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Posted By: nochevys Attitudes on this site! - Fri Sep 14 2007 08:55 PM
I come to this site to gain knowledge and chat with folks who have the same interests as me.The constant bickering and knocking of each other is just stupid.

I'm at the point where I don't think I'll be stopping by anymore.I know I'm just a nobody in central New York but I've enjoyed this site allot for the last couple years since I started collecting.

This site has 8300 members and only about 30 who post regularly perhaps it's because of the constant name calling and squabbling.When I first started lurking on here there were allot more "regular" posters now we have a hard time getting 10 folks to say howdy in the morning.

Jim has put so much effort into this site I feel bad for him.The moderators work there butts off to keep things running smoothly.The weekly & monthly features are superb.It's a shame that every week we have a public argument on here that drives more & more people away.If it continues there will be no one left and the site will just go away.I don't think anyone wants that do you?

I know if I'm sitting here typing this it's gotten pretty bad because I usually just keep my mouth shut and wait for the disagreement to pass but it seems it's something different every week.

I was told when I was a kid that if I didn't have anything nice to say to keep my mouth shut.I've done that for the most part for all 38 years of my life & it's worked well for me.

I have an obligation to the site for Map of the month and I will keep that for Jim & the moderators who work there @sse$ off on here but other than that I won't be stopping by anymore.It's been a fun couple of years I've gained a ton of knowledge,I just don't like the bickering.

I'd like to take this opportunity to say Thank You to Jim,Hubba,Bob and all the rest who work so hard on this site.

Tom

[This message has been edited by nochevys (edited 09-14-2007).]
Posted By: oilmanpat Re: Attitudes on this site! - Fri Sep 14 2007 09:14 PM
I will have to agree with you. My antivirous soafware has even given me an alert so I also have to say that I feel sorry for Jim having put so much effort into making this a Good site to visit only to have a few tear at it.
Posted By: oldnfuelish Re: Attitudes on this site! - Fri Sep 14 2007 09:25 PM
tom i feel the same as you,and i also usually keep my opinions to myself.i am not gonna start anything but i will ask you to reconsider and dont quit your posts just because of a few others.if that happens then they will have won and before you know it there will be no one here but the ones who will bicker bout it.the best way is for the regulars to keep posting and just let those who wish to cause trouble slowly get themselves banned from the site.i have been here for going on 4 years,and have learned more here,and made many new friends.i will not give that up because some have big egos and think that their opinion is the one that matters.too much knowledge to be gained.and i also thank all the mods for all the work they put into this site!mick

