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Post by gasp on Feb 15, 2009 21:45:23 GMT -5
Is there and end date for this discussion? LOL
It seems like we, as reasonable (!!!) thinking fans of Apolo and fans of Short Track have found our common place to be. Apolo centric with short track availabe to the masses. The fun threads are still there. If you want to enjoy those and post there, do it. IMHO I think AAO in general would find the evolution of this site, similar to his career--it's about all aspects of THE JOURNEY!
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Post by mtnme on Feb 15, 2009 21:57:41 GMT -5
The bottom line here is that GA is an Apolo fansite. It was never predominately a short track board. OZ was the "short track board" and because of that, Lindsey created GA as an outlet for Apolo fans who wanted to talk more about him and not just about short track. Obviously, short track talk comes with the territory here and that’s fine…but so do a lot of other discussions about Apolo…and as long as it doesn’t cross the line, those discussions and/or pictures will not be deleted. It is really unfair to beg fans not post on certain threads, regardless of the reasons. This forum is for all the members and whether they are just short track fans or just Apolo fans or both, is irrelevant. If posters are being asked not post on certain threads, for whatever reason, then they need to bring that to my attention privately. I have no problem advertising the Rocker Fund here, and I know Lindsey doesn’t either. Everyone is free to talk about all aspects of short track here. But at the end of the day, the Apolo fans are free to discuss all aspects of Apolo here as well…and they should never be made to feel that they can’t. OZ always had to toe the line. There were certain things that wouldn't fly there that were perfectly acceptable here (at least after Torino, when I came onboard.) I remember when Apolo first went on DWTS, I wondered why GA didn't become more A/J oriented. And in retrospect, it was a really good thing that it didn't, because that isn't, and never has been its role. It's an Apolo fan site, first and foremost. And since I expect that Apolo will have a lot going on in his post-Olympic career, I hope that GA will be around for a whole lot longer.  But I don't want the ST discussions moved over to one of the Rocker sites. I'd like them to stay here. We have a community here, and I don't want to see it fractured. Thank You Susie, I really do agree. We really didn't want to move the ST to the rocker U forum (bb for short) as we like the social aspect of GA just the way it is here and we didn't want to take away from it. But we also realized that the ST aspect was taking over. After reading all your posts, it's probably more because OZ is barely alive any longer, (gotta bring Christy up to speed on that)  which might have a lot more to do with why GA has changed and all the ST info came over here, not specifically because of anything we did. Like I said earlier, BB was merely a means to an end to post lots of info on all the National caliber skaters kind of like we do for Apolo with his threads here. Since it is more of an information site about the skaters, Lori and I decided we needed to be a lot more oppressive with the moderation. We'd feel awful if someone got on there and said something really snotty about a skater. That would be like someone doing that on USS. It's just not the place to post certain subject matter. But that's why we asked. It appears from the posts that most are just fine with all the ST info, and this thread even brought a few of the MIA out to comment, so at least we know they're still around. Susie makes a valid point, as long as Apolo is still skating, the ST threads are appropriate. Once he's not, it might not make as much sense except for what aaosmts19 said. Apolo invited everyone to come join him and learn about his ST world, we accepted and came along for the ride. aaosmts19 is also right about being able to carry on a convo here in (almost) real time. You just can't do that at OZ. When we first started TRF, we really did have to prove ourselves a bit. Now that the parents know us a little better, if one of them asked me 'what's the deal with the package thread', I feel a lot more comfortable than I did a year ago telling them "hey, GA is what it is...if it bothers you- don't go to those threads" (....'cause girls just wanna have fun.)  Susie may be right, they're probably a lot more OK with some of the stuff we traffic in on occasion than we give them credit for. (as to the skinsuit remark. Every time I hear ZZ tops' sharp dressed man, I'm tempted to change the last line to 'cause every girl's crazy 'bout a skin-suited man...")  But most of all, THIS is what I'm talking about. Everyone participating in a discussion - be it ST, GA in general, sexy asses or battle axes. (and yes, gasp, I do believe you can make more than one 'persona' here - ask Christy) I gave up on that idea as I've been told I have an (apparently) very obvious writing style and it fools no one! LOL Number1, I'm still waiting with baited breath as to what you were gonna say. (am I in trouble? LOL) August, your post was your usual eloquant, witty and wonderful fare. I guess we just have to post about more subjects that interest you. Oxbows and battle-axes was it? LOL Tabatha, that was so sweet of you to say, you make me blush. And Thank You Wildfire- always a thoughtful post wise beyond your years. Love ya girlie!  -and I'll get to some of the rest of you who commented, but first, to Christy - I think I have some 'splainin' to do...  |
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Post by A.O.Freak on Feb 15, 2009 22:33:08 GMT -5
The bottom line here is that GA is an Apolo fansite. It was never predominately a short track board. OZ was the "short track board" and because of that, Lindsey created GA as an outlet for Apolo fans who wanted to talk more about him and not just about short track. Obviously, short track talk comes with the territory here and that’s fine…but so do a lot of other discussions about Apolo…and as long as it doesn’t cross the line, those discussions and/or pictures will not be deleted. It is really unfair to beg fans not post on certain threads, regardless of the reasons. This forum is for all the members and whether they are just short track fans or just Apolo fans or both, is irrelevant. If posters are being asked not post on certain threads, for whatever reason, then they need to bring that to my attention privately. I have no problem advertising the Rocker Fund here, and I know Lindsey doesn’t either. Everyone is free to talk about all aspects of short track here. But at the end of the day, the Apolo fans are free to discuss all aspects of Apolo here as well…and they should never be made to feel that they can’t. OZ always had to toe the line. There were certain things that wouldn't fly there that were perfectly acceptable here (at least after Torino, when I came onboard.) I remember when Apolo first went on DWTS, I wondered why GA didn't become more A/J oriented. And in retrospect, it was a really good thing that it didn't, because that isn't, and never has been its role. It's an Apolo fan site, first and foremost. And since I expect that Apolo will have a lot going on in his post-Olympic career, I hope that GA will be around for a whole lot longer. But I don't want the ST discussions moved over to one of the Rocker sites. I'd like them to stay here. We have a community here, and I don't want to see it fractured. well said Susie ;D   |
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Post by susie on Feb 15, 2009 22:47:03 GMT -5
*hopefully* So does this mean that we can revive the "Apolo's Sexy A$$" thread? I mean, I'm just wondering. |
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Post by August on Feb 15, 2009 23:11:27 GMT -5
But most of all, THIS is what I'm talking about. Everyone participating in a discussion Not to sound morbid, but isn't it true that it almost always takes a funeral to bring the family together? Mtnme, I don't mean to compare your topic to a death but I think you see what I mean. The thread was created around concerns that there may be some discomfort in here. Out we all came. Even the long ago bickering mentioned earlier (and in truth it wasn't all that much. Perhaps it just seemed so because the mood is usually so mellow) used to bring the lurkers out. Makes one wonder if a lighthearted conversation will ever draw a serious crowd. Realistically speaking... probably not. Two people casually strolling down a neighborhood street won't bring out the suburbanites, but let those same two start fighting in the streets and everyone shows up on their porch with popcorn. Whatever it took and however it turns out, I have to stop and say it's good to see so many of you  |
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Post by wags on Feb 16, 2009 0:39:53 GMT -5
In my opinion....I'm sure I'm not the only one here that found this place by 'Googleing' Apolo. He's what brought me here. I've developed a real appreciation for the sport but I can't think of anything that would make my day more than to Keep the Sexy A$$ thread.
That said, I felt like I was part of the "let's tone it down" problem. I'm very vocal, highly irreverent and can get a little 'cheeky' at times. I haven't posted much lately due to the fact that I'm just not comfortable being PC. In the immortal words of Popeye, "I yam what I yam." In the absence of monitoring my behavior I'll just stay quiet. So I can just check in here every once in a while to keep up and stay in the background. But I would really like to feel free to talk to my friends here on the open board without worrying if I'm offending anyone. Keep the General Board!
I've always thought there's something beautiful about the form and style of these skaters. I think the human form can be the most awe inspiring sight on the planet. These athletes reinforce that opinion every time I see them. The quiet grace of them as they round a corner. The determination in their eyes. The sleek power of their economic movement. It's art. I like to look!! If the view is from the rear....so much better! Keep the ST threads!
I've personally never felt like it was the responsibility of anyone else to censor what I choose to read/watch/listen. If I'm big enough to navigate the internet, I'm big enough to stay away from materials that I deem inappropriate and you should be likewise. I also realize that everyone's creepy barometer is set at a different level. I think Lindsey and Christy have done an excellent job of keeping the forum from deteriorating into a cesspool of porn or open warfare. Keep the Package Thread!
Anyway...enough from me. As my very wise old grandmother used to tell me, "Never take yourself too seriously. And if they can't take a joke, screw em'." Keep the Doggerel Thread!
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Post by skaterswaltz on Feb 16, 2009 0:50:14 GMT -5
Here's how I feel about the whole thing:
1. I stumbled onto this fabulous website in the summer of 2007 and wish I had found it in 2002 when I first noticed Apolo and he sucked me into his vortex.
