| Author | Message | ||
| mpisanek
Intermediate Member Username: mpisanek Post Number: 134 Registered: 1-2005 |
I was just wondering. . . I have been doing charity work of some kind almost all of my life. I worked with the New Jersey Blind Mens' Association, The American Cancer Society, Focus Ireland (a charity for the homeless), the British Heart Foundation, etc. I have also done about 4 gigs every year for a charity of some sort for the past 10 years. About 6 years ago, I ended up in Kosovo, building a rehabilitation centre for people with a disability, ended up being sick for 3 months afterwards, only to go back again 6 months later! About a 18 Months ago, I moved to Scotland, and have not been involved in any charity work since then. I just thought. . . It's time to do something for charity again. Before I go elsewhere and start something new, I was wondering if there would be any interest in this forum for doing something for charity? It would be pretty cool to start or "adopt" some kind of charitable organisation. Any thoughts, questions, or criticisms welcome! Thanks, Michael. | ||
| gare
Advanced Member Username: gare Post Number: 319 Registered: 11-2003 |
That's a great idea Michael.. But how would you pull it off ? (ok,end of a long work day and I haven't had a nap) I'm thinking the distances etc.. People contribute songs/files/etc ? G | ||
| edwin
Intermediate Member Username: edwin Post Number: 119 Registered: 5-2002 |
The only organization that I know that is close is http://www.maggiescentres.org/. It was started by my aunt, Maggie Keswick, before she passed away from cancer in 1995. In truth, I don't know much about the organization, but if it's anything like the spirit of my aunt, it's a worthy cause. HTH Edwin | ||
| bassfingers
Member Username: bassfingers Post Number: 53 Registered: 11-2005 |
Michael, The following may be totally unworkable [so I apologise right now for taking up space],and may be deemed to be a gesture of support for your idea,but a silly one at best.File under "Just a thought". Contained in the various club forums are some breathtaking photos of Alembics of every kind.If all neccesary permissions were given,wouldn't it be wonderful to have them compiled into book form.I'm thinking along the lines of the stunning PRS Guitars book,or perhaps a series of smaller volumes dedicated to Series 1&2,Signatures,Spoiler,Europa etc,etc.Whether made available to Alembic owners,club members or everybody,the proceeds could be forwarded to a single or numerous charitable organisations. I know it's a far more involved process than simply saying "Send in your Alembic pics and between us we'll compile them into a glossy collection of centrefolds",or trawling the archives and "Hey Presto!,here's the book".I'm quite prepared to see this suggestion shot down for any number of reasons,legal or practical.It was just the first thing I thought of and I wanted to show support and put it out there to see what you and the rest of the group think. Like I said,it's just a thought. Simon. | ||
| bigredbass
Senior Member Username: bigredbass Post Number: 551 Registered: 9-2002 |
I have lived long enough to know two things: If you're feeling a little down, believe me, it takes TWO seconds to find someone whose problems will DWARF yours. And they could use your help, and you will feel GREAT for helping out, no matter how big or small your service is. If this leads to anything concrete, I'd be glad to help, as LOTS of people have helped me, and I firmly believe in passing it on. J o e y | ||
| mpisanek
Intermediate Member Username: mpisanek Post Number: 136 Registered: 1-2005 |
Simon: You had exactly the same idea that I did!!! I thought some sort of historical book would be a great idea. It occured to me that many members in this forum already have a lot of knowledge about where these basses are, and probably have contacts that might allow us to get some pics as well. That would be a lot of the legwork already done for us. The other thought that I had was that we might get some help from the mothership as they have all of the knowledge about the company, the instruments, and the history (and probably a fairly extensive archive). The thought also ocured to me that a lot of members in this forum would buy the book as well, I know I WOULD. I had also thought of giving any proceeds to either a music scholarship for a less fortunate bass player, or giving to an organisation that used music as a medium to teach children with learning disabilities, or other physical disabilities. This, of course, would be up for discussion. The book idea is a very big one, but the end result would be great. It would mean a lot of work and a lot of contributuins from members of this forum, and the alembic staff as well. At this point, I don't know about the actual feasibility of the idea, but I will investigate it further. Other ideas and comments are more than welcome. Michael. | ||
| speicky
Member Username: speicky Post Number: 88 Registered: 3-2005 |
Hello, Michael, hi folks, this is, in my opinion, a great idea, and will become a huge project. Maybe you've seen another thread where Sam (bracheen) had the idea of a wall calendar (the "T-shirt"-thread, I think), that would be a project with less work/costs/handling, perhaps start with that ? You'll have my full attention and support, just drop me a line. Cheers to Edinburgh, Christian (the faker) | ||