[This message has been edited by oldnfuelish (edited 09-14-2007).]
Posted By: lordparaffin Re: Attitudes on this site! - Fri Sep 14 2007 09:46 PM
I'm with you. I've gotten to the point I just shake my head and really don't feel like participating. I've learned so much about this hobby through this site and I believe it has only helped the growth of it, but the other stuff just puts one off. Probably too much said already so I'll take my own advice and quietly sit in the back ground.........Dave.
Posted By: Bob Richards Re: Attitudes on this site! - Fri Sep 14 2007 10:00 PM
I want to appologise to any who read my comments and were put off in regards to this site, that was not my intent. I came to this site to learn more about the hobby I enjoy. The bickering will continue as long as some feel the need to make fun of and belittle others here. I will be leaving the site, so maybe some of you will change your minds and stay.
Posted By: gasmansgp Re: Attitudes on this site! - Fri Sep 14 2007 10:21 PM
Finally a subject that I am willing to get behind! I personally get tired of reading the snide remarks and mud slinging. I've had enough and only post on occasion. Then the subject is one that I feel won't cause confrontations. Not that I'm affraid of conflict but at my age, I've learned that nothing is really worth getting fired up about. "Opinions are only worth what you pay for them." Ps....I've met Tom and he's a class act.....thanks for starting this post.Paul
Posted By: John Hereygers Re: Attitudes on this site! - Fri Sep 14 2007 10:40 PM
I have been a member for a few years Know And have not posted any thing for the last 6 Months For the same reasons . There are a few member on this site that seem to think that they can veriabily abuse other members By giving sarcastic comments to there Questions
I do not know as much as them and will never Know as mush as the experts.
I get very ****** of when I ask a question and get a crappy respons Or smartass answers or even better "ON FEEDBACK AT ALL"for Questions Asked ???????
Posted By: wads Re: Attitudes on this site! - Fri Sep 14 2007 11:49 PM
Well, I'm like many of you. I've been here for about 5 years and check this site every day. Most of my posts are just saying hi, happy birthday or congrats to someone. I've stayed out of the confrontations but have to admit at times I do like reading them. Some get out of hand and create some bad feelings. Unfortunately, this is just the way it is and will continue to be if there are only two people posting. Everyday we all deal with people where we just don't appreciate their attitude, opionions or cockiness. Sometimes you can take it, other times not. But, you still have to get up the next day and go back. I don't want to see anyone leave this site, but it certainly is your option. Or, you can stay here, still post and be appreciated by many of us. Believe me, we can do a pretty good job of sorting out the type of person who's doing the posting and who's causing the problems. Most of us have met people in person because of this site and have made frienships that we wouldn't trade for that rare item. Hope you all stick around, but I'll continue to take the good with the bad. Too many nice people for me to walk away. I'll just continue to learn more, share what I can and stay away from those that think they need to be the ***hole on behalf of the group. Jim, Bob and Hubba - God bless and thanks.
Posted By: TN Volunteer Re: Attitudes on this site! - Fri Sep 14 2007 11:55 PM
I havent commented or posted anything in a long time. For the same reason John Hereygers has mentioned. I have posted pics of stuff here on the site and get NO Feed Back or smart *** comments, and I know they havent seen some of the stuff I have posted. There ARE good people I have met on this site...either have bought/sold something or just stopped by to see what they had. But there are also people who are just plain A******* and would never want to meet them even if they paid me to take their stuff, just because of attitude here on this site or when trying to deal with them...and these people know who they are also. Do I still visit here, yeah of course, but just wont post anything. Sorry to all those good people that are on the site who truely enjoy seeing good stuff, but unfortuneately the rotton apples on the this site have ruined it. So I dont post, but will continue to read and glean knowledge from this site.

Easy G. Butler
Posted By: Savinsam Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 12:23 AM
Wow, you guys are pulling the rug out from under me. I'm just new this last year & have received much valuable info on this site. I'm also starting to get know some of you just thru your postings. Lots of integrity & good in vast majority of you. When you guys say that you're leaving, does this mean that if I pose a question that you have the answer to & nobody else does, that you won't bother answering? Please hang in here for awhile to help some of us newbies out. I must confess that it seems like things have gone downhill on the posting since I first started. What did I do????? Sam
Posted By: Vermonter Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 12:24 AM
I havent been a member here long, but have definitely noticed the increase of needless bickering. When I first joined I was welcolmed and was encouraged to ask stupid questions that a newbie will ask. Everyone has been helpful to me personally, but sometimes I am reluctant to ask a question now because I see others being mocked. At first I thought it was good natured ribbing among guys who know each other (which some definitely is)which is fine and entertaining. However lately I have read snide comments and outright attacks over nothing. I can only assume these members have a "history" between them, but I dont think this is the place to settle differences.
I have also noticed that the Moderator has had to intervene and warn people about their comments which did not happen before. I have also noticed far fewer posts. At first, I thought it was because it was summer and people were just busy. Now I wonder if people are just turned off and dont check in anymore.
Im glad Tom started this post. I think he said what a lot of us have been thinking. I ask all of those who have "had it" to hang on and stay for another month and see what happens. Do not let the few ruin a good thing for the many. We need to stick together and keep this "the best damned petroliana site on the web." Let the guys who want to show off their superior knowledge by demeaning others take their attitude elsewhere. You know who you are.
John
Posted By: RetroPetro Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 02:19 AM
Tom, Bob, and any others- I hope you don't leave the site. Just ignore the sour stuff.
Posted By: Jarvis Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 02:40 AM
I hope no one stops posting because of some others. I don't like it either but i try to let it go myself.

