Fencer, this is not a huge deal but IMO would help aleviate some of the problems in the general chat area.

This idea would apoly to all open forums (open to non-members).

Could something be set up whereby all new non-members (I'd exclude members as they are not the problem here) are automatically put on "moderated" status for posting privledges. Moderated status means that a person is free to write a post but it won't actually get posted unless it gets the approval of the moderator. Once a person "proves" him or herself, they are placed on normal status. If they become a problem for the moderator, they could also be placed on moderated status. (even 'no posting" privledges if necessary)

What will this accomplish? We will foever avoid such nonsense as we are currently subjected to by "sLaM" and those like him.

I know you are busy with other things and I may be one of but a few who think this a good idea. I run a Yahoo discussion list (only 500 total members) and they have a similar feature there. It's helped me avoid many drive-by "slams" and helped keep the peace. Plus, it's not that time consuming.

I have no idea how that would affect the time of the moderators here. Just a thought.