ALL FRETS - July/August 2018 ENTIRE ISSUE | Page 4

Dear ALL FRETS members:
First off, a word of gratitude to everyone who made ALL FRETS 2018
BUFFALO yet another unforgettable annual convention. Keith Konopa and
the Buffalo Banjo Band really know how to host an event and, with the
support of performers, clinicians, volunteers and – most importantly – our
membership in attendance, the results were outstanding. We’re doing it
all again next year in the “Land of Lincoln,” Springfield, Illinois…save the
dates: July 9-13, 2019!
At the convention a discussion took place in which recruitment of new
members was the topic. Glenn Peisker – somewhat tongue in cheek -
suggested a vintage army recruitment poster with the slogan “Uncle FIGA
wants YOU!” After a good laugh, Ron McLawhon ran with the idea, the results of which are seen on
the inside cover of this issue – with an homage to Glenn himself in the starring role.
Also the result of a plea from your editor at the convention, this issue features two new
contributors. Robbert Van Renesse has volunteered to contribute a regular ukulele column while
Joe Feager will be submitting new music arrangements for guitar tuned banjo or baritone ukulele. I
remind all that submissions of news and information as well as feature articles are always welcome.
A note of congratulations to Cynthia Sayer who was recently honored as being the first four-string
banjoist in a featured role at the Newport Jazz Festival. While tenor and plectrum banjos have been
sighted at the festival in the past as part of bands, the elevation of the instrument to a starring role
is a milestone in the modern day presence and perception of the banjo in the ever evolving world of
jazz…kudos Cynthia.
As we head into winter a reminder to our snowbird members to notify my office each time your
address changes at the time it changes. I often receive such requests with dues renewal notices
but, with about 100 snowbird members, it is virtually impossible to keep track of the varied comings
and goings of each snowbird member. Dropping me a note ([e-mail]/405-819-3883) when
you make your move is the best way to make sure we’re both up to date with your membership.
Finally, a note of thanks to Dr. Jeff Grosser for his bestowing upon me the 2018 President’s Award.
Serving our members is more than an occupation, it is a labor of love which it truly my honor to be
fulfilling. I’m rarely speechless, but Jeff’s surprise overwhelmed me to the point that I couldn’t get
out a word. So, to Jeff – and all of our members: “Thank you allowing me to serve you!”
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ALL FRETS JULY/AUGUST 2018