........I think he was just trying to be funny.

Misinterpretting what a poster means IS part of the problem.

Marc,

I just voted to keep it open.

The problem in this forum is the perception of some here that it should only exist to praise the AMA; outline AMA's policies and/or its agenda and belittle anyone that disagrees with any actions of AMA by labeling them as ANTI-AMAers, malcontents, or trouble makes or the like… on and on and on.... If this forum is just to facilitate AMA’s objectives, it should be closed because the value is none...after all AMA and their districts have their websites that can be just a one way communication that apparently can restrict other AMA members at will, insuring only AMA’s/selected few viewpoints are considered. But if this forum is to discuss aspects about AMA policies and actions then it should most definitely stay open.


There is absolutely some real good that comes from these type forums. Sure there is some muck here and there but overall things have indeed changed over the years for the better because of our ability to discuss issues openly here and places like this. The infamous rule number nine is a great example. Most recently the paintball debacle was another. AMA should never become so complacent that they feel the membership will just accept whatever without any scrutiny or complaint

As long as the participants here do not violate the very reasonable basic precepts of posting at RCU and do resist the urge to curse, flame, degrade, insult or embarrass someone in your post or otherwise take prohibited actions against another member the posts/threads should stay intact and threads left open until it naturally goes down. Let them discuss whatever as long as they wish as long as it pertains to AMA facts or philosophy. As someone’s thought earlier conveyed “your sanctity is only a click away if you find it too hot in this kitchen�…


No one is forced to be here…and that is a great thing!

Thank you Marc/RCU for the opportunity to just say what I just said!

Now your starting quote:
SOUNDING OFF

What is your objective with this forum? Do you wish to really discuss the actions, directions, and effects the Academy of Model Aeronautics (AMA) has on the long range future of model aviation, RC being the main one, or do you simply want a bunch of happy folks sitting around typing in, "That is so nice."

If you want some study of objective realities about this country's only national organization that has some chance of protecting and advancing the rights of RC model airplanes within the sky, then you should want this forum both open and active. If you only want to please everyone, then even thinking of closing the forum has already defeated your purpose.

In this world the thought of satisfying each and everyone is pure folly. Check the news of the day. Iowa and New Hampshire prove such a point. This forum has far too many individuals with personal experiences from many years and much knowledge of the subject material right down to the Zero-Zero level to expect that passion and expression will be and remain totally utopian.

I personally pay the top asking price each year simply to maintain the privilege of trying to present just how AMA works or doesn't work as the case may be. Check my posts in the beginners forum, and other forums and you will probably find my nature to be as helpful as possible. OTOH, the AMA is a political organization -- BTDT -- and like any other organization, it isn't all too friendly for each individual.
Now do you think you would want to share a foxhole with someone that you know will jump and run when the first hot mail comes your way? What about if you're a fighter pilot rolling in on a target and your wingman pulls up and out when the first little tracer comes his way? Those are the types that come here and then find something beyond "what propeller", "what color XXXcoat", "how do you make it go", and once they find some disagreement with their brand new input, they cry and run for help. I don't mind answering such questions when the time and place is right for such.
OTOH, if one is not already somewhat learned in the subject, then the AMA operation is really no place for the neophyte in organizational structure, economics, systematic promotion of a sport, and is short of at least middle school reading comprehension. This forum will better serve those capable of objective argumentation, along with ability to research problems and engage in objective problem solving exercises.

IMO, this forum should have a warning that egos well may get bruised for those unable to keep up with a fast moving train. In addition I don't think any one person should be allowed to be total judge, jury, and executioner. Directing the Editing of a post seems much better than the present yanking as has been so common the past year or so. Just reading the above posts certainly displays a number of executioners so ready to claim the carrion. Some of those names I seem to recall are those that are constantly just critical of AMA, its clubs and members, and provide nothing to assist AMA over all. I think those that cannot stand the heat should simply be allowed to leave the kitchen while the real chefs stir the pots.

This is your turf. You have the right to call it as you wish. However as you well know my vote is to maintain the forum.

Well said, LCS. If I don't like what's on "TV", I just turn it off. I wouldn't expect my next door neighbor to turn his off too...... just to appease my sensitivities
I can understand RCUs' concern about their image and how this forum reflects on the website as a whole. It obviously takes considerable effort to keep it from boiling over at times.

