Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

[HighWiz]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

Wait a minute... You flamed me more, AFTER we met!

I said "usually", as in, that rule really doesn't apply with me. As you are well aware, I'm much more sarcastic towards the people I like. If I don't make fun of you or "have a go", then I'm probably ambivalent about you... If I don't acknowledge your existence, then I just don't like you.

Moderators? Those sumbitches actually show up?

Moderators, Goons and the like

Yes.. Well... At least you and AlxRogan will both be there.. I'm sure TheCotMan will show up, as will Roamer. Noid may or may not poke his head in and as for Converge, he will be there if he knows what's good for him. Even though DT is a forum user, he probably won't show up. And if he says he's going to be there, then he definitely won't show up... Nikita of course will be there, if enough users PM her, and ask her to come. Neil may come, unless he is watching his spawn. GM1 may show up with Roamer, before they get their drink on... Medic will be too cool for school, but Jenn will probably come with AlxRogan. Lockheed will be too busy, pounding his latest boytoy of the moment. Grifter won't come, because he has to get his hair "just right". Flea has been known to stop in, though. I haven't seen Londo or X-stasy show up there in a few years, nor has Siviak or Russ or Hackajar graced us with their presence. Lost will just forget that it's going on...

I do hope to see some of the newbies from last year that I met, like Aurora.

And some others who said they'd introduce themselves, like Xr@y.

I will be there, and I will probably drag Runnerup along with me.

[TheCotMan]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

... as for Converge, he will be there if he knows what's good for him. Even though DT is a forum user, he probably won't show up. And if he says he's going to be there, then he definitely won't show up.

Actually, DT is an Admin on the forums now. Also, when converge came back to work as the DCG Coordinator, I reinstated his Admin controls so he can make forums for each DCG as they appear. (We have 4 Forum Admins now: Chris, Dark Tangent, Converge and me, but only 2 of these have shell access for software builds, installs and configs.)

I do plan to stop by for a short bit at the forum meet. If there is a published time for a meet and greet, I will probably show up for that for a bit, assuming something else does not come up and push the time to visit the forum meet back a little later.

[HighWiz]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

Actually, DT is an Admin on the forums now. Also, when converge came back to work as the DCG Coordinator, I reinstated his Admin controls so he can make forums for each DCG as they appear. (We have 4 Forum Admins now: Chris, Dark Tangent, Converge and me, but only 2 of these have shell access for software builds, installs and configs.)

I do plan to stop by for a short bit at the forum meet. If there is a published time for a meet and greet, I will probably show up for that for a bit, assuming something else does not come up and push the time to visit the forum meet back a little later.

Moderators, Goons and the like

I was including Admins in that. And by "a forum user", I meant a user of the forums.

[TheCotMan]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

I was including Admins in that. And by "a forum user", I meant a user of the forums.

Ah, sorry man. There was a time that DT was not a mod or an admin on the forums, just a regular user, then added to the Goon usergroup for many years (6?) I was not sure if you were around when these changes were applied and announced. (You left the forums for a while, and it may have been during that period that converge upgraded DT's forum status to include mod status and then admin.)

Even if you know about this and these changes, maybe others do not. So that others can learn about this, here is more information:

We don't normally advertise the list of mods/admin, so people that take the time to investigate the forums can figure out who is a mod and who is not, but it seems explicit statement of this might be a good idea [for the forum meet.]

People that have mod status (can ban users, and enforce the rules, which includes seasonal mods):
* Neil
* ASTCell
* Thorn
* Blackbeetle
* Russ
* Pyr0
* AlxRogan
* Noid
* Converge
* Chris
* Dark Tangent
* Me

All mods are volunteers, and we still have too many for the level of volume we have on the forums. Additionally, so long as I am an Admin, any mods/admin that leaves the forums with good status can return as a mod when they are willing and able to perform their duties as a mod. Other than Neil (added by direct request from DT) I think I was the last mod added back in 2005. We also dropped mod privs on around 10 accounts due to lack of activity by mods on the forums. (No vanity mods.) Every year since then, I ask the existing mods if we need any more, and since then, the answer has been no.

