One More Saturday Night

It’s hard to believe it’s been over two months since I’ve written an update, but to be honest - not much has been happening. I’ve been hard at work trying to book gigs for Sandra in an economy where no one is buying, and also doing what I can to support the most recent Rex Foundation event, The Black Tie-Dye Ball with Dark Star Orchestra at the Nokia Theater. Rex has been holding Black Tie-Dye Balls since 2004, and while each one is an independent event, they all share the common festive atmosphere created by the people and musicians who want to further what the Grateful Dead started 25 years ago.

The Host Committee included people I consider to be “heavy hitters” in the Grateful Dead community such as John McIntire (former manager of the Grateful Dead), Rhoney Stanley (yes… that Stanley), Elliot Mazer (who has produced artists such as Neil Young and Janis Joplin), and Steve Bernstein (of Relix Magazine) as well as some long-time fans who were simply “on the bus” for as long as the bus was on the road, and…well, me. I honestly felt somehow less qualified to support the program than my fellow committee members. I was a relative “newbie” on the bus (I only started seeing the boys in ’85) and my only connection to the band was my love and passion for the music. I did, however, have the motivation to have as much of an impact as I possibly could.

Most of the items for the silent auction were procured by the Host Committee members, and I wanted to be able to make a contribution as well. Rex likes to focus on grass-roots action and local artists/purveyors whenever possible. My good friend, Kathryn Fisher, who lives locally, is a photographer and has taken some great shots of Bruce Hornsby over the years. Since Bruce had played with the Dead for several years, I thought it appropriate to ask her if she would be interested in donating a photo or two. She, very wisely, thought to check with Bruce to see if he’d be ok with the inclusion of his photos in the auction. Not only did he (through his amazing assistant, Patti Martin) give his consent, he also offered to autograph the photos, AND he tossed in an autographed copy of his box set, Intersections. When I wrote to let Theresa and Sandy (at Rex) know, I realized that I guess I really do have a lot more to offer than I realize.

The event itself was fluid and fun for all. Theresa and I arrived at 1:00 pm to start getting things set up. The other volunteers started arriving around 2:30, and we had a great group who helped make all the magic happen (thanks, all!). The pre-party was festive, and we had special guests there, including the members of DSO, Donna Jean Godchaux, Jeff Mattson (of the Zen Tricksters) and his lovely wife Randi, Bill Walton (the world’s tallest Deadhead) and his lovely wife Lori, and many of the Host Committee members. The show was stellar (7/8/78 – Red Rocks) and I even got a chance to dance a bit once we closed out the auction.

I’m really pleased with the entire experience…. With the exception of the ordeal that ensued afterwards when I locked my key in the trunk of my car at 1:30 in the morning, outside the Nokia. My advice to all who drive a VW Cabrio - DON’T do that (and really, the back seat does not come out, even though you think it should!)

Fear and Loathing in DC

Elyce with the

Rebellious Jezebells

Wow – things are grooving right along. The show at the Theater J has been going great. The folks at the venue are really wonderful, Kenneth and I make a great team, I adore the guys in the band (The Rebellious Jezebells), and working with Sandra is nothing short of fabulous. She’s a great lady and – despite her public persona – an absolute delight to be around. My grandfather came to the show last weekend and had a great time. He and Sandra hit it off swimmingly and he has officially invited her into the family.

On Thursday night, Sandra’s good friend and fellow comedian, Paul Mooney, came to see the show. She credits Paul with having ‘discovered’ her – so it was a great reunion for them. The next morning, a small group of us went to the Washington Monument with a video camera. Sandra and Paul walked around and talked to people, asking them who they were voting for and stirring up provocative conversation. We saw the most amazing, and real, reactions from the folks there – a young soccer team from Spain, as well as another group of students from another country (I didn’t catch where) all mobbed Paul, an couple of older women timidly approached Sandra with s, a teacher with her young son spoke to us about her concerns about education (oh, honey – I can SO relate!), an international family in town for a bat mitzvah – we had a great time meeting all the people and hearing what they had to say. Everyone was great.

Yea – we’re also dealing with a bit of controversy over some of the material in the show. Sandra is well known for calling it like she sees it. She can be vulgar. This should be no shock to anyone with a brain. As though the Righteous Right came in just looking for something to scream about, they have ripped apart one of her pieces, taken one of the statements wholly out of context, and created a media frenzy. I think it's completely ridiculous. If people don't agree with Sandra's views, then simply don't come to the show. She's not a candidate, she is not officially speaking for anyone but herself. The twisted part is that she's not even saying things publicly. You'd have had to pay and want to see her in order to have heard the comment. BUT the right wing-nuts are all over the news with their ridiculous comments. There is no crisis.... no one has been hurt or endangered. ...honestly people.

LIVE! From our nation's capitol...

Today marked the first day of my professional stage managing career. I feel pretty good about how things have gone so far. On top of the part of Stage Manager, I'm still working on booking as well as trying to keep up with other connections I made this summer. There is no laurel resting going on here!

We arrived in town on Sunday and most of Monday was spent teching the show (setting lighting cues and band rehearsal). Sandra was to arrive this morning, with one more run-through before the show tonight, to make sure we had everything figured out. Thus, Sandra Bernhard's 3 week run of Without You I'm Nothing at the Theater J at the DCJCC has officially begun. Of course, the day was not without it's own special dramas. Sandra's flight almost didn't leave New York due to weather, and there were sudden hotel changes for her and Kenneth due to... well... we'll call it "unforeseen circumstances" and leave it at that. BUT - even so, things went pretty smoothly this evening. Cues were given, Sandra and the band (The Rebellious Jezebels) sounded great, and the crowed seemed very happy. Tomorrow is the official "opening night", complete with an after party meet & greet, but I would certainly count tonight as far more than a dress rehearsal. The truth is, I'm pretty excited about this gig. I think it's going to be a great run and a tremendous experience for me.

Now - this is the first time I've ever really been to Washington, DC. I mean, I have been here before, but I never really experienced the city. I was here once as a kid, a few times on Dead Tour in the 80s, and once to a North American Riding for the Handicapped conference. I don't recall venturing out into the city much on any of those trips. But, after the past 2 1/2 days in town I can make at least one clear observation... Driving here is a NIGHTMARE!! Omigod. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that they city has traffic circles with traffic lights. This is simply too much of an attempt to control the flow of traffic. It does not control it - it chokes it. Perhaps it's the plethora of one way streets and poorly marked intersections. Maybe this is was causes people to maneuver their vehicles like complete morons. I don't know... but it's not safe.

People complain about NY drivers, but while NY drivers may drive like maniacs, they are doing it with great intention. So they are paying attention. They are cutting you off on purpose! Here, they drive around like they are the only ones on the road; making u-turns in the middle of a street, across the double yellow line, between traffic lights, in the middle of traffic. (Really! I saw this happen today). They can't seem to figure out how to park, they make turns across 7 lanes of traffic with out looking.... Wholly shit. Oh - and wait, my favorite thing - when the traffic is all backed up because of the lights and construction in the traffic circle, they lean on their horn. Why do they do this?? It makes me want to get out of my car, walk over to their car, lean in the window, look them in the eye and say, "Do you think this is helpful??? Hmmm... not sure??? Well, it's NOT!" and then pinch them and walk back to my car.

