Sticking to my promise, new space for you all, this one is for you 8pm. I know my blog readers have attempted to change the topic to anything remotely digi, but I feel the need to throw in my 2 cents, as these comments are directed towards me.
By Amanda Dykan -
"I was told that the owner(s) of the blog would receive a visit from their local precinct this week. And, now that I know who that party is, I am seriously thinking of filing for penalties against her- for defamation of character, slander and malicious persecution (to say the least)."
*removed name due to a polite designer request*
"Go for it. Seriously."
Go for it. Seriously? She is being encouraged? I can't figure out my criminal role here, so if someone can enlighten me, I will begin working on my defense strategy. I know I wasn't in Dallas over the weekend shootin' up the town, so if Amanda can let me know when the local PD will be stopping by my house, I will be sure to be home, I wouldn't want to miss their visit. If I have cell block internet access, I will be sure to post an update and give you an address in which you can send bail money. Witch hunt? Scare tactic? I don't know, I don't care, but I am not losing sleep over this because I have done nothing wrong. I truly hope Amanda knows FOR SURE who she has targeted as the blog owner, and I hope that she realizes the burden of proof that I personally did any of the following: defamation of character, slander and malicious persecution falls to her. Good luck.
Here is my topic for discussion:
Does the behavior of a designer, her CT, her supporters, or the company she chooses to "clique" with influence your purchasing decisions? Is it just about the product someone is selling, or does personality, professionalism, marketing strategies influence how you spend your dollar? Feel free to give some specific examples if you wish.
My answer: Absolutely, I can say I never have registered in any of Amanda's stores, nor will I make a purchase from her or anyone that has anything to do with her...ever. *removed name*, you can consider me a "former customer." Likewise for other designers that continually exhibit unprofessional, over-emotional behavior. I may be an anonymous blog owner, and the readers here are anonymous blog posters, but please remember that we are your customers, or not. I personally will support designers that exhibit a passion for what they do, those that act professionally and take pride in their work, make contributions to the digital "community" in a positive way, and have a product that is unique and well executed. I am a picky and discerning buyer, I diligently navigate this relatively small industry, and purposely search out designers that exhibit all of the above qualities.
Please don't mistake this as a threat, it is my opinion. Others may share that opinion or disagree, frankly it makes no difference to me. I will leave this blog open for others to freely express their opinions either with me or against me. Game on.
*Edited 8/6* I have received an email from the designer named above, politely requesting her name be removed.
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237 comments:
1 – 200 of 237 Newer› Newest»First of all, so glad that you are not going to cave to the ridiculously juvenile "scare" tactics that a few really stupid designers have tried to engage in!
Second, I agree with every.single.word. in your post. Are you my long lost twin? :)
Designer behavior, their CTs behavior, and the cliques they hang in ABSOLUTELY influences my digital purchases. Another former Debra Tope customer here.
There's absolutely nothing that a designer could make that would entice me to buy after seeing behavior like that of Amanda Dykan, Barb Speck, Debra Tope, Lindsay Jane, and on and on and on.
Actually, factor out the designer drama queens or the ones with piss-poor attitudes, or rabid CTs, and there's not much of an oversaturated market. At all.
Thanks for not caving to DCR bullies and their ilk!
Geez the week's almost half over and you haven't had that visit yet? And I've been waiting with bated breath to see what the local law enforcement officers had to say! Joking, seriously, just kidding!
I have to agree with 8:50. Everything you said about designer behavior, rabid CT's, etc...definitely influences who I buy from. The first time it happened with a CT member of Nancy Comelab's, heck now I can't even remember her name. But she was rude, nasty, snarky, the whole nine yards. And much and all as I loved Nancy's stuff I just stopped buying it. I figured if Nancy would condone the behavior of one of her CT members than she certainly didn't care much how many customers she lost. There are several others I no longer buy from and never will again.
Actually, factor out the designer drama queens or the ones with piss-poor attitudes, or rabid CTs, and there's not much of an oversaturated market. At all. Love this paragraph! There really aren't that many designers or stores I frequent or buy from any more. I deal with piss-poor attitudes on a daily basis and I sure as hell don't need to spend my hard-earned money on designers that seem to enjoy biting the hand that feeds them.
http://www.digishoptalk.com/boards/showthread.php?t=138371
^^^
Ahh, the "hilight" of the DST birthday celebration! I hope that it's not just the suck-ups who will leave reviews!
yep, yep and yep.
I agree with the blog owner and the previous two posts above me.
Enough of this bad behavior, designers. YOU are selling yourselves when you sell your products (and I don't mean this like prostitution or something) but YOU are a brand. If your customers don't like you, they will not like your designs.
You don't seem to get it. There will be someone else acting badly next week. I am only currently purchasing from 3 stores now. I guess the good thing about bad designer behavior is that I will save more money as I add more to my list of people I won't purchase from.
http://www.digishoptalk.com/boards/showthread.php?t=138371
^^^
Ahh, the "hilight" of the DST birthday celebration! I hope that it's not just the suck-ups who will leave reviews!
+++++
Yeah, thanks for the reminder, Shannon. I left my two cents on those polls about what I think of DST alrighty.
Ha, ha! Yep, I think Amanda, Debra, and their DCR buddies need to brush up on their legal terms before they go marching into court!
I have to agree with the statement from the previous thread that said that the DCR is nothing more than an anonymous blog hiding behind Shannon's skirt.
Designers who come here and bitch about anon blogs have a lot of nerve since that's essentially all that the DCR is. Calling it a *professional business forum to discuss the industry* doesn't change what it really is. It's a place for designers to trash people without the accountability that they demand from others. Hypocrites.
It was VERY interesting to see Debra Tope's DCR posts outted.
Sad, but interesting. I wouldn't have thought she was so two faced. Or foolish.
It was funny to see AfriDigiDiva call her out on her post on the piracy thread, too.
Way to go, blogger. Did they think you'd be quaking in your boots and shut down the blog? Ha!
I definitely have designers I refuse to buy from. This dates back to the final 2peas days when they treated the digi board so poorly. I had a bunch of purchased kits, and I haven't even used those since then. Much less buy anything new from them.
The first designer that caught my attention at DST for being very snotty with her posts was Jodee. Nuff said on that one.
Holly McCaig once responded to a post on bad service in a way that made me nix purchasing anything from her. I don't remember exactly what it was, but something to the effect that she was not sitting at the beck and call of every email, and she would respond in her own good time.
Maya, as mentioned earlier, made rude comments about customers being lazy...in the old days everybody who digiscrapped made their own elements. See ya, Maya.
Barb Speck has posted numerous insulting posts, but I don't count her because I don't care for her products and wouldn't have been a customer anyway.
Hi,
I have nothing against your blog. In fact I am one of the few designers who openly admits to reading it so if the police came calling I would be among the names on the list.
My anger was directed mainly toward a mentality that is easy to fall into on these blogs - that one can say anything, repeat any rumor etc. w/impunity. I really believe that if people realized that their IP's could be subpoenad they would watch their words more carefully and not fall into the trap of slander or libel.
The above is my honest opinion and if I lose customers for expressing it then that is the price I have paid for opening my big mouth on the DCR.
Sincerely,
Debra Tope
It's not slander or libel if it's true. :)
I have nothing against your blog.
^^^^
WTF???? Then why encourage someone to try and shut it down?
The above is my honest opinion and if I lose customers for expressing it then that is the price I have paid for opening my big mouth on the DCR.
Sincerely,
Debra Tope
August 5, 2008 10:23 PM
Sorry to say that although I've always loved your designs I won't be buying anything from you again.
Your public posts at DST have been very different from the ones that were revealed from the DCR.
Designers need to remember that the right to 'vent' goes both ways. DST does not encourage or allow honest opinions, so these blogs exist. Deal with it.
My anger was directed mainly toward a mentality that is easy to fall into on these blogs - that one can say anything, repeat any rumor etc. w/impunity.
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@@ Evidently many designers who frequent the DCR fall into that same mentality. Pot, meet kettle.
Oh GAWD, not that "pot, meet kettle" crap again. Please, find some new material.
I used to blacklist designers but then I stopped. If I like the product I will buy it. Designers are human beings and if they make a smart remark once in a while what do I care? If it's an ongoing pattern or piracy then that's a different story...
For those keeping score on Lindsay Jane she is active on the reveal blog tonight. Exhibit B. Form your own opinion.
Example of a designer I will not buy from because of her over the top CT and self promotion: ScrapShana: See the current grab bag reveals, her CT showed up and posted praise. Not cool. Now that she is on your radar. Watch DST, you will be slapped in your face at every turn, and she is also another "new" designer that was able to get banner space.
So what do you guys think about designers who won't take on a person as a CT because of a comment they've made in a forum?
Should designers be allowed to vent in the DCR like people do here or do you think they should create their own smack blog and do it anonymously?
Should designers be allowed to 'smack' CT members who get on the CT and download the whole store and then run?
I think designers have every right to not take on someone or release them because of their activity in public. If they are sportin' the blinkie, they are are representing.
I would love to hear about the CT's that d/l and run. Fair game in my opinion. Not acceptable behavior. Give it up ;-)
I don't think CT members should be outed for DLing and running.
I applied for a CT after DLing some of the designer's freebies and they were good. After getting on the team and DLing my first kit, I found out that her stuff was total crap! Really, really bad extractions. Seriously, I can't tell you how bad they were. I tried my hardest to clean up that first kit, made a cute LO, and grabbed another kit hoping that the first kit was a fluke. Nope, the second one was just as bad. I decided to DL one more, because I really wanted to give her the benefit of the doubt. And...you guessed it, the third kit was just as bad. I gave up and quit the team before making a second layout. I'm not one for confrontation, so even though it would have helped her to know that her extractions were crap, I didn't tell her. I should have, but I didn't. So I might be known as someone who DLs and runs, but I just couldn't work with her terrible designs. I've learned my lesson, I will NEVER again apply for a CT unless I've purchased and used their products before. But I should not be blacklisted because I couldn't bring myself to tell her that her designs were crap.
Hey if designers had their own smack blog they could out bad customers, naughty CT members and pirates to their heart's content and since they are posting anonymously no one can pin the blame on them - they wouldn't lose business cause no one would know it was them. They could badmouth annoying customers, ugly layouts, the list goes on... And since it would provide the smack community withy more juicy gossip people would eat it up instead of hating them.
Brilliant.
Debra
blah blah blah
thanx 4 "showin your @ss" at the DCR.
Now shut your mouth and take your lumps.
Post #15 from Shannon on this thread:
http://www.digishoptalk.com/boards/showthread.php?t=138371&page=2
Makes me want to poop my spleen.
Well I took it as an invitation :) All three sites got my (very) honest opinion.
I used to blacklist designers but then I stopped. If I like the product I will buy it. Designers are human beings and if they make a smart remark once in a while what do I care? If it's an ongoing pattern or piracy then that's a different story...
August 5, 2008 11:07 PM
---------------
ITA!
I just wanted to address something said in the last blog post, but the comments were turned off before I could.
From last post:
It's very easy to criticize on these blogs until one is made the object of scorn, contempt and mockery.
I have been in this situation, my name got caught up a few times on the smack blogs but I generally just put in my big girl pants and take it in stride. I don't go running around blaming the blogs.
I'm pretty much the same in the DCR as I am in the general Chatter area, not that I go to either very much these days. What you see is what you get. I can't say the same for some other designers though.
maybe she means the other smack blog? i still think she's gone a bit insane, i mean its a LONG jump to that conclusion. its far too easy to get guns anyways so it could have been anybody, and i'm willing to bet big bucks it hasnt got anything to do with scrapping at all. ol
its a big cry for attention i think.
re 11.32's questions:
I think it's fine for designers not to take someone on as a CTM based on their posts. CTs represent the designer in public, so they really SHOULD be careful about who they choose.
Should designers be allowed to vent in the DCR? In a word, no. If they want to vent, they should do it outside of DST. It's just stupid that Shannon has let the DCR degenerate like it has. Shannon represents that forum as a place to discuss BUSINESS. In every business I've ever worked in, complaining about the customers is not considered BUSINESS discussion. It's just not professional.
Should designers be allowed to 'smack' CT members who download and run? Sure. DLing and running is not cool, and it's certainly not professional. Someone who takes a CT position takes on a responsibility. If they can't tell a designer about problems they have with her, then what the hell are they doing on her CT??
As for designers starting a smack blog of their own, go for it. It would be a lot more ethical than using the DCR as a private smack blog.
You know, I've been wracking my brain since I posted yesterday about Nancy Comelab's CT person that was so freaking rude all the time. I finally remembered her name, Claudia. Anyone else remember how she could pop into any thread and make everything about race? She was such a snarky bitch and just seems to have disappeared.
Oh yeah, I quit buying from Amber Clegg because of Claudia.
I'm confused as to why Debra would ask for her name to be removed from this blog when she named the name of an ALLEGED pirate over at DST.
Why is it ok for her to name names when she feels convinced of something, but she doesn't afford others the same courtesy?
I'm confused as to why Debra would ask for her name to be removed from this blog when she named the name of an ALLEGED pirate over at DST.
Why is it ok for her to name names when she feels convinced of something, but she doesn't afford others the same courtesy?
=============
Probably cause Flergs already posted the evidence on her blog for everyone to see - it's pretty cut and dried.
If people post evidence, screenshots etc then people can decide for themselves. Otherwise who knows, it could be someone lying cause they don't like the designer etc.
hmm, not disputing the evidence against Sweetwish. I just think it's very hypocritical of designers like Debra to decry others for speaking out against someone like Amanda, when Amanda herself admitted to paying people late.
You know, I've been wracking my brain since I posted yesterday about Nancy Comelab's CT person that was so freaking rude all the time. I finally remembered her name, Claudia. Anyone else remember how she could pop into any thread and make everything about race? She was such a snarky bitch and just seems to have disappeared.
August 6, 2008 8:45 AM
=============================
OMG...I totally remember this person. I didn't pay any attention to the fact that she was on anyone's CT's, but I thought she was a total bitch, always playing devil's advocate. Is she still around? I haven't been over to DST in awhile now, but when I was, I didn't notice if she was there or not.
Oh yeah, I remember big-mouth Claudia. I didn't stop buying from any designers because of her, but I did always wonder why she didn't get kicked off their teams. She was obnoxious and toxic. Glad she's moved on.
hmm, not disputing the evidence against Sweetwish. I just think it's very hypocritical of designers like Debra to decry others for speaking out against someone like Amanda, when Amanda herself admitted to paying people late.
August 6, 2008 9:39 AM
Ut oh, now the sunshine brigade will be here shouting out how it has nothing to do with Amanda paying late. It has everything to do with the supposed threat that Amanda felt from this blog, and how we all called her a liar, crazy, psychotic, mental...
OMG...I totally remember this person. I didn't pay any attention to the fact that she was on anyone's CT's, but I thought she was a total bitch, always playing devil's advocate. Is she still around? I haven't been over to DST in awhile now, but when I was, I didn't notice if she was there or not.
August 6, 2008 9:47 AM
I haven't seen her at DST in forever, which I guess is why I forgot her name. I don't know if she's still around anywhere but she's not listed as part of Nancy's CT anymore.
Ut oh, now the sunshine brigade will be here shouting out how it has nothing to do with Amanda paying late. It has everything to do with the supposed threat that Amanda felt from this blog, and how we all called her a liar, crazy, psychotic, mental...
=================
I think Amanda paying late or not keeping up the Bud Club is a separate issue from calling her a psycho liar. She is only a psycho liar if you don't believe her house got shot at. So far there is no conclusive evidence to prove or disprove the latter. If her house did get shot at then calling her a psycho liar does sound kinda mean.
10:05 - I agree with you
Umm...no...she's a psycho liar because she stated she got a list of blog IP and email addresses from the police less than 24 hours after the shooting.
Try to keep up.
After watching that season of The Apprentice, Claudia was always "Omarosa" in my head.
Umm...no...she's a psycho liar because she stated she got a list of blog IP and email addresses from the police less than 24 hours after the shooting.
Try to keep up.
August 6, 2008 10:19 AM
Yep that sums it up very nicely!
After watching that season of The Apprentice, Claudia was always "Omarosa" in my head.
August 6, 2008 10:20 AM
OMG you're so right! I never put it together, but they could so be one in the same person!
Umm...no...she's a psycho liar because she stated she got a list of blog IP and email addresses from the police less than 24 hours after the shooting.
=============
Yeah but she said she has close family in the police force - I heard they get very PO'd when a family member gets threatened...
I have a very close friend in our local PD. We've known each other since 1st grade and have remained best friends for the past 45 years. He says NO WAY, it's just not possible. And he further added "I don't give a rat's ass how freaking good a local PD is."
Hmm...I believed her...there are like 80 posts in her thread expressing sympathy/concern...
I am not familiar w/how the police operate but if someone says their house got shot at I would feel sorry for them and be angry at people who make fun of them.
Guess I'm too used to watching shows like CSI and 24 where they can pull stuff up at a moment's notice...
Once again, it's not about believing her or disbelieving her about the shooting. Okay, yes there were maybe 2 remarks about the whole thing where someone called bullshit on the shooting, but for the most part, no one completely disbelieved the shooting. What we all have a hard time believing is that she got her hands on all the info she said she had in less then a 24-hour period.
___________________________________
I am not familiar w/how the police operate but if someone says their house got shot at I would feel sorry for them and be angry at people who make fun of them.
Well if she was bluffing about getting the info then no one has anything to worry about. Even if she wasn't unless you made some kind of threatening remark here there is nothing to worry about. The police could care less about a bunch of women arguing over digital scrapbooking unless one of them commits an actual act of violence.
Oh my, so anything else exciting going on? This whole Amanda thing is getting pretty damned boring. DSTHOF hasn't had the promised visit from any of our Boys in Blue and, I don't know about the rest of you, but I haven't had any of them come knocking on my door yet. So can we move on and stop giving Amanda the attention she so sorely needs?
EXACTLY. Nobody's worried. But that doesn't change the fact that she lied.
Oh yeah, I quit buying from Amber Clegg because of Claudia.
+++++
Same here.
What do you guys think of Mcdonald's for supporting gay rights? Some people are boycotting them because of it...
Nice try at changing the subject, but seriously who gives a rat's ass.
