I thought we were all VIP's

You have been mislead a little bit. Signing up here as you already have and adding all your information like address and Titleist equipment you use is an important first step. There is no "VIP" category and the idea of gifts is a bit confusing. Occasionally (usually the first of the year) Titleist will send some thank you cards for new members that might include a few stickers. They also have been known to send some rubber bag tags to members that frequently contribute to forum posts with positive questions and/or comments. Those most active have also occasionally received the metal TT Ambassador tags. There are literally hundreds and thousands of members so mail outs are limited and many members do not receive anything except the satisfaction of being able to participate with like enthusiasts. Occasionally you will see posts on opportunities for TT members to purchase items via a special link. Watch for those. Other than that, most of us get our items as welcome packages when attending TT events. Hope this helps explain things and welcome to the TT forum.

is this forum participation different than facebook TT community participation?

Yes and no. Some of the TT Forum regulars are on the FB Group but I would say many more "casual" posters on the FB Group that never show up here. Facebook has less brand loyalty and less respectful comments than the forum, which does have comments reviewed before posting. That's why there is a delay in forum posts as opposed to quick posts and replies on the Facebook site. Facebook is a great place to post pictures as the forum only handles them in the initial topic and not the replies but beware of some of the reactions you will get there, especially on controversial topics.

Yes.

Chuck, That may be perhaps your briefest post ever! So unlike you but I can understand as you have been corrected newbies here for many years! Keep up the great work.