I would like to see it posted when someone get kicked off. Let others see what happens when people don't play well with others.
Posted By: Oldgas Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 02:54 AM
It really bothers the moderators to lose the participation of good active members. We try not to constantly censor everything. We expect members to act responsibly with respect for each other. These things go in cycles because disrespect feeds on itself and emboldens others to jump in and act unacceptably.

With my current schedule, I'm not able to watch for problem people as much as I'd like. Even lurkers can help, kind of like a neighborhood watch. When you see unacceptable activity on Shop Talk, take a moment and send me a note about it. Click on "Contact" on the very top edge of any Shop Talk page. I could use some extra eyes to see all of what is going on even when I'm at work or otherwise not available online. Don't get into an online argument with the problem person. Often that just feeds their ego.

As far as any drop in activity, July 2007 was a record high month for traffic viewing the site with 594,592 pageviews. August was also over a half million and was more than any month this past winter. Winter is normally higher than summer, so that shows a solid growth trend.

Just as in a real-world community, when the good citizens leave, the troublemakers just gain strength. Please stay active and outlast the problem people.

------------------
Jim "Oldgas" Potts
Your host and moderator
Posted By: Vermonter Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 03:20 AM
Jim,
Thank you for the comments. I could be wrong, but I have noticed a drop off in posts. Im sure you are correct about record numbers of people "viewing", but that isnt the same as posts. I hope its just the fact that people are busy in the summer, rather than the reasons expressed on this subject....agrumentative "experts" (who are often proven wrong), but cant resist taking a cheap shot at someone for their own gratification. I wish these guys would get a real life or get booted from the site. They know who they are.
John
Posted By: K F H Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 03:33 AM
To all the good hearted petro fans that are contemplating leaving this site, I hope you will reconsider. You see most of the members here on Oldgas are comprised of common everyday people with an interest in petro related items. Most of us are NOT experts.
I value the opinion of everyone here and hope we can keep a wide variety of expertise and opinions in our petro community.
I think a little ribbing and good natured kidding is healthy for this site as it seems to keep the post alive and makes for some fun reading...we just need to consider where to draw the line on our comments. I dont think we should have to lash out till the moderators step in...they have enough on their plates as it is.
I think most members dabble in petro as a hobby, not for a living. I, being on a limited budget, with limited space, will never have some of the collections as others on this site, but I will continue to have fun with it. I just hope I can continue my daily visits here without seeing some of the present members become past members. I think we all agree, some that have been lost in the past are greatly missed! Lets build the membership, not destroy it.

Kurt
Posted By: 59fairlane Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 03:49 AM
Tom, I have stated these same feelings that you have on other posts within this site.

I consider you a friend, Tom, and I hope that you will consider to stay in touch. We met from a auction listing that I posted on here some time ago. I have valued your friendship since. I even told my father that it was like meeting myself the first time we met.

Your a good dude.

Like some others have said, don't let a few ruin it. I agree 100% with what you said. I loved what Rex used to post. He truley is a treasure to this hobby.

The bigger anything gets the more contreversy it is bound to create. This site may be a victim of its own success.

I will continue to post and ask questions. This has been the best source of knowledge I have come across concerning this hobby.

If it wasn't for this site I never would have met you or dealt with nice people like Don from NJ or Quartcans, Hubba, the Worshams, and Doc and I know I am forgetting many I have communicated with.

I did sign of the month for awhile and it was fun, but I had too many family things to attend to, to make it work.

This is too valuable a site. I still consider myself a newbie in this hobby. I am still kicking myself for letting those Gulf signs, pole, and holder get away!!

Stick around nochevys, we can see past the negativity and keep this a valuable resource.

I truely value everyone on this site and I too thank Jim and the others for all they do to this keep this up and running.

Hopefully you check this post Tom and decide to keep in touch. My best to you.



[This message has been edited by 59fairlane (edited 09-15-2007).]
Posted By: 59fairlane Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 03:59 AM
Man if I forget DB, Seth, and Mr. Sim I couldn't sleep. These people are a HUGE resource.

And man can Dick do wonders with a junk can.

Your a wealth of knowledge Mr. Bennett, Mr. Sim, and Mr. Robbins.

