I've updated my OP to reflect the correct dates & the fact that you remembered a spam peak that I hadn't noticed or had forgotten.

Yes, I too notice that many of the highest ranked monks don't come here nearly as often as formerly. I know that Davorg's reason is the security breach, but I have no knowledge of others. But there seem to be people like Athanasius moving up the rankings to take their places.

I don't notice anyone trying to make OT posters feel unwelcome. I've found your algorithmic questions a source of fascination and the only time I've posted OT, I found the replies informative and courteous. I have noticed that some people are more concerned than others about posts being flagged OT, but nothing more than that.

I suspect the "belligerent complacency" you mention may relate to the subject of whether an OT section would help. From the fact that I haven't posted in that thread, it's safe to assume that I don't care much either way. I think we could do more to encourage questions on this site, but I'm unconvinced that an OT section would make a noticeable difference. The raised hackles remind me of the narcissism of small differences, a greater cause of concern to me than many other things.

Regards,

John Davies