X-Message-Number: 1481
From: 
Subject: CRYONICS Saul's open letter reposted.
Date: Mon, 21 Dec 92 10:16:30 PST

Open letter to Keith Henson and the other members of the Alcor Board: 

   Keith Henson's "open letter to the board and Saul Kent" is a perfect 
example of why so many Alcor members who have observed Keith in action 
have become convinced that it is inappropriate for him to continue to 
serve on the Alcor Board.  By predicting the likely failure of Steve 
Bridge's Presidency before Steve even takes office, Keith presents a 
scornfully negative opinion of Steve at a time when Steve needs the 
heartfelt support of everyone on the Alcor board.  By appearing to relish 
the prospect of Steve's failure as Alcor's President, Keith forces Steve 
and the rest of the board to question his motives as a member of the 
board.  By threatening Steve's supporters with the wrath of "history" if 
his predicted downfall of Alcor occurs, Keith invites the contempt of 
those who have already lost confidence in his motives. 

  I find the jealousy and arrogance displayed by Keith in his letter 
utterly outrageous.  In 1988, when Carlos assumed the Presidency of 
Alcor, as an untried and unproven leader, I helped him in every way I 
could.  During the next four years, I worked closely with Carlos and the 
Alcor Board to help Alcor grow and prosper.  It was only after I came to 
the conclusion that Carlos is not the right type of leader to guide Alcor 
into the 90's that I took action to oppose his presidency.  My decision 
to oppose Carlos was based on my experience with Carlos over a long 
period of time, along with the opinions of other Alcor members who had 
dealt with Carlos during that period.  It was in no sense an impetuous 
decision, nor was it in any way self serving. 

  In my opinion, Keith's clearcut bias against Steve Bridge, a full 47 
days before Steve has even assumed the office of the Presidency, has 
completely destroyed any value he might have had as a member of the Alcor 
Board.  I think it is obvious that Keith no longer has the objectivity to 
fulfill his role as a member of the board in a responsible manner.  I 
think Keith owes it to Alcor to resign from the board and leave 
policy-making to those who are capable of giving Steve their whole 
hearted support. 

   Keith's technical contributions, his hard work and dedication, and his 
commitment to Alcor's suspension team have been of great benefit to 
Alcor.  His relentless energy and enthusiasm in recruiting new members 
for Alcor has contributed significantly to Alcor's growth and 
development.  I value Keith contributions greatly in both of these highly 
critical areas, and I know that many other Alcor members share my 
appreciation for Keith's many contributions to Alcor.  We all expect 
Keith to continue to make these (and other) contributions to Alcor and 
look forward to working with him in the future. 

(signed) Saul Kent

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