(09 Dec 2015, 11:05 am)Charles41 wrote [ -> ]I've been reading the recent posts on this thread regarding disagreements between forum members. I think it would be a good idea if forum members set up a "town hall" meeting. We all could get together in person and discuss any differences that members may be having and hopefully find an amicable solution for all. We could also use such a meeting as way for forum moderators to explain what is and what is not acceptable conduct on the forum along with rules for general behaviour.
Such a meeting could be used to plan activities for forum members who are interested. For example, we could arrange a vintage bus trip or visit to an operator's premises. I feel this would be a way of bringing forum members of all ages together and demonstrating we can create a vibrant inclusive enthusiast community.
A good place to hold it would be a church hall, community centre or even a meeting room in a community academy. It should be held somewhere with good transport links in the centre of the region (e.g. Newcastle or Durham) on a Saturday. This would increase attendance levels. It would also allay somewhat any fears that the parents or guardians of younger forum members may have around them attending the meeting.
I feel it would be better if we could meet up, clear the air and lay the foundation stones of a strong supportive community. Looking through the posts on the forum I believe there are many caring and good natured people within the community.
Does anyone have any thoughts?
Jimmi - are your first names James Michael?
Charles
In principle, I don't think be a bad thing.
However (without blaming anyone at all and if I am wrong, please tell me), the majority of the fallings out I see or here about are amongst the members of the forum who are 'visibly active' on the scene.
They are probably towards the younger age groupings.
Then there are older members, who view the site as a 'fantasy island' and have actively not got involved in the forum at all.
As entertaining as the bickering was initially, it has grown tiresome now.
I have mentioned previously about cliques, empire building and bitchiness (that goes across all age groups) and as optimistic as I try to be, I am not sure a meeting would solve it.
Some of the gloating, boasting and envy that is shown by some, is pretty sad.
Saying that, I don't have a personal issue with anyone on the forum - even eezypeazy!
Organising a NEB day out sounds great as well, but wouldn't it just be another clique?
I know one or two members on here and have spoken with others about having a drink or two. However, getting actively involved in the hobby (and the pettiness that goes with it) away from the forum isn't something that floats my boat.
Living a life away from the forum, enables me to switch off and focus on something else - whether that be family, friends or work.
It also means I can't be dragged into any of the many arguments or battles that goes on.
If the meeting comes off, I wish you every success.
Hopefully it does stop the bitchiness we see too often.