Keep up the fight all..............
Posted By: BeaconGas Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 04:03 AM
I also stopped posting because of the few that seem to find something negative to say about most of the posts. What I really find funny is right now none of them, these few are posting on this subject.
Posted By: jkyocom Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 11:32 AM
I would like to say this ....first of all, if I have ever offended any one, it was not intentional...I have a strange sense of humor anyway.
I have had my hands in pumps one way or another for approx, 26 yrs, so I do know a few things. I was a lurker for a few years. When I became a member, I unveiled my clock device. A lot of folks thought it was time for something like that, but some acted like I had taken a whizz on OLD GLORY...They almost ran me off before I got settled in good. This is a site for Trade, Info, Camaraderie. And like every club I have been in, it has it's cliques.
Debate is healthy....For instance the post of the FRY vent....everyone had different opinions and info about where a Fry pump vents from...it turned out Fry vented them different ways.....I saw a lot of good info come out of that post, even though there were several conflicting veiws on the subject.
I also learned real quick, that if you don't cross all your T's and dot All your i's, someone comes out and bashes you....THAT is NOT what this site is for. Not ALL opinions are welcome or healthy.
I have also noticed some of the "bashers" never post a thing untill it is time to pounce !!!! There is nothing wrong with correcting innaccurate info, but have some TACT when you do !!!!!You are scaring the children who want to play !!!!
I have been wrong about things before, and try to appologize when I am, This is something I have not seen much of when the "bashers" do the same.
Some of my posts seem to be long winded ,and over killed, but that is to keep the "bashers" at bay.
The one thing I have NEVER been challenged on, is my knowledge of the computer. I have been doing them for over 20 yrs now....I won't be doing them forever, so it does not hurt me to give out some of the info I have compiled over the years. You guys are welcome to it.
I say DAMN THE TORPEDOES.....FULL SPEED AHEAD!!!!!! The rats are supposed to leave the ship first, not the crew!!!!!!!!
Thank You All Who Read This
Joe
Posted By: Terry Flannery Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 12:47 PM
A BIG 10-4 JOE
Posted By: Ryan Underthun Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 12:57 PM
Here is a link I posted back in 06 about this same topic.
http://www.oldgas.com/shoptalk/ubb/Forum1/HTML/007062.html

I dont think there is a cure for this, it will get better for a while and then slowly get back to "normal".

I usually bite my tounge on most "slams" towards other people. Sometimes enough is enough and I pipe up. I probably shouldnt, it just feeds the fire.

If I offend anybody..... I am sorry, Im not here to make any one mad

Ryan

------------------
visit my website for original gas pump parts

thepumpdump.com
Posted By: Pablo Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 01:07 PM
Jim Potts recently clarified the rules of the For Sale forum and seemingly put a controversy to bed. The episode evolved after my somewhat tongue-in-cheek question about a seller’s price. I realize now that was taboo on the For Sale topic and regret bringing it up. However, the ensuing commentary never involved the seller and expanded through comments from other posters. Even after the issue was put to bed, some folks refused to stop and continued to escalate the controversy.

I freely admit to involvement in a few threads where there was disagreement.

----------------------

Edit to remove comments that can escalate conflict

[This message has been edited by Oldgas (edited 09-18-2007).]
Posted By: BBQ Chicken Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 01:37 PM
Fight the Good Fight! Stick Around!!! It's really about the stuff, not the people. A lot of people are extremely nice and are really great genuine folks, great to be around and all that, but without the hunt of the stuff(and the stuff), they would just be folks that we all would never contact or associate with anyway....... not trying to be cold or heartless, but quite a few people on here get to worried about the personal side and don't just conduct business. Again, not trying to be impersonal or cold, some people just can't be so sensitive. There are different levels of collecting and/or competition in this "hobby". For some, it's not a hobby, it's a way of life and the "armchair" people have to realize this. Fight the Good Fight, Stick Around !!! Dave Hathaway, "The King of All Chicken"
Posted By: tagree0 Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 04:35 PM
I'm brand new to the site, but I've seen enough that I feel like I can weigh in.

