Ch-Ch-Changes

[Aaron]

Ok, so as I said last night; New site name, new moderator, new way of looking at things around here.

With big Kev gone, we've lost a little bit of security around here in terms of visitors.
No matter how we acted before we would always get people popping in purely on the basis that the site was owned by Kevin Smith.
Now while we're not completely separate to him now (we still use the same servers and Ken will still be doing the music and stuff on SMod) his name is not on the door anymore.

This means a couple of things.

1) All the site contributors like myself have a lot more reponsibility as far as making sure people visit this place, so expect our pimping to go up.
2) We'll be looking for more contributors to the site for content. Ideally about 10 updates per day.
3) We have to play nicer on the forum

And 3 is where I really need your help.

The "snoochie boochie" guys are going to be gone. Take a look at all the folks who introduce themselves in the newbie thread, find 5 that say they didn't come here for SModcast and you'll be going back quite a long time. To maintain the kind of community that has grown here over the past couple of years we really need to be more welcoming and we really need to drop the "guilty until proven innocent" approach we have to newbies.

Not everyone is like this but there are enough members who are.
If we keep it up we'll have no-one who will come back and the oldies will back me up here that when this site changed last time, this forum was a ghost town and not fun.
I like how busy it's gotten lately and I want to keep it that way. So let's all make a bit of an effort ok? This place is very special to me and I know a lot of you feel the same way. We need your help to keep it going so don't let me down.


Now, with all that being said, the fun part is we get to make a few changes around here.

This is the first time a forum member has been promoted to a Moderator. Ever. I'm talking the 6 years plus I've been here and more. So we get to have a little bit of fun that we always wanted to.

First order of business. I'm moving all the DVD threads to Movies.
That leaves us with a free forum.

From what I've gathered in the past, making it a Sports forum might be the best option.
Everyone agree with that? If not suggestions are welcome.

Anything else you want done around here? Now is the time to ask while I have the paint brushes out.

Also, I've been thinking about implementing a 3 strikes and you're out system. Spammers will obviously get instant life bans but for ongoing bad behaviour on the board I figure it should go like this.

1) 24 hour ban
2) 7 day ban
3) Permanent ban

I figure we don't need assholes harshing our buzz, but they should still get a chance to mend their ways. I'm not a fan of having to step in for anything around here but if there is a line crossed we should have a system in place I reckon

How do you feel about that?

How am I driving?

FEEDBACK!

[TheHangingBrain]

It all sounds good to me, man. I agree that things can get a bit harsh around here and maybe we all do need to be a bit nicer. I try to be on my best behavior most of the time (and even when I sound mean I'm honestly just playing).

The sports thread sounds cool even though I'm not really a sports fan.

Can't think of any real suggestions other than the people who have podcasts that post on here should be one of the major sources of site pimpage. It would actually be nice to see some traffic coming as a result of the hard work of the sites contributors, and not some "Quiet Bill" character who could give a crap that we exist.

[JK]

Playing the devil's advocate here, the guilty-til-proven-innocent approach to noobs does contribute to quality members- members who toughed it out and stuck around to become some of the most worthy and respected members (specifically, my brother Blake.)

I understand the need for traffic since traffic equals revenue, but without some sort of probationary period (which is, in reality, what we've been doing with the digital hazing) we'd have hundreds of miniature marksiwels making asinine and douchey posts, cluttering the boards and making the whole experience less than appealing.

[By-tor]

3) We have to play nicer on the forum


From what I've gathered in the past, making it a Sports forum might be the best option.
Everyone agree with that? If not suggestions are welcome.

How am I driving?

FEEDBACK!Doing good so far, bud. :cool:

Sports forum, very cool.

Playing nicer. A leopard can't change their spots, brother. If someone comes on here, and starts being a dick, I'm gonna have a hard time not going at them. :o I'll probably get that first 24 hour ban. :(

[Aaron]

Playing the devil's advocate here, the guilty-til-proven-innocent approach to noobs does contribute to quality members- members who toughed it out and stuck around to become some of the most worthy and respected members (specifically, my brother Blake.)

I understand the need for traffic since traffic equals revenue, but without some sort of probationary period (which is, in reality, what we've been doing with the digital hazing) we'd have hundreds of miniature marksiwels making asinine and douchey posts, cluttering the boards and making the whole experience less than appealing.

We can achieve the same results without the hazing. The probationary period needs to apply in the exact opposite sense as it used to.
We have to give people the benifit of the doubt for a while. If they don't cop on after polite direction? Then they'll be shown the door. But the hazing has only worked to make this a gated community.

And for the record, I've checked IPs, it wasn't Marksiwel in the Al Gore thread, so you can stop blaming him for that one.

[JK]

And for the record, I've checked IPs, it wasn't Marksiwel in the Al Gore thread, so you can stop blaming him for that one.

I wasn't the one who made a big deal about that.

[Aaron]

I wasn't the one who made a big deal about that.

Sorry, that wasn't directed at you specifically. Should have distinguished that

[By-tor]

And for the record, I've checked IPs, it wasn't Marksiwel in the Al Gore thread, so you can stop blaming him for that one.Didn't he say something about getting a new router, and other new comp equipment? Don't know if that would change IPs? :confused: Not that it matters. I suspect Lewis will be banned first, regardless. ;)

[Sharp-O]

All sounds good to me. :)

[Aaron]

All sounds good to me. :)

Sorry, I forgot to mention, we can all still be mean to you.

[Scottbob75]

I can still post my posting for my podcast (under the podcast forum) with out being 'spamming?'

[Sharp-O]

Sorry, I forgot to mention, we can all still be mean to you.

Why am I not surprised :rolleyes: Can I assume everything I say will be fodder for the banhammer? Or just opinions on movies that you think are wrong? :p

[Aaron]

Why am I not surprised :rolleyes: Can I assume everything I say will be fodder for the banhammer? Or just opinions on movies that you think are wrong? :p

Mostly, just your face.

[Aaron]

I can still post my posting for my podcast (under the podcast forum) with out being 'spamming?'

Spam concerns people who only post a product and nothing else. So you're safe.

Although I would say you'd get more interest in your podcast if you posted more.

[Rob101]

Everytime I see that guy up there, I keep thinking of these guys:
http://www.fantasyecards.com/ecards/pix/Cartoon/alvin-the-chipmunk.jpg
http://images1.makefive.com/images/200833/085d9ccdf1e73ec0.jpg
And this song comes to mind. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKl6iGig9n8)

[TheHangingBrain]

All sounds good to me. :)

Sorry, I forgot to mention, we can all still be mean to you.

Why am I not surprised :rolleyes: Can I assume everything I say will be fodder for the banhammer? Or just opinions on movies that you think are wrong? :p

Mostly, just your face.

http://images.cheezburger.com/completestore/2009/12/2/129042729039034560.jpg

[Sharp-O]

Mostly, just your face.

http://i199.photobucket.com/albums/aa129/Sharp-O/wellplayed.jpg

[puggso_32]

Playing the devil's advocate here, the guilty-til-proven-innocent approach to noobs does contribute to quality members- members who toughed it out and stuck around to become some of the most worthy and respected members (specifically, my brother Blake.)

I understand the need for traffic since traffic equals revenue, but without some sort of probationary period (which is, in reality, what we've been doing with the digital hazing) we'd have hundreds of miniature marksiwels making asinine and douchey posts, cluttering the boards and making the whole experience less than appealing.

See this I disagree with.

I have been here about 2 years now and even still I feel like a relative outsider compared to the ones that have been around a long time. The hazing detracts from people joining up and becoming regulars. I came on here after listening to the QSE podcasts (not just Smod mind you!) and found it to be a very close, almost cliquey place.

I stuck with it and am glad I did (plus I was studying for uni exams at the time and all distractions were appreciated) but as Aaron has said, it is a different kettle of fish now. There is no Smod - which did, mind you, get me on to QSE in the first place if not the forum - so the place has to have a greater appeal to try and get anyone who does swing by to stay.

Change, it will be for the better I believe.

[By-tor]

I agree, somewhat, now, with the change-over. But, this place is not only a community, to me. It's also like a college frat house. Sometimes, you just have to say...
http://www.brainygamer.com/.a/6a00e39824440288330120a5dc96d4970b-800wi
Thank you, Sir. May I have another.

[Aaron]

It's also like a college frat house.

And that's the problem, that's what we have to try and change.

[RobinHoodDaffy]

I know my girlfriend got scared away from this place because of the harshness she was greeted by. I think a friendlier greeting has it's place, but if you listen to what ol' Double A said, assholes get a 24 hour ban, so, if they start it, you can fire back, just be clever. :D

[By-tor]

I know my girlfriend got scared away from this place because of the harshness she was greeted by. I think a friendlier greeting has it's place, but if you listen to what ol' Double A said, assholes get a 24 hour ban, so, if they start it, you can fire back, just be clever. :D
Jebus, I hope I wasn't any of that harshness.:( And, cleverness is def the way to go. :cool:

[By-tor]

And that's the problem, that's what we have to try and change.I'll try, kid. But, I've been here, on the only forums I've ever posted on, for 11K+ posts, and nearly 5 years. It's not going to be easy. :o

[Aaron]

I'll try, kid.

That's all I can ask for, old man. For everyone to try.

[JK]

...I have been here about 2 years now and even still I feel like a relative outsider compared to the ones that have been around a long time...

For whatever it's worth, you're on my buddy list. Have been for, well, longer than I can recall.

__________________________

If this place is going to turn into A Reading Rainbow/PBS forum, well, I don't know...

[puggso_32]

For whatever it's worth, you're on my buddy list. Have been for, well, longer than I can recall.



My heart just went all fluttery :D

[RobinHoodDaffy]

For whatever it's worth, you're on my buddy list. Have been for, well, longer than I can recall.


Wait, you actually USE the buddy list? What's it for?

[JK]

Wait, you actually USE the buddy list? What's it for?

Fucked if I know... ;)



It tells me when the members I truly admire and respect are on line.

[Aaron]

Wait, you actually USE the buddy list? What's it for?

I THINK you can use it to PM a selected bunch of people at once...?

Anybody I've met in person from the board have been added to mine.

[RobinHoodDaffy]

Fucked if I know... ;)



It tells me when the members I truly admire and respect are on line.

O.k. I respect that. I have used many a device that I had no idea what they did, but it seemed the thing to do. Mayhap I too shall investigate this....buddy list.

[puggso_32]

Fucked if I know... ;)



It tells me when the members I truly admire and respect are on line.


Now you are just buttering me up!


(I had no idea there was a buddy list on here...interesting development!)

[By-tor]

O.k. I respect that. I have used many a device that I had no idea what they did, but it seemed the thing to do. Mayhap I too shall investigate this....buddy list.Yeah, I've never used said beast, either. Huh. :confused:

[TomHarrington]

2) We'll be looking for more contributors to the site for content. Ideally about 10 updates per day.

Would content generated by readers and/or forum members be considered for publication on the site? If so, how should they go about submiting idea pitches?

How am I driving?

To be honest, Aaron, you've only just left the driveway. But you haven't hit anything yet. Good job! I have teh faith in you. :)

[enzeru]

I know I'm new and my opinion is probably worth less than a grain of salt, but I like what I'm reading.