The problem with that plan is that it could get me shot, and that would just not be any fun for me.

I think that is the major difference between my feelings for drivers here and drivers in Boston. Drivers in Boston simply have no clue. I don't fear them - I pity them. But after driving through some of the neighborhoods I have been through - i just don't know about the folks down here. While most of the folks I've met on foot have been delightful - who knows about these jokers in their cars.

Ok - the show must go on, but first, I must get some rest.

Life's big advenutre continues....

First I want to tell you all that I have finally been convinced to get a facebook page. (can you stand it?!) I think Jaime, my old roommate, is most excited about it as she's been trying to get me to do it since we lived together. It's been pretty interesting. If nothing else, I point out what Tammy said when she got hers. It makes you feel SOOOOO good when you get all these "friend" requests. Makes you feel really popular and cool! So - I guess just go to facebook, look me up and make a request to be my friend!

I've been busy trying to re-connect with many of the people with whom I connected this summer. I certainly want them to remember me. I was lucky enough, at the Vibes, to run into the producer of a festival I worked earlier in the summer, and made a very good re-connection there. While he and I had only met once during his festival, in a bit of a 'crisis' situation, he really had only heard wonderful things about me. It was nice to see him make the connection between "me" and the person he had heard about. From what he said, he seemed very interested in having me work on his festival next year, so I'm very pleased about that.

On other fronts... I had the opportunity to see Bruce Hornsby with his band last week. What you need to understand is that while I certainly enjoy seeing Bruce in any configuration; solo, w/Ricky Skaggs (something I appreciate far more having seen them in Telluride this summer), with the Jazz Trio (Bruce, Christian McBride and Jack Dejohnette)... seeing him perform with his band, now known as The Noisemakers, is by far my favorite. Not only do I get to see some kick ass music, I also get to reconnect with my friends who work with him. The show in Westbury was great. Got to connect with Katy H, Kat and Biz, Carrie, Sonny and JV (best rhythm section around!), and everyone else in the regular Hornsbian crowd. It's always a good time when we all get together, for example, note the picture - Bruce is never too serious, and always open for a good laugh! That photo is a few years old, but I think it gives a good idea of what the energy is like when he's around.

Also - I have been doing some work with Sandra Bernhard's management as she is gearing up for a tour to celebrate the 20th anniversary of her groundbreaking show, Without you, I'm Nothing. I will be stage-managing the show at Theater J in Washington, DC for most of the month of September, as well as assisting with some of the other shows we are booking for the tour. This is really exciting for me, and I have to thank Kenneth Hartung for being so fabulous and giving me this tremendous opportunity. Of course, I'm not sure how he ever managed without me!!

So - that's the news for now... I'll keep you updated as things progress. You really never know what's going to happen.

Rex Jam Report from GOTV

Gathering of the Vibes
August 2, 2008
Band: New Riders of the Purple Sage
In Support of Bridgeport Central High School Musical Instrument Program.

On Saturday, August 2nd, we had a plan to hold the final Rex Jam of the summer with the New Riders of the Purple Sage (affectionately "NRPS") at 2:30 in the afternoon. Because they were not the first band on the stage that day, and the weather had been extraordinary all weekend, I had anticipated a great event. I have said it before and I'm saying it again... I'm not always right. At about 12:00 on Saturday afternoon, the sun disappeared, the clouds grew heavy and skies opened up. I dare say I can not recall a time where I have been in an "out-door environment" in such a storm. Lighting strikes, thunder claps, strong winds and heavy rain certainly created chaos in Seaside park. As the rain continued in the the 1:00 hour... I began to wonder what was going to happen to the Jam. The music was halted when Alternate Roots was called from the stage. I figure there would have to be some cancellations and was not sure if NRPS would even play. As I stood in the relative safety of my friend's vending booth - I contacted volunteers and asked them to hold tight until further notice... I contacted Harry Moran, our Non-profit contact, for his thoughts... he said to hold tight until further notice... I contacted Toast, manager of NRPS... he said hold tight until further notice. So we held tight.

The rain finally ended and more chaos ensued. What would the new schedule be? Are NRPS palying? Is that other storm going to move in and hit us too? We had "missed" the volunteer meeting, but my folks were waiting patiently. I finally decided to go backstage, as the storm seemed to have passed. Next thing I knew, Toast was telling me they were going on any minute. It was Whiz! Bang! Spring to action! Harry raced me over to the vendor booth to get the buckets and mateirals, I sent a text to the volunteers to come ASAP! Everything seemed to be happening at once, I am ever appreciative to have had Miss Jen there. She has been with us for three Rex Jams this summer, and I relied on her to help gather the troops and give them the low-down because I had not time to meet with them before I made the stage announcement. After the announcement was finished, I rushed over to meet the volunteers with the materials.

I gave out buckets, bags and CDs, as well as my best advice and sent them out into the crowd to wait for the signal. Again - we had more volunteers than buckets, so I did not go out into the crowd. I think it was for the best this time, as I was so frazzled.... fortunately, no one seemed to notice but me. While on stage making the announcement I saw few friends in various locations in the crowd, and they all gave me the "hi" sign. Afterward, they gave me praise for my "performance" and said I looked very composed and natural. I was also ever-so appreciative when Toast told me the band would make some acknowledgment of the song (Garden of Eden) designated for the Rex Jam. Michael Falzarano made a comment to the crowd before the song, and I know that helped.

Beautifully, in spite of the mayhem - the Rex Jam was a raging success (ok, so I was right about something!). I am so proud to say that we raised over $2000 for the Bridgeport Central High School Musical Instrument program. This program is set up to purchase instruments so students who can't afford their own can still learn to play and perform with the band.

I want to say here that being the Rex Jam Representative at so many festivals this summer has been such an honor and a privilege for me. It has brought me such joy I can't even explain it. I have always said that I wish I was rich so I could give money away when I see a need.... I don't have that kind of money - and this is a great substitute (giving away other people's money where there is a need!).

A friend of mine asked me how much money we had raised this summer, and I hadn't really given it much thought - but as it turns out, over the 5 Rex Jams and fundraisers we did this summer, we have raised close to $10,000. It is amazing to me. Yes - your dollars add up quickly people. All it takes is $5.00. Just $5.00.....

"Is it the end or beginning??"

Gathering of the Vibes
Seaside Park - Bridgeport, CT
July 31 – Aug 3, 2008

This was something of a “hometown” event for me – but this was my first time at The Vibes. It felt like I wasn’t even going anywhere, since all I did was drive 40 minutes, have coffee with a good friend in Port Jefferson, then hop on the ferry and POOF! I was there! Almost too easy to be going to a festival. Of course, that caused me to not bring the proper supplies and I ended up spending too much money on food and beverage... but I suppose that's what happens at the end of an adventure.... you get a little bit lax. But it's ok to be less than perfect. I'm getting used to accepting that!

