Are PM's like this really necessary?

[8Painting]

Today I had noticed I had a PM in my folder.

Heres what it read.

I'm removing the name of the person to avoid any more personal conflict.
The situation that was the reason behind the PM is in regards to a previous thread that had been closed due to a blatant violation of the rules, before the thread was locked, I had bluntly told him, "moron, read the rules"


Heres what his pm to me read:

"If you are the paragon of intelligence on the gearpage, how come you have not financially supported it?

Be happy to insult people in a blind forum. You are the worst kinda of person - one who takes & never gives back. With 1700 posts you'd think you would have though that through by now.

Don't worry about replying, you are on my blocked list."

I'm not trying to rationalize my situation by any means, I know that in my initial retort to him, probably wasn't as gentle as it could have been, but what is people's giant hang up on people choosing, or not choosing to be a supporting member here? "You are the worst kinda of person - one who takes & never gives back." -This is coming from a grown man over whether I choose not to financially support this website? There are truly greater tragedies on this planet, and not supporting this place is not one of them.

People, don't get all riled up whether some people can afford, or not afford to pay for this website, get a life, and find something else more worthwhile to whine about.

[pickaguitar]

Wow...that's a silly pm. Why someone would take the time to write and send it is weird imo

[Blindspot]

Sorry I can't respond to you - I only speak with Supporting Members....:p

[dkaplowitz]

I've gotten a few like that in my time here, but none about being a supporting member or not. I used to get ones all the time from this one guy. He would periodically show up in threads I post in to bait me into breaking the rules by telling the truth about what I thought of him. But he's been quiet for a while. I generally ignore these PMs, since any type of reply only spawns more replies of the same gibberish.

[Jahn]

I got that once too - for some reason folks who are mad at you sometimes bring up the moral high ground on any argument due to their more expensive membership status on TGP. Personally, I think that reeks of elitism and is actually a count against them if they use that as an angle. Just because you donate more doesn't mean you get arsehole privileges. "You don't have the right to talk back, you don't even support this place!" Yeah, like they are really making this place smell like roses just by throwing some bills at it, then taking a dump on it.

[MuseCafeChris]

The fact that a guy like sinasl1 has yet to become a "supporting" member tells me all I need to know about whether valuable contributions are limited to those of the monetary variety.

[rob2001]

Angry people do irrational things...your fault or not, he musta been pissed!

[MudPies]

haha. Aren't unsolicited PMs to bitch at you funny.

[Blindspot]

How can you tell if someone is a Supporting Member anyway?

[Zelmo]

If you separate the two issues:

i) 'You are the worst kind of person', and
ii) 'You never give back [to TGP]',

I'd say that one response was clearly uneccessary, and the other - while not relevant to the discussion - does have some merit.

[strat6866]

When you attack people, and he was verbally attacked by being called a moron, they get defensive and fight back any way they can. This is apparantly all he had on you to fight back with.
Forget it and move on.

[TNJ]

Some folks are wired a little tighter.

S.
j

[MudPies]

The bummer of this thread is the douchbag who messaged you won't be able to read it if you're actually in his iggy list.

F anyone who judges other members by their current member status.

[MuseCafeChris]

the other - while not relevant to the discussion - does have some merit.

How so?

[8Painting]

When you attack people, and he was verbally attacked by being called a moron, they get defensive and fight back any way they can. This is apparantly all he had on you to fight back with.
Forget it and move on.


I know, but the fact he irrationally blocked me gave me no chance to give him the due apology.

People need to just chill sometimes before they write stupid things, even I am guilty of this....

[Blanket Jackson]

Like my dad used to say, "Save it for the game". There is really too much valid stuff to get torqued off about in the world to let this bother you.

[Dr. Tweedbucket]

Hate to say it, but I think somewhere in the rules you are not allowed to disclose personal PM messages to the public forum ..... :dunno ya might want to double check on that. :huh

[jimfog]

"Moron"?

You reap what you sow, I guess.

....and yes, if you're gonna use this place, have the decency to contribute.

[jackevorkian]

it's only $12.

[8Painting]

Hate to say it, but I think somewhere in the rules you are not allowed to disclose personal PM messages to the public forum ..... :dunno ya might want to double check on that. :huh

Thanks!, hahaha, I'll check!

[rob2001]

People need to just chill sometimes before they write stupid things, even I am guilty of this....

TGP needs an "are you sure" button!!! I don't get in heated debates often but when I do, I have my own "are you sure" button. Half the time I just say screw it!

