I have fallen in love with PODCasts and I'm just going through listening to some.

I wanted to give you feedback on this one. I agree with you. I have been a member of several boards and it was my 'dream' to find a board where I could discuss political issues, the war, the government, 9/11, terrorism, racism, religion, etc. in a positive, educational, way, without all the crap I have seen elsewhere. Without the phrases like 'all you liberals are alike', 'you bush-lovers make me puke!' and so on. I can read that ANYWHERE. And like you said, that just brings a board down.

The drama queen element can be found on 1000 other boards on the web. That's why I'm not there. That's not what I'm looking for. I'm a member here because you strive to maintain a standard of communication that cannot be found elsewhere. That is all-important to me.

Another point I'd like to make is that I'm guilty of dipping into the DQ... I also have to make an effort NOT to lash out, but when I'm successful, some fantastic conversations have taken place. And I learn SO much!

Thanks to the ATS staff for making this such a great place. Keep it up. It's getting better all the time!