Hello Family,

We've been here since 1997, and have never had advertisements, other than the promotions of Family Member's endeavors.

I have resisted doing this, resisted soliciting for advertisers or setting them up here, because i've wanted our community to remain pure and innocent, free from the clutter of banners and such, and maintaining complete control over every aspect of our community. When dealing with advertisers, you don't always get to choose what is presented on your site. This will make us beholden to these advertisers, to some small degree, where we owe them nothing right now.

It has always been my hope that we never have to deal with this.

I have the nerve, as broke as we are, as much of a struggle it is to maintain this community ... i have the nerve to want the financial support to come from a specific area ... the Sisters and Brothers that frequent here.

I feel that we need to support our own, and this community is a perfect opportunity for us to begin doing that. Members aren't forced to do it, but can move toward it in their own time, being led by their heart and Spirit to give. I love this concept, but it's slow to manifest itself in a manner that can fully financially support the community. In spite of this, i'm very reluctant to give up on it, and cross that bridge to selling advertisements on this site. I feel like once we go there, we're there, and there's no coming back to this place, this peace, that we currently have ... free from advertisements or obligation to others. We'll never be the virgins that we are right now, if we do this.

Our community has grown to the point that it is in a position to yield some income from advertisements.

My question to you all ... because i'm so torn ... is how do you feel about this?

Would it bother you to see advertisements from corporate america, or anyone outside this Family, on this site?

I'm considering these things Family, but am not comfortable with just going there, so i'm asking for your advice, suggestions, and support.

A special thanks to all the Premium Members that have helped to keep this community alive, without outsiders supporting us. It is a beautiful thing, even with the struggle of not having many Members doing this. The few of you have been so much encouragement to me, evidence that we can and do support our own. Thank you!

If you're interested in becoming a Premium Member, to help support our own stuff ... please click here (http://destee.com/membership).

Okay Fam ... let me know what you think. Your vote above, and comments below, will help me make a decision.

Thanks.

:heart:

Destee

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VOTE IN THE POLL ABOVE

~ and ~

LEAVE COMMENTS BELOW

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go for it.
we gotta eat.

BTW - will you be taking ads from strip clubs?
i need to find a new one.

go for it.
we gotta eat.

BTW - will you be taking ads from strip clubs?
i need to find a new one.

Thanks Brother James for responding.

See ... if we go here ... we gotta consider stuff like that ... strip club ads! :eeek:

Where right now, we don't have to consider it at all ... but we struggle monthly, just to meet the out of pocket expenses, not even touching on the time, expertise, and future growth (needs) of our community.

Please Family ... share your thoughts.

:heart:

Destee

You can start off by charging for advertising that promotes black-only things. Make a monthly charge for banner advertising. There are a lot of webmasters that would appreciate the traffic and return vistors you get here. :)

You can also try promoting affliate programs that sell black-related items, such as books for example. Advertisements for books from black authors would not take away from the site... in fact it would enhance it because members would have quick and easy access to more knowledge. It would help them and you at the same time.

I do understand where you are coming from though in trying to not make the site a haven for advertisers. However, as long as it is appropriate and not littered all over the place, it should not be a hindrance to the purpose of the community.

Go for it. Try it for 3 months or 1 month. If it has a negative effect. Remove the ads. Using google adsense program will allow adding and removing tens of thousands of ads within minitues. (one ad display after first post of a thread) The text ads have the best click through rate. Remove the ad borders and change the color layout of the text ads to match the site layout. After one month take another poll to guage any possible adverse effect on the community. Keep top banner advertisement space available only to site members (advid site members minimum post number 100?)

Member cooperation in supporting the pay per click advertising can generate thousands in one day with wide spread participation.

Possibilities: 1000 Members click an ad per day
(.20per click average X 1,000) = $200 per day revenue.

The google adsense ads are disbursed based on particular page content. So a thread with content about music may pay .10cent per click. Pages with content about online trading, Online banking, Credit repair, refinance mortages: $2 to $10 per click.

Try it then evaluate after the trial period.

I think when it all boils down, you have to do what is necessary to keep the lights on. I agree with Karmashines and GrandHustle. You can pick and choose who advertises on the site. Target black businesses! In fact there is a new online bank, BankBlackwell, which might be interested in advertising with us.

go for it.
we gotta eat.

BTW - will you be taking ads from strip clubs?
i need to find a new one.

I do have a problem with the annoying pop up ads. They tend to disrupt threads and the site. As long as its the banner kind, I wouldnt have a real problem with them

I do have a problem with the annoying pop up ads. They tend to disrupt threads and the site. As long as its the banner kind, I wouldnt have a real problem with them
You go for it girl! :great: It would be good if we had an Afrakan Market here Destee. So that folks could advertise their products or products of friends and family. Of course charging a fee for this is like charging for buying a table at a market setting.

Maybe even a section called the "Afrakan Market". As far as advertise corparate products. That is too you. Personally I would like to see how the Afrakan market worked out first in terms of you making the funds you need. By the way, to add to Pan's site. MATAH is another Black owned site.

Maybe even a section called the "Afrakan Market". As far as advertise corparate products. That is too you. Personally I would like to see how the Afrakan market worked out first in terms of you making the funds you need. By the way, to add to Pan's site. MATAH is another Black owned site.
i think the african market concept is a good idea.

Do what you gotta Do.

I think when it all boils down, you have to do what is necessary to keep the lights on. I agree with Karmashines and GrandHustle. You can pick and choose who advertises on the site. Target black businesses! In fact there is a new online bank, BankBlackwell, which might be interested in advertising with us.

I agree the with above comments. Go for it!

Turn a profit if you can, you certainly work hard enough.

Wow Family ... i'm the only one, so far, that disagrees with this!

I'm so glad i asked the question! I would have thought that more folk would be with me on this!

Okay ... we're going to give this some time, allowing everyone the chance to read and vote.

Thanks everyone who has shared thus far!

Amazing.

:heart:

Destee

go it, if you want ... but you don't, though, do you?

personally, i won't be clickin on any of them ... well, those that i see - and of those that i see, i'll be blocking images from that site immediately.

it's truly sad when those of us that profess to love this space "can't" become premium members. 9,500 people around here and less than 100 premium members? <sigh> i do pray that we are able to work this out without the advertising. <shrug> don't think i'd be around with a bunch of advertising ...

get ur hustle on destee...i don't think that this will compromise the integrity of the site as long as the items/services advertised aren't out the box...word

one love
khasm

Destee..

If this is what you have to do in order to maintain then...so be it. But I know your heart is leaning more on not opening us up like that.

Destee,

I agree that you should definitely use Black businesses, and yes, do what you've got to do to keep things going. But, you really don't want to. You say if this site starts using advertisements, that we will be beholden to them in a sense. Well, I'd like to know more about this end of it, in what sense would that be?

I selected "I don't care" for if this is what is required to maintain this forum, it doesn't matter what my view is, you are going to do it regardless.

My only concern is, does this site generate enough traffic to justify unsolicited advertisements, pop ups and other ilk like we witness on black voices.

But I agree with the others, do what you must.

it's truly sad when those of us that profess to love this space "can't" become premium members. 9,500 people around here and less than 100 premium members? <sigh> i do pray that we are able to work this out without the advertising. <shrug> don't think i'd be around with a bunch of advertising ...

Yes it is sad brother anAfrican, but it is the reality. Since the premium membership has been in effect for almost 2 years, and so few have contributed...there isn't that many choices left.

Destee,

I agree that you should definitely use Black businesses, and yes, do what you've got to do to keep things going. But, you really don't want to. You say this site starts using advertisements, that we will be beholden to them in a sense. Well, I'd like to know more about this end of it, in what sense would that be?

Sister Watz ... when i used the term, being beholden, i meant it in the most general manner. Whenever you accept someone's money, in most cases anyway, you are behold to them for whatever they gave you that money for. For example, i am beholden to the Premium Members, in a way that i am not to the Regular Members. I owe you all the time your Premium Membership covers. That's what i meant Sister.

I'm not sure to what degree we would be beholden to them, but i know right now, we owe them nothing.

That would change if we begin accepting their money.

Hope this helps Sister.

:heart:

Destee

Hotep

Perhaps concidering ecommerce, a section ware Destee can sell books, art and any thing positive in favor of the Afrikan salvation, things that are useful and dignified. Take for example a book of the month club, then have a way to buy the book or other products and information from Destee.com. You will make money and won't have to sell your "Soul" to do it. Or if any of the members have something positive to "Us", a fee can be charged or % of sales. There are lots of ways to make money with out being open to any one with say...pornography something "We" definatly don't need to see here. We must network with others of "Like-Minds", we are ready for that today.

