Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
By Grockle
June 12 2018
During a slow day at Taunton I sat talking to a couple of people whose views I respect and a bloke I didn't know who doesn't like me or Grocklesit seems (possibly because I don't think our individual views have 'meshed' online at some time in the past). Both camps commented on the fact that the site had changed over time. For the better? For the worse? Was it fact or perception? Well now's as good as any time to investigate that and test the wind. Join the chat......
"The Grockles Obsession" started sometime in the spring of 1994 at Henbury School in Bristol as an Advanced Applied ICT project. The first match report was sometime in June and it was left up over the winter and rumbled along with traffic of sorts. It was picked up by Rivals.net sometime in 1996/7 after a couple of webspace transfers and expansions where it was turned into "Grockles.com" with its own URL, webspace and some sort of structure. Here we are some 20 odd years later and it's still here.
Before opening the debate about what Grockles should be, maybe it would make sense to identify what it isn't.
It is an independent site for Somerset cricket NOT necessarily a Somerset supporters site. Obviously the majority of posters and readers are supporters but forum membership is not based on the need to support the club and never has been.
Grockles has NO club affiliations or loaylties though we are appreciative of the interaction and access that we have been afforded over the years by the organisation. Contrary to the belief of some I am NOT employed by the club. I have not been a member of Somerset for more than a decade.
Grockles is NOT a vehicle soley for my views on Somerset. I do post my views. So do many others. We agree or we don't and the world turns. I am not the Kim Jong Un OR the Donald Trump of Grockles whether you like me or not. The conversation is what is important to the readers (that may be a fundamental point in this investigation) but I am afraid that some of you have to get used to the fact that without me there is no Grockles.com so I'm probably here to stay.
There were never 'good old days' of Grockles when the posting forum numbered in the hundreds. The regular posting population of the site has never been in 3 figures. It usually has had a core of about 30 to 50 with others who floated in and out. It has rarely (if ever) been over 70 regulars. This is not unusual. most forum sites are 'iceberg' like with far more readers than contributors.
Grockles readership has varied over the years and is of course affected by the development of other social media etc but suprisingly our figures are pretty much where they have been. Grockles is NOT a marketing exercise, we do NOT chase a market, we are a 'word of mouth' site and we have no agenda of becoming the 'number 1' site or anything else.
Statistics can be used in many ways but in the days before universal wifi, smartphones, Twitter and video streaming we counted our traffic in millions of page hits a year. Unique users were in the thousands and page hits monthly were in hundreds of thousands.
Today? Well yesterday we had 4173 page views from 350 unique users. I can log on 10 times a day. Grockles is what is known as a 'sticky' site. People log on and look around at more than one page per visit and they visit more than once a day. A 10% user to view ratio has been pretty much normal for us. The average daily rate for 2018 is about 2,400 views from about 230 unique users. The highest daily rate in the last month has been 5567 from over 400 users.
On a monthly basis the use of Grockles is obviously related to the time of year. Last month there were 139,393 page views by over 2000 unique addresses. The present average for the first 5 months of 2018 is 89,630 which will probably rise as that only covers two of the 6 months of the season. 2017 had a monthly average of 131,000 with a highest monthly total of 368,000 and a total for the year of over 1.5million.
The number of different users is not as easy to sort out. 19,531 users were identified in 2017 but many of them come back more than once and log on from more than one location. I have used 5 locations in two seperate countries and that doesn't include airport terminals, trains, planes and automobiles. In our hayday we did have over 3000 unique users per month in the days of few other sources. Now? we have a monthly average of about 1600.
Grockles tends to moderate itself. As the only moderator I feel I need to interfer very little. Maybe that is another issue as some seem to think I need to interfer more?
I have in the past given posters the opportunity to complain and request specific moderation. Almost none have taken me up on that though they do seem to moan about the lack of it on a semi regular basis. Some say the 'feel' of the site is different but nothing I have tried to get people to identify their issues has resulted in any of those people helping me identify what has changed that feel.
I have had demands to remove posters for minor indiscretions, I have had posters leave the site over the use of a word they disagreed with. Posters move on, leave and come back or just get bored of it all. Almost no one in the life of the site has identified the issue they have had with a poster or a post and asked for specific moderation or have been willing to identify evidence that back up their demand. I have found myself more than once demanding that a poster change their posting habits for the good of all and then having to defend the same poster from demands for bans once they have improved and become less prococative.
Grockles does NOT ban if it can help it and will NOT ban because an opinion is disliked. We may ask for evidence of that opinion and for more factual rigour in the argument and may hide a post until it is provided but we look to ban trolls rather than people with opposing views and I do need some help occasionally to identify the former from those who see this as suddenly important from time to time. Most of the time it is demanded without reasons being given and I may need to be persuaded because to be honest it isn't always that cut and dried with some of the population on the site.
One of the people I was talking to yesterday gave an analogy that has been used in the past that Grockles is like a room in a pub where people familiar with each other sit and discuss the day. That aspect of the site is where its value lies in my view and we are fortunate to have a particular membership that creates that environment. That is where the life is and that is where the gems are.
I would add to that analogy. It IS like the back room of a pub but with an intercom to the public bar. Occasionally something sparks the interest of the public and they either pop in to the pub to listen or they actually come into the back bar to involve themselves in the discussion. That involvement may not always be welcome and we do get have situations where the pushing of the comfort zone of regulars can occur until someone leaves, adapts or is evicted. One question is at what point is eviction the solution rather than allowing the opposite view to possibly move regulars on who do not want that conflict in their familiar place? Are the regulars important or is the debate sometimes of more importance?
So people.
What is the point of Grockles.com?
What do you believe the policy should be towards 'dissenting' voices?
At what point would you like to see 'agent provocateurs' being sent on their way and how can you help the moderator to identify when that point has been reached?
What do you like about the site?
What bothers you about it (positive suggestions to remedy those things would be welcomed rather than just moaning)?
What would you like to see that is not here?
I am asking these questions not because I am looking for some 'product development' to increase our internet footprint or market share. It is more because many of you have invested a lot of time in the relationships you have in this 'pub backroom' and you have the right to be asked what bothers or warms you about Grockles because you make it what it is. If improvements mean we get more crowded then it might be worthwhile but it will be what it will be.
If you want to make this personal then can I please ask you to reply by PM rather than using a public forum to vent your spleen? I'd like the discussion on the site to be positive. If you can't do that without aggression then please be aggressive off site and I'll calm it down and put your point on the site with a little less provocation. I do reserve the right to do that anyway if some posters can't manage to do that themselves (it has been known in the past)
I am looking for an open and honest conversation and some movement forward. There is no requirement to comment, though to some extent that also means you forgoe the right to complain at what you get. As Jim Jefferies says at the end of each of his shows 'I think we can all do better'.
We shall see how we go. Over to you lot.
To start you off, one thing I would love (and it was suggested by someone here) would be a like and dislike button - damn that would make my life easier.
Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockles.com (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2018 13:19
What do you think? You can have your say by posting below.
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:23:13:06:16 by Grockle.
If you do not already have an account Click here to Register.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:23:13:06:16 by Grockle.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: chunkyinargyll (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2018 14:24
'I am not the Kim Jong Un or the Donald Trump of Grockles'
We know that.
More like Basil Fawlty.
[www.youtube.com]
TiC
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:12:14:54:29 by Grockle.
We know that.
More like Basil Fawlty.
