On September 12, I wrote a blog post titled “Here For Phish? How About You Lend a Phreaking Hand?” In retrospect, I realize that it was ill-timed and ill-conceived. A number of readers felt the post impugned the good work already being done by flood volunteers, took for granted Phish’s contribution to the relief efforts, and was offensive to a legion of music fans.
This was not my intent. I simply meant to draw attention to a need facing our state in the wake of a natural disaster and, at the same time, poke a little fun at the caricature of the Phish fan that has formed over the years. And, yes, I realize there is more than one kind of Phish fan.
I, like my fellow Vermonters, appreciate the work that is being done around the state to help get people back on their feet after Tropical Storm Irene. Phish is being incredibly generous by donating their time and talent. The money that is raised from their benefit show on September 14 will go a long way toward helping the state heal. I didn’t intend to minimize their contribution, or those of concertgoers from in and out of state.
Judging from the negative reactions to the blog post, I clearly didn’t achieve what I set out to with the piece: to entertain and inform. As some have already pointed out, this piece was a “phail.” I acknowledge that, and I’m sorry.
Editors’ note: Opinions expressed on our staff blog do not necessarily reflect the views of editors or staff at Seven Days. Many of us are longtime Phish fans, and all of us appreciate what the band, and its fans, are doing for our state.
This article appears in Sep 14-20, 2011.
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Thanks for the apology…Now go home and get your phuckin’ shinebox!!
MEH. weak and poorly written apology.
Holy hell! I just saw your pic. Are you Trey’s brother?
Wow, forcing your writers to apologize for an article making fun of Phish fans? You’ve reached a new low Seven Days….As for anyone who is commenting on this because they heard about the blog post from a Phish message board–if you’re over the age of 17, it might be a good time to re-evaluate your life.
Geez, don’t mess with the Phish Mafia! They got twitter accounts & smart phones and they aren’t afraid to use them.
Well, now, instead of just being a snarky, petty, little brat, you can add LIAR to your list of titles. C’mon. I, for one, doubt that by referencing Phish fans main travel gear as a bong you meant to convey goodwill or shine light on a terrible tragedy. You simply did it to impress your equally lame friends and have a good laugh at a group of people who have a main objective, besides playing music, to help people. You apologized because you got in trouble.You should have said,” I fu***d up. Sorry.” At least that is believable.Fake apology not accepted. What have YOU done to help?? What have your bands done???
Thank you Lauren. I really loved your Rte 100 piece and the blog post just made me…sad. Let’s move on people, to a great show!! And remember non-phish fans – your computer has a mute button. Get the webcast and $20 goes to the cause.
Erin – I couldn’t agree more. I’m SO disappointed that 7 Days didn’t stand behind their writer. SUPER lame!!! People can’t make fun of anything anymore, we’ve gone to PC hell. I thought your blog post was funny Ms. Ober and really, they should pitch in since a big group of them have been noshing on free meals at the Salvation Army, meals which are designed to help feed people who can’t afford food NOT those who cam afford a $75 concert ticket!!!
Lolren.
I'm 36. A college grad. Own my own insurance agency. I'm married. I own a home. I donate to many different charities. I am active in my community through volunteering. I'm a Phish phan of of 16 years and 80 shows. Peace and love to all, including you Lauren, because thats what its all about.