I've never heard the theory that THANKS is a way to call attention to oneself before.
Now that's one cynical theory, John...and an assumption. I would think being thanked by someone who is trolling you is a manner of killing with kindness. But I'm not as cynical I guess.
I don't want to forget anybody by mentioning a few names, but there are a few members who deserve a thanked status for demonstrating an online persona that's worthy of acknowledgement. They are few. They have positive outlooks. We probably all agree on most of them. Why don't we let the system work the way it's supposed to?
I agree that the content of the posting is what should receive the thanks.