| speicky
Member Username: speicky Post Number: 89 Registered: 3-2005 |
for you lazy ones out there... :-) http://alembic.com/club/messages/393/23508.html?1136670549 | ||
| palembic
Senior Member Username: palembic Post Number: 2222 Registered: 9-2002 |
It would be nice to have something slipped in that makes it multinational/multicultural. Alembics are all over the world I think (even in Iraq with a goodhearted basscrazy armycook). Pictures of gigs with an Alembic on place/country/region defining places/situations. Just thinking ... just thinking Paul tbo | ||
| mpisanek
Intermediate Member Username: mpisanek Post Number: 137 Registered: 1-2005 |
I've just emailed Mica to see what the mothership thinks about the idea. Will keep you posted. Michael. | ||
| jacko
Senior Member Username: jacko Post Number: 472 Registered: 10-2002 |
Great idea Mike. Any help you need just give me a call. The book is a good idea, I could come round and read your copy;-) A series of worldwide gigs might work but they'd have to be organised locally - we know of at least 4 Alembic 'Bassed' bands in central Scotland that could put on a show. Graeme | ||
| bracheen
Senior Member Username: bracheen Post Number: 957 Registered: 11-2003 |
Paul is right on with his thinking. I'm sure there are 12 countries represented here at least. I can think of 11 just off the top of my head. 12 if the Republic of Texas is counted seperately. I'll do what I can to help, Michael. You have my email address. Sam | ||
| bassfingers
Member Username: bassfingers Post Number: 54 Registered: 11-2005 |
Michael, Alright!!. Like you,I'm not sure of the actual feasibility of such a project.But I will say this; I'm a lot more sure of it this morning having seen your response and the great suggestions others have made.This idea appears to have 'legs'. Apologies to Sam.I missed the thread with the calender suggestion,so a belated doff of the cap to you,Sir!.Maybe Christian has the best initial idea.Try a toe in the water with Sam's calender idea.Like the proposed book,I'd sure as heck have one.Everybody here so far has added something to the stew.Things I hadn't considered-it was way past my bedtime!.Guys,when I put this forward I really didn't know what kind of response I'd wake up to.Through your initial responses,I no longer feel that it might be a bit of a silly idea. Not that I'm 'claiming' the idea,I can't be the only one to have thought....."Now,wouldn't it be cool if....?" Michael,we seem to have hit upon a popular theme here.I'm sure we're not the first with the book idea.But what better reason to give it a try than your initial post.This could be big,very big and for all the right reasons.I don't know how much practical use I can be,but I'm only a morning's drive away.I live just outside Manchester,and any excuse to visit Edinburgh is a welcome one!.If I can assist in any way,please let me know. Best wishes to all, Simon. | ||
| rogertvr
Advanced Member Username: rogertvr Post Number: 389 Registered: 1-2003 |
I like this idea of doing something for charity. My thoughts on the subject are... 1). I like the book idea, but it's a one-off really. So surely the calendar idea is better as it could be used every year, year after year. There are a lot of Alembics and the calendar idea has longevity! 2). As Paul has already said, Alembics are all over the world, so surely the charity/ies that is/are being supported should also be multi-national. The Red Cross is the obvious one that springs to mind as an example. I'd happily give permission for an image of The Dragon's Wing to be used for the right cause. Cheers, Rog | ||
| palembic
Senior Member Username: palembic Post Number: 2223 Registered: 9-2002 |
Well bro's and sis's. Let me clarify my remark and ask Bro Rog this question: where would YOU perform with your Dragonwing -as a solo artist- that I could take a picture that you are obvious playing that marvellous instrument in the UK. Describe the situation. Now ...make that 12 (for a calendar) situation and let that grow each year to a book. Or make that a book immediately. Just thoughts Paul TBO Dino????? Think about Boston! Dave? Think about Sidney Joey?? Think New Orleans etcetera ...etcetera ... | ||
| rogertvr
Advanced Member Username: rogertvr Post Number: 390 Registered: 1-2003 |
No-one is going to want my face all over a pic! I was thinking of the instrument on its own, maybe surrounded by pretty flowers or little fluffy kittens... ;-) Rog | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 2988 Registered: 5-2002 |
