Board ideas

[jimnyc]

Wanted to discuss a few things and hopefully get some ideas we can all bounce around.

I'm going to try a few different things and try to get some readers/guests coming our way. I can't promise anyone of them will convert to members though. That's where the entire board comes in. If we have new members signup, and they happen to be liberals, democrats or anyone that should happen to have a different viewpoint than any of us here - let's please all try our best to have a different approach. In the past year or so, new members have been being attacked. Some for simply having an opinion. And yes, some come in and have an attitude. Let's show them how it's done. I know that every single member here is quite intelligent and capable of offering good debates and discussions.

Like I said years and years ago, we all know an occasional outburst will happen, and I don't have an issue with that. But lets not have new members see that part of us as their first response. Many of them very well may turn out to be good members if we don't scare them away. This board is obviously not growing as we would like. I think that's part of the reason, and I'll take the blame for the rest. All I'm asking is that we try.

In addition to that, I'm looking for new and different ideas, things that will set us aside from the rest. Like a friend recently told me, most of these boards today are clones of one another. Really the only difference is the political affiliation of members, and of course the numbers. But at the end of the day, they're all similar.

I would like to find an idea, a gimmick, a change to the board that will make us different than the rest. Not really a gimmick, because I would like for it to be a good idea that makes this a better site, for new members and for all of us. I'm willing to finance and implement, but I'm coming up empty with ideas. I thought the "one on one debates" was a good idea way back when, and outside of a couple of good debates, that idea went south. There's got to be some ideas that more people will utilize.

[tailfins]

How much effort have you put into search engine optimization? Think of the search terms that match the "brand" of DP. DP should come to the top of search results on words such as socialist, progressive, socially responsible, environmentally conscious, etc. You should include common misspelling of these words to bring in the best and the brightest.

If you want to build the board the old fashioned way, attend meetings of organizations such as Greenpeace, CPUSA, NARAL, Organizing For Obama America, SEIU, AFL-CIO, etc. and hand out business cards about your FREE debate site. As you campaign to re-elect Andrew Cuomo, you can give some of those business cards to fellow campaign volunteers.

[hjmick]

My favorite is still the member interviews... Hard thing to do on bigger boards.


I realize that's not real helpful, so I guess I'll think on it some...

[jimnyc]

How much effort have you put into search engine optimization? Think of the search terms that match the "brand" of DP. DP should come to the top of search results on words such as socialist, progressive, socially responsible, environmentally conscious, etc. You should include common misspelling of these words to bring in the best and the brightest.

If you want to build the board the old fashioned way, attend meetings of organizations such as Greenpeace, CPUSA, NARAL, Organizing For Obama America, SEIU, AFL-CIO, etc. and hand out business cards about your FREE debate site. As you campaign to re-elect Andrew Cuomo, you can give some of those business cards to fellow campaign volunteers.

Back in the beginning I paid to have some services help with that, but I don't think it worked. I don't trust a lot of those fuckers. It's funny, I get emails all the time from companies and individuals telling me they can SEO the site for me and put me on the first page of Google. Then I visit THEIR site and find them on like page 29. Wouldn't they be at least on the first few pages if they were that good? Anyway, these services aren't cheap, and rarely guarantees that they can increase your rankings.

There is a product made just for this site software that can supposedly help with rankings, not just with the board in general but with every thread. It's "vBSEO".

Nevermind, went to get a link and post the features but found out they closed up shop.

Anyway, it's not a bad idea to get into the organic search engine results. The next is advertising. And of course word of mouth. Not sure which is best, but there are price differences! Finding decent places to place a DP banner isn't easy, at least not a place that will convert into new members. It's not like other message boards will let us advertise - and to do so anywhere sizable can be very pricey!!

[jimnyc]

My favorite is still the member interviews... Hard thing to do on bigger boards.


I realize that's not real helpful, so I guess I'll think on it some...

So you're volunteering for an interview? :) I'll start a new thread!

[Jeff]

So you're volunteering for an interview? :) I'll start a new thread!

Thanks for volunteering hjmick !!!!

[KitchenKitten99]

If you want to make up a flyer with pertinent info and whatnot, and post it here as a PDF, maybe we can put flyers up at various public posting spots. I know I have several bulletin boards around both my home's town area, and my shop's area. And both areas can get pretty political.

If you make the flyer, then we know it is a Jimnyc-approved message.

[tailfins]

So you're volunteering for an interview? :) I'll start a new thread!

I'll do it if you don't rush me to answer. I'm on a new gig and still settling in the changing, jobs, location, kids schools, etc.

[hjmick]

Heh... I'm a boring SOB... As you may have noticed I don't take much seriously... But, were no one else interested...

[SassyLady]

You could also do an update of previous interviews ... people who have been here forever and still posting. Ask them why they are still here and what has changed since their original interview.

[Perianne]

If you want the forum to grow, tell everyone that Perianne is here.

[Jeff]

If you want the forum to grow, tell everyone that Perianne is here.

Perianne this is off topic but how went the wedding ?

[Perianne]

Perianne this is off topic but how went the wedding ?

The wedding went wonderful; a start of a new life for me. It was just me and my feller, my BFF and her husband, and my daughter and her boyfriend.

Thanks for asking.

[fj1200]

Wanted to discuss a few things and hopefully get some ideas we can all bounce around.

In addition to that, I'm looking for new and different ideas, things that will set us aside from the rest. ...

... There's got to be some ideas that more people will utilize.

I'm not quite sure what your end goal is Jim. Be different? The board is different. If you want to know what your niche is merely look at the types of threads that get started especially regardless of the major "news" of the day.

And once you decide on your end goal you'll need to decide if you have the talent, I don't mean you specifically, that can help you achieve that goal.

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

New liberal on board here. Do you have asbestos panties for sale in the Lounge Store?

[tailfins]

New liberal on board here. Do you have asbestos panties for sale in the Lounge Store?

The fact that you honestly present yourself as a liberal has already gained you some respect. Not being a BS artist is appreciated.

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

The fact that you honestly present yourself as a liberal has already gained you some respect. Not being a BS artist is appreciated.
Why wouldn't I? I'm thinking the people here are intelligent enough to glean that bit of information from the content of my posts.

And, I'm not here to rearrange the furniture on my first day here, but I will say that the reason I registered here as opposed to other sites I looked at was because of the content of the thread titles. I bailed out on the site whose current hottest thread was, "Michelle Obama is really a man." Although I did read one thread about Benghazi and the discussion was basically, "You're an idiot." "nu-uh, you are," followed by a very mean spirited gif involving a developmentally disabled child. SOOOOO, with that being said, I'm here. We'll see what happens. ;)

[hjmick]

Here's to hoping you stick around, Lemon. :beer:


Speaking as a terminal moderate, I like to have diversity.

[tailfins]

Here's to hoping you stick around, Lemon. :beer:


Speaking as a terminal moderate, I like to have diversity.

Maybe Lemongrass can be an impartial referee.

