Atlanta Vampire Alliance [AVA]

[Merticus]

Voices Of The Vampire Community
08.05.06 Meeting Transcript

<Gabrielx> So I think everyone died this weekend lol
<Gabrielx> least I know it's going around
<Gabrielx> So, first let me ask this
<Gabrielx> who's new here?
<Gabrielx> Smile
<eclipso> me
<DreadLordDarkness> New enough...lol
* LadyCG thinks the new people should be introduced
<Gabrielx> eclipso: since your the only one lol.. mind telling us something about yourself while I get mairi in here
<Gabrielx> who invited you etc?
<Gabrielx> since I know they aren't present
<eclipso> ok, Well as you probly all guessed I'm eclipso. Invited by Lono
<LadySlinky> Hi Eclipso
<eclipso> I'm one of his mods and I'm from the U.K.
<eclipso> so hello all
<LadyCG> welcome Eclipso
<Ravena> welcome Very Happy
<eclipso> cool, thanks
<Aki> Hey Eclipso
<sarasvati> Welcome, eclipso Smile
<Gabrielx> welcome eclipso...
<eclipso> thanks
<DreadLordDarkness> welcome aboard
<Gabrielx> any specific topics of the night we wish to bring up?
* LadyCG already brought up the fact she may not move S&M and possible retirement.. and is so out of topics for now (edit: announcement was made during "social hour", see bottom of log)
<sarasvati> I have a survey I am working on, Gabe, and had wanted to ask if there were any objection to me posting it to the board for review/critique and eventual filling-out..
<LadyCG> What kind of survey, Sara?
<sarasvati> I have two, one for vamps, one for non-vamps, its to try and put a little more definition on what "Traits" we have vs teh general population. Instead of the observation method we had previously relied on
<sarasvati> To try and avoid bias, the non-vamp one will be answered mostly by people unattached in any way (to my knowledge) to teh VC
* Gabrielx listens to saras
<Gabrielx> this sounds a lot like the AVA project
<Sphynx-Blaaaah> more medically based, i think
<Gabrielx> is it going to be... yeah thats what I was going to ask hehe
<sarasvati> To be honest, yes, I saw/answered the AVA surveys...though similar, mine has little to do with energy use, and focuses more on a compare/contrast stand...mine is also shorter (so far!)
<LadySlinky> aya shorter
<LadyCG> AVAs was HUGE!
<Ravena> I'd support that saras, you do have some medical background and you aren't dumb
* Gabrielx agree's with ravena
<sarasvati> Huge yes, but I was impressed with its completeness
<LadyCG> sounds interesting to me
* CrazeDS agrees with Gabe agreeing with Ravena
<sarasvati> lol, I appreciate that, Ravena Smile
<LadyCG> I'd like to see more medical info collected
<Ravena> I mean, you're an honest to goodness doctor for goddess sake
<sarasvati> Currently, I am still in the review/rework stage. Trying to make it as complete as possible without being overwhelmingly detailed. Its not ment to be the Ultimate Vampire Survey, but a starting point
<CrazeDS> Starting points are good, everything starts somewhere
<sarasvati> I realize with teh AVA survey out, my timing is horrible...i've been trying to gather the questions and coding for a few months, it just worked out this way Smile
<Gabrielx> usually does
<LadyCG> I still think its a worthy project, Saras, and i think you should post it on the sight
<CrazeDS> The AVA survey is HUGE..I never read it, it gives me a headache,
<Gabrielx> nods
<Gabrielx> alright then to business..
<Gabrielx> First off this last bit of time was getting to know one another and doing socials with one another..
<Gabrielx> cool deal, a lot of us want to start actually doing something
<Gabrielx> *gets the pressure*
<Gabrielx> lol
<Gabrielx> one of the things I was hoping to accomplish tonight was to reach out to more people to get to know etc.. Re-inlisting the buddy system, which seemed to moderatly work
<Gabrielx> in that getting to know others
<LadyCG> I like the idea of inviting more leaders into the group
* CrazeDS liked the buddy system
* Gabrielx agrees with cg
<LadyCG> to do that though.. we need to NOT change the dates for the chats. Its too frustrating for new people. We need to hold them when we say we will and work with the people who can get here.
<Gabrielx> Camille and I were talking earlier about that page we've been kinda all kicking around the last two meetings as well
<Camille> I like the buddy system
<Gabrielx> agreed
<Sphynx-Blaaaah> it's ok if you're actually at the keyboard most of the time Smile
<LadySlinky> as this gets bigger it will become impossible to get everyone here.
* CrazeDS agrees with Slinky
<Gabrielx> yeah I'm not worried about it I just wanted to hear viewpoints
<Camille> Slinky ~ it already is, but you're right
<Gabrielx> from you guys
<Camille> this is why we try to have multiple reps for different groups
<sarasvati> *nods* This is true... as it gets bigger, we may have to rely more on a message board or mailgroup type thing
* CrazeDS nods
<Camille> Chances are either Michelle or I can make it
<Camille> and frankly, I want us to have an active 3rd person as another backup
<LadySlinky> I would like to seee more focus. I find I have a very difficult time telling people what it is this group is for and why they should be a part of it.
<DreadLordDarkness> I make it when I can.