A couple of thoughts that might be of some help. I don't know about other countries, but if this project is to be based in the US, then a 501(c)(3) charitable organization will need to be set up. Else proceeds from sales of books or calendars will be taxable. If a 501(c)(3) is set up, then a number of specific things will need to be addressed such as the naming of a board of directors, specification of the charitable function, etc. If you are going to publish a book or even a calendar of pictures, then presumably you are going to want fairly high quality photographs. Much of what is currently in the Showcase section probably wouldn't do for such a project. Thus contributors are going to need to be much better photographers than they apparently are currently, or they will need to hire someone to take pictures for them. Presumably, if they hire someone, the cost would be deductible by them as a charitable contribution (in the US). The organization will have to pay to have the book actually published. Presumably for a book of photographs, the paper will be fairly high quality glossy paper. My guess is that it won't be cheap. This will have to be financed by cash donations to the organization or by a loan to the organization. And my guess is that the publisher will want the payment up front. Given the above, a checking account will need to be opened. A business plan will need to be developed. A budget forecast will need to be prepared to see if the project makes since financially. It could be that a quality book of glossy photographs worth of the Alembic name will cost more per copy than you could reasonably charge. And add on to the cost per copy the amount per copy that will be allocated to the charitable purpose. Someone will need to be in charge of the accounting, including the preparation of tax returns and financial statements. Someone will need to be in charge of overseeing the publishing of the book, including collection of photos, layout, and dealing with the publisher. Someone will need to be in charge of sales, including setting up for credit card sales and a web site for web based sales. Someone will need to be in charge of shipping, including packaging, contact with shipping companies and international shipping. And of course the project must have the blessings of Alembic. I would think that a book about Alembic instruments will reflect on the name and reputation of Alembic no matter the level of involvement of the company in the project. It probably wouldn't be too long before these things started showing up on Ebay. That's enough for the moment. | ||
| keith_h
Advanced Member Username: keith_h Post Number: 310 Registered: 2-2005 |
Thank you for volunteering Dave! Just kidding. You do bring up some very good points all of which can be applied to the calendar suggestion too. It will be a lot of work to keep up the IRS forms and certification and to perform the accounting. I had some involvement with this once before for a local group that was building an observatory for the local high school. The IRS requirements, etc took a lot of work and from my perspective took a long time to be approved. Keith | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 2990 Registered: 5-2002 |
An additional thought about 501(c)(3). In the US there are basically two types of organizations, public charities and private foundations. My initial thought is that a private foundation would be more appropriate for this project as it is much simpler. | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 2991 Registered: 5-2002 |
Keith, I believe there are two or three members of the club that have this type of accounting experience. If no one else wanted to do it, I would consider it. | ||
| mpisanek
Intermediate Member Username: mpisanek Post Number: 138 Registered: 1-2005 |
I have just received an email response from Mica. The response was VERY positive! Once again, Alembic have shown that they are a top class company with top class people in it! We have opened discussions at a very preliminary stage, and are kicking around a few ideas. The calendar is probobly the most likely one at this point. One thing that we would like to think about before deciding on the actual project is where any proceeds could go. It was thought that something to do with music would be a good ides, and I thought that since we are all bass and guitar players, that it would be a good idea to give to a charity that uses or promotes guitar and bass in some way to help underprivilaged or handicapped children. Anybody have any ideas? | ||
| palembic
Senior Member Username: palembic Post Number: 2225 Registered: 9-2002 |
I heard about a Music school here in Leuven (Belgium) that mounted a charity CD recording with all the pupils and the goal was to raise enough money to buy study instruments for some Music Schools in -I think- Kosovo. Most of the schools and their materials were destroyed after the civil war in the Balkan some years ago. It do not say that this project is a "must do" but just the concept could work. I like the idea of music related approach. As you see even the "money-giving-thing" is here completely abandoned! Paul the bad one | ||
| 811952
Senior Member Username: 811952 Post Number: 614 Registered: 10-2003 |
I like the thought of Alembics in their natural elements with the owners, with short personal stories of either "what the instrument means to me" or "under what serendipitous circumstances did it enter my life?" or "how it changed my life" or similar. Otherwise you risk just making a fancy catalogue (which could stand on it's own as well, now that I think about it). My journalism background makes me want to know the stories behind the instruments. My story? Apparently John Entwistle's prototype adjustable nut was tested on my bass (and others most likely) while in the shop for repairs, and Beverly (I don't remember her last name, but she's long since left Alembic) told me that he did actually play it more than a little bit. Alembic issued me a *loaner* bass ("break it and you'll own 2 Alembics") during that time (11 months if I remember correctly), which later became Steve Jay's first Alembic bass.. Cool story? Definitely. Eclipsed by a brazillion cooler stories? Definitely. I'd love to have them all in a book for the grand kids to read when they inherent Grandpa's Alembic. John | ||
