Vanity/Time Travel: 11/27/97 - FreeRepublic Contemplates Possible Registration Form

FreeRepublic/Whitewater Forum ^ | 11/27/97 | IncPen

[IncPen]

Possible Registration Form

FreeRepublic
11/27/97 Jim Robinson

Dear FreeRepublic User:

In response to your requests for a registration process as a way to reduce the number of abusive and offensive posts, I am working on a registration form and process. Please read and comment on the "Registration and User Agreement" that follows. If anyone has suggestions on the philosophy, methodolgy or wording of the agreement please post them here.

Thanks, Jim Robinson

P.S. The registration process has not been implemented yet, but you can try out the form as a test if you wish.

Click here to see the form.

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Posted by: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/27/97 13:04:35 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Perfect...Just what I would have written.
From: Brian Mosely (bmosely@hotmail.com)
11/27/97 13:07:00 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Yuh, I'm in. (On form, you might want to use x=password, or -- like myself -- you may have thought better of it in this particular application (at this particular time...)).

Good move, Jim...
From: rich ()
11/27/97 13:13:39 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Excellent idea....beam me up...I mean sign me up.
From: cd jones (10968@utech.net)
11/27/97 13:15:22 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
I started reading your board a couple of weeks ago, and enjoy it very much. I avoid forums that require me to register until I know whether I wish to be a participate.

I am very consevative, and take offense at the attitude of the liberals who simply disrupt, but I do have to wonder if we want to end up talking to ourselves.

There have been some pretty good/factual rebuts to Ash and his friends that would have otherwise not have found there way into the forum.
From: JC Diehl (jcdiehl@prodigy.net)
11/27/97 13:26:40 PST

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To: rich
Looks great jim Sign Me Up Too!
From: jerry (jgoodman@got.net)
11/27/97 13:38:17 PST

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To: JC Diehl
JC, All are free to participate. The only people who will be excluded are those who flagrantly or repeatedly break the simple rules as specified in the User Agreement. My goal for FreeRepublic, however, is and has always been to present the conservative side of the news. The liberal slant gets plenty of exposure in the main stream media.

Liberals and Democrats are free to express their opinions, but I can no longer tolerate posters who are here simply to disrupt the forum.
From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/27/97 13:41:06 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
I would be willing to fill the form out. I read Free Republic everyday and recommend it to my friends. I am not sure restricting the comments is a good idea. It doesn't take long to find out who the disrupters are and what their entent is. Reading a post by Ash just helps me to understand what we are up against.

Seems like we all know the problems that occur on the Prodigy News BB, not only by the hecklers, but by the censors. Not sure whether I would prefer the heclers gone or the censor gone

Ron Vallance
From: Ron Vallance (RVallance@Worldnet.att.com)
11/27/97 13:41:11 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
I, also, think your idea is excellent. What has been going on the last few weeks is totally ridiculous. I have learned alot from all of the intellectual conservatives at this site and would like to continue without reading thru a bunch of garbage. Thanks, Jim!
From: cji (cireland@coastalnet.com)
11/27/97 13:51:35 PST

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To: cd jones
click here
From: test (test)
11/27/97 14:14:10 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
If this will keep people from posting under other peoples names, I am for it. What can you do to keep Deb from cursing and using vulgarities?
From: eschoir ()
11/27/97 14:26:19 PST

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To: eschoir
My people are dealing with Deb.          PRESS HERE
From: Phil V. (pharmer@directcon.net)
11/27/97 14:32:39 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Jim, To you, your friends,family and all the good posters at FR-- Happy Thanksgiving!! On posting regulations, out of respect to you, I'll abide your decision. I don't know if it's possible to have a conservative forum--- unless the most strident advoc ates formed a special think tank deep in Montana's Bitterroots. Sure tom and his other schizoid personalities are obnoxious, but don't all of us deal with harder cases in our every day endeavors?? I am not of tom's liberality or other's pure conservatis m--- i am a populist who drinks many sodas per day. What I hope for is a civil discourse, no matter the opinion. So whatever you choose i hope it's all for the better! Best of Thanksgivings.
From: Harry Pace (hrspow@alltel.net)
11/27/97 14:49:33 PST

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To: Phil V. and Jim
To Jim--I'm game for whatever you decide, and I'm most grateful for the FR.