<eclipso> i'm here for when Lono cant make it
<eclipso> ie tonight
<LadyCG> I think having 3 reps is a good idea
* Sphynx-Blaaaah agrees with LadySlinky
<sarasvati> True, LS... telling hubby "I am chatting with a bunch of leaders of the OVC" and then the inevitable "Why"..."because I can?"
<CrazeDS> focus= good. Most of out meetings are socializing...though the last one was kinda productive,...maybe...
<Camille> Slinky ~ IMHO, focus = projects
<Gabrielx> slinky: which brings us back to the site
<LadyCG> that way SOMEONE from each group SHOULD have a shot at being here and passing on the logs
<Gabrielx> also agreed
<LadySlinky> Its not just projectsd its explaining the over all point
<Ravena> well, it is not just up to one person to bring that focus
<DreadLordDarkness> true
<LadySlinky> I was trying to invite someone from one of the ukl groups.
<Gabrielx> slinky: the overall original point still holds, and thats to be able to sit down and discuss issues or know one another better in our own community. The site is just as a focal point for actually getting the community involved
<LadySlinky> I found myself at a loss on how to answer "well what is the group for and what does it do"
<LadyCG> when *I talk to other group leaders about this group, I tell them its a chance for leaders from different groups to learn about each other, pass on info and work together. Most people seem to like the idea
<Ravena> we talked about this extensively when we first got together
<CrazeDS> I usually say pretty much what CG said. lol
<Camille> Mission statement could be useful.
<Ravena> it shouldn't be that much of a mystery as to what we are for
<Camille> I wince as I say that due to the pain of hammering one out
<Gabrielx> It's about keeping open lines of communication with members of the OVC
<Gabrielx> nod
<Camille> but I think it might help a bit with focus
<Ravena> I think there was a Mission Statement thread on the forum
<Sphynx-AFK> I get a lot of "why have meetings? what's wrong with email or lists?"
<CrazeDS> There is, Ravena
<Gabrielx> camille that was brought up in the forums kinda got a half and half shot down thumbs up
<DreadLordDarkness> I believe the meetings are more personable
<LadyCG> The idea of Cross Board communication is catching on, I think, among those leaders tired of the petty bickering
<Ravena> I prefer meetings, I have enough lists and forums to keep track of
<Camille> Sphynx ~ that one's easy. It's a much more active form of communication, we actually get to know each other that way
<LadyCG> I enjoy LIVE exchanges of info
<Camille> and let's face it, this community is formed or not formed pretty much entirely on personal relatioships
<Ravena> and it's quicker, we don't have to wait for someone to check their email and reply etc
<DreadLordDarkness> I find that its way too easy to have a communication error in reading an email from someone
<Camille> thus developing them is valuable, if a pain in the ass
<Camille> Gabe ~ I know.
<eclipso> plus this chat gives every persons perspective at once
<DreadLordDarkness> being able to convey your intentions are easier in a meeting setting than in an email
<LadySlinky> chat only gives the perspective of thsoe who are there and type fast enought o keep up
<Camille> Slinky ~ True, that is an unfortnate aspect of the medium.
<Gabrielx> thats why I feel both play an important role
<Ravena> I think that's probably why the logs are posted
<Camille> Especially the speed thing.
<DreadLordDarkness> Understandable but its easier to get an answer if you have a question on something than stewing over an email
<eclipso> and then reading each persons thread
<LadySlinky> You only get a surface answer though
<eclipso> then each persons reply to that thread
<eclipso> takes a long time
<LadySlinky> what the person can pull out and type upi right there in a limited amount of time.
<LadyCG> I grumble, but, I LIKE these chats, which is why I try and make it for them. I love the chance to talk to you all, and over the past while I've come to think of the members here as real friends
* sarasvati agrees with CG
<CrazeDS> well, if something needs calirifcation, we all know how to get ahod of each other
* Gabrielx wonders why were having a conversation on two mediums we already have built together basically and doesn't need fixing?
<Gabrielx> want me to add an elist to it? hehe
<Ravena> hell no
<eclipso> what might help is an agenda
<eclipso> before the meeting that is
<Ravena> I have enough crap to keep up with as it is
<LadySlinky> yes
* LadyCG throws things at Gabe
<sarasvati> Not right now, Gabe!
* CrazeDS throws a chair at Gabe
<DreadLordDarkness> mainly where I was coming from on this topic was that its easier to clarify a misconception on a topic in chat that in email
<Mairi> I'm here finally
<LadySlinky> I think it is important to have the 2 mediums working together
<Ravena> I'm all for these live meetings, besides, they aren't the only tool, there is the forum
<Gabrielx> My question is this.. Were not a council, were not a group of people governing what happens anywhere... What's wrong with the agenda of simply talking to one another and putting a thought process up
<Gabrielx> What kind of agenda do we need
<Ravena> good point gabe
<Gabrielx> Do we need the kind where we make a big dark deep house
<LadyCG> I like what we do
<LadySlinky> because most of us dont really have time for one more chat social
<eclipso> when i say agenda i mean an email sent to all reps say a week before
<Camille> Slinky ~ Agreed.
<eclipso> with idea for the next meeting
<DreadLordDarkness> I thought the whole thing was about getting to know each other better so we could facilitate communication
<eclipso> points to focus on
<Ravena> but we have the time to pour through countless forum messages
<Camille> Though there is, IMHO, a benefit to the social.
<Gabrielx> ok
<Ravena> ?
