Speakeasy

Letters of Support

This really is unfortunate. I don't live in the neighborhood, but I have attended poetry readings, musical performances, met friends for beers, etc. on a number of occasions. Public places like the Speakeasy are few and far between. You ought to be commended for creating space which makes people better.

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I'm very sorry to hear that - yours has proven itself to be a real and impressive organization, and it's always sad to hear such a great group of people getting hammered. Hopefully the insurance company will be well behaved, and you'll be back in business soon.

Best Regards

Simon Jones

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Hi,

I'm keeping a good thought on everyone associated with the Cafe—the people working there, the artist whose work was currently on display, the customers, and the artists who do their performances and all the other stuff—losing nothing as a result of the fire. I don't know how this will turn out, but that's my mental contribution, in lieu of $$, which I'd contribute if I had!

The qualities of creativity, freedom, the sense of home, the relief provided by the atmosphere of the cafe from the Bushian atmosphere 1;these are good qualities that are much needed. My thought is that they must and can show up for all of us who love the Cafe, in some new form.

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I am so sorry...
Not many people really knew what that space ment to me. The smell of garlic bagles and coffee will forever remind me of that wonderful place, our home, our liveing-room. good luck!
Popeye

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Mike,
Yikes, what an event in all of our lives. There has to be speakeasy cafe somewhere, it's actually important to have culture in this world of bits and bytes.

Peace,
David Hargrave

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Dear Mike, Max and all,

so sorry to hear about the cafe. i loved playing music there when i lived in Seattle. I'm so glad you all got out safely.

best wishes for a quick recovery,
Kendra Shank

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With both the Speakeasy and the OK hotel dissappearing within a few months of each other, the venues for expirmental/improvisational music have dropped to none. One of you should take over AROSpace and get going again.
Todd Goglia

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Hi Mike,

I cannot tell you how sad I am over the fire at the cafe. I pretty much built the early part of seattle music web in that cafe. I cannot count the meetings I attended. And I can not put in words the warm feelings I have for the place. The Speakeasy has indeed been a tremendous community resource.

Is there anything I can do to help. I have contacts in the music and activist community and have been thinking in terms of trying to help with a benefit or series of benefits.

I imagine you had insurance, and maybe you have everything covered, but if there is anything i *can* do, will you please let me know.

Tim (turmoil) Crowley

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Hi Mike,
I just heard about the fire in the cafe. How horrible. It must be extremely difficult for you right now. I just wanted to drop a short note to let you now how sorry I was to hear about it. I'm glad everyone is safe. I'm still following your account, from the Ops side now. I talk with Tasha about any concerns that arise, but it seems to be running smoothly. Again, just wanted to say how sorry I was about the cafe.
Take care,
Nancy

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Gretchen and Mike

I was so sorry to hear about the fire at the Speakeasy Cafe. I know it has a strong meaning for you, as it is where you began. Please know that all of us at Muir Public Relations are thinking of you.

Peg Marckworth
Muir Public Relations & Marketing

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Mike,
I just got the news on the Cafe fire. Sorry to hear about that, I know that the cafe meant a lot to you. Anyway, I hope business is going well and I hope the fire has minimal impact on everything. I'm still a satisfied customer. Take care.

Best Regards,

Michael Wink
Cornerstone Ventures

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Mike,
i just heard about the Cafe. I am so sorry, what a terrible loss to you, your family and the company. I will call you soon.

Regards,
Kevin

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Mike,

Sorry to read of your loss. I can only imagine the impact of the fire had on morale and the sadness you all must feel. I used to read about the café on the web site and had always made it a goal that if I ever went to Seattle it was #1 on my list of places to go. It seemed like a fun place and I feel cheated I will never have that opportunity now.

I hope you're able, from a financial perspective, to rebuild what the fire has taken away. But then you can't put a price on history and corporate culture can you. Some things are priceless.

Anyway...wish I knew what to say...but I wish you all the best and hope to continue to watch your success as a customer and local sales advocate. ;-)

V/R

Jeff

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Hi Mike,

I just wanted to express my sympathy to you and everyone at the Speakeasy. I learned of the cafe fire from a friend and I'm saddened. I met my wife, Olivia, at the cafe 3 years ago, so the cafe has always been sacred to us. I hope that you rebuild.

Bruce Tom
(former Loosegroove pest-master)

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Mike,

Let me know if there's anything you need (storage, extra help, etc). I hope your experience with the fire investigators was less than stressful.

Take care,

J

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Hey Guys,

We're all very sad at 911 to hear about last weekend's tragic event. The Speakeasy Cafe has always been a very important ally to the 911 community. The injury to the Cafe is felt by us all. If there is anything that 911 can do to help you at this difficult time we would be happy to lend a hand.

Sincerely,
Peter Mitchell and the Staff of 911 Media Arts Center

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All,

Hope all is well. Please let me know if Efficient can help in any way.

Best wishes,
Tony

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Mike,

Thank you for your generous reply. I have forwarded it on to the members of the school community. Again, the outpouring of emotion coming from within PSCS has touched me deeply. To say that the cafe is deeply embedded in the roots of PSCS would be a tremendous understatement.

As I mentioned, if you and Gretchen have time, Melinda and I would like to offer you the opportunity for a home-cooked meal, a little slice of domesticity, if you like. ;) We offer this as a way to give you a little break from the stress you must be under and as means of support. Of course, our desire to be in better touch with you both is the overall reason.

We completely understand if the timing is bad, but are hoping that it might work for you.

At the very least, Mike, that beer I owe you must have, with interest, compounded to a keg...

---Andy

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As I write to you from Belgium, my thoughts are with you, Gretchen, and the fun loving Speakeasy Team. I was so sorry to hear about the fire. I am writing this from a beautiful new Internet cafe in Bruges; there is a need for the kind of cafe you pioneered. I hope you are able to return to the building and save it for the future. I was happy to learn that everyone is OK.

Yours,

Michael J. Weisman

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Mike,

While watching the news last Friday night, I saw a live report of a fire in the Bell Town area.
I mentioned to my wife that the location given was very close to the Speakeasy locations there.
Much to my dismay, I later found out that the Speakeasy Cafe was involved in the fire. I just wanted to drop you a quick note and say that I am sorry for the loss of the cafe. I know many have enjoyed it and it was THE symbol for what you all have accomplished over the years.

Again, Sorry for the loss. I hope something can be salvaged.

Ken Childress
Redback Networks

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Dear Mike-

Joel Bachar's partner Patrick here writing from Houston, TX.

I am very sorry to hear about the loss of the Speakeasy Cafe...your venue has meant a great deal to Blackchair Productions, Microcinema, and Independent Exposure and its destruction has left us with a real void - professionally as well as emotionally. Best of luck to you and your team.

Maybe there will be a Phoenix?

Patrick Kwiatkowski

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So when I saw a giant fire burning in Belltown from my apartment I knew it was a bad thing. How bad I didn't know until the next day. I am very very sorry for your loss.

Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help -- Some people were talking about having a benefit for you guys. I'd help in any way I could.

Michael

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Hi guys (and girl), Just wanted to take a minute to say hi and that I feel for your loss of history and hard work. I saw Tyler on the news just after the fire, and the grief was apparent... Hang in there guys (and girl)!

Jason Martin

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Mike,

Just returned from the east coast to find out about the fire at the Cafe. Sorry to hear.
Let me know if there is anything we at SCAN can do to help.

Karen Toering

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Mike,

I just heard about the fire at the cafe, I want you to know that if I can be if help to you in any way possible please feel free to call me .

Take care and let me know if I can help.

Morris

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Mike, I don't even know what to say. I can't describe what a shock it was to hear the news. I send all my best wishes to you, Gretchen, Tyler and the whole Speakeasy family. The Cafe was the heart of the community and it will be sorely missed. Take care.

Ginger

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Hey Guys,

Just wanted to state the obvious and say that I'm really sorry for what has happened and the extra stress that this means for you guys. I feel a great sense of personal loss which I know can't compare with yours. Consider me fully at your disposal if there are any clean-up efforts that need attention or whatever else might be needed to rebuild and move on. And thanks for working so hard to create such a great social place and great company -- it's been a pleasure to be a part of it for so many years.

--j

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Damn sorry to hear about the fire -- hope picking up the pieces goes well.

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Mike,

Quick note to say I am sorry to hear of the loss. Hope all is well.

Doug Dietiker
Asta Networks

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To the fun loving Speakeasy crew,

Let us know if you need any assistance getting the place back together or letters of support. We already are missing the Cafe, and a little worried that the owner might remove the building.

We feel a little strange, we must have been underneath it when we all left about 10:30.

Best wishes,

Myke & Maura Woodwell

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Mike,
Sorry to hear the cafe fire on Friday. I hope you are able to rebuild and restore it soon.

Song

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Hey gang-

I just wanted to express my feelings of sadness for the events that unfolded on Friday night. There is really nothing that I feel that I can say to you three that may make the loss of the cafe easier for each one of you.

I'm so sorry.

In the mean time:

Keep your chins up.
Things can only get better from here.

Myles

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Hi Tyler & Mike,

I just wanted to say how sorry I am about the cafe burning. I hope you can resurrect it or figure out what to do once the ashes settle and your hearts stop pounding. Just letting you know we're thinking of you over here.

Lois

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Hello, Mike!
I feel heartsick about the cafe and hope that you and Gretchen are wading through the aftermath with customary optimism.

My favorite haiku:
"My barn having burned to the ground; I find I can now see the moon."

My husband and I owned a restaurant that burned to the ground. I can still smell it and remember trying to find the floor safe in the walk-in through all the muck of ash and water and charred timbers. How much had you moved in upstairs? Did you lose major equipment? Were there servers over there still for the network?
I realize you will be swamped in the time to come (when aren't you?) but if you have time to respond or call with a status report, I'd love to hear from you. Otherwise, my thoughts are definitely with you, Best,
Joan

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The Sunday articles were full of testimonials to the wonderful impact the Speakeasy Cafe had. I know this is a tough event, but you should feel quite proud of the impact the cafe had.

Again, let me know if we can help in any way.

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Mike: Couldn't believe the news about Speakeasy; I know the PSCS community and other friends will rally to help in any way they (we) can. Just wanted you to know we're thinking of you. Best, Skip Berger

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Hi Mike,

I was shocked and very sorry to hear about the fire. Let me know if there's anything I can do. The nice part of it all is seeing what an important institution and landmark Speakeasy is. Thanks for all your hard work over the years and again, don't hesistate to call if I can do anything.

- David keyes

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Very sorry to hear about the fire. Glad no one was hurt, and that it didn't affect your business. Hope all is well...

Whitey

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Gretchen & Mike:

Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you or Speakeasy. I was terribly upset when I heard about the fire. I loved that space you created - it was part of Belltown's fabric. If there's anything just let me know. I'll be sending as much positive energy as I can your way.

Heather

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Hey Gretchen,

So sorry to hear about the fire. I hope you and Mike can bounce back from this tragedy, and I have great faith that you will. Both of you are strong, resourceful people.
Thanks for your help in giving unpopular music a respectful venue.

Wally

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Mike,

I read with shock the front-page story about the Speakeasy Cafe fire in the newspaper yesterday. Please express our concern to all involved over there; I am very much shocked and saddened by this and hope no one was injured. If there is anything we can do to help you guys recover, please don't hesitate to ask. (I'm good at cleaning up, if that would help!)

I am terribly sorry this happened to your organization; the cafe was a landmark downtown and it will be missed by many!

-- Jared

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Gretchen-

Hope you and the crew are holding up. The Speakeasy is one of the best things to happen to or in Belltown in a long time.

Made me sick to hear about it. Found out about it this afternoon after camping all weekend. Kind of glad I wasn't around to watch.

Let me know I can help even if it's demolition work.

Zander

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Thanks sweetie, I have been following the events over the net, Seattle Times, KOMOTV & KING5. All had "good" coverage. So glad no one was hurt (a miracle) and you have all been blessed with so much support! Hope you are all doing okay considering . . . How's Ty?
And of course if there is anything we can do, just let us know???
All my love, kelly

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Dear Mike:
I am so sorry for your loss. The cafe is such a landmark in Seattle. I wish there was some way I could help. If there is, please let me know. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sincerely,

John Bartelink

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Rhona and I were coming out of the ACT Theatre and saw the headline in the window of the newspaper box. We rushed over. I saw Tyler and Angel standing in front of Mama's. Tyler told me what happened. It must feel like a death in the family. I'm sorry. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.

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Aidan, Julie and I were watching the fire on the late news last night when the announcer said it was the Speakeasy Cafe that was burning. It was a moment of shock, denial, and grief for all of us. I called Johnny this morning (he is in Wisconsin for ten days) to let him know and to ask him for his prayers, too.

The Speakeasy and all connected to it have been such an important part of PSCS's life; indeed, in many ways, PSCS would not be all it is today were it not for the aid and contributions and sheer support given to us by Mike and the others at the Cafe. I am not sure what I (or we) can do to help, but all of us here certainly will be holding all the Speakeasy crew in our hearts and blessings and our prayers that out of ashes something new and wonderful will rise like the Phoenix. Certainly, if generosity of heart is any measure, the Speakeasy deserves every blessing and more that it receives as it rebuilds its base of operations.

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Jackie,

The fire was definitely a shock to everyone here. It's the end of a really beautiful chapter for Mike, Gretchen, and Tyler. We are all so relieved that no one was inside and happy that the network offices and the bulk of the business were not yet located in that space. Had it been the office space that went, this would have been an incredible disaster for the company. As it is, it is a huge loss, but the company as a whole can keep functioning with little interruption.

Thank you so much for your kind email. It is times like this when one really starts to realize how many kind people there are in the world, and in a community.

Shannon

On Sat, 19 May 2001, Ryall, Jacqueline (SEA) wrote:

Shannon -
I am sure you are being deluged with emails, but I just wanted to let you know that my heart goes out to you guys. I was a block away at a friends' condo and saw most of the fire - I think it was the most shocking, amazing and horrifying thing I saw in my life. I am stunned and thankful that no one was physically hurt. I, along with so many people, hope that you all recover from this and are able to go forward.

Best wishes to all at Speakeasy,
Jackie Ryall

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Mike:

WHAT A FIRE! I saw the newspaper yesterday, and thought of your story of launching the cafe before it's time. Were you still financially involved in the cafe? Hope it will not become a major distraction for you over the next weeks!

