What has happened to this site?

As a comedian was once heard to say: "I resemble that remark!"

Moderators are people, too.

The only time that I've witnessed moderators getting "involved"; and, locking threads or deleting material....was when it was patently offensive.

Otherwise, just about anything goes.

Sounds like you would like to see this site become an AOL chatroom.

Not likely to happen in this lifetime with the Minnesota mom at the helm.

I've been on the site for nearly 5 years. Met some wonderful people. Learned a ton about amateur baseball and the recruiting process. Learned a ton about showcases and how to properly play the game.

Simply...Best baseball site, all things considered, on the Web.

jp

Chicks

I guess I can post as I am no longer a moderator and thus part of what you term the "user base"

What has happened is the normal transition as new replaces old but the new now is a bit different --they use terms such as jerk and idiot-- never saw that in the years before

Beenthere and I used to go at back and forth in the beginning days but we never ever called each other "names' and we today are what I consider to be good "internet friends" if not more. That won't happen with the "newbies" using the above noted phrases--yes I can be rough and crude and at times condescending but I never step down to their usage of degrading terms.

That doesnt happen anymore-- everyone wants their space--you know what ! they can have it

I don't claim to be smarter than anyone but I think I am wiser than most --age and experience gives you that with your AARP card (LOL)

Come back and join us Chicks --join the fun

Yeah---where's Bullwinkle when you need him??

I happen to love this place. It's the only internet site that I belong to-never seen any others that I really cared to be a part of. I think if there's any reason people are reluctant to post, it's because of the relationships that posters have. I think it can be intimidating to feel like you're intruding into someone else's space or friendships. That's the way I felt initially - obviously I got over that. Many people here have known each other for a long time, often away from the site as well. Don't get me wrong - I think that's good. It's just important to remember to welcome new folks in.

I think the moderators are fine and doing a good job.

Some posters are extremely thin skinned and get upset at almost anything. Kind of hard to believe on an internet site where who knows if anybody is who they say they are.

Personally, for the most part, I just use the ignore button.

Ok ... I'll bite (but probably shouldn't) I'm not a mod, but I've been around awhile now.
-----------------------
Chicks ... your topic is also confrontational. You have a problem with the mods. Most of us don't. Why have you assumed that the Mods are the problem???

It's an honest question.

I agree with lafmom - there is a certain clique feel about the site - somewhat like moving to a new neighborhood where the people who already live on the street have many shared experiences.

As a long time lurker, I recently decided that I had lurked long enough and was starting to have experiences to share and questions that needed to be answered - so I deliberately started to post.

Just like moving into that neighborhood, you need to make that first move - being taking some cookies across the street or making that first post.

I will say that the way HSBBW could improve is to be more welcoming of the new kids on the block - check to see how long someone has been registered and how many posts they have made before responding. Tempering the words used in the response when someone is new would help to bring that person into the group rather than driving them off...

Chicks,

Just need some clarification from you before I respond:

Can you give an example of a user posting "feverishly and wholeheartedly" versus what you have seen on this site..

Define "decay" as you used it in your post.

What do you perceive to be "problems" or possible "corrections" to them.

I guess I see this site differently.......I am a member of a number of Umpire websites which can be best described as the "deep end of the pool"........where the posts fly fast and vicious..

I've chosen to stay here due to the nature of the interactions between posters.....I have, with only one exception, had a very positive experience and really don't wish this site to become like those sites at all......

I am an old timer, but am more of an active reader than a poster.......I choose to be a resource and a provider of my opinion and I hope to stay that way......

ChicksDigTheLongBall:

quote:

Originally posted by ChicksDigTheLongBall:

However, there seems to be a real decay in the past year.

Gee... and to think I joined up only 5 or 6 months ago. Must be part of the problem and not the solution!

Perhaps I should drop the deodorant each morning and start splashing on some good ol' industrial strength fungicide...something like 'High School Baseball Web Post Pest-i-cide'..."Got Sagging Posts? Your Base Getting Lame? Too Much Rancor in the Ranks? Then Hit 'em hard ...right outta' the park with HSBBW Post Pest-i-cide!. Your pesky, posting, pests will scatter after our patented "High Hard Heat" brushes 'em away from the plate...forever! Leaves websites completely clean and sterile! Acts fast...no lingering odor! New and Not Too Subtle Formula!

Caution: Contents under intense pressure. Comments bringing discontented posters to a boil may result in bursting resulting in badly bruised egos and worse. Do not participate in conjecture, incinerating remarks, or use near active or even smoldering 'flame wars'. Use only as strictly directed...or else!, Intentional misuse by deliberately concentrating and inhaling the contents may permanently cloud your mind rendering you ...well... cloudy!

KEEP OUT OF REACH OF REALITY AND SMALL MINDED PEOPLE

Questions? Don't we all!

Distributed by:
Amalgamated People For Better And Improved Sports Related Websites.


HSBBW Post Pest-I-Cide is a registered trademark of GO AWAY...NOW! Corp.



Just having a little good ol' decadent fun!

chicks, thanks for the feedback

check back again in 2 yrs or so





(that feverish enough for ya? )


.

I have been on the site for a long time. Originally a lurker and later more active. Some think my interest is related to the business we are in. Truth is, I would feel much more free to really say what was on my mind if there were no Perfect Game.

Most of those involved here have a desire to help others. That is the only reason for my involvement. I am not here to promote anything or to argue with anyone. Neither are 90% of those posting here.

That said… I do remember the “old days” and sorry, but I remember just as much back stabbing and arguing back then… maybe more! Perhaps we should ask Bob! He lost some sleep over some not so nice discussions on this website.

I see the sight as not missing a beat and as good as ever. I remember not so long ago, while Bob was still in charge, several of the very most important posters went on strike due to problem posters!

I’m amazed that people think this site is going downhill. I have a terrible memory, but I guess it is better than some. Perhaps I am stupid, but I don’t see this “real decay”. Everything seems to be about the same to me. And that is “real” good!

