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tlturbo
01-30-2008, 08:02 AM
Just a thought to save some band width and keep from having Jarred spends more money on upgrades.

I know growth brings problems. BUT lately I have seen this site change from being a bunch of semi serious (pretty much) banana people who talked about mainly bananas with an occasional off topic question, to a general playground for people that just happen to have a banana plant.

We now have people posting pet pictures, cartoons, tractors, lawn equipment, etc. I could care less that you have a cute dog, cute kid, new car, new tractor, have a pretty rose, etc. This is a BANANA board.

Also, why does a person deserve to be in the "Hall of Fame" just because they stay at home all day and post 1000 "Way to go", "Great Pic", "ME to" etc posts? Why does that rank recognition on a "Hall of Fame"? People like Momo, Pita, Media, Michael, and quite a few others are the type that deserve that honor, NOT someone who has been on the board for 3 months and makes 50 non-contributory posts a day. I have been on this board almost since it's inception and only have a little over 300 posts. Even if I had the required 1000 posts, I certainly don't deserve any recognition. If you have to do this, why not change it to a "Frequent Poster Award" and make the Hall of Fame for someone who hase made signigicant contributions to the board?

I would just like to see this board get back to the topic at hand - BANANAS.

Terry

the flying dutchman
01-30-2008, 10:33 AM
Well Terry, thank you for posting this and I think you are not alone.

I share your opinion regarding the pictures posted lately they have nothing to
do with bananas or even plants in general. Although I have no problems with
'other plants' pictures as we have also that forum.

Now , the Hall of Fame, that was my invention, it is meant for contest-winners and people who make 1000 posts. I have no influence on it how fast
people reach the 1000 postmark nor could I forsee that someone would be
able to do it in such a short time.

I think your whole point is that we have to stay on topic in posts and not
post silly pictures and I agree with you on that.
I have also asked Jarred a week ago to put a disclaimer in the TIKI-hut forum
to not post about religion, sex or politics as there are other boards for that.
I think that is one of the things on his 'still to do' list. Otherboards were nearly
or totally closed for these kind of posts.

So, lets all stay on the topic of Bananas as far as possible. And ofcourse
we have the 'other plants' forum wich is also nice IMO.

Ron

bencelest
01-30-2008, 10:37 AM
Terry, I am 100% agree with you.

Benny

Richard
01-30-2008, 10:45 AM
I have seen this site change from being a bunch of semi serious (pretty much) banana people ...
We now have people posting pet pictures, cartoons, tractors, lawn equipment, etc.

Terry,

I'll start by pointing out that a Barreto 1320 is not a piece of lawn equipment. Next, it turns out that people with a serious interest in growing bananas also have other horticultural endeavors and it turns out that Jarred has the best interface on the internet for sharing information. Finally, if you feel that posting a few cartoons depicts a lack of horticultural seriousness, check out Horticulture at Frost Concepts (http://www.frostconcepts.com/horticulture/).

shopgirl2
01-30-2008, 12:55 PM
I am a newby at this Forum. I enjoy it very much as I was born in the tropics and bananas are part of my upbringing. However, my contributions are small at this point in time because I do not own a greenhouse nor business. I have always loved the plant. They make me feel like I am still at home in the tropics. I enjoy to see them ondulate in the breeze. They are part of my childhood and I am still trying to cling onto it. I hope that because this is a banana board, with members with lots of experience and knowledge, that newbys are welcome to grow and share with you all.
Just a penny's worth. Peace, all.

magicgreen
01-30-2008, 01:15 PM
I agreed with SOME of what you all are saying. When i 1st became a member, this site was a bit hardcore and technical with posted questions and responses it made me want to back off with my LITTLE questions and responses.

You have to admit this site has lightened up a bit! There has even been post that had me laughing out loud literally!

WE are ALL VERY DIFFERENT and come from very DIVERSE backgrounds! Heck, ive been relunctant to post pictures just because iam in beginner stages and alot of you all are WAYYYYYY past that to look at or comment on my stuff or any other newby!

Some of these so call silly post have been a good distraction until we can get back to real banana business as such in the spring!

There's only so much we in colder climates can discuss till SPRING!! Have a most posted member, thats good. But how are you going to judge what is good info to one member compared to another! I dont want to keep seeing somebodys project, but their friends DO!!!!

Whatever
01-30-2008, 01:48 PM
The pictures of the tractors / lawn equipment I don't really care about, maybe just need a "other" gallery section? Other then that I totally agree with terry. I think its good for any forum to have some offtopic talk but in my opinion right now there is to much crap being posted for the amount of good info.

I think the hall of fame isn't such a good idea, No offence ron. I think a much more reliable way for someone to have there name in something such as that would be to use reputation. As it is now a hall of fame member could only have say 300 genuine good posts while someone else has 500 good quality posts but aren't in.

I know I haven't been here long, have many pots, Know a whole lot *yet* etc etc just my .02

Tropicallvr
01-30-2008, 02:05 PM
Personally I'd rather see only banana related pictures, but that's just me (a bananaholic).
If that's what people want to put in their albums go for it, but it is off topic.

Edit to add this- I disagree about what was said about the newest hall of fame member. I don't mind someone posting all the time, she seems lighten things up.

the flying dutchman
01-30-2008, 02:10 PM
The pictures of the tractors / lawn equipment I don't really care about, maybe just need a "other" gallery section? Other then that I totally agree with terry. I think its good for any forum to have some offtopic talk but in my opinion right now there is to much crap being posted for the amount of good info.

I think the hall of fame isn't such a good idea, No offence ron. I think a much more reliable way for someone to have there name in something such as that would be to use reputation. As it is now a hall of fame member could only have say 300 genuine good posts while someone else has 500 good quality posts but ant in.

I know I haven't been here long, have many pots, Know a whole lot *yet* etc etc just my .02

Yeah, but who decides what is a good post or not, or who decides wich
member should be in for other reasons. Ya'll have just problems with it
because Mskitty is in it now, I have not heard complaints before about
the other members who are in.
But okay, I will discuss this with Jarred and Gabe, maybe we need an other
setup or drop it, but the whole Hall of Fame was not meant to be taken so
serious, just a fun thing, cause all members are equal.

Ron

the flying dutchman
01-30-2008, 02:19 PM
And further more, next time i download a picture here, My dogs will be in it!

Nobody disapproved the 'show pics of your pup thread' Lynn!!!!

Randy4ut
01-30-2008, 03:15 PM
Call me what you want, just teach me all you can about NANNERS!!!!

Richard
01-30-2008, 03:31 PM
The pictures of the tractors / lawn equipment I don't really care about, maybe just need a "other" gallery section?

Notice that the tractors are in an album called Equipment and the cartoons are in an album called Humor.

What Lawn Equipment? There are no photos of Lawn Equipment!!

:0519:

Taylor
01-30-2008, 03:37 PM
I feel as if I am in the category that Terry mentioned in the beginning, at least right now. The reason is, is that I have no active banana plants right now. What else can I say about them if they are all in the basement (besides SR)? That is why I created the Pictures post. I created it also because it is nice to see pictures dealing with nature when it is so cold and sparse here. I am willing to delete it if necessary, but I just requested it to be put in the Tiki Hut. Let me know...

There has also been trouble in the chats with a few members...and they know who they are and what they did and said, not just to me. The reason is that in a chat, you can respond much faster and therefore the topics change and get out of hand sometimes. This is why I no longer go in there unless I see someone I want/need to talk to because it doesn't have to do with bananas or other plants.

This forum is evolving, and no matter where it goes, I am sure it will stay the best and can be put back on track with no problems. Thanks mods and admin :)

Whatever
01-30-2008, 03:41 PM
Notice that the tractors are in an album called Equipment and the cartoons are in an album called Humor.

What Lawn Equipment? There are no photos of Lawn Equipment!!

:0519:

I meant something like maybe a "members gallery: other" Or something of that sort.

Richard
01-30-2008, 03:53 PM
I meant something like maybe a "members gallery: other" Or something of that sort.

Most of the photos I upload are going into thread discussions, for example "Composters". If you are only viewing photos through the "Recent" section of "Photo Gallery", then of course they appear out of context.

What Lawn Equipment? There are no photos of Lawn Equipment!!

Whatever
01-30-2008, 04:17 PM
Most of the photos I upload are going into thread discussions, for example "Composters". If you are only viewing photos through the "Recent" section of "Photo Gallery", then of course they appear out of context.

What Lawn Equipment? There are no photos of Lawn Equipment!!

I didn't mean you posted lawn equipment just that kinda stuff in general.

Randy4ut
01-30-2008, 04:33 PM
Richard, you do know that you don't have to upload a pic in the gallery to post it in a thread don't you? I post pics many times that I do not particularly think need to be added to this sites galleries. Just wanted to make sure you did realize this....

STEELVIPER
01-30-2008, 04:34 PM
I agree that maybe we should ease back on the dog pictures , or the "lawn equipment" pics. Etc...We do not "pay" for the storage for the pics. I would rather enjoy looking at a picture of your bananas, and other plants. If your dog is in the pic with the plant, then all the better. But all in all this site has grown so much. This site does say Bananas.org. But i have no prob with talking or posting about other plants. That is why there is a "other plants" section. I have noticed that many of the veterans do not post much anymore. Maybe this site is not the hard core site it used to be,but by far this is the best site to share, learn and, chat about bananas. As far as the post count or ranking etc.. If you have been here awhile you know who the real Gurus are. But i do agree that if your going to talk about your pets, husbands, wifes, lunch, dinner ,or what your cat did to your best tie,then maybe you should join another site or pm that to who you want to share that with.

bencelest
01-30-2008, 04:40 PM
Very well said Steelviper. You got it by the tail. This forum bloomed out of proportion.

bencelest
01-30-2008, 04:56 PM
Richard, you do know that you don't have to upload a pic in the gallery to post it in a thread don't you? I post pics many times that I do not particularly think need to be added to this sites galleries. Just wanted to make sure you did realize this....
Randy4ut:
And how do you do that? There are times that I don't want some pictures to go to the gallery but only on my particular thread to emphasize or show 'proof' of something..

Richard
01-30-2008, 05:01 PM
Richard, you do know that you don't have to upload a pic in the gallery to post it in a thread don't you?

I do not understand why photos of equipment being discussed in banana-related threads are somehow ruining your experience at this site.

Randy4ut
01-30-2008, 05:12 PM
Randy4ut:
And how do you do that? There are times that I don't want some pictures to go to the gallery but only on my particular thread to emphasize or show 'proof' of something..

Benny, I have a photobucket account and I simply copy the "Direct Link" under the pic... Click on the pic icon at the top of this message tool bar, and when the insert box shows up, I paste it in that box... Can you tell I am not a computer person!!?!?! LoL Hope this is understandable...

http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n225/randy4ut/100_2388.jpg

Richard
01-30-2008, 05:38 PM
I didn't mean you posted lawn equipment just that kinda stuff in general.

I still do not understand why photos of equipment being discussed in banana-related threads are somehow ruining your experience at this site.

