From the beginning this forum was set up as a place where friends with like minds could meet to "discuss everything, politely", with the central focus of interest being on our mutual appreciation for the under lever repeating rifle in its multitudinous manifestations. Over the years the group has grown from the couple dozen or so initial members to the 4,000 or so people currently registered as members. In any such gathering there will, by human nature, be representatives of a wide variety of political and social strata. It is the goal of the forum management to maintain the original focus of the forum, a place where leverguns and just about anything else can be discussed - politely. Also in any such group there will be certain individuals who do not desire to adhere to the community rules and who apparently gain some sort of personal titillation through antagonistic behavior. This behavior manifests itself in diverse ways, from inappropriate to the forum topics to personal attacks and baiting or bullying of other members. It is not the forum management's desire to micromanage each and every discussion nor is it in our power to ensure that everyone always is on their best behavior and that no one's feelings are hurt or sensibilities are violated. It is, however, well within the scope of our duty and ability to prune that which we deem to be offensive to the good taste and community values which have been part of this forum from the beginning. There are multitudinous shooting related sites on the world wide web, many of which allow just about any language and attitude and many of which are run by folks who abide no contrary view to their own. Our goal is to align ourself with neither extreme but rather to foment an atmosphere in which diverse opinions may be aired - but only within the guidelines clearly posted on the main page of this forum.
This is a high-class place so act respectable. We discuss most anything here ... politely.
At times our actions may appear to be arbitrary to those who are not familiar with the longstanding history of the forum. But this is a private forum which is supplied via the courtesy of various individuals who have entrusted the management of the place to two moderators. We are not perfect, but we are what you've got.
Now, today I had a bit of free time and typed up the paragraphs prior to this one in a light hearted mood (believe it or not). Basically it's just one of those season calls to "Lighten up, guys!" There've been too many personal clashes lately. If you don't like someone, skip their posts. Life as you know it will NOT end if you ignore them. In fact, it'll be good for your blood pressure to simply bypass individuals who rub you the wrong way.
So, moving right along, my range trip for the week got scrapped by the call of duty. What are YOU guys up to this weekend?
Ours turn 2 in October, twins, boy and girl. My how time flies. Second son tells us it's going to be a while before he and his new bride expand the tribe. That's fine, they are young and so are we. 