I spent a lot of time in the Cosmic Casbah with the Karma Wash crew from the Unbroken Chain symposium. Mostly thanks to a fortuitous run-in with Wesley, who brought me back to see where it was all happening. Kasbah events for me included a great jam session with the Kind Buds, a much needed nap (courtesy of Jonny Wa), a late-night chill session/jam, becoming acquainted with the owner of the cutest tush in all the land (Darling Tavi), blueberry pancakes and excellent coffee, a surprise visit from the Great Wendini,… and the Mystery of the Missing Martin – which fortunately was ultimately solved with no casualties.

I also spent time with my old friend, Thom (along with new friends, Lottie and Josh), in his vendor booth. This was where I experienced the massive rain squall on Saturday afternoon – complete with thunder, lightning, wind and rain ("don't let go! don't let go!”). Saturday started as a lovely morning – sun, a few puffy clouds… then it got dark. We ended up in full “Batten-down-the-hatches” mode for a good half hour of strong winds and heavy rain. Complete with panic, refugees, tipped over boxes, and a little “stress relief” as soon as possible. While Thom’s booth survived relatively unscathed, our neighbors were not so lucky. It seemed that the booths directly on either side of us were completely demolished. Grateful Don, the tie-dye vendor, lost his entire set up. His tent pulled up out of the ground and flipped over the fence behind us, into the camping area. His entire inventory was all soaked, w/the colors running all into one another. I have to say I was inspired by his optimism as he simply sent his staff into town for a new tent, held a half-price sale, and made the best of it.

I think the best part of the weekend - and perhaps the summer - was the grand jam session after it was all said and done. I was so tired after 8 festivals, and so close to home, that I had planned to head home as soon as the traffic cleared - the idea of sleeping in my own bed was oh-so-inviting. But, Jonny insisted I come to the Cotter's traditional Invitational Jam Session... at least for a little while. What a time was had. There were probably 4 or 5 people with guitars, a mandolin, several congas, bongos and other instruments of percussion and from 3 to 25 voices at any given time. The funniest was that I started out simply singing harmonies and enjoying everything. Jon had his guitar and at one point asked me to hold it so he could play the mandolin. Of course, how can one sit in a circle of music, guitar in hand and not play? So I started to play along and apparently I hadn't let on that I could do such a thing. I think Jon almost fell over. I didn't think it was all that impressive, but apparently I was wrong. Either way - it was a great time and the next thing I knew it was 2am, too late to drive home - so I played some more.... and then it was 4am... difficult as it was to put the music to bed, it was time for me to do just that.

Sleep and then finally home on Monday. ..I could not have planned a better closure to my summer Festival express!

Rex Jam Report from 10KLakes

10KLakes Music Festival
Detroit Lakes, MN
July 23 - July 36, 2008
Band: Matt Butler and The Everyone Orchestra
In support of the Detroit Lakes High School Band Musical Instrument Program

The Rex Jam at 10KLakes Music Festival was one of the best yet. It was most exciting because the Rex Jam was “born” at 10KLakes, with Matt Butler and the Everyone Orchestra, in 2007. Sandy Sohcot, Executive Director of Rex Foundation, was there last year to do the honors and get the ball rolling. I know Sandy would have liked to have been there this year, but I was really quite honored to stand-in on her behalf. I was glad to be among last year's veterans, with Matt leading the charge, Rex Volunteer Dave Fortescue as my right-hand-man, and Deanna Sinclair or the Detroit Lakes Rotary with her crew of Rotarians and Interact Club students from Detroit Lakes High School.

If you have never seen Matt Butler do his thing, you definitely need to check him out. He masterfully pulls together performers from several bands – in this instance it included Jen Durkin from Deep Banana Blackout and the Micky Hart Band and Kim Manning from The Parliament Funkadelic on vocals, Jannis Wallin from Family Groove Company and Patrice Blanchard from Panjea sharing the duties on Bass, Michael Kang from Panjea and Steve Kimock on guitars, Adam Lasher from Umelt on Keys, Allie Kral from Cornmeal on Fiddle, Johnny Polanski from One Under and Jason Hahn from SCI on drums and Percussion. – and then he conducts them as well as the audience, in this amazing performance of the Everyone Orchestra. Matt Butler is my new hero. He conducts with his whole body. He dances a round to convey emotion to the musicians and the audience, he includes the audience in the performance by encouraging timely claps and shouts, and he writes notes to the performers on a small white-board to tell them who to follow, what key to play, and other intricate things that exuberant body language simply can’t convey. It is a truly amazing thing to witness.

On top of all of that, he incorporated the Rex Jam into his performance. So instead of the typical situation where I get on stage, talk about the Rex Foundation and what the Rex Jam is all about, and then introduce the band – I felt as though I was actually brought in as part of the Orchestra. Matt brought me out on stage in the middle of their set, as he wanted to build the crowd up before I made my appeal. They were still deep in a hot jam and at first I wasn’t sure if I had read his cue right, but really – he’s very clear. So I hung out and sort of enjoyed the jam along with the crowd and the band. Matt brought the jam down and then spoke a bit about Music being a gift and it being an important thing for kids…. I wish I could remember exactly what he said. I’ll get a recording of it and correct this as soon as possible. Then he introduced me and I spoke very briefly, but passionately. Most of my “speech” went out the window, but fortunately I’ve done this enough at this point to know the basics. I tried to keep it short and sweet so as not to interrupt the amazing flow of the set.

This was the first Rex Jam where I didn’t go into the crowd with a bucket, as we already had 11 people out there, and it was a relatively small crowd. However, I just couldn’t sit still – the music the Orchestra was producing was so incredible and I was really high from it. I danced my energy through the crowd and supported the volunteers as much as I was able. I suppose that between Matt, the Orchestra, the volunteers, and me, we made all the right moves. The volunteers collected about $1700 for the Detroit Lakes High School Band Instrument program. We were really to have exceeded last year’s total of $1638.00.

Special thanks should go out to Chryll Sparks, who coordinated so many pieces of this production, and who took such good care of Dave and me while we were at the Festival. Also, to Stucker for his stage announcements and support throughout the day on Thursday and to Dave Wiesman for helping Matt and I connect with plenty of time to compare notes and plans for the event. Yet another raging success and a truly positive experience for all involved. (I think I’m getting good at this…..) ;-)

Doing what you love is really hot!

10,000 Lakes Music Festival
Detroit Lakes, MN
July 23 – 27, 2008

It is clear to me that I am doing the right thing. Yes – I’m still a little (ok, a lot when I really think about it) scared about what’s going to happen next, but I know I am doing something that makes me shine. I can’t count the number of folks I don’t know who have walked up to me to give me compliments about my energy and who I seem to be, the number of men who have flirted with me relentlessly, and the number of friends and family members who have told me, “Wow! You look great!” this summer. It feels so good to have that acknowledgement and validation. I am doing something I really believe in and have passion for, and apparently it shows.

