Regarding Folks With Low Post Counts.....

[Rockholm]

Granted, there are many new low posters with stealth methods for getting things stirred up.
In the past few weeks I have mentioned DU to many friends and family members, clients, co-workers and even to my dentist. They are very interested to find out where I "find the real news out." I told them DU and a few other sources.
So, while agree that there are many freeper disruptors in our midst, not all low posters are evil. Some are just here to "hear" and see the truth.
Just my two cents.

[Kierkegaard]

1. And a good two cents it is.

There is no way to start out with a high post count, so we were all there at one time.

Judge not lest ye be judged.

[Fla Dem]

153. I've been on DU for almost a year and still have a low post count.

I enjoy reading other people's opinions, finding the news that isn't reported in the national media, but only contribute when I think I have something worthwhile to say. But I also contribute to DU for the privilege of being able to do all of the above.

[sugarcookie]

187. Been coming here

almost 2 years...just hit 500 posts about a week ago.

p.s. sorry replied to the wrong post.:)

[jean]

2. We should be able to discern the 'nuances' of low post counts and

disrupting intent.

[Nicholas D Wolfwood]

3. I agree, but with less than 2 weeks til the election,

it's hard not to employ guilty until proven innocent. We KNOW "they" will be attacking very soon. I don't fault anyone for being a little suspicious of newbs these days, especially after 2002.

[Demit]

6. It's not easy being green. I got my low post count up by

clicking on every poll link I saw, DUing it, then posting

done! done! done! done! done! done! done! done! done!


And when somebody posted a great article I would post

thanks! thanks! thanks! thanks! thanks! thanks! thanks!


It's a great place.

[gratefull4u]

32. Thanks for this info!

My whole mood changed when I found this place. I will now reply when I vote or show appreciation for some of the great posts. Thanks!!!

[donkeyotay]

74. I haven't been around very long, but I'm glad to see new posters

How are things going to change if we don't have new people coming along? The freepers get tombstoned soon enough. Thanks for being here. Thanks for sharing our concern about our country.

:toast:

[wildeyed]

123. I like allot of the new posters.

They tend to be more careful about their posts, so sometimes they are better written. Plus it his nice to see a fresh perspective. We tend to get into lock step around here, just regurgitating the same phrases to each other. Which can be very fulfilling, but it is nice to see newbies, too.

[juajen]

100. Welcome to DU!

We are a mixed bunch, but nice, nice, nice. I would not want to be without DU. Happy posting.

[txindy]

164. It's great to have support, isn't it? We all need it these days,

especially with Nov. 2nd looming ever closer. ;)

Welcome!! :hi:

[Proud2BLiberal]

197. I'm not really new

It just took me a long time to register! I've been reading DU for a long time. A friend turned me onto you guys. All I can say is that every bumper sticker I see for Kerry/Edwards makes me wonder if there's a DUer driving! Thanks everyone for all the great info you post. This site has kept us informed and lets hope that by the way we've all joined together that things will change on Nov. 2!

[donheld]

190. Welcome to DU

:hi: i am slowly building a count. We all started at post 1. Some of us just came to DU late, but are very grateful for it. Please don't hate the new people till you have proof of ill will. Do you really not think stealth posters could have been around awhile?

[flygal]

59. Aha!! Thank you!!...

I was hoping to start a message under Montana but no can do. Guess I'll spend a little time on the polls :)

[donkeyotay]

75. Welcome to you, too, flygal!

:toast:

[Rebellious Republican]

98. I remember my days with a low post count add my pseudonym to

that and you had a recipe for a lot of suspicious DU'ers, been posting here for well over two years maybe even three now. My pseudonym was also been a lightning bolt for freepers, their mistake though, I used to be one of them. I knew all of their talking points and quickly made burnt toast out of their rotting carcass's after driving a stake thru their cold, cold hearts.

:evilgrin:

[donheld]

191. Flygal good to see you

:hi: don't be afraid of being the new girl.

[progressivebydesign]

99. "Attacking"?? Really, what do disruptors REALLY do to us?

Nothing. A big, fat, nothing. That's the ironic thing is all this... everyone is so concerned that the other guy is a freeper. So what? If they disrupt in an OBVIOUS fashion, rather than just having a differing opinion on a subject.. then they get tombstoned. But I don't understand the fear factor here..

[greekspeak]

113. My boyfreind just joined the other day

He finally reached his breaking point with life in America and joined. Trust me, he is no freeper.

[LiberalAndProud]

133. I'm a new-bee. Please tell what happened in 2002?

My son-in-law visited in September and left several windows open on my machine, just to introduce me (BartCop, BuzzFlash, and DU). I've been an addict since.

PS I will be a contributing DUer after the election. Got to get Kerry elected, you know? (So many good causes, so little money :think: )

[The Flaming Red Head]

185. If i was guessing. That's when MM closed his board and all the mean trolls

migrated here. That's why I took so long to start posting even though I dropped in from time to time to read the board.

I think a few have managed to remain (not many), but they don't let them beat up on people as much, so it must be awful boring for them and they have to ridicule us in their right wing rooms (out of sight) and if they're not hurting feelings then there is no point to their pitiful existences.

[ElectroPrincess]

142. To add insult to injury ...

It's important for genuine DU members to note that there are at least 100+ freepers who've been "laying low" and jacking up their post counts in "The Lounge" and "The Meeting Place."

I'm not suggesting that we should get paranoid, however if a 1000+ poster seems to "go off on us" - I'd recommend that the Mods check their history. That is not all high posters are non-freepers.

Too Funny - I troll a number of Right Wing sites. These folks are very proud of their lurking under the radar.

Just an FYI ... If someone goes nuts to the right, 1000+ posts does not warrant them unending patience.

Mean ole' - needing a life - right wing radical FREEPERS?

[CAcyclist]

152. Thanks for the heads up

This is the best site I've ever been on for neutralizing trolls. I'm impressed.

[Moochy]

177. Neutralizing Trolls

Works great on ornery hobbits and gnomeses too!

[jwirr]

224. And hopefully

bushies on Nov 2.

[Is It Fascism Yet]

182. Oh come on!

Oh come on! Why should the moderators check into posters who "go off" on you? I presume by that you mean posters who "don't agree with you"? Don't be silly. There is an election going on. We need to talk to everyone who will talk to us. If they are neocons, all the better, maybe we can demonstrate to them the necessity of replacing the Shrub! They are just the ones we need to talk to! Its nice and cozy chatting with other liberals, but, we are only preaching to the choir.

[ElectroPrincess]

195. Read my post again, you misquoted me ...

My exact words in my post were as follows: "If someone goes nuts to the right ..."

I'm not sure what your problem is that you feel a need to misrepresent my words. I'm a Moderate Democrat NOT a leftist. However, I'm not prone to go far right like a freeper. I detest both extremes and forgive me, I have little patience for people who misrepresent my statements.

Again, please re-read my post and you will realize that "something else" may be troubling your sensitivities, i.e., not me.

[Is It Fascism Yet]

232. wasn't important the first time

and not worth re-reading...don't be so paranoid.

[kaiden]

4. I'm at work -- no computer at home.

I don't get to post much because I sit right outside the Administrator's office . . . but I try to read EVERYTHING. Bless DUers for being here for me.

[annabanana]

18. Hi kaiden!

"read everything"......WOW... that's some speed reading.
We're all in this together so
Welcome to DU
:toast:

[librechik]

44. luvya, Kaiden--hang in there!

we loves the sympathetic lurkers...