Ase`

I selected "I don't care" for if this is what is required to maintain this forum, it doesn't matter what my view is, you are going to do it regardless.

Brother BrownSkinBrotha ... if your, and the other Members' view didn't matter, i would not have asked.

I didn't have to ask at all. I could have done whatever i wanted to do, regardless of what others think ... but that is not how we live here ... and we've been needing help to maintain this community for a very long time, and have not put advertisements here.

How the Family feels makes a great difference to me, especially in times like these, when i'm not sure how to proceed.

Would your response be different, if you believed that it mattered? If so, what would it have been?

:heart:

Destee

Sorry to one that have to say No...to outside Advertisement
when we can find other ways to support our selves with many
different function , even as we all speak and know the lack of us
is greater then us as a whole and together which lead to a need
to keep our lights on and resources from outside the community
but do we really want to see any and everything to get this funding
backing to keep us here .....i say no we don't we can do this even if
we have to do some cleaning up, I really see this differently through
hardship of a community that's not willing to bond to support itself...

Destee if this where you have to go i back you 110% but i also wish
it don't come to this and we can find another way within ourselves
again Destee i will open the thoughts upon you with another proposal
at a later date.

We maybe ready for this but we Not !
it's easy for us to say yes but when it happen will we be able to handle it
are we really that bad to sell our space for outside hope and dem our
own dream for unwanted advertisements / ads / and whatever we face
right now i can't see it .....sorry family!

We can use our own minds to create goals and structure to bring
what it takes to harbor our own community with many sorts and kinds
of resources.

before going outside for help; how bad would it hurt to "live within our means"? what does it cost? how much does membership cover? (did i ever ask this: is there some way that this sort of info, or something like it, could be displayed? kind of a "barometer" of our Community's financial health where we could see it every day and feel it with you? .... or something like that?)

what with the realization that our Success at Coming Together in a Supportive Environment is being affected, as we knew it would be, by outside energies that don't want to see us go there; maybe it's time to tighten up the bandwidth that is being used? no more guest access. invitation only memberships? a moderation team screening applicants/members? move more stuff to premium membership; VideoChat?. if we lose long time members .... oops .. it costs money to keep the lights on! it would all/any hurt worse than advertising - but integrity would be maintained!! ... and, possibly, improved? sometimes one just has to take the meds!

[yeah; "more work": We Love You, Destee; We Love Our Community: We'd Love to Help!! Ain't Said Nothin 'Bout No Paycheck, Neither!]

lots of tech stuff buried under that opening up to advertising! and it's buried even deeper than that, destee!! big fat, ugly can of relentless worms in that direction!!

Do whateva u need to do, Destee....

Go for it. Try it for 3 months or 1 month. If it has a negative effect. Remove the ads. Using google adsense program will allow adding and removing tens of thousands of ads within minitues. (one ad display after first post of a thread) The text ads have the best click through rate. Remove the ad borders and change the color layout of the text ads to match the site layout. After one month take another poll to guage any possible adverse effect on the community. Keep top banner advertisement space available only to site members (advid site members minimum post number 100?)

Member cooperation in supporting the pay per click advertising can generate thousands in one day with wide spread participation.

Possibilities: 1000 Members click an ad per day
(.20per click average X 1,000) = $200 per day revenue.

The google adsense ads are disbursed based on particular page content. So a thread with content about music may pay .10cent per click. Pages with content about online trading, Online banking, Credit repair, refinance mortages: $2 to $10 per click.

Try it then evaluate after the trial period.

This is true... Adsense can be a powerful way to make money.

I am currently building a site which will generate revenue ONLY from Adsense and affiliate marketing. The ads are placed in such a way that it is visible yet not annoying, and they appropriately target the audience.

However, if one's goal is to promote only black business Adsense isn't the best way to go. First off, Google gets most of the revenue... and this is a white-owned company. Secondly, you don't have control over the ads displayed... it's determined by the content on the page. There is no way you can guarantee all of your ads will be from black-owned businesses.

Sistah Destee,:hearts1:
Given a choice of Destee.com w/ advertisements and
no longer having Destee.com.... I'll take the ads !

Peace ~

There is also the option of displaying ads only to non premium members. (I think we should all view and click the ads)

(Google ads) True bigdrizzle. Google is a white owned company. Your computer manufacter is probably also a white owned company or the producer of your vechicle which you use to get to and fro. Or the electric company which powers your PC to visit this site. Doesnt mean they are not beneficial for our use. (Adult content is not allowed in google ads, No pops up ads are allowed either)

Also keep in mind. To immediately remove each ad even if there are 100,000 ads. (takes 5mins)

Hello Family,

We've been here since 1997, and have never had advertisements, other than the promotions of Family Member's endeavors.

I have resisted doing this, resisted soliciting for advertisers or setting them up here, because i've wanted our community to remain pure and innocent, free from the clutter of banners and such, and maintaining complete control over every aspect of our community. When dealing with advertisers, you don't always get to choose what is presented on your site. This will make us beholden to these advertisers, to some small degree, where we owe them nothing right now.

It has always been my hope that we never have to deal with this.

I have the nerve, as broke as we are, as much of a struggle it is to maintain this community ... i have the nerve to want the financial support to come from a specific area ... the Sisters and Brothers that frequent here.

I feel that we need to support our own, and this community is a perfect opportunity for us to begin doing that. Members aren't forced to do it, but can move toward it in their own time, being led by their heart and Spirit to give. I love this concept, but it's slow to manifest itself in a manner that can fully financially support the community. In spite of this, i'm very reluctant to give up on it, and cross that bridge to selling advertisements on this site. I feel like once we go there, we're there, and there's no coming back to this place, this peace, that we currently have ... free from advertisements or obligation to others. We'll never be the virgins that we are right now, if we do this.

Our community has grown to the point that it is in a position to yield some income from advertisements.

My question to you all ... because i'm so torn ... is how do you feel about this?

Would it bother you to see advertisements from corporate america, or anyone outside this Family, on this site?

I'm considering these things Family, but am not comfortable with just going there, so i'm asking for your advice, suggestions, and support.

A special thanks to all the Premium Members that have helped to keep this community alive, without outsiders supporting us. It is a beautiful thing, even with the struggle of not having many Members doing this. The few of you have been so much encouragement to me, evidence that we can and do support our own. Thank you!

If you're interested in becoming a Premium Member, to help support our own stuff ... please click here (http://destee.com/membership).

Okay Fam ... let me know what you think. Your vote above, and comments below, will help me make a decision.

Thanks.

:heart:

Destee



Sister Destee did you edit the original post?

Sister Destee did you edit the original post?

Brother BrownSkinBrotha ... yes, i added the poll, references to it, and an additional thought or two.

You have a problem with that? What part / words don't you like?

:heart:

Destee

lol there is no problem at all, I noticed it was edited and wanted to verify that it was, no biggie..:bowdown:

Hello Family ... i'm still surprised that the overwhelming majority don't have a problem with ads. I'm so glad that i asked this question! Your responses are so revealing, giving me insight that i simply did not have. In addition, it shows me that we don't think the same on this topic, and i would have thought we did. This challenges me to reconsider my own thoughts. It's really nice to be able to get this type of feedback. Thank you all for letting me know how you feel.

I want to leave this up for awhile, giving everyone an opportunity to respond, and let me know how you feel. For those who have voted, but did not leave any comments, please let us know why you voted like you did.

If you haven't voted or shared your thoughts yet, please do.

Thanks.

:heart:

Destee

and i still don't see how we so quick to give in to
this when we shouild be able to handle our own
the break down is within ..................................

and i still don't see how we so quick to give in to
this when we shouild be able to handle our own
the break down is within ..................................

Brother $$RICH$$ ... don't worry ... i've not done anything yet! :love:

You know we have struggled hard and long. We've considered many things in the past, implemented some and canned the others. While it's been suggested that we lock folk out, decrease usage and features, encourage the Family to help, etc., you know we've already had these discussions and done what we could regarding them.

We don't consistently receive enough to pay for the out of pocket expenses here. That's been okay because the other costs i could virtually pay for myself, by doing the work and not having to pay someone to do it. In addition, we have the Moderating Team that works at no charge. This current situation leaves us absolutely no room to breathe. There have been many months that i didn't know if we'd make it to the next month. This is very stressful. Add to the stress of barely making it, the stress that comes from knowing that we're growing, our costs are increasing, and there is no money for improvement and advancement. It's only a matter of time before this server, like our last, cannot handle the load being put upon it. There's no money for this inevitable cost not far down the road. Once the server starts buckling under the pressure, and the error messages begin, we're gonna be at crisis levels (not that we aren't now). I don't have the money for increased costs, even the most minimal.

