Good comments. I feel that most of the problems connected with the Northwest Folklife festival are basically problems caused by the sheer numbers of people. What started, years ago, as a rather naive 'getting together publicly' of some folk singing friends, has now grown into a festival of huge proportions. Several years ago, I wrote the then director, with a suggestion about how to gain control again. I was serious when I simply suggested that they lock every other bathroom door and put a sign that said "OUT OF ORDER." That way, nature would reduce the crowds to a much more enjoyable level. For whatever reason, my letter was not taken seriously, but I thought it was quite clever. Oh well! I am anticipitating this years concert with a mixture of concern and pleasure. I do NOT look forward to stumbling through crowds and crowds of people, trying to protect my instrument and aging body. But I DO look forward, very much, to joining some long time friends on stage ... especially singing some duets again with friend Don Firth.