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

Maybe Lemongrass can be an impartial referee.
You have jello rasslin' in the baby pool on Friday nights HERE, too???? Awesome!

[jimnyc]

I'm not quite sure what your end goal is Jim. Be different? The board is different. If you want to know what your niche is merely look at the types of threads that get started especially regardless of the major "news" of the day.

And once you decide on your end goal you'll need to decide if you have the talent, I don't mean you specifically, that can help you achieve that goal.

End goal? To get the guy posting below you to stay! We need diversity and opposing viewpoints. Yes, I understand what you mean by the titles and such. We have a select amount of members and thats what interests them at the moment. I'm hoping that by increasing membership/diversity that we can also change up the topics and interests. Personally, I like to partake in all kinds of subjects. Sometimes I forget that though! LOL Maybe some new friends here will allow that to happen.


Why wouldn't I? I'm thinking the people here are intelligent enough to glean that bit of information from the content of my posts.

And, I'm not here to rearrange the furniture on my first day here, but I will say that the reason I registered here as opposed to other sites I looked at was because of the content of the thread titles. I bailed out on the site whose current hottest thread was, "Michelle Obama is really a man." Although I did read one thread about Benghazi and the discussion was basically, "You're an idiot." "nu-uh, you are," followed by a very mean spirited gif involving a developmentally disabled child. SOOOOO, with that being said, I'm here. We'll see what happens. ;)

We have an intelligent bunch here, and hopefully you can add to that. Liberals are certainly not in the majority here, and as owner, I would like to change that. What you say you saw elsewhere is not what we want you to see here either. Please don't be afraid to toss in your 2 cents as you go along. I'm not afraid to make changes and implement things in order to make things better around here.

Oh, and don't be offended too much when you see the bad words. For example, myself, I often like to put out a decent thought out argument and always check my sources and such - but I do often allow some sarcasm to seep out of my dirty mouth! :laugh:

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

End goal? To get the guy posting below you to stay! We need diversity and opposing viewpoints. Yes, I understand what you mean by the titles and such. We have a select amount of members and thats what interests them at the moment. I'm hoping that by increasing membership/diversity that we can also change up the topics and interests. Personally, I like to partake in all kinds of subjects. Sometimes I forget that though! LOL Maybe some new friends here will allow that to happen.

Gal. ;) Yeah, I know. My avatar is deceiving.


We have an intelligent bunch here, and hopefully you can add to that. Liberals are certainly not in the majority here, and as owner, I would like to change that. What you say you saw elsewhere is not what we want you to see here either. Please don't be afraid to toss in your 2 cents as you go along. I'm not afraid to make changes and implement things in order to make things better around here.

The problem with forums like this that are looking for balance is how difficult that balance is to achieve. People naturally want to debate/confront the person with an opposing view. This usually leads to several people from the majority side posting to one person from the minority side which sometimes appears as if it's a dog pile. I come from a site that leans left and I would bow out if I saw this happening and just read, but a lot of people don't/won't do that for some reason. I wish I could offer up a solution for you, but I think your initial post asking people to exercise some self restraint is really all you can do.


Oh, and don't be offended too much when you see the bad words. For example, myself, I often like to put out a decent thought out argument and always check my sources and such - but I do often allow some sarcasm to seep out of my dirty mouth! :laugh:

Puhleeze. I'm known for making sailors blush. I just happen to be on my best behavior today. ;)

[fj1200]

End goal? To get the guy posting below you to stay! We need diversity and opposing viewpoints. Yes, I understand what you mean by the titles and such. We have a select amount of members and thats what interests them at the moment. I'm hoping that by increasing membership/diversity that we can also change up the topics and interests. Personally, I like to partake in all kinds of subjects. Sometimes I forget that though! LOL Maybe some new friends here will allow that to happen.

It costs more to get new customer than to keep an old one. ;) The issue I was referring to is not that we have discussions about what interests members at the moment, it's that we have 1000 threads that discuss the same thing.

[jimnyc]

Gal. ;) Yeah, I know. My avatar is deceiving.



The problem with forums like this that are looking for balance is how difficult that balance is to achieve. People naturally want to debate/confront the person with an opposing view. This usually leads to several people from the majority side posting to one person from the minority side which sometimes appears as if it's a dog pile. I come from a site that leans left and I would bow out if I saw this happening and just read, but a lot of people don't/won't do that for some reason. I wish I could offer up a solution for you, but I think your initial post asking people to exercise some self restraint is really all you can do.



Puhleeze. I'm known for making sailors blush. I just happen to be on my best behavior today. ;)

I replied prior to you coming out as a woman! :)

We have the so called pile ons quite often. I don't think people do it on purpose, it's just natural for those to reply to something they are passionate about, something that the other person just posted differently about. Now you have 8 people replying on one. If we can increase a bit of the membership, maybe we can make that 8 on 8 and the pile ons stop that way as well. I think a lot of it is how we post as well. If someone is decent about how they post, not very abrasive and such, others tend to reply in kind. Sometimes we get someone who joins, and instantly tells everyone what assholes they are!

Best behavior huh? If you feel the need to unload and talk dirty to someone, feel free to hit my inbox! :coffee: :poke:

[jimnyc]

It costs more to get new customer than to keep an old one. ;) The issue I was referring to is not that we have discussions about what interests members at the moment, it's that we have 1000 threads that discuss the same thing.

I don't argue that. We COULD merge them all into one when that happens. But I always hated threads like that, then I have to dig too much. Maybe an in-between? We don't need a new thread for every single news story that comes out, and we don't want one eternal thread.... What do you propose? Serious question! I tried to do my best to move such threads to just one forum at least.

[tailfins]

It costs more to get new customer than to keep an old one. ;) The issue I was referring to is not that we have discussions about what interests members at the moment, it's that we have 1000 threads that discuss the same thing.

And almost all of them have information easily found elsewhere AND they generally have a posture of griping and complaining. And to remove any doubt, I vigorously support Israel in general and Netanyahu in particular. There's never a good answer to: "I read your post, but what is the reader supposed to DO"?

[fj1200]

I don't argue that. We COULD merge them all into one when that happens. But I always hated threads like that, then I have to dig too much. Maybe an in-between? We don't need a new thread for every single news story that comes out, and we don't want one eternal thread.... What do you propose? Serious question! I tried to do my best to move such threads to just one forum at least.

Start merging mercilessly :death: ... or semi-mercilessly anyway. The idea is to discuss topics if I'm not mistaken and not have a new thread for every news story. I'm not sure what would be worse for you, fewer bigger threads or wading through more shallow threads. I've alluded to another forum here before and I get more daily updates from them than from here and I haven't been there in months. I can't say I know how it will all shake out given the differences in posters but if you want to change something about the board it should come from you. You are the CEO of sorts.

