"J the Trout" wrote in message
...
As a self confessed lurker, I take the view that I will only contribute
when I have someting useful to say - unlike the "usual suspects". I
suspect that they simply like the sound of their own voice (or the on-line
equivalent).

perhaps you are being harsh on yourself. Banter, in and of itself, might
prove useful. Identifying yourself and not being anonymous will give you a
bit of credibility, as well.
Bottom line: Usenet is what it is, and some like it, some do not. No one is
forcing you to post, or even read here.
If you like the format, or even can merely tolerate it, feel free to
participate and perhaps, you might be surprised.
Tom