Big Paws Only Dog Forums
BPO General Forum => General Board for Big Dogs with Big Paws => : jabear June 09, 2009, 04:02:36 PM
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Dearest BPO Members,
It’s been a long time since Michael and I have been around here and just hung out, so I felt it was time for an update on all that is going on here as well as let you know about a major change that affects BPO.
Let me first start by saying that this is bitter sweet for me to write to you all. Michael & I began this site so long ago in the hopes of finding other dog lovers who could share stories with us and bounce ideas off of us when we needed some help with our big boy Bear. Since its birth, we were fortunate enough to find loving members to chat with regularly and become friends with, if only online. We were also able to meet some of the most amazing people who share a vision of a place filled with love and safety, where people could share their thoughts and feeling without feeling threatened. These people, our wonderful moderators, have been here every day working to keep the community as strong as it is.
Unfortunately, as the years have progressed, life has also. Michael and I have found ourselves visiting less and less and the periods in between have grown longer and longer.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with our situation, here is a small look into our daily lives. Michael works full time and is in school. He has little free time between those two obligations, so when he is not in school or working, he is with me enjoying his freedom. ;)
I am a teacher at a charter school so my days are long and extra duties are always taken up by those of "who can" in an effort to help our students perform the best they can. My free time includes being the good wife & mom to Bear so there really isn't much time left over. I’m also going back to school (full-time) to get my masters & pursue my dream job. Michael and I have also made the big decision that this summer is the summer of all changes- seriously looking for a house to buy and starting a family. So, to say there is a lot going on for us personally is an understatement .
Bear is not doing as well as we'd like. He's an old man at 6 3/4 years old and has terrible hips & elbows. He is a constant focus in our lives and so we take him to fun places and do lots of outdoor activities to keep him happy instead of spending so much time indoors. We know he can't go on like this forever so we're wasting no time in enjoying what time he has left.
I have told you all that is going on with us personally but now I need to tell you what else has happened and how you are all involved. Michael and I have made the tough decision, through lots of talks and deliberations, to sell BPO to a new owner. BPO is now in the hands of new owners who seem to love everything that you love about BPO. The brother and sister team want to keep the board the same and have no plans to change that. They will probably have questions from time to time and I hope you will be as gracious to them as you’ve been to us.
I hope you all can understand our point of view and know that we do love you and have BPO’s best interest at heart. We have tried to ensure that the transition will be as painless for you as possible. We will pop in from time-to-time to check in and see what’s new with you all and will always be reachable by email or pm should you need us. Michael and I are so thankful for the friendships we've made and the love you have for one another. This site turned into something more than we ever could have imagined and we'll never forget the great times we’ve had here.
All of our love,
Jaime, Michael, and Bear
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I'm sorry to hear Bear is not doing well. Good luck with all your future holds for you.
Are the people taking over already members of this site?
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First of all I want to wish you three the very best. Bear has always been one of my favorites and such a love. Thank you both so much for such a great place to meet ppl that have the same thing in their hearts.
I have been a member of this site 3 yrs in September. Wow where has the time gone? I do realize things happen sometimes or present itself in a way that seems the best. As a business person though I do feel that this was handled kind of poorly. You have moderators on this site that have been here since the onset and have given their time and wisdom unconditionall y, as you two have. My heart is very sad right now because being from the business world I know in my heart that things will now change. As much as we all want it not to, feelings have been hurt and there will be much pondering inside oneself wondering why we were not offered an opportunity to keep this site up and running. Personally I would not have the xtra time it would take to do the job justice but the opportunity to say "no thanks" was not given to anyone. For the ppl that have been here forever I am very sad.
In my time here I have made some awesome friends. These friendships will continue no matter what happens on this site. For that I am forever grateful. So if I am not around as much those ppl know where to find me.
Again good luck in your ventures and as always give big Bear all my love and kisses
Sincerely
Lori
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Hi All
This is Nipa. My brother and I are the new owners of Big Paws Only.
Let me just start off by saying what a pleasure and honor it is for us to assume the ownership of this site. We have owned it for just over a week, but, we are already excited about how the site operates and the "stickiness" that all of you have created here.
When I was young, I owned 2 dogs - first, Blacky & then, Chini. They were my best friends. I have been very passionate about dogs, ever since my childhood.
Although I would have loved to have had a dog at home now, both my husband and I have to travel very frequently, because of which we decided not to adopt a dog right now.
I have read all your posts. I really appreciate your emotions and sentiments towards this forum. And I deeply respect all the work that each of you have done, through these years, to bring the forum to where it is today.
Infact, one of the main reasons we decided to take over BigPawsOnly.co m was the wonderful and passionate community that you have created. Without your efforts, it could not have been such a friendly and spirited "online" family. Jaime and Michael, you were lucky to have such a group!!
And, I do hope, I will get the same support and co-operation from each of you to run the entire website.
As Jaime mentioned in her post, I do not foresee making any changes whatsoever to this community. The community has been so well run that there's really nothing that I can think of changing. From the back end, I promise to do everything possible to ensure that the community runs, as usual.
If you have any technical problem with the forum, please feel free to contact me.
So, please continue to participate in the forum with the same dedication and passion. I am sure, Michael and Jaime will also be chipping in from time to time.
We can continue to use this thread to discuss any questions that you have about the transfer of ownership.
Hopefully, we can get to know each other better over the next few weeks and months. Incidentally, I live with my husband and my 6-year old son Rishav in Mumbai, India (that's a picture of me and my son on his 4th birthday).
Talk to you soon,
Cheers,
Nipa.
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Wow.... :-\
I wish you & hubs and Bear all the best.
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Weren't at one time BPO members donating money to keep this site running? So members pay to keep a site running and then its owner sells it for profit?
The legalities seem a little off to me, but I'm no lawyer. However one does not need to be a lawyer to know that ethically business practices such as this are way off.
Best of luck to Jamie and Michael.
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Even though I have not posted in a while- I am very sorry to hear that this site has been sold. WHY was it not offered to one of the current or long term members?? I have no idea what this site sold for but to have offered it to the current members who own dogs and are a part of the existing community would have been a bit more appropriate. So was this more of a money issue?
I am saddened that this has happened. Nipa I am sure that you and your brother mean the best for the site however you guys have not been a part of the group ever, you dont own dogs currently, you have stated that you and your husband travel a lot and this is site was bought by you and your brother, not your husband? Just these facts tell me that this is not a purchase that is for the best of the existing BPO community but a business decision.
I still lurk quiet often and understand that we all get busy- I fill up about 18 hours a day with my job and therescue dogs.
I am so sorry that things are changing- you all know how to get in touch with me thru my email- I hope to be able to keep in touch with all of my BPO family in the future.
Michael and Jamie- Good Luck, but shame on you guys for not offering it to one of the dedicated dog owners of BPO, you dont know who may have had the money to purchase the site with out having first put the opportunity out to the BPO community.
