what can I say, that hasn't been said so very well by all you wonderful people on this board? Like everyone else I am angry, furious, but most of all - very, very sad. We are going to loose our favourite Prof on the plateau and without any doubt (I am sure everyone will agree) the most endearing character in our Lost World.

Still, the reason I started a new threat is a different one, I would like to ask something of you, Michael:

Ever since you decided to come out of your lurker mode a few months ago you became part of this, our little community. You did not do so as the actor, but very much as the person Michael Sinelnikoff - and you were greeted and met as such. Throughout the past weeks and months we have come to learn that even though the prof and Michael S. are two different people, they share an ultimately endearing, kind and friendly personality. There are many people on this board I have come to like very much, some of which I am in regular contact now via E-Mail. I like the way, people treat each other on the board, the unique tolerance and sense of humour. Like Michael, Jan, Troy, Pete, Liz, Lizzie and all the many others here you, Michael, simply have become a part of what makes the board what it is - a really fine place to come to. Therefore my request to you is a simple one and much rather an invitation than a plea:

Please, continue to stay on the board, Michael, continue to be a part of it just like everyone else. What the hell... Let the big guys play with their media analysis or whatever it is, they based their decision on. WE KNOW BETTER and no matter what, you will forever be, forever stay our favourite PROF ON THE PLATEAU AND IN OUR HEARTS - AND one of our two favourite Michaels on the board (needless to say, you are tying with Michael M., LOL!). There will always be a cup of Earl Grey, a comfy chair, a Shepperd's Pie (and believe me, I make a bloody good one!), some good talk, some great humour and some very special people waiting here.

With a big bear hug from Germany,

Chiara