Sometimes you get so busy with all there is to see and hear and so many places to be, you have to settle for hearing about the events you missed from someone else! If your Walnut Valley Festival experience was anything like ours, then it was a case of wanting to be everywhere at once.

The weather was great! Except for one (long!!!!!) shower on Thursday, festival week. We finally got the weather break we’ve been missing for the last several years. We heard that flat-picking champ Steve Kaufman came back to win yet another guitar

and walked away with second place in Flat Picking! But we didn’t get to see him. Steve is a 12-year performing veteran of the WVF and he is a three-time, first-place winner in the National Flat Pick Guitar Championship.

We heard Pete Huttlinger returned, busy as ever with a new recording project, but we didn’t get to see him either! Pete’s been ill in a way that would stop most people in their tracks, but not Pete. Pete Huttlinger’s name is almost an adjective around the WVF Fingerstyle Guitar Competition, having won first in 2000 and placing second three other times. Yet, we couldn’t be everywhere

at once and we missed his 2013 performance!

How could we miss our dear friend Crow Johnson! But we did. We heard Crow Johnson came back and made a guest appearance in a wonderful set with friends Kelly and Donna of “Still On the Hill.” Crow was the driving force behind the WVF NewSong Showcase from 1994 to 2003. Crow, like Pete, is a survivor. Cancer slowed her down just a little. She’s not touring

as much or writing as many songs as she used to, but she is writing mostly stories now and has published a new book, “Flights of Fancy,” a marvelous collection about everyday people leading not-so-everyday lives. If you missed seeing Crow, visit her website www.crowspun.com.

The line-up was exceptional with many returning acts performing new material and what about our own Barry Patton and Rene Webb exchanging vows on Stage 5 with Uncle Byron Berline fiddling! I remember seeing Barry’s first Walnut Valley set with Byron, generating all kinds of excitement. Let’s see, that must have been 75 or 80 years ago? Funny how it all runs together sometimes.

The Walnut Valley Festival 2013: What Did You Miss?

Continued on Page 2

Steve Kaufman

Crow Johnson and Still on the Hill

Barry Patton and Rene Webb wedding

Walnut Valley AssociationPO Box 245Winfield, KS 67156

Vol. 38, Number 2

Walnut Valley December OccasionalWalnut Valley December Occasional

If you have not come to Winfield you are missing one of America’s treasures! - Joe Worrel

Festival Attendee

We also missed the River Rats 25th Walnut Valley Anniversary! For the last 25 years, the River Rat Camp in the Pecan Grove has been the scene of so much fun, bringing together campers from all over the grounds to participate in the infamous River Rat Band Scramble and Costume Contest. Contestants must draw for partners and write a song, and create theme-related costumes. The theme always has the word “rat” somewhere in it so this year’s theme was “Silver Riverativersary-Under The Reminischute”. First place went to Heydon Harris and John Mitchell for “Papa Smurf’s Magic Smoke Truck.” Thanks to the River Rat Camp for all of their hospitality and pure honest far out fun!

The exciting new bands were actually where we spent a lot of our stage time. Be sure and go back to your Festival program and read about the performers

you missed. You’ll learn who was new or returning. Track down each act that you missed. You can find these entertainers’ video and music on YouTube and Reverb Nation as well as many other websites. Also keep checking back at www.wvfest.com to stay informed about the 2014 line-up. At the Home page in the left column, select “Performers.” You’ll be given the option to view past and present entertainers. Click on the name of a performer and you’ll be taken to that website, where you can link up and explore. That’s exactly how we cope with “what we missed” during the long winter months in between Festivals.

What we didn’t miss out on, was that Walnut Valley Spirit and the family atmosphere! The spirit of the Festival was alive and well with many first-time campers finding homes in established camps. It is so important to share that spirit. These days, many folks are self-absorbed, me-first types, pushing and shoving, lacking respect for others. Our Festival is famous for its “Welcome Home” feeling and has been now for over four decades. The world outside of Walnut Valley is moving fast and furious. How about let’s keep our Festival fun for the family, and comforting for the new folks. Sincerely, let’s share that Welcome Spirit, that calm peace, that love for music that brought us all here in the first place. Let’s share it from the heart with our new friends. Let’s make Walnut Valley 2014 the

best yet. Let’s leave the world behind next September and embrace the opportunity to breathe, relax and sing and pick!

- Ernie and Patti Hill

River Rat Camp

2013 Instrumental Championship Results

International Autoharp Championship The International Autoharp Championship included eight contestants who played and they hailed from seven different states (TX, KS, CA, CO, PA, OK & NC). When the cut to five was made only the contestants from OK, PA, CA, KS and NC prevailed. The two Honorable Mentions in this competition were Tina Louise Barr from Modesto, CA, and Steve Luper from Andover, KS When the final three were announced, first place was awarded to Jo Ann Smith of Bartlesville, OK. This was the fourth time to enter this contest. She took first place in 1999 and for the two prior years she placed in the top five. Jo Ann has been playing the autoharp for 18 years. By trade she is an IT person in the radiology area. She has two CDs out, one entitled Rhythm of the Rain (2004) and Lyrical (2011). When not playing her autoharp she enjoys knitting. In addition to the first place trophy, Jo Ann received $175 in cash and a d’Aigle Cascade G-D Diatonic Autoharp by Pete Daigle of Seatac,

