Atheistforums.com

The Lobby => Announcements => Topic started by: Naru on January 16, 2019, 05:36:16 PM

Title: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Naru on January 16, 2019, 05:36:16 PM
Hello Everyone,

Today I want to talk about what the plans are for the site in the next few weeks. We have decided that we (the Admin Team) are no longer going to run this site. The host is set to expire at the beginning of Feb. This decision is based on personal reason with me which I will not go into here.

We have no plans to continue with the site and the domain will be sold to the highest bidder. All data on the site will not be saved either.

I want to thank everyone and I did enjoy being part of the leadership for this site.
Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: Unbeliever on January 16, 2019, 05:42:05 PM
What - so no more atheistforums.com?

That's going to suck big green ones.
Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: aitm on January 16, 2019, 06:12:14 PM
Excuse me? This is "our" notice? Those of us who "bought this site" are being told "we" are selling to the highest bidder? Really? Exactly who is "we"? This has been supported by the members, or not, which is certainly another point but really?
We kept "The Infidelguy Project" out of great respect for the founder of this site and some of the "owners" are making this decision? Looks like some of us were right in our concerns giving the keys to newbies.

So....whats the starting price wolf?

Seriously. Not a peep prior?
Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: _Xenu_ on January 16, 2019, 06:39:54 PM
I'm going to have to side with aitm on this one. I recall chipping in to purchase this domain name, and donating more than once to keep this place running. What right do you have to sell it out from under us? Refusal to keep the data is especially obnoxious and unnecessary.

If current admin team no longer wants to run the place, that's fine, but hand it off to one of us.
Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: Xerographica on January 16, 2019, 06:49:44 PM
It would suck for this forum to be shut down.  Hopefully there's a way to keep it going.  But if not, then here are a couple alternatives...

Honest Cash (https://honest.cash)
Cent (https://beta.cent.co/)

Participants can spend their money on each other's posts. 
Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: Minimalist on January 16, 2019, 08:48:23 PM
If anyone needs a lifeboat, I've found this place to be pretty good.  It was founded by refugees from The Thinking Atheist when it went belly up.

http://atheistdiscussion.org/forums/index.php

Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: Unbeliever on January 16, 2019, 08:56:01 PM
There's a whole list of forums to look at, here:



http://nullgod.com/index.php?topic=51.0


I like this place, though. I don't want to have to look around for an alternate - again!
Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: Gawdzilla Sama on January 16, 2019, 08:59:05 PM
Quote from: Minimalist on January 16, 2019, 08:48:23 PM
If anyone needs a lifeboat, I've found this place to be pretty good.  It was founded by refugees from The Thinking Atheist when it went belly up.

http://atheistdiscussion.org/forums/index.php


Seconded.
Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: Draconic Aiur on January 16, 2019, 08:59:40 PM
If you need donations to keep the site i'll offer 50 bucks.

Only if a separate part of forum has porn.

Else I'll just give you 30.
Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: Naru on January 16, 2019, 09:19:06 PM
The site has been extended to April 1st. The domain will be place into auction also on the 1st.
Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: aitm on January 16, 2019, 09:35:30 PM
The original owner had the class to offer the site to those who cared about it. Those people bought it and put in the hands of a person they trusted who in turn left the door opened to you. One would think those given control of the site by the owners would have the class to offer the site back to the real owners prior to selling it. But here we are eh?
Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: PopeyesPappy on January 16, 2019, 09:41:06 PM
Yep. Stealing from family. That must feel good.
Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: PickelledEggs on January 16, 2019, 09:44:20 PM
I have to agree with @aitm that there should be at least a little bit of a window of time to offer it to some people on the forum that would be interested in taking it over.

I would not be one of those people wanting to take it over, but hey. Ya don't know until you ask and asking is the right way to go about it. Even I only heard about this relatively recently. Not much sooner than this post was made. Kind of out of nowhere, tbh.

Part of me is thinking the April first thing is a weird early april fools joke, since even me, an admin, had this sprung on him a few days ago
Title: Re: Retiring The Site
Post by: Naru on January 16, 2019, 10:35:02 PM
Ok I think this went far enough.

First let me say, this was all an early April fools joke. The site is NOT going to be sold yet. I say yet because 2019 is going to be my last year as owner. The site (the data) will be donated to anyone who wants to take it over.

For the past 6 months, I been getting offers to sell the site. I have turned them all down. The domain of the site will be offer back to the community to anyone who wants to purchase it. I have the Domain until May of 2020.

The site is already renewed for 2019.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: PopeyesPappy on January 16, 2019, 10:50:12 PM
April Fools jokes usually come in April.

Thank you for the support you have provided to this community. We are sorry to see you go, and our community will be lucky to continue without you.

In the meantime, I can help with financial support going forward. But I have zero experience running a forum and little desire to learn how now.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Naru on January 16, 2019, 11:12:25 PM
Quote from: PopeyesPappy on January 16, 2019, 10:50:12 PM
April Fools jokes usually come in April.

Thank you for the support you have provided to this community. We are sorry to see you go, and our community will be lucky to continue without you.

In the meantime, I can help with financial support going forward. But I have zero experience running a forum and little desire to learn how now.