[www.youtube.com]
TiC Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:12:14:54:29 by Grockle.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2018 14:57
Possibly. I've certainly known that level of frustration with certain situations at certain times.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2018 20:20
I've removed two posts from here. Posters (Tom Seymour and Cricketharris) who say this is all about me.
In Tom's case it is because he simply posted to say he won't comment and in CH's case because he simply seems to want to fight me. I've referred him to the PM system
I'm happy to remove this whole thing if people think it is about 'me'. I thought it was about the site and what might need changing in the way we deal with each other or whatever. I'd rather not talk about 'me'.
Please either attack me personally via PM and I'll happily accommodate you or come on here and talk about Grockles without personalising it. You've been given ample opportunity to attack me - that avenue has been open to you for nearly 10 years but very few have used the thread given over to that very function in that time.
If you think this site is about 'me' and you don't like that/me then I can only suggest that you stop posting on it and find something else. Either that or explain yourself and suggest ways in which the site can be depersonalised from the 'me' bit.
CH says I don't 'get it'. Well sir explain 'it' without the personal aggression and maybe we can do something about 'it'.
One suggestion I have had is that I remove posters with a negative attitude. Then we wouldn't have this would we? But I'm personally of the opinion we might lose more than that. Am I wrong?
Some people think Grockles has lost something. I'm just opening the conversation to see if we can find out what it is.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:12:20:39:43 by Grockle.
In Tom's case it is because he simply posted to say he won't comment and in CH's case because he simply seems to want to fight me. I've referred him to the PM system
I'm happy to remove this whole thing if people think it is about 'me'. I thought it was about the site and what might need changing in the way we deal with each other or whatever. I'd rather not talk about 'me'.
Please either attack me personally via PM and I'll happily accommodate you or come on here and talk about Grockles without personalising it. You've been given ample opportunity to attack me - that avenue has been open to you for nearly 10 years but very few have used the thread given over to that very function in that time.
If you think this site is about 'me' and you don't like that/me then I can only suggest that you stop posting on it and find something else. Either that or explain yourself and suggest ways in which the site can be depersonalised from the 'me' bit.
CH says I don't 'get it'. Well sir explain 'it' without the personal aggression and maybe we can do something about 'it'.
One suggestion I have had is that I remove posters with a negative attitude. Then we wouldn't have this would we? But I'm personally of the opinion we might lose more than that. Am I wrong?
Some people think Grockles has lost something. I'm just opening the conversation to see if we can find out what it is.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:12:20:39:43 by Grockle.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: cricketharris (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2018 20:40
Shouldn’t you remove your post of 20.20, Grockle? Or , at least, the personal parts.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2018 20:45
Nope CH.
If you read the material above I did say that if people couldn't keep their own personal aggression out of the posts I would try and take it out for them but give their opinions if possible. If you want them to be anonymous I'm happy to remove them so let me know but you posted under your own pseudonym the first time around so I assumed it would be OK.
I'll remove them if you'd rather I did.
If you read the material above I did say that if people couldn't keep their own personal aggression out of the posts I would try and take it out for them but give their opinions if possible. If you want them to be anonymous I'm happy to remove them so let me know but you posted under your own pseudonym the first time around so I assumed it would be OK.
I'll remove them if you'd rather I did.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2018 21:28
I have another post to try and summarise from a poster who wants to personalise this entirely. It is a point I am sure he/she will find many agreeing with him/her about. It is relationships between posters.
Posters dislike it when they are shown disrespect so don't do it to others. Mutual respect makes for better dialogue.
I added to that the point that some have been here a long time and expect certain responses from those they interact with here.
Sometimes they expect that to be disrespectful and react quickly and sometimes inaccurately because of that.
If something seems to be 'iffy' do we have to immediately react to it? Is it not possible to check whether we have the right end of the stick first? We have a PM system for a reason and we don't use it enough
Could we all work on changing relationships we have with people we think we 'know' but only via text which is not a great medium for providing meaning?
Could we make a post clearer? (TiC) emoticons to show humour or whatever?
Should we count to 10 before we respond?
Should we respond at all?
Accepting something is wrong is one thing. Accepting we may all have some responsibility for it being wrong or for putting it right is another.
Are we all so perfect that it is all someone else's fault in every case? Isn't improvement a two way thing?
Do both sides of the problem want to improve things for the mutual benefit of all and if not should that be allowed to stand?
Sorry there is more than the initial post from my posting colleague. Got away from me a little.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:13:09:45:39 by Grockle.
Posters dislike it when they are shown disrespect so don't do it to others. Mutual respect makes for better dialogue.
I added to that the point that some have been here a long time and expect certain responses from those they interact with here.
Sometimes they expect that to be disrespectful and react quickly and sometimes inaccurately because of that.
If something seems to be 'iffy' do we have to immediately react to it? Is it not possible to check whether we have the right end of the stick first? We have a PM system for a reason and we don't use it enough
Could we all work on changing relationships we have with people we think we 'know' but only via text which is not a great medium for providing meaning?
Could we make a post clearer? (TiC) emoticons to show humour or whatever?
Should we count to 10 before we respond?
Should we respond at all?
Accepting something is wrong is one thing. Accepting we may all have some responsibility for it being wrong or for putting it right is another.
Are we all so perfect that it is all someone else's fault in every case? Isn't improvement a two way thing?
Do both sides of the problem want to improve things for the mutual benefit of all and if not should that be allowed to stand?
Sorry there is more than the initial post from my posting colleague. Got away from me a little.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:13:09:45:39 by Grockle.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Shepton Paul 2 (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2018 21:37
I love the site - the pub-style comment and banter that keeps an exile like me in touch with the county I call home.
I get a bit fed up with the petty squabbles and one or two who seem only ever to be negative about individual players, the club or the sport - tho I'll admit to my own hypocrisy in being happy with often-unfair negativity towards Surrey, the ECB and Australia - as long as it's largely good-natured, it's fine. On the whole, it's a shame to have lost the likes of Frome Exile and Big Jim, but Farmer White's reports are a great addition.
I get a bit fed up with the petty squabbles and one or two who seem only ever to be negative about individual players, the club or the sport - tho I'll admit to my own hypocrisy in being happy with often-unfair negativity towards Surrey, the ECB and Australia - as long as it's largely good-natured, it's fine. On the whole, it's a shame to have lost the likes of Frome Exile and Big Jim, but Farmer White's reports are a great addition.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2018 21:51
Thanks Shepton. I miss some who graced the pages as well. I hope BJ may be in a position to return at some time. But as one door closes another opens re Farmer White and others.
Has the world just become squabblier?
I also take the point about the constant negativity but is the solution to remove that entirely? Should we require balance and if we do, how do we impose it?
The post above does highlight that we can be more aware of squabbles if that is a major issue.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:13:09:46:08 by Grockle.
Has the world just become squabblier?
I also take the point about the constant negativity but is the solution to remove that entirely? Should we require balance and if we do, how do we impose it?
The post above does highlight that we can be more aware of squabbles if that is a major issue.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:13:09:46:08 by Grockle.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grizzers (IP Logged)
Date: 12/06/2018 23:04
Love the site, the jocularity, the forthright (& occasionally informed) opinions and all of us (some more than others - ahem !) wearing our hearts on our sleeves. Plus of course, Mike's photo's.
Don't think 'negative' posts should be removed, (unless they are abusive/offensive). One man's 'negativity' is another persons constructive criticism !
