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Originally Posted by Goofus31
I'm not writing this as tacit support for the PPA. I think that there is a time and place for critiquing the PPA or any other organization that has operated in DC on behalf of the players (are there any others?) -- [b]i just don't think now is the most effective time. We've had four years to ask these questions and raise these concerns.[/b/]
Yeah well, I've heard that one before. I raised my concerns about Al D'amato immediately and was told to **** off or start my own advocacy group (actually perfectly fitting for a group run by Al D'amato). Honestly, why on earth would I even need to raise concerns about Al D'amato? It is not as if his career or reputation is a secret. Would I need to raise concerns if the PPA elected Bernie Madoff as their treasurer tomorrow?
Another concern was the ****storm player reaction in December to the 18 month blackout period. Specifically, the way the PPA let that information come out. In 2+2 threads. By regular posters reading the legislation. Conspiracy theorists delight. That was pure sloppy communication--how could you be surprised that players would react negatively to finding out play would be prohibited for 18 months? "Go back and read the threads" ain't no kind of answer. Many players had the impression that these were details that they needn't be concerned about until after the legislation had passed. Org/membership wise, that's considered a cluster****. I <3 2+2 as much as the next guy, but it ain't the right format for beaking somewhat complex bad news.
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In additions, such organizations can only go as far their funding will take them -- the player support for the PPA has been paltry as evidenced by the relatively few paid memberships ($49k annually).
I take your (and several others) point about the PPA operating with limited funds, and about their successes being impressive against the backdrop of $50,000 in membership fees. In fact, I think what they've been able to accomplish is doubly impressive considering the leper of a frontman they are sending out there. Without that leper, I think they are getting further and doing more. So why are they crippling themselves? If the PPA is thinking Al will somehow arrange backroom deals the joke's on them and the sites--Al cannot make deals because he has no influence because everyone else in Washington DC and New York has already learned to never believe anything he says.
One other thing; I am never giving any money to a group lead by Al D'amato. Possibly I am the only player who feels that way. But replace "money" with "time of day" and I think you have the attitude of way too many people we need to have an audience with in DC. Is that an overall unwise move on my part given the good works that the PPA has done? Probably--the man has that effect on people.
I'd feel better about sending SKALLAGRIM to Washington, even holding a freaking live skunk ffs.