With any luck BPO will continue to be the great place it has been in the past, I will still log on to see what is going on if anything.
Also I am sure that my post could get deleted since I am not exuding joy and happiness at what has happened, please understand that I am only stating what so many are thinking.
Good luck to Bear - we all love him dearly.
Paige
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Weren't at one time recently BPO members donating money to keep this site running? So members pay to keep a site running and then its owner sells it for profit?
This exactly what I was thinking about and remembered what Barbara said in the past (RIP).
The whole situation is just a nuisance to me...sorry :-\
Good luck Jaime and Michael
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Weren't at one time recently BPO members donating money to keep this site running? So members pay to keep a site running and then its owner sells it for profit?
This exactly what I was thinking about and remembered what Barbara (Babs) said in the past (RIP).
I have nothing to add except, good point Oleysa.
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I am incredibly saddened by what I am reading about BPO. I had hoped to continue reading the good, sad and general news of my BPO friends.
I also thought that my next dog would appear to me on BPO (from some of our rescue people).
Lastly, I know when it comes time for Harley to leave me I know that I will be beside myself; I knew there would be a community of friends here who would "get it" like noone else will.
I hope the site will go on but honestly how many of my BPO friends will stay?
I understand change; Michael and Jamie you are a young couple starting a new chapter that is awesome and I wish you the best of luck. Bear I'm so sorry that you aren't doing well and I am happy that your parents are awesome dog owners that will give you their time and best life available.
That said, how can the site be sold to people without dogs? How can they possible "get it"?
I assume the new owners are nice people but it just doesn't seem like this was the right site for you to buy?
As to my BPO friends...I hope we will stay around for each other and give it a chance.
Randy and Harley
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I agree, I'd like to know as well..
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I wrote the first reply on here last night, but I deleted it after some thought. This is gonna be a long one, so skip ahead if your not interested in reading a small novel. ;)
Michael and Jaimie, I too wish you guys the best in regards to your future, and sincerely hope that Bear gets to know the feeling of sleeping in his own yard someday.
Now, I haven't been around as long as some others on here. I've only been a member for about 2 years now, but that's still long enough IMO to become a part of the tight community that we have here. We all don't always see eye to eye, and sometimes we might downright disagree. But I firmly believe that we'll always work around our differences and are always respectful. That is one of the things I love most about this place, the fact that we have SO MANY people, all with different backgrounds, and we are all friends because of one thing, the love of our giant breed dogs, and the love for BPO. I truly cherish the friends I've made here, people I come to on a regular basis for advice, or just to chat. Some of you I've met in person, some are the greatest friends I've never met, some of you I probably never will meet, but am no less grateful to know you. I am thankful to Micheal and Jaimie for bringing us all together in the first place, and I hope that we can all still stay such a close knit community, whether it's through BPO or elsewhere.
Now that being said, I too am saddened by all of this. I would also like to know how this all came about? What is it that attracted you to BPO Nipa? Why did you think that buying BPO would be a good idea? Being that you do not have any dogs, let alone dogs that require the extra care and love that our giant breeds do, what is your background? What sense does it make to you to purchase this site? I know that none of this is my business, and I really have no rights as a member, let alone one who hasn't been here from the beginning; but how can you expect a good relationship without complete honesty from the very start? But what about the Mods, if anyone has the right to know of impending change this big, it's certainly the people you employ to keep things running here.
I am willing to have an open mind and an open heart here, as are others I'm sure, but we need to know what your intentions really are.
And Micheal and Jaimie, sorry to make this so long, but I felt I had to say this as well. If you were seriously considering selling BPO, I know that there are people here, who know and love this site who would've made it work. I know you didn't have to, but shame on you for not asking your friends first. :-\ :'(
Modified because I have so many questions...
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I was going to refrain from posting in this thread because I have a way of coming off harsh even when I don't mean to.
I've been a member here since 2005. I joined here just after I brought Bubba home. This is the only forum I actively participate on. Kinda ironic that I was going over all my old posts yesterday afternoon.. reminiscing and laughing at myself and then I see this post today.
That said though.. I'm really disappointed that this happened the way it did. A surprise announcement with NO mention that you or Michael were even thinking of selling the site. We were always 'included' in different aspects of this site and asked for our opinions or suggestions. So the fact that this was never even mentioned just seems so odd to me.
Regardless, I have a gut feeling that things are not going to turn out all sunshine and happiness.
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So much sadness here and I'm sure we will never really get all our questions answered.
Perhaps BPO will continue with the newer members who have yet to build the relationship many of us have and also new members along the way. But I don't see how it can possibly maintain the 'special' quality this forum had over so many other dog forums.
Seems times - they are a changing.
Not necessarily a good thing. :-[
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I'm sorry, I'm not trying to be a pest, Nipa...
I think we need some serious pest control here! LMAO :D
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Wow.
I am stunned.
I am disappointed.
I am hurt.
I am appalled.
I am disgusted.
I cannot deny my feelings and as my mom always told me during my teenage disagreements with her “these are my feelings and I am entitled to them.” With that said, please allow me to share.
I have been a BPO member since June 2005. I stumbled onto this sight by chance and am so grateful. Never having been a member of any sort of forum, I didn’t know what to expect. Quickly the other members embraced me and my dogs and all our issues. We’ve shared the best of times and the toughest of times. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without you all. BPO’ers have become more than fellow members, they’ve become part of my extended family.
Again, while I am thankful for Jaime and Michael for starting this site, I cannot believe the callus disregard for all the members, with the sale of our home to non-members, non-dog owners on the other side of the world. What a blatant slap in the face to the moderators, for whom this site would not have existed as the truly special place is… oh I’m sorry, I mean WAS.
I understand we as members did not own the site, however we have ALWAYS rallied to support each other and you, Michael and Jaime… esp. during difficult financial times and every time you needed our input otherwise. Never once have we let you two down! I wish I could say the same for you. I just don’t understand why you wouldn’t give us the chance first to pool our vast resources, instead of selling to some random people with a dubious reputation. I’ve done the research and what I have seen is not good. I would like to think you didn’t know the history, but it wouldn’t surprise me now if you both just didn’t care.
To the new owners: best of luck to you, you are going to need it!
To the old owners: best of luck to you too... and good day!
To Bear: much love.
To my fellow BPO’ers, old and new: you all are THE best. I appreciate each of you.
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Weren't at one time recently BPO members donating money to keep this site running? So members pay to keep a site running and then its owner sells it for profit?
This exactly what I was thinking about and remembered what Barbara said in the past (RIP).
The whole situation is just a nuisance to me...sorry :-\
Good luck Jaime and Michael
I didn't see that until just now. I agree, I then totally blew off what she said until now.. She knew what was going on, if only there was a little more attention paid there. I don't see myself being nearly as active as I used to be. And not at all when we start getting charged to use this, and I have a feeling that will soon come.