Thank you. It is just getting too hard to manage the site as life is starting to get in the way. I will not just leave without someone who feels comfortable taking over the site. I will not just give it to anyone who I think is not up for the job. I want this community to keep on growing the way it is. This is why I giving this a year.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Draconic Aiur on January 17, 2019, 01:16:28 AM
Quote from: PopeyesPappy on January 16, 2019, 10:50:12 PM
April Fools jokes usually come in April.

Thank you for the support you have provided to this community. We are sorry to see you go, and our community will be lucky to continue without you.

In the meantime, I can help with financial support going forward. But I have zero experience running a forum and little desire to learn how now.

Running a forum is tiring and I should know I was a mod for 3 months until my friend's forum died.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Mr.Obvious on January 17, 2019, 04:13:51 AM
Can I ask, Naru, what you used to get out of running a forum?
I mean; don't get me wrong I'm most grateful that you did. I love this place.
But we hardly ever see you interacting with anyone. So what was in it for you?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: LoriPinkAngel on January 17, 2019, 12:40:11 PM
I would be disappointed if this forum were discontinued.  I have been lurking around here and trying to get the feel of it here since the forum I use to always visit, WWGHA has crashed.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: aitm on January 18, 2019, 07:49:52 AM
 When I and several others put forward the money to buy this site from Reggie " The Infidel Guy" the idea was this would become a member owned site and we started assembling rules to that. The keys were handed to Wolf for ease of control who brought in Naru who now claims he owns the site.

Regardless to that I suggested long ago as this was supposed to continue to be a member owned site that we actively engage in a continual "tithing" if you will, towards giving the man behind the curtain a small monthly stipend to make the onerous job a little more rewarding. That idea never got much further. Neither did the platform of extending the idea of membership ownership. I will take the blame for not following up on that over the last 5 years. 5 years? Really? Yep we took over around August '13. So I "we" allowed this to fallow and here we are. So I guess we look for a new controller and see how much the "owner" wants to sell us our site back to us.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: _Xenu_ on January 18, 2019, 07:53:34 AM
Quote from: aitm on January 18, 2019, 07:49:52 AM
When I and several others put forward the money to buy this site from Reggie " The Infidel Guy" the idea was this would become a member owned site and we started assembling rules to that. The keys were handed to Wolf for ease of control who brought in Naru who now claims he owns the site.

Regardless to that I suggested long ago as this was supposed to continue to be a member owned site that we actively engage in a continual "tithing" if you will, towards giving the man behind the curtain a small monthly stipend to make the onerous job a little more rewarding. That idea never got much further. Neither did the platform of extending the idea of membership ownership. I will take the blame for not following up on that over the last 5 years. 5 years? Really? Yep we took over around August '13. So I "we" allowed this to fallow and here we are. So I guess we look for a new controller and see how much the "owner" wants to sell us our site back to us.
Read the rest of the thread man. This was kind of a joke, though one in poor taste IMHO. The domain will be transferred for free, along with the data, to whoever takes over. We have until 2020 to figure out who. Also, I was one of the people who chipped in for the domain, and do consider this a member owned site.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: aitm on January 18, 2019, 08:12:43 AM
I've "read" the thread. There are plenty of newbies who may be interested to know a little history to the road this has taken. There may be some of the newer members capable of handling the buttons and knobs of this great machinery (!). I for one, and perhaps the other contributors am unaware there was a "change" of ownership from Wolf to Naru, whether the original intro was a bad joke or the latter response a backtrack of a idea not received so well I cannot tell.

Like last time, (edit-I offered to buy but several members stepped forward thankfully and I did not have to buy it myself) I can re-buy the site but we will still need someone to manage it as I still can't attach a picture to a text message, and again the idea, IF the members are interested in being part of the ownership is that are we willing to contribute enough to give the controller a small stipend for the time. And by small, I mean like a steak dinner once a month. If we don't get the interest then the site fades into the great abyss......
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Naru on January 19, 2019, 08:41:23 PM
Quote from: aitm on January 18, 2019, 08:12:43 AM
I've "read" the thread. There are plenty of newbies who may be interested to know a little history to the road this has taken. There may be some of the newer members capable of handling the buttons and knobs of this great machinery (!). I for one, and perhaps the other contributors am unaware there was a "change" of ownership from Wolf to Naru, whether the original intro was a bad joke or the latter response a backtrack of a idea not received so well I cannot tell.

Like last time, (edit-I offered to buy but several members stepped forward thankfully and I did not have to buy it myself) I can re-buy the site but we will still need someone to manage it as I still can't attach a picture to a text message, and again the idea, IF the members are interested in being part of the ownership is that are we willing to contribute enough to give the controller a small stipend for the time. And by small, I mean like a steak dinner once a month. If we don't get the interest then the site fades into the great abyss......

If we don't find someone to take ownership of the site, I will continue for another year. The site will go to someone who I feel will continue putting effort into this site.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Naru on January 19, 2019, 08:52:22 PM
Quote from: Mr.Obvious on January 17, 2019, 04:13:51 AM
Can I ask, Naru, what you used to get out of running a forum?
I mean; don't get me wrong I'm most grateful that you did. I love this place.
But we hardly ever see you interacting with anyone. So what was in it for you?

