Some folks think the 1st Amendment means anyone can say (or publish) anything anywhere. It doesn't, and they can't without consequences in a lot of cases. Libel and slander are examples. Copyright infringement, plagiarism, and contractual agreements required for employment regarding trade secrets are examples too.

What is allowed in this forum is solely up to the discretion of the site owner, and he has chosen to allow this site to be free form. I participate in a number of other forums that have nothing to do with collecting. Off topic discussions happen in everyone of them. It is the nature of us as humans to express thoughts and opinions on any number of subjects. Regulars can chose to ignore or participate, and so can the occasional or new visitor.

As to the ACE pledge...I donno. When I went to the Chipboard get together at the Palms last June, I sat down at a table with two folks I'd never met in person - Kevin Ayledott and Shawn G. We were having some interesting conversations about chips when I noticed a couple of rather loud gentlemen seated at the table next to us. One was named Steve Passalottaaqua and the other was Tyrus Malarkey (or something like that). The Steve guy was telling the Tyrus guy that the turnout for the meeting was pretty positive, but he'd heard that some Bob Orme guy was there, and that Bob Orme guy was bad news. The Tyrus guy agreed, saying he'd kick that Bob Orme guy's a$$ if he saw him! I probably wouldn't be able to honor the ACE pledge if that happens again!