To Phil--that is so funny--I hope Deb appreciates it, too.
From: Rosalee (katzen@erinet.com)
11/27/97 14:57:30 PST

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To: Rosalee
    ;)
From: Phil V. (pharmer@directcon.net)
11/27/97 15:08:37 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Suggested addendum: Those under the "influence" will be barred during periods of impairment. This rule would pare your member list substantially.
From: Izilly ()
11/27/97 15:26:48 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
i enjoy reading free republic EVERY day & have only commented a few times. i'll be glad to abide by the rules. i'll sign up!!!
From: rlkNtx (rlk401@aol.com)
11/27/97 15:43:12 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Jim;

I think registration is probably the only answer. Unlike some implications made so far, nothing in registration precludes those of opposing views from participating.
I don't follow those long boring threads that are all personal attacks... so I can't say who all the worst offenders are. But I think one or two of those who use the forum for their own personal axe-grinder [including 'conservatives'] are among the oppone nts. Some of us have urged them to stop engaging in these long persoanl arguments, but they have demanded their right to do so.
It is sophomoric to blame billy paul, eschoir, KLC and all the other liberals I can't remember FOR ALL THE DISRUPTION. It takes two to tango.

While I might agree in principle with their politics, I have wearied of their continual participation in harangues.
I think I have as much right to an orderly discussion as they do to rabid dog fights.
From: real name: Bob Ireland
screen name: Bob Ireland
rabid Clinton opponent name: Bob Ireland
nice guy name: Bob Ireland (corsair9@cycat.com)
11/27/97 15:59:43 PST

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To: real name: Bob Ireland
screen name: Bob Ireland
rabid Clinton opponent name: Bob Ireland
nice guy name: Bob Ireland
You've engaged in back-and-forth nonsense chat with you know who, so you don't have any room to talk.
From: Izilly ()
11/27/97 16:07:15 PST

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To: real name: Bob Ireland
screen name: Bob Ireland
rabid Clinton opponent name: Bob Ireland
nice guy name: Bob Ireland
Hello Nice Guy Bob Ireland,

I agree and thank you for your comments.

Here's wishing you a very

Happy Thanksgiving!

From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/27/97 16:09:12 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Thank you most completely.
Same right back at ya'!
From: Bob Ireland ()
11/27/97 16:16:02 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Looks good.

A couple of comments and questions (sort of related):

I've been out of touch for a couple of days. How goes the battle with LA Times (I'm sure I'll find out soon enough)? But, if it gets to the worst, could you not provide a link to the relevant article in the Times (or other paper). That way, they would not have an argument about the loss of advertising revenues. I'm not sure of the relevant law here, but that seems reasonable, if a bit cumbersome.

A long time ago, soneone asked if it was possible to see who was on the site (to see how often the WH was checking in). Did you ever come up with a way? Also, I would be curious if there would be a way to sort postings by poster. It could make the site easier to use when there is a sp ecific note looked for. It might also be a good way to avoid ash, et al, as well as to identify who is posting under different names. Maybe not useful, just an idea.

Great site. You the man.
From: Nick Combs (ncombs@eatonvance.com)
11/27/97 16:17:54 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Make this post a copy of your last one to Bob Ireland, from me to you and yours. Count me in on the registration.
From: rw4site ()
11/27/97 16:20:31 PST

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To: Nick Combs
Hello Nick,

I haven't heard from the LA Times yet. I guess they're letting me have a peaceful Thanksgiving Holiday. They'll probably give me a great Christmas present, NOT!

Thanks for the great ideas for enhancing the forum software. Hopefully, I'll get some time to do a little programming soon.