Nulltone might be able to comment on what happened before 2005 with mods on the forums. Nulltone?

[HighWiz]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

Ah, sorry man. There was a time that DT was not a mod or an admin on the forums, just a regular user, then added to the Goon usergroup for many years (6?) I was not sure if you were around when these changes were applied and announced.

Not a problem.

(You left the forums for a while, and it may have been during that period that converge upgraded DT's forum status to include mod status and then admin.)

Well, HighWizard left... HighWiz returned.


I think we may have derailed the topic of the thread.. Though it is about the "forums" and "forum meet" so maybe not.

[Thorn]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

All mods are volunteers

Well, THAT explains it. All this time I'd just assumed the checks were lost in the mail.

I think we may have derailed the topic of the thread.. Though it is about the "forums" and "forum meet" so maybe not.

Well, we are talking about the Forums Meet. If people make the meet, then they should know who to [blame|praise] for their experiences on the forums.

Although, in the last few years the SNR is up, and the "tard wrangling" seems to be down. I don't think I've banned anyone in a year, and that's probably true for most of the mods/admins. We still get some work, but most of the users who have violated some rule or other seem to respond well to low-key reminders (mainly asking to please read the Rules, interspersed with the occasional threat to break a kneecap.)

Truthfully, most of the "moderation" in the last few years is about being a steering committee for the forums. We reach a consensus about what policies and procedures need to be in place and how they should be executed, and then TheCotMan does the hard work like putting those policies in place and keeping the databases and code functioning smoothly. Really, it's a model of how forums should work. Of course, other forums would probably need TheCotman, too. He really is a huge part of this, and does an enormous amount of work that the users never see.

[Chris]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

Well, THAT explains it. All this time I'd just assumed the checks were lost in the mail.

Well, we are talking about the Forums Meet. If people make the meet, then they should know who to [blame|praise] for their experiences on the forums.

Although, in the last few years the SNR is up, and the "tard wrangling" seems to be down. I don't think I've banned anyone in a year, and that's probably true for most of the mods/admins. We still get some work, but most of the users who have violated some rule or other seem to respond well to low-key reminders (mainly asking to please read the Rules, interspersed with the occasional threat to break a kneecap.)

Truthfully, most of the "moderation" in the last few years is about being a steering committee for the forums. We reach a consensus about what policies and procedures need to be in place and how they should be executed, and then TheCotMan does the hard work like putting those policies in place and keeping the databases and code functioning smoothly. Really, it's a model of how forums should work. Of course, other forums would probably need TheCotman, too. He really is a huge part of this, and does an enormous amount of work that the users never see.

At risk of embarrassing him, I'll jump on this bandwagon too. TheCotMan is hands down the best forum admin I've seen at any forum I've been a part of. I honestly believe that anyone that actually enjoys the forums should take the time to thank him at DEF CON and buy him his choice of beverage.

[TheCotMan]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

I think we may have derailed the topic of the thread.. Though it is about the "forums" and "forum meet" so maybe not.

Well, we are talking about the Forums Meet. If people make the meet, then they should know who to [blame|praise] for their experiences on the forums.

Yep, this is where I was going with it. People should know about all you mods and the work you do, and it helps encourage you all to attend the forum meet. It also lets BBox know who you are so they can recognize how value might be associated with your suggestions or comments on ideas about the forum meet. It may also provide interest by users in getting mods to attend the forum meet, too.

There is value in new people not knowing who is a mod an who is not, as the new people might treat people fairly if they don't know the status of the person to which they are replying. [Imagine a world where anyone not crazy or a criminal is able to get a concealed carry permit with no restriction on firearms they can carry, and how people might treat each other if they didn't know who had a firearm and who did not.] However, the value in letting people know this before the forum meet has greater value, and if any lurker happens to dig up this thread in the future, then they can be rewarded with this information after conducting some research. Also, it is possible that other mods may return next year, and some present mods may go on vacation or be called away to service and have to drop their privs, making the accuracy of this list decrease with time.