My job at 10KLakes this weekend was right in line with all of this. Aside from the Rex Jam (which I’ll get to in my next post), I also worked “Event Staff/Concert Bowl – 2^nd Shift.” It’s nice that the promoters of this festival actually pay the folks who come to work. I have done the same kind of work at other festivals simply to receive a free ticket, but I actually got paid for this one. It’s not much, but it’s better than a poke in the eye with a hot stick! The management and staff of the 10KLakes Festival treated me wonderfully, both as an “employee” and as the Rex Representative (which I’ll get to, also in my next post).

As concert bowl staff, my job was to monitor the VIP entrance to the backstage area from 6:00 pm to 1:30 am (or so) each night. This might sound like something of a bummer, as it’s during all the good music, but actually, it suited me just fine. My supervisor, Theresa (different from the one from Rex/High Sierra), totally hooked me up and made sure I was in the sweet spot, right next to the main stage (I SO owe her!). I had a great sight line and basically got to “work” while enjoying the Mickey Hart Band (featuring Steve Kimock, George Porter and Jen Durkin) and Michael Franti and Spearhead on Thursday night; Wookiefoot, Slightly Stoopid and Flaming Lips on Friday night; and Leftover Salmon and Phil Lesh and Friends (with special guest John Schofield) on Saturday night. Also, late night sets from George Clinton and the P-Funk and Deep Banana Blackout – a little farther away, but still close enough for dancing if I positioned myself right. All I had to do was make sure the people who came through the entrance to the backstage area had the proper credentials, which I always enjoy because it becomes very social and as you all know, I’m a pretty social type of gal.

There was not a tremendous amount of traffic, so of course I did a lot of dancing. This had a very positive effect on the people as they came and went through my gate. By the end of the weekend, I received all kinds of comments from people, such as, “Wow! Do you ever stop?”, “We love you! You are our favorite gate guard!”, “You really love your job, don’t you?” and “You really have the moves! Dance on, Sister!” All of these were said with smiles and often accompanied by hugs and high fives. The other thing I remember is that several people commented that I was always smiling. They couldn’t believe that someone could actually smile so much of the time. It reminded me of the guy I met about 2 weeks after working at Unbroken Chain at UMASS, Amherst, last November. I was at a Dark Star Orchestra show and he stopped me and said, “I remember you! You’re the girl from that Grateful Dead Symposium who’s always smiling!” It feels good to be remembered for such a thing.

I also seem to have acquired a new “little brother” this trip. Evan and I met on the flight into Minneapolis. He happened to be in the seat next to me, and we started chatting briefly and discovered we were both going to 10KLakes. He taught me a little bit about what is "house music" (a question that has been plaguing me for months) and we just got on pretty well. Eventually, he turned to me and said, “I’m going to be really straight with you. I need a ride.” He had made plans with some girls he met on a recent trip, but they sort of fell apart right before he left Florida for the trip. Since I was renting a car anyway, and figured I could use the help w/gas money, I said sure. He still camped with the girls he made the original plans with, but he rode to and from the festival with me, and we hung out a bunch at the shows. He even helped with the Rex Jam on Friday and checked in on me while I was working, such a mensch! (That's Evan in the picture above).

See? You do what you love and you attract good people and good things to your life. It's that simple....

It's All Good, Baby!

All Good Music Festival, Marvin's Mountain Top - Masontown, WV July 10-13, 2008 (the Year of the Rat)

I don't know how well you can make it out from the picture, but I have outlined where I spent the majority of my time at All Good (the rest of the area is all camping and vending!) - I was super busy with Rex Foundation activities this weekend. It was exhausting, but well worth it. I also made a few new friends (shocking, right? shy as I am...) ran into more people I have known before, and learned to have a greater appreciation for the Bloody Mary (thanks, Evan)! All in all, it was really a super positive experience.

I can say that the good folks at Walther Productions were truly supportive of what Rex was trying to accomplish, and they really helped us to be successful. I had three main activities; Rex Presented a Q&A Collaboration with John Schofield, John Medeski and Adam Dietch; The Rex Jam with The Bridge; and I coordinated and staffed the beer service in the VIP "Sky Lounge." It was a lot of work, but also a good time & well worth the efforts.

The Sky Lounge was a new addition to the VIP program this year. Credit should go to Todd for his superb craftsmanship. The sight-line from the lounge was excellent - directly across from the two main stages, at the top of the hill. The sound was also pretty good up there. Even though I spent most of my time behind the beer taps, it was almost hard to call it "work." I could as I could hear all the music and rock out while serving beer. The most difficult time was during DSO. They sounded great, and I really wanted to sink into the music, but really couldn't. Other than that, it was a fine time. I had a great crew working with me... so special thanks go to Jen, Chuck, Darrell, Butch and Amy. You guys are the best! The VIPs were just as great. Such generosity I have rarely seen in my life. Many of them were surprised to discover that all the tips were going to Rex Foundation, but once they realized it, they seemed to tip even more! In fact, the last day - Jess, a woman who we'd been serving all weekend, who had been tipping well all weekend, came over to me, handed me a $50 bill and said, "I think what you're doing is amazing." I almost burst into tears. It was beautiful. It was like going back to all the good, fun, parts of my bar tending days, and really - none of the bad ones. Some of the VIPs left a stronger impression than others - but I think we all left there with something of a warm fuzzy feeling towards one another.

Friday afternoon I was to present a special Q&A Collaboration with Schofield, Medeski and Dietch. Brett (my point person at All Good) came to collect me from the Sky Lounge and shuttle me over to the Ropeadope stage where I met the manager Mario - who immediately became my new best friend. What a great guy - absolutely accommodating and really intent on helping me with anything I needed. (Plus - we realized that he lives about 10 blocks from where I lived in Brooklyn before I started this grand adventure.) I start to walk to the stage, and who is standing on the back part of the stage, but Gabby - a friend from NY. I was surprised at first, but then I remembered she had been working with MMW for a few months. It was great to see a friendly, familiar face before I went to speak to the crowd. ..ok, the crowd was pretty small, but still... I felt very welcomed on stage, as Schofield offered me his microphone to use. (such a gentleman). I did my speech - a truncated version of the Rex Jam speech - and we set out into the crowd to collect money. About half-way through the program, Schofield reminded the crowd that we were out there collecting and that they should dig into their pockets... I was so appreciative, and I never really got a chance to thank him sufficiently. I think I'll see them again at the Vibes...so I'll have to be sure to do that. Jen and I pulled in about $300 during the collection on Friday afternoon. Not too bad for a small crowd. On a side note, during the set, there was this guy who talked the band into letting him on stage - he was such a riot. Of course, you can check out part of his Ross Rap on You Tube (and you should).

