Delaware Friends of Folk Annual Meeting & Board elections

Followed by a potluck and Open Mic! Join us!

Dec. 10th - 6 p.m. 21 W Loockerman St. Dover, Delaware

(Voting limited to those with Friends of Folk memberships)

We have several Board positions open for your new ideas!

Email us to find out more about becoming a board member at delfolk@gmail.com

Open for all! Please bring a dish to share!!!


DELAWARE FRIENDS OF FOLK

2023 Board Candidates

Statement / Biography


Darlene McKinney-“I am excited about the possibility of becoming an active board member for the Delaware Friends of Folk. I've been a volunteer for the Delmarva Folk Festival since 2019, mainly the ticket booth but in other areas when needed. In 2022 I became a Folk Hero along with fellow band members of Tre' Folk. I've spent my entire life on the Delmarva Peninsula and have been an active participant of many other events in the area. My work history includes over 10 years in management as well as customer service. I know how to get things done while still being a friendly face even in difficult situations. My hope for the organization is that it can continue to grow while bringing new ideas and reaching a younger audience. I feel that as a musician, along with my other skills, I would be a great addition to the Board. Thank you for your consideration, Darlene McKinney.”


John Kidd- ”I am currently serving as Board Chair of Delaware Friends of Folk. I am completing my 17th year as Board Chair, and my 22nd year on the Board. During that time, I have written dozens of successful grants, yielding many thousands of dollars in support of our mission. I have served as artist liaison since 1998, engaging hundreds of artists on behalf of Friends of Folk. With the help of other Board members, in 2022 we found new venues for our Festival and coffee house. While I do not intend to serve as Board Chair next year, I wish to continue to serve on the Board and assist Friends of Folk in whatever capacity seems appropriate.”


Willa Jean Rodden- “Hello!  My name is Willa Jean Rodden, and I am a mother retired of three beautiful children and a grandmother of three beautiful grandchildren.  I was a dialysis tech for 33 years and a CPR instructor for 19 years.  I love it: Family, Community, Cooking, Baking, Music, and Traveling.  I would like the opportunity to become a board member.  I believe bring Family and friends together is very important and what better way to do it then through music!  I would like an opportunity to help plan and organize through the year for the festival.  I would consider it an honor to be on the board and be a part of a group that gives back so much to the community and giving artists chance to showcase their talent.  I would like to thank you for giving me the opportunity to apply for a position on this board.”


John Donoghue- John resides on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and has been a volunteer for the Delaware Friends of Folk since 2016. He became a US citizen in 2003 after migrating from Australia where he played First Chair trumpet with several orchestras. Since moving to the States, he picked up mandolin and several other string instruments and enjoys learning folk and bluegrass songs. In 2018 he organized a local pick-in/jam in Vienna, Md. where musicians meet several times a year, and he has served on the board of another non-profit in Dorchester County, Md. for more than 10 years. John is practical, level-headed, and is always willing to help whenever asked. He would be a valuable member to the Friends of Folk organization. (nominated by Lisa Sipple)


Paige Reynolds- Paige became our festival Volunteer Coordinator in 2020. She is organized, works well under pressure, and keeps a cheerful outlook. She's from New Castle County and has worked for many years in hospitality and management with an emphasis on event coordinating and planning. She currently volunteers with the SPCA and helps out with adoption events. Paige has an interest in helping with future fundraising and event planning for the Friends of Folk. (nominated by Susan Donoghue)