[By-tor]

To be honest, Aaron, you've only just left the driveway. But you haven't hit anything yet. For the love of Odin, there's the Tiger Woods jinx, if I ever heard one. ;)

[Aaron]

Would content generated by readers and/or forum members be considered for publication on the site? If so, how should they go about submiting idea pitches?
Totally.
Just get in contact with Ken via email (I would suggest not PM) with either the full article (if you're submitting a once off piece) or the first article (if you're hoping to do a regular column)

(brackets)

I know I'm new and my opinion is probably worth less than a grain of salt, but I like what I'm reading.

To be honest, newbies are some of the folks I'd like to hear from most. You have a first impression of the place.
Sometimes it's hard to have perspective when you've been here as long as some of us.

[By-tor]

Hey, Mr. Moderator guy!!! When's that Sports forum gonna launch. I'm watching the Penguins and Flyers play an outdoor NHL game in Fenway fuckin' Park that I'd like to comment on.

Comment: :cool:

[Aaron]

Well, I'll move the threads now, I'm just waiting on the Duck to wake up and change the forum title.

*goes to work*

[JK]

If this place is going to turn into A Reading Rainbow/PBS forum, well, I don't know...

Seriously, is this place going to be moving towards a G-rated, all-inclusive kumbaya hippie commune drum circle? Are we going to be run out for "frat boy" behaviour? Are we going to be put on notice because some of us have no problem with calling a spade a spade, so to speak? And honestly, I'm a little nervous just bringing this up.

Personally, I happen to like the intimacy of these boards. I've tried several other places but they're all the same. No character. No real camaraderie. Boring as Hell. This place was unique.

[TomHarrington]

Personally, I happen to like the intimacy of these boards.

You're still thinking about that turnip, huh?

[By-tor]

Seriously, is this place going to be moving towards a G-rated, all-inclusive kumbaya hippie commune drum circle? Are we going to be run out for "frat boy" behaviour? Are we going to be put on notice because some of us have no problem with calling a spade a spade, so to speak? And honestly, I'm a little nervous just bringing this up.

Personally, I happen to like the intimacy of these boards. I've tried several other places but they're all the same. No character. No real camaraderie. Boring as Hell. This place was unique.It'll be okay, brother. I talked super-long distance to a buddy of mine that convinced me of that. ;)

[Aaron]

By the way, if anyone see's a thread that's in the wrong section, just post in it to let me know as I try and clean up the place.

[JK]

It'll be okay, brother. I talked super-long distance to a buddy of mine that convinced me of that. ;)

I feel like my questions and concerns are being danced around like some sort of toxic sombrero...

This is the fourth iteration of these boards that I've been through, I'm honestly concerned that I'm some sort of dinosaur and won't fit in like the others who were here through the first three changes and no longer participate.

[Aaron]

I feel like my questions and concerns are being danced around like some sort of toxic sombrero...

This is the fourth iteration of these boards that I've been through, I'm honestly concerned that I'm some sort of dinosaur and won't fit in like the others who were here through the first three changes and no longer participate.

What's to be danced around? You're asking a question that can't really be answered, man.

Other members have stated concerns that this place is not welcoming to new folk, they've seen this first hand and have mentioned it in this thread. All I'm asking is to try and change this.

I've been here for a very long time too if you'll remember. Why do you feel like you can't stick it when obviously you can as you've been here this long?

[By-tor]

Other members have stated concerns that this place is not welcoming to new folk, they've seen this first hand and have mentioned it in this thread. All I'm asking is to try and change this.
Honestly, JK is pretty good at the "Welcome aboard!!!" to noobs, as long as they don't start with spam, and don't start off being total dicks. But, the first time dickishness rears it's ugly head, he puts a bullet to it. :)

[Aaron]

Exactly Bytor, he shouldnt be worried.

[JK]

Why do you feel like you can't stick it when obviously you can as you've been here this long?

I didn't say that I feel like I can't stick it out. I've outlasted just about everybody from the original moviepoopshoot boards, the second poopshoot boards, & the original QSE boards.

I just get the impression that we're no longer going to be allowed, upon pain of ban-stick, to call out someone who is acting like a jackass. That we're to stop any snarkiness, the sarcasm, and whatever else that might be construed as offensive to someone wandering in off the street.

This place kept it's flavor through the previous changes, I'm just not a big fan going vanilla to pump up numbers.

[TomHarrington]

What's to be danced around?

A toxic sombrero! Come on, dude, it's right there in the quoted text.

Why do you feel like you can't stick it when obviously you can

Yeah? Well you can stick it, too, if that's your attitude.
http://cimacollina.com/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/2007/06/laughing%20kid.jpg

Aaron, have the guidlines regarding the use of profane language changed officially? I've always had the impression that you could use any known word, provided it wasn't used to attack someone. Someone recently posted the Carlin's seven words bit, for instance. How, if at all, has this unwritten policy changed?
http://img189.imageshack.us/img189/8550/miclx.jpg

[ZBarclay]

Ah. Change. I totally understand the business end of this. I also understand that in any change, some people will benefit, some people will be alienated. It's the essence of change.
The trick is to make more adjustments than changes. I know that sounds like semantics, but it's not. Change implies that things will be replaced with other things, i.e. "Changing clothes." As opposed to "making alterations (adjusting) clothes" you are already wearing.
Cryptic enough? Good.

[Sweet_Adeline]

Penguins and Flyers


Put the bottle down! It's the Bruins silly!

[Aaron]

I just get the impression that we're no longer going to be allowed, upon pain of ban-stick, to call out someone who is acting like a jackass. That we're to stop any snarkiness, the sarcasm, and whatever else that might be construed as offensive to someone wandering in off the street.

Where do I say that?

I'm saying that whatever it is we're doing to cause such a number of people to feel unable to join here (and this is fact, lots of people feel this way) we need to figure out how to change that.

Don't make out that I'm threatening everyone to be fake all day long.

We need to stop this forum from being an old boys club. Thats what this is about.

[ZBarclay]

We need to stop this forum from being an old boys club. Thats what this is about.

For the sake of argument, most internet forums are like club...it's kind of how they start :D


...Again, I understand why you're doing what you're doing, from the business side. I just think it's going to be hard to make everyone happy.

[JK]

We need to stop this forum from being an old boys club. Thats what this is about.

And I'm the oldest of the old boys.

That's why I am concerned.

[puggso_32]

Ah. Change. I totally understand the business end of this. I also understand that in any change, some people will benefit, some people will be alienated. It's the essence of change.
The trick is to make more adjustments than changes. I know that sounds like semantics, but it's not. Change implies that things will be replaced with other things, i.e. "Changing clothes." As opposed to "making alterations (adjusting) clothes" you are already wearing.
Cryptic enough? Good.

http://www.joebrower.com/PHILE_PILE/PIX/EVIL_PEOPLE/Reno_Janet/reno_drool.jpg[



...duhhhhhhh what?

[Aaron]

Ah. Change. I totally understand the business end of this. I also understand that in any change, some people will benefit, some people will be alienated. It's the essence of change.
The trick is to make more adjustments than changes. I know that sounds like semantics, but it's not. Change implies that things will be replaced with other things, i.e. "Changing clothes." As opposed to "making alterations (adjusting) clothes" you are already wearing.
Cryptic enough? Good.
That's a good way of looking at it.

Aaron, have the guidlines regarding the use of profane language changed officially? I've always had the impression that you could use any known word, provided it wasn't used to attack someone. Someone recently posted the Carlin's seven words bit, for instance. How, if at all, has this unwritten policy changed?
... it hasn't changed. Curse like a motherfucker if you want to.

[RobinHoodDaffy]

I think to welcome new people we just need some of these around...

http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q162/Angusto/flowers.jpg

Pretty the place up a bit.






So Aaron, you liking that target on your back yet?
:D

[By-tor]

Put the bottle down! It's the Bruins silly!
Damn, you're right. :o Now...

http://trollcats.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/shut_your_whore_mouth_trollcat.jpg
:D;)

[Aaron]

And I'm the oldest of the old boys.

That's why I am concerned.

Only because you see yourself that way. I don't think you should be worrying as much as you are.

...Again, I understand why you're doing what you're doing, from the business side. I just think it's going to be hard to make everyone happy.

That's always the way. Hopefully the majority will be happy.

[Aaron]

So Aaron, you liking that target on your back yet?
:D

Now I see why the Duck drafted me :rolleyes:

[Firestone2489]

I kind of like what I'm seeing. I usually don't greet newbies just because I don't feel much like a regular around here. If extending more friendly greetings will help I will most certainly try.

[Sweet_Adeline]

Damn, you're right. :o Now...



Two Pennsylvania teams playing in Boston would be bizarre.




As for the forum changes, I'm very cautiously optimistic. But I feel like this forum was good the way it was. I'm not a fan of the general public, but I like all the people here. Part of the reason I've continued to post is because of the nature of the board.

[TomHarrington]

... it hasn't changed. Curse like a motherfucker if you want to.
Fuckin' A. I think I'm really warming up to FRED.

More questions, bitch:

When will the new forum titles deploy? What will the ranks be? Will forum members have the option to customize them?

Some forums use a Karma system that allows members to applaud or smite users based on their contributions to the forums. Would such a system be considered for these forums?

[Aaron]

Hey look, a forum name has changed!

[puggso_32]

Some forums use a Karma system that allows members to applaud or smite users based on their contributions to the forums. Would such a system be considered for these forums?

Let's hope not.

[Aaron]

When will the new forum titles deploy? What will the ranks be? Will forum members have the option to customize them?

Some forums use a Karma system that allows members to applaud or smite users based on their contributions to the forums. Would such a system be considered for these forums?

As I said earlier (pay attention you scamp) the titles are still controlled by Ken only.

I don't think a Karma thing is actually available on this board. I haven't seen anything so far that sounds like it.

[Sweet_Adeline]

The hockey thread needs to be moved to sports.

[Aaron]

The hockey thread needs to be moved to sports.

I thought I did, if you find it elsewhere show it to me

[RobinHoodDaffy]

The hockey thread needs to be moved to sports.

Ahem, you mean Sports! It is the only thread with an exclamation point.:D

[JK]

Only because you see yourself that way. I don't think you should be worrying as much as you are.

Dude, I just said I've been on every version of these boards since it was a joke site. Of course I see myself as part to the old guard. And you just said the old boys club is going away.

So yes, I honestly feel like I should be worried. Maybe that feeling will pass, but I'm not going to take my ball and leave.

[RobinHoodDaffy]

Okay yes, you HAVE been through all of the forums, but there are quite a few of us now that have been through three. This is all the same chatter that followed the MPS to QSE conversion. Hell, I am just glad the forums are energized again.:D

[Mallory]

Where do I say that?

I'm saying that whatever it is we're doing to cause such a number of people to feel unable to join here (and this is fact, lots of people feel this way) we need to figure out how to change that.

Don't make out that I'm threatening everyone to be fake all day long.

We need to stop this forum from being an old boys club. Thats what this is about.

I'm excited about the change and the idea of everyone being more welcoming. I know I was a little nervous about posting over here because it was such an established community so I'm hoping that maybe anyone else who felt the way I did might try to ease their way in.

You never know when you'll meet some cool people :-)

[JK]

So I guess the consensus is that I should just shut up about it :rolleyes:

[Mallory]

So I guess the consensus is that I should just shut up about it :rolleyes:

Maybe instead of thinking of the boys club going away you can take the attitude of being the wise man who helps us new people along? Take us under your wing, offer us your protection...you know, like a mobster or something?