Perhaps there are just more members than ever before and a few could cause problems. Perfection is hard to find… I doubt it exists on a message board! It seems by saying a “real decay has happened in the past year” it is a direct reflection (and a real mean one!!!) towards MN-Mom! This site would not be here to talk about without her… Once again ask Bob!

Maybe all that money (none) she's making to keep this great site going, deserves a few pot shots!

Jeez,
Some of you are PROVING Chick's point (at least the part about reluctance to post) by pouncing on him. And while I think his suggestion of a full overhaul is a bit extreme, I think there are some "issues" this community should and could deal with. Can we not proceed in the spirit of 08Dad's post? I think he's on the right track by offering some positive suggestions. Thanks, Dad...

Excellent post dad08!

I think this is a wonderful site. Some of my best friends on the planet exist here and I have only been a member for one year.

My take is similar to beenthere's. I think the site funtions great and no community is perfect. I think many people prefer to read rather than post as well. Where else could one possibly hope to meet and communicate with professionals of all levels in this great game.

.

As a newbie...Pilsner took the post right off my keyboard ...

Chicks....I think it would be of value to refer me to a thread that is representative of the good old days.

Initial reaction....it seems to me that there are two basic types of sites...

Those that are open, wild and wooly. With tons of posts with little thought. Garbage in garbage out....

And those that are more informational in nature. I think this is (or has become) the later. Much like piaa_Ump I will often just read the posts here, taking up knowledge rather than attention or space. I am not sure thast this is a bad thing.

quote:

As a newbie...Pilsner took the post right off my keyboard ... Cool

Sorry O44, but I'm an Umpire and you know what theives we are.

chicks,

I reread my previous post. I know you have added a lot to this site over the years. I don't think you were intentionally targeting any one person. If that is true, I apologize.

.

Woody....

Maybe we're all just starting to smell like moose.....


.

Chicks,

I think it's your turn now.

quote:

I am a member of a number of Umpire websites which can be best described as the "deep end of the pool"........

You mean there are message boards where I can communicate (further) with umpires?!!! I mean, more than I'm able to from the first baseline?!!!

That's WONDERFUL news! I know all my "buddies" from the A.C.C. officiating corps will be tickled pink to know that we can continue our "dialogue" past the 9th inning!!! What a surprize that they haven't already put me on to it!!!

.

Pilsner..

Since you brought it up...regarding those stolen games...There is this matter of a my son's Bronco game about 6 years ago that is s till sticking in my craw....If those stolen games are still out there in some cosmic umpire bank...Can we negotiate?....


.

I guess I've hung around about 5 years now. This Board has been a wonderful source of information, and I have friends on here I've never seen, never audibly spoken to, and probably never will...technology at its finest.

It seems like there have always been a couple "cranks" around, that get really hostile, really quickly, but I've tried to avoid going down there with them into the gutter, at least for the most part, and choose to enjoy all the rest. The cranks usually flame out eventually anyway. It is truly amazing how much some folks on here know; there are very very few college/high schoool baseball questions that can be asked that someone on here won't be able to answer.

I would love to someday say "Howdy" and share a sweet tea (the "House Wine of the South")with a lot of the folks on here, and have been lucky enough to meet several in person at showcases or camps. But even if that sweet tea cocktail never happens, life is always sweeter when shared with friends, and there are many on here that are friends to all.

If folks will follow that little old Golden Rule, which hasn't changed a lick in 2000 years, I suspect this site will be just fine.

quote:

Originally posted by VA_Sportsmom:
Jeez,
Some of you are PROVING Chick's point (at least the part about reluctance to post) by pouncing on him. And while I think his suggestion of a full overhaul is a bit extreme, I think there are some "issues" this community should and could deal with. Can we not proceed in the spirit of 08Dad's post? I think he's on the right track by offering some positive suggestions. Thanks, Dad...

I don't feel like we are "pouncing" at all.

There was a purpose to Chicks original post. It not only invited, it DEMANDED either support or rebuttal. You either agree or disagree.

I've been around for 5 years and it's pretty much the same as it alway has been.... Some great information, some dumb questions, some teasing, some disagreement a few heated exchanges and some problem posters.

Changing the board, in essence requires changing the human nature of the posters. The people attracted to this site and become active are either 1) passionate about baseball or 2) passionate about their kids playing baseball. There will occasionally be a bit of a biting edge, but it's really not that much of a problem.

-------------------
The old saying: "Perception is reality", Chicks perceives that there is a problem so to him there is a real, rock-hard, honest problem. Most others, from either being think-skinned (which I'm not) or being older (which I probably qualify full in that category), take most that is said with a grain of salt ... or at times, by using the entire shaker.

--------------------------
Thank goodness for Bullwinkle !!!!!

---------------------------
So, finally, we get back to the central questions.
What was the purpose of Chicks post??
Is there a problem?
Is he just stirring the pot for the fun of it??
Has it changed??
Does he have a problem with a few of the posters??
Should all of us have a problem with the same posters??

---------------------
I disagree with his main premise though. This place is different that a "regular" board. Frequently people will come here and ask questions that would ever dream of using a regular board. It's a "specific purpose" location to them.

I agree with some that the board can come across as insular. But nothing is perfect in this world.

I haven't seen much in the way of problems with moderators. Seems there was some controversy on that count a year or so ago, but I wasn't directly involved and don't recall the details.

These days they seem to pretty much take a hands off approach, which is practical.

I have only had a problem with one poster, who seems to practice the behavior of which he accuses others. But that is being settled by the mutual "ignore" button now.

Many posters have been a pleasure with whom to interact. The experiences of those who have already been down the road is helpful. And the wonderful sense of humor possessed by quite a few posters is refreshing.

The board is a little slow now, but all baseball boards (at least those with which I am familiar) tend to do so at this time of year.

If cdtlb has any specific suggestions...

Been on here a short time. The info is great and people in general are very tolerant and supportive. The last site I was on was a war zone.
I wish I had looked at this site sooner before my son started his college baseball.

Chicks, I find it interesting that before yesterday, the last time you posted was in May. I don't know how much you've been viewing the site lately, but you haven't contributed a whole lot lately; and I do think that you've had interesting things to say from time to time in the past. So, maybe you need to come around more often as a contributor.

