Chastise Ermanno Scalas?...no more USBA for me.

This is a response from Jim Shovak, the one whom you are all talking about. I felt that I should reply and explain because there are obviously some misconceptions about the email that I sent.

I received an email from a member in Virginia telling me that he received an email from Ermanno Scalas sent to all USBA Members through the use of our Member Directory. The member directory allows members to send emails to other members. None of the members email addresses are given out, but an email can still be sent to them. However, once you reply to an email that you have received, that person will now have your email address, of course. That is the only reason that I warned the members to not reply to Mr. Scalas' emails. It's because he would then obtain their email address and perhaps some members did not realize that he didn't yet have their email address.

Secondly, I had absolutely no way of knowing exactly how many emails had been sent out to the members by Mr. Scalas. So I had no choice but to send out a mass email to all members. I am aware that every member did not receive his email. But at the time, I didn't know who got it and who didn't. I still don't know.

I felt that it was extremely important to respond immediately to Mr. Scalas' email and inform the members of what we have been dealing with. I definitely did NOT wish to start a war or send emails to members in order to include them in that war. I was only trying to protect our members and our organization from one person's rants. I did not start the war. I wanted to end it. That's all.

Mr. Scalas was very nice to me in the beginning as I am sure he has been nice to some of you. As a businessman, I am sure that he tries to treat his customers well. And he should. That's good business. However, I must say that in my dealings with him, I have been very disappointed. But I don't want to talk about that anymore. This shouldn't be personal.

I will not allow individual members to involve other unsuspecting members into personal or political battles. That is what almost destroyed the USBA some years ago when Jerry Karsh was President. I am not blaming Jerry Karsh specifically, but he was also involved in a lot of back and forth battles. Now Mr. Scalas would like Jerry Karsh to be the President again.

So to all, I want to apologize for getting you involved in this stupidity. I didn't start it. But a response was necessary to protect our members who didn't get to hear the other side of the story. This crap should end here. Leave the USBA Members alone. Let's get back to building up 3-cushion and the USBA.

By the way, I assume that the World Cup in April is still on. The Nationals in Vegas in May is DEFINITELY on. That has nothing to do with Mr. Scalas. That was a deal put into place by a good friend of mine and everyone else's, Paul Frankel (professor-q-ball).

By the way, Paul Frankel spent about one year trying hard to get our National Championship to be played at a major pool event in Las Vegas at the Tropicana Hotel. He finally succeeded and we now have one. Mr. Scalas was FURIOUS that we had some nerve holding an event in Las Vegas and not coming to him first. Can you imagine that? Apparently he is in charge of Las Vegas. I didn't realize that. Now you get an idea of what we have to put up with.

I will post his email to USBA Members in my next post.
 
Mr. Scalas' email to all USBA Members. Apparently only SOME members received this:

A LETTER TO THE MEMBERS OF THE USBA:
>
> Dear Fellow Members,
>
> I write this letter to you with the hope that its message will bring
> about a change in the conduct and attitude of our current officers and directors.
> Due to the lack of transparency with regard to their actions it has
> become clear that such change will only come about by making facts
> public that otherwise the membership would not be aware of. We must
> all be responsible for our actions, especially for persons of trust.
> They should not be able to obviate the consequence of their judgments
> and decisions through non disclosure. As members, we are the
> organization and it is time we asked for it to be run like one, for the benefit of the game in general and the members specifically.
>
> For those of you who do not know me, my name is Ermanno Scalas. Out
> of love for the various games of carom billiards (including 5 pin and 9 pin) I
> opened a new room in Las Vegas, Nevada featuring twelve of the finest
> billiard tables I could find and an ambiance conducive to competitive
> play.

> Wanting to promote the game I decided to bring a World Cup back to Vegas.
> For those of you involved in prior such tournaments, you know that
> this is not a small undertaking. It takes a considerable amount of
> time, effort, and above all, a substantial financial commitment. In
> order for the tournament to take place I needed the sanction of the
> USBA. Where you think that this would be a mere formality for an organization dedicated to the promotion of the game they have put up road-blocks and given me
> ultimatums and deadlines to comply with their demands. Though the
> organization would have no financial exposure themselves (as the
> promoter, all financial responsibility would be mine), the president
> insisted that he be a co-signatory on the bank account or the sanction would not be granted.