[8Painting]

"9. We do not allow you to post private communications by anyone else (emails or Private Messages), or to post details about another person such as their phone number, email address, personal address, life outside of TGP, etc."


I don't know if this truly applies since I made the conversation anonymous.

If the Mods wanna take it down I understand, it's their prerogative, no biggie.

[MudPies]

"Moron"?

You reap what you sow, I guess.

....and yes, if you're gonna use this place, have the decency to contribute.

I don't think anyone should be obligated to "donate". I contributed at one time. Currently I am not selling anything or needing to post WTB emporium posts. Maybe I'll pay again somewhere downt the road but there is no obligation to do so.

Just my opinion, but it just seems elitist.

[Madison]

...I had bluntly told him, "moron, read the rules"


And you're perplexed as to why he sent you a negative PM?:huh

[Dr. Tweedbucket]

"9. We do not allow you to post private communications by anyone else (emails or Private Messages), or to post details about another person such as their phone number, email address, personal address, life outside of TGP, etc."


I don't know if this truly applies since I made the conversation anonymous.

If the Mods wanna take it down I understand, it's their prerogative, no biggie.


Yeah, hard to tell, just didn't want anyone to get busted. :YinYang

[MuseCafeChris]

....and yes, if you're gonna use this place, have the decency to contribute.

Yeah, let's shoo away sinasl1 for not "contributing" .... he only plays with the likes of Chris Cornell and stuff.

[prsflame]

I don't think anyone should be obligated to "donate". I contributed at one time. Currently I am not selling anything or needing to post WTB emporium posts. Maybe I'll pay again somewhere downt the road but there is no obligation to do so.

Just my opinion, but it just seems elitist.

Totally agree. I've contributed in the past for many years, but I'm not able to do so at this time. I would never shame or pass judgement on someone who is not donating $$, as everyone's circumstances are different. To the OP, I agree that the PM was uncalled for.

[8Painting]

And you're perplexed as to why he sent you a negative PM?:huh

Not so much negative, just negative in the wrong direction, he just got way off topic.

[Jon Silberman]

Two things.

#1 It is dead wrong - unforgivable - to PM someone out of the blue to hit them up for money for the forum or mock them for not contributing. This is indefensible and the OP has a right to be pissed.

#2 If you use this place and are not financially strapped, a contribution is nice but, again, hardly required.

The people who don't support this place financially (while you and I do) may well be supporting other free public services like, e.g., National Public Radio (that I listen to occasionally but don't support financially). Do you know what they contribute to their church, the local shelter, the Salvation Army, etc.? No, you do not. It is thus ignorant (if not arrogant) to "should" on others regarding their decisions as to level of forum participation and support.

[Zelmo]

How so?
I don't think it's out of whack to suggest that making a contribution to a forum that you've been a long involved with is worthwhile. Linking that to some nastygram is completely out of bounds, IMO.

[seajay]

Today I had noticed I had a PM in my folder.

Heres what it read.

I'm removing the name of the person to avoid any more personal conflict.
The situation that was the reason behind the PM is in regards to a previous thread that had been closed due to a blatant violation of the rules, before the thread was locked, I had bluntly told him, "moron, read the rules"


Heres what his pm to me read:

"If you are the paragon of intelligence on the gearpage, how come you have not financially supported it?

Be happy to insult people in a blind forum. You are the worst kinda of person - one who takes & never gives back. With 1700 posts you'd think you would have though that through by now.

Don't worry about replying, you are on my blocked list."

I'm not trying to rationalize my situation by any means, I know that in my initial retort to him, probably wasn't as gentle as it could have been, but what is people's giant hang up on people choosing, or not choosing to be a supporting member here? "You are the worst kinda of person - one who takes & never gives back." -This is coming from a grown man over whether I choose not to financially support this website? There are truly greater tragedies on this planet, and not supporting this place is not one of them.

People, don't get all riled up whether some people can afford, or not afford to pay for this website, get a life, and find something else more worthwhile to whine about.

You must have really hurt his/her feelings for them to hit you below the belt like that.

[MuseCafeChris]

I don't think it's out of whack to suggest that making a contribution to a forum that you've been a long involved with is worthwhile.

So a contribution can only be monetary?

Ultimately the admins/mods don't think so, making it a moot point.

[stevieboy]

I don't agree with the PM but I can't really see the OP as a victim either.

[fitzo]

How does one know for certain that someone else is a paid member if that person elects to obscure it?

[MuseCafeChris]

How does one know for certain that someone else is a paid member if they elect to obscure it?