A bit like you, I come and go on this site. Sometimes I'll check in regularly for a while, but then I might not log on for days or a couple weeks at a time. It all sorta depends on what I have going on with the rest of my life. I think we're all very lucky to have this site, as I think it is one of the very best baseball websites in existence. MNmom has done a great job since taking over from Bob, and of course, he was fantastic.

Another thing about newbies. There is no reason at all to let the fact that you're new to this site inhibit your participation. When I first started visiting here, I more or less jumped right in after just viewing for a few weeks. I did try to make sure that what I said didn't make me look like an idiot, and hopefully I've acheived that most of the time. What I see this site as, is one of the greatest resources on the web for anyone who plays or has a kid playing this great game. Take advantage of many of the old timers. I've learned a lot, from far too many people to list. I owe thanks to a whole lot of people on here who'll probably never realize how much I appreciate the things they've made me aware of about this great game, that I didn't know before this website came online.

I don't quite understand why you think this site has declined. Care to expand on your other comments?

observer44:

I read the data sheets on 'HSBBW Post Pest-I-Cide' and there is no mention of this product being capable of masking or eliminating that... that... PROBLEM WITH THE MOOSE!

In re reading my post, I realize that I left out the most important two parts - I do think this is the best message board on the web - on any topic - that I frequent. And that I think the moderators here do an outstanding job compared to moderators on other boards.

While there is always room for improvement on any site, I wish that the behavior of this board would roll over onto some of the technical boards (Java, Web Services) that I also frequent.

Hokieone:

Nice reference to the 'Golden Rule'. Thanks!

.

Woody...

You're the Man ...Moose!

.

Chicks,

I believe it's your turn now.........Chicks, are you out there? Hellooooo Chicks!

My God, he has tricked us all!!!

I'm relatively new to the site, I guess sometime in the past year.

I think it is the greatest baseball site on the internet to discuss a lot of different aspects of baseball, recruiting, showcases, bats and the lot.

My son's are still young (16 & 11) so hopefully I will be around for a while and will have more to contribute as we experience more.

The Moderator has all of our backs and has done a great job.

observer44:

Oh no...no, no,no,no! Knot me!

I love this place.

Information...and imo, great banter abound.

I do find it interesting TR USED to be a moderator...gives me pause to reflect on the good judgement it took to quash that obvious mistake.

I like your thoughts on the word "idiot" though TR...even though you used a derivative less than 24 hours ago.

quote:

Nice reference to the 'Golden Rule'. Thanks!

Amen. I just need to keep trying.

Dad04;

Don't we all.

Y'all lost me at moderators are people, too.

... sorry, couldn't help myself.

Chicks, there is an entire new regime here and the old barb types very seldom post anymore.

I'm one of those who is reluctant to post anymore. I very seldom visit the site anymore and try only to leave a smidgen of information that my be of some use to a young player looking for answers.

MN-MOM has been more than fair and I'm happy to see that she is having success with this website.

I started out coaching a long time ago, probably have forgotten more baseball than most people know, but it is only useful if others want to listen.

I've seen PGStaff try many times to mediate arguments here and he has bee a good source for everyone.

Of course there are politics as usual a in all places where human interaction happens, and there are the clique members here also...but I don't take them to seriously.

There are good members that try to contribute in a positive way and those are always interesting to read, when they do speak to issues dealing with some aspect of baseball...posters like, bbscout, redbird5, frankf, PGStaff, JustBaseball, etc.

Posters that contribute and post controversial subjects like Dibble, I think try to kick-start discussions.

Posters that relish jabbing others, then feign some innocent posture about it is fine as long as it is done with humor, but so often in the past it hasn't been that way.

There is no doubt that I have had my ta-tee-tas with members, but a lot of it, I confess, was just yanking their chain since they were throwing insulting or insinuating cr*ap up against the wall and seeing whether they could make it stick.

I've been called a HM parent here, and been told my son's BB career could be dead because of that. I take no offense with that since I know, after playing and coaching that so much of what goes on here is no different than what goes on in any competitive sport.

In the end my son's BB career will rise or fall based upon his ability to get people out. If he can show that he can against the best competition, there isn't a coach in this country that wouldn't want him on their pitching staff. That I am certain of.

Trash talking and backstabbing go on in all sports, though I detest it vehemently.

quote:

by tex: I agree with some that the board can come across as insular

part II of that golden rule deals with being loquacious




.

quote:

Originally posted by Ramrod:

In the end my son's BB career will rise or fall based upon his ability to get people out. If he can show that he can against the best competition, there isn't a coach in this country that wouldn't want him on their pitching staff. That I am certain of.

I absolutely could not agree with you more. What you've said in support of your son is the essence of honest competition.

quote:

Originally posted by VA_Sportsmom:
Jeez,
Some of you are PROVING Chick's point (at least the part about reluctance to post) by pouncing on him. And while I think his suggestion of a full overhaul is a bit extreme, I think there are some "issues" this community should and could deal with. Can we not proceed in the spirit of 08Dad's post? I think he's on the right track by offering some positive suggestions. Thanks, Dad...

That's exactly what i'm talking about. They hit you with all this nonsense to create a diversion to my point. What's wrong with improvement? Most people know that what I say is the truth but would rather not fight all the banter.

quote:

Originally posted by Ramrod:
Chicks, there is an entire new regime here and the old barb types very seldom post anymore.

I'm one of those who is reluctant to post anymore. I very seldom visit the site anymore and try only to leave a smidgen of information that my be of some use to a young player looking for answers.

MN-MOM has been more than fair and I'm happy to see that she is having success with this website.

I started out coaching a long time ago, probably have forgotten more baseball than most people know, but it is only useful if others want to listen.

I've seen PGStaff try many times to mediate arguments here and he has bee a good source for everyone.

Of course there are politics as usual a in all places where human interaction happens, and there are the clique members here also...but I don't take them to seriously.

There are good members that try to contribute in a positive way and those are always interesting to read, when they do speak to issues dealing with some aspect of baseball...posters like, bbscout, redbird5, frankf, PGStaff, JustBaseball, etc.