We've asked the Family to help. While a few have, the majority are not moved to do this. We've tried. I don't believe that there is any other community that can say they've tried, like we've tried ... certainly not for as long as we've been trying.

Something has got to give.

I'd love for us to remain as we've been, without advertisements, but our costs are increasing with no income to match. Being responsible for this community, i believe it would be negligent of me not to consider all things. At least consider them. See how the Family feels about them. Learn exactly what options we have. That's all i'm doing now. If the majority of the Family said they were against ads, it would be dead in the water. If they are against it, surely that would mean they would support it, right? Well, it's the opposite of that, the majority say they don't mind the ads and the majority do not financially support it. I can't just ignore this, even though i disagree with it. Especially in light of the fact that it could mean our very existance out here.

This is what is before me, and i'm just putting it before the Family.

You know how i do. We're all in this together.

I'm not going to make any hasty decisions.

I know what we have at stake, and it's more than a notion, trying to consider all aspects.

I appreciate all the help everyone is giving me.

Don't worry $$RICH$$ ... it aint happened yet. Who knows, the Family may see the value in supporting their own and make this all a moot issue. God may open up the heavens and pour us a blessing down, bigger than we're able to receive. I believe in such things.

Love You $$RICH$$ ... :love:

:heart:

Destee

Hello Family ... i'm still surprised that the overwhelming majority don't have a problem with ads. I'm so glad that i asked this question! Your responses are so revealing, giving me insight that i simply did not have. In addition, it shows me that we don't think the same on this topic, and i would have thought we did. This challenges me to reconsider my own thoughts. It's really nice to be able to get this type of feedback. Thank you all for letting me know how you feel.

I want to leave this up for awhile, giving everyone an opportunity to respond, and let me know how you feel. For those who have voted, but did not leave any comments, please let us know why you voted like you did.

If you haven't voted or shared your thoughts yet, please do.

Thanks.

:heart:

Destee

Sister Destee have you considered getting the poets to get involved with this poll? Looking at the numbers in the poet section it appears to be the most popular part of the site, they may have some ideas to help the site out.

Finally before I forget, did you know you can host this entire site for about $100.00 per year? I am not sure what your server costs are but 100 x 10 = 1000, so for $1000.00 this entire site is covered as far as hosting is concerned for ten years, at that rate who needs to buy a server?

Sister Destee have you considered getting the poets to get involved with this poll? Looking at the numbers in the poet section it appears to be the most popular part of the site, they may have some ideas to help the site out.

Finally before I forget, did you know you can host this entire site for about $100.00 per year? I am not sure what your server costs are but 100 x 10 = 1000, so for $1000.00 this entire site is covered as far as hosting is concerned for ten years, at that rate who needs to buy a server?

Brother BrownSkinBrotha ... i'd like to think the poets venture down this way from time to time, but i can certainly add a thread up there, drawing their attention to this one.

Is that a shared hosting environment that you describe? We moved up from that in 2001. We have been on our own dedicated server since that time. I really can't imagine going back to that. The issues we experienced by being in a controlled, shared environment were what made a dedicated solution our best option. I could probably find a dedicated solution that costs less, but i've been with this company since 1997. The long term relationship, support, and great service are not things i'm willing to risk. Ultimately, you get what you pay for, and i'd be afraid of a $100 / year hosting solution for us. I do know a Brother that is starting his own hosting company, and i look forward to moving then, but not before.

Thanks for your thoughts, even though you don't think they matter ... :wink:

:heart:

Destee

I think the line is drawed between realsm and truth and who care !

If i didn't voice my concerns from the outburst of the quick slap to
bring outside advertisements in to support the cause of what we all
enjoy, yet lack to support leaves a clear message upon the face.

I too have the belief that we can do this within ourselves and rise
above the struggling waters we facing, but also see the needs and
where we stand, i'm just one that can't agree but will ride side by side
to any way you choose to see us through.

If this was the other way round the numbers would be low by the majority
while i fully understand all points and the crisis we now facing, if we can't
lift ourselves up then why are we here, their is a line to draw and we have
reached that line.

Now family what are we really going to do , bring in advertisements to replace
our own selfish acts or make a powerful stand and keep what we have that's
all ours and work on a power tool within ourselves and reach an solution to
support us and what we love and enjoy daily, i'm sure we have somekind of
resources to back our home without outside advertising, what do we offer is
the question yet no answers .............I can't see us ready to buckle yet ride
the waves care free. Destee theirs a blessing and it will reveal it self i believe.

This is true... Adsense can be a powerful way to make money.

I am currently building a site which will generate revenue ONLY from Adsense and affiliate marketing. The ads are placed in such a way that it is visible yet not annoying, and they appropriately target the audience.

However, if one's goal is to promote only black business Adsense isn't the best way to go. First off, Google gets most of the revenue... and this is a white-owned company. Secondly, you don't have control over the ads displayed... it's determined by the content on the page. There is no way you can guarantee all of your ads will be from black-owned businesses.
If Destee is in need of money for this community Google Adsense just ain't gonna cut it.We have these ads on our site and it generated a mere $34 last month and even less the prior months leading back to April.

Though we didn't add the Ads to stay alive, we did add them in hopes of earning enough to moved up to another forum software- maybe VB or IPB.

At any rate, money is only generated via Google ads if people click on them.No clicks- no money! Also, each Ad is worth different amounts.Just imagine 20 clicks a day but the average Ad clicked on only garners 3 cent.That's no money at all.Adsense is really a crap shoot and if Destee is looking to stay "Alive" it is not the way to go.

Btw Destee, the CL would buy banner space from you if you have something available for $15 or less a month.

lots of tech stuff buried under that opening up to advertising! and it's buried even deeper than that, destee!! big fat, ugly can of relentless worms in that direction!!

Brother anAfrican ... i went back and read the posts, and the above really gave me the heeby jeebies!!! ... lol ... but fa real though! ... they already know everything about us, must they even track our clicks away from here?!! Gosh!

Seems we should be able to keep this from happening ... from feeding into their hands.

:heart:

Destee

If Destee is in need of money for this community Google Adsense just ain't gonna cut it.We have these ads on our site and it generated a mere $34 last month and even less the prior months leading back to April.

Though we didn't add the Ads to stay alive, we did add them in hopes of earning enough to moved up to another forum software- maybe VB or IPB.

At any rate, money is only generated via Google ads if people click on them.No clicks- no money! Also, each Ad is worth different amounts.Just imagine 20 clicks a day but the average Ad clicked on only garners 3 cent.That's no money at all.Adsense is really a crap shoot and if Destee is looking to stay "Alive" it is not the way to go.

Sister Dana ... good to see you back in the house ... you bring a different perspective, as you've done it and don't have rave reviews. I've not ever used google's adsense, but i've heard great things about it??!! ... iono Sister ... i guess the only real way to find out if it works for us, is to try it.

Hopefully the Family will be willing to click on the links, since they (the majority) don't mind the ads.

Thanks for the insight.

If anyone else has first-hand experience with web site advertisements, in general, please share!

:heart:

Destee

Btw Destee, the CL would buy banner space from you if you have something available for $15 or less a month.

Thank You Sister ... our first prospective ad ... :love:

I will be sure there is something that fits that budget!

For all reading, if you are a web site owner, and would be interested in advertising here, let us know by posting in this thread. As you can see, we're not sure that we're going to do this, but having information like yours will help us make a more informed decision.

Thanks again Sister Dana.

:heart:

Destee

if we can't lift ourselves up then why are we here, their is a line to draw and we have reached that line.

Brother $$RICH$$ ... i'm feel'n you.

:heart:

Destee

Family ... i'm really appreciating all of the feedback you're giving me. You have no idea how valuable this is to me.

I be have'n thoughts of things in my own mind, thinking i know what's best, and you all have given me information to improve upon that thinking, to see from different perspectives, to broaden my horizon, and you've done this time and time again. I am honored. Thank you.

Please continue to share, as this is a very major issue for us, even if it doesn't appear to be on the surface.

If nothing else, please vote in the poll above.

Much Love and Peace.

:heart:

Destee

You know Destee, I think it's good that you're so open to hearing other views on this. And, if you have no other choice, and want to keep this site going, you have to be open to other avenues. But this place, is your baby. And while others can love it too, nobody will love it, exactly the way that you do. So, I don't think that your thinking is wrong at all. You just may have to do something that you don't want to do, to save this site, and that can't be easy, no matter how you come to think about it.