From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/27/97 16:26:49 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Oh, I forgot to add, I'm really not keeping count, but the government comes into FreeRepublic dozens of times every day. We get hits from the doj, ftc, faa, senate, house, hud, treas, various .mil accounts and many more agencies. Not too may from the eop, (Executive Office of the President) though.
From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/27/97 16:32:30 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Thanks for a great forum Jim. We trust your judgement on
registration completly.
From: Walt Griffith ()
11/27/97 16:34:45 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Looks good.
From: GC from Manhattan ()
11/27/97 16:37:04 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
To quote the bard (Robert Service/Barb Wire Bill): "...Whatever you say -- goes."
From: Ed Millar (ithilen@btc-bci.com)
11/27/97 16:40:59 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Jim, Your form looks to me to be a prudent way of dealing with the disrupters.

One question. Inasmuch as the poster agrees to indemnify FR for any copyright claim of the owner, I wonder if you could tell us what you take "Fair Use" to permit. Is there any special privilege reserved for the copyright holder if they attach "This m aterial may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed" to the original document?

I'm with Harry Pace regarding the characterization of this site as "conservative", but whatever you think it to be, it is one very good place and I support your efforts to protect it from those who have an interest in suppressing the truth.

Thanks for providing this excellent site.
From: Wallaby ()
11/27/97 16:46:04 PST

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To: rw4site
Much obliged, rw. Y'all have a great Thanksgiving!
From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/27/97 16:46:19 PST

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To: Wallaby
It is my understanding that "Fair Use" allows you to use copyrighted materials in an education environment or for discussion purposes, as long as it is not for commercial purposes and it is not detrimental to the owner's revenue from his works. They might also have a claim if you were to post a substantial volume from a single book, publication, or newspaper, etc.

I know that there are legal battles going on right now to try to lay groundrules for posting on the internet, but I'm not aware of any legal precedents set in concrete yet.

Obviously, there is no problem with quoting or discussing news articles.

I wanted to put the disclaimers in, just to make people aware that there are possibilities of violating copyrights and also to remind some of the hot heads that there are libel laws and they do apply to internet posts. It is also illegal (eschoir believes it to be a misdemeanor... I say could be worse) to impersonate someone else online by falsely acquiring his name or computer ID. Also, in case of a legal challenge, you should be aware that disk files (including email files, online posts, account information, etc.) can be subpoenaed... so everyone should be careful of what they post. (I know that everyone is) :)

I am not a lawyer, though. Maybe we have more knowledgeable readers in the group who will weigh in on these issues.

From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/27/97 17:13:47 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
When I first discovered Free Republic, there seemed to be only one dissenter posting, apparently female, whose name was, I believe, ER Rosen, or something like that. If I recall, her posts, while irritating to me, were not vulgar or extremely offensive.

However, some of the people who post now reveal the worst in themselves and bring out the worst in us.

Our discussions regress to name calling and vulgar suggestions about possible uses for parts of the opponents anatomy. This can be mildly entert aining for a while, but I do not believe it adds to the forum.

I would be reluctant to ban those of differing opinions as we differ among ourselves at times, but the disrupters and annoyers ... I wouldn't miss. I would gladly sign your form and thank y ou for the forum.
From: altura (msc529@airmail.net)
11/27/97 17:35:15 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
I agree, whole-heartedly, This site is a gem for serious people to pass around serious thought. Thought control is a major on the agenda of global/elitists and the Mike McCurrys. Look for efforts to control the net!
From: Jim Hyde (hydehim@network-one.com)
11/27/97 17:49:40 PST

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To: Izilly
Guess that means that Janet Reno is out.
From: Kathy (mass55th@aol.com)
11/27/97 17:50:40 PST

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To: Jim
I'll support whatever system you deem necessary, as well as the rule and regulations established.
From: Kathy (mass55th@aol.com)
11/27/97 17:52:53 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
" The FreeRepublic Forum is intended for Conservative users ... political events, conservative principles and the elimination of government corruption and abuse."