Posters that contribute and post controversial subjects like Dibble, I think try to kick-start discussions.

Posters that relish jabbing others, then feign some innocent posture about it is fine as long as it is done with humor, but so often in the past it hasn't been that way.

There is no doubt that I have had my ta-tee-tas with members, but a lot of it, I confess, was just yanking their chain since they were throwing insulting or insinuating cr*ap up against the wall and seeing whether they could make it stick.

I've been called a HM parent here, and been told my son's BB career could be dead because of that. I take no offense with that since I know, after playing and coaching that so much of what goes on here is no different than what goes on in any competitive sport.

In the end my son's BB career will rise or fall based upon his ability to get people out. If he can show that he can against the best competition, there isn't a coach in this country that wouldn't want him on their pitching staff. That I am certain of.

Trash talking and backstabbing go on in all sports, though I detest it vehemently.

Absolutely. BTW, I sent a pm to Mn-Mom explaining my thoughts prior to making the post and expressed that the decay began before she took over.

Chicks is entitled to his/her opinion. Just like everyone else.

He/her didnt do it in a malicious manner IMO.

Chicks thinks the site is decaying and the moderators need to be removed and replaced.
That is Chicks honest opinion - and we probably should all reflect on it.

My guess is most would disagree.

And life - and The HSBBWEB - moves on.

MN-MOM - Personally - I think the site is better than it has ever been - with a little less tolerance for name calling and quicker removal of insulting participants.

When all is said and done - the beauty of it is if you dont like the current atmosphere - just make your mouse (not Moose) click another site.

Great post its!

I think Chicks has every right to his views. I don't see diversions in this thread either. Many just happen to disagree that a major overhaul is needed.

For the umpteenth time - MN-Mom is a tremendous asset to this site and an outstanding, knowledgable, contributor to this fine community.

Cleveland,

It took me awhile - (I am not the brightest bulb in the world - but I am a quick learner LOL) - but I realized awhile ago thanks to Beenthere that we have - for the most part - cyber relationships here. As is true on most sites on the interent - you get your share of psychos.
It is how you deal with them that defines the quality of the site.

After being called the devils cousin - and being lectured on the meaning of 9/11 (after I watched my friends and colleagues leap out of a 100 story building), and etc.etc.etc - I finally got it.

Just have some manners and say what you want - if you get offensive - you get the boot.

It isnt very complicated IMO - and I personally think that MN-Mom is really tuned in. For the most part - it is just cyber stuff. IMO

Chicks you've been asked several times to supply specifics as to your complaints, and all you've done is to respond with quotes from two posters, VA Sportsman, and Ramrod....the only posters on this thread who seem to support your position.

Ramrod....you comment on how knowing you are of the game of baseball, but then to quote you....you are only willing to "....leave only a smidgen of information". With all due respect Mr. Ramrod I'd rather put up with attitudes/old timers/cliques anyday if they are willing to share their knowledge...wholeheartedly......

VA Sportsman had a good point when he mentioned that the site could appear insular to newbies...but that would be very difficult to correct. I remember being a "newbie" and being intimidated about posting...but know what....too bad about me. The purpose of the board is to help young players not old Moms.....any parent posting should keep in mind what their goal really is...to help their player.

Bottom line...newbies... forget about seeming silly, asking wrong questions....this is a great site, granted it's not perfect (what is?)....but it does have lots of people willing to help you....so help your kid....ask away....and if you get an ugly post/response...forget it....post on....ask more questions.....take the good, ignore the bad.....learn, and help your son.

Chicks....thanks for letting MN-Mom know that she is appreciated. I second it.....

I just don't see a "decay", just the same old site....with it's characters....it's cliques.....it's "heated" disagreements, and mostly a bunch of people posting and trying to help each other out.

I'm glad I found this site. It calmed my nerves, helped me out and at times added to my confusion. I don't think I would be where I am in the "process" without this site. Thanks to all who have helped!

bagsbaseball:

Same feelings here!

I've been a member for 2 years or so now, and I have noticed somethings that have been mentioned by various people in this thread and I also have not noticed somethings touched upon in here.

But I must say, for myself this site has kept me sane while I'm going through the uncertainty of being able to play again. It is absolutely amazing the amount of knowledge that can be found here and the 'friendships' that are built over one common interest.

But one thing I'd like to throw out as to why there aren't alot of 'new' people posting could be the fact of people creating aliases. This point was brought to my attention in the coaches forum by itsinthegame, over the matter of a poster having numerous identies over the years. Just a thought.

Another could be that people are first overhelmed by everything that is coverd in theses forums. When I joined, I read alot first to get aquianted with the structure of the forum, and to see the type of forum it was. There is a lot of reading to do, and it can be scary at first. Once I felt I was comfortable with it then I started to post be it questions or answers.

As itsinthegame and others have said, everyone is entitled to their own opinions, and this just happens to be Chicks thoughts on the subject matter.

Doc K,

IMO - You just keep asking those questions - and keep thinking critically. And give your opinion too. We dont get enough - IMO - players opinions. That is one thing I would like to see more of here.

Every once in a while you will get a psycho response - just be polite, stay focused and let the moderators take care of the wackos.

Chicks,

I have been around a long time; I was even a moderator in the early days when Bob was driving this bus. I used to post a lot more than I do now, I am not sure why; but MN-MOM is doing a great job.

I have noticed that topics sometimes get going in the wrong direction in a hurry, but that was going on before Bob turned over the keys to the bus. I think almost everyone that belongs to this site has forgotten a time or two that posts' on this site are opinions nothing more, nothing less. When we forget that fact and take it as a personal attack, that is when things get sideways in a hurry on here.

There are some brilliant baseball folks on this site whether they be moderators or just regular posters. I have been around baseball now as a player or coach for 42 years and good, bad or ugly this is by far the best baseball website around anywhere.

O42

its

I'm more then happy to give a players opinion and thoughts on any aspect, that I feel knowledgeable in or have been apart of somehow, Don't worry about me, I'll be on here forever, noones gonna scare me off anytime soon!