[Cleita]

5. You are right.

What you say has been happening since the day I joined DU and was also accused of being a freeper. Advise your friends to ride it out. There are always those who are very rude and jump to conclusions, yet I know some stealth disruptors who have way over 1,000 posts, and they still haven't been tombstoned because they don't quite give you enough to alert on them. Yet, they will always sneak in on threads about women's rights and abortion, health care and poverty issues.

[Grillymom]

7. I just discovered DU

I'm trying to post as much as possible. I'm a genuine Liberal!!!!

[MatrixEscape]

10. Welcome to DU, Grillymom! nt/t

[Grillymom]

13. Thanks

[Cleita]

17. Welcome to DU Grillymom!

:toast:

[LisaLynne]

33. Welcome!

I was a newbie not too long ago (still probably am, according to some)!

[donheld]

193. Grillymom welcome

we all do the best we can. Don't be afraid of being new. We all can't spend all our time in here. Many of us have work to DU.

[skygazer]

8. You're absolutely right

And I do try to give the benefit of the doubt. However, I would also advise those with low post counts to be somewhat diplomatic in the way they express themselves. That doesn't mean you can't state an opinion that is contrary to the majority but when I see things that just sound like an attempt to start a flamewar or things that obsess on wedge issues from a low post count person, my red flags go up. Try to state things with some background and reasons for your statement rather than a blanket "Kerry is a jerk for doing this" or "Some people say.... that".

[Texasgal]

96. That's silly....

Everyone has to start somewhere! I should be able to post as emotionally as I want, low post count or not. I have never been accused of being a freeper, but I have seen some that have, and without merit!

And as far as blanket statements, no one should be making those anyway, high post count or not.

I have really enjoyed my time her, but asking "newbies" to behave differently just because of their post count is pretty silly.

[skygazer]

104. I worded it badly

I think everyone should try to be fairly diplomatic but it's so easy to be misunderstood when you've posted something very controversial and you have a low post count also.

I don't mean that newbies should behave differently - I think we should all be careful to post clearly. But there are many posters here who have gotten to know one another and can tell when they are serious or joking. It's harder with someone new.

Don't mean to offend - just trying to offer advice so people don't get accused of something they're not. Like being silly... :silly:

[Is It Fascism Yet]

183. yep

yep, it is silly. people shouldn't have to prove anything. I wish some neocon freepers would come and discuss with me. You guys are already gonna vote Kerry, its fun to talk to you but isn't going to get kerry any new votes!

[Trailrider1951]

9. Hey, we all started out with a low post count

and, BTW:

A Hearty Welcome to ALL You Newbies!!!! Ain't it great?
:hi:

[corker]

11. thanks!!!

[donheld]

196. Welcome to DU corker

:hi:i may join the 700 club just by welcoming the newbies

[corker]

12. thanks again...

[corker]

14. thanks somemore!!!

[corker]

16. this is gonna take a while....

[annabanana]

20. hee hee Welcome corker

keep it up, you're doing swell
:toast:

[corker]

23. thanks annabanana!!

phew got one more in...

[kemche]

15. For the longest...

...time I didn't register. I just came here to read the response and then comeback the next day and then read the news and response again. Mostly I agreed with the DUers and I really enjoyed some DUers sense of Humor. Finally I decided to register and response to some threads but I am still not an active DUer.

KG

[donheld]

198. Hey kemche

:hi: glad to have you here

[No Mandate Here.]

19. Seems like just yesterday that there were 50,000 DUers. Now nearly 54,000

A hearty welcome to all (but the trolls)

It also seems like just yesterday I had the same low post count. Watch out. It becomes an addiction.

[oldtime dfl_er]

21. I don't mind the suspicion!

I feel the same way when someone has a post count like mine. I lurked here for a year or so (even donated money to the site) before deciding to join up. I must say that the joy of being among people whose opinions (especially on the current administration) match mine is worth any amount of suspicion I need to endure for awhile. And I know that my ideas are so in accord with the majority here, that I have no fear of expressing myself. I feel among friends.

[Misunderestimator]

125. Excellent post...

:thumbsup:

[sallydallas124]

22. Tis true

I've been a member for a couple yrs now & I've been unable to rack up the points d/t combination of terrible computer system, intimidating work environment, and lack of effort. I'm used to the fact that people are probably wary of me d/t low post count, and I try not to be too confrontational. It seems some sign up and immediately want to pick a fight. Generally, a dem newbie who wants to be a part of the community doesn't step in the door with guns blazing. Although I would suspect some are just working through that unsettling stage where they're overwhelmed by info that conflicts w/entrenched beliefs.

[zappaman]

24. I also read at work

Not enough time for continuous posting, but I read almost everything.
Thanks to everyone who keeps it going!

[chicagojoe]

25. So now low post counts = freeperism ?

Sound kinda Radical Right-ish to me. Hmmmmm.

[sangh0]

31. No, but there's a history

of freepers coming to DU and claiming the DUers ban anyone who disagrees with "the party line" the way FreeRepublic does. That is, they try to equate DUers with Freepers, sort of like the way you just did.

[NanBo]

26. I think it's worth checking profiles

as well as post count--some people just don't say much but have been here a long time.
But then again, I'm a relative noob :)

[camero]

27. No problem

As long as they don't mouth off Rush's POV.

[athensliberal]

28. Eating our young

Man, I had to hop into the fray this morning when I saw someone getting viciously attacked (told "F*&K OFF") for asking abtou the Kerry goose shoot thing this morning.

As I explained over there...many of us with low post counts don't have many because we're trying to work, raise families and dedictae any free time to volunteer ACT and MoveOn stuff. How that means we're 'less worthy' to post our opinions astounds me and seems to run counter to what is a long-time Democratic ideal and the reason I am a Democrat.

I know we're all stressed out abtou this election, but let's not start eating our own young. And by all means, let's not ever criticize someone who dares "question" our leaders...or we're headed down a slippery slope.

Thanks.

[sangh0]

34. And Freepers have a history of coming to DU and accusing DUers

of "viciously attacking" anyone who disagrees with "the DU party line".

So why don't you tell us how you were "viciously attacked"? Did someone actually attack you, or are you exagerrating because someone strongly disagreed with you?

[athensliberal]

39. I mentioned how

they told another member to "F&%K OFF" for expressing an opinion conter to theirs.

[H2O Man]

58. on what thread?

If what you are saying is true, we'll report it to the moderator.

[Bridget Burke]

70. A thread whose OP was tombstoned....

Tagteam?

[H2O Man]

92. My question was directed

to another person. Perhaps your answer was, also.

[mcerise]

81. hi athensliberal

As a newbie myself, I want to emphasize with you on how hard it is to post without being suspected of having not so good intentions.

However, that being said, there definitely are disruptors (with low post counts like ourselves) on this board; in fact i discount posts based on the post count by the posters too. I know that we both don't want trolls on this board, and to keep them away, let's not be upset because some DU'ers want to stay vigilant. Let's just remember that we have our opinions and so do they.

[athensliberal]

90. absolutely...and thanks.

[donheld]

200. Welcome to DU mcerise

:hi: The only thing i suspect "newbies" of is being new. Some may even be Converts

[CAcyclist]

180. you again

whatever

[donheld]

194. Welcome to DU athensliberal

from Denver liberal :hi: welcome to the jungle. this election is making us all quite crazy :crazy:

[kermujin]

29. low poster here...

i'm canadian; i do usually lurk here to see/hear what's going on.
no freepers here!

[donheld]

201. Welcome Canadian

:hi: many lurk hoping to get rid of the smirk :evilgrin::bounce:

[kermujin]

30. edited me own dupe

will this help my post count? :)

[troubleinwinter]

35. There seem to be an exraordinary number of trolls...

...and disruptors as we near the election.

I do a 'search' by author when someone is looking like a freeptroll.

