... hey man ... where have you been .... how you doin' ???
t.

Part of the prediction crowd

Hi Tony, yeah, Zuki's about right. I still keep in touch with some of the good people on this board like Diki and Capt. Russ. In fact, meeting with Russ is very much in my (our) future plans. Sadly, and perhaps because of the age group, this board seems more suited to certain types of members, say those of the Royal Amphibian persuasion, than to me. I have seen some of the more noxious comments (racial/political) go unchallenged by either the moderator or even members, and in fact, even shown signs of support.

I'm not a big believer in big exits, complete with lavish explanations and great fanfare. I say, if you decide to leave, then just leave.

BTW, I think Bill (semi-live) is on to something, though. If you lose all of your interesting (read quirky) personalities, the board will surely die a slow death from acute boredom. On a personal note, I have never minded the 'pissing contests' or the friendly teasing; that's just 'guys being guys'. However, only God knows how much I hate bigots.

When you take your road trip south, if you pass through or near Atlanta, plan on dropping by. You are definitely one of the people I know I would enjoy meeting. Think about it, jazz, golf, bad knees; we've got a lot in common. Tony, you can get my email from Diki or Russ. Take care.

chas

Howdy, Chas...glad to see you're okay...I was wondering what you got up to.

Ian

chas ... I am sorry you have to have the concerns that you do, but I wish you would still drop in once in a while ... you are missed ...
Our next road trip doesn't bring us close enough to Atlanta, but I would also like to meet you some day ... and get to hear you PLAY !!! ...

t.

Well said Chas. Yes there are some issues with racism on this forum.., and I agree with what you said on how it's either handled, ignored, or even supported. Hell.., I got called a liar just for not giving up the names of people I've had some problems with.... I've delt with some obvious ignorance just based on music choice at times.

I've left and come back.., but havne't been participating too much lately. Becoming more of a lurker myself. I still talk to quite a few in private emails though.

I am afraid that, if you leave because of the yahoos, they win (it's their strategery ). Better to show them up for the bigots they are. The light of exposure is the one thing they try to avoid...

There may not be anywhere NEAR the support for their views as you fear, simply other people doing exactly what you are... ignoring it, or going away out of distaste.

Surely decades of experience has taught you that bigotry doesn't stop if you leave the room? Only if you squarely face the bigot and show him for the fool he is...

Chas, I understand. You are missed here. Glad we will keep in contact privately. You took the high road, and that is to be admired. More people than you know would appreciate it if you decide to contribute again. The musical knowledge, humor, commitment to your beliefs and downright intelligence is much appreciated.

Talk to you soon.


Your friend,


Russ

Amen to that, Russ...