It was quite exciting to just get out of the classroom for a few days (where I was so oppressed with excessive duties of teaching 6 completely different science classes to students of completely different ages, coaching 2 sports teams daily, driving a school bus, junior class sponsor, plus other excessive requirements).  Little did I know just how exciting it was going to be.  Sam Compton, who played guitar with me, met Merla and I and practiced and practiced and etc.  Sure enough, we did well and took home the trophy.  It proved to be an omen of what was to come in September later that year at the national contest.  The fun side of this win was the instrument I received was built by none other than my brother-in-law David Lindsey!