You have to contribute in order to get a custom tag that appears under your handle in your posts. So there's really no way to obscure whether or not you've kicked in some money.

[Flyin' Brian]

Today I had noticed I had a PM in my folder.

Heres what it read.

I'm removing the name of the person to avoid any more personal conflict.
The situation that was the reason behind the PM is in regards to a previous thread that had been closed due to a blatant violation of the rules, before the thread was locked, I had bluntly told him, "moron, read the rules"


Heres what his pm to me read:

"If you are the paragon of intelligence on the gearpage, how come you have not financially supported it?

Be happy to insult people in a blind forum. You are the worst kinda of person - one who takes & never gives back. With 1700 posts you'd think you would have though that through by now.

Don't worry about replying, you are on my blocked list."

I'm not trying to rationalize my situation by any means, I know that in my initial retort to him, probably wasn't as gentle as it could have been, but what is people's giant hang up on people choosing, or not choosing to be a supporting member here? "You are the worst kinda of person - one who takes & never gives back." -This is coming from a grown man over whether I choose not to financially support this website? There are truly greater tragedies on this planet, and not supporting this place is not one of them.

People, don't get all riled up whether some people can afford, or not afford to pay for this website, get a life, and find something else more worthwhile to whine about.

I just quoted you again so that if you're on the guy's ignore list he can see this. Unless of course I'm on his ignore list too.

[MudPies]

You have to contribute in order to get a custom tag that appears under your handle in your posts. So there's really no way to obscure whether or not you've kicked in some money.

Unless they just use "Senior Member" or one of the other generic versions.

[MudPies]

I just quoted you again so that if you're on the guy's ignore list he can see this. Unless of course I'm on his ignore list too.

I thought if you ignore someone you can't even see the threads theys tart.

[mbargav]

I'm confused. You bluntly called the dude a moron on his original thread, and now you're surprised that he got miffed at you, and then you posted his private PM? Rock on. :huh

[jaycee]

F anyone who judges other members by their current member status.

Yeah, i'm with you. No one owes anything. If you want to give, by all means do so but shut the eff up about it.

[MuseCafeChris]

Unless they just use "Senior Member" or one of the other generic versions.

Now why would anyone want to do such a thing? That'd be akin to mounting a Dumble chassis into a Crate cabinet.

[Guitar Josh]

I don't agree with the PM but I can't really see the OP as a victim either.

That's right. He started it, and then he got his butt handed to him. A well-earned response IMHO.

Don't pick fights if you aren't willing to get a little dirty.

This thread will be deleted once others realize that the OP started this and he can't take the heat from that either.

[Zelmo]

So a contribution can only be monetary?

Ultimately the admins/mods don't think so, making it a moot point.

You can contribute any way you see fit, just like you can interpret or misinterpret a simple statement in all kinds of ways.

[MuseCafeChris]

You can contribute any way you see fit, just like you can interpret or misinterpret a simple statement in all kinds of ways.

So are you OK with OP's post count constituting a significant contribution? Could be a ton of helpful information/moral support/etc. in all those posts.

[Craig Walker]

before the thread was locked, I had bluntly told him, "moron, read the rules"



Weren't you the one who contributed the "No RIP Pets?" thread???

[twinrider1]

The money thing was wrong. Plenty of other ways of contributing, well beyond the value of a few bucks..

MusicCafeChris, for example, sends out invites to all the Playboy parties.

What? You guys aren't getting yours.................bummer. :p

[Midnight Lady]

I thought if you ignore someone you can't even see the threads theys tart.You can see their threads, just not their posts.

I'm confused. You bluntly called the dude a moron on his original thread, and now you're surprised that he got miffed at you, and then you posted his private PM? Rock on. :huhMy feeling as well. You call someone a "moron" and then are surprised that you made them angry.

As far as the PM is concerned, that is lukewarm compared to some that I have received during my time here. Please don't think that you are the exception for having received an angry pm.

[MudPies]

Now why would anyone want to do such a thing? That'd be akin to mounting a Dumble chassis into a Crate cabinet.

Why do people do a lot of things?

[Jon Silberman]

As far as the PM is concerned, that is lukewarm compared to some that I have received during my time here. Please don't think that you are the exception for having received an angry pm.
Thank you for this post, ML. Reading it is to my forum participation like being greeted, upon returning home, by a bassett hound: when you return and see the look on that pooch's face, you know your own life can't be that bad!*

*Translation: I've pissed off folks here, too, over the years but that PM the OP here got - I honestly don't think I've ever myself received one that nasty so if you've truly received far worse, I must be doing OK after all! :p

[8Painting]

Weren't you the one who contributed the "No RIP Pets?" thread???

