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From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat
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Subject: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Max Date: 27 Aug 01 - 06:06 PM Well folks, the time has come. We have begun to dismantle and effectively gut Onstage Media. The economy is just too poor to maintain our overhead. If we're lucky, the first step will also be the last. We're down to 1 ½ elves, and enough space for 10, so we're giving up Mudcat Studio's within the month. Our lovely offices in the dead center of town with the great windows will be no more. The plan is to move a leaner meaner Onstage into my apartment (hopefully temporarily) to lower expenses. We are also trading the 1500Kb T-1 net connection for a much more affordable 762Kb SDLS line, which is half of the bandwidth and a fourth of the cost. What does this mean for Mudcat? Thankfully for you, not much at all. The cut in bandwidth should not be even noticeable. For all the time with the T-1, the Mudcat and all our other sites and clients never took up even half of what we had, so half of what we had should do just fine. Reliability? Not sure. DSL is a bit new, and we're just not sure about it. We're planning a 10-day test before the switchover, so we should be reassured before D Day. We won't be able to simulcast out of the pub downstairs anymore, but then again we only did it once anyway. I was trying to hang in there till after the Getaway, and still may try, so we can simulcast that performance. Otherwise we'll just do a taped delay. Stay Tuned. Mudcat Radio? I suppose we could do it out of my apartment, but then I would have to tell MaryMac where I live. Hmmmm. As mentioned in earlier posts and shows, the weekly broadcast may lose its regularity, but I will continue to do some sort of broadcast here and there. I still want Catters to come visit me and such, so any time one or more of you all come to see me, we'll broadcast. I'm working part time jobs in the evenings now too, so nights off are a more precious to me. But I really enjoy it, so I will continue in some way. Anyhow, for me this is merely another adventure. Don't worry about my mental state, just worry that I'll be able to pay rent on time. This stuff doesn't get to me too bad, it inspires me to head in new directions more than anything else. Lord knows I've been through worse. I'll keep you informed as things develop. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Little Hawk Date: 27 Aug 01 - 06:15 PM It's been a tough year all around, Max. My own company has done considerably less than half the business it did last year by this time. It reminds me of the beginning of the 1990's. Let's hope things pick up soon. - LH |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: mike putt Date: 27 Aug 01 - 06:19 PM I'm sorry you have to downsize Max but it is global we can se it big time hear in Ireland, good luck for the future |
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Subject: RE: From Max From: Clinton Hammond Date: 27 Aug 01 - 06:19 PM Mudcat needs a porn site to generate some $$ flow!!! LOL!!!! |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Amergin Date: 27 Aug 01 - 06:20 PM You're wrong, Max....it does affect us a great deal....even if the 'Cat weren't involved....some one we respect a great deal is going through some tough times....all I can say is good luck to you....and things will eventually get better.... |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Sorcha Date: 27 Aug 01 - 06:21 PM Good Luck, Max, and all the best to you in new ventures. It's a shame the world doesn't realize how talented you are. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: CarolC Date: 27 Aug 01 - 06:36 PM Max, I want to take a moment right now to tell you what a profound inspiration you are to me.
