Call me simple-minded, but frankly, I not only like the range of
topics discussed in ALSBtalk, but I think it strengthens the
organization to have us discuss issues of interest to the
organization and its members.  We don't deal in a vacuum.  We aren't
an information-only organization, a human organizational database, so to
speak.  We are human beings who teach legal studies and come together
in the spirit of that.  I am as comfortable with the announcement
of the new baby of a member as I am about the discussion of strictly
legal topics, as well as our meeting places.  A big part of what we do
as an organization is our yearly meetings.   I like reading
the e-mail input rather than being presented with a
place I have to show up in from year to year--input of ALSB delegtes
notwithstanding.  Technology is such that if one doesn't want to read
the input, it is easy enough to note the topic from the "Subject" line,
and just delete it without even reading it.  This is far preferable
to denying to the rest of us the opportunity to use this easily
accessible means of organizational communication to connect with each
other on issues of interest and relevance to us.  As I have
previously expressed to the list, after years of connecting with
everyone only through yearly meetings, this is truly a joy.  I have
to say also, in all candor, that I think the tone taken by the writer
was inappropriate.  I felt like we were children being chastised
rather than professionals receiving someone's input.  While I love
the means of communication, I don't think it is too much to ask to
have us treat each other respectfully and as the professionals we
are.  Certainly, as lawyers, we know how to disagree without being
disagreeable or condescending.
 
Dawn D. B-A
Dawn D. Bennett-Alexander