"but this excess of sensitivity about it is beyond hypocrisy, given the general tone most 'Catters take whenever any public figure around here has come up for discussion."

That is not a fair statement. You have no idea of what any of us thought about Anna Nicole Smith and to base your opinion on previous discussions is wrong. I don't think that the obit threads normally take a bad tone when someone passes. Mudcatters may have more compassion than you give us credit for.

Two wrongs don't make a right, and I think it would be a good idea to change. I respect Joe's opinion to leave it as is, but it would be a nice gesture if the originator of this thread asked for a change. If you don't feel that way, it is your choice.