Originally Posted By: JHZR2
Wow, as I mentioned to the mod team, I am back now and again to check PMs and all. Didn't think this thread would get three pages of replies. I put it in not for attention (as some claimed), but because others have posted similarly at times that I've seen, and also sometimes when folks have not and stop posting, the threads about people pop up.
So much talk, let's get a few things straight:
1) I have had no fights or disagreements with BITOG management or ownership.
2) As I mentioned in my post to open this thread, "relax and attend to other aspects of my life. I'm spending too much time on the boards, and I have a lot going on.", I meant it. I have a lot of household projects to do (first two are a powder room refurbishment and then crown moulding in four rooms), and am finishing my PhD while working full time (>50-60 hours per week). Something had to give. I watch zero TV and no sports, so internet is my way to relax at the end of the day or at lunchtime, but I need to devote more time to other things.
3) I have never moderated or closed my own threads that Ive been engaged in. Other than changing foul language bypassing the censor, Ive not messed in threads that I have a discussion in - its just not fair to play that way. Neither have I ever banned someone (Ive only ever banned people for spamming or excessive foul language) for disagreeing or saying anything in a thread Ive been involved in. If someone else does lock it (likely because of a complaint from another user, who dislikes something - we do get 10-20 emails a day from users notifying), it is what it is. Perhaps the person locking the threads should put in a closing post. Thought this was usually the case.
4) Last I checked, I am allowed to have an opinion on things. Ive been on the mod team here twice, first around 2005 until there were too many, and then over the last few years. When I first learned about working the board from Tony (over AOL IM to date things), one of the things he told me was that too many folks become a moderator and then cease posting. He asked me to not do that, and to instead remain part of the discussions. My opinions, be they that leasing is glorified renting where you pay interest on top of the rental; that not having $2000 in the bank is an issue, especially if buying new cars or smartphones; that buying Chinese stuff steals American jobs; or whatever else is my opinion and Im entitled to it. Maybe I shouldn't comment on every thread, but I do enjoy discussing, and should be able to provide my opinions in topics I am interested in. Sorry if it is offensive to some.
5) If there is an issue with a post I make, hit the notify button. It is one of the checks and balances that exist on this site, any user can hit notify on things they dislike. To me, there is a difference between discussing a topic, and making it go RSP. For example, I work in energy-related R&D. Many like to make discussions on energy "P", but it does not have to be. This is the case for lots of topics. Just because I dont like illegals working here and the sale of Chinese goods because they steal American jobs (the reason why I disliked Ursae's claim that saying that was "blatantly political", and shot him a PM to discuss), does not mean that Im talking politics. Some topic areas may have a political bent which must be avoided at all costs. But some things can be discussed in a non-political way, if one takes care. It generally takes two to turn a discussion political, unless something is blatantly political (like an "I hate Obama" or "GWB is a moron for X"). It does not have to go that way.
Anyway, that's my story, and Im sticking to it. Tons to do, and 24 hours in a day just isnt enough. I dont have time to be arguing personal financial responsibility or Chinese made goods or how wonderful the Beastie Boys were right now, and since my time management skills arent the best, I need to loose some distractions for a little while.
Ill still be on from time to time and check in to check PMs. Feel free to PM anytime. And to those who said kind things - thanks, its nice to know you have friends all over the country
May I add something?
Welcome BACK!