"I want you to know that I've had enduring respect for you as a teacher and drumming guru over the many years I've been with you.  You are the spirit that keeps the whole thing going....you have the energy and spark of a much younger person!  You have remarkable patience and enthusiasm for bringing new people along.  You're very, very generous about including all kinds of people with all kinds of skills in a world you love.  You were the force that kept me coming when I knew I really had no talent.  You were always inclusive, encouraging and tolerant.  I feel very lucky to have had all this time with you.  It's very hard to leave." -- Annette