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I think most thoughts have already been posted. I am grateful that BPO is not being shut down. Time will tell if things actually "won't change", I hope they won't but.....
I don't come on nearly as much as I used to now that I'm in nursing school and working part time but I always check in to see what's going on. Funny I checked in today!! I've been a member on other boards but only stayed here. I hope to continue checking in!
Good luck to you Jaime and Michael, and all the best to Bear.
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To be clear though, BPO has not taken donations from members for a number of years (advertising seemed to cover the costs) and while I am extrememly dissapointed to say the least and understand the anger at the sudden change of events, there is no place for rumors. Hey, I'm still a mod. (so far) - you had to know that was coming ;) :-* :-* :-*
Sorry was not trying to start a "rumor", while originally donations were sought in 2006 I did not think it had been years since the donation link was on the site.
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Sorry was not trying to start a "rumor", while originally donations were sought in 2006 I did not think it had been years since the donation link was on the site.
I can verify this as I remember specifically mailing a cash donation to Jaime and Michael of $3 to help with the site; it was all I could do and represented a dollar from me and my 2 girls. And Babs questioned then where the money was going.
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Ok..I too have been thinking about this all day. I agree with the others...we have a right to some answers. So until then I am out of here...I have made some awesome "cyberfriends" and have actually got to meet a few. Most of you have my facebook account and I have created a group within my acct called I Love Big Paws...Please come join me..We can talk and chat and we can continue our group until we can decide which direction we go...I love you all..but I am over this crap and I am out....
Cheers!!
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agreed..
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I just did my usual check in and am shocked at this news!
First off let me say congrats to Jamie and Michael on starting a new adventure for themselves. I am also sorry to hear that time is catching up with Bear. I hope he and you have many happy, outdoorsy, fun days ahead of you.
Without checking my profile I can't remember how long I have been a member here but this is the only forum I have ever participated in. I haven't been participating as much as I would like lately but I would like to thank everyone for making this an awesome board to be a part of. I hope that there are no major changes to this site and I will continue to check in as time allows me too and hopefully participate too. I too have made some awesome cyberfriends here and have enjoyed chatting with everyone. While I am hoping that things don't change, if there are major changes I just wanted to say that I am sorry for not getting to know y'all as well as I would have liked and will miss you terribly if the site shuts down.
In closing, I just want to say that BPO mods and members rock!
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Wow.
I am stunned.
I am disappointed.
I am hurt.
I am appalled.
I am disgusted.
I cannot deny my feelings and as my mom always told me during my teenage disagreements with her “these are my feelings and I am entitled to them.” With that said, please allow me to share.
I have been a BPO member since June 2005. I stumbled onto this sight by chance and am so grateful. Never having been a member of any sort of forum, I didn’t know what to expect. Quickly the other members embraced me and my dogs and all our issues. We’ve shared the best of times and the toughest of times. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without you all. BPO’ers have become more than fellow members, they’ve become part of my extended family.
Again, while I am thankful for Jaime and Michael for starting this site, I cannot believe the callus disregard for all the members, with the sale of our home to non-members, non-dog owners on the other side of the world. What a blatant slap in the face to the moderators, for whom this site would not have existed as the truly special place is… oh I’m sorry, I mean WAS.
I understand we as members did not own the site, however we have ALWAYS rallied to support each other and you, Michael and Jaime… esp. during difficult financial times and every time you needed our input otherwise. Never once have we let you two down! I wish I could say the same for you. I just don’t understand why you wouldn’t give us the chance first to pool our vast resources, instead of selling to some random people with a dubious reputation. I’ve done the research and what I have seen is not good. I would like to think you didn’t know the history, but it wouldn’t surprise me now if you both just didn’t care.
To the new owners: best of luck to you, you are going to need it!
To the old owners: best of luck to you too... and good day!
To Bear: much love.
To my fellow BPO’ers, old and new: you all are THE best. I appreciate each of you.
Eloquently written CNRachel.
Thank you!
Patty
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Wow.
I am stunned.
I am disappointed.
I am hurt.
I am appalled.
I am disgusted.
I cannot deny my feelings and as my mom always told me during my teenage disagreements with her “these are my feelings and I am entitled to them.” With that said, please allow me to share.
I have been a BPO member since June 2005. I stumbled onto this sight by chance and am so grateful. Never having been a member of any sort of forum, I didn’t know what to expect. Quickly the other members embraced me and my dogs and all our issues. We’ve shared the best of times and the toughest of times. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without you all. BPO’ers have become more than fellow members, they’ve become part of my extended family.
Again, while I am thankful for Jaime and Michael for starting this site, I cannot believe the callus disregard for all the members, with the sale of our home to non-members, non-dog owners on the other side of the world. What a blatant slap in the face to the moderators, for whom this site would not have existed as the truly special place is… oh I’m sorry, I mean WAS.
I understand we as members did not own the site, however we have ALWAYS rallied to support each other and you, Michael and Jaime… esp. during difficult financial times and every time you needed our input otherwise. Never once have we let you two down! I wish I could say the same for you. I just don’t understand why you wouldn’t give us the chance first to pool our vast resources, instead of selling to some random people with a dubious reputation. I’ve done the research and what I have seen is not good. I would like to think you didn’t know the history, but it wouldn’t surprise me now if you both just didn’t care.
To the new owners: best of luck to you, you are going to need it!
To the old owners: best of luck to you too... and good day!
To Bear: much love.
To my fellow BPO’ers, old and new: you all are THE best. I appreciate each of you.
Eloquently written CNRachel.
Thank you!
Patty
Ditto i am lost for words i have been on and off the site since 2005. I was happy to find a site that we could exchange our stories and health issues with each other. Sometimes i didn't always agree with peoples opinion but that is why the site is here for us to share are animal stories our families growing and moving on praying and keeping family members in our daily thoughts. There is no way a family in India could possibly understand this and not even have a family dog. This is a business transaction
only.It is really sad the way it was presented who is to say we all couldn't start our own site everyone knows what goes into it at least it would be ours! Marina and Bryce
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Ok..I too have been thinking about this all day. I agree with the others...we have a right to some answers. So until then I am out of here...I have made some awesome "cyberfriends" and have actually got to meet a few. Most of you have my facebook account and I have created a group within my acct called I Love Big Paws...Please come join me..We can talk and chat and we can continue our group until we can decide which direction we go...I love you all..but I am over this crap and I am out....
Cheers!!
Great Idea Lori! We are there!
A new owner who doesn't own a DOG!!??!!
And *we* learned our sincere dog compassion from where? This is undoubtedly the most idiotic *purchase* I've ever choked over while reading.
