Hello my transcriber friends - It was my e-mail of the 14th re this page which caused many strong opinions to be expressed on this site. Having been away for two days, and the dust having settled, and having made no response to date, I now exercise my right of reply, even though the matter is now almost past history. My original comment was never intended to be sarcastic, caustic, or anything else of that nature. On a second reading, perhaps it could be taken as somewhat curt. Such was not my intention. It is not my nature or intention to cause any ill-feeling among the transcribers and/or the management at any time.However, each of us is an individual and can respond in different ways at different times. I have been in contact with Allan Raymond in this matter, and no animosity exists between us. Having come into contact with computers well after my retirement, I'm afraid I haven't moved beyond the semi-literate stage. Over the last 2 years, I've been in regular contact with Allan seeking assistance and guidance in transcribing, and it has been promptly given, almost invariably within 24 hours. I raised the matter of the Bouquets' Page following a comment from my computer guru friend, also a family history devotee, who happened to look at that page. He thought it unusual that in view of the obvious excellent organization and management of the project that the last update of this page was 2 years ago, when it could be assumed that there would be a continuous flow of "bouquets" coming in. That caused me to wonder who else may have entertained the same thought, as I did - hence my comment. It has been suggested that I or Derek Lowe should offer to take over Allan's job. Does this mean that whenever a transcriber makes a comment or offers a suggestion re an update or a possible improvement then he/she should offer to take over the job of the person responsible for that segment of the FreeBMD project? We would be having a game of musical chairs! In my case, I haven't the computer knowledge to take over any position of responsibility. Does that bar me from making any suggestions? Like Allan, I am indeed a volunteer, and like Allan, I don't get paid either for my contribution to FreeBMD. But, like Allan, I do give the project a good deal of support, but not in administration. Much effort and commitment are involved in doing over 75,000 transcriptions over 2 1/2 years. Allan's comments of Tuesday the 15th put the position in perspective and are much appreciated as what should have been an end to this matter. However, as I said at the outset, I felt obliged to put my position, having to date been a silent observer of the ebb and flow of comment (or should I say brickbats & bouquets!) Please, let us have no more. Comments have been made, I have replied, whether adequately or not I don't know, but should anyone feel I have been the cause of the trouble, to them I apologise. Back to transcribing, and, although a little early, my Compliments of the Season to all. Evan S