It seems that every organization, collectors' organizations especially, develops a group of self styled "experts" who, either by seniority or accumulated expertise, deem themselves the authority on everything. Heaven help those who disagree!

I joined this hobby a couple of years ago in large part due to the conviviality and information sharing of this board. Where is that now? In the last six months, it seems that anyone who says or takes an action which does not meet the approval of these "gurus" (some of whom I call friend) is attacked and hounded on this board until they are driven into silence. I for one am tired of it.

First it was Rene, for doing, as near as I can see, what a lot of others in this hobby have done, tried to do, or would like to do if they got the chance. What hypocrisy! I'm not saying Rene's actions were ethically correct, I'm just saying "make your point and shut up!".

Then ICG and "The Slabbers" became the big issue. The words of those who disagree with with the tactics used and proposed actions (including censorship and economic boycott) are attacked, but nobody hears the underlying message -- EDUCATE, not DISCRIMINATE!

Now it seems to be James' turn to be subjected to relentless attack. I'm not even sure why, unless it is some suspected association with "The Slabbers". (By the way, isn't that how McCarthism worked?)

So, forming a new Collectors Organization won't work. We would just accumulate our own set of "experts" and it would start all over again. Our choices are to continue to try to make the voice of reason and funseeking return to the Club, or drop out and collect on our own.

It is time for those of you who are also tired of this negativism to make your voices heard.