Thank You, Blue Stars

Dear Blue Stars Family,

It’s with bittersweet emotions that I announce I’m formally leaving the Blue Stars after 20 years as the CEO and 45 years of involvement. The Blue Stars have been an integral part of my life from the age of 10, and are near and dear to my heart. 

During my time with the organization I’ve been a marching member, staff member, designer, volunteer, board member, and the CEO. I’ve been witness to, and part of an incredibly caring and dedicated group of people in every season and from every era that have worked tirelessly and selflessly to see the Blue Stars survive and grow and succeed. 

A goal of every CEO is to leave the organization in better shape than they found it. I think I can confidently say that is the case here. The Blue Stars are financially stable, well-run, and with a great reputation for the experience provided to our members.

Going forward, the organization will be led by Brad Harris. Brad has been an integral part of the organization since the 2011 season, and has been the Corps Director since 2022. I have the utmost respect for and confidence in Brad, and think he embodies the values and work ethic for which the Blue Stars are known.

I humbly ask that any assistance, encouragement, support, and grace you offered to me over my tenure here, be extended to Brad as well. He is the right person for the moment, but can’t do it alone. It takes a village and I hope my village is also his.

As for me, I’ll be able to cheer for and support the Blue Stars in a different way, along with dozens of other fantastic corps and the activity we love. A strong Blue Stars is good for the activity and a strong DCI is good for the Blue Stars. Let’s make it happen!

Finis Coronat Opus,
Bradley D. Furlano