On Saturday, we had the Rex Jam with the Baltimore-based band, The Bridge. I had been unsuccessful in getting in touch with them, and I was a little concerned because they were doing a special 20 minute set wholly dedicated to the Rex Jam. Again, Brett shuttled me down to the Main Stage area, where I finally did connect with the guys in the band as well as Mook - the stage manager in that area. Once again - everyone was great. I was more comfortable doing my presentation there, perhaps it's because I had Friday as a "practice run".... I do know that the crowd was really responsive so that also helped. During my presentation, the band heard me talking about the Jerry Jams CDs we are giving away (yours with a $20 donation, while supplies last!) and so they changed their set at the last minute, and opened with a great version of "Get Out of My Life" in honor of Jerry. I was really excited about that for a few reasons... 1) I simply enjoy the song and 2) it was so validating to know that people are actually listening to what I'm saying. So - we only had about 20 minutes (maybe less) to collect, but I had 9 people circulating. In that time we rasied around $1600. Not quite the $3000 we raised at High Sierra, but we also had limited time to collect. I was very pleased.

I really have to say something about my volunteers at this point.... i would have to say that THEY ROCK! I know how I feel about doing this work with Rex. Rex has been part of my consciousness for such a long time - I started seeing the Dead in '85, so Rex was always a given. To be doing this work for them is really great for me. What I love even more is that my volunteers, many of whom are probably too young to really remember anything about Rex Benefits and Grateful Dead Tour, are equally as excited when we do well. I just love it. In the end, combining the collections during the Q&A on Friday, the Rex Jam on Saturday, and the beer Tips - we raised well over $3000. Plus, Walther Productions is going to kick in part of the profits from each keg we sold, so I don't know what the final tally is, but I'm really proud of the work we did this weekend.

So - one last thing - it seems we always travel in the same circles, and this leads us to see the same people over and over again.... some sooner than others. I was in the dispatch trailer leaving a message for a friend of Theresa's who was going to try to help us with the Rex Jam, when I said my name to the person sitting behind the desk. The guy on the phone turned and looked at me and said, "Elyce?" I said, "Yes" - he said, "Donny." I said, "Holy moley" (ok, it wasn't "moley" but....). There before me stood Donny Emerick, who I was friends with at UNH. That's the 2nd UNH person I've run into this summer - I can't wait to find out who will be next!

It's a small world (but I'm glad I don't have to paint it).

Almost ablaze, still you don't feel the heat.

High Sierra Music Festival, Quincy, CA - July 3 - 6, 2008.

While the firefighters fought to control the blazes, several thousand people found ways around the fires to make it to the High Sierra Music Festival this past weekend. This was my second time attending the High Sierra Music Festival. I went as a patron in 2002, w/guest passes from Bruce Hornsby. I had a great time that year, went to a lot of the play-shops, ran into old friends, played for 3 days straight.... This year I had a great time as well, but the experience was wholly different.

After working with a number of the people from the High Sierra staff at Delfest, I really wanted to come out for this festival. I called Theresa, who I know from Rex Foundation, as she is the new Associate Director, but she also works with High Sierra. I told her that if she could get me a good gig, I'd love to come out. She decided to use me in the FestivALL (VIP) hospitality area. It was the perfect job for me, really. I got to see the music on the main stage and I got to schmooze with all the FestivALL patrons, and enjoy the comforts of backstage life. Most importantly, I finally got to work directly with Theresa! We have been working pretty closely together via phone and e-mail in coordinating the Rex Jams, but it is so nice to now have a face and a personal energy to put with the voice and the e-mail. It was awesome to work with her - such fun. She worked tirelessly - crazy 20 hour days - and managed to keep a smile on her face and a positive attitude. AND - we raised a BUNCH of money for Plumas County Schools' music and arts programs through the Rex Jams at High Sierra. ROCK ON, T!

I know it's all about how you handle yourself with people and continuing to "put it out there." I feel like I was able to strengthen some relationships that were started at Delfest and I also made a few new great connections. One new connection was made through one of my FestivALL guests, Devorah. She and I had been talking about our goals and she insisted that I should meet this friend of hers, who produces a festival in California in the early part of the season. She introduced us, and we chatted and he seemed very interested in what I wanted to do. I was extremely encouraged when he gave me his card and told me to send him my resume. As it turned out, I ran into another friend (quite unexpectedly) who also knew this same man, and suggested I meet him. It was almost cosimc when I told him I already had. Anyway - I take this as a positive sign. I did send out my CV this morning, and I'm feeling really good about it.

While I spent most of my time working or sleeping, I did get to break away for some fun and visiting. I had the chance to check out Heather Munro Pierce's TransDance play shop. Now, we all know I will always be partial to the 5Rhythms, but this was so nice. I have often thought it would be great to have a 5Rhythms class outside, and now I know it would. Doing a spiritual dance practice with the sun shining on your face and the breeze rescuing you from the heat was truly delicious. The worst part about it was that I didn't get there until Sunday, so I missed the classes that were offered on Friday and Saturday. I also got to visit with my friends, Angelo and Beth DiGangi, in their Tie-dye booth. Angelo and I are from the same hometown . In fact, it was in his truck - in the parking lot at Hobart Beach on Eaton's Neck that I first.... (GET YOUR MINDS OUT OF THE GUTTER!!!) ... I first drove stick shift. ;-) Angelo was very brave and patient!

There were other people I met, who I think are significant - Massage Dave, Supply Goddesses Tamara and Sharon and Sharon's lovely daughter Corine (and Corine's friend Sam), Freda and Michelle - my co-FestivALL Goddesses, Kenny from backstage security... and of course Jim and Eddie, who gave me a ride back to Reno on Monday. ... that's a lot of significance.

I only just got home yesterday, and I'm off again in the morning for All Good. I will not only be running the Rex Jam at All Good, but I am also staffing and coordinating the beer tent in the VIP area (top of the hill). It's going to be kind of a long weekend, but I'm sure it will be great. I'm looking forward to working with Jen again - She helped with the Mountain Jam Rex Jam - as well as welcoming my friends, Butch and Amy, into the Rex Fold as beer tent staff. It's gonna be a good time!

Time Flies

I had a week at home... I had all kinds of plans, but then my grandmother died, at the age of 85, on Saturday morning. All of a sudden, I'm leaving again. To me, this week has flown by, with family coming and going (myself included); but I'm sure that right about now, it feels like the last 66 years of marriage have really flown by for my granfather.

I don't have much to say, as I'm about to leave for the airport to head to Quincy, California for the High Sierra Music Festival. My mother, my uncles and grandpa are still sitting shiva. This time is not flying for them.

So here's a special bit of love being sent to Grandma Irene Pearl Axelrod Bernstein. She was a force to be reckoned with, and I miss her already. Here's another special bit of love being sent to Grandpa Jerry. He is the quintessential grandpa (if you look it up in the dictionary, I'm sure it has a full page, color photograph of Jerome Bernstein, with the phrase " 'nuff said" after the photo). He's a great man, and a strong man, and so loved by so many that while I know that he will be very lonely for her, he will never be a lone. ...we should all be so lucky.

