Since this subject has been raised, I thought it was time to go over the rule about
advertisements on the conch-l list.  I know the rules may seem overly strict, and at times
there are posts that break the rules.  I would ask that the subscribers to this list try their
very best to abide by the rule.
Thanks!

Rule No. 1: NO Advertising:

Commercial Advertising is not allowed; not even by non-profit organizations. UGA, as a
community service, "grants the use of its facilities to organizations whose activities
contribute to its mission." CONCH-L is considered to be an "educational resource," and
therefore falls within UGA's mission. However, UGA and the State of Georgia have strict
rules that do not allow use of these resources for personal gain, thus no free advertising
or commercial messages. In particular:

Offering to sell or recommending your own products or services is NOT allowed (this
includes lists of shells, book catalogues, equipment and trips). CONCH-L is not to be used
as an inexpensive substitute for commercial advertising. However, this list was set up to
encourage discussions and therefore this rule can be bent a little (please remember the
qualifier 'a little'.)

If you are responding to a request for information about your product please limit your
reply to a brief answer and address (home, email or web) where the requester can find
more information.

If you wish to send a large document (image, article or catalog) please send it directly to
the person who requested the information and not to the list.

Requesting information on, or recommending products or services or sources where they
may be obtained IS allowed. One of the goals of this list is to help people make
connections and learn more about Malacology and Conchology. People wishing to
exchange shells and publications may announce that their trading lists are available, but
should not post lists to CONCH-L.

Public-service announcements of new publications (books and journals), shell clubs, and
web sites (including commercial websites) ARE allowed, as are posting of general
information on shell shows and conventions. Of course this includes posting about an
updated internet site or reprinted publication. Book reviews by non-interested individuals
are encouraged as an educational resource. If the announcement concerns a commercial
site please use discretion.

If you have doubt about whether your message is advertising or not, send it to the List
Manager at [log in to unmask] who will look it over and let you know if
it's postable.

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