First of all -- apologies to Merry for dragging him into this. Unfortunately this is a static medium and my thought at the time was that Nick is one of the most caustic of our members. His posts are also some of the most enjoyable and energetic -- posts which are also some of the most cogent and informative. I love his posts -- the BA/Virgin tete a tetes -- I wouldn't consider flying Virgin if it were the last seat on Dec 31 1999 to London because of him!! I hope my using your name in jest didn't bring about even more angst viz your relationship to FT.

PremEx: You stated that "Most private boards that I particpate in are moderated by someone in authority, and objectionable, obscene, and unfactual items are often removed, however arbitrary and at their discresion."

Personally, I wouldn't participate in a forum that allowed such. I am at a loss to see how F U K U C H A N 's posts -- or his handle -- can be elevated to objectionable, obscene, or unfactual.

Your point as to an explanation to the recent somewhat abrupt behavior of our hosts is well founded. FT owes us nothing. At the same time, we are what makes FT live and breathe with our knowledge, expertise and humor. As someone who has contributed more than 200 times (ok many are just OMNI nonsense) I think even a brief explanation of the process and thinking behind the removal of one of our community is in order.

Yes PremEx -- this IS blown out of proportion and for my part in doing the "blowing" I apologize.

Needless to say this whole episode leaves a bitter taste for me

[This message has been edited by onefreeman (edited 04-03-99).]