Fiddler Tommy Jackson 1926-1979

Long gone, he was key to the formation of some of today's standards in Bluegrass. You can hear him at MySpace.

Jim

Sam Bush weekly TV show

Sam Bush has a weekly series of both song-by-song descriptions and acoustic performances of the songs from his new record, Circles Around Me, as well as "behind-the-scenes" special features and interviews, including Sam's stories about meeting his heroes and contemporaries. Six episodes are currently running, with new episodes added every week.

IBMA Survey response

Nancy Cardwell of IBMA ask several associations to respond to a survey she is conducting. Below are our responses along with her questions. Joe Steiner added some additional thoughts at the end.

1. Name of association, year it was organized, current membership numbers, region you cover, your specific title in the association:

Northern Indiana Bluegrass Assoc., Inc formed in 1976 as a non-profit 501C4 . Current membership is 621. Although our focus is the upper Midwest we have members in seven states and Canada. I am president.

2. What is the mission statement, or main focus of your association?

The purpose of this organization shall be to educate the public to, and promote the awareness of, Bluegrass and Old Time Country Music.

3. What programs are you most proud of, that your association is involved with?

Through our Traditional American Music program we have exposed over 15,000 students to bluegrass music in the upper Midwest.

4. What are the greatest challenges facing your bluegrass association at present--and looking into the future?

Volunteer and officer succession is a major concern. The demographics of our audience is not getting any younger. Schools are reducing their expenditures due to the difficult economy.

5. What are the greatest opportunities you see for your association in the future?

Additional educational programs in area schools but this also represents our one of our challenges.

6. Is there anything you would like other membership constituencies in IBMA to know specifically about bluegrass associations? (broadcasters, artists, agents, merchandisers, labels, educators, media, etc.) Do you have any advice on how the industry can work together better with bluegrass associations, for everyone's benefit?

Unless we can broaden the audience for bluegrass we are all going after a decreasing revenue stream. Together we must find a solution to this problem

Jim Winger - President NIBGA

• As Jim said, the focus of our organization is to educate the public about, and promote awareness of Bluegrass and Old Time Country Music.  The main ways we do that now is through our festival (which includes music workshops), our club newsletter (which provides information on bluegrass events), and educational sponsorships such as scholarships and the TAM programs.  But, we are always open to, and seek out, new ideas for doing this, such as other types of concerts or more intensive educational workshops.

• That said, one of our challenges is that we want to provide a venue for performers, with fair compensation, but yet must maintain our reasonable gate prices to avoid alienating our audience and membership.  And, our audience changes over time, such that it is difficult to adequately evaluate the propensity for higher admission and acceptance of the wide variety of musical styles which can all be labelled as, or are close to, bluegrass.

Joe Steiner

NIBGA Board Meeting minutes for Nov. 15, 2009

The November 15, 2009 meeting of Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association was held at the South West Conservation Club, 5703 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne, IN.

Beginning at noon the Dec/Jan news letters were labeled and stamped for mailing. Thanks to the helpers.

ROLL CALL, PAST MINUTES, TREASURE REPORT

• The officers meeting was called to order at 1p  by President Jim Winger. Those present were V. Pres. Joe Steiner, secretary Barbara Collins, treasurer Linda Winger, board directors T.J. Collins, Joe Wyandt, Pam Keiper, and Paul Saurborn, Chris Cooperrider taxi Chair, out going V. Pres. Sandra Carnes. Other members also present for the meeting.
• Secretary's report for the Oct. meeting was sent to all officers on line 10/21/09. Paul Saurborn motioned to accept the Oct. minutes. Joe Wyandt second. All say yes. Motion carried.
• The Oct. Financial report was sent to all officers on line by Treasurer Linda Winger.  Paul Saurborn motioned to accept the report. Pam Keiper second. All say yes. Motion carried.

There were many other financial areas covered during the meeting. Gate was only off $125.00. Merchandise was off a small amount for Fall 09' Linda reports. She will be recheck the numbers by the next meeting.

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS

• Jim Winger reviewed attendance statistics for years 2000 to 2009. Determined 09' was successful. Not any one thing contributed to the success. It is all things combined. There was discussion on festival electric use, camping and other subjects that come into play.
• Jim Winger had e-mailed all officers a report of www.BluegrassUSA.net  web hits for a 30 day period. The hits come not only from other states but from other countries.

OLD BUSINESS

• $80.00 connect/disconnect fee for 50 amp plug ins. Jim will ask for the cable before the next festival. One of our officers will store, attach and un-attach the cable for each festival use.
• Port-a-jons: Used 7 for F09. (6 regular, one handicap), T.J. will ask Terry Parish of Taylor Rental how heavly used the jons were last fall to determine what the needs might be for 2010 season.
• Golf Carts: Discussion on how many needed for S10 and for whom. Those getting carts are: Jan Meade, Joe Steiner, Jim Winger, Paul Sauborn, Joe Wyandt, TJ Collins, Al Ellis, Leslie Ellis, Jeanette Young, Cheri Franz, Patti Page, Dave Smith, Linda Winger, security and two 4 seat taxis. Joe Wyandt motioned to rent fourteen (14) 2-seaters and two taxis. Joe Steiner second. All say yes. Motion carried.
• Chris Cooperrider will decide and report later on how she wants to handle the TAXI schedule at the festivals.  tabled
• 501C3 verses 501C4 status tabled
• Should club dues be revised? Contributions to a 501C3 can be effected by the number of members. tabled.
• Discuss how many food vendors should we allow for the festivals. tabled until Jeanette is present.
• Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association is considering becoming a International Bluegrass Music Association sponsor during the 2010 World of Bluegrass convention in Nashville, Tennessee. Joe Steiner has checked into the cost. (Consider there could be cost increase by next year.) Many possibilities were reviewed. We could be a IBMA sponsor instead of hosting a showcase room in the basement of the Convention Center. Joe will continue checking the possibilities and he would like to re-address this in January 2010.

NEW BUSINESS

• Pres. Jim Winger presented a report on the Kruse International problems. Consideration: Will it have a impact on our festival attendance?
• Jim Winger will begin procedures for the new contract between the Noble County Fair board and Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association for 2011-2015. The present 5 year contract will expire at the end of 2010. Consideration: Any possible date changes for early arrival. Possibilities of any limitations of buildings used.
• Pres. Jim Winger asked Noble County Fair board Pres. Don Moore if he would check while he is in Indianapolis at the State Fair board meeting in Nov., to see if there can be any exceptions for sleeping in the Fair grounds barns. Don agreed to look into it and report back.
• Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association dues are $5.00 for single membership and $7.00 for family membership from Nov. 09 to April 30, 2010. These discount prices will bring you the newsletter for December/January, February, March, & April. Dues will go back to regular prices on May 1, 2010.
• Joe Steiner passed out to each officer a updated list of bands hired, and others being considered. Joe is working hard to hire the line up for the 2010 festival shows. It takes a 'LOT' of work to stay within a budget and contract good entertainment. He is always working to get the bands you will enjoy.
• Jim Winger asked Joe Steiner to write a article for the next newsletter, about a upcoming 2010 band that will be at the NIBGA festival.
• There was discussion on new ways to interest new people to attend NIBGA festivals and how to keep the faithful attendees happy to return.
• Chris Cooperrider is asking if there are ways of expanding workshops at the festivals. table for Jan.
• Paperwork to take Sandra Carnes off the Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association accounts and put Joe Steiner on will be done this week.

• Paul Saurborn motioned to adjourn at 3:05 p.m.. Pam Keiper second.

The next meeting of Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association will be held January 17, 2010.
Again at the South West Conservation Club, 5703 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne, IN
The SWCC Phone number is 260-747-4677

RV production looking better

On Nov. 17, 2009, the Wall Street Journal published an article about the recovering RV industry, especially Thor. This could be very positive news for our festivals and the bluegrass industry in general. What do you think?