Anyone who hasn't already~please think about joining Facebook. FB can be considered our temporary orphanage~maybe a harsh word~but more *word friendly* than *dog pound* ;)
:-\ >:( Triple UGH :-\ >:(
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I am sorry to hear of this "business decision". I have only been a part of this forum for a very short time, but I feel as if I have found a family here. The moderators and long standing members have made such a positive impact on my life, and made me a better guardian for my four legged charges. I truly hope that the "family" that has been formed here can manage to pull together and stay as intact as possible. Surely the voices that are so considerate, compassionate, caring, and helpful can find a way to continue,,regardless of where they may decide to share the wealth of knowledge and caring that makes this such a wonderful place. I will do whatever necessary to maintain the connections and sense of community that I have found here. Good luck to the former owners, good luck to the current owners, to the rest of us,,let's stick together!
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EVERYONE here is welcome to come join friends old and new at "The Funny Farm" forum. We love our dogs, our families, and our internet friends. There's a picture section, dog chat, chit chat, rants, hug room, birthday postings, movie chat area, and pretty much anything you like. We have one rule. Be nice.
Many old BPO members can be found there, and we want to extend the offer to anyone who wants to maintain friendships and make new ones that you are more than WELCOME to come over to the forum. Here's the link.
http://thecentralperk.myfreeforum.org/index.php
I know some of you are very upset but please feel free to check the forum out if you like. I know how important the friendships are on here to all of us.
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Weren't at one time recently BPO members donating money to keep this site running? So members pay to keep a site running and then its owner sells it for profit?
This exactly what I was thinking about and remembered what Barbara said in the past (RIP).
The whole situation is just a nuisance to me...sorry :-\
Good luck Jaime and Michael
I didn't see that until just now. I agree, I then totally blew off what she said until now.. She knew what was going on, if only there was a little more attention paid there. I don't see myself being nearly as active as I used to be. And not at all when we start getting charged to use this, and I have a feeling that will soon come.
I feel like I shouldn't say a word, I've been a lurking member only for a matter of DAYS. But I have been watching and reading the forums here for a few months thanks to my gf Angelsmama. She introduced me to BPO.
I really hate that this issue is the cause of my first post, but like many have said, life causes changes and tough decisions to be made. Everything happens for a reason, and like so many have said already, the "members" make the forums and community what it is, not the owners.
On the note of being charged? I would've gladly hosted BPO for FREE just for the sake of my gf's happiness, much less the happiness of all the other members.
I hope nothing changes here, the sense of community and family is what drew me to become a member in the first place.
Good luck Jaime, Michael and Bear.
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Everything happens for a reason, and like so many have said already, the "members" make the forums and community what it is, not the owners.
I can't agree more Although the owners have changed it really shouldn't change the community that has established itself over time. This is a forum to meet others with like interests and exchange information - for everyone to storm off with hurt feelings and ruffled feathers is sorta like cutting off your nose to spite your face as my mom used to say.
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WOW! I have been MIA due alot of personal circumstances in my life. Im sad to see that "we" have been sold to the highest bidder who doesnt even own a dog and when they did was it a BP? Some may ask why does that matter? To me, it matters alot.
I wish the best to Jamie and Micheal and of course the fuzz ball, Bear.
Will I just run off and never look back? No way too nosey for that. It will be interesting to see what direction the board will take now.
I'll do my usual pop in too read, but for the time being im bunking at the "orphanage".
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Hey all....anyone that knows who I actually am knows that I left BPO years ago because I have a bad temper and I get too emotional over my dogs, my friends, and my opinions (I do however, check in all the time to see how some of my favorite cyber friends and their dogs are doing).....I don't play well with others, and therefore, some of you won't like my post. sorry.
I too came here in 2005, and I too was one of the original members. I remember coming up with an idea about a BPO calendar, I remember coming up with an idea about a photo contest, and I remember sitting on a certain tan colored couch helping with many ACTUAL decisions for this board. I have shared tears of joy and tears of sorrow, I have lost sleep over different issues that both I and my cyber friends have had with their Big Paws...I too felt that amazing connection with members here as so many of you have shared with each other. I actually, somehow, feel I did a lot of growing up on this site (with plenty more to do). I was lucky enough to meet and become amazing friends with Jaime and Michael, and feel that something should be said on their behalf, and on behalf of the board (even without their permission). Sorry.
I am seeing a lot of terrible things being said here. It's amazing how quickly people can turn on you. It's amazing how cruel some people can be. I could care less that you are angry (well I care, but you are entitled to that much)...but being mean is a different story. And worse than that, thinking that you are deserving of answers from either past or present owners is laughable. Both the past and present owners are/were here offering you a service. A FREE service. A place where you CAN still come to talk, vent, laugh, cry and make life long friends. This is one of the safest places I have ever been on the web...and am sincerely grateful for the countless hours I was once able to spend here. I so far have not seen anything stating that this site is being pulled, being a pay as you go, replacing mods, changing formats, or changing for the worse in any way. I saw a very informative goodbye post, and a lovely new owner post. So far, the only terrible posts are from the members here.
I can see your concerns...how ever, at this point, they are worst case scenarios that you are hoping don't happen. They are things you are worried about but they have not yet surfaced...and until then, you are making more gray hair (or brewing up a first one), over nothing. I know there is not quite anything like having a big slobbery dog on the floor by you..but just because someone doesn't have one next to them doesn't mean they don't have the IT knowledge to ensure a website stays running properly?!
I saw a comment about this site being sold to someone around the world...what kind of comment is that? Who cares where anyone is from? If it weren't for this site, I couldn't have made friends from the East coast to West coast to Canada...Busin ess is done from all ends of the earth every day, as long as it is done properly, what does it concern you?
I get everyone is pissed because they feel entitled to some "answers" or "explanations"...and I think that is actually a giant problem with the world. Just because you spend hours here (at your own will) and have been extended the RARE courtesy of helping with different aspects of the site, you feel you should be included in all the decisions?? Especially the largest ones? Where else in the world, the business world especially, does that happen? It doesn't. I do have an idea though...so many of you seem to think you should have been offered the chance to buy BPO. So why don't you all mortgage your homes, and see if the funds you collect will convince the new owners to sell to you. I have seen that this site was sold for a quick buck or chump change...so get a larger pot of chump change together and take control. Folks, if life were that black and white, we wouldn't be in any of the messes we are in today.
I actually read the words, "shame on you"...Shame on YOU. How about thanks for 5 great years, and here's to 25 more?
I know how close many people on here are with one another, and that doesn't have to change just because the rights changed hands. YOU members here ARE bpo...You have made it what it is, you are it's beating heart...so stop worrying, stop complaining, stop demanding things you are not entitled to...and be members here. Post your stories, post your questions, and watch things continue as normal. You keep things normal, you keep things running...not them. The only thing I've seen change here is the attitude of the members, which is quite hard to see. We are BPowners, lets act like it. Stop feeling sorry for yourselves and get back to business...tal king about your babies!
