Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)

Subject: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: Mark Ross
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 04:28 PM

Friends,
I just got a call from Utah. He is going down to San Francisco for tests on his heart because he is retaining too much fluid. If they decide to keep him down there they will upgrade him from a Category B to a Category A(for immediate transplant, if they can find a match). He asked me to post this on Mudcat to let everyone know the situation, he doesn't want the rumor mill to be going into overdrive.

I will pass on any messages for him of course. Hopefully the outcome will be for the best.

Mark Ross

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: lefthanded guitar
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 04:44 PM

Thanks for the update, Mark. Best wishes to Bruce,he's a tough ol one and let's hope he comes through all this okay. We'll keep him in our thoughts.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: SINSULL
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 04:45 PM

Thanks, Mark. If I had an extra heart, I would gladly give it.
M

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: Bonnie Shaljean
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 04:45 PM

Remind him he's got fans all over the world pulling for him. Good wishes and healing thoughts from Bonnie (& numerous others) in Ireland -

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: black walnut
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 04:51 PM

Thanks - we were at a Utah Phillips benefit at Hugh's Room in Toronto just before Christmas. I was wondering....

~b.w.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 05:09 PM

best wishes from another fan in Austalia

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 05:30 PM

Ditto what M said. Too bad they couldn't just take a piece. I'd chip in.

Sending warm wishes.

Dani

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: jacqui.c
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 05:32 PM

Same here Dani.

Give him my love Mark and I hope everything goes well.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: GUEST,Kendall
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 05:37 PM

He called me recently to say he was considering a transplant. That's serious business, but if it means having him around longer, I say go for it my friend!
Who knows how to do a benefit?

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: GUEST
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 06:04 PM

Kendall,

I don't know anything about how to do it. But we would try extra hard to be there is there was one.
chance

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: reggie miles
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 06:05 PM

My thanks as well Mark. I just caught one of his performances being aired on the University of Washington cable television station. It was recorded when he was entertaining here in the Northwest. JW, one of your Rose Tattoo clan, a close friend of Bruce's and a long time musical partner and friend of mine, mentioned just the other night that you keep in touch with Bruce daily. I'm certain Utah knows this. He's been a huge inspiration and joy to me and so many others. We all wish him the very best in this difficult time. If there's anything that we can do to help please don't hesitate to ask.

Reg

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: Big Mick
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 06:38 PM

If there is a benefit, I am in. We need this important voice in the choir....

Get well, Utah.

All the best,

Mick

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update
From: Dan Schatz
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 09:40 PM

Anything we can do for Utah Phillips we should. He is one of the great American poets of all time. If my voice will help, I'd gladly participate in any benefit.

I've organized a few in my time - you just need the space, the performers - preferably a mix of bigger name and less well known folks - and good publicity.

Dan

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Greg B
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 11:44 PM

It was Utah Phillips' situation with his heart about a decade ago
which was a MAJOR impetus towards the organization of AFM Local 1000,
so that folk musicians in North America would have some semblance of
the benefits that other working people do. At that time part of the
way the word got out was through the very benefits which were
organized in order to help him get his surgery.

It really helped a lot of people see the point in joining, and it also
caught the attention of the AFM to figure a way to make the folkies
feel welcome.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Amos
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 12:04 AM

Pass him my very best thoughts for a quick return to chipper self-hood, Mark. He has charmed three generations of us, now, and deserves all the support in the world.


A

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: topical tom
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 11:17 AM

Best wishes to a great humanitarian, unsurpassed storyteller and singer-songwriter.Ive seen Utah live several times and each one was a delightful, refreshing treat, an inspiring, soul-lifting experience.I'm sure many Canadian fans are praying for you today-I surely am.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Deckman
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 11:54 AM

Bruce, "Mina Raakastaan Sinua"!

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: katlaughing
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 12:09 PM

IF it must come to that, may he have as much success as Ferrara and be here a good long while cum new heart! With thanks to whatever donor there may be.

All the best,

kat

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: SINSULL
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 12:10 PM

Deckman,
Don't you mean "Klaatu Verrada Niktu"?

