Front Porch : Why or Why Aren't You - Becoming A Premium Member? [Archive] - Black People | African Americans

Alkebulan

04-14-2004, 05:49 PM

i truly hesitated 2 put this post up b/c i suspect it will b misunderstood & possibly attacked, but, hey, won't b the 1st time. the ? was asked sincerely, so i felt it deserved an equally sincere answer.

a little over 3 yrs ago i made a committment 2 write my version of the gr8 amerikkkan novel, w 2 slight differences: it probably wouldn't b that gr8; & its slant might b considerd more anti-amerikkkan than anything else. since i didn't feel confident i would b able 2 do that while working full time, i decided 2 stop (working, not the novel). yes, i realized ppl wld think me crazy, but u hv 2 keep 1 thing n mind: ppl who r certifyably insane don't spend a gr8 deal of time worrying that ppl might look at them like they're crazy. they xpect it & r used 2 it. it meant a change n lifestyle: i said tearful goodbye's to: cable; cell phone & beeper; driving my 2 yo overpriced import (yes, it's sitting n a garage now dry rotting, but i hv visitations on wkends); my once every third month blind date, n a good year (seeing women won't date me anymore); premium web service (now i've got the k-mart blu light special of isp's); along w any hope of ever meeting serena williams w/o getting arrested. i wish i cld say that i hv reached some spiritual higher plane or purified my soul by extricating myself from all those materialistic entanglements. but i can't. the reality is, it sucks & i want my toys back!

i know, get the violins & hankies out, boo-hoo. i've cut my expenditures 2 the bone, hopefully temporarily. what i didn't xpect, was 4 the bottom of the real estate market, at least here n boringham, 2 fall out @ the same time. i'm not posting this 4 sympathy or criticism. it was my decision & i still don't regret it (xcept 4 the part about serena). i remain committed (i mean that n the non institutionalized sense, at least not yet anyway) 2 seeing this project thru (self publishing the novel) even thou some measue of postponement is inevitable until the economy rebounds somewhat. of course, the broader ? u posed, asking f ppl felt the site was worth it, i am not willing 2 address n a messege board, but wld discuss w u privately, shld u desire 2 do so.

i would offer the following, merely as suggestions 4 consideration, hving no doubt some, or all, hv already been submitted or discussed:

consider gradualizing the membership fee: 2 my ears, given the current economic climate, the rate of change was a bit sudden. while ppl r paying $50 & $60/mo 4 cable (or more), & similar fee's 4 cell phones, $10/mo seems miniscule by comparison, but those comparisons ignore the intense competition 4 market share by said businesses, & consumer resistance 2 changes n their spending habits. ppl r reluctant 2 spend $ 4 something they r used 2 receiving @ no cost. personally, i wish there had been more of a transition period n which some costs were gradually passed on 2 members. something like $25 the 1st yr, $35 the 2nd & so on. of course, i'm not privy 2 information on whether that amount, even f contributed by, 4 instance, half the membership, would cover the operating costs of the site.

while its refreashing 2 relax n an advirtisement free environment, i might b willing 2 tolerate, 4 instance, 1 ad located somewhere on the page n xchange 4 reduced membership fee's. ad's saturate virtually every page n cyberspace & most of us hv adjusted, so i don't think that wld b viewed as 'selling out', at least not by me.

online pay per participant:

guest author/poet/lecturer: i've heard parry a. brown (author of: sittin n the front pew; & the shirt off his back; both were on the essence bestseller's list @ 1 time) twice now. the most extensive lecture occurred at my local library @ a free (or at least no cost 2 the public) event. this woman is a dynamic, forceful, articulate orator, & is not afraid 2 tell u she's about tryin 2 make a buck. but she'll tell u jus as fast she's about helping folks, when she can. i'm easily bored by lectures, &, hving been 4tunate enuff 2 hear some of the most prolific speakers n the country (they nearly all come 2 nyc at 1 time or another), not easily impressed, but parry was up 2 the task & was decidedly the best speaker i heard that year. i got the feeling from speaking w her, she could b open 2 negotiation & availible 4 seminars & workshops, possibly online, thou i don't proport 2 speak 4 her. last i checked, she was still touring around the country promoting her latest book. i think there r many other ppl availible n a similar manner. these restricted chats/discussions could b fee based & needn't involve any physical transportation by the author or those wishing to attend.

perhaps other, similar but distinct online wkshops could b developed:

artist showcase wkshops:
how to: merge ur poetry w music effectivly; purchase licence rights 2 music; market ur cd locally, regionally, nationally; how 2 evaluate ur marketing strategies objectivly;

writing workshops: established author's critique poetry, annonymously submitted, 4 group & xpert critique; where & how 2 sell ur poems, what sells, what doesen't & y; current market trends n poetry; where the markets 4 poets r & how 2 gain access 2 them;

self publishing: the fundamentals; how much $ u nd 2 get started; dis/advantages; pitfalls 2 avoid; leaving ur book on consignment, what the stores don't tell u; how much shld u pay 4 editing, & who shld u get?; how 2 choose a printer; do u need an agent?; advertising, how much bang per buck; when 2 get an agent & how;

of course the variations r virtually endless, i presented these as suggestions 4 consideration only. the bookamericaexpo this yr is holding a 1 day seminar priced @ $150.00, not including the cost of travel & accomodations. of course, they're bringin n some pretty well established ppl n the publishing world, & spending who knows how many millions on advertisements. still, it jus seems 2 me, there shld b a way 2 compete, virtually, & tap n2 that market. w lower overhead, reduced admission, & unlimited seating, it seems, theoretically at least, possible 2 tap n2 a portion of this market. jus throwing out ideas here.

the rapidly escalating membership of this site is adequate testimony to its growing popularity and value 2 the community it serves. there is no serious ? as to it's integrity or whether or not it's making a significant contribution toward blk unity. the overwhelming majority of active members in both the forums & chat r courteous, respectful, sincere, and committed, n 1 way or another 2 working 4 improvements n the communitys they work & play n, from their immediate neighborhood 2 our global planetary home. this site can teach, motivate, & inspire as well as actually generate information & activities directly impactful & ultimately beneficial 2 the blk community. i hv certainly com 2 regard destee as my cyberhome & cherish most of the ppl i interact w here. i regret not being able 2 contribute financially at this time. i will b watching, even f it has 2 b from the outside looking in.

:heart:

Destee

04-14-2004, 07:10 PM

Brother Alkebulan ... oh my gosh ... see ... see ... see what i mean yall ... how can we ever have a day that Brother Alkebulan, who brings so much knowledge and wisdom to this community ... so much peace and warmth ... how can he be on the outside looking in ... when we know he'd give if he could ... ?? ... how can we do that ... ?? ... :cry:

Brother Alkebulan ... you said ... "this site can teach, motivate, & inspire" ... no Brother, it's not that it can, it does. You have done those things for me, taught, motivated, and inspired, from the moment you walked in the door. Among other things, you have taught me to want the "hard truth," even though i must brace myself for it.

I am honored that you feel so comfortable to share such intimate details regarding your life. This is very humbling Brother Alkebulan. I have so much respect for you. It's sorta kinda like we did the same thing, quitt'n jobs like we aint got 99 chiren ta feed! :wink: So you know i understand and respect all that you've said.

Thanks too for the many suggestions. It's so refreshing to have wonderful people surrounding me, that have wisdom and are willing to share it. I don't know what i'd do without that part!! ... oh my gosh ... if i had to think of everything, do everything, plan everything, work everything, finance everything ... i'd be more krazee than i am ... and hey, you're right, i already thought you were krazee before you shared the above information ... lol ... but back to da topic ... i'd be more krazee than i am, if i didn't have you, the Family, to help. Right now we are focusing on building the "Premium Membership" base, which will give us breathing room, to consider other things. Hopefully we'll be able to implement all of the wonderful suggestions and plans we have for the community.

Bett not no one attack you !!! ... :nono: ... they are welcome to misunderstand, but that's all ... :)

This is only the beginning of our transitioning Brother Alkebulan. Actually, we've sorta been moving in this direction for about a year, since i first polled the Family (http://www.destee.com/forums/showthread.php?t=13309) regarding Premium Memberships. It's a process, our entire being here, and it moves slowly as we adjust all of our selves to the climb up the mountain. The transitioning is not complete, so let us continue holding on, continue believing, because i cannot ever imagine you "on the outside looking in."

Thank you for sharing with us.

Much Love and Peace.

:heart:

Destee

Destee

04-14-2004, 11:03 PM

Brother Alkebulan ... GUESS WHAT???!!! ... :jumping: :jumping: :jumping:

Brother Gladiator read your response and asked if he could sponsor your "Premium Membership!" ... :jumping: :jumping: :jumping: ... He didn't just ask to sponsor it for one month ... oh nooooo ... :nono: ... he's paid for a YEAR of Premium Membership for you !!!! :toast:

Oh Brother Gladiator ... this is so sweet of you ... this is the very Spirit of our community, manifesting itself all out in the open for everyone to see! For the whole world to see! We are so blessed and we truly do have a unique and thriving Family here! Who else but one's own Brother / Sister would do such a thing?!!!

Brother Alkebulan ... Brother Gladiator, the entire Family, and myself know that you did not share this in anticipation of such a thing happening. No, that's not the case at all, and we know it. We appreciate you sharing here. We love you sharing here. We recognize the depth of which you go to share your wisdom and peace here. We know you love us!!! :)

For those that don't know, without Brother Gladiator sharing his expertise with me all these many years, we would not be where we are. This Brother did not just start giving, he's been giving to me long before there was a community. He's given so much, that when i asked for contributions last year, i didn't even consider asking him to give ... but you know what ... i didn't have to ask, he offered, he gave, he is one of our largest contributors. He's been my friend forever. Brother Glad, i'm almost speechless (you know it's difficult for me to become all the way speechless) ... my heart is so at peace this moment, so soothed, so encouraged ... exactly how you always make it feel. I Love You. Thank You.

Oh My Goodness ... we are headed in the right direction ... to the top of the mountain! C'mon Yall !!! :)

Thank You Brother Gladiator. Thank You Brother Alkebulan. Thank You Family.

Please continue to share your thoughts.

:heart:

Destee

panafrica

04-15-2004, 05:07 AM

I decided to become a premium member out of love. Love for Destee & the house she built. Love for my people, and blacks across the Diaspora. This place is unique. Where else can black people from different backgrounds, different economic classes, different education levels, even different countries, go on the web and converse with one another?

I have been online since 1997, and I can say that there is no other website like Destee.com. If this place where to disappear because of a lack of funds, it would leave a void that would be impossible to fill. I am tight financially myself, so I understand where brother Alkebulan is coming from. But when I thought about what this place meant to me....I had to give. For those members who are still on the fence about whether to become premium members or not I encourage you to do the same....think about what this place means to you.

NNQueen

04-15-2004, 08:10 AM

Why did I choose to become a Premium Member? The reason is quite simple and it's not just because I enjoy being here. Since coming here I've learned so much and shared a lot about what I think as well. The exchange has been a wonderful experience for me. The most profound impact on me since coming here has been the many discussions we've had about "community" and "unity" among Africans/African Americans. When I learned that Destee needed our help to sustain the community, without a doubt I knew what I had to do, particularly as one of her community leaders.

Brothers Alkebulan, Gladiator and Panafrica, thank you for sharing your gifts with the community. I hope our members continue to share with us their thoughts about this topic and describe their situations in this thread. You never know who is reading that can make a difference in your life.

Peace and blessings,
Queenie :heart:

$$RICH$$

04-15-2004, 01:02 PM

My story is like a book i've been with destee from the beginning when it was so few as many as 5 and building bonding caressing lives that visit watch many come and go i've support this community in other ways with loving warm embrace I became a premium member not because of destee but for the love of writting , sharing my poetry, for the bonding of so many cross the cyberspace world and in growth of the
best online community where we as people for the people make a different in lives
Destee not only gave us all a place to hub and feel safe but a place to meet daily
she has given to this site built from ground up her loyality and committment to us all
for years and served us well given the best and openning rooms/ forums / chat bringing to life voices to collab and share with each other as one of her TeamLeaders
for years bringing peace and love as time move at rapid speed supporting and funding
what is loved and where I look to come every day is destee.com & Destee so why
not give from that very little if not yearly but monthly in support of a community that
has given to us for years this has been the best site i've been in and grown to love
and meet many wonderful people it was my all out duity to support the growth and
become a premium member of destee.com for those who hold doubt or wonder why
should i pay to be a member let me tell you their is no other place like this that
offer great service and great grade A leadership / voice chat // open forums to
express and many wonderful caring people in one place doing what they say we
all can't do and that's come together as one supporting , bonding , building, loving
as people i am a true DESTEE.COM home bound member here and i tell you get in
on the wonderful things we have and upcoming as time permit and feel the vibes
of many topics //flowz and warmth who can anyone say NO !!! and walk away
from all this that was offered to us for so little ....I can't , funds never was an
issue nor problem again my history here is long deep as a story book but why
not support where you come and share , write and bond to build as we unite
in unity as a community but i also did it and became a premium member for the
love and support of one of the sweetest and loyal heart warming sistah for all
her years of hard work and giving birth to DESTEE.COM ((MOTHER QUEEN DESTEE))
thank u for u sistah become a premium member today , don't miss all this great
fun to hit a nother place like this will be a treasure hunt all the jewels right here
support and join us in a community of hope , teaching , learning , laughter , sharing
loving , building , embracing we are one and you make the different stand up be
heard and accountable we love you here why go , leave or turn away from it all
the place i love and charish destee.com a real gem .so here i am for the long haul
and willing to help those who fall short ....... remember that !

MzBlkAngel

04-15-2004, 01:22 PM

I am a Premium member!!!!!!
Because this is the best place online
I love it here I don’t know what I would do without
destee.com
The warmth the love….
I knew I was loved when
I first came in the door and they never stop
And the comfort, love and support given and shown
when my uncle pass I knew I had found a wonderful place
but that just proved my point……I am with you Destee
and support and love you in all you have done to
make us this online home.

Monetary

04-15-2004, 02:05 PM

:heart: :heart: :heart:

kente417mojo

04-15-2004, 03:08 PM

I want to be a Premium Member because I would really miss this site if it wasn't here, or if I wasn't able to access it. That would suck. :puke2:
There is really no place like this for us to express our views and gain knowledge from so many creative, educated people. Just let me know what further I need to do so that I can do it. Thanks for being here Destee, and all our brothas and sistas too. :jumping:

queentswana

04-16-2004, 02:55 PM

Hi Dsetee...
I became a "MEMBER"...because there's an old (but true) saying:
"You never get a second chance...to make a FIRST impression". And Destee this holds a lot of weight in all walks of life...be it concious or sub-concious. having said that I am compelled to say this: Altho finding you was quite by accident, and as of this writting...I still don't know what it was he was looking for...and by now, he don't either. The point is when he did step up in this room...it was so warm and full of love, not to mention the intelligence and wisdon all wrapped up in one. And as I'm sure you know by now that if this wasn't a place of extreme 'GROWTH' and 'SPIRITUALITY'...he would not have wasted a hot new york second in here...and that's real. As for me...well I am not (sorta speak) a people person...I love people to the highest extreme but I am petrified of rejection. I've been through a lot, I've seen a lot and I didn't have a pretty 'childhood'...so I have always had the tendency to stay far away from anything or anybody that could hurt me. I... in turn will never display hurt to anyone intentionally. When I entered Destee.com...it changed my whole way of life (in a way)...I never felt rejected here, I never felt uncomforable, I never felt out-of-place here... and with me, that says a lot. Here I am allowed to be me...for who I am, for what I become...and the only time this family go into a fighting mode is...when we give up and don't get up. (I hope I'm making some kinda sense here) it appears to me that ...all of us together in one way or another brings out the best in each of us. And that's what love is all about, that's what (not) brought me in , but kept me in here. And that's why I'm a "MEMBER".
I am a "PREMIUM MEMBER" because...I can now legally beat...
Manasiac, Turtle, Alkelulan, changes, Glad, and will... with my hammer (lol) I don't get a chance to beat Keita in the head because he stay in the DOG-HOUSE almost 24-7 lol

You are a proud Black warrior and I'm proud to be in your company...and should we ever leave for any reason...We will still "support" you with our dues...and this is comming from one warrior to "THE QUEEN OF WARRIORS"
we three love you unconditionally...Tswana

thatgirl74

04-16-2004, 04:01 PM

What do you say. I have found in the time I have been here that I simply love it.
My decision to become a premium member was based soley on the fact that
I did not want to see something I enjoy so much have to end or go through any hardships to survive.
With that said. I am out. CYA

$$RICH$$

04-23-2004, 08:22 PM

Please family express your view on why or why not becomming a premium member
of destee.com !
all this will help us better the community and see up the road
Thankz

sistahisis

05-07-2004, 07:27 PM

i became a premium member because:
1.the stuff you folks write about in the forums are interesting.
2.i am in love with the chat rooms because it's hard to find a bunch of conscious or semi-conscious people all in one place!
3.destee is a very personable site owner. i love it that she is so involved in her own forums and chats
4.destee had me feeling like a family member since day one.

sistah mike

05-08-2004, 12:34 AM

in this world i believe that there are no accidents...the creator leads us in the place where he wants us to be...therefore i truly believe that he lead us to this site. from the moment brother mike and i entered into this chat we have experienced nothing but love and respect from its members and admins. we truly feel at home here and know that our views and opinions are totally respected and welcomed. this is why we recently chose to become members and will continue to support destee and this site with all our support. much love brothers and sisters. :heart:
sistah mike

sahara heart

05-16-2004, 03:32 PM

hi there fam. i am 19 and living in paris. i am a university student and i am originally from Uganda, East Africa. I love being here and sharing and reading what others have to share and i have learnt so much from Destee. I support all that is being done here and I wish i could afford to be apart of the new change that is going on. I only have access to my mother's credit card and I cant use it for this purpose (being a premium member) because we are currently undergoing some financial difficulties. I have two younger brothers that are in highschool (and back home in africa its not free) and i have an older sister in her last year of college. There are obviously several set backs that we have had to deal with but it hasnt changed the family that we are. That is part of the reason i love Destee.com it is a family that shares and cares and loves and helps. Being away from home is hard and when i come to destee, i can pour out my heart and feel like i just spoke to my mother... (or something like it). anyway, i love you all and there are no words to express the hope and faith i have in you as a family. I believe that destee will be here for a while and that it will encourage many other people all over the world to love and help each other. You see, i dont even look at this like an african american forum but a forum open to anyone that has something on their mind that they want to share in the hopes of educating and possibly helping someone else out. I am saddened that soon, i will only be able to read the posts and not write any of mine on here but hopefully, there will be a way for us younger writers to share our thoughts too. with this said, i pray that you all are blessed and that the family only grows bigger and wiser by the day! My love, blessings and respect go out to all of you for having such big hearts and for wanting to help so selflessly.
God bless you
Sahara heart

Destee

05-16-2004, 04:22 PM

Thank you all for responding! :love:

Brother Panafrica ... it is such an honor, warms my heart so much, to have those Members still here ... that were here at the beginning. You've been here forever and that says a lot about what we are doing here. Thank you for loving me and this community, giving so much of yourself all these years.

Sister Queenie ... what would i do without you! Oh My Gosh!!! Thank you for truly being a Sister to me ... allowing me to relax in you. Simply amazing, the love that flows between us. I am so honored. I hope that i can be to others, what you are to me. Thank You Sister.

Brother $$RICH$$ ... *sigh* ... all i can do is sigh when thinking of all that you've given to me and this community. Your presence has allowed me to sigh, to breathe, to look away ... 'cause $$RICH$$ is here. Thank you for being here forever!

Sister MzBlkAngel ... you really came on the scene and just poured your love for this place all over everywhere! It was obvious from the beginning that you loved being here and that's the main ingredient to our success ... love ... thank you Sister!

Brother Monetary ... wow ... what can i say ... testing the new voice chat with me, before we even got it, sitting up those first few days and nights ... you and i alone ... monitoring the voice chat ... putting up with me when it wasn't the easiest thing to do ... loving us enough to always come back home ... thank you Brother Monetary ... for everything.

Brother Kente417Mojo ... thank you for the love you have for the community, for the love that you bring to the community. It's really nice when a Member first joins us and feels so good about this place that they are willing to help sustain it financially ... you are one of those Members. If no mistake, you had given before we even launched the "Premium Membership" effort. Thank you Brother ... please stay with us always ... ps ... the fact that you're so cute, has nothing to do with this! :)

Sister Queentswana ... to read the words you've shared above, moves my heart. This is what i've always wanted, this is what the goal has always been ... that our people would have a place where they felt welcomed and wanted ... where they could be themselves ... i'm so happy to know that you feel all of that here. You have been willing to go above and beyond, not only for your own Family, but for others as well ... setting examples for us all ... Thank you Sister! ... and yes, you can officially beat folk with the hammer now! :lol:

Sister ThatGirl74 ... haaaaaaaay Sister ... :wave: ... it's really really nice when a Member is willing to help sustain us and i've not personally had a lot of interaction with them ... that means it's not about me, but that it's about us ... that everyone makes everyone feel welcome and wanted here. Thank You Sister for adding to the wealth of this community, with a part of yourself.

SistahIsis ... haaaaaaaay Sister ... :wave: ... i remember when we first met in voice chat ... and it wasn't but a minute or two later ... and you had made a contribution to the community! :love: You're so sweet ... i was so surprised. Such a blessing to have you with us ... Thank You Sister.

Sistah Mike (and Brother Mike) ... Thank You Both!!! I have already said a time or two what really moves me, and they are all true ... and this moves me too ... when a Family joins us ... that is so beautiful! With so much foolishness out here, folk having to watch their back and the backs of their mates ... when they find a place that welcomes them both, where they can relax and enjoy without threat of stupid stuff ... *sigh* ... i love this! ... and ps Sister ... this has absolutely nothing to do with yall passing "the test" with flying colors! hahahaha ... :wink: ... I Love You!

Sister Sahara Heart ... Hello and Welcome ... :wave: ... bless your sweet heart ... we are all going thru something ... at least many of us, and we need each other even more during times like these. The challenge is on us to figure out how to do this ... how to keep us together when there is no glue ... :) ... this is only one of the many challenges we face, one of the many we will overcome ... i'm confident of this. I share this with you, so that you may always remain hopeful, no matter how bad things may appear. We come from a long line of folk that faced challenging issues, and overcame them ... let us take these victories with us as encouragement. I noticed Sister that you are 19, and we have a special consideration for our teenagers, Teenagers & Premium Membership (http://destee.com/forums/showthread.php?t=25028), exempting them from having to pay Premium Membership to continue posting. So don't you begin to worry about being locked out of here. In addition, we had said that we may lock folk out on May 1st, and today is May 16th, and it's not happened yet. Even though it is the plan, it is not an easy place for me to transition us to. So please, continue posting, continue sharing love, until we just can't do it anymore. :wink:

Again, thank you all for the love, for the responses. Please keep them coming.

:heart:

Destee

Nita

05-16-2004, 06:49 PM

I am a Premi because certain situations caused my mother to deliver me early, thus causing my low birth weight and....naw....lolol...I'm jokin

On a more serious note, I became a member because when I first walked on to this site, I was shown nothing but LOVE! This place is like no other I have ever seen. I was guided here by my brother, by way of chat. Soon I became a member of the forum and the rest is history. This place is truly a great one. I often wonder about the sacrifices Queen Destee made to make this place what it is today. We all have made our own unique contributions to make this place even more great. You ask why I am a Premium member????? I am a Premi because Love won't allow me to be anything less to this place.

jazzymoonchild

05-16-2004, 11:31 PM

I joined the site and because I was invited by a poet and friend that I greatly respect and I knew that if he trusted both the site, its content and the people there, that it would be a great place to be. I am very new here, still trying to find my way around, but I enjoy myself each time I visit. I am proud to be able to contribute in some way. Thanks, Destee for doing this. :thanks: :toast: :D

NNQueen

05-17-2004, 07:48 AM

Greetings and welcome Jazzymoonchild!! :wave: I really like your name...sounds jazzy! :)

Thank you for becoming a PREMIUM MEMBER of our community. We know you are going to enjoy your time with us and we're looking forward to spending time with you.

As Sister Destee would say, make yourself at home, because you are.

Peace,
Queenie :spinstar:

Nita

05-17-2004, 10:26 AM

toylin

05-17-2004, 11:47 AM

panafrica

05-17-2004, 11:53 AM

Welcome Jazzymoonchild & Toylin.....may your time here be informative!

Nita

05-17-2004, 12:33 PM

Hello, all. I just became a member of this site today. I happened upon it by accident, as i was searching for information on my aunt, who happens to be a part of the Hebrew Israelites (I'm a little unsure of the proper terminology.). She's in Israel. I believe her name now is Eleshava Baht Israel, and I know she's one of the voices in the New Jerusalem Fire Choir. Anyway, I would love to be a Premium Member, but it is not quite in the funds at the moment. I am a vocational student, with a 7 month old son, and a husband that struggles to keep the household floating. I hope that I can contribute monetarily in the future. In the meantime, I am impressed by what I have seen so far, and I hope that I have found a haven to express myself.
toylin

Thank you for joining our family.
We are about love and respect here so feel free to express. We do have a great foumYou mentioned your aunt and I wanted to tell you that we have a Hebrew Israelites class taught by our very own yahsister so feel free to check it out. I'd also like to welcome you to join us in vioce chat. We have a number of classes and on Tuesdays, stop by for sister chat @ 8 eastern time. Again, welcome to the family. :grouphug:

jazzymoonchild

05-17-2004, 04:32 PM

Welcome Jazzymoonchild & Toylin.....may your time here be informative!
Thank you so much for the welcome. I am learning so much on here. :read: :laugh: :roll: :wave:

jazzymoonchild

05-17-2004, 04:33 PM

I'm so glad you came to this wonderful community....We are glad to have you.
S take your time, lQQk around, and holla if you need anything...... :wave:

Thank you for the love, Nita. :jumping: I am happy to be here.

jazzymoonchild

05-17-2004, 04:35 PM

MzBlkAngel

05-17-2004, 04:35 PM

Sekhemu

05-17-2004, 06:24 PM

Destee I tried to click on the Icon to proceed to server to become a premium member, so I will try again later this evening or send you a check Tommorrow

Destee

05-17-2004, 06:54 PM

Sister JazzyMoonChild ... Hello and Welcome ... :wave: ... Thank You so much Sister !!! It is such a pleasure to have you with us and we will do all we can to live up to the kind words shared with you. If there is anything you need, any questions you have, don't hesitate to ask them ... most every Member here will be willing to help you get comfortable! Thank you so much for becoming a Premium Member!

Sister Toylin ... Hello and Welcome ... :wave: ... you would be surprised (maybe not) at how many folk have come here as a result of the "Black Hebrew Israelite" information found here! Well, i'm surprised! :) Our Dear Darling Sister YahSistah hosts her "Black Hebrew Israelite (http://www.destee.com/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2004-5-17&e=20&c=1)" class every Monday night @ 9 pm ET. She is such a sweet Sister and we all welcome you to join in her class and all the others! I'm sure if she can share any information that may help you locate your Aunt, she'll be more than willing. We appreciate your desire to become a Premium Member and when you are able, please do ... and until that time ... express yourself to the fullest!

Brother Sekhemu ... Yes, i just noticed that the ecommerce server is down for maintenance ... i apologize for that. It should be back up soon, so please do try again ... and thank you so very much for being here, for sharing your wisdom and knowledge, for caring enough about the community to help sustain it. Thank You Brother!

Much Love and Peace Family.

:heart:

Destee

toylin

05-18-2004, 12:31 AM

Thanks for the welcome, people. I'm sure I'll enjoy my stay.

MrBlak

05-23-2004, 04:34 AM

I remember hearing about this place when I was on blackvoices.com. I left that site and went on to two other sites...one I am still part of. This seems like a great place. People are mature and discuss real issues. No one is told they cannot participate in certain discussions (I had moderators tell me my opinion was worth nothing and I got in a fight with them on one site).

I really like this place.......BUT....I am a student. I am supported by my parents and work a bit in the summer. With most of my money going to rent, food, bills etc, I can barely go to the bar or replace old gear let alone put money towards the site. I think I will be here a while becuase I like it here. I graduate next year and then will have money to be a premium member. I would have no problem to pay once I have some disposable income.

Thanks for allowing me on your site Destee!!!

$$RICH$$

05-23-2004, 04:46 AM

surely Mr Blak that is very understandable we are greatful to have you as part
of this family here and honor your value as well this not the end of the road
you can still enjoy our home just a few things you will not have less you was
a premuim member but as we continue to work through this we welcome u here
with open arms .........enjoy ya stay upon the bonding & unity of destee.com

panafrica

05-23-2004, 02:38 PM

Indeed Mr. Blak your are always welcome in this forum. Although you are limited in what you can do as a regular member, no one will be turned away. Continue to visit, and enjoy the family atmosphere!

MrBlak

05-23-2004, 05:32 PM

Thanks guys!!

tUFFY

05-30-2004, 06:04 AM

Hello Family,
I have been away for a few months. I am back now and ready to pay my dues to become a premium member. Although I have given a nominal amount in the past just to support Destee out of love I do realize that I feel good about paying for a service that brings me so much pleasure. I have been in the life for over half of my existence, finding a way to beat the system and now in my maturity that comes along with the attainment of 11 years of sobriety and a complete change in my life style. Not feeling the need to inject a foriegn substance in order to feel normal. So my bote is all is well with the premium services.

My brother od'ed a month ago today and I have been g rieving and there is a lot more going on I have not written a creative word in over a month. I just felt so innundated. I also lost my high speed isp when I moved to another area and I am waiting for a router now. I will be back soon and I will be writing soon as well. Maybe even tonight. Destee has a way of inspiring me. Being able to share my work with you guys means so much to me.l

So a g ain thank you for being there Destee. Thank you family for being there as well. Love tUFFy :toast:

Lloyd

05-30-2004, 06:21 AM

panafrica

05-30-2004, 06:31 AM

Sorry to hear about your brother Tuffy....but we are very glad to have you back with us.

panafrica

05-30-2004, 06:35 AM

Please tell me what a "premium member" consist in and how to be one! Ur message shows how much U enjoy to be there and also that a premium member is something really important for U! Take care of Urself

Welcome Lloyd! Premium membership grants you full access to the website: the ability to not just read post, but respond to them. The ability to receive and send private messages to other members of the website. It grants full access to the live voice chat, which not only lets you talk to other members, but also has music & poetry contests. Premium membership is either $10 a month or $100 a year. You can mail a payment, or pay online (through the link on this website)....I hope this answers all your questions.

SwtT

05-31-2004, 02:49 PM

Well, Destee, you may know. I am NOT a premium member. But I have been giving a lot of thought to it and im coing to my descion that as soon as I find a hundred dollers, I'm gonna mail t str8 to youbecuase I hate getting locked out of stuff:)

panafrica

06-01-2004, 05:05 AM

$10 a month would probably be more practical than trying to come up with $100 Swt T, I have chosen that option myself.

SwtT

06-02-2004, 06:30 PM

$10 a month would probably be more practical than trying to come up with $100 Swt T, I have chosen that option myself.

True, but me being the forgetfull (spendaholic) I am, a hundred up front would seem better. And by the time I go away for college, I won't have any money

panafrica

06-02-2004, 09:38 PM

True, but me being the forgetfull (spendaholic) I am, a hundred up front would seem better. And by the time I go away for college, I won't have any money

I understand SwtT....also let me give you this advice. Although I know you have to pay for college anyway you can. I encourage you not to pay for 4-6 years of college through loans if you can help it. Apply for every scholarship & grant that you can (academic, athletic, financial need, essay based, etc.). If you don't, then your years of having no money will extend beyond the "college" years. Good Luck!

