The emperor's new clothes (was NOT)

I have watched the recent flame with keen interest, for I find that
Brian, who's name should be mentioned, has a valid point. There is no
need to shoot the messenger. In fact, he is to be commended for offering
to help with what he sees as a solution. Folks, this is a real live
VOLUNTEER with a purpose. A few people were obviously offended by the
way he said it. What if the message had read:

 "Hi, my name is Brian. I'm Ian's son. He's out of town for a few days
and I'm back home, house sitting and hacking on his computer. I know
that I'm just a visitor here and I have no vested interest, but it seems
to me that the sheer volume of posts coming through the iris-l would be
better served through a newsgroup. Is there any interest? If so, I'd be
glad to set it up for you."

That's what I thought he said. <Brian, if you're still hanging around,
tell me if I'm wrong.> BTW, Ian should be proud of a son who perceives a
problem and offers a solution. Looks like management potential to me.
<G>

Now, that we've been through this, there is an important question that
hasn't been asked:  Have we learned anything? We know that iris-l is a
useful forum, but it may not be for everyone. Does that mean that people
that just don't have the time to wade through all those posts aren't
worthy? I don't think so. What is our purpose? Is it to promote irises?
Why shouldn't we welcome another method (i.e. newsgroup) to promote
irises? 

When I joined the list, I introduced myself and asked one simple
question. I received 12 responses in two days. The first ten welcomed me
and several asked direct questions that had nothing to do with irises. I
was more than a little put off. The last two actually answered my
question. (Thanks Clarence--you know your stuff)

You may be wondering about the subject line for this post. You all know
the story. We've all iris-listers racking up frequent flyer posts,
thinking that we're doing something. One honest voice comes in and says
there may be a better way. Thanks, Brian. We have the naked truth. 

R. Dennis Hager
on Delmarva
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