A member asked me if there was a list of rules. Not really. But we discuss the list rules now and then, it basically boils down to this:
1.No swearing. I don't have a list, but if you wouldn't use a word in a job interview or want your kid to use a word talking to a teacher or pastor or their mom, it's probably a swear word. For what it's worth there was a controversy at the start of this list whether "bitchin'" was a swear. A couple guys thought it was and left. I think it's not. Rick Hanson agreed it was positive, surfer and hot rodder slang not a swear. 2. Stay on topic. People have conversations, touch on personal events, no problem. We're all friends we veer off, want help on related issues or to share a big life event. Then we try to bring it back to the topic. 3. Avoid fighting, flame wars and general acrimony. It crops up, we let it go for a few posts, people get their point out then we try to cut it short if it doesn't die out on its own. 4. No politics or religion. For politics that goes for signature lines, your handle, etc. For religion I don't think anyone cares unless you start making beliefs or non-beliefs a topic of discussion. 4 should follow from 2, and 3 but it is worth mentioning explicitly. 5. Avoid spamming the list with Ebay links. Everyone knows model T stuff is on Ebay. The exception is the rarer stuff or someone notices an item that other members are really looking for. 6. Try to show some equanimity. We all have strong opinions about things and we all make mistakes and run afoul of the rules, myself included. The point is to not go down the bad roads if possible, and to try to quickly get back to the main road when we lose our way. 7. Regarding those who bring products and services to the list... know that 99% of what we do is spare time / hobby so accept their help and contributions, items for sale in that spirit. 8. It's perfectly fine to sell stuff or do support for things you have created or sell on the list. Lastly know as list moderator I may gently tap you on the shoulder, or if having a bad day, give a thump for going over the line. The goal is to keep it a positive environment. If you've been a member of other lists or have experience with Social Media in general you know how unmoderated discussion can get. The way this list is I think in part because we have some norms and they are followed and as necessary enforced. So if you like the list as it is, help me out by doing your bit. If you don't like the list as it is lets talk offline about your ideas, my email address is always open. -- John.