Here's to another 20 years.
Grizzzly
Don't think 'negative' posts should be removed, (unless they are abusive/offensive). One man's 'negativity' is another persons constructive criticism !
Here's to another 20 years.
Grizzzly
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 09:35
Thanks Grizzz. I understand those who feel the squabbles and negativity take away from the general nature of Grockles that you identify.
Some seem to find it difficult to compatrmentalise that and it has led to people making a decision to decrease or end their involvement. But is the site honest if it does not allow those comments inside the rules?
In a good season there is less of it but I know you and I have both found ourselves agreeing with a promminent 'dissenter' in part quite recently.
The reason we have been able to do that is because moderation has caused adaptation and posts of a less abrasive personal manner with points worth making and discussing in them from said poster. Is that progress or "kowtowing'?
Blanket bans might see a handful of posters disappear and a return to more 'cosy' times but is that the aim of a site discussing Somerset cricket where things are rarely 'cosy' for long?
I think I'm with you but still looking for the fabled... 'middle way'
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:13:09:47:40 by Grockle.
Some seem to find it difficult to compatrmentalise that and it has led to people making a decision to decrease or end their involvement. But is the site honest if it does not allow those comments inside the rules?
In a good season there is less of it but I know you and I have both found ourselves agreeing with a promminent 'dissenter' in part quite recently.
The reason we have been able to do that is because moderation has caused adaptation and posts of a less abrasive personal manner with points worth making and discussing in them from said poster. Is that progress or "kowtowing'?
Blanket bans might see a handful of posters disappear and a return to more 'cosy' times but is that the aim of a site discussing Somerset cricket where things are rarely 'cosy' for long?
I think I'm with you but still looking for the fabled... 'middle way'
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:13:09:47:40 by Grockle.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 11:14
Some very sensible stuff here, notably from SP2 and Grizzzzly. I too greatly appreciate the site, not least because of the friendships it has brought me.
From my point of view I feel that some take everything to do with Somerset cricket just a little too seriously. I admit to becoming passionate about our wonderful team - but only when they are doing well. If they perform less well, I remember that there are worse things in life, as the great Lord Tresco said about his broken foot.
As for the occasional insults and sheer rudeness we sometimes see here, I try to live (though sometimes failing to do so) by my personal mantra which is Never waste your abuse on people you don't actually like. Bobstan, BJ and others will understand.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
From my point of view I feel that some take everything to do with Somerset cricket just a little too seriously. I admit to becoming passionate about our wonderful team - but only when they are doing well. If they perform less well, I remember that there are worse things in life, as the great Lord Tresco said about his broken foot.
As for the occasional insults and sheer rudeness we sometimes see here, I try to live (though sometimes failing to do so) by my personal mantra which is Never waste your abuse on people you don't actually like. Bobstan, BJ and others will understand.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Shepton Paul 2 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 13:01
Great mantra, LoL, you old b******
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 13:26
Wise words from the 'Gandalf of Grockles'. I have to say that the initial quite aggressive reaction to this thread did make me think along the same kind of lines. 'Why post if you don't like the concept/site/moderator'.
I am by no means a saint here but the number of times I find myself in personality clashes rather than cricketing clashes after 1 misperceived/ or ill made post on one side or the other has certainly increased in the last few years. It becomes 'banter' with some quite quickly. Flares and goes.
Others it is deeper, aggressive and off the cricket topic very soon. There are those who bear grudges for slights they percieve or have received in the past which colour posts or create agendas they cannot/will not let go of.
As you say LoL. Life is a little short for that stuff and maybe this the the area to build bridges or remove them. It's all grist for the present mill.
Thanks
I am by no means a saint here but the number of times I find myself in personality clashes rather than cricketing clashes after 1 misperceived/ or ill made post on one side or the other has certainly increased in the last few years. It becomes 'banter' with some quite quickly. Flares and goes.
Others it is deeper, aggressive and off the cricket topic very soon. There are those who bear grudges for slights they percieve or have received in the past which colour posts or create agendas they cannot/will not let go of.
As you say LoL. Life is a little short for that stuff and maybe this the the area to build bridges or remove them. It's all grist for the present mill.
Thanks
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 14:18
Good to see you understand me, SP2. Not bad for a bloke from Shepton.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: somexile (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 17:33
As someone who now lives in an extremity of East Anglia and usually get to see Somerset for two days a year I find this site invaluable to keep up to date with events etc.
By going on regularly it does not take long to work out the characters behind their posts. I find some too critical and negative as im sure no one goes to play without wanting to do their best.
farmer White's reports are some of the best piece of writing I have seen on any sport in a long time and sum not only the play but also the atmosphere around the ground.
Long may the site continue.
I might even contribute as will be at Chelmsford for the first day
By going on regularly it does not take long to work out the characters behind their posts. I find some too critical and negative as im sure no one goes to play without wanting to do their best.
farmer White's reports are some of the best piece of writing I have seen on any sport in a long time and sum not only the play but also the atmosphere around the ground.
Long may the site continue.
I might even contribute as will be at Chelmsford for the first day
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 18:19
Well you've been here a while now so you know more about most of us than many.
It is great that we have people in other parts of the world who pick the boys up when they go out of the West into those dangerous parts of the UK!!
It is great that we have people in other parts of the world who pick the boys up when they go out of the West into those dangerous parts of the UK!!
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: cricketharris (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 20:30
How can I join in this debate and say what I think about this site without our moderator removing what I write because he doesn’t like it? Generally I gain alot of positives [oh, the jargon) from the postings especially from members who really have something to say and not just post there endless views of what might happen if etc etc. Or one-liners about the state-of-play which mean nothing unless you actually witnessed what is going on. (Most frustrating that].Farmer White’s writings are excellent to understand the days play. It is a shame we cannot send him to away games, too. Bagpuss’s contributions are always worth reading. A fount of news. But there are a two negatives. One is that one or two people seem to post every few minutues with any thought that might be going through there head at that time. Very boring but they can be ignored. It adds nothing to the content of this site except verbiage. The other is the tone of the site when the moderator acts as if it is his fiefdom and he heavy-handedly, but ironically of course, tramples all over posters who may have issued something that he feels he has to chop-down.I don’t mean, what he calls personal abuse but when a posting just contains something that is just an opinion (sometimes a silly one] or some speculation. He has to have the last word even if it to say to get over it and that the world will keep turning or somesuch. It just turns the site into a rather nasty atmosphere - of course always in the name of irony. Other counties sites do not seem to suffer from this edge and conflict. Ours would be far better off and altogether more enjoyable if the moderator moderated himself. Unfortunately, in this pub you cannot avoid him and his agressive manner.He doesn’t agree with this analysis (and, believe me, it isn’t just me that thinks this) and that is what i mean when I say that he doesn’t get it. Nothing will dissuade him from being right. Why can’t we just have just less aggression? I don’t suppose this will be left to be read for long. Cries of abuse from the moderator but he asked for ways of going forward and I believe that he must be one of the the subjects. Now, I’m off to wash a few more pots in this pub.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: stevecav (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 20:46
I have a really simple view of this site. I have been a Somerset supporter since the days of McCool, Alley, Stephenson, Langford, Greetham, Roe, Virgin, Palmer, Biddulph, Sully et al. And I used to spend all my school holidays watching Somerset at Taunton, Bath, Weston, Imperial Ground Bristol, even Street(or was it Glastonbury?). Played cricket with a young Dasher in front of the pavilion at Keynsham after a day scoring, and played cricket with Marcus's Dad too. Then adult life got in the way. My chances to see Somerset at Taunton became much less frequent, though I do get to Lords and also Guildford sometimes, but I am as passionate about Somerset cricket today as my three score and ten is about up, as I ever was. In some ways more so now, after the obvious frustrations. My Dad is 94 now and is still desperate for us to win the only thing that matters. We don't live close, but there is NEVER a day when Somerset are in action I don't call him with updates, and on a day like yesterday it was about 10 times.'Keep me posted' he says. Until the last few years - he and I have been our 'Somerset supporters group', because other Somerset supporters to talk to have been rare in my life and his. Since discovering this site about the time of the draw with Warwickshire where we didn't make them follow on, I have been able to feel more in touch with all things Somerset, and more a part of the Somerset community than at any time for about 50 years. I read it all the time, whether I post or not. To me it's an invaluable way to get some clue what is going on down there, and why. And I can keep my Dad posted. And now there's the live feed too which is life changing for a SCCC lover who can't be there. I learnt gradually what was the wrong tone to use if I wanted to avoid Grockle's icy responses. I am amused by some of the relationships which don't always read like we are all on the same side. I would hate to lose this site. Keep up the good work Grockle. And don't let the @#$%& grind you down!
