remain calm and quiet. And then, when he spoke, it was thoughtful, meaningful, and direct to the point in a matter-of-fact voice, often with a hint of humor to ease the group's discomfort. People listened when he spoke. True leaders earn that respect over time.

HELP HIS FAMILY: Sometimes, when it rains, it pours! Long-time Madison Scouts alumnus David Ramthun suddenly passed away last February, leaving behind his wife and son. Of course, this sudden heartache has been a hardship for the entire family over the past few months. Saturday night, May 25, the family home was hit by one of the tornados ravaging the south, located near Claremore, OK. Fortunately, David's widowed wife, Roma, his son, David Robert, and their family pets survived the direct hit, but not their home and vehicles. They will need help with the clean-up and recovery. Read more at Go Fund Me and if you haven't already, please consider donating..

On a personal note, David stood up at our wedding over 30 years ago; he was Godfather to one of our sons, and even recently, David played Taps for my father's military funeral around Memorial Day in 2019. He played that trumpet just as well as he played his baritone, flawless and with feeling while standing near the firing squad in formation with our nation's best. Afterward, a few of the service men shook his hand and complimented him on his playing. I am indebted to my friend for those gifts to my family. The bonds we all develop and cement for life in the Madison Scouts are amazing. We are very lucky people! All of us.

As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving is in the air, and what better way to make a meaningful impact than by supporting the C.H. Beebe Scholarship Fund? This Giving Tuesday, we invite you to contribute to a cause that directly empowers young musicians pursuing their passion with the Madison Scouts.

The C.H. Beebe Scholarship Fund:
Named after the Madison Scouts' long time Executive Director, the scholarship fund aims to break down financial barriers for the talented individuals of the Madison Scouts. This fund provides essential scholarships through a needs-based application process, ensuring that no aspiring member is held back due to financial constraints.

Introduction
Greetings, young friend. As the final notes of the Drum Corps summer tour fade into memory, a new chapter unfolds before you—one that leads you back to the so-called "real world." Allow me, an older alumni who has walked this path before, to share insights, advice, and comfort as you transition from the intensity of the tour to the cadence of everyday life.

An Echo of Farewell
As the tour buses pull away, you'll feel mixed emotions that words can hardly capture. The camaraderie you've forged, the challenges you've conquered, and the shared purpose that fueled your journey will resonate within you. Please cherish these connections, for they will form the foundation of your lifelong memories.

As the 2023 Madison Scouts season winds down to its conclusion, we would like to take a moment to congratulate and welcome the newest class of alumni to MSAA. Welcome alumni age-out class of 2023: