Im sure the Heckler has more to say, but I think he's putting he's own foot in mouth. This one guy's (RPT) represents nothing.  I'm sure those who know this guy will talk to him. I dont understand, though why the horrible repairs??? I've seen beginning students in my classes at UNL do better.  What's up with that? It needs to be addressed! Duaine, get off it. You're just chomping at the bit to put the institute down on the whole. Either join up or quit getting free education. Done! I'm tired of people getting free info and not even being an associate.  You said you were, but I don't see you in the directory. Paul <table width=100%> <tr valign=top> <td>From: <td>Ed Foote <a440a@aol.com> <tr valign=top> <td>To: <td>pianotech@ptg.org <tr valign=top> <td>Date: <td>08/31/2011 05:43 PM <tr valign=top> <td>Subject: <td>Re: [pianotech] Is this the work of an RPT?</table> <hr noshade>   On 8/31/11 1:53 PM, Duaine Hechler wrote: > Sorry to say but - Ed - open mouth and insert foot ...... > > At least in our area, there is NO economic advantage. My mentor and RPT > of 30+ years is losing business just like the rest of us non-RPT;s > because of the countries economics and the better issue of persons going > to electronic keyboards. >Now, chomp down on your foot. > Duaine Hmm, interesting.  I could suggest you chomp down on something else, but I won't.        I reiterate;  Quality creates its own market.  The capable and ethical techs I know are busy.  The hacks and charlatans around here are having trouble.   IF you were able to pass the PTG tests,(which are the most basic threshold of expertise I can imagine) you would be enjoying a  higher degree of credibility around here. Instead, you have  a history of castigating the  RPT designation, claiming how it means nothing,etc.  I submit that in your particular case, the lack of it means more.   Ed Foote RPT <a href="http://www.piano-tuners.org/edfoote/index.html" target=_blank>http://www.piano-tuners.org/edfoote/index.html</a>