Oh, I didn't contribute. I started it.

A satirical thread to say the least, that couldn't be handled by some people.

I have since learned the error of my ways, and totally understand that sarcasm sometimes can't be detected via the written word.

[fitzo]

Now why would anyone want to do such a thing? That'd be akin to mounting a Dumble chassis into a Crate cabinet.

The simplest reason would be that someone wishes to support the site without need for acknowledgement.

[MudPies]

Hell, half the fun is watching people misinterpret the sarcasm and get all butthurt. Good times.

[Craig Walker]

Oh, I didn't contribute. I started it.

A satirical thread to say the least, that couldn't be handled by some people.

I have since learned the error of my ways, and totally understand that sarcasm sometimes can't be detected via the written word.

I failed to see the humor, and was offended by it [as were others].

Perhaps watch calling other people 'morons' in regards to threads started....



Whether you contribute or not is your bid-nez.

[MuseCafeChris]

The simplest reason would be that someone wishes to support the site without need for acknowledgement.

Judging by the way people react to threads about contributions around here, I'd be surprised if that was more than a handful of people.

[Craig Walker]

A satirical thread to say the least, that couldn't be handled by some people.



I seem to remember that you 'expanded' your thoughts further in the wrong direction. One guy said his pet had cancer and you replied pretty callously.

[8Painting]

I seem to remember that you 'expanded' your thoughts further in the wrong direction. One guy said his pet had cancer and you replied pretty callously.

I personally don't remember such an instance, and since I deleted it, who's to really say at this point?

My dog has an abscessed tooth right now, I'm not bellyachin'.


Lets not relive that awesome thread anymore, we obviously have differing views.

[atquinn]

Well, if the purpose of this thread was to shame the PM'er and not make yourself look like a petty whiner, I'm going to have to call fail :roll

-Austin

[DonW]

Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated. ~Confucius

[Craig Walker]

Lets not relive that awesome thread anymore, we obviously have differing views.


You offer no sympathy, you get none.


Reap what ya sow, and such.

[Scott Auld]

Breaking the rules (calling someone a moron) while telling them to read the rules is the kind of things that make mods laugh out loud ... you can't make this stuff up.



Do you know what they contribute to their church, the local shelter, the Salvation Army, etc.? No, you do not. It is thus ignorant (if not arrogant) to "should" on others regarding their decisions as to level of forum participation and support.

Couldn't agree more.

[tennisplayer]

And you're perplexed as to why he sent you a negative PM?:huh

Kind of what I was thinking. Then you post his pm. Who's the crazy one?

[Craig Walker]

find something else more worthwhile to whine about.



Perhaps the wisest part of the original post.

[Lution]

And you're perplexed as to why he sent you a negative PM?:huh

my thoughts as well.

As Jim said, you reap what you sow.

[Blindspot]

http://img704.imageshack.us/img704/9596/638moron.jpg

[Atomic Punk]

Today I had noticed I had a PM in my folder.



"If you are the paragon of intelligence on the gearpage, how come you have not financially supported it?

Be happy to insult people in a blind forum. You are the worst kinda of person - one who takes & never gives back. With 1700 posts you'd think you would have though that through by now.



Sounds like the FDP. The difference is, they, the webmaster/owner included, post that kind of crap on the open forum. Be glad you found the TGP...much nicer place.

[jimfog]

#2 If you use this place and are not financially strapped, a contribution is nice but, again, hardly required.

The people who don't support this place financially (while you and I do) may well be supporting other free public services like, e.g., National Public Radio (that I listen to occasionally but don't support financially). Do you know what they contribute to their church, the local shelter, the Salvation Army, etc.? No, you do not. It is thus ignorant (if not arrogant) to "should" on others regarding their decisions as to level of forum participation and support.

Disagree, Jon....completely.

What does contributing to those other causes have to do with supporting a site whose resources you use regularly?

If you don't have it, fine....no big deal. But if you do....pony up. Why should others support your free ride? (hypothetical "you", of course)

This isn't a charity.....it's a service.

Ignorant or Arrogant? Hardly.......it's simply expecting good manners, actually.

- Jim

PS...I wouldn't ever call anyone out specifically for not contributing. That's their choice....although I may disagree. I once directly asked Musecafechris, in a previous thread about this, to explain his decision, since he was so openly proud of not contributing, just to understand his reasoning.