MediaHound
01-30-2008, 05:52 PM
Richard, it seems he was saying he didnt care about Terry having a problem with those pictures. The OP (original poster) on the thread, Terry, had brought that up, not Whatever...

We are a banana board, but secondly, we're a community.
Now that most cannot grow bananas, they're schmoozing with everyone else getting ready for the real fun times when Spring arrives. It's all in jest and I'm sure that everyone will get better focus when the season changes. It's like this pretty much every winter, is it not? Perhaps if the site had a different theme for the different seasons of the year it would help the ebb and flow? By that I mean different images and colors and overall design of the site and interface.

austinl01
01-30-2008, 06:07 PM
Call me what you want, just teach me all you can about NANNERS!!!!

Me too! I've been a member here since 2006 and am just now really getting into it. I find this forum the friendliest and best on the internet. I just hope it will stay this way forever. Without all these great posts, this forum is nothing. So keep posting about your nanners and experiences! :)

Whatever
01-30-2008, 06:10 PM
I still do not understand why photos of equipment being discussed in banana-related threads are somehow ruining your experience at this site.

I was just saying that I didn't care that you had posted the pictures that maybe we should just have some kind of second members gallery for pictures other then bananas.

Richard
01-30-2008, 06:19 PM
I was just saying that I didn't care that you had posted the pictures that maybe we should just have some kind of second members gallery for pictures other then bananas.

There are seven galleries for bananas and one members gallery for general photos. What is missing is a gallery for Edible Bananas, otherwise all the bases appear to be covered.

klemmthamm
01-30-2008, 07:23 PM
OK have to voice my opinion on this one... I can see where Terry is coming from, however, this is a pretty dead time for a bunch of us in these colder climates and we want to stay in contact with all the friends we have made on this particular site.

Do I believe that we should stick to talking about Banana (and banana relatives) in the forums dedicated for such talk?... Obviously the answer is "Yes". But, if I happen to learn about something other than bananas on this site, in the Tiki Hut or Other Plants Forums, then great.... If someone has a cute dog and wants to share it in the appropriate place on this site (PM, Tiki Hut, or some other form of communication here) then fine. We should look at this site as a big 1000+ member family w/mainly banana plants in common... but we should also remember that we may have other things in common and want to share them with each other.

As most of you know I have had some issues with certain posts on this site and I voiced my opinion (in a very negative way) on such posts... BUT I was in the wrong... and if I don't like what is being said then I just don't look at the post anymore after politely pointing out an err of judment (or what ever) or I report it to mods/admin if I feel it is completely inappropriate for this site.

As far as the Hall of Fame goes as far as I am concerned let her have her time in the spotlight. I feel it is frivolous but it also does not affect my life in a negative manner either so I just frankly don't care.

Just my opinion and you can feel free to disagree but stepping back and looking at it in a different light may help to resolve this issue.

Regards,

-James-

the flying dutchman
01-30-2008, 07:47 PM
A very good post James, for me everybody is equal on this board ,
it doesn't matter wether you have 1 banana-plant or 100, wether you
have a big yard or not, or not a yard at all. Also it makes no difference
how long you are member, just as Jarred said, we are one community.

I realize myself now though that creating the Hall of Fame was maybe
a mistake regarding what I said above. It was meant for fun but now
taken serious.

Maybe in the next days i will drop it, not sure yet.

Ron

klemmthamm
01-30-2008, 07:57 PM
I wouldn't think that is necessary, taking the Hall of Fame away, I think it SHOULD be taken as a fun thing and not taken so seriously.

And, I think a lot of people get it in there head that post count is an indicator of the level of knowledge one has on any given subject and that is not always a correct assumption.

-James-

modenacart
01-30-2008, 08:15 PM
I don't see why everybody cares. This site is suppose to be fun.

STEELVIPER
01-30-2008, 08:49 PM
Fun ,but are focus is bananas. I think people lose sight of that. What i do not like is that we seem to have lost a few veteran members(or visit or post less frequent) now im not sure if they view this site now as a amateur site (to them) or do not like the fact that this site has grown BIG time. Or they are busy etc.. These gurus were the reason why we come here. To ASK questions. Gain knowledge from them. Share are experiences with banana plants. Don't get me wrong, we still do have many expert gurus here. But i hate to see some members leave this board , because they view it now as below them. But then again if they think like that, then maybe this board will be better off without them. One more thing. If you have questions that you think may be dumb, or have been asked a zillion times. Ask them anyway. How are you supposed to learn if you do not ask. No question is dumb.

jason
01-30-2008, 10:51 PM
Just a thought to save some band width and keep from having Jarred spends more money on upgrades.

I know growth brings problems. BUT lately I have seen this site change from being a bunch of semi serious (pretty much) banana people who talked about mainly bananas with an occasional off topic question, to a general playground for people that just happen to have a banana plant.

We now have people posting pet pictures, cartoons, tractors, lawn equipment, etc. I could care less that you have a cute dog, cute kid, new car, new tractor, have a pretty rose, etc. This is a BANANA board.

Also, why does a person deserve to be in the "Hall of Fame" just because they stay at home all day and post 1000 "Way to go", "Great Pic", "ME to" etc posts? Why does that rank recognition on a "Hall of Fame"? People like Momo, Pita, Media, Michael, and quite a few others are the type that deserve that honor, NOT someone who has been on the board for 3 months and makes 50 non-contributory posts a day. I have been on this board almost since it's inception and only have a little over 300 posts. Even if I had the required 1000 posts, I certainly don't deserve any recognition. If you have to do this, why not change it to a "Frequent Poster Award" and make the Hall of Fame for someone who hase made signigicant contributions to the board?

I would just like to see this board get back to the topic at hand - BANANAS.

Terry
deleted my comment due to venting to much and totally looking like a you know what,sorry!

STEELVIPER
01-30-2008, 11:00 PM
Not all bananas are easy to care for. Ever try a dwarf pearl Namwah? hehehe......

magicgreen
01-30-2008, 11:15 PM
Nobody disapproved the 'show pics of your pup thread' Lynn!!!!

For your info Ron!!!! I have never posted pictures of any of my animals!

And why take out the hall of fame? Its not like you get a prize for posting 1000 post! Its a nice personal indicator telling your own self that "aha I've learned something"

I really like this site! I have, and Iam learning valuable information here.
Every thing doesnt have to be so SERIOUS!!:ha::ha::ha::ha::ha::ha::ha::ha::ha::ha:

STEELVIPER
01-30-2008, 11:33 PM
Hey! Ron is a dam good moderator. Maybe the "hall of fame"should be based on how long you have been a member. If not, then i agree with Ron. Get rid of it.

magicgreen
01-30-2008, 11:41 PM
Hey! Ron is a dam good moderator. Maybe the "hall of fame"should be based on how long you have been a member. If not, then i agree with Ron. Get rid of it.

If you read the post, i never said he is a bad moderator!

jason
01-30-2008, 11:49 PM
I agree that this site should mainly be about bananas-other tropical plants,,but it is hard to sit back all winter with nothing to post and not much to say at times , and in return you will get the occasional post of a picture that is not plant related,, Its just really a winter thing it will get better in spring for all of us that live where the snow flys..Jason.

STEELVIPER
01-30-2008, 11:51 PM
Let me quote. "If you cant deal with the public, why are you a moderator.... Ron?" He is a moderator because Jarred made him one. Along with Gabe. You know Jarred. The guy who runs the site. You have issues. Ron is a good moderator. Very fair.

:0493:

STEELVIPER
01-30-2008, 11:55 PM
Did i strike a cord? :jumpingonbednaner:

jason
01-31-2008, 12:04 AM
Did i strike a cord? :jumpingonbednaner:
Hey nice plants their steelviper,,also noticed your barrel cactus ,,,Nice...Jason

STEELVIPER
01-31-2008, 12:09 AM
LOL!!!!! thanks Jason. You have got some great pics(plants) there to.Ok I'am done with this topic. Had my fill of drama and rants. See you guys on the rest of the board.

magicgreen
01-31-2008, 12:15 AM
Did i strike a cord? :jumpingonbednaner:

NEVER!!!!!!!!!!

klemmthamm
01-31-2008, 08:05 AM
Wow this thread turned south in a hurry....

Anyway, THIS is one reason I don't even bother posting much here lately...
because of the attitudes.

And Ron is a very good moderator... if you don't believe this then just go hang on some other boards for a little bit and see how their moderators treat you.

tlturbo
01-31-2008, 08:40 AM
I'm really surprised that this topic has gotten so much attention representing both sides of the issue. Most people SAW what I was trying to point out but commented on it in a polite manner.

One thing that I noticed in a few posts that hadn't occured to me but I have to agree with is the loss of participation of many of the old members. I seldom post anymore either. It's weird and I can't explain why. We all used to be proud and post pics of our fruit. I fruited a Hua Moa last month and thought about posting pics but just said, NA. Maybe the board has gotten too big - beats me. But as it does, these type of problems do arise. I have seen it big time in my Turbo automobile boards. For example: it is dedicated to ONE type of car. There is a section in there for posting results of races you have had with that type of car, so WHY would you post about something you did in your pickup truck. Same issues. Get back on topic.

Sorry I started this discussion - but when I saw cartoons, pics of tractors and dogs going across the top of my screen, I just felt someone needed to mention this was a BANANA board.

klemmthamm
01-31-2008, 10:03 AM
Turbo,

Just so you know I wasn't trying to flame you or anything in my posts :D... anyway I see what you are saying and I have noticed a lot of non-banana type posts lately. I think this site should of course stay focused on bananas... for example I have been collecting a lot of palms lately so I joined a forum about palms.... that is not to say of course that I would be upset if someone wanted to talk about palms in the other plants section here... but I see your concern on the other stuff.

The tractors, composters, and other such pictures I can see just because those things may play a part of banana cultivation... as far as everything else goes well I am guilty of uploading some off topic pics myself so I really can't say much.

Most of what I have seen on the board lately (as far as off topic things go) I have just attributed to it being too cold for a lot of us to have any active growth or propagation going on. But this is my first winter on this board so I don't know how it has been in the past.

I think you presented this issue in a very calm and fairly polite manner so I don't know how it turned so bad.

Regards,

-James-

If none of this post makes sense then I apologize... alcohol and lack of sleep may be to blame.

tlturbo
01-31-2008, 11:07 AM
I just edited out the comments in my previous post where I tended to VENT a bit. SORRY to those of you that read them. Jason and I exchanged some PM's and realized we both totally misunderstood each other - so all is well.

I tend to think that as any board ages, it changes. I have also noticed that the older members do tend to drift away and the "new blood" becomes the active participants. I didn't mean to offend anyone with my post, it was just an observation that "off topic" issues should be kept in the off topic areas.

Best to all - Terry

gadget
01-31-2008, 01:41 PM
My 2 cents
Should just get rid of the new picture banner, or at least be able to customize it to show other categories.
Great forum and can’t wait for spring
:bananarow:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v504/gadget58/plants/IMG_2476.jpg

Randy4ut
01-31-2008, 01:55 PM
Covered all three, didn't you Gadget!!!

