Dear Readers,

We have a festival just outside Winnipeg every summer called the Winnipeg Folk Festival. It is the largest festival of its kind in North America, perhaps the world. It is now in its 26th year, I think. So, it's organized.

It features really interesting music, with both well-known and little known artists, all are considered to be tops in their respective genre. There are several stages going on at all times, from large ones to intimate workshops. Huge evening stages. Plus, there is a childrens festival area, with excellent activities. It lasts for 4 days.

The styles range from Celtic, to Gospel, to R&B, Reggae, Jazz, traditional etc. Some with a "beat", some not. Folk music is really music made by people for people, not packaged by corporations. We get artists coming from all over the world.

In any case, it really is a ton of fun, is held in a provincial park with different camping experiences for your tastes. Lots of ethnic food etc. Liquor, I believe is banned in the park site for this festival. No random acts of violence or anything like that, (possession of prohibited weapons is treated seriously) people seem to have a "glow" during the festival, it's true!

Therefore, I think it is the ideal setting for a Westy gathering, and a perfect short summer vacation for the whole family. Winnipeg is about 8 hours from the Twin Cities, I think (in the Mid-West). Plus, our dollar is now aproximately $1.00 US = $1.50 CDN, so it's cheap.

So, if you are interested, let me know, and I'll try to get something organized, (if there is interest). I will also try to point you to good resources on the Folk Festival. (Volk Festival)?

Cheers!

Marshall Ruskin
84 Westy
Canadians for Global Warming

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