I enjoy running a site and being part of the decision making of it. This is not my first site either, I have started few different forums site that is no longer running do to people leaving and lack of activity. At the time where Wolf took over the site, I was running a site called thinkinguniverse.org. We only have about 300 members at the time and Wolf was one of my Admins of the site. We both decided to merge thinkinguniverse.org into Atheistforums.com. I had a host already so the site was moved to my host.

My job for the site seems simple but it does comes lots of work. I work with GoDaddy on any hosting issues, and make sure the server we are on can handle the traffic of the site. We had to upgrade the server few times down the line. Right now I am working with GoDaddy on getting the site SSL certified. Wolf handles all the software side of the site and makes sure everything is working. PickelledEggs does a lot as well, making sure that every mod gets what they need to take care of the site.

The only reason why I want out is because I am just getting tired, It is not about time or the money. This site will continue under my wing if we can not find someone who can complete run the site.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: aitm on January 20, 2019, 12:00:37 AM
Quote from: Naru on January 19, 2019, 08:41:23 PM
If we don't find someone to take ownership of the site, I will continue for another year. The site will go to someone who I feel will continue putting effort into this site.

Taking "ownership" of the site is easy. Finding someone who can handle the techie shit is the issue. If I have come off as an asshole towards you it was intentional. We have plenty of people here who are willing to help with whatever they can, perhaps not in the capacity that you have done, but that does not mean incompetent either. I appreciate all you have done over the years and the fact that what you have done over the years has never been properly conveyed is a good deal of the problem twixt us. Had there been a little less drama we would have solved all the new drama. Still, I readily admit and apologize for not acknowledging the time and efforts you have put into our "home". But it is also fair to say that I have never had any idea of the time and effort you have put into our "home".

So I apologize to you for my personal attacks as I had nothing to suggest otherwise. I appreciate your efforts and those of Wolfie. So with that said, both you and Wolfie deserve a steak dinner. PM  me and I will make that happen....better than Golden Corral but not quite Estampa Gaucha Brazilian.

:)
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on January 24, 2019, 01:24:12 PM
Quote from: Naru on January 19, 2019, 08:52:22 PM
I enjoy running a site and being part of the decision making of it. This is not my first site either, I have started few different forums site that is no longer running do to people leaving and lack of activity. At the time where Wolf took over the site, I was running a site called thinkinguniverse.org. We only have about 300 members at the time and Wolf was one of my Admins of the site. We both decided to merge thinkinguniverse.org into Atheistforums.com. I had a host already so the site was moved to my host.

My job for the site seems simple but it does comes lots of work. I work with GoDaddy on any hosting issues, and make sure the server we are on can handle the traffic of the site. We had to upgrade the server few times down the line. Right now I am working with GoDaddy on getting the site SSL certified. Wolf handles all the software side of the site and makes sure everything is working. PickelledEggs does a lot as well, making sure that every mod gets what they need to take care of the site.

The only reason why I want out is because I am just getting tired, It is not about time or the money. This site will continue under my wing if we can not find someone who can complete run the site.

I'd be interested in taking over for you. I was a member on The Thinking Atheist for over five years before it was shut down. I have the technical acumen to maintain this site. Will provide evidence of my real identity and even agree to meet in real life if that's what it takes to establish trust.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Blackleaf on January 24, 2019, 03:43:09 PM
Quote from: Halkenburg on January 24, 2019, 01:24:12 PM
I'd be interested in taking over for you. I was a member on The Thinking Atheist for over five years before it was shut down. I have the technical acumen to maintain this site. Will provide evidence of my real identity and even agree to meet in real life if that's what it takes to establish trust.

I'm a bit apprehensive about the idea of this forum being handed over to someone with only one post in the forum, even if you are experienced. I would be interested in learning more about you, if you stick around.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on January 25, 2019, 02:16:42 AM
Quote from: Blackleaf on January 24, 2019, 03:43:09 PM
I'm a bit apprehensive about the idea of this forum being handed over to someone with only one post in the forum, even if you are experienced. I would be interested in learning more about you, if you stick around.

I completely understand. I will stick around and let you guys get to know me better. I don't expect you to agree to hand the forum over to me until I've proven that I'm trustworthy. I don't expect that to happen until months from now, for that matter.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on January 26, 2019, 07:14:27 AM
Just curious, would any of the senior staff be willing to meet up with me in Munich, Germany in order to verify that I'm a real person?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: PopeyesPappy on January 26, 2019, 08:17:47 AM
Hofbräuhaus München! Halkenburg is buying.

Seriously though I haven't been to Munich since probably before you were born. I probably won't be back before I'm dead.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Mr.Obvious on January 26, 2019, 08:41:03 AM
Quote from: Halkenburg on January 26, 2019, 07:14:27 AM
Just curious, would any of the senior staff be willing to meet up with me in Munich, Germany in order to verify that I'm a real person?

I guess I could, technically, but I'm not sure I want to take vacation for that.