SwtT

06-03-2004, 12:47 PM

I understand SwtT....also let me give you this advice. Although I know you have to pay for college anyway you can. I encourage you not to pay for 4-6 years of college through loans if you can help it. Apply for every scholarship & grant that you can (academic, athletic, financial need, essay based, etc.). If you don't, then your years of having no money will extend beyond the "college" years. Good Luck!

Panafrica, thank you so much for looking out for my welfare! I greatly appricate that advice and believe me, I am going to stick to it. the last thing I want to be is 50 years old paying for college debts

panafrica

06-05-2004, 07:46 AM

Panafrica, thank you so much for looking out for my welfare! I greatly appricate that advice and believe me, I am going to stick to it. the last thing I want to be is 50 years old paying for college debts

It is my pleasure SwtT....I myself made that mistake (paying for college through loans), and I pay for my mistake every month! :tongue: In my case it was silly, because with my grades, I qualified for an academic scholarship. However I still took out loans because I was ignorant about the process. One important thing many college students don't know is just because you don't qualify for an academic scholarship when you enter college; doesn't mean that you won't qualify for one after you have been in for a couple of years. Scholarship searches should be an annual process.

EveningMist

06-23-2004, 03:31 PM

Hello eveyone
i join because :)
we need to support
it each other
our future
One Love

panafrica

06-23-2004, 03:34 PM

Welcome EveningMist....make yourself at home.

NNQueen

06-23-2004, 05:45 PM

To all that have become Premium Members that I haven't greeted, thank you :thanks: and welcome to the team. We are excited about all the new features we are able to offer you as we continue to build the community.

To those that have asked questions about the value of becoming a Premium Member, I'm sure your questions were answered but if not, don't hesitate to seek more information.

To our members who are unable to invest at this time, we are sure you will continue to enjoy the basic features available. When your financial situation changes in the future and you're still active here, we look forward to you becoming a supporter of your community!

Thank you all again for being a member at Destee.com!

Peace,
Queenie :spinstar:

Jamie

07-03-2004, 01:55 PM

Destee

07-03-2004, 02:30 PM

Hello and Welcome Again Jamie! :wave:

Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. Yes, we are serious, but we understand too if you are not willing or able to support the community right now. Currently we have things setup so that a Member is still able to participate here, with limited access, even if they don't become "Premium Members."

This is all so new to us, as we've made everything available to everyone at no cost for years. We are in the transition process of these changes, with more to come i'm sure. We've received several suggestions from Members, such as tiered memberships. Please continue to stay and take advantage of the free limited access, as long as we can make it available, and be on the lookout for additional options that may be more affordable for you and your Family.

Much Love and Peace.

:heart:

Destee

Jamie

07-03-2004, 08:25 PM

triniti424

07-30-2004, 05:16 PM

Because I can so I do.

Royal_T

08-27-2004, 02:53 AM

Can we have a contest. I think I can smartly find another $50 or so. I saw Gladiator sponsor another person. I'm in no way shape of for rich (raising my two sisters), but I think we should have a poetry/essay contest to those who really love the community and give them 6 months to 1 year free depending on the extra. I'll attempt to work out something and Destee, I'll let you know how much I come up with. I say if we support one another through hard times, this won't be so hard. I hope that made sense.

ROY

Royal_T

09-07-2004, 06:00 AM

oh, and the reason why I love this place is simply unexplainable, but trust me I'll explain. It's been over a year and I've laughed, cried, expressed myself openly, thought deeply, and I've even gotten angry at times. It's the relationship I can't find outside of the virtual world. I've disagreed with folk and found new found relationships. It's a positive place with real people and real hearts. I've put some of my thought into poetry where I may have just been shooting off at the mouth and I get feedback I didn't expect. It's just love.....some of us need to know what it actually feels like.

Corinthians 13 (3-7)

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

Sounds like Destee.com to me..............

Ireadastory

09-13-2004, 05:45 PM

I would absolutely love to become a premium member, however, my funds do not allow that and that really ticks me off! I am the only working person in my household. My check doesn't even make ends meet, they stop somewhere in the middle, on the way to thinking about meeting. There is so much that I get out of this site. I feel at home among other creative people.I want to one day become a published writer and it ticks me off that I don't know where to start but I believe that this site could help me get started with all the forums that are offered. I don't even know what all is given under premium membership but I want it, just like many of us don't know what all is in Heaven but we want to get there. So I have not become a member due to finances but you can count on my support when I can. I am a woman of my word, that's the one thing I can afford.

deb0

11-06-2004, 09:58 PM

$$RICH$$

11-06-2004, 10:24 PM

deb0 i hear you and fully feel what you are saying
and to say this Destee.com is a large and heavy community full of
resounding avenues of teaching / building a unity and giving a huge
valley of information that holds value within it self but i understand
your point and well taken .
Do enjoy your stay ..........

Destee

11-06-2004, 10:29 PM

Before I make my comments, I want to let everyone know I am not hating or in anyway taking shots at this community. I am not in competion with Destee or anyboard out there. We are all in this together (whether you want us to be or not) My statements are to be taken as general sentiments directed at the internet, and all black online communities. Somepeople may chose to take this post personal and not look at it for what it is. For you, I am truly sorry.

My viewz,

I would NEVER pay to be a member of ANY board, UNLESS it provided something I cannot easily get on my own. White boards provide alot of large and great boards in terms of information. If I don't have to pay to enjoy a white board, why should I have to pay to mingle with my own people? Although I love the people here at Destee, I'm not going to pay to be apart of a 'family'. Sounds hypocritical to me! If we are 'family' I'm gonna support you, because I VALUE what you are me. That's what I thought these boards were supposed to be about.

And about the board engine: This functionality of this board alone provides alot of built in features (I've been building corporate forums for years), and I know how much this software costs, which is not much at all. I would not charge members for features of a board that do not impact my costs associated with maintaining a board. Seems abit unfair. But that's simply MY opinion.

I've been using the internet since it's birth, and because I know how easy it is to get information, I don't see myself paying for online classes. There are tons of online resources, and we should be more dilligent in our search to locate and leverage them, because THEY ARE FREE!

But if people like the convenience, I guess it's worth the money to them. In America, anything is worth something given that someone is willing to pay for it.

Now on the other hand, I do understand that running a board with thousands of users, COSTS MONEY. The bandwidth and database consumption alone can stifle, if not cripple an online community. So a board admin has to either charge membership fees or ask for donations. So Destee has a significant dilemna here.

It would be wrong of me not to enlighten you on this little secret: The biggest and 'best' boards on the net are FREE!

Every popular board that has been fortunate to grow to 4 digit member levels faces this problem.

Hint: Of all your Thousands of members, what percentage of them actually pay? The answer to that question is telling you something. If the percentage is less than 20%, then the 'extras' you provide to 'Premeire Members' are clearly not what brings people to your board. In other words, to the overwhelming majority of your members, they don't add value.

So, In closing perhaps a board admin should look at new ways of adding value, and guaging the impact of those services on their members lives. Some things we should not be charging people for. Some things we should. Adding REAL Value......That in itself more than substantiates the desire to charge fees.

And if that happens, I'll be the first to swipe my credit card.

AGain, Please don't take my words out of context.

deb0 aka DBlack

Brother deb0 ... thank you for your comments. I'm really glad that not everyone thinks like you! Gosh! But i certainly understand where this kind of thinking comes from, comparing Black efforts to White efforts. On the surface it would appear that all of our stuff should be just like theirs, regardless of the fact that our history, both past and present, is completely different. In saying this, i'm not suggesting that the quality should be any less, but certainly the opportunities and experiences are not the same. If you're going to compare this community to another, at least let it be a Black web site, please.

I could have lots of ads popping up here, selling what we've worked hard to establish, to White corporate America, so they can benefit from our hard work ... but that is not what i want. I want this effort to remain as much ours as possible, and the only way that can happen is if "we" support it.

While you are not willing to help support this community, you do come here to promote yours. From the moment you joined us, you've attempted to leave links with every post you made, to your own site. When i saw this, i posted a thread personally to you (http://destee.com/forums/showthread.php?t=29271), asking you to stop it, but you have not stopped. You've continued to promote your own community here, requiring me to delete those links. I've thought two or three times to simply ban you, since you've not taken heed to my request, but i thought it may be that you just haven't read it.

I understand your desire not to help financially support this community, but why do you use it to promote yours? Why not go to all of those FREE White sites that do so much more, for so much less, and promote there? Are you saying we're good enough to be used, but not good enough to support?

I reckon.

But please stop that, for it is a priviledge given only to those who financially support this community.

Thanks a Bunch.

:heart:

Destee

deb0

11-07-2004, 12:07 AM

Frankly, I'm surprised that you chose to take the low road in your response. And since you will either edit, delete, ban me (or all of the above), I guess I can at least make one last attempt to be objective and honest. After all, what have I got to lose?

First you took my statements totally the wrong way. I asked you not to take it out of context or get personal, and yet you did. Let's not forget, YOU STARTED the thread asking the Question "Why or Why Aren't You - Becoming A Premium Member?" I guess you really didn't want a truthful answer then.

I am not comparing you to a white site. The point in that statement was to answer your question that started the threat. POint is that much information and functionality that you charge your 'family' for can be easily enjoyed in abundance at other, albeit white sites. That is FACT. And it's not just white sites that provide free boards, so stop trying to play that card. Does that make Destee less enjoyable, no! I would rather hang out here (at least before I learned that you have double standards) than a white site anyday. But it's NOT because of your CHAT rooms or online classes, or the other 'additions' you give your "premium members". Simply because I like to communicate with my people.

And your history and all that has NOTHING to do with this discussion.
You don't have to defend yourself to me, I am simply a non-paying member giving an OPINION THAT YOU ASKED ME TO GIVE.

Oh, and about this statement you made
----
"While you are not willing to help support this community, you do come here to promote yours. From the moment you joined us, you've attempted to leave links with every post you made, to your own site. When i saw this, i posted a thread personally to you, asking you to stop it, but you have not stopped."
----
First of all, by the fact that I registered and post here, IS SUPPORT. But may be you are like many other blacks that look at support from the prism of money. I'm sorry to say this, but maybe your vision of a forum for the black community is not healthy for blacks, since you feel the only way to support YOUR board is to give you money. so I guess that means you feel the same way about uh.....6000 members on your board, and therefore they have no right to say anything. As a matter of fact other NON-paying member criticize you, but perhaps it's the depth of detail in my post that you have a problem with. I am not the enemy. You got it all twisted.

And your rules say nothing about signing my name and placing a web url at the bottom. And if it does, you don't consistently apply this rule. Here you are with the black communities most successful board, and you coming down on me for participating in your board within your documented guidelines, and taking offense that I post a simple url with no other plug or comment. I have never spammed your site. And I challenge you to prove that right now? Do a search on every post I have made, and the truth will show that I simply post a link with my alias. I have repeatedly and openly complimented your forum and you slam me like this? In this post you reacted so defensively to, I even defened you.

Do I detect the all too common "crab syndrome" that blacks have been known to exhibit for as long as we can remember? Yeah, sistah, you are showing your true colors in this situation, no doubt.

Now I'm not going to get into the do's and don'ts about running a board, because you can run yours the way you want. All I ask as an insignificant, unsupportive-because-I-don't-pay-member, is that your board ruels are applied equally and ethically.

Remember, YOU ASKED the question, I just answered it, truthfully and respectfully.

And lastly, what you don't realize and appreciate is that the real value of your board is the people that are in it. And yes, EVEN the ones that don't put money in your purse. People that look forward to logging in to destee to get their latest conversational fix. If your board is going to survive, perhaps you should learn to humble yourself to the true treasure that you have laid the foundation for, and your members have built upon, focus on adding value, rather than attacking someone who could have been one of your greatest allies in this effort. All those black boards you talked about before, they failed for many good reasons. Take heed.

Oh, and if you want to ban me, you don't have to, Just send me a private email, and I will take my knowledge, my passion, and my love for the online community somewhere else where my membership, albeit moneyless, is immensley appreciated.

Then again, you probably won't even allow this message to be read.....

"Unsigned As Prohibited By Destee Forums without payment"

Royal_T

11-07-2004, 01:10 AM

Wow. The only reason I don't always like to write things is because sometimes things can be taken out of context. I see valid points, but I know the both of you are brilliant enough to know that there may be some type of misunderstanding here. I don't know what to say really. Indeed, I can go elsewhere and I've been pretty much everywhere. But I've yet to find the love on any other site than I have here. I could be a minority in this, but I respect deb0 for the honest opinion. Destee...you know where I stand with you. I'm no peacemaker...just stating my claim.

Destee

11-07-2004, 01:48 AM

Royal_T

11-07-2004, 02:35 AM

I'M GONNA SHUTUP. :) AND I'M OK WITH SHUTTIN' UP.

Destee

11-07-2004, 02:50 AM

Sister Royal_T ... i thank you for your caring intervention ... :love: ... i don't think there's anything to be alarmed about jes 'cause a Sister and Brother disagree. I too appreciate his honesty.

Sister ... you aint neva gotta shut-up here ... not eva eva eva eva eva! :love:

That's what this community is all about, our being able to communicate whatever is on our minds. Just because everyone may not agree with us, does not for one minute lessen the fact that all of it is oh so very welcome!

So go 'head on Sister ... talk to us! :wink:

:heart:

Destee

$$RICH$$

11-07-2004, 10:07 AM

The Facts is we are to support each other to grow together
and unite as one with unity , i never felt it was to pay for the use of a site
but to rise over the myth that we can't come as one and support our own
but we all love to take full advantage of what we share and offer this show
more and more how far apart we really are .....wake up for it's not the morals
of paying for the use but the facts of supporting what we have and to keep it
(Quote)
TOGETHER WE STAND STRONG AS PEOPLE DIVIDED WE FALL BY THE WASTE SIDE
INTO THE CONTINUE STRUGGLE WE FELT MANY YEARS BUT EVERY HAND CHANGE
THE OUT LOOK AND BONDING AS PEOPLE TO RISE ABOVE THE MYTH BY
SUPPORTING OUR PEOPLE , MAKE THAT CHANGE AND BE A BLACK SUPPORTER.
DRB...

deb0

11-07-2004, 10:55 AM

Yeah, Yeah. I hear all this 'love talk' about 'togetherness','family', and 'supporting each other', etc...., but all this started because I put a simple link at the bottom of my posts. And it comes to a head because I give you honest criticism; things that I myself have to grapple with as a site admin. I say one thing that you (not many of your members) percieve to be negative, and this is the result.....?

While I'm surprised that some of your members responded much more 'peacefully' than you, I am very much at odds that this is even an issue. Perhaps you should add this thread to the one about black boards failing. Because one thing all failing black boards have in common, is that they NEVER learn to truly support another site to build alliances and affiliations. And if you don't get rid of the crab syndrome, you will be apart of that pile. If I remember Destee was formed from the ashes of another board. It may help you by going back and looking that the mechanics to why that happened.

I am tempted here to layout my philosophy of my board, and how starkly different (I used to think we were much alike) it is from your philosphy Destee, but I will get you that respect and not do so.

Unfortunately, your actions have severed the potential alliance with another black entity that could have benefited you more than I. You have NO idea the things we could have achieve together. Just another sad example of two Black entities with so much promise, yet can't even come together.

I could go on about the incredible good that sites like us could do together, but it's clear my prose would be an utter waste here.

Best wishes to DesteeForum!

deb0 aka DBlack

$$RICH$$

11-07-2004, 11:21 AM

deb0 ...let me asure you that this very site you standing in now was
built on the facts you don't know really about , it wasn't said from some
link or statement made we have build ourselves from togetherness/ love
peace and harmony to a community of what we have , Destee.com is
very supportive to other Black communities , destee.com have even
merge with other black sites all in unity as people brutha you seem to
have it really down wrong , surely every Board is run differently and maintain
best fit of Admin. your way may not suit here as to here may not suit else
where but this why we bond to reach this goal as people and become stronger
not buff about sites and payable scales , we fully understand your reasons
and facts and it's all well we all hold the freedom of speech rights we just ask
that all RULES be honored we very happy you here and sharing your free words, if you feel your talent is a waste here surely we honor that too that's
up to you to share or not here we not twisting any arms .
Thank you !

the quote stands as proof and visionalize true facts why we still down
as black people, I asure you the History of Destee.com has been fruitful
again thankz for your imput as i still urge you and anyone to be a backer
in support or supportive not to destee but the growth of our people.
PEACE brutha Deb0

panafrica

11-07-2004, 02:51 PM

While I'm surprised that some of your members responded much more 'peacefully' than you, I am very much at odds that this is even an issue. Perhaps you should add this thread to the one about black boards failing. Because one thing all failing black boards have in common, is that they NEVER learn to truly support another site to build alliances and affiliations. And if you don't get rid of the crab syndrome, you will be apart of that pile. If I remember Destee was formed from the ashes of another board. It may help you by going back and looking that the mechanics to why that happened.

And what pray tell did you (your site) ever intend to add to this one Debo? Furthermore comparing Destee.com to other news websites is like comparing apples to oranges, as we are not aware of the resources available to other sites. If a news site is run by a corporation, then obviously they would have a greater amount of funds to invest (or throw away) on it. If a website is run by a corporation, then they would have no adversion to advertisements. However both of these factors may not exist if a website is run by an individual. You accuse Destee of suffering from "crab syndrome" for trying to keep her website alive...when you seek to promote your ventures on said website. That is so hypocritical I'm surprised you felt no shame in writting it. I think you need to look at yourself in the mirror..."brother"!

P.S. True brothers & sisters don't mind supporting each other. If you don't want to support a sister, don't expect others to want to support you! Quite often you get exactly what you give!

deb0

11-07-2004, 03:08 PM

Panafrica, you don't even know what you're talking about. You obviously chimed in without reading the entire thread, throwing cocktails when you didn't even give my posts a fair chance by reading them.

DESTEE HAS NO OFFICIAL RULE REGARDING THIS. GO TO YOUR RULES (WHEN IT WORKS AGAIN) TO VERIFY.

First of all, if me simply putting my website url along my alias is shameful, then I am guilty. As I stated in previous posts (which u didn't read), I would give the same courtesy to anyone that came to my forum. Why is that a problem? And why is the biggest board in the black community so defensive about a smalltime board admin doing this? I would NEVER act in away that I wouldn't reciprocate on my own site. Take a look at my site and you will see. Guess what? I adverstise other sites, Destee doesn't. I promote other sites, Destee doesn't. I even have a links directory where ANY site can post their link with a detailed description, Destee doesn't. So don't dare say I am shameful in my actions.

Don't dare accuse me of being a crab, or unwilling to support black sites, becaue In my 45days of existence, I openly support ALL black sites, and I ALWYS will. And you know why? Because I've been building sites for whites for years, and they don't have these childish rivalries. I want us to have a strong network of online communites out here like they do. The reasons that they survive has very little to do with money. Trust me on this. They quickly embrace and support each other, understanding that there is strength in cohesion. That's a major reason why their sites are much larger, and more successful. Don't you want that for you people? Or do you think your site, and your views are the only ones blacks should ever see? The only thing I ask of other Black forums is that they reciprocate the link. But I see here Destee doesn't provide links to other nonpaying sites, which his her choice. But don't dare come down on me sistah Panafrica, because I DO what I say and I support, for free, more black sites than you and destee are. How dare you!

So before you judge me, look at the words I say, and the site I put together, and if you truly have the heart you claim, you will see that I am a open, honest, fair, and loving brotha that has only the best intentions. I only had the best intentions in being a member of this forum, and instead, because I have some ambitions similar to Destee, I am rebuked while others get to post links.

Second, There is NO rule on this board saying I shouldn't do so. Destee decided to selectively apply such a rule. As a matter of fact, your Rules link doesn't even work.

Third, just like Destee, you are taking the post out of context. I am not comparing this board to a specific board or type of board. Again, what r u talking about? No one said anything about a news site run by a corporation. Again, what r u talking about?

When did I say I didn't support Destee? Again, YOU DONT KNOW WHAT YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT!!!! Stay on the sidelines if you can't contribute and intelligent argument. In all these posts, I never said I wouldn't support Destee. I just said that I woldn't pay money, and gave reasons why. That's what the thread is abot Panafrica. Pay attention!

And how have I promoted my ventures? HOw so? I challenged Destee to prove it by pulling all of my posts up, because she said that I was 'spamming' the site. Can you prove it? Of course not. This is just a sad case, blowing way out of proportion, because I have a site and so does Destee.

Go to my site and you will see: Not only have I already supported others FOR FREE, but I wanted to be a supportive part of Destee. But sadly Destee has thrown that in my face. So your statement is an outright lie. And you should apologize for butting in without equipping yourself by at least reading the previous posts. So yes, I look in the mirror, and what I see is me willing to do is expect the same from others as I expect from myself.

And again, you say you support each other, but with every additional post to rebuke my constructive criticism and answer to the question, you and others prove that you only support others that put money in your pocket, or when it's clearly beneficial to YOU.

Let me make a statement that I think I failed to do since the start:

Yu all can relax; I don't want to take any members from you. There are great people here, that's why this board is (or is it still) so great. The members. Hell, most of the best posts come from nonpaying members (which by your own statements, don't really support this board). So why wouldn't I want some of the members to visit my site? Why not? What's so wrong with that?
Again, if the URL posting at the bottom of my post is so 'rude' to your board, then I apologize. All I expect is for you POST your rules, and apply them consistently. Because I know you haven't. All I wanted is to 1)be a member of the biggest black board in the world, and 2)Have an affiliation with Destee, either formally or informally.

