from 0 to 8 moderators in one day.

[BobbyB]

from 0 to 8 moderators in one day.

what gives ?

[BobbyB]

when and where did all this take place ?

[kimmydawn]

Hi Bobby. It's good to meet you. :)

Doc John had asked for volunteers/recommendations for moderators maybe a couple of weeks ago?

Those that volunteered and/or were recommended to offer their services for the community were added as moderators. Last night they were assigned forums. This is still a work in progress. :)

It's just one of the several things that Doc John has been working on to further establish this community for all. :)

I expect that he'll be making at least one announcement-type post in the next day or two.

Thank you!

KD

[kimmydawn]

Doc John posted the following regarding moderation/administration (for those who have additional questions regarding moderators and actions):

http://forums.braintalk2.org/showpost.php?p=7690&postcount=20

Thanks!

KD

[Thelma]

God I hope he took into consideration that the moderators for the forums know something about the disease or condition being talked about there.

It took years and years to build John Lesters forums and for the people to get to know each other to be able to communicate honestly and share without reservations.

If he has just taken anyone who volunteered then this site is indeed going to be just another in the wasteland out there of jibber jabber.

You have a chance to "create" something here "doc" don't blow it.

[Chemar]

I hope he took into consideration that the moderators for the forums know something about the disease or condition being talked about there.

Thelma, that is a concern of mine too!

[anonymous_no_more]

Oh, I can't wait! [clapping hands]...let's see how well these new mods [that also seem to be the most vocal against moderation], do, at enforcing TOS, and/or their own will upon others...[getting popcorn now]:D I'd pay a monthly fee [like Big Brother] to see this action [not meaning to sound terribly sarcastic or cynical].

It's a whole different world trying get others to share common beliefs, attitudes, and/or behavior in the "normal" world...enforcing these ideals in a world of "broken people" is easier said than done. My hats off to all those that volunteered. Here's a bandaid in advance.:eek:

(for once I am in agreement with Thelma)

[Curious]

i guess i don't understand the concern. but i am more than willing to learn.

this isn't bt1. the mods/helpers here aren't out to get anyone. we are here to help things run smooth. i can spot a spam post and remove it. i can see when somebody is being attacked by another member. do i have to have the condition that i am the mod in that forum? if so, then i need to be removed from some.

imo, having somebody who isn't partial to anyone on the particular board is good thing. maybe i'm wrong. :confused:

i hope you also understand that the moderating here is a team effort. we are out in the open. not hidden behind mod type of names. most of us you should know already. we don't have more than one user name.

can you explain what exactly is the issue?

[Jo*mar]

I did read that if any mods abuse power or actions to that effect they will be a non moderator {excused from service- so to speak}

I think it's a good thing - and nice to know who they are too.
I'll copy the anouncement post - in case no one clicked the link

[In BT2 world, we're going to do things a bit differently than maybe what you experienced on BT1.

Mods = Helpers to remove objectionable postings, spam, etc. Help work with members on posts that violate some community guideline or the like. Not anonymous -- these are just ordinary members who have a little more power to help out in the community.

Admins = The folks who help lead the community and moderation team, providing advice, guidance and action when needed to address member issues. If a member is ever banned (and remember, this is a fairly rare event in my world), it's done with majority agreement amongst the entire moderation team.

And when I say "moderation team," it's just that -- a group of folks who agree to work together as a team to help keep the community running smoothly. We will remove anyone from the team who abuses their position of trust and responsibility. The moderation team will be known and accountable for their actions -- we don't hide beyond any anonymous logins here.

John]

I like the openness

[Curious]

thank you for your support jo55 and copying docjohns reply.

i say give us a chance. :o

[Chemar]

hi Curious
my post is not intended to mean any disrespect toward the team of mods or to DocJohn (and KimmyDawn:)).......so I will try to explain how I feel and hope no offence is taken (after all..... I thrive on yer choccy and would shrivel if deprived of it:D )

The concern I have is not that a mod should necessarily have the condition that the forum is related to, but have an understanding of it....
I know on the Latitudes forum, I feel comfortable on all the boards there because I have experience with the conditions as a mom of a kid who has them..........BUT I know I am out of my element on the Autism/Aspergers board there cuz I know very little about it. Altho a mod's primary resonsibility is to keep the forum spam free and to exhibit impartial moderation in any dispute,offensive posts etc....still, it really does put a different tone to it if one understands what the posters are talking about experientially or by knowledge base

Also
As we have been encouraged to be open here and to feel comfortable that all moderation etc will be done in a transparent way, with accountability to DocJohn and the membership.........
I would also hope that any mods here who have previously shown animosity to other members on OBT, would not carry that over to these boards.

Apart from those 2 concerns...........I am hopeful that the mods will do a great job and that these boards will continue to grow and evolve into something very special :)
so
having said all that (*phew* ::breathes out nervously:::o )
"Hi Mods" :p

[Curious]

thank you for explaining...and your coffee is waiting for you...brownies are in the oven

i do understand your concerns. we are very transparent. we also don't have the admin powers. it really is a team effort. we don't work alone, so there won't be issues of any previous animosity being played out.

we are very open. we can be moved around.

[dorry]

I only volunteered for a couple once someone else volunteered me. I still don't know who that was :p

I don't have expertise in any diseases and the ones I have, I didn't want to even read about on a daily basis, but I like to help ppl. If I thought the mod team were going to abuse their power, I'd be the first one to split.

I like the general neuro forum because ppl ask general questions and I've already learned alot from reading there. I know nothing about ALS, PD, etc and would never claim to, but if someone needed help, I'd try to find a way to help them or point to someone that can.

I've said before that I've felt more at home here than I ever did at BT because of the openness and differing opinions that are freely expressed. That hasn't changed.

besides I wouldn't know what to do with a problem post, but tell someone else who knows like kimmy dawn.

anyone that knows me, knows I'm pretty laid back ;)

[stevem53]

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m250/slowhand_01/champ.jpg

Sit..please..sit..Have some champanga..A toast to the Dr John, the Admin, and the Moderators..*click*

Could I interest you in some exquisite caviar?

[Curious]

cheers steve...a choccy martini!

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j147/ChynaBirdd/cmartini.jpg

thank you for the welcome. is that choccy cavier?

[stevem53]

cheers steve...a choccy martini!

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j147/ChynaBirdd/cmartini.jpg

thank you for the welcome. is that choccy cavier?



http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m250/slowhand_01/champ.jpg


But of course..We have it in Vanilla as well..Ohh!..Please..please dont leave..Sit..Please..sit..Drink your choccy champagna..There..Relax..Thats much better now..:D

[Username]

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m250/slowhand_01/champ.jpg


But of course..We have it in Vanilla as well..Ohh!..Please..please dont leave..Sit..Please..sit..Drink your choccy champagna..There..Relax..Thats much better now..:D


OMG! That is so funny, I can hear him saying it too! We have some real comedians with us don't we?! I'm all for that!!!!!

Great one Steve!

[Curious]

and from this day forward EVERyONE will read your replies with that accent in their heads. LOL

[firewing5204]

What forums have mods, and who has which forum? If this is posted somewhere else I apologize.
Cara
Mom to Christian 5, Tehya 2 (cp, seizures, gtube fed, etc..) and Donovan 6 weeks

[Thelma]

I guess what I mean has already been shown on this forum. A website originally started by a member here been taken to that members forum and a url put there to indicate it contains good information. Huh

I thlink the whole of what I mean is that this site is full of Braintalk1's members and those who were banned from it.

As such is it not a good thing to abide by what has proven not to work already.

One such occurrence is when a person who has been a recurring poster takes on a member and although he is very intelligent he is also invariably rude and insulting to anyone who would dare to test his theories.

The moderators at Braintalk were not capable of knowing exactly what he was sayig or if was right or wrong and so he was allowed to wreck havoc until his language came down to the level they or he [the infamous mod4] could understand.

But it took a long time and we lost many valuable contributors to that forum along the way.

So for me the question is this.

Are these forums going to be a serious place for those who have [problems] to be able to get help and choices for themselves or relatives or caregivers or are they going to be [supervised].

You all in all probability know the meaning of [supervise].

Well it is to direct and inspect. Inspect is good to direct takes knowledge of whatever is required in relation to the problem.

Moderate is the ambiguous one. when referring to a human it can mean holding a moderate view which then can result to being an arbirator with a formed view.

I still maintain when you take those who volunteer on sometimes just a whim you are courting disaster.

Maybe not disaster exactly but the problems will be there and the results taking far too long a time to eliminate.

Examples
1
There is a site in the UK who thought they were exempt from all of the problems Braintalk has had in the past. Well it is startig there as well now.

2
Another example is on a Canadian site where the moderator is taking a very personal attitude to remarks that are made on another site which has resulted in his making coments on it and many there defending him.

There has to be on the WWW someplace where a site such as this wants to be can work. Unfortunately it can only be when you escape that which has chosen not to work. My fear here is the path that has been chosen will once again take the chitter chatter route and the good solid information will not be understood or allowed to remain. To remain it has to be understood and that is my main point.

So think on it please and I will shut up now on the subject.

I should I think put up a sentence of Mods please don't take exemption but then again I would like to read their opinions as well

[dorry]

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m250/slowhand_01/champ.jpg

Sit..please..sit..Have some champanga..A toast to the Dr John, the Admin, and the Moderators..*click*

Could I interest you in some exquisite caviar?

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/7923/lolux7.gif

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/7923/lolux7.gif


OMGLAMO!!! I can hear his voice!!! I love that guy!

[dorry]

thelma I think I know what you mean. correct me if I'm wrong, but weren't there complaints about the actual medical information that was put out there on some of the forums? And it was never challenged or challenged too agressively or not enough?

if so, then I see what you mean about having knowledge to sift through it.

none of us have any power without running it by someone who does know, so I don't see a danger of that happening.

[Jaye]

thank you for explaining...and your coffee is waiting for you...brownies are in the oven

i do understand your concerns. we are very transparent. we also don't have the admin powers. it really is a team effort. we don't work alone, so there won't be issues of any previous animosity being played out.

we are very open. we can be moved around.

Wasn't this a serious thread for real flesh and blood people with serious concerns? Who are these not-anonymous people? "Curious"? "Granola Liberal"? Who's that, Hilary and Bill? I can't even figure out where this list of names is--probably due to cognitive losses from Parkinson's Disease.

And food talk, especially chocolate talk, is not welcome to people recovering from serious eating disorders, as I have mentioned, without acknowledgement, before. Is every thread subject to this kind of disruption? Dorry had stated that anyone who didn't like her style could just blockk her. Where are the doggies? When do we start discussing how funny people are when they have to shuffle to get across the room, or how hilarious it is to tear around in a wheel chair?

Most of us need to address our issues, not be led into denial by so-called helpers. Would you like to see the thank you notes I have received from people who appreciated my attempts to turn the tide in another direction? I'll get permissions if you would like.

Back to you, Thelma. Stress makes me shake like a leaf.

Jaye

[Curious]

jaye,

no matter the screen name someone uses doesn't make them any less real. if i had used the name jane or sally would that have made it more real and less anonymous to you? it doesn't make it my birth or married name. just as anyone who chooses such a name doesn't mean it is their "real" name. i could have also chosen the name (nickname) that i have been called by my family and friends my entire life and that wouldn't seem any more non-anonymous to you.

there are countless "triggers". if food or chocolate in particular is yours, i suggest that you put me on ignore. i have seen no bashing of anyone or their illness. imo your likening making fun of of people with parkinsons ( which my father suffers from ) to posting pictures of dogs uncalled for. i am very sorry that you think so little of me and others here. but that is your right and i respect that.

[dorry]

Dorry had stated that anyone who didn't like her style could just blockk her.
Jaye

jay I remember telling ppl about the ignore feature and how useful it is for situations (where ppl are spitting nails over certain posters repeatedly), but I don't remember flipping ppl off with that attitude you're portraying when mentioning it.

[Doody]

Geezafrigginloo! :confused:

Every single one of us here could find something to be offended about. Every single one of us.

Here I go comparing, forgive me, but BT1 as of late was not an exemplary model of moderation. And supposedly those mods were the right hand of the man himself, JL. And we were to respect them and ABIDE, I repeat, ABIDE by their decisions. The moderating I saw was with an absolute iron fist.

And I highly doubt those moderators were privy to having knowledge about each and every forum! Geesh!!!!!!

We need moderators to catch the 'trolls', the attacks on others, the inappropriate posts (such as Attention Whore pictures!!!!), the obvious stuff.

I remind everyone of what Doc John said and I remember when he posted that. I responded in that thread that I was glad to see that (and think I added something about being apprehensive becuase of the experience with Mod 4 and others at the other forum). BUT, he said if moderators did something inappropriate they would be mods no more. I have to trust that.

I also have a feeling that Doc John, at least for now, will be active in watching over the forums, must like JL originally did. And BOY do I remember the havoc and chaos in most especially Forum Feedback back in the late 90s with JL. Remember?

"Johnny kicked me over in the Depression Forum!"

"Lisa stuck her tongue out at me!"

"Jane just threatened legal action against so and so for using their graphics!"

"Johnboy keeps following me from post to post and making inuendoes that I know are baiting, please make him stop!"

It went on and on and JL dealt with it the best he could. Then in recent times along came 1 or 2 heavy handed moderators, or whatever you prefer to call them, and you could hear the thuds of the hammers as they came down. Doc John said...moderators will be accountable!

Anyway...Who here thinks they are so great that they can be an end-all-be-all at any one forum?

If you want this forum to thrive, survive, and be taken seriously, for geezaloo, give Doc a chance to show what he can do with this forum! A chance to show ourselves what can be done!

Go to the forums that are your havens, your 'home' forums and get to the task of building that forum's community and getting to know people who stop by!

I think the mods appointed thus far by Doc most likely know how to moderate uncalled for posts etc. And no, I don't know most of them. Let's just give it a chance.

If/when BT1 gets back up and running, we/you/whoever can go back to the way that forum is run!

Just remember...the mods here have to be accountable to someone else...not themselves as has been the case in 'other places'.

My suitcase is packed and ready to go if it doesn't work. :rolleyes:

Oi vey.

[Thelma]

Ya that is true I think but more believable if I could say to you Hi I am Thelma a retired Physiotheraist with a passing knowledge of Parkinson's and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.

What did you say your name is again. I would like you to meet my friend Jaye.
a well known advocate for Parkinson's Disease.

That is against and not for that is.

Up above is Bobby. One of the most informative human beings in the ALS community and a vast contributor to this site as well as others.

Then there is Steve. an up and coming advocate that Jaye and Paula brought into this fight against Parkinsons.

Oh there are so many others I could mention and not because of theilr credentials which are numerous but that they are everyday human beings in the fight for their very lives let alone the interim span of years that they will have to endure and get the best out of.

So that is the urgency for this site. I so hope 'Doc' sees it as different and unique as it can and really should be.

Like the cartoon or was it the character from my favorite tv show that said the following

GO WHERE NO ONE HAS GONE BEFORE

jUST LOVE THAT OLD FAT GUY AS BEING EQUAL HE TURN ME ON LOL

[Bobbi]

Jaye,

To see the names of moderators, for a specific forum, open that forum and scroll down (past the list of threads displaying). There is a navigation bar that reads: Display Options and Currently Active Users. If the forum has moderators (at this time), there will also be an area that reads: Moderators. That's where the names will show up.


BTW: I assure, I am very much real :). I live in California - near the Sierra. I don't make fun of people with limited mobility. I don't think most - if any -people (here) would do so or even think of doing so. I have Ankylosing Spondylitis, and, a lot of my time is divided between a manual wheelchair and a scooter. I would certainly never make light of someone shuffling across the floor, since I've also spent time crawling across mine.

I don't have any medical degrees. I hope that the ones needed are degrees of caring, compassion, willingness to understand, and offer support. If anyone is looking for expertise, I'm expert in those areas.

Most of all? I want to say hi to you and to others and ask: Please, give us a chance.

[Jo*mar]

this forum - community & forum feedback- is more for general feedback - I think- not for specific medical information.

That is how I interpret it anyway.

The list of moderators names is at the bottom of the page and the mod for a given forum is at the bottom of that forum. or maybe only if "online"

maybe in time there will be a intro thread for them-

But I don't think we need to know "real' names of them - we don't usually use our real names here on the forum either.


My thoughts are that mods will politely try to head off any "disagreements" before feelings get hurt and be a peacemaker rather than "enforcer"

I do hope any information you get on any forum is double checked for yourself - because anyone can interpret even correct info- and pass only parts of it or pass it on incorrectly.

That's why I usually post links - so the person can go and read it all for themselves and decide if it works for them or not.

As far as the humor & pics - life is so short - why stress over such things...

[Snoopy]

Wasn't this a serious thread for real flesh and blood people with serious concerns? Who are these not-anonymous people? "Curious"? "Granola Liberal"? Who's that, Hilary and Bill? I can't even figure out where this list of names is--probably due to cognitive losses from Parkinson's Disease.

And food talk, especially chocolate talk, is not welcome to people recovering from serious eating disorders, as I have mentioned, without acknowledgement, before. Is every thread subject to this kind of disruption? Dorry had stated that anyone who didn't like her style could just blockk her. Where are the doggies? When do we start discussing how funny people are when they have to shuffle to get across the room, or how hilarious it is to tear around in a wheel chair?

Most of us need to address our issues, not be led into denial by so-called helpers. Would you like to see the thank you notes I have received from people who appreciated my attempts to turn the tide in another direction? I'll get permissions if you would like.

Back to you, Thelma. Stress makes me shake like a leaf.

Jaye

So far I have not seen anyone led into denial. What I have seen is an awful lot of people willing to make this forum work.

I applaud everyone who is stepping up to help.

I, personally don't find a problem with with humor it sure makes life a little more bearable.

The ignore feature is very simple to use and can help you avoid stress and anger.

[Doody]

Well Thelma, I agree with you there, even though I don't know them.

I could say the same about a couple of other people. Alffe, for instance, who asked for and nurtured the Survivors of Suicide forum (my primary home). I think she would be perfect for that. But....I bet there are people sitting there right now thinking...oh hell no! (heh, no offense Ms. Alff, I'm just saying...) :)

We all have our opinions about others. I don't know the people you speak of, but I assume they would be fair. My main concern, from past experiences, are the trolls. The people who come in that some people know from the getgo is there to cause a problem.

Or like I said...the tasteless person who posted the "Attention Whore" photo (that was I think subsequently removed). How difficult would it be to remove that post and just get rid of the poster.

I'm not sure how an advocate for a particular forum makes a better moderator, except in the case that you are speaking of, which my befuddled brain is still trying to figure out. (Fibro fog, ADD, I have excuses.) :)

Anyway. Someone else ahead of you in another post said "Why not someone for each forum?" And the next poster in essense thought it was a nutty idea. Well, the more forums we have, the easier it is for mods to have more mods! I do agree with that.

But I feel bad that the mods who have been announced are taking flack already.

But get back to me when 1 of em bans me and I'll have a different tune. :D

Don't get frustrated and mad! Make the suggestion to Doc John to put those people you spoke of in charge of being the mods for those forums! I think it's a fine idea!

[Username]

Jaye,

To see the names of moderators, for a specific forum, open that forum and scroll down (past the list of threads displaying). There is a navigation bar that reads: Display Options and Currently Active Users. If the forum has moderators (at this time), there will also be an area that reads: Moderators. That's where the names will show up.


BTW: I assure, I am very much real :). I live in California - near the Sierra. I don't make fun of people with limited mobility. I don't think most - if any -people (here) would do so or even think of doing so. I have Ankylosing Spondylitis, and, a lot of my time is divided between a manual wheelchair and a scooter. I would certainly never make light of someone shuffling across the floor, since I've also spent time crawling across mine.

I don't have any medical degrees. I hope that the ones needed are degrees of caring, compassion, willingness to understand, and offer support. If anyone is looking for expertise, I'm expert in those areas.

Most of all? I want to say hi to you and to others and ask: Please, give us a chance.

Now, that's how to be a moderator!

I applaud you Bobbi...............

[Ellie]

Hello!

As stated to those in the admin forums, I made it very clear that I was more of a 'push-over' being that I try to always keep the peace, even if it means allowing someone to step over me to obtain such.

However, I have 6 years of Moderation experience and normally the only attacks I have been given were from young male posters on a gaming forum whom were warned for posting 'porn-like' material in their signatures.

I have had Neurological problems since birth which include (but are certainly not limited to): Undeveloped Esophageal Sphincter (I think I spelled that wrong); this caused me to asphyxiate several times, resulting in my going without oxygen and had to be given CPR 5 times before I was 4 weeks of age.

At 3 months of age I was misdiagnosed with colic/ear infection and a week later, my fontanel had swollen up - so I went too long with a high fever and was finally diagnosed with Aceptic Meningitis.

I have a severe midline shift to my right and vestibular problems (I run into stuff). Additionally, I have visual problems that vary by day.

I have Trigeminal Neuralgia, Headaches & Migraines.

I have been diagnosed with: Partial Complex Seizures; Focal Seizures; Possible MS; Temporal Lobe Epilepsy, and more. For now, I like to say I have a Seizure Disorder that has no name. It works for me!

I will be moderating the , Sleep Apnea & Sleep Disorders Forum, Trigrminal Neuralgia Forum, Epilepsy Forum and the Headache Forum (I'll also be watching this forum as well). I did volunteer for Womens Health, and while I am not too healthy - I am a woman, so I hope I qualify! :D

I have my good days and bad days, but I try my best to be fair because I believe in karma. I really want to be a part of this in helping to build a strong, caring and supportive community and I am always open to suggestions.

I have also expressed interest to DocJohn about some 'fun' things for the website, such as raffles (free!) and things of the like. While some things can keep us a bit under the weather, I like to bring in some happy things.

I am almost always free, but due to some bloodwork that came back not-so-pefect this week I have to have some extra work done so I'll be on and off. I also have Physical Therapy 3 times a week for the next month, but that's just for an hour.

I don't want anyone to see me as an overseer or a nasty moderator, but just as someone to tries to keep the 'nasty' away from our home.

I am very pleased to meet everyone, and I am also very, very open to suggestions in the forums that I will be watching over, too. If you'd like to do some fun daily activity - let me know! If you have any ideas, feel free to share. I am certainly not perfect and my medication can make me rather loopy, so try and be patient if I spell poorly or have a lot of typos. :)

Additionally, (I swear, I will shut up soon) - I will try to stay in the chatroom as much as I can if anyone needs to chat. I hear I am a good friend, so even if I don't understand another condition, I am always willing to listen and learn. They wont let me work, so I can assure you - I always have time.

My Instant Messenger handles can be found under my username. If you'd like to talk in private you can send me an e-mail or a private message, too.

I hope you will give me a chance here!

*Hugs*

Ellie

[swift]

Where was the thread where people volunteered? (just curious/interested).

Swift

[Bobbi]

(((( Thank you, User Name & Others )))).

It's nice to see that there are people whom are willing to keep an open mind and base opinions on what takes places here... these forums... and not pre-judge anyone.


Swift, in earlier posts (this thread) some people explained how moderators came into existence: We either volunteered or were nominated. I tend to fall into the latter category, and I do look forward to working with all the moderators as a team.

[MoonAngel]

For those not aware. At the bottom of the list of forums there is a "View Forum Leaders". If you click on this it will give you a list of the mods and the forums they moderate.

:) MA

[swift]

I think people volunteered by emailing or pm'ing Doctor John privately, or were nominated by others, via the name avenues (private message or email). There was no "sign up here to volunteer" thread that I'm aware of.


Ah right - that explains why I couldn't find one. Thanks for the information. What's the time zone spread like? (Having modded on international forums, I know that can be an issue).

Swift

[Ellie]

I'm in the PST timezone but off of work. I am normally available from 8:00am until around midnight or so. I also have problems sleeping sometimes (either too much or not enough), so I may randomly be found at 4:00am.

[Bobbi]

I'm in the Pacific Time Zone. DocJohn, we know, is in the Eastern Zone :D.

Others may post theirs; I don't want to take any liberties :D.

