Today we brushed off our dancing shoes and went to the “ballroom dance practice.” It would have been fun, but John had remembered more than I had and I was frustered. I kept reverting to the dance styles of my youth, and that was “wrong.” I therefore came away feeling like a failure.

But on a positive note, I spent a great deal of time talking with music folks from Michigan who had attended the ODPC (Original Dulcimer Players Club) annual meeting. It was held yesterday and there were some major changes. If you will recall, back in July, I resigned from my role as workshop leader chairman because, when I took concerns to the board from my workshop leaders, no one would listen. My resignation prompted others to review the goings on in the ODPC and it was a general feeling that the leadership wasn’t responding. Therefore, some very intelligent members made an extra effort to be at yesterday’s meeting. Armed with knowledge and understanding, they convinced those present to make a change. A new board was elected.

I am optimistic that the changes will bring new life into this organization. The new folks who were elected are enthusiastic and eager to respond to the concerns of those who have been ignored.

I feel badly that folks had hurt feelings, but I’m sure glad that now the ODPC has found a core group who will try to make things better for the members. From the start of yesterday’s meeting, apparently there was no attempt by the president to respond to the concerns which had been expressed in July at the wrap up meeting after the festival. Instead there was just a move-on-everything’s fine attitude. The voting proved otherwise. All officers (except the secretary) were replaced.

So I’m back as workshop chairman and really pleased to be able to assume my role. I fit in this job and I am sure that folks feel I do a good job in it.

Thanks to all those wonderful folks who took time to go to the ODPC meeting. They are to be respected and admired because they cared enough to “get involved.” In this day and age, it’s a rare person who goes out on a limb to stand for (and work for) a cause with no expectation of pay or reward. They saw a problem. They are working to fix it. I’m 100% supportive of the new board.

I can’t say I’m “happy” because that would be to feel good when others feel very wounded, but I am sure that in the end, even the doubters will appreciate some new attitudes.

It took a lot of research and preparation to prepare for the meeting. There were enough people who cared so they did their homework.

Long may the ODPC flourish in the capable hands of folks who want to continue the tradition!!