When I first started reading old posts I thought the moderators were a bit tyranical about censoring people on this board. Now, after seeing the behavior of a few people I have completely changed my opinion. I think the moderators are trying to save this board. If anything, I think they could be a little more severe in their actions. Sometimes it is necessary to amputate a limb to save a person's life. It may be time to do the same to save the board.

Pablo, I have been staring at this computer for 15 min trying to find a way to respectfully disagree with your #5. I would hope most people would disagree too. It is not ok to abuse people, even if they are being abusive. It is ok to disagree strongly, but it is never ever acceptable to be abusive, no matter how much you think they deserve it. Never. Ever. You can't justify abuse.

I honestly think #5 is the whole problem here. People perceive they have been attacked and think it is ok to abuse that person right back. It only escalates from there. The sad thing is that often times people feel like they are being attacked when they really aren't. No matter, they escalate the abuse anyway.

Just my 2c.

Tom
Posted By: tagree0 Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 04:59 PM
I also wanted to say thanks to the folks that run/moderate this site. It is an incredible resource. I'm amazed at how many times I do a Google search for petroliana-related issues and this site pops up. Love the site. -Tom
Posted By: Dick Bennett Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 08:34 PM
I ain't a saint, & have done My share of mud slinging. Most times I didn't throw the 1st mud ball, maybe the last or biggest !
Similar to Immigration, I don't blame anyone for wanting to live & work in this country. WE will never be able to completely stop the illegals from getting here, or the disagreements on this site.
BUT we can be civil about it.
db

I need more DAMAGED CANS to take my frustrations out on! LOL
Posted By: midway oil Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sat Sep 15 2007 10:48 PM
Unfortunately the arguing and all has left me without much desire to view this site. I rarely look here anymore. Used to be fun, but the fun left somewhere along the line. It has gotten to be a waste of my time to go here anymore so I don't really bother that much.

Some things in life you can control others you can't. Sometimes when I read the negative postings here, I feel badly for the guy that they are attacking, and I don't even know him. So, I control THAT by not looking at the site.

My interests are shifting away from this stuff anyway. Takes too much money to play today. How can you justify ten grand for a globe, which come on folks is only a piece of glass with some paint on it, to have it sit on the shelf and if somebody who sees it doesn't know globes anyway, means nothing to them? Nah, time for something else in life sayanara.......
Posted By: Ron Scobie Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 12:12 AM
I've been 'trashed' by people who frequent and even have moderated sites like this one.
When you do that, what happens when you need a part they make? Call a friend or relative and ask them to buy it for you? It might work but then again it might not.

Some of you put more importance on how many posts you can make and not the content.
Posted By: Cold Pizza Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 12:54 AM
One constant I have learned since the inception of the internet is that one of the easiest things to do is to jump to a quick conclusion about someone on a website.
It is sometimes difficult to understand the true emotion,frame of mind or the desired tone expressed by another through a keyboard,especially when you are complete strangers and have never met.
Maybe this is not necessarily the case here,as many of you do know eachother personally,but I tend to take what I read here or anywhere else with a grain of salt and move on.I prefer to look more for the "content" replies,rather then let the "attitude" replies upset or detour me.
I really don't believe this or anyother website can be accussed of holding one single person in higher esteem,(or lower for that matter),but rather they can be noticed for their knowledge and experience that each & every member contributes & shares with everyone else,regardless of what walk of life they are from.

This is STILL one of THE best websites on the planet in my book.






[This message has been edited by coldpizza (edited 09-15-2007).]
Posted By: oldnfuelish Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 01:14 AM
well put mr pizza!!(grain of salt,joe)!!lol
Posted By: Gas Pump Gasper Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 01:26 PM
Everybody keep on posting. Don't let the bad guys get to you. I look at this site daily and love the hobby. Thanks Jim for the great site.
Posted By: Dick Bennett Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 02:53 PM
With MORE participation from some of the LURKIES that have posted NEGATIVES on this thread. WE wouldn't have time to keep reading or dwelling on the NEGATIVES.

How about GIVING something BACK, instead of just harvesting the information you have gathered from this site ?

YOU JUST MIGHT ENJOY THIS SITE MORE !
Posted By: archer2 Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 04:11 PM
I think the whole point of this is the moderators do not want "confrontational, abusive and/or threatening" people posting on this forum.
In the end it is their call as it is their forum, we are guests.