Gilber & Co. date change for gig: 11/27/09 not 11/28/09

The corrected date is Friday 11/27 not Saturday 11/28.

11/27 Gilbert & Co., 3 Rivers Food Co-op, 1612 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46808 260-424-8812 7-9p

NIBGA Board Meeting agenda November 15, 2009

Location: Southwest Conservation Club - Fort Wayne, IN

• Call to order; roll call; agenda changes?
• Minutes of the last meeting e-mailed: no meetings since last festival; minutes posted
• Treasurer reports:
• October reports, e-mailed — Linda W.
• F09 festival final, e-mailed — Linda W.
• Year to year report, e-mailed - Jim W What should we plan for 2010 attendance? Income?
• Information items:
  
  
  • Statistics on web page -- e-mailed
  
  
  
• Old Business
  
  
  • $80 fee to connect and disconnect the 50 amp plug ins behind the bleachers at the Noble Co. fairgrounds. Jim will check on it and report back.
    
  • Port-a-jons - Review use and requirements for 2010
    
  • Golf carts - Review use and requirements for 2010
    
  • Golf cart taxis - review procedures, new plans for 2010? Call a ride - use a cell phone number, not Linda. Put in publicity material, use different channel for taxi's - Chris C. Manager;
    
  • 501c3 versus 501c4 status
    
    
    • Should dues be revised?
    
    
  • Discuss how many food vendors should we allow for the festivals. consider space and no duplicates of vendors.
    
  • NIBGA as a International Bluegrass Music Association sponsor for the 2010 World Convention in Nashville. Joe S.
  
  
  
• New Business:
  
  
  • Kruse Auction financial troubles - e-mailed
    
  • Don Moore - 2011-2015 contract
    
  • Don Moore - exception for sleeping in barns
    
  • Dues renewal from now until May 2010
    
  • Update on bands hired, being considered - Joe S
  
  
  
• Approval of expenses
• Motion to adjourn
• Miscellaneous:

Next board meeting, Sunday January 17, 2010

Need a picture of the board for web publication

Monthly Jam & Board meeting Nov. 15, 2009 - free

The next meeting/jam is this Sunday from noon until 6p. The Fort Wayne paper said that there is a $5 charge but the event is free.

2009 20th Annual Bluegrass Music Awards Show

Cybergrass has the web cast audio of the 2009 IBMA show. View the detail of the IBMA Awards show.

George Koserowski's Photo - IBMA 09 NASHVILLE

Hosted by Kathy Mattea & Hot Rize, Recorded Live October 1, 2009, The Ryman Auditorium, Nashville, TN, USA

 

Breakfast at next jam Nov. 15

The Southwest Conservation Club, 5703 Bluffton Road, Ft. Wayne, IN 46809 will be serving a full breakfast from 8:30a until 11:30a at our next meeting. They will have a variety of breakfast foods including biscuits and sausage gravy, made to order omelets and much more. Choose your own items ranging in price from $.50 to $3 depending on your liking.

They will have fresh coffee and orange juice available.

Lunch menu starts at 11:30a until close with sandwiches and other goodies.

Bring your appetite to the next meeting on Sunday November 15.  The newsletters will arrive at noon so be there to help out. The jamming starts after the newsletter are ready for mailing around 1p.

501C3 for NIBGA?

There are several advantages to being a C3. NIBGA is currently a C4. Does anyone know how to convert?

NIBGA Board minutes Oct. 18, 2009

The Oct. 18, 2009 meeting of Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association was held at Southwest Conservation Club, 5703 Bluffton Road, Ft. Wayne, IN 46809 260-747-4677

The November newsletters were addressed and stamped for mailing.

The board meeting was called to order at 1:00 P.M. by President Jim Winger. Other officers present were Secretary Barbara Collins, Treasurer Linda Winger, Board officers T.J. Collins, Joe Wyandt, & Paul Saurborn. vice-president Sandy Carnes was present via phone. Board officer Pam Keiper was absent due to a family event.
Also present was Band Chairman Joe Steiner, and Chris Cooperrider taxi chair.

Secretary Minutes: The August minutes are posted on the NIBGA blog.
Paul Saurborn motioned to accept the minutes. T.J. Collins second. All approve. Motion carried
.
Treasurer Report: Treasurer Linda Winger gave Aug. 09, Sept. 09 financial reports to all officers. Reports were reviewed. Linda said she would be sending the financial statements out on the computers to officers from now on to save paper and to allow review of the reports prior to the next board meeting.
Paul Saurborn motioned to accept the financial reports. Joe Wyandt second. All say yes. Motion carried.

TABLED ITEM: Pres. Jim W. reports there could be a $80.00 fee to connect and disconnect the 50 amp plug ins behind the bleachers at the Noble Co. fairgrounds. Jim will check on it and report back.

Pres. Jim W. – reviewed with the board the NIBGA festival history from May 2000 to Sept. 2009.

Linda W. reports that merchandise totals were over $100.00 inventory versus sales. After discussion with Tonia Bacon, merchandise chair, and the difference was not resolved.

NIBGA received a bad check at the festival for $50. It was returned with a $25 bank fee. After discussion on check cashing policy there will be no change in policy. Linda has written the person requesting reimbursement.
 
OLD BUSINESS:
The new 'Stage on Wheels' storage is about one mile from the Noble Co. Fairgrounds. Paul Saurborn was there and said the place is very nice. Dry and safe.

Cheri Frantz confirmed at festival that she will return to take care of the Rest Room cleaning during the festivals for 2010 at the same price.

NEW BUSINESS:
Vice President Sandy Carnes is stepping down as V.P. of NIBGA. Sandy has been a loyal and important officer in our club for the past consecutive 10 years as V.P. In the 80's she was a board officer for two years. Thanks Sandy for all your hard work. She will not be running for office this year.

Joe Wyandt purposed that any officer leaving office after 10 years will receive a Life Time Pass for all the NIBGA Festivals. Paul Saurborn second. All say yes. Motion carried.

Sandy Carnes nominated Joe Steiner for office of Vice-president for the year of 2009/2010.
Joe Steiner accepted.

Sandra Carnes has submitted her resignation as Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association Vice-president. Joe Steiner has been nominated and approved as Vice-president for 2009/2010. Joe Steiner has access to all Financial Accounts and Sandra Carnes is to be removed.  The above is motioned by Paul Saurborn. T.J. Collins second. All say yes. Motion Carried.

Jeanette Young has offered to be Vendor Chair Person. She will be able to take that week off from her job. Sandy Carnes agrees to advise Jeanette. Sandra will pass all information she has to Jeanette Young.

A letter from Indiana Pork Producers is thanking Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association for the opportunity to open their food stand during the festival at Noble Co. Fairgrounds in Sept. 2009.
TABLED ITEM: Discuss how many food vendors should we allow for the festivals. consideration: Space and no duplicates of vendors.

November will be the final on board changes for the 2009/2010 election. Pres. Jim Winger says, "All officers are as is for 2009/2010 with Joe Steiner as the new VP."

Band Chairman Joe Steiner gave each officer a list of bands booked, strong possibility, no longer under consideration, others. There was a lengthy discussion on bands. It was agreed to not go too far out with nontraditional bands. Twelve (12) bands are needed for each festival.
Joe Wyandt motioned a budget of $xxx per festival for 2010. Paul Saurborn second. All say yes. Motion carried.
Linda says, "When Joe Steiner sends confirming notes to bands, attach a W9 to be returned before festival, for the IRS use."
TABLED ITEMS: 1. Port-a-jons 2. Golf Carts 3. Review procedures for Golf Cart Taxies. 4. Discuss Dues.

President Jim Winger recommends the club change from a C4 to C3. Jim explained the difference and benefits. As a C3 Not for profit club we could accept tax deductible donations to support TAM, scholarships, and club sponsored events 'As a Social Organization for the Betterment of the World'. Jim said he would research and report back to the club at the February meeting. Paul Saurborn makes a motion to give Jim Winger permission to research possible changes. T.J. Collins second. All agree. Motion carried.

