<html> <head> <style> P { margin:0px; padding:0px } body { FONT-SIZE: 10pt; FONT-FAMILY:Tahoma } </style> </head> <body>For those who don't like to read long extensive posts:    Constructive criticism is one thing, but couching criticism in eloquent writing does not mask an underlying attempt to simply be critical.  We all have local chapter affiliation and a global directory of technicians.  Stop whining, pick up the phone, and ask questions.  It's free.     <DIV>                Michael C. Spreeman <A href="http://www.spreemanpianoinnovations.com/">http://www.spreemanpianoinnovations.com</A></DIV> <BLOCKQUOTE> <HR id=EC_stopSpelling> Date: Tue, 26 Jun 2007 20:10:08 -0500 From: jajones2@wisc.edu Subject: Fwd: Sivak & KC Classes To: pianotech@ptg.org CC: Piano_lady@qwest.net; melanie-brooks@sbcglobal.net <META content="Microsoft SafeHTML" name=Generator> <STYLE> .ExternalClass .EC_EmailQuote {margin-left:1pt;padding-left:4pt;border-left:#800000 2px solid;} </STYLE> Tom & List, I am forwarding a response which is appropriate to all technicians on our list , PTG or not, concerning the poor experience Tom reported at the Kansas City Institute.  I am certain that Melanie will do her very, very best to bring the top instructors and specific topics reflecting their expertise to Anaheim in '08. As a former Institute Director I can assure you that every comment - good, bad or otherwise - is carefully considered when planning this extensive Annual event. I do hope that you noted these problems on the evaluations forms prevalent in each and every class.  I can assure you that I read every word, reread, sorted, and took each comment into consideration when I planned Kansas City in '05.  We all enjoy a good party, but foremost in every technician's mind is to further the service of our product ... THE PIANO.   And, unlike many professional organizations, PTG puts great emphasis on bringing to the Annual Institute topics directly related to our field. I have observed that every Instructor has graciously answered all questions asked during and  after their classes.  Even when they are in the hallways or receptions the Institute Faculty continue to address questions and discuss problems you might have.  PTG schmoozing - PRICELESS ! I look forward to seeing you at future Annuals and Regionals. Coincidentally,  the Madison Chapter is hosting the Central East Regional on October 4 - 7, 2007.   Among the technical classes we are featuring is an afternoon with specialists from the National Forest Product Laboratory  designed to address piano problems. Look for a mailing soon, or send me an email so I can give you more info on the Central East Regional. Joel Joel Jones, RPT Madison, WI Begin forwarded message: <DIV class=EC_EmailQuote>From: Melanie Brooks <melanie-brooks@sbcglobal.net> Date: June 26, 2007 4:36:34 PM CDT To: jajones2@wisc.edu, Malinda Powell <piano_lady@qwest.net> Subject: Sivak   Thank you so much for the clear and detailed feedback on your personal experience of the 2007 PTG Convention.  I am sorry that the Institute did not meet your needs this year.  As a volunteer team with the majority of our Instructors non-professional teachers, we all do our best work to try to forward the education and fulfillment of all PTG members.   The planning for the 2008 Convention begins almost immediately and your comments will be taken into consideration as we try to make improvements each year.  The Institute team understands the need for the class material to meet the title and description of the classes offered.  You will note that this question was present on all of the class evaluation forms.  We review these forms each year in an effort to make the best choices of classes and instructors for the future.   Fortunately your experience seems to be incongruant with many of the participants I have spoken with.  Whether they made better personal class choices or they were able to gain something from other areas of the convention, I am not sure, but it is truly my hope that you will not remain bitter and will be able find something positive to have taken from the energy and the incredible talent that is available at these events.   As Institute Director for 2008, I am open to any constructive suggestions on class selections, topics, instructors and/or overall format for the Institute.  Please feel free to contact me at anytime if you think there is something that my team and I can do to make your next PTG Convention more successful.   Kind regards,   Melanie Brooks Institute Director 2008 </DIV></BLOCKQUOTE> <hr />Make every IM count. Download Windows Live Messenger and join the i’m Initiative now. It’s free. <a href='http://im.live.com/messenger/im/home/?source=TAGWL_June07' target='_new'>Make it count!</a></body> </html>