Our Discussion

[Michael]

I have been asked to say a word about messages in this group. I do
not consider myself a moderator, but as the convener I suppose I
should set some ground rules which will allow us to discuss and to
disagree safely.

1. Let us not talk about individuals here, whether they are members
or not. We are here to discuss issues facing our Club. It is fine to
say "I don't think we should have members who are controversial," but
not "I don't think so-and-so should be a member because he is
controversial."

2. Civility is the glue that holds us together, both on-line and
off. Civility does not preclude strong statements of position nor
vigorous disagreement. It requires only mutual respect. On-line we
should also remind ourselves that pixels have no non-verbal component
unless we add it.

3. Remember that this is a discussion group. A summary of our
discussion will be presented to the membership in December for their
further consideration. Any decisions about the issues we discuss will
be made by the Board.

If I have neglected any other ground rule that should obtain, please
feel free to add it.

Michael

[Lorraine Desrosiers]

Thanks Michael. It's important that we all are heard. Once again, please
join in.

Lorraine

[Hubbard Smith]

Michael --  A civil reply to you is to say that I think your groundrule suggestions are excellent.  Also, my sense is that we are to be discussing broad concepts, not getting bogged down with petty details.  So far, we're doing fine.    ---Hub

---

From: future-of-the...@googlegroups.com on behalf of Michael
Sent: Wed 10/14/2009 10:18 AM

To: Future of The Amherst Club

Subject: Our Discussion

[Arthur Kinney]

Dear Michael,

I don't think I was incivil. I think I was honest.

Arthur

[Michael Greenebaum]

No, you were not at all incivil. I was asked to set some groundrules
and I included civility, as all moderators do.

Michael