The discussion deteriorated and the thread has been removed. Any messages containing derogatory personal remarks will likewise be removed. I may not read all messages, so board citizens are invited to email and alert me to such messages.
The <a href="http://www.toolworks.com/capedory/bboar ... ">rules</a> for commercial posts are that they are forbidden, with two exceptions:
1. Dealers may post brief Cape Dory for sale posts. My reasoning is that making these boats easier to buy and sell supports Cape Dory owners and that's what we're here for.
2. Suppliers of original equipment items for Cape Dory boats and replacement items specifically for Cape Dory boats are encouraged to post brief factual announcements.
Multiple for-sale posts are likewise forbidden (though if an old one drops off the page, it can be replaced).
In the specific case, a non-Cape Dory commercial message was posted. It was removed and the poster notified of the rules. He made a weak case for the merchandise being CD-specific, but since he seemed reasonable, I gave the benefit of the doubt and permitted a more CD-oriented post.
Then three months later the original, non-CD post was repeated. At this point there was no more doubt, and no more benefit. I would have removed the message quickly. However, several replies were posted regarding the vendor, and given the tone of the replies it seemed a higher justice to leave the thread up.
When it deteriorated, it was removed.Hope this clarifies everything. If you missed the thread - well, you'll just have to check in more often.
bilofsky@toolworks.com