I do not see where controversial threads or heated arguments, in any way, detract from the Universal Thread, so long as they are kept in their proper venue... which, for the most part, they are.
I find that there is a good deal of information that bubbles up through the static. Plus, I derive entertainment value at the same time I am learning something, even if it is only about the personalities of the participants. I have always found that a good teacher is someone who can get and hold your attention while feeding you the facts and the processes. And that is done, not by just rote feeding of facts and processes, but by engaging the personality of the student with that of the teacher.
To those that would seek to reduce the overall "personality" of this community, I would suggest that this is a disservice to the community.


>From the Just An Aside thread, Erik Moore asked what we could have done [can do] to make the UT a more professional, helpful, etc., place for all members. Members were apprehensive to reply because of the public nature of any such posts.
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>Recently, there have been many controversial threads and heated arguments. As SysOps, we try to stay as neutral as possible unless we know we can defend decisions, make valid points or ask hard [yet appropriate] questions that would not continue to fan the flames.
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>I think it is important to get feed back from members who frequent the UT. If you do not want to speak out [post] publicy, we certainly understand. All I ask is that you at least send one or more of us an e-mail with your thoughts, complaints, etc.
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>Please note that this contact information is NOT for e-mailing us technical questions about VFP. All such questions still need to be posted in this forum under the appropriate category.
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>Please see Contacts for the current list of UT SysOps and Advisors and their e-mail links.
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>Thanks to all of you.