MediaHound
01-31-2008, 03:46 PM
There are seven galleries for bananas and one members gallery for general photos. What is missing is a gallery for Edible Bananas, otherwise all the bases appear to be covered.

Been there, done that. We had that category and it got something like ZERO photos uploaded to it. The few that were there I migrated into the respective members' galleries and we did away with that category. It looked bad, the other categories were getting photos and that remained so low... We tested it, it didn't take on. Whats cool is that we CAN try different things, so I like your thinking. If something does not work, take it down and redo it. We can redo the site over and over. Many parts and features of the site have taken on and many have not. So we rinse and repeat... and experiment all the time.

MediaHound
01-31-2008, 03:55 PM
OK I have an idea and partial solution that will help.
(well I had the idea, then I scrolled down till Gadget's post, and he has it also :) )

How about, like Gadget suggested - only pictures from certain galleries will appear on the homepage. Typical uploads will not appear, unless its placed in one of the drill-down specific categories. And so if a member wishes to give a photo good homepage exposure, just add it to the proper category and it will show. Regular member folders and albums would be excluded. Sound good?
That would remove the run of the mill photos from appearing on the homepage, because the way it is now, all photos that get added get added to the homepage. The way it works now is the seven most recent photos, regardless of category, will appear. I can add some code to change what shows up and what does not, so this is a simple fix and will perhaps reap big rewards.
As we grow, we compensate for the changes that have happened and I think its about time we change that around.
I think that will solve a lot of the frustration some members get when they see non-banana pictures on the homepage, it will probably pretty much eliminate that.

STEELVIPER
01-31-2008, 04:32 PM
cool.:sumbrero:

natedogg1026
01-31-2008, 05:41 PM
Guys, Can't we all just get along. I hate to see everyone squabbling over something that seems to be blown way out of proportion. Way too many scorecards right now. I love this site and have learned a lot from it but but I hate to see threads go bad:2780:. I think there have been a lot of valid points made in order to resolve the issue but a lot was said which fed the fire:nanertank:. Lynn, I hope your really not leaving. You are a part of this family and your posts are enjoyed. Let's work it out as James seemed to do with the problems he had in the past:p. I agree,the pic posting is a little out of hand but I'm sure we can resolve this, Jarred is on top of it. I bet he would gladly take input from everyone as long as its POSITIVE. There are a lot of members who I've yet to know but I'm only a PM away:guitarris. Those that I have chatted with have really made me smile and taught me a lot. And the hall of fame thing, Score keeping. :baloonnaner::baloonnaner:Congrats to all who have made it but lets not get carried away with the seriousness of it. It's meant to be for fun. I think a lot of us just have a case of cabin fever which may cause us to get a little sidetracked from the nanas:bananas_g but spring is just around the corner!! -NATE

tlturbo
01-31-2008, 05:56 PM
I gotta admit, taking the time to line up the lawn mower, banana plant and dog made me laugh. Now that's Cabin Fever. BUT the banana is supposed to be the BIGGEST of the 3.

And Hello Nate.

Terry

Ahava
01-31-2008, 06:42 PM
Mayhaps there should be a thread catagory that's titled something like "Life After Bananas" or some such, where people can post things (within reason) about their pets, cars, or a topics like that, where they can get to know each other a little more. Because the thing that attracted me to this board, was not only the bananas but the family oriented atsmophere, and the willingness to help (Thanks so much Ms Kitty for all the help you've given me... and everyone else). So if there are those that are not interested, then they do not have to go to that thread and look at what they feel is too non-banana oriented. I think it would be a shame if this forum did turn militant and kill off the familyish (forgive the spelling) atsmosphere. To me that's apart of this forum's charm, and because people have opened up about themselves, and are willing to share some personal things about themselves, makes me feel a little more trust towards them, makes them seem more human so to speak. Like alot of others said, it is wintertime for many, and there's only so much you can do with bananas when you can step outside your door and step into a snow drift (love that winter's picture thread Taylor!) However I look forward to spring whatever it will bring us, and I'm sure with springtime and warmth alot of the "experts" will come back to regale us with their knowledge again because it is... the growing season. Just my two cents. Thank you all. ~Amber/Ahava

Zac in NC
01-31-2008, 06:50 PM
I am one from the way back group, from dang near the beginning of the forum. I happen to be a serious plant person, as many of you who know me already can attest to. I am a member of many forums and I do enjoy a few which are more generalized than this one, more to exotic gardening. I do know that the one forum I am thinking of, which I enjoy immensely is a primarily British group and we do cut up, but we are usually respectful and lots of great plant knowledge is shared amongst the banter.

I left the forum for several reasons, one of them was I moved and didn't really have the time to be on the forum, and another was that there was a bit of a silly fight over Siam Ruby and I decided to leave for a while as well. I am back and shocked that the forum has I hate to use this word, but deteriorated while I was gone. I personally don't come here to see pictures of dogs and tractors and other things, but I tend to stay on the on topic areas ( on this forum) as it is my choice which threads to read and which ones to ignore.

Maybe there should be a trial period when new people join, that they are monitored more than they are. I'd like to see the forum go back to the way it used to be, with truly serious posters with good information. This forum used to be one of the top places to hear almost scholarly posts about new banana information. Nowadays, I just go to Gabe and talk about it, because he's on the cutting edge and I happen to call him a great friend.

I may be serious on the plant stuff, but I do have a sense of humor and am not uptight, so don't go there and attack me, ok? I'll just throw this idea out there.......Perhaps this forum should go to being a paid membership forum, with benefits to members. I don't know what benefits off hand, but its just an idea.

Zac

jason
01-31-2008, 06:56 PM
OK I have an idea and partial solution that will help.
(well I had the idea, then I scrolled down till Gadget's post, and he has it also :) )

How about, like Gadget suggested - only pictures from certain galleries will appear on the homepage. Typical uploads will not appear, unless its placed in one of the drill-down specific categories. And so if a member wishes to give a photo good homepage exposure, just add it to the proper category and it will show. Regular member folders and albums would be excluded. Sound good?
That would remove the run of the mill photos from appearing on the homepage, because the way it is now, all photos that get added get added to the homepage. The way it works now is the seven most recent photos, regardless of category, will appear. I can add some code to change what shows up and what does not, so this is a simple fix and will perhaps reap big rewards.
As we grow, we compensate for the changes that have happened and I think its about time we change that around.
I think that will solve a lot of the frustration some members get when they see non-banana pictures on the homepage, it will probably pretty much eliminate that.
I am as much as the next person a banana freak,,but still think it would be nice to be able to post a picture of a palm or a heliconia,or a canna,or a ginger or a alocasia or philodendron etc..... I feel as long as it is a plant or something related to plants -tropicals,or some lighting setup for your plants that it should be allowed,,,having so many different cool plants i feel it would only be a shame to only allow just bananas to be posted so everyone could see them,,just my opion,Jason. But I do understand it is bananas.org and not TROPICALS R US . hey theirs an idea!!!LOL!!!

the flying dutchman
01-31-2008, 07:29 PM
It has all to do with the fast growth of the board. I think these are minor
problems wich can be solved.
Within an year we will have 1000 more members and that will make running
the board not easier.

Now, I think i know the board ZAC is talking about, but this has only 300+
members sofar.
And he and I know what happened to the other English board when they
had around 800 members, its not there anymore. It has split up in 2
seperate boards because of all kind of nasty posts and attacks on mods
and even on the owner.
I have seen this all happening and I don't hope this happens here.

Ron

modenacart
01-31-2008, 07:59 PM
I don't understand what all the griping is about, as long as people post bananas in the banana part of the board and all else in Tiki Hut then if people don't want to read the Tiki Hut then they don't have to click on that link. Its very easy not to click on the link of something you don't want to read.

Also, no one should be attacking our moderators, they have done an excellent job.

Randy4ut
01-31-2008, 08:12 PM
very well said Modenacart... Especially about the admin and mods!!!

MediaHound
01-31-2008, 08:14 PM
I am as much as the next person a banana freak,,but still think it would be nice to be able to post a picture of a palm or a heliconia,or a canna,or a ginger or a alocasia or philodendron etc..... I feel as long as it is a plant or something related to plants -tropicals,or some lighting setup for your plants that it should be allowed,,,having so many different cool plants i feel it would only be a shame to only allow just bananas to be posted so everyone could see them,,just my opion,Jason. But I do understand it is bananas.org and not TROPICALS R US . hey theirs an idea!!!LOL!!!

No problem - if we add a category "Other Plants" we can put those on the homepage. But perhaps people would not upload their homecoming photos (nobody has done this yet, thanks) to it and so it would so to speak be slightly on topic at least. Thoughts everyone? Would you mind other plants going on the homepage? We could do a category for banana relatives and one for non-banana relatives and perhaps just do the relatives on the homepage. Let's kick this idea around a bit.

MediaHound
01-31-2008, 08:16 PM
Mayhaps there should be a thread catagory that's titled something like "Life After Bananas" or some such, where people can post things (within reason) about their pets, cars, or a topics like that, where they can get to know each other a little more. Because the thing that attracted me to this board, was not only the bananas but the family oriented atsmophere, and the willingness to help (Thanks so much Ms Kitty for all the help you've given me... and everyone else). So if there are those that are not interested, then they do not have to go to that thread and look at what they feel is too non-banana oriented. I think it would be a shame if this forum did turn militant and kill off the familyish (forgive the spelling) atsmosphere. To me that's apart of this forum's charm, and because people have opened up about themselves, and are willing to share some personal things about themselves, makes me feel a little more trust towards them, makes them seem more human so to speak. Like alot of others said, it is wintertime for many, and there's only so much you can do with bananas when you can step outside your door and step into a snow drift (love that winter's picture thread Taylor!) However I look forward to spring whatever it will bring us, and I'm sure with springtime and warmth alot of the "experts" will come back to regale us with their knowledge again because it is... the growing season. Just my two cents. Thank you all. ~Amber/Ahava

I like the idea but we have it already, that's what the Tiki Hut is for...

Other Topics This forum is for posts relating to anything other than bananas - general chit chat, etc.
Tiki Hut (2 Viewing)
All other posts go here. Banana jokes, travel stories, anything else you would like to chat about.

MediaHound
01-31-2008, 08:39 PM
A member has pointed out to me that someone that is visiting the board or is new to the board sees the title under a member's name and it says, "banana guru", "Senior member", etc., might think that person knows alot about bananas. Some members may have "Senior Member" under their name and perhaps may not feel educated enough to give much advice about anything except personal experiences. And some may have "junior" when infact they are an expert!
So perhaps we need another way to distinguish someone as a "banana guru", or "senior member" other than by the number of posts they have posted. I understand and realize that problem now that those labels could cause.
The way it is now, depending on post count, that label changes IF the member has not overwritten it with something custom.