[jimnyc]

Start merging mercilessly :death: ... or semi-mercilessly anyway. The idea is to discuss topics if I'm not mistaken and not have a new thread for every news story. I'm not sure what would be worse for you, fewer bigger threads or wading through more shallow threads. I've alluded to another forum here before and I get more daily updates from them than from here and I haven't been there in months. I can't say I know how it will all shake out given the differences in posters but if you want to change something about the board it should come from you. You are the CEO of sorts.

How about we meet halfway. I can tell the rest of staff, and the board, and we'll try to concentrate such threads. For example, Palestine/Israel, if about the war in general, or nothing major, pile it on the "larger" thread. But one can make a new thread if it's something of major news perhaps, like a ceasefire failure, or missile hitting a school - or something in other words which might be a discussion in itself, outside the generality of the war?

Btw, I'm probably just as guilty as others in doing this, if not more! :coffee:

[Abbey Marie]

I am not a fan of wholesale topical thread-merging, unless they are truly about the exact same news story, with the exact same basis, and on the same day or so. In those cases, I do merge them.

In reality, most often there is a new wrinkle or set of facts that can support a new thread. Plus, people just like to start new threads much more than they like to just add-on to old ones. I think they feel it is more likely to be noticed. And it adds visual activity to the board in a way that add-ons to existing threads just do not. I also think it is human nature to want to just post the thread without first looking around to see if it already exists.

Finally, merged threads lack continuity, and I soon tire of reading them because of it.

[Kathianne]

I merge threads when they are on the exact same link or when folks start hitting both, repeating themselves. As Abbey said, it then becomes apparent that both threads may be worn, but the first to post should have the title.

[Kathianne]

You have jello rasslin' in the baby pool on Friday nights HERE, too???? Awesome!

Ummm, how does one jello rassl' on the internet? It's already Wednesday evening and I want to be prepared! :laugh2:

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

Ummm, how does one jello rassl' on the internet? It's already Wednesday evening and I want to be prepared! :laugh2:
I can honestly say that I've never been asked that question before! I think we get out the baby pool, fill it with jello, round up some referees and go to it!

[Kathianne]

I can honestly say that I've never been asked that question before! I think we get out the baby pool, fill it with jello, round up some referees and go to it!
LOL!

Ok, Friday everyone gets one of those kiddie pools and argue! LOL!

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yVJN7iSdrRQ/T-dgQtNflUI/AAAAAAAADiI/VaaY8u9tmpg/s320/PoolW2.jpg

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

LOL!

Ok, Friday everyone gets one of those kiddie pools and argue! LOL!

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yVJN7iSdrRQ/T-dgQtNflUI/AAAAAAAADiI/VaaY8u9tmpg/s320/PoolW2.jpg
See! That's exactly what this site needs for more traffic!

Actually, I'm impressed so far. No one has told me that my children will die a slow and painful death because I don't homeschool them and no one has given me negative rep because they can and know I can't hit back. You've got a good thing going here. I like it.

[Kathianne]

See! That's exactly what this site needs for more traffic!

Actually, I'm impressed so far. No one has told me that my children will die a slow and painful death because I don't homeschool them and no one has given me negative rep because they can and know I can't hit back. You've got a good thing going here. I like it.

Ah, now Abbey and I know you're a mom, you are under our wings! Never mind when the talk turns to politics, we may hit ya now and again, but if anyone messes with you, let us know. Seriously.

We wimmen stick together!

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

Ah, now Abbey and I know you're a mom, you are under our wings! Never mind when the talk turns to politics, we may hit ya now and again, but if anyone messes with you, let us know. Seriously.

We wimmen stick together!
I don't think that will be a problem here. I love the family sub forum here. It reminds me that even though we have our differences, we all love our children and our families and are just trying to do right by them. Am I totally derailing this thread? I hope not. I'm just pointing out the good things I've seen. Oh but I will tell you that my search for this place was not so easy. I think it was in page three of a google search for "political debate forums"....that might be part of the problem?

[hjmick]

Thursdays? Naked posting... We'll use the honor system...

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

Thursdays? Naked posting... We'll use the honor system...
Winner. Winner. Chicken dinner !!!!

[SassyLady]

New liberal on board here. Do you have asbestos panties for sale in the Lounge Store?

Just boxers and briefs!!

[SassyLady]

Thursdays? Naked posting... We'll use the honor system...

:omg:

I knew that my loyalty would pay off some day!!!

:nevermind:


I think I lost there for a moment. Thanks for getting my heart rate up!

[Jeff]

New liberal on board here. Do you have asbestos panties for sale in the Lounge Store?

Welcome to the board

[Jeff]

Why wouldn't I? I'm thinking the people here are intelligent enough to glean that bit of information from the content of my posts.

And, I'm not here to rearrange the furniture on my first day here, but I will say that the reason I registered here as opposed to other sites I looked at was because of the content of the thread titles. I bailed out on the site whose current hottest thread was, "Michelle Obama is really a man." Although I did read one thread about Benghazi and the discussion was basically, "You're an idiot." "nu-uh, you are," followed by a very mean spirited gif involving a developmentally disabled child. SOOOOO, with that being said, I'm here. We'll see what happens. ;)

She is isn't she :2up: See we already knew that here so no need to debate it :laugh:

[Jeff]

Gal. ;) Yeah, I know. My avatar is deceiving.



The problem with forums like this that are looking for balance is how difficult that balance is to achieve. People naturally want to debate/confront the person with an opposing view. This usually leads to several people from the majority side posting to one person from the minority side which sometimes appears as if it's a dog pile. I come from a site that leans left and I would bow out if I saw this happening and just read, but a lot of people don't/won't do that for some reason. I wish I could offer up a solution for you, but I think your initial post asking people to exercise some self restraint is really all you can do.



Puhleeze. I'm known for making sailors blush. I just happen to be on my best behavior today. ;)

OOO I think you are going to fit in just right !!! As for making the sailors blush, do tell :laugh:

[Jeff]

Thursdays? Naked posting... We'll use the honor system...


:hubba::nudie::hubba:

OK it's Thursday I started :laugh:

[Jeff]

Start merging mercilessly :death: ... or semi-mercilessly anyway. The idea is to discuss topics if I'm not mistaken and not have a new thread for every news story. I'm not sure what would be worse for you, fewer bigger threads or wading through more shallow threads. I've alluded to another forum here before and I get more daily updates from them than from here and I haven't been there in months. I can't say I know how it will all shake out given the differences in posters but if you want to change something about the board it should come from you. You are the CEO of sorts.

http://www.debatepolicy.com/showthread.php?36912-I-take-my-stand-you

1259 posts

http://www.debatepolicy.com/showthread.php?37131-Most-recent-muslim-terrorist-attacks

747 post

fj we tried this and it worked for a while but when a war breaks out it seems to become the headlines, and as noted already when a cease fire is broken or civilians are deliberately hit it is news. I understand this is a topic that some wish to make believe doesn't exist but it does, unfortunately Muslims are in the news daily, this is what is happening in our world right now so it is going to get a lot of face time. But I do understand what you are saying but like I said up until Israel and the Hamas thing yes I posted about what the Muslims where doing but I did so on one of those two threads.