Looking forward to our next steps together.

C. James Frank

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Subject: I heard this AM...

...about the fire.

I'm so sorry.

I hear that nobody was injured?

If there's anything I can do to help, just let me know.

Garth

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Guys, I'm sorry to hear about the Cafe :(

my best wishes to you all,
Gilad

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Mike,

We've just heard and wanted to express our condolences for your loss. Tricia and I send you all our best wishes for a speedy rebuild.

With kindest regards,

Gary & Tricia
Creative Music Co., Inc.

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Mike,

I read about the loss of the Speakeasy Cafe. I'm sure this must have hit home emotionally for you -- a lot of blood, sweat and tears up in smoke. But I'm quite sure that you and your partners will rebound, and thankfully your DSL business was spared.

Regards,

Bill Bryant
Chairman, Advisory Board - Founder

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If you need volunteers to clean up debris, whatever, etc from the cafe I would like to offer to help help. I wasn't here when it was the base of operations, but I had a lot of good times as a patron both then and now. I know what it means to everyone here and that is has served as a beacon to the whole belltown/downtown community. Hearing about it put me in a state of total disbelief, to see it was unreal. This has been extremely upsetting to say the least. I'm so sorry.

Best regards,

Daniel Simonton

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Dear Mike and Tyler,

I was saddened to read of last night's fire and see the horrific results. Judging, however, from your past labors and strengths, I'm sure that the Speakeasy Cafe will be reborn like the proverbial phoenix and be all the better for it.

Best wishes in this time of difficulty,

Scott

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Friends,

I can only imagine the devastation you are feeling right now. Me, I hurt for you, as well as for the loss I feel personally.

So you know, I have had several phone calls from people and many emails, each one from someone wanting to know what they can do to help. Here is a representative example:

Definitely anything we can do, even if it means cleaning up fire damage.

And:

The dream of the speakeasy is one of community, and we are so much a part of that community. It continues to live, the Speakeasy is not dead, just temporarily at rest until it rises again.

Please recognize that there is support for you and the Speakeasy from many places and lots of people waiting to hear how they can help. PSCS as a community is ready and wanting to help in any way we can, down to bringing people in to help clean up.

Just let me know.

With love, gratitude, and appreciation,

---Andy

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Mike,

I am so sorry about the fire. I drove by the Café and noticed the upstairs had burned down.
I hope no one was hurt and hope all turns out well. If there is anything I can do to help you and Speakeasy, feel free to call.

Gene Shin

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M & G,

I want you to know that if there's anything that I can possibly do to help, plz lmk...

Michael

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Mike-
Sorry to hear about the Cafe!

Hope everyone is allright, and the loss was not too great. We look forward to hearing how you are all doing.

Regards,

Doug

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Mike and Gretchen and Tyler,

Just wanted you to know my thoughts and prayers are with you as you begin the process of sorting out what happened and how, and what's next. Take care of yourselves too.

Best wishes,
Susan

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Mike,

Please let me know if there is anything PSCS or I can do to help you all right now.

---Andy

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Oh, my poor babies. I am just aching and heart-broken for you. I know you are overwhelmed so don't worry about responding. Just know that I am praying for you all. Wishing you as much peace and comfort as possible during this trying time. Love ya, kelly

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Mike - very sorry to read about the cafe this morning. my wife and i had watched Mike Daisey's performance a few weeks ago and loved the space.

If there is anything I can do to help, please let me know.

Regards - Todd

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Mike

I'm sure you have a lot on your plate right now, but I wanted to drop you a note. I am so sorry to hear about the fire. This kind of thing is so big it can almost be overwhelming, especially when it happens to the place where you started business. I know you will get past it, but it can be a hard climb.

If there is anything I can do, please let me know.

Matthew

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Mike,

I saw the fire on the news last night. I just wanted to let you know my thoughts are with you all, and I wish you good luck in the recovery process, whatever that may end up being (rebuild/relocate/something else).

Greg

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...we are at your disposal

labour, food, a place to get away to--the house is open...anything at all

Take care.

Elisa and Dan

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Hey Mike,

I just heard about the fire. Let me know if you need anything. Cleaning up, knocking down, cabling, customer service calls...whatever.

Have a fun recovery,

Stephan

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Saw the news this morning. Sounds pretty bad. I hope you folks are all OK and that your losses are not too severe. If there's anything we can do, like co-locate a server or something, let me know.

Steve Thornton
Fremont Public Association, Seattle WA

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That sucks big time. I will miss the cafe personally, I can't immagine what it must be like for you. I hope you have some insurance and will bring it back in some form. Those green-screens are downright irreplaceable though. Seattle won't be the same without speakeasy..

-=Julian=-

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I read the headline as I was walking by newspaper stand and was so saddened by the news. I have spent many happy hours at the Speakeasy cafe, playing on the computers, drinking lattes, and going to great performances in the backroom. Is there anything I can do to help? that was such a great space, used by so many for so much. It is a great loss to Seattle. Que Areste, Speakeasy member for about 7 years.

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Mike
I was shocked and saddened to learn about the fire. Please let me (all of us, actually) know how I can help. It is hard to believe the cafe where I used to sit over coffee and send email before I had a computer is no longer there.
If it is possible for you to think of long range plans during the current mayhem, give this a little consideration. VulcanNW (the Paul Allen folks) are beginning to build a neighborhood in the South Lake Union area. I have had a photography studio in a building they now own for the past 16 years. They are good landlords and will do well by an already good neighborhood. Contact Monica Alliegro ([Ed. contact info removed]) and begin a discussion about moving Speakeasy to South Lake Union into one of the buildings they are planning to build. They might even be an important alley in the battle against the Tauzin Bill. And for the short term, ask about leasing an existing building they already own. If I can help with this, let me know.It would be great to have you guys just a few blocks from my studio.
My thoughts are with you all.

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Hey Mike

I don't know if you actually read this...
I just wanted to say that the fire sucked and I was sad to see that happen. If there's anything I can do to help you guys just let me know. Peace.

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Dear Mike,
It was shocking to read of the fire at the Cafe. We are grateful that no one was hurt, but you must be experiencing a terrible sense of loss. Please accept our sympathy and condolences on losing what was a hub for Belltown and an extremely important contribution to the whole community of artists, computer users, coffee drinkers, hang-outs, and just about anyone who had a pulse. Your loss is our loss and we wish you well, with a speedy but thoughtful recovery of your dream for the community.

Mary Gallien
Washington Research Institute

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Mike and Gretchen,

My deepest condolences on the loss of Speakeasy Cafe. As a former member of Northwest Environment Watch, we had a couple of book launching events there, and really loved your space. Plus, it was a great cafe as well, and doing its part to save at least one patch of Belltown from homogenous development.

I sincerely hope you can rise from the ashes to your former glory or better.

Steve, long-time fan of your work.

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I couldn't bear another condo on 2nd...

I was extremely sorry to hear about this terrible fire. I'm glad no one was hurt, and glad you guys appear to be weathering it well.

Good luck with the clean-up/rebuild/whatever.

a happy customer and frequent belltown denizen -

s.

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How very sad for you and the speakeasy family. Better days are always around the corner!

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WE ARE VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. PHONE WORX.....

