I need a little advice.

Som members start religious, ethnic and political topics with good intent. Other topics stray and become religious, ethnic and political in nature. Of course they always lead to flaming. I hate to just close every topic that contains that subject matter because many have value to the readers. Has anyone addressed this issue with Private Forums? Any other ideas?


http://forums.performanceyears.com/6/ubb.x?a=frm&s=7286011111&f=2526057511

Hi, Ccass:

Sounds to me like you just need to have strict rules on your board, and enforce them. Make them clear, make them easily available, and close when you have to close.

Do you have moderators?

I've just been to visit your board, and I notice that you don't have any separate categories--all your topics are listed on the same page. You might consider setting up forums for different subjects: some specifically Pontiac-related, some for your other different topics, including one where you invite questions on how to use the board, or comments on the board.

Have you seen this guide on tips for successful communities?

You could also set up a forum just for those types of conversations in particular. That way, anybody that entered would know what they were getting in to! You could also set for replies to be approved by moderators first.