I hope everyone takes a deep breath and remembers that you do not have all of the details, you were not there for the behind the scenes conversations (nor was I), and that you will never have all the facts. All you need to know is that if two people spent thousands of hours (and dollars) making and maintaining this site for YOU to enjoy, it probably took them many hours deciding to let it go, and that they took great care and precautions to ensure that BPO would stay BPO. This was a labor of love for them...they wouldn't cast it aside without a second thought, just as you wouldn't. I have known Jaime and Michael for years, and I have complete faith and trust in them that they did the right thing for EVERY person involved...inc luding all of you.
I think it's great that everyone is mad, because that shows how truly special this board and it's members are. You are so passionate about every aspect of this site and that is so rare and so wonderful! I am truly privileged to be a member here among all of you. I only hope that you all can calm down, look at things with a clear head, and realize that the creators of BPO are people that you have loved for many years and although you might not appreciate their decision, they are still your friends. They are still great people. They are still Big dog owners. They still carry a piece of BPO with them just as we all do (without choice!). Most importantly, they still deserve the respect and kindness that they have shown all of you since you first joined their site!
I know I'll sure be bored without being able to read all of your stories and opinions on here. So get back to it!
nickerbokker
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Wow, all that from a non-active member who actually left the site? Geez.
And so no notification could have been given to any of the members, especially mods before this topic? Not even a pm to even just 1 mod? Nothing? There was nothing the owners could have said to prepare or warn anyone about this? I'm not saying should; I'm saying could. No one could be notified to expect a change of ownership? No one until the ownership had actually changed hands?!
Example; when our cell phone service provider company was bought out by another company, every customer receiving service was sent a letter notifying them of this change of ownership. So the same couldn't have been done here, at least for the mods? ???
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Nickerbocker, with all due respect, read 'Animal Farm'. I think you might relate well with the sheep....
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To clarify...
"being extended the rare courtesy of helping with different aspects of the site"....was NOT aimed at people that were asked to watch over this site. It is referring to a comment/comments about being able to help with all sorts of small decisions but not the selling of the site. If that makes sense.
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Funny Farm,
I am SO glad to see you back here! I have missed you SO much!
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Hi All
A lot of you have expressed reservations about the change in ownership of the site, and I can't say I blame you for worrying about the direction that this site is going to take in the future. Perhaps I would have had the same reaction had I been in your shoes.
So let me address the issues that have been raised so far one by one:
1) I did not post a response to your messages until now because I wanted to give as many of you as possible an opportunity to post your views before I posted a response that addresses all your questions. I appreciate and understand the emotion and involvement that all of you have with this community.
2) A lot of you have expressed reservations about the fact that I don't own a dog right now and that, therefore, my decision to purchase the site was a purely business decision. Some of you have suggested that I won't have the best interests of the site at heart.
Yes, I don't own a dog right now. However, I have already stated this in my first message and I will state it here again - just because I don't own a dog right, now, does not mean that I am not passionate about them. I used to have dogs when I was growing up and loved them to bits.
I do understand the emotions of dog owners, the love and bonding that you share with your pets - and the fact that this is the common thread that has brought all of you here.
Yes, most definitely, the decision to purchase the site WAS partly a business decision, as any financial transaction of this nature has to be. However, I am not sure how one can extrapolate from this that I won't have the best interests of the site at heart. In fact, I'd have thought that it would be exactly the opposite.
The best thing about this site is the community that you all have built. So, if I ever do something that would hurt the community and caused the members to leave, obviously, I would not earn a return on the investment that I have made in purchasing the site. I plan to earn a return on that investment by displaying advertisements to the general site visitors (see below for more on this) and obviously, if this community is negatively affected, the number of visitors this site receives will decrease, and the return that I earn from advertising will also decrease.
So, it's in my best interest to ensure that I do nothing that will negatively affect this site or community.
So why did I purchase the site if I don't own a dog right now? I own a few other dog-related sites (like this site (http://www.dogpottytrain.com) - it's a site that teaches new dog owners how to house train their dogs) and I wanted to extend the network of pet-related sites that I have. I have owned pet-related sites for more than 5 years now.
And I started those sites BECAUSE of my passion for dogs. So, the decision to purchase BPO is partly a business decision, and partly a result of my passion for dogs, the same reason I started the other sites.
3) Let me say very categorically that I had never ever entertained the thought of charging members to access this community. This site has always been advertising driven ever since Jaime and Michael started it, and I do not intend to change that, either now or in the future.
4) So what changes do I plan to make to this site? I have stated this in my first message and I am going to repeat it again here - I will do absolutely nothing to change the way this community works. Absolutely nothing at all. The community has been working so well so far that there is nothing really that I can do to improve it.
The only changes that I plan to make to the site involve changing some of the advertisements and sponsorships on the other pages in the site (i.e. the pages that ordinary visitors, and not the forum members, visit). That's all.
I will end by saying this - before forming your opinion about where this site and community is heading, give me some time to show you my intent in protecting and taking care of this site. And you will see that this community will keep running just the way it was running before (with the members and the moderators). And, as you will see when you continue to participate in the community over the next few months, I shall never ever do anything that hurts this community.
All that I ask is that you wait a few weeks or months before forming an opinion as to whether the change in ownership is going to negatively affect this community.
Thanks,
Nipa
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Why didn't my post get deleted since it was apparently so taken out of context??????????
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Perhaps indeed it could have been handled differently and some people feel betrayed and have hurt feelings. But ownership has changed- its a done deal so why not move on. The site has not changed and this remains a community of dog owners. I have to agree with Knickerbocker and Nipa- at this point a dead horse is being beaten. People joined this site because it was a meeting place for people with like interests - not because it was owned by certain people
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Well, I haven't been around here in awhile. I mean, I haven't been posting. Busy with babies! :) But, I'm one of the "old school" members here, too. I've met and hung out with and developed awesome friendships with lots of the folks from this site.
I guess I have a sort of different perspective.
I really cherish the friendships I've made, and honestly, at this point, they have nothing to do with this site. When I found out I was pregnant this last time, do you know who the first person I told was? It was Jenn. Yup. Called her before ANYONE ELSE. She and I have really helped one another through pregnancy and birth and breastfeeding and cloth diapers...
I call upon Holly whenever I need help with...civilit y? :) She's my life coach.
I can call Dale if I have a question about Subarus. (And I have) and each time I call, its like we just hung out yesterday. I love Stella and Dale and I'm so glad they are my friends, even if we haven't seen them in a year.
Julie? HOMG! She and Aaron are some of the coolest people I know!
JuJu? I think of you every single day when I look at the blankie that you made for my beautiful son. He loves it, and everyone that sees it comments on how gorgeous it is. Then I get to tell them that my awesome friend JuJu made it and hand-delivered it from Colorado.
There are countless other stories, both good and bad, but mostly amazing and positive! I have those. I have the friends behind them. That honestly can't change no matter who owns this board.
Maybe I feel a little differently becauase I haven't been around much, but to me, the board is the board because of the folks on here, and honestly, it never mattered much to me that Jaime and Michael owned it anyway. I always just thought of them as another member of the community with a gorgeous dog.