The picture becomes very clear if someone has consistently asinine disruptive posts.

Useful tool to separate the true from the chaff.

[Bridget Burke]

42. Yes--"Search by author" is great

It helps me figure out if a post just strikes me wrong--it could be me!

Or the poster could be up to no good.

[Willy Lee]

52. That picture is so funny...

Pants on fire! Heeheehee!

[oldtime dfl_er]

63. heh heh

one of the reasons I actually signed on here was because I was struck by the resemblance of the young smirky to Ted Bundy, and I mentioned it as one of my first posts. Glad to see others think the same! It's quite uncanny isn't it? Even the same insane glint.

[Selatius]

36. New guy here as well

I'm not here to start trouble. I'm just here to talk. I registered about a day after the fools set fire to our College Democrats homecoming float here at MSU. It was an act of political violence. I'm a fellow progressive.

You can read about the fire here.

That's what's left of the float:

[treading_water]

43. OMG

That really sucks. Some people are just nuts.

What a statement, though, if you put it in the parade just like that. Democracy despite repression of free speech!

[librechik]

45. welcome selatius

we love progressive lurkers

[Pithlet]

114. Oh

That's terrible. I didn't hear about that. I hope they catch the assholes responsible.

[Dorian Gray]

37. With my low post count...

I don't start topics yet. It's just my own way or trying not to stir up shit. And it works for me.

Though I realize that not everybody is as willing as me to sit in the background, waiting to feel comfortable. Some people like to forge ahead. Different personality types.

[mac56]

38. Good, timely post.

I try hard to give every poster the benefit of the doubt until he or she proves undeserving of it.

True colors emerge over time.

[LMG]

40. low post

This is my favorite site i keep up with everything going on
use your links to vote read all the articles
use this site many times a day but i am older and dont post much
I have been a member here for at least two years
Give a little money when I can
I am not a troll lol but I am a Liberal dem

[donheld]

202. Hello LMG nice to see you here

:hi:

[librechik]

41. I only check the post count after I see an anti-democrat post

I love all the sincere new DUers--but if you come over here to diss Kerry, Clinton, or any of our other leaders, ord to cast aspersions on us, then the low post count is incriminating.

So trolls, if you wish to stick around long enough to eat us for lunch, be nice till your count is up quite a bit! (we usually flush out the ugly ones by post 500, no matter how provocative they try to be)And by 500 posts they have usually learned a little something that might get through to that freeptard brain!

[athensliberal]

46. what's a diss?

Is questioning something they've done or said a diss? What if we're huge supporters, but don't agree with something they did or said. Isn't that okay to talk about? Aren't there many flavors of Democrats?

[librechik]

60. My advice to you AL: save it until we trust you. Surely you can think

of something positive to say until you've earned the right to criticize.

My first 500 posts were something like this: "Great Post! or Agree with you! or I have similar feelings, or Here's that link you were looking for, or Thanks, or Luvya! and oh, yeah, don't you hate that?" Just like at a party--you have to make friends before you can make changes. Once it's obvious that you are sincere, then let er rip--we can be as tough on our own as we are to the trolls.

Or not--who cares? IT'S ONLY A MESSAGE BOARD! If you can take the heat (and you will get heat here, and maybe a tombstone along with it, no matter how big a supporter you are, if you are unwise or unfair or obviously freeperminded with your criticisms) then more power to you! You are more aggressive than I.

[athensliberal]

66. WHOA...earning the right to criticize

yowch...I wasn't aware that in this country we had to 'earn the right' to criticize. No offense, but you have to understand how to someone like me, a long-time freedom-of-speech kinda guy, that statement rubs the wrong way.

I don't know what a tombstone is or how I would earn that, but I hope in the process of nurturing this 'DEMOCRATIC' underground, we don't all lose sight of what being democratic means.

And FWIW, if I'm at a party and I see someone gettign picked on for expressing their views (as long as they're not hateful), I speak up in that person's defense and don't play nice until I know I won't get kicked out of the clique.

I do appreciate your time in answering and hope that a little healthy questioning and criticism is welcome.

[0rganism]

76. This isn't a "free speech zone"....

This is a site for communication among progressives and Democratic activists. As such, we get a lot of trolls from conservative sites who come here to disrupt. The "classic" troll has a low post count (under 30), and posts only vapid or rightwing talking point material. However, there's a whole spectrum of trollish behavior that raises DUers' hackles, leading to moderator alerts. The moderators weigh the alerted material against the poster's longevity and other posts, and decide what to do. Sometimes a post is pulled, sometimes a warning is issued, sometimes an account is locked (i.e., "tombstoned", named for the cute image that goes in their user profile for all to see).

If you stick around for a while, you'll start to see the same patterns. If your intentions are genuine, my guess is you'll come to appreciate the fact that we don't tolerate unskillful rightwing disruptors. There are some who manage to stay around for quite a while, of course, because they are clever about their trolling, pick their battles carefully, and avoid other obvious mistakes.

I like to think of the moderators as exerting selective pressure on the trolls, leading to the eventual evolution of a stronger, smarter breed.

That said, there is plenty of opportunity for criticism within the liberal framework. You should have seen this place during the primaries! No, wait, on second thoughts, you're lucky if you didn't. It was a mess.

Overall, if you offer any critique in a respectful, constructive, and (very important!) genuine manner, and you do more than question and gripe all the time, you are safely on your way to a long and fruitful stay.

[athensliberal]

89. thanks

Thanks for the thoughtful response...it is appreciated. It's a pretty intimidating place to try to slightly disagree with someone, but I understand the need for caution. I just hope, like in our actual society...caution doesn't overlap into censorship.

Anyway, thanks again.

[sangh0]

95. note "if you offer any critique in a respectful, constructive...manner"

I don't think criticism of such a minor matter, done without giving any argument as to why it's a political issue (as opposed to one of personal taste, which was how the threadstarter presented it) could be reasonably considered "respectful" and "constructive". "Constructive" criticism is the most commone defense the disruptors use, even when their criticism is not constructive.

So tell me, how is saying "Kerry shouldn't be hunting for photo-ops because I don't like it" something you consider "constructive criticism"? I don't see anything "constructive" about that, but maybe I missed something.

[Kipepeo]

167. Don't mind that

I don't much see the point in registering to post at a message board if all I can do is say essentially "good on ya!" for the first 500 posts. In fact I've kind of gone the opposite...really long thoughful first posts and now nothing but one liners because I am too tired! :D

I saw the goose hunting thread you mentioned up-thread. People are just on edge now because of freeper-infiltration but it's really no big deal b/c a true freeper is usually EASY as hell to spot...like the dude who came in here today claiming that after seeing "Stolen Honor" he's had a change of mind. LOL. It actually makes me laugh more than it makes me angry. It's like "Where's Waldo," but we can't be so eager to find Waldo's that we scare off good people who are on our side. True Waldo's are kind of glaringly obvious.

All of that being said...I don't like to see a lot of negative anti-Kerry shit on important nights like the debate nights, etc. when there are tons of visitors to the boards.

[donkeyotay]

80. that's the ironic part

In a sense, it's the prospect of getting freeper's panties in a bunch that I enjoy. Nowhere else would they read my leftwing POV... Funny, isn't it?

[SoCalDem]

47. A blanket WELCOME to all you "newbies"..

Everyone here started with zero posts.. We LOVE newbies here.. BUT..we don't much care for the disruptor/trolls/freeps/etc.

Thankfully, they are usually pretty obvious, and with the help of other DUers, we can clean house..

a few tips..

PLEASE DO NOT "ENGAGE" THE OBVIOUS ONES..JUST HIT ALERT..

Sometimes the "piling on" within a perfectly good thread will lead to multiple removals, and sometimes even having to lock it..

The trolls come here to "see their comments" in print and active discussion..Don't oblige them..

Give them a Buehller moment:)

and even if you feel it in your bones, PLEASE do not call other posters "freepers" or other epithets:) They will get ousted, but then YOU have broken the rules too, by attacking them..

and when a new person gets up the courage to post something, if it's a duplicate, please don't get "pissy" with them..just alert...let the mods handle it..

It's very discouraging to get up the nerve to post something, and then have 4 or 5 people reply with "duplicate".."already posted"..etc

2 more weeks..and the shit will really hit the fan when * loses.. So look for that alert button.. I hope it does not break :)

[Willy Lee]

51. Thanks for the encouragement

Yes, the next 12 days will be very interesting. I love coming to work and logging on to DU (how do you folks get any wok done??? I jsut want to read!) This group has gotten me so fired up. Before DU I read Buzzflash articles, but this is much more energizing. like being a part of one huge "libral" family. You guys are awesome, inspiring, hilarous, sometimes scary... but you make me feel alive evry day. Thanks!

[SoCalDem]

54. I am a "lazy housewife ".. So I have the time to hang out here..

But eeeeek. you should see my messy house :)

[Rockholm]

128. Thank you for the reminders SoCalDem!

It is almost a badge of honor sometimes to out a disruptor/freeper/troll. One thing that could be kinda cool is if there was a "list" that we could see from time to time of those with HIGH post counts that were indeed found out. JUst a thought. Keep up the great work Mods!

[Culture Mind]

48. I'm addicted

to reading DU but not yet to posting.
Liberal and proud!

[Raiden]

49. I don't contribute as much as I should...

I usually just read everyone else's input, and what great input it is I must add... I love this place! DU and the Daily Show are the only places I get my news anymore.

[Lost Creek]

50. I have been here for years.

This is my third user name.

[camero]

53. What happened the other two times?

If I may be so kind to ask.

[Lost Creek]

106. yes, you can ask - and i will tell

I don’t follow the rules

[Glenda]

157. What are the rules? Are we supposed to read them?

[donheld]

204. Welcome to your third name

:hi: as for not following the rules :spank::spank::spank::spank::spank::spank::evilgrin: truthfully i don't care if you follow the rules or not.

[OhioChick]

55. Low Post Count.....

I've been a DU "reader" for nearly a year, now. I finally joined after getting thoroughly disgusted with how my country is being run. I don't always have the time to post, but read daily. (Thanks to all who keep this board going!) As for having a low post count, I think my "few" posts made speak for themselves as to whom I support in this upcoming election.

OC

[donheld]

203. Ohiochick

:hi: it's good to have you here

[OhioChick]

220. donheld

Thank you for the Welcome! :hi:

[Tsiyu]

56. You want to hear a story?

When i was a baby, i couldn't walk. I fell down and got hurt sometimes. Same thing with running, skating, riding horses, riding bikes, climbing walls.

I learned how to swim at Green Lakes. The first day of swim class my teenaged instructor unceremoneously chunked me in the 12 foot deep water. Sink or swim.

America, you were founded by gutsy people who didn't whine.
QUIT WITH THE PITY PARTY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[giant_robot]

57. I don't delve into much controversy here...

...but I still have found that a donor's star alleviates a lot of suspicion about your motives. Plus, you'll feel good about it!

[Paranoid_Portlander]

87. I agree. Since my post #1...

... I have had my donor's star. I donated before I became a registered user. It's a great way to avoid the flames, better than an asbestos suit.

[stanwyck]

61. There are signs which tip you off

though by no means fool-proof. (profiling and all) But I'm usually suspicious of posts that begin: "Now I'm Jon Stewart's biggest fan in the world, BUT...." or "I'm no fan of George Bush, BUT...." These are clues that you're about to read a freeper post.
Also, atrocious grammar and spelling. Not sure why, but the freepers tend to have a low skill set in those areas.
Also, unattributed information. No sources named. "I read somewhere" (is actually Rush or Sean or Bill). It's the Faux equivalent of "some people say". The "some people" is Rupert Murdoch. It's the freeper way of making opinion appear to be news.

[MADem]

161. EXACTLY!!!!!

That "BUT" is a HUGE tip off. The other tactics associated with the famous BUT include:

The lameass referral: "A freeper friend of mine told me....I don't believe it, BUT..."

The faux outrage: "This was reported in (link to lameass farright publication) that (John Kerry eats babies, Teresa is a commie, pick your poison!). I don't believe it, BUT..."

The ONE ISSUE approach: "I support Kerry, BUT (fill in some bullshit piece of non-news that is supposed to make people change their mind--e.g. OH, he carried a GUN!!! He killed a GOOSE! Forget all the kids killed in Iraq, I can't vote for a GOOSE killer! It's NADER FOR ME! Then, everyone piles on about that....

The "WOE THE TIDE IS TURNING AGAINST US--ABANDON HOPE" approach: Again, this starts out with "I support Kerry, BUT (yea, that BUT again) everyone I talk to supports Bush because...often ends with "prove this wrong, or what can I do?" Often POLLS ARE QUOTED in an effort to push this method. My advice to these whiners: Try not listening to assholes, IMHO!

The "GET THEM ARGUING AMONGST THEMSELVES" approach: Usually started by anyone who is a recent registrant, and who is quick to post a new topic that is abso-fucking-lutely guaranteed to piss people off--usually disguised as a request for clarification or information, and passes on falsehoods that either cannot be sourced or when ultimately, the link is provided (usually by someone else who smells a rat), it's from the GOD HATES GAYS or NAZI Party website. Often done with a tag team, one playing good guy, the other the bad guy.

I just think it is polite form to do one's best to work and play well with others. The people who own and run this wonderful forum are doing us all a great service, and they do have my deepest thanks and appreciation. I regard myself as an invited and welcomed guest in their lovely home, and like a good guest, I am not going to poop on their carpet. I try real hard to be positive, supportive, and if I do disagree, to not be DISAGREEABLE, and to keep the DRAMA dialed down to low! That's just simple courtesy, and I don't think I'm the only one by any stretch who takes this approach.

When I see an unusual degree of BOLDNESS, my antennae goes up...!

[Catherine Vincent]

62. That is true but I can still sniff out the disruptors.

So they better watch out!:-)

[8-6-PDB]

64. Don't have time

Some of us don't have time to post a lot. We still read, though, and we still have opinions.

I haven't been able to post because I could not log in. I changed my name to hard_work, and will have to log in under that pseudonym when I log out as 8-6-pdb. I don't know the password to this login anymore.

[Judi Lynn]

138. On the home page, it has a place for people who've forgotten passwords

Right under "Enter Discussion Forums" and "First time visitor? Please register."

When you click on the "lost password" it will request your e-mail addaress, and send you a new password. You can change this password later after getting back in with your username and temporary password.

[VaYallaDawg]

65. Another low poster here

surrounded by a state-full of mouth foamin' rethugs. But I love to come here and see diversity and perspective from fellow libs. Long live DU!!

[Zhade]

67. Also remember, there are 1000+ operatives here.

I know of two who got banned, one of whom was later named on a rightwing blog as a "good friend" of an extreme righty.

I can think of half a dozen disruptors on DU now. They're pretty obvious, but managed to get enough posts to fly under the radar.

They'll slip up one day and be banned as well. All that work for nothing!

:evilgrin:

[movie_girl99]

68. thanks for posting this

I hung around here for months before I ever got up the nerve to post because i was afraid of being stoned or that no-one would reply. The vast amount of knowledge here never ceases to amaze me and can be intimidating. I have had nothing but pleasant experiences though and most people are happy to help educate those of us willing to learn. I too talk about DU to friends and family and attribute this site to the little bit of knowledge that I have obtained in the last few months.