--------
What do you guys think of Mcdonald's for supporting gay rights? Some people are boycotting them because of it...
I was the on suggesting changing the subject, but McDonald's? Who the hell cares what they support. Geez.
Why on earth would Debra Tope want her name removing? Is she ashamed now?
I heart French Ruby. You all know that pirate thread going on at DST about Melissa Herzog? http://www.digishoptalk.com/boards/showthread.php?p=1404196#post1404196
Here's what French Ruby just had to say
I'm really sad that DST has taken a policy decision to shield pirates from exposure, even when there is overwhelming proof made publically available.
Even when the exposed pirate has had every chance to come clean or dispute the accusation and has chosen not to engage in any way.
Even when the pirate just changed her name and started over with a new store, pretending to be someone else.
I think it sends a very bad message for a site as big and as central to the community as DST to have a policy of shielding pirates in this way. I don't think it's good for anyone except pirates. I'm sad that DST has decided to adopt such a policy.
My two cents.
I care if they support grinding up horses and dogs and serving them as hamburgers.
I heart French Ruby.
I've don't think I've ever seen her designs. Where does she sell?
I really liked French Ruby's post also.
I'm interested to see how Shannon responds.
Ruby sells here
http://www.artandscrap.com/store/index.php?act=viewAff&affId=2
I really liked French Ruby's post also.
I'm interested to see how Shannon responds.
August 6, 2008 11:42 AM
-----------------------------------
Me too, I'm glad it's a quiet day here in the office because I'll be watching, this could get interesting before the afternoon's over. Shannon will either lock the thread and stop any further posting on it or she'll give Ruby a public spanking.
Ruby also sells here:
http://www.heritagescrap.com/shop/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=9
And there's a 40% off sale right now at Heritage Scrap.
To see better previews, check her Divine Digital store. I don't know why she has better previews there, but she does:
http://www.divinedigital.com/boutique/manufacturers.php?manufacturerid=128
All I can think of is Shannon doesn't want to get sued. Can't blame her in this lawsuit crazy world.
You'd think she'd ban SweetwishScraps user account though - I thought pirate designers got banned for a period of time...
I was the on suggesting changing the subject, but McDonald's? Who the hell cares what they support. Geez.
==================
Well I tried. But the Digigoss Owner shut down her blog because she got tired of people griping about DST...you can only recycle the same tired old complaints so many times.
Personally, in the grand scheme of things, none of this stuff amounts to a hill of beans.
What's the deal with OneScrappyMom? I mean was there documented proof of piracy? It's confusing cause she posts at DST like nothing happened and it makes me wonder how aware people are of the allegdged piracy...
I think that Shannon doesn't allow the calling out of pirates because of the big huge deal everyone made out of the designers calling out a couple of pirates in the DCR, when there was proof.
You either want to know who the pirates are, or you don't want to know who the pirates are, you can't have it both ways.
OneScrappyMom paid her debt. Action was taken against her with regards to where she was selling, with regards to the DCR, with regards to some of the CT's she was on. I think she knows she screwed up, has said her apologies and has tried to move on. I'm all for people who admit their mistakes, apologize, and accept their consequences trying to move on. I won't burn anyone at the stake if that's the case. It's the ones who won't offer an apology to the person they screwed over (In my opinion, they don't need to do it to the entire community - unless of course we're talking someone who ripped off the entire community), won't admit they screwed up, and/or want to reinvent themselves as someone else that I have an issue with.
Why would she get sued? Melissa hasn't even attempted to deny the accusations, she just ran away and started to pretend to be a new designer. Hard to sue from that position.
I think Shannon just can't bear to have any clouds in the DST sky. Fucking la-la-land.
I think that Shannon doesn't allow the calling out of pirates because of the big huge deal everyone made out of the designers calling out a couple of pirates in the DCR, when there was proof.
=============
That's true - if she banned it at the DCR but allowed it in Chatter it's almost worse because anyone can read Chatter and the 'negative' threads become these huge dramas...
I'm sorry some of you may be tired of speaking out about Amanda but SERIOUSLY people. The woman LIED about getting IPs, she's consistently late in paying her designers and openly admitted it and its okay?
Things are never going to change if all we do is bitch then move on.
OneScrappyMom, a pirate
Sweetwish, a pirate
AfriDigiDiva (for those of you who've been around long enough), a pirate
Michelle Powell, a pirate
Sweetmade, a pirate
ALL these women, welcomed back into the fold of DST and no one says NOTHING. Is everyone afraid of being blackballed from DST for having an opinion?
Everyone complains they want a better DST, yet nothing gets done.
I spoke out, I was removed from the DCR...BIG DEAL..it's not like I dont have access anyway. Especially now with all the leaks.
So do we keep complaining or do we do something? Because truthfully all the complaining is a waste of time if nothing gets fixed.
And Debra Tope, your words will STILL be embedded in (some of) our minds and we will not forget regardless of how many times you ask for your name to be removed.
Well I tried. But the Digigoss Owner shut down her blog because she got tired of people griping about DST...you can only recycle the same tired old complaints so many times.
Personally, in the grand scheme of things, none of this stuff amounts to a hill of beans.
August 6, 2008 12:22 PM
Yes you did try and let me apologize for being snarky. I just figured you were here from the sunshine brigade trying to be sarcastic.
12:42 I agree 100% with what you're saying. So we speak our minds on DST, then what? Having people pissed off at me is a way of life, so I could care less about it, but what is my speaking out publically going to change? You spoke out in the DCR, have you ever voiced your opinion openly in Chatter?
Tell us how to stage a coup at DST, a successful coup, somebody decide to be the ring leader. Yes something needs to be done. Things need to stop being swept under the rug. But can someone find a way to successfully make that happen? Seriously?
1:26
If everyone who has an opinion begins to voice it to the people who NEED to hear it, then things will begin to change.
It doesnt have to be hostile, it doesnt have to turn into a circus, it all can start with simply speaking your mind and not buying into all the crap that the diehard DST'ers want you to buy into. That's all i'm suggesting.
The consistent bitching and moaning helps none of us except for maybe stress relief that others can agree with what we are experiencing/have the same thoughts.
The question is do we want stress relief or do we want change?
We want change, and it's more than time for change. The DST of today is not what we were promised at the beginning. The DST of today is a bed of sunshine and roses. It was supposed to be a place we could freely agree to disagree. It was to be a place where we could ask for help and actually get that help. It was supposed to be a place where you could come and ask for digi supplies and actually get what you asked for, not 10 pages of stuff you could care less about. It was supposed to be a place to exchange thoughts and ideas. Thoughts and ideas that didn't have to be the same, but thoughts and ideas that wouldn't be deleted and/or ignored. Now if your thoughts and ideas are different than the powers that be, well you cease to exist or, worse, your chastised, ignored, or publically spanked.
So go form a new forum. The thing is you will have deal with all the crap Shannon deals with - everyone fighting and whining because they don't get their way. Then you have to figure out a way to make money off the forum since babysitting all the gripers will suck up so much of your time.
Personally I would never want that kind of job.
I spoke out, I was removed from the DCR...BIG DEAL..it's not like I dont have access anyway. Especially now with all the leaks.
================
OK, so who got removed from the DCR?
All I can think of is Naughty Pimptress (or maybe they never let her in).
You only get removed from the DCR if you don't sell any more or for piracy so I'm kinda wondering why you are here pirate bashing. Were you removed because Shannon didn't like your opinion or what?
Everyone cannot have an opinion at DST, because either the Sunshine brigade comes along OR those of you on this blog come along and discuss the opinions held in Chatter.
While it doesn't appear to really affect scrappers, designers are affected as it appears people here will not buy from such and such designer if they don't agree with what is said.
Am I the only one that notices the hypocrisy of complaining that YOU cannot have opinions at DST while at the same time many, many designers have been flamed here and lost customers for stating their opinions at DST?
(I'm not talking Lindsey Jane or Debra right now, I'm talking overall and in general based upon observations I have made over the past year)
Thoughts?
I want to add, basically what I think is hypocritical is the "Let me say my opinion without being judged on it, but if you state your opinion and you are a designer I will judge you on it." attitude there seems to be.
I am ALL FOR everyone being able to state their opinions at DST and elsewhere. The keyword there is everyone.
Thoughts?
August 6, 2008 1:47 PM
I have never stopped buying from any designer because they have an opinion different from mine or because they've had the nerve to speak their mind. I have stopped buying from designers, like Lindsay Jane, because of the rude manner in which she treated 2 people in that last thread. I have stopped buying from designers who condone and allow rude and condescending behavior from their CT members. There's a huge difference in speaking your mind/stating your opinion then there is just being downright rude and nasty.
We should all have the right to speak our minds, voice our own opinions, designers and scrappers alike. But we should all be mature enough to do it respectfully and thoughtfully. But then again that would only happen in a perfect world, and we all that doesn't and never will exist.
of course my last sentence should read "and we all that doesn't and never will exist."
1:57 I agree completely, unfortunately it seems many people here and at previous blogs have stated they stopped buying from certain designers due to that person's opinion.
I also will not buy from Lindsey Jane and the CTer Claudia caused me to not want to purchase from her designers so I completely understand that point.
