Yes iI found this also an unknow (to me), but interesting concept.
And I agree with you that one has total freedom of speech on this forum.

The reason why I got angry on Andrew is that his arguement is not only legally invalid but is moreover inappropriate towards Rick.
It's childisch (like a child who doesn't get what he want) and it's impudent to the host Rick who offered him so many years a free podium of speech.

As if there's no moral obligation at all.

Let somebody on this forum please reassure me that this conduct is not the American way, please.

My advise to Rick is to implement some statements in the forumrules that use of this forum (by writing posts) means that he has the right to advertize on the site and in emails.
Second, the posts are not the intellectual property of the members and can be handled, published or sold as he wishes.