Hello Mobius Patrons,

If you believe--as we do--that Live Music and Arts at the Mobius contributes positively to Ashland's rich diversity of theatre entertainment, please read this very important message.

This Tuesday (8/14/2007) marks a milestone for the Mobius as we go in front of the Planning Commission for a proposed change in our zoning status, to zone the Mobius as a Theatre. If successful, this proposed zoning change will be a major step in our transition to become a LIVE INTERNET BROADCAST THEATRE (for more info on "Mobius Live", see below).

In response to the notice posted on The Mobius announcing the hearing, concerns have been submitted in writing by businesses on Fourth Street. Honestly, while we were surprised by the language used by some of the authors (one went so far as to call the Mobius "a tragedy waiting to happen"), we understand that a change as significant as this would naturally raise some questions and concerns. We feel that these businesses have not taken the opportunity to experience what the Mobius has to offer, and would support us if they enjoyed it as much as you do.

WE NEED YOUR HELP!

Since supporting statements are not accepted in writing (only concerns) the scales are presently tipped toward the negative, and WE NEED YOUR HELP IN SHOWING THE POSITIVE ASPECTS OF THE MOBIUS!

We are confident that we are a positive addition to the block, the district, and the greater community of Ashland, and that we contribute to the entertainment available in this town with a diversity and caliber unique to this venue. Now, with the launch of Mobius Live!, we are contributing to the international exposure of Ashland, diversifying the community's reputation for music and the arts, and serving as a voice to promote the entire community.

THIS IS HOW YOU CAN HELP:

There are two ways you can show your support.

1) Join us at the hearing on Tuesday 8/14/07, 7 PM at 1155 E. Main and support the Mobius in its application to change our zoning status to a Theatre. Upon arrival, please fill out a card and mark your support of the Mobius. Even if you can't stay to be heard, the pile of cards is a measure of support so please fill one out. (Also, your visibility contributes to the decision, so let our person at the door know you are there to support the Mobius, and we will provide you with some visual token to highlight your support.)

2) While attendance at the hearing is the most potent way you can show your support, we would like to give all people the opportunity to be heard. Come by the Mobius anytime between 2-5pm on Thursday, Friday, or Monday to video tape a short statement of support that we will edit and present to the Planning Commission. (If the times do not work for you, send us an email and we will try to find a time that works for you.)

We have a beautiful vision for the Mobius. Right now, this vision lies in the hands of the Planning Commission. The zoning change would significantly raise the venue's legal occupancy, and will allow us to have more people attend shows, thus giving us access to ever increasing caliber of performers and a global audience for the live streams and rebroadcast of archives. Your support could tip the scales to allow us to continue and grow into what we have planned, which includes many more top tier acts, grammy award winners, and international stars coming to our beautiful little town to be broadcast internationally, appearing in the most intimate venue of their international tour. Please come out and support us.

Oh, and one last thing: It is very important that all of our efforts to help the Mobius remain POSITIVE, as negativity only creates greater rifts.

We thank you in advance for your support and positive efforts on behalf of the Mobius.

~The Mobius Family


About Mobius Live!:
You may have noticed the video cameras and the buzz in the control room (behind the window in the back). Perhaps you have already enjoyed a webcast (or seen the feed at the Venue). No doubt you have noticed the consistent increase in the caliber of talent performing at the Mobius. Highlights this past year include: Victor Wooten (of Bella Fleck and the Flecktones), Tony Furtado, Paul Barrere and Fred Tackett (of Little Feat), Sherry Glaser, Omar Faruk Tekbilek, Jackie Green, Alice DiMicele (www.alicedimicele.com/), The Yard Dogs Road Show, and this week's stellar two show night by jazz guitar superstar Charlie Hunter (and his equally stellar Trio).