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Thanks, yet as you know, I'm aware of this thread, and it'll come as no surprise that I do not agree that it's already been satisfactorially addressed.

Dorian, for example, in the next follow up post to the very thread you reference actually commented to Randy what seemingly "illustrates a contradiction to your said goals" and there are many other references, including at least one "formal" announcement of certain cancelled user accounts:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/Forum75/HTML/000017.html

and various threads such as but not limited to this one:

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"...is still is essentially public if you read the threads - just not advertised, and admittedly perhaps in small print, as it perhaps should be!..."

http://www.flyertalk.com/pasttalk/ft.../000330-2.html

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Yet, even if one is to accept this argument, and since Randy effectively makes the rules it is a good idea to do so, this is a rather special case in that it involves a combined "Moderator"/Member! In this case, the FT Commmunity, rightfully IMHO, also asked for some specific action and it was promised that a result would eventually be forthcoming.

Further, the time line herein suggests that the comment SMessier referenced above does not necessarily apply in this case either, since it was made on 3/13/02, and the following post was made by Randy on 3/29/02 after continued questions were raised by members:

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"... it's currently #6 on the list and if you'll be so kind as to wait your turn, I'm sure it will be addressed. And it's not fair to others for you to cut in line. I have repeated several times on this board that I am a fan of the doc's and will try and not let this bias of mine get in the way. Because we're trying to not act like a kangaroo court here (First Monday maybe), I'll close this thread and address it as soon as the other issues in front of it are addressed to members satisfaction...

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/Forum...ML/000055.html

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Having been assured and asked to be patient, is it really too much to expect a brief explanation over six months later?

As an effective principal in this matter, I've followed it with great interest, yet have heard, nor seen, absolutely nothing, either publicly or privately, regarding the promised "outcome" until the surprising announcement late yesterday.

Most importantly, at least to me, is the issue of an incredibly glaring lack of any acknowlegement of any wrongdoing, any apology, or any promise to abide by and to enforce the rules equally to all, including herself!

One may recall this "classic" Samantha post:

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http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/Forum...ML/000031.html

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And this was by no means a one time slip up or a singular event. While I'm loath to list 'em all, there were repeated disparaging and condesending comments and references of this kind, over an interminable length of time - and they were not all directed at me either. Yet I do not wish to rehash all the issues here.

There was no effort, in this notable case, to edit their past remarks, and there was even a stauch and absolute refusal to do so! Ultimately, FT actually had to do the editing themselves, sadly!

Was there any sense of remorse whatsoever exhibited? Well, sadly, not that I ever saw! So what has been learned?

If I'm wrong, I'm sure I'll be quickly corrected! And please do! I hope I am!

Finally, in any case, the past, is just that - past. I long ago put it behind me. Does Randy deserve the benefit of the doubt, and our trust in "Moderator" selection? Will those appointed work to maintain a flame free, fair, respectful board of contributors that does not tolerate personal insults?

I hope so!

Is the past a guide? I hope not in this case!

It's fair to assume that "Moderator" selection is done only following a rather careful, honest analysis of each applicants track record of posts. Clearly a firm agreement is "understood" if not written, and the rules as defined by the TOS (as well as the kind spirit) of the FT boards will hopefully govern any and all actions concerning posts related to effectively carrying out the difficult and often thankless task of moderation.

Clearly, "Moderator" is a truly special title, in my view, to be bestowed only upon a very select few that show both special interest and uniquely suited personalities. Not me! And surely it is unlikely that Ess/Sam would have been my choice! Yet assuming the minimal conditions addressed above are being meet, I guess we should all perhaps join in supporting her in her efforts!

Have a great weekend all!

-Mark


[This message has been edited by doc (edited 09-13-2002).]