[Curious]

people post here around the clock. i'm sure your tie zone is fine. :D

i'm central time zone btw.

[Ellie]

Here is the link to view Moderators: http://forums.braintalk2.org/showgroups.php

[swift]

As far as requests for moderator nominations, are we talking about this (http://forums.braintalk2.org/showthread.php?t=940) thread?

[reverett123]

...and please forgive me where I retrace ground already covered. I freely admit just skimming this long thread..

1) make it as transparent as possible
2) make the moderator's role one of investigation of private complaints by members and punishment as per estabished guidelines. Let the members of each forum decide whether or not there is a problem. The mod can decide if he agrees or not.
3) If a mod does feel there is a problem, then start with a private warning. A second offence may warrant a 48 hour suspension, a third a week, fourth 30 days, and a fifth a year.
4) Have a rright to appeal the decisions in 3 to the forum members in some way.
5) Have a way that complaints can be lodged againt mods but only by say 3 members jointly and privately.

--rick

[BobbyB]

Ya that is true I think but more believable if I could say to you Hi I am Thelma a retired Physiotheraist with a passing knowledge of Parkinson's and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.

What did you say your name is again. I would like you to meet my friend Jaye.
a well known advocate for Parkinson's Disease.

That is against and not for that is.

Up above is Bobby. One of the most informative human beings in the ALS community and a vast contributor to this site as well as others.

Then there is Steve. an up and coming advocate that Jaye and Paula brought into this fight against Parkinsons.

Oh there are so many others I could mention and not because of theilr credentials which are numerous but that they are everyday human beings in the fight for their very lives let alone the interim span of years that they will have to endure and get the best out of.

So that is the urgency for this site. I so hope 'Doc' sees it as different and unique as it can and really should be.

Like the cartoon or was it the character from my favorite tv show that said the following

GO WHERE NO ONE HAS GONE BEFORE

jUST LOVE THAT OLD FAT GUY AS BEING EQUAL HE TURN ME ON LOL

http://moviething.com/members/full/DeNiro,_Robert/040_A0145.jpg
YOU TALKIN TO ME ?

[swift]

...and please forgive me where I retrace ground already covered. I freely admit just skimming this long thread..

1) make it as transparent as possible
2) make the moderator's role one of investigation of private complaints by members and punishment as per estabished guidelines. Let the members of each forum decide whether or not there is a problem. The mod can decide if he agrees or not.
3) If a mod does feel there is a problem, then start with a private warning. A second offence may warrant a 48 hour suspension, a third a week, fourth 30 days, and a fifth a year.
4) Have a rright to appeal the decisions in 3 to the forum members in some way.
5) Have a way that complaints can be lodged againt mods but only by say 3 members jointly and privately.

--rick

Which then brings up the question of whether it's advisable to have someone moderating a forum that they participate in? (and by asking that question I'm not trying to cause offence...but I've seen unpleasant happenings in that situation).

Of course the other side of the argument is that someone who moderates a forum they participate may know the members better - but can they do that without bias?

Swift

PS Insofar as point 5) goes, would it not be better to have a number of independent complainants - joint complaints could encourage backbiting.

[Ellie]

I think what we should do now, is be positive and not worry about this. If everyone is here for the websites intended purposes, we shouldn't need moderation. :o

[swift]

I think what we should do now, is be positive and not worry about this. If everyone is here for the websites intended purposes, we shouldn't need moderation. :o

True indeed - but I'm speaking from experience with my questions (and they are meant as open questions, not a doom-laden prophecy of 'this will happen').

One of the things I miss about the original original BT (i.e. several reincarnations/years ago) is the cultural diversity - but that started to drop off several years ago. That was partially why I was wondering about moderator time zones (as well as the usual concern over coverage). I know that misunderstandings have happened in the past due to forums being America-centric...but again that's not a problem that is easily solved.

Swift

[kimmydawn]

http://forums.braintalk2.org/showpost.php?p=4073&postcount=65

If I'm not mistaken, this post began the volunteering and nominating for moderators (or whatever we'd like to call this new helpful team).

A community of this size has to have those willing to volunteer to keep it a safe place for all to come here for the reasons that they need to.

I've been a Co-Administrator at Psych Central now for a year on Oct. 7. It has been an amazing time, and when I read/heard about this wonderful group of people who were missing their "home", I jumped at the opportunity to help.

Y'all are a great group and I'm learning so much every day...but mostly I'm learning about the massive amount of dedication and knowledge that this particular group of people has.

I see this community becoming everything (generally speaking as we're individuals and specific needs are varied) that you all hoped and dreamed it to be.

I will back Doc John up in saying that the moderation team here is not as I've read the moderators to be at other places. The moderation team is just that...a team. There will rarely be an individual acting from a moderator (other than performing requests such a renaming a post, moving a post, etc.).

I know I could talk and talk about what will be, but I also feel that only time and experience will "show" that the words I said above (and Doc John stated) will come to pass. It's going to be great; of that I have no doubt. :) Will there be some growing pains? I'm sure.

TOS and community guidelines will be posted soon. Basically, the individual member's experience and participation here is at their own fingertips. :)

The question was brought up about the moderators of forums having knowledge of the specific disorder making up said forum. That is not required of the moderators. Moderators have chosen forums in which they feel the most comfortable because they do feel they might have a working knowledge in a particular forum. They may have opted for additional forums to help in coverage for the time being. Those were very kind and generous offers.

The moderators will be ensuring that the TOS and community guidelines are being respected by all participating so that everyone can achieve what they're here for...sharing, understanding, learning, support.

I'm very glad to be a part this community as I see it becoming something for every single member here to be VERY proud of contributing to and maintaining; those who have already made it what it is and brought life to a "website".

Respectfully,

KD

[Jyes]

If everyone is here for the websites intended purposes, we shouldn't need moderation.

Well said Ellie!!!!!!!!!

Let's hope only SPAM needs to be moderated. :)


Jyes

[kimmydawn]

I would also like to add...

I can't wait to get to know all of you better. I will be available alot. If you have concerns, or feedback of any kind, please PM me.

I will listen...

KD

[Ellie]

One of the things I miss about the original original BT (i.e. several reincarnations/years ago) is the cultural diversity - but that started to drop off several years ago. That was partially why I was wondering about moderator time zones (as well as the usual concern over coverage). I know that misunderstandings have happened in the past due to forums being America-centric...but again that's not a problem that is easily solved.

Swift

If it helps, my partner is Persian! :D His mom makes the best food ever!!

[DocJohn]

I hear all of your concerns and will address them shortly, and apologize for not doing so right now... still battling a nasty cold and I feel it's in my best interests to go get some more rest. Hopefully will feel better tomorrow and spend some more time on these issues, which deserve feedback and attention.

My apologies for the delay............

[Chemar]

hope you feel much better soon DocJohn. Your health is more important than any of this, so just look after you :)

[double6218]

Hi Mods,
Does today make you stop and think about how Pres. Bush must feel? I' d like to request that forums be watched for exclusionary behavior and elitism. There are a million and one ways to make others feel inferior or not accepted into the group. This isn't something you can exactly pinpoint or discipline for and sometimes it's unintentional.
Other times it is deliberate and subtle. You know what I mean I'm sure. Certain comments cause people to be hurt repeatedly without anyone seeing the pattern. Thank you.

all the best,
double6218

[Ellie]

Hi Mods,
Does today make you stop and think about how Pres. Bush must feel? I' d like to request that forums be watched for exclusionary behavior and elitism. There are a million and one ways to make others feel inferior or not accepted into the group. This isn't something you can exactly pinpoint or discipline for and sometimes it's unintentional.
Other times it is deliberate and subtle. You know what I mean I'm sure. Certain comments cause people to be hurt repeatedly without anyone seeing the pattern. Thank you.

all the best,
double6218

Hi double6218 and welcome!

I can assure you that the moderators will be watching for the negative behavior you have concerns about, and try to make sure everyone here is here for the right reasons. While a few heated debates have taken place, I'd like to think from here on out we can sweep that under the rug and move on.

All members should be encouraged to keep in mind the purpose of this website and other websites of the like.

I try to remember the golden rule: Treat others as you would want to be treated.