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: jacqui.c
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 12:46 PM

Mary - check this site out

We've just heard from Mark Ross who tells us that Utah would be happy if a benefit was arranged for him or to receive contributions.

Anyone got any thoughts on where, when, how?

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: kytrad (Jean Ritchie)
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 06:25 PM

Utah- It's been a long time since we met- sitting on Rosalie Sorrell's floor in- where else?- Utah. You were a shy young fella pickin on a guitar and saying you didn't play very well. We called you Bruce- you became Utah later, when you left Utah...I'm getting kinda mixed up here, but the point is, it HAS been a long time. In the fifties, maybe? I have enjoyed sharing stages, campgrounds, Northern Lights, jokes, shin-kickings (Sara Cleveland at Fox Hollow),midnight harmonizing...all manner of great-memory things. Remember once when you introduced me as, "And here comes Jean Ritchie, who's gonna play dull-some-more!!!" Ay, if you're going to get a new heart, I guess I'll have to forgive you for that. And also throw my love and good wishes into this big pot we're all beginning to stir, and hope to be able to be there if you ever need me.
Love and blessings,    Jean

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: katlaughing
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 06:32 PM

Jacqui, I had it stuck in my head that we had a fund-raising link for him a few years ago and it was on his website, but I'm darned if I can find it, now. I've looked at his website and there is an address, so I'd guess any of us who wants to could send a donation and/or buy some CDs. I am sure any of it would help.

we could also do a thread for him, here, as we're doing for Art.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Fortunato
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 07:22 PM

yes, yes, kytrad. you said it well.

I remember standing in an endless shower line with Bruce and Riki Schneyer (ajacent lines) at Foxhollow, he was endlessly funny. Helen Schneyer brought him to my open mike at Grant's Tomb in DC where he sang hobo tunes and mesmerized the packed house with his stories.

yep, I'd travel far to play a benefit if I could,

Maybe Dan Schatz can get the ball rolling.
chance

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Jeri
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 07:37 PM

A big honkin' festival/concert in a big honkin' city would be great, but a bunch of smaller ones at local coffeehouses and other venues would reach more people. ESPECIALLY if local unions could be informed. There are so many folks singing his songs now, it wouldn't be hard to do that, and the union folks could be a lot more help than anybody may guess.

Jean, I remember Bruce talking about how easy it was to play banjo, and then saying how much simpler a dulcimer was. That was on the stage at Fox Hollow during the day, and he made sure you were around. And Fortunato, nobody EVER told me there were showers there!!!

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Fortunato
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 08:32 PM

Jeri,

My memory could be faulty. Perhaps it was just the line for the toilet and tooth brushing. Seems like I remember towels and stuff.
I wouldn't swear to it Jeri.

best
chance

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: kendall
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 08:34 PM

I will travel as far as 600 miles to attend a benefit. In the meantime, I'm going to send him a contribution.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: bigchuck
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 09:17 PM

Well, best of fortune to Bruce. I just heard Rosalie at Cafe Lena the other night, and she spent much of her concert with stories of the old days with him and sang many fine songs of his. He has long been one of my favorite storytellers and poets. I would gladly participate in any benefit I could get to. Transplant technology is pretty advanced these days. Here's hoping for years more of the great gadfly.

Sandy

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: wysiwyg
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 09:25 PM

He asked me to post this on Mudcat to let everyone know the situation, he doesn't want the rumor mill to be going into overdrive.

I will pass on any messages for him of course. Hopefully the outcome will be for the best.

Mark, tell him he must come post soon or he'll leave it to everyone else to tell his jokes, etc. :~)

I'll send a note around to the Prayer Chain, and ask members there also to look in here for any benefit news.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Joe Offer
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 09:36 PM

600 miles? We want you to come here, Kendall!
We now have a spare room, so lodging is possible.
-Joe-

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Dan Schatz
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 10:04 PM

I would think a series of benefits in various locations would be doable - those of us in the Philly/New York/Washington/ Baltimore area might easily join forces to make a few benefits happen. There's a good crowd in New England. Four or five performers, both of the well known and less well known variety, could put together a great round robin.

All of that's easily within 600 miles of Kendall!

In less urban areas, maybe local folks could sponsor some "Utah Phillips Song Nights" with local performers to raise funds.

