I know that I have not been around very much over the past couple of months, and for those of you who are not aware of the reasons, here goes:
I have re-located to Tucson, AZ. I did have a laptop computer until about July 1 but then, unfortunately, it got broken and still is not repaired properly -- I hope to have it back soon!!! Anyway, not long after that, I was given another computer, but had many problems with it. I now am able to use it a bit more, but still........
Anyway, I was basically on the road for about 6 weeks, and for the last couple, was unable to access a computer!! Then, as I say, this computer did not work properly. I hope now to be able to start acting as your LadderOp.
I personally am of the opinion that it is a shame the way this ladder has gone downhill over the past few months. I believe that this downhill slide started about a year ago when certain v-2 players deserted for v-1. The rumors that the Zone was dropping scrabble, also did not help. But aside from the players who deserted for v-1, there are also those who have found other sites and have then enticed their buddies to join them on that site.
I agree with Susan912 -- this is only a game. There is no way to tell is a player is using any kind of aid. I personally know of some former players who did NOT use any kind of an aid--as I had played them face to face and saw how they played live games--they just have a very good vocabulary. In fact, just last week in the Scrabble Club here in Tucson, I played someone who played some really unusual words (which would have been challenged here online), but I had been warned that he had an unusual vocabulary, so I knew he was not cheating.
Sorry for rambling on like this -- but it upsets me to see this ladder dying. Give it another chance!!!
jskhackney, LadderOp
Cases Ladder