[Doody]

Get well quickly Doc! The crud is going around here too. Hit my daughter, son-in-law, grandson, ma & pa, but not me yet! (Knock on wood.) Thanks for caring enough to check in when you're feeling down and out.

Ellie, thanks for such a great post.

:)

[reverett123]

yew ain't furm arount heer ar yew?:D
But seriously, a support forum should make every effort to make everyone feel welcome. -Rick



Hi Mods,
Does today make you stop and think about how Pres. Bush must feel? I' d like to request that forums be watched for exclusionary behavior and elitism. There are a million and one ways to make others feel inferior or not accepted into the group. This isn't something you can exactly pinpoint or discipline for and sometimes it's unintentional.
Other times it is deliberate and subtle. You know what I mean I'm sure. Certain comments cause people to be hurt repeatedly without anyone seeing the pattern. Thank you.

all the best,
double6218

[double6218]

yew ain't furm arount heer ar yew?
But seriously, a support forum should make every effort to make everyone feel welcome. -Rick

You know how long it took to sign in to answer you? lol busy night. :D I think this used to be easier....they were still pushing "never tell a lie my growing up years.....lol.

back to the board no pun intended,
double6218

[redjpwranglergirl]

Which then brings up the question of whether it's advisable to have someone moderating a forum that they participate in? (and by asking that question I'm not trying to cause offence...but I've seen unpleasant happenings in that situation).

Of course the other side of the argument is that someone who moderates a forum they participate may know the members better - but can they do that without bias?

Swift

PS Insofar as point 5) goes, would it not be better to have a number of independent complainants - joint complaints could encourage backbiting.

I have to agree with Swift here. I don't think I "know" any of you except Jo55, and I haven't posted on ff but a few times but I have been reading here regularly. I did post earlier on exactly this subject and this is just my opinion. As I said then, and I can't speak for every different forum, but after what I've seen go on on my particular forum, I think it would be a terrible mistake to have people who post on a particular forum, be the mods on it but I can only speak about the one I post on and things may be different on all of yours, but - too many cliques, too many attacks on people who dare to disagree with the self- appointed "forum leaders" (who are legends in their own minds...), too many disagreements about who knows better as far as medical treatments are concerned, too much BAD medical information doled out- some that is such nonsense that I have no idea how anybody believes what is said, etc. I believe it was curious who said something earlier (forgive me if I'm quoting the wrong person- didn't scroll back to check!:D ) about whether she should have to have a particular disease or condition in order to moderate a forum and to me, the answer is "no"..... Actually, I think someone could be much more fair, and- above reproach from those who would complain about everything given half a chance, if the mod doesn't post on that forum. We've been told that the moderation here will be different than on bt1- and I'm not making complaints about the mods on there because I never ran up against them:rolleyes: :D - and I think we should give the people moderating here a chance to show us they'll be fair. It seems that people have already been given the chance to say pretty much what they think on here, without fear of getting banned, so in my opinion I think the mods, no matter what forum they post on, are smart enough and capable enough to do what a forum mod needs to do- watch for trolls, get rid of spam, keep one person or a group of people on any forum from verbally attacking another person,etc. I can't speak for any of the rest of you or your regular forums, but in the 2 yrs. I've been posting there, our forum lost so many of the "old" (not meaning in age!:D ) posters who had such great information that would've been helpful to so many people, because they were sick of the daily "ganging up on others" attacks, the drama queens and the oneupmanships of "who's sicker than who", the self-appointed medical "authorities" who told everybody else that they and their drs. were wrong, and the bannings of people who had said nothing wrong while others who were horribly abusive of others got by with murder but were the first ones to cry foul if someone dared to stand up to them.....To end this novel:D , I'd like to give these mods here a chance to prove to us that things will be different here.

[Bobbi]

((( Hannah ))) and... I also want to extend my well wishes, DocJohn. I'm hoping it's allergies, not a cold, I'm feeling. Last cold I had lasted 3 months with a mix of allergies. So, I think you are 100 percent right for putting rest first! Gotta take care of yourself :).

[artist]

Far as can see, we're not doing it my way. Or your way, or his way or their way. We're doing it Dr. John's way. As a psychologist and leader of a big, very successful forum that has proven itself over 11 solid years I reckon he possibly knows a bit more than me about moderation, human reaction et al.

So I'm completely happy to sit back and watch with great interest how it all works. I don't quite understand it, but I'm fascinated. After all, we're not an experiment, his methods have been tried and tested and if he's happy with them I'm totally reassured. He's said a couple of times that "banning" is a very rare occurence.

Far as I'm concerned, let the train roll on! :)
all the best.

[Ellie]

I think it would be a terrible mistake to have people who post on a particular forum, be the mods on it but I can only speak about the one I post on and things may be different on all of yours, but - too many cliques, too many attacks on people who dare to disagree with the self- appointed "forum leaders" (who are legends in their own minds...), too many disagreements about who knows better as far as medical treatments are concerned, too much BAD medical information doled out- some that is such nonsense that I have no idea how anybody believes what is said, etc.

I personally believe that everyone should be able to express themselves and/or which treatment that is best for them. However, I do not prefer to ever see anyone try to compare who is the 'sickest of the sick' or to claim they know more about x than y does, etc.

This is clearly an issue that I would rather not see happen here. This is not a competition and no-one should ever look at it as such. While tips and tricks are nice, giving out medical advice that could potentially harm someone is not a good idea. I'm sure we all have met our share of 'shady' doctors, but we should leave our treatment up to them, however, always keeping our options open.

When I was a 'newbie' I came to these types of forums for help. I was afraid to ask questions, and needed help from someone who had experience in this condition to guide me in the right direction, to give me tips and to let me know what to expect from certain tests, and so on. That is what I loved most about the communities I found, and I did find some loaded with the clique-types, and I can promise you that I do not like to feel 'left out' and I will do my best to ensure no-one feels that way.

You have my word!

People shouldn't attack others when discussing their medical conditions, if you want to duke it out over politics -fine- but when it comes to someones health, feelings and their all-around well being, it is not encouraged to behave that way. Not by me at least. :D


I believe it was curious who said something earlier [snipped] about whether she should have to have a particular disease or condition in order to moderate a forum and to me, the answer is "no"..... Actually, I think someone could be much more fair, and- above reproach from those who would complain about everything given half a chance, if the mod doesn't post on that forum.

The forums I handle, what I had in mind - as I expect people to not be using those areas to fight - is to make sure all helpful information is compiled and easy to find/access. To make sure people feel welcome, and offer help when needed and to make sure a kind, caring community is built. I am hoping I don't have to moderate per se, because I have high expectations for the posters, I'd like to call myself a 'little helper' instead!


I think we should give the people moderating here a chance to show us they'll be fair. It seems that people have already been given the chance to say pretty much what they think on here, without fear of getting banned, so in my opinion I think the mods, no matter what forum they post on, are smart enough and capable enough to do what a forum mod needs to do- watch for trolls, get rid of spam, keep one person or a group of people on any forum from verbally attacking another person,etc.

Thank you! *hugs*

I can't speak for any of the rest of you or your regular forums, but in the 2 yrs. I've been posting there, our forum lost so many of the "old" (not meaning in age!:D ) posters who had such great information that would've been helpful to so many people, because they were sick of the daily "ganging up on others" attacks, the drama queens and the oneupmanships of "who's sicker than who", the self-appointed medical "authorities" who told everybody else that they and their drs. were wrong, and the bannings of people who had said nothing wrong while others who were horribly abusive of others got by with murder but were the first ones to cry foul if someone dared to stand up to them.....To end this novel:D , I'd like to give these mods here a chance to prove to us that things will be different here.

We will do our best to make sure things are much better here. Thank you for giving everyone a chance, it is greatly appreciated.