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: That Bloke With The Dog (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 21:29
I don't think a group of pub regulars is a good analogy for this site really. Somerset (and the West Country) is a massively diverse area socially, and a shared appreciation of cricket doesn't necessarily mean we're going to share anything else, whether in terms of backgrounds, locations, general opinions or ways of expressing ourselves.
With that in mind, we're all going to rub someone up the wrong way at some point: that's inevitable with the anonymous nature of the 'net. But it means you have to react differently from the way you would in a face-to-face conversation around a table. While you might on occasion justifiably take personal offence in the latter situation (where you'd expect people to take into account exactly whom they're talking to), on here, by contrast, you just have to ignore a tone of voice or a background squabble you don't like, and simply deal with the opinion expressed. Play the ball, not the man. It just doesn't work online otherwise.
Put it this way: I've seen characters as diverse as an MP, a grizzled Cary hedgelayer, a Yeovil bookmaker and a Devon racehorse trainer rub shoulders quite civilly at the County Ground, because they instinctively know how not to make it personal. But if they were to be coralled anonymously into an online chatroom, it'd kick off spectacularly, unless each party understood it's NOT personal, despite how it might sound when you read it.
I'm not offering a solution, I'm afraid. Just pointing out that the medium invites friction, and the only people who can diffuse it are the contributors themselves. Moderation can just turn out to catalyse even more seething resentment.
(Edited, spelling)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:13:21:33:24 by That Bloke With The Dog.
With that in mind, we're all going to rub someone up the wrong way at some point: that's inevitable with the anonymous nature of the 'net. But it means you have to react differently from the way you would in a face-to-face conversation around a table. While you might on occasion justifiably take personal offence in the latter situation (where you'd expect people to take into account exactly whom they're talking to), on here, by contrast, you just have to ignore a tone of voice or a background squabble you don't like, and simply deal with the opinion expressed. Play the ball, not the man. It just doesn't work online otherwise.
Put it this way: I've seen characters as diverse as an MP, a grizzled Cary hedgelayer, a Yeovil bookmaker and a Devon racehorse trainer rub shoulders quite civilly at the County Ground, because they instinctively know how not to make it personal. But if they were to be coralled anonymously into an online chatroom, it'd kick off spectacularly, unless each party understood it's NOT personal, despite how it might sound when you read it.
I'm not offering a solution, I'm afraid. Just pointing out that the medium invites friction, and the only people who can diffuse it are the contributors themselves. Moderation can just turn out to catalyse even more seething resentment.
(Edited, spelling)
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:13:21:33:24 by That Bloke With The Dog.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 22:48
For the record Somerset used to play an annual CC match at Glastonbury (Avalon Acres for those with long memories) from the early fifties, starting with Harold Gimblett's Benefit Match in 1952, in which the great man scored a century. One year the ground was considered unfit and the match was transferred to Street (the Millfield School ground). I think that is the only time that first-class cricket was played at Street.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Shepton Paul 2 (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 22:55
I saw some of a Som v Notts game at Glastonbury, I'd guess circa 1972-ish - I remember Sobers and Basher Hassan batting for Notts...I think.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: stevecav (IP Logged)
Date: 13/06/2018 23:56
Somerset played Warwickshire at Street (Millfield) in July 1961 - I checked - I remember it because big Jim Stewart made a hundred.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2018 09:35
I came to Grockles many decades after starting to follow Somerset but have found it sufficiently vibrant and really informative.
It would be nice if someone from the club at a community level made themselves known with semi-official updates from time to time e.g. floodlights, temporary stands, other initiatives. We could then politely challenge them and raise any other points. "Disabled toilets locked before close of play, I'll have a look into that for you"
By this I don't mean someone from the committee to spout about their corporate synergy impact or reaching out on marketing initiatives.
It may serve a purpose alongside the members Q&A sessions, getting to a much wider audience
It would be nice if someone from the club at a community level made themselves known with semi-official updates from time to time e.g. floodlights, temporary stands, other initiatives. We could then politely challenge them and raise any other points. "Disabled toilets locked before close of play, I'll have a look into that for you"
By this I don't mean someone from the committee to spout about their corporate synergy impact or reaching out on marketing initiatives.
It may serve a purpose alongside the members Q&A sessions, getting to a much wider audience
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2018 10:18
We used to get a little of that from Nashy but it went a little more corporate with Mr Cooper.
Peter Anderson wanted it ONLY that way in the deep past and saw us all as malcontents and dissidents.
Peter Anderson wanted it ONLY that way in the deep past and saw us all as malcontents and dissidents.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: kzmccl (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2018 19:04
After >10 years of reading this site, I just registered in order to second everything that stevecav said because I have a similar history. (I was a Junior Member of SCCC but only went to matches in Bath. I went to school in Keynsham when it was a Grammar School. I moved away after University and later emigrated to the USA, from where at first it wasn't easy to follow the club's endeavours until I could do it through the Internet and especially in the last many years, through grockles.com.)
As stevecav said ... "I would hate to lose this site. Keep up the good work Grockle. And don't let the @#$%& grind you down!"
As stevecav said ... "I would hate to lose this site. Keep up the good work Grockle. And don't let the @#$%& grind you down!"
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2018 19:04
We certainly got off to a dicey start Steve and that was down as much to me as to you.
The difference was that you contacted me off site and we discussed the issues we seemed to have (but found we actually didn't). I think you are the only poster who has come new to the site and done that when it didn't quite go as planned.
Since then the world has become a quieter place for more than just us two and the world moves on. I hope we have both adapted and become a little more thoughtful about posts.
The difference was that you contacted me off site and we discussed the issues we seemed to have (but found we actually didn't). I think you are the only poster who has come new to the site and done that when it didn't quite go as planned.
Since then the world has become a quieter place for more than just us two and the world moves on. I hope we have both adapted and become a little more thoughtful about posts.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 14/06/2018 19:51
How can I join in this debate and say what I think about this site without our moderator removing what I write because he doesn’t like it?
Well CH you can start by reading the initial post in its entirety and follow the request made there.