Dan

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Rapparee
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 10:25 PM

I have two and half kitchens, two guest rooms and can, if need be, sleep a dozen people (more if you bring a motor home and park it on the pad outside). I can get the Stephens Performing Arts Center at the University for $2,500 for an evening (individual performance halls have different prices). Or you can use the second floor of the Portneuf Valley Brewery if you cut Penny Pink in on a little of the action (although she might volunteer it -- who knows with Penny?).

Skywest flies into Pocatello, or you can fly into Salt Lake City and take the shuttle up, rent a car, or whatever.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: reggie miles
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 01:14 AM

I'm certain that something could be organized here in the far upper left corner, the Seattle neighborhood. Utah has many fans here. It wasn't too difficult to organize something for JW when he had a similar health issue. I can think of many players that would gladly lend a hand for such an event and a few venues that would host it. Shall I begin by making a few phone calls?

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: GUEST,Jon Dudley
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 03:10 AM

Mark, as you posted this thread originally please pass on a message of support and love from The Copper Family here in 'olde Englande'. We had a great deal of fun with Bruce at the Champlain Festival a few years ago; he's a very special person and a lot of fun to hang out with. Please send our love and best wishes.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: kendall
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 07:23 AM

Hey Joe,
I was thinking of driving, that's why I said 600 miles. California would be out of the question unless we fly. Thanks for the invitation.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Bobert
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 09:03 AM

I'll see Kendall's 600 and up it to 650 miles...

Until then, best wishes & prayers...

Bobert

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Big Mick
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 09:44 AM

OK, I have taken the initial steps for two benefits in Michigan. One will be on the east side of the State, probably in Ann Arbor where Bruce has many fans. I am shooting for the second one in West Michigan. This is very prelim at this point. I have contacted Matt Watroba and he has expressed interest in helping. This is very preliminary.

All the best,

Mick

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Fortunato
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 11:05 AM

Mick keep me informed.
chance

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Big Mick
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 11:10 AM

Will do, Chance.

Mick

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: katlaughing
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 08:56 PM

Good news, folks. Art just called to say he just spoke with Bruce Brackney who told him they decided Utah just needed to have his pacemaker tweaked and will be going home in the next day or so! Apparently they are keeping him on the B list for now!

Art was pleased to hear of the plans for benefit concerts for his good friend.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: kendall
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 09:23 PM

Ok everyone, all together now,

EXHALE Man! what a relief!

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: gnu
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 10:34 PM

Oh my! Great news!

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 10:52 PM

If something is arranged on the East Coast, and there is need of chef/cook/caterer, count me in. Plus, I sing great backup ; )

Dani

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: maeve
Date: 02 Feb 08 - 06:09 AM

Such very welcome news this is.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: jacqui.c
Date: 02 Feb 08 - 08:17 AM

Great news!

We were watching the DVD last night and it got me thinking that this was too great a talent to lose right now.

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: kendall
Date: 02 Feb 08 - 08:38 AM

The DVD Jacqui is talking about is the performance Utah and I did in California back in April of 06. It is now available for purchase. Utah cracks me up, and that's not easy to do!

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Marc Bernier
Date: 02 Feb 08 - 10:26 AM

Nice to hear he's on his way home, and not "All Used Up". If there is a benifit happening anywhere in the New England area, I would be interested in contributing in any way I can.

Marc Bernier

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: GUEST,some fans in grass valley, ca.
Date: 03 Feb 08 - 05:46 PM

Yeah! Utah you are loved!

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Stephen L. Rich
Date: 03 Feb 08 - 05:49 PM

Thanks for the info, Mark. I hope that he pulls through.

Stephen Lee

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: Mark Ross
Date: 07 Feb 08 - 09:54 AM

Utah called me yesterday and asked me to tell all of you thanks and to listen to his podcast on his website


http://www.utahphillips.org/podcast/index.html


I will let you know if I hear anymore. He should be going home in a couple of days.

Mark Ross

Subject: RE: Utah Phillips Medical Update (2008)
From: jacqui.c
Date: 07 Feb 08 - 10:21 AM

Thanks for the link Mark - highly entertaining!