Ok I'm only going to giggle a bit about your edit without the edit (and I mean that in an entirely non-making fun of you way).
2:00, you're right, I have seen people say they won't buy from designers because of differing opinions. I hope that I never become that small minded.
LMAO infinite, I'm just going to chalk that non-edit of my edit up to the fact that I only had time for one cup of coffee today! Boy am I'm glad I'm anon!
1.41 said: So go form a new forum.
OK, give me til the weekend. Seriously.
1:46 are you Shannon herself? Because if not, please do not profess to know every single person that was removed from the DCR and WHY they were removed.
Seriously
1:46 are you Shannon herself? Because if not, please do not profess to know every single person that was removed from the DCR and WHY they were removed.
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All I know is the policy states removal is for piracy or not selling any more. So I am wondering what your deal is.
I want to add, basically what I think is hypocritical is the "Let me say my opinion without being judged on it, but if you state your opinion and you are a designer I will judge you on it." attitude there seems to be.
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Examples?
2:00, you're right, I have seen people say they won't buy from designers because of differing opinions. I hope that I never become that small minded.
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I don't care if designers have differing opinions. If they are conducting in a professional manner, they have a right to assert their opinion. It is the BAD attitudes that I don't like. It's the snarkiness and snotty, defensive comments that are turning me off to people. I am not going to support those people and if that makes me small minded, then so be it.
Yeah but I've seen designers labeled 'snarky' and it looks to me like they were just having a bad day or responding to a verbal attack. The behavior has to be repeated for them to really turn me off.
I mean people come here to say all sorts of negative snarky things - probably a lot of designers do it to but when you say it under your own name instead of anonymously it's perceived totally differently.
If a designer comes here and says snarky stuff she's one of the crowd. If she says it in chatter she's boycotted.
I also think smack blogs can suppress free speech in a way. If people know their comments will be posted on smack blogs for others to ridicule and pick apart, they are going to be more likely to post fako sunshine comments and less likely to say how they really feel.
So the anonymous commenters can say pretty much whatever they want but those who have the guts to say things under their own names get targeted. To me this is a bunch of hypocritical BS.
I mean if people weren't afraid of how their comments altered how people see them they would all post here under their own name. Isn't having a public and anonymous personal sort of a form of hypocrisy?
Just sayin'
And Shannon speaks on the piracy thread
http://www.digishoptalk.com/boards/showthread.php?p=1404440#post1404440
DST has not taken a policy to shield pirates. We're shielding ourselves from legal repercussions and stress and we're shielding the community from the incessant witch-hunt mentality and drama. The witch-hunt mentality has been a problem mostly in the designer forum and people were not following the very specific guidelines required to discuss such serious accusations. So we had to apply this new rule and what rules we apply to one forum, we must apply to all forums.
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That role would be filled by blogs like this. Problem is if someone makes a false accusation cause they have it in for someone, the accused is pretty much up a creek.
Nice of Shannon to give us her blessing. Domain is registered, software is bought and awaiting installation, hosting is paid for (a year in advance). If all goes to plan, 'somewhere else' will be live this weekend.
Nice of Shannon to give us her blessing. Domain is registered, software is bought and awaiting installation, hosting is paid for (a year in advance). If all goes to plan, 'somewhere else' will be live this weekend.
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Cool, I hope you have better luck than Shannon
2:26 I am a nobody. I run a small scrap shop with a limited customer base and i'm happy with that. Who I am is so unimportant in the grand scheme of things. My "deal" as you so eloquently put it, is that I want a better place for everyone to enjoy. My "deal" is that not everything is as bright and shiny at DST as most would make it out to be and things DO happen that should make a lot of people ashamed of what they do behind closed doors.
My point was, all the complaining in the world is going to do nothing. If none of us do anything, nothing will be done.
2:10 I wish you much luck with the new forum. I've ran a huge online community before (non-scrap related) and it's not an easy task but it can be done and it CAN be done successfully. I wish I had the time to offer my help but I do truly wish you the best. Thank you for stepping up.
I have never stopped buying from any designer because they have an opinion different from mine or because they've had the nerve to speak their mind. I have stopped buying from designers, like Lindsay Jane, because of the rude manner in which she treated 2 people in that last thread. I have stopped buying from designers who condone and allow rude and condescending behavior from their CT members. There's a huge difference in speaking your mind/stating your opinion then there is just being downright rude and nasty.
My feelings exactly!
OneScrappyMom, a pirate
Sweetwish, a pirate
AfriDigiDiva (for those of you who've been around long enough), a pirate
Michelle Powell, a pirate
Sweetmade, a pirate
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In OSM's defense, she admitted her wrong-doing. None of these other women have. And no I'm not her.
I have seen Michelle Powell accused several times on these boards, but I've never seen exactly what the accusation is, or what she supposedly pirated... what is it?
*disclaimer* I'm not saying she DID and I'm not saying she DID NOT. I just don't know what piracy people are referring to with her. Has anything been proven?
**disclaimer 2** you did notice I said "supposedly" right? Or do I need to say "allegedly"?
***disclaimer 3*** When clarifying between "supposedly" and "allegedly" I am not making reference to any specific person in any specific post at DST or elsewhere.
****disclaimer 4**** Oh hell, I forgot what I was going to say here. oh well...
I can corroborate, but very loosely. Michelle Powell is old news, she was caught pirating and proof was shown. I dont remember the specifics of each act of piracy, just the names of the pirates (i.e. onescrappymom, sweetmade, sweetwish, etc). Sorry I cant be of more help.
I do know that the reason Michelle keeps getting slapped about it is because she's always coming up with new information about this "so called" pirate and that "so called" pirate. How can she be getting SO MUCH information about pirates if she's not still one herself. She must be privy to something.
My "deal" as you so eloquently put it, is that I want a better place for everyone to enjoy. My "deal" is that not everything is as bright and shiny at DST as most would make it out to be and things DO happen that should make a lot of people ashamed of what they do behind closed doors.
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Negativity is bad for business. I can't blame Shannon for wanting to maintain a positive tone on the forums. After all, she is running a business, not a therapy group for disgruntled scrappers and designers. I think one mistake she made was to allow the DCR to become a forum for dispute resolution, a decision that ultimately backfired.
The only shameful thing I can think of re: the DCR is the store owners who shared info of suspected pirates but what goes on in smack blogs isn't necessarily any better and it's far less regulated.
I just don't get all the rage toward DST. It's a business. As such it isn't 'fair' - no business is.
Whoever is starting up a forum, hey all power to you. I think when there are enough people unhappy with a site the best thing to do is start a new one.
Which is exactly why Shannon started DST - digi scrappers were unhappy with 2peas.
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I think when there are enough people unhappy with a site the best thing to do is start a new one.
Yeah people HATED 2 Peas but 2 Peas didn't change so they booked.
2 Peas decided the way they wanted to run their forums was more important than appeasing the people who hung out on them...maybe they figured those people were too busy yakking and not buying so who knows...
Im sorry i've been silent for quite some time about this issue...but I cant anymore.
The ONLY shameful thing you can think of (about DST) is regarding the sharing of customer information?
*************REALLY?**************
What about how new designers are treated shabbily?
What about the "blackballed" list?
What about only certain designers being given perks/allowances?
What about the secret little group that is in place RIGHT NOW because of the law and order thread being shut down?
COME ON! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!(not shouting - just astonished).
Get your heads out of the sand.
What about how new designers are treated shabbily?
- Such as? I've seen a lot of threads w/advice and assistance to newbies lately.
- This is a highly saturated competetive field. Shannon's not in business to train/mentor new designers, nor are other scrapbook designers. It's something you do if you like to help others but not an obligation.
What about the "blackballed" list?
- What blackballed list? I've honestly never seen one.
What about only certain designers being given perks/allowances?
- I don't waste my money on DST ads so it's not my concern. Like I said this is a business and Shannon has a right to make business decisions as she sees fit.
What about the secret little group that is in place RIGHT NOW because of the law and order thread being shut down?
Beats me. Never heard of it. If there is such a thing I wasn't invited. I can't imagine how it benefits Shannon to have a 'secret' anti-piracy group when her income is generated off memberships - it just doesn't make sense for her to give a whit.
COME ON! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!(not shouting - just astonished).
- Do you have PROOF of a 'secret' forum and 'blackball' list or are you just feeding off conspiracy theories drummed up on smack blogs.
- It seems to me like a lot of the outrage hinges on the faulty assertion that Shannon is some sort of glorified mom who is obligated to be 'fair' to all her kids. I know of no other business of whom these expectations are laid. The bottom line of any business is to stay profitable by giving customers what they want, not being 'fair'.
spin all you want 4:53 is right and many of us have seen different aspects of what was said
Go ahead and keep excusing shannon's unprofessionalisms, when it comes back to bite you in the ass dont come back here bitchin'
Michelle defended Cherrie Webb when she stole from designers. Cherrie then became Afridigidiva and started selling her "designs". Michelle then covered Echo's back when she was caught using other designers work. Echo posted on her blog that it was an "innocent mistake". Echo was removed from the store for a couple of days and then reappeared. Did they think people wouldn't notice?
Michelle and Afri appeared to be rather tight. Afri was selling at KutnKudly one day and gone the next. Anyone know what the story is?