| gare
Advanced Member Username: gare Post Number: 320 Registered: 11-2003 |
After initially reading this the other day I started thinking. Came up with alot of thoughts Dave brought up (logistics). And since we are a 'global' community, which organization would be best ? I'm not really that up on charitable organizations, but I'd agree with Roger, maybe the Red Cross and/or it's affiliates. But, if we look back on the events of the past year or so, you couldn't have missed sunamis,hurricanes,earthquakes,etc. And a recent post about the death of a fellow list member. Well, it seems several list members have been affected by these events. Why not look at doing something for them ? It may be a small start, but we all know there will be more in the future (unfortunately). Another example are all the musicians that lost everything in New Orleans, homes, family, instruments. Well..just some thoughts anyway G | ||
| davehouck
Moderator Username: davehouck Post Number: 2995 Registered: 5-2002 |
Some things to keep in mind regarding "where the proceeds go". If you give the proceeds to an existing public charity, like the Red Cross or an organization that gives instruments to public schools, that keeps it relatively simple. If you want to give money or instruments directly to deserving individuals, that raises the level of complexity significantly. The methods by which such individuals are chosen will have to be detailed in the application for exempt status made to the federal government and to the state government (US, I don't know what's involved in other countries). And a tax exempt charitable organization can not just up and make a gift to someone in particular; the grantee has to meet certain criteria that the organization sets out in its stated purpose. For instance, if I have a private charitable foundation, and my neighbor down the street loses his job and the bank is about to foreclose on his house, my organization can't just give him some money unless the organization was specifically set up to make grants to people living on my street who are in danger of losing their homes. And my organization wouldn't be able to descriminate; if three people on the street met those criteria, I couldn't chose just him because I happened to know him better. Then there is the matter of self-dealing. The organization can't make grants to its own members. Thus if the organization were set up to make grants to people who lose their instruments in house fires, you couldn't make such a gift to someone who was a member of the charitable organization. The more complex you make this project, the more will be the need to hire an attorney who specialized in charitable organizations. Because the public has expressed its wish to be protected from unscupulous persons acting as charities, the government has substantial penalties for charitable organizations that don't follow the rules. | ||
| gare
Advanced Member Username: gare Post Number: 321 Registered: 11-2003 |
Good points Dave. It's a shame good intentions and deeds aren't enough to satisfy everyone. But it's understandable with some of the unscrupulous activities of a few. | ||
| lbpesq
Senior Member Username: lbpesq Post Number: 885 Registered: 7-2004 |
I nominate the following as potential recipients Phil Lesh's Unbroken Chain Foundation http://www.phillesh.net/ubc/mission.html the Dead's Rex Foundation http://www.rexfoundation.org/rex_home.html and Wavy Gravy's Camp Winnarainbow http://www.campwinnarainbow.org/ Bill ,tgo | ||
| gare
Advanced Member Username: gare Post Number: 322 Registered: 11-2003 |
If the book gets done, it will have to include a mention of Rami's collection. It has to be one of the large privately owned around. | ||
| rogertvr
Advanced Member Username: rogertvr Post Number: 391 Registered: 1-2003 |
I'm surprised that no-one has mentioned the JEF along the way here. | ||
| richbass939
Senior Member Username: richbass939 Post Number: 544 Registered: 11-2004 |
I think I would have to agree with Bill, tgo. Phil and the Dead (let's not forget the other early players, too) have done so much over the years to support Alembic directly and indirectly by getting the attention of so many of us. I think if Alembicians can pull together some bucks for a good cause it would be appropriate to give those foundations the first look. I think a calendar is a great idea. After a couple of years, do a book with the calendar photos and some "previously unpublished, bonus photos". The photos could show where the instruments live. A few that come to mind are Alan's new red Alembic Akhbar (I guess that's my name vote, Alan) in front of Saddam's palace, Peter's Epic with the Staten Island Ferry and lower Manhattan in the background, a London scene, the Rocky Mountains, the Grand Olde Opry, etc., etc., etc. Print it and I will buy one. Rich |
