Mark,

I don't know if we ever met outside this BB, like at the convention (if we did I was the big guy on the scooter), but I feel a need to respond to your post.

It saddens me that a person feels endangered or threatened by the actions of others. If a person acts in a responsible manner with respect for others, that usually is enough, unfortunatley not always.

I was involved in the Angela thread at the beginning, but presume it continued on into the evening, after I went home. I will probably check. However it is reasonable to say that dishonest behavior (like shills) are a bad thing.

A number of people I respect (like Archie) took the reasonable position, it is better to bid comfortable than be stressed over the junk that may otherwise ffect their bids.

I take the position that when dishonesty (or criminality) are present, ignoring them legitinmize the behavior, and more people are hurt. I confess that my professional views come into play here.

I believe this is a reasonable topic to be discussed, and when I left last night, the topic was being reasonably discussed. THe one "insult" made was unintentional, and apologized for immediately.

If people come into the hobby and find scoundrels, they will leave, so yes we should challenge those that act in a harmful manner toward the hooby. That doesn't mean that we need to get our drawers in a bunch every time we "think" something was screwy.

I enjoy the hobby, and will never (unless I win a lottery) be a big time buyer. Doug Saito whom I made a big trade (for me) with insisted that I use the opportunity to upgrade my collection, and with the help of Ross Poppel got some nice chips, but even these are no where near the major chips that go for hundreds and thousands.

Tyrus responded that he never spent more than $250 on a chip, and had great fun on a chipping hunt with friends. I share that view. I like to see the bigger and better, but I don't really want to have a safe deposit box for them. I get a kick out of planning a military campaign on casinos that have chips I want.

I have been very fortunate to befriend several people in the club who I socialize with(like David anbd Tyrus who have also responded, and viva la splashbar) as well as older members who tell good stories, and give good advice.

It is not my place to tell you what to do, but I regret the decision if it is because of the actions of persons not related to you.

I wish you the best, heck I may even email you my current wish list on the off chance I make a really sweet deal .

Peace