The annual birthday show, was pretty awesome. Our father had a great time, visiting friends and hanging out. On hand was Melvin Seals, Tony Saunders, Martin Fierro, Mike Hinton, Roy Rogers, Barry Melton, Zigaboo Modeliste, Norton Buffalo, Skip Misquite, Ron Graham, Brent Rampnoe, Wavy Gravy, Chet Helms intorduced the band..and gave birthday wishes. Also playing were the funky friends band, Tom & John Payne. The band played all the songs everybody came to hear...Mike Lawson & Friends opened the evening along with Mike Henderson.

Also there is a new Merl & Melvin CD available. Tony Saunders has been working on the latest CD featuring every one from David Grisman, Barry Melton and a host of other friends with new songs..also included will be a duet with Mavis Staples.

The evening was complete with the entire audience singing " Happy Birthday" with a great harmony done by Bonnie Raitt sitting at his table.

Bonnie Raiit & Tony Saunders	Merl & Susan Saunders	Robert Altman & Chet Helms