1) Don't take it too seriously. It is a chat board, nothing more. If you complicate it, people will leave.
2) Do not take shots at your advertisers. If you do not like them, kindly ask them to leave; stop accepting checks from them.
3) Do not market your forum by putting other forums down. It is counterproductive. It looks pretty dumb to insult GFY here, then go make 4 post over there promoting your program. Make your forum stand alone.
4) Make friends and be open to everyone. This one is tough, I have been doing it for years
Being diplomatic is a tough lifestyle. Enjoy