Having had 10 posts, an automated inbox message suggested we newbies introduce ourselves.

So hello!

As you can see, my bride and I reside in Chicago and aside from the snow in the winter (which was very little this year) we absolutely love it! The decision to join was not planned. A few days ago when I clicked to read replies on an interesting thread, there were soooo many ads, I could barely get to the comments without acting like Flash with my fingers. So, necessity brought me here.

This country is under siege from within and this site has given me understanding and a glass full scenario with so many intelligent, scientifically driven posts. (love, love love the animals posts as well! )

I wish more politicians would listen to people like Jane Goodall who are telling us how to get back to balance with our Mother Earth as we take and take and not replenish. Only an evil person would allow the hunting of bear cubs and their hibernating moms, remember Palins' video of her shooting wolves from planes? My disgust has increased under this dangerous nincompoop some call the president.

So, thank all of you who participate on DU and offer so many sage and empathetic posts, I can not even begin to tell you how much it is appreciated.