An artist's rendition of a rogue velociraptor encountered by Star United members at their January rehearsal.

Allegedly lured to the Carmel area in response to Star United's nine-count tone warm-up exercises (which closely resemble the dinosaur's mating call), Carmel officials urged citizens to remain indoors until order could be reestablished.

Thought to be long extinct, the velociraptors travel in groups and are most noted for creating mayhem. This is an attribute shared by the many performing ensembles that are members of Drum Corps Associates (DCA), the circuit through which Star United competes each Labor Day Weekend.

Initially fearful of being devoured by velociraptors, Star United members were relieved to learn the animals were drum corps fans. In fact, a pack of velociraptors quietly attended an ensemble rehearsal of Star United on the campus of Carmel High School. Many of the creatures seemed appreciative of the corps' opener, an original composition by Frank Sullivan entitled Deja View. A few even purchased souvenirs and accompanied members to lunch at 96th Street Steak Burgers before heading back to Chicago late Saturday afternoon.

It's important to note that Star United members avoided sudden movements during the visit for fear of being shredded by the raptors' sizeable talons.