People gotta do what people gotta do. I think its unfortunate that they didn't offer the site to the members, but that's done. Here we all are, still communicating, still being friends, whatever. I say that we kind of hold off on judging the new situation. I mean, nothing is wrong so far, right? I guess innocent until proven guilty is still a pretty good approach.
But, I will say this. Marina? That comment about how Indian people treat their dogs is actually kind of disgusting to me. It was really unfair and inappropriate. The nationality or ethnicity of the new owners really shouldn't be an issue here. And, its kind of a disgusting stereotype that I think that you should probably apologize for.
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Well I posted last night just before the site went down but it must not have gone through.
I want to wish Jamie, Micheal, and Bear the best as they start this new chapter in their lives. I only hope if I ever make it to the West Coast i will be able to visit you guys.
This is a forum, its also a family for many of us. Like any family or friendship feelings can be hurt by another when they don't fully think about their actions. EVERYONE needs to slow down and adopt a sort of holding pattern, like Holly instituted locking the thread, lets see where this goes, maybe it is for the best if not we have the orphanage. I understand many of the views in this thread and just feel at this point whats done is done, we have to see what comes of it.
Nipa I hope you are successful with this endeavor and become a part of the community much as Jamie and Micheal have been and hopefully will continue to be time permitting.
Tim
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I am seeing a lot of terrible things being said here. It's amazing how quickly people can turn on you. It's amazing how cruel some people can be. I could care less that you are angry (well I care, but you are entitled to that much)...but being mean is a different story. And worse than that, thinking that you are deserving of answers from either past or present owners is laughable. Both the past and present owners are/were here offering you a service. A FREE service. A place where you CAN still come to talk, vent, laugh, cry and make life long friends. This is one of the safest places I have ever been on the web...and am sincerely grateful for the countless hours I was once able to spend here. I so far have not seen anything stating that this site is being pulled, being a pay as you go, replacing mods, changing formats, or changing for the worse in any way. I saw a very informative goodbye post, and a lovely new owner post. So far, the only terrible posts are from the members here.
With all due respect Nicker...
As stated in your less than amiable post, wow it really is “amazing how cruel some people can be.”
As a long-time and active member of this board, I do feel deserving of answers when the owners (in this case – former owners) are also active board members. Jaime and Michael were not SILENT owners. On the contrary, they were part of the BPO family they created. And when said “family members” asked for help in times of financial needs, you bet I was first in line to help. They asked and I gave. That is a fact. I also gave when they didn’t ask. Jaime and Michael fostered a community where its members were vested as a group, a sum of its whole... it is how they presented themselves and what made the board special.
Did I contribute funds voluntarily? You bet I did.
Did they ask for monitary assistance? You bet they did.
Did they include us in the development of this board? The answer again is, yes.
Did they present themselves as trustworthy and compassionate people with integrity? I believe they did.
Alas, actions speak louder than words.
Friendship obviously means different things to some. To me - loyalty, trust, integrity, compassion, consideration are the foundation. Without it friendship does not exist.
As for the rest of your post… I could continue to point out the contradictory statements, but why bother. I understand you wanting to defend your friends. That is exactly what I am also doing. I am sure you can respect that.
Rachel
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oh wow, this is starting to look sour indeed =( (trying to keep mouth shut and not get involved but wow)
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Holy cow!
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I've been a member of this board since 2005 and this is the one of the only forums I have ever participated in, or ever even look at. The reason for this is that BPO truly is a special place, and it is the members that make it so. I know that many feel betrayed by this sudden change but I do hope to continue to see the familiar names and "faces" of the people and dogs who have made this such a great place.
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Interesting, my post, along with vodoglover and peoplewhispere r's posts were posts were removed.
I respectfully request that they are reinstated for full disclosure.
There is nothing to hide.
Censorship? It's ok Julie ~ everyone already read your awesome post.
I would go further to mention that we live in America and we have Freedom of Press & Freedom of Speech ~ but someone would just remove my post as well. Evidently the truth stings ~ like a nest of infuriated wasps.
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Lets see...here where you can find out more about the new owner of BPO and her brother ;D
http://www.nancyrichards.org/
I was also questioning credentials of Nipa since she did publish a book on dog training AND owns a few websites while not even having a dog :-\ Would YOU take your dog to a trainer with no dog? ::)
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Interesting, my post, along with vodoglover and peoplewhispere r's posts were posts were removed.
I respectfully request that they are reinstated for full disclosure.
There is nothing to hide.
Censorship? It's ok Julie ~ everyone already read your awesome post.
I would go further to mention that we live in America and we have Freedom of Press & Freedom of Speech ~ but someone would just remove my post as well. Evidently the truth stings ~ like a nest of infuriated wasps.
Thank you. My intention was only based on numerous reports online about scams associated with the previously mentioned site and owner. I have concerns for my friends but also wanted to give Nipa the opportunity to explain. I believe in giving everyone a chance to explain their side of the story.
How does one explain a scam ~ quickly, throughly without pause ~ or by destroying links ~ therefore deleting facts?
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The website that you guys are referring to has so many inaccurate statements about us that it is beneath me to list those down, and then get into an endless argument with anyone on this forum regarding this issue.
As far as the BigPawsOnly.co m's community is concerned, I have already said that there will not be any change in the way this forum operates.
I would request you all to give it some time and see that for yourself.
That's all that I have to say about this issue.
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The website that you guys are referring to has so many inaccurate statements about us that it is beneath me to list those down, and then get into an endless argument with anyone on this forum regarding this issue.
As far as the BigPawsOnly.co m's community is concerned, I have already said that there will not be any change in the way this forum operates.
I would request you all to give it some time and see that for yourself.
That's all that I have to say about this issue.
Translation: Shut up, it isn't up for discussion. If you say anything I don't like, you'll be deleted. Now post, so I don't lose money on this site. Now. Get to it!
See? I told you it would be deleted. God forbid me try to HELP some people out that I don't really know by offering some free hosting.
Well I guarantee that some of you saw my post, I'm not asking for permission anymore, I AM creating a Media Wiki website forum and guess what.. it will ALWAYS be free. NOT ONLY will it be free, it will have alerts to help members avoid scams. NO advertisements . NO payments. Free.
h*ll we'll call it BigPawsToo (watch carefully now, they'll rush out and grab that domain real quick xD ).
The moderators will/can be the same, the members can be the same.
Nipa.. I'm not trying to step on your toes IF YOU ARE LEGIT.. but you refuse to point out to anyone proper reasons why you were interested. You refuse to respect anyone here. If you are the owner then you do not DEMAND respect, you EARN it, and so far you are earning only resentment.
STOP deleting posts. If you don't want to answer certain specific questions, then don't but at least have legitimate reasons why.
Don't force me and others to contact your domain registrar and have your little "business" shut down. The proper complaints can make that happen with a quickness.