But I think all of our staff is located overseas.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: aitm on January 26, 2019, 09:50:22 AM
It would not matter if you are real or not. We have a year to find someone capable of running the great machinery that is hidden behind the curtain of death. We are not handing over control of all our wizardry to a newb. But thanks for the offer to help.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on January 26, 2019, 01:49:26 PM
Quote from: aitm on January 26, 2019, 09:50:22 AM
It would not matter if you are real or not. We have a year to find someone capable of running the great machinery that is hidden behind the curtain of death. We are not handing over control of all our wizardry to a newb. But thanks for the offer to help.

No worries, I understand. It's just that when I originally read the thread, I saw nobody stepping up to the plate and figured I'd offer to take over rather than see the forum shut down. The final decision about who it will be handed over is of course in your hands.

P.S.: I may be a newb on the forum, but the same can't be said for my expertise in all things IT. Just FYI. :-P
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: PickelledEggs on January 26, 2019, 01:54:15 PM
Quote from: aitm on January 26, 2019, 09:50:22 AM
It would not matter if you are real or not. We have a year to find someone capable of running the great machinery that is hidden behind the curtain of death. We are not handing over control of all our wizardry to a newb. But thanks for the offer to help.
It not only has to do with capability, but also our trust in that person and their integrity.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Baruch on January 26, 2019, 02:22:09 PM
Quote from: Halkenburg on January 26, 2019, 07:14:27 AM
Just curious, would any of the senior staff be willing to meet up with me in Munich, Germany in order to verify that I'm a real person?

My concern is, if the server is outside the EU, but managed by someone in the EU, does it fall under Article 11 and Article 13.  Basically that would require self castration ... and feminist victory.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on January 26, 2019, 02:26:43 PM
Quote from: Baruch on January 26, 2019, 02:22:09 PM
My concern is, if the server is outside the EU, but managed by someone in the EU, does it fall under Article 11 and Article 13.  Basically that would require self castration ... and feminist victory.

The forum could always be migrated to a server in the EU, couldn't it?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: drunkenshoe on January 26, 2019, 02:27:21 PM
Quote from: PopeyesPappy on January 26, 2019, 08:17:47 AM
Hofbräuhaus München! Halkenburg is buying.

Seriously though I haven't been to Munich since probably before you were born. I probably won't be back before I'm dead.

I have seen it ten years ago, it was intact. :p By the way, time really does fly. *Whistles.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Mr.Obvious on January 26, 2019, 06:47:25 PM
Quote from: PickelledEggs on January 26, 2019, 01:54:15 PM
It only has to do with capability, but also our trust in that person and their integrity.

@Halkenburg

In regards to that, Hal, feel free to upload an avatar, man.

Gives you a 'face' to talk too.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on January 27, 2019, 04:34:48 AM
Quote from: Mr.Obvious on January 26, 2019, 06:47:25 PM
@Halkenburg

In regards to that, Hal, feel free to upload an avatar, man.

Gives you a 'face' to talk too.

Good idea! I uploaded an avatar just now. :-)
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on January 27, 2019, 05:16:21 AM
Quote from: aitm on January 26, 2019, 09:50:22 AM[...] We are not handing over control of all our wizardry to a newb. But thanks for the offer to help.

Sorry for responding to this part again, but I would just like to clarify that I have over 5 years of experience working as Linux Systems Administrator, have hosted my own forum before complete with HTTPS and various other security mechanisms and have my own server in a data center that I practice enterprise technologies on every single day. I live and breath this stuff and it's my life's passion to learn more about technology. I'm a very qualified professional, so at least in my case, whether or not I would be accepted would not be a matter of qualification, but of trust/integrity like @PickelledEggs said earlier. That is why I offered to meet in person, to put my identity on the line and as a gesture of good will. I want you to know that I take this very seriously and that I would be committed to ensuring a smooth transition based on mutual trust.

I don't mind at all if you decide to hand over the reigns to someone else (it's not my forum, after all) but I wanted to give you the courtesy of providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision about that. I hope you can appreciate that.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Baruch on January 27, 2019, 05:28:24 AM
So would the server be more free of interference if based in Europe or the US?  Or are we a dying breed, since everyone will follow "capitalism with Chinese characteristics".
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on January 27, 2019, 05:29:27 AM
Quote from: Baruch on January 27, 2019, 05:28:24 AM
So would the server be more free of interference if based in Europe or the US?  Or are we a dying breed, since everyone will follow "capitalism with Chinese characteristics".

It would be far more free from interference if it were based in Europe, you have my word as an industry professional on that.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on January 27, 2019, 05:43:22 AM
@Naru Please get in touch with me if you're interested. I am eager and willing.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: PickelledEggs on January 27, 2019, 10:54:55 AM
Eager is an understatement...

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on January 27, 2019, 10:59:11 AM
Quote from: PickelledEggs on January 27, 2019, 10:54:55 AM
Eager is an understatement...

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

What can I say? The prospect of being able to turn a plaintext forum into the digital equivalent of Fort Knox (HTTPS, DNSSEC, CSP, OCSP Stapling, etc.) is a computer geek's wet dream. I would have a lot of fun making this site run as fast, stable and securely as possible.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Blackleaf on January 27, 2019, 12:59:42 PM
We've got time to think about it. No need to make a decision right this minute. Let's give this guy a chance (especially since no regulars here seem to be willing or able to take the reigns instead).
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Fidel_Castronaut on March 01, 2019, 03:59:16 PM
Hmm. Got the PM and realised I haven’t been back on a while, then read this.