2. I loved all the cool pictures because, well, Apolo has worked very hard to mold his body into a skating machine and I quite appreciate looking at his handy work. And I'm so inspired by him. And it was so wonderful to find a community that knew and appreciated what I was into and we could all talk about it together.
3. This site then gave me the courage to go to my first Nationals (and subsequent World Cups) and I am forever grateful for that. It has changed my life and I've had the most wonderful experiences and made the greatest friends. To see Apolo out there (in person!) in his element flying around that ice is absolutely unforgettable.
4. I love all the short track stuff too, but since it is called "Got Apolo?" and not "Got Short Track?" I appreciate that it stays Apolo-centric but I really value the short track information. I like the idea that there could maybe be a specific, general short track thread of its own so we can all keep in touch with what's happening and not miss any of the valuable information like when the blinking numbers are happening.
So, I say carry on -- whether you're into drool-worthy shots and fabulous articles about Apolo and/or into following the sport he loves so much, I think there is room for it all.
I love the guy no matter what he does; whether he's skating, dancing or whatever -- hence:
~skaterswaltz
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Post by skaterswaltz on Feb 16, 2009 0:56:09 GMT -5
Perfect! Ditto! In my opinion....I'm sure I'm not the only one here that found this place by 'Googleing' Apolo. He's what brought me here. I've developed a real appreciation for the sport but I can't think of anything that would make my day more than to Keep the Sexy A$$ thread. That said, I felt like I was part of the "let's tone it down" problem. I'm very vocal, highly irreverent and can get a little 'cheeky' at times. I haven't posted much lately due to the fact that I'm just not comfortable being PC. In the immortal words of Popeye, "I yam what I yam." In the absence of monitoring my behavior I'll just stay quiet. So I can just check in here every once in a while to keep up and stay in the background. But I would really like to feel free to talk to my friends here on the open board without worrying if I'm offending anyone. Keep the General Board! I've always thought there's something beautiful about the form and style of these skaters. I think the human form can be the most awe inspiring sight on the planet. These athletes reinforce that opinion every time I see them. The quiet grace of them as they round a corner. The determination in their eyes. The sleek power of their economic movement. It's art. I like to look!! If the view is from the rear....so much better! Keep the ST threads! I've personally never felt like it was the responsibility of anyone else to censor what I choose to read/watch/listen. If I'm big enough to navigate the internet, I'm big enough to stay away from materials that I deem inappropriate and you should be likewise. I also realize that everyone's creepy barometer is set at a different level. I think Lindsey and Christy have done an excellent job of keeping the forum from deteriorating into a cesspool of porn or open warfare. Keep the Package Thread! Anyway...enough from me. As my very wise old grandmother used to tell me, "Never take yourself too seriously. And if they can't take a joke, screw em'." Keep the Doggerel Thread! |
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Post by number1fan on Feb 16, 2009 1:04:18 GMT -5
the way you express yourself august!
glad to hear all the comments from everyone too...this just confirms we all care about this place and each other. 
mtnme & lori, you two have done a fabulous job launching and adminning (word?) the rocker fund and rocker-u sites , but i do want the st info to stay here as i've always felt ga was the premier source of anything apolo and apolo being st, anything st. maybe lindsey (btw you are missed a whole lot  ) can open another section just for speedskating. 
sure i've missed the lively/stimulating convos and silly/fun antics of the past but like life itself, change is immiment. the success of this site is based on our ability to speak out on any subject with respect to one another.
i seriously urge all apolo fans who have not seen an st event to do so before he retires...you really must see him in all his glory   
i'll keep the pic of the month threads going...i was gonna let it die after the '08 pic of the year thread but since many of us still enjoy ogling at our 'man'...it will be my pleasure.
so does this mean we can bring back the buried picture threads (sexy a$$/package) huh? huh?