Ed
Posted By: tagree0 Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 04:13 PM
Pablo,

It is all about respect. I'm not saying to turn the other cheek. I don't turn the other cheek and I don't ask you to do it either. However, there are ways to respond to abuse without being abusive in return.

As far as finding a metric for acceptable social behavior, the community as a whole sets the bar. The threshold is set when 3rd parties feel like they have to step in and say "calm down" or "stop being abusive" in so many threads. The threshold is being set when moderators feel it is necessary to censor or ban someone from the site. The threshold is being set when people say they are not going to visit the forum any more because of the behavior of a few. That is how society sets standards. Either you try to live up to these standards or you get punished.

Unfortunately the online world has some differences from the real world. One of the biggest differences is that people aren't physically in the same place, so physical threats (explicit or implied) are meaningless. Therefore, anyone can be abusive to other people and not have to worry about getting physically hurt. What I mean is that anyone can act like a bad**s online. I'll bet a search of psychological research would show that the most aggressive people online are the ones that have to take the most **** in real life. It's too easy to go online and take your frustrations out on others. That behavior has to be squashed if this forum is going to continue to be useful and fun. It takes a higher civility to make an online society work. The caveman ideals of "you hurt me so I gonna hurt you back" don't work online.

Dick,

I totally hear what you are saying. I don't consider myself a lurker, but I do harvest alot of information without giving much back (unless you count lectures on civility). I'd love to contribute more, but my knowledge of petroliana is very limited, despite my high degree of enthusiasm for the hobby. I don't post alot because I don't have alot of answers. I hold back most of my questions because I don't want to impose, and I don't like posting just for the sake of posting. I'm sure alot of the other lurkers are the same way. I could do more "wow, thatz cool!" posts, but I'm not sure that is really contributing.

How can I give back? Would it be useful if I compiled the information you guys have contributed the COTM threads into permanent web pages for reference? Or, I could scan old photographs to build an online database of pictures, if folks would be interested in contributing photos. That would be fun for me, but would that even be useful?

Anyway, I agree with you Dick, just tell me how us guys with limited knowledge of the hobby can help. -Tom
Posted By: Dick Bennett Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 04:48 PM
tagree0
* YES.
* ASK your questions, someone on here just might know the answer or lead you to someone that does. It might have been asked before-try SEARCH. Add your email addy to your Profile, guys that haven't learned posting pictures will email them.
* Email Jim Potts & ask him where you can help. Bob -lastgas- needs help with enlisting Hosts for COTM [Company Of The Month].
Thank you for ASKING.
db

WE need more ASSETS to the site & less Debts

Think I'll go CRUSH some qt cans to play with !
Posted By: Lastgas15 Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 06:15 PM
There have been some good points made in this discussion. Over the years numerous Shop Talk members, people that were once very active on this site, have told me they have returned to lurker status because of the bickering that goes on here sometimes. They tell me they deal with disputes in their workplaces and they just want to have fun with the petroliana hobby. Does that mean they are meek? Absolutely not. That just means they want to enjoy the hobby. While some people seem to enjoy creating conflict, most Shop Talk members would rather there be less conflict.

This site is an online community. There are certain standards that must be maintained if a person is to remain a member of the community. Everyone should read the membership agreement. http://www.oldgas.com/cgi-bin/ubb/Ultimate.cgi?action=agree

As Jim said earlier, the moderators don't like to censor what others post.
We (moderators) all have busy schedules. We can't catch everything. If you see something inappropriate contact us rather than responding in a way that will create more conflict. Often times we can diffuse the situation with an email to the offending poster.

Personally I'd like to see the lurkers get involved again. I know many of them have knowledge that would be beneficial to the hobby if they would only share it with the rest of us.

You want to change things? Get involved!

As things stand now Company Of The Month will come to an end in a few months if volunteers don't step up. We also need more participation in our other monthly features.
We could use help in other ways too. Things like recruiting/scheduling COTM and building the globe album, or possibly hosting a regular monthly feature.

