Old Time Music…

In the Beginning…

On a sunny day which showed Ojai in its rain-washed beauty, President Sue called Rotarians together for service and fellowship.  Christine Fenn led the flag salute and Leslie Bouche encouraged us to celebrate the “Gratitude of Thanksgiving”  by reciting the poem Holiday of the grateful heart.

The "holiday of the grateful heart" is synonymous with the Thanksgiving holiday, which centers on gratitude, thankfulness, and reflecting on life's blessings. It is a time to appreciate both the big and small things, and to express thanks for family, friends, and spiritual or personal gifts. While it is a specific holiday, the spirit of a "grateful heart" can be practiced year-round. 

Announcements

• The new member social was a success
• The Holiday party is scheduled for Dec. 17 at 5:30:  El Roblar Hotel
• Betsy Watson gave a last chance talk for poinsettias delivered to your door.
• Betsy also urged our members to adopt a family during this season through Help of Ojai.
• President Sue awarded Bill Prather the “Rotary Service Star” for his work on the new by-laws.

Upcoming Programs

Barry Verga gave us a preview of upcoming programs:

• Dec. 5:  Mystic Ocean Adventure
• Dec. 12: Dr. Weaver will present a talk on sleep disorders

Fining with Chris Williams

Chris extracted two confessions:  Fern told us about her fall, and informed us that Bill Prather is a licensed EMT; Leslie regaled us with stories of her adventures with her grandchildren on a rainy weekend.

Chris collected some money by asking questions relevant to the holiday season.

Program:  Old Time Jam

President Sue introduced her fellow bandmates:  Joe Wack, Jan Phillips, Steve Owens and Chris Lauer. Joe then spent a few minutes providing an overview of the history of “Old Time Music”.  Here are some of the points I found interesting:

• Old Time Music has many sources:  the British Isles,  Germany and Africa.
• Old Time players play by ear, and not by reading music
• Blue Grass and C&W are offshoots of old time music.
• The banjo came from Africa

The group then went on to play several wonderful pieces:

• Devil in the woodpile
• Possum’s tail
• Blue eyed gal
• Johnny don’t come home drunk no more

Check out the Rotary International Rap Anthem by clicking here

President Sue ended the meeting with a quote from Tommy Jarrell.