Btw Destee, the CL would buy banner space from you if you have something available for $15 or less a month.
Hey Dana what is the url for "the CL"?

Thank You Sister ... our first prospective ad ... :love:

I will be sure there is something that fits that budget!

For all reading, if you are a web site owner, and would be interested in advertising here, let us know by posting in this thread. As you can see, we're not sure that we're going to do this, but having information like yours will help us make a more informed decision.

Thanks again Sister Dana.

:heart:

Destee

I am also interested in buying banner advertising space at the same monthly price.

Hey Dana what is the url for "the CL"?

I believe this is ok as my site is listed here already.

http://cocoalounge.org

I am also interested in buying banner advertising space at the same monthly price.

Thank you Sister Karmashines :love:

:heart:

Destee

I believe this is ok as my site is listed here already.

http://cocoalounge.org

Of course it is okay Sister.

:heart:

Destee

You know Destee, I think it's good that you're so open to hearing other views on this. And, if you have no other choice, and want to keep this site going, you have to be open to other avenues. But this place, is your baby. And while others can love it too, nobody will love it, exactly the way that you do. So, I don't think that your thinking is wrong at all. You just may have to do something that you don't want to do, to save this site, and that can't be easy, no matter how you come to think about it.

Sister Watz ... you're absolutely right. It's so nice to be understood. Thank You Sister.

:heart:

Destee

I believe this is ok as my site is listed here already.

http://cocoalounge.org

nice site Dana

Destee,

I have been with you since almost the very beginning. I am not going to pretend that I am computer savey,because belive me I am far from it. However, after reading everyones commits, I like to say this. While I am one of your long time supporting members, I have seen the struggle and what it did to you and I don't ever want to see you in that kind of pain again. This is why I am voting yes. Everything you have ever done for this place has been done with forethought, grace, and style. Don't sell your self short sister, you are a very wise women and I know you will make the best decisions. As my minister tells us all the time, God does not intend for us to always struggle. Do your homework sis as I know you will, and lets move forward.

Your Remby:wine:

as long as it pertains to our blk culture.. with overall preference to minority ran.. or owned companies.

no advertising

I think the line is drawed between realsm and truth and who care !

If i didn't voice my concerns from the outburst of the quick slap to
bring outside advertisements in to support the cause of what we all
enjoy, yet lack to support leaves a clear message upon the face.

I too have the belief that we can do this within ourselves and rise
above the struggling waters we facing, but also see the needs and
where we stand, i'm just one that can't agree but will ride side by side
to any way you choose to see us through.

If this was the other way round the numbers would be low by the majority
while i fully understand all points and the crisis we now facing, if we can't
lift ourselves up then why are we here, their is a line to draw and we have
reached that line.

Now family what are we really going to do , bring in advertisements to replace
our own selfish acts or make a powerful stand and keep what we have that's
all ours and work on a power tool within ourselves and reach an solution to
support us and what we love and enjoy daily, i'm sure we have somekind of
resources to back our home without outside advertising, what do we offer is
the question yet no answers .............I can't see us ready to buckle yet ride
the waves care free. Destee theirs a blessing and it will reveal it self i believe.

AND

Sorry to one that have to say No...to outside Advertisement
when we can find other ways to support our selves with many
different function , even as we all speak and know the lack of us
is greater then us as a whole and together which lead to a need
to keep our lights on and resources from outside the community
but do we really want to see any and everything to get this funding
backing to keep us here .....i say no we don't we can do this even if
we have to do some cleaning up, I really see this differently through
hardship of a community that's not willing to bond to support itself...

Destee if this where you have to go i back you 110% but i also wish
it don't come to this and we can find another way within ourselves
again Destee i will open the thoughts upon you with another proposal
at a later date.

We maybe ready for this but we Not !
it's easy for us to say yes but when it happen will we be able to handle it
are we really that bad to sell our space for outside hope and dem our
own dream for unwanted advertisements / ads / and whatever we face
right now i can't see it .....sorry family!

We can use our own minds to create goals and structure to bring
what it takes to harbor our own community with many sorts and kinds
of resources.
Note: I acknowledge and respect the opinion of everyone in this thread on this issue.

I've never seen Rich speak so passionately about anything before in my life. I must admit that I too feel the same.

However, if we can't financially support it, then we don't need it. As Rich so eloquently stated above, the line has been drawn. Black woman and Black man...what will you do?

And Destee is right. THEY, the advertisers, WILL have a say in what goes on here...eventually. Hence, control will no longer be OURS if at some point WE DO NOT START TO FINANCIALLY SUPPORT THIS SITE...OUR HOME. Hence, advertisements are not the answer...only self-support is.

I sincerely suggest that anyone reading this post read a book called "Blueprint For Black Power..." by Amos N. Wilson. Control and power are in the hands of those who financially support endeavors. Once you give that up, you lose everything. If you think I'm lying, read about Yahoo, their customized chatrooms and the lawsuit against them for child pornography by individuals in those chatrooms. Eventually, those who financially support us will have a lot of say so in how we manage the site.

Well... I think we should be realistic.

The option to become a premiuem member to help support the community has been available for ages... only 100 or so have decided to take up on it. I myself didn't support it until here recently, realizing that this community is more than just another message board.

But anyway my main point is people are not supporting the community as they should. And if Destee is operating this on her own server... that can be as much as rent for an apartment! So we're talking hundreds maybe even thousands of dollars a month on top of whatever personal expenses she probably has. The few premieum members we have just isn't enough and not too many new ones are popping up.

I don't think advertisements should be allowed to just anybody... there are a lot of black entrepreners that need a reliable, high-traffic advertising source. I am one, along with others on the forum.

As I previously indicated, an Afrakan market would be a great beginning point.........:darts:

Thank you Money for having eyes ......
I can't express my deep concern enough, while understanding
all facts and above ,but if we elect our goal and proven power
to manufact within to keep this ours, then we shouldn't be here

We need to put our heads together and find the ways and resources
I can't believe how so many jump ship instead of stepping up !
which say alot that look for help instead of helping ourselves , time we
rise above this long long twist, to devote self would be too much but not
as much to live in this community and nobody wants to pick up a piece
of paper or sweep a floor .

Advertisement sound grand but how much will be controled, i see where
many agree if it can be black sites and banners but will it .

My biggest Question to everyone who agree with bringing in outside help
what can you as an individuals do or bring to fully support the community
what can you offer to keep us all here and with the most power as owners
to this community....can you bake sale , can you make things , what can
you do a little extra or go another mile ?

Right here right now is the time to show we have rised and with power
and make it be known we stand together as one whole as a community
if you can't do that then we need to fold and go, we don't need outsiders

I see clearly the numbers above but to me that don't say but one thing
while sugar coating it .....the question is who in and who out....!

I strongly ask that as you visit this thread think about the supportive mold
and re-defined what you can bring and i ask that all become a Premium member today!
this will end our sega and under seige with 100% support group a black strong community family
we need no advertisement , stop laying back watching for a ride and cross the toll booth your self
peace and love to everyone opinion and i respect it , but are we in oppression or the oppressor within
ourselves the opportunity knocking up to us to let it in , the only way is to stop looking for someone
else and answer the door ourselves by supporting this / our / your community.

Thank you Money for having eyes ......
I can't express my deep concern enough, while understanding
all facts and above ,but if we elect our goal and proven power
to manufact within to keep this ours, then we shouldn't be here

We need to put our heads together and find the ways and resources
I can't believe how so many jump ship instead of stepping up !
which say alot that look for help instead of helping ourselves , time we
rise above this long long twist, to devote self would be too much but not
as much to live in this community and nobody wants to pick up a piece
of paper or sweep a floor .

Advertisement sound grand but how much will be controled, i see where
many agree if it can be black sites and banners but will it .

My biggest Question to everyone who agree with bringing in outside help
what can you as an individuals do or bring to fully support the community
what can you offer to keep us all here and with the most power as owners
to this community....can you bake sale , can you make things , what can
you do a little extra or go another mile ?

Right here right now is the time to show we have rised and with power
and make it be known we stand together as one whole as a community
if you can't do that then we need to fold and go, we don't need outsiders

I see clearly the numbers above but to me that don't say but one thing
while sugar coating it .....the question is who in and who out....!

I strongly ask that as you visit this thread think about the supportive mold
and re-defined what you can bring and i ask that all become a Premium member today!
this will end our sega and under seige with 100% support group a black strong community family
we need no advertisement , stop laying back watching for a ride and cross the toll booth your self
peace and love to everyone opinion and i respect it , but are we in oppression or the oppressor within
ourselves the opportunity knocking up to us to let it in , the only way is to stop looking for someone
else and answer the door ourselves by supporting this / our / your community.


