Attention all members...

[Ann Andriani]

I have noticed over the past couple of days that discussions have gone down rather dark paths and it's rather disturbing to me.

This board is here so that anyone can ask just about any question they want to without being made to feel stupid, or shameful or bad about what they're asking or bad about who they are. When you all signed up for this site, it was requested that you read the rules before participating. Most of you know they are very strictly enforced...

In the past few days, I've seen several rules broken by several members. So I'm posting them here AGAIN for everyone to refamiliarize themselves with. The members that I allow to post here and participate have got to show some tolerance for others' opinions, otherwise you will NO LONGER remain a member. The goal of this site is not to have a board with a million members posting constantly. The goal is to have a board that contains real information whether there's 2 people posting or 2,000. People should be able to get answers here, not bullshit...and I want them to feel good about doing it. So here are the following rules I'd like to highlight...

4) Please re-read your responses before you post them. Try to be very clear and concise with your thoughts. Remember, we can not see any facial expressions or read any body language, so there's a good chance that your post may be misunderstood. Basically, say exactly what you mean and mean exactly what you say.

5) We have people participating from all over the world on this board, coming from all different backgrounds and cultures, so please be understanding of a wide range of thoughts and opinions. You can absolutely debate the issues here, but do not crucify a person for his/her beliefs or opinions. They are solely those of that particular person.

6) Do not use any derogatory or inflammable language toward anyone on this board. Just because you don't see eye to eye, doesn't mean that you resort to name calling, cussing at one another or showing utter disrespect towards that person in your response. None here is perfect, we all make mistakes and do stupid things in life, so it is disrespectful and unfair to judge another members' actions. It will NOT be tolerated.

12) Please speak to people a little in your posts, don't just respond to someone by posting a whole mess of links. We're here to talk to each other, many times that looks like your blowing someone off.

I'm not saying that you all can't debate the issues, but there has to be a way to do it within reason, without getting so offended and upset. I know that this topic doesn't apply to everyone...believe me, I'm aware of what's been going on and I've contacted the folks who needed to be dealt with. I am also very aware that some folks have made nice/nice which I'm very overjoyed to see and I'd like to see that kind of thing continue. Let's keep this board helpful and postive like its been for the past few years.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Ann Andriani