Instead I get a mean-spirited reaction from responding to a question Destee asked. There is an old saying. Don't ask a question, if you can't hadle the answer.

So Panafrica, while I respect your passionate allegiance to this board, do all of us a favor and read the thread before bumrushing the topic.

You know what, I am tired of the back and forth. It's clear to me that as long as people are in agreement out here; there is no strife. It's amazing what one response to an open question can bring.

My apologies to everyone, I didn't expect my experience here to come to this. In looking back, I regret that I ever answered the question in the first place. I should have known better.

While I love a good debate, this has become nothing more than a flamethrowing contest.

So again to those who feel like I disrespected your community, if reading tis entire thread doesn't make you see otherwise, nothing will. I just hope that someone was able to get something valuable out of this passionate Exchange. After all isn't that what the underlying goal of every thread?

puke:

D

Destee

11-07-2004, 03:12 PM

Panafrica, you don't even know what you're talking about. You obviously chimed in without reading the entire thread, throwing cocktails when you didn't even give my posts a fair chance by reading them.

First of all, if me simply putting my website url along my alias is shameful, then I am guilty. As I stated in previous posts (which u didn't read), I would give the same courtesy to anyone that came to my forum. Why is that a problem? And why is the biggest board in the black community so defensive about a smalltime board admin doing this? I would NEVER act in away that I wouldn't reciprocate on my own site. Take a look and you will see. Guess what? I adverstise other sites, Destee doesn't. I promote other sites, Destee doesn't. I even have a links directory where ANY site can post their link with a detailed description, Destt doesn't. So don't dare say I am shameful in my actions. I only had the best intentions in being a member of this forum, and instead, because I have some ambitions similar to Destee, I am rebuked while others get to post links.

second, There is NO rule on this board saying I shouldn't do so. Destee decided to selectively apply such a rule. As a matter of fact, your Rules link doesn't even work.

Third, just like Destee, you are taking the post out of context. I am not comparing this board to a specific board or type of board. Again, what r u talking about? No one said anything about a news site run by a corporation. Again, what r u talking about?

Brother deb0 ... look ... at some point this must stop. You wrote and asked me to delete your posts and Membership here, but if this is what you wanted, why are you still here posting? You have every right to do whatever you want on your forum, why not go do that? Why remain here breaking our peace?

Gosh, you've made your point, you've let us know that you'll not financially support this community and you don't like the way we manage things here. Okay. Now what? Doesn't your own forum need your attention?

I mean really ... gosh ... let it go ... because this will not be allowed to go on for too much longer.

:heart:

Destee

panafrica

11-07-2004, 03:17 PM

Debo:

My reading comprehension is fine, if you took offense to what I wrote...you need to! Again I think you should feel ashamed of trying to discourage the efforts of one websites attempt to survive, while advertising on that same website. In case you are unaware, putting your site address on your signature is advertising!

RunawaySlave

12-20-2004, 10:15 AM

:spinn: Hello Everyone
My Husband and I have been checking out this site for about a month, we enjoy the many topics and all, but we are very reluctant to take money from our budget, to be frank 15.00 per month really is a lot for us, when you consider our internet costs which are around 20.00 per month. Now to become a premium member here we must pay an additional 15.00 thats a bit much, sorry but we cant afford that, no offense to the site, but are you guys serious 15.00 per month? :blush:

Damm I missed this thread with my wife putting our biz all out on front street, :shutup: but as she stated its really a bit much for us, I agree there is tons of information available here and Im glad to be able to access it.

We would love to give money to Destee Community but to do so would strain our already over extended budget, I always wondered what are the actual costs of this community?
Is it running in the Red?
Is it running in the Black?
What is the status?
I was reading where Brother OldSoul made his passionate plea "thx Brother" http://www.destee.com/forums/showthread.php?t=31207 for 500 Brothers here at Destee Forum to become premium members, I also read the current rate is 10 bucks a month that adds up to $5000.00 a month or $60.000.00 annually.
What on earth costs any where near these amounts in this community?
Would it be feasible to ask for 5 dollars a month or less?
Please help a Brother on the fence understand the money trail. :nightowl:

Destee

12-20-2004, 12:46 PM

Damm I missed this thread with my wife putting our biz all out on front street, :shutup: but as she stated its really a bit much for us, I agree there is tons of information available here and Im glad to be able to access it.

We would love to give money to Destee Community but to do so would strain our already over extended budget, I always wondered what are the actual costs of this community?
Is it running in the Red?
Is it running in the Black?
What is the status?
I was reading where Brother OldSoul made his passionate plea "thx Brother" http://www.destee.com/forums/showthread.php?t=31207 for 500 Brothers here at Destee Forum to become premium members, I also read the current rate is 10 bucks a month that adds up to $5000.00 a month or $60.000.00 annually.
What on earth costs any where near these amounts in this community?
Would it be feasible to ask for 5 dollars a month or less?
Please help a Brother on the fence understand the money trail. :nightowl:

Brother RunawaySlave ... as i'm sure i told your wife, she and you are welcome to stay and take part in this community without paying anything, as you have done. The doors to this community have always been open to everyone, regardless of their ability or desire to help financially support the community. It has and continues to be a challenge to do this, but one i'm dedicated to, and will continue for as long as i can.

When i first mentioned Premium Membership, there were those that immediately stood up to question every single aspect of it. Concerned that there may be some small chance that Destee could come out a nickel or dime ahead. They wanted to know what every single cost was, and what would happen to that nickel or dime, should it be left over at the end of the month. There were even those that compared this community to places like AOL or MSN, and wondered why we aren't doing what they do, and in the manner that they do it.

It's a little discouraging to have to go through this, but i understand that it is the dynamics of us, and this, and so many things. We simply do not trust each other. No matter that a site has been here for several years, proving itself to be dedicated and reputable, we cannot trust it. No matter that there is an obvious value to what's found here (because you're here), that there are no banners popping up all around you, that there is peace throughout, we still cannot trust it. No matter that it is Black owned, struggling, and committed to being here for us (even those not willing or able to help financially support it), we still cannot trust it. No matter that everyone can network here at no cost, we still can't trust it. No matter that it is one of the largest Black owned, independently managed online communities, where our youth and elders come together peacefully, and have done so for years ... no matter these things ... we cannot trust it.

We do to Black efforts, what we don't do to White ones. Your wife mentioned money spent on your ISP, if no mistake, and i wonder if you asked them, all these same questions you are asking me.

This community has always cost me money, time, resources. I've never made a dime. There is no profit. We struggle to meet the monthly obligations. Our costs continue to go up, as our growth increases on a daily basis. The amount of time alone, managing and maintaining this community, is expensive. As we struggle to maintain what we have, i'm concerned about our future, as the growth will require more expensive, robust solutions.

I appreciate all that Brother OldSoul does here. I'm honored that he'd present such a thread as the one you mentioned. His confidence in me and this community has kept the fire burning in me, on many a cold and windy night. He gives in every single way he possibly can. He teaches, he writes, he gives his financial support, he encourages me in every way to stay the course, he sees the bigger picture and helps me stay focused on it, he recognizes the need for us to have our own and how important this is now, and will be even more so, in the near future. We are the only people that have to beg each other to do what needs to be done. If we aren't begging each other, we're begging other folk. Our organizations are always lacking, always struggling, always going through. Many of us don't see the necessity of making that not be the case. Helping each other is not the simple effort it should be. We have to know all the answers to all the questions, before we make a move ... and even armed with all the answers ... many of us aint finna do nuth'n. It's just the way they've made us to be, and we've got to work really hard to overcome it. In regard to what we'd do with the money, if we had it like Brother OldSoul requested ... gosh ... just to make it through a month without worrying if we're gonna make it, would be really nice. To be able to consider adding more, new, greater features to the community, being able to do whatever we want as it relates to this community ... the possibilities are limitless if we stand together.

Brother RunawaySlave ... i am going to keep this community running for as long as i can, i have committed myself to this. If it is too much of a hardship for you to help financially support the community, then please, don't do it. Get down off the fence Brother, i got this.

Well ... not just i ... but several Sisters and Brothers here, that do find value in what we're doing, recognize the need for us to have our own, and realize that it will not happen until we give each other the considerations that we give other folk. They stand with me and i'm honored. So let me correct myself by saying ... we got this ... don't worry Brother.

Much Love and Peace.

:heart:

Destee

RunawaySlave

12-20-2004, 02:21 PM

Brother RunawaySlave ... as i'm sure i told your wife, she and you are welcome to stay and take part in this community without paying anything, as you have done. The doors to this community have always been open to everyone, regardless of their ability or desire to help financially support the community. It has and continues to be a challenge to do this, but one i'm dedicated to, and will continue for as long as i can.

When i first mentioned Premium Membership, there were those that immediately stood up to question every single aspect of it. Concerned that there may be some small chance that Destee could come out a nickel or dime ahead. They wanted to know what every single cost was, and what would happen to that nickel or dime, should it be left over at the end of the month. There were even those that compared this community to places like AOL or MSN, and wondered why we aren't doing what they do, and in the manner that they do it.

It's a little discouraging to have to go through this, but i understand that it is the dynamics of us, and this, and so many things. We simply do not trust each other. No matter that a site has been here for several years, proving itself to be dedicated and reputable, we cannot trust it. No matter that there is an obvious value to what's found here (because you're here), that there are no banners popping up all around you, that there is peace throughout, we still cannot trust it. No matter that it is Black owned, struggling, and committed to being here for us (even those not willing or able to help financially support it), we still cannot trust it. No matter that everyone can network here at no cost, we still can't trust it. No matter that it is one of the largest Black owned, independently managed online communities, where our youth and elders come together peacefully, and have done so for years ... no matter these things ... we cannot trust it.

We do to Black efforts, what we don't do to White ones. Your wife mentioned money spent on your ISP, if no mistake, and i wonder if you asked them, all these same questions you are asking me.

This community has always cost me money, time, resources. I've never made a dime. There is no profit. We struggle to meet the monthly obligations. Our costs continue to go up, as our growth increases on a daily basis. The amount of time alone, managing and maintaining this community, is expensive. As we struggle to maintain what we have, i'm concerned about our future, as the growth will require more expensive, robust solutions.

