I agree with just about every point you make. I would also add that attacks reach a crescendo on election years.

For years, I was in your shoes exactly, and I wasn't even a club member. I helped organize a few chipper gatherings and met some people, but I still have never been to a convention or met the vast majority of the people on this board. The board for me, for the most part, is still the hobby, after 13 or 14 years. I have learned to avoid the things I don't like on the board, essentially, but people should be mindful how their posts affect new collectors and those who don't (yet) live for the hobby.

Nicely done.

Michael Siskin