This is a question I've been asking myself for more than a few years, and since I've answered myself several times over, thought I'd throw it out to the general public. My question is, how useful are organizations such as the Folk Alliance or publications like Dirty Linen? Is it worth paying money to be included in such organizations? What are the benefits? Pros/cons?

I've personally found the 2 I listed as not particularly useful. I've never been to the conference, and Dirty Linen seemed to be aimed more at the business side of things, which I'm not exactly deeply interested in. Maybe if I was, I would find this stuff more compelling. Maybe I was looking for Mudcat all along and didn't know it. Anyway, your thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks.

blt