From: analda{at}nospam.hiwaay.net (Analda Anglin)

>Were the ng guidelines/FAQ always here?

The FAQ and its guidelines have existed at afmp for at least 10 years. You
can check archives if you don't believe us.  I was asked to take over FAQ
duties several years ago and would like to continue in that role.

Many valid points have been raised in this thread.  It is correct that we
are an unmoderated forum.  No one can ban anyone.  However, over the years
a set of common practices has evolved in an effort to make this particular
newsgroup welcoming to as many people as possible. We've even been noted
for that in other places -- we were labeled "overtly friendly."

We have had problems in the past with large scale flame wars.  We have lost
many loyal readers and posters because of them.  For the good of all,
that's what the guidelines are trying to prevent.

If you see a post that you don't agree with, the best course of action is
to ignore it.  If you feel compelled to reply, you should do it through
email instead of a public post.  I'm referring to language and tone in the
post, not a factual or opinion dispute such as Who's the cutest Python.

If you don't agree with the guidelines, I ask you to email me with your
thought out objections to them or agree to disagree but adhere to them as
best you can in the interest of harmony.

Now, bring out the herrings!

Analda aka Sergeant of the FAQ
analda{at}hiwaay.net

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