WA. Cindy Harris of Pittsburgh, PA placed second in this competition. This

was her first visit to the Festival. This internet consultant enters numerous competitions for the autoharp, such as Mt Laurel, where she has placed second three times and third twice. She said she often wanted to come to Winfield, but it just didn’t work out. This year it did and her playing netted her second place. She has been playing this instrument for some 16 years and has numerous CDs out, the most recent was entitled Strike the Autoharp: An Autoharp Celebration (2009 and 2013). Cindy also plays the fiddle and bass. The second place trophy, an Evoharp Legacy 21 Autoharp by The Dulcimer Shoppe/McSpadden Mountain Dulcimers of Mountain View, AR, and a $125 check headed back to Pittsburgh with her. Third place went to a person who is making this his sixth time to enter this contest. Doug Pratt of Cary, NC, is a retired ornithologist who worked at the NC Museum of Natural Science in Raleigh, NC. Doug took home the first place trophy in 2006 and came back to try again. In 2003 he made the final five and last year he placed second. Now that he is retired he attends many other festivals because his favorite thing to do at these festivals is jam. In addition to the autoharp, Doug plays the Dobro and a bit of guitar. Doug won a trophy, $75 in cash and an Oscar Schmidt OS21C Autoharp by Oscar Schmidt/US Music Corporation of Buffalo Grove, IL.

International Finger Style Guitar Championship This championship had 39 contestants from 23 states plus the countries of Taiwan and Japan. When the cut to five was made, contestants from TN, IL, TX and NY and Japan remained. This year honorable mentions were Jack Wilson of Elk Grove, IL, and Helen Avakian of Pleasant Valley, NY. First place went to a guitar instructor at Texas State University. Mark Cruz hails from Austin, TX, and this was the fifth time he has entered the Championship. Mark placed second in both 1993 and 2001. He has recorded a number of CDs in various genres such as rock, classical, jazz, Christmas and even children’s music. He has been playing the guitar for around 40 years and plays bass and, as he says, “piano (sort of).” Mark loves the WVF and considers it a “gift from God.” His hobbies are walking, travel, and composition. Mark chose the Larrivee LV10E Deluxe Guitar by Jean Larrivee Guitars of Oxnard, CA, as his prize in addition to the first place trophy and a check for $3,000. He is looking forward to returning to Winfield for the Wednesday evening Champions Showcase Concert next year. Roger Hardin of Murfreesboro, TN, placed second in this competition. This was his sixth time to enter the contest. He has been playing the guitar for some 38 years. In real life Roger is a computer communications expert. He has placed in the top five three times in the past. A most recent CD of his is entitled Turn Right – Go Straight. As the second place winner, Roger chose the Taylor 518e Guitar by Taylor Guitars of El Cajon, CA, as his prize in addition to a trophy. Shohei Toyoda of Japan was awarded third place by the judges. This was his third visit to the Festival. Shohei is a 28-year-old guitarist, musician and teacher. In 2011 he placed in the top five in this competition. He has been playing the guitar for 15 years and also likes to sing. He speaks very good English, having spent a number of years in Ohio, recently moving back to Japan. His latest CD is entitled The Hills Have Ears. Shohei won a Triggs Flattop Acoustic Guitar by Jim and Ryan Triggs of Lawrence, KS. He also took back to Japan the third place trophy and says he’ll be back next year.

(l to r) Cindy Harris-2nd Place, Jo Ann Smith-1st Place & Doug Pratt-3rd Place

(l to r) Roger Hardin-2nd Place, Mark Cruz-1st Place & Shohei Toyoda-3rd Place

National Mountain Dulcimer Championship In this championship there were 13 playing contestants from nine states. This year’s honorable mentions were Allie Routh of Augusta, KS, and Rob Pearcy of Smyrna, TN. First place went to Jeff Hames, an appliance repair specialist from Madison, MS. Jeff has been attending the Festival since 2005, the year he placed third in this contest. The next year he took home the first-place trophy and last year he placed second. Jeff says his hobby is, quite understandably, the dulcimer, but he also plays the guitar, mandolin and clarinet. Jeff has two CDs: Rock Around the Clock and Dueling Banjos. When not competing in this contest, his favorite thing to do is jam out in the campground. Jeff also teaches the dulcimer at Mt. View and other places in FL and CA. He takes back to Mississippi a check for $175, the first place trophy and a 4FHKK Custom Mountain Dulcimer by the Dulcimer Shoppe/McSpadden Mountain Dulcimers of Mountain View, AR.

Second place was awarded to a home-schooled student by the name of Nathaniel Samsel of Clarksville, GA. His favorite subject in school is music. He has entered this competition four times and, in 2011, he placed

third. He has played the mountain dulcimer for over six years. He also plays the guitar. Nathaniel has a CD entitled Playing in the Creek. When not playing music he enjoys fishing, boating and hiking. As a result of placing second, he won $150, the second place trophy and a 6FHCRB Mountain Dulcimer by the Dulcimer Shoppe/McSpadden Mountain Dulcimers of Mountain View, AR. Jonathan Dowell is an engineering Physicist from Los Alamos, NM who placed third in this competition. He has entered this contest seven times and has made the cut five times and in 2010 he placed second. Jonathan has been playing this instrument for 12 years and also plays percussion. He has a number of CDs out with titles like Red Haired Boys, A Different Light, and Celtic Christmas Showdown. When not playing music he likes to mountain bike and do underwater photography. In addition to a trophy, he won $125 and a 4FGCS Mountain Dulcimer by The Dulcimer Shoppe/McSpadden Mountain Dulcimers of Mountain View, AR.

