GTA

All Springer/NP/PCP Air Gun Discussion General => Air Gun Gate => Topic started by: CharlieDaTuna on July 21, 2010, 11:08:08 PM

Title: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: CharlieDaTuna on July 21, 2010, 11:08:08 PM
Hi all:

First, if you have not read the post below, please click the link

http://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/index.php?topic=560.msg3751#msg3751 (http://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/index.php?topic=560.msg3751#msg3751)

As you can see, there are quite a few members that have already offered to contribute to our cause and for that we are gratefully.

Again, Gene and I would like to thank all of you for your support both moral and financial. I’ll not go into a big “sales” pitch as it’s not needed, especially if you took the time to read the post above. Many of you have stated that you want to contribute to either or both the initial as well ongoing annual expenses to help defray the costs/expenses of Gene and I.


Here are my/our thoughts that I would like to pass on to the membership. There are two stages involved. The initial costs and then the annual costs.  


The first is the initial costs.

Many of you on the link above have stated that you would like to contribute to the initial costs of the big changes, updates, and the cost of out VPS server as well as the outside resources that we hired for the programming and file transfers. That is the biggie of course. That is right about $1250 so far that we have put out of pocket. Keep in mind though that it is a one time expense.

The second is the annual.

The second (annual) expenditure is the annual VPS server fees. That will run between $350 and $400 a year depending on what the final package is.  Gene hasn’t made a final decision on that yet.

How can we do this????

For the initial set up, Gene will open a Paypal account dedicated strictly for the forum with a separate bank account. You can then make a contribution of whatever denomination that you like, whether large or small. Keep in mind that every little bit helps.  If we reach our goal and enough comes in to cover it that would be fantastic. If there is not enough to cover it, then Gene and I will pay for it out of our pockets and be grateful for what has been contributed. If there is an excess, the difference will be used to offset the future annual fee’s.

Now then…. the annual fees.

A great many of you have mentioned the raffle concept and I do think that is a great idea but how to implement it.

How about we have a raffle every six months, say March and September (keeping away from the holidays). The raffles would have a two week opening. Gene would create a special “Raffle Page” that would be used strictly for the raffle that would include the person holding the raffle, the item offered, ticket cost and the name of the person buying the ticket.  The raffles would have a two week opening. The raffle would be by the participating GTA members, that member holding his own raffle. He could raffle off anything from pellets to muzzle brakes to scopes to guns or whatever it is that he wants to part with at the price he wants to set. It wouldn’t even need to be airgun related. He would do his own drawing. After the raffle is concluded, he would then deposit the funds into the Paypal account.

Gene would create a separate special “Contributing Membership” page (dolled up a little of course) on the website with a list on all of the contributing members by name or handle with no dollar amount shown for both the raffle and initial setup fund. It might be nice to have it in two section…those that contributed to the initial setup fund and those for their contributions to the (shall we call it) “General Fund”.

Because we would see on the Raffle Page the names off all that participated in the raffle as well as the contributors to the initial fund through Paypal, all would be included.

Well, there it is in a nutshell…simple, easy and eliminates the need for dues, ads and sales banners or any other way to raise fund from the out side. We are in our own house and it’s the pride of the membership sharing and carrying its own load.

Thank you one and all

Bob
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Rocker1 on July 21, 2010, 11:16:46 PM
JUST LET ME KNOW WHEN AND WHERE I DON'T HAVE A PAYPAL ACCOUNT BUT I QUESS I CAN GET ONE IF NOT I WILL SEND A MONEY ORDER WHATEVER IT TAKES. THANKS DAVID
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: dk1677 on July 21, 2010, 11:17:06 PM
Sounds like a plan Bob!
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Frank on July 21, 2010, 11:31:01 PM
I thought of the PayPal method and here you are doing it. I know you will let us know when set up. You sound very open about all this. Do you have approximate totals for start-up and then annual? I would like to pay a fair share plus.