[Rockholm]

69. WOW, I didn't think this would get such a response!

I remember the first time I had a post turn into a "deleted message." Man, that really made me sick to my stomach. Not in an angry way, but one that was like "Why was I turned on by the board? What did I do wrong" It was early on and I remember it like it was yesterday. I used the phrase "you people" during a racial discussion. Someone didn't like that phrase, which in hindsight could have been taken in a racially negative way. Had I been speaking, I would have said "ya'll" since I am a southerner by birth, but "ya'll" looks well, dumb in print, so said "you people."
Yes, there are true trolls out there with low (and high post) counts.
It just seems that today, being that we are the computer generation that a real community has formed on-line. Heck, my 70 year old in-laws are probably lurking in here. I talk about DU enough.

[mcerise]

82. hi rockholm

Thanks for starting this thread. I really appreciate it :) Yeah, I don't like being doubted of my intentions too, but I'm glad that some DU'ers are willing to challenge posts because I think it's necessary to keep away disruptors when possible.

[MADem]

162. I posted a dupe in LBN

...and I really DID look to see if it was there, but I obviously missed it....boy was my face red!

[phylny]

186. I just recently had a post of mine deleted

and I was hurt/pissed because the person I responded to was baiting me, I felt. My error, I suppose, was using the word "Clueless?" in my subject line.

My bad, I guess. But I really felt like the teacher yelled at me or something.

I've also had the experience of hitting the alert button (once since I started posting here) because of what I perceived to be some Christian bashing. I think the person said something like "All Christians are _____" and I felt it was unwarranted, as much as "All Jews are _____" or "All Muslims are _____" or even "All Blacks are _______" Nothing came of my alert, so now I'm probably less likely to click alert, leaving that to those I perceive have more of a standing on this site.

I, too, was accused of being a freeper/troll/whatever when I asked a question about an e-mail I was trying to debunk. Evidently that, too, is reason for suspicion. I merely responded that if they did a search on usenet, they'd see me forcefully fighting the good fight. Obviously, luckily, nothing came from it, but I do not forget those who blindly accused me.

[alevensalor]

71. Thanks

I'm new here, so I appreciate that.

~A!

[MsUSA]

72. I have a low post count

because by the time I get my thoughts written, someone else has said what I wanted to say and have said it more eloquently. I really just like to read what everyone writes anyway, and I can never thank you all enough for your insight, knowledge and wisdom. I rely on DU and C-SPAN exclusively for my news.

[independentpiney]

77. Same here.. MS makes typing a long tedious process

By the time I finish correcting all my typos, whatever I was going to say has already been said. But just reading is fine. There's alot of really good minds here,wit along with wisdom.

[movie_girl99]

73. one more thing

I love this place and actually, my family thinks I'm a DU addict. I read mostly at work but sometimes the addiction is too much and I log on at home too. Those of you who are veterans should feel proud to have inspired so many of us newbies. Keep it up!!!!

[semillama]

78. i'm just the quiet type

I've been lurking for a couple years here, mainly just came at first for top ten conservative idiots but stayed for the political news from the forums.

I generally follow an internet posting rule of only posting when I have something to contribute. I also try not to be overtly rude or get pissed off at what someone posts on a BBS - just words, folks! But if I see an opportunity to make a good joke, I'll take it. Hope that doesn't result in a message deleted!

I'm still figuring out some of the posting etiquette here too.

[Nerdling]

79. Hullo :)

I'm newish here and i'm an editor at a e-news site.

You have a very friendly and welcome approach to newbies on the most part. Keep it up. I'll be sticking around.

Dave

[ProgressiveFool]

83. Guess I'd better work on that count, too

I've been coming to DU for a few months to read articles and the comics - made my first post maybe a week or two back. I guess I'm just a lurker by nature.

Or was - I'm feeling terribly guilty about not doing more to help out in this election. I guess I got too easily discouraged by the miserable failure of my efforts to enlighten even my own friends and family members.

Maybe that star will help :)

[prayin4rain]

84. I've read in silence for about a year. I love this site.

I learn a whole lot!!!! :)

[Jacobin]

85. Yes. Please lighten up and give the newbies a chance

I've referred a couple of new people here in the last two weeks. One a FORMER Bush supporter who had gone to IraqNam on a public works project for a year, came back and said the entire fiasco is completely delusional, will never ever work, he will never go back, troops need to come home NOW, and WILL VOTE FOR KERRY. He wanted a site to read that was more truthful than AmericanPravda, since he said the "news" in this country hasn't a clue as to what is going on.

I haven't spoken to him since he checked in here, but I hope he didn't accidentally say something politically incorrect and get reamed out by the DU politically correct police. (horrors, I hope he didn't call someone a b----)

Can we please lighten up and give them a chance. We need everyone we can get. This race is too important to piss off people gratuitously

[clintonlover]

86. I AGREE

as a low poster.........

[donheld]

214. Good to have you here

:hi:

[jhain]

88. oh please oh please oh please

don't diss the newbies!

I am learning so much and have completely given up TV news in the week or so I have been here.

I AM spreading the word, too!

[porphyrian]

91. Newbies are always treated more harshly...

...it's not just here. People that prove themselves get to stay. Is it fair? Not always, but then, this is a privately owned website.

[freeminder]

93. it's time for another low post counters thread in the Lounge :-)

There were quite some threads in the Lounge where only low post counters were "allowed" in, and the megaposters would come begging to get in since these threads were very popular. :P

I guess DU has become so big and busy that it's kinda hard to get noticed.

And don't we all want attention?

[joe_sixpack]

94. Low post count here too.

Wish I could post more often, but I do read a lot.

[Justpat]

97. Hello. My name is Old Broad and I am a low poster.

I have been reading here for a long time, but just stuck my face in
a few months ago. I work seven days a week so don't have much
in the way of energy and time to put in - but I am a very grateful
low poster. I love DU. It keeps me semi sane :)

[Autumn]

101. Low post count here

I've lurked here since right after the 2000 election. Finally signed up in early 2003 (maybe sooner) this place has been an oasis of sanity for me. Don't know what I would do without it.

[Tafiti]

102. 'Nother low-poster here!

I just joined last month, and for the past couple of days worked at posting more to break the 100 threshold. I hit it today, so now I can relax.

[Longhorn]

103. What a friendly, uplifting thread!

Lots of good people coming together for one very important cause. I'm proud to be a part of this board!

To DU members who embrace our cause, no matter what your post count is: :yourock:

[Rockholm]

110. Thanks! And thanks to EVERYONE who has posted so far!

[idiosyncratic]

105. I'm intimidated by the wit and intelligence exhibited here

and rarely think I have anything worth adding.

But I love reading . . . in fact I am addicted. :hi:

[Justpat]

108. Welcome, Apolitical No More! eom

[SoCalDem]

112. Don't be intimidated... YOUR opinion is just as valid as ANYONE's

Just jump in:)

and Welcome :hi:

[crispini]

107. What a nice thread.

:hi: to all the low post counters! and a big DU welcome! :D

Honestly, I've found it very easy to get a higher post count by generously handing out the, "Hi!" and "kick" and "Thank you for posting that" variety of post. I really think that if the OP took the time to write a good post, they really enjoy a pat on the back. OK, it's not a very SUBSTANTIVE contribution, but it's still a contribution. :D

I also post a lot more on my State forum, and I feel like I'm able to make a real contribution there because I know what's going on in my hometown and state, and get to know people more quickly.