I know you'll do amazing and mind blowing things with your new adventure. Carol |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Rich(bodhránai gan ciall) Date: 27 Aug 01 - 06:49 PM Max, It sounds to me like, you'll still be giving us a hell of a lot, and you're feeling down about not being able to give quite as much. You'll still be the most generous individual on the 'net and that's nothing to feel guilty about! Thanks for everything. I look forward to continued great times on Mudcat. Periodically waiting a little longer for a thread or a personal message to open, will not be that bad, considering what we'll still have. Hope all your other ventures go well. Rich |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: catspaw49 Date: 27 Aug 01 - 06:50 PM Clinton, after all this time and all of your carping and bitching, finally you come up with an idea that worth a damn!!! MAX.......Whatever you need to do and however you need to do it, we'll be here and a constant drain on your finances. I know this is reassuring to you at this time just as the ball crunch will be when that time comes....get a cup. Seriously, it sounds like a good move and will give you a bit of breathing room. I guess I envy some of the people who have stuck it out in one thing forever, but I feel I have lived 4 lifetimes and crammed a lot in by making some moves that were hard at the time. I know you're looking in other directions and I can't help, but I can tell you that it's never a bad thing and often works out for the best. Then maybe again, you'll completely screw the pooch and have to go into hiding in West Virginia. Go do what you want to do man, and don't look back. If you slow down that much, I can give you a swift kick in the ass as I blast your balls, just to give you a little motivation. Good Luck....But you don't need it....you'll do it! Spaw |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Amos Date: 27 Aug 01 - 06:51 PM Raise hell, take names, and KICK BUTTSKI, Maximillian. You have a huge fan club out here. Don't forget that. A |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: JenEllen Date: 27 Aug 01 - 06:58 PM Of course we worry about you! You're in our hearts, take care and keep your nose above the waves. ~J |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Gareth Date: 27 Aug 01 - 06:59 PM You did well Max, that is appreciated, worthy of a Red Rugby shirt and a lap around the Cardiff Arms Park. More strength to the future. Gareth |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Mark Clark Date: 27 Aug 01 - 07:02 PM Max, I'm sure you know we all understand about the economic environment. My advice is to do whatever you need to set your own situation straight. You don't owe us anything, it is we who are indebted to you. We all feel for you and wish you the best. - Mark |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: GUEST,kendall Date: 27 Aug 01 - 07:19 PM All these kudos are great, but, they dont pay the rent. Send the man a donation. I did. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: wysiwyg Date: 27 Aug 01 - 07:24 PM We love you, Max. ~Susan |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Susanne (skw) Date: 27 Aug 01 - 07:27 PM Max, it's all been said, more or less. I'm grateful to you that you are holding on to the Mudcat when you might employ your talents more gainfully elsewhere. Whatever you do next, I wish you the best of success - selfishly, as the Mudcat is an important part of my life by now, but also, genuinely, because I'm grateful for what you're doing for us and I believe you must be almost a genius having developed the Mudcat in the way you have. All the best, and long live the Mudcat! |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: GUEST Date: 27 Aug 01 - 07:29 PM "Beware of practising your piety before others in order to be seen by them; for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven. {2} "So whenever you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be praised by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. {3} But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, {4} so that your alms may be done in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. Matthew 6:1-4 |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Gareth Date: 27 Aug 01 - 07:30 PM Donation - Grant in Aid - a good idea. Question - how can us Brits get donations to the Mudcat without being ripped of by the banks ???? Suggestions ???? Gareth. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: McGrath of Harlow Date: 27 Aug 01 - 07:33 PM Whew - I saw the heading on this thread and my heart sank. At best I thought it means the Mudcat has been merged with some big organisation that makes money. At worst it's closing down.
So, selfishly, for me Max's bad news is relatively good news. But it's a shame. There has to be a better way of running an economy than this, the waste of skills and vision and creativity is just ridiculous.
Anyway, thanks for keeping on keeping on, Max. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: kendall Date: 27 Aug 01 - 07:33 PM Guest, I have given many a donation in the past without trumpets, (or bodhrans) I'm just trying to tell you all that money makes the mare go. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: SINSULL Date: 27 Aug 01 - 07:37 PM Max - a temporary set back. You will be fine. And I thank you for all you have given me. Mary |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: katlaughing Date: 27 Aug 01 - 07:39 PM Good point, Kendall. Max, I am thankful that you've told us what is happening and you know we all wish you the best, but I don't like the "so long it's been good t' know ya" tone of some of these messages!