Well the 2013 Fanfest is now history.  To go into the details would take up too much space and time.  Let me just say that it was a rousing success and even though the attendance was a few short of last year.  The musical performances were varied and all the hard work & practice certainly showed, the food was great and the company of all who attended was very enjoyable.
For those who couldn't go, make it a point to attend next year, I know I can't wait as it gets better each year.
Regards to all, Bernie Kester
bernardo912@yahoo.com

I echo Bernie's sentiments - too many exciting things to describe in a few words.  IMHO,this was the most rocking fanfest ever.  There were several new tunes and arrangements, as well as new players.  Bob Spalding started off his acoustic set with Classical Gas - playing solo on his Nylon string thru an acoustic amp.  That was great and the folks who weren't there missed something very, very unique from Bob.  Our host Tom did the vocals on "He Never Came Back", along with appropriate body antics and also adlibbed as a comedian to fill in some time.   The playing by all was sounding more and more polished.  In most cases you couldn't make out the fact that the players in a group had never gotten together before and played the tunes they were belting off so smoothly.  Watch the DVDs and be there for Fanfest 2014 - which will probably be even better.  Fanfest is surely turning out to be an annual pilgrimage for Ventures aficionados that is well worth it !!!

-Kanad

I agree with everything said.  The Fan Jam was excellent!  It was nice seeing fellow fans, some of which were new this year.  Kanad hit it correctly when he said you would never know the performing groups had not practiced before that day.  The entire event was well coordinated, with smooth transitions between performers. 

I was pleasantly surprised to see Bob Spalding get out his nylon string guitar and treat everyone to some fine fingerpickin' style playing.  His Classical Gas was excellent!  Maybe we'll hear more of this on upcoming Ventures' CDs?!  Thanks to Bob for attending this event yet again.  It's a thrill to have him join in with the groups.

My hats off and thanks again to Tom who coordinated everything.  Also thanks for all who helped him out with the festivities.  The Pickniks were great as usual playing and sounding just like The Ventures themselves.  Jeff, Grant, Bob, and John are always a pleasure to listen to, and I know we all appreciate them once again hauling all their equipment out to the Jam from Ohio.

On a final note, the food was very good, and the cake delicious.  I've attached a photo of the cake for those of you who could not attend.....