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Mike and Gretchen,
Just a note to say that you are in my thoughts. I hope that you can rebuild the cafe as it has been a great meeting place and super venue.
Hope to see you soon,
John

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Dear Mike,

I was deeply saddened to hear of the fire. Although I wasn't a frequent visitor to the cafe, I am well aware that it represented the kind of true corporate civic involvement that is all too rare these days. This figured strongly in my choice of Speakeasy as my ISP.

I am not sure what I can do to help you rebuild, but I would like to be kept apprised of your efforts. For what it is worth, my partner, Irene Namkung and I have spent the last three years helping Northwest Folklife pull itself out of a half million dollar hole. Irene is also a legislative assistant to Seattle City council member Jim Compton.

Yours,

John Ullman

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Mike,
I was / am *so* sorry to hear...

Good thoughts,
Neil

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Mike

Just a quick message of support for you in what must be a tough time. Although located thousands of miles away in Boston, and only temporarily in the US, I feel part of the Speakeasy community through the great DSL access and related services (including your excellent monthly updates) you provide.

You guys are doing a great job in the face of some very obstructive circumstances (eg. the ILECs etc) - I only wish that there were similar providers willing to take on BT back at home in the UK.

Hang on in there!

Cheers

Rob Devey

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My condolences to all who are affected by this major, sudden loss. Thanks for letting us out in the hinterlands know. Sincerely, PJ Hallam

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Dear Mike and all at Speakeasy,

We are very, very sorry for your loss.

Eve Whitman
Pres/CEO
MIXinc.

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Thank you for your nice news letter. I felt awful when I was watching the local news Friday evening and you were the headline. It seems to be a bad year for disaster (such as our earthquake). My prayers are with you.
Cindi

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Sorry to hear about the loss of the cafe. As a big fan of cafes as social mixing places, and a longtime (in internet years, anyway) speakeasy DSL consumer, I was looking forward to visiting the cafe on the next trip to seattle.
Thanks for the good service, and BTW, I picked speakeasy because the website was so, well, Bride of Frankenstein. It seemed like there were artists at work there. I like supporting that.
Rob Bregoff

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Please accept my condolences.... it was a wonderful cafe!
Visited 2 years ago when i was in town & it was a wonderful & warm place.

:sws:

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Sorry to hear...but...it'd probably make for some great interior decorating options now

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Mike,
Sorry to hear about the fire. Hang in there and good luck. I'll keep recommending speakeasy to everyone I know.
Best,
Paul Engleman

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Dear Mike,

I was very saddened to hear the news of the destruction of the Speakeasy Cafe. I had visited the cafe in 1998 (long before becoming a Speakeasy network customer). When I signed up with Speakeasy as my DSL provider, that visit provided a sort of human link to the network operations, so far away from me.

I wish you well, and hope that you will not give up on the cafe - it is symbolic of the larger Speakeasy community and has leant its sense of community to all of Speakeasy's operations.

Sincerely,
Dan Collins
Speakeasy Cafe patron in fall 1998
Speakeasy.Net customer since January, 2000

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My condolensces on this sad event. The Speakeasy cafe will truly be missed, especially if it does not return.

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Hi Mike,

I am very sorry to hear of the recent fire at Speakeasy Cafe.

It had been on my list to visit for *years* now, but for one reason or another I never made it down.

I hope it works out that you rebuild. Keep us posted.

Regards,
D J Brooks

P.S. From my perspective I've taken a little closer look at my to-do and have re-prioritized. Things like this make you realize you can't take things for granted.

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I will be up in that area (I hope) the second weekend in June, as a stopover during my honeymoon. While I regret not being able to see the cafe, I sincerely hope it is rebuilt so that I can one day see what my ISP came from.

Good luck, and I offer my sympathies.

-Dennis Carr

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Dear Mr. Apgar
The Speakeasy Cafe was indeed a Seattle institution and its loss will be felt deeply. You should know there are people in Seattle, like me, who have chosen Speakeasy, despite many tempting solicitations from phone and cable companies, because we wanted to support a local internet operation. The cafe's support of the local arts scene also affirmed my decision. Your staff has always been very gracious, efficient and helpful, particularly the tech support and billing staff. Please let me know how I can help rebuild the cafe. My regards to you and your staff.
Neil Vora

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike I was so sorry to see and hear about The Fire, I have been a fan since the beginning.
I'm thankful no one was hurt. Hope you will have a chance to rebuild, I remember having a few pints with you and the early Speakeasy crew and felt like we were a part of your early success.

Best wishes to all..
Pat Malone

---------- Forwarded message ----------

You've probably had a herd of responses so I'll keep it short. Our sincere condolences for your loss...I can't imagine something so shocking and devastating. This will have a reverberating impact on our city, as you know. Please don't hesitate to call if there is anyway we can be of help or support to you.

Best,
Deborah Girdwood, Board President
NORTHWEST FILM FORUM
grand illusion cinema * the little theatre * wigglyworld studios

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Rebuild. Glad no one was hurt.

If bulding owners balk, threaten lawsuit. So there.

Jimbo

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Hi, Mike...

That's terrible!

I read the story...

As an artist, I can understand the value of a place like the Cafe... and from what I read, I can understand the importance of the Cafe in your history, and its importance to the neighborhood.

I'm hoping the building owner and you will decide to rebuild the cafe-- not only because I have an artist's bias toward lobbying for more performance/gallery spaces like yours, but also because I know how important hubs like the Cafe can be to a neighborhood. With so many factors conspiring to rob cities and towns of their sense of community, places like the Cafe are sorely needed.

But regardless of your decision, I just wanted to pass along my sympathies, and let you know that at least one of your users is behind you.

Best of luck... and have fun getting that burnt smell out of everything! <g>

Yours,

...Bob

Bob West

New Speakeasy.net user

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike,

I was saddened to hear of the fire and wish to offer my condolences. As a former Seattle resident and sometime independent filmmaker (we used to have shows here in San Francisco in a converted printing shop we called the No Nothing, later demolished to make room for Pac Bell Park), I understand the loss not only to you but to the residents of Belltown, the artists who had shows there and anyone fortunate enough to stumble on such a unique urban presence.

Best of luck to you going forward!

Regards, Mark

---------- Forwarded message ----------

My sincere symapthies.

I've been using Speakeasy's interenet services from California for about a year, and I've been extremely happy not just with level of service, but with the competence and just general good will I feel from the folks I've dealt with there.

Best wishes from a happy customer to everyone at Speakeasy.

--Joe Decker

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike,

I was sorry to wake up and look out my window on Saturday and see the Speakeasy had had a fire. I'm relieved that no one was hurt. My thoughts are with you all there and let me know if there is a volunteer clean up or something. Great to see Dr Blase' got his bike out OK.

Once again, my best wishes go out to all of you there.

Sincerely,

Darrell Davis

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Thanks for the info and the Seattle Times report. Though I have never been there, sounds like a place I would have liked to go if in Seattle. My sympathies for the loss. Marilyn Schaefer

---------- Forwarded message ----------

I was sad to see this on the news; we were watching King 5 when they broke in with the live coverage at 11:30 at night. I remember walking by there when I first moved to Seattle; I hope that you are able to come to a happy solution, and hopefully rebuild.

