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Subject: BS: Amos is ill From: Deda Date: 05 Jan 19 - 10:24 AM I am Amos' sister, Rebecca, in Belfast, Maine. Amos is in the hospital and is in a pretty bad way. Last summer he had surgery for bladder cancer (and finally quit smoking), and we thought he was out of the woods, but the cancer metastasized and moved into his lungs (which is not the same as lung cancer). He was in a clinical trial at UNC hospital Chapel Hill (where he is now), but he didn't respond, apparently. Amos took a serious fall, had a concussion and some fractured bones in his face, and went back to the hospital. That was maybe five days ago, and I talked to him that night. He was irascible and in pain, but sounded recognizable, not too bad. As soon as the next day Daly told me that his ability to form recognizable speech had deteriorated so much that she can't understand what he's saying. I suggested bringing in a pad and paper or even a keyboard, but apparently he does not have control of his hands any more than of his speech. Perhaps he's had a stroke. He's had MRIs and CT scans. Daly has a friend there with a lot of experience in the medical system who will come in with her to the hospital and try to talk with the doctors. I asked Daly if I should come down there but she hasn't suggested it yet. I'm very rarely on mudcat but you can email me at jessupr515@gmail.com. It goes without saying that mudcat has been a very precious resource to Amos for many years, and he has derived great joy from his many deep friends here. |
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Subject: RE: BS: Amos is ill From: DMcG Date: 05 Jan 19 - 10:33 AM Sorry to hear all that. Amos has been a precious resource to Mudcat as well. I believe he is on the Mudcat CDs that were made? By convention, these are not BS topics: would someone kindly move it? |
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Subject: RE: BS: Amos is ill From: Morticia Date: 05 Jan 19 - 10:43 AM I'm so sorry to hear this, Rebecca and will be directing my good wishes toward America in the hopes he gets better soon. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill From: Will Fly Date: 05 Jan 19 - 10:48 AM That's sad news - my very best to him and all good wishes. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill From: Jeri Date: 05 Jan 19 - 10:49 AM I enjoyed meeting him a few years ago up here, and at Getaways. I hope for the best for him. (Although he did kind of bend the rules of betting in order to get out of buying me a bottle of singe malt) Comfort and healing. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill From: Bonnie Shaljean Date: 05 Jan 19 - 11:00 AM DMcG beat me to it, but it bears repeating: Amos has been a precious resource to Mudcat as well. I am so SO sorry to read this (been writing that far too much lately). He was always enormously helpful to me - us - with our Apple woes, and I also hugely enjoyed his other posts. Deda, thanks so much for telling us, sorrowful as the news is. If Amos is in any position to hear it, please let him know how valued he is here, and that we are all pulling for him. And do keep us informed! Bonnie |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill From: Elmore Date: 05 Jan 19 - 11:01 AM Very sad. I wish Amos and his family the best.
b
h |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill From: John MacKenzie Date: 05 Jan 19 - 11:05 AM Lovely guy, sort of a musical jukebox, he can play and sing so many songs Enjoyed meeting up with him at a Getaway, and I was his Secret Santa one year. Wishing him well. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill From: GUEST,akenaton Date: 05 Jan 19 - 11:50 AM Sorry to hear about Amos...I miss his big long words and big heart...A |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill From: Mick Pearce (MCP) Date: 05 Jan 19 - 12:03 PM Sorry to hear this too. Let him know we are thinking of him and best wishes. Mick |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill From: Joe Offer Date: 05 Jan 19 - 12:21 PM Oh, danr. I've been very concerned, but then it sounded like things were going well for him and he had the cancer licked. Amos, old friend, my thoughts are with you. -Joe- |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill From: Stilly River Sage Date: 05 Jan 19 - 12:22 PM There was a set of CDs produced by various Mudcat members in 2002, the Blue Plate Special had five disks. I just glanced at them and see Amos at least once, probably more. He's on YouTube, and he has poetry out there. A few years ago he asked me to retrieve some of the poems he posted in the Mother of all BS thread because he wanted to publish them; I hope he did. I think the poems were deleted in the thread (they can be restored, but that's a really huge job). My point here, Amos has made a big mark at Mudcat. I hope he understands that a whole bunch of people have appreciated his work for a long time and wish him well. Keep him comfortable. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Joe Offer Date: 05 Jan 19 - 01:49 PM I think Amos produced at least one of the Mudcat CD sets, maybe all of them. His YouTube channel is https://www.youtube.com/user/amosjess...lots of Mudcatters, but he doesn't have many videos of himself. Here's a link that will lead you to more: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=amos+jessup&sp=mAEB I'm wishing he'll be back on stage soon. -Joe- |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Raggytash Date: 05 Jan 19 - 02:01 PM Amos has always been one of the good guys, I hope the rest of his time with us is easy. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Helen Date: 05 Jan 19 - 02:53 PM Hi Rebecca, There are times when I seriously wish I was living closer to most of the Mudcatters. Amos is one of the Mudcatters whose posts I have always enjoyed reading because he is funny, witty, clever, talented, knowledgeable, and an all round nice guy, as far as I can tell from his writing. I am sad to say that I have never met him in person, but I have met very few Mudcatters in person over the 20 years that I have been coming to Mudcat. I am also very sad to hear that he is unwell. I am sending all my thoughts and prayers, hoping that he pulls through. Meanwhile, here is a search list of all of the posts by Amos. Be warned, there are 64,975 so it might take a while to read them all. Mudcat posts by Amos since November 1999 Helen, in Australia |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Stilly River Sage Date: 05 Jan 19 - 03:13 PM Those are only the ones that still exist - there was a loss of posts a few years ago (when we lost several thousand in the Mother of all BS thread) or his count might be a couple hundred higher. And he has 340 guest posts (plus many more as made-up characters in the MOAB, I suspect.) He also has a novel for sale at Amazon called Beyond the Cascade. I didn't find his book of poems yet, but here is a recent radio interview on WHUP. The song that starts six minutes into the radio interview is particularly timely right now. "He's dreaming." |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: vectis Date: 05 Jan 19 - 03:22 PM So sorry to hear this news Rebecca. Like many others I never met Amos in person but valued his input here on the Cat. Give him my best wishes and I will pray for him. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,Martin Ryan Date: 05 Jan 19 - 03:33 PM Coming home from the early obsequies for Tim Lyons to find this news is .... something of a downer, to put it kildly. Regards |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: michaelr Date: 05 Jan 19 - 03:54 PM Amos was Music Coordinator of the Blue Plate Special series, the first of two wonderful collaborations of Mudcat members. I wish him all the best! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: wysiwyg Date: 05 Jan 19 - 04:01 PM Deda, thank you. My sympathies are with you deeply. I echo what Bonnie said above if you can convey that to Daly. Please tell them I'd send a new magic box if I knew what they need right now. All the best to all the Jessups and to those closest to them, ~Susan (aka wysiwyg, Praise, The Sugar Dog) and Greg Hinton |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: LilyFestre Date: 05 Jan 19 - 04:04 PM Sending much love and big hugs. <3 Michelle |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: rich-joy Date: 05 Jan 19 - 05:52 PM So sad to hear of this. Never met him of course (I'm down under), but have sure enjoyed Amos' posts and humour over the years. Go well, Mate. R-J |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,.gargoyle Date: 05 Jan 19 - 07:30 PM Once you start down that slippery slope.... I know of no Mudcatter to return. Sincerely, Gargoyle Bon Yoeage Amos... send us a tune from the other side. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Sandra in Sydney Date: 05 Jan 19 - 07:55 PM Amos was my Santa some years ago & sent me a CD which I've just located in a mess of 100+ Mudcatter CDS (gotta sort it one day) & I'm now listening to his lovely voice. I'll check out his Youtube channel later. sending best wishes to Amos & his family & friends sandra |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: JennieG Date: 06 Jan 19 - 12:12 AM More love and good wishes from Oz......although many Mudcatters have never met in person we feel we have come to know many in this community of ours. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Roger the Skiffler Date: 06 Jan 19 - 03:04 AM Very, very sorry to hear this. Although we never met face to face we corresponded vi e-mails and I always enjoyed his contributions here and the clips of his music. Best wishes to him and his family at this difficult time. RtS |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Leadfingers Date: 06 Jan 19 - 09:20 AM Amos has always been one of the attendees at Getaway that I was most pleased to meet up (and play music ) with . As with the others I can only hope for a good outcome |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,henryp Date: 06 Jan 19 - 09:32 AM Trust that you are in good hands. Best wishes. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: skarpi Date: 06 Jan 19 - 11:22 AM Amos I sorry to hear this . all the best thought´s and best recovery to you Amos . all the best Skarpi Iceland . |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Bee-dubya-ell Date: 06 Jan 19 - 12:15 PM Damn! I've never met Amos in 3D, but I've valued his on-line friendship immensely. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Senoufou Date: 06 Jan 19 - 12:26 PM Sending best wishes and kind thoughts to Amos. Eliza |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,ex-member Date: 06 Jan 19 - 12:42 PM I'm pulling for you, Amos. Safe to say we all are. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Max Date: 06 Jan 19 - 12:44 PM Oh Amos, I love you man. Gutted. Sending all my thoughts, love, prayers and powers to ease your pain and get you right. You're such a wonderful man. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST Date: 06 Jan 19 - 01:04 PM Oh Amos, what will rappeire do? Without out the cream you so generously provided for his bitter coffee on many a cold and bitter morn? He'll pull thru somehow I'm sure, but can't u see him on his knees weeping? How could you treat your old nemesis so cruel? I must say I remember one day when a brit-wank stumbled thought and suggested you were our MGM lion. Oh the nerve comparing you to that venerable old Cambridge Don (the British can be rather clueless most times can't they). Anyway, cream rises to the top while others scratch and claw. Deus meus, ex toto corde poenitet me omnium meorum peccatorum, eaque detestor, quia peccando, non solum poenas a Te iuste statutas promeritus sum, sed praesertim quia offendi Te, summum bonum, ac dignum qui super omnia diligaris. Ideo firmiter propono, adiuvante gratia Tua, de cetero me non peccaturum peccandique occasiones proximas fugiturum. Amen. paperback^ |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: keberoxu Date: 06 Jan 19 - 01:56 PM If Amos is good enough for Max, he's good enough for any or all of us. Not the same without you. You are missed. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Rapparee Date: 06 Jan 19 - 02:36 PM Deda, please pass on this message from me to Amos when you can. Tell him, "Stop it, you're making everyone upset. Besides, we miss you on MOAB." |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Dorothy Parshall Date: 06 Jan 19 - 08:03 PM Dear Rebecca, So sad to hear this news. Somehow, I had believed that Amos would be able to beat this nasty beast. In my first encounter with him in 2009, I suggested that he must have a doctorate in something esoteric as I could not understand something he posted; still did not understand after he kindly tried to explain it in "words of one syllable"... But I certainly appreciated his effort. We have had friends in common and even a visit in person when my partner and I visited San Diego. He has a special spot in my heart and I would wish only the very best for him. His Caring Bridge posts have been generally upbeat and full of hope for a future. So, my heart is also with you as you prepare for what seems the inevitable loss of a brother. He has made a valiant effort to stay with us. Is it, possibly, time to give him permission to let go? Perhaps the greatest gift we can give at this point. With all our love and caring attending him. As well as the music he loves the best. Sadly, with love. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Steve Shaw Date: 06 Jan 19 - 08:11 PM Hopefully speaking for lots of people on Mudcat who had no direct connection with Amos but who always appreciated his posts, all good wishes to Amos and all his nearest and dearest. Cyber-love is a very odd thing but be assured that it definitely exists! Cheers from Steve |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: meself Date: 06 Jan 19 - 08:20 PM Sad news; wish him all the best. I never met the man, but have always respected him on the basis of his knowledgeable and thoughtful posts. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: leeneia Date: 07 Jan 19 - 12:46 AM I will miss Amos. He was a good man. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Amergin Date: 07 Jan 19 - 01:29 AM Dammit, Amos...get better find other healthier ways to get attention! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,Bev Praver Date: 07 Jan 19 - 01:48 AM So sorry to hear about this Rebecca. Amos and Jerry had many exchanges here on mudcat. I vividly remember the time Anos and Daly came to visit us before they moved east. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: ClaireBear Date: 07 Jan 19 - 02:08 AM Amos has always been a giant among us—a true gentleman, a scholar, and a man of both great wit and great heart. Despite his health challenges, during my road trip last summer Amos opened his home to me, my son and my sister for a sweet evening of jamming. It was truly an honor. I was touched beyond words. When he leaves us, soon or late, he will leave a great void, and I will miss him terribly. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Genie Date: 07 Jan 19 - 02:25 AM Really sad to hear of such turns to the worse, Rebecca. I’ve been following what Amos has posted on Facebook about his struggle with bladder cancer but not the follow up on CaringBridge, so I really appreciate your bringing us up to date, as terrible as this news is. Amos was one of my first contacts and mentors and friends on Mudcat and the first one I met in person who was not from Portland. From the fall of 2001, when I met Amos and Daly in San Diego, through Camp Runamok in Ellensburg,WA in 2002, through jamming with Amos in Balboa Park many times and recording songs with him in his garage office/studio, having him include one of my songs on the Blue Plate Special CD, his writing a 60th birthday song for me, his recording my sister Tammy and me on another song for the This Is Us CDs and recording a duet with me,and backing me and Tammy up at San Diego open mics and also jamming with him at Getaway several years and at Portland FolkMusic Society’s Singtime Frolics - plus lots of informative and entertaining exchanges here at Mudcat, Amos has been a treasured folkie friend and inspiration . I am praying for a much better outcome than seems likely and sending love and honor for our dear friend, your brother Amos. I wish I could do more. Thanks so much and please send my sincere caring thoughts and wishes to Daly and Tucker. Genie |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,Flip Breskin Date: 07 Jan 19 - 02:40 AM I am SO sorry for your trouble! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: David Ingerson Date: 07 Jan 19 - 03:03 AM I love you, Amos! You've always been an inspiration and a delightful devil's advocate. Your singing has always been powerful, your presence deeply authentic, your arguments incisive yet understanding. You are generous to a fault, not only with your talents, your voice, your powerful interpretations of songs but also with your thoughts and feelings. Take it easy, Amos, but take it! Thanks, Rebecca, for the sad news. David |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Monique Date: 07 Jan 19 - 04:36 AM So sorry to hear that. Hold on Amos! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: C-flat Date: 07 Jan 19 - 04:45 AM So sorry to read this. Good thoughts and best wishes are all we can offer. C-flat |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: My guru always said Date: 07 Jan 19 - 05:56 AM So vey sorry to hear that Amos has been going through this terrible struggle. He is a gentle man with a lovely soul, sending positive thoughts to him and his family x |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Janie Date: 07 Jan 19 - 08:27 AM A bit of an update regarding Amos. He did not have a stroke. His cerebellum got rattled pretty fiercely when he fell. The cerebellum is in charge of motor skills, hence the difficulties with speech and control of his arms and hands. Cognitively, he is as astute as ever. His handsome face ain't so handsome right now, but he will be back to full gorgeousness once the bruising and swelling are gone. It is not unusual for some symptoms of concussion to develop a day or so post concussion, and that is apparently what happened with his speech and arms. When I saw him on Thursday I could understand almost nothing he said. 2 days later I could understand most of what he said, so he is already showing improvement, even before starting speech or physical therapy. While it is way too early for a prognosis for full recovery of motor skills to be made, or to predict how rapidly improvement will occur, there is every reason, at this point in time, to expect significant recovery as the brain heals. Due to the motor difficulties with speech and arms, it may be awhile before he is able to manage phone or keyboard, so don't be alarmed if you don't hear from him directly. We anticipate he will be discharged to a rehab center this week, where recovery therapies can begin in earnest. I will be seeing him today and will pass along good wishes for his recovery. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: wysiwyg Date: 07 Jan 19 - 08:49 AM We were very close at one time. It may help folks to know that both Amos and Daly deeply look forward to an existence beyond this "meatspace" planet, and that while of course this time now is excruciatingly painful, they are uniquely well prepared for it. Go Amos! ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,Dharmabum Date: 07 Jan 19 - 08:52 AM Wishing you the best Amos. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Roger the Skiffler Date: 07 Jan 19 - 09:03 AM Thanks for the update, it is sounding much more positive. Still sending good vibes across the Atlantic. RtS |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Linda Kelly Date: 07 Jan 19 - 09:25 AM Good wishes and healing thoughts being sent to Amos. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: John MacKenzie Date: 07 Jan 19 - 09:36 AM Sending best wishes and a large malt whisky, from Jock. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: CupOfTea Date: 07 Jan 19 - 09:55 AM Can't claim friendship, but definitely a fan. During a couple of Getaway weekends I watched him being a steady presence of song, kindness, fun - a person you just enjoyed being around, even if you didn't know him well. My heartfelt good wishes to Amos and his loved ones. It is so important to let people know how valuable they are while they can appreciate it. I feel fortunate to have met him, heard him sing, chat a bit. Give him folkie love from Cleveland, please. Joanne in Cleveland |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,anglo Date: 07 Jan 19 - 09:55 AM I have always enjoyed my time with Amos (not enough!), particularly at the Getaway. His generosity of resources, of spirit, and his care for the world we live in always made me want to be a better person. I knew him first through Mudcat, then in person. I got to meet Daly properly this year as well. If anyone deserves a miracle, it's Amos. Hold fast, my friend. John |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,Sandrolin Date: 07 Jan 19 - 10:00 AM Thank you for the updates Rebecca, and Janie... Daly and Amos my deepest love and prayer. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Felipa Date: 07 Jan 19 - 10:08 AM I've been reading and writing on Mudcat for >20 years, but Amos' name isn't familiar to me. We must move on different threads. I'm glad to read that he's got something of a reprieve, that at least the brain injury is healing. Martin, it gets worse ... I see there is a thread re Dick Greenhaus. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST Date: 07 Jan 19 - 10:35 AM Very sorry to hear that, he was a good friend to me when I moved to San Diego for a year abroad as part of my degree. Thinking of him and Daly. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: hsempl Date: 07 Jan 19 - 10:49 AM So glad for the more encouraging update, Janie, please give him and Daly hugs from me. Heather |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Tattie Bogle Date: 07 Jan 19 - 11:49 AM Sorry to hear the earlier news, but hope the improvement is maintained. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,Lonesome EJ Date: 07 Jan 19 - 02:03 PM I have known Amos for almost 20 years now, through this Forum, in person, and by being a guest of his and Daly's at his home in Hillsborough. There's almost nobody I'd prefer to share a joke, a beer or a song with. He hasn't been in the best health over the last year, but when I saw him in October, he was undaunted and full of energy and joy despite the challenges. I would put money on him pulling through this episode. Not being able to articulate has got to be pissing him off, since he's one of the most articulate people I know. That's why I think he'll get through this, just to be able to recount the experience in vivid detail afterwards. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,JudyB Date: 07 Jan 19 - 02:25 PM Glad to hear there's some improvement, and sending lots of good thoughts. Thanks, Rebecca and Janie, for bringing the information and updates here. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Janie Date: 07 Jan 19 - 04:09 PM Amos is continuing to show some small improvement in speech and motor skills everyday, and sends his thanks for all the good wishes. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Hollowfox Date: 07 Jan 19 - 04:22 PM Hey, folks what's this with so much in the past tense? And you, Amos, you've got a huge fan base here pulling for you. In fact, when I get home from work, I'm going to fire up one of my Official Gen-u-ine Purebred Midwestern $#@!-reduction Candles. They let you know somebody gives a $#@! about you, and does its part to reduce the same from the world. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: wysiwyg Date: 07 Jan 19 - 04:53 PM Thx for the updates, Janie-- we cross-posted. ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Dorothy Parshall Date: 07 Jan 19 - 05:31 PM Certainly appreciated to see on Caring Bridge that the situation is not as dire as it appeared. Still along way from what we wish for Amos. Caring really does help. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Charmion Date: 07 Jan 19 - 05:39 PM Oh, dear. I love Amos, and I hope to see him again this summer. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: KT Date: 07 Jan 19 - 06:07 PM C'mon, Amos! We're all pullin for ya! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: gnu Date: 08 Jan 19 - 05:34 AM I have admired Amos for a number of reasons. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: gnu Date: 08 Jan 19 - 05:37 AM A bit of a clarification Journal entry by Janie Endres — 12 hours ago Amos is not in renal failure and a stroke has absolutely been ruled out. He was dehydrated and is now hydrated. Renal function has returned to baseline. The fall likely occurred due to sudden low blood pressure on arising from a prone position, and dehydration can make this more likely to happen. The speech and other motor difficulties are due to the cerebellum having been seriously rattled. It is too early, as rehab has not yet begun, AND the brain is still recovering from being treated like a shakori, to know how rapidly or how fully he will recover his assorted motor skills, but most people do experience significant or complete recovery from concussions when they are treated properly. We realized over the past couple of days that local friends thought he was on death's door due to the cancer. Amos has asked I get the word out that this is not the case. The motor deficits are significant at present, but a little better everyday, even before entering rehab. One issue is going to be boredom. Recommendations for audio books, and even more importantly, any suggestions about devices that play audio books that don't require manual dexterity to operate are welcomed. Siri is not helpful right now due to the speech issues but it seems to me there must be some stackable CD players or electronic devices out there that require minimal precision to hit the right icon, play, or pause button. At present he is not able to change the CD or hit small targets. Any ideas appreciated. All good thoughts and positive energies are especially appreciated. Word to the wise - drink plenty of water. This could happen to anyone. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: gnu Date: 08 Jan 19 - 05:39 AM https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/amosjessupsgang/journal |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Dave the Gnome Date: 08 Jan 19 - 06:01 AM Best gnomic wishes coming from here too. You can do it, Amos! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Jack Campin Date: 08 Jan 19 - 06:45 AM In the UK, the RNIB (Royal National Institute for the Blind) issues "Daisy" pausable MP3-CD players which have simple, large, easy to find buttons. Maybe they're available in the US too? |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Stilly River Sage Date: 08 Jan 19 - 10:20 AM I posted my suggestion for a tablet app to the CaringBridge site. I'm an Android/Windows user and I think Amos is an Apple zealot, but I'm sure you'll figure out something! Our apologies to Amos for over-reacting to the news of his injury - we're all feeling rattled over losing so many stellar Mudcatters in the last couple of weeks that the news of his hospitalization went from zero to sixty in no time at all for all of this heartbroken Mudcat family. That said, it has been a real pleasure to track down so many of the things he has "out there" in the connected world. Interviews, musical performances, poetry, and even a novel. To say nothing of the thousands of posts at Mudcat. :) Get well, friend, and take your pooch Maggie for a walk soon. (Dogs can visit people in hospitals and rehab, if she hasn't already. I did that with my lab Zeke when his first owner was in rehab for a while. The vet just had to write a letter assuring his good health and vaccinations.) |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Rapparee Date: 08 Jan 19 - 10:43 AM See what the Division of the Blind and Physically Handicapped, via the local public library, has. Free, even free postage, or rather, your taxes have paid the Library of Congress for it. Give him a traveling size guitar. It'll help (albeit slowly and with frustration on his part) the neural pathways re-establish. For the fastest recovery, tell him that I'm coming to be his rehab counselor. Or always tune the TV to Fox and he'll be out of bed in a flash to change the channel if you hide the remote. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Stilly River Sage Date: 08 Jan 19 - 10:48 AM Search on some of Don Firth's old posts - he was interested in travel-size guitars and posted a lot about them, comparing styles and brands. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Jeri Date: 08 Jan 19 - 10:52 AM When I read about his history, I though it sounded like he whacked his brain. And I thought that he needed to eat. I think it's likely he will one day come in here, and discuss the situation, delighting in passing on the "ow" and "ew", much like Catspaw did. We can all wait with bated breath for him to regale us with tales of catheters and scans and his own personal nurse Ratched. Or not. Whatever. [smiles] |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Deda Date: 08 Jan 19 - 11:01 AM Some of the over-reaction to the initial news may be due to my own first post. Amos is 3 years (almost 4) older than me and I have looked up to him with awe and love since birth. The thought that I might lose him was so deeply alarming to me that I may have conveyed that sense of danger and fear in my first post. I am so greatly relieved that he and Daly have local, loving and capable support. No one can count Amos out, ever -- he's a powerful fighter, with a deep well of resilience. And when I talked to him the first night after his concussion, before his speech deteriorated, he promised me he wasn't going to die. So I'll hold him to that. And I'll go down to see him in a few weeks, when rehab has started to work. If you're a praying person, please keep him in your prayers. If not, good energy, love and healing vibes are gratefully accepted. Deda |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Skipjack K8 Date: 08 Jan 19 - 11:08 AM Hello Amos, old love. So alarmed to read the OP, so relieved to read down and hear you quote Mark Twain's best line, albeit vicariously. Hope the rehab is swift and easy. All the best, mate Greg |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,Lonesome EJ Date: 08 Jan 19 - 11:51 AM A word needs to be said in regards to the help Amos is receiving, and in relation to that, the continuing amazing impact of the Mudcat. Several years back, Amos and Daly moved from their home in California to the beautiful North Carolina hill town of Hillsborough, mainly because of relationships that evolved here on Mudcat, and tied in with that, the FSGW annual Getaway on the Chesapeake. Through his move to NC, Amos gained a whole additional level of friendship and support from neighbors including Dani Black and Janie Endres. Through his illness and this incident, Janie has been a vital source of energy and guidance. A true friend is one you can count on when the chips are down, and Janie has been just that. I know it will embarrass her to read this, but I also know how important her help has been. That kind of neighborliness and care is rare these days when words are cheap but real friendship is vital. Go girl! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Joe Offer Date: 08 Jan 19 - 12:07 PM That's fer sure, LEJ! Hillsborough has become a Mecca for Mudcatters, where we can load up on good conversation, friendship, good music, and terrific cooking from Janie and Dani. I can't count how often you and I have been there; and Amos liked it so much, he talked Daly into moving there - from San Diego, which is pretty much heaven itself. Mudcat often makes a very good showing at the Nash Street Tavern in Hillsborough, with Amos often presiding with his songs and poetry. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Helen Date: 08 Jan 19 - 02:31 PM Deda, your alarm was totally understandable and we shared that alarm, but now we can share your hope. It's a major relief and we all know that Amos will keep to his word and stay here for as long as he can. Prayers, good energy, love and healing vibes coming right up. Rapparee, that's really hitting below the belt: tuning the TV to Fox. What a low blow - or is it tricky and effective psychology! It would work for me. LOL Helen, in Oz |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Helen Date: 08 Jan 19 - 04:50 PM Well, that appears to settle another long-standing question: Where to build the Old Folkies' Home/Retirement Village Hillsborough, it is! (Coincidentally, my Grandma retired to a house in Hillsborough, in Newcastle, NSW Oz.) Link repaired. ---mudelf |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Ebbie Date: 09 Jan 19 - 07:12 PM Helen, that sounds like a great location! Just wish I were younger! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Janie Date: 09 Jan 19 - 09:52 PM Y'all come! (Bring money to cover construction costs.) Maybe, at the very least, we can take over all the Medicaid beds at a good, local nursing home. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Rapparee Date: 09 Jan 19 - 10:36 PM Why build or buy something? We can all move in with Amos. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Ebbie Date: 10 Jan 19 - 03:34 AM Rap! No! Just when he is getting better! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Genie Date: 10 Jan 19 - 05:10 AM Deda (Rebecca), Janie, Dani, Ernie and all you other local friends or family who are in contact with our beloved Amos and helping him through this ordeal nd keeping us informed, BLESS you! Amos, we’re here to sing you through this! Genie |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Janie Date: 10 Jan 19 - 02:25 PM Working on getting Amos moved to rehab but not sure whether that will be at the hospital initially (I hope it is) or to a skilled nursing facility. When available, I will provide an address where those who might want to send a card directly to Amos can do so. It might be another several days to a week. In the meantime, if you want to send him a card, pm me here, or for FB friends, on FB, and I'll send you my address. I am seeing him most days, and when my schedule doesn't permit, can run them over to his wife, Daly, to take to him. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Donuel Date: 11 Jan 19 - 01:11 PM While we all wish Amos the best, the best of Amos is his heart. Amos uses more heart, talent and generosity than we who only try. Flesh is fragile but the will of his mind is uniquely powerful. Actual Factual Musical and true |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST Date: 11 Jan 19 - 04:12 PM Wishing Amos as rapid, thorough and complete a recovery as possible. He has been a valuable part of my Mudcat and Getaway experiences. As a two time cancer survivor, I'm rooting for you and trying to add on to the Mudcat good vibes and wishes like the ones that helped me get through my hospital stays! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,Severn Date: 11 Jan 19 - 05:32 PM That last guest was me. Hooda guest? |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Crowhugger Date: 11 Jan 19 - 06:49 PM I am heartbroken to know that Amos is going through such a difficult stretch. Sending my love and wishes for an expedient rehab/recovery and an easy time normalizing after that. I haven't mudcatted regularly in the last few years, but Amos is definitely a valued fellow 'catter I know well from when I was more active here. Especially I'm loving my recollection of various group-written stories. Amos has always been among those who add to the story while setting an example of how to build on and build up others' characters, settings and story lines without one-upmanship. And song contests on current subjects, magic wordsmith. A leader, sometimes obviously so, and more often with great subtlety. So much more he's done over the years but these are his gifts to us that are still giving, in particular giving me a huge smile and cozy memories right now. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Janie Date: 12 Jan 19 - 04:23 PM Amos was transferred from acute care to the Medical Rehab unit last night. For those so inclined, cards of encouragement or that provoke a good laugh will be most welcomed. Amos Jessup Room 7342 North Carolina Memorial Hospital 101 Manning Dr. Chapel Hill, NC 27514 |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Janie Date: 31 Jan 19 - 04:04 PM Happy to share that after 5 long weeks in the hospital, Amos is going home tomorrow, 2/1/19! He made very good progress in the rehab unit of the hospital, and still has a ways to go. For the first week or so, there will be 24 hour custodial care, plus in-home speech, occupational and physical therapy. The 24 hour care to begin with is cautionary. We think his progress will be even more rapid once he is home. I predict he will again soon be singing again, and very hopeful he will again be able to play that guitar! If you wish to follow his progress, both respect to the head injury and the cancer, best way to do that is on the Caring Bridge website. Below is a link to his page there. https://www.caringbridge.org/visit/amosjessupsgang |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: John MacKenzie Date: 31 Jan 19 - 05:00 PM Sounds good Janie. Thanks for the update. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Steve Shaw Date: 31 Jan 19 - 05:02 PM Dammit, that's brilliant! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Janie Date: 13 Mar 19 - 04:39 PM Have been getting some inquiries re how Amos is doing. Check the caring bridge link at latest update re Amos for latest full update if you live locally as it includes some ways to help. For others, copying and pasting the post I just made, with consent from Amos, to Caring Bridge. "Journal entry by Janie Endres — 12 minutes ago Hello All, A bit of an update regarding Amos, provided with his permission. He says to say he would post himself but his 'puter is on the blink. He also won't know, until his computer is fixed, how well he can manage the keyboard as fine motor skills are still a work in progress. He is at home and is continuing recovery efforts from his severe concussion. To those of us around him, he progresses by leaps and bounds. To Amos, the progress seems frustratingly slow. In-home speech, occupation and speech therapy have been discontinued and there is serious slogging through bureaucracies going on to get outpatient therapies scheduled. His speech is clear, and he has made very significant progress on syntax, inflection, etc. Struggles sometimes to find the right words to use - but this amazingly articulate human being is already more articulate than most of us, even if not back to his prodromal levels. He is able to sing - pretty well in imho, but not up to his own standards, and working at making some strumable chords on the guitar. Still needs a walker because the internal gyroscope still ain't working right, but there definitely continues to be improvement. Fine motor skills have a ways to go, but again, definitely continuing to improve. Although fatigue can be an issue, and rest and naps are very important to promote healing after brain injury, he enjoys company and outings. He thinks he is a pain to take somewhere because of the walker, but, believe me folks - that is his imagination. He needs the walker for balance, not because his legs are injured and can't bear full weight. It is a piece of cake to chauffeur him to a local restaurant or coffee shop for an outing, as long as the steps can either accomodate a walker, or there is a sturdy handrail - though, for local folks, I would not recommend lunch at the Saratoga Grill at this point, with their full flight of stairs. In terms of the cancer, he had a full scan a few weeks ago, and the cancer is 'stable.' No new metastases. Of the already present metastatic lesions, half have shrunk a little and half have grown a little. At present, focus continues to be on recovering from the concussion. Any decisions regarding further experimental treatments or clinical trials are deferred." |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Bonnie Shaljean Date: 13 Mar 19 - 05:16 PM YAYYYYYY - I have never been so happy to read a 100th post in my life. Way to go Amos - keep on truckin. We love you. B xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Jeri Date: 13 Mar 19 - 05:31 PM Sounds like he's doing pretty well. Thanks, Janey! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Helen Date: 13 Mar 19 - 07:52 PM Thanks Janie. I'm happy to hear he is getting better, although too slowly for his liking. Don't tell any of the Mudcatters here - they might get jealous - but Amos has always been one of my favourite 'Catters, because of his interesting, knowledgeable, generous and humourous posts, and also because my nephew is also called Amos. Kindest regards to you and Amos and all the family, from Helen in Australia. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: JennieG Date: 14 Mar 19 - 12:31 AM Thank you for the update, Janie. My best wishes to Amos for his continued recovery. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Sandra in Sydney Date: 14 Mar 19 - 04:45 AM & mine! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Waddon Pete Date: 14 Mar 19 - 08:00 AM Me too! |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Roger the Skiffler Date: 14 Mar 19 - 10:00 AM I hope he knows we are all rooting for him. Get better soon, buddy. RtS |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Joe Offer Date: 14 Mar 19 - 12:23 PM Thanks for keeping us up-to-date on Amos, Janie. I kinda like him. Joe |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: kendall Date: 14 Mar 19 - 08:14 PM Amos has left us. I'm heart broken. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Amergin Date: 14 Mar 19 - 08:21 PM Dammit...I met him once. I will never forget him, Mousethief and RangerRoger singing doowop together in Ellensburg, Washington. He was a nice fellow, a great man that I admired. I always wanted to meet him again, to hang out with him again, listen to h1m play, and maybe share some words. Sometime, always becomes maybe later. Unfortunately, there's never enough time tomorrow. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: KT Date: 14 Mar 19 - 08:24 PM Me too, Kendall, me too. KT |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Charley Noble Date: 14 Mar 19 - 08:25 PM Amos will be missed but not forgotten. Glad I had the chance to meet him and share a few songs. Damn! Charlie Ipcar |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: GUEST,LEJ Date: 14 Mar 19 - 08:52 PM I'm heartbroken. I have met few people who were as alive and present in the moment as Amos Jessup. Maybe that's why I can't picture him gone. Goodbye old music buddy, storyteller, whiskey swigger, singer of songs both bawdy and brilliant. Can't help but think we'll meet again, brother. |
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Subject: RE: Amos is ill (January 2019) From: Joe Offer Date: 14 Mar 19 - 09:04 PM This was the Facebook message from Janie an hour ago:
Bless you, Amos. -Joe- Obituary thread (click) |
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