It might be easier for Destee to try to find people to contribute to the site through advertising than convicing people to sign up for premiuem membership.

It may not be right, but a lot of people think in the back of their minds that message board service is something that is free. People who advertise, (and I'm talking about black entreprenuers in this instance), are looking to promote their business, so it helps both parties.

Imagine if Destee could find 100 black entreprenuers to advertise on her site for $15 a month... that's $1,500 right there. I am pretty sure with a little bit of advertising she could find what she needs.

It might be easier for Destee to try to find people to contribute to the site through advertising than convicing people to sign up for premiuem membership.

It may not be right, but a lot of people think in the back of their minds that message board service is something that is free. People who advertise, (and I'm talking about black entreprenuers in this instance), are looking to promote their business, so it helps both parties.

Imagine if Destee could find 100 black entreprenuers to advertise on her site for $15 a month... that's $1,500 right there. I am pretty sure with a little bit of advertising she could find what she needs.

I agree. I think it's a good idea and I will definately be taking advantage of that opportunity. Every business needs finances, and this site is no different. I don't think anyone but black people should be allowed to advertise though. That way we'll at least know that the money is going into businesses that have a better chance of empowering us.

Free enterprise is what it's all about, isn't it?

But advertisers beware!

The buck stops here...

Thank you Brother 1PoetSought ... and everyone !!!!

Thank you so very much !!!

You have no idea how refreshing it is for me, not to have to carry this decision alone!

Brother 1PoetSought, i don't see your vote in the poll above? Please do that too.

Everyone ... please vote in the poll above ... if you don't vote, you can't complain ... :wink:

:heart:

Destee

You can pick and choose who advertises on the site...I say go for it...if it will help pay the light bill ... do what you must


Peace
Angel

You can pick and choose who advertises on the site...I say go for it...if it will help pay the light bill ... do what you must


Peace
Angel

Sister MzBlk, you say ... "go for it" above ... yet you voted ... "i'm against it" in the poll ??

:heart:

Destee

Sister MzBlk, you say ... "go for it" above ... yet you voted ... "i'm against it" in the poll ??

:heart:

Destee


B/c I am against it...but you must do what you must do...so if you think it is the best interest ...then go for it.

B/c I am against it...but you must do what you must do...so if you think it is the best interest ...then go for it.

k Sister ... thank you!

:heart:

Destee

before going outside for help; how bad would it hurt to "live within our means"? what does it cost? how much does membership cover? (did i ever ask this: is there some way that this sort of info, or something like it, could be displayed? kind of a "barometer" of our Community's financial health where we could see it every day and feel it with you? .... or something like that?)

For me this post stands out, I have been considering becoming a premium member to the site, what I enjoy about it is the warm ad-free enviroment that it has, as a result Ive kinda of late become attached to the site.

I am wondering though will the premium members also experience the pop ups and advertisments too? Is there a way besides using a personal program to eliminate that hassle if so?

anAfrican stated "how much does membership cover" I think if this information was clearly available surely some of us would dig deeper than we have.


BSB

For me this post stands out, I have been considering becoming a premium member to the site, what I enjoy about it is the warm ad-free enviroment that it has, as a result Ive kinda of late become attached to the site.

I am wondering though will the premium members also experience the pop ups and advertisments too? Is there a way besides using a personal program to eliminate that hassle if so?

anAfrican stated "how much does membership cover" I think if this information was clearly available surely some of us would dig deeper than we have.


BSB

Brother BrownSkinBrotha ... i understand that it will be pretty easy to do, keeping the ads away from Premium Members. I've never done it, but i'll certainly try to implement it, if we go that way.

In regard to how much it costs to keep the site running, i almost get offended at this question. I realize that people want to know as much as they can possibly know, but i also know that folk don't ask these questions of other business owners. We don't go into Walmart, or the movie theatre, or anywhere we spend our money, asking such questions, before we spend. How much did this bag of ice cost you, before i buy it? It happens only with us.

Our Premium Membership effort has always been voluntary, based on, if someone wants to help. No one has ever been required to do so, in order to participate here. We established the $10.00 a month or $100.00 a year costs, because we believe it's fair and reasonable. If someone doesn't think it is fair and reasonable, for what they receive in this community, they don't have to pay it, or they can give some other smaller amount.

When this question is posed to me, it feels like you don't trust me.

I've paid for this community alone, for many years, and only in the past 2 years have i asked for the Family's help. When i did, i heard all kinds of krazee talk, challenging the need. I spoke of "being beholden" to others, previously in this thread, and it's that same kind of thing. If i never needed the help, never had to ask the Family, i would never have put myself in a situation where i'd have to be beholden to such questions. It's not something i do lightly. Nonetheless, i had to endure such questions, and i suppose i still do. But there is a part of me that resists this, because we should do each other better than this.

If you don't get anything from this community, you find no value in it, then don't help. If you do, then do help. It's really just that simple.

I have a feeling that my response won't be sufficient, but that's all i got right now.

:heart:

Destee

when we think of it all , as BrownSkinBrother stated above
we have found peace and love without the outside use and advertisement
we also have laid back not supporting our own and here is where the line
is drawed while searching for these people who would pay to advertise.....

This whole line won't be all you think once we sell we lose major ground
if you go deeper you will see and feel if you love Destee.com that our support
within can answer our problem with many ways ourselves if we just this once
come together as people, we have lots of talent here many tools to use and
we turn away to advertisement avenue , i disagree with some statements made
and the high spirit to say yes bring it on, but agree to respect everyone opinion.

I think if we love the community , we love to be here , come here daily and can't support it
feel it then we shouldn't be here under false dreams because this real and live and many of
us a dream come true and i'm one to speak to that , this my dream and i would bend ,walk
another mile to give to keep it's pure power but i can't do it alone we make up what we are
so it remains where do each really stand !?

No matter how it's looked at, advertisement is not the answer or the key
we are , i'm sure if it's looked at from a view where stay free was nolonger
it will tell the truth of this community but going advertising is not the Answer.

I voted yes, because I love this place too much to see it go away. However I fully understand brothers Rich and Monetary's concerns. When the premium member drive was 1st initated, I believed that the family would step up to ensure this placed stayed around forever. In fact I was positive that out of the roughly 7000 members (the numbers around that time) enough would show their love through financial support. After we were only asking for $10 a month. That we have come to this point is a monumental disappointment.

I'm against advertisements for several reasons. One reason is these advertisement web pages and pop up often have data miner and spy ware programs attached to them. These programs invade your computer and transmit information back to the advertisement companies so they can monitor your surfing and spending habits. Then they send pop ups, spam-mail and other useless garbage to you I the hopes that you will be tricked into buying something you really don't need. In all, banners, third party pop ups and all the other crap that comes makes for a terrible on-line experience. Besides you have to keep buying software to countermeasure the attack on your computer. The most important reason I disagree with ads is we as a community need to support our cyber community. Now if I step on toes I apologize in advance but those of us who can afford to support this community need to support it. Here's why. The Black owner of this site bends over backward to make sure that this community is a place where people can have intelligent, loving, inspirational, humorous, intriguing, informative and creative dialog between a group of interested minds worldwide. This website is a microcosm of our community. The issues we face here is what we face in the physical community. This is a good place to put into action ideas to uplift our communities in the physical world. This website is good clean fun. The Black owner of this website is constantly making improvements so that our experience here is one we look forward to each time we log on to a computer. Our upstairs forum is filled with brothers and sisters with more than the gift of gab these brothers and sisters are like the sun emitting rays of a wealth of creative through spoken word and poetic verses. Our downstairs forum is filled with brothers and sisters with so much knowledge and wisdom it like a cool clear lake of water waiting for the thirsty to quench their undying thirst. Our chat-room room is a place where we can get closer as a family and to meet new friends or visit old friends. This website is a place of therapy. When you have no one to talk to we are here. When you need a shoulder to cry on we are here. When you are bursting with joy and want to tell the whole world we will listen and celebrate with you. We you are hurting we will comfort you. If you are confused we will offer wisdom. We you are looking for friendship we will open our hearts show you love. I can think of 100 different things that we waste 10 dollars on weekly much less monthly. Why not invest that 10 dollars in something that you will reap the rewards from immediately? Come on people lets stop talking the talk and start walking the walk.


Peace....

And i can't agree more of how disappointed this has been
overall and RF your right once we open the door we lose
and give power to outsiders i can't say this enough........

