[Rhodes22-list] the war of the rhodeses

[Arthur H. Czerwonky]

Guys,

Like I said once before, if anyone cares to hear more detail on the 'private and personal issues' that Stan has inappropriately focused on in this public forum, please contact me off-line or on the phone.  Some have done already.  He has gotten something off his chest.  Simply put, there is a "World according to Stan" that is so sadly distorted in this case.  I'd avoid it for yourself.

It is such a waste of your time to fixate on such a trivial matters like these.  Let's get to the key issues.  I suspect Mary Lou made an excellent point of support for a payment of a surcharge, royalty, or commission for products of non-GB origin that we need and purchase for our fleet boats.  If this is to be a sincere gesture to Stan by fleet members,  it should not be limited to products supplied by me or anyone who happens to be a member of our fleet.  When we buy line, SS fixtures, sails, anchors, or any equipment for our boats, this would seem to be similar justification for an override, a 'loyalty' fee or tithe, if you will.  

Consider this :Two years ago I found it necessary to approach Dwyer about replacing my spreader fixtures, distorted after many years of mast stepping.  We used the rear lower shroud for attachment to the crane for lifting the IMF - the GB recommended method as late as the '06 Annapolis show.  I approached Stan three times over as many months, from before that show until before the St Pete show the same year, in order to purchase two fixtures at about $40 per, and never received any response at all - none, nada, zippo.  That seems non-responsive.  Now, having to go to Dwyer, is a skipper whose request has been ignored somehow expected to forward a commission fee to Stan?  Make your own judgement on what makes sense.  

If GB needs to be further underwritten and supported, maybe Stan should consider making interested investors shareholder/partners in GB.  As 'stakeholders' in the R22 fleet, maybe this is not so far fetched for some of us, although not me.  Think about it.  There ought to be some way we can infuse GB without Stan effectively having to seek donations versus legit services.  If GB is in a financial bind, more is needed than a loyalty fee gesture.  This is, no doubt, a sensitive issue for him since it could affect GB ownership.  

I am not aware of any manufacturer (picture any of the sailboat manufacturers, even Catalina or MacGregor) who expects their customers to pay homage to them for after-market sales, maintenance or upgrades on their products which are not contracted by the manufacturer.  Is anyone aware of such an industry obligation?

A comment on my work -  I am making a tiller cover for Dave, no charge, BTW.  I have to charge when I make other items, ie the Cockpit Enclosure.  I have no objection whatever if any client wants to project a 10% add-on for Stan.  I simply cannot establish this 'side account'  within my little enterprise, for tax and precedent issues.  My pledge to you is that you will be using the absolute best product at the best cost, no exception.  If I cannot provide the best value for you I will tell you honestly and decline the opportunity until I can, and I have done this.  I'll respond promptly, by cell usually (I can get to know you and your priorities better), and produce with a commit to delivery and cost, even if I underestimate.  I will treat any work as a priority custom crafted and fitted job, no assembly line mentality.  I will provide more than enough cost advantage to enable to you to send Stan his due, but will not define the cost in such a way that requires you to.  It will be your free choice, friends.  One additional point - I will enjoy making your product, whatever it is, and you will enjoy using it - that's just the rule.  I will do well with canvas, and don't think I will begin producing sailboats...

I will make a strong suggestion: Even though PR happenings, like the #1 poll results, an impressive 'Good Old Boat' writeup in ~ '05, and the 'Sailing' p52 piece are good and free advertising, some form of paid advertising seems long overdue if the GB goal is increased boat orders and boat production.  Many of us found the R22 by sheer chance.  Why put 'the bar' so low on purpose (BTW, with no reference to Rummy)?

Once again, time for an aspirin...

Stan for Vice President, Rose for Ms. America!

Art