[By-tor]

So I guess the consensus is that I should just shut up about it :rolleyes:I'll be over on your back porch in ten minutes. We can talk about it, then. :)

[CD Phatty]

Looks like it's too late, but a video game forum woulda been cool to have. Sports is good too though.

[RobinHoodDaffy]

So I guess the consensus is that I should just shut up about it :rolleyes:

Not shut up dipshit. Relax, have a beer and watch the changes unfurl and then make a decision.
:D

edit: that's right, I called this years best board member a dipshit.

[Mallory]

Looks like it's too late, but a video game forum woulda been cool to have. Sports is good too though.

A video game forum would have been awesome! C'est la vie.

[Mallory]

Not shut up dipshit. Relax, have a beer and watch the changes unfurl and then make a decision.
:D

edit: that's right, I called this years best board member a dipshit.

I agree with JJ, don't shut up. Your experience on the boards can offer much needed insight!

[RobinHoodDaffy]

I agree with JJ, don't shut up. Your experience on the boards can offer much needed insight!

That's right. Mal also thinks you are a dipshit, dipshit.:D

[Aaron]

A Video game forum isn't out of the realm of possibility. We could even have a sports and videogames section seems as they're both about competition.

[Mallory]

A Video game forum isn't out of the realm of possibility. We could even have a sports and videogames section seems as they're both about competition.

That would be cool. Because I <3 video games.

[TomHarrington]

We have a new member named BigPenis. Let's all embrace BigPenis and make him feel welcome! :)

[RobinHoodDaffy]

We have a new member named BigPenis. Let's all embrace BigPenis and make him feel welcome! :)

That's PigBenis, you are a bit Dyslexic there.

[neon vomit]

We have a new member named BigPenis. Let's all embrace BigPenis and make him feel welcome! :)

http://i390.photobucket.com/albums/oo346/bodomsknight/4651d9bf0252590c226b968c53b21902.jpg?t=1262380063

[By-tor]

Not shut up dipshit. Relax, have a beer and watch the changes unfurl and then make a decision.
:D

edit: that's right, I called this years best board member a dipshit.No hugs for you at DragonCon!!!

http://jimfairthorne.files.wordpress.com/2009/10/soup-nazi.jpg
;)

[TomHarrington]

That's PigBenis, you are a bit Dyslexic there.
I know what I saw!

[ZBarclay]

So I guess the consensus is that I should just shut up about it :rolleyes:

Not exactly. I think that your trepidations about the change are just as valid as any love hugging that's going on over it. Just because you're the only one vocalizing the opinion doesn't make it less valid.

[BallsMonkey]

Ok, so as I said last night; New site name, new moderator, new way of looking at things around here.

With big Kev gone, we've lost a little bit of security around here in terms of visitors.
No matter how we acted before we would always get people popping in purely on the basis that the site was owned by Kevin Smith.
Now while we're not completely separate to him now (we still use the same servers and Ken will still be doing the music and stuff on SMod) his name is not on the door anymore.

This means a couple of things.

1) All the site contributors like myself have a lot more reponsibility as far as making sure people visit this place, so expect our pimping to go up.
2) We'll be looking for more contributors to the site for content. Ideally about 10 updates per day.
3) We have to play nicer on the forum

And 3 is where I really need your help.

The "snoochie boochie" guys are going to be gone. Take a look at all the folks who introduce themselves in the newbie thread, find 5 that say they didn't come here for SModcast and you'll be going back quite a long time. To maintain the kind of community that has grown here over the past couple of years we really need to be more welcoming and we really need to drop the "guilty until proven innocent" approach we have to newbies.

Not everyone is like this but there are enough members who are.
If we keep it up we'll have no-one who will come back and the oldies will back me up here that when this site changed last time, this forum was a ghost town and not fun.
I like how busy it's gotten lately and I want to keep it that way. So let's all make a bit of an effort ok? This place is very special to me and I know a lot of you feel the same way. We need your help to keep it going so don't let me down.


Now, with all that being said, the fun part is we get to make a few changes around here.

This is the first time a forum member has been promoted to a Moderator. Ever. I'm talking the 6 years plus I've been here and more. So we get to have a little bit of fun that we always wanted to.

First order of business. I'm moving all the DVD threads to Movies.
That leaves us with a free forum.

From what I've gathered in the past, making it a Sports forum might be the best option.
Everyone agree with that? If not suggestions are welcome.

Anything else you want done around here? Now is the time to ask while I have the paint brushes out.

Also, I've been thinking about implementing a 3 strikes and you're out system. Spammers will obviously get instant life bans but for ongoing bad behaviour on the board I figure it should go like this.

1) 24 hour ban
2) 7 day ban
3) Permanent ban

I figure we don't need assholes harshing our buzz, but they should still get a chance to mend their ways. I'm not a fan of having to step in for anything around here but if there is a line crossed we should have a system in place I reckon

How do you feel about that?

How am I driving?

FEEDBACK!

..................................................

*flicks cigarette*

.....Let's Rock. :cool:

[JasterIsFett]

I know it scared me to death trying not to say something wrong. That's why I lurked for 4 months before I posted a single thing. Its not that there wasn't a welcome reception as long as you aren't an idiot, I just had to figure out what all the inside jokes we're and get a general feel for who not to piss off.

I like the new attitude of the boards and will do whatever I can to help it along.

[RobinHoodDaffy]

Not exactly. I think that you're trepidations about the change are just as valid as any love hugging that's going on over it. Just because you're the only one vocalizing the opinion doesn't make it less valid.

Howard Johnson is right. I know I like things the way they are, but fuck it. We have no control, so let's see what happens.

Ha-rumph!

[By-tor]

Not exactly. I think that you're trepidations about the change are just as valid as any love hugging that's going on over it. Just because you're the only one vocalizing the opinion doesn't make it less valid.
I think his trepidations stem from the fact that the site was com-fuckin'-pletely shutdown once, and there were other chances that it could happen over the years. I really think what they are trying to do is convey this as a place that welcomes newcomers before ragging the fuck out of someone that spells a fuckin' word wrong, or uses fucked up syntax. Make sense? Hell, barely makes sense to me. :rolleyes:

[BallsMonkey]

I know it scared me to death trying not to say something wrong. That's why I lurked for 4 months before I posted a single thing. Its not that there wasn't a welcome reception as long as you aren't an idiot, I just had to figure out what all the inside jokes we're and get a general feel for who not to piss off.

I like the new attitude of the boards and will do whatever I can to help it along.

Dude I'm still scared to death of saying the wrong thing here. But thanks to Antonio Bay and photoshop I don't need to say a damn thing anymore :D

[By-tor]

I know it scared me to death trying not to say something wrong. That's why I lurked for 4 months before I posted a single thing. Its not that there wasn't a welcome reception as long as you aren't an idiot, I just had to figure out what all the inside jokes we're and get a general feel for who not to piss off.
Same here, kiddo. But, sadly, I decided to join right after a dickweed with mega-aliases was stirring up shit, and getting banned. I was mistaken for one of his incarnations. Took me a month, or two, to get thru to the regs. Yet, it all worked out. I've met some of my best friends in the world here. :)

[enzeru]

-looks all the way back to page two-
You'll hear from me. Don't expect anything negative.

[By-tor]

Dude I'm still scared to death of saying the wrong thing here. But thanks to Antonio Bay and photoshop I don't need to say a damn thing anymore :DGold.

[ZBarclay]

I think his trepidations stem from the fact that the site was com-fuckin'-pletely shutdown once, and there were other chances that it could happen over the years. I really think what they are trying to do is convey this as a place that welcomes newcomers before ragging the fuck out of someone that spells a fuckin' word wrong, or uses fucked up syntax. Make sense? Hell, barely makes sense to me. :rolleyes:

Like I said before, I totally know why they're doing it. It's business. The site didn't get nearly enough traffic before. And at that time it was a branded entity with ties to a pretty solid entertainment machine. Now the site is an independent creature that will be forced to generate all of its own traffic.
Just by these facts alone, the site basically can not afford to sacrifice a single potential member as every member is potential revenue. Yes the site is housed on Big Kev's servers, but there is nothing holding it up anymore. Folks won't wander around while they're waiting for their Smodcast to download. They won't stumble in looking for something they (rationally) thought might be here (One on one's with Kevin Smith...no...no...the OTHER Kevin Smith).
But, that doesn't invalidate why JK's feeling what he's feeling. He's been pretty clear about where his feelings and worries are coming from, and I can sympathize. It makes sense.

[ZBarclay]

Gold.

WHAT THE FUCK? You've got an avatar. This place is fucking doomed.

[By-tor]

But, that doesn't invalidate why JK's feeling what he's feeling. He's been pretty clear about where his feelings and worries are coming from, and I can sympathize. It makes sense.Shit, brother, I know where he's coming from, too. But, I think we kinda gotta let the dust settle before we jump off the cliff.

[By-tor]

WHAT THE FUCK? You've got an avatar. This place is fucking doomed.Just now catch that, huh? Hilarious. ;)

[ZBarclay]

Shit, brother, I know where he's coming from, too. But, I think we kinda gotta let the dust settle before we jump off the cliff.

Sometimes we just need to let people vent about how they feel instead of trying to convince them that they're wrong. Even if the convincing is well intended.

[By-tor]

Sometimes we just need to let people vent about how they feel instead of trying to convince them that they're wrong. Even if the convincing is well intended.Understood. I'm not trying convince anybody anything. I just wanna let it unfold as it will. And, of course, not lose any of the regs that mean alot to me.

[ZBarclay]

Just now catch that, huh? Hilarious. ;)

So much other stuff going on, totally missed it.

[Cuclean]

A Video game forum isn't out of the realm of possibility. We could even have a sports and videogames section seems as they're both about competition.

That sounds cool. I would have suggested games too but I'm only on now for the first time since the change. Congrats Aaron.

[BallsMonkey]

How about a comic book forum, seperate from the book forum.

[JasterIsFett]

How about a comic book forum, seperate from the book forum.

Or just sticky the two main threads. Comics and Books.

[VogonPoet]

How about a comic book forum, seperate from the book forum.
Seconded.

[By-tor]

How about a comic book forum, seperate from the book forum.How about you shut the hell up.



Damn kids with their comics, and hula hoops, and pogo sticks. :rolleyes:






;)

[Sharp-O]

Or just sticky the two main threads. Comics and Books.

Thirded. :D

[By-tor]

So much other stuff going on, totally missed it.Stuff? What stuff? Did I miss something? :p

[TomHarrington]

Damn kids with their comics, and hula hoops, and pogo sticks. :rolleyes:
http://img63.imageshack.us/img63/352/oldmant.jpg
And their Sea Monkeys, Mood Rings, rubber chickens and lava lamps! Phooey!

[BallsMonkey]

How about you shut the hell up.



Damn kids with their comics, and hula hoops, and pogo sticks. :rolleyes:






;)

You're living in the past old man. The future is now! You just don't understand!

:D

[JK]

Maybe I am too long in the tooth...

http://www.boekje-pienter.nl/images/heartbreakridge.jpg

[By-tor]

Maybe I am too long in the tooth...

http://www.boekje-pienter.nl/images/heartbreakridge.jpg
That ain't too long in the tooth, brother. That's having fuckin' fangs, dammit!!!! ;)

[ZBarclay]

Comics are a type of book. My vote is to leave them in the books forum. Otherwise we'd need a separate forum for documentaries outside the movie forum and reality TV outside of the TV forum.