[fj1200]

How about we meet halfway. I can tell the rest of staff, and the board, and we'll try to concentrate such threads. For example, Palestine/Israel, if about the war in general, or nothing major, pile it on the "larger" thread. But one can make a new thread if it's something of major news perhaps, like a ceasefire failure, or missile hitting a school - or something in other words which might be a discussion in itself, outside the generality of the war?

I give you permission to start small. :poke: The Palestinian conflict is of course worthy of its own thread and your examples of major news are really only a small part of the same topic IMO. A ceasefire failure and missile hitting a school seemingly happen daily. But overall what do you want? Discuss policy or become NewsTalk660 on your Righty Dial? FWIW I think we used to discuss policy but now it's just post a link, and not even necessarily news, about anything that validates your POV and flame anyone who doesn't agree or dares dig deeper (I have examples :hide:).


In reality, most often there is a new wrinkle or set of facts that can support a new thread.

Honestly, they really don't IMO. And even if the new wrinkle could support a new thread it devolves into the same thing.


I merge threads when they are on the exact same link or when folks start hitting both, repeating themselves. As Abbey said, it then becomes apparent that both threads may be worn, but the first to post should have the title.

Repeating themselves? Like BO is a traitorous SOB owned by the Globalists? :poke:


http://www.debatepolicy.com/showthread.php?36912-I-take-my-stand-you

1259 posts

http://www.debatepolicy.com/showthread.php?37131-Most-recent-muslim-terrorist-attacks

747 post

fj we tried this and it worked for a while but when a war breaks out it seems to become the headlines, and as noted already when a cease fire is broken or civilians are deliberately hit it is news. I understand this is a topic that some wish to make believe doesn't exist but it does, unfortunately Muslims are in the news daily, this is what is happening in our world right now so it is going to get a lot of face time. But I do understand what you are saying but like I said up until Israel and the Hamas thing yes I posted about what the Muslims where doing but I did so on one of those two threads.

You're right, it did work and it should work more. And you're also right, Palestine is a different topic than Islam. But remember if you want to be known as more than just IHateMuzzys.com then people should see different topics at the top.

[jimnyc]

I give you permission to start small. :poke: The Palestinian conflict is of course worthy of its own thread and your examples of major news are really only a small part of the same topic IMO. A ceasefire failure and missile hitting a school seemingly happen daily. But overall what do you want? Discuss policy or become NewsTalk660 on your Righty Dial? FWIW I think we used to discuss policy but now it's just post a link, and not even necessarily news, about anything that validates your POV and flame anyone who doesn't agree or dares dig deeper (I have examples :hide:).

I believe a ceasefire and a school getting hit is huge news. News of a school getting hit was HUGE news and only happened once. The ceasefires were also huge, and broken, and only happened 3-4 times. Are they part of a larger topic? Yes, they are. But sometimes many on the board will respond to "new" news but won't bother once a thread reaches more pages than they care to wade through. I can see a valid point with both sides. I think this is where staff comes in, and we try our best to keep such topics clean when necessary.

What "I" want is for the community to discuss what they see fit. This can be Muslim topics, election topics, current events, and even just funny crap. I would rather not push any members in a certain direction. And no, I don't want Rush Limbaugh part 2 either. Let's face it, the righty news is a result of the board being mostly righties. I believe we can even things out a bit with more membership, a more even membership.

I also agree about dropping a link only and bailing. Generally, I try to add my opinion when posting an article. And of course then I return to my own threads and reply to those who replied. Personally, I look for those who try to INvalidate my point of view. I would rather argue than back slap, but we know it doesn't always work out that way. But with the animosity that comes through here, it's safe to say we all aren't always doing that.

NOT pointing at you - BUT - we have had several members state similar, about threads and their topics and such - and I always add the same - why don't such users start posting more threads about things that DO interest them then? For example, I'm not a huge fan of religion, so I rarely participate in religious talk. But I try to start threads about wars, politics, animals and other fun stuff - because this is what interests ME.

As for people flaming those who disagree, we will see this on EVERY message board out there. Here though, it's a bit more pronounced, as it's a smaller board with the majority being of one affiliation. Of course then it's "piling on" when someone of the minority pipes up with an unpopular opinion. My goal would be to try and even out the affiliations. I will always of course side with "freedom of speech" and let people speak their minds - but I do hope that others will dial back the animosity and not scare away members.

[fj1200]

^You ask for ideas but it ultimately comes down to you. What do you want.

And I've never been much of a thread starter. :hide:

Oh, and please add the :hide: emoticon. The one where he ducks behind the couch. :whistling2:

[jimnyc]

See! That's exactly what this site needs for more traffic!

Actually, I'm impressed so far. No one has told me that my children will die a slow and painful death because I don't homeschool them and no one has given me negative rep because they can and know I can't hit back. You've got a good thing going here. I like it.

Give it time! :coffee:

We can get a bit ornery at times over politics, but those who take the time to hit the lounge and get to know the "community", generally end up as part of our little family. And if anyone ever abuses you via rep system or similar, shoot me a message, we won't tolerate it.


I don't think that will be a problem here. I love the family sub forum here. It reminds me that even though we have our differences, we all love our children and our families and are just trying to do right by them. Am I totally derailing this thread? I hope not. I'm just pointing out the good things I've seen. Oh but I will tell you that my search for this place was not so easy. I think it was in page three of a google search for "political debate forums"....that might be part of the problem?

The site as a whole can certainly use some SEO. Maybe I'll peek around at some services out there, but it's difficult to know who to trust, and it's not cheap! Here are some terms I would like to rank for:

political debate forums
political forums
political message board
conservative forums
liberal forums
political discussion
political debate

Others can add what they think might be something they would search for, and of course I'll keep it in mind when looking around. I can't put ALL search terms out there, but I might be able to do better with a few. Just look up "search engine optimization" and see some of the costs!

[jimnyc]

^You ask for ideas but it ultimately comes down to you. What do you want.

And I've never been much of a thread starter. :hide:

Oh, and please add the :hide: emoticon. The one where he ducks behind the couch. :please:

Don't say that!!! I'm just the bill payer around here, I hate the responsibility. I like to think of this place as literally a community (old folks home!) and allow the community to decide what it wants. Don't worry, no patients running the asylum. :)

I started this years ago to give a place to discuss 9/11 and the war in Iraq. Then it grew and people wanted to discuss other subjects.

What do "I" want? Of course to have a place where I can post what interests me, and a place to debate those subjects with people who disagree. I don't want to complicate with specific goals, as I believe the place evolves as the community grows/changes.

Oh - and do you have a smilie in mind? Post in this or another thread and I'll gladly add it for you!!

[fj1200]

What do "I" want? Of course to have a place where I can post what interests me, and a place to debate those subjects with people who disagree. I don't want to complicate with specific goals, as I believe the place evolves as the community grows/changes.

