Oklahoma Squeezins

Past Treasurer Tom Phillips came early to the Christmas meeting, armed with treats and also a box of gifts, somewhat small and all wrapped alike, of which he had enough for every attendee. A collecting box was displayed containing heaping donations of warm and woolly garments -- socks, gloves, mufflers, hats, etc. -- destined for a needy community nearby. A number of young students of Dick Albreski and Bob Mansfield performed at the holiday meeting. Quite inspiring! Many will attend and perform once again at the National Accordion Association convention in March. One witty lad was invited to introduce everyone at his table. After first noting his teen sister's age, he followed that success by introducing everyone else at his table by age as well. We had a chuckle, but -- well, -- you had to be there! Member John Warren arrived early at Karen's invitation, and during the normal room setup, John played delightfully and shyly by ear, until regular meeting time commenced. Someone generous to employ the fruits of his labor for the benefit of the Club is our returning member, Myke Dixon. Mike brought his pro camera and lighting equipment to photograph attendees posing with their accordions. Myke also shot video of that day's performers, some clips of which already appear on the Oklahoma Accordion Club's Facebook Page. Additionally, these clips shall drift onto the Club's website shortly. It's a great feeling to already be registered for the National Accordion Association convention in Lewisville, Texas, two months from now. Breakfast is included in the hotel reservations of those who register timely. Some folks will arrive as early as Wednesday, March 20, at the Convention just to socialize, warm up, and renew previous year's friendships. Actual scheduled events begin Thursday, March 21, and continue through Friday and Saturday, March 22 and 23. The calendar is studded with performances, workshops, a dance party, and the final night's special dinner and concert. After Sunday morning's breakfast on March 24, it's "parting is such sweet sorrow" time! You may have noticed that rarely do you find a multitude of accordions for sale here in Oklahoma, thus this annual event is an opportunity to pack up all your accordions and think of trading up one or two of them when visiting the lively vendor rooms at Lewisville's Hilton Garden Inn. Arranging for ride-sharing and room-sharing makes the Convention economical. I especially look forward to the nightly "impromptu" jams with squeezebox friends of all skill levels. The artful planning that goes into these events creates precious memories galore! I look forward to seeing you all -- plus many new faces -- in the exciting new Lewisville location! The next monthly Oklahoma City meeting of OAC is Sunday, January 14, at 3:30 pm at Messiah Lutheran Church. For information, text or call Prez Maggie Abel at 405/201-7867. • Maggie Abel, OAC President