> Whereas I believe most of the obstacles have now been removed and I
> can move forward in bringing such a tournament to Vegas, the organization seems
> to still be mired in petty politics.
>
> Just as I wanted the finest playing conditions for my room I made
> inquiries as to who could best lead the USBA after the resignation of
> the president. This led me to Jerry Karsh. Mr. Karsh not only did not seek the
> position, he informed me that he would only take it on with the
> unanimous approval of the Board. Such approval did not materialize.
> Upon hearing of their denial (I am not certain a vote even took place)
> I asked Mr. Karsh to provide me with his background so the membership
> can compare his qualifications with the Board's ultimate selection.
> The following are excerpts from his reply to me:
>
> December 16, 2010
>
> Dear Ermanno,
>
> Thank you for your consideration in placing my name in nomination to
> again become president of the USBA. As you know this is not a job
> that I sought and only agreed to the submission based on my love of
> the game and with the thought that I could help the organization move
> forward. Obviously, the Board has thought otherwise. I thank them
> for their consideration and wish them all a happy holiday and the best
> for the new-year.
>
> Pursuant to your request the following is some of my background:
> . Undergraduate degree in Communications and a Master of Science
> Degree in Business Administration.
> . Former Professor at the University of Denver Law School and the
> University
>
> of Denver Business School.
> . Chairman of the Board of Karsh Consulting P.C., a forensic
> accounting firm
>
> of 18 people.
> . Appointed by Denver Mayors and Colorado Governors to serve on
> various community committees.
> . Served on numerous Boards and committees of various private
> organizations.
> . American Registry of Outstanding Professionals as the "2006
> Professional of the Year in Finance."
> . Who's Who "2006 and 2007 Professional of the year in Business
> Valuations and Litigation Support."
> . Was Executive Director of the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association for
> 16 years (built the organization from 75 paid members in 1968 to over
> 2,000 in 1985).
> . Currently the Administrator (and founder) of the Lawyers Public
> Information Foundation, a non-profit organization that for the past 25
> years
>
> holds seminars for Judges and attorneys with the proceeds going to
> battered women shelters.
> . Lectured across the country on various financial issues.
> . Authored several financial treatises.
> . Successfully ran the World Billiard Tournament in Las Vegas in 1987.
> . President of the Billiard Federation of the United States of
> American (forerunner to the USBA).
> . Brought about the merger between the BFUSA with the American
> Billiard Association to form the USBA.
> . Three times president of the USBA.
> . Author of the USBA's current "Constitution."
> . Honored last year by the Union Mondiale de Billards at their 50th
> year celebration in Switzerland.
> . Owner and operator of Shakespeare's Pub & Billiard Room (closed in
> 2007 after 15 years in operation).
>
> Very truly yours,
> Jerome W. Karsh
>
> In reading Mr. Karsh's resume, perhaps the current board (specifically
> those who declined his service) might wish to compare their qualifications
> to his.
>
> In either regard, if the membership believes as I do, it is time for
> the Board to take responsibility for their actions. We, as members,
> deserve to be informed. A monthly newsletter should contain the
> minutes of each and every Board meeting (including their vote by
> name), a budget should be submitted annually to the membership for
> their approval, and above all, a monthly accounting of the financial
> affairs of the organization should be disclosed. It is also my belief
> that membership dues should be used solely for the promotion of the
> game and not be used to subsidize tournament prize funds.
>
> I, more than anything else, want to see billiards advanced in the
> U.S., and with the current state of the organization, I don't see this
> happening.
>
> All members, after you read the above, please respond to me of what
> you are thinking. I look forward to hearing from all of you. I would
> appreciate it for your response - a simple YES or NO will be great. Thank you in
> advance for your help and support in growing the USBA.
>
>
>
> Respectfully,
>
> Ermanno Scalas
> USBA Pin Division Director
> Best Billiards LV, President
 
As you will read, he only told one side of the story. He didn't tell you that he refused to put an agreement into writing. We also needed to protect the USBA Board, officers and members from any financial responsibility or liability. He was not willing to put anything into writing. That's why we "gave him a hard time". At this time, we are hoping that Mr. Scalas will sign our agreement and the World Cup will take place. I believe that he is willing to do that, so hopefully we can all move on and get past this BS.
 