**BG** Sure, we won't "see" or "hear" as much of you, for the moment, but you and Mudcat are still going to be here and that is really important. It IS more important that you do what you need to do and take care of yourself, first. I know from our conversation the other night that Mudcat is right up there in your heart, alongside others near and dear to you. Because of that, I am telling phoaks, we need to put on our thinking caps and help Max figure out a way to actually make a living at doing the Mudcat. I don't mean just through our own fundraising, I mean through grants, catologues of Mudcatters' crafts etc. for sale, whatever, let's start really putting as much into this as Max does and see if we can come up with a way to help him and the Mudcat. If I am totally off-base, please say so, Max. You know you have my love and support and beams of good thoughts coming atcha.:-) luvyakat |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Sorcha Date: 27 Aug 01 - 08:02 PM Kendall, small problem. Max does accept donations for the Mudcat, but will Max accept donations for Max? Only Max can answer that, but I think I know the answer.....Max' rent is what is at stake here, not the existence of the Cat, is what I understood. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Dani Date: 27 Aug 01 - 08:32 PM I got one word for you all.... cash. Max, I gave up a business of my own not once, but TWICE. Both times it hurt like hell, because the basic business idea was sound, but I could just not manage it myself and be a healthy, happy person. Perfect partners do not exist, and some-time partners work out some-of-the-time. Both decisions were ultimately good for ME, if not the rest of the world. Do what you gotta do, and everything will sort itself out. Dani |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Nancy King Date: 27 Aug 01 - 08:55 PM Geez, Max, sorry to hear about the downsizing, but thanks for letting us know. One of these days the world will recognize your brains and talent and reward you. Thanks for all you do for us. Cheers, Nancy |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Amos Date: 27 Aug 01 - 08:57 PM Brits could try sticking a ten pound note in an envelope and sending it off. I'm sure Barclay's US would exchange it. Or better still, a couple hundred of them. Max: I'll get another "Songs of the Mudcat" CD together and send you the master -- you can keep any dough that comes from it., Love, A. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: McGrath of Harlow Date: 27 Aug 01 - 09:04 PM I wish there was some way of having a benefit concert online... |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Charley Noble Date: 27 Aug 01 - 09:15 PM Sounds like a serious thread to me. Looks like more people do need to pitch in, including me. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: AliUK Date: 27 Aug 01 - 09:28 PM Max. The 'Cat is the only forum I've stuck with over the last 4ish years cos it is the only one that's worth it. I know exactly where you're coming from and I wish you all the luck in the world ( says me holding down two jobs at the moment as well). I think maybe a mudcat CD that can be touted around by those what perform profeshunnily may be a good way and through the wonders of the internet and computer techknowledgy we could probably get a boxed set together...anyone up to the task. If everybody chips in a fiver it would be neat. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Mudlark Date: 27 Aug 01 - 09:59 PM Dear Max...I am relatively new to Mudcat but am an old friend to hard times. Thanks for all you have done, all that you are still doing....music has been one of the sustaining pillars of my life and the opportunity you have provided here to discuss it, revel in it, learn more about it is very much appreicated. Good luck to you in the future, whether or not the future includes Mudcat....Thank you. Nancy |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Maryrrf Date: 27 Aug 01 - 10:15 PM Well, some sites have become subscription services. I for one would be willing to subscribe to Mudcat. Would that be a possibility? |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Clinton Hammond Date: 27 Aug 01 - 10:21 PM S'paw... get bent.. I've suggested a porn site for a long time.. that and a page dedicated to banner adds to generate revenue here... There are all kinds of ways to do it... No one has any excuse but foolish pride for not making $$ on the net... Not that there's anything wrong with foolish pride...
I'd rather have the cash myself! ;-) |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: katlaughing Date: 27 Aug 01 - 11:04 PM Good idea, Maryff, I would certainly be willing to pay a subscription fee, too. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: GUEST,chip2447 Date: 27 Aug 01 - 11:35 PM Max, luck to you and thanks for everything... |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: GutBucketeer Date: 27 Aug 01 - 11:37 PM Max: The Mudcat has transformed me from a basement want-to-be, to a musician (at least I now say that I play and sing when asked). I'm sure it has had more meaningful and deeper impact on many many others. For us all... Thanks. I've done a little. Wish I could have done more. My Dad always says whatever choice you make it's the right one, by definition. So I'm sure you'll do great in whatever comes along and where ever your'e adventure takes you. JAB P.S. See you at the Getaway. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: WyoWoman Date: 28 Aug 01 - 12:57 AM Welp, Max, as a recent refugee and survivor of the downturn in the eeeeconomy, I can say up close and personal how much it bites to have forces beyond your control shut down a really cool thing you're trying to do. HowEVer ... my losing the writing for online companies opened up the possibility of the job I have presently, which is a dream come true. So:
