Jubal Drum & Bugle Corps and Showband Marum from the Netherlands have decided not to travel to San Felice sul Panaro this year. Both corps had been invited for shows at the beginning of July, but due to the recent heavy earthquakes in the city and surrounding area, both clubs have decided not to make the trip.
The Italian San Felice sul Panaro and the surrounding area have been heavily hit by three powerful earthquakes in the past few weeks. Many buildings have collapsed or been severely damaged, including a number of buildings of great historical value. Several thousands of residents in and around the town are not living in their own homes, but are instead camping out in tents or containers.
The corps said in a statement that the risks for their members are too great. Moreover, they expect that the people in San Felice probably have more important things to deal with than having to house show corps. The boards of both Marum and Jubal have said that they hope to be able to make the trip next year.