Jim Reilly,
You as well as anyone else is entitled to an opinion. I do not have to explain my posts to you or anyone else. I know this is a public forum. I also know my own short-comings and personality faults. To understand why I may seem "abrasive, but also as mean-spirited and petty" in your eyes is because that is the way I am painted to appear.

It is no secret who I am - how I respond - or what I believe, My straight forward opinions, concepts, and way I express myself irritate those who happen to be in the "bulls-eye" of the subject under discussion. Whatever that subject may be. Those who know me personally realize that I hold no grudge nor bad feelings towards anyone once the discussion is over. Others involved in the discussion may not have that ability to seperate their feelings from what is discussed. I know this is a reality but there is nothing I can do about it. It really is not my problem - their feelings belong to them and they don't have to apologize for them anymore than I have to apologize for mine.

If individuals on this board would have seen Archie and I together at the convention, I am sure they would have a different opinion of both of us. We laugh and talk just like everyone else. In fact some might even think we were friends. However, once we start to discuss the club or any of MY suggestions it is like putting two fighting cocks in a ring. I know this - and so does Archie. Sometimes out of our heated discussions comes good things for the club. Sometimes the discussions are a waste of time.

I respect Archie. Anyone else say something I don't like about him, I'll be the first to stand up for him. I also believe Archie respects me. He may not like the way I come on, but after he cools off he thinks about what I said and takes the "good" out of it and makes it seem like it was his idea. I also take from what he said and claim it for myself.

Archie and I have been at it for a number of years. We have different approaches about how things should be handled. Sometimes we can even be very civil to one another. Often we are not! However, let me make this perfectly clear - seems like I heard that somewhere before - Archie, Mel, Bob G., Lueders, and all the rest of my personal copmbustible combatants love this hobby as much as I do. Let some outside threat rear its head and watch us all come together.

I guess what I'm trying to say Jim Reilly is maybe it sounds/reads worst than it is? Maybe Archie and I really don't dislike each other. It might even surprise you to find out that I do like him and always wish him well. Anyway enjoy the day I know Archie and I will. Best, Jim