Over on TheChipBoard (a non- sponsored Message Board) a brief discussion arose several days ago that I wanted to comment about, but being that the subject is definately "Club-related" I thought it best to post here on the Club's Message Board.

At issue was the fact that non- individuals could file a Claim (complaint) against a bone fide member of the , for a perceived violation of the Club's Code of Ethics.

I will state from the onset that I fully agree with and completely endorse this past and present position of the Club, which I believe has been set by past Club Administratio(s) as opposed to being a tenant of the Club's Constitution or By Laws. Moreover, I would hope and strongly suggest that this perspective NOT be altered.

I say this and hold this position for the following reasons.

If we, as individuals, let alone being part of a Club and a Club that has an Ethics position, are to actually be ethical in our dealings (as so stipulated in the Club's Code of Ethics) then the application of those ethics should be universal to anyone. To say that our ethical behavior only applies to other Club members, gives the Club the appearance of having a double-standard, which can only tarnish what others see in us.

We are all just human and sometimes make mistakes. Moreover, not everyone is on an even keel when it comes to recognizing and acting in an ethical manner. Sometimes, a mistake (or a valid ethical course of action) is not really recognized as such and it may require the un-biased visability of an Ombudsman (or Claims Director) or, as has happened in the past, the greater viewership of the Board (BoD) being brought in for a determination. In such an instances should the offending Club Member not be brought before the Board for some degree of action just because the person who was treated un-ethically was not a Club member?

It seems to me that to operate in such a manner, is, in itself, an unethical behavior and I am gratefull that we, as a Club do not act in that manner.

If you have a contrarian view, I would like to see it, but please, provide an explanation as to why. Afterall, I could be mistaken and I am willing to listen to reason.

Respectfully,

Jim Follis
LM 3872-53