Shannon created a safe haven for designers to misbehave. When the secret was let out with devastating consequences (otherwise known as "the shit hitting the fan") Shannon ducked for cover by citing ignorance "she didnt know anything about it". Does that scream "business professional" to you? Shes the one that opened the Law and Order secret forum in the first place for balls sake.
If she cares so much about her "bottom line" dont you think any SMART businessperson would "mind their shop"?
Yes, you are correct. She does reserve the right to run her business as she sees fit, regardless of how corrupt and twisted it is.
Your nose is looking a little brown by the way. I wonder what perks you're getting.
Shes the one that opened the Law and Order secret forum in the first place for balls sake.
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I remember when that forum was opened - people were sick of copying accusations and pirate threads in the general forum because it was depressing. So people came up w/the idea of putting those kinds of threads in their own forum and Shannon went for it.
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Your nose is looking a little brown by the way. I wonder what perks you're getting.
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For $10 I get to advertise in new products. Even if I didn't pay that I could post new products for free. To be honest that's about it. I am not interested in being one of Shannon's 'special people', whatever that is.
See you want everyone to be able speak freely but if I don't post along the 'approved' lines (ie bashing Shannon/DST/Amanda Dykan/Lindsay Jane) then the smack blog thought police go to work reminding me of my political incorrectness. Or insinuating that I am getting some sort of special favors, am a member of the 'sunshine squad' (what the hell is it anyway?) yada yada yada...
Until someone kicks me out of here I will continue to post my honest and frank opinion.
I'm still waiting to here more about the blackball list and super secret forum BTW. If you make an allegation at least back it up with some evidence...
You know, the DCR started with good intentions. For the first year, it was exactly as stated, a place for designers to share resources. It was just like chatter, but with boring designer stuff - boring for non designers that is.
Both went down hill as the numbers increased. This is just the way it goes, everywhere, in all forums and groups. Some of the divas, in both the DCR and general chatter, started throwing hissies and their weight around and the crap hit the fan.
I'm so over what people think happens or happened in the DCR. Is it a habit for some to keep making up crap about groups they don't belong too? If it makes you that unhappy, go form your own group or forum. It doesn't do any good.
DST started as a good place to hang too. It wasn't started as a business. This is a copy and past from my earlier post about DST The DST of today is not what we were promised at the beginning. The DST of today is a bed of sunshine and roses. It was supposed to be a place we could freely agree to disagree. It was to be a place where we could ask for help and actually get that help. It was supposed to be a place where you could come and ask for digi supplies and actually get what you asked for, not 10 pages of stuff you could care less about. It was supposed to be a place to exchange thoughts and ideas. Thoughts and ideas that didn't have to be the same, but thoughts and ideas that wouldn't be deleted and/or ignored.
This is what DST was SUPPOSED to be. Yes I realize it takes money to maintain a site, yes I know that means advertising, but it's gone way overboard.
Do you really think someone is going to risk exposing themselves just to satisfy your curiosities?
You explained that you are not one of shannons "special people" so what makes you think that you would be privy to knowing what undercover dealings are going on? I mean really.
My personal belief is that if enough people are alluding to something, that "something" may just have merit.
Furthermore I personally do not see anyone here telling you that you have no right to your opinion yet you choose to mock others for having one of their own.
Whats good for the goose and all.
Welcome to the boards chicas. :wink: You may now speak freely.
This was one of Shannon's very post at DST, two years ago. Does it still hold true today?
ITA w/ 1:57. When I decide not to buy from a designer, it's not simply due to a differing opinion. It's more about the way they treat people, or bad customer service, or they're dishhonest, etc. A Lindsay Jane type of designer, or Ashley Olsen, etc.
Well let me balance my remarks for a moment.
DST was founded so people could speak freely about digi products. This still holds true and now there is a backlash because the promotionalism of shopping has gone overboard. I detest pimping. Always have. Always will.
I really wish you could speak more critically at DST but everyone there seems so emotionally fragile as if any disagreement throws them into an emotional tizzy, followed by group reassurances and hugs. You can make a pointed, accurate remark about a designer without being called a meanie and risking punishment by rabid CT's. There are a lot of folks who cannot debate an issue without taking disagreement as a personal attack.
On the other hand, designers that dare to voice unpopular opinions get smacked here. People in chatter willing to say something controversial get smacked too for being b*tches. So I'm kind of confused about what people really want here.
7:04 this is not directed at "you" - it's just a response to your post :)
You can run a forum as large as DST's including a gallery for as low as 15.00 a month.
If you charge $5.00 a month per banner rotation advertising (that's IT just banner rotation advertising), that would WELL cover any charges for the site as well as cover your time and efforts to keep it up and running WITHOUT being a greedy person. $5.00 a month is not ridiculous to spend AND the banner rotation would keep all the adverts OFF the boards. I'd do away with blinkies altogether. DST is starting to look like the vegas strip without the opportunity to hit the jackpot.
Furthermore if shannon REALLY wanted to be instrumental in actually helping people there are things she could do to generate business for the site and not disrupt the day to day goings on at the forum.
I'm poster 3:03pm (the second one) and again, i've run a huge network. It's work, yes, i'm not denying that BUT it can be done at minimal cost and it can be successful for EVERYONE.
LOL maybe i'll MAKE the time and do it my damn self. LOL
uhm..wait..dont quote me on that :)
nobI'm sure almost everyone would agree it's not true today.
But what I've come to realize over the past 2 years is that Shannon was part of a big clique right from the get-go. The Gina M. gang most especially. She was on more than one CT. There was definitely an exclusive, inner circle right from moment one.
In the beginning, Shannon and the clique-ish ones were a lot more friendly. Heck yeah, they wanted members and they wanted traffic to their site!
I also think that the site has kind of morphed into something that's almost at cross purposes. It's always been touted as a great place for SCRAPPERS. But in reality, Shannon is all about the advertisers (DESIGNERS). Yeah, the site has to make money, but I really think Shannon has let the competetive advertising get too out of control.
With as large as the digi community has become, I just wonder at how much longer the 'all-inclusive' digital site concept can go on. I think DST's got the niche on being the go-to digi site for advertising and marketing, but I definitely think there's a need in digi for some smaller, friendlier communites that aren't attached to a store.
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Welcome to the boards chicas. :wink: You may now speak freely.
This was one of Shannon's very post at DST, two years ago. Does it still hold true today?
August 6, 2008 7:10 PM
I generally don't mind CTs sporting their designers blinkies, what annoys me is all those 'fan of' blinkies and 'I guested for' blinkies. Who the frick cares?
Maybe a change of blinkie regulation, instead of three lines of four, how about making it one line of four, with two lines of text.
I think that would clear things up considerably!
I also think it's funny that most everyone smacks down on Shannon not allowing free speech, which strictly isn't true. Sure, she comes down sometimes but most of the time, the worst of it comes from the so called Sunshine Brigade.
"I think DST's got the niche on being the go-to digi site for advertising and marketing"
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Not from what i've been hearing from many who've purchased advertising from DST. They claim it's not worth the money.
Dang, what's up with blogger today?
I also think it's funny that most everyone smacks down on Shannon not allowing free speech, which strictly isn't true. Sure, she comes down sometimes but most of the time, the worst of it comes from the so called Sunshine Brigade.
August 6, 2008 7:39 PM
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meh. Yes and no. But Shannon doesn't ever come down on the Sunshine Brigade. At least not that I can remember. The only smiley-coated slaps I see her handing out are at the ones who disagree with either her or The Sunshine Brigade.
Can someone please tell me what the 'Sunshine Brigade is?' People accuse me of being that if I post anything positive sounding and I have no idea what they are talking about.
I think a forum run by some older more mature folk who are out of the '20 something wanna be trendy and with the in crowd OMG have you seen Designer X fan blinkie hoarding set' would be a welcome change. I hated high school and I don't wish to go back there but that's what DST can feel like. To be honest a lot of designers don't like going there because the constant fawning over Jofia and the other 10 popular designers whose blinkies are plastered everywhere and who everyone blabbers about gets to be a real downer.
I don't even know if I should invite people responding to those CT threads as they all seem to want a spot with the same designers and the rest of us feel invisible.
From what I've seen, a lot of the fawning and rubbish that goes on is done by women in their early 30s. Maturity has nothing to do with age, especially emotional maturity. I know a 15 year old that has far more maturity and common sense than a 33 year old that I know.
10:07 amen sister
use barb speck for example
lol
Barb Speck is funny - I like people who are opinionated. It's people that are fako and smarmy all the time that bother me more...
So no on has any proof or evidence that Michelle Powell ever actually pirated anything, right? She's been accused over and over of piracy because she stood up for ADD and another friend who, it seems, made a mistake and apologized for it? (I know ADD never did admit to wrong-doing, and I do know for an absolute fact that she did use another designer's work and claimed it as her own, so standing up for her was not the greatest choice, but it just seems wrong to me to have someone (or several someones) continually accusing Michelle of piracy when there is not a single, documented episode of HER actually pirating anything. (I'm sure I'm not being PC here, but oh well!)
Some really good ideas for the new forum policies, thanks, I have written them all down. It sounds like we're on the same wavelength, by and large.
Proof against michelle powell was shown before as the previous poster stated. Why someone would hold onto it I have no idea??