USBA Nationals

billiardshot said:
Please post Mr. Ermanno Scalas email to be fair to all party.

How will this turnoil affect the US National been held in LasVegas????
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In my opinion this will not affect the USBA Nationals, as there is no involvement by mr. Scalas or his room.

The 2011 USBA Nationals will be hosted at the Tropicana Hotel with Paul Frankel as tournament organiazer.

We are really looking forward to it ... tables will be ready soon, and they can't wait to be shipped:)
 
Thank, J. Shovak for posting your commented and Mr. Scalas email.

Please realize
I received an email from a member in Virginia telling me that he received an email from Ermanno Scalas sent to all USBA Members through the use of our Member Directory
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This email didn't come from RatF@@Ker - I'm a nonmember. I only making this statement because I live in Virginia.

I would like to hear Ermanno Scalas input, I believe he also a AZMember.

I see two issues:

1. A USBA member voicing his opinion, on operation of USBA and nomination of Jerry Karsh for considation as a replacement for USBA President Bruce Warner. The RatF@@Ker done this.

2. The second issue is a Promotor and an USBA issue which should stay between them- it strictly a business dealing.


Again , I would like to hear Ermanno Scalas input, I believe he also a AZMember.

The original poster over reacted, as RatF@@Ker sometime does.

Now the commented about A@@h$4e Dieckman is true, but we know DD is really just a P@ssycat at heart.
Bob Watson [Ratf@@Ker] billiardshot

Btw May 2011 be a better and greater Year for 3C in the USA
 
I would like to be the first to say to Jim... You're even a bigger P.O.S. than I thought!!! Now you've insulted (2) of my friends! Oh WOW, what a "scathing" email, that no one received. Whatever transpired between all of you, we will never know [the truth]. BUT, comparing this email to your "over-reacting", "over-emotional" response sent out to ALL members is gibberish, especially the way you threw Mr. Scalas right into the dirt. You sir are PATHETIC! I DEMAND A PRORATED REFUND AND THE IMMEDIATE TERMINATION OF MY MEMBERSHIP... I am now embarrased to be a USBA member based upon our Leadership at hand. **** It was 9 years ago, on a Father's Day Morning, that I walked into Shakespeares only to see Jerry Karsh and Bob Byrne. They both welcomed me with open arms, and treated me like a King for the length of time that I had the honor of knowing Jerry. He comp'd me everytime. One of the most memorable friendships that I am eternally grateful for.**** Jim, you should be ashamed on how you have conducted this matter. This is NOT how leaders act (or react). I hope everyone can see that as well. You are acting just like Obama...If someone disagrees with your policies, you immediately Chastise them and slander their character. Damn Liberal...
 
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3-Cushion King: apparently you do not wish to listen to reason. You have already made up your mind ahead of time and that is it. You do not know me and if you did, you would think differently. You certainly wouldn't accuse me of being a liberal, I am far from it. You are defending someone that you like but are unwilling to admit when they are wrong. That is closed-mindedness.

I even get along with Billiardshot, even though he is constantly saying a bunch of crap. He knows who I am and we have spoken together on the phone more than once.

I did not insult Mr. Karsh, I spoke the facts. He was involved in back and forth emailing and criticizing, etc. If I state a fact and that is taken as an insult, then I don't know what to say. If people are insulted when they hear the truth, then there's nothing that can be done for those people.