I like the broadness and flexibility of that, ESPECIALLY the "elimination of government corruption and abuse".
From: Arthur March (wildfire@halifax.com)
11/27/97 18:32:48 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
I do not like it. If you folks would not be suckered in by the lefties, they'd get bored and go away. Anyone can tell their work, ignore them. Let's not register.
From: Phuong Hoang ()
11/27/97 18:47:53 PST

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To: altura
I go back a little farther than Rosen. Jeff Ryan shook things up for a short time.
From: Izilly ()
11/27/97 18:48:35 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Good.
From: SElliott (maggie2@home.com)
11/27/97 18:52:47 PST

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To: Phuong Hoang
I agree with you. Most of the people who bellyached about the intruders are guilty of having egged them on.
From: Izilly ()
11/27/97 18:56:55 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Registration form and agreement look good.

This is the way to go.
From: JCG (jayceegee@bigfoot.com)
11/27/97 19:01:41 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
But does this mean that people could fill out the registration with phony names, phony email addresses, etc. I hope you're considering verification thru return email and "users" o.k. for receipt. HAPPY HOLIDAYS JIM..YOU CERTAINLY DESERVE OR ADMIRATION, GOOD WISHES, AND FUNDING OF SOME SORT.
From: Mike Cover (vista505@aol.com)
11/27/97 19:03:18 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Of course...just read the form starting with the 1st paragraph. Sorry, ol chap!
From: Mike Cover (vista505@aol.com)
11/27/97 19:06:00 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
100% for it, Jim. And if you need contributions to expand your 100 mb. you mentioned on the server, please bring it up. This is a great forum and does serve a noble purpose!
From: NDCORUP (NDCORUP@aol.com)
11/27/97 19:08:03 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Think registration is the way to go.

The Clintonistas that are addicted to FreeRepublic kind of remind me of a Pekingese running and yapping after an 18 wheeler. We should pay as much attention to Pilly Baul, Rash, and Expire as the truck driver pays to the Pekingese.
From: Hal Tarrance (hatarra@webtv.net)
11/27/97 19:18:38 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
I don't see registration as a problem for dissenters. Ash is almost always civil.
The Saddamite has moments of lucidity. Hell, we argue within our own group half the
time. It occurs to me this is a one-way pact with Jim with the info going no farther.
I'm hard pressed to find fault with it.
From: Boyd ()
11/27/97 19:27:52 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Looks fine to me.

Hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving.
From: The Kid (Sublime2@bellsouth.net)
11/27/97 19:33:01 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Thanks Jim. I'm sorry to see it come to this but it is necessary to maintain the integrity of FR.

Suggestion - Is it possible to put in a feature that allows users to block posts to and from certain (eschoir, KLC, etc.) users? I saw this in WebChat. Looked like a good idea.

BTW - To Jim and all the other posters from whom I've learned so much in the last several months, have a great Thanksgiving!

From: Bob J (BobWPE@aol.com)
11/27/97 19:33:40 PST

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To: Phuong Hoang
Phoung,

During the first eschoir vandalism several months ago, I felt registration was too extreme and that legitimate posters could refrain from schoolyard brawls.

After the second episode, I have come to the conclusion it is not possible. Too many new participants each day who do not know the history or the extent of the possible damage join and amplify the fray.

FR has lost many good posters over this last debacle. I am going to e-mail them and hope they return. Jim is taking the right actins to minsure it doesn't happen again.
From: Bob J (BobWPE@aol.com)
11/27/97 19:38:52 PST

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To: Jim R
I'm in... looks good, when can we start?
From: IncPen (IncPen@aol.com)
11/27/97 19:47:01 PST

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To: Bob J
Thanks, Bob. We have had a great day and hope you have too. And thanks for the suggestion of the exclude features, I'll include them in my plans for the next revision.

From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/27/97 19:52:13 PST

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To: Rosalee
I LOVE IT!!! All the best to you and your family. You are truly a sweetie and a steady hand under fire.
From: Deb ()
11/27/97 20:10:24 PST

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To: Dad
Hey, what if we get a really great tip on Sidney Blumenthal??

Have a fabulosa GOBBLE GOBBLE and thanks for being so strict!!

