Drum Corps International has reached an agreement to bring its "Eastern Regional" back to J. Birney Crum Stadium in Allentown, PA in 2003.

"We're very excited to return to Allentown," Acheson said. "It's a place our fans call home. It serves DCI well, our fans well and certainly the (corps) members will get a sense of the history and tradition when they march into the stadium."

The competition will be held August 1 and 2, 2003 in the newly renovated stadium.

Allentown had hosted the show for more than 20 years, Acheson said. But last year the regional was moved to Philadelphia due to construction at J. Birney Crum.

"When we left (Allentown), we were frustrated," Acheson said. "The stadium was deteriorating, the lighting was horrible and the grass had to be four inches high for us to be allowed to march on it so it would stay green. But the crowds were never disappointing. So when they announced they were going to renovate, we were the first to cheer."

The upper deck has not yet been renovated and is not usable. Acheson said he isn't even sure if the upper deck will be available for 2004.

"The (Allentown) school board said they have no need for the upper deck except for the DCI and DCA (senior corps) shows. If it weren't for drum corps, that upper deck would be demolished by now. So they are listening. But they're saying, 'well, we need a field house before we need an upper deck,' and I certainly understand that."

Acheson said the first phase of the renovation is completed, at a price of $2 million. The school district is raising money for phase two. They have around one-fourth of the $1.2 million necessary for that. Phase three would include a new press box and stands, Acheson said.

Acheson said he's excited to bring the show back to a historical site and a very strong local fan base. The next challenge, he said, is to get more local youngsters interested in the show to renew DCI's fan base and participation levels.