Then that's what you want. :) And you largely have it with the exception of those who disagree.

http://www.animateit.net/data/media/august2009/th_hiding.gif

;)

[jimnyc]

Then that's what you want. :) And you largely have it with the exception of those who disagree.

http://www.animateit.net/data/media/august2009/th_hiding.gif

;)

I forgot to add that I WANT more members who are decent... I want a more even membership....

[fj1200]

I forgot to add that I WANT more members who are decent... I want a more even membership....

Then you need to come up with a strategy to achieve that goal as well as evaluate the talent available to you who can help carry out your strategy.

[jimnyc]

Then you need to come up with a strategy to achieve that goal as well as evaluate the talent available to you who can help carry out your strategy.

A strategy? I'm a computer guy. I can fix what ails the site on the server and install stuff, maybe even fix the physical server if I were there. But now you're pushing things. :poke:

[tailfins]

I forgot to add that I WANT more members who are decent... I want a more even membership....

Think of how you build your Linked In network or build membership in a user group. The principle is the same: network, network, network. Also, bring in experts on topics that will draw an audience. The experts won't come if you don't ask. Also, your concept of even is two dimensional. For example if someone shows me how to better detect counterfeit coins, drive offroad without tipping over or how to avoid getting ripped off, I don't care what their politics are.

[fj1200]

A strategy? I'm a computer guy. I can fix what ails the site on the server and install stuff, maybe even fix the physical server if I were there. But now you're pushing things. :poke:

I thought that was my job around here. :eek:

[hjmick]

Well, so far "Naked Thursday" hasn't gone so well... My boss told me to go home and come back tomorrow, wearing clothes...

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

Well, so far "Naked Thursday" hasn't gone so well... My boss told me to go home and come back tomorrow, wearing clothes...
See? If you were a liberal like me, you wouldn't have to have a job. You could post naked from your parents basement, eating cheetos and smoking a bong and no one would care.

[jimnyc]

See? If you were a liberal like me, you wouldn't have to have a job. You could post naked from your parents basement, eating cheetos and smoking a bong and no one would care.

Wait a minute, I'm a liberal? :420::wine::chillpill:

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

Wait a minute, I'm a liberal? :420::wine::chillpill:
I wonder if all the people who thanked me knew I was joking and not confessing!

[SassyLady]

:hubba::nudie::hubba:

OK it's Thursday I started :laugh:

Man, I missed the whole thing ... came in after midnight. Well, I'm going to pretend I'm in Alaska with NT and still have time to participate!

:mooning::joy4:


This is what I thought would be waiting for me Thursday!! Any of you guys want to claim this was you running through here today?


http://www.debatepolicy.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6272&stc=1

[SassyLady]

I wonder if all the people who thanked me knew I was joking and not confessing!

I thought you sounded proud and I thought to myself ..... hopefully someone who can debate a subject without personal attacks .... well, get to it Lemon. Waiting to see how you handle yourself.

What are you the most passionate about in your life?

[jimnyc]

People, hurry up and post and make this page as LONG as possible. I just opened this page, scrolled down 3 inches and saw man ass!!

[Jeff]

Man, I missed the whole thing ... came in after midnight. Well, I'm going to pretend I'm in Alaska with NT and still have time to participate!

:mooning::joy4:


This is what I thought would be waiting for me Thursday!! Any of you guys want to claim this was you running through here today?


http://www.debatepolicy.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6272&stc=1

How in the hell did my picture get on the net ???? :laugh:

Actually the guy looks a bit funny to me with that hairless ass :laugh: I think he may be playing for the other team :laugh:

[hjmick]

People, hurry up and post and make this page as LONG as possible. I just opened this page, scrolled down 3 inches and saw man ass!!



So let it be written, so let it be done...







Except that damn Jeff... Quoting the damn post...

[jimnyc]

So let it be written, so let it be done...







Except that damn Jeff... Quoting the damn post...

Yup, gotta make it longer, now we have TWO man asses on this page!! I'll come back when this reaches the next page. :poke:

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

Man, I missed the whole thing ... came in after midnight. Well, I'm going to pretend I'm in Alaska with NT and still have time to participate!

:mooning::joy4:


This is what I thought would be waiting for me Thursday!! Any of you guys want to claim this was you running through here today?


http://www.debatepolicy.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6272&stc=1
Imagine my disappointment when I realized that that is NOT Norman Reedus :(

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

Yup, gotta make it longer, now we have TWO man asses on this page!! I'll come back when this reaches the next page. :poke:
Three.

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

I thought you sounded proud and I thought to myself ..... hopefully someone who can debate a subject without personal attacks .... well, get to it Lemon. Waiting to see how you handle yourself.

What are you the most passionate about in your life?

My family. Most definitely. Oh and I have a secret....come closer....a little closer...I'm a dance mom.

[hjmick]

Damn it...

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

Damn it...
Wut?

[NightTrain]

There is entirely way too much man-ass in this thread. I call shenanigans.

Jeff, you're responsible for one man-ass. That'll cost you 14 man points.



...and now back to our regularly scheduled programming.

http://www.debatepolicy.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6273&stc=1

[Jeff]

I wonder if all the people who thanked me knew I was joking and not confessing!

Dam, I was starting to like you :laugh:

[Jeff]

There is entirely way too much man-ass in this thread. I call shenanigans.

Jeff, you're responsible for one man-ass. That'll cost you 14 man points.



...and now back to our regularly scheduled programming.

http://www.debatepolicy.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6273&stc=1

I think everyone can agree, She is worth the repost !!!

[Kathianne]

I think everyone can agree, She is worth the repost !!!

No, we don't agree! :death:

[Drummond]

No, we don't agree! :death:

Here's my vote ..... :cool:

http://www.debatepolicy.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6274&stc=1

[gabosaurus]

Liberals will not stay on this board as long as dissenting views are greeted by gang attacks from those who are convinced that they are never wrong. There are certain DP members whose arguing skills consist largely of insults and personal attacks.
Look at how everyone responds to posts by Jafar. I have seen posters on other boards who would make Jafar look like Sean Hannity.
This board will be 96 percent conservative until tolerance is practiced and enforced.

[Kathianne]

Liberals will not stay on this board as long as dissenting views are greeted by gang attacks from those who are convinced that they are never wrong. There are certain DP members whose arguing skills consist largely of insults and personal attacks.
Look at how everyone responds to posts by Jafar. I have seen posters on other boards who would make Jafar look like Sean Hannity.
This board will be 96 percent conservative until tolerance is practiced and enforced.

Jafar is not a good example. Did you take a look at my interview? Check out my recommendations, then comment.

[gabosaurus]

Jafar is not a good example. Did you take a look at my interview? Check out my recommendations, then comment.

Can't say I disagree with you. I've never agreed with your political and social points of views, but remain impressed by your ability to express yourself succinctly and without negativity.
I am totally aware of my flaws and have been working to correct them. Though I shall always remain a flaming liberal.