[By-tor]

Ohhh, look. Aaron, and Sir Duck aren't around. I'm gonna spruce this place up...
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_36SFFFDlygA/SwCc4nSfJmI/AAAAAAAADog/0-12EBZiS3g/s1600/How+to+make+a+graffiti+with+the+Spray+Paint-3.jpg

[Cuclean]

They're gone? FOOD FIGHT!!!

http://www.dailywaste.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/tomatina-450x299.jpg

[Shäne]

Anybody else think a FRED chat room would be cool?

[VogonPoet]

Anybody else think a FRED chat room would be cool?
I do. Sometimes I feel like shooting the shit, but don't have anything post-worthy. However, I'm guessing it's a decent bit of bandwidth and we're still on borrowed server space, correct? Also, I think Aaron & Phitzy ought to have a major say as it could potentially affect their podcast considerably.

[By-tor]

I do. Sometimes I feel like shooting the shit, but don't have anything post-worthy. However, I'm guessing it's a decent bit of bandwidth and we're still on borrowed server space, correct? Also, I think Aaron & Phitzy ought to have a major say as it could potentially affect their podcast considerably.
Yeah, but your from Minnesota, and that's practically Canada. So, your opinion means dick. :D;)

[TomHarrington]

Ohhh, look. Aaron, and Sir Duck aren't around. I'm gonna spruce this place up...
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_36SFFFDlygA/SwCc4nSfJmI/AAAAAAAADog/0-12EBZiS3g/s1600/How+to+make+a+graffiti+with+the+Spray+Paint-3.jpg

They're gone? FOOD FIGHT!!!

http://www.dailywaste.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/tomatina-450x299.jpg

It's streakin' time!
http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/7646/streaker.jpg

[Antonio_Bay]

WHAT THE FUCK? You've got an avatar.

...! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OT4B-NJUcZE)

All you need now is a Twitter account, By-tor!

[By-tor]

...! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OT4B-NJUcZE)

All you need now is a Twitter account, By-tor!No chance, kid. If you ever see me on Twitter, there will be stange things afoot at the Circle K, *funaki*.

[Antonio_Bay]

No chance, kid. If you ever see me on Twitter, there will be stange things afoot at the Circle K, *funaki*.

Hmm, there's already a By-tor (http://twitter.com/Bytor) there.

That's just not right.

[By-tor]

Hmm, there's already a By-tor (http://twitter.com/Bytor) there.

That's just not right.That page gives me a feckin' headache just looking at it. That is not the social thingy for me. :o

[Antonio_Bay]

That page gives me a feckin' headache just looking at it. That is not the social thingy for me. :o

No, no, that profile isn't the best example. Check this one (http://twitter.com/Antonio_Bay). People are always talking about you. ;)

[Rob101]

Anybody else think a FRED chat room would be cool?
I know I've mentioned that at least 3 times. Good idea.

[By-tor]

No, no, that profile isn't the best example. Check this one (http://twitter.com/Antonio_Bay). People are always talking about you. ;)You are a sillly man. I love it.

[BallsMonkey]

Anybody else think a FRED chat room would be cool?

Oooh no. My parents warned me about you internet chatroom FREDators. One minute we're chatting, the next I'm in the back of your car with my throat slit.

[JasterIsFett]

Anybody else think a FRED chat room would be cool?

I do. Sometimes I feel like shooting the shit, but don't have anything post-worthy. However, I'm guessing it's a decent bit of bandwidth and we're still on borrowed server space, correct? Also, I think Aaron & Phitzy ought to have a major say as it could potentially affect their podcast considerably.

I think that would be pretty tits. I usually don't have anything to say about the topics being discussed, but I'm always just sitting on the main page waiting for something to update.

I'm pretty sure a java chat wouldn't be too hard to set up. Like the one Ken has for the nuts on the road live shows.

[By-tor]

I think that would be pretty tits.
http://a.getbackimages.com/uri/w514_h800_cfalse_K0218022415/tcdsani-ec049/image/4/0/5/5/4055947.jpg
Late breaking story....coming over the wire..... TITS!!! Film at eleven.

[TheHangingBrain]

I see I'm gonna have to come in here and post another song link. Don't worry people, every little thing's gonna be alright. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RntL-2uwt_g)

[BallsMonkey]

I see I'm gonna have to come in here and post another song link. Don't worry people, every little thing's gonna be alright. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RntL-2uwt_g)

You really do deserve that QSE award, dude. :D

[TheHangingBrain]

You really do deserve that QSE award, dude. :D

Thanks man. :o

BTW, checked out your blog, good stuff. I like the title quite a bit. ;)






...I check out your blog too, JK. It's also quality stuff. :)

[BallsMonkey]

Thanks man. :o

BTW, checked out your blog, good stuff. I like the title quite a bit. ;)


Thanks.

[TheHangingBrain]

I do have a bit of an idea that might settle a few nerves. I say that you create a thread just for letting off steam, an no holds barred portion of the board, kind of like a Thunderdome. Everyone can get in there and duke it out Fight Club style and get it out of their systems or just generally be off colored. I know of another site that has a thread for just this reason. If you go into that thread like that after being clearly informed what it is and get your feelings hurt, it's your own fault.

Just a thought. :)

[ZBarclay]

I do have a bit of an idea that might settle a few nerves. I say that you create a thread just for letting off steam, an no holds barred portion of the board, kind of like a Thunderdome. Everyone can get in there and duke it out Fight Club style and get it out of their systems or just generally be off colored. I know of another site that has a thread for just this reason. If you go into that thread like that after being clearly informed what it is and get your feelings hurt, it's your own fault.

Just a thought. :)
We could call it...Ventilation...oh...wait...





;)

[TheHangingBrain]

We could call it...Ventilation...oh...wait...





;)

Well... yeah, but this would be some Matrix versus Bennett kind of ventilation. :D

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c90/gregradiohead/commando5.jpg

"Let off some steam, Bennett."

[ZBarclay]

Well... yeah, but this would be some Matrix versus Bennett kind of ventilation. :D

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c90/gregradiohead/commando5.jpg

"Let off some steam, Bennett."

That's what the Ventilation thread was supposed to be...but unfortunately, due to the nature of human beings, people always get their feelings hurt.

[TheHangingBrain]

That's what the Ventilation thread was supposed to be...but unfortunately, due to the nature of human beings, people always get their feelings hurt.

I know what you're saying, and you're quite right. The tougher we act, the softer the heart we have to bear.

The thread I proposed doesn't exactly have to be about letting off anger, it could be a place to let it all hang out without fear of the ban hammer. It's a flawed idea, yeah, but I guess I'm just throwing things out there.

[Threadkiller]

unfortunately, due to the nature of human beings, people always get their feelings hurt.I hear that. Freakin' humans, always ruining it for the rest of us.

[VogonPoet]

Yeah, but your from Minnesota, and that's practically Canada. So, your opinion means dick. :D;)
I'd never live in another part of this country other than MN, but if I had to (and I have), I'd prefer TX.

[joep144]

This means a couple of things.
3) We have to play nicer on the forum

And 3 is where I really need your help.

The "snoochie boochie" guys are going to be gone. Take a look at all the folks who introduce themselves in the newbie thread, find 5 that say they didn't come here for SModcast and you'll be going back quite a long time. To maintain the kind of community that has grown here over the past couple of years we really need to be more welcoming and we really need to drop the "guilty until proven innocent" approach we have to newbies.

Not everyone is like this but there are enough members who are.
If we keep it up we'll have no-one who will come back and the oldies will back me up here that when this site changed last time, this forum was a ghost town and not fun.
I like how busy it's gotten lately and I want to keep it that way. So let's all make a bit of an effort ok? This place is very special to me and I know a lot of you feel the same way. We need your help to keep it going so don't let me down.

Also, I've been thinking about implementing a 3 strikes and you're out system. Spammers will obviously get instant life bans but for ongoing bad behaviour on the board I figure it should go like this.

1) 24 hour ban
2) 7 day ban
3) Permanent ban

I figure we don't need assholes harshing our buzz, but they should still get a chance to mend their ways. I'm not a fan of having to step in for anything around here but if there is a line crossed we should have a system in place I reckon

How do you feel about that?

How am I driving?

FEEDBACK!


BAD IDEA
Just make the ignore list a little easier to manage.

[JK]

I'm going to apologize now- well, not so much an apology as a statement- I don't do sunshine and rainbows.

I don't dog the ever-loving horse squeeze out of anyone unless they really have it coming. I'm always welcoming noobs in the Introduce Yourself thread and while I poke fun at lurkers, I almost always finish with "Register! Post!" I'm usually polite to any new people who lack any grammar skills or any social skills the first time around and I will admit I'm blunt about it other times.

If that doesn't fit with the new forum philosophy, you may as well ban me now because I'm not changing.

[phit_demon]

Wait, you actually USE the buddy list? What's it for?

...I had no idea there was a buddy list on here...interesting development...

Yeah, I've never used said beast, either. Huh. :confused:
Good to know I'm not the only one who never uses it. I only very recently learned of its existence.

[Shäne]

I'm pretty sure a java chat wouldn't be too hard to set up. Like the one Ken has for the nuts on the road live shows.

That would be perfect too.

[freetoaster]

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m136/juliehenson05/supertroopers.jpg

[Aaron]

Ok, few things.

1) I'm not making a separate comic forum. There is plenty of room in the books thread for them, you post more about comics there than books as it is already.
2) At the moment, I'm not adding video games to Sports! ... yet. I'm not saying I won't do it in the future, but I'm going to err on the side of caution right now because a) I'm worried about taking too much out of WTWTA and b) so far there aren't enough video game threads to make it necessary. But again, I've no problem moving things in the future.
3) I don't see a chat room happening. However, there are plenty of free chat programs on the net, if someone wants to take the initiative and set one up somewhere I'll be happy to make the link to it a sticky at the top of WTWTA.
4) JK, stop panicking and watch how it pans out. I'll bet you money it's not going to be how you're imagining it right now.

Anything I'm missing?

[puggso_32]

Maybe it is because I don't really play many video games, but I can't find anything at all that links the two other than some video games are about sports.

[JasterIsFett]

3) I don't see a chat room happening. However, there are plenty of free chat programs on the net, if someone wants to take the initiative and set one up somewhere I'll be happy to make the link to it a sticky at the top of WTWTA.

I'd make one, but I don't know what program/format would be best for everyone. I generally think that just a tinychat would do fine.

I've made one at tinychat.com/frednasium (http://www.tinychat.com/frednasium).

I'm not sure how it'll work with just one owner, I can just make the password public on so that everyone can start it whenever they want...but that's just me trying to figure stuff out.

What do you think?

EDIT: Chat password is FRED in all caps (clever, I know)

EDIT 2: Apparently we need a room operator online at all times for the room to work...so, there would have to be a few people who signed up for tinychat accounts so that they could be added as operators, but they would also be responsible for keeping the chat open while they're online...this might not work.

EDIT 3: Also, as firestone pointed out, there will be no way (short of the banhammer) to weed out someone such as Markiswel from going in there and fucking up the chill of the room. there would have to be an admin for chat events that would need...admin-ing.

[JK]

4) JK, stop panicking and watch how it pans out. I'll bet you money it's not going to be how you're imagining it right now.

