I've not yet posted regarding Mr. EZ's recent departure. The Q3 report this evening certainly does nothing to raise one's spirit and in that vein, I feel the need to chime in. It matters not what I say in defense of EZ or even to disparage him... the hub leaders have made a decision and I will respect it. I will, however, state that in my opinion, the banning of members is very inconsistent . The process is very flawed and unscientific. I don't envy the suits who I am sure are doing their very best to cope with and sift through the bullshit... I'm more than guilty of spreading lots of that around over the years myself, with no harm intended towards anyone - and that brings me to my friend Paul... you know him as EZ.

I know he was warned, and I know he stepped over the line - more than once, twice, hell... twenty times!!!! Paul is no "pumper" as many have claimed and I assure you he is no "basher" either. What he is, is one of the kindest and most generous gentlemen I have ever met. He would literally give you the shirt off his back. He, like the rest of us would like to see this "investment" (obsession/addiction or whatever) payoff in a big way. He does have a good understanding of the situation and he does become very animated and loves to flap his gums about our beloved Crystallex and our fearless leader Fung... yeah, he can tire you out and rub you the wrong way but Paul would not hurt a fly.

I know this place has meant a lot to him... it is our own "community". I know he's a little hurt by having been given the boot even though he tells me he doesn't give a shit about it. I'd say the same thing - you would too. I'm sure he'd probably be harpin' on somebody driving everybody nuts the first day he came back, if that were to occur, but I tell you what... he will be missed.

I feel that Paul will be a lifelong friend of mine long after Crystallex is but a footnote. I value that friendship. I just felt I should say something. Sorry for being so long-winded.