I'm against advertisements for several reasons. One reason is these advertisement web pages and pop up often have data miner and spy ware programs attached to them. These programs invade your computer and transmit information back to the advertisement companies so they can monitor your surfing and spending habits. Then they send pop ups, spam-mail and other useless garbage to you I the hopes that you will be tricked into buying something you really don't need. In all, banners, third party pop ups and all the other crap that comes makes for a terrible on-line experience. Besides you have to keep buying software to countermeasure the attack on your computer. The most important reason I disagree with ads is we as a community need to support our cyber community. Now if I step on toes I apologize in advance but those of us who can afford to support this community need to support it. Here's why. The Black owner of this site bends over backward to make sure that this community is a place where people can have intelligent, loving, inspirational, humorous, intriguing, informative and creative dialog between a group of interested minds worldwide. This website is a microcosm of our community. The issues we face here is what we face in the physical community. This is a good place to put into action ideas to uplift our communities in the physical world. This website is good clean fun. The Black owner of this website is constantly making improvements so that our experience here is one we look forward to each time we log on to a computer. Our upstairs forum is filled with brothers and sisters with more than the gift of gab these brothers and sisters are like the sun emitting rays of a wealth of creative through spoken word and poetic verses. Our downstairs forum is filled with brothers and sisters with so much knowledge and wisdom it like a cool clear lake of water waiting for the thirsty to quench their undying thirst. Our chat-room room is a place where we can get closer as a family and to meet new friends or visit old friends. This website is a place of therapy. When you have no one to talk to we are here. When you need a shoulder to cry on we are here. When you are bursting with joy and want to tell the whole world we will listen and celebrate with you. We you are hurting we will comfort you. If you are confused we will offer wisdom. We you are looking for friendship we will open our hearts show you love. I can think of 100 different things that we waste 10 dollars on weekly much less monthly. Why not invest that 10 dollars in something that you will reap the rewards from immediately? Come on people lets stop talking the talk and start walking the walk.


Peace....


How is it harmful to allow black entreprenuers to advertise their business? Destee already allows this to some degree... it's just not quite the same thing as putting a banner at the top of the web site. And a banner is just a clickable graphic... most here for the advertising are not supporting pop-ups or other methods that are annoying. And the space that she has at the top of the website is perfect for banner advertising... it allows for visibility, yet isn't annoying to forum members.

I just don't understand the position of those against the advertising. I mean, Destee has tried the premium member route since she created the community... it's not working. What other alternatives are there if she doesn't consider allowing advertising from the proper sources (black entreprenuers)?

How is it harmful to allow black entreprenuers to advertise their business? Destee already allows this to some degree... it's just not quite the same thing as putting a banner at the top of the web site. And a banner is just a clickable graphic... most here for the advertising are not supporting pop-ups or other methods that are annoying. And the space that she has at the top of the website is perfect for banner advertising... it allows for visibility, yet isn't annoying to forum members.

I just don't understand the position of those against the advertising. I mean, Destee has tried the premium member route since she created the community... it's not working. What other alternatives are there if she doesn't consider allowing advertising from the proper sources (black entreprenuers)?

I have no problem with a group of Black entreprenuers forming an alliance and supporting eachothers endeavors. The problem is if people are unwilling to support this Black business why would they support another Black business? Advertising costs a fee. But if you're marketing your product to people who are not interested than the advertisement will stop and the revenue will stop and we are left with the same issue. Black people who can aren't supporting black businesses, namely this one. I'm sure there are some honorable black businesses out there that won't stoop to having harmful and annoying programs attached to their ads waiting for the unsuspecting websurfer to come along but it's the companies that can afford to place ads on 100s and 1000s of sites that sometimes have these harmful attachments. The bottomline line is business is business and Destee must find a solution to keep this site running. Most here would agree that if this site were no longer active it would leave a sizeable hole in our lives. It goes back to us supporting our on community. Those that can that don't can really need to look inward and ask themselves how would 10 dollars a month drastically alter there life? We talk about making changes well here is our chance.


Peace......

I have no problem with a group of Black entreprenuers forming an alliance and supporting eachothers endeavors. The problem is if people are unwilling to support this Black business why would they support another Black business? Advertising costs a fee. But if you're marketing your product to people who are not interested than the advertisement will stop and the revenue will stop and we are left with the same issue. Black people who can aren't supporting black businesses, namely this one. I'm sure there are some honorable black businesses out there that won't stoop to having harmful and annoying programs attached to their ads waiting for the unsuspecting websurfer to come along but it's the companies that can afford to place ads on 100s and 1000s of sites that sometimes have these harmful attachments. The bottomline line is business is business and Destee must find a solution to keep this site running. Most here would agree that if this site were no longer active it would leave a sizeable hole in our lives. It goes back to us supporting our on community. Those that can that don't can really need to look inward and ask themselves how would 10 dollars a month drastically alter there life? We talk about making changes well here is our chance.


Peace......


True... but I would say that black people like everyone else will buy or support something that is of interest to them. If a person is selling something that is a mainstream product they should get some return if they are advertising in this community. However, not succeeding in advertising efforts... that's a risk you take period it doesn't matter if you're advertising to the black community or anywhere else.

I would love to see us sustain our own community without the aide of outside advertisment.

But the facts are, many arent and many can't. Should Destee just allow this community to die a slow death. I think not. I don't want to see any odd pop-ups, and an banner would'nt be as intrusive. Maybe the banner wont pull enough revenue to keep the community going, but its better than watching it die, which will happen if enough of us dont support it.

If anyone has another suggestion on how to keep our home going, Please don't hesitate to voice it here.

Destee a month or so ago I sent you an pm about the affiliate program at amazon.com. it's a great way to bring in mad bank without ads other than a little button allowing people to buy books from amazon. If you cannot find that pm I will look it up and repost it. Right now I have to go to class.

luv ya

Destee a month or so ago I sent you an pm about the affiliate program at amazon.com. it's a great way to bring in mad bank without ads other than a little button allowing people to buy books from amazon. If you cannot find that pm I will look it up and repost it. Right now I have to go to class.

luv ya

Sister River ... Everyone ... Thank you!

Did you vote in the poll above Sister River? I didn't see your vote.

I'm sure i still have the information, and we may see those additions to the site. Amazon's affiliate program is advertising, and would fit under the topic of this thread. So if you say yes to it, you're saying yes to advertising?

I realize there are many ways to present advertising opportunities, many advertisers to choose from, etc., but right now, i just wanna know how yall feel about having it here in general.

Once we get past this point, and determine that we want advertising, we can then fine tune things, add select businesses, programs, etc.

Good to see you back in the house Sister.

:heart:

Destee

THANK YOU ALL FAMILY FOR PARTICIPATING IN THIS THREAD !!!

I CAN'T SAY IT ENOUGH !!!!

IT FEELS SO GOOD, NOT TO HAVE TO LEAN TO MY OWN UNDERSTANDING !!!

BUT TO HAVE YOURS TO USE AS WELL !!!

THANK YOU !!! :love:

Keep the votes and opinions coming!

:heart:

Destee

And i can't agree more of how disappointed this has been
overall and RF your right once we open the door we lose
and give power to outsiders i can't say this enough........

Ive been doing a bit of researching with the hopes of getting a idea on the overall costs of operating this site, here is what I came up with:


To host a site like this on a dedicated server (http://www.valueweb.com/dedicated/dedicated-hosting.htm) costs about 70 dollars per month, or around 800.00 annually.

This forum software Vbulletin Boards (as per http://www.vbulletin.com) has a one time license fee of 160.00

The video/voice chat room Flash Chat(as per http://www.tufat.com) has a one time license fee of 10.00

Based on the above information, the bulk of the site costs are possibly in the hosting/server solution and any costs associated with what Sister Destee charges for operating this site, (please don't be offended Queen) but if this isn't the truth, do correct any errors or incorrect data I may have presented.

If all the members I have seen with premium member attached to their name is any indication of the contributors here, this communities health is being mis-diagnosed and may just required some belt tightening or trimming of the costs associated with hosting.

Often times we confuse what we want verses what we need, although I am not privee to the actually costs of the site, these costs are no doubt included and does not represent any hidden costs associated with this site, it is my hope that this will help to shed some light on the gloom and doom and deliver a solution that will make this place a permanent on line institution, as opposed to wondering if it will be here tomorrow.

The solution is in the problem and before everyone jumps all over me lol, please take a moment to read with some understanding these costs as they pertain to maintaining this community's presence without outside interference or advertisements of any type, in reflection I should have voted I'm against advertisements cause its clear, now I am.