This is the table the way it is now:
Title - post count

Junior Member 0
Member 30
Senior Member 100
Junior Guru 400
Senior Guru 1000
Gone Bananas 2000
Almost Nuts 4000

(remember, that label changes automatically ONLY IF the member has not overwritten it with something custom. It's the line of text that appears directly below the username in posts. If the member has something custom, as indicated in the control panel here (http://www.bananas.org/profile.php?do=editprofile), [under 'custom user title'] it will always remain custom unless the custom bit is removed)

What would you guys suggest please that we use for the automatic user title table instead?
I would be glad to change it, just give me some suggestions and some guidance here.
We can even add some intermediate ranks as well... It was supposed to be fun. Some of those like Junior and Senior were part of the default site software that the programmers initially created it with! But on our site, in actual use, they might be or are bad label names to use...

So in replacing them, additionally, I can add a totally new feature - "certified expert" plaque perhaps, or something to that effect, and only the moderators can assign it.
Depending on amount of useful information being posted, or otherwise apparent knowledge of bananas, and perhaps "thanks" count, we can assign these one by one.
This way we can appoint "titles" to members, with their acceptance, of course, so new members and visitors would know who to go to. Thoughts? I think giving this area of the workflow of the site some attention would be very useful, moving forward.

Ahava
01-31-2008, 08:46 PM
I like the idea but we have it already, that's what the Tiki Hut is for...

See that's what I thought, but... I assumed that must not be really it because of all the reactions that is coming out about this. I mean I'm not a moron or at least I hope not *grins*, and I did read the little description, I promise I really really did ^_-, but well, people are getting bent out of shape over things, and it seems people are putting them in the right threads. I don't really see the true issue then other than the picture posting.
So what I think is this, if people post nonsensical stuff in the Tiki Hut...? (within reason) What's the real problem? That's what I don't quite get? *scratches head confused*

Tiki Hut (2 Viewing)
All other posts go here. Banana jokes, travel stories, anything else you would like to chat about.

MediaHound
01-31-2008, 08:56 PM
Yea, nobody broke a rule, its sort of nipping things in the bud. Terry (TLTurbo) and I are friends and I know he cares about the site, he saw some direction it was headed and so voiced the concern.
People were getting cabin fever, posting off topic images and threads, perhaps a few off topic threads to weed through... I may have not read each and every post as I once upon a time was able to (been really busy this month) so I may have missed a thing or two as to whats transpired the past few weeks, though.

MediaHound
01-31-2008, 09:01 PM
Already from this thread we have some ideas at hand:

1. The image rotator on the bananas.org homepage needs attention on what goes in and what stays out, that I will handle programatically.
2. automatic User Titles need attention, they are misleading, that I want to determine a new set of titles with you guys, so lets talk about them as suggested three posts up
3. "Banana Expert" plaque can be setup to assign a special rank, as deserved on an individual basis.
4. Hall of Fame direction is being revisited

Did I miss something? I think that sums it up so far.

Randy4ut
01-31-2008, 09:51 PM
No problem - if we add a category "Other Plants" we can put those on the homepage. But perhaps people would not upload their homecoming photos (nobody has done this yet, thanks) to it and so it would so to speak be slightly on topic at least. Thoughts everyone? Would you mind other plants going on the homepage? We could do a category for banana relatives and one for non-banana relatives and perhaps just do the relatives on the homepage. Let's kick this idea around a bit.

I like this idea, but hate to limit it to banana relatives. I do like the "other plants" idea to be added to homepage...

Randy4ut
01-31-2008, 10:05 PM
Already from this thread we have some ideas at hand:

1. The image rotator on the bananas.org homepage needs attention on what goes in and what stays out, that I will handle programatically.
2. automatic User Titles need attention, they are misleading, that I want to determine a new set of titles with you guys, so lets talk about them as suggested three posts up
3. "Banana Expert" plaque can be setup to assign a special rank, as deserved on an individual basis.
4. Hall of Fame direction is being revisited

Did I miss something? I think that sums it up so far.

Jared,
I would like to put in my 2 cents worth in on #2 and #3, so here goes...
As far as #2 goes, I would just as soon it be blank unless a member chooses to add something on their own as long as it is not misleading to visitors and newbies, like you said.
And for #3, I like that idea with the moderators and/or admins assigning the "plaque", as long as the member is willing to take on the "title".
While I am at this post/reply, let me personally thank you and Ron and Gabe for all the hard work that you all do and rarely get any praise. The three of you are the best set of "overseers" of the BEST forum on the web, in my opinion. Keep up the good work, guys!!!

mskitty38583
01-31-2008, 11:18 PM
well i guess i can add my 2 cents in here now. i have been watching this thread for the last few days. i was very shocked to see even though my name was not brought up, i was put into it. i have never exceeded a 'pg' rating on anything that i have posted, unlike a few others on here. did i say anything..no i did not. i just by-passed what i thought should not have been posted. i may not be an expert when it comes to all things bananas, but i do have a very extensive hands on experience growing other things. as far as me being called a senior gru or whatever my title is, i thought it was all in fun. apparently i was mistaken. the hall of fame thing was another thing that i thought was a fun thing. who cares how may post you have weather it 250 or 16000. i have held my peace...till now. i do not appriciate the snide remarks about sitting at home all day long posting 50 in one day. if you would have taken the time to read the post instead of jumping to conclusion you would have seen i ask a lot of questions. and for your little information, i dont own one banana tree, i own 22 of them with 4-6 more fixing to be ordered..and as for the other snide comments 'user has 950 post and ask how far apart do you plant them'...you dont know till you ask. i agree the tiki hut is where we have been putting off banana topics, as far as i can see. and yes some of us do live in regions where most of us cant plant or do anything positive on the outside in our landscaping, so i agree we do get cabin fever. i am one of the fortunate one who has a whole room dedicated to the growing of bananas and other plants as well. relitive to nanas and not. so with that said, i believe the mod and admins have done a great job. i love this site.this has been the best forum i have seen online. we all love bananas here, we are all addicted to them. we probably have a lot more in common then just these two things. my last comment on this whole thing is probably going to upset a few, IF YOU DONT LIKE MY POST AND YOU DONT LIKE MY PICS...DONT LOOK AT THEM! you have an ignore button that jarred has graciously supplied just for that reason. until the time that jarred or one of the mods or admin tell me that i am doing something wrong...what you see is what you get. sam

STEELVIPER
01-31-2008, 11:41 PM
LOL sometimes mskitty you can not help but look at your post or pics, because they are everywhere! Don't get me wrong i like the fact that we have someone like you here. You seem like a fun person. And you liven up the place. I just think that we need to stick to the post set up. If you want to talk about your pets or post pics of your pets, do it in the tiki hut.We have a chat room also. But do not post or talk about what you had for lunch or what you doing this weekend under cold hardy species. And so on. (just an example.) Im not just talking or picking on you. As for the rank thing. I think labels should be allowed like senior member, or guru for members that have been here awhile. Senior member = 1 year, member=6months, jr guru after a year and a half and so on. After a year plus of being a member on here. I have learned so much. I went from only knowing that a banana is a yellow long fruit, to fruiting my own, to germinating wild species like chessmani and helens hybrid etc....

natedogg1026
01-31-2008, 11:44 PM
Nuttin but love for ya Sam.:bananas_b:D:dreadlocksnaner::2223::flouenaner::bananas_b;): p:guitarris:2623::bananas_j:2784::djnana2::dreadlocksnaner:

Ahava
01-31-2008, 11:58 PM
Nuttin but love for ya Sam.:bananas_b:D:dreadlocksnaner::2223::flouenaner::bananas_b;): p:guitarris:2623::bananas_j:2784::djnana2::dreadlocksnaner:

What he said *points up* ^_- :0515:

mskitty38583
02-01-2008, 01:00 AM
if it wasnt for this forum...id still be thinkin i could only grow nanas in fl. yall have taught me a lot, and i appriciate it. and there aint nothin but love for all yall!! :08:.

CookieCows
02-01-2008, 10:53 AM
SteelViper said, "After a year plus of being a member on here. I have learned so much. I went from only knowing that a banana is a yellow long fruit, to fruiting my own, to germinating wild species like chessmani and helens hybrid etc.... " I don't know you SteelViper but I would never have thought that you were new to bananas only a year ago. I believe that the owner and moderators care not only about being able to bounce knowledge, ideas, access to new fruit, rare fruit amongst themselves and the higher learned professionals/gurus but they also love to help and watch people like you continue to climb that ladder. Some of us will grab hold, test the waters and fall off .... disapear after deciding that we tried it and it didn't interest us enough. I don't know that it won't happen to me. I began my quest in winter to be ready to roll come spring. The more I know the higher % chance I have of sucsess which would give more desire to continue. I love the idea of edible landscaping and I love being outside and smelling the dirt and air and striving towards self sustainability not with packets of dried food in my pantry but knowing how to grow good fresh food.

I'm learning more than text book banana growing from the members of this forum. I've been given alot of food for thought. All this chit chat might bore the heck out of the members that are on a different educational/professional level and I know that personality differences often times go hand and hand with that. I'm not trying to put people into seperate categories but wanted to indicate that I understand from experience that it's normal for people to gravitate to others like them but in no way cut themselves off from the whole. Here are my thoughts thown into the pot.
1. Along the thoughts of a special guru plaque for the more experienced ... with that privlege give them a closed section of the forum where they can converse with each other. The rest of us can read the threads but not post. If we want to ask a question about something we read there .. maybe an 'ask a guru' section? As the questions and conversations evolve with those of us that are climbing that banana ladder of knowledge .... some will reach the top and the moderators will recommend that they be admitted into the guru group. It would also be nice if all the people in that group would post a short about me paragraph so we can know who they are and what they do.
There are so many people that aren't in that group that have enough knowlege to help us newbies with the more basic questions. A stepping stone environment giving everyone a comfortable place.

2. On another line of thought if you want this to be a forum of select type of people. The hall of fame people then do that! Have there be an acceptance form to be admitted to the forum based on your knowledge. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. People should be able to congregate with who they want. You as the owner and moderators might not have the time to take on a huge forum and this one obviously is growing from what I am reading. There are lots of other forums out there that meet the needs of what people need to know to grow bananas. You'd be leaving no one high and dry.

Deb

the flying dutchman
02-01-2008, 11:38 AM
Deb, this board is for everybody interested in Bananas. All the members are equal
and this will not change!!!
All those rankings and the Hall of Fame were just meant as a little 'Thank You'
to members, nothing serious at all.

Jarred is now looking how he can revise it in a way all members can live with it. So, all ideas and input are welcome, thank you!!

Ron

CookieCows
02-01-2008, 11:45 AM
Oh ok.. I was just sensing the need of a place for discussions between the professionals on topics that alot of us might not relate too in our level of exerience. I wasn't referring to the past reasons for the hall of fame.. was just a thought that coincided with something the software provided ... my misunderstanding.

Deb

STEELVIPER
02-01-2008, 12:14 PM
In a year plus Deb, you will be a guru.Trust me. This board and its members will teach you a lot. I went from asking to answering questions in no time.

