For awhile this off-season the DCI broadcast for 2002 wasn't a sure thing. A change in personel at the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) has required DCI to sell the value of the program all over again. Further complicating matters is the fact that PBS has reported that drum corps fans apparently pledge well during the broadcast but traditionally haven't always followed through with the payments.

The good news is there will be a telecast, a source at PBS told Drum Corps World. However, the format, DCI Executive Director Dan Acheson said, is still up in the air.

One option is the traditional back-to-back show format. But both groups are also interested in a docu-drama formula that could involve clips of the top corps and more feature stories. One reason could be that the broadcast is designed in part for people who are not already big drum corps fans.

Another issue is whether the broadcast will be live. The PBS source said that decision has yet to be announced and may or may not be soon. Acheson declined further comment since negotiations are ongoing.