This project is more than “simply a web site” as the public inductions have honored artists and families with official recognition via a Governor's certificate and publicity releases. For the rest of us, Mike has painstakingly collected and immense volume of digital memorabilia and hundreds of hours of performances – some heretofore lost to the public – that can now be shared and enjoyed by the entire world via the Virtual Museum. As amazing as these accomplishments have already been, this is more than simply a museum project. As in my originally proposed development, the current nonprofit shares the vision for significantly impacting education, cultural preservation, tourism and – perhaps most importantly- being the change agent for reviving the entire state's music industry that once led the nation in its totality but has languished and lacked leadership for now over three decades. There are many other organizations doing significant work in focused areas and LMHOF seeks to help integrate and amplify all positive activity for music across the state as well as add new programs that can only result in raising all boats.

While I currently reside out of state I have wholeheartedly endorsed this long-overdue project and now offer my volunteer time to assist Mike as much as I can. I encourage anyone who cares enough to read this article and my comments to lend your support in whatever manner you are able. This is no time for people to hide in silos or practice parochial politics. What is needed is for artists, organizations, public and private resources to join together and change the dynamic. We have the music…let's now have the will and the vision to restore it to its rightful place as both a creative and economic force in the world.

Thanks again to Offbeat for the article – please continue to help raise awareness about our activities.