Undaunted, I arose early on Saturday (March 11) and made my way down to visit with Beth and Alvin Shuler and the SouthEastern Bluegrass Association (SEBA) for a day of music. This activity was to be the first SEBA outreach and Rocky Top was a great location for such an activity. Nestled in the North Georgia mountains, the venue contains all the modern conveniences in a beautiful natural setting. The drop in temperatures, rain, wind, tornado warnings, and in-general nasty weather did not stop the enthusiastic crowd from gathering in on Friday evening and Saturday. Ed Wade gave me an early report on the Friday evening activities as only he can...even started quoting Latin to me (course he then had to explain that in 'American'!)...seems Friday evening had been thankfully rather uneventful other that the occasional tornado warning, downpours of rain, campers moved into the concert building due to inclement weather, all night jam sessions due to everyone being in a central location...all in all, not too different that what would have probably happened anyway!

Tom and Aina Barnwell did an excellent job of coordinating this event. The purpose was to provide an outreach from SEBA to the bluegrass community in North Georgia, western Alabama, Southeastern Tennessee, and the Carolinas. From all indications, this endeavor was very successful and most seemed to agree that it was especially enjoyable for many SEBA members who had not had a chance to get up to Rocky Top to finally be able to experience this excellent venue. At the same time, many loyal bluegrassers of the area probably became aware of SEBA for the first time...a 'win-win' situation in my opinion.

Lee and Wanda Taylor supplied the sound for the event and I don't think I have heard the bands sound better...in this venue or others. There were many compliments for their tireless efforts to provide an outstanding listening experience for the audience.

And of course, Beth and Alvin...provided the gracious hospitality that folks have come to expect. They seemed to be everywhere at all times to lend a helping hand or just to visit. It should be no surprise to anyone that events hosted by the Shulers are usually well attended.

Many SEBA volunteers and friends were available to provide good conversation and I certainly enjoyed getting to renew some old acquaintances and make new ones as well. Tommy Parham and Jeff Albright (SEBA board chair and president respectively) seemed to be actively involved in everything from greeting visitors, to jamming, to performing on stage. Tireless efforts on their parts as well...

There were several 'new combinations' (to me) of groups and many good friends who are just getting better and better as they spread the joy of bluegrass music...An attempt was made to chronicle the stage shows and a special excitement seemed to be in the air as this event seemed to signal the beginning of the festival season for many.

Again, my thanks to all for producing this great program. Once again, it was made vividly clear to me just how important the music and more importantly the people are in many of our lives.