Rod;

I have to say that I have read messages from you and you conduct yourself as does the majority of UT members. That is you are respectful of yourself and others.

What separates JVP from other members is his “pit bull” tactics. Once he has a bite he is not willing to let go. The word rhetoric comes to mind. A definition of rhetoric that I learned in college 35 years ago is, “Dialogue without truthful intent”. It may not apply in the eyes of others but the end result is one that appears to be like a shark feeding frenzy.

Most of us learn by repetition. However, once you have learned a particular topic it becomes redundant to continually harp upon the same subject. Interjecting personal attacks, debating tactics meant to infuriate others (a great tool to have the opposition loose control) and other techniques do not endear everyone. In fact they are irritating to most people.

I have not met JVP personally, but hear from others that he is an intelligent and personable person. In my Internet contact with him I have always gotten along. I hate seeing anything occur that causes conflict between people. Others are at fault by engaging JVP when he began to “bite”. Many people did not like his message or the fact he reiterated it constantly. That is when the fireworks would begin.

With all the problems in the world this seems like a small episode to the average person. To UT members and previous members it has importance for varying reasons.

Have a good day Rod.

Tom - In "lovely" Silicon Valley :)