Question on the list

[Sue Heim <SUE -at- RIS -dot- RISINC -dot- COM>]

Hello everyone! Before I ask my question, let me introduce myself. My
name is Sue Heim and I work for a software development company in
(not so sunny today) San Diego. I am the only writer here at
Research Information Systems and am responsible for *all* written
materials sent to customers and users (and yes, this includes user
docs, online help, collateral materials, press releases, maintenance
notes and newsletters).

I just recently learned about this list, and was very excited to hear
there was a forum in which writers could communicate and share ideas
and thoughts. I especially miss interaction with my peers, since
(unfortunately) I haven't any peers in my company. My question is a
simple one. I've been lurking around for about a week or so and have
noticed what seems to be a large number of "flaming" messages. Is
this just a strange aberration (like, is the moon in Pisces or some
strange place?), or is this normal? I'd love to be able to remain on
this list, lurker or not, but the volume seems a bit high.

Before you flame me, please note that I danced around the office in
glee when I found out about the list. I just need to justify the
volume of incoming emails (and yes, my company does sort of keep
track of the number of in/out email messages -- thank goodness not
the content, though!).

Please respond to me personally so that I don't cause a huge crush of
email on the list!

Thanks!
...sue