Crusty,

I have just returned from a deserved week out in Asia diving the
Philippine reefs and islands (between a few torrential rains) and have
sent an email to Bob on this matter. I will be sending you my check for
what I would believe would be a clear 'charity' based on Bob's
abstanance from his 'normal' mode for 90 days. I do hope that this has
some benefit tot he group, at least for the 90 days.

Bob, BTW, found this site today (didn't look for it- it was presented to
me)- http://www.winternet.com/~mikelr/flame41.html

Now, Crusty, I don't mind if you take off with my portion of this... :)


Regards
Ken

Crusty Russ wrote:
>
> Dear Friends,
>
> I choose not to get involved in pointless bickering, bear (Feeesh)
> baiting, and the splitting of hairs over points more related to personal
> attack than scuba.  My feeling about this instance is no different,
> concerning a recent heated exchange between Ken Smith and Bob Ling.
> However, what is different is the fact that challenges in the form of a
> wager and counter wager were exchanged and accepted between Ken and
> Bob.  Check the archives back to about 6/25/2001 and search for posts
> made by both of them.
>
> Last Wednesday, I received a check from Bob Ling in the amount of
> $20,000, which, at his insistence, I deposited on Friday.  I confirmed,
> to my disappointment, that this was not a gift to me, but instead is to
> cover his portion of the wager between him and Ken.  :-)  As of this
> morning, I have received no communication from Ken nor the $2,500 he
> agreed to stake against Bob's $20Gs.  I assume that both parties are
> serious...Bob certainly is.
>
> I usually try to stay out of these squabbles and don't care enough about
> the original sentiments that precipitated this wager to even comment.
> However, since I've been cast in this role and have reluctantly
> accepted, I'll hold the bets and stand ready to punch anyone in the beak
> who doesn't play fair.  As far as judging a 'winner', I'll leave that
> completely to Ken and Bob to agree upon, as I suggest you all do.
>
> I apologize in advance to all for any part I may be playing in
> furthering the squabble between these two, but perhaps this will bring
> it to a close...an 'obese possibility' (fat chance).  In any case, I
> have decided not to leave the country with Bob's money until I am at
> least able to add Ken's portion of the wager to it.  :-)
>
> Best regards,
> Russ