I think JJ is right. The general forum should not be a place for advertising but I dont think that happens too much and as Lucy said if it does the post is usually moved. It is difficult for the girls because any activity on the forum will be judged by some to be some sort of advertising and this clearly leads to a lot of girls not posting which is a pity.
The general forum should be exactly what it says on the tin, a place for everyone to post and discuss issues in a friendly way. Though, I do like it when people disagree which is far more interesting than when people agree all the time. So, this is another reason for people to be themselves.