Keeping things on topic and respectable

I removed a few threads tonight. I may take some heat for it... I'm not sure, but I didn't like the attitude that was starting to take hold.

For a long time painters haven't been respected like they should be. I'm hoping that this website can, in a very small way, help fix that. I'm not trying to squash serious discussion about the painting industry, serious questions that need feedback, or even some relaxing off topic discussions between friends. But when the off topic banter starts to take over the real topic there is a problem. This would probably be a lot less of a problem if the site wasn't so new but I don't want to set the wrong tone now. I've seen sites die before because they didn't step in when they should.

I'm also concerned by a few topics that I believe make everyone here look bad. The thread may or may not be a serious question or statement but it makes me question the motivation of the poster and makes me worry about how outsiders who view this site will view us. Not sure if that makes sense or not. These are really hard to judge and I hope I didn't step on anyone's toes.

Those of you who know me know that I am very open to feedback and any comments or suggestions you may have. If you don't agree with me let me know. I'm willing to be corrected if I'm wrong.

Thanks guys :thumbsup: