The horse is still stinking, I would have to say. When even veterans of the jam complain of a lack of openness and an excess of arrogance, then something is wrong. To suggest I can counter this frustration by "practicing" seems to blame my lack of ability for this problem. Bullshit. Those rules were commonsense, yes, but pandering in tone and utterly unnecessary. And the ones who "popularize" the jam--how do you know who that was? I do not resent those with superior ability, as you seem to imply. In fact, I spend my time at these jams trying to ecourage others who seem to need it, as I do. Can all participants say the same? Yes I do know this stuff, and have long-running jam experience, as others do in our group(s). I've been in groups where no one feels alienated, where no one is put down and where the contributions of all are accepted without censorship or smugness. Sorry my complaints sound like old news to you. I guess that means that we can't or shouldn't do better. No, I don't agree.