Your first post was simply an agreement with Mr Seymour about 'him' (me) posting all about ME and commending TS for his courage in saying so. It had little to do with the debate and was particularly personal when I had requested posts not to be.
I offered you PM fisticuffs if you wanted them, toned down both your posts and reposted them as I said I would. So you did 'join the debate' and your point was made just without insulting me in the process.
Thanks for the rest of your second post which is useful and avoids the aggressive and dismissive tone you yourself can use at times but not always - like the rest of us.
There is no need to remove it. There are posters with their little 'foibles'. You mention one who is singularly missing at the moment I hope for no serious reason. Most people point out when he is going a little over the top and many deal with him on an almost affectionate basis. We can ignore his posts if we want to and some do. I rarely have to remove material from them although he can become patronising at times - as can we all.
One thing about him though, repetitive as they are, his posts are almost always about cricket and stay away from other grievances or personal issues with posters - most of the time.
On the basis of operating this site like my 'Fiefdom' well sometimes there is no avoiding that I am afraid. Some people need moderating at times. However I have made every attempt to provide ways in which posters who feel that way can let me know they think I am going over the top without affecting the main flow of the site.
Unfortunately, to date very few of the critics do what is requested, they insist on putting it all in the public view, affecting the use of the site by others and wanting a public punch up. Sometimes they get it but usually now they find I treat the site like a 'fiefdom' and remove their voice because they will not follow their own complaint and keep this stuff off the main site. They then return to complain their voice is not being heard.
Please correct me if I am wrong but I can only think of one time you have used this process yet it seems to bug the hell out of you on a pretty regular basis. Complain CH BUT not in the middle of a thread other people, not involved in your issue with me, are using.
I'd also like to point out, as I have to another poster who has this issue, that I do NOT remove posts without letting the poster know why and offering the right of reply or revision. Most if the time I will hide a post and let the poster decide what to do with it. I also remove posts very rarely. This year I have removed or asked for revision of less than 10 posts and 3 of them are on this thread.
'Why can't we have less agression?' Damn good question. Tell you what, you send a little less my way and I'll do the same. Maybe we'll start a trend and others will follow it?
I stand and fight when I am attacked. Many in that situation have all the traits you identify as mine. I would with respect include you in that when you lose it. We are all as bad as each other. So as you say. Let's all look to avoid starting public punch ups.
Nowadays I walk away from the 'last word' you accuse me of more often than not because I've found that is a way to stop aggression - no response. I would, as I always do, refer you to the number of times I have admitted I am wrong on things but it rarely has an effect on that generalisation. I also don't hold grudges. As LoL says 'Life is too short' and this is just a website.
Backing down when the same argument is put forward over and over again? That's a different thing.
I am part of the problem. I know that. I'd appreciate some help rather than hinderance from other posters to help me deal with my issues. But I'm not the only poster with this particular foible so in some circumstances my response is - I'm looking for ways to sort my issues out, what are you doing about yours?
Aggression on this site does not all come from OR start in Bicknoller Towers so to some of the 'physicians' with their perfect cure. Have a go at healing yourselves while you are at it and the whole place may just be a better environment for all.
I was told when I put most of this in a PM yesterday to a poster that it was POINTLESS talking to me. Well there is no real way to come back from there. If that is where you think you are then I see no way of going forward with you. I am offering to adapt and listen. If your response is that I am not doing that I don't know what to say to you other than 'goodbye'.
Thanks for feeling the need to put this on CH. I hope I haven't marginalised it and I hope there can be forward movement on the conflict front. BUT it is all those who get into these things not just one poster. We have no regular trolls though that does not mean some posters go that route at certain times.
I suppose we'll see whether we can put our keyboards where our complaints are and do a more 'positive' job for the good of all. You are right. Less aggression would be a good place to start.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:14:22:58:43 by Grockle.
Well CH you can start by reading the initial post in its entirety and follow the request made there.
Your first post was simply an agreement with Mr Seymour about 'him' (me) posting all about ME and commending TS for his courage in saying so. It had little to do with the debate and was particularly personal when I had requested posts not to be.
I offered you PM fisticuffs if you wanted them, toned down both your posts and reposted them as I said I would. So you did 'join the debate' and your point was made just without insulting me in the process.
Thanks for the rest of your second post which is useful and avoids the aggressive and dismissive tone you yourself can use at times but not always - like the rest of us.
There is no need to remove it. There are posters with their little 'foibles'. You mention one who is singularly missing at the moment I hope for no serious reason. Most people point out when he is going a little over the top and many deal with him on an almost affectionate basis. We can ignore his posts if we want to and some do. I rarely have to remove material from them although he can become patronising at times - as can we all.
One thing about him though, repetitive as they are, his posts are almost always about cricket and stay away from other grievances or personal issues with posters - most of the time.
On the basis of operating this site like my 'Fiefdom' well sometimes there is no avoiding that I am afraid. Some people need moderating at times. However I have made every attempt to provide ways in which posters who feel that way can let me know they think I am going over the top without affecting the main flow of the site.
Unfortunately, to date very few of the critics do what is requested, they insist on putting it all in the public view, affecting the use of the site by others and wanting a public punch up. Sometimes they get it but usually now they find I treat the site like a 'fiefdom' and remove their voice because they will not follow their own complaint and keep this stuff off the main site. They then return to complain their voice is not being heard.
Please correct me if I am wrong but I can only think of one time you have used this process yet it seems to bug the hell out of you on a pretty regular basis. Complain CH BUT not in the middle of a thread other people, not involved in your issue with me, are using.
I'd also like to point out, as I have to another poster who has this issue, that I do NOT remove posts without letting the poster know why and offering the right of reply or revision. Most if the time I will hide a post and let the poster decide what to do with it. I also remove posts very rarely. This year I have removed or asked for revision of less than 10 posts and 3 of them are on this thread.
'Why can't we have less agression?' Damn good question. Tell you what, you send a little less my way and I'll do the same. Maybe we'll start a trend and others will follow it?
I stand and fight when I am attacked. Many in that situation have all the traits you identify as mine. I would with respect include you in that when you lose it. We are all as bad as each other. So as you say. Let's all look to avoid starting public punch ups.
Nowadays I walk away from the 'last word' you accuse me of more often than not because I've found that is a way to stop aggression - no response. I would, as I always do, refer you to the number of times I have admitted I am wrong on things but it rarely has an effect on that generalisation. I also don't hold grudges. As LoL says 'Life is too short' and this is just a website.
Backing down when the same argument is put forward over and over again? That's a different thing.
I am part of the problem. I know that. I'd appreciate some help rather than hinderance from other posters to help me deal with my issues. But I'm not the only poster with this particular foible so in some circumstances my response is - I'm looking for ways to sort my issues out, what are you doing about yours?
Aggression on this site does not all come from OR start in Bicknoller Towers so to some of the 'physicians' with their perfect cure. Have a go at healing yourselves while you are at it and the whole place may just be a better environment for all.
I was told when I put most of this in a PM yesterday to a poster that it was POINTLESS talking to me. Well there is no real way to come back from there. If that is where you think you are then I see no way of going forward with you. I am offering to adapt and listen. If your response is that I am not doing that I don't know what to say to you other than 'goodbye'.
Thanks for feeling the need to put this on CH. I hope I haven't marginalised it and I hope there can be forward movement on the conflict front. BUT it is all those who get into these things not just one poster. We have no regular trolls though that does not mean some posters go that route at certain times.