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Post by laura6 on Feb 16, 2009 1:40:28 GMT -5
Here's how I feel about the whole thing: 1. I stumbled onto this fabulous website in the summer of 2007 and wish I had found it in 2002 when I first noticed Apolo and he sucked me into his vortex. 2. I loved all the cool pictures because, well, Apolo has worked very hard to mold his body into a skating machine and I quite appreciate looking at his handy work. And I'm so inspired by him. And it was so wonderful to find a community that knew and appreciated what I was into and we could all talk about it together. 3. This site then gave me the courage to go to my first Nationals (and subsequent World Cups) and I am forever grateful for that. It has changed my life and I've had the most wonderful experiences and made the greatest friends. To see Apolo out there (in person!) in his element flying around that ice is absolutely unforgettable. 4. I love all the short track stuff too, but since it is called "Got Apolo?" and not "Got Short Track?" I appreciate that it stays Apolo-centric but I really value the short track information. I like the idea that there could maybe be a specific, general short track thread of its own so we can all keep in touch with what's happening and not miss any of the valuable information like when the blinking numbers are happening. So, I say carry on -- whether you're into drool-worthy shots and fabulous articles about Apolo and/or into following the sport he loves so much, I think there is room for it all. I love the guy no matter what he does; whether he's skating, dancing or whatever -- hence: ~skaterswaltz Awesome post!!! I love the GotApolo not GotShortrack.....very true |
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Post by mtnme on Feb 16, 2009 1:56:10 GMT -5
Well, I'm glad this has come up, as we all seem to be thinking the same thing more or less. We've all been censoring ourselves here for one reason or another. For some of you what you miss is Apolo's sexy ass, for me it's being a smart ass. I've been a good little doobie for over a year now, and I have to confess...I'm really not likin' it!  (to quote Wags/Popeye "I yam what I yam". ) I can feel the pressure building up. One day I'm just gonna unexpectedly errupt into a Mt Vesuvius of wisecracks.  |
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Post by laura6 on Feb 16, 2009 2:11:08 GMT -5
Well, I'm glad this has come up, as we all seem to be thinking the same thing more or less. We've all been censoring ourselves here for one reason or another. For some of you what you miss is Apolo's sexy ass, for me it's being a smart ass. I've been a good little doobie for over a year now, and I have to confess...I'm really not likin' it! (to quote Wags/Popeye "I yam what I yam". ) I can feel the pressure building up. One day I'm just gonna unexpectedly errupt into a Mt Vesuvius of wisecracks. I am curious why you "begged" people not to post in certain threads...on what authority? I did not really know about that. |
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Post by aao2010 on Feb 16, 2009 2:57:16 GMT -5
Here's how I feel about the whole thing: 1. I stumbled onto this fabulous website in the summer of 2007 and wish I had found it in 2002 when I first noticed Apolo and he sucked me into his vortex. 2. I loved all the cool pictures because, well, Apolo has worked very hard to mold his body into a skating machine and I quite appreciate looking at his handy work. And I'm so inspired by him. And it was so wonderful to find a community that knew and appreciated what I was into and we could all talk about it together. 3. This site then gave me the courage to go to my first Nationals (and subsequent World Cups) and I am forever grateful for that. It has changed my life and I've had the most wonderful experiences and made the greatest friends. To see Apolo out there (in person!) in his element flying around that ice is absolutely unforgettable. 4. I love all the short track stuff too, but since it is called "Got Apolo?" and not "Got Short Track?" I appreciate that it stays Apolo-centric but I really value the short track information. I like the idea that there could maybe be a specific, general short track thread of its own so we can all keep in touch with what's happening and not miss any of the valuable information like when the blinking numbers are happening. So, I say carry on -- whether you're into drool-worthy shots and fabulous articles about Apolo and/or into following the sport he loves so much, I think there is room for it all. I love the guy no matter what he does; whether he's skating, dancing or whatever -- hence: ~skaterswaltz What she said! |
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Post by mtnme on Feb 16, 2009 3:28:10 GMT -5
Well, I'm glad this has come up, as we all seem to be thinking the same thing more or less. We've all been censoring ourselves here for one reason or another. For some of you what you miss is Apolo's sexy ass, for me it's being a smart ass. I've been a good little doobie for over a year now, and I have to confess...I'm really not likin' it! (to quote Wags/Popeye "I yam what I yam". ) I can feel the pressure building up. One day I'm just gonna unexpectedly errupt into a Mt Vesuvius of wisecracks. I am curious why you "begged" people not to post in certain threads...on what authority? I did not really know about that. I asked one person, one time. I have no authority, I merely asked for a favor. As I just pm'd Christy, we would be facing Yuki in 3 days. (Would you like to try and explain the package thread to him?  )  (and yes, I'm a chickensh*t, I sure didn't want to....) |
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Post by laura6 on Feb 16, 2009 3:42:11 GMT -5
I am curious why you "begged" people not to post in certain threads...on what authority? I did not really know about that. I asked one person, one time. I have no authority, I merely asked for a favor. As I just pm'd Christy, we would be facing Yuki in 3 days. (Would you like to try and explain the package thread to him? ) (and yes, I'm a chickensh*t, I sure didn't want to....)You do not have to explain a thread that was started a year before you joined..you are a member of this board and not responsible for its content. |
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