I voted though I must say a more accurate choice would have been "It depends on the type of ad." Since an affilliate program could qualify as advertisement I had to vote I am for it. Certain things I would NOT like to see:

Pop up or under ads
Ten banners at the top of every page requiring me to scroll down before I get to Destee.com proper
Anything that forces me to look at it whether I want to or not


I see no reason to object to a simple "Visit our sponsors" link.

Let's say brotha Sek or somebody has a book they want us to check out. He can simply create a link to the page that has the button to amazon. Since they went there looking for the book anyway they are likely to buy it and when they do Destee.com gets paid! :D

I say do what you have to do Queen. I know you're strugglin tryin to keep this place alive and the support just isn't comin in like it should. If we need Advertisements to pay the bills then so be it. I'm jus glad you aint out there in the cyber alley tryin to sell your cyber goodies shoot..lol And if we have to, we can sell Sister NNQueen's old wigs she left layin around here. She don't care nothing about them or she woulda dun got um by now. So do your thang Sister. These bills gotta get paid. I jus don't wanna see no kinky stuff like Penis enlargement pills. Besides, they don't work anyway...lQQkin ..so I heard..lQQkin again..lol :heart:

Ive been doing a bit of researching with the hopes of getting a idea on the overall costs of operating this site, here is what I came up with:


To host a site like this on a dedicated server (http://www.valueweb.com/dedicated/dedicated-hosting.htm) costs about 70 dollars per month, or around 800.00 annually.

This forum software Vbulletin Boards (as per http://www.vbulletin.com) has a one time license fee of 160.00

The video/voice chat room Flash Chat(as per http://www.tufat.com) has a one time license fee of 10.00

Based on the above information, the bulk of the site costs are possibly in the hosting/server solution and any costs associated with what Sister Destee charges for operating this site, (please don't be offended Queen) but if this isn't the truth, do correct any errors or incorrect data I may have presented.

If all the members I have seen with premium member attached to their name is any indication of the contributors here, this communities health is being mis-diagnosed and may just required some belt tightening or trimming of the costs associated with hosting.

Often times we confuse what we want verses what we need, although I am not privee to the actually costs of the site, these costs are no doubt included and does not represent any hidden costs associated with this site, it is my hope that this will help to shed some light on the gloom and doom and deliver a solution that will make this place a permanent on line institution, as opposed to wondering if it will be here tomorrow.

The solution is in the problem and before everyone jumps all over me lol, please take a moment to read with some understanding these costs as they pertain to maintaining this community's presence without outside interference or advertisements of any type, in reflection I should have voted I'm against advertisements cause its clear, now I am.


Family ... this Brother useta be (http://destee.com/forums/showthread.php?t=26229) my friend. For the past few years, he has publicly and privately disparaged me, maligned me, lied on me, tried to destroy me, stalked me, has acted completely obsessed with me (and this community). Not only me, but those who have stood with me as well. He has built an online shrine of me, and i'm sure he'll be adding these words to it, which is why he asked if i had changed anything in my previous post. He will have all versions available. He follows me around on the Internet. It seems like something is mentally wrong with him. Even though he has his own community, he is preoccupied with this one. He unceasingly tries to count our money, what we have, what we're spending, what we're doing, our Members, how many are away, our posts, threads, hits, heartbeats, everything! It's krazee. I have not spoke to this Brother in years, yet he is back over here, doing this same stuff, as though he is trapped in time. Like a pit bull or something, demon possessed, refusing to let go. I do not engage or entertain him. That is what he wants, and my not obliging, seems to be making him krazier. He advocates violence, which doesn't make me feel any more comfortable. I caution everyone to be careful of him. By the time you finish reading this post, he will be banned, again. He probably has 99 names registered here, but he knows as soon as i recognize it as him, he is outta here. I'm talking real live stalker yall. He's my first. To the person that "invited" him here, please leave with him.

If i am wrong, consider this banning collateral damage (http://destee.com/forums/showthread.php?t=37659).

Family ... my Momma (http://destee.com/forums/showthread.php?p=74739) told me, that if you have one person, that you can go to, and say you need $100.00 and they give it to you, without asking a buncha questions, you've got a friend. She said you're blessed if you have just one person like this in your life. Yall know what, i have many! Many of you have treated me with such kindness, trusting me. You have given because you trusted my request, when i said there was a need. I am honored. If a Sister or Brother says they're hungry, you should not have to ask to look into their refridgerator, before deciding to help. If a Sister says she is a Sister, she should not have to pull off her panties, and show you her nakedness, to prove it. There is a such thing as dignity. I am so very honored that you all, those of you who have trusted and been willing to help, did so while allowing me to maintain my dignity.

Thank you Family.

:heart:

Destee

You have been heavy on my heart, so I want to take this time to tell you that you are not alone. I would just like to encourage you to continue to hang in there and be the fighter you are.

That BrownSkinBrotha is just heaping coals on his own head. Instead of this brother keeping it moving he wants to bring unnecessary drama and he don’t even realize that he is making it bad for himself. This brother is just another test, and we all know that life is filled with one test after another, so continue to pass your test with “Flying Colors”

So having said all that, just know that you are not alone, and that you have a sister right here who truly supports your vision and I will do what I can to help bring your vision to pass.

Much Love

One thing for sure Advertisement is not the answer
when they don't get hits then what they remove them and still
we are at stage one and no Funds ...If we can't support our own
who in the world can we support anything else (advertising) here.

Bottom line is we need to drop this and make a heartful change
support it or leave it , with all the talent here and wisdom here we
can come up with our own ideas and ways to give without hitting
the pocket c'mon family i know we are gifted in something why not use
it to support what you love and where you come daily is it hard or do you
really care , how much are you willingly to give while not one of us want
to see us go under but advertising not the way clearly rethink it for a while.

rather than ads all over the place, how about creating a "Destee.Com Marketplace" - a seperate page, or set of pages - ok, an "e-commerce" addition.

on forum pages, there is a link to the marketplace. this could be a banner. in this banner, it's most often just a pointer to the market. sometimes, an advertiser will appear in the banner. whether that banner gets clicked or not, the advertiser pays 5, 10 25, 50 (how much are they paying for 30 seconds of air time?) per minute per viewer of that page. if the marketplace banner is clicked while it is showing an advertiser, that advertiser pays another fee and gets a hit to their "popularity poll" ... which will cost them another fee, of course.

once the marketplace is opened, by anyone, ALL advertisers begin paying 1, 5 or 10 per minute, per viewer, as long as the market is "open". this page could be presented as a browser for generic services and products. any advertisers that appear on this page are paying 5 or 10 dollars per minute, per viewer. this is essentially, a search page. search results could make use of the previously mentioned "popularity poll" to place an advertiser higher in the listing of search results. and, of course, there is a fee paid by the advertiser for this prominent viewpoint. if a viewer decides to click on an advertisers link, then, and only then, will the viewer leave this site headed for the advertiser's website ... for which a healthy small fee will be extracted. and if they buy anything from that advertiser, we collect again.

oh, and way down in a corner on the marketplace page, is a link to "misc" - this is the link to all of the white advertisers that happen to be accessible from destee. of course, all of the previous pay points apply to them as well.

now, maybe the figures above are a bit high - maybe it should only be a few quarters, or dimes, per view per visitor. but if they want to do advertising, they are gonna pay for it! ain't that the whole idea of doing this? ain't no sense in talking about "don't set the fees so high that they won't show up!" wrong!! "all the market will bear!"

but i'm completely against the idea of advertising on the site. yes, i do understand that we need something, and that some of our brothers and sisters are, for whatever reason, reluctant to show support for Ms. Destee's Mighty Fine Efforts by chipping in a measely ten bucks a month ... also, i am aware that this Family WILL CONTINUE, in some kind of fashion even if, heaven forbid, it does all fall apart. the Spirit of Destee will live on. even if that means someone puts together a private mailing list just for premium members so that we can still connect even if the site drops off for maintenance, server crash, server site "melt down" or loss of service from the provider.