Could be figured by the registered numbers.....

I shouldn't have said that... Just looked at the Old GTA and notice that there are 132 PAGES of registered persons.. Can't be figured that way. Guess we all do what we can and think best.....
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: crowpopper on July 22, 2010, 12:02:03 AM
well i dont have paypal either but gladly send some money your way send me an addy and ill do so glady
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: ezman604 on July 22, 2010, 12:16:00 AM
Sounds like a plan Bob. Good deal, I'm ready to push the button.  ;D
And I'm getting my plans together for the first raffle. It may or may not be airgun related but should be very acceptable to the members.
Happy Shooting!!!!
Dave
 8)
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: daveshoot on July 22, 2010, 12:48:46 AM
Post the Paypal info when ready. We'll start with the setup fees. I'll find a little bit, I'm sure.

Like everyone I totally appreciate the forum and the wealth of knowledge, as well as the personal efforts.

Not everyone can contribute in these times, and we get a lot of casual passers-by. Shouldn't cost them a cent.

For those who call it home and can afford a little something, this should be a slam dunk.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: CharlieDaTuna on July 22, 2010, 01:03:16 AM
Hi Dave and I agree with you and we certainly do not expect everyone to contribute and don't want anybody to feel bad if they can't or even opt not to. The GTA is all for one and one for all. It's nothing more that a voluntary option for those that wish to but no one is obligated..
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: CharlieDaTuna on July 22, 2010, 01:27:55 AM
fnash... we do not have exact totals yet but it looks like around $1250 +/- for the VPS, trans programming, etc or somewhere around there and depending what package and addons that Gene assembles, between $350 and $400 annual. Our first objective is to wipe out the initial setup. The front end is the killer. The back half should be easy for us to handle.

Regarding mail-in contributions. Didn't think about that... :-[ Good call guys... :) :)
If Gene does not object, we can post an address on the final page setup but that is his decision. He just may want to consider a P.O.Box in Belton rather than his home address. His call. Let's see what he says

I would prefer that Gene handle the funds because he has been handling that side of the forum since the day he and I started the GTA. I just hand him money when he sticks his hand out and says  "it's time".  :) :) :) He is honest, straight up and he is the boss. ;D

Thanks again everybody. A *(&^-of-a bunch of fine people we have on the GTA.

Bob
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Alan on July 22, 2010, 01:49:53 AM
Sounds great.  It would be cool if we could also pay via online banking  / EFT.
Thanks for the hard work and dedication.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: dust on July 22, 2010, 02:17:43 AM
subscribing for paypal address.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: daved on July 22, 2010, 03:26:18 AM
This has been home since I first started playing with these things, so lets see that PayPal address ASAP :-).  And I think I've got a thing or two kicking around that might be worth raffling off, too.  Do we really have to wait until Sept. for the first one?  Later.

Dave
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: CharlieDaTuna on July 22, 2010, 09:51:42 AM
We wouldn't have to Dave but let us get the logistics in place and our ducks in a row first like the pages, Paypal, bank account... that sort of stuff. We, especially Gene,  ;D  have our feet to the fire as it is right now. I think that he is working on the Paypal thing now and I may try to get to the bank today and set up an account specifically for the Paypal deposits. You guys truly amaze me with your enthusiasm. ;D I know the old addage of "strike while the iron is hot" is important but Gene and I have all the confidence in the world of our people and their support.

Bob
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Frank on July 22, 2010, 10:07:55 AM
No need to fret,,  we can make those numbers easy I am sure...
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Yellowstone on July 22, 2010, 12:53:06 PM
Just put up the link and or address where to send the contributions and we'll take care of it from there.
You guys have done enough it time we (the members) do something to help.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Big_Bill on July 22, 2010, 01:04:24 PM
Well Guys and Girls,

At this moment we have 525 members on the GTA !

$1250.00 dollars divided by 525 equals $5.25 each, a small amount, less that a tin of 500 pellets !