(l to r) Nathaniel Samsel-2nd Place, Jeff Hames-1st Place and Jonathan Dowell-3rd Place

National Mandolin Championship There were 22 contestants in this championship hailing from 14 states. This year’s honorable mentions were Jordan Ramsey of Boulder, CO, and Ben Cockman of Sherrills Ford, NC. A musician, teacher, and clinician from Peoria, IL, placed first in this competition. Andrew Hatfield says he enjoys meeting all the musicians who attend this Festival. In addition to the mandolin, he plays the guitar, banjo, fiddle, bass, and French horn. In 2010 Andrew placed third in the National Flat Pick Guitar Championship and in 2011 he placed first. In 2011 he placed third in the National Mandolin Championship and second place in 2012. He enjoys bicycling, sports and good movies when not playing music. As a result of his first-place finish, he took back to Peoria $275, a trophy and a Collings MF5 Custom Mandolin by Collings Guitars Inc. of Austin, TX. Gordon Neidinger, an 18–year-old Berklee College of Music student, placed second in this competition. This was his second time to enter. In 2012 he placed third. Gordon hails from Pittsburgh, PA. Gordon says friends suggested that he come and compete at the contest in Winfield and they kept urging him on, so he came in 2012 and competed. His favorite subject in school is calculus. Gordon loves to ski and bike. The trophy and a Clark F5 Mandolin by Clark Mandolins of Boise, ID, went back to Pittsburgh with him. An 18-year-old from Woodway, TX, placed third in this competition. John Peyton (JP) Shafer is a second-time attendee at the Festival and this championship. A student at McLennon College in Waco, TX, JP has been playing the mandolin for around eight years. He also plays the guitar, fiddle, bass and banjo. If he plays these instruments as well as he plays the mandolin, watch for him in some of the other contests here at the Festival. He has a few CDs available with titles such as Dueling Hearts, If the Lord Be Willing, McLennon Mile, and Wild Love Ride. When not playing music, JP loves woodworking and baseball. JP says the Festival affords a great opportunity to both compete and to learn. JP will take back to Texas a trophy and a Webber Yellowstone “F” Mandolin by Weber Fine Acoustic Instruments of Manhattan, MT.

(l to r) Gordon Neidinger-2nd Place, Andrew Hatfield-1st Place and JP Shafer-3rd Place

Stay connected to us year round! Visit www.wvfest.com or join us on

Walnut Valley Old Time Fiddle Championship There were 22 contestants from 12 states participating in this championship. Cathy Pearson of Warren, PA, and Cara DiGiovanni of Greenbrier, TN, took home honorable mentions. A first timer to the Festival took first place. Katie Glassman of Denver, CO, is a musician and teacher. She is a Colorado State Champion and a National Old Time Fiddle Contest Winner, the latter of which is held in Weiser, ID. She has been playing the fiddle for 23 years. Katie also plays the guitar, sings, and is part of a band called “Katie Glassman and Snapshot.” She has a couple of CDs, one called Who Walks In and Snapshot. She is looking forward to the Wednesday evening Winners Showcase Concert next year. Katie takes back to Denver a check for $275, the First Place Trophy and a Gliga Professional Gama 5-String Fiddle presented by Beautiful Music Violin Shop of Lawrence, KS. Second place this year also placed second last year and, as a result, can return to compete again rather than wait five years. Roger Netherton

is a 17-year-old college freshman attending the University of Missouri. Roger hails from St. Louis. Roger wants to be a science editor after graduation. He has attended the Festival a number of times and enjoys this competition. He says, “I like fiddle music and, here at the Walnut Valley Festival, is where I first heard old-time fiddle played.” In his first year of competition he played a very old, cheap German fiddle, but says, “it did great for me.” Computer and video games, math and physics and, of course, fiddling are his passion. He also loves jamming at the Carp Camp. For his efforts he won the 2nd Place Trophy and a Mark Wilcox Stradivari Patterned Violin provided by Mark Wilcox Violins of Marion, KS. An18-year-old college student from Portland, OR, placed third in the competition. A freshman at Evergreen State College in Olympia WA, this was Kian Dye’s first visit to Winfield and this competition. He placed fourth in the national contest in Weiser, ID, and second place in the Oregon State Contest. He has been playing the fiddle for some 12 years and also plays the guitar, mandolin and does some singing. No CDs yet, but surely they will be coming soon. The 3rd Place Trophy and an Akos Balazs Fiddle represented by the Beautiful Music Violin Shop of Lawrence, KS, went back to Portland with him.

(l to r) Roger Netherton-2nd Place, Katie Glassman-1st Place and Kian Dye-3rd Place

National Flat Pick Guitar Championship Twenty-eight contestants played in this competition from 12 states as well as Japan. Many former winners competed. Honorable mention plaques went to Adam Wright of Goodlettsville, TN, and Ben Cockman of Sherrills Ford, NC A well-known name to the Festival placed first this year. Allen Shadd, a 48-year-old plumber/musician from Lake Wylie, SC, has been to the Festival at least 16 times and entered this competition just about as many. He placed in the top three eight times: first in 1997; second in 1996, 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2012; and 3rd in 2011. Allen commented that he is now one ahead of Roy Curry, who has placed seven times in this contest. In addition to guitar, Allen plays the banjo and mandolin. He and his wife have a 15-month-old son, both of whom were in the audience to cheer him on to victory. Father and son look alike and Allen says his son will be a future flat pick winner. Allen has a couple of CDs: A Cut Above and Live from Winfield. His hobby is bass fishing. He takes home with him the first place trophy, a check for $3,000 and a Collings Winfield Model Mahogany/Adirondack Spruce Guitar by Collings Guitars of Austin, TX. Another well-known name competed in this contest. Steve Kaufman of Alcoa, TN, took second place. Steve, along with Jason Shaw and Roy Curry, are the only three-time winners in this contest. Steve placed second in 1977 then, in 1978, 1984 and 1986, he placed first. When asked how long he has been playing the guitar, he replied, “Before bread was invented.” Steve also plays the mandolin and the banjo and has over 17 CDs to his name, two of which are Acoustic Stamp and Good Night Waltz. When asked about his hobbies, Steve said, “Guitar, father, and husband, and not necessarily in that order.” In addition to a trophy, Steve received a Martin D-28 Marquis Guitar with Custom Inlay by C.F. Martin and Company of Nazareth, PA. Another former winner in this contest placed third. Matt Lindsey of Dunbar, WV, placed second in 1992 and third in 2001. This 43-year-old, self-employed musician, forester, and landscaper has entered this contest 17 times. His most recent CD is entitled To You from Me. He also plays in a band called “The Dread Pirate, Roberts.” When not being a musician, Matt enjoys bow hunting and fishing. He won a trophy and a Gallagher 72 Special Guitar by J.W. Gallagher and Son of Wartrace, TN.