I appreciate all that Brother OldSoul does here. I'm honored that he'd present such a thread as the one you mentioned. His confidence in me and this community has kept the fire burning in me, on many a cold and windy night. He gives in every single way he possibly can. He teaches, he writes, he gives his financial support, he encourages me in every way to stay the course, he sees the bigger picture and helps me stay focused on it, he recognizes the need for us to have our own and how important this is now, and will be even more so, in the near future. We are the only people that have to beg each other to do what needs to be done. If we aren't begging each other, we're begging other folk. Our organizations are always lacking, always struggling, always going through. Many of us don't see the necessity of making that not be the case. Helping each other is not the simple effort it should be. We have to know all the answers to all the questions, before we make a move ... and even armed with all the answers ... many of us aint finna do nuth'n. It's just the way they've made us to be, and we've got to work really hard to overcome it. In regard to what we'd do with the money, if we had it like Brother OldSoul requested ... gosh ... just to make it through a month without worrying if we're gonna make it, would be really nice. To be able to consider adding more, new, greater features to the community, being able to do whatever we want as it relates to this community ... the possibilities are limitless if we stand together.

Brother RunawaySlave ... i am going to keep this community running for as long as i can, i have committed myself to this. If it is too much of a hardship for you to help financially support the community, then please, don't do it. Get down off the fence Brother, i got this.

Well ... not just i ... but several Sisters and Brothers here, that do find value in what we're doing, recognize the need for us to have our own, and realize that it will not happen until we give each other the considerations that we give other folk. They stand with me and i'm honored. So let me correct myself by saying ... we got this ... don't worry Brother.

Much Love and Peace.

:heart:

Destee

Destee
I don’t want to pick apart every comment you made but let me say this,
Sister what you shared with others in this regard is of no importance to me, this thread asks for comments, but once the comments are shared, if the comment/opinion is anything other than "my check is in the mail" the member is attacked like; how dare this persons say this or ask that, tell me why would you start a thread with that question if you don’t want a honest answer?
If they answer with a set of questions or comments it turns into what you posted above.
MY GOODNESS WHAT IS REALLY GOING ON? :gas:
If you don’t like the effect, Sister don’t produce the cause, your question is the cause, not my answer or comments. If a member wants to know how his or her money will be spent, it some how becomes "you don’t trust me, blah blah blah."
Your commenting on our internet service provider like it is related to me donating to this community is a perfect example. :confused:

If you want to make this claim No matter that it is one of the largest Black owned, independently managed online communities, where our youth and elders come together peacefully, and have done so for years ... no matter these things ... we cannot trust it. this Sister isn’t true, a truthful statement would be “as far as I know we are the largest blah blah” off the top of my head, I know there are quite a few larger black communities and they are free, I would list them but that seems to be a problem, I will add them to the links section if thats ok with you :ooops: .

Before you say something like go on join them there, let me say I am a member at most Black Online Forums I’m like a nomad lol and I must admit this is nice, but to be brutally honest, It’s the Only One That I Know Of That Denies BASIC Membership Options :nightowl:

Thanks for your time....

Destee

12-20-2004, 03:15 PM

Destee
I don’t want to pick apart every comment you made but let me say this,
Sister what you shared with others in this regard is of no importance to me, this thread asks for comments, but once the comments are shared, if the comment/opinion is anything other than "my check is in the mail" the member is attacked like; how dare this persons say this or ask that, tell me why would you start a thread with that question if you don’t want a honest answer?
If they answer with a set of questions or comments it turns into what you posted above.
MY GOODNESS WHAT IS REALLY GOING ON? :gas:
If you don’t like the effect, Sister don’t produce the cause, your question is the cause, not my answer or comments. If a member wants to know how his or her money will be spent, it some how becomes "you don’t trust me, blah blah blah."
Your commenting on our internet service provider like it is related to me donating to this community is a perfect example. :confused:

If you want to make this claim this Sister isn’t true, a truthful statement would be “as far as I know we are the largest blah blah” off the top of my head, I know there are quite a few larger black communities and they are free, I would list them but that seems to be a problem, I will add them to the links section if thats ok with you :ooops: .

Before you say something like go on join them there, let me say I am a member at most Black Online Forums I’m like a nomad lol and I must admit this is nice, but to be brutally honest, It’s the Only One That I Know Of That Denies BASIC Membership Options :nightowl:

Thanks for your time....

Brother RunawaySlave ... that is not true, that unless a person says their check is in the mail, they are attacked. There are many posts in this thread, that say they wish they could help or something similar, and i have said that i understood and thanked them for being here, while encouraging them to remain ... including both you and your wife.

I did answer your question, in that the money will be spent on maintaining and building this community. I can't believe that there is anyone who will deny recognizing and understanding that it costs money to keep this community here.

I suppose i could have responded in a more peaceful manner, but i'm tired Brother RunawaySlave, and have very little patience for what looks to me like more of the same.

Would you walk into Walmart, asking what it costs to keep their place open, before you patronize them? Would you walk into any other establishment, other than our own, and ask what does it cost to keep it open, before putting your money on the table?

We only do each other this way, and it really should stop.

If not here and now ... let it be somewhere soon ... gosh.

:heart:

Destee

Prizefighter16

12-28-2004, 02:19 PM

I can only speak for myself, which is what I will do. I try not to be one to get into the habit of making excuses, neither do I make false promises. When I do give money to this website however, I doubt if I would want a premium membership. The premium membership seems binding for me, especially since I do not have a job (since I am in school) and do not know if i could stay on point with the 10 dollars a month, or even 100 a year. I could ask my parents, but I don't believe that they will be interested in funding something that they themselves to be a part of, so if in fact money is needed, I pray that you be patient on my part. That is all that I can promise. And that's as far as I will say.

panafrica

12-28-2004, 02:33 PM

Anything you can do will be appreciated Prizefighter, thank you!

sinoping

01-03-2005, 06:54 PM

TOO EXPENSIVE!!! I'M POORRRRRRR

Kwango_Likemba

01-04-2005, 05:31 AM

I will probably become a premium member but I want to browse the site some more. Be sure Destee is the community I want to settle in..

K.L

Dana

01-11-2005, 04:07 AM

Destee

01-11-2005, 04:36 AM

Dana ... Hello and Welcome ... i appreciate the heads-up, but it didn't take long to see what deb0 was about. I understand, that even after coming here and carrying on, he went back to his own forum and talked about us (me) ... but little does he know that we've been talked about by the "best of his kind" ... (and still we rise) ... we've been out here long enough to see a little bit of everything, the good, bad, and ugly ... and have learned to take it all in stride. We don't have a lot of time for such foolishness, and it's easily recognizable, and quickly dismissed. We have a great Moderating Team and Family, and they all look out for what we have. This isn't to suggest, that we can't be done, but it aint gonna be easy.

Having your own forum, i especially appreciate the encouragement, thank you. You are welcome to post a link (description, whatever you'd like) in our Web Sites / Business / Technology Forum (http://destee.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=84), i'm sure the Family will visit and take part. I wish you much continued success with your endeavor. Please feel free to make yourself at home here, because you are.

To everyone who has responded in this thread, thank you.

Much Love and Peace.

:heart:

Destee

samlovely

01-14-2005, 11:56 AM

i hear that, i am in the same boat with you

Velocity

01-25-2005, 09:36 AM

I will become one when I think I'm not invisible anymore :drums: :dance3: :). I get little feedback from my comments so what is the point of becoming a premo member? I'm not sure if I am a fit here, I'll hang around a little longer. Also I see very few current event issues discussed here, interesting news articles is a great way to start such discussions off, perhaps if someone in charge could post an interesting article or 2 once in a while that could create some discussion.

$$RICH$$

01-25-2005, 10:41 AM

thanks samlovely and Velocity ! great point too, trust me you are seen openly

KWABENA

01-25-2005, 01:05 PM

I'm very poor, but blessed by God. If I had the money, I would be right there.

CD

Akilah

01-25-2005, 02:39 PM

$$RICH$$

01-25-2005, 04:16 PM

cedric i feel you brutha thankz and surely a blessing will come
you still family and hold a worth untouched .

Velocity

01-26-2005, 10:27 AM

Thanks Akilah and Rich

Destee really have a great site and with good peeps here too. It is really time that all of us put our money where we know it needs to go, Black enterprise just like this one. Something is in the works from my end.

panafrica

01-26-2005, 10:40 AM

Anything you can do would be much appreciated Velocity!

supafly

03-18-2005, 02:05 AM

Well now it is time for me to chime into this thread with what I know.My name is Adrienne and I am the Admin of another Black site deb0 has taken aim at.This is what this brotha does and now the walls are starting to cave in on him as more and more board owners stand up against him.
He is new to running a forum himself and does not want to do the hard work it takes to build one from the ground up.Therefor he joins other Black forums and spams them with his link while running back to his own and forum and talking against the very board he uses for promotion

deb0 is the lowest type of Black person walking the face of the Earth.He will tear down anything Black to build himself up.Yet he is quick to play race card by claiming Black board owners won't support him out of jealousy.He doesn't want unity, he wants a free ride off of other Black peoples hard work.

Destee my sister, kick this piece of scum to the curb.He is here to take what he can get from you and nothing else.He did not join your site, or my site or any of the other Black sites out there to contribute or be a part of.He joined to rape, rob, and pillage.
------------------------------

Hold up! I'm a member of AfroChat, Cocoalounge, Talkingdrum, daBoard, and a ton of other boards, and I resent the hypocrisy expressed in this post.

Sorry this had to be my first post, but I found out about this via some black webadmins I know in Atlanta.

I have read this entire thread and your comments are not only untrue about that brother, but you are posting this becaus you are an admin of a board where tons of your member flocked to his site and others. I know EXACTLY who you are. I have grown to know not only this brother on a personal note, but others as well. His site, vision, and leadership is one we should be respecting and not disrespecting. Destee was a small board to at one time, and this thread should have never been allowed to go on. People should not ask a question they don't want the answer to.

I even know the COMPLETE HISTORY of Destee forums, the admins that use to fund, support and work on this board. Its a small world. TalkingDrum sound familiar? I'm from Atlanta, and I know one of the TalkingDrum admins as well at AfroChat admin very very well. And we are working on an alliance of black boards that are actually about UNITY and not devisiveness.

I also know that he tried to extend peace to you several times and you spit in his face. I understand he tried the same with DESTEe and received the same treatment. I also read the information on his site and I don't see any malice or mistreatment on his part. And besides a few comments in this thread, I don't see hostility here either.

I know everyone reading this will never know the site we are talking about because Destee and cocoalounge doensn't want you to know. but I am speaking out for him because he is unable to defend himself. And then this site banned him because he expressed his honest opinion about a question asked HERE? Is that fair? Or was he banned for putting links on the site? No, this brother was banned because of what he said and how he said it.

This is a very nice board. But so is Afrochat and a ton of other communities out there. as blacks we should not tear each other down unfairly. All of these boards should be supporting each other, but they aren't because many have different motives. That's why boards are falling today. I recently learned that another community, urbandour.com is folding.

Your insults are trifling and the utmost of disgraceful, merely because you had a falling out with some of your members. It was not his fault they came to his site to get away from yours.

