[Rhodes22-list] Open letter to "da list"

[Michael D. Weisner]

To the Rhodie list,

My reason for joining "da list" and staying on for nearly two years has been that the list generates interesting conversations about life (sailing, political, book reviews, etc.) by a great diversity of people whose only common thread is that they have been touched by the Rhodes 22 sailboat.  Some are owners, some have owned and some are looking to acquire their first Rhodes 22.  Interestingly, there is no requirement that members have any association with sailing.

Some of the "sailing only" types have attempted to rid the list of discussions not pertaining to sailing.  While quoting the list charter clearly shows that most all topics are acceptable and breathes life into the list, I can understand why some would like to simply talk about sailing.  For those, I renew the request that we change the subject line appropriately so that filters can remove unwanted discussions.  If we want folks like BigAl to participate,and I do, we must be more diligent about the subject line modifiers.  I appreciate all of the contributions and do not want to send anyone to another list.  On the other hand, I do not wish to be told to "Stay off our mailing list place" either (unless maybe by MJM.)

Finally, some discussions of late have gone well beyond the point of a "gentlemanly discussion" or even providing information (yes, unfortunately, I participated in at least one.)  I find that the level of frustration and personal abuse has increased dramatically for several members recently.  I think that it is great to have a lively discussion about sailing or politics (factual or otherwise) but name calling never works.  I would ask that the personal attacks be limited since they do nothing except to inflame and inflict injury.  It seems, from some of the comments, that it has gotten so bad that MJM needed to step in.

Since I joined the list, I have met several Rhodies, participated in restoration of, launch of or just assisted with their R22's and I am certain that many other members have as well. It has been rewarding and just plain fun.  I think that it's great that plans for Rhodie parties are made and look forward to meeting and sailing with many of you.  The last thing that any Rhodie could possibly want would be to alienate a list member through bullying.  It just doesn't make sense to me.

THINK about what you are saying and WHY before you hit the send button and please keep the subject line accurate for the benefit of those who want to limit their reading material.

Mike
s/v Shanghai'd Summer ('81)
Nissequogue River, NY