I'm getting tired being labeled as some sort of nervous, panicky twit- I've got a lot of time invested here. And emotion- I'm not kidding when I go on about how much this place means to me. I've only been committed to one thing in my life longer than I have been to this little community (and then not by much) so please don't tell me my concerns are baseless. When you say that you're going to be cleaning house of "the old boys club" that makes me concerned. It's not hard to imagine what that means. I thought I was nice enough- I won best overal member for crying out loud- but apparently I'm one of the assholes who make this place unwelcoming. According to some recent comments that have come to light, I scare the shit out of the new people here. So what am I supposed to deduce from all that?

[phit_demon]

...but apparently I'm one of the assholes who make this place unwelcoming.
To be honest, I would say I'm way harsher to newbs (that deserve it) than you ever have been. I know for a fact that I have been directly responsible for at least one, maybe two of them leaving. I don't think anyone would assume those comments were directed at you.

[Threadkiller]

Couple of simple suggestions that might work with some tweaking.

To encourage visitors and maybe even generate some content in the forums, let's have a 'pimp my shit' forum (rename it as you will. I also like 'Stop! Spammer-time'). This is where all spam goes, whether from noobs or old-timers. If reasonable Spam shows up in other forums (as it inevitably does), we can enlist our new Mod to simply move it over. That way, maybe we don't have to be so hard on the spammers and people with something worthwhile to share might find a home for it in FRED. Of course, discussion and constructive criticism will still be part of the deal. We could also add it to the 'site rules' sticky that all spam goes there.

Also, we could use the monthly 'introduce yourself' to explicitly encourage noobs to participate (maybe they get a new title under their name or something if they answer the questions).

[By-tor]

According to some recent comments that have come to light, I scare the shit out of the new people here. So what am I supposed to deduce from all that?Hell, brother, you scare the shit outta some of the weak-hearted regs. ;) Not me, thank Odin. I know you. I feel like you are the brother I never had. And, that is only from talking to you here, and meeting you once. Once. That was enough to know you've got a very good heart, and some very strong convictions. Oh...and a hot chick, yo. :D

[By-tor]

To be honest, I would say I'm way harsher to newbs (that deserve it) than you ever have been. I know for a fact that I have been directly responsible for at least one, maybe two of them leaving. I don't think anyone would assume those comments were directed at you.
All very true. Yet, I think Lotism took the heat better than any guy, or gal, that's ever posted here. The dude must have a skin thick as....well...whatever thick-ass metal that's out there. Or, he's one determined bastard that takes "No" for an answer. ;)

[enzeru]

I actually thought JK was very welcoming.
Didn't scare me in the least.

[By-tor]

I actually thought JK was very welcoming.
Didn't scare me in the least.
http://www.pobladores.com/data/pobladores.com/ca/ya/cayako/channels/wwen_castellano/images/2836039funaki_l.jpg
It's just if someone is spamming, or being a dick(which is pretty much the same), he, like some of us others, take no prisoners. ;)

[Shäne]

What do you think?

Me likey. I'm adding it to my bookmarks right under the board.

EDIT 2: Apparently we need a room operator online at all times for the room to work...so, there would have to be a few people who signed up for tinychat accounts so that they could be added as operators, but they would also be responsible for keeping the chat open while they're online...this might not work.

Does that mean the room disappears if no one is on? Or that when the operator signs out someone will have to re-open the room?

[JasterIsFett]

Does that mean the room disappears if no one is on? Or that when the operator signs out someone will have to re-open the room?

When the operator signs out, someone will have to re-open.

If you make a tinychat account I'll add you as an operator. I can't actually run the chat cause I'm at work, but you can have at it.

EDIT: Good news everyone! there need not be an operator. Its open at all times...sweet.

[BallsMonkey]

When the operator signs out, someone will have to re-open.

If you make a tinychat account I'll add you as an operator. I can't actually run the chat cause I'm at work, but you can have at it.

EDIT: Good news everyone! there need not be an operator. Its open at all times...sweet.

So you want to just have like a rotating roster of operators?

[JasterIsFett]

So you want to just have like a rotating roster of operators?

not operators, but at least a moderator who can make sure that someone's not in there being a dick and if there is a newb and they have questions, they can ask someone who knows.

any volunteers?

[TomHarrington]

I've made one at tinychat.com/frednasium (http://www.tinychat.com/frednasium).

*bookmarked*

What do you think?

I think you've done us all a great service.
http://wolfsbayne.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/salute.jpg

[Aaron]

I thought I was nice enough- I won best overal member for crying out loud- but apparently I'm one of the assholes who make this place unwelcoming.

You are nice. No-one has said any of this is your fault. This is why I'm telling you to calm down because you keep saying that this is all being pointed at you. It's not

[Aaron]

Also, it's bugging me that you have such little faith in me JK. I've slept on your couch for christ sakes. Do you think that little of me?

[JK]

Dude, like I mentioned to someone that shares some of my concerns and who shall remain nameless, I'm quite happy for Ken and what he wants to do for the main site. And I'm glad you finally got you wanted as far being a moderator. I just don't want this place, these boards, to become a carbon copy of the other dozen or so boards I've tried out over the years. They suck. This place is unique. I'm sorry I'm not turning cartwheels over the impending changes, it's just not in my nature. Sorry. So just forget about it. I'm through with voicing my feelings if they're going to upset anyone.

[Aaron]

And it seems I obviously can't convince you that it's not going to turn out that way. So let's just both wait and see who is right in the end.

[JasterIsFett]

Can I just say that everybody has to...

http://i622.photobucket.com/albums/tt306/JasterIsFett/keanu_reeves6.jpg

I hope this doesn't seem out of place or out of line seeing as how I've only been here a year or so but...

JK, I've been in nearly the same position you're in now, though I was much younger at the time. I was a member of a board for about 5 years and the owner changed, the few of us who were the old guard were worried that this new guy would have no respect for how things were and we felt that we had to defend our home. It did not end well. I'm no longer a part of that board.

I'm not saying that that is going to happen, far from it because we were emotional and over reactive children essentially. I do, however, understand how you feel about maintaining the type of community and relationships that you've come to know and love about this place. Honestly, the only way that it looks like that will happen is if every single member leaves today and is replaced by a new set of people. That's what it will take for the spirit of this place to be erased, and I can tell ya, I, for one, am going nowhere.

You have every right to your concerns, and I'm not saying you should stop feeling them, but I'm just saying its a bit disrespectful to every other member here who is gonna fight just as hard to keep it as the same awesome place that its been for the past 7 years.

Everybody's gotta just calm down and remember that this place is our home away from home. We're just adding a welcome mat and a coat of paint.

EDIT: I don't want this to seem like I'm attacking you at all. I'm just trying to stop this unnecessary...arguing that is going on.

Aaron, I just want to say that I appreciate everything you're trying to do to help this new change happen, but some shit takes time. And time is gonna be the most definitive proof you're gonna have that things are gonna work out.

EDIT 2: I was writing this before the previous 2 posts were...uh...posted. Sorry if I repeated anything.

[TomHarrington]

Also, it's bugging me that you have such little faith in me JK. I've slept on your couch for christ sakes. Do you think that little of me?

Dude, like I mentioned to someone that shares some of my concerns and who shall remain nameless, I'm quite happy for Ken and what he wants to do for the main site. And I'm glad you finally got you wanted as far being a moderator. I just don't want this place, these boards, to become a carbon copy of the other dozen or so boards I've tried out over the years. They suck. This place is unique. I'm sorry I'm not turning cartwheels over the impending changes, it's just not in my nature. Sorry. So just forget about it. I'm through with voicing my feelings if they're going to upset anyone.

You've never slept on my couch, Aaron, but I have every faith in you. I've always thought you had the right temperament to be a moderator. And even though you threatened to ban me before the news of your promotion was even made public, I still feel the same way. ;)

But I have some of the same concerns that JK does, and while you may know for a certainty that everything is going to be cool, maybe we don't yet.

Watch how your hamster acts when you change his environment. He gets nervous. You can try to reassure him that you're just cleaning the urine-soaked cage bottom or adding a new section to his habitrail, but he may still be a bit jittery through the process. Your anticipated point about the hamsters' inability to understand English is well-taken. While our literacy score is markedly better than most hamsters, I think you understand what I'm getting at.

Driving in a car is never as scary when you're the one with his feet on the pedals and wheel in hands. Give us time to get accustomed to this "new way" and we'll try not to poop in your hand while you're changing the wood shavings.

http://img683.imageshack.us/img683/1996/newway.jpg
"No more posting pictures of Miss Mantlepiece. It's part of the new way."
"In the rain!"

edit: Other people have posted stuff and I accidentally pooped in my hand as a result. Thanks guys.

[Rob101]

Yeah, but your from Minnesota, and that's practically Canada. So, your opinion means dick. :D;)
And you're from Northern Mexico, so you're opinion doesn't count either!

[Louise]

From my low post count it’s obvious that I lurk around here more than I post, however I do love this place and more importantly the people on here dearly. I visit the site everyday and I have to admit when I clicked my QSE bookmark yesterday and some cheeky looking wee bugger wearing a yellow scarf and pair of bloody goggles apparently called FRED popped up on the screen I thought to myself (as they say on the internet) “WTF”!!

I do fear change and I liked the site the way it was! But I guess I’ll just have to get on with and over it. After reading some posts about why the changes are taking place and what the future holds it would appear that in a small way I may psychologically have just been attached to the Quickstop logo! It will take a wee while until I stop looking up at the wee begoggled shite that now lives in the corner of my screen grudgingly thinking who is he? Where is he going? And what the fuck is he so smug about?!? Nevertheless for now things don’t appear to be horrifically different, everyone whom I love in an internet way is still here. If the site is opening up a little on content and people then I can get behind that :cool:


Yes I know that there are probably an annoying amount of spelling mistakes and grammar fail's in my post fellow FREDer’s...erm.... frederer’s.......... but that may explain why I don’t post much, that and I have nowt interesting to say most of the time ;)

[By-tor]

And you're from Northern Mexico, so you're opinion doesn't count either!We beat their asses fair, and square. And, don't get me started about the Native Americans. My grandmother was full-blooded Apache. That don't make me feel any better. :(

[BallsMonkey]

Can I just say that everybody has to...

http://i622.photobucket.com/albums/tt306/JasterIsFett/keanu_reeves6.jpg

I hope this doesn't seem out of place or out of line seeing as how I've only been here a year or so but...

JK, I've been in nearly the same position you're in now, though I was much younger at the time. I was a member of a board for about 5 years and the owner changed, the few of us who were the old guard were worried that this new guy would have no respect for how things were and we felt that we had to defend our home. It did not end well. I'm no longer a part of that board.

I'm not saying that that is going to happen, far from it because we were emotional and over reactive children essentially. I do, however, understand how you feel about maintaining the type of community and relationships that you've come to know and love about this place. Honestly, the only way that it looks like that will happen is if every single member leaves today and is replaced by a new set of people. That's what it will take for the spirit of this place to be erased, and I can tell ya, I, for one, am going nowhere.

You have every right to your concerns, and I'm not saying you should stop feeling them, but I'm just saying its a bit disrespectful to every other member here who is gonna fight just as hard to keep it as the same awesome place that its been for the past 7 years.

Everybody's gotta just calm down and remember that this place is our home away from home. We're just adding a welcome mat and a coat of paint.

EDIT: I don't want this to seem like I'm attacking you at all. I'm just trying to stop this unnecessary...arguing that is going on.

Aaron, I just want to say that I appreciate everything you're trying to do to help this new change happen, but some shit takes time. And time is gonna be the most definitive proof you're gonna have that things are gonna work out.

