... I much prefer to let them be unmoderated so the dialog can flow.

I resent it when my laissez faire nature and lenient attitude towards Moderating these boards is taken advantage of. It makes me angry when I have to scold adults (ADULTS!) because they are acting like spoiled bratty children. I really hate it when I am forced to be an asshole.

Have I made myself clear?

In this instance, why did you flip the guy's alias?  I'm not questioning your judgement, but what was the guideline for doing so?  This will help others who intend to use an alias without fear of being exposed by the moderator.

Or am I wrong and that there are no rules for moderators to flip aliases at their discretion?

Just wondering.

From TER's Guidelines:

USE OF ALIASES

One username/alias/handle per person per thread. If this policy is violated you will lose posting privileges for 30 days.

Posting rude and mean comments while hiding under an ALIAS will be reported to the site Admin for evaluation. If sufficient cause is found the post will be modified by Admin to EXPOSE your USERNAME.

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The decision to flip the alias was made by Admin.
But the decision to bring it to the attention of Admin, was mine. I felt the poster had exceeded the boundaries, and acted accordingly.

The reasons were manifold. Several others had already figured out who the OP was. The OP was already treading thin ice from several borderline infractions. The alias used was offensive.  And by flipping the alias, the OP had an opportunity to address his detractors directly. Of course, since he is now moderated, that remains to be seen.

That dude was/is an irritant.

should behave like adults in a positive and supportive manner.  We all have the right to express our opinions here as long as we aren't flaming anyone else for their views.  I for the life of me don't understand why ANY adult on here would behave like a terrible 2-year-old!

Thanks, Dr. Gonzo, for trying to bring some sanity to these boards.