Joe Steiner will investigate the possibility of Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association being a International Bluegrass Music Association sponsor for the 2010 World Convention in Nashville.

Approval of Expenses: Phone bills and IBMA Convention expenses.

Joe Wyandt motioned to adjourn at 2:45 P.M. Paul Saurborn second. All say yes. Meeting Adjourned.

The next meeting of Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association will be November 15, 2009 at the Southwest Conservation Club, 5703 Bluffton Road, Ft. Wayne, IN 46809. 12 noon to 6:00 P.M.
Barb Collins - Secretary

Toy Hearts perform at Avilla nursing home

While they were at the Kendallville Tri-State festival this Labor Day, the Toy Hearts went to the Provena Sacred Heart Home in Avillia, IN for a 45 minute performance. The residents loved them. This short YouTube video gives you a flavor of their show.

NIBGA is dedicated to providing quality entertainment to those who cannot attend Kendallville.

First winter NIBGA jam, Sun Oct. 18 noon 'till 6p

Our meeting conflicts with the memorial being held for Jim Cornell at Meta park this Sunday. We considered canceling our meeting to be their but decided that some folks would not know Jim and would want to be at the regular jam.

Hope you will be at one or the other.

Dr. Ralph Stanley on NPR Oct. 14, 2009 @ 11a

You can listen to Ralph discussing his new book, Man of Constant Sorrow on the Diane Rehm show.

Grammy-award-winning banjo player and singer Ralph Stanley on the history and future of the remarkable music he brought from his home in the mountains of southwest Virginia to the world.

Dr. Ralph Stanley, musician; awarded the National Medal of Arts in 2006; awarded a Grammy in 2002 for his song Oh Death, featured on the soundtrack for O Brother, Where Art Thou?

NIBGA web site being revised

A suggestion from a seminar at the IBMA World of Bluegrass was to revise the NIBGA web site. The upcoming events page was organized by date for most events and the reoccurring club events were at the end of the list.

A brief review of the site by professional web developers suggested that all events including clubs should be in one place. Events should be listed by state then in date sequence. Yesterday, that was done. Give some feed back pro or con on the new look of the NIBGA events page.

Bobby Davis leaving VS

Oh my! I feel bad now that I teased him earlier in the week about everyone asking who Valerie's bass player was.

"Bobby who?"

I hope things go well for him with a new band.

That's a good picture of Bobby (blog below). Here is one taken recently at the Awards Show in Nashville 2009.

Bobby Davis leaving Valerie Smith

Bobby announced that he is leaving Valerie Smith and Liberty Pike for other opportunities after last weeks IBMA conference. We wish him the best. He is a great bass player and a good bluegrass friend.

For the love of music

From a comment posted about a recent blog about our long, last day at IBMA -
".....sounds like a labor of love."

That reminded me of comments that I heard during the week. During the World of Bluegrass trade conference, I was a presenter in a seminar on how to recruit, train, and retain volunteers for festivals. The other two presenters represented two BIG festivals, both of which I believe are for-profit festivals. NIBGA is a non-profit.

After the session, and for the rest of the week, many, many people came up to me and commented about how much they liked our system of volunteers. They commented that I was the only one on the panel that seemed enthusiastic about the music and festival, and that the others treated it as just another business venture. Their "volunteers" do it because of the perks. For some, that is the only way they could possibly afford to attend the festival. No matter how you look at it, they are volunteering their time, in exchange for a ticket, so that someone else can make a profit.

Everyone from the for-profit festivals were flabbergasted that we could put on a festival of such high caliber 100% by volunteers. Every person there, from the president of the association to the person that fixes the electric circuits, is a volunteer. Oh wait....the lady that cleans the toilets gets paid a small stipend - but would YOU volunteer to clean those toilets??!?! Didn't think so.

Our volunteers do it as a labor of love....for the love of the music. They know that Tri-State is run "by the people, for the people" (hmmmmm....that phrase sounds familiar). If we didn't have so many dedicated, conscientious, enthusiastic volunteers, we couldn't have a $25/weekend ticket price that is affordable to all. It all boils down to this....without our volunteers, we wouldn't have a festival! My hat is off to all of you!

Whew...made it home

We finally hit Findlay about 4:30 a.m. Saturday morning. Didn't grab a thing out of the van except our cellphones...stumbled into the house and into bed. Had to go out the next day (??? Ok...same day....just later) and get my toothbrush, etc., out of the van so I could get dressed.

Yesterday, after we got the van packed in Nashville, we spent the next couple hours getting ready for the Bluegrass in the Schools program that Joe was helping with. Thank goodness Janet Deering (of Deering banjos) came by and helped tune all the banjos. He taught 50 people (+/-) how to play banjo in 45 minutes. They were doing a good job, too! I was impressed that they were all playing and singing songs using 2 or 3 chords and ROLL PATTERNS! Nancy commented that it was the largest class in their history. It was fun.....but I was WAY ready to get out of town.

Once we got all the banjos packed back into the van, we walked over to our favorite restaurant in town, Demos, and had lunch/supper. Back on the road by 8:30ish, I think. LONG TRIP.

Got the van unloaded about noonish....now we're repacking for a quick overnight trip to the Cleveland area. Who planned this agenda?!?!?!?

Tired

It's only 1:11 a.m., but GOSH, am I tired!!!! I think I'm going to go to bed soon.....that will be about 3 hours earlier than normal. Before the awards show, Joe and I, Jim and Linda, and Marianne and Dave attended the pre-awards cocktail party. We got the "invite" because of our nomination for bluegrass event of the year. It was fun to have an excuse to dress up...most of the women were in glamous dresses and the men were all in suits. A sea of black and sequins.

The club was given two complimentary award tickets, and since the others had all been there several times, Joe and I went. Since I'm too new to bluegrass, I didn't understand a lot of the humor tonight. Waldo Otto, Slade, Red Knuckles, and Wendell Mercantile made guest appearances. I guess they have something to do with Hot Rize. Don't ask me.... I don't know.
The best part of the show for me was watching the Dilliards. (Actually, I didn't realize they were even still alive). They were inducted into the hall of fame. The funniest part was when one of them said that they were honored to be inducted....while they were still alive. They said they had discussed it and decided that someone would have to die before anyone was inducted...and no one wanted to volunteer.

Ok....going to bed now!!!!!

Congratulations Grey Fox

Oct. 1
Grey Fox was selected as the 2008 Bluegrass Event of the Year at the IBMA awards luncheon.

NIBGA showcase room Weds. late night

Sept. 30
We had very good crowds for most of the shows. Special Consensus closed the evening at 1:30a and almost packed the house. He has a new guitar player Ryan Roberts replacing Justin Carbone. He was very good and fit right in. Justin came in just to put a little pressure on the new guy but he did very well. Ashby Frank couldn't make it so Greg had a substitute mandolin player. You would never know he wasn't in the band for years.

When introductions were made, Ryan joked that he had been with the band for 5 days but he was no longer the new kid since the mandolin player was new.

We saw two bands that go onto the 2010 short list. Joe Steiners list is getting very long with top talent. Now the job is to put together a budget and select a balance of bands for the 2010 festivals.

With the help of all six of us, the showcase room was tore down in a record 40 minutes. Back in the room we unwound for an hour and hit the sack around 4:20a. We were up 4 hours later and are now getting ready to go to the awards luncheon where hopefully NIBGA will get the Event of the Year award.

Watch a YouTube video of the official IBMA showcase bands.

IBMA gig fair Weds. Sept. 30

Joe Steiner, Linda Winger and myself participated in the IBMA gig fair from 1:15p to 3:30p. Each band gets 7 minutes to pitch themselves. NIBGA and the bands exchange one sheets which has brief information about each other.