And your name is Shawna, not Dana; you are a hypocrite, becasue you HAVE done the same things you and Destee accuse him of....you advertise and pub your site in other places, and I have the proof. let's be fair...this black man has features on his site that I don't see here or anywhere else. And he doesn't charge a dime.

I think this is a great board as there are others. But if you continue to hate on others because they tell you the truth, and hate on others because they have similar ambitions as you do, this community will fail like the rest of them.

Just like people give you credit, give the brother credit where credit is due. We all benefit from these sites, especially the free ones, so we should be supporting each other.

This site has a little thread that's not easy to find where you can post other sites. You mean to tell me as the biggest black site, that's the best you can do?

Now I agree on one thing said here; if you wanna pay, that's your choice. It's not this brothers place or mine or anyone else's to tell you what you can do with your cash.

Today we should be mourning the lost of another site and understand that we have got to start supporting each other and work TOGETHER. That means members supporting other sites, and admins/staff banning together to support each other. That's how we really help our people!

Hopefully I won't get banned for this, but it had to be said!

Destee

03-18-2005, 02:19 AM

Supafly ... Hello and Welcome.

You're certainly entitled to share your opinion with us, as is Dana, and everyone else that does so respectfully.

While this is your first post, i hope it won't be last.

Much Love and Peace.

:heart:

Destee

Rudebwoi00

03-18-2005, 12:51 PM

Destee

03-18-2005, 01:16 PM

Hey everybody, As the newbie here, all I can say is that in the short time I've known Destee, she has been nothing short of wonderful to me. I couldnt resist supporting her as a person that is important to me. In addition, who am I not to support someone in my circle that is living their dream and contributing positively to the lives of other folks around the world (especially us blacks!!!). Keep on living your dream sweetie...

You make me wanna... :wink:

Brother Rudebwoi !!!! :love:

You have no idea how much your love, support, and encouragement means to me. I'm so glad to have you here with me, and that you'd think so much of what we're doing, to reach in your pocket and help ... man ... when it's obviously so easy for us to do the opposite, find reasons not to financially support each other's efforts ... talk about all the negative things that we think we know about each other ... usually stuff we've heard from other folk who have axes to grind. I'm so happy to have your unwavering love ... not to mention that you are ohhhh so very handsome ... :wink: ... oh my goodness!

Brother Rude ... we'll be giving away a free month of premium membership tonight in voice chat ... all you must do is be present ... www.destee.com/chat ... and your name will go in the hat. There will only be one winner, and you must be present to win. So please join us in chat tonight, starting @ 8 pm ET if you can ... so you can be in the running for winning ... not to mention i'd love to introduce you to all the Sisters in voice chat ... 'cause you know i think the world of you and a Brother so sweet and wonderful should not be hidden!

I love you ... and you make me wanna ... :wink:

Thank you Sweetie! :love:

:heart:

Destee

Dana

03-27-2005, 08:23 PM

Well I had no idea someone named supafly (Dblack incognito :lol: ) had come here to post his thoughts on me and The Cocoa Lounge, but it's ironic I would find this out now as The Cocoa Lounge has once again fallen victim to Dblack's madness.

First let me state I am Adrienne and the Admin of The Cocoa Lounge... a board Dblack has become obsessed with since he discovered us.Our url is cocoalounge.org and dblack is *************.Welll we discovered yesterday dblack pulled off one of the oldest and most desperate tricks in the book by purchasing a domain name almost identical to ours.Oh yes, dblack who claims to be all about building with Black boards, has blatantly attempted to steal traffic meant for The Cocoa Lounge by purchasing the name *************** and having it redirected to his site.

Finally, I think we can all tell what type of man this is and what he is about.I beg of all those who visit or think of visiting this man's site, to recosider and go somewhere where the Admins have ethics..Dblack is a raper of Black sites.He scopes them out to steal whatever he can get his hands on.He is not about linking up and building bridges, he is about taking from others to build himself.He is a discgrace and under no circumstances should We as a people support men like him.

panafrica

03-27-2005, 09:43 PM

Dana

03-28-2005, 03:22 AM

Indeed panafrica you are correct and I am in no way attempted to fight anything here, but rather answering a post aimed at me and alerting those here to watch out for those ppl out to cause conflict on Black sites where none originally existed.

Peace and Love

PoeticManifesta

04-15-2005, 11:15 PM

Hey Girl,
Im pretty new to the site, and I do realize its value. However, as a full time student/full time worker.. i make enough this semester to pay for next semester. There will be times in which i have the money and sometimes I wont. More of those times in which I dont in that of which I do. BUt when I have it I will share it. I cant express enough how this site keeps me balanced, allowing me to express whatever it is that I feel.. channeling it into something positive. Rather than... :bully: But on the brighter side of things, I got a scholarship from the N.A.A.C.P, for my sponsorship.. so that I may pledge A.k.A this year!! And I rushed last week! Late but.. better late than never!

:hearthis: **chants... N-double A-c-P.. you gotta fight if you wanna be free, you gotta give it all you got! You gotta show em' what its all about!

$$RICH$$

11-17-2005, 08:05 PM

continue to share we like to know why or why not !!

Tantrum

11-28-2005, 12:12 PM

Sign Up For Free
http://destee.com/forums/register.php

Premium Membership
http://destee.com/membership

I know there is a discussion for advertisement
yes this is what I dont understand
If we have only 62 I mean 62 premium members paying
And the total is in the 1000's why arent these people paying
Why am I and the other 62 individuals supporting our blacks?
Why are they posting like I am?
Chatting like I am?
This is crazy to me since we have so many members why do we have to turn to advertising? Why are there so many people so black this black that and cant come up with 10 dollars to help the cause?
I have talked with Destee
We need a tiered membership
5 dollars limited
10 dollars premium
If people cant afford this they need another forum!!
It is amazing to me that people can afford internet
Time is money so soend all day on here
Chat all day on here but cant afford to support the cause
I dont at this point care what others think of me at this point
Yet people that are paying and supporting know this should be the action

IF WE DONT SUPPORT OUR OWN WHO WILL???

We need your support!!!
If you cant afford atleast become a member
That is free-If you can get on here everyday and read our Poetry
Atleast support Our Cause

Tantrum

01-04-2006, 11:08 AM

Back to the top
Knowledge is power
Unity is the key to Success

ibrahim

01-04-2006, 02:11 PM

I didn't think twice before becoming a premium member because
i knew this was the place for me
and i was welcomed as a family even though i came in the wrong way.
LOL...Destee you know what am talking about.:gossip:
hahaha

$$RICH$$

01-06-2006, 03:34 AM

many reasons for different seasons are expressed
why or why not ......I hope all become a premium member

this the best site to become part of.....

Tantrum

01-25-2006, 11:29 AM

Yes Brother $$RICH$$
I hope all do indeed

sxyblkndn_in_kc

05-08-2006, 10:58 PM

I haven't because i am poor

$$RICH$$

05-09-2006, 12:44 AM

We all have this struggle but we also waste money on things
that pose no value , but i truely understand you point here
thankz for responding and welcome to Destee.com ...........

$$BEAUTY$$

05-10-2006, 07:17 PM

this probably sounds really corny, but i havent joined yet because i don't have a job right now. i'm off work getting ready to have my second child. in due time i'm sure i will become a premium member. I dont feel that i should be treated any differently as far as my membership goes, and i have always loved this place.

$$RICH$$

05-11-2006, 07:05 PM

Thank you and surely you will not be and when time permit
we love to have you aboard as a premium member congratulation
on the new birth.

4g0tt3n_Canc3r

03-15-2007, 12:47 AM

Cool people become members :spin:

Destee

03-15-2007, 02:57 AM

Cool people become members :spin:

You're such a Sweetie ... :love:

:heart:

Destee

Zulile

06-24-2007, 04:08 PM

I felt inspired to donate minutes after finding this site - it appeals to me in so many ways - and if it gains me premium membership - so be it :)

Just opened a paypal account (as accepting the alternative transfer transaction fees for only €7 a month is.. crazy) but it will take a few days to kick in.. then I'm off on vacation for 3 weeks..

That explains why I'm not a premium member from the start - and why I will be in the near future.

Clyde Coger

07-07-2007, 02:34 PM

I am totally ashamed, as should everyone else, that has not and continues not to support Destee, financially!

As a people, we do not support our own, but will not hesitate to blast away our mental efforts, except when it comes to support, then we back away.

Again Destee, my extreme apologies for the delay, it has been on my mind from day one to support Destee.com, please forgive me!

Sincerely,

Clyde

$$RICH$$

11-04-2007, 09:23 PM

sweet words of comfort surely Destee.com and family appreciate your value
and heart to the community Thank u brother

cherryblossom

07-16-2009, 05:26 PM

ADOPT-A-NEWBIE PROGRAM

I know that over the years, many members have sponsored another member's Premium Membership. IMO, it is NOT the tenured members who need be convinced of the need/importance of site support through Premium Membership. They already know.

However, IMO, it would be beneficial to the site's survival and prospering to encourage NEW MEMBERS as they join; and, hopefully, this "program" will inspire them to stay Premium Members.

So, because there is already precedence for it, I thought an "official" program for such would help generate/increase the Premium Membership rolls as well as exemplify Destee.com's Mission Statement: "We Are About Loving, Encouraging, Embracing, Teaching and Building With Black People. No Hate allowed."

Here's how it could work:

CURRENT Premium Members would sign-up to "ADOPT" a new member, thereby agreeing to sponsor one new member's premium membership for ONE MONTH.

Site Administration would compile a list of "NEW MEMBERS" to the site and send out messages to them asking if he or she would like to be "adopted" for 1 month and agree to the terms of the "adoption."

***At first, perhaps, sister-to-sister and brother-to-brother "adoptions" may work best so no one will think any member is trying to "get a hook-up" thru the adoption! :lol:

Each veteran member would then "pick-a-newbie" to sponsor and "WELCOME/COACH/GUIDE/EXPLAIN/BEFRIEND" the new member through SITE NAVIGATION:

1. How To Send a USER NOTE.
2. How To Send a Profile Message.
3. How To Send a Private Message
4. How To use the features of the CHAT ROOM.
5. How To use the SEARCH function.
6. etc...

If the new member decides not to continue participation in Premium Membership, it still is no loss to Destee.com. The site will still receive that $10 for the month sponsored.

IF at the end of that month the new member DOES decide to continue their premium status, he or she will, IN TURN, agree to SPONSOR a new member for a month, "Passing It Forward."

(Also, new and veteran members could also utilize the 10 INVITES on their profiles in order to bring even more people to the site.)

****This proposal does not apply to ME. I just thought this could be a way to increase Premium Membership and spur site involvement.

$$RICH$$

07-16-2009, 09:19 PM

That really sound wonderful sister cherryblossom .....great Ideal

Destee

07-16-2009, 11:24 PM

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