MerleFest Contest Winners


Here are the four winning letters chosen from submissions that came in online and through the mail. Letters were judged by a committee of WKSU employees, including Folk Music host Jim Blum. Each winner received two weekend passes for MerleFest 2009 (they were responsible for their own transportation, food and housing while there). For your chance to win, look for information next year in late March or early April. Congratulations to the winners!


1. Darryl of Ravenna, Ohio

Hi Jim, the last few years have been tough ones for me. I held Mom's hand as she passed away and I've taken care of Dad since then. When my wifed divorced me, I moved in to a one room apartment and slept on the floor with only an old record player and radio to keep me company. It was you who kept me connected on those lonely Saturday nights with the great commentaries and music. The folk music community and this way of life are now such a large,inseparable part of me that I'd like to pass it on to the younger generation. I would take Kate,my 19 year old singer/songwriter daughter and hope, that from her immersion in the Folk Festival, that she too could continue the tradition and make a such a difference in someone's life. Thanks for the opportunity.


2. Bob of Canfield, Ohio

For the last 3 years my wife and I have been trying to make it to Merle Fest. In 2007 we had the tickets in hand, but on April 16th my Father-in-law went to the hospital for a simple endoscopy and his esophagus was punctured during the procedure and had to have major surgery to repair the damage. He was put in a chemically induced coma for several weeks and eventually recovered enough to come home with my wife and I. Needless to say we gave our tickets away figuring we would go in 2008.

On April 22nd, 2008 my Father-in-law passed away. Again, we gave away our tickets to Merle Fest (It just didn't seem important to go then). This year we just couldn't do the ticket price and the lodging (we could do one or the other). So, here I am an old folky wanting to see the best fest going and am looking to you for some help.

Jim, PLEASE send us to Merle Fest. I will be turning 49 on April 30th and can't think of a better present. So, hey, Jim can ya help an old folky out?


3. Allen of Winston Salem, North Carolina

It's my 15th wedding anniversary and my wife and I would be happy to wear anything you want us to to promote the station throughout the weekend and to do any other chores as assigned (we also know some good places to eat!)


4. Jeff & Patty of Ashland, Ohio

My wife and I are getting ready to celebrate 30 years of marriage! 30 very happy years, and 7 children. We thought a special getaway would be in order. We’ve tossed several ideas around, but… with seven hungry mouths to feed, 14 feet to put shoes on, etc. we have to be very frugal with our resources. However, when my wife heard that Merle Fest had both Emmylou Harris and Linda Rondstadt coming this year, I could tell by the look in her eyes (remember, 30 years experience) that this would be a dream trip come true. So in the name and spirit of human compassion, for the sake of the lost art of staying married and for the sanity of all my children (they'd love to see us out for four days), I beseech you to consider sending two hippies to NC to see and hear some of the best music in the world.

PS. After many years of listening to public radio over the last two years we have become supporting members. Folk music on the weekends is the tops!