<Gabrielx> even though you don't have access eclipso
<Gabrielx> I asked on the board for one
<LadySlinky> Not really rav
<CrazeDS> Yeah, alot of us have alot of social groups and chats, and don't need another, and would like to be on that does something, along ewith being social
<Gabrielx> for everyones thoughts
<Gabrielx> for topics
<Gabrielx> awhile ago
<Ravena> if people think this group doesn't do anything, well, look at it this way
<Ravena> what is done depends on its members
<Ravena> it's a team effort
<LadyCG> I think it DOES do something. I think this group has already made relationships between our boards better
<Camille> Ravena ~ most of us each independently maintain projects.
<Ravena> of course
<Camille> Though I also agree with CG
<Camille> whom I never would have met
<Camille> if not for this.
<LadyCG> exactly!
<LadyCG> *smiles
<Camille> I now have someone to toss Sanguine vamps to
<Camille> because, I'll be honest
* Aki nods
<Ravena> but why would someone join up here if they knew they wouldn't have the time or interest to get things off the ground?
<Camille> I don't know how to deal with an awakening Sang vamp
<Mairi> We are talking to each other where in some case we weren't prior to the venture
<CrazeDS> Yeah, I mean I nev er would have met and been able to profusely annoy gabe..hehehe
<Camille> *lol*
<Ravena> if the only thing this group ever accomplished was to get to know each other, then that is more than fine by me
<LadyCG> thats OK, Camille.. I am now much wiser as to the ways of Psis, from knowing You and Michelle
<Gabrielx> lol
<Camille> Ravena ~ I think it's more finding something to get off the ground.
<LadySlinky> perhaps we thought there was more to it then a gab fest?
<Ravena> because nothing annoys me more than the backbiting that happens
<Ravena> sometimes it happens because the person is going by rumour and not by knowing the actual person
<DreadLordDarkness> amen..lol
<Camille> Don't get me wrong, I like this group. Hell, I got to talking to Vorsuc
<Gabrielx> there is.. bringing the community closer.. the web site that hopefully gets up can be another launching point
<Ravena> you get out of it what you put into it
<LadyCG> and I think this has helped cut that to a minimum. I think of people here as friends. As such I know we don't allow other boards to be trashed on S&M... especially not if they belong to someone HERE.
* LadyCG lets no one trash her friends
<LadySlinky> I can't put anything into something that to me is void of form
<sarasvati> As a thought, before it slips my mind, in the interest of getting to know each other... we started out and tried to make mini-intos and bios of each person or group and projects and fit it int oa single chat...what about spreading it out?
<Ravena> well, no one makes you stay here LadySlinky
* LadyCG makes Slinky stay!
<LadySlinky> Then I think I shall take my leave
<Ravena> if you arent' happy with the fact that we strengthen relationships and form new ones..
<Camille> Sara ~ that chat is hosted, in edited form, on HK
<LadyCG> damn.
<Gabrielx> well that was quaint
<Ravena> my directness strikes again..
<Camille> We're going to disagree.
* LadyCG hopes Slinky will feel better later
<sarasvati> Camille, I realize that... but the details, and teh devil that is in them, are not there due to time
<Camille> People are going to join and leave.
<sarasvati> (Yes, CG, that time thing again!)
<Camille> Sara ~ more unedited details
<Ravena> it's just that criticizing and making those obversations, and then doing nothing to help things along..
<Camille> Ravena ~ People will get stressed,
<Camille> People will come and go
* CrazeDS waves at loves at all and falls onto her bed
<Gabrielx> ok here's the fact.. a lot of us feel that if we make one centralized place it'll be good for us. We can involve not only our opinions but the communities as well. Be able to release news, opinions, events what not in a central location along with other places
<Ravena> yes, I'm sorry if I offended anyone
<Ravena> but I'm not going to apologize for my honest opinions
<LadyCG> Everyone has off nights. There WILL be tempers and there will be disagreements. But I think friends can disagree and still stay friends. Just gotta NOT make a big deal out of disagreements
<Gabrielx> who are in this room right now.. I know SOME of your opinions on it not all
<DreadLordDarkness> exactly CG
<LadyCG> YOu want to make a Master Board / Group of some kind, Gabe? All for one and one for all?
<LadyCG> .... invite the entire OVC to it?
<Ravena> there are probably a 100 forums that do just that
<LadyCG> ya.. but not all of US belong to ONE
<Ravena> we have a forum though
<Gabrielx> Im not inviting anyone to it.. they can look if they want lol
<Ravena> or do you mean make a public forum with us running it
<LadyCG> yes, but not one that all our members can join
<Mairi> We should be using the forum more
* Gabrielx nods to mairi
<Gabrielx> I dunno ravena.. kick around ideas
<Gabrielx> discuss
<Gabrielx> What do you guys think
<Ravena> but there's plenty of forums for people to join
<Ravena> to be honest, I don't need yet another forum
<DreadLordDarkness> too many forums out there for my taste
<Ravena> I'm having trouble keeping up with ones I'm responsible for now
<sarasvati> Sort of a vampire Wikipedia? With a newslist?
<Mairi> Same here, can't keep up as it is
<LadyCG> I'd be all for a giant board that welcomes our members with the leaders of all the groups Admining it. That might be a fun project!
<Camille> who runs a group with a number of members?
