I can't really remember the first time that I met Frank Maher. One would think that it would be hard to forget meeting someone like Frank, but he has a way of insinuating himself into one's life. He really is part of the folk music furniture; either sitting on stage at folk night on Wednesday night at the Ship Inn, sharing a few tunes with his buddies on Tuesday afternoon at Auntie Crae's, or blazing away with all stops pulled out, at the after hours sessions at the folk festival.

All of us at the St. John's Folk Arts Council are thrilled that Frank is this year's recipient of our Lifetime Achievement Award, and that he will be playing his melodeon onstage at the festival on Sunday night. To me, Frank represents the pinnacle of excellent musicianship, which, as far as I'm concerned, can only be achieved by a lifetime of dedicated playing.

And what else do we have in store at the festival? This year's program certainly reflects our mandate, which is to "promote and preserve the traditions of Newfoundland and Labrador throughout the province and throughout Canada." Our new "Regional Focus" program is centered this year on the music and dance of the Placentia Bay/Burin Peninsula, and features many excellent performers from communities in that area.

Back again for a second year, we have the Common Ground Program, which explores the roots of our traditions, and of other cultures in mainland Canada. Be prepared to hear some of the best musicians that Canada has to offer, including some great fiddle, accordion, and harmonica music!

And of course, let's not forget the Neil Murray Stage, which features the up and coming folk youth performers of the province.

Drop into the park mornings at 10:00 for a touton breakfast, and hear some of your favourite performers "up close and personal" in the workshop tents.

I checked the Farmer's Alamanac Long-Range Forecast for Newfoundland today....it didn't have the weather posted for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd of August; that means it will undoubtedly be the best summer we've ever had...the sun will split the rocks, and boil the ocean in the bays.

Phew...the heat!! Come to the park and sit under the trees to cool off.

Jean Hewson
June 21st (Summer Solstice)