... TheCotMan does ... work that the users never see.

That is what I prefer to do. if it was possible for me to work and contribute without a visible presence, I would do that. :-)

At risk of embarrassing him...

You all do the hard work. I am just the modern-day "George Jetson" going to work, and pressing a few buttons in a right order. Also, much of the work is automated or programmed to happen as needed. You guys are here day after day to enforce rules and answer questions. Thanks you guys for all the work you do. :-)

Back to topic...

BBox, what kinds of things are you considering for the Forum meet? Have you discussed this with Nikita to find out what resources might be available for the forum meet from the Rio and Defcon? Do you have ideas for games or reasons for people to stick around at the forum meet and socialize? Ways to encourage people that are lurkers to introduce themselves and participate with others in conversations? Have you been to the DC1o1 event HighWiz has organized? He would be another good person to talk to about ideas expressed in DC101 and will probably have good ideas on how you might be able to encourage behavior described at DC101 for lurkers and people new to Defcon. It is probably a bad idea to duplicate the purpose of DC101, but *implementing* changes to address the issues described at DC101 could lead to desirable results for new members and lurkers.

Thanks and good luck!

[Bbox]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

That is what I prefer to do. if it was possible for me to work and contribute without a visible presence, I would do that. :-)

I guess since you like your anonymity, My where's TheCotMan contest. (Finding you all over Defcon and getting pictures with you) is out.

Have you been to the DC1o1 event HighWiz has organized? He would be another good person to talk to about ideas expressed in DC101 and will probably have good ideas on how you might be able to encourage behavior described at DC101 for lurkers and people new to Defcon. It is probably a bad idea to duplicate the purpose of DC101, but *implementing* changes to address the issues described at DC101 could lead to desirable results for new members and lurkers.

I believe I have been to every DC101 there has been. I have suggested to many people (newbies & experienced attendees) they should attend. The message I ALWAYS heard loud and clear is get involved, you get out of Defcon what you put in. This has been super true for me. I went from just attending talks my first year, to spending entire days involved with specific events as the years went on. I have met great people over the years that I would have never met just quietly attending the talks.

I would love to bounce ideas off of HighWiz and get his suggestions.

I do not want to duplicate any of their (DC101) efforts, however I sometimes found that after the DC101 event I needed some clarification on things that were said that I may not of fully understood. I never really had anyone I felt comfortable asking a potentially silly question. I would like to give newbies an opportunity to swing by the Forum Meet and feel comfortable to ask questions of someone that has been to the Con before. I personally will be happy to talk with anyone and answer questions if I can, for as long as it takes. I always thought it would be great to have a get together directly after DC101, however I understand timing issues with other events make that dificult.

Have you discussed this with Nikita to find out what resources might be available for the forum meet from the Rio and Defcon?

I am in the process of finding out what is available time wise, space wise and as much other info as possible.

BBox, what kinds of things are you considering for the Forum meet? Do you have ideas for games or reasons for people to stick around at the forum meet and socialize? Ways to encourage people that are lurkers to introduce themselves and participate with others in conversations?

I have been speaking via online to lots of people and I had the privilege of speaking to many people associated with Defcon at an absolutely incredible LayerOne event in LA this past weekend.

(I met Syntax Error because he was wearing his Forum Avatar Badge - He Rocks)

I heard lots of different points of views, embarrassingly enough I could even be found asking/begging & cajoling support for the forum meet from the more experienced con goers and talking up the forums and inviting newbies to swing by.

I know I was given 2 ears and only one mouth because I am supposed to listen more than talk, and what I keep hearing is it should be fairly short, 2-3 hours max, casual easy going atmosphere, no loud music or flashing lights. A place conducive to just talking and good conversations. More of a Forum Mingle.

I do imagine having a time for introductions for ALL those who do desire to participate in introducing themselves, some form of break the ice for newbies and I would like to have seating set up for both an area where everyone that walks in can be part of the "scene" as well as some separate groupings for some of the not as willing to be in the fray forum Members who may desire a bit more anonymity.