Sincerely;

Summer Louise Truswell

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike,

The SE is a great place. A one of kind space... never been anywhere like it.

An electronic music concert I heard there a couple of years back encouraged me to explore live-playing options for myself. The displayed artwork has always been delightful. Your hires are the kind of people that, for me, make life worth living.

I feel really sad for you and all the SE employees, and strongly encourage you to do what is necessary to re-open. I think thousands of people would agree! and be glad to help you through this dark period.

Regards and best wishes,

Tony

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike,

I'm so sorry to hear about the fire. My thoughts are with you and the Speakeasy crew.

I wish you the best in turning this into an opportunity for change and growth.

Laura Eastman

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike,
We can only imagine the loss you have experienced. We wish the best of luck as you make your way through the labyrinth of decisions you will face in the coming weeks and months.
Sincerely,

Everett and David

---------- Forwarded message ----------

I was very sorry to see that the Speakeasy has burned to the ground. I had just discovered it about a month ago stumbling upon some of the best live music I have seen in Seattle in a long time, in a very comfortable Seattlesque environment. My condolensces...
melanie blair

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Dear Mr. Apgar,
Just a short note to let you know how sorry I was to read about the fire to speakeasy, and happy to hear no one was injured. I have appreciated your internet service for the past year or so. Funny how it takes something as serious as this to hear about all the vitality you have provided the community; I had no idea about all the arts and related events you supported until I read the article yesterday. Good luck to you and all those initmately involved in rebuilding should you choose this. I hope so, to find out what I've missed. Sincerely, John Bernhard

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Mike,

I'm very sorry to hear this. What terrible news! I'm going to Seattle later this summer, and was planning on stopping by the cafe to check it out firsthand. You must be devastated.

Don't let it get you too down, man. I'm a residential DSL sub in Chicago, and think that Speakeasy is by far the best ISP I have ever seen, and the other people I know who signed up with you based on my recommendation agree as well.

Take care, and please keep us informed.

-Paul

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Sorry to hear about this. I was in Seattle about 3 years ago at a conference and got to see the original Speakeasy Cafe. Hope something else replaces it. You need this kind of alternative scene sometimes to get creative ideas flowing - like how the Internet took off really - on the grassroots level.

Dwight Walker

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike Apgar
CEO, Speakeasy.net

I'm simply a subscriber who received your cafe news message automatically. I can feel your sorrow at the loss of the cafe, and I celebrate that fact that none were harmed.

Sometimes these things serve to "clear the boards" for something that you would never have thought of. Hopefully in this case, whatever happens next will be even better than what has now passed.

Sincerely,

Lee Carroll

---------- Forwarded message ----------

I'm so sorry about the cafe. It is a much-needed resource for this community. It was one of the true hearts of this town. I hope that it will be possible to continue it, in that space or elsewhere.
I'm sure you are all pretty much in shock still. I wish you well.

Bill Apgood

---------- Forwarded message ----------

My condolences. I have never been to the Speakeasy Cafe to my regret. However, reading the article below, I can feel the loss. History and a place built by the community can never be replaced... I hope the cafe will be re-born.

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike,

My sincere condolences regarding the fire- as a musician (in San Francisco), I regret the loss of a fine space and hope the community you helped build will rally around you.

Regards

Colm O'Riain

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike

Hope you go for a rebuild of the cafe. It was great! Good luck on your decision!!!

Walter Bodle

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I offer my deepest empathy for the fire and am SO GRATEFUL no one was harmed. Strange blessings. All good wishes for future dreams and projects. Also thanks be for keeping the on line connections in a separate facility.
Best to you all,
your subscriber lara.

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Dear Mike,
Our sincere sympathies for your loss. Please do rebuild if possible, it would be good to have a fresh start that everyone could share.
The Gustin Family
Annapolis, Md

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike, I'm very sorry to hear about the cafe fire. Good luck to you and the staff in the upcoming weeks/months.

Joey Gray
Long time member

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Hello Mike.

While I have never been to Seattle, I read the story with interest and chagrin. It sounds like it will be a loss that is not measurable in mere dollars and cents. I wish you luck whatever the outcome.

Jack Cobb, Jr,
Atlanta, Ga.

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Yes Mike it was terrible. God bless you and Gretchen and best of luck in the future. Who knows, it may even be a blessing that this happened. I know I've never told you how much inspiration you have been to me personally. Just knowing you and seeing how you've developed this start up has really been mind blowing.

Sincerely,
Arthur Hrin

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike:
I speak for so many in expressing my gratitude to you and Gretchen for the benevolence represented by the cafe. No fire can destroy the love the cafe stands for, and that care invites others to contribute likewise.

Is there a final decision on a community center space? What might Speakeasy's role in a community center be?

Thanks you both so much for your generosity. Time for the rest of us to step up.

Peter J. Voorhees

---------- Forwarded message ----------

mr. apgar,

i want you to know that i am a full-hearted supporter (and endorser!) of speakeasy who has been thoroughly satisfied with your service and company (okay, CS hold time aside). although my company stole its CEO (joe devich) and head sales engineer (another motorcycle fanatic) from covad, i ardently support the "little guy" ISPs nationwide, of which speakeasy is easily the prime. thank you for your efforts, and continued success in the future!

sincerely,

jason brink

p.s. saw the article you were in in the local paper a few months back - nice digs!

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Since we're a new customer and a general contractor, send us first class plane tickets and we'll give you a free estimate :)

Sorry to hear about the loss...

---------- Forwarded message ----------

I am so sincerely sorry for all the speakeasy staff. yer all really rad, and I know we're all worried at vain if yer o.k. good luck with stuff. it'll work out, cause it has too. shaunsurething

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Michael--
we were shocked to hear of the fire Saturday morning. Happy to hear everyone was safe, but what a huge loss for the community. Wishing you the best in picking up the pieces. Regards to you and everyone there from everyone here at Western Neon.
Jay Blazek

---------- Forwarded message ----------

As a long time speakeasy member and one who enjoyed the cafe immensely I wish to extend my condolences on your loss. I live just a block from the Cafe and would go there often to check my email, hang out, or whatever. I will miss it greatly. It truly was an incredible place to be at the dawning of this information age.

Sincerely,
Jason Guel

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Thanks so much for keeping us informed. Although my primary relationship with Speakeasy is having you as the host of my website, I consider myself part of the large literary community you have helped create. We hope that, in some incarnation, the Speakeasy Cafe can be revived.

Best, Kathleen Alcala

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Janet: Thanks for the sensitive report on the loss the Speakeasy Cafe; it was one of my favorite places in the the city. It was spacious and had the perfect mix of techno and art. And, above all, it had a great vibe. I would love to do something to help the owners rebuild.

Char Easter

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Mike-

I am on vacation in Baja and received this sad news in a brand new Internet cafe / art gallery in the small town of Todos Santos. I am so sorry for what happened. The Speakeasy has been an important part of my life ever since I arrived in Seattle more three years ago. First as my favorite cafe, then as my DSL provider and a regular hangout and meeting place.

I wish you and Megan the best and hope to see the Speakeasy Cafe rise from the ashes to reach new heights.