(l to r) Steve Kaufman-2nd Place, Allen Shadd-1st Place and Matt Lindsey-3rd Place

National Hammer Dulcimer Championship There were 11 contestants in this championship, hailing from five states. The honorable mention winners were Karen Alley of Boulder, CO, and Nathan Raber-McCrae of Denver, CO. The winner in this contest almost backed out of competing because she was so nervous, but she ultimately said, “I’ll play and have fun.” Katie Moritz of Sugar Grove, IL, is a graphic designer and graduate student at Robert Morris University in Chicago. She entered this contest four previous times, making the top five three years ago. Katie has been playing the hammer dulcimer for seven years, but also plays the ukulele, tuba and the steel pan. She is a member of the “The Waubonsee Steel Band.” She teamed with the 2009 champ, Lisa Ferguson, and recorded a CD entitled Kaleidoscope. Music, painting, art and the steel band are her favorite things to do when not hammering on her dulcimer. Katie won a check for $125, a trophy and a Master Works Russell Cook Edition

Extended Range 16/16cxr Hammer Dulcimer by Master Works of Bennington, OK. Tina Gugeler of Erie, CO, is the second place winner. She is a former winner of this contest, having placed first in 2000. Tina has been coming to the Festival for 20 years. She took second place in 1999 and 2010 and third place in 1998, 2007 and 2012. In addition to the hammer dulcimer, she plays the uke and the bodhran. Tina teaches the hammer dulcimer at various festivals around the country. In addition to being a musician, Tina is a polymer clay artist making jewelry. One of her favorite things to do at the Festival is to jam at the Carp Camp. She was awarded a check for $100, a trophy and a Cloud Nine-Model 17/16/8 Hammer Dulcimer provided by Michael C. Allen Cloud Nine Musical Instruments of Ostrander, OH. Third place was awarded to an 18-year-old high school student at Joliet Catholic Academy in Joliet, IL. Nate Pultorak says his favorite subject is calculus. This is the third time Nate has been to the Festival. He attends other festivals, such as the Gebbard Woods Dulcimer Festival and the Kentucky Music Weekend. After taking second place in 2012, he enjoyed the competition so much that he decided to return again this year. In addition to the hammer dulcimer, he plays the trumpet, piano, penny whistle, and percussion. His latest CDs include The Wandering and 10:10: God’s Time. Nate’s hobbies include reading, song writing, biking, fishing and hiking. His efforts netted him a check for $75, a trophy and Huddleson UL400C Chromatic Hammer Dulcimer by Mike Huddleson Stringed Instruments of Wichita, KS.

(l to r) Tina Gugeler-2nd Place, Katie Moritz-1st Place and Nate Pultorak-3rd Place

National Bluegrass Banjo Championship Twelve contestants from 11 states competed in this championship. A father and son team was this year’s honorable mention winners: Gregg Welty of Mayville, NY, and Eric Welty of Argyle, TX Taking first place was a 37-year old furniture designer, William Cockman from Sherills Ford, NC. This was his second time to the Festival. William came last year because of placing in the state competition. In 2012 he placed third. Earlier the day of the competition, Bill purchased a set of ear plugs so he could practice his banjo without hearing others. The brand name of the ear plugs was “Champion Ear Plugs.” He said, “Do you think that was a sign of things to come?” In addition to the banjo, he plays the guitar. His hobbies include fishing and playing gospel music with his family. It turns out his family plays together in a band called “The Cockman Family Band.” William took home the first place trophy and an OME Southern Cross HG50 Banjo by OME Banjos of Boulder, CO. Second place went to someone who is no stranger to the Festival’s banjo competition. Sonny Smith of New Market, TN, placed first in 1998, second in 1997 and 2008, and third in 1992 and 2009. Sonny has been playing the banjo since he was six. By the way, he also plays the fiddle. He considers himself a musician and, if you are ever in Pigeon Forge, TN, he encourages you to stop in and see him perform at the Hatfield and McCoys Dinner Show. When not playing the banjo, Sonny loves to go metal detecting. Going back home with him are his trophy and a Gold Plated Deering Deluxe Banjo by Deering Banjo Company of Spring Valley, CA. Kyle Tuttle from Nashville, TN, placed third. Last year he placed second and two years ago he made the top five. Kyle considers himself first a banjo player and then banjo teacher. This year he took second at Merle Fest. Kyle considers the Festival a fun scene with lots of nice folks and says he definitely will return next year. Practicing the banjo is not only his work, but is also his one and only hobby. A trophy and a Deering Eagle II Banjo by Deering Banjo Company of Spring Valley, CA, will go back to Nashville with him.

(l to r) Sonny Smith-2nd Place, William Cockman-1st Place and Kyle Tuttle-3rd Place

2014 Instrumental Championships The Walnut Valley Festival is known internationally for hosting eight instrumental championships. Several of today’s big name artists, such as Steve Kaufman, Alison Krauss and Tim Thompson, can point to winning in Winfield as a launching pad for their careers. Do you have what it takes to be a Winfield champion? This past year over $100,000 was awarded in cash and prizes.