Don't like the weather? Wait a minute....

Telluride Bluegrass Festival, June 19-22, 2008; Telluride, CO

It’s raining and small chunks of snow are dropping from the sky. I suppose it’s supposed to be hail, but it’s so warm that it just hits the ground with a bit of a “sploosh”. This is happening right now. Look at that sky. But, at the moment I am sitting on the back balcony at the home of my new friend, Mark, listening to The Dhuks at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival. I can hear the music from the guy’s back porch…it doesn’t get much better than that.

Telluride, in and of itself, is a pretty amazing place – and the Bluegrass Festival here epitomizes the town. This festival is the antitheses of Bonnaroo, which was something of a daily battle to survive. Telluride has been a complete pleasure. The air is crisp and clean, the days have been sunny and comfortable (except for the moment – and I’m currently well protected), all of the people have been a pleasure to meet…. It’s simply a joy to be here.

Everyone really cares about the entire event. The staff, the festivarians, the artists... People LOVE this place. This is the 35^th year of the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, these folks have honed the art of festivation. There are general guidelines about how things function here, and people accept them and follow them – not only willingly, but with passion. The festival takes place in the town park and there are lines “painted” on the grass to delineate different areas of “seating” which are respected 100%. There are places for everyone. Sun-shelters are allowed up to one point, high-backed chairs to another, low-backed chairs and so on. …and the people respect these areas. There is even a “no-tarp” area behind the sound-board tower designated for dancers.

My favorite sign is one of the first you see once you come through the gates. It reads: “ALL SMOKERS: PLEASE TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION THE COMFORT OF ALL NON-SMOKING FESTIVARIANS”. I love the sign, and I love even more that it is taken completely seriously. After feeling totally smoked out at Bonnaroo, with all the cigarette and cigar smoke (yes, cigars were rampant at Bonnaroo) lingering in the thick humid air, this is literally a breath of fresh air.

Another great experience, from Mark’s back porch, is watching the daily “Land Grab”. This happens when the gates open and the people who have been waiting in line all night and day (often in shifts – called “line sitting”) are allowed in to stake their claims with their tarps and sun-shelters and so-on. They actually play a recording of the William Tell Overture (played on the Banjo, of course) as the people sprint across the field and find the perfect spot to throw out their tarps in a flourish to mark their territory for the day. It is truly a sight to behold. Mark tells me that they sit in line and give each other tips on the best way to fold the tarps so they can unfold them most efficiently once they get to the desired spot.

…hmm….remember the snow and rain? It’s gone, and the sun is now beating down on my legs as they stretch out before me. I’ll write about the music another time. I think it’s time for me to go get changed and get on with the festivating!

It’s all about people…

One morning at Bonnaroo, Brandon sort of lamented about how he wants to do some traveling to discover new landscapes – but it disappoints him that the people he meets along the way will influence his response to the world around him. I was fascinated. To me, what is an experience with out other people? I think humans are naturally social creatures – some more than others, but still, we all depend on and respond to other people in some way or another. Sure, scenery has something to do with experiences, but.... I would still be living in the beautiful Northwest, in the shadow of Mount Rainier, if it hadn’t been for the people in my life who I realized were simply more important that mountains and temperate weather.

I know for a fact that my experience at Bonnaroo would have been completely different if Brandon and I hadn’t met at check-in and camped next to one another. If my neighbor had been any of the other pre-fest volunteers, I am sure I’d have had a fine time, but I think that because we were both on our own when we arrived, it created a bond between us. It just happened very organically. We set up our camps together, shared space and time and energy and conversation… we sort of kept an eye on one another while maintaining our independence, too. That was a major bonus.

We were there for a week. I think a lot of us who were on pre-fest felt a special sense of community together. Those first few days there was a real camaraderie. In fact, one of my favorite memories is of the big circle around Dar’s giant apple-shaped citronella candle on Tuesday night. We were all just spending time together, like a simple “Camp-out.” On Wednesday morning, it was a classic scene when I left for my shift. All that stood in the center of the camping field was the cooler and the melted apple. It was a shocking change when I returned to see the entire field filled with tents and cars and people. The new volunteers were just fine, but I surely felt a special bond with the other “pre-festers.”

When I was leaving on Sunday night – it was just getting dark and most of the people were still there. I have to say that I felt a little bit sad pulling out of the drive. I was almost overwhelmed with that "end of summer-camp" feeling. The festival itself was big and hot and loud and at times a real challenge, but the people I met and worked with made it a strangely special time. Camp Bonnaroo? It really is the people that make the difference. Not the crowds… but the individuals who touch your life. I am really glad to have them influencing my view of this life.

BONNAROO IS NOT SCHEDULED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION!

Bonnaroo - June 12 - June 15

Here is an example of what I am talking about:

After 2 days of work in the hot sun, followed by two days of Festivating in the hot sun, with limited sleep (due to the morning sun baking me in my tent every morning, forcing me up and out of the tent by 8:00 or so each day) I was faced with the challenge of Saturday. Bands I wanted to see playing from Noon until 4 am, not only few breaks but many of the bands overlapping. I was determined to pace myself so I could take it all in. By shear effort to conserve energy, I missed the noon performance of the Wood Brothers with John Medeski and Kenny Wolfeson. I just couldn’t get my self organized to make the trek from the camp ground to Centeroo in time. So my day started with Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings at 1:30. Already it was too hot, so we (Brandon and I) went into the Fuse Barn, where it was air conditioned, fortunately they were televising her performance. At 2:45, Brandon and I split up so he could see the more relaxed Abigail Washburn and the Sparrow Quintet (featuring BelaFleck) while I headed to the more upbeat Little Feat (so much for conserving energy and staying cool - I danced my butt off.) As soon as they were done, I hiked over to the “Which” stage to catch the 2^nd half of Gogol Bordello, the “gypsy punk” band. The band is totally high energy, but I was already pretty spent. I crashed out a bit in some shade while listening to the lead singer screams his lungs out and run around stage like a madman.

Brandon and I connected up after that for a little while, but again, our musical tastes differed. After a short break (back to the AC at the Fuse Barn) he went to see Ben Folds while I headed to “That Tent” to see Zappa Plays Zappa I stayed through performances of songs from Them or Us and Joe's Garage, and then went off to discover Ben Folds. I had never seen him, nor have I really listened to him, but he was great. Quite a performer, really connects with the crowd, is a great musician and a little bit silly. A good quality in my book!

Meanwhile, I was totally missing Levon Helm as well as Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk, both of whom I had completely enjoyed at Mountain Jam and would have liked to have seen again. I just figured that it was a good idea to make the most of the summer and see new acts as well as old favorites.

As soon as that was over, I went into the main “What” stage field to claim some space for Jack Johnson – who played a nice mellow set which gave me a chance to rest up for the evening events. Pearl Jam played after Jack Johnson, on the same stage. Wholly crap! What a show! The whole band was really tight and Eddie Vedder expressed some strong views, strong emotions and even showed his clever side. On the whole, Pearl Jam was totally impressive. They played an hour longer than they were scheduled for, until 1:00 am or so, which caused me to miss the beginning of Phil’s set – but I figured, “when am I going to have the chance to see Pearl Jam again?”

