Alain,
Your thoughtful reply has brought me back from the shadows. I'm glad you hung in there and did a little sparring. The web is saturated right now with patriotic Americans and sensitive Europeans. Chris is not alone in having to use his referee's whistle as a forum moderator this week. Your jokes were light - and good. I am glad you are a member here.
Americans also like to take a healthy humorous swipe at our politicians, but maybe not this week. The political satire cartoon is a cherished tradition in our newspapers. On another point, I believe Americans tend to want free speech and free access to extend to all groups and forums, whether private or not. We are used to suffering fools, and sometimes bad manners in the name of free speech. I'm also as unimpressed with elitism (not from you) as I am bad manners. These times will pass into better days ahead. Still appreciate that neat statue in the New York harbor you guys sent over. Regards, Keys