As to be expected some were not what would fit at Kendallville but we did find several bands that Joe will be in contact with to explore 2010 festivals.

Sadly, I found two folks during this event who did not Jim Cornell died last week, Andrea Roberts and Frank Ray. Both knew Jim. Andrea has known Jim since the 1970s and  Frank said he had talked with Jim earlier this month.

I need to contact IBMA and have them put a note in their newsletter.

NIBGA get acquainted at IBMA Sept. 29

Bull Harmon and Bullseye does a couple of quick numbers in the NIBGA suite on Tuesday evening. Great way to start the NIBGA showcase suite.

Late night Monday at IBMA

We didn't get to bed until about 2:45a. Sat up and talked about Chris Cooperriders upcoming presentation in the Volunteer seminar to be held on Tuesday morning.

Linda and I were awakened with a 7a (8a Indiana) phone call from an event producer member wanting information on three bands. It was hard to go back to sleep so we groggily got up and got ready to go.

Jim attended the Video on the web 101 seminar and Linda was at the Recruiting Volunteer seminar.

Chris did great Linda said. The audience was amazed that a festival could be run on a $25 weekend ticket with true volunteers. The two other panelists had over 500 paid volunteers. (tickets, real cash, food, etc.)

Jim spoke with a lawyer about changing from a 501C4 to a 501C3 organization. It looks like it is doable but will take time this winter to make it happen.

We will be moving the sound equipment down to the NIBGA showcase room at 2:15a. Time for a little inter-eye inspection.

NIBGA Contingent arrives at IBMA

Six of us arrived at the Renaissance Marriott hotel and Nashville, TN Convention center for the IBMA conference today. Our rooms were ready. We were able to unload the Excursion into our rooms. It took 3 bell carts! Joe and Chris had the sound and 15 banjos for a class they were teaching. It took 4 bell carts for them.

After settling in, we registered for the conference and attend seminars. The first was The State of the Industry, a panel led discussion. Key points were that artist need more money to travel and fans need professional entertainment.

A quick lunch and off to more seminars. We split up and attended three different sessions, each very informative.

At 3p we browsed the exhibit area before heading back to our rooms for a little inter-eye inspection before the key note speaker at dinner tonight. After dinner are official IBMA showcases until 11p followed by late night showcases that conclude around 2a.

Jim Cornell dies

Jim passed away around 4:30a September 24. The funeral will be private with a life celebration to be announced.

Jim was a founding member of NIBGA and served on the first board of directors in 1976. He has been active in the club every since.

Little Nashville, IN Opry Destroyed by Fire

Investigators in Nashville, Ind., are still trying to determine the cause of a weekend fire that destroyed the Little Nashville Opry, a popular concert venue for country music artists since 1975.

No one was injured in the blaze that broke out late Saturday (Sept. 19) following a concert. The Little Nashville Opry is not affiliated with the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tenn., although the concert hall has presented a long list of country performers, including Johnny Cash and George Strait. The venue's schedule included upcoming shows by George Jones, Bobby Bare, Loretta Lynn, Asleep at the Wheel, Sawyer Brown and Bucky Covington.

According to the Brown County Convention and Visitor's Bureau, the Little Nashville Opry has canceled all remaining shows for the season. The recent fire has totally destroyed the historic building including instruments, equipment and memorabilia. The Visitor's Bureau noted that several offers were made from venues throughout Brown County, offering to work with the Opry to keep the scheduled performances, but the enormity of the problem is too massive to deal with at this time.

The Opry is requesting that all ticket holders who are requesting a refund follow these procedures:

• If you have purchased tickets through Ticketmaster, contact Ticketmaster directly for a refund.
• If you have purchased tickets through the Opry box office, please mail your tickets and/or verification of your ticket purchase along with your contact information and a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: The Little Nashville Opry, PO Box B, Nashville, IN 47448
  

The Visitor's Bureau says that all records, including ticket purchases were destroyed in the fire. Those awaiting refunds should allow at least a 60 days to receive their money back.

More pictures and story

New Kentucky Colonel

Hey Jim and Linda,

I thought I would let you all know I am now an official Kentucky Colonel. Thanks for all the support and I'm blessed enough to accomplish another one of my goals in life. Terry Thacker

Taxi drivers at the Labor Day festival

A HUGE heart-felt “thank you” to all of the taxi drivers for the Labor Day Tri-State Festival!!! We ran two taxis from the stage to the parking lot and/or campgrounds the entire time bands were on stage. Our volunteer numbers more than doubled from last year – proving how much FUN it is to drive the taxi. Where else can you wear a little white vest, carry a radio, and zip around on four wheels, while listening to the best bluegrass in the Midwest??

Every volunteer told me that their passengers were very appreciative of the taxi service, and plans are already underway to improve that service for next year. In addition to the volunteers that drove the “official” taxies, I’d like to thank all of the board members who used their golf carts to shuttle people around. They were kept very busy, too!!

The taxis ran for 35 two-hour shifts. Below are the volunteers (with the number of shifts in parenthesis if they ran more than one). Thank you so much for your time! I hope to see you again in the spring!

(names omitted)

Chris Cooperrider - taxi coordinator

Thanks from a gate captain

I would like to thank all of the wonderful people who gave their time on the gate at the Labor Day festival. You were an outstanding group of volunteers!

We were well manned for almost every shift and that has been a rarity for the last couple of festivals, I even got a chance to listen to several of the bands, what a treat.

So from all of us we again thank all the veteran and the new volunteers.

Pam Keiper- Gate Captain

Owensboro Executive Inn to be torn down

Fans and friends of the former Executive Inn Hotel will have their chance to take home a piece of the 'Big E' when the hotel's doors open to the public one last time during a Public Liquidation Sale opening Thursday, June 18, 2009 at 10:00 am.

The City of Owensboro has contracted with National Content Liquidators, Inc. (NCL) of Springboro, OH, leading experts in hotel liquidation management, to divest the property of all saleable assets to make way for demolition of the property for future redevelopment.

Thanks to the gate workers at the festival

Wow !!! What a turn out for the festival. Sure couldn't complain about the weather. I think everyone's stars were in line , if their is such a thing.
The woolly worms tell me that next spring will be the same Hum mm...Sometimes I wonder if there all that trust worthy.

But one thing I know for sure...the volunteers for the gate did their part. The numbers were way up from spring { 32 total } this time 54 total volunteers and for this I would like to thank the following wonderful people who make it a pleasure to work the gate: (names deleted)

Again Thanking One & All,

Paul Saurborn for the gate captains.

Fan note about Labor Day festival

fWOW! What a lineup! There was not a bad group there. Fantastic job Joe (Steiner) and Christine (Cooperrider)! I can't decide who my favorite was but my favorite performace was when the Toy Hearts and Davidson Brothers where on stage together. Awesome does not begin to describe it!

I also liked Avery Trace and Cumberland Gap Connection. But as I said ALL was outstanding!
Thanks so much to everyone who worked so hard to have such a wonderful event!

Sincerely,
Bob Watkins
Bellefontaine, Ohio

Appalachian Grass was at Tri-State

Howdy!

This note is coming to you via the courtesy wireless network at the NIBGA Festival in Kendallville, IN. Appalachian Grass played Thursday and Friday then Vernon and I stayed here with our vending booth and did lots of jamming and visiting. Beyoootiful weather all weekend!!!

Next weekend on Thursday and Friday, Sept 10 and 11, Appalachian Grass is playing at Bearcreek Farms' Bluegrass Weekend. Our shows on Thursday are 11:00a to and 5:30pm. Also featured on Thursday is the Robinson Family.
Friday we play at noon and 6:00pm; James Monroe and the McCormick Brothers will also be picking. Both of our shows are in the outdoor tent so you might need lawn chairs. Friday evening, Vernon and I will be Jamming with all comers from 9pm till 11 in Club Bearcreek, so bring your axe!
Saturday's featured performer is Bobby Osborne and Rocky Top Express. We can't be there that day, it will be a good show.