Would be sad if this place disappeared as I know you’ve put a lot of work into keeping it going following the reggie issues all those years ago.

Sad to say My 2 cents aren’t worth much following my lack of contribution since 2013/14 whilst all you oldies (and newbies...relative to me at least heh) have continued to the grow the site.

I’ll think about what I want to do in the future.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Cavebear on March 01, 2019, 05:22:11 PM
In my 25+ years of discussion board experience (starting with streaming chat), discussion sites managed by computer nerds work efficiently and die fast...  There has to be someone In Charge dedicated to the subject. 
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Mr.Obvious on March 01, 2019, 05:25:19 PM
Don't know THE first thing about running a forum.
Would volunteer if i did.
I like this place. But how it works? That's like magic to me.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Cavebear on March 01, 2019, 05:51:50 PM
Quote from: Mr.Obvious on March 01, 2019, 05:25:19 PM
Don't know THE first thing about running a forum.
Would volunteer if i did.
I like this place. But how it works? That's like magic to me.

The most successful discussion boards I've participated in worked best with a velvet glove on an iron fist, and by allowing a few  (and only a few) pests, if that helps any...
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Draconic Aiur on March 02, 2019, 03:39:55 AM
Man I've been forum hopping on Wolf's and Naru's forums since the great atheist forum died 8 or 9 years ago.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on April 06, 2019, 04:08:44 AM
Any update on this? I'm still eager and willing to take care of the sysadmin stuff of this site.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Mr.Obvious on April 06, 2019, 06:57:33 AM
If we need someone and we have no other volunteers, count my vote to automatically go to halkenburg.

Sorry hal, if that doesn't sound  extremely enthusiastic. I think I'd prefer someone who has been around longer. But I doubt someone will volunteer. You are most like to do right by the site though. And even if you aren't. If it dies out we lose it anyway.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Cavebear on April 07, 2019, 04:57:19 AM
Quote from: Mr.Obvious on April 06, 2019, 06:57:33 AM
If we need someone and we have no other volunteers, count my vote to automatically go to halkenburg.

Sorry hal, if that doesn't sound  extremely enthusiastic. I think I'd prefer someone who has been around longer. But I doubt someone will volunteer. You are most like to do right by the site though. And even if you aren't. If it dies out we lose it anyway.

Anyone to keep the site operating. 
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Baruch on April 07, 2019, 09:13:41 AM
Article 11 and Article 13 mean we can't be hosted in the EU.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Cavebear on April 07, 2019, 09:27:18 AM
Just out of curiosity, what DOES it take to keep this site going?  I know money, but what else?   I've always wondered.  Is there a basic software program that does it or do you have to write in code yourself?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Mr.Obvious on April 07, 2019, 12:05:23 PM
Quote from: Cavebear on April 07, 2019, 09:27:18 AM
Just out of curiosity, what DOES it take to keep this site going?  I know money, but what else?   I've always wondered.  Is there a basic software program that does it or do you have to write in code yourself?

Every full moon, we have to sacrifice a black goat to the devil. A chosen virgin must consume its heart by midnight, followed by a mandatory orgy that must last at least three hours.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Cavebear on April 07, 2019, 12:12:03 PM
Quote from: Mr.Obvious on April 07, 2019, 12:05:23 PM
Every full moon, we have to sacrifice a black goat to the devil. A chosen virgin must consume its heart by midnight, followed by a mandatory orgy that must last at least three hours.

Well, gee, I thought it was COMPLICATED!  What does it require AFTER the orgy?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: _Xenu_ on April 07, 2019, 12:29:31 PM
Quote from: Cavebear on April 07, 2019, 09:27:18 AM
Just out of curiosity, what DOES it take to keep this site going?  I know money, but what else?   I've always wondered.  Is there a basic software program that does it or do you have to write in code yourself?
There's software for all major things you would want to do.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Cavebear on April 07, 2019, 12:49:04 PM
Quote from: _Xenu_ on April 07, 2019, 12:29:31 PM
There's software for all major things you would want to do.

That was remarkably unspecific.  Theoretically, there could be software for almost ANYTHING any one wanted to do.  What I was wondering was
1.  If the problem with keeping the site active was numbers of people, that might have a solution.
2.  If it is funding, there is a solution.
3.  If it is computer programming expertise, there might be talented recruits known to some participants or people willing to learn.
4.  If you are just bored and want to move on, fine.  But allow the site to continue.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on April 08, 2019, 07:30:31 AM
Can anyone tell me how I can get in touch with Naru? He hasn't been online in months. Maybe somebody here knows his e-mail address.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Baruch on April 08, 2019, 07:58:33 AM
Quote from: Halkenburg on April 08, 2019, 07:30:31 AM
Can anyone tell me how I can get in touch with Naru? He hasn't been online in months. Maybe somebody here knows his e-mail address.

I used the private email address system to send an email, asking him/her to contact you.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Mr.Obvious on April 09, 2019, 01:05:46 AM
Quote from: Cavebear on April 07, 2019, 12:12:03 PM
Well, gee, I thought it was COMPLICATED!  What does it require AFTER the orgy?