Zac in NC
02-01-2008, 05:37 PM
It has all to do with the fast growth of the board. I think these are minor
problems wich can be solved.
Within an year we will have 1000 more members and that will make running
the board not easier.

Now, I think i know the board ZAC is talking about, but this has only 300+
members sofar.
And he and I know what happened to the other English board when they
had around 800 members, its not there anymore. It has split up in 2
seperate boards because of all kind of nasty posts and attacks on mods
and even on the owner.
I have seen this all happening and I don't hope this happens here.

Ron


I think that board was ended because the person who began it got tired of being in charge of it, and there is only one board now, as far as I know. I do know the Hardy Palm and Subtropical board tried a split a while back because of bickering. I post on so many boards, and they are all different.

Zac

jason
02-01-2008, 05:47 PM
Oh ok.. I was just sensing the need of a place for discussions between the professionals on topics that alot of us might not relate too in our level of exerience. I wasn't referring to the past reasons for the hall of fame.. was just a thought that coincided with something the software provided ... my misunderstanding.

Deb Just an idea but what if you based your decision of who gets a certain label ,on the plants that they grow and their pictures,that would give some pretty good indication of how smart they are when it comes to plants and the level of their experience ,sorry if that sounded dumb it was just an Idea!!_jason.

bencelest
02-01-2008, 07:11 PM
" Deb, this board is for everybody interested in Bananas. All the members are equal
and this will not change!!!
All those rankings and the Hall of Fame were just meant as a little 'Thank You'
to members, nothing serious at all.

Jarred is now looking how he can revise it in a way all members can live with it. So, all ideas and input are welcome, thank you!!"



I am taking the 'Hall of Fame" seriously. That's my thought. It is not how much you posted but how much you know about bananas. My suggestion is that members should have a vote as to who should be in the Hall of Fame. Like I think in Boxing or in other sports.
If it's all for fun it should be name something else.
That's my thought.

the flying dutchman
02-01-2008, 07:39 PM
Yes Benny, thats also a possibility, I agree with you

The whole point is, nomatter what you invent, there will always be members
who disagree with who is in the Hall of Fame.

For instance, you can say when someone is 2 or 3 years long a member he
should be in.
Okay, then we put that member in. What happens? other members say 'Hey,
he might be a member for 2 years but he has only made 50 posts'.

You see, thats the problem we have to solve.

But thanks for your input, those are all ideas wich help us how to do things..

Thanks

Ron

Bananaman88
02-01-2008, 11:55 PM
I've resisted posting on this thread up until this point. I agree with some points and disagree with others, as I'm sure we all do. For my part, I'm a professional horticulturist, but when anyone begins growing something new to them there is a learning curve. I have been growing bananas for over 5 years now and I still learn a lot from this site. I don't get annoyed with what some may consider basic or simple questions. I have them myself sometimes. At the same time, I appreciate people like Gabe and Jarred for being able to answer more complicated question for us. There's room for everyone here!

I have to say that all-in-all, I feel that it is a great site with an outstanding job being done by Jarred and all the moderators. For anyone who isn't happy with things here, as it has been stated, there are other forums out there. I just happen to think this one is pretty darn good! Thanks for the efforts put in on this site by everyone...members included. We all make it what it is!

bigdog
02-02-2008, 11:25 AM
I've been growing bananas for about 7-8 years, along with other subtropical plants. Mainly cold-hardy subtropicals that will survive in my Tennessee landscape (more than I ever would have dreamed about 8 years ago!). I have made bananas my number one hobby/obsession, and research them extensively. This by no means makes me any kind of expert though! Hah! There are some recent additions to this forum that oversee plantations, for crying out loud, or who have been or still are professors in the field of horticulture or botany. Others have been growing bananas for 20+ years. I immediately siezed on this board directly after its inception, as an alternative to the Gardenweb banana forum. It seems that on that forum, nobody wants to bother using the "search" feature to find answers to their questions. So you see the same questions, over and over and over, ad nauseum. Most of them are about how to protect their Musa basjoo or whatever. Go do a search on there on "Musa basjoo" and see how many repeat questions there are. I just think that people get too lazy to search for an answer to their questions, that have probably already been answered 100 times before. That doesn't mean I have a problem with anybody asking questions, just that they not be so lazy and use the search feature. That was part of the attraction of this forum, was that the discussion seemed to be a bit more intellectual. It has deteriorated to some extent, but it doesn't have to be that way. The three forums that I suggested, the seed germination, species, and cold-hardy bananas, were intended to be avenues for intellectual discussion. It seems that no thread is safe from being "hijacked," and posts becoming way off-topic in the same thread. That is what really irks me! I don't mind if somebody wants to post about their dogs or animals or tractors or whatever, but keep all of that stuff in the Tiki Hut or where it is appropriate. And if you are reading about a thread on Musa cheesmani, please don't ask what's wrong with your Super Dwarf Cavendish (that's hypothetical, but you get the point)! I also notice that members start "talking" to each other within threads, instead of PM'ing, emailing, or using the vbpager that Jarred set up. This is all complete dead space for the rest of us, who don't care what you had for breakfast yesterday(again, I'm making that up).

Jarred, maybe you could make a Sticky Thread in the Main Banana Discussion (or all forums) reminding users to use the search feature first before posting a new thread with a question that's been answered before. Some may not realize it is even there or how to use it. It might save repeat posts that clog up space.

I couldn't care less who is in the Hall of Fame, including me. Maybe it should just be called "The 1000 Post Club" or something like that. I agree with some others on here though, that the title of "Hall of Fame" conjures up thoughts of somebody who did something especially worthy of recognition, not just made 1000 posts. Its meaning is diminished in that respect.

I never have liked the titles. You have some members on here who should be considered Grand Pubas, but are still Junior Members because of their post count. Some folks have been on here since 2005, and still have the title of Junior Member or less. Makes no sense to me.

Moderators, you guys do a great job! I think you guys should start looking for more moderators though, since this board is growing so quickly. I've got an idea as to what kind of posts are deleted, such as ones with vulgar language or attacks, etc. Perhaps posts that have absolutely ZERO bearing on the topic in the thread, and are obviously not part of the discussion, should be deleted also. Not sure if that might cause some hard feelings or whatnot, but it would clean up some threads. I don't know if I'm coming across clearly on this or not, LOL. You know, I've probably got some posts of my own that were hijacking somebody elses thread and not even realized it.

Hope I didn't hurt anybody's feelings. I'm just trying to make some suggestions for the betterment of this forum so that we ALL might enjoy it!

Frank

bencelest
02-02-2008, 11:48 AM
I couldn't care less who is in the Hall of Fame, including me. Maybe it should just be called "The 1000 Post Club" or something like that. I agree with some others on here though, that the title of "Hall of Fame" conjures up thoughts of somebody who did something especially worthy of recognition, not just made 1000 posts. Its meaning is diminished in that respect.

Frank

Frank:
I agree with you 100%. You said it loud and clear. Some may disagree with you but I am all for everything that you said and do.
Yes, Hall of Fame should be dedicated to some knowledgeable individuals who contributed to this forum exceptionally. I hope more people will voice their opinion on this.
And like Frank said, Jarred, Gabe and Ron are doing more than an excellent job in running this forum. Your expertise about bananas are exceptional and I salute you guys for your dedications.
I am learning a lot here everyday.

magicgreen
02-02-2008, 11:53 AM
All your suggestions are good Frank, as well as alot of others! We all have to remember that we are human and sometimes a post or so will go off topic; just as long as we remember to get back on topic!

My sentiments exactly about GW banana forum. When i came here it was really great to see so much technical post on the bananas. And i was astounded by all the knowledge the members displayed (still am) When iam at my civic garden classes, people are pumping me (ME!) with questions because ive learned so much!

I apologize if i offended anyone with my venting.......had a bad day, and should not of put it on my site that I do LOVE very much!

Lynn......................

bencelest
02-02-2008, 12:00 PM
Lynn:
I am glad to see that you came back and posted again.

magicgreen
02-02-2008, 12:09 PM
Benny, I cant stay away.....It would be detrimental to my health!
You see..........Iam officially addicted to the bananas,this site, and the members!

P.S. Not to mention the other tropicals ive been introduced to here on this site!
WOOHOO!!!!!!!!!

tlturbo
02-02-2008, 01:36 PM
I think FRANK pretty well summed it all up. I agree with all his comments. BUT this board is only taking the standard route for a board that is growing. After the initial 100 or so of us got to know everyone and asked all our stupid questions, we got to feeling beyond the neebie questions. I know at times I thought if I saw another post abut how to separate pups, I would SCREAM. But we all (me anyway) started that way. I will admit, tolerance is NOT one of my better traits and I too apologize for starting this thread, BUT if all this conversation helps improve an already great site, I'll take the flaming for starting it. I was totally surprised at the response to this thread.
NOW the big question - do I get in the Hall of Fame when a thread I started gets over a 100 replies??? JUST KIDDING. Maybe my title should be "Aggitator".

Terry

natedogg1026
02-02-2008, 02:24 PM
This may seem a little off track but I think it pertains. I can't help but feel some of this Hall of Fame controversy comes from lack or recognition to some of those who deserve it. It's all being based on how many times you've posted and that doesn't recognize all who deserve it. I know the hall of fame was created to be a fun thing and I'm not saying do away with it, but how about putting a History section in the blue bar above. Kind of a Wiki of Banana's.Org. A place where it shows recognition to those who started this site and how it began. For instance,I read a post from Zac earlier and I thought he was new, but read on to find out he's one of the originators who was here waaaaaay before me. I think people like that deserve recognition. And Jarred, some newbies don't even know who he is and how much he does to keep this thing going. He needs a place where his name and title can be seen. I think that this would give a place to really see who are mentors are. Maybe a list with the moderators and what they actually do so people understand their contributions. I just like knowing who my teachers are, I do consider myself the student. I like to recognize the knowledgeable and know who makes this FREE site possible .Thanx Guys! As far as those who post a lot, Great! To me they are learning and sharing and that's what were here for. I don't want to discredit anyone who is not a moderator, horticulture expert, originator, etc but recognize those who are. I think they deserve it and in a place where everyone can see it. Me myself. Bottom of the food chain on here. But I'm learning and making new friends and there's no where to go but up! What do you guys think? Just and idea.-NATE

Zac in NC
02-02-2008, 02:50 PM
I'm not from the very beginning, but I am from a time when this forum was a lot smaller than it is now. I had been chatting with Gabe for like 6 months on AIM before I got onto the forum. I joined in May of 06. This type of thread comes up every now and then on boards, and eventually things just die back down. People also come and go on forums like this. Sometimes its hard to remember all of the forums, when there are so many to post in.