I dont blame you for choosing not to believe what you havent seen, but on the flipside, for those who have seen the proof, I think they have every right to voice their disgust with her.
just my 2 pennies
Proof against michelle powell was shown before as the previous poster stated. Why someone would hold onto it I have no idea??
What was the proof? No one seems to have any idea what the original act of "piracy" was. IF indeed Michelle did actually pirate something, then someone would know the exact, verifiable details. But the only reply I've gotten that spoke about anything that Michelle did was "she was caught pirating and proof was shown. I dont remember the specifics".
I do remember when all the accusations have been made, and I don't remember ever seeing any details or any proof of anything Michelle did. I think she just got lumped in with the rest because she stood up for ADD (which, again, I think was not the wisest thing to do, but I can see how a friendship could cloud her judgment on that issue.)
Some really good ideas for the new forum policies, thanks, I have written them all down. It sounds like we're on the same wavelength, by and large.
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Well I think one issue is you have people on blogs like this (not everyone) whose idea of free is speech is starting fights, spewing negativity and being a drama queen - when you try to reign them in they will turn you into Shannon Jr. I think you just have to be firm.
Best of luck. I wouldn't want to run a forum!
I am all for banning the incessant pimping including the las vegas blinkie scene. My wish would be a place where the individual scrapbooker does not feel as if they have to pour a lot of energy into worshipping, hyping or pimping 'stars', be they designers or layout artists.
I don't really even want to do a 'fan blinkie' for my designs because it's not about me - its about you and your artwork/memories.
12:33, that's refreshing to hear and I sure wish more designers felt that way!
And you're right, if our new board friend allows free speech there are always going to be some who do come in to just start some kind of fight, just because they have nothing better to do. Don't you feel some sadness for these kinds of people? I mean, seriously? Are their own lives that miserable that they have to try and make everyone as miserable as they are? Ugh, sorry, my little soapbox for the day! Unfortunately, it's one of the uglier sides of human nature, thankfully not for all of us!
Yes I think a designer run smack blog would be a nice addition to the variety of smack blogs found in the underground of Digital scrapbooking. Post here and let us know the link.
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Should designers be allowed to vent in the DCR like people do here or do you think they should create their own smack blog and do it anonymously?
what do you think of the huge sale at tdc for 40%? isn't that a bit much of a sale for a large site? that feels so desperate.
I agree that those that offer *frequent* 40-50% off sales seems desperate. When a big shop does it once in awhile, it seems to me like a great shopping opportunity, and I will check it out and pick up the things on my wishlist because it doesn't happen very often.
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what do you think of the huge sale at tdc for 40%? isn't that a bit much of a sale for a large site? that feels so desperate.
No, I think a 40% off sale is a great gift to their customers!
Why must some people put a negative spin on everything!
I'll take a 40% off sale any day.
Exactly! Sales are sales! Damned if you do damned if you don't , someone MUST BITCH!
No sale, prices are too high!
Sales, they must be desperate!
You can't have it both ways.
Bigger stores pass the sales to our everyday customers who shop us. They also have sales to bring in new customers.
Yes I think a designer run smack blog would be a nice addition to the variety of smack blogs found in the underground of Digital scrapbooking. Post here and let us know the link.
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Should designers be allowed to vent in the DCR like people do here or do you think they should create their own smack blog and do it anonymously?
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So let me get this straight...a designer who vents in a semi private forum for other designers is unprofessional, snarky and not worthy of having y'all as customers.
But if they same the same stuff or worse on a public, anonymous smack blog, you'll eat it up?
Ok this is the kind of self righteous hypocrisy that causes these types of blogs to get 0 respect.
What I really think is we can all be snarky and unprofessional and mean but it's easier to call others one it whilst acting as bad or worse ourselves.
August 7, 2008 3:20 PM
WELL SAID!!!
August 7, 2008 1:24 PM
i do not think that is desperate as much as it is a great marketing tool, sales happen every day in every day stores, some stores have clearance sales each month, like target etc. with the economy being so bad right now its a great way to keep the comunity going both for designers and scrappers.
I'm really confused about the idea of a new forum. You see - I don't really see how you can have 'free speech' yet not allow 'pimping'. Because that would require a bunch of rules and DST already has too many rules. I am on a lot of CTs (including a big site CT), but I'm not a 'pimper'. So, one of the things I hate about DST is that I can't start a thread about something that I love, just because I happen to be on the CT. Yet, someone NOT on the team can post just about ANYTHING.
I think the best site would be a site with virtually no rules at all. But, with a group culture in which people stay REAL. No fawning, No fan blinkies, and no public RAKS. Just everyone be honest and real - don't do things to try to 'get' things (either products or CT positions). I know I'm dreaming cause I can't see how we could ever create this type of community.
Also - no promotions or games that foster competition. No Gallery Standouts threads and no featured scrappers. Nothing that makes some people feel like they're better than others. No threads like 'who is your favorite designer' or 'who is your inspiration'. Create an environment in which everyone is important and equal, regardless of scrapping abilities.
Also - make it an expectation up front that if you post in the gallery, then you must be active in the gallery. No praise games will be needed - because the community is full of people who will take ownership of the community and nurture it - making sure that everyone feels welcomed and that no one is ignored.
Is this type of community possible?
Also - no promotions or games that foster competition. No Gallery Standouts threads and no featured scrappers. Nothing that makes some people feel like they're better than others. No threads like 'who is your favorite designer' or 'who is your inspiration'. Create an environment in which everyone is important and equal, regardless of scrapping abilities.
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I think NOT fostering a dynamic of designer/star worship is fundamental. I find the constant pressure to pimp/hype/sport blinkies/fawn to be extremely juvenile and annoying - this is a carryover from paper scrapping where they have creative gurus and star scrappers, contests and stuff and the result is a lot of envy and competition and pressure to show off. I think this type of dynamic leads otherwise sane people to vent their frustrations on smack blogs, esp when they feel left out of the 'in crowd'.
One problem w/an open gallery is you're immediately doing to have CT's doing drop and runs because they are asked to do it by their designer. Drop and run's don't build community and you can see the same layouts elsewhere at DST, MSA, and Scrapartist.
More on the above....
What is it about our consumer culture that trains us to believe that what we buy somehow enhances our value as human beings? I mean think about it...consumer culture trains people to focus a lot of energy on buying stuff and believing that these products are an integral part of one's self image. That is really whacked, as much as I like to shop.
At DST the main motive behind the founding was people WANTED to talk about digishopping and couldn't because of 2 Peas regs. But now it's kind of gone too far and people are sick to death of the constant hype...
If you had an open gallery that didn't allow comment, would it really matter if people did "post and run"s? What do you think about a no comment gallery?
Just one voice, but I LOVE the idea of a no comment gallery! That takes away the ability to turn galleries into a competition for comments. You could always PM a person if you just had to tell them that you loved their LO.
Also love the thought on no public RAKS. DST has totally bastardized the term RAK anyway. RAKS, well REAL RAKS, are NOT advertising or contests. They are just totally RANDOM acts of kindness. If designers are really interested in RANDOM acts of kindness and not shameless self promotion, they'll have no problem with private RAKs, IMO. Private RAKs might also cut down on the loud, screechy beggars and hinting for RAKS on the chatter threads. Those are awful!
Oh my gosh, I would LOVE a no-comment gallery!! I don't put up my layouts to see how many comments I get (though I do, naturally, appreciate it when I do get any), but rather to share ideas, share my page, share a bit of myself, and maybe help someone else come be inspired by something, or get ideas for their own pages. Our pages SHOULD, after all, be for ourselves and our FAMILYs' enjoyment, not a bunch of strangers on the net!
This is great! Every time I read this board I hear you all saying 'wouldn't it be good if...' and it's all things that are on my list for the new site :)
That probably sounds like BS I know, but I hope everyone will be pleased with how it's put together.
I'm just installing the IPB now, CMS is already installed, I don't know if I will have it ready for the scheduled DST downtime tomorrow, but I will try. In any event I hope to get something open for you all to come and play on over the weekend.
Anyone wants to help test, etc send me an email - frenchruby at Gmail!
Oh come on, don't tell me you didn't see that coming ;)
For all of those who want a no comment gallery, why not just turn comments off in your posted LOs, start a trend. You say you want a no comment gallery, but I can guarantee that most of you, if not all of you, have your comments turned on. Kudos to you if you don't. I don't mind having comments, but I would prefer a more European model, where an honest critique can be/is made, so you can grow as a scrapper, if that's what you want to do.
To the designer who said I don't really even want to do a 'fan blinkie' for my designs because it's not about me , I ask, so why do one if you don't want to do one? There's no obligation. I don't have a fan blinkie, I don't even have a CT. I put my money where my mouth is, I have a complete anti pimping policy. Does it work? Yes, I do have people buying my stuff.
Ruby, you so rock. I can't wait for your opening day!!!!
Ruby! You're doing the new MB, yay! And I was excited before I knew who was doing it! Crossing my fingers for tomorrow nite, but hey no pressure!
Woo-Hoo! Rockin' Ruby!! Can we call you that?? LOL!
Hehe, I answer to 'Oi you'.
I am calling it a night as it's 3am here and I will be 'at it' all day trying to get things tidied up and ready to receive visitors, and that just the new board. My house will have to wait a bit longer.