Collect all the excess bodily fluids in about two buckets. Then hand them over to Charlie sheen. He takes care of the rest, I am told.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: PickelledEggs on April 09, 2019, 02:28:33 PM
Quote from: Halkenburg on April 08, 2019, 07:30:31 AM
Can anyone tell me how I can get in touch with Naru? He hasn't been online in months. Maybe somebody here knows his e-mail address.
who are you?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on April 10, 2019, 05:49:10 AM
Quote from: PickelledEggs on April 09, 2019, 02:28:33 PM
who are you?

I'm the guy who volunteered to take over the administration of this site.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on April 10, 2019, 05:49:49 AM
Quote from: Baruch on April 08, 2019, 07:58:33 AM
I used the private email address system to send an email, asking him/her to contact you.

Thanks!
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: wolf39us on April 10, 2019, 09:14:24 PM
Quote from: Halkenburg on April 10, 2019, 05:49:10 AM
I'm the guy who volunteered to take over the administration of this site.

Sorry bro.  We don't know you.  This site has been around for 15 years.  Not going to be handing the site over to someone we don't know.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Cavebear on April 14, 2019, 03:48:14 AM
Quote from: wolf39us on April 10, 2019, 09:14:24 PM
Sorry bro.  We don't know you.  This site has been around for 15 years.  Not going to be handing the site over to someone we don't know.

Out of curiosity, do you want to shut it down or pass it on?  If "shut it down", that seems hard on the regular participants who know each other and would miss familiar company.  If "pass it on", I certainly agree it should move to a few people who are actually atheists and want it to continue in that general way. 

I suppose the question is whether you want to "pass it on".  I hope you will.  I cherish this site.  I know I don't visit every day, but that is because when I get on, I stay on all night.

If I understand this correctly, a site like this needs financial support, computer expertise, and a few talented Moderators.  What if some people agreed to provide what the site needed to continue?  Would you all be willing to pass along what you no longer wish to maintain to those who do?

I can provide financial support and space to keep the site running.  I may not have the computer skills to manage it, but maybe some other participants do.  Will you give a new group a chance?  Suppose I could organize such a group.  Would you allow the possibility?

I really, really like the balance of this site.  It is neither an angry place nor a serious formal debate site.  It fits me perfectly and I want it to continue.

Cavebear
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on April 20, 2019, 10:51:40 AM
Quote from: wolf39us on April 10, 2019, 09:14:24 PM
Sorry bro.  We don't know you.  This site has been around for 15 years.  Not going to be handing the site over to someone we don't know.

I see your point, but the problem is that no one else has volunteered to take over the management of the site so far. Are you planning to shut down the site rather than hand the reigns to someone you don't know?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Baruch on April 20, 2019, 11:04:01 AM
Quote from: Halkenburg on April 20, 2019, 10:51:40 AM
I see your point, but the problem is that no one else has volunteered to take over the management of the site so far. Are you planning to shut down the site rather than hand the reigns to someone you don't know?

Given the nature of the material, I would say ... yes?  This isn't just another Amazon shopping site.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Sal1981 on April 20, 2019, 11:34:13 AM
I'd like for this site to remain up after 2020. It's just; what does it take?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: PopeyesPappy on April 20, 2019, 01:41:38 PM
Quote from: Sal1981 on April 20, 2019, 11:34:13 AM
I'd like for this site to remain up after 2020. It's just; what does it take?

Assuming Wolf and Naru are going to give the place back as opposed to selling it then I don't think financing is going to be an issue. There are at least a couple who have volunteered to pony up enough to keep the place running at least on a minimal level. i.e. no expensive hosts.

We just need someone to step up and volunteer to administer the place.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Mr.Obvious on April 20, 2019, 02:23:57 PM
Quote from: PopeyesPappy on April 20, 2019, 01:41:38 PM
Assuming Wolf and Naru are going to give the place back as opposed to selling it then I don't think financing is going to be an issue. There are at least a couple who have volunteered to pony up enough to keep the place running at least on a minimal level. i.e. no expensive hosts.

We just need someone to step up and volunteer to administer the place.

You need computer skills to administer, don't you?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Sal1981 on April 20, 2019, 02:28:43 PM
Quote from: PopeyesPappy on April 20, 2019, 01:41:38 PM
Assuming Wolf and Naru are going to give the place back as opposed to selling it then I don't think financing is going to be an issue. There are at least a couple who have volunteered to pony up enough to keep the place running at least on a minimal level. i.e. no expensive hosts.

We just need someone to step up and volunteer to administer the place.
My only experience in forumboards is from zetaboards back in 2006-07. I'm not familiar with SMF boards.

Sent from my Pixel 3 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on April 22, 2019, 05:38:47 AM
Quote from: PopeyesPappy on April 20, 2019, 01:41:38 PM
Assuming Wolf and Naru are going to give the place back as opposed to selling it then I don't think financing is going to be an issue. There are at least a couple who have volunteered to pony up enough to keep the place running at least on a minimal level. i.e. no expensive hosts.

We just need someone to step up and volunteer to administer the place.