This will morph into something better -- it just might take a little while. I think the porn website has possibilities. Start with Catspaw ... Wait. You have to get nekkid for porn, right? Eeeeeeewwwww. Nivver mind .... ww |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Escamillo Date: 28 Aug 01 - 12:57 AM Please count me for a voluntary subscription fee. Un abrazo - Andrés |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: DougR Date: 28 Aug 01 - 01:32 AM Thanks for letting us know, Max, and good luck to you! DougR |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Llanfair Date: 28 Aug 01 - 03:10 AM I have every confidence in you, Max. You are a remarkably skilled and resourceful man, and will bounce back. Cheers, Bron. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Rt Revd Sir jOhn from Hull Date: 28 Aug 01 - 04:44 AM Maybe people could buy a t shirt, I've got one they are really nice.john |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Linda Kelly Date: 28 Aug 01 - 04:55 AM Just come back from a festival, the reason I enjoyed it so much was the presence of fellow Catter's. You may think you've created a website Max, but you've created a lot more than that. All the best |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Ringer Date: 28 Aug 01 - 05:07 AM Max: we're all indebted to you more than we can say. Thanks, good luck and (selfishly) keep up the good work. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: GUEST,Roger the skiffler Date: 28 Aug 01 - 05:12 AM Sotry to hear about the downsizing, Max, I hope it is only a blip and that you'll soon bounce back up. As everyone has said, you've created a marvelous resource here but it is less important than your own career. Best wishes. RtS (You got the right to sing the blues) |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: gnu Date: 28 Aug 01 - 05:15 AM I know what your talking about. My house is up for sale so I can hang in another year and hope things turn around. And there is a property glut on because many others are in the same boat. Every street in town has at least a couple of houses or business properties for sale. I hope your regrouping works well for you. I admire the Mudcat and it's operating principles, which is to say, I admire you. Thanks. If there's any money in the kitty after I regroup, I'll send another donation. g |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: dwditty Date: 28 Aug 01 - 06:03 AM I appreciate you. dw |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: kendall Date: 28 Aug 01 - 06:36 AM Max is too proud to ask for donations, so, let's just force it on him. Look, it doesn't matter what he does with it! I dont care if he uses it to get his cat spayed! it's all expenses that he faces, and, in order to keep the Mudcat going, he must find a way to meet those expenses. Think about what the mudcat means to you, then, decide what to do. This year has been tough for everyone. (Well, except maybe me, I started out with nothing, and I still have most of it) Seriously folks, Max has done so much for us, now it's our turn. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Wolfgang Date: 28 Aug 01 - 06:59 AM Thanks so far and good luck for the future. Wolfgang |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: McGrath of Harlow Date: 28 Aug 01 - 07:57 AM . As everyone has said, you've created a marvelous resource here but it is less important than your own career.
I know what you mean Roger the skiffler. But I think that undervalues what Max has achieved here. It's a bit like saying to an artist "don't worry about the paintings - they aren't as important as your career as a teacher/entrepreneur/bankd manager".
Max has got to look after himself, and he shouldn't feel weighed down by feeling he's got the responsibility to carry the Mudcat. But what he has given us here is important. And in terms of what it could be, it's still only beginning. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: SharonA Date: 28 Aug 01 - 08:53 AM Gee whiz, Max, just 'cause I wouldn't give you my guitar... (eh, ya couldn't've gotten that much for it!!) Just kidding, of course. Hang in there, and know that we all care and are pullin' for you. Maybe in about 3 years, when Dubbya is ousted, the economy will get turned around by someone who actually knows what (s)he's doing. Let me add my voice to the chorus singing your high praises for all you've done for Mudcat and for us musicians/songwriters/singers/listeners; man, you are one dedicated dude. Hooray for Max! |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: JedMarum Date: 28 Aug 01 - 09:19 AM It sounds like you'll be successful at downsizing 'painlessly' for Mudcatters, and we very much appreciate your skill and efforts. I wish you the very best in the downsizing project. Thanks for all you do to provide us this wonderful forum and website. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Alice Date: 28 Aug 01 - 09:20 AM You've done a great job on this site, Max. It is appreciated more than you'll ever know. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: harpgirl Date: 28 Aug 01 - 09:22 AM It's all a process, Max. I trimmed my overhead in '96 by two thirds and I did better for it! With your enormous technical talent and your good sense, I'm sure you'll make the most of this move. The Mudcat is a wonderment and has been awesome, so far! harpgirl |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: annamill Date: 28 Aug 01 - 09:23 AM Max, I love you and I'm here if you need me. Just let me know. Love, Ann |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: McGrath of Harlow Date: 28 Aug 01 - 09:46 AM I've just been visiting the BBC's folk and acoustic message board, http://www.bbc.co.uk/cgi-perl/h2/h2.cgi?state=view&board=radio2.folkandacoustic. There's a current thread there about the vexed issue of the right to play music in pubs.