The Family Is Worth The Effort!!

ok, so, yeah; our very own Family seems to be somewhat reluctant to toss in the 10 bucks a month that keeps us online. yeah, and, sure; those of us that do support the site, and all the change that destee can spare (and, sometimes, then some) are carrying the load of keeping this site available so that Africans can have a place where we can Be OurSelves, where we can Give Strength, where we can Gain Strength, where we do all sorts of Learning and Teaching and Funning. even though we have to step over and around all these Members of the African Family that, for whatever reason, don't feel compelled to support our Family, i'd still like to suggest that we turn to the African Family for support.

i wonder what would happen if "we" turned to the governments of the African nations around the globe? (never mind, you haters; don't come with the bits about how corrupt, or revolutionary or or or - stop beating us down with all the negative stuff you can find about our Family; everybody else is doing a bang up job of that - white folks do not need your help holding us back!)

reach out to all the African nations in search of, predominately, cultural exchange, seeking to expand, and embrace, the Global African Family. (ain't that what destee.com is about? building the African Family?) in the process, sure; why not offer advertising space for their industries? how about educational, cultural, cooking, dancing, music, poetry, skill building exchanges with Africans all over the globe? get to know the reality behind what we keep getting in the media.

just think what could happen if one African Nation decided to make a monthly donation? and/or if some educational or cultural attache decided it might be worthwhile to engage in some sort of mutually beneficial connection? heck, somebody might even want to toss up a whole new "bigger faster better" server ... or server _farm!_ for destee to run on.

reaching out to all of Africa might very well net us two, three, one, 400 new avenues of some sort of support; there might be some financial support - there is sure to be some cultural support!! and, hey!, we could grow a real taste of what African Earth really is!!

"how does a dream come true, if there aren't any dreams?"

You have been heavy on my heart, so I want to take this time to tell you that you are not alone. I would just like to encourage you to continue to hang in there and be the fighter you are.

That BrownSkinBrotha is just heaping coals on his own head. Instead of this brother keeping it moving he wants to bring unnecessary drama and he don’t even realize that he is making it bad for himself. This brother is just another test, and we all know that life is filled with one test after another, so continue to pass your test with “Flying Colors”

So having said all that, just know that you are not alone, and that you have a sister right here who truly supports your vision and I will do what I can to help bring your vision to pass.

Much Love

Sister Sonnee ... I LOVE YOUUUUUUUUUUUUU ... :love: ... our #1 :dj: (http://destee.com/chat) ... :love:

I do love and appreciate you so much. Whew. Tests. I never did like 'em, but i do thank God and our Ancestors for bringing us through each and every one! We are so blessed here Sister, having each other! Whew! You talk of helping to bring my vision to pass, but Sister, let me tell you ... my vision was manifested long ago. This community has grown way beyond that, with the added vision, love, and Spirit of each of you. This is now our vision ... :love:

Thank you so much for ALLLLLL the love you give Sister Sonnee ... you're da bestestestest! :love:

:heart:

Destee

I'm jus glad you aint out there in the cyber alley tryin to sell your cyber goodies shoot..lol

i tried this, but didn't nobodee wanna b... wait ... is this in PM ... QQ

lol :lol:

Quit talk'n ta me Nita Mae! dadgummit!

oh gosh ... you so krazee! :lol:


And if we have to, we can sell Sister NNQueen's old wigs she left layin around here.

you betta be glad Queenie aint here ... but i will be copy'n and paste'n ... QQ

:heart:

Destee

One thing for sure Advertisement is not the answer
when they don't get hits then what they remove them and still
we are at stage one and no Funds ...If we can't support our own
who in the world can we support anything else (advertising) here.

Bottom line is we need to drop this and make a heartful change
support it or leave it , with all the talent here and wisdom here we
can come up with our own ideas and ways to give without hitting
the pocket c'mon family i know we are gifted in something why not use
it to support what you love and where you come daily is it hard or do you
really care , how much are you willingly to give while not one of us want
to see us go under but advertising not the way clearly rethink it for a while.

Brother $$RICH$$ ... we won't be making any major changes soon, if ever, as it relates to advertising. Nothing has been decided. This thread is really to let the Family know what we're facing, what we're considering, and how they feel about it. It's wonderful that everyone is sharing their votes and thoughts. I consider this discussion a great success, thanks for contributing to it! :love:

I'm still with you though, it's something wrong that we must depend on others, to sustain our home.

It sorta kinda speaks volumes.

:heart:

Destee

ok, so, yeah; our very own Family seems to be somewhat reluctant to toss in the 10 bucks a month that keeps us online. yeah, and, sure; those of us that do support the site, and all the change that destee can spare (and, sometimes, then some) are carrying the load of keeping this site available so that Africans can have a place where we can Be OurSelves, where we can Give Strength, where we can Gain Strength, where we do all sorts of Learning and Teaching and Funning. even though we have to step over and around all these Members of the African Family that, for whatever reason, don't feel compelled to support our Family, i'd still like to suggest that we turn to the African Family for support.

but i'm completely against the idea of advertising on the site. yes, i do understand that we need something, and that some of our brothers and sisters are, for whatever reason, reluctant to show support for Ms. Destee's Mighty Fine Efforts by chipping in a measely ten bucks a month ... also, i am aware that this Family WILL CONTINUE, in some kind of fashion even if, heaven forbid, it does all fall apart. the Spirit of Destee will live on. even if that means someone puts together a private mailing list just for premium members so that we can still connect even if the site drops off for maintenance, server crash, server site "melt down" or loss of service from the provider.

The Family Is Worth The Effort!!

Brother anAfrican ... you're so encouraging ... thank you! :love:

:heart:

Destee

Thank you Brother anAfrican and Everyone with all of the wonderful suggestions and ideas, ways we can integrate the advertising in an acceptable manner. I really like the market place suggestion, and Sister River, amazon.com and other affiliates should (and probably will) be considered if we go this way.

My mind is too full to really follow through all of the finer points of possible advertising solutions and opportunities right now. Which is why i'm not really commenting on them too much. Right now my focus is on if we will have advertising here, but please, keep the suggestions and discussion going ... 'cause if we do, we'll need 'em!

:heart:

Destee

ok, so, yeah; our very own Family seems to be somewhat reluctant to toss in the 10 bucks a month that keeps us online. yeah, and, sure; those of us that do support the site, and all the change that destee can spare (and, sometimes, then some) are carrying the load of keeping this site available so that Africans can have a place where we can Be OurSelves, where we can Give Strength, where we can Gain Strength, where we do all sorts of Learning and Teaching and Funning. even though we have to step over and around all these Members of the African Family that, for whatever reason, don't feel compelled to support our Family, i'd still like to suggest that we turn to the African Family for support.

i wonder what would happen if "we" turned to the governments of the African nations around the globe? (never mind, you haters; don't come with the bits about how corrupt, or revolutionary or or or - stop beating us down with all the negative stuff you can find about our Family; everybody else is doing a bang up job of that - white folks do not need your help holding us back!)

reach out to all the African nations in search of, predominately, cultural exchange, seeking to expand, and embrace, the Global African Family. (ain't that what destee.com is about? building the African Family?) in the process, sure; why not offer advertising space for their industries? how about educational, cultural, cooking, dancing, music, poetry, skill building exchanges with Africans all over the globe? get to know the reality behind what we keep getting in the media.

just think what could happen if one African Nation decided to make a monthly donation? and/or if some educational or cultural attache decided it might be worthwhile to engage in some sort of mutually beneficial connection? heck, somebody might even want to toss up a whole new "bigger faster better" server ... or server _farm!_ for destee to run on.

reaching out to all of Africa might very well net us two, three, one, 400 new avenues of some sort of support; there might be some financial support - there is sure to be some cultural support!! and, hey!, we could grow a real taste of what African Earth really is!!

"how does a dream come true, if there aren't any dreams?"

I tottaly agree with you and am against it also (i mistakenly clicked "im for it")
Why don't we donate rather that wanting to click ads on destee. donating is far eaiser that clicking, i know that one for sure. i also know most of us here spend more that 10 bucks a day. Fast for a day and you can help keep destee.com alive for a whole month. The first question i asked myself was why are there so many members and only a few premiun members. so did my uncle.
Brother anAfrican, that was a wonderful idea of how we can place ads on this site and gain from it. I know for sure the people of Africa and most African governments will be willing to help destee.com stay alive. Infact, this is what they want and i bet some would be even more willing to donate more that 10 bucks a month. This reminds me, sister destee, do you accept payments through western union?. i mean if one wants to be a Premiun member

Brother anAfrican, that was a wonderful idea of how we can place ads on this site and gain from it. I know for sure the people of African and most African governments will be willing to help destee.com stay alive. Infact, this is what they want and i bet some would be even more willing to donate more that 10 bucks a month. (shhh ... on the quiet, ibrahim; why don't you sound out a couple of folks somewhere up the chain and see what sort of weather might be in the offing? if there might be something favorable to be considered, maybe pass on a connect to destee? .... shhhh ... wouldn't want Sista Thug_Momma ta think we was slippin around behind her back while she was thinkin or anything like that ... QQ ... she might whoop on us or sum'pin!)

just seemed as if some of them might; thanks for the inside glimpse, brother ibrahim!
This reminds me, sister destee, do you accept payments through western union?. i mean if one wants to be a Premiun member