[Kathianne]

Can't say I disagree with you. I've never agreed with your political and social points of views, but remain impressed by your ability to express yourself succinctly and without negativity.
I am totally aware of my flaws and have been working to correct them. Though I shall always remain a flaming liberal.




Gabby, I'm glad you're a flaming liberal, though neither as much as you claim. ;)

Seriously, I wish you'd read what I asked you to, my guess is you would agree. It's number 19 if you don't want to read all the answers.

Truly I hope both liberals and others read my response to Tyr's question here.

[Lemongrass Gogulope]

Liberals will not stay on this board as long as dissenting views are greeted by gang attacks from those who are convinced that they are never wrong. There are certain DP members whose arguing skills consist largely of insults and personal attacks.
Look at how everyone responds to posts by Jafar. I have seen posters on other boards who would make Jafar look like Sean Hannity.
This board will be 96 percent conservative until tolerance is practiced and enforced.

Ignore personal attacks or hit back and only try to engage in serious discussion with those who want to have a civil conversation. The best you can ever hope for is that an open minded person will say to themselves, "i do t agree with this person, but I see where they are coming from. And for gawds sake, don't treAt politics like a sport, supporting your team at any cost. Both sides do shitty things. Have the balls to acknowledge that. That's my advice and it's worth exactly what you paid for it.

[Kathianne]

Ignore personal attacks or hit back and only try to engage in serious discussion with those who want to have a civil conversation. The best you can ever hope for is that an open minded person will say to themselves, "i do t agree with this person, but I see where they are coming from. And for gawds sake, don't treAt politics like a sport, supporting your team at any cost. Both sides do shitty things. Have the balls to acknowledge that. That's my advice and it's worth exactly what you paid for it.

Gabby has been more or less the lone voice of the left for years. She will acknowledge that she really isn't up-to-speed on current events. Like it's not tough enough to be a lone voice, she also can't argue that side.

However, some of us have repeatedly slapped those on the right, *cough, cough* *ijits* that personally attack her as a female, wife, mother.

I think she's an education staff member I'd love to work with and a mother I'd be friends with. I think she's a great person, at least from online persona.

[Drummond]

Liberals will not stay on this board as long as dissenting views are greeted by gang attacks from those who are convinced that they are never wrong. There are certain DP members whose arguing skills consist largely of insults and personal attacks.
Look at how everyone responds to posts by Jafar. I have seen posters on other boards who would make Jafar look like Sean Hannity.
This board will be 96 percent conservative until tolerance is practiced and enforced.


I don't see the difficulty.

Liberals, IF they believe in what they say they believe in and think that arguing for it is a worthwhile exercise, have no reason at all not to use this forum for the purpose. If a liberal encounters a reaction (or a quantity of them) which s/he believes to be unworthy of the level of discussion being attempted, then that can be pointed out, maybe used as an illustration to suggest the inferiority of the nature of the opposition ranged against them.

That, at least, is true in theory. The practice, however, is somewhat different.

Conservative philosophy is superior. It is grounded in reality, whereas liberalism is idealistic and reliant upon the far less stable grounding of propaganda. No matter how much a liberal might yearn for one preferred status quo ... if realities argue against its realisation, then that, of itself, guarantees the superior scenario of liberalism's defeat.

I've seen it time and again in discussions. A liberal advances a point of view. It is tested. Said liberal sticks to his or her guns for a while, but because fact and reality undermines that point of view and its viability, so the discussion parameters change. The liberal cries foul for one or more contrived reason(s). Skews the terms of the discussion to become a diversion from the weakness of that liberal's position. Resorts to trickery. Denigration. Whatever it takes to undermine the opponent, if not through force of argument, then through force of tactical skewing.

Propaganda does not, and cannot, allow for any bending away from it. If a propagandist honestly gives way, concedes points, then the whole edifice crumbles like a house of cards. So, it doesn't happen. Instead, the tactical stuff kicks in by way of distraction.

So, Gabby, you talk of 'gang attacks'. What you do not talk of is what might have goaded those into their expressiveness in the first place. Nor do you concede that those being countered might've proven previously that THEY don't have an interest in playing fair.

You mention Jafar. Jafar is an individual who's worked hard to sanitise his beloved Islam, and to distance what he says is 'true' Islam from terrorism. And then ... what did we find ? That, when tested, his arguments were wholly anti-Israeli ... with NO opposition offered against Hamas's terrorism WHATEVER.

Jafar is a very civil poster. Polite, well mannered, and yet ... very deceptive. It is no less than reasonable for people to react against (... IF actually the case ..) being duped, Gabby. If Jafar had argued HONESTLY, then he would have earned recognition of that honesty, even if the view itself would've been reprehensible in the extreme.

In short .. Jafar deserves what he's had from this forum. He painted himself as being anti-terrorism and pro-peace. When tested by events, he argued their (Hamas's) case for them, and combined that with relentless demonisations against Israel !!!!!

You argue, Gabby, for greater tolerance. Sounds fine in theory. In practice, though, well, what would you have us tolerate ?? Terrorist supporters who claim to NOT be what they ARE, don't exactly inspire respect !!!!

I suggest to you that posters here are human beings with their own sense of decency. For them to react and behave in accordance with their own code of decency is no less than reasonable and justified.

[Said1]

Wanted to discuss a few things and hopefully get some ideas we can all bounce around.

I'm going to try a few different things and try to get some readers/guests coming our way. I can't promise anyone of them will convert to members though. That's where the entire board comes in. If we have new members signup, and they happen to be liberals, democrats or anyone that should happen to have a different viewpoint than any of us here - let's please all try our best to have a different approach. In the past year or so, new members have been being attacked. Some for simply having an opinion. And yes, some come in and have an attitude. Let's show them how it's done. I know that every single member here is quite intelligent and capable of offering good debates and discussions.

Like I said years and years ago, we all know an occasional outburst will happen, and I don't have an issue with that. But lets not have new members see that part of us as their first response. Many of them very well may turn out to be good members if we don't scare them away. This board is obviously not growing as we would like. I think that's part of the reason, and I'll take the blame for the rest. All I'm asking is that we try.

In addition to that, I'm looking for new and different ideas, things that will set us aside from the rest. Like a friend recently told me, most of these boards today are clones of one another. Really the only difference is the political affiliation of members, and of course the numbers. But at the end of the day, they're all similar.

I would like to find an idea, a gimmick, a change to the board that will make us different than the rest. Not really a gimmick, because I would like for it to be a good idea that makes this a better site, for new members and for all of us. I'm willing to finance and implement, but I'm coming up empty with ideas. I thought the "one on one debates" was a good idea way back when, and outside of a couple of good debates, that idea went south. There's got to be some ideas that more people will utilize.


Well, sex always sells......supposedly. Sex and murder always get my attention......and prank phone calls. :D

[Drummond]

Well, sex always sells......supposedly. Sex and murder always get my attention......and prank phone calls. :D

.... er'm .....

[Said1]

.... er'm .....