The more good people we have involved, the less trouble we'll have with the trouble makers. Answer a question. Post a picture. Report troublesome posts. Just stay involved!
Bob Drake
Lastgas15, Moderator
Lastgas15@aol.com
Posted By: cormy Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 06:32 PM
I too have not visited the site as I once did. I think the one of the reasons is the changing face of the petro hobbie.

I think most "disagreements" on this site are over money and the value of stuff. Or involve the transaction of selling or buying.. again money.

The prices of this stuff has gotten WAY out of control and I think this is the fallout.

I can't really see paying crazy money for signs and stuff. To really have a nice small collection of signs would take too much money, more than I'm willing to spend anymore.
Posted By: hotcidr Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 06:59 PM
I love this site and I LOVE JIM POTTS. When I first got into the wonderful hobby I found Jim's web site and got excited and it's ended up costing me lot's of money, but I've met so many good friends and have traveled all over the country to shows and I still can't get enough of it all. Please don't leave the site, keep posting but most of all take a look at this subject. Look at how many people who we seldom hear from are joining into this subject. We need all of you so everyone...have fun...quityrbittchin and keep them cards and letters coming.

I'm looking for a good ACE HIGH sign
Ray
Posted By: tagree0 Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 07:30 PM
oohh. I wanna do the globe album. What I need everyone to do is pack up your globe collection and mail it to me. Don't worry about the cost--it'll be worth it. I'll organize and catalog all of the globes and mail them back to you when I'm finished with them. HAAAAaaaa! Just kidding. I'd really like to help with the globe album. I guess I'll post and ask for pics and start organizing things? That simple?
Posted By: Lastgas15 Re: Attitudes on this site! - Sun Sep 16 2007 09:03 PM
Tom,
I've already got thousands of globe pics. I'll send you an email explaing what needs to be done.
Bob
Posted By: Chad Haas Re: Attitudes on this site! - Mon Sep 17 2007 12:31 AM
I do find it true that this forum is far less interesting, and therefore I visit it much less frequently, whenever personal attacks prevail (Remember the heated, lengthy & energy draining "Crisco Sign" post?).

Most people treat this forum as a place to discuss our beloved hobby. Yet, there is a small faction who are relentless in their attacks and are overtly argumentative in nearly everything they post about and constantly revisit controversial decisions they disagree with. They purposely start knowingly offensive topics and are offensive towards other members.

When this is allowed to occur it cheapens this forum by basically doing this: it reduces the community down to fewer viewpoints because there are quite a few people who might otherwise be interested in sharing their views but withold posting out of fear that they will be mocked, criticized or attacked.




[This message has been edited by chadhaas (edited 09-16-2007).]
Posted By: djhubba Re: Attitudes on this site! - Mon Sep 17 2007 01:11 AM
I like what archer2 posted:

"I think the whole point of this is the moderators do not want "confrontational, abusive and/or threatening" people posting on this forum.
In the end it is their call as it is their forum, we are guests."
Ed

The only wording I would change in Eds post is take out the word "People" in "confrontational, abusive and/or threatening" people : I know confrontational people who know the value of diplomacy while typing on a keyboard in a public forum. I would also replace the word "Guests" with Members because without members , shoptalk wouldnt be much. I encourage people to participate as long as they can participate according to the user agreement.



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Hubba: GAS GEEK , OIL FREAK and humble moderator
Posted By: Oldgas Re: Attitudes on this site! - Mon Sep 17 2007 03:39 AM
I once quit a job in part because of the way management treated the old guy who worked next to me. It upset me to see him get picked on.

I think the same sort of thing is true for many mainstream Shop Talk members. They don't like seeing others get ridiculed or otherwise hurt verbally. It is not about being weak. A strong community depends on members being empathetic and sensitive about the concerns of others, even those they disagree with.

Rather than responding to a mean spirited message poster with another posted message, please contact a moderator about your concerns. With your help, we can improve the atmosphere around here.

Ray, stop telling people you love me. They're going to start talking. LOL But seriously, Ray, hotcider, started with the original Shop Talk 1.0 back almost 10 years ago. Thanks for hanging in there though the ups and downs.