EDIT 2: I was writing this before the previous 2 posts were...uh...posted. Sorry if I repeated anything.

What he said

[joep144]

I'm getting tired being labeled as some sort of nervous, panicky twit- I've got a lot of time invested here. And emotion- I'm not kidding when I go on about how much this place means to me. I've only been committed to one thing in my life longer than I have been to this little community (and then not by much) so please don't tell me my concerns are baseless. When you say that you're going to be cleaning house of "the old boys club" that makes me concerned. It's not hard to imagine what that means. I thought I was nice enough- I won best overal member for crying out loud- but apparently I'm one of the assholes who make this place unwelcoming. According to some recent comments that have come to light, I scare the shit out of the new people here. So what am I supposed to deduce from all that?

To be honest, I would say I'm way harsher to newbs (that deserve it) than you ever have been. I know for a fact that I have been directly responsible for at least one, maybe two of them leaving. I don't think anyone would assume those comments were directed at you.

As someone that has not been here long (in the grand scheme of things) I have never felt unwelcome or picked on at anytime that I didn't deserve it.......and at no time was either JK or Phitzy involved in any negative banter with me. I do however worry that there are certain members that are in the crossheirs of these possible changes.

[JK]

...You have every right to your concerns, and I'm not saying you should stop feeling them, but I'm just saying its a bit disrespectful to every other member here who is gonna fight just as hard to keep it as the same awesome place that its been for the past 7 years...

Disrespectful?!?! So, what? Am I supposed to keep my concerns to myself? Sit down, shut the hell up and just take it?!? Maybe I'm retarded, but I don't see how voicing my feelings, which it seems some other people share, even if only in part, is disrespectful. Am I supposed to make sure I have some sort of consensus before I speak? Explain it to me, Journeyman.

:mad:




Maybe I should have just kept my fucking mouth shut. :rolleyes:

[ILovePapaSmurf]

Oh shit....

[JasterIsFett]

Disrespectful?!?! So, what? Am I supposed to keep my concerns to myself? Sit down, shut the hell up and just take it?!? Maybe I'm retarded, but I don't see how voicing my feelings, which it seems some other people share, even if only in part, is disrespectful. Am I supposed to make sure I have some sort of consensus before I speak? Explain it to me, Journeyman.

:mad:




Maybe I should have just kept my fucking mouth shut. :rolleyes:

Sorry, poor choice of words on my part. I just wanted to say that you're not alone in your concerns and you seem to be carrying the burden of this battle very singularly. I want nothing more than for this ordeal to be put in the past and everybody to be hunky-dory but shit doesn't work that way.

I truly meant no offense to you in any way, the blame for anything that did offend you rests entirely on me and my inability to properly express my ideas on the subject.

[JK]

All righty then.

[BallsMonkey]

Christ this place has become so emo. It's like one long Linkin Park song.

[Antonio_Bay]

I've made one at tinychat.com/frednasium (http://www.tinychat.com/frednasium).

Anyone else want to join?

We have food.

It's free.

Cold, but free.

[RobinHoodDaffy]

Well, I pimped Fred in my podcast. Let's see the wonderment unfold. :D

[Threadkiller]

Maybe I should have just kept my fucking mouth shut. :rolleyes:

Dude, I gotta call you on this. Jaster's post was nothing but respectful and tactful. I'm no longer surprised that you got so upset about it, but I am surprised he bothered to apologize for it.

It seems like the more people who disagree with you try to walk on eggshells around you, the more likely you are to be offended by them. I gave up a few months ago. You are, no doubt, thoroughly offended by what I've just said, which I guess proves my point in some way.

As far as I can tell, everyone here is glad when you voice your opinions on this or any other topic. You're a popular guy. And even if someone disagrees or doesn't like what you say I hope you still speak up anyway. The world needs people who think and then speak their mind. By the same token, if I disagree with you, I want to be able to say so without worrying that I'm going to offend the most popular person here.

It's all just opinions and they have no more value than what you give them. People here like you and give your opinions a lot of weight. What I don't understand is why the occasional criticism seems to upset you so much.

But then, "maybe I should have just kept my fucking mouth shut."

[By-tor]

Dude, I gotta call you on this. Jaster's post was nothing but respectful and tactful. I'm no longer surprised that you got so upset about it, but I am surprised he bothered to apologize for it.

It seems like the more people who disagree with you try to walk on eggshells around you, the more likely you are to be offended by them. I gave up a few months ago. You are, no doubt, thoroughly offended by what I've just said, which I guess proves my point in some way.

As far as I can tell, everyone here is glad when you voice your opinions on this or any other topic. You're a popular guy. And even if someone disagrees or doesn't like what you say I hope you still speak up anyway. The world needs people who think and then speak their mind. By the same token, if I disagree with you, I want to be able to say so without worrying that I'm going to offend the most popular person here.

It's all just opinions and they have no more value than what you give them. People here like you and give your opinions a lot of weight. What I don't understand is why the occasional criticism seems to upset you so much.

But then, "maybe I should have just kept my fucking mouth shut."That was all kinda "passive-aggressive", if I read it right, man. Not that you aren't entitled to say what you want to say.

[Threadkiller]

"passive-aggressive", I guess that's my middle name. It's sincere nonetheless. Every word. And I felt it was a better alternative to flat-out aggressive. I could be wrong though.

I'm kind of a wuss when it comes to outright conflict. That's sincere too.

[By-tor]

I guess that's my middle name. It's sincere nonetheless. Every word. And I felt it was a better alternative to flat-out aggressive. I could be wrong though.

I'm kind of a wuss when it comes to outright conflict. That's sincere too.And, that's why some folks get squeamish when talking to JK. He's not passive about anything. He's passionate. And, that is a quality that I admire. I'll try to walk a tight-rope around here, on certain subjects. He won't. He's got certain convictions, and is hell-bent on them. I've got more to say about the "stand-up" kinda guy he is, but he'll get embarrassed by it. So, suffice it to say, the guy has a big honest heart.

[Threadkiller]

And, that's why some folks get squeamish when talking to JK. He's not passive about anything. He's passionate. And, that is a quality that I admire. I'll try to walk a tight-rope around here, on certain subjects. He won't. He's got certain convictions, and is hell-bent on them. I've got more to say about the "stand-up" kinda guy he is, but he'll get embarrassed by it. So, suffice it to say, the guy has a big honest heart.

I can only agree with you. But when I say I admire that quality, it sounds like a backhanded compliment because I'm not like that myself.

I'll admit to being squeamish about it for sure. And maybe I should just grow a pair and let my disagreements turn into full blown arguments but that's just not how I roll. I'm just as passionate about my beliefs, but have a different way of expressing it.

[By-tor]

I can only agree with you. But when I say I admire that quality, it sounds like a backhanded compliment because I'm not like that myself.

I'll admit to being squeamish about it for sure. And maybe I should just grow a pair and let my disagreements turn into full blown arguments but that's just not how I roll. I'm just as passionate about my beliefs, but have a different way of expressing it.I hear ya. That's probably why I paint you with the "passive-aggressive" label. ;)

[Threadkiller]

I hear ya. That's probably why I paint you with the "passive-aggressive" label. ;)
Fair enough, I'll stop being passive-aggressive and tackle this one head-on.

According to the all-knowing wikipedia, passive-aggressive behavior "can manifest itself as learned helplessness, procrastination, stubbornness, resentment, sullenness...It is a defense mechanism, and usually only partly conscious."

Now reread my post and JK's last post and decide which seems most like 'helplessness' or 'resentment' or 'sullenness' or sounded the most like a 'defense mechanism'.

I'm not saying I'm not passive aggressive, I'm just saying there's enough of it to go around.

That was all kinda "passive-aggressive", if I read it right, man. Not that you aren't entitled to say what you want to say.

Should I have responded like that to JK's post? Or just changed the word to 'aggressive' instead of 'passive-aggressive'?

I'm not trying to sound like a dick here. I guess if I have to have a label, I'd prefer, non-aggressive.

[By-tor]

Maybe wikipedia, and I have a different definition of "passive-aggressive". I always thought it was "behavior" that seemed to throw a punch while smiling and patting the guy on the the back that just had his teeth knocked out.

[Threadkiller]

Maybe wikipedia, and I have different definition of "passive-aggressive". I always thought it was "behavior" that seemed to throw a punch while smiling and patting the guy on the the back that just had he's teeth knocked out.

I kind of got that and hoped you didn't mean it in such a negative way. I only took issue with it because the term has such a negative stigma attached to it.

And if I'm patting a guy on the back, it's because I think he deserves it. Maybe I need to learn how to compliment someone without sounding insincere. That's why I made sure to say that my entire post was sincere. No fake, patronizing compliments.

[NomenNescio]

And, that's why some folks get squeamish when talking to JK. He's not passive about anything. He's passionate. And, that is a quality that I admire. I'll try to walk a tight-rope around here, on certain subjects. He won't. He's got certain convictions, and is hell-bent on them. I've got more to say about the "stand-up" kinda guy he is, but he'll get embarrassed by it. So, suffice it to say, the guy has a big honest heart.

I'm passionate about a lot of things and will happily voice my opinion if I feel I should, but at the same time I don't assume anyone who disagrees with me thinks I'm an idiot or thinks less of me because of my opinion. In other words, I don't take offense over a simple disagreement. On two occasions I can recall, this exact thing happened between JK and I. I disagreed with something he said and then he came on in his subsequent post like I'd called him an idiot to his face. There are a lot of things I'd call that but "passionate" wouldn't be the first to come to mind, frankly. And there have been many more occasions where I disagreed with the guy on an issue somewhere else on the boards and instead of saying something, I said "Fuck it" because I didn't want to run the risk of a simple difference of opinion boiling over into an online pissing match. The fear of that kind of response makes me not want to post, and I don't want to go out of my way to end every statement with "But of course I mean no offense to you, sir" or soften my prose as a way of kowtowing to his "passion."

I certainly get squeamish when talking to JK, but it's not because of his passion. It's the fear that one simple word out of place might set him off into some bombastic rant over what may amount to semantics -- or "a poor choice of words" as it's usually called in these situations. Which sucks because he really does seem like a wonderful guy all else considered, and I'd love to get on with him like everyone else, but it's hard to make friends with someone you're afraid to talk to.

[By-tor]

I kind of got that and hoped you didn't mean it in such a negative way. I only took issue with it because the term has such a negative stigma attached to it.

And if I'm patting a guy on the back, it's because I think he deserves it. Maybe I need to learn how to compliment someone without sounding insincere. That's why I made sure to say that my entire post was sincere. No fake, patronizing compliments.I think the problem, as stated a freakin' billion times around here, is talking on the 'net, and talking in person is worlds apart. Even a freakin' smiley can be taken the wrong way.

I'm passionate about a lot of things and will happily voice my opinion if I feel I should, but at the same time I don't assume anyone who disagrees with me thinks I'm an idiot or thinks less of me because of my opinion. In other words, I don't take offense over a simple disagreement. On two occasions I can recall, this exact thing happened between JK and I. I disagreed with something he said and then he came on in his subsequent post like I'd called him an idiot to his face. There are a lot of things I'd call that but "passionate" wouldn't be the first to come to mind, frankly. And there have been many more occasions where I disagreed with the guy on an issue somewhere else on the boards and instead of saying something, I said "Fuck it" because I didn't want to run the risk of a simple difference of opinion boiling over into an online pissing match. The fear of that kind of response makes me not want to post, and I don't want to go out of my way to end every statement with "But of course I mean no offense to you, sir" or soften my prose as a way of kowtowing to his "passion."

