Thank you everyone for being so frank (and civil!) with your comments.

My personal opinion comes from a childhood dealing with exclusion. As the only non-affluent, non-white child in my neighborhood, I felt the sting of being judged for reasons beyond my control. And to quote a great man on this special day, I am once again reminded how important it is to judge someone "by the content of their character."

This forum is so successful because it brings together something we all have in common: the love of cycling and community. It heartens me to think that although we may be of differing opinions and backgrounds, we can discuss this in a matter that may not be possible in other places.

That a man can find this place comforting is not puzzling to me in the least. In fact, if a man can put away his machismo and communicate with women in a platonic and supportive way, I am even more gratified. It gives me hope for the future.

But I doubt that many men will flock here and make this a co-ed forum. As someone mentioend before, it IS called Team Estrogen. I feel Mr Silver (or any man/woman/undecided who behaves themselves) can only enrich the conversation and growth of fellow members.