Imma not picking up what ur putting down. Yo.

[Drummond]

Imma not picking up what ur putting down. Yo.

?????????????????????????

[Said1]

:bunny4::bunny4::bunny4::bunny4:

[Drummond]

:bunny4::bunny4::bunny4::bunny4:

:laugh::laugh::laugh::laugh::laugh:

Well, now, that was a productive discussion ... :rolleyes:

[Said1]

Just tossing ideas back and fourth. :laugh2:

I think think the bunnies will bring sexy back.

[gabosaurus]

Conservative philosophy is superior. It is grounded in reality, whereas liberalism is idealistic and reliant upon the far less stable grounding of propaganda. No matter how much a liberal might yearn for one preferred status quo ... if realities argue against its realisation, then that, of itself, guarantees the superior scenario of liberalism's defeat.


This is exactly what I am referring to. The point of view that says your views and opinions are always right and not open to discussion. It is far to idealistic to be reasonable or acceptable.

Kathianne, I read your entire interview, including #19. Like I said before, I more than agree with you. However, my defense of academia will always stand. I worked for everything that I accomplished. Education in this country is deeply flawed, but no more so than our government and military.

[Drummond]

Just tossing ideas back and fourth. :laugh2:

I think think the bunnies will bring sexy back.

Well, if you say so.

I took a quick look at your profile, by the way. Under 'Occupation', you give yourself the description of 'Whip Mistress'.

I'm not altogether sure I dare ask about that ... ?

[Said1]

Well, if you say so.

I took a quick look at your profile, by the way. Under 'Occupation', you give yourself the description of 'Whip Mistress'.

I'm not altogether sure I dare ask about that ... ?

That was 7 years ago..... ....:laugh:

[gabosaurus]

That was 7 years ago..... ....:laugh:

So, what is Anthony Weiner doing these days? :rolleyes:

[Said1]

This is exactly what I am referring to. The point of view that says your views and opinions are always right and not open to discussion. It is far to idealistic to be reasonable or acceptable.




But how could you even take that kind of response seriously?

[Said1]

So, what is Anthony Weiner doing these days? :rolleyes:





He said to say hey and can't wait to see his favourite girl when he's In your neck if the woods. :)

[gabosaurus]

No thanks. I will stick with the weiner I already have. :p

[Drummond]

This is exactly what I am referring to. The point of view that says your views and opinions are always right and not open to discussion. It is far to idealistic to be reasonable or acceptable.

Not a bit of it, Gabby. I've nothing whatever against a great variety of views and opinions being aired, discussed, tested, to the point of exhaustion. You could not be more wrong in claiming that I would ever think they're not open to discussion.

I encourage those discussions. Because I also encourage the proof emerging of what opinion truly deserves the greatest respect and justification.

That it happens to be that Conservatism is superior, and can be proved to be, is just the way it is. I, for one, have spent decades in debates ... and always found my opinions endure and stand up to whatever debating tests are ranged against them. That would not be true if I was in the wrong.

Any liberal out there who thinks he or she can win out, I say: bring it on. Go for it. Give it your best.

[Drummond]

But how could you even take that kind of response seriously?

Well, quite.

Just as well, then, that this is NOT my position.

[Drummond]

That was 7 years ago..... ....:laugh:

So, what description applies today ?

[SassyLady]

How in the hell did my picture get on the net ???? :laugh:

Actually the guy looks a bit funny to me with that hairless ass :laugh: I think he may be playing for the other team :laugh:

He can play on my team anytime!!!!

[SassyLady]

People, hurry up and post and make this page as LONG as possible. I just opened this page, scrolled down 3 inches and saw man ass!!


Hey, it's Mick and your brother's fault...he got naked after Mick suggested it. I just wanted to move things along and add more to the "naked Thursday theme"!

[hjmick]

So, what is Anthony Weiner doing these days? :rolleyes:






Opening a restaurant...

[gabosaurus]

Forget you guys. Let's talk about a REAL man's man -- Cristiano Ronaldo. Often referred to as the "fittest athlete on the planet."
Because we ladies need our eye candy. Because we won't find it in the member's picture section. :p

http://healthyceleb.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Cristiano-Ronaldo-Workout.jpg

[Perianne]

Forget you guys. Let's talk about a REAL man's man -- Cristiano Ronaldo. Often referred to as the "fittest athlete on the planet."
Because we ladies need our eye candy. Because we won't find it in the member's picture section. :p



That was tacky.

I would rather have an average Joe than some pretty boy who thinks he's all that.

[aboutime]

That was tacky.

I would rather have an average Joe than some pretty boy who thinks he's all that.



Perianne. Based on how our society is being challenged more, and more every day by the Gay, and Lesbian groups who seem to always demand endless attention to their SO-CALLED PLIGHT. Most of us know those "PRETTY-BOYS" today, are admired by women who claim to be so special...while they feel confident, and under no threat from PRETTY BOYS who like other PRETTY BOYS more than the women who claim to be so special, and members of "NOW".
Men in general feel no threats like gabby would like us to feel. Her choice seems to be cheapened, and is a means of settling for less.

Gabby probably gets her kicks from characters like this: http://icansayit.com/images/weinerdoggy.gif

[SassyLady]

Forget you guys. Let's talk about a REAL man's man -- Cristiano Ronaldo. Often referred to as the "fittest athlete on the planet."
Because we ladies need our eye candy. Because we won't find it in the member's picture section. :p



Beg to differ about fittest athlete .... obviously you've never watched a Cross Fit competition. Rich Froning just won his fourth title as "Fittest Man on Earth" and just before he won it, signed with Reebok to do this ...

http://www.debatepolicy.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6275&stc=1

http://www.debatepolicy.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6276&stc=1

http://www.debatepolicy.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6277&stc=1



Rich Froning Jr. (born July 21, 1987) is an American (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States) professional CrossFit (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CrossFit) athlete known for his achievements in the 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 CrossFit Games. He became the first person to win the title of "Fittest Man on Earth" four times with his first place in the 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 CrossFit Games.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rich_Froning_Jr.

[Abbey Marie]

I know that I am in the minority, but I have never been gaga for six packs (well, except maybe Heineken), and highly-developed muscles. I like some definition in the arms, but other than that, the things I find attractive cannot be gained at the gym.

When done right, I DO like me some long hair, though. :cool:

[Said1]

Wanted to discuss a few things and hopefully get some ideas we can all bounce around.

I'm going to try a few different things and try to get some readers/guests coming our way. I can't promise anyone of them will convert to members though. That's where the entire board comes in. If we have new members signup, and they happen to be liberals, democrats or anyone that should happen to have a different viewpoint than any of us here - let's please all try our best to have a different approach. In the past year or so, new members have been being attacked. Some for simply having an opinion. And yes, some come in and have an attitude. Let's show them how it's done. I know that every single member here is quite intelligent and capable of offering good debates and discussions.

