This is the best group ever on this thread; that's because we are all aficionados of the first order, meaning we like jazz, and we know jazz. Not only that, but we have diverse opinions and can express them.
There are many people who watch this thread every day but never post; it's because they don't have the ability to express themselves in the written language. One such individual posted who said he had been watching this thread since the beginning. Naturally, I asked him why hadn't he posted. Although his answer was vague, it was apparent he hadn't written anything in a long time.
After I queried him, I knew that he was a "jazz aficionado" whether he could write or not. Rather than reveal the obvious, I continued to ask questions in hopes that he would continue to post, but he stopped.
All of us know that it takes some effort to compose your thoughts and put them down in a fashion that others will get your message. Although it's easier for some of us than others, it still requires effort.
I believe some people are frightened off because they see how well we communicate and don't think they qualify, or that it takes too much effort; but the amount of hits this thread gets verifies my thesis.
I want everyone to know how much I appreciate their participation, and my New Years resolution is not to get off track so much.
Happy New Year!