The reason I used that name was because I wasn't interested in getting hostile PMs, but I am now satisfied that I will not get "hate mail' via TER's personal message system because of my political views.  If any of you disagree with me about my views, keep it on the board.

As my "real" name, jackvance, I have generally limited my postings on the General Discussion Board to my great passion, which is leading mountain climbing expeditions.  But I will be using jackvance here too now.

Let's have good political discussions, in which we "take the high road" by resisting the urge to make personal attacks on each other.

Let's make it a goal to try to change the minds who we disagree with, even if only slightly - it's a beginning.  I do not agree that people are "locked into" a particular viewpoint, and it is hopeless to try to change their mind.  I have had a lot of success in getting people who seemed "locked in" to do this.  It starts by finding common ground with them, and working from there.  You also have to show respect for them as people - if you accuse them or call them names, you've lost them before you've even gotten started.  They will tune you out immediately.
It also helps to set a good example by the kind of person you are.  People will generally listen to people who they respect as people.

So anyhow, looking forward to some good discussions with all of you.  And no, I don't promise to be nonpartisan and unbiased.

Jack