<Gabrielx> *raises hand*
* LadyCG has a large group
<Camille> or is part of one
<Camille> (me)
<Mairi> I have a large group
* Ravena is part of one
* sarasvati jsut has a webpage, no group
<Mairi> Several to be honest
<Camille> Do you guys think that it would be beneficial to get other members communicating
<Camille> other then just group heads?
<DreadLordDarkness> I'm a member of serveral have one of my own not including all my crazed women cultist out there..lol
<LadyCG> I tink if we can get enough group leaders working together on such a project, we could actually have a shot at uniting the community, frankly.
<Camille> Lady ~ I disagree
<LadyCG> why?
<Ravena> I'm not sure unity is a goal I would aim for
<Camille> Lady ~ Let's use the Witches as an example.
<Ravena> more of an understanding of one another
<Mairi> I'm with Camille
<Camille> Lady ~ no matter how much talking, you don't really get unity.
<sarasvati> That would be nice in the long run...though we can now discuss our opinions and be civil about ideas, members of groups may not be so inclined depending on personalities
<Camille> Lady ~ what you get are bigger and more productive groups, but not unity
<Mairi> uniting isn't possible........just getting people to agree to disagree is hard work
<Gabrielx> unity to me is something that probably wont happen... however open minded communication and thoughts with one another can
<DreadLordDarkness> exactly Mairi
<Ravena> unity should be something we focus on within our own groups or houses
<LadyCG> IT can't happen if we dont' want it to.
<Camille> Mairi, Gabe, agreed.
<Ravena> but with the OVC as a whole, I think it's a pipe dream
<Camille> Lady ~ I don't know if I want it to, to be honest.
<Camille> I like you guys
<Camille> but I don't knonw if I like the idea of a great big vampire group hug
<Camille> I'll be honest.
<Gabrielx> unity would be one mind
<Gabrielx> one thought
<DreadLordDarkness> Ok, to be blunt, we can agree sometimes, but not all the time..its just the way of humanity
<Gabrielx> we thrive in different minds different thoughts honestly
<LadyCG> Which is why the OVC is separated and segragated. We dont' actually WANT a united Vampire group in the long run
<DreadLordDarkness> otherwise we are just drones or sheep
<Ravena> I am not a warm and fuzzy people person lol
<Ravena> I have never wanted unity
<Camille> Lady ~ you and I were buddied in the first vampire pairing
<Camille> that was great
<Camille> I got to know a lot
<Camille> I hope you did too
<DreadLordDarkness> but that doesn't mean we can't work for a common goal
<Camille> but it didnt make us united
<Camille> it just made us communicate
<Gabrielx> dread: exactly
<Camille> and I think that's a good thing
<Camille> I like you, I like your group.
<Camille> But I'm not part of it
<Gabrielx> everyone working towards common goals isn't really a unity
<Camille> and I don't really want to be.
<Camille> Just like while I hope you have some respect for HK
<Camille> that doesn't mean we want to make some uber group out of the two of our organizations
<LadyCG> I agree Camille.
<Camille> even if we go after the same goals.
<Ravena> I think knowing and understanding each other's views is much more realistic
<Camille> So I'm not all for unity
<Ravena> than unity
<sarasvati> Maybe not strive for unity, then, but at least a cooperative? or a, umm... kiss? hehe
<Camille> Ravena ~ *nods*
<LadyCG> Most of us are not all for Unity.
<LadyCG> which is why the OVC is the way it is
<Mairi> I agree with Ravena about understanding each others views
<Gabrielx> I don't think that's true cg
<Ravena> I'm fussy with who I interact with on a personal basis
<Gabrielx> the ovc is the way it is, due to ppl not knowing one another and not caring for one another
<Gabrielx> it's hard to change a belief, it's easier to change a relationship
<Camille> Opportunities to know about each other, hopefully to find people we like, the maturity to deal with those we don't when we have a goal
<Camille> gods if we could have that, I'd be happy.
<LadyCG> We don't have to go along. We just have to GET along, to make the community a friendlier place
<Ravena> well, there's a few people I've met whom i wouldn't trade in
<Camille> *nods*
<Gabrielx> I think thats all we should really be looking for.. educating people of ourselves and who we are.. in that they will know us better and may give us a chance to know them better.. changing the way we treat one another
<Gabrielx> me and mairi for example ;p
<LadyCG> So.. now that we have an idea of what we do not want.. maybe we need to decide where we DO want to go with this. is it enough to just have these chats and our message board?
<DreadLordDarkness> Its a start CG
<DreadLordDarkness> its all a matter of slow growth after that
<sarasvati> So, if we were to make a webpage for it, something like a page where each of us makes one page exaplining who we are and what we do, amy be a link to another member with similar ideas and one to a member with dissimilar ideas?
<Ravena> so maybe our goal could be something like to promote understanding and good will among the different houses, groups, and people in the OVC
<Camille> Lady ~ 1. I want to get to know everyone and have opportunities to establish working (and friendly) relationships with others in the community
<Camille> both as an individual, as as a rep from HK
<DreadLordDarkness> expand too quickly and you loose out in the long run
<Ravena> not to get unity or be their best friend..
<Camille> 2. I'd like to see productive things come of that - either in individual projects or in projects from the group as a whole.
