🎻 WOTFA District 4 Report – September
Hello, Fiddler Friends!
Dear Fiddler Folks, what a summer it’s been! The sunshine, good company, and sweet tunes have carried us through a wonderful August, and September is already shaping up to be full of music, laughter, and fellowship.
🎶 August Highlights
We had some fantastic play-outs and gatherings over the past month!
Sedro-Woolley Senior Center:
A full house enjoyed lively tunes from Gaye, Gary, Greg, Rich, Denise, Forrest, and Dwight. The food was delicious, the conversation was cheerful, and the day was full of smiles. We even sang three Happy Birthday songs — to Greg’s Uncle Charlie, Forrest, and Norah! With everyone getting two turns at the mic, it was a joyful day indeed.
Mountain Glen (Gayle’s home turf):
A wonderful turnout of 40 residents clapped and tapped along as Dennis and Gayle fiddled away, joined by Gary, Forrest, Vern, and Greg. Greg brought out “She’ll Be Coming ’Round the Mountain” — always a favorite — and Vern followed with “Wildwood Flower.” Dennis shined with a lovely mandolin instrumental, and the whole group sounded fantastic.
Country Meadows & Creekside:
Both play-outs were a hit!
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At Creekside, about 40 in the audience enjoyed music from Mici, Jim, Greg, Gary, Forrest, Vern, Gayle, and Dwight — a total of 19 songs, including a reprise of “Red Wing.” Dwight even squeezed in an extra dulcimer tune at the end!
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At Country Meadows, 25 residents were treated to lively sets by Gayle, Rich, Danny, Ben, Mici, Jim, Greg, Gary, Forrest, Vern, and Dwight. Greg pulled out a couple of sing-alongs — “She’ll Be Coming ’Round the Mountain” and “Goodnight, Irene.”
It’s always a fun game of “musical chairs” as players move from mic to mic!
We missed Dennis and Crystal this round — a few folks even asked, “Where’s that tall fellow who plays fiddle, guitar, and mandolin (and sings!), and his lovely wife?” They were remembered fondly!
Life Care Center:
Another heartwarming day with Gayle, Gary, Dwight, Vern, Rich, Greg, and Forrest. The group played for 25 residents, and Dwight gave an extra treat — a dulcimer tune for resident Carmen. A special thanks to Forrest’s sister Judi, who spent time visiting with residents and lifting spirits.
We were honored to recognize Delores Olson, a longtime OTF friend, now rehabbing there. Delores has devoted years of service sharing her piano and keyboard music at countless nursing homes, retirement communities, and campgrounds. Her sons, Lonny and Larry, have lovingly cared for her, and Fred shared how meaningful it was to reminisce with Delores and her family — even looking through old OTF photos together.
La Conner Inn:
A crowd of 50 residents celebrated monthly birthdays with delicious chocolate cake and good music! Dwight stopped at Mira Vista on his way to play dulcimer for Jack and Judy, who were delighted by the surprise visit.
At La Conner, Diana made the trip from Darrington (thank you, Diana!), and Vern brought his banjo and a new favorite tune — “Dooley” from the old Andy Griffith Show. Gary, Rich, Dwight, Denise, Greg, and Lee (a returning fiddler and harmonica player) all joined in. Dennis and Crystal added their signature harmonies and instrumentals, rounding out a beautiful afternoon.
One resident, Jerry, told us he’s been practicing “I’ve Been Everywhere” by Hank Snow during COVID — and he’s ready to sing it for us! We’ll be back at La Conner on Friday, September 19th, and Fred’s giving Jerry his turn at the mic. That’s the spirit of community we love to see!
🎵 Tune of the Month
Clayhole Waltz
Gayle loves waltzes — and Dennis would be happy to know you’re checking it out!
🎻 Workshops & Jams
The Mount Vernon Senior Center Fiddle Tune Workshop was a great success. Dennis shared that everyone — TJ, Greg, David, and Graham — had a fun and productive time learning and sharing tunes.
The Mount Vernon Jam was another bright spot! A big fan kept us cool during the heatwave, and with 11 players and 25 in the audience, it was an evening full of good music, goodies, and conversation. It was wonderful to see Sarah back singing with us! Thanks to Gary, Forrest, Greg, Rich, Ron, Diana, Jim, Graham, and David for their tunes and smiles.
To everyone who brings snacks, donates to our kitties, sets up chairs, or just comes to share in the fun — thank you! You make every gathering something special.
🎉 Looking Ahead
Mark your calendars for a special double birthday celebration!
🎂 Danny’s 96th Birthday and Sara Jane’s 91st Birthday
📅 Saturday, September 13
📍 6414 N. Fruitdale Rd, Sedro-Woolley
🎶 Music at 11:00 AM
🍽️ Potluck lunch at 12:00 PM
Let’s show our love with music, laughter, and a full table!
💕 In Memoriam
Our hearts continue to be with Lonny and Larry Olson on the passing of their beloved mother, Delores, and with Kerry Ann Edin, Delores’ cousin. Delores’s dedication to the Old Time Fiddlers and her gift of music touched so many lives.
We also send condolences to Jim and Mici in the loss of Mici’s sister. May peace and comfort find you in this difficult time.
🌻 A Note from Fred
Thank you all — every player, helper, and supporter — for the time and heart you bring to our gatherings. Your efforts make each event shine a little brighter. Whether you’re picking a tune, baking a treat, or cheering from the audience, you make District 4 the warm, musical family it is.
Here’s to a September filled with music, joy, and friendship!
With blessings and gratitude,
Fred Robbins 🙂
Interim Chair
📞 206-786-3369
📧 fred@robbinsmetal.com
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