Thoughts from a relative newbie:

I've been following this topic through the fog of a head cold that may or may not have receded enough for me to offer a coherent take on things. Different people look for different things from JPF, spanning the spectrum from serious career goals to first time public performances. The one common denominator that I find is the comraderie of a diverse, supportive musical community. I personally have no problem with a $3 to $5 dollar charge (my tab for food and drink usually exceeds this) but I have concerns for the potential attendees/performers that this might keep from the meetings. I think Andy's idea of a networking meeting is a great idea for another seperate night of the month (second Monday, first Tuesday - any night when working musicians are usually off). Al, I've just read your entry about how we don't necessarily have to get into a membership or entrance fee situation and you are the one that has to deal with finding a monthly tent for this circus. You probably know better that anyone - how do the other chapters deal with this?

Still strummin',

Jeff Blake

http://www.myspace.com/snailboymusic