Who Can CompeteThe championships are open to anyone except those who are performing at the Festival as a billed or paid entertainer. Prior winners may enter a contest which they have not won within the past five years, specifically 2009 - 2013. Registration opens the second Thursday in January. In 2014, opening day is January 9, 2014, at 9 am CST. Entry fee is $15 per person per contest*. Only 40 contestants may compete in any one contest.

How to RegisterTo register by phone using a credit card, call (620) 221-3250 starting at 9 am on Jan. 9.

To register by mail, return the entry form below along

with the necessary payment to:Walnut Valley AssociationP. O. Box 245Winfield, KS 67156

The envelope must have a January 9, 2014, or later postmark date.

To register in person, stop by our offices at 918 Main in Winfield, KS, starting Jan. 9. Office hours are 9 am - Noon and 1 - 5 pm Monday through Friday (CST).

Contest Rules Entry fee is $15 per person per contest. Contest registration closes one hour before the scheduled contest. Only 40 contestants may compete in a contest. This is the first 40 contestants answering when names are called from the chronological registration lists one-half hour before the contest begins. All pre-registered contestants must reconfirm their registration prior to the close of registration at the registration trailer. Complete contest rules, dates, starting times, description of the instrument prizes, and the presenting Luthiers are available at www.wvfest.com or call (620) 221-3250 or email us at contests@wvfest.com and we will mail you a copy.

* Contestants must purchase ticket for the day of competition to gain entrance to the Fairgrounds.

Walnut Valley Festival Championship Registration Form

Send order form and payment to: Walnut Valley AssociationPO Box 245 Winfield, KS 67156Must be postmarked Jan. 9, 2014 or later

____ International Autoharp Championship ____ International Finger Style Guitar Championship ____ National Mountain Dulcimer Championship ____ National Mandolin Championship

____ Walnut Valley Old Time Fiddle Championship____ National Flat Pick Guitar Championship ____ National Hammer Dulcimer Championship____ National Bluegrass Banjo Championship

Name Phone

Address City State Zip

Email Website Age

Name you would like to appear on stage placard

Payment by: Check* Visa MasterCard Discover

Cardholder Signature

Card #

3 or 4 digit Security Code Exp. Date /* Make checks payable to Walnut Valley Assoc.

Choose one or more - Entry fee is $15 for each contest entered

Will this be your first time to compete at the Festival? Yes No

Will this be your first time to attend the Festival? Yes No

How did you hear about the Festival?

Register by phone by calling(620) 221-3250

starting at 9 am on Jan. 9, 2014

* * Must be postmarked Jan. 9, 2014 or later * *

Total amount enclosed $________

2013 Arts and Crafts WinnersA big thanks goes to the nearly 100 very talented artisans from across the country who sold their wares at our Festival this year. They worked in a variety of media, representing a diversity of backgrounds. The winners are chosen based on the quality of their craftsmanship and how they displayed their items. In addition to a ribbon, the winners received a custom-designed mug from Elk Falls Pottery and a cash award.

Marc KornbluhKornbluh Designs, glassLincoln, NE Greg and Mindy Rhoads

Pottery mosaicsMarquette, KS

Lon ErwinTurned wood itemsBartlesville, OK

Prairie Harvest Market/DeliSpices, ingredients

Newton, KS

Honorable MentionsKate BaerKate Baer Fossils, jewelryPonca, AR

Laura OntjesJewelryOlathe, KS

Sharon VanDusenCustom inlay on instruments, jewelryHale, MO

2014 Arts and Crafts Festival If you are interested in participating next year or know

someone who is especially talented at creating high quality, unique crafts, you may request an application

from our Craft Director by calling (620) 221-3250.

Deadline for submitting applications for the 2014 Arts & Crafts Festival is May 1, 2014

1st

2nd

3rd

Pantry

You don’t have to play a musical instrument to win this contest. These winners were chosen for their creativity in developing a theme and out-decorating their fellow campers. The first-place winner received an urn from Elk Falls Pottery. First, second and third place winners received Festival memorabilia. Start planning ways you can decorate your campsite to be next year’s winner!

Palm Grove CampFrom Topeka, KS Katy Bowen, Meagan Bowers, Jamie Cain, Ed Crane, Melissa Crane, Austin Mark, Bayless Mark, Loralai Mark, Mason Mark, Paul Mark, Spencer Mark, Trish Mark, Rhea Newton, Jason Sims, Mallory Wyant, Mart Wyant, Roger Wyant

From Prairie Village, KSJim Glynn, Naomi Glynn

From Hoyt, KSTeresa Sims

The White HouseFrom Wichita, KS

“Tie Dye” Kelly and Kevin White

Crab CampFrom Winfield, KS Brian and Gail Bailey, Doug and Kathy Burns, Alan and Tammy Groom, Steve and Judy Kunkel, Linda Lange, Joe and Julia Langley, Ron and Cara Lindly

From Hays, KSJohn and Kathy Moravek

2013 Campsite Winners

1st

2nd

3rd

2013 NewSong ShowcaseNewSong Showcase is the Festival’s opportunity to showcase the talent and creativity of songwriters. Submitted songs are reviewed and the chosen songwriters perform their songs on stage at the Festival. The WVA would like to thank Still on the Hill and the judges for their time in making this possible. Here are the songs selected this year.

