Hi Reggie. I enjoyed your set at Valdi's last week. However, you point out some of the problems with a restaurant folk venue. Last week we had an exceptionally large crowd, probably because the venue will be closing and many wanted to get in a last performance. Other times we have had a full complement of musicians (about 15-17), but few other listeners, so the restaurant was losing money keeping open for us. Unfortunately, this is a classic conflict of interests. I place no blame; I thank Valdi and Patti (the co-owners) for providing us this beautiful space, Victory Music for it's support, and all the volunteers and fine musicians who have come to play.

Now it is time to move on. The new open mic will be differrent, but hopefully will continue and build on the close community of folk musicians we have brought together during the past year. Any Mudcatters visiting Seattle are welcome to come, listen and play.

Cheers, S. in Seattle