The Members of the Northern California Bluegrass Society will elect the nine-member 2026-2027 Board Of Directors on Saturday, August 8, 2026, 10:00am-5:00pm at the Good Old Fashioned Bluegrass Festival at the San Benito County Historical Park in Tres Pinos and by mail. Mailed ballots must be received by Tuesday, August 4, 2026.

Here are the statements from the nine candidates:

Gary Anwyl — I’m a current NCBS Board member and a long time NCBS volunteer. I’ve had the pleasure of playing with the Stoney Mountain Ramblers at numerous NCBS events over the last 20+ years. I believe in the mission of the NCBS. I want to continue applying my problem solving and organizational skills to help the NCBS promote bluegrass and build a strong local bluegrass community.

Bruce Bellochio — I have been an active NCBS board of directors member for many years and have served as the director of the GOF festival. I look forward to many more years of supporting this bluegrass music organization.🎶

Eric Burman — For over 30yrs, I’ve been an active member of the NCBS, and currently a Board member, and a past president. We have been able make improvements with our main money maker and fun activity the Good ol’ Fashioned Bluegrass festival. To make working on the set up and take down teams more rewarding and easier, with more hands to do the work. With our eye on the prize, I’m sure we have improved many aspects of the festival. Our team this year has worked hard to make this festival the best ever.  If you think we’ve made things better vote for me. I am the originator of this, and the famous Brookdale Bluegrass festivals, and hope to continue to bring fine Bluegrass entertainment to you, for years to come.

Scott Conroy — I am a great fit for the board because I appreciate tradition, and at the same time, leave room for innovation.  I’m happy to change my mind when I learn new information or figure out a better way to do something.  I’ll always do my best to serve and direct the board, to ensure the enjoyment of bluegrass music for all, for years to come.  Wagon Wheel shalt not be allowed at any sanctioned NCBS performance, so long as I have anything to say about it. One guitar, bass and banjo, with fiddles and mandolins for all.  Let’s pick!

Bruce Edmundson —  I have been an active bluegrass music volunteer with NCBS/SCBS (and formerly with Redwood Bluegrass Associates) for many years, and plan to continue to help with the GOF and other activities as well as continuing to serve as the Secretary-Treasurer and webmaster. I would appreciate your vote so that I can continue to be part of the bluegrass team.

Michael Hall — Play more Bluegrass Music!  I look forward to seeing everyone at the Good Old Fashioned Bluegrass Festival and at all the NCBS events during the coming year! Our members, volunteers and musicians make it all happen — Thanks for your support!

Lois Kellerman — I’m pleased to offer my name to continue to serve on the NCBS board. I have served for a number of years & have been volunteering at the GOF for many years & have a radio show on KZSU.

Joanne Minasi — I want to continue to serve on the NCBS Board. Over the years I’ve volunteered at GOF, first in the T-shirt booth, then my favorite place — the gate. I love being one of the first people festival attendees see when they arrive: welcoming new folks, helping people get settled, and getting to say “Hey!” to friends I may not have seen in a year.

Beginning last year, I became GOF Festival Director! I work on every part of the festival. I care deeply about preserving the welcoming, community-centered spirit that makes GOF and NCBS special. I’m grateful that I found NCBS and get to share my passion for music.

Mike Russell — I’ve enjoyed being a part of the NCBS Board of Directors since 2004. My passion is producing a radio program for the local scene which provides an avenue for bands to showcase their talents live on the radio. I look forward to another great year in 2023-2024. Thank you for your support!

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Write-in votes are also accepted. Ballots can be downloaded from this website and paper ballots will be available at the NCBS Booth at the GOF during voting hours.