Songs About WinfieldG. Lucas/R. Runyon No ShowcaseJim McCarter Picker’s ParadiseAlternatesScott and Gail Boyd Behind the WindshieldMargo Martin Request for Mr. Redford

Songs of Religion or SpiritLauren Heintz Feels Like a MiracleSpencer Williams My PrayerAlternates Bob Hall Home Again SomedayJim McCarter Pair of Dice (Paradise)

Songs for a Better WorldPeter & Mary Danzig (Otter Creek) Bidder 70Ryan Triggs Better TimesAlternatesBob Hall Time To GoCindy Novelo Deliver Me

Love SongsKenny Cornell I’m Gonna Be A GrandpaJulie Sutton In Bed With YouAlternatesGina Holsopple I’m In LoveJacob Wiley Ash Kansas Sun

Sweet MemoriesGene Collier Ode to WallaceTim Terral How to Say GoodbyeAlternatesJimmy DeHeno I Think She Likes MeSpencer Williams Golden Boy

Children’s SongsGina Holsopple The RainbowEric Smith Get Up Outta That BedAlternatesJames Brentar Sing the ChorusSusan Gammon Doodle Doo

Humourous Songs Joy Zimmerman Wish You’d Met Me When My

Stomach Was FlatBrian Dacus (Ode to) Bill MonroeAlternatesRosie Gorrell Cowboy’s CowgirlTommy Reese Sisters

InstrumentalsHelen Avakian Sister SongJimmy DeHeno My Sister’s WaltzAlternatesDavid Kuncicky Blind Boy Billy BreakdownNate Pultorak The Wandering

Songs About Feeling Blue Ron Land MorningRosie Gorrell When the Wheat Waved Good ByeAlternatesPeter Lippincott No Money YetG. Lucas/R. Runyon Slumber

None of the AboveBryan Masters Romeo DescribesRandy Parks Dying in the MineAlternatesKenny Cornell The Devil He Won’t Find Me There

No More Bob Hall This Life

Watch for details regarding next year’s NewSong Showcase on our website

sometime after March.

www.wvfest.com

The warm welcome each year makes me feel like I am coming home.- Margaret Raymond

Festival Attendee

Taylor Guitarsproudly supportsWalnut Valley Festival

MartinGuitar_Crossroads_Layout 1 10/16/13 8:45 AM Page 1

Dear Walnut Valley Festival attendees, performers and employees:I want to take a moment and tell you all just how deeply you have touched Erin and me with your expressions of love and care when I was sick and when we returned to Winfield this year. When we arrived, after a four-year hiatus, we could not walk thirty feet without being stopped and told that you had prayed for me in my recovery from a severe stroke and end-stage heart failure. And with some 13,000 of you there this year, that was a lot of stopping! Please don’t worry because we loved every minute of it.

We were both particularly moved at your remembrances of the impromptu benefit concert that took place for me in the middle of a big storm under the roof next to Stage II. You painted such a picture for us of a big, funny, wet, noisy, tearful, joyous occasion and I know we would have enjoyed being a part of it if it were at all possible. It’s hard to accept help when you’re down but we are blessed by each of you because when we needed you most, you were there for us.

I’m sure that many of you are aware that I have a rather happy-go-lucky attitude towards life, which I must say has been a blessing during the hard times I’ve experienced. (And there have been a lot more than just my health struggles.) But a good attitude alone is not enough to get any of us through this journey we are on. It takes a lot of love from those who are near to us. My wife, Erin, has been the best partner I could have imagined. She was there with me every day I was in the hospital in Houston – and that was a four-month stay! She saw me continually losing weight to the point where I reached a low of 110 pounds! And then she was with me when I took my first steps after lying down for two solid months. She walked with me every step when I celebrated a year of my new life and walked a half marathon (13.1 miles!) one year to the day from when I was life-flighted from our home in Nashville, TN, to the Texas Heart Institute in Houston, TX. (Including the day I broke my leg while we were training . . . but that’s another story.)

But equally to her being by my side, I so appreciate all of your prayers, your letters, cards, gifts that you sent. You are the reason I chose to get back up and keep on moving. You are why I chose to learn to play the guitar again. You help me to remain a happy-go-lucky person who doesn’t take himself too seriously but still takes time to appreciate each and

every day.

Life is beautiful. Life is wonderful. Life is worth living.

Until next time Don’t Just Live, Live Well!

A Letter from Pete Huttlinger

Golf Cart Safety Golf carts are a great way to get

around during the Festival, but they have increasingly become a safety hazard. If you plan on

bringing a golf cart to next year’s Festival, please abide by these safety rules:

Operators must be 16 years or older with a valid driver’s license.If used at night, golf carts must have a headlight useable to 50 feet. Flashlights are not acceptable.A red rear facing light is recommended. Red blinking bicycle lights are acceptable.We encourage you to have proof of insurance and to drive slowly and safely.Unauthorized carts are not allowed in the interior. They may be parked at the interior gates.

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- Pete Huttlinger

Your Help Needed to Keep WVF Family Friendly Alcohol and beer is prohibited anywhere on Fairground property during the Festival, including campgrounds. Even so, the WVA has noticed an increased amount of drinking, especially underage drinking, as well as the use of illegal substances to the point that the actions of those imbibing disrupts the enjoyment of the Festival by other attendees. This Festival has always been a family-friendly event and we want to keep it that way. For this reason, we strongly encourage anyone wanting to attend the Festival

with the sole i n t e n t i o n of drinking alcohol and beer or using illegal substances not to attend. We feel this is in the best interest and safety of all those involved. If you experience difficulties due to someone’s over indulgence of an alcoholic beverage or are witness to underage alcohol consumption or illegal substances, the WVA staff, security and Winfield Police Dept. encourage you to contact on-grounds Security during the Festival. Offenders may be ejected from the Festival.

Let’s all work together to get the focus back on the music at the Walnut Valley Festival.

