BIG, fellow readers, I have been both following & trying to overlook the
latest raging controversy... But it's hard for me to keep my (virtual)
mouth shut - so here's 2 more cents.
 
I believe in free speech.  I believe in tolerance.  I don't like
censorship.  Like many have said, i too think responding to posts intended
merely to be provocative is counterproductive.  At the same time, I think
some provocative statements need reactions - statements of hate, racism,
sexism, etc.  BIG, you are in an unenviable position here, trying to
balance free speech & appropriate censorship in this created little
community.
 
That said, I think the posts suggesting & then supporting throwing pies at
a particular correspondent were out of line.  They were funny, but had to
be hurtful to read, & did not serve to edify us about ferretry.  I think
I'd have edited those out, even tho they made me giggle.
 
[Moderator's note: Thanks for voicing your opinion -- much appreciated.
Personally, I thought the pie posts were good-natured ribbing, but since
not everyone saw them that way I may have to reconider.  BIG]
[Posted in FML issue 2746]