[Zelmo]

So are you OK with OP's post count constituting a significant contribution? Could be a ton of helpful information/moral support/etc. in all those posts.
I'm OK with what I wrote here in this thread, no more, no less. You OK with that?

[MudPies]

Disagree, Jon....completely.

What does contributing to those other causes have to do with supporting a site whose resources you use regularly?

If you don't have it, fine....no big deal. But if you do....pony up. Why should others support your free ride? (hypothetical "you", of course)

This isn't a charity.....it's a service.

Ignorant or Arrogant? Hardly.......simply expecting good manners, actually.

- Jim

PS...I wouldn't ever call anyone out specifically for not contributing. I once directly asked Musecafechris, in a previous thread about this, to explain his decision, since he was so openly proud of not contributing, just to understand his reasoning.

"This isn't a charity.....it's a service."

Then why is it a donation and not a Fee For Service?

[hudpucker]

I dunno....but I've received some PM's from angry posters who didn't like the fact that I disagreed with their opinion or 'corrected' them on some factual error.


Some very prolific posters pull this same kind of BS all teh time.

[jimfog]

"This isn't a charity.....it's a service."

Then why is it a donation and not a Fee For Service?


Dunno....ask the bosses.

But, just because it's a voluntary fee doesn't mean it's a charity........or that it's free.

[MudPies]

The bosses have been asked about this in the past. They don't show the same attitude or expectation of donations that you do.

I'll take the boss' word, thanks.

[dspblues]

My 2 cents..

1 - Be careful what you say in email, threads, PMs. Saying things in anger typically never go well. Think about how your words will be perceived by the readers before you post.
2 - TGP doesn't require people to contribute, but there seems to be some peer pressure to do so. If the owners (Brian and Scott) wanted to make everyone pay, they would. It's a personal choice. To me, if you are on here 24x7, it's only fair you chip in, but again it's not required.

[jimfog]

The bosses have been asked about this in the past. They don't show the same attitude or expectation of donations that you do.

Well, everyone can make their own choice....it's no more expected than basic politeness and manners are, IMO.

Sure,they're not a REQUIREMENT, but.........

[LHanson]

I seem to recall a Mod asking that violations be reported, not pointed out in the thread.


Of course, now I've violated that.....

[MudPies]

Well, everyone can make their own choice....it's no more expected than basic politeness and manners are, IMO.

Sure,they're not a REQUIREMENT, but.........

Politeness and manners...... different for every person on the face of the earth. I get that YOU think things should be one way but that doesn't make it so.

No offence intended.

[jimfog]

Politeness and manners...... different for every person on the face of the earth. I get that YOU think things should be one way but that doesn't make it so.

No offence intended.


None taken....I agree totally.

[Wagster]

I love how the same people alway pop up on the drama threads, myself included :p

[MudPies]

I like that we can usually remain pretty civil, even if we dissagree greatly about many topics.

[Lution]

I'm enjoying the subtle one-upmanship and "I must possess the very last word on this" that flourishes here at TGP.

Reminds me of a gym teacher I had who always had to have the last and superior upper-handed word, not matter how ridiculous it got.

[fazen]

Two things popped into my mind when reading this thread

1. Cough up the buck, ya cheap bastard - Joe Cabot

2. Homer takes Lisa to the museum and sees the sign,
`Suggested donation: $4.50'.

Homer: Eh, what do you mean by `suggested donation'?
Clerk: Pay any amount you wish, sir.
Homer: And uh, what if I wish to pay ... zero?
Clerk: That is up to you.
Homer: Ooh, so it's up to me, is it?
Clerk: Yes.
Homer: I see. And you think that people are going to pay
you $4.50 even though they don't have to?
Just out of the goodness of their... [laughs]
Well, anything you say! Good luck, lady, you're gonna need it!

The first cause it's $12 a year. If you can afford a computer and an internet connection, you can probably afford a dollar a month to post here. Cough up the buck, ...if you can.

The second because there are people who wear it like a badge of honor that they can contribute zero and get what suckers are paying to use. I guess I'm a sucker for paying.

[gururyan]

My favorite PM was one I got from a very well known builder that could not get over the fact that I didn't like their product with my rig or for my style. I wrote a very professional and respectful review about his product, basically saying it was a very well built product and many love it...but with my rig and style, it just didn't do it for me. I got the nastiest PM/email I have ever received over that. I felt sorry for him, must have had some bad stuff going on that day for something so benign to cause such anger and hatred. Of course I will never purchase, support, or suggest his products again.

