scubajcf:Hi Guys, Perhaps this will help people. This is the standard I try to use when posting on Scubaboard.
I think Rob follows (pretty much) the same procedure. As most know, I was an instructor at Scuba Specialties for several years. Most people on the board knew that. In February, I became a partner in Oasis (Stephen Ash helped let everyone know by creating the thread). In March, I became a partner in Downtown Scuba.
I have actively used the marketplace and calendar to promote my classes and trips at both shops. While posting in the main forum, I've always tried to remain neutral. In fact there are many posts where I have pointed someone to El Mar, All Wet, or other shops (I followed Stephen Ash's posts and emulated him when I first joined).
This is a community for sharing information and facilitating the growth of our sport. If you want to advertise, use the marketplace. That's what is there for. In the cases where my shop has been able to help, I have tried to throw out other options and my shop. In those cases, I usually put a small line at the bottom of my posting with the words "Full Disclosure, I work for ..."
I hope this helps ...
John Flanders
jcf
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I believe John and I use the Board the way it was intended to be used. We try not to flame anyone. We try not to be judgmental. We're just here to have a good time and share our enthusiasm for the sport. I have recommended shops to students. I don't sell gear, so I have no reason not to. I have also recommended shops for instruction if my schedule doesn't match those of a student.
I have made some non neutral comments from time to time, but that's usually only after I've gotten tired of the continuous banter.
And my full disclosure is in my sig line and my avatar. It's obvious what I do.
I'm glad we're finally playing nice. I hope if there were vacations handed out that when they're over this will continue.
See you at the lake!