[Leon]

As John mentioned, there can be reasons when folks don't want to be known but still participate. One long time member (still is) has/had a public position and didn't think it would be good for him to be known. There are some people who just don't want to be known on a public chat board. I sort of understand.

However, It's not like names are really that searchable if you put spaces or characters, periods etc.....in between a few letters. But we have debated this many, many times over the years. It is a solid rule that, while is much more difficult to enforce than having it all one way or the other, is best for our forum. I am always open for debate but would be shocked if there was a convincing reason (in my mind) to change.

As I said previously, I am on a few other boards, and when someone throws barbs your way it really stinks to not know who the coward is. I feel strongly that people need stand behind what they say if it is controversial or opinionated. And I side on the name needing to be there if it is a close call. This rule and our registration process causes a few folks not to be members, and that is a good thing in my mind. If they want to be 100% anonymous and not give contact info to me, or not play by our rules, then so be it. There are plenty of other forums that allow anonymity.