[amigo30]

Calling people morons rubs me the wrong way. Being callous towards peoples dying pets rubs me the wrong way. Being impervious to suggestions that manners are called for rubs me the wrong way.

I'm not a fan of the PM that was sent, but I'm not a fan of the OP's general demeanor either.

[Blindspot]

You should see the PM I just got from some moron!

Oh, uh....nevermind....

[TubeStack]

Are PM's like this really necessary?

Are threads like this really necessary?

Other than attention seeking, I don't see the point.

[bug0711]

http://www.hercircleezine.com/wp-content/gallery/general/arm-finger-bitching-soda.jpg

[big mike]

When you attack people, and he was verbally attacked by being called a moron, they get defensive and fight back any way they can. This is apparantly all he had on you to fight back with.
Forget it and move on.

Yup. BTW calling another member a moron is really not acceptable.

[Jon Silberman]

Disagree, Jon....completely.

What does contributing to those other causes have to do with supporting a site whose resources you use regularly?

If you don't have it, fine....no big deal. But if you do....pony up. Why should others support your free ride? (hypothetical "you", of course)

This isn't a charity.....it's a service.

Ignorant or Arrogant? Hardly.......it's simply expecting good manners, actually.

- Jim

PS...I wouldn't ever call anyone out specifically for not contributing. That's their choice....although I may disagree. I once directly asked Musecafechris, in a previous thread about this, to explain his decision, since he was so openly proud of not contributing, just to understand his reasoning.
I'm sorry, jim, I just won't reply to your replies any further. No disrespect intended, it's just that, for months now, when I post black, you reply white; if I post X, you reply Y - there's just no sense in continuing to reply. Again, sorry.

And BTW, you're not and will never be on my (short) Ignore list because I often find your posts interesting and thought-provoking. I just don't have the stomach to argue them any more w/u.

[davebc]

Today I had noticed I had a PM in my folder.

Heres what it read.

I'm removing the name of the person to avoid any more personal conflict.
The situation that was the reason behind the PM is in regards to a previous thread that had been closed due to a blatant violation of the rules, before the thread was locked, I had bluntly told him, "moron, read the rules"


Heres what his pm to me read:

"If you are the paragon of intelligence on the gearpage, how come you have not financially supported it?

Be happy to insult people in a blind forum. You are the worst kinda of person - one who takes & never gives back. With 1700 posts you'd think you would have though that through by now.

Don't worry about replying, you are on my blocked list."

I'm not trying to rationalize my situation by any means, I know that in my initial retort to him, probably wasn't as gentle as it could have been, but what is people's giant hang up on people choosing, or not choosing to be a supporting member here? "You are the worst kinda of person - one who takes & never gives back." -This is coming from a grown man over whether I choose not to financially support this website? There are truly greater tragedies on this planet, and not supporting this place is not one of them.

People, don't get all riled up whether some people can afford, or not afford to pay for this website, get a life, and find something else more worthwhile to whine about.

It was probably meant for me and you got it by accident. :D
Wait, you have more posts than me.:huh

[jimfog]

.....I post black, you reply white; if I post X, you reply Y....

Well, duh........that's obviously because you're wrong and I'm right.
:p

(PM sent on the rest)

[airwarrior]

So apparently I'm less of a member for not contributing.


Great.

[doctorx]

http://www.mattcutts.com/images/duty_calls.png

[The Last Rebel]

http://www.mattcutts.com/images/duty_calls.png
"What do you want me to do? LEAVE? Then they'll keep being wrong!"

[Dave Shoop]

If nothing else this thread reminded me to send in my contribution. lol

[dkaplowitz]

If nothing else this thread reminded me to send in my contribution. lol
O man! I just finished typing you a PM criticizing you for not contributing. Now I'll have to find someone else to send it to.

[Dave Shoop]

I know, I can be such a freeloader sometimes. My opinion, if you visit this place and get enjoyment out of it I see it like anything else, it has a value to me. I believe there are expenses to keep this place open. I would want someone to do what I feel is the "right thing" and help with the costs if they can afford to. I see it as a "fairness" issue. Not saying anyone else has to agree with me . That's just how I look at it. The owner may totally disagree with me too. none the less that's how I see it.

[amigo30]

Sorry, but I can't agree with you here. On this forum, you get something for your donation....the ability to post ads in the emporium. To the people who don't use the emporium, this forum could very well be just another in a long line of forums out there that are free of charge to use. For those individuals, I wouldn't expect them to donate a dime and I wouldn't blame them one bit, either.

