I don't know to whom all this venom is directed but I'll address my share of it.

I don't at all see what y'all are moaning about. In my opinion, Kirsten was welcomed, and a number of us acknowledged her information as being fresh and insightful.

We then went on to discuss the whatfors of her approach and the rather blanket judgment she cast that we were feeling threatened in some way if we took exception to her basic premise that women buskers are somehow inappropriate performers and at higher risk - legally, socially and sexually - when performing than are male buskers. My guess is that just about every one of us agrees with her perception as to the heightened risk and I didn't pick up on anyone as suggesting that women performers should stay home and take up knitting.   I think the Mudcatters were on the money when they suggested that until she gets better acquainted with Mudcatters that she reserve her judgment. By and large - Clinton excepted *G* - Mudcat men are admirable creatures.

The 'mild annoyance' I conceded was to the "information presented-information correct" tone, and the implication that if one did not agree, one was feeling threatened in some way.

For the record, my only reservation was as to whether there should be a separate and permanent thread where this kind of information could be housed and accessed as needed in future.

I welcome Kirsten Anderberg as a member or a visitor. I think she has experience with something most of us would like to know more about. I have never busked- and at my age, never will - but I like expanding my mental horizons.

So, to you who are bemoaning the "bad", "crap" content of this thread, I say, These Dog Days will pass. Chill.