As so often happens, Gamey has stated, much more eloquently than I could, what I was trying to say. We (especially those who've been here awhile) should be patient with the newcomers until they learn their way around.

If you see someone who is violating forum policy, or just being unpleasant, you should politely and compassionately, help that person rather than attacking them. I frequently do this in a PM since that's generally easier to swallow, but sometimes in a reply to the post.

Like many people here, I have been to several forums but generally do not stay for one reason or another. This is hands down my favorite forum and the one I frequent the most. At this time I am involved in only one other forum (it's one for veterans) and even that one I only visit once or twice a week.

Patience, humility, and compassion by the members towards each other is what makes this forum great and will allow it to continue growing in both size and popularity.

We owe it to ourselves, and each other, to do what we can to keep this forum polite and a safe heaven for those who come here.

P.S.HOW ABOUT A BIG ROUND OF APPLAUSE FOR THE ADMINISTRATORS AND MODERATORS, WHO DO SUCH A GREAT JOB ON THIS FORUM? I, PERSONALLY, DO NOT KNOW THAT I COULD BE AS FAIR AND UNBIASED AS THEY ARE. THANKS TO ALL OF YOU!