Just a quote from the "parting thoughts" thread. I didn't want to post there because that thread is supposed to be specific to Ripptyde's leaving and nothing else.

There are cliques and crews with amazing amounts of arrogance. And, if you aren't part of them, then you are summarily dismissed or ignored.
I wanted to mention that respect is earned in this forum, not given for nothing. I wasn't respected right away when I first got here, no one is. It took months for me to gain respect, and it will take all new people the same amount of time.

Most of the people here try to welcome all new members and we try to make everyone part of the community. Post here enough, ask enough questions, talk to enough people, and soon you (or any new member) won't feel "left out" anymore. I don't think it's fair to say that we "ignore" or "dismiss" newer members, we try not to do this. Like I said, those who post often and contribute intelligent thought to the forums will be highly respected and will more easily fit into the community.

If any of the new members feel that they've been treated unfairly or if they feel that someone was rude to them, please PM me, another mod, or Xianti about it. We want to keep FTR full of friendly and intelligent poker discussion, and we want everyone to feel welcome.