Not sure about the following line:
protected final static
String db_url = "jdbc:mysql://www.location.com/subfolder";
Typically, where you have specified
subfolder, that should the name of the Database you are trying to connect to. Also, most admins won't allow access to a Database via a URL (www.location.com). I noticed also that you were using an obscure MySQL port which is typically 3306. So I would need some more information from you.
First and foremost, I need error messages. What Exceptions do you get when you try and connect.
Second, if you could explain why you are using a non-standard port and host address, that would be great.