First of all let me say that, Mick, since you've tentatively signed on to do a mini-concert, you are considered to have registered. I'll e-mail you on the whole thing but don't worry.

Second of all let me say that I appreciate it that no one has jumped on me with both feet about this. (Overall I consider the tone of the comments to be remarkably civilized.) I sprung it on everybody with short notice, mostly because certain decision-makers were out of town before this.

I'm sorry the potential for conflict exists at all. In July I asked the Powers-That-Be if we had room for lots of Mudcatters and they said there were about 50 more beds than last year so we'd be fine. It wasn't until much later that someone thought about the problem of a limited number of meals that can be prepared in the ovens.

Third, lots of people want all the Mudcatters who are interested to be able to come. We have a lot of 'catters in FSGW now, you know! -- So there's going to be lots of brainstorming and discussion to try to work it out so that no one loses out. I'm still hoping that literally everyone who wants to will be able to come. It will take a fair bit of extra work but we'll sure try.

Bear with us a while longer. The old camp (Camp Letts) offered us the whole camp this year at twice the cost, or half the camp and no dining hall for the old price. We have been scrambling to find a permanent, reasonably priced, comfortable, conveniently located, adequate spot with plenty of concert space and a great kitchen and dining hall. Not surprisingly, compromises were necessary.

OK, hang in there, we'll do the best you can. Thanks again for the amount of understanding people have shown.

- Rita Ferrara