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I've poked around these message boards on occasion and enjoyed the discussions. I was a little geeked up about blogging and wanted to get a few eyeballs on my site, but didn't realize that my post would be inappropriate.

We appreciate the sentiment, and let me say welcome.

There have been many people who have signed up on FR solely to pimp their personal site/cause, and only to do those things. Overall, that's bad form across the 'Net, as most message forums and sites like FR exist to promote conversation their own forums, not act as personal advertising for people, and most especially for those new folk.

You mention on your blog (which looks pretty interesting; I'm interested in how it will develop and grow) that there are folk "beating their chests like gorillas protecting their turf." The way to win friends and influence people is not to insult them as you go. Much as you would not enter someone's house and abuse your hospitality, do not do it here. It's only polite.

You mention the usernames here. Many of them are pseudonyms, while others (like mine) are variations on their real name. Some feel they have to protect their identity due to work or other concerns; others enjoy their nicknames and use them online while still others don't mind their personal identities being known. Take the time to learn about folks before passing judgement. You'd be surprised at who you might find behind some of the usernames here. There are politicians, authors, talk show hosts, newspeople and plenty of other folks here, and many of them would be more than happy to take a look at your site, provided you take the time to ask politely.

My apology on this board was sincere. The trolling truly was a mistake of ignorance, and I do appreciate your civil tone.

I have to respectfully protest your mild scolding of me for "insulting" some of the folks here who continued bashing me after I had apologized. I'm not trashing anyone for posting anonymously. God knows I have. What I take issue with is incivility that hides behind anonymity. Frankly, I find it to be cowardly.

Look, ever had some new hire where you work screw up something that seems obvious and simple to all you veterans? How do you treat that person? Do you berate and insult or do you simply pull the newbie aside an explain a few things? I think you can judge a whole lot about someone just based on how he treats the new dumbass. Afterall, we've all been that guy at one point or another.