State of the Ifish Union Address (no Clinton)

I have posted a couple of these "State of the Ifish Union" type threads before. I think they were well received and positively reacted to. I feel it's time for another one . ...

First of all, the membership at Ifish has really grown fast in recent weeks. Jen and I have been pleased to notice that many new members have posted that this is the most civil and informative fishing board they have read. From what I have observed elsewhere I agree. And we are so pleased to have so many great people here within what has become a connected community of people who enjoy fishing, the outdoors, and a variety of fun things to augment those with. We even helped Pilar try to come up with a new muscle car (how's that search going John?) . It's honestly touching to see the ideal of helping each other out evolve so well on this BB! Thanks to all of you. ... However, not all is well at Ifish. .....

There are some issues that I would like to see resolved for the overall betterment of this site. I think our Administrator/site owner Jennie, who is responsible for us all to be here, will likely agree with what I have to say here. I have 2 main ones to address. I hope that Jen will cover anything else I forget that may be in need of addressing. Same for you members. ....

First, I have noticed lately that we have been getting a little bit more unduely confrontational or unduely defensively reactive in some of our threads. I have been that way on a number of occassions and am trying to display a better demeanor when I get upset with an opinion I think is wrong or criticism I feel is not warranted. Sometimes we can get a little too sensative to others posts. It is as Gregg (Hookset) so importantly mentioned; despite the smilies at our disposal we still often cannot tell whether a person is affronting someone or just taking a lighthearted opposing view, because you can't hear the inflection in voices and facial expression as we can in person. What I am asking for of all members is to give the benefit of any doubts a chance to resolve with civil raport, rather than quick over-reactions, name calling, or an overly argumentative manner. That is a great goal. Not possible to do it perfectly, but we can do it better if we try. This will make for a more enjoyable site for all of us!.....

Second, I would like to address the issue of language and content on the BB. We have seen an increase in poor judgement at times within posts by a number of members. The obvious most recent issue was that I posted a thread topic that had 'adult humor' in the BB page title column. Many of you mentioned not being bothered by it, but there were a few people and a sponsor bothered enough to e-mail our Administrator Jennie about it; and that's enough with things that aren't necessary for Ifish to be fun. I respect their views even if I have a little bit different view, so I posted that I won't put up, or allow, any of those type of entitled threads again. Here is a post from a member that I respect very much that says a lot about it: "BTW, I consider myself 'Conservative' and found the jokes to be very funny. My wife even laughed at them. It was good, fun, questionable adult humor. Just don't let the kids read it". That says it was funny and fun, but at the same time it mentioned 'questionable' and 'don't let the kids read it'. Enough said; no more such threads. That doesn't mean we can't continue to have a little fun in some posts with 'out in the boat' type of funny banter, and teasing each other good naturedly. And we will. It's fine; within reason. Also, few of you, and you know who you are, simply go over the line of decency at times. Let's keep things within reasonable decency and keep the foul language out. ....

I know some of you sometimes forget about typing the 'S' words and 'F' words in moments of anger at passionate issues. If there are any of you that have a tough time remembering this, just e-mail me if you would like me to edit your posts, taking out the foul language and substituting in more appropriate angry words . That can help you remain a member. And I can do that without changing the jist of your post. ....

With all that said, all in all this is a terrific site with lots of great people! If we just lighten up and clean it up a little, things will be fantstic! And we will all be rewarded with a very good thing we have going here. Thanks for listening to such a long post. And feel free to add your thoughts if you like. Take care. - Steve (RT)

[Mikie]

Hey R.T. That was the nicest time out I've ever seen. Boy I sure don't envy you or jen for having to play the referee thing. I do love this board , and enjoy reading all the tech tip's and good humor, both of my son's read it when they come over. I'm probably one of the guilty one's , I have gotten a bit short with a particular person's post earlier and I APOLOGIZE . I guess we can all play in the sand box together HUH. Hey R.T. the fishing's going to get better when we get some water right? Been working on a new bait , It's kind of in the proto-type phase right now , when I get to one hundred fish hooked on it I'll e-mail you the specs. P.S. TOP SECRET O.K. less than 50 to go on this one bait. Keep up the excellent work on this board. I personally think It' the GGGRRRREEAATTEST there is . Thank's MIKIE.

[THE REEL HEY_YALL]

So is this "our talking to?"

[SteelieSteve]

This board is great! All the people that contribute and add tips, fishing news and any hotspots just make it that much more interesting for all of us. I agree with RT and Jen. It's a public bbs and let's all of us keep it clean and non-combative. I have gotten a bit heated too about a issue or two, however it takes two sides to make it a fight... ie guide misconduct(sledding). Anyone with any hotspots they want invaded? LOL
Steve

[Osprey]

Hey Yall...that would a Well duhh...ah YES!!!

[Barnyard]

R.T. you and Jen should be proud of this site, it is fun. I'm now moderating gamefishin.com(notice the plug) and know how difficult it is to be a moderator...It takes a tremendous amount of time to keep a board civil and fun, you all do a great job....Barn

[Fish4Fun]

RT,

Nice "State of the Ifish" speach. You and Jen do a great job at keeping things under control. As stated this board is full of good info and tips. Sometimes though things will get heated and that is going to happen, we just need to proof read before hitting the send is all. Biggest thing is don't post while being upset.

Fish 4 Fun

[Fishhead]

3 cheers for RT and Jen, I too need to apologize for the way I may have come across at times. With that said, you guys do a great job and have kept this as the best place to go for fishing banter. Keep up the good work. Thanks for being here!.....Fishhead Vic

[Joe]

RT, This is by far the best fishing BB I have found and I agree 100% with your post above.