(can I borrow the keys to car?)
From: Deb ()
11/27/97 20:17:50 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
" Liberals and Democrats are free to express their opinions, but I can no longer tolerate posters
who are here simply to disrupt the forum. "
Sadly convincing.
From: Jim From Anaheim (jaltgem@flash.net)
11/27/97 20:26:01 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Dear Jim,

I have tested your form and read the agreement you posted.If you decide to implement this, I must tell you, this will be the only forum that I WILL register for.I join the others here in offering my thanks to you for providing this forum for discussion. Happy Turkey Day.

By-the-by, my offer still stands if you need it. Toward FREEDOM
From: Neil E. Wright (webmaster@FreedomUSA.org)
11/27/97 20:33:34 PST

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To: Jim
The chief threat seems to me, a primary violator, to be the recurrence of SPAM, whether from me, Doug or Eye-twitching Arthur March. Any provision for SPAM control?
From: eschoir ()
11/27/97 20:35:57 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Jim: Good deal!! I doubt if it will keep the creeps out but at least they will not be able to hide.

They will also be traceable in the event they get nasty and cross the line of legalilty.

I'll be the first to register!!!!!

Regards, ED
From: Ed Schroeder (epsjr@home.com)
11/27/97 20:54:49 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Good - I agree that registration is needed to post on FR. But if someone wants to read FR and not post they should not need to register.
From: Howard Preszler (hrpreszler@earthlink.net)
11/27/97 21:13:12 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
yuk! i would love to be rid of eschior, kcl, billypaul & the like, but registration would restrict impulsive posting from interesting parties, like that journalist from cnn radio, (she was fun to hear from) & the daughter of someone dead in arkansas. re gistration would deter those kind of posters i fear. however i would certainly register. thanks
From: grreta (grrrr)
11/27/97 21:13:15 PST

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To: Jim Robinson

jimrob,

i fully support the registration form, both in content and intent.

akaML

From: drowsysword (bijou@pond.net)
11/27/97 21:15:47 PST

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To: Hal Tarrance
careful now, i have 3 beloved pekingese
From: grreta (grrrr)
11/27/97 21:34:08 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
I'm for the registration. What you have described does not interfere with viewpoint, but can limit foul language and disruption of the forum. Like others, I think there should be a way for a "passerby" to check out the forum, but don't know how to implement that. I'm sure it would complicate matters immensely.
From: Jesse Gilbert ()
11/27/97 22:05:00 PST

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To: grreta and Jesse Gilbert
Hmmmm. Good point. I'll have to work on that one a little. Maybe we could have a special area (or topic) for unregistered guests to post?
From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/27/97 22:55:14 PST

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To: Neil E. Wright
Thank you, Neil, and a Happy Turkey Day to you too.
From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/27/97 23:16:37 PST

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To: Howard Preszler
Howard, you are correct. Registration is required only for posters. Anyone can read the posts.
From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/27/97 23:19:08 PST

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To: eschoir
Spam is in the eye of the beholder.
From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/27/97 23:20:33 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
To: grreta and Jesse Gilbert
Hmmmm. Good point. I'll have to work on that one a little. Maybe we could have a special area (or topic) for unregistered guests to post?
From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)

Kind of like having a shallow end of the pool for people to build their confidence and polish their html & other skills.
On another topic, I don't feel that posters like eschoir, billy paul, ash, etc. should be barred from posting. They have the same right to free speech on this forum as anyone else does, even if we disagree with the message. The difference illuminates t he viewpoints of both sides. Besides, sweet tastes better when you know what sour is.

Hope you had a great Thanksgiving!
From: Ed Millar (ithilien@btc-bci.com)
11/28/97 06:07:11 PST

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To: Jim
Good Idea! Good Form!
From: Catherine (cdm@pgh.nauticom.net)
11/28/97 06:43:42 PST

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To: Jim Robinson

I hope you had a good and Happy Thanksgiving.

I've been doing my part and recommending FR to many, many people, and I doubt that ANY would be offended or troubled by registering.

Anyone here (on FreeRepublic) that feels stifled by registering, Conservative or Liberal, may be saying and writing things that are maybe not true. If that scares away someone who intends to spout some kind of unproveable propaganda, or relay facts that don't exist, then so be it. I'm sure there are many souls in some countries that wish the 'propaganda ministers' were scared away.

