<html> <body> Dear list, Kendall & Karen - It may be time to step back, before people feel compelled to cancel their vacations, just to stay tuned to this.  The thread has already split, under the same subject.  - maligning and defending Pianotech - the mission of the PTG and its process - the relationship between PTG & non-PTG world - Kendall's specific history - Kendall's contribution - other Chris suggested - presumably that's all he can do - that this discussion is more appropriately had on ptg-l, with which I agree...except for a few things.  First, in theory, Kendall can't participate, as a non-ex-member, though Karen, I believe could.  Perhaps a waiver could be granted.  Second, I'm not sure that even ptg-l is an appropriate venue, for a few reasons, but, given that less than a full week ago, Kendall simply asked a question, and in that time has managed to generate this much turmoil  means either that, to misquote Chris, 'we know how dangerous he is', or else we should recognize the potential of his contribution (to the general discussion) and allow him the 'guest' status he requested.  A place should be found for the on going consideration of the issues that have been raised, but if his participation on this list is to be predicated upon his active membership in PTG, I suspect someone is going to have to comb through Phil's numbers : CAUT - 377 Pianotech - 876 and begin pressing them to join as well.  Maybe Phil? I'm not saying Kendall is correct in his position.  I just don't think it's simple.  If it were, the organization wouldn't still be wrestling with these issues after this many years.  Meanwhile, he should be treated the same as anyone else on these lists...subjected to the same abuse as anyone else, criticized for his writing style and overuse of emoticons, same as anyone else. Ed's suggestions, while not particularly glamorous, are probably the most sensible way to deal with Kendall's specific issue, but I can't help thinking that for Kendall, or others with similar experiences, to overcome a history of ill-feelings to become part of the organization would be akin to, after years of casting aspersion on the skills (and more) of the average New Jersey driver, me moving there and having to display NJ plates on my car.  I would be becoming the very daemon I created.  Personally, I think Kendall would have the easier challenge.  I'm not sure I'm ready for what comes next. Fondly - David Skolnik Hastings on Hudson, NY Flame suit on back-order </body> </html>