One comment that has repeatedly been made in these discussions, is the importance of not creating an 'us' and 'them' environment, whether by membership or whatever.

On another thread I was surprised to find that the instigator of a thread is used by some as to whether it is worthy of a read - us and them?

I don't mind who funds this place, I am more concerned that all people are treated with respect
I would like to thank the people who answer so promptly the questions that are posted on Mudcat, that is what astounded me when I first found this place.

On the funding issue - I used to go to a pub where the landlady promoted music/dancing/poetry even a chess club, it was an amazing and very friendly place. The more I went the more I noticed, noticed that the dancers would use the pub room for free and not even buy one drink; as would the people playing chess, and....
Like that Pub this is an amazing place and I would rather 'donate the price of a few drinks' than see the place go down coz the till is empty and the Publican is disillusioned. I don't want a share in this place and I don't want Jande or anyone else to feel pressured into any kind of donation when money is tight or at any time for that matter. This place wouldn't be anything if it wasn't for all the people who post here and their words and are deeds are more important than money.