It was after 1:00 am, but there was still more music to be had. I went back to the Which stage to check out Phil Lesh and Friends. They were in the middle of a mellow Birdsong when I got there and then did a Dark Star that while fairly charged for Dark Star, it was still Dark Star. I started to nod off during his set and Brandon, after nudging me awake, looked at me and simply said, “it’s time” and sent me off to bed. I went willingly. It was about 3:15 am.

I can’t believe was unable to stay up for Phil. “Back in the day” I never had to leave a show because I was too tired. What does this mean? Does this mean my taste in music is more akin to the taste of the “younger set” who can spend 24 hours in the hot sun and still groove all night? I’m sure I was once upon a time able to do this. I just don’t understand, but I blame the Bonnaroo schedulers. It can’t be me! I am NOT old. Really…. I’m not….

Pre-ROOOO!

Bonnaroo Pre-fest-(June 8 - 11).

Man! This is a massive festival. In past years they have had upwards of 95,000 people at Bonnaroo (yes, that is the correct number of zeros!) Compare this with the last two festivals I worked, at 8,000 to 9,000 people, it's a bit of a shock. This being such a large organization, I feel that my ability to make strong connections has been much more difficult, but I feel like the folks I did work with were happy to have me there, and there have been a few little connections and reconnections that could lead somewhere.

I only had two work shifts in the three days of pre-fest preparations - so the first full day in Tennessee was spent relaxing and enjoying the local flavor. I met Brandon, "little" brother and camp-mate, upon check-in. Proximity and timing brought us together and he has turned out to be a great new friend. We were both free on Monday, so we connected up with Mollie (Delfest Hula-hooper/Rex Jam supporter at Mountain Jam) and went to check out Rutledge Falls on the suggesting of Nancy and Wes from FESS Security. What a treat it was. I don't think I've mentioned that it's F*!#'in HOT in Tennessee. The water in the swimming hole under the falls was so crisp and cold - and the falls themselves were so incredible.... what a beautiful day. We left for some Mexican food and margaritas - and then back to the falls for an afternoon dip. Eventually we went back to camp and spread the word about this amazing place so our fellow volunteers could take advantage of it if they had the time. (I'm working on figuring out the whole "flicker" thing - so I'll post photos when that gets done!).

Work started for me on Tuesday, with Vendor Coordination and Check-In. I was a Vendor Escort (...now get your brains out of the gutter!), so my job was to lead vendors from the check-in point to their vending site or camping site in a golf cart. I have to say that I really enjoyed the job - riding down the road on the cart gave me a nice breeze to help me stay cool... and it beat the hell out of unloading trailers full of merchandise in that heat! The best part about that job was when I looked up from my cart at the new vendors who had just arrived and there he was.... Thom Mond! I went to college with Thom at UNH and haven't seen him since 1991 or so. It's been so great catching up with him and getting to know his wife, Sally, and their staff, Zack and Jen. It is because of Thom and Sally that I am able to do this blog update mid-festival, as his booth, Apsara, is right behind the Microsoft tent where the wifi is plentiful! (as well as beautiful clothes and jewelry!).

Wednesday's shift, Employee Check-In, seemed a bit ridiculous. There were about 16-20 volunteers waiting to do work that could have been done by 7 or 8, or less. The folks doing the actual checking in were completely overwhelmed by the sheer numbers of people they had to process, and all we had to do was to bring the parking sticker to the cars and put them on the windows. I know that they need to be careful about how credentials are distributed, but it seems like there HAS to be a better way. It was frustrating for me to feel so underutilized and to know that there was probably a ton of stuff some of us could have been doing elsewhere that would have been more productive. I tried to find things to do to be helpful. I wound up expiditing stickers for a while, which spread the work out a little, and I did help some young volunteers deal with a medical situation by connecting them with the right people, so I suppose I made the most of the situation.

... ok - the music is going to start in about 45 minutes and I'm pretty hot, so I'm out. Stay cool and drink lots of water! (ok... I guess that is really advice for me)

Simple twist of fate...

So - I have had a small change of plans, and instead of the Rothbury Festival in Michigan, I have decided to head out to High Sierra. I really enjoyed working with the High Sierra people at Delfest, and there will be another Rex Jam there - so it will be a great situation for me. Theresa, one of my contacts from the Rex Foundation, also works for High Sierra. I'm looking forward to meeting her in person and working with her there in both capacities - as support in the Rex Jam as well as on her volunteer crew for the festival itself.

I'm feeling really good about this - but it's still a few weeks away. Coming first is my adventure to the South (Bonnaroo) and into the Mountains (Telluride Bluegrass). But for now - I think it's time for bed!

First there is a mountain, then there is no mountain, then there is.....

Mountain Jam IV, Baby! (May 30 - June 1) Great work experience, good friends (old and new) and amazing music all add up to another incredible weekend. A nice change from previous years was the relative lack of rain! (we had only a smattering on Saturday). Be sure to check the festival website for the line up, and the Mountain Jam Blog has all kinds of musical highlights.

I suppose I should have expected to see folks I knew, as Hunter Mountain is really close to home, but I saw people from all over my life! Folks from Camp Winamac days, SUNY Cobleskill days, New Hampshire seacoast days, Bruce Hornsby land, the 5Rhythms(tm) dance floor, and a whole slew of folks from the Unbroken Chain Grateful Dead Symposium/devotees of the Phurst Church of Phun (for which you can find a description at the bottom of this page). Top this with the new folks I met and worked with.... that's a lot of good energy right there, to add to the mix of music and sun.

All the people I worked with at Mountain Jam were all really supportive of one another and seemed willing to give and receive input with an open mind. Everyone really wanted to work together to make it a great success. As for my work - I was assigned to the "Lost and Found" position. At first, this title gave me images of sitting in a room in some back hallway with a box of unwanted crap. Fortunately, I was WAY off base. The Lost and Found was in the main lodge, and was also the information booth. It was a perfect position for me. I got to mingle with the people, provide useful information, and best of all, I was able to reunite people with lost items while assuring others that they were earning huge karma points for bringing in found items. Some of the "reunions" were very emotional. One girl almost made me cry, she was so happy to have her bag back - we shared a good hug. As the weekend went along, the booth became more and more chaotic, but we were able to keep it organized and functioning. Funnily enough - on Sunday I had been scheduled to work "wrist bands", but after about 30 minutes in that job, Noel - the volunteer coordinator - came in with a slightly panicked look on his face and said, "Can we have you in lost and found??? We really need you there." It made me feel good to know that he felt I had handled the position well, and I was more than happy to go "home" to my post. I liked being there, and I think folks liked seeing me there. Throughout the weekend, people took the time to stop me when I wasn't on duty, to express thanks or just say "hi" as if we were all old friends... it was very warm and fuzzy for me. I'd have happily stayed there the entire time if not for the fact that I wanted to actually see the music!

