You're probabally right. My experience with moderation ended when I quit a job with AOL/Digital City back in 1997, and I'm not sure what all happens behind the scenes here at FT. I'm guessing that I significantly underestimate FTs moderation policies and procedures.

Perhaps I'm also naive in thinking that the problems would be a trickle instead of a flood. However, I'd imagine that the powers-that-be would weigh the benefits of avitars/smilies against the additional workload and/or staffing requirements when considering these options.

I, for sure, am not in a position to make an informed decision and I surely (...and don't call me Shirley ) won't complain if things remain status quo. I just think, from an end-user's perspective, that avitars and updated smilies (to a lesser degree) would be cool and add to the FT experience. Just don't ever allow unlimited signature lines and countdown clocks like Cruise Critic!