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The 'scam' everyone is buzzing about is about ebook internet business- the new owners evidently have several, most if not all pet related. E books are perfectly legitimate absolutely legal and have been around for more than a decade. Although the sites listed had negative comments there were also some very positive comments. I personally am not a big fan of e books BUT it is a legitimate form of business.
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I have been quietly watching you all turn something so wonderful into something so terrible so quickly. With such a huge fear of the unknown, constant gossip and speculation is only going to create more panic and uneasiness instead of trying to see if that which is so feared is actually decent and not really what you may think.
BPO has NEVER been a place where others were allowed to be treated so horrifically. Name calling, bashing, spreading rumors, and encouraging others to do the same is appalling. I can't believe that you are so hurt and angry with me, you feel like you are entitled to simply change the most basic of this site's principles into something so ugly and so similar to the behavior of those on other sites. You came here for a sense of community, shared interests, and a feeling of safety. That was here until everyone jumped on the "hate train".
If you are angry, fine. I you are hurt, fine. If you are scared, fine. All of those are real feelings and deserve to be shared...in the proper way. Let me quickly remind you of some rules that you all have so quickly forgotten yet all agreed to abide by and had done so until recently:
These rules are in place to keep the integrity of our site and keep the conversations flowing harmoniously. We want to ensure that everyone follows these rules so that there is no question as to what is considered inappropriate to post.
1. No profanity shall be used in any posts unless of course you are referring to a female dog
(ie. bitch).
2. No degrading comments towards anyone on this forum.
3. No advertising of a specific breeder of a specific breed so that we don’t cause arguments that bring back grade school memories like “Mine is way better than yours”.
4. No advertising of puppies for sale or we might just be tempted to buy one of everything…and I don’t think our landlord would allow that many pets in one place.
Members will be given one warning for the following offenses. Two warnings will be considered grounds for banishment and in some cases forwarding of the collected information to the proper authorities.
1. Harassing anyone in any way. In case you are wondering what things might fall under this category, think before you type and if any comment could make you look like the 2nd syllable in the word harass, don’t write it.
2. Threatening anyone in any way. Remember what you tell your kids (human or 4-legged) “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all”.
3. Repeatedly posting topics which get locked (i.e. stirring the pot or intentionally causing trouble). This proverb should help to keep your memory fresh: “One mistake, shame on me. Two mistakes, shame on you”.
I am once again sorry that you feel so hurt by my actions that you feel you need to react in this way. I am more sorry however, for anyone who has to read the behavior of a few people and think that this board is no different from anything else out there.
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That's interesting Jaime because my friend was banned from the forum with NO warning at all :-\ Shame on you for handling the transition so poorly and betraying BPO community by giving it to someone with such bad reputation >:(
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Hi All,
Can we all get back to talking about our Fur Kids PLEASE!! Come on now who cares who owns the place!! As long as we have a place like this to brag about our pets and make, what some here have made, LIFE LONG friends, why all the concern!! Your friends are still here, they still own their pets, they still need food advice, health tips, goofy pictures and arranging play dates.
Before I found BPO, I wasn't a pet person AT ALL!! I lucked out and got the best dog in the world Winslow!! My Newf!! I came here and learned so much!! Where to get the best Kibble, find the best source of tick protection, natural herbal treatments and not chemicals, the Dog Ramp from Kooky, that is fabulous!! I have made friends I will hopefully communicate with for a long long time.
So I'd like to get back to that. Jamie and Micheal gave birth to this Place!! I do not believe thay would throw it in the crapper to make a few bucks( which i do not care if they did, I wish i could make a few bucks doing something I love!!).
Nipa good luck to you, please let the forum thrive!! BPO members make sure we continue to make these forums the place we love spending so much time!!!
Rich & Winslow!!
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Hi All,
Can we all get back to talking about our Fur Kids PLEASE!! Come on now who cares who owns the place!! As long as we have a place like this to brag about our pets and make, what some here have made, LIFE LONG friends, why all the concern!! Your friends are still here, they still own their pets, they still need food advice, health tips, goofy pictures and arranging play dates.
Before I found BPO, I wasn't a pet person AT ALL!! I lucked out and got the best dog in the world Winslow!! My Newf!! I came here and learned so much!! Where to get the best Kibble, find the best source of tick protection, natural herbal treatments and not chemicals, the Dog Ramp from Kooky, that is fabulous!! I have made friends I will hopefully communicate with for a long long time.
So I'd like to get back to that. Jamie and Micheal gave birth to this Place!! I do not believe thay would throw it in the crapper to make a few bucks( which i do not care if they did, I wish i could make a few bucks doing something I love!!).
Nipa good luck to you, please let the forum thrive!! BPO members make sure we continue to make these forums the place we love spending so much time!!!
Rich & Winslow!!
You don't care that the owner of this site will have access to our private information? PMs, chat, etc? The owner whos business is rated "F" by Better Business Bureau? The owner who sells books and videos on how to train dogs while NOT having dogs? Will you take your dog to a trainer who doesn't work with dogs? COME ON! Who can possible be comfortable with that?
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What private information??
Sure you could read PMs if you want to dig into them at a database level, not a big feat, but a pita, and who really cares what is in them. I run a couple of boards and yeah, I could read PM's if I wanted to at a database level, its a pita to dig into the stuff and who the heck has the time for it... I mean seriously.. why would anyone want to???
Is an email address considered private information?
And just so that I am totally off-topic
Here's a chicken in the kitchen:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VP36y1CQvdg
;D ;D ;D
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What private information??
Sure you could read PMs if you want to dig into them at a database level, not a big feat, but a pita, and who really cares what is in them. I run a couple of boards and yeah, I could read PM's if I wanted to at a database level, its a pita to dig into the stuff and who the heck has the time for it... I mean seriously.. why would anyone want to???
Is an email address considered private information?
And just so that I am totally off-topic
Here's a chicken in the kitchen:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VP36y1CQvdg
;D ;D ;D
Get back to your farm ~ your cows/horses/donkeys are running wildly through your crops, and you're losing money by the second.
:-* ;) ;D
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You don't care that the owner of this site will have access to our private information? PMs, chat, etc? The owner whos business is rated "F" by Better Business Bureau? The owner who sells books and videos on how to train dogs while NOT having dogs? Will you take your dog to a trainer who doesn't work with dogs? COME ON! Who can possible be comfortable with that?
Not really, when you post on a PUBLIC forum, doesn't matter who owns it, you are knowingly putting your information out to who ever wants to dig for it.!! I am intelligent enough to evaluate who and what I do with my Dog and myself. There are plenty of trainers WHO OWN dogs that I'd never let near Winslow, but you research and find out, heck I do that research here!!
Google your own name and I bet you'll be surprised at how much you didn't know about yourself comes up!! If you google your screen name from here your posts will come up and that was happening since day one.
I am comfortable that what I am doing here is not going to cast any Ill light upon me and if a few spammers send me crap it gets deleted. Welcome to the World wide web right.
