Message from the Editor - Please Read

So, it has become apparent to me that my last "Dad" post seemed to have a minimal impact. While there was some good feedback, and certainly some positive response to the message I was trying to convey, it did not really stop some of the behavior that was of concern to me.

As we grow, our membership will become even more diverse. It's all a numbers game. For every member we add, it's one more person that may have a certain view, opinion, or belief that may differ from the crowd or from our own. It is our job, at least as a member of this community, to accept that diversity and embrace it. If that isn't something you are able to do, then it's quite possible this is not the place for you.

I have recently watched a lot of what I consider to be "testing the boundaries" by certain members. Threads that devolve into a childish attack on other members, all in the name of "defending my right to share my opinion". I have had members approach me in private saying how much they love this place, but they can no longer be a part of it. What was once a haven of brotherhood and camaraderie, has become a source of frustration and fear of being attacked. To say I'm disappointed would be an understatement.

What it seems to me is that we have a few people that just don't know how to play well in the sandbox with others. I don't like bullies, and I will be honest, I'm not going to tolerate it here. There are a few within our ranks that feel that they need to insert their opinion into everything. Those same few think that they can also shame others for their opinions and beliefs, while touting their own as gospel. Sorry, it doesn't work that way.

In the words of Mister Spock, "The needs of the many, outweigh the needs of the one." Consider this notice to EVERYONE, going forward, if you are among the "bullies" there will be consequences. I trust the staff here to be fair and judicious. Everyone will have the benefit of a private warning if we feel it becomes necessary. If that doesn't work, we will start issuing temporary bans. If that pisses you off, and you decide you don't want to come back, well, I'm sorry, it was nice having you here. Will it seem unfair to some? Sure it will, but guess what, life isn't fair. Think you are being singled out? Yeah, you are... for being a bully.

I would rather lose a few members than watch this place that we built crumble into a shite show of petty bickering and chest puffing. You may think I'm an arse, or that I sound dictatorial, but guess what, I have been fair and even handed with every person in this community since the day it started. We have spent too much time and energy building this place into what it has become. I will not stand by and watch a few people that think they can push others around, ruin it for the entire bunch.

To those of you that have avoided these situations, or are on the righteous side of them, my apologies. To those of you who have been a victim of being ganged up on, or bullied, you also have my apologies. It is unfortunate that I even have to make this post, or that anyone has to endure the bullshit that a few people have decided they have the right to dish out. That ends today.