Bullwinkle’s confused…..What happened to this site? When I click the do-bobbie on the do-hickey, and hsbbw comes up.

At this site we all have in common one thing. We love or boys and love to watch the game they love. We all want their dreams to come true, and we hope that maybe there might be a small morsel of information in here that might help.

Linear/rotational/semantics/mechanics/
commitment/conditioning/dedication/recruiting/
Div1/travelball/congratulations/prayer/
politics/eastcoast/westcoast/draft/cut/hurt/health/woodbat/weightedballs/.

Views can be different; ideas can be trashed or valued. This site is no different now as it was five years ago. Poster say hello, its tries to shoot me, some posters think I’m a clown, others think I’m the best thing since a slider in the dirt for a swinging strike three, it really doesn’t matter, but overall we all have that common hope. Remember why you are here, look for that small piece of cheese.

Go home and hug you son and remind him that you love him.

Bullwinkle is now a little Verklempt, just a moment…..Please talk among yourselves. Subject: 'The Prince of Tides' was neither about princes nor tides. Discuss……

I would have never guessed that the Moose was a Barbara Streisand fan.

I too - am Verklempt.
As soon as I recover though - I am going moose hunting.

Just a quick note to say that I've been reading this thread and I think it's an interesting discussion. In case anyone wonders, I'm not offended - folks should feel free to express their concerns!

One other thought on my mind: I love mooses!

Ummmm, just to clarify: Not for dinner!

Bullwinkle:

About that piece of cheese...I have been looking for it but I can't find it...I can smell it alright but just can't find it!

MN-Mom - tell the whole truth:

You love mooses - in a nice bearnaise sauce.

Its
I know you are a big Liza Minnelli fan, so y'all have that in common at least.

Maybe if I slip on these 'moose-colored' glasses I'll be better able to find that cheese!

LOL

Liza. God help me.

My style is more Joan Jett and Patti Smith than Liza.

Man oh man, you leave for a few hours and all #@*& breaks loose over one post!

Chicks,
You have been away for awhile. I am wondering if you had been lurking before you posted? Or did you just post? This site is better than ever, thanks to MN-Mom. In my opinion, you saying it has declined is unfair. The same way you attached us "Old Timers" forcing many very good posters with valuable information to stop posting on a regular basis. You are entitled to make a point, but I don't really understand what it is.

Please explain.

As far as moderators, I know it tells you who they are, but if you asked me who was and who wasn't I would have no clue. I in no way feel they have any more say over a topic than anyone else or if I might not see eye to eye I am gone. I do expect them to remove any derogatory remarks towards a specific individual or a group.

Maybe MN-Mom could explain what she expects from the people who moderate and exactly why they are moderators, if that would make you

I look at it this way, we are like roomies here. We "see" each other every day. We get on each other's nerves now and then when opinions clash or we take up too much space with our opinions. But the flame wars have definetly subsided since we have a new leader and I look at that as a good thing. The posters who come to irritate have either gone or have changed their ways.
I do know one thing though, your post has definetly brought unity to the HSBBW, for today, anyway.

quote:

Originally posted by itsinthegame:
MN-Mom - tell the whole truth:

You love mooses - in a nice bearnaise sauce.

I have a Moose recipe I'll cook for you P ...
It starts with "Take a box of Crayola's ...."

Chicks - Welcome back and thanks for starting such an interesting thread. I tend to post on the 'fringes' now more than on the content side, probably because my son is away at school and I don't see him enough to analyze every twitch he makes on the mound(for which he is supremely grateful). I still spend way too much of my work time (like now) reading through the threads, and find either 'the cheese' itself or perhaps the aroma of cheese, almost every time I visit.
I've had the pleasure of meeting several posters live (including a fabulous Ladies weekend in San Francisco last year)and hope to meet more over the years to come. Some of you have become good personal friends, and I look forward to seeing others on opposing fields

I think that TPM captures it correctly by comparing us to roomies. I also agree that in my opinion, the High School Baseball Web is the absolute best example of what an online community is all about, that I have ever seen.

MN Mom has done an outstanding job keeping the best of the old and bringing her own 'stamp' to this site. We owe her continued thanks for having chosen to take on this commitment in such a positive way.

ENOUGH of THAT!

JBB,
NCAA needs to ban that mascot, for the sake of all species of trees.

.
JB...

So may ideas.....but I think the photo pretty well speaks for itself.

.

Well, I've seen the tree kick the bear's a$$ (or was it the other way around? ).

I’ve been reading this thread since it started and as a father of a baseball player and a user of the HSBBW I would like make a few comments. First I’d like to thank Bob Howdeshell for making all this possible with his vision and his dedication to helping his son and all the players that play the game ...no matter where they were from or what their talent level. I would also like to thank MN Mom for continuing the tradition of the HSBBW. One fine lady! I would also like to thank the 6,700 registered members that are the heart and soul of the HSBBW. One thing we should all be aware is the agenda of the HSBBW is determined, not by MN-Mom or the moderators, but by the topic starters and those that add their comments about the topics. I think MN-Mom will be the first to tell you this is not her house or the moderators’ house, but the thousands of registered members of the high school baseball web. MN-Mom pays the bills and keeps the lights on. She will greet you at the door, invite you in, show you the podium and hand you the microphone. Moderators seldom do anything. If you think about it, moderators aren’t criticized for moderating; they are simply criticized for BEING moderators.
As the father of a pre-high school player I really liked the information about high school baseball and what it took to make the high school team. As the father of a high school baseball player I appreciated the information about the showcases and the travel teams, the official visits to colleges and the opinions about the different programs. I learned whether or not my son should ice after he pitched. How many innings he should throw and how much rest did he need. I learned to appreciate the LHP and even tried to swing a bat in a linear manner to see if that worked. I can say I kept learning when I became the father of a college player and then a pro player too. The HSBBW has been a wealth of information.
After years of being emotionally involved in my son’s games I can now kick back and enjoy the conversations about the young players, their parents, and their quest for the next level. I know how they feel. I feel their frustration and I feel their joy. I love to watch their careers unfold. At this stage I am relegated to just being a spectator. For that reason I start very few topics on the HSBBW but I still enjoy reading.
Chicks, you say you want change. Changing the moderators or even the head cook and bottle washer will not change the HSBBW. The HSBBW is controlled by you and thousands like you. It’s about you, your son and his baseball. If you have a problem with the direction of the HSBBW, or the tone of a particular post, I suggest that you have the ability to change it the way you want it to be. The HSBBW is constantly changing and it is at the mercy of each and every poster. EVERY single post you or anyone else makes influences the HSBBW and modifies its direction and its character.
Thanks,
Fungo

.
Fungo....

