No, Jim, I'm not a lawyer or a debater or a politician. I'm just someone who enjoys the hobby of collecting Nevada casino memorabilia, and I believe that, regardless of intent, that hobby has been harmed by the actions of Mr. Whalen and other un-named persons.

I'm not going to address each point of your last post to me, I don't think either of us is going to change our stand on the issues. However, my "closing arguments to the jury" are...

1. I don't recall saying that anyone should be expelled. The bylaw that I quoted said expulsion or disciplinary action. The "sentencing" portion of the "trial" is where I would consider "intent".

2. Yes, if you deliberately "drilled" the chip you have pictured, I think disciplinary action should be considered. However if, as Counselor Orme suggested, your intention was to destroy the slab and the chip got in the way, well....accidents do happen!

3. I do think "intent" is important. The difference between manslaughter and first degree? The victim is still dead...intent really determines what the crime is called, thus it affects the sentence...right?

How about we consider the "intent" of the bylaws and code of ethics? You say that Mr. Whalen didn't violate them, I maintain that he did. It's a matter of interpretation. The supreme court exists to interpret our constitution. I guess our BOD will be the interpretors of the code of ethics (unless that is your job, as claims officer?) I firmly believe that the primary intent of our code of ethics is to protect the club members and the hobby. The "brass core debacle" has done harm, we don't yet know the complete extent (and maybe never will).

3. Owning, transporting, and dealing in known fake, fantasy, imitation, restored, repaired, and altered chips. I never suggested discplinary action for any of that. I DO suggest disciplinary action for making, creating, or substantially altering fake, fantasy, etc. If they aren't manufactured (repaired, restored, etc.) the rest of it will take care of itself. Yes, there will still be fakes out there, but there are sources revealing what they are. Do your homework.

If new fake, fantasy, etc. are continuously coming on the market, our reference sources won't be able to stay up to date. If that happens, the only way the chipper can protect himself is to not buy. That's bad for the chippers and the hobby.

My final point, before I go to bed, is this: You seem to be a good man, Mr. Reilly. You've spent a lot of time on this case, and certainly know a lot more about it than I do. I will respect, and gracefully accept your decision, even if I don't agree with it. (Who knows, when all the facts are revealed, I might even agree with you... )

I have to get up in about 5 hours, so g'nite Gracie.

Gene, may I borrow the fork?