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 Posted By: Bob Mathers on: 10/02/2007 10:31:31 EDTSubject: Important - Ultimate Oldies Radio |
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This is an open letter to all supporters of Ultimate Oldies Radio. It appears that someone has brought the site to the attention of my web hoster who is threatening to permanently remove all of our program files because we do not have copyrights to the music played on this site. I have a major decision to make...and I have to make it quickly. I would ask that EVERYONE weigh in on this subject. The feedback I get will help me to decide to either keep the site going or bring it to an end. I have been doing a lot of reading in recent days about RIAA, DCMA, YMCA, and every other alphabet ruling, act, and proclamation out there. It seems that the time has come for me to acquire a license from BMI, ASCAP, and SESAC to play this music. I know what the immediate reaction is going to be with many: 'Serves you right'. Well, I suppose so. This may sound naive..but I didn't think that the site was going to gain the popularity that it has....and didn't think we were significant enough for anybody to care about us. I'm willing to pay the fees. It'll cost me about $1000.00 a year...and that is out of my pocket if I do it. Donations have been light this year, and have essentially helped to defray the hundreds a year in streaming and hosting fees. I'm thankful for every penny that has come in. I don't want to ask anyone for money any more. On the other hand...I don't want to see the site end. I've got about 10 shows in the can to record but I've been distracted with this in addition to my day job and such to the point that we're having some challenges. Again...I understand if your reaction to all this is that I'm bellyaching and crying about it. I see your point, but I'd rather share this with folks and give 'em a chance to weigh in than take the other approach...which is pull the plug and go away without giving you the chance to provide some input here. My inclination is that if I do keep this going...I need to pay the license fees...and eventually get my own HOST server so that Ultimate Oldies Radio is not at the mercy of companies or individuals who for whatever reason...wish to make issues that seek to derail the site. I'll look into that....but....what do YOU think? I welcome ANY and ALL comments...pro AND con. Thanks, Bob Mathers |
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