[Dick Linn]

Ahh, Dan, you bring up a number of sticky points. When it comes to student effort and mentor behavior, I have mixed opinions. Being a mentor, I have sometimes see an almost total lack of concern on the part of the student members. I have also seen mentors behaving like B-heads. So it goes both ways. This is natural, unfortunately. I suppose I am am infected with this on occasion. Ask my sons.

All I have to say is, "If you are a mentor, back off and lead by example. Ask yourself, "Why would anyone want to be like me?" Then be honest. These young people are capable. If you are a student team member, ask yourself "What did I learn or do to help the team out, today?". Are you really doing what you are capable of? These are pretty simple questions. They sometimes have rather complicated answers, unfortunately.

BTW, expulsion doesn't work because the more reasonable people usually beg off before the crazies do. It's just the nature of the beast. Don't fret. Just hang in there and learn. We are here for you.