JJ,
Sorry if you've happened to log on to the relatively few threads that are full of garbage. Most threads--especially the ones even remotely connected to music--are pretty civilized (though sometimes 'catters who know each other trade barbs in a good-natured manner that might not be understood as such by a "newby.")

I've rarely seen a "guest" attacked for being such, except when an anonymous"guest" posts very provocative opinions ("flaming").

There are a few feisty pets that we keep around for entertainment (you know who you are) who like to swat your leg as you walk by, the way my cat sometimes does. But they're really harmless, and if you're really down, they may even sit on your lap and purr.

Also, being a public forum, idiots are allowed to post, too, and they sometimes do. But on the whole, I've found--over the past 7 months, posting always as "Guest: Sonja"--that Mudcatters treat me, and others, very nicely.

If your experience is different, please keep visiting the Café, and I'm sure you'll find it a friendly place.

Sonja §:-)