In thinking about this, as most have already been pointed out, I find the following points :

1. When the advertisement was posted on the board it solicits an action, follow the link, make a comment, or do nothing.
2. The board is open forum for comment, opinion (good/bad right/wrong).
3. Each comment / opinion carries the credentials of the person making it.
4. Therefore posting an ad can affect the outcome of than sale, the seller is in hopes of doing just that; affecting the sale by advertising on the board and having more viewers, thus more competition for a higher winning price. The solicitation can have the reverse affect as well. Sellers beware.
5. Mr. Pardue made true statements of facts that he was aware of as well as opinions that were clear and appeared genuine. His comments did not appear to be malicious in nature, as he wished the seller “Good luck..” Mr. Pardue’s credibility surpasses many other members and therefore carries more weight. I believe he is free on this board to express any comment he chooses so long as it is not knowingly false or malicious in intent.
6. I doubt that every potential buyer came to the Chipboard and read Mr. Pardue’s comments and each being fully aware of his authority in the field; therefore the comment could have only affected a small portion of the potential buyers who came to the board and agreed with his opinion. So the item stood on its own to draw at least an opening bid by anyone a minimum bid. Believing not every potential buyer was negatively affected by Mr. Pardue’s comments. The seller stating that others had in fact did sell, implies this item simply failed to sell on its own merits or just a lack of market at the time.
7. What seems to be implied by the seller is “Slander Of Goods”. There is no evidence of such.

Question: Would the same discussion be made if Mr. Pardue made the comment, “This is the best deal I’ve seen in months” causing the item to sell for double or triple the opening bid? I think not. If not, then the complaint is without basis.

My opinion would be vastly different had Mr. Pardue been able to state his authority and negative opinion on the auction itself where EVERY potential buyer would notice and be prejudiced. Ebay is not directly linked to ebay and the comments. Opinions expressed here are somewhat ‘private’ in regards to ebay and its auctions.

Mr. Pardue is being the whipping boy for this failed auction.