[snoozie]

I am going to be optimistic about all of this. So far this has been a great place to come for advice, laughs, friendship and of course chocolate ((((curious)))) . I mean where else can you go to see an alien gord ((Bobbi)) that was very funny. Hopefully we can follow Doc Johns lead and make this a comfortable home for all of us. Sue

[Kamie]

First of all, I am going to give you a little bit of background on me. My real name is Katie. I am 27 years old and live in a suburb of Atlanta Georgia with my husband and 2 kids. I was part of OBT for about 2 years. I found it because I was looking for answers about my daughter who suffered a prenatal stroke. I have a lot of experience moderatorating forums. I run a forum for NICU parents and help my husband behind the scenes at the site he owns. The forums I moderate are here, Child Neurology, and Stroke. The reason why I chose those 3 is because those are where I am most active and feel like I have a feel of the atmosphere.

Next reply, I will address some thing on where I stand for terms of "transparency".

[Bobbi]

Like that gourd, do you, Snoozie :). Wait 'til you see what happens to a zucchini. :D. Maybe it's an adaptation on Mr. Potato Head ;) . Geeze, I won't be able to eat from my garden - after all.

[Kamie]

I realize a lot of people have their fears of moderators from the past. It is time to move on from the past. You can either be afraid of it or learn from it. The other mods and I are all trying to learn from it. We are trying to do our level best to be transparent in how this place will be run and make decisions in the best interest of the MEMBERS not the administration.

But there is one thing you must realize. The presence of moderators is NOTHING for you to fear. You are NOT going to be abused or become the victim of a power trip.

This is a new place. Please stop carrying over the baggage from past places and give us a chance. :)

[Thelma]

As long as we are being up front about things here then I will be as usual the instigator.

The url above me is to a for profit gaming site. That is a no no in anyones book.

But don't you think really that iln order to have a site that will attract all there has to be a lot less of this huggy kissy little girl talk.

If it irritates me as a woman full grown it surely must aggravate the men who come here.

Can't we put it into a forum where those who use it can go and kissy kissy to their hearts content.

Lord we are all too old for it.

[hummer]

I have posted and have been reading at Doc John's other site, Psych Central......my personal opinion is that you don't need to be worrying too much about moderators getting out of hand.....

His other site feels pretty safe......it doesn't have all of the family of people that I have missed, so it isn't the same for me.......but I have seen where the mods stepped in, and it wasn't to ban anyone, or beat them over the head with a stick.....more to keep someone from beating someone else over the head with a big stick.....everyone got to say what they wanted....they didn't stop people from having an opinion....or erase their words.....

I don't think the moderators job is to guide people in health issues and judge what people are saying medically.....but there is structure held, to insure that people don't get personally vicious with each other.....That is a good thing......

I don't think this is Doc John's 'first rodeo'.......

I just like knowing I can come to this place....even if I don't write any words....I read here and see the names of people who have come to mean so much to me over the years.......it makes me brave in the world to know you are here....that I can reach out, and not be afraid of what I write, or think....

Often, with my brain injury....I need to have someone who cares about me come along when I have to go out in the world, in certain situations.....not to think for me, but to be there if I run into trouble.......I think that is how Doc John's set up, for moderators, is.....a group of people there to watch out for us.....all of us....protectors.....not power mongers.........

There is a quote...."Authority without wisdom is like a heavy axe without an edge, fitter to bruise than polish."......followed by another, "A ruler who lacks understanding is....a great oppressor.".....(the last one comes from the Bible)

Everyone tells me I worry too much.....maybe I do, because I get afraid a lot of the time....but I am not going to be worried about the moderators on this site, because I believe in the pattern, I have seen Doc John express, in his dealings....in this site and his other one......

Just my 2 cents.......

Blessings to us all........
Hummer

[Ellie]

Thank you for your kind words, Hummer. :)

[kimmydawn]

((((((((( hummer ))))))))))) thank you for the words and thoughts. your point is excellent...the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior. that's something concrete to point out.

i hope you're doing well and wish you a good night. :)

KD

[kimmydawn]

As long as we are being up front about things here then I will be as usual the instigator.

The url above me is to a for profit gaming site. That is a no no in anyones book.

But don't you think really that iln order to have a site that will attract all there has to be a lot less of this huggy kissy little girl talk.

If it irritates me as a woman full grown it surely must aggravate the men who come here.

Can't we put it into a forum where those who use it can go and kissy kissy to their hearts content.

Lord we are all too old for it.

Thelma,

I won't respond regarding the link as guidelines have not yet been posted to discuss the issue.

I would like to say that you bring a good point about...not liking another member's posting style. In this case, the "huggy kissy". It's a "different strokes" kinda thing. Some participate, some don't. However, it's not inappropriate either. This is the perfect situation wherein you could place those users on "ignore".

I would like to take this opportunity to point all members to a wonderful function we have here called "ignore user". If someone posts in a manner that is upsetting, triggering, or in any other way that you don't care for but isn't against guidelines, please use the function to make the most of your own experiences here. :) Your experience here literally can be at your fingertips to enjoy. :)

Thanks for hearing me and have a great night.

KD

[kimmydawn]

snoozie,

Thank you for your optomistic outlook. It's greatly appreciated :)

KD

[Kamie]

As long as we are being up front about things here then I will be as usual the instigator.

The url above me is to a for profit gaming site. That is a no no in anyones book.

But don't you think really that iln order to have a site that will attract all there has to be a lot less of this huggy kissy little girl talk.

If it irritates me as a woman full grown it surely must aggravate the men who come here.

Can't we put it into a forum where those who use it can go and kissy kissy to their hearts content.

Lord we are all too old for it.

You are fully entitled to your opinions. However, I would like to clairy one thing. My husband's website is NOT for profit. It sells nothing. It is a community of computer geeks who like to play video games. In the context in which I was stating it, it was not inappropriate. However, I removed the link to make you and others feel better. :)

[Jane]

I have been laying back and trying to be quiet for days but I am not very good at doing that. Sigh.

For heaven's sake. Let's all try to give this a chance and not belabor the need for supervision and support. Most responsible sites include that function. It is not fair to equate having a moderator with dealing with power hungry control freaks. It doesn't need to be that way. We will never move forward if we chose to continue to wallow in the problems of the past. Best wishes.

Jane

[Kamie]

I have been laying back and trying to be quiet for days but I am not very good at doing that. Sigh.

For heaven's sake. Let's all try to give this a chance and not belabor the need for supervision and support. Most responsible sites include that function. It is not fair to equate having a moderator with dealing with power hungry control freaks. It doesn't need to be that way. We will never move forward if we chose to continue to wallow in the problems of the past. Best wishes.

Jane

well put! :)

[JoJo6]

thank you for saying what I have been thinking. I consider myself blessed to have found this site.

Some of the things I have read here are downright embarrassing . Come on people, forget the nit-picking and lets get to doing what we do best. I'm just glad there are people like Jane here to help get these forums rolling.

Welcome to Moderators and thank you DocJohn for inviting us to be a part of your neighborhood. Quiet frankly, I need this site more than it needs me. I hope I will be able to give more than I take.

BB to us all, Julia

[evie]

I see a slight problem developing :)

there are people here talking about chocolate and (I seem to remember) 1 or 2 other things in unrelated posts.

There are people here who feel disturbed/triggered by this...especially on chocolate related stuff, I can fully understand why some people would feel triggered. Somebody with an eating related disorder doesn't see these as just fun...and for somebody with an eating related disorder, seeing anything eating related in a post about other things could be the same as people making fun about somebody elses other disabilities.

That aside, it has been suggested that an easy solution is to put people who post those disturbing/triggering posts onto the ignore list.

Sofar, so good...aside from the little tidbit that often enough these people post useful and informative information beside the chocolate stuff and having them on the ignore list would get rid of those posts, too. But that can be lived with...

But, some of the people on that assumed ignore list turn out to be moderators which does complicate things a bit. Should I really put one/several moderator/s on my ignore list? :confused: No? I almost thought so... ;)

Suggestion: how about people who have been asked to not do/say something think a bit before posting and this before suggesting that other people put them onto their ignore list and especially when they have accepted a special function on the board. It doesn't take more than a second or 2 to remember that there are people who will be deeply disturbed by finding a particular subject turn up in a thread that is meant to be about something else entirely.

cheers
eve

[paula_w]

The food pictures , hearts, hugs, are part of some people's identity, and no one wants to take that away, How about just using the graphics sparingly? What do you think about in social chat only except for smileys and smaller stuff. Keep the larger ones in social chat?

