Bpp

[ggiese]

I am one of the ones who might be seen as "pretending it never happened". I don't see it like that at all. I think things have gone too far for too long and it just does not make sense to me that a group of grown men can't let bygones be bygones. I'm honestly getting to the point where warnings are not going to be given.

I founded Cigarsmokers.com to be a community where like minded people can share information and learn more about cigars and the lifestyle. I've never liked the back and forth bickering and over zealous attacks on people for what ever the reason. I've let it slide for so long because I think for the most part that problems should be worked out for themselves. But we are now to the point where people who I respect and contribute greatly to the forum are starting to be run off. That’s not what I ever intended when I made this a member moderated community.

I’m mulling things over right now, but I would expect some policy changes here in the next few days.

I'm moving this thread into Politics.

Hex - you can do whatever you please - this is, after all, your board... But - I really wish you would reflect on where we are - and more importantly - where we've been.

Through a fairly short process (in terms of the boards life), over a fairly long period we've become a "member moderated" board. You made that choice a long time ago, after some pretty vicious back and forth debating. Through that process, though, amazingly, thoese that were feuding ending up showing mutual respect. And now, I believe, appreciate the others from a new perspective. Had you stifled that - I really don't think we'd be where we are.

But - there is some tremendous value to that - although the obvious disadvantage to that approach is the community decides what is the tone for the board - not the mods or admin. But, the community, and the bonds within it, become stronger because of it.

I suppose you can fight that - and set the tone for the board. The obvious ultimate outcome will most likely be going against the democracy we've created. This is a community of individuals who accept being a part of this board - both good and bad - and truly do show tremendous loyalty to it.

I have no problem with one not wanting to further discuss a bad situation and moving on. I personally think someone who goes off the deep end during a debate should offer an apology for their behavior. But honestly - the apology doesn't matter nearly as much as the persons behavior from that point forward.

I do like being a part of this community - even with those that I wouldn't want to share a room with. I would think others would feel the same way I do. I'm not looking to build walls in the community - I hate walls!!! You won't find me sulking around - if I'm not happy with coming here - I'm outta here. It's a simple as that! I'm not going to try and force a square peg into a round hole...

You start moderating the crap out of this board and you will build walls. Please don't think short term - think long term. This "battle" between the FOG's really is only a short term problem. It really will pass...