Andy M.
Certified Pretend Chef
Alix, +1
I'm in favour of a forum which doesnt have so much open to the public. So I understand what CWS is getting at.
I have run a private forum for many years. I was a member of open forums and we had a few break off groups for those who wished to communicate but not in such an open manner. This isnt about bitching or gossiping but it was about making new friendships and being able to share things you couldnt share on an open site. Since then many of us have built very firm relationships, and have met in real life too now.
I never said anything about gossiping or suggested that was what I figured would happen behind closed doors. That was entirely your own invention Cerise. I'm sorry my words brought that up for you, but I didn't suggest or imply that. This is not a nitpick or anything of that nature, its a clarification of my own post.
I meant exactly what I said, a member's only area will diminish the feeling of community here at DC. If there is an area where Member's are allowed but others aren't, then they tend to spend more time there and not with folks just arriving. The sense of welcoming is lost and the sense of community is gone. As for friendships, well I have several on here that I established via the public boards. I PM rarely.
Like anything else, if you establish any kind of separation, or an Elite it causes friction and ill will. Its just human nature.
This has come up because of some stupid "post jacking", which in the grand scheme of things is really not that big a deal. If you post on the Net, your words can be c&p with no attribution from here to kingdom come. Its not worth the headache. If you don't want your words shared, don't post. Its just that simple. Its not fair, or ideal, it just is.
Again, IMO just ignore stupid crap and let those who are mandated to deal with it do so. Keep posting and having fun.