KANSAS BLUEGRASS ASSOCIATION

25th Annual Winter Bluegrass Festival February 21 & 22, 2014

Marriott Hotel, Wichita, KS Featuring: SteelDrivers (Fri only) Chris Jones & the Nightdrivers (Fri/Sat) Junior Sisk & Rambler’s Choice (Sat only) Driven (Fri/Sat) Lonesome Road (Fri/Sat) KBA Treblemakers (Sat only)

Show Times: Friday – 6:00 p.m.

Saturday – Noon & 6:00 p.m.

Wichita Marriott Hotel 9100 Corporate Hills Drive

Wichita, KS 67207 316-651-0333

Ask for the “Bluegrass Rate”

www.kansasbluegrass.org

The Walnut Valley December Occasional is published by Walnut Valley Association, Inc.

PO Box 245Winfield, KS 67156

Printed by Mennonite Press Newton, KS

All Walnut Valley trademarks are registered and may not be used, reproduced, or copied without the written permission of the Walnut Valley Association.

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Excellent RV Service & Repair CenterRV’s and Parts catalog on our website

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East of Wichita at 1523 Ledgerwood Drive and Highway 54

near Andover, KS

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Toll Free: 1-800-748-7306or 316-733-8300

Walnut Valley Festival Anniversary DVDsDo you find it difficult to explain in words what the Walnut Valley Festival is all about? Are you missing the Winfield feeling of home? For just $20 each, these Walnut Valley Festival Anniversary DVDs could solve both problems. Each DVD contains nearly two hours of Festival memories, including campground jams, highlights from stage performances, arts and crafts, interviews, scenes from Land Rush, and music, music, music! We have DVDs from the 20th, 25th , 30th, 35th and 40th anniversaries.

These make great stocking stuffers!

Mail your order form and payment to: Walnut Valley AssociationPO Box 245 Winfield, KS 67156

Walnut Valley Festival Anniversary DVDs Order by phone or by mail

Payment by: Check* Visa MasterCard Discover

Cardholder Signature

Card #

3 or 4 digit Security Code Exp. Date /* Make checks payable to Walnut Valley Assoc.

Name Phone

Address City State Zip

Email

Order DVDs by phone!Call (620) 221-3250

20th Anniversary (1991) ____ @ $20 = $______25th Anniversary (1996) ____ @ $20 = $______30th Anniversary (2001) ____ @ $20 = $______35th Anniversary (2006) ____ @ $20 = $______40th Anniversary (2011) ____ @ $20 = $______ Sales tax included Total $______

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The perfect box for thatgift you were born with.

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channels with Fishman’s legendary tone and feedback-fighting controls, plus a new dual effects section that makes the new Loudbox Artist the ultimate acoustic instrument amp for any seriously active musician. And best of all, it won’t hurt your back...or your wallet!

Walnut Valley Picks

If you love acoustic music as much as we do, we recommend you check out the following:

The Roys, Gypsy Runaway Train - Rural Rhythm RecordsRobin and Linda Williams, Back 40 - Red House Records

We Banjo 3, Roots of the Banjo Tree - Private LabelTerry Baucom (with Sam Bush), Never Thought of Looking Back

Jack Lawrence, Arthel’s Guitar - Little King RecordsTim O’Brien and Darrell Scott, Memories & Moments - Full Skies Records

The Boxcars, It’s Just a Road - Mountain Home MusicAdam Steffey, New Primitive - Organic Records

Pete Huttlinger, McGuire’s Landing, Instar RecordsChris Thile, Bach: Sonatas and Partitas, Vol. 1 - Nonesuch Records

I love the variety. It’s one of the great things that makes this festival so unique! - Jason Meier

Festival attendee

We are honored to support the National Mountain Dulcimer Championship and the

International Autoharp Championship at the Walnut Valley Festival.

Come visit us and try out our fine selection of McSpadden Mountain Dulcimers and Evoharps.

Builders of McSpadden Mountain Dulcimersand Evoharps

1104 Sylamore Ave P. O. Box 1230Mountain View, Arkansas 72560(877) 269-4422 (870) 269-4313

mcspaddendulcimers.com

Congratulations to Nate Pultorak2013 National Hammer Dulcimer

3rd Place WinnerThanks for selecting the

Huddleson UL400C!

MIKE HUDDLESONSTRINGED INSTRUMENTS

Wichita, KS (316) 524-0997mhuddleson@aol.com

www.mikehuddlesonstringedinstruments.com

www.mikehuddlesonstringedinstruments.com

Mark Wilcox Violins2217 Zebulon Rd

Marion, KSwww.wilcoxviolins.com

620-382-2717

Inspired by the Masters.....Inspired by the Masters.....Inspired by the Masters.....Inspired by the Masters.....Inspired by the Masters.....

beautifully handcraftedbeautifully handcraftedbeautifully handcraftedbeautifully handcraftedbeautifully handcrafted

violinsviolinsviolinsviolinsviolins

by luthier Mark Wilcoxby luthier Mark Wilcoxby luthier Mark Wilcoxby luthier Mark Wilcoxby luthier Mark Wilcox

­­~­Cloud Nine­~­Congratulates Tina Gugeler, 2nd Place2013 National Hammer Dulcimer Championship

­­~­Cloud Nine­~­Hammered DulcimersMichael C. Allen, maker

5701 Stover Road, Ostrander, Ohio 43061(740) 666-4253

www.cloudninemusical.cominfo@cloudninemusical.com

Are You on Our Mailing Lists?If you are not already on our paper or email distribution lists and would like to receive information about the Festival, please provide your complete mailing address and/or your email address via email or phone to:

Walnut Valley Associationhq@wvfest.com (620) 221-3250

We need a complete current address, (St., Ave., Rd., Blvd., Circle, Court, etc.), the box number, if you live on a

rural route, or the apartment number. Counties adopting the 911 Emergency System are changing from

the rural route/box number to city street addresses. The Postal Service does not forward bulk mail.