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Jim "Oldgas" Potts
Your host and moderator
Posted By: Ohio Oil Re: Attitudes on this site! - Mon Sep 17 2007 02:37 PM
I visit the site practically everyday and post sporadically. My take on this issue is that when there is controversy, it's usually the same set of characters. Personal grudges and deals gone bad have a way of seeping onto an internet forum. If the mods would develop a strategy of dealing with perpetual pot stirrers most of this stuff would go away. Thanks for the site and the ability to post an opinion.

[This message has been edited by Ohio Oil (edited 09-17-2007).]
Posted By: JEFFSAUTOMOBILIA Re: Attitudes on this site! - Mon Sep 17 2007 03:10 PM
I once was a loyal participant in this site at one time. But like so many that have posted there views here, I am now a confessed occasional Lurker. Dealing with 40+ employees every day, the last thing I want to do is go to a website where everyone is crying over somthing petty. I look at the site the same as in business, If there is someone in your organization that is hindering its growth or causing negative feelings to others, THEY NEED TO BE TERMINATED!
Posted By: Dick Bennett Re: Attitudes on this site! - Mon Sep 17 2007 07:39 PM
To paraphrase JFK.
ASK NOT WHAT THIS SITE CAN DO FOR YOU,
ASK WHAT YOU CAN DO FOR IT.
Posted By: jkyocom Re: Attitudes on this site! - Mon Sep 17 2007 08:35 PM
Rodney King...."Can't we all just get along"
Posted By: Pablo Re: Attitudes on this site! - Mon Sep 17 2007 09:45 PM
You guys crack me up! I love it!!

John Lennon...."Give Peace A Chance"
Posted By: texaspelican Re: Attitudes on this site! - Mon Sep 17 2007 10:12 PM
Love is in the air.
Posted By: Scott Baselt Re: Attitudes on this site! - Mon Sep 17 2007 10:19 PM
GOD.....Drive out the mocker, and out goes strife; quarrels and insults are ended.
Provebs 22:10 NIV
Posted By: dodogas Re: Attitudes on this site! - Tue Sep 18 2007 12:01 AM
Where is all the love???


Well.. it was at Seabash!!

Great time, great people . great stuff!! Got to meet a whole bunch of oldgassers, and in particular hang out a bit with Hubba and his son..had some excellent Champagne with Morganrue and Hubba..

Special THANKS to Don & Family for putting on the event..wonderful time..

i think sometime online CONTEXT or INFLECTION is easily misconstued..leading to some of the bickering..JMO..
Posted By: MarkMcK Re: Attitudes on this site! - Tue Sep 18 2007 01:44 AM


That's a Joke son, I say a Joke, a Joke.

Foghorn Leghorn
Posted By: MarkMcK Re: Attitudes on this site! - Tue Sep 18 2007 01:47 AM
I'm just a soul whos intentions are good, Oh Lord, please don't let me be misunderstood.


The Animals
Posted By: Jarvis Re: Attitudes on this site! - Tue Sep 18 2007 11:34 AM
Mark,
Foghorn leghorn is great!!!!! I love it!
Posted By: cormy Re: Attitudes on this site! - Tue Sep 18 2007 03:05 PM
I feel a "group hug" coming on here.......
Posted By: texaspelican Re: Attitudes on this site! - Tue Sep 18 2007 06:32 PM
Why can't we be friends, why can't we be friends.......

kinda strange title from a group named WAR

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Paddy
WTB Billups, Ride with Rose, Spar, Canal, Gulf Coast, and Galtex gas and Oil related items.
Posted By: jkyocom Re: Attitudes on this site! - Tue Sep 18 2007 08:10 PM
Light up the fire and take a seat around it, pass the bladder of strawberry wine, hold hands and sing "Kume by Ya"....groovey.

Just keep an eye out for "THE MAN" !!!!!.

Peace Brother,
"MOON PUPPY"
Posted By: Oldgas Re: Attitudes on this site! - Wed Sep 19 2007 12:04 AM
Some posts have been edited or deleted in this topic because they appeared to promote answering conflict with more conflict. That is absolutely not what this forum is about.

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Jim "Oldgas" Potts
Your host and moderator
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