Keep the forum open. Put a permanent ban on the miscreants who's basic intention in visiting the threads is to inflame the others who are actively interested in what is occurring within the AMA. Don't issue warnings, just remove their ability to make posts on RCU. Track them by their real identities, and make the ban a permanent thing. Most of them don't make posts anywhere else anyway. Don't give them the opportunity to poison the entire RC Universe. That would be my vote.

Bill, AMA 4720

And from the other side:

Marc,

I just voted to close it.

The problem in this forum is the perception of some here that it should only exist to discredit the AMA; outline AMA's bad policies and/or its agenda and belittle anyone that agrees with any actions of AMA by labeling them as AMA Drones, stupid, or mindless; or, the like… on and on and on.... If this forum is only a battle ground over the AMA and its' objectives, it should be closed because then it has no value!

Excuse me for rewording what you stated Littlecrankshaf! However, by changing a few words, you've also outlined the oppositions position, perfectly!

The problem with this forum is: people are absolutely unable to discuss issues and it always is reduced to name calling!

Sorry fella's I am an example i suppose of someone not reading the post as it should be interpretated. I voted close. But did not read this as I should have I will not vote again. But do think that I enjoy some of the bantering that goes on. How many times i have set and typed and erased then typed some more then erased and thought about it and then just did not post anything is numerous time. That is what this forum does if nothing else it to make you think. I do agree it gets hot sometimes but that is because of the passion folks feel about what the think. And just like this post my mind has been changed somewhat to that maybe just leave it and don't moderate so much let the fella's get out there disagreements here. And be done with it. Sometimes i get mad sometimes i laugh at posts but something keeps us coming back for either or. Sorry i misread the inital post. Thinking is was shutting down RCU as a whole my mistake and just show that is some of the problem. Ya'll are welcome i just let my dumb show (but i meant to do it just to show off lol) Not really just did not read it as should have my apologies.

See now that wasn't neccessary. We are staying on topic and not using names and then there ya go......
Geezz......[X(]
Look,keep it, don't keep it. I am sure the advertisers would be thrilled to know that a forum that gets so many hits will no longer be available for their advertising. Limiting their exposure,limiting their ROI[&o] oops did I say that?
Joking aside do what you want, but do not thinik for a second that shutting the forum ends the problem, the troublemakers, or free speech. This seems to be the attitude of if its not there it doesnt exist...WRONG!!!!

Good comments and posts people.

The voting is still split and my guess is as more chime in the split will remain almost right down the line

A common theme from some is that we should not allow certain users to post here. Why wouldn't you, the member, just click the BLOCK icon under the users posts and you will never see their posts as you traverse the forums?

To answer another posters question above...you can only vote once. Try to vote again as a test. it won't let you.

Because when someone else that is not on your blocked list quotes someone who is, the post is right there in your face.

My question to you is simple, and I think straightforward; Why would you want these guys stirring the pot on what is otherwise a great site? Are they worth the problems that they cause? This is not Kid Central, this is a grown-up hobby, and it's past time for those who post here to conduct themselves as such.

Bill, AMA 4720

When I first read the topic I couldn’t wait for the thread to load so I could vote to close. My initial thought this forum is a cancer that needs to be ridded as soon as possible. Even when the conversation remains civil any reader of this forum would believe there is far more that divides the AMA than unites.

As I read some post in this tread I had come to the realization that maybe my vote was a bit to hasty. Whether I agree or disagree with comments made on this forum, it has educated me to the workings of the organization to which I hand over my dues every year. Where else can a member get insight without immersing ones self in executive council meeting minutes? Certainly not from MA. Maybe a forum like this is a necessary evil to keep members abreast of policies the powers to be might be trying to slide in the back door.

Unfortunately the patients have taken over asylum here. Threads spin out of control even when all post adhere to RCU policy. The problem is people are so insistent on getting the last word instead of the best word. Opposing points of view are constantly trying to sway the other side when they know the attempt is feeble at best. If people would just put there best word out then SHUT UP! There are a hand full of posters on this forum that would get there point across better if there next post was a NON-POST. But instead the norm for this forum is pound your point ad nauseam.