I certainly get squeamish when talking to JK, but it's not because of his passion. It's the fear that one simple word out of place might set him off into some bombastic rant over what may amount to semantics -- or "a poor choice of words" as it's usually called in these situations. Which sucks because he really does seem like a wonderful guy all else considered, and I'd love to get on with him like everyone else, but it's hard to make friends with someone you're afraid to talk to.Well, that was about as "passive-aggressive" as you can get.

[Threadkiller]

Well, that was about as "passive-aggressive" as you can get.
Let's not start that again!:)

[By-tor]

Let's not start that again!:)
At least I didn't call him a dickweed. ;)

[phit_demon]

http://img683.imageshack.us/img683/1996/newway.jpg
"No more posting pictures of Miss Mantlepiece. It's part of the new way."
"In the rain!"
Never! I will not post on a board with no Candy!


...erm.... frederer’s..........
Ha!

http://i60.photobucket.com/albums/h3/phitdemon/Picture5-4.png

Man, I hate that smug, Swiss cunt.

[NomenNescio]

Well, that was about as "passive-aggressive" as you can get.

And already I regret having said anything.

Oh, boy.

[VogonPoet]

I don't really understand the threat of "changes". If all the people here stay the same, what changes to the interface can have any affect? If it's a matter of rules of conduct, then drop the issue and let us go on ungoverned. I mean what percentage of Fred's income is the three tiny adverts on top the message board? I'm guessing a pretty, darn small one.

[By-tor]

And already I regret having said anything.

Oh, boy.No, man. Have your say. I'm not trying to put a muzzle on anyone's opinion. Might not agree with it, but that shouldn't stop it from being heard. :)

[NomenNescio]

No, man. Have your say. I'm not trying to put a muzzle on anyone's opinion. Might not agree with it, but that shouldn't stop it from being heard. :)

Well, for the record my opinion isn't that anyone or anything should change. I like this place the way it is.

Just thought I'd throw it out there what it's like being a newb up against the juggernaut that is JK. He and anyone else who cares can make of it what they like as far as I'm concerned.

[BallsMonkey]

My thoughts on it: http://ballsmonkey.blogspot.com/2010/01/all-is-not-right-with-fred.html

[NomenNescio]

My thoughts on it: http://ballsmonkey.blogspot.com/2010/01/all-is-not-right-with-fred.html

I concur, except for this whole "sun" rising in the "morning" nonsense. Honestly, where do you think this crap up?

[Cuclean]

I do fear change and I liked the site the way it was! But I guess I’ll just have to get on with and over it. After reading some posts about why the changes are taking place and what the future holds it would appear that in a small way I may psychologically have just been attached to the Quickstop logo! It will take a wee while until I stop looking up at the wee begoggled shite that now lives in the corner of my screen grudgingly thinking who is he? Where is he going? And what the fuck is he so smug about?!? Nevertheless for now things don’t appear to be horrifically different, everyone whom I love in an internet way is still here. If the site is opening up a little on content and people then I can get behind that :cool:

Pretty much my only gripe in a nutshell. It's just going to take some getting used to. The people are all still here and posting more than normal. Keep up the good work Aaron, you're taking quite a bit on. And Ken of course.


I have nowt interesting to say most of the time ;)

That's a damn lie and you know it. ;)

[UncaScroogeMcD]

Pretty much my only gripe in a nutshell. It's just going to take some getting used to. The people are all still here and posting more than normal. Keep up the good work Aaron, you're taking quite a bit on. And Ken of course.

Aaron is not taking me on.

For 70 Euros and a kind word, he will take you on, though.

[JK]

Sorry I'm such a dick, everyone.

Aaron- truly- congratulations on becoming mod. It's the third time I've said it, but I guess it got lost in all my bullshit. I think the world of you and you're welcome to sleep on my couch anytime.

Everyone else - sorry I'm such a bombastic turd. My passions often get the better of me and that leads me to acting like a steam roller. Despite the arguments I still like every single one of you.

I enjoyed my time here immensely.

[Cuclean]

Aaron is not taking me on.

For 70 Euros and a kind word, he will take you on, though.

Don't I just know it. You should see the Cabin Fever Presents wrap parties.



I enjoyed my time here immensely.

Past tense? :confused:

[Aaron]

I think the world of you and you're welcome to sleep on my couch anytime.
Right back at ya big guy.

My passions often get the better of me and that leads me to acting like a steam roller. Despite the arguments I still like every single one of you.
We know you well enough by now to know this already. This is why I was telling you not to worry. We all know you're a big softy at heart ;)

[Antonio_Bay]

sorry I'm such a bombastic turd.

You're a hefty part of the spine of this place. You always greet those in the Introduce thread, and although your Brock avatar can look scary to some :p, you're one of the most approachable people here.

[JK]

I feel more like the jerk people tolerate because they feel they have to...

[TheHangingBrain]

I feel more like the jerk people tolerate because they feel they have to...

Totally not true man, you're a funny guy and seem to be a generally nice dude.

[Antonio_Bay]

I feel more like the jerk people tolerate because they feel they have to...

Even if that were true, it doesn't explain why the majority chose to vote you best board member. ;) :)

[By-tor]

I feel more like the jerk people tolerate because they feel they have to...

Even if that were true, it doesn't explain why the majority chose to vote you best board member. ;) :)
http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uPuKhlLLL-4/R6tLQAyXRdI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/18iricqmMZI/s320/funaki_l.jpg

[JK]

Even if that were true, it doesn't explain why the majority chose to vote you best board member. ;) :)

http://th01.deviantart.com/fs4/300W/i/2004/240/1/9/Brock_Samson.jpg

"Vote for me or I'll use your lifeless body for a meat puppet." ;)

Seriously though, it seems like more than a few people feel like they have to tip-toe around me. I don't want people to feel that way.

[By-tor]

Seriously though, it seems like more than a few people feel like they have to tip-toe around me. I don't want people to feel that way.The onlyt time I tip-toe around you is when we are ballroom dancing. And, you'll be thrilled with my new dress. :D

[JK]

The onlyt time I tip-toe around you is when we are ballroom dancing. And, you'll be thrilled with my new dress. :D

Will there be a lovely tea party afterwards? ;)

[TomHarrington]

Never! I will not post on a board with no Candy!

I hear that (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMICD3aMZpw)!

Looks like I'm not the only one who woke up on the right side of the bed this morning. I wanted to apologize to Ken and Aaron, because I feel like FRED's launch, or take-off, was maybe dampened a little by member concerns. I was thinking about it this morning and just felt bad about the whole thing. Since the announcement I sort of had a this sick feeling in my gut without really knowing why. I woke up this morning and felt better.

[RobinHoodDaffy]

I feel more like the jerk people tolerate because they feel they have to...

I went into the den of a right-wing-meat-eating-gun-toting-hates-hippy-idiot's house not because of that person being a jerk, but because of the friendship and camaraderie that had been built over the years. And I came out with my organs still attached!
We all hate change buddy, but I look at it this way, if Kevin had shut the place down a year ago, which from what I can tell was a VERY distinct possibility, it would have happened at a time when I would have lost touch with all my friends. Now thanks to Twitter, Facebook, and the phone numbers of a few of my friends here, I will not lose my buddies.
So, I say long live FRED! Because no matter what happens, I still have my friends.

[By-tor]

I went into the den of a right-wing-meat-eating-gun-toting-hates-hippy-idiot's house not because of that person being a jerk, but because of the friendship and camaraderie that had been built over the years. And I came out with my organs still attached!
We all hate change buddy, but I look at it this way, if Kevin had shut the place down a year ago, which from what I can tell was a VERY distinct possibility, it would have happened at a time when I would have lost touch with all my friends. Now thanks to Twitter, Facebook, and the phone numbers of a few of my friends here, I will not lose my buddies.
So, I say long live FRED! Because no matter what happens, I still have my friends.Sweet baby Toki, well put, brotherman. :)

[BallsMonkey]

I feel more like the jerk people tolerate because they feel they have to...

Wait, we don't have to? Oh thank Buddha because I've been wanting to say this for so long..........





You're awesome dude, you're not a jerk :D

[Cuclean]

Wait, we don't have to? Oh thank Buddha because I've been wanting to say this for so long..........





You're awesome dude, you're not a jerk :D

http://www.funnyforumpics.com/forums/i-see-what-you-did-there/1/i_see_what_you_did_there.jpg

[BOP TILL U DROP]

So, I say long live FRED! Because no matter what happens, I still have my friends.
Amen, brother!

[joep144]

Seriously though, it seems like more than a few people feel like they have to tip-toe around me. I don't want people to feel that way.

Piss on 'em........I've never figured a man like you to be the type to bow down to the PC bullshit. Don't change a thing about the way you behave or the posts you throw up! ;)

[Erasmus Cunk]

Christ. I'm away for, like, three days, and in that scant amount of time, the logo changes, Aaron becomes a mod (congratulations!) and there is a mass outbreak of dramaqueenitis. How would you sissies cope without me if I was away for a week? I dread to think.

But seriously chaps and chapesses, I don't want this place to change either, because I love it and I love you, but I don't believe das neue Reich will result in any fundamental changes anyway.

Everyone is and has been perfectly civil to noobs for long as I've been here. I think the reason SnoochToTheBooch357 and the like haven't stuck around is not that people were rude to them, or they were intimidated, it's simply that, as a wise man strong in the force once said, this is not the forum they were looking for.

I do like the idea of site content being generated (at least in part) by forum regulars, because we've got some talented MFers up in this bitch, and I think that it can only serve to attract more people here. Good people.

And JK, since you seem to be such a delicate little flower at the moment, and in need of reassurance, I just want to let you know I like you. You're one of the good guys.

Unlike that Aaron, whose sudden rise to power will, I predict, end in megolomania and disaster. If someone could photoshop an SS uniform onto Candy Mantlepiece I would love them forever.

[TomHarrington]

If someone could photoshop an SS uniform onto Candy Mantlepiece I would love them forever.

Wow. I had the same vision!
http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/1844/aaronmod.jpg

Aaron: Are you aware of the nickname the members of the FRED forum have given me?

ErasmusCunk: I have no interest in such things

Aaron: But are you aware of what they call me?

Erasmus Cunk: I'm aware.

Aaron: What are you aware of?

Erasmus Cunk: They call you "The Newb Hunter."

Aaron: Precisely! etc...

[Antonio_Bay]

If someone could photoshop an SS uniform onto Candy Mantlepiece I would love them forever.


http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/1844/aaronmod.jpg

Tempting...

[JasterIsFett]

Tempting...

You snooze, you lose...



















http://i622.photobucket.com/albums/tt306/JasterIsFett/aaronlanda.jpg

[Antonio_Bay]

Hehe.

[BallsMonkey]

You snooze, you lose...



















http://i622.photobucket.com/albums/tt306/JasterIsFett/aaronlanda.jpg

Nice dude.