PS: I filled out the form, and am anxious to get my number.
From: Eric Hauch (ehauch@esslink.com)
11/28/97 06:52:51 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Great idea Jim.

I think this form is much more important than we think. I believe that Billy Paul's etal. real purpose is only disruption of this site. By lowering the discussion level to the gutter they discredit the site. As one opposed to censorship (a position that I suspect eschoir and company do not support) I do think that they should be encourage to debate the issues in a civil manner and if they do not then ban them on a temporary basis. If they continue they should then be banned for life. The same high standards should be applied to all of us, left, right, and center. I have no problem posting with my full e mail address. I think all should. I do not trust a post without a full e mail address.

You do a great job Jim. Hang in there.
From: Charlie Dunifer (cdunifer@ns.vvm.com)
11/28/97 08:01:19 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Just tried to use the form to register...
Some observations:
1. Submittal was rejected (not recognized) - I am now
using lynx, a character browser.

2. Password and verify fields did not conceal the entries.

Otherwise, its great and I support your efforts in this
regard. It's a great site, Jim. I have been a regular visitor here
for about 6 weeks, and find it most enlightening. Keep up the good work.
From: fjh ()
11/28/97 11:04:59 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Jim, As this is my first post, I want to first of all thank you for maintaining this forum. Prior to becoming an avid reader about three months ago, I found myself frustrated with what I felt was a lack of adequate coverage and discussion on the matters covere d here. Again thanks for all of your efforts! Concerning this matter of registration: Maybe it is my sheltered lifestyle working in the manufacturing industry, or perhaps it is because I have not subjected myself to four+ years at one of our finer centers of higher education (to be fair, I know there are many excellent schools out there), but I do not get much exposure to what the "man-on-the-street" liberal has to say. It is for this reason that I have concerns about the idea of registering all posters.

Admittedly I am a neophyte when it comes to understanding the amount of work involved in maintaining a web site. And I must also admit that there have been postings that are truly not worth even a glance. Even so, I still feel that hindering access to t he random would-be poster will result in a missed opportunity for both the poster and also those of us in the forum. First of all, there is the missed opportunity for a "young skull full of mush" to be educated by a thoughtful and intelligent rebut to what may be a standing myth in academia (not that you would remove such a post, but the hindrance to posting the myth pr events the opportunity in the first place). Along with this is the loss lesson in apologetics (for the rest of us) that may result.

Secondly (and obviously less important) is the missed opportunity for spontaneity. I personally would miss the give and take that occurs on matters that may drift "somewhat" from the subject matter.

So, unless registration is a done deal I would make the following suggestion: A standing rule simply stating that all posts to this (or any) FR forum is subject to removal if judged by JR to be without merit. Again I plead ignorance to the amount of wo rk involved in maintaining FR, but I offer this as an alternative.

Thanks again Jim, and may God bless you and yours, Best regards, Jonathon Vought
From: Jonathon Vought (hoppismain@aol.com)
11/28/97 12:00:53 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Perfecto, Jim! I just "signed up".

Regards, Beverly Specht

bcspecht@westol.com
From: Beverly Specht (bcspecht_at_westol_dot_com)
11/28/97 12:34:29 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Jim, As this is my first post, I want to first of all thank you for maintaining this forum. Prior to becoming an avid reader about three months ago, I found myself frustrated by what I felt was a lack of adequate coverage and discussion on the matters covered here. Again thanks for all of your efforts!

Concerning this matter of registration: Perhaps it is my sheltered lifestyle working in the manufacturing industry, or maybe it is because I have not subjected myself to four+ years at one of our finer centers of higher education (to be fair, I know there are many excellent schools out there), but I do not get much exposure to what the "man-on-the-street" liberal has to say. It is for this reason that I have concerns about the idea of registering all posters.

Admittedly I am a neophyte when it comes to understanding the amount of work involved in maintaining a web site. And I must also admit that there have been postings that are truly not worth even a glance. Even so, I still feel that hindering access to t he random would-be poster will result in a missed opportunity not only for the poster but also for those in the forum.