But what strikes me is that it is so very clumsy, compared to the Mudcat. And this is the BBC, with all it's millions of pounds and millions of listeners and viewers, and an official motto "Nation shall speak peace unto naion".
The functional design of the Mudcat as a forum that makes it easy for discussions to take off, and for them to be revived and reviewed amd generally accessed - it knocks what the BBC does in this field into a cocked hat. And that goes for every other thing of this sort I have come across over the past few years.
I would have thought that what Max has developed here for the Mudcat should be worth a fortune to anybody seriously interested in having a genuinely useful message board. They should be banging on his door, begging him to take their money to tell them what to do, and how to do it. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Mrs.Duck Date: 28 Aug 01 - 09:53 AM "I dont care if he uses it to get his cat spayed!" Perhaps if he used it to get catspaw spayed we might get more donations!:0) Seriously though if Max needs money to keep things going then we should help. How many of us would miss this site? As Ickle Dorrit said he has not just created a website he has created a community. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Big Mick Date: 28 Aug 01 - 10:01 AM Yes, my friends, Max has indeed gifted us with something wonderful. And the simple fact is, for every one of us that regularly inhabit this place, he has given us a community unlike any before. (Shut up, Max, get a Coke, sit in the corner and listen......) I am not referring to the site here. Look about you. I came to FSGW by virtue of the Mudcat. KarenK, Dani, Kath Westra (whose home away from home is the unfinished second bedroom in my home and she is honorary Aunt to Ciara), JAB, bbc, Duane, Annap and Glen, Charlie Baum, Dick Greenhaus and Susan, Lisa Null, LaMarca, George, Allan C, Jeri, Barry Finn, Dan Milner............all these and more went from the cyber friend to very real people who have enriched my life. And most will be friends until that life ends. By virtue of Mudcat Max, Dave and Pam Swan became my friends, shared my home...........and then we made the 12 hour round trip to Toronto in one day. And became very real friends with Rick (who has also developed into one of my dearest friends), Heather, Banjo Bonnie (love that woman!), Willie O, Raven, Tony Burns, et. al. By virtue of the Mudcat, Sandy and Caroline Paton and I decided to meet one day at a Cracker Barrel. A vibrant friendship, as well as a tradition of meeting at the Cracker Barrel every time we are together (love those cholesterol bullets, Sandy!!!) was born. Sandy has become a mentor, inspiration, and most importantly, a valued friend. Love that old folk fogey. Caroline has become a touchstone for me as I seek to get a clear line on my politics. And besides, I am dead in love with her......watch out, Sandy. As a Union Organizer and a political activist, I have spent much of the last 25 years away from home and in cities other than the one I live in. One is always lonely when away from friends and family. But since coming to Mudcat, I am never away from friends. I have just spent 5 weeks in New England. Normally downtime would be spent in my room playing music, or at tourist spots, or if I was lucky, I could find a session if I was lucky. While in New England, thanks to Max and the Mudcat, I spent a couple of nights at The Press Room singing and enjoying the Craic with a wonderful bunch of singers and musicians. I had dinner with Jeri and enjoyed myself immensely. She is another who will always and evermore be my friend. On a Sunday, I ended up at a picnic with the local Democratic Party and enjoying the music of Tom Hall, Lin, Naemonsen, Jeri, and others. By virtue of Max and our community, I spent time with my dear friend Barry Finn and heard for the first time his lovely Justine sing. What a voice!! And Barry introduced me to the joy of the Wednesday night Paddy Burke's session. How does one describe this? Intimate, friendly, and in a setting not to be missed. Barry and I will always be good friends as a result of this place. Max, as a result of what you started, Dan Milner and I have become wonderful steadfast friends. At the last Paddy Burke session I attended, Dan and I and Shay Walker had a wonderful time together. Catspaw........that asshole........whom I have also come to love more than I can describe. I was in Cincinnatti on business and this crazy ass drives about 3 hours to have dinner. What was confirmed was that we were indeed a couple of lunatics,..............and the friendship has deepened ever since. When you think of the community, think of our British friends and the tales of The Jug. Think of our own dear Bill Sables, International Mudcat Ambassador Supreme. And of Wolfgang for whom I have such great respect. How about McGrath? And our dear, very dear, friends in Ireland? I can't wait until I make my next trip there, so I can gather with these old friends as yet unmet. This is community. What of other unmet, but very dear friends? This community has given me Wyo Woman, KT, katlaughing, Alice, Mousethief, MAG, Amergin, Jed