jeffd@ficc.uu.net (Jeff Daiell) (01/23/90)
Since I just called for postings expressing good impressions, let me begin with two. One is of Bill Wells. I've noted before that he sometimes shows too much temper --- but he also consistently posts helpful articles, especially of value to new users (postings which demonstrate, BTW, the distinction between benevolence and altruism). In fact, in the groups I subscribe to, he is among the most frequent dispensers of practical assistance. It's one thing to respond angrily to a flame, and another to sniff "RTFM" to a lost soul: so go ahead and knock him for the former; I'll give him thumbs-up for a better approach to knowledge-seekers than the latter. The second is of Karen Valentino. Even when I disagree with her, I am impressed by her grace, goodwill, and writing style. The very first posting of hers that I read (about why R'ing TFM might not be the best thing for a new user) was perhaps the nicest, most reasonsed posting I've seen in all the months I've been netting. She has also shown a sense of humor and a willingness to respond to disagreement with nonhostile rebuttal. Jeff Daiell PS - This is being sent to news.groups because that is where several of the calls for a reduction in flames have appeard. -- If a hungry man has water, and a thirsty man has bread, Then if they trade, be not dismayed, they both come out ahead. -- Don Paarlberg