From: Martin Danerud PARTILLE MAIL TELIA COM> Date: 14 oct 1996 Subject: The rules of the e-mail shogi ladder Dear shogi players, Concerning the very interesting discussion that has started on Shogi-L about the e-mail shogi ladder, I have some comments: I live in Sweden, where we are only a few, albeit a growing number of, shogi players. The e-mail shogi ladder is very important to isolated islands of shogi players all over the world. Sportsmanship and fair play is always important in organized game activities. Thus, I agree with Randall J. Andrews that inactive players must be removed from the ladder after a proper number of attention calls from the ladder administrator. At the same time it must be remembered that the games of the ladder should be played in a friendly atmosphere, so that beginners always feel welcome. Regarding the structure of the ladder, I also agree with Mr Andrew=B4s proposal. The number of rungs of the ladder should be fixed. I also think that the ladder should simply be the ladder. Do not destroy it with handicaps, and to much of shogi grades. Remember that also a weaker player can play a proper game spending up to five days per move, and given the possibility of home analysis, not to mention how much he can learn from these games. Sincerely yours, Dr Martin Danerud