Thanks, Bruce, but Jim Martin is the heart and soul of this forum (as well as the spam cleaner upper). He asked me to simply monitor the content of the posts, to ensure that his guidelines, such as no personal attacks, are being complied with. In that capacity as Board Monitor, I have the easiest job in the world. The folks who post here are gentlemen and ladies, and it's been months since I've had to chide anyone.

Although we have some published historians and brilliant writers who participate in this forum, most of us aren't skilled enough writers to avoid the nuances that could unintentionally insult someone who insists on reading between the lines to try find bias, discern intent, or just find something to be upset about. In those cases, we rely on the good-will of our forum friends to understand that sometimes we don't phrase our posts as precisely as we would like.

I too have seen Civil War discussion forums that have turned into shouting matches and name calling. Fortunately, Jim had the foresight to set up a safety valve for his State discussion boards -- the Civil War News and Views board. Those who are spring-loaded in ticked-off mode can go there and rant to their heart's content, so long as they don't swap personal insults.

This board is a treasure.

Best wishes,
Bryan Howerton