Marum, ..................... so many that it is hard to get them all. These are not just names to me. They are people with whom I share a love of the music. They are people who are real and who share with me via the personal messages, there talents, their friendship, and their love. My very dear friend, KT, has even shared her songwriting abilities. I share my stories, and she has helped me give them voice. And especially THE FAIR ONE. Alison, though we have yet to meet in this life, has become a true friend. She helps me with music when my own abilities fail me. I will never forget having to learn a song in two days that I had never played before. THE FAIR ONE, after calling me 37 kinds of an eejit, opens an ICQ chat, and also opens a voice connection, and arranges the song with me. She in Australia and meself in Michigan. I practice it for a day, sing it at the Mothers Day show, and the fella from County Down who had requested it comes up to me with tears in his eyes and thanks me. "I knew you was just stirring when ya sez ya didn't know it, Mick" sez he. Alison and I have grown so close that when we meet it will just be a matter of fact. Enough of the ramble. I have attempted to share with you what this wonderful place has given me. I fear my attempt is inadequate to describe my feelings. This is what Max's sacrifice means. He has literally impacted my life in a deep and profound way with the sacrifices he makes to keep this going. And I know it impacts him the same way. Which brings me to the final point. If this place had never existed, I would have never met Max. One is tempted to write flowery statements about him, lionize him, and turn him from what he is into this mythic being. I prefer to keep him like he is. He is my friend. He has a wonderful heart, and I have grown to love him as a dearly cherished, and appreciated friend. No matter where this ends, no matter the time that passes, no matter the way the wheel turns..........we will remain that way. As you ponder what you can do to help the Mudcat, look at what it has given you with a critical eye..............then act. All the best, Mick |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Rt Revd Sir jOhn from Hull Date: 28 Aug 01 - 10:14 AM Well said Mick. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: catspaw49 Date: 28 Aug 01 - 10:19 AM ...........geeziz.....a typical Mick, our Mick.............really rambles on doesn't he? In this case though, he's right......kinda' a rarity, but even a blind hog falls in the slop trough now and then....... Great post and says exactly what many of us feel and many have alluded to and said in this thread. Of course he coulda' just said "Thanks Max," but I gotta' think in this case, no one could have said it better. Spaw |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Seamus Kennedy Date: 28 Aug 01 - 10:28 AM Sounds like it ain't gonna change a whole helluva lot. Thanks, Max, Check's in the mail. All the best. Seamus |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Mary in Kentucky Date: 28 Aug 01 - 11:32 AM Sheesh...how can I follow Mick's ramble! Max, I didn't have half your maturity and strength of character the first time I went through adversity...still don't. You're doing the right thing by letting us help, who knows, maybe someone, somewhere in the world has just the right help for times as these. I know when you say you're inspired to go in new directions it's not just a trite platitude, but a sincere and deeply felt philosophy. Keep on keepin' on...we're here to help. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Naemanson Date: 28 Aug 01 - 11:43 AM Max, good luck with the whole business deal. These are tough times but remember we are here and concerned. Keep us tuned in. Brett |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: GUEST,PeteBoom (at work) Date: 28 Aug 01 - 12:09 PM Jaysus, Mick, let a man get a word in edgewise.... Max, hang in there (look for a PM later today if the boss isn't looking over my shoulder). Life is no fun sometimes - which is part of the reason most of us have work to do. Not that that makes much sense (just got out of a meeting, can ya tell?) The thing is, if you're doin' what ya love to do and things don't work financially, that is sometimes a bigger blow to the ego than to the pocketbook (been there, got the t-shirt). For that you have my sympathy. I'm new to the group, but rather old in other ways - ANYWAY. Right - those going to the Wheatland Music Fest weekend after this coming, hands up, we'll pass the hat and see if the bosses object to me putting up a sign outside the Recycling Tent, where I work when at the festival (and I'm not playing music, singing, drinking and generally carousing). Regards - Pete
