To answer the original question - yes, they do seem to be getting worse.

I have been using this site for a couple of years now, and have yet to actually post a question. I have posted a couple of responses, but it is rare that I have felt the need (I'm usually beaten to it by one of the elite, and typically with a better response than I might have given)

Despite my lack of interaction, I find the site enormously helpful. I skip over many articles, reading just what piques my interest. Occassionally finding something very timely to what I am working on. I like to know why a solution works, and will research things myself rather than simply post a question - but then I'm old school (or just old). I hardly ever search historic articles, but I find this site immensely useful just with the daily posts.

I have noted how helpful, understanding, and patient all the regular respondents are. In fact, I'm often astounded at how much time and effort some of you guys spend posting responses - the likes of Jeff, Steve and Gail, to name a few.

Elitist, no. Elite, yes. The site is successful because of all your efforts, and it is appreciated.