Well, JenEllen, I'd suggest, if you're taking this on, that you get the guidelines for the award. That's probably available on the NEA's Web page.

I worked for the NEA for a couple of years, but it was many years ago. It doesn't appear, though, based on the info kat provided, that things have changed much as far as evaluation of grant requests is concerned.

Get as much information as you can gather on Max's efforts to establish and maintain this website. Write a narrative about the value this website is to folk, and blues artists and it would be particularly helpful to get, from Max, his reasons for establishing this site. Letters of support from recognizable folk and blues artists would be very good. The NEA panels are composed of knowledgeable individuals in the various areas NEA programs support. Therefore, "names" would be helpful, so that the panel members can say, "Yeah, I know that guy/girl, and if they say Max is doing a good service for folk and blues music, I'll accept it.

If I can be of further help, let me know.

DougR