I will try and get it all ready for 8pm PST tomorrow, but it might still be a bit rough. If it's halfway usable by then I'll post the URL here. Otherwise, as soon as it's fit for habitation, over the weekend.
Carry on :)
Cool Ruby. This is exciting! I will sooo be there.
I have a complete anti pimping policy. Does it work? Yes, I do have people buying my stuff.
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ROTFL - I love it!
I have to say though that I love getting comments on my work. I don't have a family so the feedback is part of the enjoyment. I wouldn't want a situation though where you do a praise game to try to get comments and then you end up w/certain people getting 40-70.
As much as I admire the really kick butt art layouts they are pretty much there to sell the designer's product by making you drool.
woot! This is great Ruby-can't wait for opening day.
Oh, to the designer who said something about turning comments off in galleries, I never realized we could do that. I know, I should pay more attention to details! :P
Ya know there seem to be one thing people are missing about this whole "Amanda Shooting" thing.
She lives in Dallas. General information that can be found reading her blog.
Googling "Dallas Police Department" and you will find that you can in fact go to their police department and type in her LAST NAME ot FIRST and LAST name and find out if a police report was filed. I have done this. And there is NO SUCH REPORT. NOT ANYWHERE!!!
So YES she is a psycho liar.
A bullet in the door...yea, we can't buy stickers that look that real. She doesn't know how to use PhotoShop. So um, uea, I think she is full of shit.
She made up a HUGE story, trying to make her case on how bad these blogs are. So let's make up some BS about how some mom from Chicago took a road trip to Dallas and shoot a bullet in her door, and drive home.
Because that is SOOO believable.
I have been smack so bad on these blogs, and I felt anger, and I wanted to do some physical harm to a few bitches. But really, I was just pissed. And I found otherways to get back them. (Waving at DST)
So, yes. She is full of shit.
(Big Wave to the Police who I am sure tracking my IP as I type, making a trip to my house right now)...Wait someone is at the door....brb........
Nope...Just the Pizza Guy.
*Please Excuse the typo's....I forgot to proof read*
I have been planning to open a "no comments" gallery at my shop and was wondering what the reaction would be. Glad to know some are all for it.
She doesn't live in Dallas, you're looking at the wrong police department. Check your facts next time. You could have gone back to the last post where people were discussing this and possibly not looked like a fool.
So glad that an alternative to DST is really gonna happen!
I really wish people would drop the whole Amanda Dykan obsession. If you don't like her, don't shop at her stores. Period.
There's no need to second guess and play amateur detective. After all that's what some designers in the DCR got criticized for so it's kind of hypocritical to smack them then do the same thing here...)
If she was asking for money it would be worth investigating but all she did was share what happened in the DCR, big whoop.
Same w/Lyndsay Jane - if I hear one more self righteous rant about how awful she is I'm gonna puke. I think she got caught off guard and became very defensive. BIG DEAL. If you are that upset about it, don't buy her stuff.
I wish there was an anonymous scrap related blog where we could discuss politics and current events because this scrap gossip is the same old tired recycled crap people talk about over and over.
I love how the "content police" always dictate what people should and shouldnt talk about.
You might wanna bite down really hard for this one...
Freedom of speech exists and there's nothing YOU can do to stop it
I love how the "content police" always dictate what people should and shouldnt talk about.
You might wanna bite down really hard for this one...
Freedom of speech exists and there's nothing YOU can do to stop it
=====================
What's YOUR problem? I just exercised my right to free speech by stating I'm sick of hearing people rag on Amanda Dykan and Lyndsay Jane.
I've run into the content police here plenty of times - they don't like it when you say something positive ROTFLMBO
"What's YOUR problem? I just exercised my right to free speech by stating I'm sick of hearing people rag on Amanda Dykan and Lyndsay Jane."
You can also exercise your right to go away if you don't like what people are talking about. Because we don't have to quit exercising OUR free right to speech just because you're tired of a subject.
Hmph.
And while we're on the topic of Amanda and/or police, has anyone had any visit or phone call from their local Boys-In-Blue this week, as promised by Ms Dykan? Blog-owner? ANYONE? ;)
No visits here.
I wish there was an anonymous scrap related blog where we could discuss politics and current events because this scrap gossip is the same old tired recycled crap people talk about over and over.
August 7, 2008 11:15 PM
___
I can't resist commenting on this...I'm not being rude, it just struck me as funny.
An 'anonymous scrap related blog' where things other than scrap are discussed... would that be a non-scrap blog? Just sayin'. :)
Nope no visits here either.
DSTHOF, any visitors yet? Check in please so we know we don't need to be raising bail money for you!
roflmbo 2:42! That's exactly what I was thinking!
An anonymous SCRAP-related board to discuss politics and current events??? If someone wants to discuss politics and current events then why not go to a politics or current events board? Seems simple enough, and much more polite than bitching at people to shut up about scrap related matters on a scrapping related blog.
As for 11:15 saying anything positive, she needs to look again. Her posts weren't positive, they were bossy and obnoxious. "Just don't buy from them and shut up b/c I'M sick of hearing it" is far from positive.
_______________________
I wish there was an anonymous scrap related blog where we could discuss politics and current events because this scrap gossip is the same old tired recycled crap people talk about over and over.
August 7, 2008 11:15 PM
another HOF reader with no visits from the police yet.
Maybe I can start to breathe easier now,lol! (TIC)
Hey Ruby, I don't know if this is possible, but I'd love to see a separate forum for ISOs and maybe even one just for the pimping stuff.
I know that it would be hard to really do away the pimping or promotion, but maybe if it all had to be done in one place, designers and their CTs might finally learn that they shouldn't keep pushing stuff on people in regular chatter threads. I really think this is why Shannon won't separate SBR and NSBR chatter. But if promotional chatter was confined to one place, people would be able to choose whether or not they wanted to read it.
Well, it's all still up in the air, but my plan is to have the following boards, please feel free to make comments or suggestions :)
Chat/Gossip: A proper chat board for talking general rubbish on
Whining: A board for 'poor me' posts and those who like reading them and giving hugs
Pimping: A board for CTs and other marketeers to plug their stuff, and for people who like their ISOs to get pimped
CT Calls and Applications: A board for people looking for CT spots, and for designers who want to find them
Proscrappers: A board for people making or trying to make a living from scrapping (other than as designers)
Ideas and Inspires: A board for posting ideas and discoveries that help fire up the mojo
Scrapping Help: A board for people who want to ask questions and get advice, and those that want to give it to them
Sales & Specials: A board for listing sales and special offers in digiland (and maybe paperland for the hybrid folks too)
NO Happy Place, no begging, no pimping outside the Pimping forum, no RAK thankyou threads (a PM is quite sufficient).
Let me know if I missed anything (there is more to come on the rest of the site, this is just the boards I'm on about here).
No, no visits from the local PD, should I turn myself in?
I will be out of town next week on business. Wanted to put that out there so I don't get accused of fleeing the state.
New forum...may I suggest unique user names that don't tie people to their personna on other boards? Might be fun to start with a *fresh* identity. Like favorite movie stars, a food, something generic. I was thinking of using Nick Nolte's mug shot for my new avatar. Have a good day...Play nice.
Thanks for checking in DSTHOF, I hope next week is a fun-out-of-town week! And definitely don't turn yourself in, let them come looking for you LOL.
I love all those ideas, and the 'whining' board is brilliant.
This part rocks:
NO Happy Place, no begging, no pimping outside the Pimping forum, no RAK thankyou threads (a PM is quite sufficient).
DSTHOF, glad to hear that you haven't had that knock at your door yet, ha! (TIC)
I love all those ideas, and the 'whining' board is brilliant.
This part rocks:
NO Happy Place, no begging, no pimping outside the Pimping forum, no RAK thankyou threads (a PM is quite sufficient).
I have to agree! Sounds awesome Ruby!
The new board sounds great, Ruby.
I'd like to suggest a photography topic. Not necessary, just came to mind.
I love the idea of no begging, no happy place,etc.
Thanks!
Nobody is going to get a visit from the LOCAL police. This is just another thing Amanda failed to research before she made her web of lies. Local police, no matter what the occasion is, will not be able to subpoena and receive IP addresses, e-mail addresses and anything else she claimed. If indeed anyone would care, it would be the FBI who has jurisdiction, not the local police.
Amanda, Amanda, you are one sorry, deceitful bitch. If you are too stupid to lie you should not do it! Period!
Nobody is going to get a visit from the LOCAL police.
Dammit and I've been anxiously awaiting that visit. Something about a man in uniform, KWIM? Thanks for nothing Amanda, way to burst my bubble!
I haven't chimed in on the whole Amanda thing because 1)I don't know her and don't really care to and 2)I think she's looking for attention and choose not to reward her type of behavior with the attention she craves.
But since this has been going on for more than a week, I would like to point out one thing. Many of you have said that the woman is mentally ill. I don't know if she is or not, but if she is, her emotional state could be really screwed up right now. Why try to push her over the edge? Seriously, isn't it time to just let this go? If she is crazy or having some sort of breakdown, this kind of browbeating isn't going to help her. And you KNOW she's reading this blog, someone who is so obsessed with attention has GOT to be reading to see what people are saying about her. But at the same time, it could be really wearing on her mental state. Why not just leave the woman alone? If she's nuts, she doesn't need all of the negativity, and if she's just looking for attention, you're feeding into it.
