Fuel for the fire? Well, maybe… I thought perhaps those of you who have voted to continue the so-called "BS" threads might appreciate the following confirmation of Sue Trump's observation (found on one of her postcards in our files): "What is folkmusic but life itself seeking expression."

Many years ago, Caroline and I were visiting Malvina Reynolds and her husband in their home on Parker Street in Berkeley. We had just finished a pleasant dinner and were talking quietly about various subjects of interest to all of us, when Malvina announced that it was time for the evening news. Everything stopped, and we all sat together in front of the television until the newscast was over. There was no crisis pressing on the national consciousness, just a normal day of normal events, but these were grist for Malvina's songmaking mill, and she would not, could not, miss her daily dose of information.

I believe that discussions of current events, of history, of personal anxieties, etc., among members of this virtual community are important to many of us, and may well influence, in the long run, our musical endeavors. Others, it seems to me, can simply avoid the non-musical threads. What say ye all?

And a quick p.s. to Art: I certainly realize how the 'Cat could be of great importance to you. When I recognize its importance to me (and I am still free to move about the countryside seeking conversations) it becomes additionally clear to me how precious it must be to you. Here are people who share your love for the old traditional songs, and with whom you can share all sorts of thoughts and absurdities, as well as song texts and the like. Cherish the site!

Sandy