<Gabrielx> expand too slowly and stagnate
<DreadLordDarkness> there is a middle ground
<Mairi> just keep working at it is all we can do
<LadyCG> yes.. and we need to find that middle ground
<Camille> 3. I'd like to learn about the rest of the community - again both as an individual and as an HK rep.
<DreadLordDarkness> Don't stop doing what we are, find the right pace for expansion and plod on
<Camille> 4. (dreaming now) I'd like to see some of the snits between some of us ironed out so people can at least work together without wanting to hit each other.
<DreadLordDarkness> stagnation comes from inaction
<Camille> That's me.
<Ravena> those sound reasonable cammie
* sarasvati bops Camille then reads #4... oh, sorry, yes, I gree (kidding about the bop!)
<Mairi> I'm sure we can all find something about each other that we like
<Mairi> and from that we can grow
<sarasvati> *nods*
<Gabrielx> so we have a lot of talking, a lot of ideas, a lot of agreeing.. a lot of disagreeing, each of us here. What do we walk away with on opening a page? yes or no? etc..
<Camille> I'd like to restart the vampire buddy system.
<Gabrielx> camille: that'll be done
<Ravena> I had some good friends in it and I learned a lot of stuff
<Camille> I'd like to hear what each person wants out of the group.
<LadyCG> I think if we reopen the buddy system we should wait till Sept
<Camille> Lady ~ why?
<LadyCG> its much easier to do this kind of thing when everyone is back at work / school and not on holidays
<Ravena> the buddy system is great if we can get in touch with the person who is our buddy
<Camille> Lady ~ opposite for me,
<Camille> and october is a BAd month
<Mairi> I can talk anytime
<Camille> Ravena ~ very fair.
<Camille> Let's do it this month... and september... and even october... and november
<Camille> start now with the people who can do it
<sarasvati> I do like the idea of re-opening the buddy system... as to teh webpage, I think that is also a good idea, if it is focused on exactly what we have been discussing... opening up the ideas and opinions of each group in teh community not only so WE know, but others as well
<Camille> add people as they can participate
<Ravena> I just want to understand the views of other houses and people
<Mairi> Why stop with just one person
<Ravena> not always agree, but understand
<Mairi> why not have two buddies
<eclipso> why?
<Camille> Mairi ~ because one lets you have only one person to hunt down
<Ravena> and perhaps I just *might* make a friend or two along the way
<Camille> which almost everyone can do
<DreadLordDarkness> incase one isn't available?
<Camille> I'd like to rotate every month
<Ravena> if not, then at least I better understand someone else's views
<Camille> Dread ~ Very fair.
<Camille> I'd honestly be fine with two
<DreadLordDarkness> I know Im pretty damn busy sometimes
<Gabrielx> saras: thank you for your perspective
<Camille> but I think at 3 thing's get kind anuts
<Ravena> call your buddy for free!
<Ravena> or use voice chat
<DreadLordDarkness> Mairi can attest to trying to get intouch with me the past month
<Mairi> I'll answer anyone's email
<DreadLordDarkness> But I do answer emails
<Camille> Ravena ~ I would be willing to give my Voip number out to people to talk to via phone.
<Camille> assuming I knew it WENT NO FARTER
<Ravena> yes, it's super important to maintain that discretion
<Ravena> I'm like one of those paranoid people about personal info
<DreadLordDarkness> Ive posted my info out there
<DreadLordDarkness> but I don't mind giving it out to people who want it
<Camille> Ravena ~ but do you think it'd be worth doing skype/voip chat?
<Ravena> it's free
<Ravena> I mean, it'd be good for those who prefer the phone
<sarasvati> I am willing to give it out to those here, but as to teh phone, I don't always have time to talk (never call me on a Monday night! hehe)
<Ravena> otherwise, chat or email would be fine
<DreadLordDarkness> but at least everyone in my household is either kin or so ingrained with kin that it doesn't matter who you talk to..lol
<Mairi> I work from home 75% of the time so I'm almost always online and at home
<Ravena> well, there's voice chat too, no phone numbers need to be exchanged
<Ravena> and that is allowed on most IM programs
<DreadLordDarkness> in any case, here is my email addy because i gotta bail, company just rolled in
<DreadLordDarkness> so if anyone wants to email
<DreadLordDarkness> shoot me one
<Camille> Question
<Camille> : is there any other business?
<Gabrielx> Call me lame but I still don't know which way were going with the site
<Gabrielx> if it's a yay or nay
<Camille> Gabe ~ I'd vote Yay.
<eclipso> yay
<sarasvati> yay
<Ravena> if we go with the site, I don't think you should have to do it Gabe
<Ravena> you have enough on your plate as it is
* LadyCG is still hazy on what exactly you want to do with the site....
<Camille> Ravena ~ lt's do that next vote...
<LadyCG> I"m good with a site
<Mairi> Do we need a website
<Gabrielx> lady: information center/ etc etc /
<Gabrielx> or what not (that's me summing it up)
<LadyCG> Ok.. sounds good to me
<eclipso> a starting point for sites boards?
<Mairi> What sort of information would we put on it Gabe
<Camille> I do have a proposal for one thing to put up there
<Camille> if people are interested
<LadyCG> a CALENDAR!
<Gabrielx> mairi: anything you want mairi Smile
<Camille> Is anyone here familiar with Wren's nest?
<SphynxCatVP> not me
<eclipso> nope
<Mairi> I am
<Mairi> read it every morning
<eclipso> what is it?
