New respect for moderators here at OFC.

As a quick background, I never went to the Message Board for quite awhile. I had no idea what was on it and "California Clay" (Caro) tried to explain how to announce a new essay (or blog) on it.

Nope, had no idea and since noone had one on I did not even try a "piggyback". So I just kept on writing, and happy to receive comment after comment on each new subject.

Last year - don't ask me why or how, I tried it once more and there it was - someone announcing their new blog. So, I added it to that one. Then I scrolled down to see so many subjects even the ones where people were asking a question to Clay. (Goodness, does he read it?????)

When I read on Clay News, that indeed Clay answered a few questions, I went right to the Message Board, and noticed all of the subjects there. No question I have opinions, but as time went on, I was amazed at "some" of the opinions. The last time I wrote anything here was when Clay made his "big" announcement and said to allow people to "vent". And they SURE DID!

Then after a week, one of the Moderators stated there were to be a few rules as to content. Well, thought naive me, hooray for something since I was really getting a tad bit annoyed (putting it mildly), I said my piece and yes, I remember it - but will not repeat it. Most of you already knew who read my book of my very close relationship to my fellow college mate and that it lasted far after I was married. His association with his partner (with whom I was friendly but not like with Morse) and as far as I was concerned it was the 22 year age difference mainly. They never offended anyone and the three of us made individual concerts in costume for years. WE three were great together, so as a result of that and other associations in the music business, I WAS NOT UPSET and said so in a quiet simple way.

BUT - THOSE MODERATORS TO THIS DAY! They read EVERYTHING! A - N - D ! They are very very considerate of anyone making personal comments and opinions about the person whose name is on this site. At first, I was a little shocked that it was allowed since many comments were made- not from personal knowledge, but from "taste" in music that should be on CD's today.

These MODS are listed at the bottom of the page and deserve great big GOLD STARS!

They are kind and considerate, even as they make a suggestions as to the way people express their opinions.

So this little "ditty" is a "song of praise" to those volunteers who are so respectful to members of OFC. A few friends dropped out of OFC last year due to what they considered disrespect to Clay - and I have tried to see their point of view. (Nope, still can't!)

BUT, honestly, do you really think that those who voted, and voted, and voted to get the $10,000 to NIP as the top prize for Clay and Diane's charity did not have their whole heart in the project?

You cannot tell me that even some who attended the GALA and talking about disappointments in either seating, hearing, or Clay's singing do not still have the same warm feelings for THIS person who FEELS strongly about so many things and not ashamed to show it. (I mean CLAY)

So, along with praise to the Moderators, goes praise to Clay and his family for showing up with smiles on their faces and a joke or two to keep the event FUN!

I AM A PROUD MEMBER OF OFC AND NOT AFRAID TO SAY SO.

Until the next time --- Enjoy your life (it's later than one thinks and THIS coming from an 84 yr.old).

Marian