"I must say that the issue of "Where Are the Americans" concerns me a bit as it seems to imply an intolerance for those who are not American"

I must say that a statement like that reveals a bit of a bias by making an interpretation of this thread with a preconceived notion.   As McGrath pointed out, that is not the kind of person Jerry is.

What most of us are concerned about is what seems to be a lack of interest in folk music among Americans. As I previously stated, there are signs that worry me these days, and a lack of participation even on Mudcat makes us think.

I love reading about what is happening in the UK.   I think it is great that events are publicized on these boards. It may not appeal to everyone, but I think Mudcat works best when it is supplying information.   Just because I cannot attend a session at pub somewhere in England does not mean that I'm not interested. We are learning things from each other.   There is another wonderful thread about house concerts currently running. I understand that the concept is really unique to the U.S. (and I believe Canada), but I think it shows how new stages are being created to keep the music alive.   With a bit of creativity, we just might get more interest in this music. The more people that become interested, the benefits will grow. Funding for perserving archives will increase, opportunities to share the music will grow, and the sense of community will expand.

Let's all keep posting.