Almost none of you will be familiar with me. But, I was a longtime lurker (mostly) at mp.net. So, I do have some familiarity with several of you.
I did actually did do some posting there. First, under a name I can no longer remember; I was banned. I came back later under the name "That One Guy." I saw an inevitable second ban coming my way, and headed it off at the pass by posting a long screed of insults directed at several the mods and some key trolls. Of course, I was promptly banned. Then, I simply lurked for some years, mostly for the Russian photos thread, and later for the Ukraine/Crimea thread.
I figured it was useless for me to start posting again and refrained for a long time. However, I did get drawn in toward the end, and started posting under the name "Terrible Tim." I had something like 90-100 posts under me when mp.net shuttered.
Anyhow, I'm a born and raised US citizen. However, my mother is an ethnic Russian. This is probably why I've always been more inclined to look behind the surface in regard to Russia than most Americans. I have found there there are quite a lot of things I like about Russia. It's not perfect, but then what is? No country that has ever had the word "empire" appended to its name (or should, like the US) earned that distinction by being nice guys 24/7.
Anyhow, the new screen name I've chosen is BKP, for "Bare Knuckle Polemicist." To an extent, that sort of describes my style. I enjoy discussion, and I like debate, especially when it stays respectful. But, I won't long suffer one-sided insults and abuse without firing back if the mods don't step in. This is how mods betray bias and select trolls are coddled. I have always admired the discipline of those who could take it, but I just don't have that. And, If I get banned, then so be it.
I saw several of you guys go down on mp.net. Many of you are excellent and knowledgeable posters. It often seemed to me that you were made to fight by Marquis of Queensbury rules with one hand behind your back while certain pet trolls could kick, bite, scratch, pull hair and headbutt [linedoggie, c.puffs, XJ220 (or whatever), asheren, etc. etc. etc. -- to many to list or remember].
Anyhow, this has been a long intro and I'm sorry for that. Thanks for your patience if you got this far.