First of all, there is the missed opportunity for a "young skull full of mush" to be educated by a thoughtful and intelligent rebut to what may be a standing myth in academia (not that you would remove such a post, but the hindrance to posting the myth pr events the opportunity in the first place). Along with this is the loss lesson in apologetics (for the rest of us) that may result.

Secondly (and obviously less important) is the missed opportunity for spontaneity. I personally would miss the give and take that occurs on matters that may drift "somewhat" from the subject matter.

So, unless registration is a done deal, I make the following suggestion: A standing rule simply stating that all posts to this (or any) FR forum is subject to removal if judged by JR to be without merit. Period. Again I plead ignorance to the amount of work involved in maintaining FR, but I offer this as an alternative.

Thanks again Jim, and may God bless you and yours. Best regards, Jonathon Vought
From: Jonathon Vought (hoppismain@aol.com)
11/28/97 12:36:40 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
I have already sent in my registration form but I failed to tell you how much I enjoy this forum. I am a conservative from the deep south and have benefited greatly from this forum over the short time I have been reading it.

I definitely support wha t you are trying to do.
From: Houston (jharnage@flash.net)
11/28/97 12:52:15 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Works fine for me, Jim. However, you might consider arranging it so anyone can read the posts, but not reply or post new articles until registered. I feel we need to keep the free flow of information coming to the casual observer or those unmotivated to join in the discourse. Over time, many will find something to join in on, but need to get the feel of the site first.
From: BobS (bobusa@earthlink.net)
11/28/97 12:54:40 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
From Mary Matalin to The Drudge Report to The Free Republic. Without all of you, my political education would be sorely lacking. I've learned to skip beyond some of the more obnoxious posters, but am not sure I could get along without this site anymore. Not one percent of the posts here are ever reported in our paper or on our TV. I learned long ago that network TV was a waste of time. Talk radio and the internet are the only was to go. Thanks, Jim for a terrific site.
From: Kathy in Alaska (kar@pobox.alaska.net)
11/28/97 15:44:36 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Jim - Muchas gracias for the opportunity to register! I am now legal and have waited with baited breath for you to institute this procedure, only to bring Free Republic back to EXCELLENCE which it once was when I first discovered it many moons ago. Up here in the mountains it is very difficult to get radio reception so I am unable to tune into any talk shows, and other than you and NET would have to rely on major network news (I would rather watch Beavis and Butthead). I hope your decision to try regi stration will prevail. I, for one, am also for free speech and do not think that requiring registration will stifle it one bit and will help greatly to reduce the gross amount of scatalogical language that has been pervading this wonderful site since the LIEBERALS are coming to realize that the First Sleaze and his cohorts are walking on thinner ice. Thanks again, Grannymax.
From: Max Monroe (maxmon@citcom.net)
11/28/97 16:10:14 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
Is it possible to have two reply spots at the end of each post? One for registered and would be posted immediatly. The second for unregistered and would be screened before posting. It would probably keep someone busy screening, but it's a thought.

From: rw4site formerly 44site (rw4site@tyler.net)
11/28/97 16:28:07 PST

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To: rw4site formerly 44site
Good idea, rw. I'll see if I can figure out a way to do it.
From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/28/97 16:32:52 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
I agree that a site registration is necessary at this juncture, and that anyone should be able to view the site, but only registered participants should be allowed to post.

I do think it necessary for you to have the Registration and User Agreement reviewed by a lawyer (at least 3 conservative participants are practicing attorneys, and may be able to provide this service gratis). In the alternative, and at a minimum, provision of standard hold harmless and indemnification agreements can be provided upon request.

As an aside, and since participants will be asked to execute a hold harmless and indemnification agreement, I would recommend that all parties review their personal insurance policy (ies) to ascertain whether coverage would apply to the assumed liabilities. In particular, most homeowners contracts cover libel, slander, and defamation of character under Section II. Personal Liability. However, I am not aware of any standard homeowners contracts which would provide coverage for copyright infringement or errors and omissions.