I suppose we'll see whether we can put our keyboards where our complaints are and do a more 'positive' job for the good of all. You are right. Less aggression would be a good place to start.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:14:22:58:43 by Grockle.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Tom Seymour (IP Logged)
Date: 15/06/2018 21:48
"Your first post was simply an agreement with Mr Seymour about 'him' (me) posting all about ME and commending TS for his courage in saying so. It had little to do with the debate and was particularly personal when I had requested posts not to be.
I offered you PM fisticuffs if you wanted them, toned down both your posts and reposted them as I said I would. So you did 'join the debate' and your point was made just without insulting me in the process."
If by mentioning "both your posts" you are referring to my post of 12 June, and Cricketharris's post shortly afterwards, you have not reposted them.
Why do you say you have?
Do you want me to put mine on here again?
A glass half - empty or a glass half - full?
Regardless, both glasses need filling up.
I offered you PM fisticuffs if you wanted them, toned down both your posts and reposted them as I said I would. So you did 'join the debate' and your point was made just without insulting me in the process."
If by mentioning "both your posts" you are referring to my post of 12 June, and Cricketharris's post shortly afterwards, you have not reposted them.
Why do you say you have?
Do you want me to put mine on here again?
A glass half - empty or a glass half - full?
Regardless, both glasses need filling up.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2018 11:13
Missed out 'toned them down' Tom. I refer you to the section of the thread intro;
"If you want to make this personal then can I please ask you to reply by PM rather than using a public forum to vent your spleen? I'd like the discussion on the site to be positive. If you can't do that without aggression then please be aggressive off site and I'll calm it down and put your point on the site with a little less provocation. I do reserve the right to do that anyway if some posters can't manage to do that themselves (it has been known in the past)"
I reposted the main points of both of them. If you want to repost please do but - for the same reason - I will remove it as it simply said this was an ego trip and you wouldn't be commenting further.
Or are you saying that wasn't what the post said?
Repost it to my PM if you think I have been unfair and I'll have another look. However the decision about it being relevant here will remain while I do that - shouldn't take long, it was a short post.
You have decided not to comment here - you have not been banned from relevant comment of the correct nature.
A relevant comment is welcome, disruptive provocation won't be. The latter will include an attempt to debate what your view of 'disruptive provocation' is. If you want to discuss the nature of that then please do it via PM as it has nothing to do with the conversation taking place here (though the result of the discussion may determine the level that is acceptable on Grockles).
We'll hear from you or we won't. Your choice on how you go from here.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:16:11:56:04 by Grockle.
"If you want to make this personal then can I please ask you to reply by PM rather than using a public forum to vent your spleen? I'd like the discussion on the site to be positive. If you can't do that without aggression then please be aggressive off site and I'll calm it down and put your point on the site with a little less provocation. I do reserve the right to do that anyway if some posters can't manage to do that themselves (it has been known in the past)"
I reposted the main points of both of them. If you want to repost please do but - for the same reason - I will remove it as it simply said this was an ego trip and you wouldn't be commenting further.
Or are you saying that wasn't what the post said?
Repost it to my PM if you think I have been unfair and I'll have another look. However the decision about it being relevant here will remain while I do that - shouldn't take long, it was a short post.
You have decided not to comment here - you have not been banned from relevant comment of the correct nature.
A relevant comment is welcome, disruptive provocation won't be. The latter will include an attempt to debate what your view of 'disruptive provocation' is. If you want to discuss the nature of that then please do it via PM as it has nothing to do with the conversation taking place here (though the result of the discussion may determine the level that is acceptable on Grockles).
We'll hear from you or we won't. Your choice on how you go from here.
Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:16:11:56:04 by Grockle.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: somexile (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2018 17:23
Stevecav - your post and list of out grounds brought back memories. My primary school was the other side of the railway embankment from the Imperial Ground and lunchtime at 12pm as an 8 or 9 year old I would leave school by the back gate, under the railway and entered the ground by the back gate at the rear of the pavilion ( unfortunately burnt down some years ago and the only reminder is that the new houses have the address Pavilion Way.) Returning for afternoon school before returning at 3.45.
One ground not mentioned was Ironmould Lane where Brislington played - a young Greg Chappell scored a century in a JPL match in 1967
One ground not mentioned was Ironmould Lane where Brislington played - a young Greg Chappell scored a century in a JPL match in 1967
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2018 19:20
Chappell's century at Brislington was the first ever in the JPL.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: stevecav (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2018 19:29
Quote:somexile
Stevecav - your post and list of out grounds brought back memories. My primary school was the other side of the railway embankment from the Imperial Ground and lunchtime at 12pm as an 8 or 9 year old I would leave school by the back gate, under the railway and entered the ground by the back gate at the rear of the pavilion ( unfortunately burnt down some years ago and the only reminder is that the new houses have the address Pavilion Way.) Returning for afternoon school before returning at 3.45.
One ground not mentioned was Ironmould Lane where Brislington played - a young Greg Chappell scored a century in a JPL match in 1967
Somexile - I remember Ironmould Lane well as I lived in Keynsham. I remember a JPL match at Ironmould Lane being televised in black and white of course. Would that have been that game? I'm guessing it must be? Actually I'm thinking the tv game I remember was 1968 definitely as I know where I was when I watched it.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:16:19:36:04 by stevecav.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Loyal of Lhasa (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2018 19:48
Chappell scored his century in 1969 - against Surrey. Somerset won by 9 wickets.
Surrey 173/7. Somerset 175/1 - Virgin 42* Chappell 128*. GSC was still only 20 yrs old.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Surrey 173/7. Somerset 175/1 - Virgin 42* Chappell 128*. GSC was still only 20 yrs old.
LoL
Seventy-eight Seasons a Somerset Supporter
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Farmer White (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2018 20:57
I saw the Chappell century at Brislington - although not at Brislington. My father had been offered a job on the South Coast. The family were taken to view some accommodation that Sunday and for my father to talk with the previous occupant of the job at his home. Whilst they talked business we watched a sizeable chunk of the Chappell innings on BBC 2 and thus started the first of my two long exiles from Somerset.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Somerset LaLaLa (IP Logged)
Date: 16/06/2018 21:35
My schoolmates used to see how many could get recognised on tv in the glory days of the Sunday League. Hanging around by the scoreboard at the various local grounds being televised usually did the trick as the cameras pointed there at the end of each over. Bristol, Nevil Road I remember particularly. Trouble is we were all at the games so no one reliable was watching us from home
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Rod1883 (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2018 20:11
I'm a relative newcomer of circa a couple of years on here, after lurking for a while.
Although I drift in and out dependent upon circumstances, I think it's a great forum - especially for those of us exiled from Somerset.
It's really good to read others opinions and FW's day reports are something to look forward to and savour.
Compared to some other forums - Football, Classic Cars - the level of disagreement here is minimal.
Although I drift in and out dependent upon circumstances, I think it's a great forum - especially for those of us exiled from Somerset.
It's really good to read others opinions and FW's day reports are something to look forward to and savour.
Compared to some other forums - Football, Classic Cars - the level of disagreement here is minimal.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 17/06/2018 20:21
Thanks for saying that Rod.
I do sometimes point out the hassle and mayhem that takes place on other sites to those who are sometimes a little 'delicate' about disagreements on here. The complaints tend to come after the disagreement and not during it. A bit of heat is bound to happen on an open forum and it really isn't over the top all that often here.