.

Fungo:

You hit it out of the park...again!

I posted for the first time on the HSBBW back in '01. Since then I've read some great articles and received some great responses on recruiting when my son was going through the process. It was and is a good place to come to when things get crazy because it is such a unique community of folks who really have "done that" and are willing to share their experiences. It's a place that helps new parents going through the process to know that they are not alone! So, now that son is in college, I'll probably not post as much in the future but will keep coming back for at least as long as I "took" knowledge, to gladly give back what I can from our experiences.

IMO, I really don't see that much of a change on the HSBBW over the past 5 years. There have always been a small group of frequent posters, with most of our members getting their information by reading the articles and the posts from others. There has always been calm posters and flame-thrower posters on the site! There have always been those members who can ignore posts they don't like and those that must argue 'til the moose come home! And, Every year the "tone" of posts change as the baseball season winds down and as we go into winter depression and cravings for a baseball fix! And yes, every year someone posts that the site is "CHANGING" and wonders what can be done to save the HSBBW! So I guess the more things change the more they stay the same!

All I know is this is a wonderful and unique place in cyberspace and I'll keep coming back!

quote:

Thanks everyone. This is the kind of information that you can't divine from the school website. That is what makes this site so valuable.

Slambovich offers another perspective.

I first found this site by doing a Yahoo search for HS baseball information. I looked around in each forum and read a few posts. Before I even registered I got to know Fungo, TRHit, Bob, PGStaff, PIAA_Ump, and more. I even met a young lady that lives about a 100 miles from me. We finally met in person at a tournament over the Summer. It was a pleasure. Her son is at a college that he loves. She found info to help him out here. I have found info that has helped me along the way. And no matter if my son ends his career in HS, college, or beyond I'll still visit this site as long as it is here. I do have another son that plays and I'll need info to help him out as well. I'll get it here, if you don't mind.

I belong to another discussion board where posts are made at a "feverish" pace. And the first thing that I will tell you about it, is that about every other discussion is "high jacked". There may be a good discussion going on and then someone comes in and makes a few jokes and the discussion ends there. I know that some discussion are high jacked here as well, but they aren't in every other thread.

Earlier this year when Bob announced that this site would no longer excist, I was heartbroken. I wouldn't be able to read the posts of my friends (You included TR), or add my so called incite to a post. And when MN_mom announced she would help to keep the HSBBW going I sighed a big sigh of relief.

Bob, thanks for making this site possible. You are a saint to us baseball parents.

MN, thanks for keeping this site here for us all to enjoy. You are a saintess (is that a word) to us baseball parents, as well.

Let's enjoy what we have here, no matter if we disagree on some things or agree on others.

Once again Fungo's post pretty says how I feel about this site. I'm from a small town and when I found this site about 4 or 5 yrs. ago, I was amazed to find there was a whole other baseball world out there! I mostly read and absorb the info I find on this site, sometimes much to my son's dismay as I will tell him frequently about something I've learned on here. Back then I was amazed to hear about showcases and travel teams. They are few and far between where I live. I was of the mentality that if you were good then they would find you. Sending out letters to coaches? Who woulda thought!
If not for this site, I would have just assumed my son would be playing for a DI school down south and not known about how your GPA is the most important factor in determining what level he could be. I wish I would have found this site about 2 yrs. earlier just for that fact alone. Luckily, things have worked out for him but if I would have sat back and assumed that the HS coach had all the answers to his future, we'd probably be wondering why he never got to play ball in college. Thank goodness for the knowledgable posters on here.
For the newbies, no question is a dumb question and people here love to share what they've gone through. The one thing I've learned tho is to stay away from the religous, moral and political topics! Anything else I'm not afraid of.

Great post, Fungo...

...now, please join me over on the umpire message board.

Topic of the day: Whether or not eye exams ought to be mandatory.

Im sure you both will be very welcome there......just buckle your seat belt as it might be a bumpy ride.....!!

As a realtively new member of this site I think it is a great place. I also believe the Moderator is doing a fine job with the transition.

Now about posting? Many answers can be found using the search function of this site. So of course the postings will go down when you have a question regarding anything. I mean I didn't have to post anything until I wanted something specific.

- rotational vs linear

- weighted balls

- etc. If you do a simple search there is no need to post. So I really do not think the site is decaying in any way. I just believe people sign up and can find many things using the SEARCH option.

baseballbum:

All very good points.

Chicks, the original post comes down to one thing. You have an agenda against the moderators and you find them to be the problem.

I found it interesting that you blame the moderators and then ask them not to respond. To me that is an interesting attempt for you to garner support for your agenda by making the members feel free to respond without fear of retribution. I thought that was a good idea. I also think that the members have responded and overwhelmingly do not agree with you. jmo

Big,
Hey, how are you, hope all is well.

Good point in your post. Actually I was wondering what the point of the whole post was. Poster comes on after not posting in months, states a problem, wants some feedback and then goes away.

hey, big,
wasteing your words -
ya see, chicks stoppped by to stir things up & he'll be back in a yr or so

quote:

Originally posted by Bighit15:
Chicks, the original post comes down to one thing. You have an agenda against the moderators and you find them to be the problem.

I found it interesting that you blame the moderators and then ask them not to respond. To me that is an interesting attempt for you to garner support for your agenda by making the members feel free to respond without fear of retribution. I thought that was a good idea. I also think that the members have responded and overwhelmingly do not agree with you. jmo

Yada, yada, yada. You know what they say about opinions...

Yes Chicks - I think we do.

