This is not really a dilemma. As listowner you need to establish clearly and unequivocally that abusive behaviour is simply not tolerated. On the biggest and most active list I manage (ANSAX-L) the co-owner and I have established a set of rules for online behaviour. If a subscriber breaks one of those rules he or she is immediately set to REVIEW, so that I have to approve each posting, and is warned privately to cease and desist. Usually this is enough. A second occurrence, and they are deleted. As list owner you have to be autocratic at times. If this hurts some sensitive or fragile souls, so be it, especially if they don't suffer that condition when they feel the urge to flame someone. Bill -- Dr. W. Schipper Email: [log in to unmask] Department of English, Tel: 709-737-4406 Memorial University Fax: 709-737-4528 St John's, Nfld. A1C 5S7