Stephen Wright recently wrote:
 
>If this .signature file is why you kicked Ms. Nachman off your list, then
>I must say that I don't see what the problem is.  The web page in question
>offers a free software package (which isn't mentioned in the .sig anyway)
>and some reviews of science fiction movies.  Not very "commercial," if you
>ask me.
 
I've been on a couple of lists where SquareNotes and Ms. Nachman have
maintained a presence.  From purely personal observation, they maintain
their presence on these lists exclusively to promote their product. Some
listowners get irritated at this and take action, others are more
laissez-faire.  One list owner privately advised them to post something
other than promotional messages to that list, or be gone; after their
next posting, another "Why are we giving away this free product?" the
owner pulled the plug on them, and explained his reason to the list.  I
may have already filtered SQN from my own lists, I don't remember.
 
It seems to me this minor issue has festered simply because it highlights
the differences in list owner styles.  Some lock up the strawberries,
some just don't have time to screw around with near-spammers, some are
tolerant or even avuncular, and some check their lists every three
months.  So?  If someone is more rigid, and his/her list members can't
stand it, they'll leave. If a list is neglected, folks who care will
start one on that topic with a more dutiful owner.
 
-Dave Phillips