A note from the mods

[Cannibal]

Ok - to me, it seemed like the third statement that I quoted in part contradicted the second - maybe a bit more info about what is considered 'representing the forum on other websites' would help?

The difference is the same as the difference in the definitions of "inform" and "represent".

Informing someone about the forums is fine. Implying that you represent the forums is not. In other words, don't use your participation on HF to back-up what are your personal beliefs when posting on other sites.

[lazy river road]

The reason for much of my hammocking success is due to the kindness and usefull information I have found on this forum. As always thank you mod's and to all the people who make this forum special.

[Ramblinrev]

Ok - to me, it seemed like the third statement that I quoted in part contradicted the second - maybe a bit more info about what is considered 'representing the forum on other websites' would help?

I'm not a mod.. but I have been in situations where statements that sound like "official organizational policy" need to come only from those designated _by_ the organization to speak on their behalf.

Possibly an example.. "Hammockforums.net condemns the use of rope only suspensions." This would be putting words into the mouths of the forum suggesting official policy.

"I have come to the conclusion from research I have done on hammockforums.net that I will avoid the use of rope only suspensions." This is a personal opinion statement giving the source for the information but not putting words into the mouths of the owners and moderators of the forums.

At least that is my take on the statement that only the mods can speak for the forum officially.

edit: another example is as the pastor of a church I have the right to write a letter to the editor signed by my name and my name alone. As soon as I add the church's name to the signature I have crossed the line and can be seen as speaking on behalf of all members of the church. Unless the governing body of the church has expressly requested me to do so I can not ethically sign a letter that way.

[slowhike]

Ok - to me, it seemed like the third statement that I quoted in part contradicted the second - maybe a bit more info about what is considered 'representing the forum on other websites' would help?

I believe Jeff's point there was about making an authoritative statement on behalf of HF.
Take for example the now active thread about using webbing vs cord around trees to support the hammock.
If someone would go to another website & confront someone for using cord & say "HF says DON'T USE CORD ON TREES", that would not be the best way to get the other person to consider the possible damage of using cord, whether the tree damage be physical damage or perceived as damage. We here at HF (staff or members) don't go about it that way.
Not only would it probably not be taken as welcome advice on hammock supports, it would also leave a bad impression of HF for that person & others reading there. And they wouldn't be as likely to come check us out to learn about hammocks.

[MikeN]

Rev, slowhike - that makes better sense to me, now.

Thanks for the explanation.

[Just Jeff]

I believe Jeff's point there was about making an authoritative statement on behalf of HF.
Take for example the now active thread about using webbing vs cord around trees to support the hammock.
If someone would go to another website & confront someone for using cord & say "HF says DON'T USE CORD ON TREES", that would not be the best way to get the other person to consider the possible damage of using cord, whether the tree damage be physical damage or perceived as damage. We here at HF (staff or members) don't go about it that way.
Not only would it probably not be taken as welcome advice on hammock supports, it would also leave a bad impression of HF for that person & others reading there. And they wouldn't be as likely to come check us out to learn about hammocks.

Exactly what I meant...thanks for clearing that up while I was out working on the honey-do list.

[miisterwright]

Thank you all for your patience and respect over the past few years I've been around. This forum truly is special, and I'd hate to see it become something less than it's been.

Thank you especially to our moderators. You all do a wonderful job.

[muttly]

I really appreciate this great forum and I appreciate the moderators who put in the hours making it great.

HEY! I just noticed I'm not a Junior Member any more!!

(Imagine sounds of Muttly marching around house to the tune of Pomp and Circumstance)

[Peg-Leg]

Thanks guys for all you do. This is truly a great community and site.

[split]

Great Job. Cheers all 'round!