I participated in at least 2 GE when i first became a donating member a few years ago. I agree with many of the reasons for not doing it from posters who do not do it anymore. i loved buying things for others but feel its gotten to be a bit much. i too don't like all the hint threads. its distracting and hard to find real posts from people who need help or have questions, or who just want to share new pictures. And i'm all for giving a list of don'ts and can't haves because of health reasons or owners beliefs but some times the list of wants is extravagant.
Admin i would like to take you up on the offer to block the GE forum for now. i'll pm you. thanks