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Big Mick Date: 28 Aug 01 - 12:17 PM Fer jaysus, Pete, was it not I who directed you to this site??????? And now you tell me I have to be quiet in me own place????? Ahhh the perils of bringing the uninitiated to Tir na Og..........LOL. Good luck with the collection at Wheatland. I don't think I can make it up this year. And who all is going? Maybe I can sneak away for a bit....... All the best, Mick |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Matthew Edwards Date: 28 Aug 01 - 12:25 PM Max, good luck in whatever you choose to do in the future, and thank you for keeping us informed. I wonder whether you had any idea of what this forum would become when you created "a magazine dedicated to blues and folk music"; and like McGrath I am surprised that nobody else has found the ideas behind this forum worthwhile. Mudcat uses the Web in a most creative way; it is open to all, it is genuinely interactive (in that it is the users who generate the content). So far as I can see it is one of a very few places which realise the potential of the Internet as a democratic and libertarian medium for communication. Having just met some fellow 'Catters at Towersey Festival I can only second Mick's thoughts above. The forum's ideology of sharing and caring somehow, almost magically, translates into real life, and that is significant. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: mooman Date: 28 Aug 01 - 12:35 PM Thanks Max for keeping the Mudcat going on reduced resources. I really hope that things will pick up for Onstage as you do a great job. If I am in a position to direct any potential customers your way I will do so. Many thanks once again for all your work and dedication. Best regards, mooman |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: GUEST,CLETUS Date: 28 Aug 01 - 12:41 PM Catspaw sez as ta how y'all got some problemz withen yer bizness and I wanted ta tell ya' that I know thingz iz gonna be OK fer ya. Aint nuthin a man caint get by seppin mebbee dyin an thet kinda thing, an it seemz like Catspaw bin doin purty fair at avoidin that too! Iffen ya recallz, me an Paw an the Reg Boyz bin in an outta a couple of differin bizness vencherz an we iz thinkin on anuthern so weeunz iz in bout the same way az yall. We tried ta make a go of the Guide thing but sinz nobuddy brung no gud gittarz it dint do nun too well. After I got outta' thet Neil Young Center an all, we all went ta work atrine ta make a go of the condom bizness. I still think thet one wuz a right more than fair idea with all the Mudcatter Designer Condoms an all. We ran inta sum problemz with the Rick Fielding Model what with the rosewood trim an the abbaloney inlays, but a lot uv them wuzza goin purty good. Like the Art Thieme Model with a bad pun on every one wuz no problem at all senz Art aint never run outta bad puns. We had a gud time with the thing til I axsidently blew up the latex machine an covered Paw like a giant rubber. We pullt him outta it an filled the thing with plaster uv Paris an had us a great statue uv Paw bent over an flarin one off. Course the factory went an blowed up too an sinz nobuddy wanted the statue uv Paw, we wuz down an out agin. Then came the AssParagus farm an I tell ya' with all them folks alayin round with the shitz, an asparagus growin out thair ass, it shur wuzza mess. We gru sum reel nice assparagus but nobuddy seem ta want ta buy it senz they sed it smelt right awful. Catspaw wuddint let us keep on with our relijus icon bizness when Paw scorched the outline uv Jerry falwell on Catspaw's garage wall. I thot we hadda reel thing goin thair but Catspaw dun run us off an he wuz purty mad bout havin ta pay ta hav hiz wall cleaned an for his nabors garden gnomes which got trampled by all them folks whut came ta see the farted Falwell. Now our last bizness iz one whut you oughta give sum thot to. "Crappers 'R Us" wuzza goin reel good up until Paw wuzza showin the Reg Boyz all about fart lightin an the 4 uv em blew the wallz outta 4 uv our best crappers. We only had one left an one day when we wuzza loadin it up the wheel locks let go an the thing wenta rollin off. Paw wuz inside at the time an the thing got ta goin reel fast down the road with Paw a scoochin thiz way an thet atrine ta butt-steer the thing. He wuz doin right gud too til thet big curve down by Ol Man Rafferty's place where he went offfen the road an down over the hill through all them scrub cedars. Paw got hiz private parts pretty racked up them an he lost his harmonica too. But then the crapper dun crashed into Ol Man Raffertys Buick an he come out a hollerin an a screamin with that stogie stuck in the corner uv hiz mouth. That's when the reel problem happint. See, when it stopped, Paw wuz thown out an he ripped off a huge fart. Ol Man Raffertys seegar lit up the fumes an thair wuz a temendous explosion which blew up the crapper, the Buick, an Raffertys garage. So ya see right now we are at loose ends too but as you can see iffen ya jest keep on atrine, thingz will alwayz work out. Look at us!!! Iffen ya' need enny help yall jes feel free ta axk. CLETUS |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: PeteBoom Date: 28 Aug 01 - 12:55 PM Easy, Mick (some people are SO sensitive...) Line up for Wheatland includes: Blue Highway, Balfa Toujours, Footworks, The Whites, Calvin Cooke Sacred Steel Ensemble, Big Sandy & The Fly-Rite Boys, Guy Clark, Ill-Mo Boys, Barachois, John Hammond Jr, Stacey Earle, Chief O'Neill's House Band, Alice Garrard, Brad Leftwich & Tom Sauber, Pub Domain and others.