IT sounds uncaring to ask someone NOT to post affection. But on the other hand, these forums are visited by many academic and medical professionals too.

Last point about it. It's like going to church. If a Quaker walked into an African American revival and someone hands him a harmonica, the Quaker is not going to want to dance and play it. And shouldn't be expected to. It does set the scene tho, and to expect others to participate is manipulation, even tho with kindness and good will.

I hope that was said clearly it's a delicate topic.

paula

[artist]

OMG, you think we should dress up for the doctors and medical professionals? Gimme a break. I can't see why food is a particular issue, I go purple when I have religion pushed under my nose. Pictures of big angels are every bit as disturbing to me...but I live with it.

Where do you draw the line?

Pictures are vital, not only as an expression of a forum identity but as an expression of humanity. Lets make sure we embrace humanity.

all the best.

[unknown]

...I would like to say that you bring a good point about...not liking another member's posting style. In this case, the "huggy kissy". It's a "different strokes" kinda thing. Some participate, some don't. However, it's not inappropriate either. This is the perfect situation wherein you could place those users on "ignore".

I would like to take this opportunity to point all members to a wonderful function we have here called "ignore user". If someone posts in a manner that is upsetting, triggering, or in any other way that you don't care for but isn't against guidelines, please use the function to make the most of your own experiences here. :) Your experience here literally can be at your fingertips to enjoy. :)

Actually it is impossible to ignore that stuff when it is injected into threads where it doesn't belong. I think that is what is so annoying about it.

Yes, we all have different styles and there is no harm in that, but puppies, kittens, and chocolate don't belong in every thread, and especially not in overhwelming numbers of posts.

Personally I welcome moderators, and I hope they will pay attention to this issue so it is kept "toned down" or in posts where it belongs.

[kimmydawn]

Unknown,

Yes, by ignoring a user that posts in a fashion that's upsetting and/or triggering to you on a regular basis, you won't see their posts within the threads. You can enjoy the thread that you wan't to read without risk of seeing something that you don't want to. :)

There's nothing that's 100% (i.e. you might see a response that you don't care for), but it's a good tool at our disposal to limit dislikes and make the most of our experience here.

Just to clarify... :)

Thanks!

KD

[Chemar]

I agree with you there artist!

These forums, and indeed life life itself, are LOADED with triggers of every kind in ways that most of us dont even realise. Different conditions and personalities have different thresholds for different triggers. To try to single out some and place restrictions on those is IMHO very biased. We may as well all just go away if we are going to have to tip toe around continuously in fear of being able to interact in a normal way with our own unique styles and personalities.

edited to add: just to clarify...I fully agree that sensitivity to others is a very necessary thing, but to turn sensitivity into censorship of sorts is not!

[kimmydawn]

It's a good point that no online community is going to be perfectly suited to our needs, tastes, wants. There are good tools to use to aid in minimizing our discomfort. After that, it's in our hands to know what we can/can't deal with or want/don't want to deal with.

With a community this size (and it's continuing to grow), there's going to be a wide variety of posting styles, interests, sayings, etc. We manage those the best we can with the tools available to us. :)

Members have good tools here to "control" their experience as much as it can be. Alot of reaction, etc., can be at the fingertips of the individual member.

KD

[artist]

Exactly. Chemar, well said.
all the best.

[JoJo6]

Yes it is Paula, but there are a million things that are"triggers"for one reason or another.

My only daughter is recovering from anorexia/bulimea disorders. I say recovering ,she was always be recovering because it is an addiction, you can get better, but it is always there.

It's a very long story, 12+ years. Any kind of food was a trigger for her, but part of her recovery progress she had to learn to deal with the look of food, words written about food, people talking about food etc. The list is endless.

I love her just as her step-dad, & brothers do. We could not hide any of these things, it would not have been in her best interest to do so. Meals at our house were rather stressful, but in time we all had to deal with it, especially daughter. When we begun to relax and act normal, she finally lightened up and would sit with us. It took a long time, but she finally ate when we did. We made no mention of her disorder, but she brought it up, thanking us for allowing her to get there even though it took a long time.

I come to realize that if we acted normal, she made steps forward. Food wasn't her only "trigger". We, as a family unit could not dispose all things that triggered. It is impossible.

there are many things in this story, but another thing that was a big time trigger was an overweight person. No control over that.

I do not mean to sound harsh about this, but do we all need to change everything just to make sure it doesn't trigger something?? There would be no end.

I feel for all of you, I don't want to do anything to harm anybody else, but I can't forever go around trying to make sure I don't mention something that may or may not be offensive to somebody.

I did not write this to offend anybody and I am sorry if I did. Jo

[KTM5665]

A healthy community will have a mixture of topics within topics. You cant always talk about your ailments, or you'll become your ailments.

I do think, however...a forum is NOT the place to flame someone for their opinions...we are all entitlesd to them...but no have them be insulting, hurtful or spewforth such untruths that it might be dangerous to someones health, both mental and physical health.

If all we did was sit and moan about whats eating us...the world would be a giant pissparty.

[paula_w]

I agree with you there artist!

These forums, and indeed life life itself, are LOADED with triggers of every kind in ways that most of us dont even realise. Different conditions and personalities have different thresholds for different triggers. To try to single out some and place restrictions on those is IMHO very biased. We may as well all just go away if we are going to have to tip toe around continuously in fear of being able to interact in a normal way with our own unique styles and personalities.

edited to add: just to clarify...I fully agree that sensitivity to others is a very necessary thing, but to turn sensitivity into censorship of sorts is not!

I would call it cooperation not censorship but then its just a discussion, suggestion..going slong with others bringing it up..

Artist I don't see what you wrote in what I wrote..but recognize that didn't matter anyway. .

fresh air now...........paula

[paula_w]

Yes it is Paula, but there are a million things that are"triggers"for one reason or another.

My only daughter is recovering from anorexia/bulimea disorders. I say recovering ,she was always be recovering because it is an addiction, you can get better, but it is always there.

It's a very long story, 12+ years. Any kind of food was a trigger for her, but part of her recovery progress she had to learn to deal with the look of food, words written about food, people talking about food etc. The list is endless.

I love her just as her step-dad, & brothers do. We could not hide any of these things, it would not have been in her best interest to do so. Meals at our house were rather stressful, but in time we all had to deal with it, especially daughter. When we begun to relax and act normal, she finally lightened up and would sit with us. It took a long time, but she finally ate when we did. We made no mention of her disorder, but she brought it up, thanking us for allowing her to get there even though it took a long time.

I come to realize that if we acted normal, she made steps forward. Food wasn't her only "trigger". We, as a family unit could not dispose all things that triggered. It is impossible.

there are many things in this story, but another thing that was a big time trigger was an overweight person. No control over that.

I do not mean to sound harsh about this, but do we all need to change everything just to make sure it doesn't trigger something?? There would be no end.

I feel for all of you, I don't want to do anything to harm anybody else, but I can't forever go around trying to make sure I don't mention something that may or may not be offensive to somebody.

I did not write this to offend anybody and I am sorry if I did. Jo


No you didn't sound offensive or harsh, in fact I may send you a PM today as I am concerned I'm developing one after so many years of PD meds...losing too much weight.

I didn't think of the pictures until after they were mentioned and was thinking of what could possibly be done but I can live with them too...

Jo, you asked about how many changes? I have been here a long time and like it just fine.paula

[vigdis]

It's getting complicated, isn't it!

My two kroners' (live in Norway) worth is that we're not going to be able to please everyone all the time & maybe we just have to accept that there are going to be 'irritants' (as in objects, not people). So long as someone is not being deliberately offensive, isn't it possible that we can just live with the graphics etc?

I'm not keen on some of the touchy-feely/choccie-stuff that gets posted BUT, I realise it might cheer-up others to be able to see a goofy/friendly graphic/picture - especially if visiting in the lonely hours of the night... so, I would never try to censor anyone else's style & would hate for them to feel unable to express themselves in their own way - or feel unable to post.

I do wish that more people from the original BT would find their way here though - it seems to be such a trickle, as opposed to the deluge I thought might be the case.

