Norm (and everyone else):
My 2 cents worth:
I prefer responding to the list as a whole.  I know that causes some 'ooops' messages, but I am willing to put up with those to get the conversations we used to have.
I have no opinion on lists vs. ramblings.  As a 'ramblings' type person, I simply delete the other.  I assume 'listers'  return the favor.
I wish everyone took more care with the subject line. It should summarize in a few words what follows in the message.  And if folks could include their county either in the subject or in the first line of the message, I would be grateful.  We all think we're the center of the world and that our local pond is known far and wide, but trust me.....I'M the epicenter of the universe and I don't know your location.
I wholeheartedly agree that religion and politics have no place on this list. 
I would add a plea for tolerance.  It is not necessary to take offense because a message might sound a little abrupt, or its humor a little dry.   Folks who are very busy or who email  a lot tend to send very short messages and may not realize the message is 'tight' until too late.  And some of us have odd senses of humor.  That's what the delete button is for.
I join everyone else in thanking you and Fran for all you do.  I know it's a great deal of work.
And finally, I am intrigued by the idea of allowing people to add a few dollars to annual dues.  This sort of discretionary fund could be used by the president of MOS to support Osprey, and also to help some of the bird banders get replacement nets, etc.  

Thanks for asking my opinion
maryanne dolan
washington dc