Saturday, Sept 12 takes us to Secrest Auditorium in Zanesville, OH for the FOP benefit show. Showtime is 6pm and featured bands are Appalachian Grass, Muleskinner, and Northwest Territory.

Come join us at one gig or all!

Thanks.



Kitty McIntyre
20322 US 33
Wapakoneta, OH 45895
fotmc@iglou.com www.fotmc.com
419-568-1220 513-607-1874

NIBGA Board Minutes Aug. 30, 2009

2:09 p.m., Sunday, August 30, 2009 at Noble County Fairgrounds
Officers present: Jim Winger, Linda Winger, Paul Saurborn, Joe Wyandt, Pam Keiper, Sandy Carnes, absent: TJ and Barb Collins due to illness.

Minutes read and approved Paul motioned, Sandy 2nd, carried

Linda Winger gave the treasurer’s report

Linda reminded that while our treasurer’s report isn’t secret or hidden, to please be discreet about them, especially band payments.

Treasurer’s Report - Joe W motioned, Paul 2nd, carried

Jim explained how to read the spring financial report. A lot of the expenses for the year are front loaded and the fall should show a higher profit because many of the expenses are charged against the spring festival.

Linda explained how she figures ticket counts. Discussion about the lost package of tickets (which were later found).

Thank you to Joe for keeping band budget down this spring.

Spring 09 was 3rd best festival income wise. 12% gross (this year’s gross) is approximately mid range for profit. Jim needs to send festival prior years summary to board. Was not in board packet.

Joe Wyandt is scheduled to handle the next newsletter mailing.

Fairgrounds to control restroom cleaning through Wednesday. Cheri will handle it after that.

Fire extinguishers are needed in the merchants building. - Al E will do

Fire chief visited on Wednesday and Friday and laid down the law. Said we are in violation of fire code for state of Indiana. No tents in buildings, nothing blocking buildings. Slips will be handed out at the gate stating this fact. People can be ticketed for violating fire laws and camping in the buildings, etc.

Are we liable for people not paying attention? Jeanette says that if someone breaks a law in Allen County, the property owner is responsible. Jim will seek clarification on who is responsible. Stressed that we need to make people aware of the fire laws. (Later, Jim found out that if we see something, we should mention it to the offending party, but if they refuse to move, the fire marshal will handle it.) Also need to make sure people aren’t parking on roads and driveways.

Stage storage: Paul talked about where it will be parked. ¾ of a mile from here in a building that is dry and has sprinklers. $40 a month.

Gate captain report: No volunteers for Monday or Tuesday. Gate captains will handle the gates themselves. 33% off of volunteers from last year. We are losing people that normally volunteer a lot.

When money is picked up at the gate, please jot the time on it. Will make it easier for Linda to figure out.

Barb and TJ: They were told they didn’t need to work this year, that we have things covered. TJ was not sleeping well, so they went home, but are expected back later.

Merchandise: Tonia did inventory yesterday. Polos weren’t ordered this year, they don’t sell well. Please bring checkbook when you come, no IOUs.

Stage tents will be set up Thursday. 6 or 7 tables needed for bands. Tonia will start setting things up during the day – 4:30 ish. Close merchandise area before last band starts. 8 or 9:00. By dusk.

Announcers: make sure that they announce times of closing of Merchandise table. Show off shirts, etc.

Grounds: Joe Wyant. One electric outlet replacement. Things working well so far.

Vendors. Jeanette Young will shadow Sandy. Pork Producers will be open. Not as many vendors as before. No one has been calling. Villa Lions Club open on Wednesday. Bake sale, Ice cream, Russell and Rhonda, Moose (on Thursday), Kettle Korn vendors. No music vendors except Appalachian Grass.

Ice refrigerator in merchants building: $2 for small, $5 for large. We sell it until the Lions get here.

Kids corner: Speed stacking. Tonia’s girls will help. T-shirts, beading, necklaces, bookmarks, teabag folding, and chess and checkers. Will need 12 tables. Had 50 kids last time. Al and someone will move the tables on Friday morning.

Announcers to mention kids corner. Bring a parent to help. Kids corner – 10:00-11:30.

Sandy Tedford will need to let someone know how many tables and chairs she needs for the crafts.

Crafts: Linda showed the card stitching projects. Craft time (1:00-3:00) conflicts with Winettes 2:00 party on Friday. White elephant bingo at 3:30-5:00.

Garage sale/flea market. People need to remember to stop their “camper” sales by noon on Friday. Sandy will cruise the grounds and make sure people have closed shop. Positive feedback on the garage sales.

Golf cart drivers. Chris will need more volunteers this year. Must be licensed driver, 21 years old, and have insurance. Need to make sure they aren’t taking their family and friends for rides. Chris will have sign-up sheets on Wednesday.

Jim passed out article about golf carts and why we won’t have them. Insurance is expensive and hard to find.

H1N1 virus. Keep your hands clean.

NIBGA credit card was canceled. Non-profit has to jump though hoops to get a card. Need a copy of the minutes that show that President is approved to get a credit card.
Motion:
"Jim and Linda Winger have approval of the board to acquire credit cards for business use and purchase of materials necessary to conduct the affairs of the NIBGA board"

Paul motioned, Sandy seconded. Motion carried by board of directors.

Donnie Voiles and Chris Vogie will be Friday/Saturday MCs Sunday – Terry Thacker or Bill Merrill will be MC.
Showcase bands:
By Chance: 6:20
Red River: 6:40

Toy Hearts going to nursing home on Friday at 2:00. Paul will drive. Chris going along to videotape.

Next board meeting on Thursday at 1:00 at Wingers camper.

Adjourned approximately 3:30 p.m. Paul motioned, Sandy 2nd. Motion carried

Kendallville News Sun article about festival

Follow this tiny URL link to the Kendallville News Sun article about the festival. Copy the link and paste it into your browser.

http://tiny.cc/QiXjN

Or click on the title to go to the story.

Toy Hearts to take Jett's Creek slots

Due to work restrictions, Jetts Creek will not be performing Saturday or Sunday at the festival. Thanks to Joe Stiener and Toy Hearts the schedule has been filled.

Toy Hearts were to play first set Thursday, Friday and supper break Saturday. They will now play in Jetts Creek slots.

They will still play the Avilla Sacred Hearts on Friday at 2p.

The adjusted schedule will be posted Monday on the bulletin board.

New rules for Labor Day festival

There are new fire lanes at 4H buildings that restrict parking and camping. Also the fire Marshall has informed the fair board that no vehicles or TENTS can be in any building. These will be marked.

Also, camping is restricted across from the log cabin in the area marked handicapped parking.

Please keep this in mind as you come to the festival.

Jett's Creek cannot make it Sept 5 & 6

We were informed today that because of work problems with two band members Jetts Creek cannot perform Labor Day weekend. Joe Steiner is pursing alternatives and we will post a new schedule shortly.

Scotty Smith and 23

Wed August 19 at 7p, Scotty Smith and 23 will be performing at the Park by the River in Niles, MI. Same location as the Niles bluegrass festival. Bring your own sit-upon. Free and open to the public.

Chere M.

Gilbert & Co. at Botanical Gardens

Friends and Neighbors ~
Gilbert & Company will be playing at the Fort Wayne, IN Botanical Gardens this Thursday Aug 20. At this point in time, Jim Cornell will be playing electric bass.
Come on out and hear some bluegrass music. Oh yeah,they have mighty purdy flowers there too!

Chere McKinley

Tri-State nominated for IBMA event of the year

WOW! I didn't even know we were being considered!