Well, I stepped up and volunteered but apparently I'm not suitable because people "don't know me."
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on April 22, 2019, 05:48:28 AM
Oh, I should mention that, if the site ends up being sold and the forum dissolved, I'd be willing to host a new one using Discourse. Here's a demo of that forum software: https://forum.datahoarder.dev/ (https://forum.datahoarder.dev/)
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: aitm on April 22, 2019, 11:11:08 AM
Quote from: Halkenburg on April 22, 2019, 05:38:47 AM
Well, I stepped up and volunteered but apparently I'm not suitable because people "don't know me."

Now yer getting it.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Blackleaf on April 22, 2019, 11:44:16 AM
Quote from: Halkenburg on April 22, 2019, 05:38:47 AM
Well, I stepped up and volunteered but apparently I'm not suitable because people "don't know me."

Well, I think part of it is the timing. It seemed like you showed up just to offer to take over the admin position, and I don't really see you outside of this thread very often. I personally believe your intentions are to help, but for all we know, you could be a puppet for one of the annoying theists who were banned from here, seizing an opportunity to take control. Ideally, I would rather see someone who's been here longer, someone I know cares about this forum and the people in it, take the reigns.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Blackleaf on April 22, 2019, 11:52:35 AM
Quote from: PopeyesPappy on April 20, 2019, 01:41:38 PM
Assuming Wolf and Naru are going to give the place back as opposed to selling it then I don't think financing is going to be an issue. There are at least a couple who have volunteered to pony up enough to keep the place running at least on a minimal level. i.e. no expensive hosts.

We just need someone to step up and volunteer to administer the place.

I've administered a few forums in the past, although I used websites which pretty much built them for me. At the very least, I could keep the status quo, if as you say the position doesn't come with a financial burden. Perhaps someone who has been here longer can hold the keys, but take the tech advice of Halkenburg to improve it, basically supervising him and approving/implementing the changes he makes? Would that be possible?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: wolf39us on April 22, 2019, 12:19:06 PM
Quote from: Halkenburg on April 22, 2019, 05:38:47 AM
Well, I stepped up and volunteered but apparently I'm not suitable because people "don't know me."

Quote from: Halkenburg on April 22, 2019, 05:48:28 AM
Oh, I should mention that, if the site ends up being sold and the forum dissolved, I'd be willing to host a new one using Discourse. Here's a demo of that forum software: https://forum.datahoarder.dev/ (https://forum.datahoarder.dev/)

Any moves (if any) that we make will be strategic and involve people who we know and trust.  I hate to sound rude, but you just aren't one of them.  An arrangement like what Blackleaf said about having another person with the keys MAY be possible at some point.  The person taking over won't necessarily need to have any database / forum management on a technical level experience.  We will need a person who knows how to manage the forum software though.

Additionally, I'm not going anywhere and I can be used as a reserve for assistance, but I'd rather find another full time web guy.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on April 22, 2019, 01:24:35 PM
Quote from: Blackleaf on April 22, 2019, 11:44:16 AM
Well, I think part of it is the timing. It seemed like you showed up just to offer to take over the admin position, and I don't really see you outside of this thread very often. I personally believe your intentions are to help, but for all we know, you could be a puppet for one of the annoying theists who were banned from here, seizing an opportunity to take control. Ideally, I would rather see someone who's been here longer, someone I know cares about this forum and the people in it, take the reigns.

It's not a coincidence, I initially came here because of a thread on http://www.atheistdiscussion.org/forums/ (http://www.atheistdiscussion.org/forums/) about AtheistForums shutting down.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on April 22, 2019, 01:25:51 PM
Quote from: wolf39us on April 22, 2019, 12:19:06 PM
Any moves (if any) that we make will be strategic and involve people who we know and trust.  I hate to sound rude, but you just aren't one of them.  An arrangement like what Blackleaf said about having another person with the keys MAY be possible at some point.  The person taking over won't necessarily need to have any database / forum management on a technical level experience.  We will need a person who knows how to manage the forum software though.

Additionally, I'm not going anywhere and I can be used as a reserve for assistance, but I'd rather find another full time web guy.

It's your forum, I won't take offense at your decision, whatever it ends up being. Just wanted to offer a helping hand.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Unbeliever on April 22, 2019, 01:30:06 PM
Are there any good free-web-hosting sites out there?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: _Xenu_ on April 22, 2019, 02:38:09 PM
I might work as a last ditch thing. I am an IT guy, but no relevant experience running the technical side of a board. I am however, a known entity. Then again, Baruch also has an IT background and recently retired.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: PickelledEggs on April 22, 2019, 05:09:10 PM
Quote from: Halkenburg on April 20, 2019, 10:51:40 AM
I see your point, but the problem is that no one else has volunteered to take over the management of the site so far. Are you planning to shut down the site rather than hand the reigns to someone you don't know?
Publicly, no one offered. How about you quit while you're only as far behind as you currently are.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Halkenburg on April 22, 2019, 10:11:10 PM
Quote from: PickelledEggs on April 22, 2019, 05:09:10 PM
Publicly, no one offered. How about you quit while you're only as far behind as you currently are.

