I’d like to thank everyone who has contacted me with words of support regarding the actions the JREF has taken. Some of you have expressed that while previously interested in participating in the JREF‘s efforts, the way they’ve handled things has changed that and you no longer wish to be a part of the work they do.

I’d like to suggest that you think about joining the JREF anyway. The work they do is very important, and the fact that you disagree with the way they’ve handled something really shouldn’t affect that. As a donating member of the JREF (or simply someone purchasing merchandise from them), you will be putting yourself into a position of influence. During any transaction with them you can point out where you feel they’ve gone wrong and increase the likelihood that they pay you any attention. As someone who chooses not to have anything to do with them, you won’t have any influence.

I’m confident that this situation will eventually get straightened out. It seems pretty obvious that since James Randi has been incapacitated due to surgery since before any action was taken, that he was uninvolved in what the JREF has done. It is very likely that the threatening letter sent to me was the result of an overzealous staff member looking out for what he or she thinks is in the best interests of the JREF.

I ask that you at least reserve judgement until I can get a statement from JREF regarding the stance they’re going to take before you write them off completely. I’d really like to stress how important the work the JREF does is, and how much your membership and contribution can benefit us all.

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