My vote still is to close it down. Think it’s too out of control to salvage. [&o]

Ahhh...What a balance…right down the middle…You have learned well grasshopper... I use that method often...for what ever reason, it infuriates those that cannot see the other side. It is a great litmus test to find unbalanced positions. Yes, there are always two sides!

What I don't understand is why you would want this forum closed since you post here often...it is most definitely your right to feel that way… even if I don't agree… but if this forum stays open I’ll have a chance to change your mind and of course you might change mine mind as well. Sorry, but I just can't understand why you would want to give up that opportunity.

Bill,

I would hate to see you banned...I for one enjoy your pot stirrin'

hi kettle, youre black

Pot, I know that.

Kidding? Not even close. Everything about this hobby is about separation and those who think likewise are just wishful thinking. In fact one of the AMA's biggest flops was the buddy box program, that was a joke.

This forum is purely political and different regions have different political point of views. Separate this thread like everything else about this hobby and I bet dollars to donuts most of the problems will go away.

Now please don't quote this post, I don't want Stick to be able to see it. Just reply to is as "hey a-wad", I'll know what your talking about.

I voted to keep it open.

Each and every thread in this arena have both negative and positive strokes to look at and digest. What normally happens is that someone reads a post or part of a post and replies. At times, they go off on a tangent and mis-understand what was written and will either take offense or be pleased. People will respond as to how they intepreted any posting, not necessarily the way it was intended.

I've been guilty of that, and have been accused of saying things and outright misinterpreted by a poster in his/her reply.

Most of us have the capability to wade through the noise and get informed by those that are truly making an impact... sometimes it may be a negative impact, but if it's sensible, then why not.

CGr.

The only problem with the AMA Discussion forum is that they are under moderated. It doesn't seem like they are forced to follow the same rules that we are. Just my opinion.

lol You are the problem here!

Now you have made yourself dizzy. Just get off the ride!


I strongly disagree. I know many that took advantage of that offer and it went a long ways to convince new AMA members of AMA’s desire to promote the hobby.

69 people voted so far, an there's usually never over 15-20 of us on here most all of the time.


Ronnie

Marc: I voted to keep the forum open. I know that there is lots of controversy, but when all is said and done, some posts really do make a lot of sense. Using Hoss as an example, I think that he is on the right track most of the time, and he certainly does have the best interests of AMA in mind when he posts. Although I don't always agree with him, I welcome having this forum available to me to share and read his views. I usually state my views on a subject, and then shut up.

For those that voted to close the post down, all they have to do is to no longer come here. That will solve their problem without affecting the other 50% that voted to keep the forum open.

CGR...
Thank you for your service sir.

Very true, Jim.

Don't think it will happen though. Betcha close to all of those that posted in favor of closing it down will be right back here, assuming Marc decides to leave it open.
Maybe I'll keep a list, just to satisfy my curiosity...........

Abel

Thanks, SSRCCPREZ.

I see three reasons folks would want to shut down the forum
a) They dont want to read what others have to say about the AMA
b) They dont want anyone to be able to read what others say abou the AMA
c) Regardless of alignment, they are sick of the mud where discussion should be

Looking at A, the simplicity of that Closer to just stop coming here himself is obvious.
I dont like what Oxygen & Lifetime put on the TV, so I dont watch those channels. What I do not do is write letters/campaign/vote to have FCC shut down those channels.

But the more dire is B, folks dont like what is said & want to stop anyone else from being able to read it.
If they want to hang out in an AMA Biased Forum, there are plenty of those to chose from, most by the AMA& Districts. But in an unbiased forum, why try to introduce censurship, and if that fails, disband the unbiased forum as ultimate censureship.

And of course C, regardless of good or bad, things have gotten Ugly.
Repeat offenders. Frequently attacking posters rather than post topic. The inceasant use of where folks are from. Baiting for a lock when losing debates. Allusion to insult to stay within the rules. Warnings need to become Weekly Suspensions, and corrective actions need to be Monthly Suspensions. Three strikes you're out, perma-out. Some folks paid? Well, they didnt pay to be above the law, did they?