<Camille> Wren's nest is something the Wiccans/Pagans do, though it's branched from there
<sarasvati> Nope, not heard of it
<Camille> it is, for many Wiccans/Pagans
<Aki> camille: I've heard of it
<Camille> the first thing they check in the morning
* LadyCG is unfamiliar with it
<Camille> It's a collected site of all the news to happen in the media
<Mairi> Its on the witchs Vox
<Camille> which could affect Witches
<SphynxCatVP> Oh, WitchVox, ok
<Camille> WitchVox is the larger site
<Camille> Wren's nest is the subsection.
<Mairi> Excellent place to get information
<SphynxCatVP> it's an interesting idea, but how much can we stand of "killer claims vampirism" news stories?
<Camille> Mairi ~ it, cnn, and slashdot are my morning nenws
<Camille> Sphynx ~ which is why I suggest also mixing it with community announcements
<Mairi> http://www.witchvox.com/
<Gabrielx> how about we start posting the GOOD things we do?
<Camille> Sphynx ~ because yes, otherwise it will be VERY painful.
<SphynxCatVP> Sangi's got a newsletter that's been sorta doing the same thing
<Camille> Sphynx ~ how often is it put out?
<Mairi> ShadowLore has its newsletter, The Shadow Tymes
<eclipso> what would be in it?
<SphynxCatVP> monthly I think?
<Camille> the benefit of this is that it's continous
<sarasvati> Aye, about monthly
<Camille> almost more a news blog
<Camille> then a newsletter
<Mairi> Camille idea is a good one
<sarasvati> THat would be nice
<Camille> the thing is
<Camille> to pull it off
<Camille> you need a wide array of people from different parts of the community
<Camille> to send stuff into it...
<Camille> something rather unique
<sarasvati> Something anyone can add to as they find things...though may have to be moderated?
<Camille> to the current VVC.
<SphynxCatVP> and they need to remember to do it
<Camille> Sara ~ I'd rather assign a number of mods.
<SphynxCatVP> and yes, moderation is key
<Camille> who can post thing
<Camille> with an email account
<Camille> which forwards to all of them
<Mairi> I can tell you from running the Shadow Tymes getting people to send in info is going to be difficult
<Camille> so that the admins post things
<SphynxCatVP> otherwise you'll get not only spam, but clueless ones going "come to x-party on saturday" with no other info
<Camille> Mairi ~ true, which is why you need a wide base
<Camille> like the VVC.
<Mairi> it may start out strong but it will eventually peter down to who ever is in charge doing all the work
<sarasvati> Those that do the newsletters already, though, can addthe articles/newsclippings as the yfind them for thier own newsletters too
<Camille> Mairi ~ that is a serious concern
<Camille> Mairi ~ and personally, I suggest this thing have at least 3 admins
<Camille> for that reason.
<Camille> it is easier to admin though
<Camille> because the thing is, you don't have to actually write articles
<Camille> you're posting news clippings
<Camille> so it's 2 min of work instead of 20
<Mairi> I don't mean to be negitive but even with 3 admin. those 3 will end up doing it all
<SphynxCatVP> Mairi's right
<Camille> mairi ~ it's a fair concern.
<SphynxCatVP> been tehre done that with a mundane project
<SphynxCatVP> got burnout
<Camille> to replace burned out admins
<Camille> between our various groups?
<SphynxCatVP> depends on how many web geeks there are Smile
<Camille> Sphynx ~ we can set it up
<Camille> so that it doesn't require webgeekery
<Mairi> I really like the Wren's Nest idea best, with 3 admin posting the info that we all submit rather than a newsletter
<SphynxCatVP> then you're talking a CMS thing
<SphynxCatVP> potentially daunting to the CMS-interface-newbie
<Camille> Mairi ~ I am with you personally.
<LadyCG> RSS feeds?
<LadyCG> just an idea
<Camille> Sphynx ~ there are a couple ways to do it. CMS is a definite option.
<SphynxCatVP> many of the CMS's provide an RSS feed automatically
<Camille> Personally
<Camille> I say leave that up
<SphynxCatVP> that would be an advantage to it
<Camille> to a decision by the admins.
<Mairi> I get around or so it seems, so I can pump articles and information into whatever we do
<Mairi> but geeky I am not
<Camille> in my experience, things get done best
<Camille> if the admins are given technical control and decision making power
<Camille> mairi ~ that's really the hard part hopefully
<Camille> and the part that we'd nee
<Camille> and why a group like VVC could do it, but individually we might have trouble.
<sarasvati> Even something like an embeded LJ that we can all post to may work
<SphynxCatVP> that's true
<Camille> Sara ~ that would be one possible technical solution.
<Mairi> those in charge would need to have tech control in order to keep things up to date
<SphynxCatVP> and an embedded LJ can be set to do an RSS feed as well
<LadyCG> that would make it simple.. its a good idea, Saras
<SphynxCatVP> I've seen a few do that
<Camille> Mairi ~ yes, and I also think they should choose the exact format.
<eclipso> night
<LadyCG> I think it would be less work for Admins if we could all post our own news in some wy
<LadyCG> way, even
<Mairi> I agree CG
<sarasvati> Short version: Newsfeed? Yes. Mods needed, at least three. How t odo it? RSS? Imbeded LJ? blog dsicserv? Discuss...