IBMA Nominees are:

BLUEGRASS EVENT OF THE YEAR

· Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival; Oak Hill, New York; July 2008

· 33rd Annual Tri-State Bluegrass Festival; Kendallville, Ind; May 2008

· 2008 World Cultural Fusion Festival; Kawaguchi City, Japan; July 2008

TJ Collins, updates via comments

Dad was able to walk many time's to the restroom yesterday (Wednesday Aug 12) with holding onto the IV stand (only thing on there is food for feeding tube) and a small amount of support from someone else.

He's bugging mom to take him home and said she could give him his medicine's. Wish this was possible but, not yet.

Today (Thursday Aug 13) Mom said Dad ate 2 cracker's, some applesauce and some water. He passed the swallow test so he may be getting some lunch today, it will probably be light stuff I'm sure.

He had a little bit of a rough night last night he told mom, said his head hurt ( not surprising with all he's been through). They gave him some vicodin and he's feeling better.

Each day is something new he's doing and it's so exciting to see the progress everyday.

daughter Barb Ortiz

Sophia featured in Flatpicking Guitar Mag

July saw volume 13, issue 5 of Flatpicking Guitar Magazine published with none other than The Toy Hearts’ Sophia Johnson featured on the front cover, interviewed in the magazine and transcribed on the CD.

The first female British bluegrass guitarist to be featured in the magazine, Sophia was delighted to be transcribed for such a prestigious magazine. “it’s been a lifelong ambition to be featured in FGM, I’ve subscribed to the magazine for years and it’s been kind of a bluegrass bible for me. To be featured alongside some of my guitar-playing heroes is such and honour”. Of the transcribed track, Fast Raging River, Sophia said “this is a really bluesy track, the transcription is of the intro and my solo. I was actually a little surprised when I got the transcription through - it looks far more complicated written down that it feels to play it!”

At Tri-State in Kendallville, IN The Toy Hearts from England will be playing the first set on Thursday Sept. 3 at 6:15p and Friday Sept. 4 at 6:00p. They will also play at 4:40-5:25p on Saturday Sept. 5. They will be at the Sacred Hearts nursing home in Avilla on Friday afternoon at 2p.

TJ Collins moved out of ICU to Rm 363

Hi all;

TJ was moved from ICU this evening (8/11) at 7:00PM. He made the transition well and slept through the short ride to a regular room. His BP was spiking for a couple of days but today was good. He began saying words yesterday we could understand. The first one being BARB. What a birthday gift. Later he asked “How are you?” I told him I was tired but fine. He said several other things. He was fidgety and couldn’t stay comfortable in bed. He kept dropping his legs over the side like he was getting up. I asked him where he was going and he said, “Home”.

Today the words increased and he said people’s names as they visited. Said many other words some not understandable but most sentences had a word or two which helped us understand what he was wanting to say. He was able to make me understand he wanted a Quilt. He was cold so after a sheet, warmed blanket and a heaver blanket he got content and went off to sleep. He is gaining strength in his hands and has a firm grip again. His legs are strong but not good control of the right one yet. His back seems very strong. He is still on the feeding tube, anti seizure medicine, BP med, and such. All goes through the Pick line or feeding tube. He says he is not in pain.

Long days and late evenings but wanted you all to know the Dr. says he will be fine. Thanks for your visits, cards and prayers.

Love to you all ~ Barb

(Visiting restrictions have been removed in his new room._

Jim Cornell suffering from cancer

Jim was Echo Valley's mandolin player and played bass with Gilbert & Co. He has been fighting cancer for some time.

Bobby Davis tells us that I would like to ask everyone to keep Jim Cornell in thoughts and prayers. In conversing with Chere McKinley today, it seems that Jim is continuing to go down hill. The cancer seems to be affecting his memory and motivation skills now. In the past month he's been having lots of trouble with his hands and not able to play music. This is very sad..

Please pray for Jim.

Bobby

Cards of encouragement can be sent to:
Jim Cornell
227 Cobblers Cove
Fort Wayne, Indiana 46825

NIBGA IBMA showcase bands announced

Chris Cooperrider has completed the lineups for the NIBGA showcase room at the International Bluegrass Music Association convention in Nashville, TN. The schedule is:

Tuesday September 29

• 11:30 Faces Made For Radio
• Midnight Silver Dagger
• 12:30 Toy Hearts
• 1:00 Farewell Drifters
• 1:30 Town Mountain

Wednesday September 30

• 11:30 Peach Mountain Boys
• Midnight The Hillbenders
• 12:30 New North String Band
• 1:00 Buddy Merriam & Back Roads
• 1:30 Special Consensus

NIBGA will be in Room 213/214 of the Nashville Convention Center , which is attached to the Renaissance Hotel. It is level 2 of the basement.

Gerald Evans

From the OKI newsletter:
Gerald Evans has been diagnosed with cancer. He has recently begun chemotherapy treatment but his cancer has already reached stage 4, where the disease has spread sidely through the body. Words of encouragement can be sent to:

Gerald Evans
HC 70
Box 767
Sandy Hook, KY 41171

Sunday Aug. 9 report on TJ

TJ had a smoother day yesterday and today. He seemed in and out all day but more alert. The nurse washed the matter out of his eyes and he opened them several times. They are very weak but just opening them like he did was a thrill to all witnessing it. He was sat up again this afternoon. He was able to sit on the side of the bed longer than yesterday. Propping himself up with just his left arm. Suddenly he decided to stand up and was able to raise himself up with his power. Daughter Barb and nurse grabbed him under the arms and he stood well which made all in the room cheer for him. And he knew what he was doing. Not able to stand alone but he sure put on a show. He does shake his head slowly for “No’ when necessary. Not doing yes yet. I rubbed the bottom of his feet which have always been so sensitive that he would kick you through the wall like a mule. Yesterday I didn’t get much reaction but today he jerked back a bit. The right hand had a little grip today. Left one strong. He can sit up alone but doesn’t stay sitting a long time although today it was quite awhile longer. He is making some vocal sounds some but not words. He made sounds while oldest son Rick talked with him about 5 minutes this morning. He was trying.

The BP has been a problem the last two days but the other vitals are good. The BP goes up and down. Dr. & nurse not sure why. His feeding tube is working well and we are so relieved he is getting nourishment. They turn the TV on now to stimulate him. We are to rub and touch him as much as we want to sensitize him. Not sure he realizes when it is me doing the touching> LOL <

TJ had several visitors today. He reacted well to his brothers and sisters talking to him. Also his nephews. And of course the grand children. There were several friends also. We went in and out quietly and just a few at a time. It went well and he didn’t get agitated like in days past. When they got him settled early evening we slipped home. You all know how tiring it is to the body and mind and we know we have a ways to go yet.

TJ has always been protective of his side burns. They didn’t shave them off until today. He wouldn’t be happy! L. Rick trimmed his mustache and it looks better. Color of skin much better. Incision healing nicely but still has the 30+ staples.

Doing some catching up of wash and such and off to bed. Rest to go back tomorrow and spend my “Guess Which” birthday at the hospital.

Good night all!

Barb, his wife

Mike Seegar dies at 75 August 7, 2009

Mike Seeger, whose love for traditional songs and tunes inspired many other musicians — including Bob Dylan — to look for the rural roots of American music, died of cancer Friday night at his home in Lexington, Va. He was 75.

He co-founded the New Lost City Ramblers with John Cohen and Tom Paley in the late 1950's. This trailblazing three-person string band combined the urban roots of its own members with a deep regard for music of the countryside and small towns.

His half-brother Pete and sister Peggy are renowned musicians and social activists.

Sat. Aug 8 TJ report

Dad is having a good day today

The nurses set him up on the side of the bed today and after they adjusted him he was able to set for a few minutes by himself.

Two of the nurses also helped stand him up and they held him in a standing position also for a few minutes.

This was so exciting and I was so happy to get to see him do this.

He's still not able to talk yet but, hopefully this will happen soon.

