Because I believe in full disclosure, let me state up front that I have a set of the Pai Gow chips. I acquired them some time ago, evidently from someone who got them from one of the dealers that got some. I too find them remarkable in their appearance and other than their lineage, I see them as being legitimate, lawfull gaming checks.

I believe they were submitted to Gaming for approval. They were approved by Gaming. They were ordered by and manufactured for a licensed gaming establishment and were delivered to that casino. To my knowledge there is no "redemption notice" posted for them, and if returned to the casino they can be cashed in. In short, to my knowledge, they are live gaming checks.

At issue here is that there is a 'control' being exercised over the supply that smacks of deceit, unethical behavior and perhaps other dastardly goings on. However, the same (or very similar conditions) can be said about other checks. King of Black checks come to mind, as do quite a few Hard Rock checks. In principle I do not subscribe to this type of practice.

However, the act has been done, the chips exist, and they are legitimate and therefore collectible. At this point we are in a dilemma. Because of the legitimacy we do not advocate destruction, nor would we be able to impose it. Because of the apparent greed of the controller, we do not want to give him monetary satisfaction. However, the checks that have already been placed with some of the dealers (or even collectors, like my set) don't seem to be as tainted as those under Mark Karoll's control. Again I state, at this point we are in a dilemma.

Now, my four bits on this issue also includes speaking out about Mr. Karoll and his behavior here on the BBS.

In short, I find it reprehensible!

For those who have signed the Pledge (which does not include me), Mr. Karoll feels that it is acceptable to try and bribe each of you into violating the terms of your oath! While he does not have to agree with the Pledge, I find it unacceptable that he should act out against it through bribery! And in my book, a willingness to bribe speaks very loudly about ones ethical behavior and character. And it is that same ethical behavior that he professes will protect those who bid on his Private Auctions. (Trust me, only you and I will know you bid.)

It is my sense (opinion) that greed has gotten the better of Mr. Karoll and it is that greed that directs much of his behavior and ethical choices.

As a potential solution, I hereby make this offer to Mr. Karoll.

1. Provide a public pronouncement of how many Pai Gow chips you have.

2. Donate the entire batch (save for one set for you personal collection) to a CCGTCC member, who is also not on The List (I exclude myself) or to the CCGTCC (in that instance it would be tax deductible) for subsequent dissemination into the collector community in a manner selected by the receiver. In the case of an individual, he/she may keep a single set, but cannot realize a profit from the subsequent distribution. In the case of the Club, the Club can keep a single set, and can disseminate the checks as a fund-raiser, if so desired by the Officers.

3. Retract your offers that are attempts at bribery.

Now, having said all that, you are on your own with respect to the auction of a slabbed check. However, I respectfully request that you terminate the auction, and re-list the check without the slab.

Respectfully,

Jim Follis
LM-3872-53
CCGTCC, Inc.