Why does it really matter if the XC thread is open or not?

Admit it. That thread was one looooooong circle-jerk.

These threads are supposed to be ANNOUNCEMENT threads.

As such these threads should be used to post announcements and keep it otherwise locked.

There are far better mediums for day-to-day discussion and for community organization, marketing, and promotion.

The very nature of communication via these threads provides the perfect conditions under which rampant fermentation and proliferation of trolls can take place.

That thread did nothing positive for XC. Let it go.