Well said 11:39 - we forget so easily that these people are human beings, not monsters.
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Whining: A board for 'poor me' posts and those who like reading them and giving hugs
Pimping: A board for CTs and other marketeers to plug their stuff, and for people who like their ISOs to get pimped
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Love it - might as well call a spade a spade
Why do you feel sorry for Amanda? Not like she didn't bring this upon herself.
Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
I don't feel sorry for her, unless she is mentally ill like so many people have suggested. There is a mental illness that causes people to do anything for attention, I can't remember what it's called right now, possibly histrionic personality disorder. Anyway, yes, she did bring this on herself. But if it was due to an illness, this all could be doing a lot of damage.
It's called Munchausen's Syndrome, but I don't think it's what's up with Amanda. At least I hope not.
I don't think she's faking a disease or psychological trauma to draw attention. She just got carried away with her lies, dug her hole deeper and deeper.
If she does however turn this into a poor me I'm mentally ill plot now it would not surprise me. She's had enough encouragement to do so, and she would probably get away with it.
12:47, Munchausen's Syndrome is when people fake illnesses to get attention. Histrionic Personality Disorder is different.
I'm not saying that's why Amanda did what she did, just setting things straight.
Smack blogs get no respect among designers so if she tried to fake you guys out it wouldn't surprise me.
Maybe she decided to play dirty w/the people slingin mud at her.
Doesn't make her mentally ill. People who inhabit smack blogs aren't exactly the type of respectable, mature compassionate people who garner a lot of respect.
@@ at 1:47
I've seen very few designers that respect ANYONE. And if you think most anyone besides the sycophants care if they are respected by the 'designers' who hang out at the DCR, you are very mistaken.
Maybe she decided to play dirty w/the people slingin mud at her.
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Are you serious??? LOL
If that's so then it backfired big time. Not even Amanda can be that stupid! Think about what you are saying here. LOL!
I've seen very few designers that respect ANYONE. And if you think most anyone besides the sycophants care if they are respected by the 'designers' who hang out at the DCR, you are very mistaken.
====================
I think that statement is very generalized and overblown. There are some designers I've run into who are drama queens, unprofessional, overly emotional etc. but that's what you get when you get people doing something as a cottage business that has almost no overhead and is very easy to gent into. Must of these women would not be able to design if they didn't have an outside job or "DH" to pay the bills.
Maybe she decided to play dirty w/the people slingin mud at her.
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Are you serious??? LOL
If that's so then it backfired big time. Not even Amanda can be that stupid! Think about what you are saying here. LOL!
==========================
Who knows...I am not familiar w/police procedures so I didn't question her statement...but again I didn't really care that much about the situation to take a second look.
The new site is as ready as it is going to be tonight. Only boards and galleries (empty of course) for now, more to come later. Let me know (PM me) if you find anything that is broken or needs attention, but please be aware that it's a work in progress and far from perfect so far.
Feel free to drop by, may be somewhere to hang out while DST is down tonight.
www.scrapnchat.com
Play nice :)
People who inhabit smack blogs aren't exactly the type of respectable, mature compassionate people who garner a lot of respect.
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You just may be surprised at the people who are here. I bet there are a lot of people who are respected when they aren't going anonymous.
There's a wide variety of people here and not all of them type hateful things (although a few people do). Many just come here to express their real opinions about things - something they can't do anywhere else. And some just come here to learn the latest gossip.
And contrary to what many believe, I've seen lots of positive posts on the smack blogs. It's not all negative. For example, there's been some good discussion about what people want in the new community.
There's all types of people here. Don't assume that the people from the smack blogs aren't respectable. I have more respect for some of the people here than I do some of the people at DST and the DCR.
Hey Ruby,
I checked out the new place and it looks like a great start. I have a few questions though.
1. I didn't see the pimping thread. Are we still going to have it?
2. I like the 'poor me' thread, however, it made me wonder what someone does if they have a serious problem (ex. death in the family etc.). Seems a little weird to post about something truly tragic in 'poor me'.
3. What about toots?
4. What about other types of calls such as CT calls or magazine calls?
5. Is there a place to post about challenges on other forums? Would that take place in the 'Inspire' forum?
6. Is everyone going to take on an alternative identity as was suggested? That could be sort of interesting.
These are just some initial thoughts. Thanks for everything. It will really be cool to have a totally open community with absolutely NO store or designer ties. Yet - to have a place where anyone (individual, designer or store) can post about kits, sales, chats etc. Thank you.
Thanks 5.33 :)
1. This is now called 'Rampant Enabling', didn't want to upset the Utah crowd with a prostitution reference LOL
2. This kind of thing, if people really want to post on a public board about it, could go in NSBR I think
3. Toots is a good one, I will add that.
4. This is for scrappers, not designers. Hence people who would like to be considered for a CT can post their stuff in the relevant forum and designers can contact them if they have a spot. Designers already have plenty of opportunity (and more coming, hint) to do their recruiting and other business online, and I don't want to encourage the 'suckup' culture.
Magazine calls etc are dealt with by the Calendars. If people think there is a need I can add a forum as well.
5. I can add a Challenges forum, or Inspire would work.
6. Matter of personal choice, I'm not the rule maker :)
Just read my post back and sorry if I came across as being anti-designer. I'm not, some of my best friends are designers :) But ScrapnChat is about scrapping and chatting, the business side can happen elsewhere. Designers are welcome of course, but they (we) are not the focus of the site.
Hope that's clearer!
But ScrapnChat is about scrapping and chatting, the business side can happen elsewhere. Designers are welcome of course, but they (we) are not the focus of the site.
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I love that!
Chat/Gossip: A proper chat board for talking general rubbish on
Great, love it
Whining: A board for 'poor me' posts and those who like reading them and giving hugs
do we have too?
Pimping: A board for CTs and other marketeers to plug their stuff, and for people who like their ISOs to get pimped
I hate this idea, I really do, it's what annoys me about DST, it's going to get out of hand real quick
CT Calls and Applications: A board for people looking for CT spots, and for designers who want to find them
I guess, but Just Digital Calls already fills this spot
Proscrappers: A board for people making or trying to make a living from scrapping (other than as designers)
I guess, no one I know who has tried, has succeeded, but I guess
Ideas and Inspires: A board for posting ideas and discoveries that help fire up the mojo
this would be great, if people particpate, but they so rarely do. In all forums I've been too, this one always seems to fall flat, I don't know why
Scrapping Help: A board for people who want to ask questions and get advice, and those that want to give
it to them
See answer to above
Sales & Specials: A board for listing sales and special offers in digiland (and maybe paperland for the hybrid folks too)
I guess
I really hate the idea of the toots board, it's the one thing that drive me crazy about DST.
I don't know, a lot of this sounds like what DST started out as, and yet it had to change to accommodate.
Just my two cents.
There's a wide variety of people here and not all of them type hateful things (although a few people do). Many just come here to express their real opinions about things - something they can't do anywhere else. And some just come here to learn the latest gossip.
============
Yes sorry my OP was so one sided. I keep coming back because there can be intelligent discussion. I guess what bums me out is that a lot of people targeted for 'smack' are just people who are willing to be opinionated at DST - it's a shame people feel they can't be 'real' there but yet those who are more outspoken end up getting ragged on.
I really hope that people don't police Ruby's site for people to make fun of. That would really suck.
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ScrapNChat - I detest pimping and I really hate tooting - it sounds like a fart. I guess if you put them in their own forum you can easily avoid them.
Also stuff like "Please Vote for My Uncle Rufus's Online Video Entry" gets annoying...
Yep 1.46, that's the idea. People are going to toot and pimp, at least this way they can be confined to an area others can simply ignore if they want to avoid trawling through it.
I know it's not possible to be all things to all women, and there is always going to be stuff which one person loves and another hates. I am just trying to make it so each can take what they want from the boards and leave the rest. Buffet stylee.
7.42, I hear you. DST had to change to accommodate because they decided to foster relations with the money spenders (designers) and the designers wanted changes. There were also bad (naive would perhaps be a better word) policy decisions made that then forced a more censorial attitude.
I don't blame Shannon for doing it the way she has, and I think by and large she does a good job. ScrapnChat isn't supposed to be a DST-killer, it's just an alternative, and I am sure many people are happy to use more than one board, it's not even a competition.
HOF, I am sorry your blog has been hijacked!
I read here a lot, and I have no reason to be mean, hateful, or spiteful to anybody. But I am an avid scrapper and I have quite a few issues with DST and the decisions that Shannon makes or doesn't make. Can I freely speak my mind on DST? HELL no.
God forbid anybody say anything remotely constructive on that forum. It's all about blowing smoke up the popular girls' asses.
THe GSOs are a total joke too. Same old element vomit every day from the same popular girls pimping each other out. Yawn.
No worries Ruby, I am all about alternatives. I need to work on my links later, I will add you to the list.
I guess I missed something while on vacation.
So Amanda Dyke didnt pay her designers, and someone shot at her?
wtf?!
Somebody please link me, this sounds like a good afternoons read! Where can I find all the details?!
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