It is always a good thing IMO, and shared by most everyone, again IMO, to see additions to this forum. The more input we can get, the more exchange of ideas, makes for a better discussion.

I'm not sure if it's a good thing or a bad thing, that "antennas go up" and the "radar see's blips" when a new name appears? There certainly have been a few who have joined to cause trouble, and were escorted to the back door, and they are then "reborn" and do the same, so EDIG's "watch dogs" are just protecting their mutual property.

When I joined, and had never even lurked before doing so, and I remember being questioned by many, most of which I recall to be HL's, what my motivation or agenda was to offer comments. Not knowing any of the personalities I'll call it, was uncomfortable at the begining. I mention this on behalf of INSINCE1999 as an example, seeing how his/her (?) greeting played out, and it's great to see that has been resolved.

For me and others, who question a new poster, and having been through that "process" myself, the bottom line is, this board has it's set of standards, aside from the Agora rules IMO, to make sure it does not deteriorate like other boards have, which caused those who are here to leave those boards.

There are many members who have stated they just lurk, because "this can be a tough crowd." I ask, is that the image we want to portray? Are we actually "scaring" people from posting? I sure hope not, as that is not anyone's intent, and that's not my opinion, that is a fact.

Not to put words in anyone's mouth, but I don't view the deleting or flagging of posts, nor the "boot camp" the senior members to include HL's ask of a "newbie" by posing questions, as a power or ego trip. It is simply an attempt to keep this board what it was meant to be.

So, come one, come all, we'd like to hear what you have to say, but you'll be asked to play nice, as that's just the way it is, and that's a good thing IMO.

Later, DISCHINO.