Signed, daughter, Barb Ortiz

More on TJ Friday Aug. 7

From granddaughter Brandy:

He has had a very good day today (Friday). He had physical therapy today and was very good to the commands they had gave him. We have definitely seen the improvements in him today and have made all of us felt very happy!!

TJ Collins status Friday Aug. 7, 2009

This is TJ's daughter Barb and I will try to update you as much as I can.

Dad started having light seizure's on Wednesday & Thursday. They said this is not unusual but, need to get them stopped. They increased his med's which seem to only fix them for a short time. They even changed med's & it still wouldn't stop the light tremors.

As of last night they have sedated him to the point he is resting more and not able to open his eyes and it's like he's just sleeping. They decided to do this so he will rest and hopefully give his brain and body time to heal.

His vitals still have been real good so hopefully he just needs to rest and recover.

They said sometimes when they are sedated like this they have to incubate them and this is just a precaution to help them breathe, so far they have not had to do this. Thank God!

It's been real tough to see dad like this but, we are keeping the faith and have left this in God and the doctor's hand's.

Thanks so much for the extra prayers and all the concern.

He's a strong man as many of you know but, a body and a brain can only go through so much!

Barb Collins Ortiz

TJ Collins to have third surgery

We were told that TJ will undergo a third brain surgery around 5p Sunday, 8/2.

Updated: 8/5/09 2:56p
Brandy called. He came through surgery just fine. Doc is 99% certain that all the blood clots are out. TJ cannot speak and his right side is affected. He was VERY agitated this AM when he could not talk to a visitor. The family had him smiling and laughing today.

The doctor has requested minimal visitors since he gets upset since he cannot talk.

He will have to undergo therapy for speech and movement.

Overall, it looks somewhat positive.

TJ Collins Tues 10:15a

Linda & I spoke with son Rick. TJ came through the Sunday evening operation just fine. He was alert yesterday until late evening when he became very confused. He knows who Barb is but does not recognize anyone else.

They did CT scans around midnight and again this AM. They are awaiting the doctor to read the scans. Rick said he was told TJ's behavoir is abnormal.

Between nurses, doctors, family, friends, etc. there were 40 people in and out of his room. Rick has ask that folks reduce the amount of stimulation he is receiving per doctors orders. He needs his rest to recover.

We will be glad to be a conduit to the family & TJ. At this time no flowers as he is in ICU.

TJ has another operation

TJ went in for surgery again today. He came out all right after surgery. Now we will just have to see what happens after this.

Tonia Bacon

TJ Collins to have additional surgery

Barb called around 5p and TJ is scheduled to have additional surgery tomorrow unless he becomes serious before then. The surgeon said it is not unusual to have an additional surgery. TJ seems fine at this point.

Barb was going home to sleep at home and will be back at Lutheran tomorrow.

TJ Collins recovering great!

Linda & I saw TJ shortly after lunch today. He knew who we were. We talked back and forth. He seems like TJ. He was complaining about the food quality which is probably a good sign.

Saw the family in the waiting area and they said the doctors told them he might go home as early as Monday. Barb said that TJ's job is to get the motor home ready for Kendallville.

TJ Collins out of surgery

At 8:30p Barb Collins his wife, says surgery was done around 4p. TJ is in his room and awake. He knows folks and seems to be doing well. Surgeon said that the blood on his brain was the thickness of motor oil.

Next update 8/1 AM.

TJ Collins, NIBGA Director, to have surgery

From his wife Barb:

Hi everyone;

Before I leave for Ft. Wayne to go to Lutheran Hospital I want to let you know, TJ has been there since yesterday about 11:00 a.m. You all know he hasn’t been feeling well. Well we finally know what the problem is.

We went to the family Dr. on Wednesday afternoon. He got down to business immediately. We went to the lab and then to X-ray. I believe I heard the nurses discussing yesterday that he has a upper repertory infection. That is what the cough is about.

On Thursday (yesterday) we went back to DeKalb Hosp. for a CT scan. When that was done they rolled him down the hall to our Dr.’s office (long walk). Our Dr. said there was some fluid on the left side of the brain and it is pushing his brain to the right. He told us as soon as the Neurologist called back, we would be going to Lutheran Hospital. (They discontinued the Plavix & aspirin).

So off we went with our granddaughter Brandy (20 yrs. old) diving my car. We got him admitted at Lutheran and they put him to bed in the ICU area of the Neurology section. The rest of the day was spent getting him settled and trying to make him comfortable. When the Dr. came in about 4:30 he took us to a room to show us the DVD on the computer that they had sent from DeKalb. It wasn’t showing up (they couldn’t get a contrast) so he took us for a VERY LONG walk and elevator ride down to the basement. In that room the only lighting is many computers of all sizes. On one of the computers we could see where the problem is.

Today at about 3:00 or 3:30 they will be taking TJ to surgery. They will remove a portion of his skull and go in and try to remove the massive blood that has settled along the left side of the brain. They said it looks like something caused from a hard fall. Some old bleeding and some recent bleeding. The Dr. is Rudy Kachman. Those of you in the Ft. Wayne area will recognize that name. He is famous. They say the best but a bit Exocentric. We hit it off good. He said, “Sweet heart, we are going to get along good. I see you have a good sense of humor.” Now did he read me right? LOL

So our granddaughter Brook (17 ) spent the night with me and we are getting ready to head back to the hospital. (About a 40 mile drive). The other kids were there all afternoon and evening along with some other relatives. It was so hard to leave him there but decided I better get home to rest and get some supplies. I plan to stay tonight.

All I can say for now is please say a prayer for TJ. They do millions of this kind of surgeries but there is some risk. Will let you know how it goes.

California family coming to Tri-State festival

We just got word that a family from California has purchased airline tickets so they can be at the Labor Day event in Kendallville. Have you made your plans?

Bluegrass at the White House

Alison Krauss and her Union Station band will be performing at the White House this week.

New WiFi provider for Labor Day festival

Ligtel Communications installed their wireless equipment July 13 replacing Locl.net. The main radio is on top of the Merchants Building and a secondary one is on the Log Cabin. They are looking to install one somewhere along US 6 in the camping area to broaden the coverage.

Right now everything seems to be working OK. We'll see how things go during the fair next week. They also have a booth in the Merchants Building so if we have problems they can see it first hand.

Dennis Hudecek - Treasurer NCCFC

The Toy Hearts added to Labor Day festival

An additional band has been added to the Labor Day festival lineup. The Toy Hearts from England will be playing the first set on Thursday, Sept. 3, at 6:15p and Friday, Sept. 4, at 6:00p. They will also play at 4:40-5:25p on Saturday Sept 5.

They will also be playing at an area nursing home on Friday afternoon.

The band was added after the festival flyer was mailed last month.

Storage facility for stage needed

For the last several years the NIBGA stage has been stored at a private indoor storage facility. Due to ill health, that facility is being closed. We have spread the word to several Kendallville folks who might help us find a new storage location for the stage.

The stage is a custom travel trailer about 27 feet long.

If you have any suggestions, let us know. We are currently paying about $325 per year.

Is this the 33rd or 34th annual festival?

I was recently asked to explain why 2009 is not the 34th annual festival instead of the 33rd. The first NIBGA festival was held Labor Day 1976 so Memorial the following year would be the end of year one. Also, there was no Labor Day festival in 1989 so how do you count? If you take those two dates out, then 2009 is the 33rd year.

This brings the question, what happened in 1989?

Don McFarland (Mac) NIBGA president in the 1980s, moved the Memorial weekend festival from Baughman's Campground near Paulding, Ohio in 1989 to Robert (Slim) Habern's (VP in the last part of the 1980s) back yard in Latty, Ohio. The back yard is a misnomer since it was several acres with some electric. (maybe 20 or so?) Baughmans had been sold and the new owner didn't want the festivals in 1989. The crowd at Baughmans was slowly building but it was a terrible campground for a festival. All the Michigan folks said it was "Northern Indiana Bluegrass" so what was it doing in Ohio?