Your membership is terminated. By the way, who are you?
 
jimshovak said:
3-Cushion King: apparently you do not wish to listen to reason. You have already made up your mind ahead of time and that is it. You do not know me and if you did, you would think differently.
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You have clearly shown your true colors, no explanations are necessary. Now by re-directing the spotlight on me, you will try to look like the good guy. Just re-read your slanderous email you sent to us, while looking in the mirror. I agree with ZenSteve...Why let this ruin it for me when there are so many good folks out there? I have been blessed to meet such folks like Steve, etc... But when it comes to being a part of an organization that disregards ethics, I would prefer to represent myself. Good luck to you all in your future endeavors. Respectfully, Barry
 
3CushionKing said:
.... Just re-read your slanderous email you sent to us, while looking in the mirror. .... Barry
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In your first post you called one person a fraud who should be arrested for forgery (full disclosure - a friend of mine) and another person the biggest A-hole who ever walked the planet, not to mention what you've said about Jim Shovak and the USBA board. I suggest you look in the mirror yourself.
 
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maldito said:
Can you please explain the circumstances for this remark ,clarify etc.
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I'd be happy to. A couple of years ago I purchased a Schuler from him. A "Schuler" copy that is. I picked up my cue at his house, little did I know he made my cue in his garage. He completely mis-represented himself when selling me "HIS" product. I asked him for an original, paid $800 for his copy. He said he was refinishing my cue, BUT he was actually "finishing" it. A replica, signed by him. After a few emails, he would not refund my money. He did trade me for a SLC, which I immediately traded for an old Longoni. I was so sour over the deal that I didn't care about the monetary loss, I just didn't want anything to remind me of him any longer.
 
3CushionKing - If you want an original Schuler, you could contact http://www.theschulercue.com/. He seems to have bought all the original Schulers that weren't nailed down. A very nice selection - not cheap, but perhaps he will bargain with you. I have no affiliation with him - never met the guy - but I believe he is an instructor who was friends with Ray.
 
OK, I'm glad that's over. For a moment there I thought that two guys who don't belong to the USBA and a self promoting, weaselly room owner were suggesting that Jim Shovak step down and be replaced by Jerry Karsh!.............the very nut bag from whom Shovak, Charlie Brown, Jewett et al rescued it.

I guess Jerry left that off his resume along with the fact that he effectively killed tournament 3-c in the US during his tenure to spite Sang Lee thereby pissing away the $1000 contributions that several of us each made to seed the tournaments.

This is why I've suggested before that room owners should not be officers of the USBA. It is a conflict of interest.

And as for Karsh, he's a chronic disease.........don't be a carrier.
 
Hey Barry,

I had to laugh about you calling Jim a liberal. Trust me on this. Jim is a conservative with a libertarian bent. I have had many discussions with Jim about politics. We don't agree on most things political. But both have fun debating each other. And we respect one another.

I on the other hand am a pinko socialist-leaning treehugging vegetarian-eating Obama-loving peace marching agnostic (and here is my saving grace) 3C player. I have anarchist, conservative, libertarian, and liberal friends. If they play 3C, they're good with me.

Life is too important to take seriously.
 
To end this on a Humor side:

M XMAS.jpg
 
I think the important lesson here is that we should all remain professional and leave personal feelings and emotions out of it (as hard as I know that is... we are human...). This is especially important when involved with an organization that represents hundreds of people and is the face of Carom Billiards in the USA. Because of all the different people involved, it is absolutely impossible for everybody to always be on the same page and have the same beliefs. The bottom line here is we need to keep doing what we can to promote Billiards in the US and set our personal crap aside. I am hopeful of a future with people listening to others input regardless of it's level of conformity to established ideals.



Nan-in, a Japanese master during the Meiji era (1868-1912), received a university professor who came to inquire about Zen. Nan-in served tea. He poured his visitor’s cup full, and then kept on pouring. The professor watched the overflow until he no longer could restrain himself. “It is overfull. No more will go in!”

“Like this cup,” Nan-in said, “you are full of your own opinions and speculations. How can I show you Zen unless you first empty your cup?”

Source: Zen Flesh, Zen Bones
 
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