And for those that can't afford to donate, don't worry, I am only trying to show that this amount is not insurmountable at all ! 

We can and will make it !!!

I know that the GTA provides me with better entertainment than my cable does, and you know how much cable T.V. is !

600 channels with nothing on them 99,9% of the time ! And only 4 episodes of The American AirGunner on a WEEK !!!!  Now that's a POOR return on your money !

Bill
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: sjfrockerdude on July 22, 2010, 01:15:24 PM
I haven't been here for long but I would love to help keep the GTA up and running, its such a wealth of info and is loaded with helpfull people!
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: bwana on July 22, 2010, 04:54:00 PM
Thanks Bob and Gene! I'll put a check in the mail as soon as you guys get the P.O. box set up.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: bart the fart on July 22, 2010, 05:37:30 PM
count me in ...you guys do a GREAT job and if i can help it would be an honor...i also dont have a paypal but i can send a money order or if you guys set up to run credit cards let us all know....this forum is a huge wealth of knowledge and if we the members can chip in lets us know cheers Bart
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: 454 Big Block Chevy on July 22, 2010, 05:49:23 PM
once the means of payment is finalized, i'm definatly in!
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Jay on July 22, 2010, 06:42:35 PM
We got your back's Mr. Bob & Gene!!An as Big_Bill pointed out above on the break down, we should cover this for you all rather fast. I'd still give a 10 spot for a chance at whatever one of you could drag out from under either Gene's workshop floor or your crawl space.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: 454 Big Block Chevy on July 22, 2010, 06:46:53 PM
oh as would i think all 500 some people on these forums
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: shadow on July 22, 2010, 07:36:24 PM
You know I'm in Gene and Bob. ;D Ed
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: uncle paulie on July 23, 2010, 12:23:50 AM
Count me in.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Alan on July 23, 2010, 12:41:33 AM
What if numbers - showing the power of teamwork.

300 give $5 - $1500
200 give $10 - $2000
100 give $20 - $2000
50 give $50 - $2500
20 give $100 - $2000





Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: airiscool on July 23, 2010, 07:00:03 PM
Paypal or check, just need to know where to send it.

Paul.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Pete on July 24, 2010, 03:14:30 AM
Sounds good to me....get the link working...

Pete
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: deanda on July 24, 2010, 11:07:48 AM
Sounds good to me....get the link working...

Pete
I'm with Pete....lol
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Phil_B on July 24, 2010, 11:15:09 AM
I got a 20 burning a hole in my pocket, where's the link. ;D
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: CharlieDaTuna on July 24, 2010, 11:33:37 AM
Hopefully it will be turned on a little later today.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Remo on July 25, 2010, 09:19:49 AM
Bob,

Don't forget to post the mailing address, for those of us that dislike/distrust paypal.

Eric
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Brutuz on July 25, 2010, 09:26:21 AM
Just PayPalled  ;)
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: dust on July 25, 2010, 11:44:43 AM
I'm missing the link.  Can someone post the paypal address?
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: daveshoot on July 25, 2010, 12:37:39 PM
Menu bar near the top of the page.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: a1Bogey on July 25, 2010, 01:36:47 PM
Mr. Bob,   a raffle sounds interesting as a way to raise funds.   But in some states this may/would be considered gambling. And against the Law.  May want to verify legality before starting a multi-state raffle.   And a 2 week window seems fine but would 3 weeks be better?

As usuall, I am late to the party regarding comments.

Mike.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: CharlieDaTuna on July 25, 2010, 04:42:51 PM
Hi Mike:

It is something that is done all the time, not just on airgun forums but many other forums as well. It is a supportive raffle and not a gambling raffle per se. We have them as fund raisers here on the GTA in the past.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Tim40189 on July 25, 2010, 08:18:48 PM
Bob,

A small price to pay for the help, education, and entertainment received.  Thanks to you and Gene for all that you have done for all of us here on the forum.

