Dear Julian:

Based upon what I've read, closing the Politics Forum would generally drive away several long-time sponsors and the majority of the senior crowd. As mentioned above, the remains of the site, after time, would disintegrate into a mere Crossfire information archive for the searching pleasure of the occasional newbie.

The view rate just today of this particular thread demonstrates the the value of the Politics Forum to the site business plan, if one exists.

The rules of engagement and conduct among gentlemen are obvious, but are also available in written form for the less inclined in the Politics Forum Sticky. What seems to be lacking (from what we read) is consistent, objective monitoring of the sub-forum. And given the apparent value of the Politics Forum, a focused effort to police the site would appear to be cost-effective time well spent, again in appreciation of the business plan.

Just have a look at the other more "sanitized" Crossfire sites on the web. Ho hum. The extended family you have here is rare and quite special. And politics plays a part in it. A uniquely large part.

With all respect,