And I've never gotten a deleted post yet, at least not that I remember. I guess that's because even though I have a pretty short fuse, I've gotten used to counting to 10 before I post (or say) something. I've gotten into too much trouble with my temper before to not keep it on a pretty short leash!

just my 2 cents! :D

[Tierra_y_Libertad]

109. Welcome to the new blood. Beware the McCarthyite wing.

Those who brook no criticism of anything that any Democrat says or does.

The cheerleaders who get the heeby-jeebies at any sign of dissent or straying from the party line.

For those who get nervous, I voted absentee for Kerry on Tuesday but I'll criticize him when he screws up.

As for the real disrupters - Piss off.

[Anarcho-Socialist]

216. Ditto with every sentiment you expressed

Welcome new DUers! :toast:

[mcar]

111. This is so true.

My friend, and fellow DUer, was at her local Democratic headquarters the other day. The people there had never heard of DU but were thrilled to find out about it.

As for me, I've been a DUer since just after 9/11. I don't post much, but I lurk a lot.

You guys have been my lifeline for the past 3 years. You are a wealth of information, ideas and inspiration.

I may not post a lot, but I appreciate a lot.:bounce:

[William Bloode]

115. Nothing wrong with low post count...

I mean seriously, some of us don't spend every waking moment on the computer. At my post rate it would take me 3yrs to make the 1000 post mark. I don't feel i have to post in every thread going.

And as far as what anyone thinks of me around here, i could care less. Most especially if they are judging my character by something as inane as "post count".

Elitism is rampant everywhere, even here. Some are always looking for the smallest thing they can jump on to hollar, "i'm better than you". It can be disturbing around here at times.

[loudestchick]

116. I just spent 10 minutes reading all the posts...

now I know why my count is so low...I spend all my time reading the posts of my fellow enlightened DUers...However, sometimes people won't respond to a newbie...It can be disheartening.

[Glenda]

158. True. Start some controversy in the Lounge :)

:hi:

[Sterling]

117. I say to newbies.

Be respectful, learn the ropes, earn your cred.

[VTMechEngr]

126. The problem is....

Not everyone with a low post count is a newbie. Some of us just read and smile while sending in money from time to time.

[Screaming Eagle RL]

118. "Low" Posters

Almost every board I have posted to responds adversely to new posters.

[donheld]

209. Well here at DU may we respond well to newbies

:hi:

[Entrayl]

119. been reading for months...

...only just fingured out how to sign up :p

[shrike]

132. Welcome

Glad to have you here

[donheld]

206. I read for months too

before signing up :hi: Welcome

[tilsammans]

120. I hope . . .

. . . that a lot of freepers who came to DU bent on disrupting have changed their minds after reading the facts posted here.

[The River]

121. I'm a very slow typist.

So slow in fact I had to start this reply 4 days ago.
My 2 posts a month "average" is as fast as I can go.
I've gone from newbie to sysop in numerous
forums and right or wrong, the new user is always
viewed suspiciously. Just hang in there newbies.
(at the rate I post I may hit 100 by the time Kerry is starting his 2nd term)

[Kipepeo]

168. LOL

Well you are a funny one.

:D

[Kingofalldems]

122. I joined recently after

lurking and taking it all in for a long time. During that period I became an expert at spotting freepers. Some were obvious, but I could spot the moles that most people overlooked. I kept a list in my head and sure enough when I came on board I looked up the names and every one of them had been tombstoned. anyway it's great to be here!

[donheld]

208. Welcome King

:hi:

[Schup]

124. Thanks

for thinking of us "low count" posters.

[donheld]

207. Welcome Schup

:hi: keep with us. :bounce:

[JSG]

127. I have a low post count

This site is prohibited by my company's firewall (all message board sites are), so I can only post in the evenings when I am at home.

Plus I am very shy, so I tend to read more than post.

The first thing I do when I get home, though, is log on here.

I only joined as a poster a few months ago, but I signed up as a contributing member because I have learned so much from all of you.

By the way my real name is Jackie, I'm 33 and I live in Massachusetts. :hi:

[wysiwyg]

129. We should avoid the right-wing impulse to destroy dissent

We should avoid the right-wing impulse to destroy dissent. If Isn't obviously a freeper posting a rant and just someone who disagrees with the majority of posters I don't think it is a healthy impulse to respond by trying to silence the poster. By "obviously" I mean a tirade of insults at evil liberals, etc.

Too much of today's national discourse consists of right-wingers retaliating against anyone who dares to disagree with them. The last thing we need to do is emulate Bill freakin' O'Reilly.

Obviously this board is for Democratic discussion and not Republicans but there is a heck of a lot more diversity in our party than in the GOP.

[RaulGroom]

130. I've been accused a few times of being a republican

Even though my articles on the front page would tend to be exculpatory in that regard. Best advice for those who don't post that often (or haven't posted much yet) is to not take things personally.

[rman]

131. nobody is called a freeper just because of low post count

if the content of the message is disruptive, if the poster has made more provocative posts, -and- the poster has a low post count, then the poster is probably newly arrived freeper.
In fact if he's carefull he can rank up 1000's of posts before being exposed for what he is. In the end they usually can't help themselves in trying to see how far they can go, so more often then not they do give themselves away eventually.

[SillyGoose]

134. This is my first post

although I have been lurking around for the last couple of months. I registered yesterday because I enjoy this community so much and would like to get involved in some of the dicussions.

Even though I have no posts, I'm a proud liberal from Florida and happy to have found DU. :hi:

[helnwhls]

139. Welcome!

:hi:

[donheld]

211. Welcome to DU ac8916

:hi: WARNING DU has been known to become addictive:-)

[GreenPartyVoter]

135. Give them all the benefit of the doubt, I say.

[CottonBear]

136. I'm a newbie and one of my posts made the homepage!

I check in at DU when I get to work and again later in the afternoon. This morning, to my amazement, there was my post about Terry Anderson on the homepage. Wow! I've lurked and read here for about a year but I just recently registered. In fact, this is the first discussion board I've ever posted to. I waited so long to register and post because I wanted to learn the ropes, as it were.
DU is an amazing place. I am so glad I found all of you.

[GreenPartyVoter]

140. And we're glad too! *hugs*

[CottonBear]

143. Thanks for the *hugs* GreenPartyVoter!

My husband and I voted for some Green party candidates in 2000. It was for some local and state races. The Greens got more votes than ever before in any elections in our state! We had those lever type voting machines. We realized that we didn't know how to write in a vote. (The Greens were write-in only for some reason.) So, in front of a huge line of voters, we both had to exit our voting booths and ask for help. A little button and a lever revealed a window with a ballot that you could write on. Unfortunately, we now have statewide electronic voting with no paper trail. I miss my old lever voting machines.

edit: correct spelling of button

[GreenPartyVoter]

144. Well, hang in there. Maybe President Kerry will help us get some

real election reform!

[itcfish1]

137. I Don't Post

much because either someone makes snide remarks about my posts or they are simply ignored, so I choose to read more than post.

[senseandsensibility]

169. Who cares if they're ignored?

At least you got your two cents in. Seriously, don't let that stop you. I think you'll find, too, that the higher your post count, and the more people get to know your style, the more responses you'll get...:)

[helnwhls]

141. Thanks for breaking it down

I have had the same experience regarding the news. The Tom Delay subpoena, the Jon Stewart link. I was pleased to hear this info as it was happening insteads of 1 week later, like most of my friends.

[Technowitch]

145. Hey, everybody has to start somewhere!

I remember being 'welcomed' to DU -- after I had something like 30 posts, but having been around here for well over six months.

A low post count doesn't mean a person isn't worth listening to.

