All,
Due to a few recent incidents, it has been necessary to implement a new policy regarding criticism of vendors on IceInSpace. The policy is outlined below, and will be added to the IceInSpace
Terms of Service in the next few days when I get more time.
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Disputes regarding vendors and service regarding their products should be addressed elsewhere, and not on the IceInSpace forum.
We very much want to encourage people in the pursuit of their love of astronomy. We do not want IceInSpace inadvertently to become a platform for individuals to air their personal grievances. In this regard, it is unfair that the hosts and moderators of the forum should be brought into disputes that have nothing to do with them as individuals, and we have therefore decided that we would rather stand well clear of such debates, and focus instead on the positive aspects of amateur astronomy.
We trust our members will understand that we are not attempting to restrict freedom of expression in taking this position, but rather to provide as positive a contribution as we can to the development of amateur astronomy in Australasia.
If a member has a concern about a vendor or their product, they are encouraged to contact that vendor directly to address their concerns and seek resolution with the party concerned. They are also, of course, always free to discuss their grievances with their friends and family at any other time.
As a result, if anyone initiates a thread or posts a comment critical of a vendor, the moderators have been instructed to lock and/or delete same. Such action does not reflect any opinion on the part of the hosts or moderators regarding the contents of such threads or posts. We trust that members will understand when we have to make a judgment call when things are perhaps marginal, and that no offence will be taken when such action is taken.
If a member is unsure whether a thread or post they are considering making is in breach of this policy, it is probably best to err on the side of not posting. A moderator can always be consulted if you would like any more guidance on this issue.
If a vendor or member is concerned by the contents of a thread, they are encouraged to contact one of the moderators as soon as possible (use the red X "report bad post" button) so that appropriate action can be taken in accordance with this policy.
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I appreciate your understanding.