[Yoda]

Pardon the interruption, but I've added substantially to my Post #216 and wish to reprint it here. The edited portions are highlighted in red.

Our forums exist so we may learn from each other and enjoy being together. Our culture values and promotes genuine human interaction. To that end, we encourage novel ideas, dissenting views, comments, questions, creative reactions, stories, dissertations and all other genuine contributions. Our goal is lively, informative, civil discussions and a camaraderie among those involved.

We understand that most of our members visit other websites and often find interesting topics. We are happy to discuss those subjects and offer two options. First, when the material is relevant to an existing thread, you are welcome to include it in your posts. However, when you draw attention to a subject not otherwise 'on the table', courtesy dictates that you present it adequately (no presumed understanding), then stay around and be prepared to discuss it.

Alternatively, you may open a new thread dedicated to that particular topic. However, many of our readers will not have visited that site, and those that have may not have seen a particular thread. Therefore, you must present the fundamentals in your opening post so we may understand your concept. Only then can we intelligently exchange views.

If either of these alternatives is "too much work", we offer a third: don't bring the material into your post. We don't like pot-stirring, whether done purely for the delight of the stirrer or to promote an agenda. Nor do we like those who pop in with an occasional "got'cha!" (often posed as a question) or "holier than thou" remark (usually followed by a quick retreat, leaving nothing of substance).

These people disrespect us and rob themselves of a terrific learning experience. To learn, you must engage. You must enter the arena, take risks, and earn your spurs. But this breed does not engage -- it hits and runs. It demands much but offers little.

We will not tolerate such behavior. We are earnest individuals seeking to learn from each other and have fun doing it. People matter here and so do their opinions.

If you've got something to say, say it. Don't wimp out. We want to hear it. If we don't agree, we'll offer our own view -- with civility.

We respect others and demand respect in return.

We will reprimand, suspend, and even expel those who do not meet these standards.

Thank you.

Please continue!