>Listen Gary, we have a chance here to see something productive done.

No we don't. Kevin will put up every obstacle that he can to avoid Jeff's challenge - plain and simple.

>I am not a "mate" of Kevin's.

You sure act like you are when you don't even pass comment on the aspects of his counter-challenge that are clearly highly dubious.

>I think that comments like "put up or shut up" is detrimental to everyone involved.

Its just an expression and you appear to be the only person who has taken umbrage. Not even Kevin has commented on this expression. You are clearly way too sensitive.