[ZBarclay]

I feel more like the jerk people tolerate because they feel they have to...
Here's the thing; being passionate about your beliefs does not make a person a prick. Passionately expressing those beliefs does not make a person a jerk. The problem any more is that our society has become so uber emotional and easily offended, that people think it their inalieable Gan given right for their view to go unopposed in order to protect their fragile sensibilities. Sometimes people hold unpopular views. Sometimes people feel strongly about those views. If you hold opposing views, they may argue with you. They may fight you tooth and nail. That's life. Just because folks get angry or passionate about their view, it doesn't invalidate their point, or make them the bad guy. It simply means they are angry or passionate. God, I hope that all made sense.


Seriously though, it seems like more than a few people feel like they have to tip-toe around me. I don't want people to feel that way.
The biggest problem I have with interacting here, is that for what is supposed to be a liberal, open minded forum, all too often, everyone...EVERYONE takes everything too personally.
If people are "tolerating" you (which they aren't, folks genuinely like you) that's a shortcoming of their nature, and not an issue for you to have.
Maybe I don't understand the "tip-toe" principle because I also suffer from a deplorable excess of strong personality. I have no time for "tip-toe" unless I'm using it to reach something on the middle shelf in my kitchen.
I've never understood why people get squeamish just because someone feels strongly about something or is upset by an issue. Emotion is part of life. If it makes people uncomfortable they can remove themself from the conversation just as easily as they've entered it.

Now thanks to Twitter, Facebook, and the phone numbers of a few of my friends here, I will not lose my buddies.

Ditto

And, I didn't quote it, but I think Jaster handled the entire exchange with a calm sense of integrity. He said something not intended to offend, it offended and he apologized. See, the true essence of an apology is not in the original intention, but in the result. He was basically apologizing for his result of his words, rather than apologizing for his intent. (as the intent itself was never negative) Hats off to you Jaster, you're a gentleman and a scholar and we could ALL learn from your example.

[TomHarrington]

Here's the thing; being passionate about your beliefs does not make a person a prick. Passionately expressing those beliefs does not make a person a jerk. The problem any more is that our society has become so uber emotional and easily offended, that people think it their inalieable Gan given right for their view to go unopposed in order to protect their fragile sensibilities. Sometimes people hold unpopular views. Sometimes people feel strongly about those views. If you hold opposing views, they may argue with you. They may fight you tooth and nail. That's life. Just because folks get angry or passionate about their view, it doesn't invalidate their point, or make them the bad guy. It simply means they are angry or passionate. God, I hope that all made sense.


The biggest problem I have with interacting here, is that for what is supposed to be a liberal, open minded forum, all too often, everyone...EVERYONE takes everything too personally.
If people are "tolerating" you (which they aren't, folks genuinely like you) that's a shortcoming of their nature, and not an issue for you to have.
Maybe I don't understand the "tip-toe" principle because I also suffer from a deplorable excess of strong personality. I have no time for "tip-toe" unless I'm using it to reach something on the middle shelf in my kitchen.
I've never understood why people get squeamish just because someone feels strongly about something or is upset by an issue. Emotion is part of life. If it makes people uncomfortable they can remove themself from the conversation just as easily as they've entered it.


Ditto

And, I didn't quote it, but I think Jaster handled the entire exchange with a calm sense of integrity. He said something not intended to offend, it offended and he apologized. See, the true essence of an apology is not in the original intention, but in the result. He was basically apologizing for his result of his words, rather than apologizing for his intent. (as the intent itself was never negative) Hats off to you Jaster, you're a gentleman and a scholar and we could ALL learn from your example.

http://i622.photobucket.com/albums/tt306/JasterIsFett/aaronlanda.jpg
The Fuhrer couldn't have said it better himself.

Nice work, Jaster! :)

[Erasmus Cunk]

http://i622.photobucket.com/albums/tt306/JasterIsFett/aaronlanda.jpg

Hah!

Brilliant.

[JasterIsFett]

...Hats off to you Jaster, you're a gentleman and a scholar and we could ALL learn from your example.

Thank you, sir. All in a day's work. I just hope Aaron doesn't ban me for photoshopping Ms. Mantlepiece.

Nice dude.

Nice work, Jaster! :)

Hah!

Brilliant.

A-thank you!

Now all it needs is a bit of Balls...

[BallsMonkey]

Now all it needs is a bit of Balls...

He'll probably ban you for saying that :D

[ozchick]

http://denisewymore.files.wordpress.com/2008/11/disney-chicken-little-sky-falling.jpg

I'm not going to lie, I've been slightly amused at all the stress being felt over what has really been a fairly minor change. I for one am glad to be out from the weight of Kevin Smith (no pun intended). As was frequently addressed, he essentially had zero interest in these boards and this community so for the boards (and the site itself) to be extracted from the name I think is a good thing! Whilst I'm thankful that he began the MPS, QSE sites because it was what brought us all together I really think his impact on who we are and what we've become is zip.

The only effect the name change is really having is that we've been asked to be a bit more inclusive rather than the "mean girls" so that new people don't feel like outsiders for so long. It's not a bad thing to have a think about what we're typing before we type it is it? We all know that intonantion and sarcasm is often lost in the written word so just be a bit more aware of it. Doesn't mean that knobs can't be called out on it, just don't be agressive and obnoxious about it!

In conclusion, I'm offended by the term "old boys club". Farking ball-lickers.;)

PPS. Congrats Aaron for formally being promoted to Mod

[Threadkiller]

Eh, I had another long-ass post here but Ozchick said it much better than me and more succinctly so: Quoted for truth:

It's not a bad thing to have a think about what we're typing before we type it is it? We all know that intonantion and sarcasm is often lost in the written word so just be a bit more aware of it. Doesn't mean that knobs can't be called out on it, just don't be agressive and obnoxious about it!

[ZBarclay]

The only effect the name change is really having is that we've been asked to be a bit more inclusive rather than the "mean girls" so that new people don't feel like outsiders for so long. It's not a bad thing to have a think about what we're typing before we type it is it? We all know that intonantion and sarcasm is often lost in the written word so just be a bit more aware of it. Doesn't mean that knobs can't be called out on it, just don't be agressive and obnoxious about it!


That's easy for you to say, you're a nice person. ;)

[RobinHoodDaffy]

That's easy for you to say, you're a nice person. ;)

Wow, what a douchebag thing to say! :D

[dtcb]

http://i622.photobucket.com/albums/tt306/JasterIsFett/aaronlanda.jpg

Ooh Mein Schlamindinger!!


Here's the thing; being passionate about your beliefs does not make...blah, blah, blah.
What'd you say? I'm sorry, I was staring at your tits the whole time you were talking.


Wow, what a douchebag thing to say! :D

Jay Jay!................that is all.

[Aaron]

Eh, I had another long-ass post here but Ozchick said it much better than me and more succinctly

Isn't she brilliant?

*swoons*

[Aaron]

I've updated the forum ettiquette guide.
While I have unstickied this (I think everyone has read it now) please feel free to keep using it for suggestions

[JK]

I've updated the forum ettiquette guide. ...

Slack-ass... it still says "How To Survive the QSE Forums" :rolleyes:


;)

[Aaron]

Slack-ass... it still says "How To Survive the QSE Forums" :rolleyes:


;)

Ha!

You'd think that would be the first thing I'd do :rolleyes:

[ZBarclay]

I've updated the forum ettiquette guide.
While I have unstickied this (I think everyone has read it now) please feel free to keep using it for suggestions

I think you should leave it stickied. That way folks can't claim ignorance.

[Aaron]

I think you should leave it stickied. That way folks can't claim ignorance.

I unstickied this as in this thread, not the guide.
There isn't much to be ingorant to in here.

[ZBarclay]

I unstickied this as in this thread, not the guide.
There isn't much to be ingorant to in here.

Aaaaaaaaaaaaah...I thought you meant you unstickied the etiquette thread.



...and you can always find something to be ignorant about...

http://i210.photobucket.com/albums/bb273/toshiromifunesletteropener/RIMSHOT.jpg

[Threadkiller]

I've updated the forum ettiquette guide.
While I have unstickied this (I think everyone has read it now) please feel free to keep using it for suggestions
I had a suggestion a few pages back but it got lost in the shuffle. Bottom line:


A SPAM thread. See my original post for discussion as to why.

A more structured 'introduce yourself' monthly thread where we encourage all and especially noobs to participate.

[Aaron]

A SPAM thread. See my original post for discussion as to why.

A more structured 'introduce yourself' monthly thread where we encourage all and especially noobs to participate.

Spammers don't pay attention, or care about, where to post. That's why the majority of viagra sales are done in the movie section. It would be, I fear, pointless.

We kind of already have the introduce yourself thing already though, don't we? JK can be depended upon every month to start one and we sticky it.
I don't understand how we can structure it better. Could you explain that one to me?

[ZBarclay]

We kind of already have the introduce yourself thing already though, don't we? JK can be depended upon every month to start one and we sticky it.
I don't understand how we can structure it better. Could you explain that one to me?

I think he just means for more emphasis to be placed on getting new folks to join in. But...I guess...by the emphasis of it being a "get to know you" thread...it kind of implies that is what we would like...


....


....

[RobinHoodDaffy]

Slack-ass... it still says "How To Survive the QSE Forums" :rolleyes:


;)

Ha!

You'd think that would be the first thing I'd do :rolleyes:

Still, there are all those people with QSE awards, I'm so glad I waited to win one 'til they become the "Freddies" :rolleyes:

[Aaron]

Thats the one negative thing about the change-over, I don't get to say I won a quickie anymore. :(

[Threadkiller]

Spammers don't pay attention, or care about, where to post. That's why the majority of viagra sales are done in the movie section. It would be, I fear, pointless.
Okay, I guess I need to clarify. I don't mean Viagra sellers. I mean the folks who come here and talk about their podcast, short-film or comic strip in their first few posts. Currently, we treat those folks the same as the viagra sellers. It might be worthwhile to move their post to it's own forum and maybe it can find a home here. The same forum could be used for regulars to talk about their own stuff that doesn't happen to be published on FRED already. It's a way to add content. If it's posted in the wrong place (as it no doubt will be), it could always be moved by a moderator, because you want to feel useful don't you? :o

Maybe 'spam' was the wrong word. I was thinking more like a 'pimp my poop' forum.

[Aaron]

I have one problem with that.
If people come here to pimp a podcast and do so politely in the podcast section... there is nothing wrong with that. Same with comics or films. Sure, they're probably not going to get any interest from anyone but they're not breaking any rules.
The problem is, we shouldnt be such a dick to them. Instead of ripping a guy a new asshole for just trying to promote his whatever we should ignore the post, let it die and disappear.
Moving it to a different section is the wrong attitude to have and one of the things I'm hoping will improve.

[ZBarclay]

I have one problem with that.
If people come here to pimp a podcast and do so politely in the podcast section... there is nothing wrong with that. Same with comics or films. Sure, they're probably not going to get any interest from anyone but they're not breaking any rules.
The problem is, we shouldnt be such a dick to them. Instead of ripping a guy a new asshole for just trying to promote his whatever we should ignore the post, let it die and disappear.
Moving it to a different section is the wrong attitude to have and one of the things I'm hoping will improve.

I don't think you're understanding what he means. He wants to give people a place to pimp stuff. A home for it. A place so that people can go there and look for it, rather than it just popping up all willy nilly and possibly going unnoticed.
By "moving it to a different section" I think he's asking you to kind of give an organizational quality to posts if they happen to drop in the wrong spot. That way the post gets moved to where it can do the most good rather than being ignored or lambasted.
I think he's making some very positive suggestions with the intent on improving the method. He's not trying to exclude, he's trying to include.