Tim
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: deanda on July 26, 2010, 01:15:13 AM
The library is a wealth of info.........well worth a donation.It has saved me more than the donation.

We also have entertainment in the hunters gate........... ;D ;D
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: bigbadwulff on July 26, 2010, 01:58:01 PM
I don't and won't do PayPal but if there is another method, please post it.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: ezman604 on July 26, 2010, 03:22:30 PM
Not to change the theme of the post but to help it, I don't understand the issue some folks have with PayPal. I've had an account since 1998. They are owned by eBay. eBay USE to have a gun section but stopped dealing in guns due to all of the legal headaches. I can surely understand that. They are NOT licensed gun dealers. I'm guessing this gave PayPal the anti-gun stigma. It just ain't so. I've purchased a lot of things from Sportsman's Guide, Bass Prop Shops and Midway for my firearms, including ammo. And purchased everything I've EVER bought from PA, Compasseco and Umarex through PayPal, guns included. I've used PayPal without a single issue.
Just thought I'd throw that out there.
 ;D
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: bigbadwulff on July 26, 2010, 11:50:57 PM
For me it's the password with PayPal. I do have an accnt. Never used it. Tried to and couldn't get the password, then when I did get them to send it, i had to change it and then forget it and have to change it and then it's now 8 characters instead of six and now..............................Can't keep up with it. Never bought a thing off E-Bay. I just don't like it. I'd rather deal with people on DBs and Craigslist. That's just me.
Something about E-Bay I just don't like. Don't like the whole bid process crapola I guess.
Has nothing to do with anti-gun or whatever. Never heard of such.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: johnathon 1 on July 31, 2010, 07:52:44 AM
hey there!! there are members all over the world, and you guys have an encyclopaedia of information with so many topics and insightful information for everyone. i for one dont think its too much for you to set up a pay pal account so that we all can contribute, you have spent countless hours in providing us with the best air gunning forum to date and with a personal level as well, no adds and no bul!!so please dont hesitate im in you got my e-mail gona help with what i can!!! ;)    

Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: larspawn on July 31, 2010, 10:04:30 PM
Hey Bob,

I have always appreciated the job you, Gene and the other mods do to make GTA great.  Always the friendliest forum.  I haven't been spending as much time here since the inconsistent webhosting.  I've got to get more in the GTA swing of things again. 

I saw the request for suppor the other day and made my Paypal donation. Thanks also for posting up more frequently yourself.  I notice you making sure the GTA gets back up to speed.  Nice touch.

Maybe you could do a limited edition GTA trigger for the NPSS.  I need to get one but they aren't "gold" triggers anymore?  How about purple triggers?

Andy Wong aka larspawn
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: Pete on July 31, 2010, 10:12:03 PM
You can send money by PayPal with out being signed up...
i did once before I signed up...
GO...
Send money..top menu bar..
send money online...drop box from "send money"
or
Internationly...same drop box.."gives credit card or bank account optons"

Pete


Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: VINNY on August 01, 2010, 01:47:59 AM
I'm in too.
Title: Re: SUPPORTING AND CONTRIBUTING TO THE GTA FORUMS
Post by: gene_sc on August 01, 2010, 02:10:46 AM
Hey Bob,

I have always appreciated the job you, Gene and the other mods do to make GTA great.  Always the friendliest forum.  I haven't been spending as much time here since the inconsistent webhosting.  I've got to get more in the GTA swing of things again. 

I saw the request for suppor the other day and made my Paypal donation. Thanks also for posting up more frequently yourself.  I notice you making sure the GTA gets back up to speed.  Nice touch.

Maybe you could do a limited edition GTA trigger for the NPSS.  I need to get one but they aren't "gold" triggers anymore?  How about purple triggers?

Andy Wong aka larspawn

Hey Andy that is a great idea..:) I would love to have a nice gold trigger for my  two NPSS babies.. My guess is it will not happen..:( Not enough demand to ramp up production for them. Great thought though.