Originally Posted by mkincaid
Sorry to break it to you, but I'm just another user expressing my opinion, just like you. Ultimately it will be Randy that will decide what to do (unless he already has).
And I think you missed the point I was trying to make (obviously I did take the time to register, long ago or I wouldn't be posting here), which is that the initial impression people get of the "look-and-feel" of the board matters, which by definition occurs before they have registered. Signal-to-noise ratio is incredibly important and a big part of what makes FlyerTalk stand out from the crowd.
There are two points of discussion:
1. You feel avatars are bad and would scare off new potential members / posters.
2. You don't like avatars and feel that no one should be able to have them.
Well, item 1.... if all it takes to scare off a new member / poster is an avatar.... well... I am not sure what to say. I find that in general the info on the boards is so useful that avatars alone will not scare off someone. The use of multiple handles and posting for the sole purpose of starting flame wars will scare off one.
2. I like and desire avatars. The software gives the ability for those who do not like avatars to turn them off. What a great feature. Everyone can have their cake and eat it to. Would seem to me this is the fare solution.
But as you said, Randy will make the decision. Just a shame you want a one way street where only you are happy! I on the other hand think it is great to give people the choice.