[Callers] When the ones who would have needed it most....

As usual, before the contra dance there is a half-hour session before the starting time of the main dance. It is advertised, and beginners are encouraged to come early. Depending on number of attendees and time left, rudimentary basics are presented and 'lightly' practiced. I would like this panel's recommendations for dealing with this situation: the beginners session was offered and attended. The main dance had started exactly on time when - ca. 20 minutes into the evening - a large group of absolute newbies appeared and joined right in. In light of this development the beginners session could have been repeated and somewhat extended, even in an additional available hall in the same building. Alas, no further help was offered except for the advice 'try to find an experienced partner'. Fortunately, the band for the evening was an absolute delight... Hanny Budnick