But I disagree, personally, about motion and sound.  I hate motion and sound.  Not only do they slow things down (on my clunky computer), but they distract from content, rather than supporting it.  

I think graphic design should be subliminal:  Pleasing and visually telegraphing the concept of ET, but not standing out separately from the content at all.  

We think we are a substantive site (if fun), we should communicate that, and not appear flashy or glitzy on first sight.  

The Fates are kind.