Expanding the Team

[sangiro 26]

Heya all,
I have decided to take a few steps to ensure the tone in these forums remain what we've always intended them to be. The intend has always been, and still is, to create a friendly and inviting environment that will make anyone and everyone welcome regardless of their level of experience (on the web or in skydiving), personal views or background. I will not allow these forums to go the same route as rec.skydiving. I have said this many times before and nothing has change that idea. I have also made it clear in the past that I accept the fact that it will not be possible to please everyone, some people will not like what I'm saying or how these forums are managed and wil leave. Although I regret that I accept it. These forums will be a cool and friendly place to be (like skydivers are!) or they will not be at all.
I've noticed more and more folks acting out as what people in emails to me have called the "Dropzone.com Police". This does not exist, nor will it. I don't care how long you've been posting to these forums, if you launch personal attacks on people just because you don't like them or the things they have to say - then you're out of line. Here's a good rule of thumb, the moment you start talking about someone, in stead of to someone, you need to be careful. The moment you start sounding like the schoolyard bully, you may be treading on thin ice. You do not have the right to any of these things because you've been here for a long time - that's a skygod attitude which is not welcome on my Dropzone! Nobility is not a birthright, it's defined by one's actions.
As for our new fiends - remember, some people have been here for a long time. Just like in any community, it's always a good idea to hang around a bit, get to know the people and what makes them tick. You will be accepted with open arms. But fools rush in where angels fear to tread.
Over the next couple of weeks I'll approach a few individuals and ask for their help in moderating this forum. I'll ask people who I've come to trust and who I believe understands and values the kind of community we're trying to build here. I hope we'll act in a way so their help is never needed. My time has unfortunately become too limited and these forums too large for me to cover all the threads. Unfortunately some pretty nasty discussions have been allowed to carry on for way too long because of that. I need the help.
As I said in the past, I'll always have a light hand in moderating these forums and that's what I'll expect from them as well. I'm confident this is a step in the right direction. Expect a few more changes. I'm an email away if you guys need to get hold of me! Safe swoops
Sangiro