Sincerely,
Joshua Drake

---------- Forwarded message ----------

I wanted to express condolences on the tragic fire last weekend. I sincerely hope that you will be able to rebuild your groundbreaking cafe, somehow. I would be happy to help out if I could, in some way. Please let me know. Good luck!
Kim Byford

---------- Forwarded message ----------

To Mike Apgar ... and Each and All ... at Speakeasy.net ... every good wish to you in your recovery from the fire! May the restoration become all that you wish it to be!

Joan and Bernie, Minneapolis
Speakeasy.net Member

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Dear Mike,

As a recent and VERY satisfied Speakeasy DSL customer, I am saddened to learn of the fire. I certainly understand the emotional impact the loss of such an institution would have for you all. Good luck in your future decisions about the cafe's status.

Tony Mucciardi

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Dear Mr. Apgar,

Sorry about your loss; your email did a good job in conveying the personal attachment you and your group had to what sounds like a wonderful institution. It may be of some solace to you that you are gaining new loyal Internet friends on a national basis because of your reliability and professionalism, delivered on the personal level exemplified by your email...

Best regards,
Michael Weiner

---------- Forwarded message ----------

I'm a new member on your network down in California and read this notice with some sadness. I've never been to the Speakeasy Cafe but from the story it seems it truly was a central hub in the community. What makes it sadder is that there are too few places like yours that have a short, but rich history and have become an integral part of the community.

I would hope that you would not give up on it, but push forward and reopen it. I guess what I'm saying is that if there is a vote to be had than count mine as a firm and resounding "YES, rebuild the Speakeasy Cafe!!".

Again, my condolences to you and to those who have lost out on a unique place.

Chris Hamilton
California Speakeasy Member

---------- Forwarded message ----------

I send my condolences for the building. I really appreciate the effort you guys give even when your building burns down. I didn't notice any fluctuation in service at all and that is a testament to your company's strength. Keep up the good work and once again, sorry about the cafe.

-Matt Scharfstein

---------- Forwarded message ----------

We are the Architects (Terminal Sales Building) just south of you that have been believers in what your doing and the cafe from day one........We would like to see you back in the building as soon as possible if, in fact, you and the owner of the building stay together....Call us if you need any help....We want to get involved..
jim castanes

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mr. Apgar,

Thank you for the correspondence. I am delighted to know that no one in your company was injured. Your unfortunate circumstance has in no way disrupted my service.

I want to take this opportunity to let you know that your staff was very competent, responsive and professional when I needed to switch my ISP service from Flashcom to Speakeasy.

Thank you for your great service. Your quality service means a lot to me as I have a home office, and rely on your company to keep me connected to the internet.

Best wishes in recovering from your recent tragedy.

Renee DeVore

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike & Gretchen,

What a terrible loss - I'm sure your hearts are heavy. I am so relieved to know that the fire hasn't affected your network operations and major cash flow.

The cafe has truly been a contribution to the arts and theatre in Seattle. I hope you are able to rebuild and continue to support cultural growth in Seattle.

Please accept my sympathy in your loss. Being a small business owner, I can only imagine how it feels to lose something you have built over the years.

Take care,

Judy Suhr

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike, Gretchen et all...

What a heartbreaker. Call me during "Preachin' The Blues" at 90.3 FM if you need to hear some "fire blues".
Sunday mornings at (206) 903-KEXP, 9am to noon.
It may be an uplift just when you need it.

In my thoughts,

Marlee

---------- Forwarded message ----------

mike and fam:

when i heard about the fire on saturday i was just blown away. all that hard work that you guys have done over the years. i am sooooo sad. i just want you guys to know that i am thinking about you.

let us know if there is anything we can do to get your spirits up.

hugs and smooches,

kitty

---------- Forwarded message ----------

To thank you guys and gals for a wonderful service! :)

- Mike

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Dear Speakeasy CEO,

Very sorry to hear about the fire and send you our emailed "hug" to buck you up with the loss.

Our advice (for whatever it's worth) is this: Rebuild the cafe, no matter how little a percentage of your overall business was involved in it compared with the web biz that evolved OUT OF IT. Rebuild it --- unless this seems abhorent to you --- because more important than the physical building that was the cafe was the IDEA and the CATALYST for creative outlet that was the cafe.

Ideas are senior to the physical universe. An idea is always behind an invention, a work of art, a positive change in society. These all begin with ideas.

Sounds like Speakeasy Cafe in its own haphazard way was a FORUM for ideas, for creativity however it took form. It was there BEFORE the net biz really got going bigtime.

Put it back, rebuild it (hope you had insurance money sufficient) and --- also our advice --- ensure that all those connected with the cafe and with the artists, poets, etc there and also with your net biz are well-intentioned folks. And not doing sneaky things behind your back. It is our belief that nothing ever really is a total accident that just happened by chance. We're not talking arson here. We're saying that anyone with "bad vibes" could be someone you want OUT of your business. Take a good honest look.

Well, we hope this presumptuous suggestion is taken with the love and concern with which it was offered.

All the very best and know that we like your internet service VERY much. (I will be calling or emailing today with our new credit card data. Apparently you did not receive word that our card number had changed and the billing is coming due. This will be straightened out today.)

P.S. Carol is a professional Composer and Visual Artist. CHeck out her singing statue on www.acommunityofangels.com under "Angel of Music" just this week voted Number ONe angel! ALso a biography of Carol with photos and downloadable music is available on MP3.com, click on "The WOmen of MP3.com and then under Artist Spotlight: Carol Worthey, an Angel of Music. The actual statue, seen by over 160,000 people at LA's Music Center, will be available on Ebay at the beginning of June.

Love, Hugs, Don't Get Discouraged... and IF YOU YOURSELF WANT TO... REBUILD the CAFE!

Carol Worthey and Ray Korns

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike,

I was so very saddened to hear about the fire. I feared that that was the location when they first started describing it on the news. I sincerely hope that you guys will be able to participate in a rebuild or find a new location -- perhaps even buying into a space. I wish you as much "good" that can come out of a bad situation.

Sincerely,

Jeff McCord,

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mr. Apgar,

I wanted to pass on my sincerest condolences on the loss of the Speakeasy Cafe! This is terrible, terrible news. While I am very grateful that noone was hurt, the emotional impact on your company and friends must be tremendous. I am merely a customer of your DSL service, hundreds of miles away in California, but I wish you the very best and a speedy return to normalcy.

Here in the spiritless wasteland of Silicon Valley, we have no such gathering places. Our hectic lives provide us with nothing more than a corner Starbucks to grab a cup of coffee and get to work -- or, these days, the unemployment line. I've visited Seattle many times, and each time I've come away feeling a remarkable closeness with what I consider to be the the best city in the country. I've always wanted a more tight-knit sense of local community, a warm gathering place to linger and sip coffee with friends and strangers here in the Bay Area as well, and I can imagine how sorely that will be missed in Belltown.

I do hope that you will be able to re-open the Speakeasy Cafe soon. Until then, please keep us all posted about your progress, and accept our best wishes!

