Reality Check

[KFCarter]

Had the Mod Squad determined that Ron had been engaged in de facto advertising he would have been officially contacted and informed to stop this with an approriate warning or penalty by the Mod Squad. :

Thought it was self-explanatory but OK Rex...

I don't:

Mention the supplier at every chance I get....

With all due respect, McClef, I think the "line" is far from self-explanatory. You list as your first "don't", "mentioning the supplier at every chance..." seeming to imply that Riverkilt was over the line with his numerous mentions of his supplier. But Panache clearly states that Ron would have been contacted had the Mod Squad felt he was engaged in "de facto advertising". Apparently this did not happen, leaving me to wonder if your idea of where the line ought to be is not the same as the Mod Squad's idea of where the line ought to be. I only point this out to illustrate how difficult it is for all to agree where natural enthusiasm crosses the line to "de facto advertising".

I have followed this thread carefully, and I'm still not sure I know. I suppose De facto advertising could happen cumulatively, a result of a few positive postings from many, many members adding up to a critical mass, or from an individual member papering the forum with positive reviews. I would say the exposure received on this site for the kiltmaker in question has been a result of both factors.

I think it's best to trust the judgment and actions of the Mod Squad on this issue. I'd hate to think that individual members might start second-guessing an impulse to review someone who is not a forum advertiser. I think it's best if forum members feel free to express themselves about their experiences without too much self-editing, secure in the knowledge that they'll get guidance from the mods if they do something that infringes the legitimate interests of the forum's advertisers.