<Camille> CG ~ from this group maybe
<LadyCG> yes Camille
<Camille> but there are still things like plain old news
<Mairi> anything else will be a huge undertaking until we become more of a group
<Camille> the other problem is
<Camille> and let's be honest
<Camille> what happens when someone has a snit
<SphynxCatVP> all hell breaks loose
<Mairi> depends on the person
<LadyCG> I say we refuse to make a big deal out of tiffs
<Camille> I'd rather we pick a few dedicated admins
<Camille> polite enough to leave with disagreements
<Camille> then risk, esp as the group gets larger
<Camille> drama in a newsfeed
<LadyCG> We're all Adults here
<Camille> CG ~ perhaps I'm too jaded.
<LadyCG> I think we should just accept that there will be disagreements and refuse to make a big deal out of them
<Mairi> drama happens when gossip is involved
<LadyCG> next time we see the person who stormed out.. we just carry on like it didn't happen unless it was actually something truly horrific. *shrugs
<Camille> esp as the group gets bigger
<Mairi> To keep that from happening there has to be admins who would post the info
<Camille> Mairi ~ that's my theory.
<Mairi> sort of moderators
<Camille> I am very, very jaded.
<LadyCG> Are we really not adult enough to jsut... behave?
<Mairi> I thought that was where you were going
<Mairi> It's sad CG but not everyone can behave like adults when their nose is out of joint
<Camille> CG ~ I don't know. And even if I could say that now, I'm not sure if I can say it in the future.
<LadyCG> I guess I just think its sad
<Camille> CG ~ agreed wholeheartedly
<Mairi> It is sad CG
<Camille> CG ~ but you've run a board, a huge one
<Camille> tell me, am I really wrong?
<LadyCG> I think we are all capeable of exercising self control
<Mairi> Especially when just talking things over solves so much
<Camille> we had someone storm out tonight, and I can't even say she's at fault - she left, that was fine
<LadyCG> tantrums happenon S&M, all the time.. but we don't make big deals out of it. When it happens we just quietly delete the offending post and carry on like it never happened, most of the time
<Camille> but it wasn't sticking around and talking
<Camille> CG ~ on a newsfeed
<Camille> that's a bad thig
<Camille> if this has ANY success
<Camille> any screw ups
<Camille> litterally become community news.
<Ravena> I have been around hundreds and hundreds of the ovc people in the past six years or so, and sadly, people sometimes aren't adult enough to behave
<LadyCG> hopefully if it happens Camille and people see it happen, it will encourage peopel to grow up and realize its tacky
<Camille> it'll just discourage people
<LadyCG> but if we're goign to work together, shouldn't we be able to trust each other to be adult?
<Gabrielx> agreed
<LadyCG> it sounds to me like we need to accomodate a lot of trust issues
<Camille> CG ~ ideally, yes.
<SphynxCatVP> CG > In an ideal world, yes... trouble is, a lot of people aren't the "ideal" adults
<Gabrielx> problem comes with acceptance
<LadyCG> *sighs
<SphynxCatVP> you've seen that recently Razz
<Camille> ... and it's HARD
<Camille> it's HARD to be nice
<Gabrielx> of other peoples beliefs, or thoughts, or just the fact it's their's. Then the other problem comes with debate. People have a hard time debating a topic and not the person involved in it
<LadyCG> yes, and how did we react to it, Sphynx? we just quietly carried on <SphynxCatVP> yep
<Mairi> sometimes polite is the best I can do
<Camille> I've snapped a couple times in public, and I'm known as a nice self controlled one
<Camille> (I am more honest on here then most places)
<Camille> (thus seeming much less nice)
<Mairi> I've done the same thing Camille
<SphynxCatVP> CG > my point wasn't that we carried on - my point was that it happened int eh first place, from an adult
<Mairi> and I hate it when I do
<Camille> i have a wonderful admin team
<Camille> for the boards
<Camille> ... and every once in a while
<Camille> I delete something of theirs.
<LadyCG> We all lose it from time to time. its in our natures.. its in everyones natures.. but I dont' see how that makes us appear less of a group... just makes us sound.. dare I say it.. Human
<Camille> or edit the posts of house members
<Mairi> I have good people on SL and we have been 90% drama free in the 4 years we have been in existence
<sarasvati> If the trust is to be an issue, andwe go with moderators, it almsot sounds as though we would have to have even the mods who post articles pass thier articles through other mods...not sure how that would be accomplished, but that would be a solution
<Camille> Sara ~ yeah, there are still moderator trust issues
<Camille> but hopefully we can confine it to those less likely to blow a gasket
<LadyCG> I jsut dont' think an occassional bit of drama should be able to kill the idea or makes such an undertaking less credible, I guess.
<Camille> CG ~ it does.
<Gabrielx> Slinky’s basic point was, if we didn't have a goal or something we were actively working towards in her eyes that would create enough change and effect it may not have been the group she was thinking it was
<LadyCG> well Ok... whatever.. I'll go along with whatever you all want to do, frankly
<Gabrielx> it's her right to leave on that note though right?
<Camille> Gabe ~ absolutely.
<Camille> but instead of talking about her point, she stormed off. I'm not saying I even entirely blame her.
<Gabrielx> nods, left something to be desired I must say
<Camille> but if every time we disagree we do that
<Camille> we will all be gone
<Camille> by november..