You threw your opinion out there - which you have every right to do IMO - and it appears as if it was thrown right back into the "Yada yada yada" garbage can.

quote:

Yada, yada, yada. You know what they say about opinions...

Frankly, that is one of the reasons that you have had problems here. You want your opinion heard, but you get offended when others disagree and then you respond childishly. You have shown your true colors. That also is my opinion.

This site does have a tremendous amount of "Lurkers". I have people come up to me all the time at games and say "Aren't you Kellerdad"?, and when I ask them thier screen name, they say "Oh, I don't post, I just read"

This website is about information. There is a huge audiance that will lurk and read others opinions without spouting off their own. They come to this site to learn.

There is also the aspect of "getting your son in trouble" by posting here. I've witnessed it. A parent makes a remark about a HS Team/Coach or a summer program and then the kid takes the heat. Can be detrimental to the reason why you come to this site.

And yes, I'm opinionated, and I state my opinions.

I have been posting on Internet Forums since before there was an internet. Ran a BBS back in the day of the 1200 baud modem.

There will always be problems with moderators and posters....it's the nature of the beast. That is why the forum that I run has NO moderators, but it isn't really a "family affair" like this site is. People read connotations that aren't there in posts. People also see bickering going on when they come, and they get scared. TR's little jabs at Dibble are a prime example. If you haven't been around for a couple of years, you might not know where that comes from


This is a great site. One of the best on the web, as far as I'm concerned. I think the static pages need to be updated, and hope that MN Mom is working on that, and I feel the "old timers" should offer some help.

I also think that we should all thank our lucky stars that this is a FREE site, because it could easily become a PAY site, one that I would gladly pay the fee.

quote:

Originally posted by KellerDad:
I also think that we should all thank our lucky stars that this is a FREE site, because it could easily become a PAY site, one that I would gladly pay the fee.

Very true and a great point IMO.

quote:

Originally posted by itsinthegame:
Yes Chicks - I think we do.

You threw your opinion out there - which you have every right to do IMO - and it appears as if it was thrown right back into the "Yada yada yada" garbage can.

Thank you for proving my whole point that this site is not for the whole community but just the cyber buddies that exist here. True, the outsiders can get valuable information left in many articles by Bob and through many valid responses from all. However, there exists a small collective group that control threads as they see fit through there moderator powers and cyber buddy list. Granted, Mn-mom has communicated with me through pm's and has explained that several of the problem moderator problems had been corrected after much effort. She was not specific with names but wanted to be private on this which I understand. I can see that these changes have been for the better and I apoligize for not knowing this so I could have worded my post differently.
Thanks to all that honored my opinion.

quote:

Originally posted by ChicksDigTheLongBall:

quote:

Originally posted by itsinthegame:
Yes Chicks - I think we do.

You threw your opinion out there - which you have every right to do IMO - and it appears as if it was thrown right back into the "Yada yada yada" garbage can.

Thank you for proving my whole point that this site is not for the whole community but just the cyber buddies that exist here. True, the outsiders can get valuable information left in many articles by Bob and through many valid responses from all. However, there exists a small collective group that control threads as they see fit through there moderator powers and cyber buddy list. Granted, Mn-mom has communicated with me through pm's and has explained that several of the problem moderator problems had been corrected after much effort. She was not specific with names but wanted to be private on this which I understand. I can see that these changes have been for the better and I apoligize for not knowing this so I could have worded my post differently.
Thanks to all that honored my opinion.

Chicks,

I support your right to express yourself 100%.
As long as it doesnt insult or slander anyone.

I also dont agree with about 95% of what you just posted.

Two things come to mind:

1) Who cares?
2) It is a strange world isnt it?

And on we go.

quote:

Originally posted by itsinthegame:

quote:

Originally posted by ChicksDigTheLongBall:

quote:

Originally posted by itsinthegame:
Yes Chicks - I think we do.

You threw your opinion out there - which you have every right to do IMO - and it appears as if it was thrown right back into the "Yada yada yada" garbage can.

Thank you for proving my whole point that this site is not for the whole community but just the cyber buddies that exist here. True, the outsiders can get valuable information left in many articles by Bob and through many valid responses from all. However, there exists a small collective group that control threads as they see fit through there moderator powers and cyber buddy list. Granted, Mn-mom has communicated with me through pm's and has explained that several of the problem moderator problems had been corrected after much effort. She was not specific with names but wanted to be private on this which I understand. I can see that these changes have been for the better and I apoligize for not knowing this so I could have worded my post differently.
Thanks to all that honored my opinion.

Chicks,

I support your right to express yourself 100%.
As long as it doesnt insult or slander anyone.

I also dont agree with about 95% of what you just posted.

Two things come to mind:

1) Who cares?
2) It is a strange world isnt it?

And on we go.

Please remember your own advice. If you don't care then click somewhere else.

quote:

Originally posted by ChicksDigTheLongBall:

quote:

Originally posted by itsinthegame:

quote:

Originally posted by ChicksDigTheLongBall:

quote:

Originally posted by itsinthegame:
Yes Chicks - I think we do.

You threw your opinion out there - which you have every right to do IMO - and it appears as if it was thrown right back into the "Yada yada yada" garbage can.

Thank you for proving my whole point that this site is not for the whole community but just the cyber buddies that exist here. True, the outsiders can get valuable information left in many articles by Bob and through many valid responses from all. However, there exists a small collective group that control threads as they see fit through there moderator powers and cyber buddy list. Granted, Mn-mom has communicated with me through pm's and has explained that several of the problem moderator problems had been corrected after much effort. She was not specific with names but wanted to be private on this which I understand. I can see that these changes have been for the better and I apoligize for not knowing this so I could have worded my post differently.
Thanks to all that honored my opinion.

Chicks,

I support your right to express yourself 100%.
As long as it doesnt insult or slander anyone.

I also dont agree with about 95% of what you just posted.

Two things come to mind:

1) Who cares?
2) It is a strange world isnt it?

And on we go.

Please remember your own advice. If you don't care then click somewhere else.

I will pass on your invitation.

I care.

That is why I responded LOL.