As I've said before I feel I am not asked to moderate often enough based on the seeming feelings of some but I am hardly asked to moderate at all because the site tends to self police and arguments are short lived even if the bad feeling behind them isn't.
I do sometimes point out the hassle and mayhem that takes place on other sites to those who are sometimes a little 'delicate' about disagreements on here. The complaints tend to come after the disagreement and not during it. A bit of heat is bound to happen on an open forum and it really isn't over the top all that often here.
As I've said before I feel I am not asked to moderate often enough based on the seeming feelings of some but I am hardly asked to moderate at all because the site tends to self police and arguments are short lived even if the bad feeling behind them isn't.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Clarence Parker (IP Logged)
Date: 19/06/2018 18:39
I first started to post on Grockles. Com over 9 years ago shortly after I had discovered the site. Initially it was fun composing posts on subjects concerning Somerset cricket which were close to my heart. As a result of my postings, I received a number of Private Messages (PM’s) from other posters mainly complementing me or adding some additional information to that which I had written. There were needless to say one or two others who vehemently disagreed and told me so in no uncertain terms – including some from a very sick man, the least said about whom the better.
Over a period of time, a group of 6 like – minded souls who are passionate about Somerset cricket began to correspond amongst ourselves. We had never met but knew that we were on very similar wavelengths. We neither used the main messageboard nor the PM system – the latter being excluded because one of our number, who I hasten to add is not paranoid, believed that anyone’s PM’s could be read by the moderator. I did not believe that myself, but we went along with it.
We still continue to discuss all things Somerset by e – mail, talking about former seasons, great victories and ignominious defeats, players stretching back to the 1950’s, grounds we have visited, great characters both on and off the field, Somerset cricket literature, statistics and many other topics. And yes, we even talk about the game just played whatever the result, though this is not simply our primary interest. We have even met up together socially a few times at a convenient time and venue to have an enjoyable meal and drink and to propose a toast to the county club. I am not advocating that others follow suit; it works for us but won’t for everyone.
I am the sole one who writes occasionally to Grockles.com. The others threw their hats in some time ago, and it is not up to me to explain why. There are no doubt a number of different reasons.
Reverting to the original reason of this thread, and without adding any further to it, I am in agreement with the comments expressed by Cricketharris. Well expressed, Sir.
Everything that lives must change in order to survive, and Grockles.com is no exception. Let us hope it continues and brings joy and comfort to some people. On the other hand it may just wither and die on the vine.
In conclusion, I don’t need Grockles.com and it most certainly doesn’t need me.
Over a period of time, a group of 6 like – minded souls who are passionate about Somerset cricket began to correspond amongst ourselves. We had never met but knew that we were on very similar wavelengths. We neither used the main messageboard nor the PM system – the latter being excluded because one of our number, who I hasten to add is not paranoid, believed that anyone’s PM’s could be read by the moderator. I did not believe that myself, but we went along with it.
We still continue to discuss all things Somerset by e – mail, talking about former seasons, great victories and ignominious defeats, players stretching back to the 1950’s, grounds we have visited, great characters both on and off the field, Somerset cricket literature, statistics and many other topics. And yes, we even talk about the game just played whatever the result, though this is not simply our primary interest. We have even met up together socially a few times at a convenient time and venue to have an enjoyable meal and drink and to propose a toast to the county club. I am not advocating that others follow suit; it works for us but won’t for everyone.
I am the sole one who writes occasionally to Grockles.com. The others threw their hats in some time ago, and it is not up to me to explain why. There are no doubt a number of different reasons.
Reverting to the original reason of this thread, and without adding any further to it, I am in agreement with the comments expressed by Cricketharris. Well expressed, Sir.
Everything that lives must change in order to survive, and Grockles.com is no exception. Let us hope it continues and brings joy and comfort to some people. On the other hand it may just wither and die on the vine.
In conclusion, I don’t need Grockles.com and it most certainly doesn’t need me.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: chunkyinargyll (IP Logged)
Date: 19/06/2018 18:48
Problem is most people don't know Grockles.com exists Clarence, so no point posting on something that won't be read, and won't get a reply.
I'm guessing a bit, but if the 'very sick man' is who I think you mean, my understanding is that he is indeed now 'very sick' and most unlikely to bother this site again.
Edit- I thought Clarence meant the 'other' forum (if you click on 'forum list')
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:19:20:08:08 by chunkyinargyll.
I'm guessing a bit, but if the 'very sick man' is who I think you mean, my understanding is that he is indeed now 'very sick' and most unlikely to bother this site again.
Edit- I thought Clarence meant the 'other' forum (if you click on 'forum list')
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:19:20:08:08 by chunkyinargyll.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 20/06/2018 08:56
Well we've done OK in our anonymity over the last few decades Chunky and the object was never worldwide fame in the first place.
You found us
I'm glad you have met like minded souls with your particular interests in Somerset cricket Clarence and that you have moved that beyond the site. It wasn't an aim but it has been a result for more than one poster in the past to meet people through Grockles and take the discussion beyond the text of a post.
The word 'private' has always meant 'private'. The PM system was set up by SN and has nothing to do with an individual section such as Grockles. It crosses the whole network and the only access I have ever had was as a poster like everyone else. Why would I have an interest in reading other people's private messages?
Please have a look at the edit below with reference to one person mentioned.
I have a pretty good idea about your paranoid colleague but I could also be wrong. The site had the same problems with him if we are both referring to the same character. Glad he has somewhere else that will listen to him with a little more patience. His agenda was too 'out there' for Grockles.
It's good to see posters have other outlets because as CP says neither the poster or the site need each other and things, people, clubs and the world of cricket move on. If relationships between members of the posting public and sites they used to frequent 'wither and die' then so be it. If sites become unfit for purpose and disappear then so be it. If they change and leave people behind so be it. In the 'natural' order of things that seems to be the way it has always been.
If you agree wholeheartedly with CH's post Clarence then I also hope you agree with the expressions of the way to move forward that came after it. If not then having other avenues is definitely a good thing to possess.
I suppose the same goes for our invisibility to a larger audience Chunky. If you need that then I hope you have another place to find it because I doubt you'll ever find it on Grockles. It was never part of the plan and I doubt it ever will be. As I posted somewhere on here, this is not a market research exercise - more of a bit of 'soul searching' I suppose.
Thank you for your contributions to the discussion gentlemen.
EDIT - on reading again, the 'very sick man' IS probably the same one you both refer to. Sad if he is suffering from illness but his contributions are NOT missed on many sites I would imagine.
Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:20:14:56:14 by Grockle.
You found us
I'm glad you have met like minded souls with your particular interests in Somerset cricket Clarence and that you have moved that beyond the site. It wasn't an aim but it has been a result for more than one poster in the past to meet people through Grockles and take the discussion beyond the text of a post.
The word 'private' has always meant 'private'. The PM system was set up by SN and has nothing to do with an individual section such as Grockles. It crosses the whole network and the only access I have ever had was as a poster like everyone else. Why would I have an interest in reading other people's private messages?
Please have a look at the edit below with reference to one person mentioned.
I have a pretty good idea about your paranoid colleague but I could also be wrong. The site had the same problems with him if we are both referring to the same character. Glad he has somewhere else that will listen to him with a little more patience. His agenda was too 'out there' for Grockles.
