The reality of life in America is that we have become a society of 'armchair quarterbacks' and critics. So many people, i notice, love to lament about the moral, ethical and spiritual quagmire we have found ourselves entangled in. With righteous indignation we love to cry "foul!" but so often will never take the time or effort to correct the wrong. If I had to hazard a guess, I would say that 400 out of 2600 members is a statistically accurate representation of how our society works.
I hope and pray that the 400 members who are on "The List" will be role models to the younger generation. It won't be by a war of words that this battle is won. It will be won by example and truth. It has always been true that the few make the WHOLE thing work...whether in our Country, our hometowns, our work and yes, our clubs. Those of us who are 'novices' in the hobby will certainly look towards the leadership of the few who make this club run. The facts are out there, gentlemen, and the truth of what encapsulation will do to our hobby is evident. Let's be examples to the next generation of chippers and not give in to the 'war of words' the other side would love to pull us in to.
Call it a "clique", call it peer pressure or whatever you want. The leaders in this hobby... and I don't necessarily mean those in an appointed position, need to lead the way and make it desirable for those who want to be a part of something exciting and fun.