Now that's my boy, Gern. Knew I could count on you for a good sparring match. Hope you take this as an open conversation, and not bitter comments from me. But, I hate to see this intrigue continue.

Answer: I know the ones that popularized the jam because Wayne Sweeney, Laurie, Elson and I were the first jam. Wayne helped Elson drag in the display cases. Since day 1, I have done all of his fliers and logo, donated merchandise for him to stock the shelves, many times without reimbursement, etc. Being from a marketing world, we wanted a jam to get local musicians to discover the shop. Laurie said, "Let's just do it... starting this Saturday." We just did it. That was 2 years ago. It was a long time since that first day before we saw you and lots of others, and by that point Bob, Pete, Harvey and others had been invited, attended and loved it. That is when the attendance skyrocketed. Ask Elson.

Reality: This core group wants to play bluegrass. Only bluegrass, although they do tolerate cowboy and country music as an occasional song. Attitudes? Yes. Egos? Yes. Now, tell me you ain't packing one of each, too.

Clarification: I am not implying you resent those with superior ability, nor am I suggesting you are of inferior ability. If you are taking my comments that way, then you are off base but I apologize. But, I do have a question... what would make you and the "veterans" who are complaining happy? Frankly, I have not heard anyone complain, so it must be way off to the side. If you or anyone feels alienated, what do you suggest to fix it?

Opportunity: I cannot imagine a better learning environment to learn bluegras than playing with real bluegrass die hards. I've said it, I say it again, and will continue to say it. Playing alone at home on the couch don't cut it.

Similar situation and attitude came up at the American Legion not long ago. After bickering and arguing for a couple of weeks, the solution was for the core bluegrass group to withdraw from the Legion and practice at private jams, by invitation only.

This is the same core group that offend you, apparently. I promise to refrain from responding to subsequent comments about the "big boys," et al. Only makes me seem narrow minded. Maybe I am.