Date:         Wed, 20 Jan 1999 08:12:53 -0500
Reply-To:     Michael Sullivan <sullivan@OPENMARKET.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Michael Sullivan <sullivan@OPENMARKET.COM>
Subject:      Why the list has changed...
In-Reply-To:  <22f5042a.36a4d5d9@aol.com>
Content-Type: text/enriched; charset="us-ascii"

Dear List,


It is quite apparent that the list has changed. The "old guard" are
moving on to Eurovans (and even other marques) and our once
impossibly-expensive Vanagons are now relatively cheap -- cheap enough
for nearly anyone to "buy in". And this upsets the order of the Vanagon
universe. Yup, the list is no longer as exclusive as it once was --
recall that this is a good thing people as we are supposed to be
inclusive. Unfortunately, these "new" neighbors make some "old timers"
feel uncomfortable at times! (e.g. "they ask the most stupid questions",
"they don't know how to spell", "they even like punk rock" -- yikes!)


The list is also more "naive", less "wise" than it once was -- the
newbies by-and-large are younger (i.e. college students) who literally
LOVE their Vanagons, but don't yet have the history of the old-guard
(i.e. we aging hippies and hippy wannabees)! This youthful demographic
revolution comes with changes in etiquette, knowledge, style, wisdom, and
insights. And if I remember correctly, younger, more testosterone-laden
lads are quite quick to flame anyone and everyone in their path!! So be
forewarned!!! (it would, on the other hand, be nice if some of you
<underline>hot heads</underline> could cool yer jets a bit)


In closing people, the neighborhood has changed, some for the better,
some for the worse. A few of you will be uncomfortable and move out --
complaining that the world has "gone to hell in a handbasket". Others
will welcome the newcomers (especially those trying to sell things on the
cheap!).


I for one get a LOT out of this list. I intend to keep it that way.


Cheers,


Michael J. Sullivan



P.S. The idea of a robust FAQ is a very good one -- but don't
underestimate the how difficult it is to do right. I'm willing to be
"editor" of one section -- anyone else?



<bold>

Michael J. Sullivan

</bold><italic>Director of Catalog Design

Open Market, Inc.

</italic>

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