Like I said years and years ago, we all know an occasional outburst will happen, and I don't have an issue with that. But lets not have new members see that part of us as their first response. Many of them very well may turn out to be good members if we don't scare them away. This board is obviously not growing as we would like. I think that's part of the reason, and I'll take the blame for the rest. All I'm asking is that we try.

In addition to that, I'm looking for new and different ideas, things that will set us aside from the rest. Like a friend recently told me, most of these boards today are clones of one another. Really the only difference is the political affiliation of members, and of course the numbers. But at the end of the day, they're all similar.

I would like to find an idea, a gimmick, a change to the board that will make us different than the rest. Not really a gimmick, because I would like for it to be a good idea that makes this a better site, for new members and for all of us. I'm willing to finance and implement, but I'm coming up empty with ideas. I thought the "one on one debates" was a good idea way back when, and outside of a couple of good debates, that idea went south. There's got to be some ideas that more people will utilize.

I would like to make one comment, which I think is fairly objective. For myself, there are a number of things that attract me to any type of message board, but at first, it largely has to do with the lay out and aesthetics - meaning that you often get an idead, or knee jerk type of reaction based on the theme or graphics on the main page. Sometimes I'm wrong, sometimes not and sometimes I don't bother. I don't think I'm the only one who does that either. Anyway, in all honesty, (and I really don't care who disagrees, and I totally understand the choice and what it represents) I think the banner should be updated a bit, it's not super friendly and I think it completely misrepreresents the posters in that it looks rather exclusive when that is not the case.

[Abbey Marie]

I would like to make one comment, which I think is fairly objective. For myself, there are a number of things that attract me to any type of message board, but at first, it largely has to do with the lay out and aesthetics - meaning that you often get an idead, or knee jerk type of reaction based on the theme or graphics on the main page. Sometimes I'm wrong, sometimes not and sometimes I don't bother. I don't think I'm the only one who does that either. Anyway, in all honesty, (and I really don't care who disagrees, and I totally understand the choice and what it represents) I think the banner should be updated a bit, it's not super friendly and I think it completely misrepreresents the posters in that it looks rather exclusive when that is not the case.

Agree or disagree with your opinion on the banner, you raise a good point about the impact of the banner itself, to someone looking around.

[Gunny]

Forget you guys. Let's talk about a REAL man's man -- Cristiano Ronaldo. Often referred to as the "fittest athlete on the planet."
Because we ladies need our eye candy. Because we won't find it in the member's picture section. :p

http://healthyceleb.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Cristiano-Ronaldo-Workout.jpg


Might want t get your BF to wok on those abs. Kind of slacking,

[Tyr-Ziu Saxnot]

Guys are not in bad shape. My older brother was in that shape but is now 63 and could take any pictured in a fight. He still has almost all his God given Herculean strength. I have never met a man of any size as strong as he is and as tough.
As too looks , way overrated , in that if for more than a one night sex go round they mean not that much in the long run unless they are hideous.
Average guy or girl with great honor/integrity and fidelity rates far better for having a relationship with. Even more so when that person understands to get true love and fidelity one must first give it..
And give it to a like minded person. I once chased, caught and had the misfortune of enduring life with many beautiful women. If it is only skin deep it will bite the living hell out of ya in the long run..
60 years and didn't understand that until after 30+ years(great mistake) of going for Playboy type gals. Live and learn...-Tyr

[Tyr-Ziu Saxnot]

Might want t get your BF to wok on those abs. Kind of slacking,

Right on .
My brother had better abs and didn't even work on his other than doing set ups . He went for pure and massive strength instead.
Five foot eleven , 185 pounds of muscle in his twenties, hard as a rock and stronger than any two average men combined. If only I would have had that strength I'd killed people with my rage at a young age. Could be why he got it from my dad /grandfather and I did not.. Still he hates that I can so greatly outshoot and outthink him. lol --Tyr

[jimnyc]

I would like to make one comment, which I think is fairly objective. For myself, there are a number of things that attract me to any type of message board, but at first, it largely has to do with the lay out and aesthetics - meaning that you often get an idead, or knee jerk type of reaction based on the theme or graphics on the main page. Sometimes I'm wrong, sometimes not and sometimes I don't bother. I don't think I'm the only one who does that either. Anyway, in all honesty, (and I really don't care who disagrees, and I totally understand the choice and what it represents) I think the banner should be updated a bit, it's not super friendly and I think it completely misrepreresents the posters in that it looks rather exclusive when that is not the case.

I agree with you to an extent, and think sometimes a little change can be good. Unfortunately, it's a little harder than that. The header at the top isn't just a banner, it's part of a "theme". So even if the various pictures were changed at the top, the color scheme would remain, as would all the smaller images throughout the board (buttons/icons). A new theme would really be the only thing that would "fix" the desire for a new look.

This is a custom theme made just for us. When I had it made, I told the guy to make it "red, white & blue based, perhaps with an eagle and a few soldiers, to give it a patriotic look" - hence what we have now.

I said "unfortunate" because it's not cheap! I'm still open to it though, but that's why you don't see me tossing around new themes.

Now, if and when we could change it up, what would everyone think is good for this board? What would be more inclusive?

[Said1]

I agree with you to an extent, and think sometimes a little change can be good. Unfortunately, it's a little harder than that. The header at the top isn't just a banner, it's part of a "theme". So even if the various pictures were changed at the top, the color scheme would remain, as would all the smaller images throughout the board (buttons/icons). A new theme would really be the only thing that would "fix" the desire for a new look.

This is a custom theme made just for us. When I had it made, I told the guy to make it "red, white & blue based, perhaps with an eagle and a few soldiers, to give it a patriotic look" - hence what we have now.

I said "unfortunate" because it's not cheap! I'm still open to it though, but that's why you don't see me tossing around new themes.

Now, if and when we could change it up, what would everyone think is good for this board? What would be more inclusive?


I totally appreciate that it's much easier said then done, and it really isn't something I had thought about until today, for some reason. Anyho, just thought I'd throw that out there.

[SassyLady]

I would like to make one comment, which I think is fairly objective. For myself, there are a number of things that attract me to any type of message board, but at first, it largely has to do with the lay out and aesthetics - meaning that you often get an idead, or knee jerk type of reaction based on the theme or graphics on the main page. Sometimes I'm wrong, sometimes not and sometimes I don't bother. I don't think I'm the only one who does that either. Anyway, in all honesty, (and I really don't care who disagrees, and I totally understand the choice and what it represents) I think the banner should be updated a bit, it's not super friendly and I think it completely misrepreresents the posters in that it looks rather exclusive when that is not the case.


I guess my question would be what makes it "not super friendly"? Also, how does it not represent the posters here?

I'm just wondering what assumptions are made when one first sees the banner.

[Jeff]

I guess my question would be what makes it "not super friendly"? Also, how does it not represent the posters here?

I'm just wondering what assumptions are made when one first sees the banner.

It should have Scooters going across it with a picture of the Harley emblem on either side :thumb: now that would show super friendly !!!!