Zac

austinl01
02-02-2008, 04:34 PM
Should we cap the enrollment for the forum then? Is this a possible solution, or is it just nonsense?! :)

bencelest
02-02-2008, 05:42 PM
Terry:
You make me LMAO!

the flying dutchman
02-02-2008, 05:56 PM
7 posts to go for Terry and he is in the Hall of Fame if no mod closes this
thread at 99 posts:)

Just kidding Terry , i know you can take it.

Ron

MediaHound
02-02-2008, 06:31 PM
I could have sworn I replied to Frank's post this morning, perhaps I did not click submit.
What I wanted to say was that lets then add #5 and #6:

1. The image rotator on the bananas.org homepage needs attention on what goes in and what stays out, that I will handle programatically.
2. automatic User Titles need attention, they are misleading, that I want to determine a new set of titles with you guys, so lets talk about them as suggested three posts up
3. "Banana Expert" plaque can be setup to assign a special rank, as deserved on an individual basis.
4. Hall of Fame direction is being revisited
5. Add sticky threads and advise people to search before posting, and mention other tidbits of netiquette perhaps. It's always wise to check for a sticky thread before posting in any forum, to learn the rules of the land. If we put a few strategic sticky posts around, perhaps we can change the tone of things and keep certain types of (new) threads from surfacing as often.
6. Encourage people to use the "Report Post" feature more often. This way, if a thread or a post is about to throw the train off the tracks, you guys can help the moderators and I to catch them and act accordingly, perhaps delete the post or hide the thread. http://www.bananas.org/images/buttons/report.gif <-- thats what that button does next to each post, click it to report a post. You stay moderately anonymous, just the moderators (Ron or Gabe, and I) can see the report and that you made it, the other members cannot. We get an email notice of the report instantly, and the moderators can discuss the report in a special forum that only they can see. You guys are encouraged to report posts if you feel it's in the best interest of our mission.


Sometimes its hard to remember all of the forums, when there are so many to post in.

http://www.bananas.org/downloads/ForumOrganizerFull.msi
^ Zac, that's for you (and everyone else)
This handy software to keep track of all your forum memberships, and it also makes it very easy to log into all your messageboards, and even post the same message to each, quickly, if you want to make an announcement in a few places... It will even keep track of posts, it's pretty self explanatory. It stores usernames and passwords, they are stored only on your computer, so only you have access to them. That makes it very easy to log into each forum you are a member of and just go down the list when you want to make some posts to all your boards. Let me know if you have any questions about it or how to work it if it's confusing at first.
It should help you not forget about your favorite sites anymore. It's for Windows, btw...

Lagniappe
02-02-2008, 06:44 PM
This thread should certainly hold a record for the most posts/views in a week !

As to what's been said here , Things did get a little crazy with the PM's in threads and the chronic nonsense . At first I was angry and stopped referring people to the site . I considered the org to be an archive of knowledge and reference. Then it seemed to transform into a circus.
I changed my views when I considered my own hypocrisy. I log onto this forum every morning and stay all (off and on)day at times . The people here have become my friends ....family if you will . When I find a neat article or take a crazy pic and want to share it where else and with whom do I want to share it with but friends and family ?....The folks at the org .
Still , there are those who will find this site and ,perhaps , not take it seriously if they see so much nonsense and off topic chatter .
BTW..I mispell a lot of words and am considered by my peers to be gramatically challenged but some posts here are preposterous ! By this I mean the posts with no capital letters at all , with crazy run-on sentences and those with many tangents that distract from the topic alltogether .
Again , I too am guilty of this but I agree that we should "clean up this board".

MediaHound
02-02-2008, 06:52 PM
Oh yes, and #7

1. The image rotator on the bananas.org homepage needs attention on what goes in and what stays out, that I will handle programatically.
2. automatic User Titles need attention, they are misleading, that I want to determine a new set of titles with you guys, so lets talk about them as suggested three posts up
3. "Banana Expert" plaque can be setup to assign a special rank, as deserved on an individual basis.
4. Hall of Fame direction is being revisited
5. Add sticky threads and advise people to search before posting, and mention other tidbits of netiquette perhaps. It's always wise to check for a sticky thread before posting in any forum, to learn the rules of the land. If we put a few strategic sticky posts around, perhaps we can change the tone of things and keep certain types of (new) threads from surfacing as often.
6. Encourage people to use the "Report Post" feature more often. This way, if a thread or a post is about to throw the train off the tracks, you guys can help the moderators and I to catch them and act accordingly, perhaps delete the post or hide the thread. http://www.bananas.org/../images/buttons/report.gif <-- thats what that button does next to each post, click it to report a post. You stay moderately anonymous, just the moderators (Ron or Gabe, and I) can see the report and that you made it, the other members cannot. We get an email notice of the report instantly, and the moderators can discuss the report in a special forum that only they can see. You guys are encouraged to report posts if you feel it's in the best interest of our mission.
7. We will be reviewing the smileys and removing some of the more "questionable" ones. This will make the forum a tad bit more serious.

bencelest
02-02-2008, 07:01 PM
This thread should certainly hold a record for the most posts/views in a week !

As to what's been said here , Things did get a little crazy with the PM's in threads and the chronic nonsense .
BTW..I mispell a lot of words and am considered by my peers to be gramatically challenged but some posts here are preposterous ! By this I mean the posts with no capital letters at all , with crazy run-on sentences and those with many tangents that distract from the topic alltogether .board".

Yes, I noticed this too . But I tried to ignore it.

Lagniappe
02-02-2008, 07:01 PM
I'm also guilty of using smileys loosely and as a quick reply .

In regards to #2 ,I have followed the lead of so many others and gave myself a unique title . I encourage everyone else to do the same . It would be nice to do away with the automatic title and interesting to see the titles people come up with .

MediaHound
02-02-2008, 07:24 PM
No problem. Updated #2.

1. The image rotator on the bananas.org homepage needs attention on what goes in and what stays out, that I will handle programatically.
2. automatic User Titles need attention, they are misleading, that I want to determine a new set of titles with you guys, perhaps totally remove the automatic titles.
3. "Banana Expert" plaque can be setup to assign a special rank, as deserved on an individual basis.
4. Hall of Fame direction is being revisited
5. Add sticky threads and advise people to search before posting, and mention other tidbits of netiquette perhaps. It's always wise to check for a sticky thread before posting in any forum, to learn the rules of the land. If we put a few strategic sticky posts around, perhaps we can change the tone of things and keep certain types of (new) threads from surfacing as often.
6. Encourage people to use the "Report Post" feature more often. This way, if a thread or a post is about to throw the train off the tracks, you guys can help the moderators and I to catch them and act accordingly, perhaps delete the post or hide the thread. http://www.bananas.org/../images/buttons/report.gif <-- thats what that button does next to each post, click it to report a post. You stay moderately anonymous, just the moderators (Ron or Gabe, and I) can see the report and that you made it, the other members cannot. We get an email notice of the report instantly, and the moderators can discuss the report in a special forum that only they can see. You guys are encouraged to report posts if you feel it's in the best interest of our mission.
7. We will be reviewing the smileys and removing some of the more "questionable" ones. This will make the forum a tad bit more serious.

the flying dutchman
02-02-2008, 07:26 PM
It works!!!!

MediaHound
02-02-2008, 08:11 PM
OK so I am not entirely crazy. That post I was intending to post earlier I found in another browser instance behind the one I was working in, thats why I could not locate the tab with what I had typed out. So I will merge my thoughts from this morning with the ideas that have been derived from this thread into the current list of things that need attention to clean this place up (and gollie, will it be squeaky clean...)

1. The image rotator on the Bananas.org homepage needs attention as far as what goes in and what stays out, that I will handle programatically.

2. Automatic User Titles need attention, they are misleading, that I want to determine a new set of titles with you guys. Perhaps totally remove the automatic titles - and encourage members to put something custom instead.

3. A "Banana Expert" plaque can be setup to assign a special rank, as deserved, and assigned on an individual basis.

4. The Hall of Fame direction is being revisited. Perhaps we will remove it altogether as some members feel they should be in it, other members feel it should be a voting procedure, and other members may not even want to be in it. It was fun when it was more intimate perhaps, but I can see how this may hurt feelings, and may not be needed. Especially with the Plaque system that will go up, perhaps we can add different merits.. we shall see how cluttered things get.. (many reading this may not even know about the Hall of Fame, its in the wiki...)

5. Add sticky threads and advise people to search before posting, and mention other tidbits of netiquette perhaps. It's always wise to check for a sticky thread before posting in any forum, to learn the rules of the land. If we put a few strategic sticky posts around, perhaps we can change the tone of things and keep certain types of (new) threads from surfacing as often. And perhaps stick other useful threads that contain answers to common problems, maybe even create a page with links to useful threads or otherwise top rated threads (you guys know you can rate threads, yes? It's right up there by where you click to go to page 2 of any thread)


6. Be a bit stricter with OT (off topic) posts, if they're posted in existing threads, perhaps split them into new threads if they get noticed by a moderator or admin. And encourage people to use the "Report Post" feature more often. This way, if a thread or a post is about to throw the train off the tracks, you guys can help the moderators and I to catch them and act accordingly, perhaps delete the post or hide the thread. http://www.bananas.org/../images/buttons/report.gif <-- thats what that button does next to each post, click it to report a post. You stay moderately anonymous, just the moderators (Ron, Gabe, and I) can see the report and that you made it, the other members cannot. We get an email notice of the report instantly, and the moderators can discuss the report in a special forum that only they can see. You guys are encouraged to report posts if you feel it's in the best interest of our mission.

7. We will be reviewing the smileys and removing some of the more "questionable" ones. This will make the forum a tad bit more serious. May of the questionable ones are not even being utilized, so they will not be sorely missed.



So, as you can see, I rewrote some of those and brought it current with the train of thought. Please make some suggestions if you think of anything else, I think this is a good thread and I'm glad that we're having the discussion.

CookieCows
02-02-2008, 08:23 PM
Changing this post as it was mostly hypocrisy.

Zac in NC
02-02-2008, 08:37 PM
I could have sworn I replied to Frank's post this morning, perhaps I did not click submit.
What I wanted to say was that lets then add #5 and #6:

1. The image rotator on the bananas.org homepage needs attention on what goes in and what stays out, that I will handle programatically.
2. automatic User Titles need attention, they are misleading, that I want to determine a new set of titles with you guys, so lets talk about them as suggested three posts up
3. "Banana Expert" plaque can be setup to assign a special rank, as deserved on an individual basis.
4. Hall of Fame direction is being revisited
5. Add sticky threads and advise people to search before posting, and mention other tidbits of netiquette perhaps. It's always wise to check for a sticky thread before posting in any forum, to learn the rules of the land. If we put a few strategic sticky posts around, perhaps we can change the tone of things and keep certain types of (new) threads from surfacing as often.
6. Encourage people to use the "Report Post" feature more often. This way, if a thread or a post is about to throw the train off the tracks, you guys can help the moderators and I to catch them and act accordingly, perhaps delete the post or hide the thread. http://www.bananas.org/images/buttons/report.gif <-- thats what that button does next to each post, click it to report a post. You stay moderately anonymous, just the moderators (Ron or Gabe, and I) can see the report and that you made it, the other members cannot. We get an email notice of the report instantly, and the moderators can discuss the report in a special forum that only they can see. You guys are encouraged to report posts if you feel it's in the best interest of our mission.



http://www.bananas.org/downloads/ForumOrganizerFull.msi
^ Zac, that's for you (and everyone else)
This handy software to keep track of all your forum memberships, and it also makes it very easy to log into all your messageboards, and even post the same message to each, quickly, if you want to make an announcement in a few places... It will even keep track of posts, it's pretty self explanatory. It stores usernames and passwords, they are stored only on your computer, so only you have access to them. That makes it very easy to log into each forum you are a member of and just go down the list when you want to make some posts to all your boards. Let me know if you have any questions about it or how to work it if it's confusing at first.
It should help you not forget about your favorite sites anymore. It's for Windows, btw...