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: AllisonA(Animaterra) Date: 28 Aug 01 - 01:08 PM Hang in there, Max. I know that we depend on you a lot but I also know that you have the strength, wisdom, and imagination to carry on. Thsnks, as always, for all you do. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Eric the Viking Date: 28 Aug 01 - 02:00 PM There isn't much to say that anyone lse hasn't said better, but you created something much more than just a group of folkies looking for information and sharing, you created a society that went from cyberspace to reality and friendship. Cheers. Eric |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Allan C. Date: 28 Aug 01 - 02:25 PM Max, I could drone on endlessly about the friendships I have made here. I could spend a lot of time talking about all of the cool stuff I have learned here. I could mention the inspiration you instilled in Annap (Annamill) to have the first, huge, open-to-all-Mudcats gathering. I could discuss how Mudcat gatherings have now become almost commonplace (but still amazing!). I could expound upon the utter coolness of the Mudcat Radio Show. I could bend your ear about what wonders I encountered when I attended my first FSGW Getaway. I could tell you tales of the behind-the-scenes generosities and philanthropic acts of some of the 'Catters. And of course, I could spend hours and hours relating stories of the Adventure I had with Bill. But the fact is, you already know almost all there is to know about all of those things and so there is no need for me to babble on about them. What I do want to remind you of is that you are a member of this community you have created. This community cares about those who comprise it. Therefore, we care about you. Never, ever forget that. We love you, guy, no matter what the future may bring. One of the things I have learned over the years is that even when things get bad; (and they always will from time to time,) they also always get better - eventually. Without valleys there can be no peaks. |
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: M.Ted Date: 28 Aug 01 - 03:46 PM Max, Kevin McGrath has hit the nail precisely on the head--you have created an internet discussion forum here that functions much better than a a thousand, maybe a hundred thousand other efforts, many, if not most of which were way better funded--what you have done here is what others have tried and failed to do, and, most important, those others are still trying, because they know it is important, and they have money-- You are two hours drive from Washington, where there are literally thousands of associations, many of which are trying desperately to create internet based, interactive communication networks that their members can use--and, though there are a thousand techie types who can set up websites, few of them know how to get a forum off the ground-- I have shown Mudcat to a number of different organizations who were trying to do the same thing--though the economy may be tighening up in other places , there is plenty of money here, and they are willing to spend it-- Send me a PM, if you are interested, and I can make a few suggestions on how to start out. And no, you don't have to move--the train ride is fast, you can work on board(electical outlets at each seat)and you can do what most of the other consultants do, pass on the fares to your clients--
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Subject: RE: From Max: Possible Future of The Mudcat From: Jeri Date: 28 Aug 01 - 05:25 PM Onstage Media Home Page, with information about Max's company and what sort of services they can provide. We have so many performers, you wonder how much money they might make with an occasional benefit concert. I also wonder about the often-discussed but never-realised Mudcat CD. I'm not talking so much a CD of every Mudcatter and most of our songs. I'm thinking of a best of the best - one that would have an appeal to folks outside the Mudcat. Perhaps it would include modern songs, or perhaps it could be a selection of songs that are in the DT (and perhaps most often requested) and done by Mudcatters. Of course, we'd need "up front" money and someone to produce it who knew what they were doing. Max, you know I don't have much money, especially not after having the roof re-done. If I had won Powerball, you never would have had to worry again, though! Mick probably said it best. There are different people I've met and love because of Mudcat. There are different "friends-for-life" whom I have never met. There are those whom I respect and enjoy when they show up here. There are places I never would have gone, songs I never would have learned, songs I never would have written, or perhaps I never would have tried writing any songs. I also believe there have been numerous random acts of kindness perpetrated because of Mudcat than we (me included) can imagine. I wish I could do something to help that didn't involve the one big thing I ain't got! |
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