Speaking of Noel - he and Lisa, who were my primary "point" people, were great to work with. I marvel at the amount of work that Noel must have put into coordinating all the volunteers and making the program run smoothly. I wonder if he had any sleep at all over the course of the weekend. Lisa... well, she was all that and a bag of chips! Any time I had a problem I couldn't address personally, she was right there to take care of it. I know the VIPs w/parking pass issues appreciated her.... of course, I was really hoping she would have needed my help in driving Michael Franti to the airport! (note: a touch of jealousy there).

Aahhhh..... Michael Franti.... This was the first time I had ever seen him perform and yes, the man is a performer. He knows how to work the crowd. He uses a lot of "shtick" for that, which doesn't really move me, but what did move me was his expression of heart. He really connects with the audience. His music is about love, perseverance, belief, and goodness. This appeals to me greatly. I liked that he had an ASL interpreter on stage with him for one song, signing the line "Everyone deserves music, sweet music" over and over again. For another song he invited a gentleman on stage to play sax as an expression to his young daughter who had recently died of cancer. His own son, having just left home to move to NYC, surprised him by showing up at the festival and Michael was completely psyched about it. He insisted his son come on stage with him and you could see the bond there. It was pretty beautiful. I probably enjoyed Levon Helm's set more than any other. So many were so good - but there was just something about the energy, the time of day, the music - it all lined up perfectly for me during his set.

The real high point of the weekend for me was, of course, the Rex Jam. This was my first Rex Jam and I think that, all things considered, it went really well. The Rex Foundation has a program called the Rex Community Caravan to help inspire people to be part of the philanthropic endeavors that were started by the Grateful Dead, when they created the Rex Foundation in 1983. I was in charge of the entire Jam at this festival and it was an amazing experience. I organized a crew of volunteers (Thanks to Mollie, Joey, Debi, Jonny Wa, Sam, Susan & Matthew, Ann Marie, Jennifer and Erica!) to help me carry out the collection of funds that went to support the Family of Woodstock. Michael Pillot, who was in charge of the Awareness Village, was my contact for the event and he was just great. Easy to work with - and an all around nice guy - he was a tremendous support. So, Michael, if you're reading - thanks!

The rush came when I, (the shy, demure wallflower you know me to be), stood on the same stage where Govt Mule, Michael Franti, Ratdog, Levon Helm and a ton of great musicians were playing that weekend and gave an appeal to the seven or eight thousand people assembled in front of me. The people I spoke with afterwards told me I did a great job and marvelled at how I seemed so poised and comfortable up there. I have much gratitude for the 5Rhythms(tm) practice, which helped me dance through my nervousness before I went up there. I have spoken in front of people before, and have always been pretty comfortable "performing" - whether it has been for a teaching evaluation, playing at open mics, doing PR for Easter Seal, or whatever - I never really get too nervous. But this was a LOT of people! I just kept reminding myself to speak slowly and clearly... (thanks to Jonny Wa and Lisa for their input). Michael Berg, the executive director of Family of Woodstock also spoke about his program. It was nice to not have to be up there entirely by myself. We raised a nice chunk of change for Family of Woodstock and I feel good about that. This one went well - the next one will be even better.

I've been fortunate that the first to festivals have been relatively small. On Sunday I leave for Bonnaroo and Telluride Bluegrass. Both of those are HUGE events. I'll let you know how things go as I can - I don't know that I will be able to bring my computer with me as I'm camping at Bonnaroo and don't have anyplace safe to leave the computer (unless I rent a car...which I'm trying to avoid if I can).

Until next time.... fest on!

"Del, Yeah!"

I'm sunburned, bruised and exhausted. A clear sign that I have had a great weekend!

The kick-off festival on the express was DelFest, a bluegrass festival in Cumberland, Maryland (May 23 - 25) that was put together by the (Del) McCoury Family and the folks from the High Sierra Music Festival. It was held at the Allegheny County Fair Grounds, right on the border of West Virginia.

I didn't arrive until late on Friday night because I had to work. It was a challenge getting my tent up in the dark; but I am woman, hear me roar! Up it went with relatively few problems. Finally I went to the music meadow to check in at the Merch Tent where I was scheduled to work on Saturday and Sunday, and was able to enjoy the rest of Keller Williams and the Keels' set. I think the highlight of that was hearing Keller Williams play a fast bluegrass version of Frank Zappa's Dancing Fool. (David - were you listening or playing along?)

In the merch tent, I worked with The McCoury Mamas (my nickname for them), Rhonda and Allison (Del's daughters), Lisa (Del's daughter-in-law/wife of Rob McCoury) and Jean (Del's wife) - along with several other family members and volunteers. Everyone I encountered was really great; this includes staff, volunteers, artists and attendees. Bluegrass folk definitely have the "warm and friendly" gene in high abundance. My new friends, Mike and Chuck, warmly invited me to move my camp over to where they had "prime real estate". It was nice to have someone to check in with throughout the weekend since I was there on my own. (Thanks, Mike for sharing the above photo!).

The music was amazing - you can check the website for the entire line-up, but I was glad to discover a few new bands for myself. I danced myself silly to the funky sounds of The Lee Boys on Monday morning. What a great way to start a day. I also really dug The Angel Band, who performed with David Bromberg. Wow! These women all have great voices and create the most beautiful harmonies.

The late-night shows were hot, too. I missed Firday night, but Saturday and Sunday I had back-stage access (thanks to Lisa and Casey). There was some serious jamming going on. They were basically giant jam sessions with Del McCoury and Friends. On Saturday night, I spent some time after the show chatting up John Fishman (former drummer for Phish). He's this delightful nebbish of a man - we had some good laughs talking about the early days of Phish - I remembered seeing them perform at the UNH Mub for $3.00 when I went to school there. Late night Sunday, in between dancing to the music of the The Davisson Brothers (who closed their set with a kick-ass version of Franklin's Tower) and Del McCoury and Friends, I spent some time getting to know the delightful Nicky Sanders, of the Steep Canyon Rangers ,and learning to hula-hoop with my "study group" of Christy, Christy and Susan (thanks for the Loan, Molly!).

It's funny - I hadn't originally planned to go to DelFest. I like bluegrass music just fine, but it wasn't even on my radar. The main reason I went was because Theresa Reed-Hayle, one of my contacts at Rex Foundation, also works for High Sierra, and she asked me to go volunteer at this festival as they needed some extra support. I am forever grateful to her for asking me to do this. I met some great people with whom I hope to develop future relationships (both professional as well as personal), I spent two full days dancing (hence the exhaustion) in the sun (hence the sunburn) against the amazing backdrop of the West Virginia mountains AND.... I have finally learned to hula hoop (hence the bruises!).

Still in recovery mode, I am already looking forward to next weekend's Mountain Jam. Let's send sun-shiny vibes to Hunter Mountain this week, because the weather report says it Looks Like Rain (and we don't want that!).