Hi Tony, yeah, Zuki's about right. I still keep in touch with some of the good people on this board like Diki and Capt. Russ. In fact, meeting with Russ is very much in my (our) future plans. Sadly, and perhaps because of the age group, this board seems more suited to certain types of members, say those of the Royal Amphibian persuasion, than to me. I have seen some of the more noxious comments (racial/political) go unchallenged by either the moderator or even members, and in fact, even shown signs of support.
I'm not a big believer in big exits, complete with lavish explanations and great fanfare. I say, if you decide to leave, then just leave.
BTW, I think Bill (semi-live) is on to something, though. If you lose all of your interesting (read quirky) personalities, the board will surely die a slow death from acute boredom. On a personal note, I have never minded the 'pissing contests' or the friendly teasing; that's just 'guys being guys'. However, only God knows how much I hate bigots.
When you take your road trip south, if you pass through or near Atlanta, plan on dropping by. You are definitely one of the people I know I would enjoy meeting. Think about it, jazz, golf, bad knees; we've got a lot in common. Tony, you can get my email from Diki or Russ. Take care.
chas
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"Faith means not wanting to know what is true." [Nietzsche]