Mac didn't know where to have the festival nor did I. We did take a trip to a couple of locations but nothing came of it. He kept trying to find a "campground" and none would have us so it was Slim's.

Memorial 1989 was a disaster! It rained several inches on Thursday and the back yard was flooded with 2-3 inches of water on Thursday night. It was still there Friday morning. The tent for the crowd collapsed. On Friday, pumps were rented to pump the water somewhere else. Fish worms died and the place smelled. The show came off Fri., Sat., Sun. but the crowd was very small. Since there was no defined gate, several didn't pay. The campers that were there had to be pulled out. The bands were paid and the club lost big time. The treasure was less than $7,500. A latter club t-shirt lists "Lake Latty" as a festival location.

Mac planed on having Labor Day at the same location and had hired the bands. In mid summer, Slim came to his senses and left town. The festival was canceled.

I became VP and Linda became secretary in the fall elections. Mac went to Florida that winter and called in January 1990 to say he was not having a festival in 1990 because of his ill health. As VP, I could put one together if I wanted.

Club memberships had sunk along with newsletter mailings to about 120 or so. It looked like the end of NIBGA. With the help of Donnie Voiles who became VP, I stepped up to president and moved the festival to Kendallville.

The rest is recent history.

Jim Winger - President

Jason Mowery to appear at Noble County fair

Jason married to Jessica Harp in 2008. She and Jason will appear July 22 as the opening act for the Eli Young band at the Noble County 4H fair.



Jason received two NIBGA scholarships while he attended Ball State University.

May 17 NIBGA Board meeting

May 17, 2009: Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association Meeting – Noble County Fairgrounds – Kendallville, IN.
Meeting called to order by Pres. Jim Winger Time: 2:00 PM
Officers present:
Pres.- Jim Winger, V. Pres.- Sandy Carnes, Secretary- Barbara Collins, Treasurer-Linda Winger
Board of Directors
T.J. Collins, Joe Wyandt, Pam Keiper, Paul Saurborn
Gate Captains: Al Ellis, Leslie Ellis, Patty Page
Club members: Charles Carnes, Jay Winger, Rachel Wyandt, Dave Keiper, George Page
Secretary's Report: Additions and corrections to workshop information and Kids Korner for new business. April minutes accepted. Joe Wyandt motioned to accept. Paul Saurborn second. All say yes. Motion carried.
Treasurer's Report: April Financial report.
Linda reported that the Suzuki Scholarship has one more year for 2010. This is the 5th year of 6 total Scholarship years from NIBGA.
Sandy Carnes motioned to accept. Paul Saurborn second. All say yes. Motion Carried.
Linda gave a Festival update. As of today she reports 55 camper units. 5 board, 1 band, 1 complimentary, some not paid yet.
INFORMATION ITEMS:

• Gypsy Moths were sprayed by airplane at the Noble Co. Fair grounds May 9th & 12th. This was done to control the infestation of moths which would destroy the trees. Hopefully this will destroy the moths and allow the trees to survive.

OLD BUSINESS:

• Tonia Bacon will continue to contact collages to determine circulation and advertising cost. She will seek possible collage newspapers where NIBGA can advertise festivals. Target advertising for Labor Day.
• Old Time Dance – pending for Fall 09. Chris Cooperrider – chairman.

STAGE: Wash and Wax crew – Target date for washing and waxing is Wednesday 5/20 (Done)

• Three Rivers Federal Credit Union awarded Northern Indiana Bluegrass Association a $200l grant which will be used for school programs or Nursing Home shows. James Creek Road is scheduled for Sacred Heart show in Avilla, IN on Friday May 22.
• Still need postings on Web sites and other bluegrass sites.
• Grandstand electric – will remove breaker(s) to prevent grandstand lights from coming on.

Summer Newsletter mailing schedule review.

• May 15 – Joe Wyandt
• June 21 – Barb & TJ Collins
• July 19 – Pam Keiper
• August 16 – Paul Saurborn
• September 20 – Joe Wyandt

Rest Room cleaning during festival. Cheri will have the use of a utility cart.
NEW BUSINESS:
T.J. Collins checked the Fire Extinguishers. All are showing green and are in the Merchants building alcove
Gate Captains: Pam Keiper, Paul Saurborn. Pam has made a schedule for gate captains.
Merchandise status: Barb Collins reports all new and vintage merchandise has been inventoried as of 5/16/09. Some ordered items had to be substituted when some colors were not available. A limited amount was ordered by Linda. Women's Visor hats are a new item. Dark blue with white letters – NIBGA.
Grounds status: T.J. Collins and Joe Wyandt: Going well so far. Later they had to work on several electric areas. 3 new 50 amp service connections were installed for bands. T.J. and Paul will put signs on them to reserve "For Bands Only". Discussion of Electric problems and solutions.
Covered schedule of Security for Spring 09'.
Dennis Hudecek from the fair board replaced 40 GFIs.
Known problem areas as of 5/17:
Men's rest room at the grandstand – light
Log Cabin rest room water heater – not working correctly
Woman's rest room in the Merchants building – lights and running toilet
Vendors: Sandy Carnes. All food vendors are back for this festival except Hot Dog man.
Frozen Meat Truck paying 10% or $150.00 – depending. Others will be coming in later.
Health Department not coming. Lady ill.
Review Announcers sheet. Any additions to announcements – give to Bill Merrill.
One showcase band for Thursday 5/21. Conley Schmidt & First Love.
Kids Korner: Linda Winger reporting for Julie Goldsmith. Children can purchase 1 white T-Shirt with a outline of the 09' train design on it for $1. They will be able to paint the design with colors of the child's choice. There will be chess and checker games and other activities. Time: 10:00 – 11:30
Golf Cart Taxis: Chris Cooperrider Manager. Chris will schedule drivers. 'Call a ride' phone number is on the band schedule. Have Linda call a cab driver with information on where to pick up a rider.
Food Drive: Boxes will be placed at the front end of the merchants building. Donations can be put in those boxes. The food will be presented to Kendallville Mayor Susan Handshoe on Saturday 5/23 on stage.
Al Ellis or Paul Saurborn will escort James Creek Road band to Sacred Heart Nursing Home in Avilla on Friday May 22. Show time is 2:00 p.m..
The ATM is in front of the Merchants building.

Paul Saurborn motioned to adjourn. Pam Keiper second. All say yes.
Pres. Jim Winger adjourns the meeting.
Adjourned: 3:00 p.m.
NIBGA Secretary – Barbara Collins

May 22, Thursday, show a great success

Warm weather and a free gate brought hundreds to the Noble County fair grounds to enjoy bluegrass music. There was standing room only at the stage area. The audience responded enthusiastically to the great music from the stage.

The rest of the weekend looks to be even better so if you have not made plans, head to the Kendallville, IN fair grounds for a weekend of national and regional bluegrass acts.

There is still camping available with electric so bring your camper. Tickets are just $25 per person including the show and camping. Electric is a one time $5 charge.

Don't forget your can goods for the local food bank drive.

Gypsy Moth spraying complete

The Noble county fair grounds is infected with gypsy moth eggs and has been for several years. Microbials which include bacteria, viruses, and other naturally occurring organisms, were sprayed May 9 & 12 via a low flying airplane over the fair grounds.

Microbials kill the larva when they consume leaves with the organisms. Microbials are not harmful to humans or other animals according to Purdue University etymologists.

This spraying has been completed before the first bluegrass'er arrived.

On May 11, many areas in Fort Wayne residential areas were also sprayed to protect trees.

From the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette: Cathie Rowand (above picture caption)

A plane working for the Indiana Department of Natural Resources flies over Concordia Theological Seminary on Monday afternoon spraying Btk (Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki) to kill gypsy moth caterpillars threatening trees in Indiana. Each caterpillar can grow up to 2 inches long and can consume up to 11 square feet of foliage from early May until June.