I just learned about this thread today and I'm glad to have the opportunity to share some of my thoughts and stories with all of you who knew and loved Mitch.

I am so grateful that I got to spend some time with Mitch on two successive weekends during the summer of 2001 when I was in northern California on business. It was the first time we'd seen each other, to the best of my recollection, in about twenty-two years! Although much time had passed since we'd been together, it didn't seem like it at all--Mitch was as open and brotherly to me as though we'd never been apart.

I got to ride the Skunk Train and hear him perform. I'll never forget the expressions on the faces of the Asian tourists who had never seen or heard a banjo before--they were simply awestricken by Mitch's performance. I, too, was blown away by his passion and musicianship. I took lots of digital photographs that I'd be happy to share with anyone who's interested. Just e-mail me at Bart.Uharriet@SSRC.MsState.Edu and I'll send you what I have.

I also got to see him perform with Kristine, Dan, and Marc at one of the local wineries and I was really impressed with the entire band. I remember thinking that they really had something special going on. I took pictures at the winery, too. My camera doesn't have a zoom lense, so I had to stand right in front of the stage to get good shots. Anyone remember that?

We had coffee together one Sunday morning in a little cafe in Willits and I remember how relaxed I felt just being there with Mitch. With his charm and terrific sense of humor, he could really make a person feel at ease. Of course, anyone who knew Mitch knows exactly what I'm talking about.

My last night in California, we had dinner at the Konocti Harbor Resort and attended a concert there together. Later, we went to a saloon in Ukiah to hear a band play that Mitch knew. I stayed so late I had to drive to Sacramento afterwards with no sleep to catch my early morning flight. Just great memories that I will always cherish!

Annie,

I hope you are doing all right during this difficult time. Sarah and I have you in our thoughts and prayers. We're just terribly heartbroken over this tragedy. If we can do anything for you, just let us know.

Love to all,

Bart