What's with the veiled threat? Is this how you treat people who offer their help without expecting anything in return?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: PickelledEggs on April 22, 2019, 10:17:15 PM
Quote from: Halkenburg on April 22, 2019, 10:11:10 PM
What's with the veiled threat? Is this how you treat people who offer their help without expecting anything in return?
:)
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: _Xenu_ on April 22, 2019, 10:21:59 PM
Quote from: Halkenburg on April 22, 2019, 10:11:10 PM
What's with the veiled threat? Is this how you treat people who offer their help without expecting anything in return?
I wouldn't take it too personally man. If you were a long time poster with a good reputation you would probably get what you are asking for. The truth is though, there's too many theists who have been banned from here and there's no way to verify you are not one of them under a different IP. It all comes down to trust.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Blackleaf on April 22, 2019, 11:43:20 PM
Quote from: Halkenburg on April 22, 2019, 10:11:10 PM
What's with the veiled threat? Is this how you treat people who offer their help without expecting anything in return?

You've gotta have thick skin in this forum. It gets better once they get to know you, unless it doesn't. lol
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Cavebear on May 16, 2019, 03:43:23 PM
I just like this site.  I'm not an IT type.  But is there anything I can do to help while the future of it gets sorted out?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Naru on June 10, 2019, 04:25:35 PM
Quote from: Cavebear on May 16, 2019, 03:43:23 PM
I just like this site.  I'm not an IT type.  But is there anything I can do to help while the future of it gets sorted out?

Nah you are good man. We will keep everyone posted when all the details are in.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Cavebear on June 10, 2019, 11:44:21 PM
Quote from: Naru on June 10, 2019, 04:25:35 PM
Nah you are good man. We will keep everyone posted when all the details are in.

Thank you.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: aileron on August 04, 2019, 09:03:56 PM
Quote from: PopeyesPappy on April 20, 2019, 01:41:38 PM
Assuming Wolf and Naru are going to give the place back as opposed to selling it then I don't think financing is going to be an issue. There are at least a couple who have volunteered to pony up enough to keep the place running at least on a minimal level. i.e. no expensive hosts.

We just need someone to step up and volunteer to administer the place.

There's not much to do in terms of administration these days... The hoster does almost all of that these days. I've not been active here for years, so I'd expect someone else to own the domain but I can help that person with the technical stuff.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Cavebear on August 05, 2019, 07:42:34 AM
Quote from: aileron on August 04, 2019, 09:03:56 PM
There's not much to do in terms of administration these days... The hoster does almost all of that these days. I've not been active here for years, so I'd expect someone else to own the domain but I can help that person with the technical stuff.

It might be helpful if someone described briefly what skills are required.  Sometimes peole have the skills but don't know those skills are sufficient.  Site management might be harder or easier than some of us assume. 

I know that I (as a Federal Government employee) was once was presented with proprietary vendor telephone call data for my agency that the IT guys couldn't translate and that I spent a year figuring out.  But I did it.  Some programs are just persistence.  Is this one?
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Baruch on August 05, 2019, 12:26:47 PM
Quote from: Cavebear on August 05, 2019, 07:42:34 AM
It might be helpful if someone described briefly what skills are required.  Sometimes peole have the skills but don't know those skills are sufficient.  Site management might be harder or easier than some of us assume. 

I know that I (as a Federal Government employee) was once was presented with proprietary vendor telephone call data for my agency that the IT guys couldn't translate and that I spent a year figuring out.  But I did it.  Some programs are just persistence.  Is this one?

It is important it not be hosted outside the US (physically) beyond that I don't care.  PC outside the US would shut this down immediately.  Even in Canada.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Cavebear on August 05, 2019, 01:05:09 PM
Quote from: Baruch on August 05, 2019, 12:26:47 PM
It is important it not be hosted outside the US (physically) beyond that I don't care.  PC outside the US would shut this down immediately.  Even in Canada.

You mean in a legally-protected sense?  That could be a concern.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: morgan_hilarious on September 13, 2019, 08:17:26 PM
Quote from: Baruch on August 05, 2019, 12:26:47 PM
It is important it not be hosted outside the US (physically) beyond that I don't care.  PC outside the US would shut this down immediately.  Even in Canada.
Even in Eastern Europe? I'm sure there are all kinds of places that would easily host this stuff.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Baruch on September 13, 2019, 09:04:46 PM
Quote from: morgan_hilarious on September 13, 2019, 08:17:26 PM
Even in Eastern Europe? I'm sure there are all kinds of places that would easily host this stuff.

Depends.  EU is the blob, they will absorb all countries.  Even Poland, Hungary etc.  They are the living-death of the Internet, because France is still bitter over Mini-Tel.
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Cavebear on September 15, 2019, 05:21:19 AM
I'll ask again to the admins.  If you really intend to abandon this site next year, what is is it worth to you to help sometime keep it up?  I ask this with no intent of monetary return.  Just to continue enjoy it...
Title: Re: Leaving The Site in 2020
Post by: Naru on September 23, 2019, 11:53:44 AM
Just want to give an update on leaving the site. As of right now, all plans on leaving the site is delayed until the beginning of 2021. Without going into any details, I have decided to stick around for another year and to give us more time to find a proper replacement for myself. Keep the community alive is my number one goal. I will continue to update everyone if something changes.

Thanks for your patience with us.