I have some Ideas for some Ice breakers / entertaining conversation makers but I am not ready to say it publicly yet and am not sure if I should give it away before the event. I am still checking on some stuff and then in private want to run it by Nikita, TheCotMan and all his team and a few other valued advisors.

(HighWiz can I send it your way eventually?)

I want to get the specific date and time set as soon as possible so we can start promoting the event sooner than later. I appreciate all the input and help and welcome the thoughts and ideas.

Thanks,
Bbox

[HighWiz]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

Well, we are talking about the Forums Meet. If people make the meet, then they should know who to [blame|praise] for their experiences on the forums.

Blame you for all the failures, praise me for my awesomeness.. I like they way you think.

At risk of embarrassing him, I'll jump on this bandwagon too. TheCotMan is hands down the best forum admin I've seen at any forum I've been a part of. I honestly believe that anyone that actually enjoys the forums should take the time to thank him at DEF CON and buy him his choice of beverage.

I totally agree. To sum it up: TheCotMan is awesome.

I would love to bounce ideas off of HighWiz and get his suggestions.

(HighWiz can I send it your way eventually?)

Any questions/idea's/comments/concerns.. I can be contact here on the forums or email: highwiz {at} gayhackersYOURPANTS {dot} org (just make sure to remove yourpants before sending).

I always thought it would be great to have a get together directly after DC101, however I understand timing issues with other events make that difficult.

If it wasn't for the ToxicBBQ, we would totally try that. Usually how it happens is: Right after dc101, GM1, Runnerup and I jump in the car and go on the food run for the ToxicBBQ and try to be at the park before everyone else get's there.

So yea, an "Open n00b Social", has been discussed before and is a very good idea. It's just about finding the actual time to do it.

[BonzoESC]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

If it wasn't for the ToxicBBQ, we would totally try that. Usually how it happens is: Right after dc101, GM1, Runnerup and I jump in the car and go on the food run for the ToxicBBQ and try to be at the park before everyone else get's there.

So yea, an "Open n00b Social", has been discussed before and is a very good idea. It's just about finding the actual time to do it.

I think somebody will have to take one for the team to host an "open noob social" type thing; having it off-site at the Toxic BBQ sucks for anybody without wheels.

(Mods, can the "open noob social" stuff be popped out into another thread?)

[TheCotMan]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

(Mods, can the "open noob social" stuff be popped out into another thread?)

New thread in "New Ideas" forum: Meeting/Event for people new to Defcon (?)

[DXt3я]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

BBox, big thanks! Last year was an improvement, but this year could be perfection.

Some thoughts and ramblings based on suggestions in this thread and years of past attendance:

1) Lurkers will lurk, so let them. At one time or another i think all of us were lurkers. Socializing with other folks at this event and others like it help people come out of their shell.

2) Button/Tag idea is kinda nifty. Maybe it can be as simple as red- go away, green-talk to me. Let me know how i can help with this.

3) Liquid encouragement is a must! Hopefully Nikita can give the Rio staff the good ol' jedi wave and let us have some booze in the room without carding poeple (here's hoping!)

4) Game's are great ice breakers! I am not a party planning type, but i think it is safe to say everyone likes to be a little competitive and play games.

I'm looking forward taking part in the meet this year!

[Bbox]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

DXt3я,

Thanks for the input.

At present I am awaiting some answers from the powers to be. As soon as time, location and some rules are clarified I will post more info and let people know what help we can use.

I know there was a Forum Avatar Badge template people could use to create a Forum Badge a few years back, Can someone tell me if it was Con specific or if people like using the same one year to year?

Also anyone have the template and know the best way to distribute it?

Thanks!
P.S. Remember to follow us on twitter at DefconForumMeet hashtag #DFM19

[Chris]

Re: Forum Meet organizer selected: BBox

3) Liquid encouragement is a must! Hopefully Nikita can give the Rio staff the good ol' jedi wave and let us have some booze in the room without carding poeple (here's hoping!)

That's not going to happen. BYOB will probably end up being acceptable, but essentially sanctioning underage drinking is not going to happen.