Hi Folks, I really don't like to interfere with free flowing dialog on this message board. However, two recent and separate issues force me to reiterate one of the most important policies of this message board. It is UNACCEPTABLE for anyone to post a message that is derogatory, flames, inflames, abusive or otherwise attacks or demeans another subscriber. Having moderated boards, lists, and hosted chat forums for about 20 years, from early BBS's to AOL, and I have seen how quickly a resource deteriorates when personal attacks are left unchecked by the administrator. I have a low tolerance for such attacks. So I must step in here and reiterate one of the most important policies of this message board. Q. How should you deal with a post that you find offensive, or you don't think appropriate? A. Don't respond to the mailing list with a derogatory critique or an attack on the originator. Instead, direct your concerns to the list administrator at nycattar@rochester.rr.com. Q. How will I deal with inappropriate posts? A. You can't un-ring a bell. I can't go out an retrieve an inappropriate mailing from everyone's inbox. 1. Most inappropriate posts are inappropriate simply because the poster didn't understand the theme of this mailing list. These people just get a gentle reminder. Almost always that fixes the problem. 2. Where a post is inappropriate because it is directed at another subscriber, a notice is sent that I will monitor future posts from that individual before they get to the list. Repeat offenders will be unsubscribed. 3. Foul, abusive or hate language will get the poster unceremoniously and immediately unsubscribed, I have zero tolerance for that. Just to make sure that we all understand how this applies to two recent events. 1. If you belong to a genealogical group, and want to post a notice of a meeting, or anything else of genelogical interest, you are more than WELCOME to do so, EVEN IF your genealogical group is focused on some ethnicity or RELIGON. 2. If you are posting information of a genealogical nature, and want to sign your name as a professional genealogist, amateur genealogist, or The King of Siam, not a problem as long as the INFORMATION you are providing is useful and appropriate to this list I don't have an objection. If members of the list object, then they should email me, and if the objections rise to a significant level, I will reconsider my position. Ok, everyone, back to genealogy, y'all have a good day now. Dick Allen List Administrator NYCATTAR-L