[paula_w]

vigdis, it's only as complicated as we make it. These things take tremendous patience. What is it like in Norway? Did you ever know a Bea from Newfoundland in these forums years ago?

outdoors....p

[Wittesea]

I noticed that several people are worried about the moderators in terms of having someone moderate a specific forum when the moderator doesn't have knowledge about that specific illness.

So I have a suggestion on how to help those concerns...

Why not start a post in the forums that you post to and explain the particular illness/disease to the moderator(s) that have been assigned to moderate that forum?

That way, all the members of the forum would have a chance to explain the illness itself and their experience with it to the moderator(s), and you could also include some informational links about the illness/disease that the moderator(s) could read.

That would help the members of the forum to know that their moderator(s) have knowledge about the illness, and it would probably help the moderator(s) as well to be able to understand and have knowledge about the illness/disease of the forum they are moderating.

[kimmydawn]

What a WONDERFUL suggestion, Wittesea.

Thank you so much for that, and the care.

KD

[Wittesea]

Your welcome Kimmydawn :)

In my opinion, anything that can possibly help the members feel more comfortable with the moderators is a good idea. At the same time, anything that can help the moderators to know more about the people and topics they are moderating is also a good idea.

I have seen the "meet the mods" post on psychcentral, which is a great idea to help the members meet the moderators, and so I thought a "meet the forum members" in each forum would help the mods to get to know the members, and would help everyone to have a smooth transition.

[kimmydawn]

Your welcome Kimmydawn :)

In my opinion, anything that can possibly help the members feel more comfortable with the moderators is a good idea. At the same time, anything that can help the moderators to know more about the people and topics they are moderating is also a good idea.

I have seen the "meet the mods" post on psychcentral, which is a great idea to help the members meet the moderators, and so I thought a "meet the forum members" in each forum would help the mods to get to know the members, and would help everyone to have a smooth transition.

*Shaking head vigorously up and down* It's certainly a community effort to adjust to change, as well as gaining a good working knowledge of the majority on all levels to help make a community "understood" and well running...

Again, thank you,

KD

[JoJo6]

It's getting complicated, isn't it!

My two kroners' (live in Norway) worth is that we're not going to be able to please everyone all the time & maybe we just have to accept that there are going to be 'irritants' (as in objects, not people). So long as someone is not being deliberately offensive, isn't it possible that we can just live with the graphics etc?

I'm not keen on some of the touchy-feely/choccie-stuff that gets posted BUT, I realise it might cheer-up others to be able to see a goofy/friendly graphic/picture - especially if visiting in the lonely hours of the night... so, I would never try to censor anyone else's style & would hate for them to feel unable to express themselves in their own way - or feel unable to post.

I do wish that more people from the original BT would find their way here though - it seems to be such a trickle, as opposed to the deluge I thought might be the case.

I noticed your last paragraph and decided to respond. I haven't counted all older members and newer members so don't know the ratio.

I do know a lot of people from the old boards have signed up as member, maybe they just haven't posted. I am an old timer. I can never remember the exact year I came on board, but when I came the ClassicChats were always full and John had a forum but I didn't use it much because I got what was needed for me at that time.

How far back do you go? Maybe I can help you out if you are looking for somebody special. things have changed over there, not exactly what it used to be. One way to see if you find any of them look at the members lists. Many have changed their username. that can be a problem.

I had a very dear friend, I believe he lived in Sweden, but lived also in Norway if memory serves me right. lol. I think he had Parkinsons D. I do hope you will find what you need here. I also hope you find some of the friends you are looking for.

It's nice to meet you, I live in the USA. Let me know if I can help you,eh?

take care, Jo

[Thelma]

The comments I made on the subject of subject of silliness of some of the postings is limited to the peole who post so many of them. How it can be a subject for so many to voice their opinons on is amazing.

But then you know there is another thing that has to addressed here and that is

What exactly is this site going to be?

Is it going to be another mental health site or indeed is it going to be a neurological site?

By that I mean is it going to address the needs of say someone who has Als.

It can't be both ways in the manner it is now being addressed.

Here in this forum there is such a mixture of topics that to encourage anyone to come here results in no response.

Particularly in the Als forum.

There we have the moderators having a conversation with each other in the manner of this very one. no recognition of where or who they are dealing with there.

This can't be done and that was one of the most active forums going.

The people who frequest that forum are in what I call dire straits some or most but definitely not all.

They are paralyzed, some drastically and some seriously immobilized but not paralysed completely. Some or all have very limited physical functions left.

If you were to go to the old forum you would have throgh Bobby been able to see the daily obituaries. Not a week goes by that I don't see someone there I knew. In the forum there alone many have died since it began. We did a petition years ago and one man made the difference in it getting to the capital and he never lived to see it delivered. Shortly after another friend died there and in real life he truly was a friend.

So let me tell you of the use of moderators in that forum.

Many of the members there are using computers and their ability is marred by the technique of there use. Some have a screen in front of them that they can use an eye directed pointer to print out words one syllable at a time.

Some can use one or two fingers to type.

Some are reduced to a single dot placed on their forehead to direct their thoughts on to the page by their eye movements.

So that takes care of the writing but the reading is just about as tough as it is.

Scrolling on a web site is a job in itself.

Each person has to have their computers geared to their abilities. Use whatever muscles that are available.

So to schroll and find chit chat is such a wasted effort not easily replaced by the body.

We had one man I will never forget who had been deserted by his wife in a setup to have him institutionalized who fought so hard for the computer he needed to stay in touch with everyone and through the efforts of the members they finally got him one and then had to find someone to maintain and set him up. By the time it happened he had no powers left to use it. He too died shortly afterwards.

So that is what it is like in an Als forum. But it is not all sad and hurting people. It is filled with those who say to hell and fight for their rights and indeed the rights of all who are impaired by these bastardly diseases.

So make the decision of what this forum is going to be and who knows maybe you can get them to come here.

I can tell you all no matter who you are and no matter what you have in the way of disabilities you will be amazed and humbled by these people.

All you need to do is go on the net and find out who and what Amyotropic Lateral Sclerosis is all about.

Don't ask them to explain.

They were sorely treated by David at Braintalk because he neither had the heart or the capability of learning about Als.

You wanted to know and I have told you and now the ball is in your court.

Learn about who you are dealing with and if you don't want to or can't handle it then get out of it. Not all can be treated the same here or anywhere and not all are equal.

What a world we would have if there were no variety in thoughts and actions and interpretations



Boring .Boring.........Boring

[KTM5665]

I dunno...

I think it can be a forum to include both. Simply becasue a person has a disease, many people dont see the disease as having THEM~ it's good to let your hair down every now and again and not talk shop 24/7.

Unless of course, they did this before living with challenges. I know personally, i hate being shoptalk and no fun. It needs a balance~

[Thelma]

I just read Wittsea's post and I would like to know why it is the members responsibility to educate the moderators.

10 members of any one forum with any disease have 1000 different and varying degrees of symtoms.

One may fit all and one may fit one only.

Everyone is an individual and no condition or disease is universal

[artist]

I just read Wittsea's post and I would like to know why it is the members responsibility to educate the moderators.

It's not their responsibility, Thelma, it's just a really intelligent and thoughtful way to help everyone adjust to the new situation.

That's all there is to it.
all the best.

[swift]

Everyone is an individual and no condition or disease is universal

That would actually make quite a good signature line.

I read through your post re: posting with ALS, and I know how hard computer access can be with severe disability (personally I used to use a suck puff switch with a speaking onscreen keyboard + screen reader, but luckily life's improved for me). Then you have people with the 'slower progression' kind of MND or the newly diagnosed who have different needs again.

I can also look at people with my disability - and sometimes the amount people take part in life relates more to how they perceive their disability to limit them than the actual severity of their disability/loss of functional abilities.

I hope that these forums turn out to be caring, and cover biopsychosocial needs in terms of the types of support and information that individuals get for themselves/their children.

Swift

PS Actually - would you get more new people finding that forum if it was named MND/ALS?

[kimmydawn]

I think we've all had some really good input here and stated things that we want to be heard. The thread is here for Doc John to view when he returns from illness, then to respond to in his time.

I'll be closing it until that time. We've all been given alot of food for thought on this.

Thank you all for your comments, concerns, suggestions and well wishes. :)

KD