Thanks for that. When I get my own personal computer, I could use that, unless I get a mac, which is a possibility. At the moment, I use library computers and I have to remember lots of site addresses.

Zac

MediaHound
02-02-2008, 08:58 PM
Might want to look into Foxmarks (http://www.foxmarks.com) as well or some of the other bookmark storage sites like del.icio.us (http://del.icio.us/) Maybe they could be of use? Regards

natedogg1026
02-02-2008, 09:40 PM
O.K scratch my idea.:2141:

tlturbo
02-03-2008, 10:49 AM
YEAH - 100 posts. :goteam:

So what is my new title?

At least I worked everyone up and it appears we have made some constructive steps forward.

Terry

CookieCows
02-03-2008, 11:51 AM
I think the owner and moderators are doing a great job and trying to make this board a good place to gather and learn. I’m not saying the change is bad. I don’t have any respect for some members that are involved in this change. I believe they could have posted their feelings privately to the moderators instead of the veiled comments about other members behavior. We all know who you’re talking about. To go so far as to make snide remarks about someone’s spelling and sentence structure was the straw that broke the camel’s back for me. You’re publicly bashing. Some comments make me think that you wish this was a forum for just the elite group you consider yourselves to be in. It’s priceless the way ‘your little group’ can banter back and forth in the thread and it’s ok… but if anyone else does it .. it’s irritating to you. I agree that we probably carried it too far but an announcement to rein it in might have been all that was needed. In my opinion this isn’t a forum for newbies… at the level that I’m at right now I can get the information I need elsewhere. I’ll probably come back in a year or so when I’m at a more advanced level. I think most of you are awesome but the snobby attitude that I’m picking up has just gone too far for me to be comfortable anymore and I will gain no benefit from this forum.

Looking forward to spring … have a great year.

the flying dutchman
02-03-2008, 01:28 PM
YEAH - 100 posts. :goteam:

So what is my new title?

At least I worked everyone up and it appears we have made some constructive steps forward.

Terry

There you are:volleyballnaner: its changed : Lol

Ron

magicgreen
02-03-2008, 01:42 PM
I dont know.........maybe i shouldnt say this....but going to.....Terry you hurt some feelings......then your turn around and do what you advocated against!

Richard
02-03-2008, 03:37 PM
I dont know.........maybe i shouldnt say this....but going to.....Terry you hurt some feelings......then your turn around and do what you advocated against!

Lynn, those of us who have had a lot of contact with people over the years will tell you that some persons would rather change their story than apologize. There is really nothing we can do to change their behavior.

bencelest
02-03-2008, 03:52 PM
"NOW the big question - do I get in the Hall of Fame when a thread I started gets over a 100 replies??? JUST KIDDING. Maybe my title should be "Aggitator"."

I think it was done in jest to lighten things up. And Fried Banana changed it. And again the signature was changed for some of us funny but I am sure some people won't get it.

Richard
02-03-2008, 04:14 PM
... lately I have seen this site change from being a bunch of semi serious (pretty much) banana people who talked about mainly bananas with an occasional off topic question, to a general playground for people that just happen to have a banana plant.

We now have people posting pet pictures, cartoons, tractors, lawn equipment, etc. I could care less that you have a cute dog, cute kid, new car, new tractor, have a pretty rose, etc. This is a BANANA board.


I don't think this was said in jest. Nor do I understand how a picture of equipment in an Album called Equipment in a Banana thread discussing equipment is somehow ruining a person's experience at this web site.

momoese
02-03-2008, 04:50 PM
I'm very late seeing this post and honestly don't want to read the whole thing, so I have to ask, what's the point of the "Tiki Hut" if not for sharing jokes, stories, pictures of lawnmowers, tiki huts, dogs, cars, etc?

I think it's all in good fun and providing there is a specific place for it then why not? It's just people getting to know one another on another level!

the flying dutchman
02-03-2008, 05:57 PM
Mitchel, thats not the point, the point is they show all up on the homepage
so it looks a bit strange when someone goes to bananas.org and see all
kind of pics of dogs, equipment and other none plant/banana pics.
But Jarred is working on that.
I have an album and when I upload pics there they don't show up on the home-page, but I can
insert them in my posts.

And indeed, the tiki hut is there to discuss other things, but we will ask
members to leave politics and religions and so out of the discussions.

Ron

Randy4ut
02-03-2008, 07:09 PM
Alright, this is my last post to this thread but I just have to get my opinion in on the non-nanner post in a thread. I don't have a single problem with folks talking about whatever the heck they want to in the "Tiki Hut", but my frustration is when I am reading a particular thread about some type of plant, whether it be a nanner, ee, or whatever and someone sees a friend makes a post in a thread and they jump into the thread to talk about something else. Sometimes the particular topic is totally dropped and something that has nothing to do with the topic takes over. Its very frustating to be reading about something and then trying to relocate where the topic picks back up on down into the thread. Would be nice to stay on a specific topic that is started. If someone else wants to talk about something else, lets just start a new thread... What 'cha think about that? Just my little pet peeve... I'm done ... sorry

Richard
02-03-2008, 07:11 PM
...
I have an album and when I upload pics there they don't show up on the home-page, but I can
insert them in my posts.

How would I configure my albums that way? When I upload to an album, they always show in "latest pictures".

the flying dutchman
02-03-2008, 07:18 PM
How would I configure my albums that way? When I upload to an album, they always show in "latest pictures".

its something Jarred have to assign to your album Richard, i can't do it. It's in the code

Ron

momoese
02-03-2008, 07:28 PM
Mitchel, thats not the point, the point is they show all up on the homepage
so it looks a bit strange when someone goes to bananas.org and see all
kind of pics of dogs, equipment and other none plant/banana pics.
But Jarred is working on that.
I have an album and when I upload pics there they don't show up on the home-page, but I can
insert them in my posts.

And indeed, the tiki hut is there to discuss other things, but we will ask
members to leave politics and religions and so out of the discussions.

Ron

Wow, who would have ever imagined that some members of a website for backyard banana growers would be so concerned about someone seeing one of our dogs! :rolleyes:

The internet never ceases to amaze me! :2691:

Richard
02-03-2008, 07:54 PM
I believe that Jarred, Ron, and several others have done a great job of turning the original post into a discussion of positive site improvements. From the computer science point of view, a little more meta-data would go a long way.

But it is also clear that the original poster was frustrated by the following assumptions:
* a stock photo from the Barreto company was a picture of a lawn mower in my yard (neither is true)
* a stock photo from the Bobcat company was a picture of a new tractor I'd purchased (nope)
* that true lovers of Bananas only grow bananas (a good counter-example is pitangadiego)
* that there should be independent web sites for each of the over 1 million known plant taxa in the world (absurd)

Expressing opinions is a good thing. I hope also that by now some reality has set in.

momoese
02-03-2008, 11:46 PM
Ok so I decided to spend some time reading this thread and one thing really stood out to me. The "Said Thanks Button" has become political. I really don't like that.

magicgreen
02-04-2008, 03:19 AM
I know ya'll gonna think iam crazy............. Don't laugh.......I emailed Oprah, and Dr. Oz about this thread!!!........I miss mskitty and Cookiecows and Anna, and Everybody!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I feel pretty sad the way everything has changed.........................with this ugly thread!

Randy4ut
02-04-2008, 07:27 AM
I know ya'll gonna think iam crazy............. Don't laugh.......I emailed Oprah, and Dr. Oz about this thread!!!........I miss mskitty and Cookiecows and Anna, and Everybody!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I feel pretty sad the way everything has changed.........................with this ugly thread!

Man, sure will be nice for all of us to get some "professional help". Hats off to you... What a hoot!!!

the flying dutchman
02-04-2008, 08:31 AM
Don't know who they are oprah and ozz. Do they grow bananas to?

Anyway, Jarred made some suggestions to improve the board in this thread,
if there are any other suggestions please let us know and it would be nice
if we stay on this topic.(improvement)

Ron

MediaHound
02-04-2008, 11:20 AM
I have an album and when I upload pics there they don't show up on the home-page, but I can insert them in my posts.


So as to not confuse people, we set this album up specially a couple years ago perhaps - its for photos that go in the wiki, we were doing a lot of work with that at one point when we were fleshing it out, and I set that up (which gives me the framework to do it with other albums) so as to not clutter the homepage with the photos that were going into the wiki. Nobody else has this, it's not an option in your settings or anything like that.

MediaHound
02-04-2008, 11:27 AM
OK you guys that are still on this thread, and need some enlightenment and a good laugh, click the "begin" button on this page and have a laugh. There's many different types of personalities on forums, and this artist sums them up.
Flame Warriors Home (http://redwing.hutman.net/%7Emreed/index.htm)
Click "Begin" then click "Next Warrior" to see each in the series.

BTW it really does bother me that people are getting upset and I also wish we could have determined these things in private. But I am not sure it would have been possible to determine this list that needs attention without the open discussion.
Bitter-sweet.
I just wish there were not casualties.
Please keep all posts tactful and try to respect each others feelings.

inkcube
02-04-2008, 12:15 PM
sorry for coming to this late but i was in Honduras


1. The image rotator on the Bananas.org homepage needs attention as far as what goes in and what stays out, that I will handle programatically.

2. Automatic User Titles need attention, they are misleading, that I want to determine a new set of titles with you guys. Perhaps totally remove the automatic titles - and encourage members to put something custom instead.

3. A "Banana Expert" plaque can be setup to assign a special rank, as deserved, and assigned on an individual basis.

4. The Hall of Fame direction is being revisited. Perhaps we will remove it altogether as some members feel they should be in it, other members feel it should be a voting procedure, and other members may not even want to be in it. It was fun when it was more intimate perhaps, but I can see how this may hurt feelings, and may not be needed. Especially with the Plaque system that will go up, perhaps we can add different merits.. we shall see how cluttered things get.. (many reading this may not even know about the Hall of Fame, its in the wiki...)

