Okay... I'm still studying the 76-page instruction manual for the bulletin board software, and it looks like I have some options.

I'd like to hear some opinions (reply to this thread) from you loyal users.

I've enabled censoring of a few words the kids shouldn't read. If you notice any words that I should add to the list, send them to info@backinthebronx.com, and I'll add them. (I'm permitting 'hell,' 'damn,' and 'ass'. This is the Bronx, after all, not Amish country.)

Some of you have already expressed concerns about board moderation. Help may be on the way. I've found an alternative that may make life easier for all of us. I'll run this past Steve (probably on Tuesday-- Happy 4th, all!), and implement it pending his approval. Until then, I'm gonna give you guys the benefit of the doubt.

The software allows me to moderate an individual, on a timed basis. (An abuser's posts can be moderated for up to 1 year at a time.)

This would allow you all to post as before, immediately, but would require you to take the initiative, and report abusers. You'd notify us of the offense (quoting the text in your e-mail), we'd investigate, and either edit the post, warn the offender, put him under moderation, or bounce 'em from the membership, based on the seriousness of the offense.

I'm going to try this option over the weekend (holiday plans with the family), and see how it goes. Behave yourselves, and it'll be that much easier to sell this option to Steve.

Sounds easy, no? The problem is, Steve is concerned with more than just flamers and inappropriate language. He wants these boards to be BRONX TOPICS ONLY, and not stray off into discussions about the war, Brad Pitt, or the weather.

Once I've finished tinkering around with the pages, new forums, etc., I will be teaching Steve how to moderate this board himself. That's why we only promised "timely basis" updates.

For at least the weekend, though, you're all on the Honor System. I'll go back into the control panel, and 'de-moderate' for the weekend. Please don't give me any reason to dread Tuesday morning!

Have a safe and Happy 4th!

Rob

Rob,
I understand Steve's desire to have these Boards despict Bronx only subjects. I find, however, that most people will stray from that topic if there is something that they feel they need to share with their friends. Just like in the old Nabe we didn't talk about Lemon Ices and the 3rd ave El all the time. Perhaps if there were a forum created, amongst the Bronx ones, for these subjects it might be beneficial to ALL parties. There you could post about Terri Schiavo, Iraq, The latest Pedophile story, etc, while having forums available to talk about Bronx related topics as well. Whadda ya think?? OH yeah, Have a safe and Happy Fourth as well. Enjoy your family.

I agree with Johnny. There are just so many discussions you can have about egg creams.

I remember this board a few months ago. There were 3-4 posts a day. Most of the subjects were either not interesting or had been done to death. Heck, I can go to the Bronx Board if I just want to discuss the Bronx.

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Dennis M,

I agree 500% with the above! Leave the General Interest Forum the way it is, and let people have their discussions...for those who wish to stick to Bronx stuff, they can post on the other forums for that.

This way, everyone's happy and those that don't wanna get into the heated current debates, can stick to the lame Bronx discussions...LOL.

Please???

*looks at Admin. with puppy dog eyes*