It helps if you let us know you no longer wish to receive our mailer or that you are receiving two copies.

It’s just a fantastic time with the best musicians in the country!

- Tina ArthurFestival attendee

The Walnut Valley Association Says Thanks! We are well aware that this Festival would not exist without the help of so many people. We would first like to thank all those who attended the Festival this year. Your enthusiasm, support and feedback encourages us to always work hard to make the Festival the best ever. To all the hundreds of workers who supplemented our small band of staff members and crew, we appreciate all your hard work, be it standing in the rain and the hot sun keeping the Fairgrounds and its facilities clean, safe and operational, or providing your expertise in sound, photography, stagecraft and musicianship. We would also like to thank our food vendors, luthiers and artisans for feeding our attendees and enriching them with the beauty of your craftsmanship. We would especially like to thank the city and the people of Winfield, who welcome nearly twice the population of our fair city each year and envelop them with their Winfield hospitality. EntertainersBill BarwickStephen BennettByron Berline BandRoz BrownTom Chapin & FriendsDrivenBeppe GambettaThe GrascalsBuddy Greene, Ron Block

& Sierra HullThe Haunted WindchimesPete HuttlingerMarley’s GhostAndy MayJohn McCutcheonMilkDriveAdam MillerMischievous SwingDavid Munnelly DuoBarry PattonThe Prowell FamilyScenic RootsSteve & Ruth SmithThe Special ConsensusDave StameyThe Steel WheelsStill on the HillTim & Myles ThompsonLinda TiltonToneBlazersWinfield City Band

SoundGreg Smyer SoundPro Audio SystemsOffice StaffBob RedfordBecky Conway

Karen Deal Rex FlottmanPaulette RushCindy Stevens

LuthiersBeautiful Music Violin ShopClark Mandolins~Cloud Nine~ Musical

InstrumentsCollings Guitars, Inc.Russell Cook/Master Works

d’Aigle AutoharpsDeering Banjo Company The Dulcimer Shoppe/

McSpaddden Mountain Dulcimers & Evoharp Autoharps

J.W. Gallagher & SonMike Huddleson Stringed

Instruments Larrivee GuitarsC. F. Martin & Co.Ome BanjosOscar SchmidtTaylor GuitarsTriggs GuitarsTwo Old Hippies/

Weber Fine Acoustic Instruments

Mark Wilcox ViolinsOthersArt Farm Festival Poster/

Shirts BlueChip PicksCripple Creek Dulcimers

Elliott CaposFishman PickupsIntellitouch Tuners/ On Board ResearchMass Street MusicSilver PearlWichita Hat Works

MediaDan CribbsPam CribbsKevin DeanBob FlottmanChristine FlottmanSandy FlottmanSheridon FlottmanSierra FlottmanGary HannaJoan HannaErnie HillPatti HillCindy HowardChris JunkerLarry JunkerLinda KaiserLegleiter Video ProductionsDebbie McNinchEmcees & Stage ManagersKeith AnglemyerBill BarwickSeth BateRoz BrownWill CleaverRon DealMike FlynnAaron FowlerDale FrazierJesse Friesen

Orin FriesenDave HiggsDon KokeRichard LungstrumSteve MarkleyDennis MoranRandy ParksDick PowersKathy RogersJosh RoodMike ShirkeyTim SidebottomSteve SnookRichard “Bear” SobekAndrea SpringerGlenn WooddellWVA FriendsMatt BerthotMatthew DickersonAdam GardinoKenny GlasgowLisa HarrisAndy HatfieldLarry Krudwig &

KWVF RadioBob PangleDelbert PetersAllen ShaddThomas ShorockStage V CrewStrings AlternativeMike TheobaldAndrew Wilson

Pre-Festival WorkshopsSeth & Jenny BateMarcia & Lee Evans

Feisty says, “Festival tickets make great holiday gifts!”Buy now and save up to $20 on your Full-Festival Ticket

Make someone happy this holiday season with a Five-Day Ticket to the Walnut Valley Festival. For just $75, you can bring all the amazing music and Winfield spirit of coming home to your friends and loved ones.

Offer valid until February 15, 2014.

Walnut Valley AssociationPO Box 245Winfield, KS 67156(620) 221-3250hq@wvfest.comwww.wvfest.com

Check July Occasional and watch our website at www.wvfest.com for 2014 camping information.

­ Walnut Valley Festival December SpecialSeptember 17 - 21, 2014

Deadline is Feb. 15, 2014

Name Phone

Address City State Zip

Email No. of years attended?

Payment by: Check* Visa MasterCard Discover

Cardholder Signature

Card #

3 or 4 digit Security Code Exp. Date /

No refunds or exchanges and $35 will be charged for returned checks.

Dec. Special 5-Day Full Festival TicketsNo. of tickets x $75 = Mail orders must be postmarked Feb. 15 to receive offer. After Feb. 15, Advance Full-Festival Tickets are $90. After Sept. 16, 2014, prices are $95. Price includes tax.

Order tickets by phone(620) 221-3250

* Make checks payable to Walnut Valley Assoc.

If above is college or temporary address, please provide permanent address.

Send form, payment & self-addressed stamped envelope to:Walnut Valley AssociationPO Box 245 Winfield, KS 67156We are not responsible for lost tickets.

I looked more forward to Winfield than Christmas as a kid! - Daniel Hoskins

Festival attendee

HappyHolidays!