The purpose of writing this post was to bring to light the perception a potential new member would have of the club. I understand democracy, 1st admendment rights, personality conflicts, etc, but is this how we want the club to be perceived? If we truly want to promote the club, I think we should all think twice before posting certain "political" posts. Is this board or the board the most appropriate place to manipulate other members or the party we're attacking to get "our" own desired results? In my opinion, the answer is an unresouding "No".

I think one of my first posts was how the group seemed to gel... it appeared to be fun, everyone was providing useful information, etc. This was my perception from reading this board. Subsequent to my intial post, I've read some distasteful comments on Greg's board as well as the board. I actually enjoyed what I initially read and started collecting based on my "perception" of my new peers. I guess my timing was perfect. This is a general post and not meant to attack anyone in specific, but a general observation of how we might be perceived to an "outsider".

I must admit, I've met MANY, MANY great people on this board both through e-mail and in person. Every group will have some naysayers, but ultimately each individual has to determine how "they" want our hobby to be perceived.

I love the hobby, am having a LOT of fun and will continue to expand my collection past the 400+ I've already collected! I will continue to meet great people and make new friends. I look forward to trading with many of you in the future!