-Seth Morabito
Santa Clara, CA

---------- Forwarded message ----------

thanks for writing to us. i was hoping you would. i wanted to take a few moments to express that i am so sorry that you people are going through this. i used to live a block away from the cafe and went there ever day. now that i am up on the hill, i go there less than every day but appreciate it none the less. your roots in the community is why i subscribe to the service you provide. the fire is devastating. i hope that the opportunity exists for you to rebuild. although not your main source of income, the community loves speakeasy. the cafe is a vital venue for artists. thank you for your support in the community and i wish you all the best in making the tough decisions and going through whatever that entails. keep the faith.

gretta harley
local artist, home alive co-founder, speakeasy customer since 1996

---------- Forwarded message ----------

I'm in Santa Fe, and just got your newsletter regarding the fire. News to me. I am so damn sorry about it, and I'm kinda shook, too.

Even the Times got it right this time. The Cafe, it occurs to me now, addressed a lot of the losses in art and community Belltown was experiencing during the changes in real estate in the late eighties and early nineties.

I can still remember your shellshocked, sleep-deprived, blood-drained face at the end of the first week or so of the opening of the place when Clark Humphrey dragged me and Kathy Connolly over there from the Two Bells one night. Who'd have thunk you would have really gotten this far and for this long? Beautiful. Clearly, you've been able to make dreams real.

My heart is with the Cafe's past, and my encouragement is with the future of Speakeasy.

Thanks, Mike & Gretchen.

--TRG

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Dear Mike Apgar,

My girlfriend, now the mother of my daughter Sakura, and I met at the SpeakEasy cafe (FreeBSD users group meeting). (Wes introduced us.)

I got my first job in Seattle by sending out my resumes from the SpeakEasy cafe. (A Dot Com; Now I'm working on games at LithTech.)

I got a quarter-page sized picture in USA Today through... The SpeakEasy cafe. I was on local radio, too. (Wes again.)

The SpeakEasy cafe is where I started teaching free UNIX and programming classes, more than a year ago. (Still going.)

The SpeakEasy cafe has been really important in my life, and it's sad that it's gone.

Thank you,
Lion Kimbro

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Dear Mike Agar:

So sorry to hear of your loss. If you can find some sage, it would be a good idea to "smudge" the whole area with the burning sage. This would purify it and leave it open for the next step in its evolution. I believe you start at the North Point and walk clockwise around the inner and outer perimeter. Perhaps this blessings will help heal all of your hearts.

Our best wishes to you.

Speakeasy customers: Shellyjo and Lildraws

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Dear Mr. Apgar and all at Speakeasy,

We were so sorry to hear of the fire at the Cafe. We very much appreciated attending Subtext readings there. We'll hope for rebuilding, but even if it can't be done, know that the Cafe lives on in our fond memories of it.

Best wishes,
Christine Deavel and John W. Marshall
Open Books: A Poem Emporium

---------- Forwarded message ----------

i passed the tragedy on the bus and many of us on the bus were stunned. A woman grabbed my hand, we could see it had been a big fire and we both knew what it meant. i am deeply sad. Recalling all my artistic viewing and preparing in the backroom and coffee's drunk beside the tipp tapping of computer keys.
i will miss you.
vanessa dewolf

---------- Forwarded message ----------

As a relatively new member of the Speakeasy community, I suspect that this message will be but one of a multitude. Please know, though, that I am saddened by the loss of the Cafe. Although I had never visited, I have enjoyed the information available about it on the website, and my wife and I had planned to visit should we ever be in the area. This was a distinct possibility, as we have in-laws in the area. Once again, we share your sadness at the loss, and hope that you, or someone with close ties to the original establishment, will choose to rebuild so that we and others might share in the experience you created.

---------- Forwarded message ----------

mike,

although i haven't been one of your biggest customers, i have been faithful. even though changing my own office address keeps me from visiting the cafe as often as i did, i still mourn with you over its loss. it was the seat of a special community and a unique institution; i hope it can rise from the ashes.

keith

---------- Forwarded message ----------

mike,
although i don't know you, i'd like to express my deepest regrets for 'speakeasy's' most unfortunate disaster. i'm working as one of the 'earthquake fairies', a group dedicated to helping re-locate the 'fenix underground' which fell in february's quake disaster.

as a 3-year belltown resident, recently moved to west seattle, i'm want you to know how sorry i am to hear about 'speakeasy's fate. as belltown gentrifies, business' like the 'speakeasy' become more and more important to our city's sub-culture and artistic community. let's hope the building owner doesn't turn out to be as greedy as the majority of landlords in belltown.

sincerely,
sabrina rockArena

---------- Forwarded message ----------

im so sorry ...:(

Im going to miss my fave cafe in belltown, and in seattle for that matter.

It was always a vital meeting place and gathering spot to me and my coworkers.

you guys broke new ground with the first ever internet-cafe i heard of (now there are thousands) and i truly hope you find that rebuilding/reopening is a possibility.

xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxooxoxoxoxoxoxoxoox
eli max blü

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Thanks for the update about the Speakeasy Cafe, I had no idea how your business started. Now that I do know, I love the notion that I too am slightly involved in a community endeavour. If it was that business that has made you and so many others successful, it would seem fitting to continue that out-reach to your community and assist others to also benefit.

Once again, I'm please to know that my Internet lifeline is not so dependent on a huge cold corporation, making technology that little bit warmer.

Thanks
Dorna

---------- Forwarded message ----------

We Hope you will rebuild--we have been happy with your service--and like we had with Jet City---once you have got a few problems squared away service has been great---knock on wood Gene

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Hi, Mike,

Thanks for the message. I've kept the Speakeasy in my thoughts these past few days, especially as I pass it on my way home or as I'm doing errands. I hope you are hanging in there. I can only imagine what you are going through, but know you have support in those you have served so well and we're still here keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Please let me know if there's anything I can do to help. I'll certainly help paint, clean up, whatever...

Take care, Michele.

---------- Forwarded message ----------

I'm sorry to here about your company's misfortune - I understand how places like your cafe become institutions.

I would like to take a moment to say how impressed I am with your company's service and how it easy it was to get DSL installed. I am paying more than I was before but am willing to do so if your company can stay profitable and continue to provide me with great service.

Thanks again and I'll plug you guys on dslreports.com. Please pass this onto appropriate staff.

Sincerely,

Doug Neil

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Dear Mike Apgar, CEO - I too am saddened by the loss of a sense of community home base at Speakeasy, the place! When I walked in, I always had a sense of belonging to a diversely populated club, of people moving at the edge of communications, research and play. I will miss the feeling of striding into the spaciousness, the generosity of feeling at home. Change is the most difficult of constants, as they say, so here we are! I met a group of Speakeasiers in the alley today when I was looking to pay my bill (please do keep me going here, I'll find your office tomorrow) - maybe you were there too... and after they pointed me to the 222 (?) office down the street for tomorrow, I realized that I'd responded to them much as I would have at the time of the earth- quake, with this casualness that has underlying the seriousness, the understanding that something important has been swept away forever.....may the new welcome us all with equal comfort, casualness, and generosity of spacious feeling!

Best wishes for the reconstruction/move/ongoing good work with Speakeasy's site and services!

Jennifer Wagner

---------- Forwarded message ----------

If you need an architect to help you, please give us a call at ___-____ or e-mail me at this address. Our office is just a couple blocks away and we do alot of remodel and renovation work.
Jeffrey Hummel

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Though I rarely get to use the cafe anymore, it was the original reason that I signed up with Speakeasy instead of some out-of-town ISP that you couldn't find even if you went looking for them.