I understand the point being made here, and generally agree.

But I do think that a user who logs on randomly a couple of times a month and racks up 100 posts in 3 years is very different from somebody who logs on almost daily and racks up a few thousand posts in a couple of years.

The latter is clearly invested and benefiting from the community. Those people would feel a loss if the whole thing were suddenly gone. Tossing a couple of bucks towards keeping things going would just be the classy thing to do, if they could scrape together 12 bucks a year. It beats just riding on the contributions of others, who may be less able to afford it.

[CharAznable]

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_2SWmOBl9E-c/Suy2azmvJKI/AAAAAAAABXo/x0vyGWwhTPE/jennifer-aniston-flair-office-space%5B10%5D.jpg?imgmax=800

[DavidG]

O man! I just finished typing you a PM criticizing you for not contributing. Now I'll have to find someone else to send it to.

Send it to me so I can call you a moron...oh wait.:p

[Ginglymus]

Ha! This thread prompted me to remove the term "Gold" from my member status. While I don't support calling someone a moron for linking to a news story about Mellancamp, the last thing that's needed is another source of one-upmanship or bitter dispute.

I started making donations when the site had some server issues, and then it just became a habit that I could afford. I've learned a lot here but rude posters and the occasional shill are enough to overlook without "Who's paid up?" being added to the mix.

[monty]

Well, duh........that's obviously because you're wrong and I'm right.
:p

(PM sent on the rest)

FWIW Jim, it never really dawned on me to become a member until you made these posts. I just PP'ed my contribution.

[Craig Walker]

But I do think that a user who logs on randomly a couple of times a month and racks up 100 posts in 3 years is very different from somebody who logs on almost daily and racks up a few thousand posts in a couple of years.




That's the way I look at it. With the benefits [knowledge] and entertainment I've gotten here over the years, how could I NOT help out the site's owners.

If someone posts here multiple times *daily* and feels no need to donate to the site, it makes me wonder :huh You're saying the site's owner owes it to you to keep it running? You're basically getting a free ride on the backs of those of us who do help. If everyone did what you're doing, you wouldn't have this site.

[Again talking to those who have post counts in the multiple 1,000s]


But you gotta live with yourself. :)

[MudPies]

:)

:dunno

[Craig Walker]

Just curious, MudPies, why you feel that you don't need to contribute?

I'd venture to say you get MUCH more entertainment here than say 'going to the movies'.......and yet you can't help out Brian with a small donation that would be no more than 1 trip to the theater. [?!?]

Share your thoughts...

[8Painting]

That's the way I look at it. With the benefits [knowledge] and entertainment I've gotten here over the years, how could I NOT help out the site's owners.

If someone posts here multiple times *daily* and feels no need to donate to the site, it makes me wonder :huh You're saying the site's owner owes it to you to keep it running? You're basically getting a free ride on the backs of those of us who do help. If everyone did what you're doing, you wouldn't have this site.

[Again talking to those who have post counts in the multiple 1,000s]


But you gotta live with yourself. :)

what about people such as myself that feel that tgp should just have banner ads to avoid all of the elitism, while still being able to pay for itself. and they could STILL have a fee for use of the emporium, (Which is something i feel is already a good idea)

[MuseCafeChris]

Ultimately the admins and mods have decided that a monetary contribution is not required to participate here. That's all that matters. The opinions of the rank and file mean less than zero.

[Craig Walker]

I'm not saying someone who is a non-contributor is a 'lesser' member.

I just don't get the mentality of "I'm not going to contribute to something that I get alot out of."

Guess my brain's just wired differently.


I contribute out of my appreciation for the product. Brian offers a GREAT site. He shouldn't carry all the weight.

[soulohio]

i am a supporting member cause i figure that if i don't put anything into the system it won't support me in my old age and i won't be able to get into the old age home for rawk n rollerz on my meager earnings...


...being a Supporting Member is like Social Security, right?

[dspblues]

Many people think or feel the internet is free after you pay for your connection. It's not.

[MudPies]

Just curious, MudPies, why you feel that you don't need to contribute?

I'd venture to say you get MUCH more entertainment here than say 'going to the movies'.......and yet you can't help out Brian with a small donation that would be no more than 1 trip to the theater. [?!?]

Share your thoughts...

