Hey Lynn, I feel your irritation, but you'd better get used to it, because you'll be seeing a lot more of these stories, since Medium is promoting lists. I agree that a super long list of names for the sake of doing what you suggested really sucks, but some people don't get the point of the lists. Like you said, a legitimate list of shot outs about stories you've actually read is okay - at least in my opinion. For instance, my own list of thank yous single out 25 followers that I name, and point out what I liked about their stories - as taken from actual responses I previously left them. Do I want them to come check the story out, heck yes, but they recognize me as someone they interact with and that's a win win :-)