[Citizen Jane]

146. Sorry I don't post prolifically!

I just found this "second home" in the last few weeks. I love being able to know what is happening as it happens. I spend a lot of time emailing links to stories I have found here to my liberal friends/colleagues/relatives encouraging them to check out DU (which always makes me think of my alma mater).

My time is not just constricted by my job and my daughter, I am also an Admin on another site and moderate several fora there as well. Because of that, I have less time to post andt I am also selective about how/what I post. I want my posts to be productive contributions for people who take the time to read them

I really don't mind if people are cautious about who I am because I haven't given as much to this site as I would like to in the future and I think their caution is appropriate as I am also cautious on the site where I am an admin in re new members. In addition, we discourage "atta-boy" type posts in order to boost posting numbers at that site so I am having to get used to being able to voice my "amens" from the choir!

So, thanks to everyone for the welcomes and for providing such a wonderful site. You've reinvigorated my Inner Liberal!!!

:yourock:

[tjfreeman]

147. I don't post very often...

and wondering if its really worth the time.

I'm certainly no freeper having been involved for many years in progressive politics. This past May I was a delegate at the State Democratic Convention in Hawaii and helped get some progressive resolutions passed in the foreign affairs committee. A few years ago I lived in Mendocino County California and road up to Seattle with a bunch of great folks from Mendocino to the Seattle WTO protest.


I discovered DU a few months ago and took some time to try to write a few thoughtful posts which were quickly gone and buried with hardly a comment. If low posters aren't even taken seriously then it hardly seems worth the effort.


Here is something I wrote recently which appeared on CounterPunch. Is it worth posting here?

http://www.counterpunch.org/freeman10122004.html

[donkeyotay]

150. I hope you will continue to post here.

Some posters who have been around a lot longer than I have were commenting on that very issue - that some posts meriting attention sink quickly, while some trivial ones get a lot of response. They also mentioned that the Editorials forum doesn't get swamped with flotsum, so the posts last longer.

I am among those being criticized though, because I often come here just to counteract the oppression: blow off steam, have a few laughs, know others share my viewpoint, and not think too deeply.

Anyway, I read your article in CounterPunch, and I think you'll find many sympathetic ears here, although most aren't into criticizing Kerry at this moment in time. I hope you will not be offended, but I so loved the quote you used to introduce your article that I've copied it here, instead of your own words, which were also inspirational.

When a country obtains great power,
it becomes like the sea:
all streams run downward into it.
The more powerful it grows,
the greater the need for humility.
Humility means trusting the Tao,
thus never needing to be defensive.

A great nation is like a great man:
When he makes a mistake, he realizes it.
Having realized it, he admits it.
Having admitted it, he corrects it.
He considers those who point out his faults
as his most benevolent teachers.
He thinks of his enemy as the shadow that he himself casts.

If a nation is centered in the Tao,
if it nourishes its own people
and doesn't meddle in the affairs of others,
it will be a light to all nations in the world..

Lao Tzu, Tao te Ching, Stephen Mitchell translation

[tjfreeman]

151. Thanks!

I appreciate your comment. I don't believe my essay was really critical of Kerry at all. I acknowleged that he couldn't have been more honest in responding to Lehrer's question regarding whether or not our troops are indeed dying for a mistake. He couldn't really level with the people because the people (at least those yet undecided voters) have not been able to really face the truth about the war in Iraq yet. I was merely trying to make that case clearer to that undecided voter. Aloha....

[Utakan]

148. Discovered DU also...

DU is truly a lone island of progressive sanity in this crazy facist country. I just know Kerry will win in a 350+ EV blowout... but I still can't help being nervous, y'know... thank goodness for DU.

Tarheels for Kerry... we LOVE Edwards, NC'll go Kerry. :D

[donheld]

210. Welcome to DU Utakan

:hi: :toast: to John Kerry :nuke: to W and company

[Patiod]

149. I have 488 posts at Bartcop, but I needed more more more

There's too many horror stories in the general media (horror = implying that Bush has a good chance of winning), and I can only get Air America at work (and only when I'm not on the phone).

I needed more of a fix, and remembered DU and signed up today.

I'm a committeewoman at home in suburban Phila, and looking forward to seeing Kerry and The Big Dawg Monday at lunchtime around the corner from where I work in Phila.


PS - wow - the spell check is a nice feature....

[Digit]

154. Yeah, and I am proudly sporting a DU bumper sticker on my car!

It is the very first bumper sticker I have ever put on a car I owned.
My hope is that I, too can get some people to check out this site and stay to learn what is really going on.

[ScaRBama]

155. I'm a low poster....

Hey! we all must have a beginning. Somebody pointed me in this direction and all I can say is that I'm glad they did. I really love the forum and enjoy reading the thoughts of the people that gather here. I'm a newbie so give me a little time to fit in. One thing I think we all have in common is that we need CHANGE.

[jeffrey_X]

156. Same here...

been registered for about two years...but just don't post much.

[YankeeFan]

159. And Again

I just don't have the time to post much.

And besides, as I'm a Very Strong Dean supporter, I have this horrible feeling that Kerry is going to lose and lose pretty big. I'm almost surprised I haven't been Banned from this place yet.

[seg4527]

160. Look at my post count...

And I've been here for like two years. One time, if I remember correctly, I was accused of being a freeper, and that was after I'd been here for a year. Frankly, this place is just too fast paced for me to keep up with posting, so I just use it as my main source of news. But I don't think accusing anybody who has a low post count and says something we may not agree with helps us.

I mean, I was called a freeper, yet I'm absolutely 100% sure I'm too the left of at least 50% of the people here. Yet I don't call the 50% that are not as liberal as me freepers.

It's just something to think about.

Steve

[Anarcho-Socialist]

217. You can get called a 'Freeper' if you're more left-wing than average

I've had that experience myself.

[PBR me]

163. not much of a poster myself...

but this is a great place to find stories/links to real news-not the filtered-watered-down-sugar-coated-crap they(big media) try to force feed the american public

[donheld]

212. Welcome wdh7

:hi:

[TorchTheWitch]

165. soooo stupid

I've been here over a year and still haven't hit the 500 post mark. Quite frankly, I have a low post count because I actually have a life. It astounded me how high the average post count was here when I first came for people that hadn't been here for a year or two... who the hell has THAT much spare time?

Honestly, I have more respect for those people that have been here awhile but have a more moderate or lower post count because it shows that they probably spend more time reading and learning then they do flapping their owns gums... I don't come here for the purpose of listening to my own self yap. Actually, as long as I've been here, I've never even started a single thread.

With that said... who gives one single fart in the wind about what anyone's post count is when ignoring how long they've been here and what their posts normally consist of. I'm far more suspicious of people who have a LOT of posts that don't really offer any opinion or is just plain one word/phrase/sentence drivel. All those "LOL" "Hi,____" , etc. posts are annoying as hell as well as the ones with 10 lines of repeated smilies... one or two barf, nuke, bouncing blob, etc. smilies is quite sufficient, thanks.

I've been accused of being a freeper several times, and I could really give a crap. If they're too lazy to review what I've said here or even really review the post that made them wig out to begin with, they can kiss my firm delicious buttocks and hyperventilate themselves into apocalyptic paranoia with my blessing.

Newbies: don't sweat the idiotic stuff.

[allalone]

166. sometimes

I just don't feel like typing.

[Sin]

172. Not a big poster here just started.

Been reading for a long long time now over 3 years at least i think.
just started to post have gotten a nice welcome so far :) thanks for this post. I truly love this sight for news the humor and what not. I honestly spend more time on this sight then any others just reading news story's checking links.
being out of work ( just Got out of IT school when every thing started to go down hill )
all the info on this place helped me find out were all the foot in the door IT jobs went. gave me a place to hang out read and know like minded and people in the same situation are out there as well.
So thanks Du for being there.