<Gabrielx> you're right
<Gabrielx> we've worked hard past a lot of disagreements
<Mairi> It's difficult to make one's point in a chat especially with so many people all trying to speak their mind too
<Mairi> doing it in the forum is a bit better
<Camille> Mairi ~ I do think that if you really, really want to make a point writing it out on the forum would be a good thing.
<Mairi> My schedule heats up starting next month work wise....but I am willing to help whereever I am needed
<Mairi> You might have to explain what you need done but you can count on my help
<Gabrielx> cool mairi.. thanks for the offer.. so what we need to do is sit down or have someone do it.. and go over whats going to be on the site and make an actual rough draft so to say
<Gabrielx> so people helping or doing, know what direction they are going in and what to use.. lol
<Camille> I would also like to apologize to anyone I may have offended this meaning
<Camille> I believe honesty is a very good policy
<Camille> and that it's how things get done... but it also means I'm a lot more blunt here
<Camille> because I respect people here enough to do that.
<Camille> however, I still apologize to anyone that offends.
<Mairi> I don't always agree with everything all of you say but no one has offended me
<Ravena> I already apologized to anyone who was offended
<Ravena> but not going to apologize for my honest opinions
<Aki> isn't that part of why we came together? so we could be honest with each other and work past the things that do offend without the backstabbing?
<LadyCG> I dont' offend easily.. you've been to S&M, Cammy, lol.
<Camille> Aki ~ I hope so, and I think so.
<Mairi> I really don't see how what was said here tonight would offend anyone.
<Mairi> I mean no one attacked anyone for their opinions
<LadyCG> I think the idea of the site is a good one. I think we accomplished something.
<Mairi> I always look at it this way. IF you are speaking directly to me than it might seem like a confrontation
<LadyCG> I like to plan ahead for meetings when possible
<Mairi> but other than that its just an opinion that I might not agree with
<Camille> I'm pleased with the meeting honestly
<Mairi> I thought it went quite well myself
<LadyCG> me too
<Gabrielx> Do we feel we have some type of direction?
<Mairi> I really like it when we can all throw idea's into a pot
* Gabrielx nods to mairi
* Aki agrees
<Ravena> a mission statement might hep
<Mairi> feels good being a part of something positive
<Ravena> help
<Ravena> but not of unity
<Camille> Ravena ~ I think that's a good idea
* sarasvati feels a little more like there is direction
<Camille> I'd really like to see people put up suggestions of what they think the goals of the group should be
<Ravena> one that involves simply our wish to understand each other's views and possibly get to know each other
<Camille> probably on the message board
<Gabrielx> I hope that as this progresses the groups that may come in are also of the same view on throwing ideas in a pot
<Ravena> not to agree with each other or become best friends
<Camille> though I also agree with you Sara, I do think we're coming together
<Ravena> to promote respect and understanding, not unity
<LadyCG> Friendship.. sharing of ideas... cross board communication.. what more do we need? lol!
<Ravena> I suppose sums it up
<Camille> CG ~ I like projects
<Camille> I'll be honest
<Mairi> I like them too Camilla
<Camille> I DO think it's good to complete a practical purpose even beyond the social aspects
<Camille> though those are also valuable
<LadyCG> well the new website idea should give everyone who needs a new project, something to sink their teeth into.
<Camille> CG ~ agreed.
<Camille> I wonder if Slinky would be willing to help.
<Camille> or have someone in her group do so
<LadyCG> Slinky is very good at projects, if she has time
<Gabrielx> Any other business on the table? or questions? thoughts? etc
<Camille> Gabe ~ nope except I assume you're doing the buddy lists again"?
<Gabrielx> correct
<Mairi> Yeah I want a new buddy
<Camille> just making sure
<Mairi> or two
<Gabrielx> I'll be doing that up probably tomorrow
<Camille> *nod*
<Gabrielx> Wow, I don't even think we had a host in this meeting
<Gabrielx> Kinda like it .. we still managed to go a direction
<Aki> seemed to work out okay
<Gabrielx> So Thank you everyone for hosting the meeting snickers
<Mairi> Night all
<sarasvati> I'll post the links to teh surveys for review to the boardtonight
* Gabrielx nods to sara
<LadyCG> are we going to bring friends to the next meeting? is it an option?
<Gabrielx> *checks to see the exact dates etc on the next meeting*
<Camille> If we do an august one
<LadyCG> just send me a note and let me know when to show up, lol
* LadyCG is going to head off and call it a night.
<Gabrielx> 3rd saturday
<Aki> sounds good
<Gabrielx> 16th I think
* LadyCG hugs all around and heads off to spend time with her mate.
<LadyCG> Night all
<Gabrielx> I'll post it up on the board
<Gabrielx> everyone has to read saras stuff anyhow Smile
<Gabrielx> ok guys I'm off
<Gabrielx> thanks again stay safe be healthy watch out for midget aliens with daggers
* Gabrielx trots off
<Ravena> well, I guess I"ll be off as well
<Camille> *nods* I may as well also
<Camille> seems things are winding down
<Aki> all right guys
<Ravena> it was good talking to you guys again.. drop me a line if you're so inclined
<Aki> nods
<sarasvati> I think I'll go get the surveys posted now...
<sarasvati> Hasta!
<Ravena> okay, I'll check em out
<Aki> have fun guys