5. Add sticky threads and advise people to search before posting, and mention other tidbits of netiquette perhaps. It's always wise to check for a sticky thread before posting in any forum, to learn the rules of the land. If we put a few strategic sticky posts around, perhaps we can change the tone of things and keep certain types of (new) threads from surfacing as often. And perhaps stick other useful threads that contain answers to common problems, maybe even create a page with links to useful threads or otherwise top rated threads (you guys know you can rate threads, yes? It's right up there by where you click to go to page 2 of any thread)


6. Be a bit stricter with OT (off topic) posts, if they're posted in existing threads, perhaps split them into new threads if they get noticed by a moderator or admin. And encourage people to use the "Report Post" feature more often. This way, if a thread or a post is about to throw the train off the tracks, you guys can help the moderators and I to catch them and act accordingly, perhaps delete the post or hide the thread. http://www.bananas.org/../images/buttons/report.gif <-- thats what that button does next to each post, click it to report a post. You stay moderately anonymous, just the moderators (Ron, Gabe, and I) can see the report and that you made it, the other members cannot. We get an email notice of the report instantly, and the moderators can discuss the report in a special forum that only they can see. You guys are encouraged to report posts if you feel it's in the best interest of our mission.

7. We will be reviewing the smileys and removing some of the more "questionable" ones. This will make the forum a tad bit more serious. May of the questionable ones are not even being utilized, so they will not be sorely missed.



So, as you can see, I rewrote some of those and brought it current with the train of thought. Please make some suggestions if you think of anything else, I think this is a good thread and I'm glad that we're having the discussion.

i think the suggestions Jarred made hit the nail on the head. for the most part i ignore the silly threads but i find it inconsiderate when the posts get off topic for example; the thread where suddenly we go from talking about planting densities to vacations. i see nothing wrong with making this a more serious forum after all it is a forum about bananas, at least keep topics in the proper forum.

Bananaman88
02-04-2008, 12:32 PM
Jarred,

When you say "automatic titles" do you mean the one's that say "Junior member, senior member, etc? I'm cool with that. I don't need no stinkin' title!

bencelest
02-04-2008, 12:40 PM
That's an excellent description for all personalities that are mentioned there.
I, for one can see myself there. Heh-heh. Did you?

Can we end it here and go on!

momoese
02-04-2008, 12:47 PM
OK you guys that are still on this thread, and need some enlightenment and a good laugh, click the "begin" button on this page and have a laugh. There's many different types of personalities on forums, and this artist sums them up.
Flame Warriors Home (http://redwing.hutman.net/%7Emreed/index.htm)


That's a very interesting site. I post to several message boards and I can recognize several of the warriors I see in that list. I can see myself in some of the warriors too.

Do you post on the board there Jarred?

Bananaman88
02-04-2008, 01:00 PM
Jarred,

When you say remove the automatic titles, do you mean "Jr. Member, Senior Member", etc.? I'd be cool with that. I don't need no stinkin' title!!!

AnnaJW
02-04-2008, 02:36 PM
I normally stay out of these types of discussions, but since you will be seeing far less of me posting, I thought I'd jump in. I've seen this forum grow so much, and was pleased to see it! I've met alot of great people here, and enjoy seeing their "non-banana" pictures. For now on, I will try to communicate mainly by PM. Oh, and if I send you a PM and you don't like it, please let me know.
Oh, and I do agree with Mitchel that the "Thanks" button can go. :)
And now I'm off to check on my BANANAS!

modenacart
02-04-2008, 07:04 PM
I still don't understand why people can just not click on the links they don't want to read. This is a website for fun, I can't believe people are taking this so seriously. I think the reason why a lot of old members don't hang around so much is they become bored, it happens with everything.

NANAMAN
02-04-2008, 08:39 PM
I've been out of town, and just now read this thread. Wow! I was just about to post a cartoon of a cute dog, riding on a tractor,plowing someones rose garden, while two cute kids in a new car drive by, showing off their vanity license plate, that reads:HALOFME Glad I read the thread first!

modenacart
02-04-2008, 09:08 PM
I say post away if its in the Tiki Hut. Thats what its for. If people don't want to look at it they can stay away from the Tiki Hut. Maybe we should put some kind of warning or disclaimer for the Tiki Hut. Maybe "Warning, Post may not contain Bananas!"

Richard
02-04-2008, 10:21 PM
I've been out of town, and just now read this thread. Wow! I was just about to post a cartoon of a cute dog, riding on a tractor,plowing someones rose garden, while two cute kids in a new car drive by, showing off their vanity license plate, that reads:HALOFME Glad I read the thread first!

O.K., let's see who can come up with the best photoshop version of that photo!

AnnaJW
02-05-2008, 12:03 AM
Last post for me on this thread. (Please let me put down the wine glass so I keep my word) :)

I do really want to thank admin and the moderators here. You all do such a super job!
Second, who's Forum is this, anyway??? Uh, Jarred's I believe?!!! I know he's very open to ideas, which is great. But it is his Forum. He works so hard on this that he should be compensated! Whatever you do Jarred, it's your place. And thank you for providing it!!!

Off of the soapbox, and out to cover the banana plants... :coldbanana:

bencelest
02-05-2008, 10:21 AM
I am amused reading the new titles they give themselves now. I think it is just perfect. And a lot of fun reading.
To see someone having the title 'guro ' means much above the others.Like in my kids karate class. To be named as 'sensie' or teacher means many years of experience not only being a black belt in karate but he can teach his students many many things. All of his student including other black belts bow their heads to this guro as a sign of respect whether they saw him anywhere or when they come to the 'dojo' or place they practice karate.And he acts like a guro too.
So I am happy now that they changed their tittles to some very amusing ways.
Now it is fun again to log in.

tlturbo
02-05-2008, 11:51 AM
Hey Bennie - I could use the Sensie title but that was MANY years ago (too many to think about)

I wanted to jump back in here to straighten out a few misconceptions about the first post I made that started this thread. If you go back to the beginning of this board, everyone was friendly, many were WAY more educated about Bananas than me (I still get lost with the A, AAB, etc stuff) and we all got along great.

Several have said if you don't like a thread, don't read it and that the Tiki Hut section should be for off topic threads. If you want to post a pic in your own gallery of something else (like your boat, etc) - no problem. I totally agree and never fussed about those points. I never go in the Tiki Hut, never go through the pic galleries unless sent there to look at something in particular, only occasionally check out the Other Plant section, have no interest in the cold hardy section and several others. As mentioned, I go where I have an interest and read only those posts that interest me. NO problems with that at all. If that was the way it was working, I wouldn't have started this thread.

But when I came on site that morning, the header pictures were several cartoons, a little backhoe thing, and something else totally unrelated. It got me thinking about the direction the board had been going, the other recent additions I didn't agree with and I thought someone needed to point it out. AND I put it in the SITE SUGGESTION area which I assumed was put there just for a post like that.

Jarred and the moderators have done wonderful things with this board, BUT it has definitely changed over the past year or so. I DO have to disagree with a recent post that stated that this was supposed to be a fun place. Sorry, it is a BANANA board first and formost for sharing information and experiences with ---- BANANAS. Now if we all have fun at the same time - great. But let's NOT forget it's original intent. Ask yourself, "WHAT got me to look at this board?" "Why did I come here?" Probably because of a BANANA related issue or question. It was never intended to be your home away from home or a place to spend cold winter days posting and chatting with your friends because you are bored or snowbound and can't do anything else. Ask yourself how many times did you make a post that you really didn't need to make but did it just to do it.

Several other issues started over the past year really bothered me. One was the "Thanks" count. WHY??? The other was the Hall of Fame. WHY would you be put in the Hall of Fame just because of the number of posts you made? This isn't meant to offend anyone that got that designation. I never really cared about the nicknames or titles either. Most boards use Jr Member, Member, Sr Member or such to designate how long the person has been around (unfortunately based on # of posts which again is misleading - should be based on TIME on the board).

I think most of the ideas being suggested for review are great. If the moderators want to turn this into an open town hall forum, that's their privlege. Someone said I hurt peoples feelings. Why? If I hurt your feelings because I pointed out something that applies to you, I'm sorry (and YES, I did also say "I'm Sorry" several pages back but someone said I hadn't apologized).

All of my comments are meant constructively and I hope they help put this board back on the track of being the best BANANA site on the internet.

inkcube
02-05-2008, 12:16 PM
Terry, i had similar thoughts. i came to this board to help banana enthusiasts, i am in a unique position and felt i could do so. at first i didn't mind seeing some of the fun posts but like you i logged on one day and looked at today's posts and there was one that was a joke making fun of accents, i have a Spanish accent. i thought this is no longer the place for me - an international forum that pokes fun of bilinguals with accents. i don't read the Tiki Hut but when a post has a stupid insensitive title like: No Speakah De English i had to look.

if i had not have gone to Honduras for a week i may never have come back. spending time with growers that really appreciate getting helped made me decide to give the forum another chance along with your thread.

i like the idea of a banana forum and embrace having a section for other plants and non-plant topics.

MediaHound
02-05-2008, 02:03 PM
Jarred,

When you say remove the automatic titles, do you mean "Jr. Member, Senior Member", etc.? I'd be cool with that. I don't need no stinkin' title!!!

Yes, exactly, those that say Jr., Senior, etc.

This week all the new changes will go into effect.

MediaHound
02-05-2008, 02:04 PM
That's a very interesting site. I post to several message boards and I can recognize several of the warriors I see in that list. I can see myself in some of the warriors too.

Do you post on the board there Jarred?

I could have sworn I had an account there but alas its not on the memberlist. I thought I joined, but I certainly didn't remember ever posting anything. Perhaps I will join now. With my experience herding as many cats I could probably suggest a Warrior or two, heh.
Flame Warriors Home (http://redwing.hutman.net/%7Emreed/index.htm)

Richard
02-05-2008, 02:23 PM
Inkcube, thanks for another concise, thoughtful piece of insight. :)

MediaHound
02-05-2008, 02:26 PM
Last post for me on this thread. (Please let me put down the wine glass so I keep my word) :)

I do really want to thank admin and the moderators here. You all do such a super job!
Second, who's Forum is this, anyway??? Uh, Jarred's I believe?!!! I know he's very open to ideas, which is great. But it is his Forum. He works so hard on this that he should be compensated! Whatever you do Jarred, it's your place. And thank you for providing it!!!

Off of the soapbox, and out to cover the banana plants... :coldbanana:

You are most welcome Anna, thanks for the kind words.

And everyone else that posted nice kind words about the site, thank you.

If you guys don't agree with someone, or don't like what you read, just skip over it please. If its really bad, or otherwise warrants reporting, use the report feature.

Our mission is and has always been to disseminate information about bananas.
"IBS is dedicated to increasing awareness of the banana plant as a food source as well as it's ornamental use in the landscape."

We don't like censorship, to an extent. I don't have a problem with the forum being used to talk about banana relatives, other plants, or even off topic posts, so long as politics and religion stay out of the discussions.

I think this issue has been discussed ad nauseum at this point and its no more than circles now. If anyone wants to add a suggestion to the discussion, please send me a PM. Thread closed! Thanks for understanding. We dont need members dropping like flies, and I see where this is headed.
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