I used to read another BB but deleated it from my favorites due to all the hostile comments and even threats of violence. I am sure they won't miss me but I would hate to see IFISH go that route. I bet it won't.

Thanks for a job well done.

[drifter]

RT - well said!!! While I enjoy an adult joke at times and seldom run from a good verbal battle, there is a TIME and PLACE for everything.

I am one of those concerned about the younger audience. In fact, my two sons, 15 and 13 both read this board. I therefore judge the content by what I would say in their presence.

What many of you chromers may not realize, especially those of you who post often, you have become somewhat famous (or infamous) to my sons. They talk about your posts and they really appreciate your advise and experience. They want to be serious fisherman and fisherwomen like you.

In our home we talk about honor, ethics and reputation, just as you do with your children and grandchildren. We talk about what is appropriate in public and in private.

Fellow Chromers, you may not like it, but you are role models just by posting to this board. Sorry if that make you uncomfortable, but its true. Such is the nature of a PUBLIC forum, especially one as successful and well-respected as this Board.

Finally, to Jen and RT, Thank You. I appreciate this service.

To you Chromers, people who love to fish and love the Northwest, are among the finest people I know. Tight Lines, Drifter.

[kingofbacklash]

RT & Jen,
You have my support on this. This BB from what I understand is one of the best, if not the best around. I'm sure most members feel good about being part of this wonderful fishing community, me too! Thanks for your hard work, commitment, and presevation on keeping this BB at the top.


fearsnofish

[OR Coast Range]

Quick fix: keep hey_yall hogtied and muzzled

[THE REEL HEY_YALL]

You and O's are sick sick puppies Fish Chaser

[Osprey]

On a serious note,This BB is by far the most enjoyable and informative that I visit.
My hats off to RT and Jen for their hard word,which is very difficult at times.

We all have our own opinions and ideas which is why we are individuals...with fishing being our common thread that binds us together.The fiends I've met and fished with from this BB are great people...who'd a thunk it.These I call my freinds not just peole I fish with.

We at times do not always agree thats why we live here and not China.

I for one have been outspoken at times (Ok more times than not )but thats just who I am , I do not pass judgement and will not be judged either.My out spokeness is based on my love of fishing for Salmon and Steelhead not personal greed and the fact that I want my children and theirs to be able to enjoy my love of this sport.

I enjoy humor and love to laugh even at myself

I will attempt in the futher to try and clean it up,I know I'm on the edge a lot...but the view is great from here....I'll try

Once again thanks to all my fellow chromers and smolts ,I'm proud to a member of this Family...does that we're related to that Redneck..... tell me it aint so....Os

[This message has been edited by Osprey (edited 02-01-2001).]

[4u2fish]

I will try to be good.. These reply's are getting me all choaked up... 'nuf said..

pieces

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AKC H2O-K9

[Fishplay]

RT and Jen:
My hat is off to you both for all your hard work, your doing an outstanding job!. I'm a fairly new member and in total support of this thread. We members of 'ifish' are by nature a passionate bunch. Many of us have became as equally addicted to this board as we are fishing itself. With that in mind... we must practice some self preservation and remember our judgement is critical to the continued success of this BBS. I look forward to meeting up with many of you 'ON THE WATER!

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FISH!........GET IN THE BOAT!!!!!

[Fishplay]

Oh! Forgot to add that I enjoyed the "Humor" thread very much. E-mails of that nature gladly accepted.

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FISH!........GET IN THE BOAT!!!!!

[HOGTIDE]

Again, as always, well thought out post RT. I do apologize for my often thin-skinned political responses. As I have said before, I participate in several Hunting BB's, and this place is always considered 'home'. Mostly due to the fact that it appears to be comprised of thoughtful, fun folks. You the moderator play a large role in making this a 'class act'! Carry on with the good work!!!

The S P R I N G E R S are coming!

[Timber Man]

Not again O's and y'all did it again bad bad kids.(slap hands)

[Navigator]

Thanks RT and Jen! I for one do not take you guys for granted.

[Pilar]

Hey Drifter. The fact that your boys are thinking and talking about that good stuff reflects on the guidance they get from you.

Look in the mirror big guy and take a bow.

The bend is your friend!

[RW]

I was glad to see the posts deleted under the topic "News from Rainbow Jigs", I wish it would happen more often. When people make personal attacks on individuals, I think that crosses the line.

There have been other posts in the recent past that I thought should have been deleted. I hope this trend continues and becomes consistent, with consistent being the most important.

How does someone defend themselves against that? When one person starts the attacks, it becomes a feeding frenzy. A friend of mine calls that the "Bloody chicken syndrome". After the first chicken pecks another, blood is drawn. Then all the others join in!

I am not saying that you can't disagree with someone, but personal attacks don't help in your argument. RW

[Ranger]

My first post is being sent to let RT and Jennie know I think this is one quality source of both information and personal interactions. I have signed aboard as a member in the hopes I can offer good information and insight on angling, river/fish management issues and general park/watershed topics associated with my everyday work.
A little background. I have worked in metro area parks since early 1973, thus the name Ranger. I have worked at Oxbow Park since 1983. The last 14.5 years as the resident supervisor, in charge of all day to day maintenance and operations. I have participated in Sandy River land use reviews, fisheries management planning, and watershed issues along with the daily maintenance and operational duties.I'm sure my views and experiences differ from many but hope the perspective is accepted for what it is.
Personally, My great grandparents homesteaded less than 10 miles from the current Oxbow Park(corner of Barnes Road and Orient drive for those who know the area). I am an avid angler with salmon and steelhead angling being my favorites but many others included.
I have identified myself to the DB so that I may participate in discussions about Sandy River resources. Please feel free to e-mail me at any time if you want additional information. I hope my participation will add a little different but positive information to the discussions.