Read carefully Chicks.

quote:

Originally posted by itsinthegame:

quote:

Originally posted by ChicksDigTheLongBall:

quote:

Originally posted by itsinthegame:

quote:

Originally posted by ChicksDigTheLongBall:

quote:

Originally posted by itsinthegame:
Yes Chicks - I think we do.

You threw your opinion out there - which you have every right to do IMO - and it appears as if it was thrown right back into the "Yada yada yada" garbage can.

Thank you for proving my whole point that this site is not for the whole community but just the cyber buddies that exist here. True, the outsiders can get valuable information left in many articles by Bob and through many valid responses from all. However, there exists a small collective group that control threads as they see fit through there moderator powers and cyber buddy list. Granted, Mn-mom has communicated with me through pm's and has explained that several of the problem moderator problems had been corrected after much effort. She was not specific with names but wanted to be private on this which I understand. I can see that these changes have been for the better and I apoligize for not knowing this so I could have worded my post differently.
Thanks to all that honored my opinion.

Chicks,

I support your right to express yourself 100%.
As long as it doesnt insult or slander anyone.

I also dont agree with about 95% of what you just posted.

Two things come to mind:

1) Who cares?
2) It is a strange world isnt it?

And on we go.

Please remember your own advice. If you don't care then click somewhere else.

I will pass on your invitation.

I care.

That is why I responded LOL.

Read carefully Chicks.

Talking about someone twisting their own words. You are a professional cyber squatter. No need to even try to communicate with a cybersquatter that is bent on winning an agument. Just a lost cause so don't try to flame me. It won't work. I'll eat you for breakfast.

"Cyber squatter"

That is a new one.

Mangia!!! (I hope you like garlic)



P.S. You sound frustrated. IMO.

I've got to leave for a little bit so please don't think I just up and left. Some of us do have other things to do.

quote:

Originally posted by ChicksDigTheLongBall:
I've got to leave for a little bit so please don't think I just up and left. Some of us do have other things to do.

You organizing a "Ban the moderators protest"?

LOL

Why is it that the same posters cause the same problems all the time? They can come back after long absences...sometimes with new ID names, but they return with the same attitudes, problems, chips on their shoulders, points to prove (and insist they are always right...).....and then it does get down to yada, yada, and after a while....the thread(s) just go amuck.

We all have the right to post, and express opionions....it shouldn't be a contest.....

Yesterday I spent a great deal of time trying to find a volleyball site with a format similar to this one. We have a friend whose son, a HS sophomore, is being heavily recruited already....at 6'8"..he is a very good player. These friends have heard us comment, repeatedly, how this site helped us with the recruitment process...and many other benefits. They are feeling the pressure, some stress, and wanted to find a like community to discuss what they were going through....Well I searched a long time....but there is nothing out there like what we have here...

We all need to think about that.....

arizona,

It really isnt much a problem here IMO - because the vast majority of posters understand there will always be folks that want to insult - and stir things up. It is just the nature of the internet.

This site is unique IMO - probably because of the quality of the members and the Bob Howdeshell's and MN-Moms of the world. The troublemakers come - they get hammered back into their holes - they leave - and then they come back again. But they have very little effect on the site in the long run - and the valuable information it dispenses just keeps on coming on.

Some people just dont respond to these folks - and others -like myself - do. Hopefully in a diplomatic (and sometimes a sarcastic way - LOL).

But as long as we have the vast majority of posters trying to help each other - and not trying to "eat each other" - I think we will be OK. IMO.

Chicks,

Enough is enough. Well, personally I think your last few comments on this subject are too much.

KellerDad,

Yes, thanks for bringing up the topic. Some of the static pages of the site need updating, and I am hoping to get caught up on those between now and the end of December.

I apologize to those who have sent in photos of their players to be posted, or team website links, and have not seen them posted yet. The first 5 months of running the site, I have spent more time than I expected on "behavioral modification" issues and just the basic admininistrative tasks of answering questions, helping members with technical questions, etc. But those aspects are getting a bit easier now that I am getting more experienced. I'll be playing "catch up" on updates, plus I'm hoping to do a bit of a visual/style update to the site pages. Stay tuned!

Julie

quote:

by chicks: However, there exists a small collective group that control threads as they see fit through there moderator powers and cyber buddy list

can someone PLEASE get me on the CYBER BUDDY list? (whatever it is)
(only if it's free, of course)


.

Bee,

You are on my list - even though I hardly ever agree with you. Welcome to nowhere. LOL

Your signature line says it all. IMO.

BTW - Inclusion on the "Holy Grail List" costs $1.50 per month. Its a steal IMO.

gee, sounds great, can you put it on my TAB??

.

I dont want to shock you - But - Your tab has been running for the last 3 years. You are in the hole for about 5 large.



There goes the vacation. LOL

Is it "CYBER BUDDY" or "CYBER BODY?!" Either way, Bee>, you and I may not qualify...


MN-Mom: You're doing a terrific job. Thank you!!

lol,
please split the "5 large" 'tween fungo & prepster's tab


actually add a wee bit and I'll split the over with ya

we cool?
.

Bee - LOL

I say put the whole $5K on Bullwinkles tab.

P.S. Glad I could bring a smile to you in what seems like a bad day. Hope all is OK for you.

One thing I have learned in the many years I have been on this web site.

When 40 people respond, in agreement with a particular post - someone will claim they are "jumping on the band wagon". When 40 people respond, and they don't agree, someone will claim they are "jumping on the poster".

When in fact, all the posters are doing is giving their own personal opinion. Nothing more, nothing less.

If 40 single voices play the same tune it is not a conspiracy - it is simply that 40 folks all share the same view.

Folks with their own unique voice are welcome here, they always have been. From what I have seen over the years folks actually enjoy those who come on with a new perspective.

So without a doubt, come, share your ideas, voice your opinion. Some days you will get folks who "jump on the band wagon" with you. Some days folks will "jump on the poster" (you).

But either way, and every time, it is really just 40 folks with their own single voice, not an attempt to gang up on you.

...a new perspective, AParent.

AParent

Amen to that !

no problem Mn-Mom. We can all agree to disagree and move on.