The Cafe was an important icon in Seattle, and I hope you will ba able to rebuild.

Regards,
Will Saunders

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Please persuade the building owners to rebuild! My husband and I have been regular patrons of Speakeasy since moving to Seattle in July of 1996. We always considered the cafe to be one of the most incredible places in Seattle to enjoy a cup of coffee or a beer. Your staff had always been easy going, helpful, and cool. I must admit that we were disappointed when music shows were no longer being held in the cafe, and that caused us to visit less frequently, but we still remained customers and brought out of town visitors and new Seattle-ites to Speakeasy in order to show them that this place was a lot like what Seattle is like. We feel terrible for your loss. I believe that rebuilding is a good idea and that Speakeasy would continue to grow as if the fire never happened.

Thank you,
Amanda Cavataio

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike,
I feel badly for the loss and would have liked to visit the cafe next time I'm in the area. I hope a rebuild is possible.
Regards,
-steve isenberg
Lexington, MA

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Mike, Gretchen et al,

Just a note to let you know that my memory of the cafe, it's fun loving crew and seeing the evolution of Speakeasy there won't be erased by such an unfortunate disaster. It will, indeed, be sorely missed.

I was out of town until Monday night, and got calls and emails to me in Boston to let me know. Not a comforting sight to come back to...

Best wishes with the future, I'm hoping there will be an effort to save that beautiful building.

Mark Sullo
Wall of Sound

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Hi Mike,
My sincere condolences to all of you down there.
No matter what happens in the space to come, that ambiance can never be replaced I feel and will be sorely missed!!!

Kind Regards,
dave clumpner and everyone at Univ Used and Rare Books as well as Well Mind Assoc.

---------- Forwarded message ----------

So sorry to hear of your loss. Another terrific cafe is on the horizon for you, I'm sure, but I'd just take time to lick your wounds and remember the first.
Jenn Carbin
Outpatient Surgery

---------- Forwarded message ----------

Dear Speakeasy folks,

Please, Please come back!!

I am a residential property manager in Belltown and a resident since 1986.

Please know and preserve the treasure that you are to our community.

We need and miss you!

Norah Denison

The Cedars/Bayview Apartments

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Hi,
I'm so sorry to hear that you all lost a valuable space and for the emotional loss you are undergoing.
Carla M. Perez
Leadership Training Coordinator
Communities for a Better Environment

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hey there mike, gretchen and everyone,

I just wanted to check in and see how you all were doing, i'm so sorry that you have to go through this...please let me know if there is anything i can do to help out at all...i'm glad no one was hurt, but i know the emotional loss is enormous and must be taking a large toll on all of you...please don't hesitate to ask for anything you need...anything! you all are such an amazing part of the community. i hope that you all are also taking time to take care of yourselves--i know that's hard to do, but vital! Know that i'm thinking of you and please do let me know how i can help out in any way.

xo
cristien

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I was very sad to hear about the fire that destroyed the cafe, and think it has been such a great thing. I truly hope that it is rebuilt, and look forward to going to the new one.

Cyrus Gray

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We are so thankful that no one was injured. You are in our prayers as you make decisions about the future.
Thanks for keeping us updated.

Carib & Al Smallman

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Hey, I just now heard about the fire (evidently I've been living under a freakin' rock)... very glad to hear no one was hurt! I wanted to drop a quick note to offer any assistance I can provide... I have some free time in the next few days/weeks, and I'd be happy to do some cleanup/grunt work (did a lot of that kind of thing working for the laser company) if you need the help.

Hope everything is going well... still a satisfied customer.

-chris (the artist formerly known as Tier 1 Murray)

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Everyone,

Please consider this a request for people to tell their "Speakeasy Cafe Stories". Greg Morris and I have set up a simple way for people to write their favorite memories from the cafe and have them archive on the web, as well as read the stories left by others.

To go to the archive and post a story, please visit: http://www.pscs.org/speakeasy

Right now, this is one thing we all can most definitely do. Other ideas have been coming in, too, but so much of the future of the cafe rests in the hands of the building's owner (remember, the Speakeasy was leasing that space for the cafe). If the owner elects to demolish the building and put in condos, I don't think there's a lot Mike Apgar or any of us can do (other than fight the permit -- a prospect that doesn't excite me a heck of a lot).

In addition, I want to support what Mike Apgar and his partners are interested in doing. Right now, the best way I know to do that is to provide a forum for people to mourn the loss of the cafe, while helping all of us reflect on what the cafe has meant to us. As such, please make use of the online archive.

As before, please feel free to circulate this message widely.

---Andy

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Mike:

I was sorry to see the news on the fire at the Cafe -- all of my best to you and Gretchen. Let's grab a beer or coffee when you get a chance,

Jon

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Dear Gretchen, Mike,
Right after I sent you a previous mail, I received a mail from my host mother in Seattle. She sent me a mail to let me know that there was a fire and your cafe was burned. What has happened? Are you two OK? I have herad that nobody was hurt, but ...... I just hope you guys are OK. I feel very sorry about what happened to the cafe.
I will write you again soon.
Love
Hiroko

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Hi Mike: It seems only yesterday that Blase and I were visiting you and Gretchen in your Georgetown loft. I heard all about the fire, etc from Blase and wanted to express my support. I know the cafe was a small part of what you guys do, but it was a spiritual presence that will be missed. Hope to see you sometime in a relaxed setting involving motorcycles and good company. Happy to hear that no one was hurt. - Scot

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Whoa. I just got back to town and heard the news. I'm really sorry to hear this you guys. Like you really needed to be dealing with this right now...

No need to reply. I'm glad nobody got hurt and that it didn't affect your ISP biz. Let me know if I can do anything to help.

My thoughts are with you,
Alex

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Mon. 5:34pm - Hey, Tyler, this is Kelly from over at Blackdog Forge. She's sure you guys have about a gazillion freaking messages but she is so sorry for everything that happened. She doesn't even know what to tell you guys. She's calling offering Blackdog Forge's support in your clean-up efforts. If you want to give them a call whenever your planning on doing a clean-up day or whatever, they'd be more than happy to help. It's devastating what happened. She hopes you're doing okay, tell Gretchen and Mike she said hi, too. Talk to you soon.

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Let me know.... ! So sorry to hear about the fire. One group I've worked with in the past that I can recommend is Rider Hunt, they are a construction estimating and project management group that can spec out repairs, scope the job, give you estimates, and manage repairs. Very professional and FAST. They are right down the street on 2nd and Wall.

Don't worry about responding to this, I know you and Mike are barely scanning all input while you make your way through this situation. Just let me know if there's anything I can do...

Heart's out to you all...
r.
Rob Hyman
Gamemaker LLC

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Hi Mike,
I just read about the fire in the Sunday paper. I wish I could come to support you today, but I am in class. I am done with classes on june 1. How can I help?

your friend,
sarel

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8:26am - Rod Odegaard called to express his concern and to let you know that if there is anything at all he can do, personally or professionally, he is there for you. Says he would have called earlier but he was moving all weekend and literally never picked up the paper or turned on the radio. Sends you his best.

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8:40am - Ryan called to express his condolences and wish you well.

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very sadddd!!! keeping my fingers crossed!

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I want to say I am sorry this happened is all.