In addition, you have asserted that you will maintain confidentiality with regard to personal information, and will not disclose the information to a third party. There is a possibility that this "promise" cannot be kept in the event of a subpoena, so you may wish to consider an exception for court actions.

Otherwise, a timely suggestion to hold the disrupters at bay.
From: Michael Gallutia (mrrand46@voyager.net)
11/28/97 17:19:00 PST

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To: Michael Gallutia
Thanks Michael. Good suggestions. And I believe that you may be correct about the subpoena case. I have had several people tell me that any computer records can be subpoenaed in case of lawsuit or other legal action. Of course, any of these legalities mentioned here, copyright, libel, slander, defamation, etc., can be charged agaisnt posters to computer bulletin boards whether or not registration and/or user agreements are in force, if he breaks the law. Each poster is responsible for his own posts and should always act accordingly.
From: Jim Robinson (jimrob@psnw.com)
11/28/97 17:34:48 PST

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To: Jim Robinson
I'm late in reviewing this, but want to add my "approval" to the registration bit. Will it really stop some of the stupid "new articles" from being posted though? Lately, some topics that have been added are ridiculous, and the replies by KLC and Eschoir are nothing but garbage - I'm with those that do not respond to them, but not everyone uses that discretion, unfortunately.

Thanks again, Jim, for giving us this place to read, write, and learn!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!
From: Billie (billiews@aol.com)
11/29/97 10:47:44 PST

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[IncPen]

In response to troll activity, 23 years ago Jim Thompson decided to register the FReepers. This is what it looked like.

[Tijeras_Slim]

Talk about “back in the day “!

[Caipirabob]

Jim’s house, Jim’s rules.

[Fiddlstix]

Bookmark

[crusty old prospector]

I always wonder what percentage of freepers from those days are still active.

[Jane Long]

A LOT of posters used their emails as their nick.

Thanks for the time travel stroll!

[Dan in Wichita]

I am still here! Registered on 11-28-97, same day as Jim Robinson.

[srmorton]

Looks good! I will do whatever I have to do to stay on this forum because it is the only thing that has saved me through the LONG years of Obama and the days since the Democrats stole the 2020 election. I even tried to register and it told me that my user name and email were already in the data base! :)

[crusty old prospector]

I was a chronic lurker for about ten more years.

[StACase]

I would have registered a year or two earlier
but at that time my hotmail address was not
acceptable. I didn't register until I was hired
at a new job and could use the new company's
email.

Steve Case
Milwaukee, WI
stacase at hotmail dot com

[Mark]

Interesting, but who is this Jim Robinson fella? We all know that the owner is Jim Thompson. Come on Man!

[notaliberal]

I even tried to register and it told me that my user name and email were already in the data base! :)

Me too! Been here since '98

[itzmygun]

Didn’t realize til just now that I missed my 20-year anniversary. Registered 11/11/2000.

[ImpBill]

“Ash”. A masterful troll. How many flame wars did he instigate?

Man a long, long, long time ago.

[crusty old prospector]

Dang. You old timers are getting long in the tooth.

[ImpBill]

SOL

Sniggering out Loud.

[missthethunder]

I like this part.

Purpose: The Free Republic forum is intended for Conservative users who wish to have a serious discussion about political events, conservative principles and the elimination of government corruption and abuse. This is a news and information site not a chat room. Please stay on topic. Free Republic is a supporter of free speech on the Internet but we believe that along with the privilege of free speech comes the responsibility to respect the rights of others.

https://freerepublic.com/focus/f-chat/3910397/posts https://freerepublic.com/perl/register

Note to posters who post whole Threads of dog videos.

[Abby4116]

It says my email is already in the database. Do I need to do anything else?

[Larry Lucido]

Just need to add “I agree not to spam FR with my own blog more than ____ times per week.”

And maybe “I agree to NEVER post any thread from Gateway Pundit (or any blog for that matter) that begins with ‘BOOM.’”

[PGalt]

The payback machine. Before my time. Thanks CBS.