I was under the impression that personal attacks that deteriorated into disturbing and disruptive bickering was the problem being addressed here. I sat silently for two days, feeling like something of a pinata swinging in the wind while others took their justifiable swipes. But now it's becoming more and more obvious the actual agenda of some here (thankfully, thus far, a minority) is not to achieve a level playing field but to transform the off topic lounge into some sort of sinister version of a ladies sewing circle in which they play the role of hall monitor.

Personal attacks that lead to tunnel-vision adolescent "gotcha" one-upmanship and "vile" exchanges that dominate the room and make others uncomfortable in their home are unconscionable, and it is indeed a serious problem. I have had my blinders removed and now recognize that fact, and recognize also that I contributed to the problem.

I get it! I am more than willing to take it down a peg or two -- even three. But if I am no longer permitted to have either an opinion that in argument at times takes a edge of irony or even sarcasm. Or if others are no longer able to take their best shot at me in return. Or if rough but friendly banter among friends is no longer permitted, and a threatening sword of Damocles hangs constantly over the head of those who do "disobedience" of the rules, then this will not be the place for me. And at least a small part of your perceived problem will be solved.

If what you want to achieve here is a mutual admiration society overseen by a big brother and his politically-correct enforcers who patrol the corridors to keep the peace, then, my advice to you, for the little it's worth, is be careful because you just may get what you wish for.

JohnnyReb went out of his way to propose reasonable solutions, as did Jason. So far JR has been excoriated by some for his effort, and Jason's proposition of personally, on-the-spot, putting offenders on notice has been mocked by at least one fool, known well to all, who's name need not be mentioned.

Now, this was intended as a general observation and certainly not meant as a personal attack, but then again, I don't have a gigantic stick up my ass, so I approach these things from a slightly different perspective.