Larry, Lori, Steve and all -- before you even brand an organization - get to know it and the people who are in it better for an organization is nothing without the people.

Pinewoods was started by a group of folks 35+ years ago who had been to Pinewoods camp in MA and wanted to have something like it here in NYC. The focus is on sharing good music. The membership is a diverse group (ok perhaps not as diverse as we would like, but change happens with time and effort) of all ages with all kinds of background but with one common thread -- making, listening to, prserving and presenting good folk music. I joined the group 10+ years ago and have been an active voice hopefully contributing towards making new people feel welcome and encouraging members and non-members alike to participate in events. (by the way, I think I am a "good guy" too - you may have your own views on that)

I have never in my life been an "insider" as you would call it. But now find myself being called one as current President of Pinewoods. I have spent most of my life on the "outside" looking in and finally realized that the only way to change things is to get in there and become a catalyst for change.

I am a member of another folk/social change organization as well and have been treated as very much an "outsider" by many of the "insiders" there to the point where I remain a member but don't attend many events as I don't feel particularly welcomed. (if you are interested in more on this, PM me - I don't feel the need to publicly bash organizations for which others feel deeply.)

Organizations made up of people who have worked hard to preserve whatever it is an organization is doing cannot help but have "insiders" and "outsiders" as by definition, an insider is one inside an entity. And there are times outsiders choose to be just that - for whatever reason -- valid or not.

Pinewoods is an organization that has undergone a tremendous amount of change over the past 10 years and anyone who would like to see more change within the organization should get involved and help make it happen. As a organization we are always looking for new members and hope that among them are people willing help build and even shape the club. Talking about change is cheap. Working towards it is what counts. However, some people forget that you cannot force change and change may not come overnight. It takes time, patience and diligence.

I would invite all out there to come to an event or two - not just a concert event, but a weekend - get to know the some of the people. We had a particularly spectacular weekend over Memorial Day - with lots of new friends - there for the first time -- I spoke with most of them and many found it hard to leave the place, the people. The "new" people participated in camper's concerts and were thrilled with the support that came from the other participants. And these people sang old songs, new songs, their own songs, read poetry, told stories -- sharing -- that's what it's all about. And yes, there were invited performers as well -- some few had heard of - and want more. Dancing - and just plain fun.

I certainly speak for myself and I believe I can speak for the club - that we both want and encourage you to join with us - get involved - be a part of the shaping of the club in years to come.

Idealistic? Perhaps, but that's how it all begins.

Joy