I understand everyone's point and really have no opinion either way, I have enjoyed everything I have posted, read and learned here and I really hope that will continue into the future. So I'll continue doing so, until it is no longer worth while for me to do so. I am very far from feeling I am done with BPO, so I am looking forward to the future and not dwelling on the past!!
Rich
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;D
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Wow, I'm gone for little over two weeks and find this. I hope all go's well with Jamie and Micheal, and Bear! I love this site! I can't wait to meet the new owners of this site and get to know them too.
~Kirsti
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For anyone who is still unclear of the donation situation, Michael and I are/were the only ones who ever had any information about that.
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For anyone who is still unclear of the donation situation, Michael and I are/were the only ones who ever had any information about that.
Thank you for clearing that up.
I'm sure many of us were still unclear, since this is the first I have seen the question addressed and answered.
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Hi Kooky,
And a sad day for BPO! I am glad you will still be on the board! but saddened your wisdom won't be available "behind the scenes" but your commitment, passion and wisdom over the years is Greatly appreciated and has been invaluable to Winslow and I!!
Rich
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Well, Kooky, there's not a word you wrote that I don't agree with wholeheartedly . I could not have possibly said it better myself, so I won't even try.
The past week has been draining and, most of all, unbelievably sad for me. I think your analogy of a rescue becoming a puppy mill illustrates beautifully how I feel about the situation. I know it sounds insulting on the surface, but it really isn't meant that way. It is simply a fundamental difference in purpose and core values that is impossible to reconcile.
I, too, have come to adore the members here and, of course, their furry friends. I wish the very best for each and every one of you, but I also must resign as a moderator of BPO. Thank you all for four years of wonderful times.
Holly
SWEET! Now I can post nasty porn and say mean things!!!
KIDDING. I am making light of a sad situation. Holly and Kooky are some of the best. ALong with the other mods, of course.
I completely understand how you both feel, but it certainly will NOT be the same board without you two. I expect the other mods are soon to follow, as well.
I love you all as if you are real life BFF's. :) I know we'll maintain our friendships, but your influence on the board will definitely be noticed when its gone, and missed. :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
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:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
Kooky and Holly... I can't even express myself but after reading your posts, I just know that my heart hurts.
:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
The end of an era.
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With 65000 hits a month on this site I am sure that the new owners will only benefit if I remain a member, so I am deleting my membership and will see all of my BPO friends on face book
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Well to be be perfectly honest what do we have now? The mod really made the site and even the decisions they had to make really that is what held the site together. We all shared our stories and heartaches,pet injuries and pet passing over the the rainbow bridge.The support we have given each other won't be the same ever again. I am saddened by this day and still encourage everyone to stick together on another site! Marina
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Holly, Jenn, Tamara, & Tina -
What can I say to 4 awesome ladies that I want so badly to make things better for? I got nothing. All I can say is thanks for all your time, energy, and help.
Holly - Thanks for all the pics and funny stories of your crew. The stories of Demon kitty were priceless. :D
Jenn - Thanks so much for helping me find my wall. ;)
Tamara - Thanks for chatting with me about alien babies and biopsies. :-*
Tina - Thank you for making me laugh with all the stories of Jack@ss.
Love you all and if you need anything please let me know. I would love to keep in touch. I will still like even though you aren't Mods (I am no suck up!) ;D
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Jaimie or Nipa...If either one of you would care to explain this excerpt from nancyrichards. org maybe I could feel a little more comfortable about staying around. I will wait for the explanation. Thanks
As their traffic on trainpetdog.co m is going down, the Roy pair in a recent move purchased bigpawsonly.co m
This site has dogbreed-specific forums and 65.000 visitors per month. The new owners say that they won't make any changes to the site, they will only add some advertisements and leave the rest of the site alone. In the meantime they have already been removing forum posts that are questioning or critical of the changes taking place.
The Roy's discovered that there is a huge market for dogbreed specific information. We suspect that the site will just become a tool for marketing their pet imperium. The reason they may have purchased this site is that it actually has the breed specific forums that they are scamming about on trainpetdog.co m.
Users of the site, a tight community of dog lovers, wonder why the new owners admittedly don't even have a dog of their own.
But whether they have a dog or not, the fact that business owners conduct legitimate businesses doesn't justify that they are spamming and scamming at the same time!!
It is unknown for what amount the Roy's purchased the site.
Actually I would like Michael or Jaimie to reply to this. I feel like you guys had to know all about the bad publicity surrounding these ppl so something had to make you guys feel ok about the deal? If not then it was obviously just a money decision.
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This is disheartening and sad.
To the mods: I cant thank each of you enough for everything you've done these past years. You all moderated the board fairly, selflessly, compassionatel y, honestly, considerately and with the utmost integrity. You have given so much of yourselves and I am grateful for each and every one of you. Without you mods, this place would have crumbled long ago. BPO is the only board I have ever belonged and due to the examples you ladies set, I am parting because it is the right thing to do. You all unknowing taught this old dog about respect and how to treat others with common courtesy and civility. I cant be part of the untruths which now exist.
To fellow members: I wish you and your pups all the very best. We have been through so much together these past four years - lots of laughs and many tears. Much love to you all.
To owners, past and present: I have nothing for you. Your actions speak for themselves - loud and clear... and in some cases, lack of actions:
On the opening page of Big Paws Only (better look fast before it is deleted like the other factual information posted)
"New at Big Paws
2006 Big Paws' Calendar"
The writing is on the wall.
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::bows down::
I always knew, in my GUTS that you women had it in you to stand up for yourselves. I can't applaud you enough. This honestly gives me hope for the human race.
::applauding all the mods for taking a stand::
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Since joining many years ago, I have shared a large peiece of myself with the members here at BPO. I have not had time to be very active lately, but as a moderator, I have done my best to help BPO and, like my fellow moderators, have always had the members' best interest at heart. I no longer believe the same can be said for the ownership (past and present). I agree with everything that Kooky so elegantly wrote, and I am saddened and disturbed by what I see as the puppy-mill-ification of BPO. So it is with a heavy heart that I say I no longer wish to be a moderator.
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Droophoria would like to know if he can be mod , so he can quit too :D That'll show Nipa he said :D...
BTW, all you that have not yet, JOIN FACEBOOK!!! Everyone is there..
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Thank you all for you have done over the years, you were all a great help when I first brought Butt home. I have not been active much lately, but did keep up by reading regularly. It is so very sad that things have come to this. Take care of yourself and all your pups and maybe I'll catch up with you some where else.
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Did you join the group? I'd invite you to be a Friend so you could find the group, but there are about 10 general profiles with your name.
Diana, Achilles & Xena
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Kristi, what is the name that you signed up for FB under. We can search you if we've got your name, or any other identifying details about you. ;) This way you can pick and choose who you want on your friend list from the people that send you requests. ;)