[Bugaboo]

170. Long-time lurker, low post count

I've been reading DU for years - esp. LBN. I just don't have time to post and like to read what other people are saying. Not evil at all.

Thx Rockholm

[DireStrike]

171. Yep I'm another good low post counter

...or at least, I hope I'm good! =D

[renegade000]

173. i've been reading and posting for over a year now

yet i'm still below 1000

[Columbia]

174. Posters who have low post counts shouldn't post until they have have more

:D

[allalone]

226. Yeah so there!

[telex54]

175. Thank you!

I've only been here a few weeks. While I completely understand the wariness to people like myself who have few posts, It's good to know that not everyone thinks we all are lurking freepers. I feel like I should take this opportunity to say hi! :hi:

:kick:

[footinmouth]

176. I'm pretty new too

But I'm not evil. I'm close to my 100th post. I should have it by tomorrow. I just don't have a lot to say.

[thanks jon]

178. I too am new around here also

gotta get me some cool graphics. Love that penguin slap down whoever that is : )
Too buzy reading and all.
I enjoy many of the threads, sometimes I'll just toss in a quip,

usually I'm off following a link elsewhere.

Ive been staying away from TV and computer since I early retired from an IT job last year but all of sudden am buzzing over the eletion. I want GWB out. out gone I am not sure if I am a qualified liberal anymore, but I think it is a good word not to be used in the prejorative. I think its ok if you are from Mass or Hollywood or Nashville or Tonapau. Sick of the vacuousness of the debate as spun by media. And definitely don't want to trade in one form of fascism for another.


Sometimes for the sake of good discussion someone has to play devils advocate to draw out points. Not that I have, I'm still laying low mostly. I have seen overreactions to good follow ups at times. Wouldn't want to be called a freeper though. But if it makes you happy, : )


Ramble on.


:hippie:

[proReality]

179. Some of us have been hear quite a long time, reading but not posting.

It took me over a year to work up the courage to contribute here (this board moves faster than I do), though I've been participating in DUing polls, writing letters to editors, taking local action, and reading and forwarding what I find here to everyone on my email list. Not to mention taking a lot of flak from my republican friends and even losing a couple because of what I think of the current administration.

This is a fantastic site for a reality check and a comfort for anyone who felt like they were the only person in the world who saw what was really going on.

All I can say is that there are must be a lot of us silent types who are very grateful for this community of like-minded exists. I know a few in my area.

Thanks for being here everyone!

[m berst]

181. have read for a long time

I am active on three other boards, the Kucinich board, the DFA board and I run a Clark board, so mostly I have been getting news, insights and inspiration from DU, reading every day, but not posting. Signed up a few months ago, then forgot the password, didn't want to pester Skinner, time went by... finally just re-registered a couple of days ago. Nice to be officially onboard.

[proReality]

225. Nice to have you here! n/t

.

[Brundle_Fly]

184. I have low posts.

but you are all my heroes of democracy.

don't judge me.

[smitty]

188. low post count

I have a low post count. Am I automatically under suspicion as a potential "freeper" or disrupter? What do I have to do to prove my Democrat bona fides? Please advise.

[donheld]

205. Hey smitty

:hi: Welcome

[buddhamama]

189. my very first post on DU was in response to a freeper

it was obvious, though. freepers come to disrupt. if we view every newbie as suspect and become intolerant we've allowed the freepers a small victory. the more the merrier, i say.

Welcome Newbies! :hi:

[Princess Buttercup]

192. I'm new here too

But I've been reading along for quite a while. Finally signed up. This is the first place I went to after the debates. I recommend this sit to everyone so I decided I should finally start joining in.

[donheld]

215. Liberal Elite welcome

:hi: come back often

[Princess Buttercup]

218. Thanks!

Being polite and raising my post count at the same time! ;-)

[Evergreen Emerald]

199. I don't post much, but read alot.

I am here daily reading the latest...I also check it out at work (where I don't post as I have a government job).

This place has been a life saver. I am surrounded by neo-cons at work and in my neighborhood. As I drive from work, every talk radio station blathers right-wing propoganda (Tho, I hear Air America is coming here monday)! This is a safe haven.

[existentialist]

213. I've got a low post count

(so far), but I'm a Democrat, and I'm working with local Democrats.

(and trying to persuade on other forums where I might by chance find someone who might still be swayed . . .

[Brundle_Fly]

219. I do have a new Freeper account though.

awaiting a time to do some damage. ;)

[Bo]

221. I READ FOR OVER A YEAR.........

before registering....

[ever_green]

222. I'm fairly new too

It goes against my grain to post things like, "lol or thanks for posting " because it just seems pointless, but I do it so my count goes up, I hate being new :-(

[recoveringdittohed]

223. Newbie but long time lurker

Have been lurking occasionally here since November 2000 especially in recent months. I guess I am technically an Independent as I did not vote in either primary this year (usually I always vote but didn't feel comfortable voting in either primary this year). I'm rambling but what I'm trying to say is that I did not until today feel qualified to join DU as I am not currently a Democrat but then I realized that next week I will voting predominantly for Democrats for the first time since the 1970's and that this is not a fluke but rather I am belatedly seeing through a lot of the Republican BS which I have bought for years and will in all likelihood be rejoining the Democratic Party in the 2006 primary (and will be voting mostly Democratic this year).

[BeFree]

229. Glad to help your rehab, recoveringdittohed

Just read this whole thread, and it flat out inspired me. Welcome all newbies!

"The cure for an ill democracy is more democracy" Ed Abbey

DU is a cure, eh? Lord knows it's been a blessing for me, and I thank ya'll for your wit and wisdom.

KerryOn!

[Larry Tyler]

227. Cant believe I read the whole thing

Unlike others here that share the low post count ailment, I have not been reading this forum for a period of time.
I found the forum by accident, I read through some of the posts and liked what I saw on the surface, so I registered.
I am glad that I read this thread as it brought out many rules, written and perceived as far as the posting goes.
I found this site while searching for various articles on John Kerry's stand on some basic issues that may directly affect me as a business owner.
My desire is to stay here as long as I am accepted, to work to insure that our next president is John Kerry, and that the world becomes aware that sometimes in America, our "leaders" will act in a manner that does not reflect the ideals of the majority of Americans.
We can not afford to have in our history books again a president that was appointed, not elected.
At the age of 47, this election may very well be the most important election that I will ever have the obligation to cast a vote in, and as such, I find that is my/our duty to try and instill on others the same urgency to use their vote to begin a healing process that will take years to achieve.
I think that the future of this country will be set by the outcome of this next election. I find the same excitement and urgency to duty in the words of many that post here.

I may not have much to add to your conversations, but I assure you that I find much to take with me.

[Doofer]

228. "Regarding Folks With Low Post Counts....."

Hey I've been a lurker for a month or so. I've just started posting today. Why? Because time is getting short. Having said this I'm sure there's allot of freeper types in our midst. It's all part of having a free and open board.

[flpeach]

230. I'm a Reader, Not a Talker

So I have low posts, but I read others' posts all the time. I've been lurking for a few years but just don't post much. There's a lot of people like that.

[yardwork]

231. I want to say hello and welcome to all the newbies and low-count posters!

I am relatively new here myself. I passed the 1,000 post mark because I talk/post a lot and I am addicted to this site. There's nothing inherently better about being a high-count poster vs. a low-count poster.

I hit alert when I suspect a freeper or a troll (not necessarily the same thing - some folks are not freepers or disruptors, they are just a little funny in the head). I learned not to call folks out in the thread.

Hit alert if you have any suspicions and let the mods sort it out. It avoids a lot of misunderstandings and hurt feelings.