I have contributed in the past, thank you. I recently sent a relatively sizable check to another organization that actually does beg for the money, but I get my news content from them. Even though some would like to make me out as someone who is gloating that they don't donate, I am not. I just can't stand how some people have the attitude that other members are somehow less worthy of the site because they aren't currently a supporting member.

Besides, from my end everyone is on an even playing field. I have the avitars shut off (more to keep the pages clean for viewing) which actually sort of puts everyone on the same level.

Mkay? :)

[LHanson]

http://img704.imageshack.us/img704/9596/638moron.jpg

If I never see this pic again, it will be too soon. It was funny the first 1000 times it was posted.

Just sayin'.....

[pickaguitar]

I still appreciate that pic!

jus sayin'

[dkaplowitz]

What do you suppose might happen if it were required to be a supporting member to post in the pub?

On another note, I'm sure all the people who aren't supporting members give tons back by posting in playing and technique (the most active forum subtopic on TGP) and in providing useful technical info about guitars, amps, and effects. I'm positive looking at the posting histories of many of them would bear this out. </smirk>

[Lution]

I like that they've chosen to make it optional. We need the non-contributors here to remind the contributing snooty-pants members that their fecal matter does, in fact, also stink.

[Axemeister]

I look at the Gear Page like NPR... if you spend a bunch of time here and use the bandwidth here, it is nice to try and make some type of contribution.

However, this is a personal choice and it is not a requirement, so it is not anybody else's business, and sending an insulting PM like this is not warranted.

[BobboVisMe]

Aren't Private messages just that PRIVATE and not to be shared with others ??? :huh

[Dr. Tweedbucket]

:)

:dunno



:red reported :red

[Dr. Tweedbucket]

I'm not saying someone who is a non-contributor is a 'lesser' member.

I just don't get the mentality of "I'm not going to contribute to something that I get alot out of."

Guess my brain's just wired differently.


I contribute out of my appreciation for the product. Brian offers a GREAT site. He shouldn't carry all the weight.


I agree with ^ :) I'm sure Brian and Scott scratch their heads at times and ask themselves if it's worth it or not?



I guess some people are really 'thrifty' so I guess I sort of understand that mentality too.... not wanting to part with any money unless they have to. :huh

Yep, everyone is wired differently. :red

[Craig Walker]

Mkay? :)


No prob. I'm not 'hatin' on you......just curious as to why some would chose not to donate.

Thanks.

[Craig Walker]

I still appreciate that pic!

jus sayin'


Yeah, I'm pretty sure that's a Cowboy's bandana.

[pickaguitar]

Yeah, I'm pretty sure that's a Cowboy's bandana.
ha
You'd love that if it were true! :)

[Craig Walker]

;) ;)

[daddyo]

I received a PM from a member asking me to list my album credits and musical experience and telling me that my opinions weren't valid because I wasn't a pro. He was and is a pro with album credits (I won't give his name), so it was pretty strange. Funny thing is I had just joined and didn't know that PM existed so by the time I checked the box, the message was 4 months old. I always thought I was one of the milder members here though I did go off half cocked a few times in the beginning. But he made his point, I learned my lesson, and I have never argued against him since.

[Platypus]

I get a chance to post my favorite image macro I made for this site!

http://platypus.memoryfire.com/tgp.jpg

:)

[dkaplowitz]

I get a chance to post my favorite image macro I made for this site!

http://platypus.memoryfire.com/tgp.jpg

:)
Cool, thanks! I made use of your registered trademark in a most expeditious fashion. ;)

[jimfog]

Cool, thanks! I made use of your registered trademark in a most expeditious fashion. ;)

Sure.......just rub it in to all the poor, starving, homeless TGP Pub-goers that you can afford an avatar and they can't.

Elitist!!

:mob

[Platypus]

Cool, thanks! I made use of your registered trademark in a most expeditious fashion. ;)

Awesome :p

[cbguy]

I never get PMs like that because people universally ignore me in here anyway...:munch
...for good reasons, I'm sure.

[jazzandmetal?]

I never get PMs like that because people universally ignore me in here anyway...:munch
...for good reasons, I'm sure.

:wave:wave:wave:wave:wave:wave

[jazzandmetal?]

I can arrange a thorough PM thrashing for you, if that's what you want.

Just say the word.

;)

Cbguy is my my boy.

Watch your step Suproman77.

I got your number.:boxer

[drod2045]

while the PM is outrageous, I also wouldnt ever put out someone in a thread like this either

[Chops]

He might have had a point! LOL!

[T.Wesley]

Posting publicly the contents of e-mail or PMs is expressly against the rules of The Gear Page.

--chiba