It's good to see posters have other outlets because as CP says neither the poster or the site need each other and things, people, clubs and the world of cricket move on. If relationships between members of the posting public and sites they used to frequent 'wither and die' then so be it. If sites become unfit for purpose and disappear then so be it. If they change and leave people behind so be it. In the 'natural' order of things that seems to be the way it has always been.
If you agree wholeheartedly with CH's post Clarence then I also hope you agree with the expressions of the way to move forward that came after it. If not then having other avenues is definitely a good thing to possess.
I suppose the same goes for our invisibility to a larger audience Chunky. If you need that then I hope you have another place to find it because I doubt you'll ever find it on Grockles. It was never part of the plan and I doubt it ever will be. As I posted somewhere on here, this is not a market research exercise - more of a bit of 'soul searching' I suppose.
Thank you for your contributions to the discussion gentlemen.
EDIT - on reading again, the 'very sick man' IS probably the same one you both refer to. Sad if he is suffering from illness but his contributions are NOT missed on many sites I would imagine.
Edited 3 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:20:14:56:14 by Grockle.
Re: Where and What are we - Introspection Episode 1
Posted by: Grockle (IP Logged)
Date: 24/06/2018 09:51
Well information has been gleaned and debate has been had - not just here but in other parts of Grockles.
Thanks to those contributing for your thought and your content
This thread will stay open but I can summarise some things now and outline how things might change to make the majority's experience more conducive to what they would like.
Things that have filtered through as possible actions pòsters can take...
Think before you post
Be more self critical of your own content
Aggressive interactions need 2 participating parties. If you feel you have been misunderstood then PM rather than continue to publically inflame a situation.
Ask for moderation of something that bothers you rather than just advertising your outrage to a thirsty public audience that just loves to add their outrage to yours.... also publically.
At the same time as acting to refer or diffuse, walk away from conflict. The loudest voices are most afraid of silence and not being interacted with.
Scapegoats are wonderful things, especially if they hide your own personal failings in dealing with an uncomfortable aspect. 'I think we can all do better'
Aggression is still possible for those who must have it. BUT it should be offsite in the PM and in the area that SN deals with much more effectively because they have access and control there.
So....actions
1. Some posters do not seem to be aware of their own issues with posting. They see their own posts as near perfect and beyond reproach while identifying major issues with others who display the same traits they do. Eyes may need opening.
2. Some contributors like to bemoan the problems consistently and in general without wanting to take any action to help change the situation or specify their particular issues. They need to be persuaded that this is not the solution
3. No one wants to see certain things on the general posting forum but nearly everyone wants to complain about those things on the same general platform which elongates and sometimes expands the scope of the very things people don't want to see. This needs to be minimised
As 'everything' is quite obviously my fault (TiC) I will be taking more active measures with some posters to temper their responses and remove references to old grievances and personal agendas. While, of course, moderating my own obvious excesses which I am well aware of and am told about quite often by those in groups 1,2 and 3 above.
As few seem to be willing to help identify issues but want more active moderation you will have to deal with my judgement, my decisions and in some cases my 'fiefdom'. The solution seems to be keep certain things off the site so people aren't subjected to it. Out of sight seems to be out of mind.
'Complainers' and 'Combatants' alike. The best policy seems to be to take away your audience so that will be the policy. If you are unwilling to help me "surgically' moderate then you will have to accept a more 'blanket' based moderation policy with all its generalisations.
I will communicate with those involved but it may very well be action first and retrospective discussion later.
We can all make this a more effective debate chamber but we don't do that by assuming we are wonderful and it is all about everyone else's faults.
To those who have an ingrained dislike of Grockle or Grockles' posting population I have a simple message. Adapt in the same way you expect others to or find another outlet for your comments and activities. The end result of not doing so may very well be access being removed as much as I personally would rather that not happen except in extreme cases. I can put up with most of you. If you can't put up with me then it may be best if interaction ceases.
Someone posted yesterday that the 'customers' had the final say. NONE of Grockles' posters are 'customers'. There is no payment for services you expect to therefore have. Everything is provided pretty much free of charge and for the mutual benefit of all
We are simply a like minded group of people with a similar interest who are provided with a space to interact at no economic cost to the contributors. We are asked to follow simple rules to maintain a healthy space and the majority do so without problem and what they create is good, healthy and worthwhile.
THAT is what the majority are looking to maintain and enhance. THAT has to be the aim of whatever moderation takes place communally or through the actions of individuals.
'Don't ask what Grockles can do for you.........'
Well let's suck it and see shall we? A successful outcome would be very little moderator interaction and few referrals because there is no need rather than through general apathy.
Here we go.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:24:16:45:18 by Grockle.
Thanks to those contributing for your thought and your content
This thread will stay open but I can summarise some things now and outline how things might change to make the majority's experience more conducive to what they would like.
Things that have filtered through as possible actions pòsters can take...
Think before you post
Be more self critical of your own content
Aggressive interactions need 2 participating parties. If you feel you have been misunderstood then PM rather than continue to publically inflame a situation.
Ask for moderation of something that bothers you rather than just advertising your outrage to a thirsty public audience that just loves to add their outrage to yours.... also publically.
At the same time as acting to refer or diffuse, walk away from conflict. The loudest voices are most afraid of silence and not being interacted with.
Scapegoats are wonderful things, especially if they hide your own personal failings in dealing with an uncomfortable aspect. 'I think we can all do better'
Aggression is still possible for those who must have it. BUT it should be offsite in the PM and in the area that SN deals with much more effectively because they have access and control there.
So....actions
1. Some posters do not seem to be aware of their own issues with posting. They see their own posts as near perfect and beyond reproach while identifying major issues with others who display the same traits they do. Eyes may need opening.
2. Some contributors like to bemoan the problems consistently and in general without wanting to take any action to help change the situation or specify their particular issues. They need to be persuaded that this is not the solution
3. No one wants to see certain things on the general posting forum but nearly everyone wants to complain about those things on the same general platform which elongates and sometimes expands the scope of the very things people don't want to see. This needs to be minimised
As 'everything' is quite obviously my fault (TiC) I will be taking more active measures with some posters to temper their responses and remove references to old grievances and personal agendas. While, of course, moderating my own obvious excesses which I am well aware of and am told about quite often by those in groups 1,2 and 3 above.
As few seem to be willing to help identify issues but want more active moderation you will have to deal with my judgement, my decisions and in some cases my 'fiefdom'. The solution seems to be keep certain things off the site so people aren't subjected to it. Out of sight seems to be out of mind.
'Complainers' and 'Combatants' alike. The best policy seems to be to take away your audience so that will be the policy. If you are unwilling to help me "surgically' moderate then you will have to accept a more 'blanket' based moderation policy with all its generalisations.
I will communicate with those involved but it may very well be action first and retrospective discussion later.
We can all make this a more effective debate chamber but we don't do that by assuming we are wonderful and it is all about everyone else's faults.
To those who have an ingrained dislike of Grockle or Grockles' posting population I have a simple message. Adapt in the same way you expect others to or find another outlet for your comments and activities. The end result of not doing so may very well be access being removed as much as I personally would rather that not happen except in extreme cases. I can put up with most of you. If you can't put up with me then it may be best if interaction ceases.
Someone posted yesterday that the 'customers' had the final say. NONE of Grockles' posters are 'customers'. There is no payment for services you expect to therefore have. Everything is provided pretty much free of charge and for the mutual benefit of all
We are simply a like minded group of people with a similar interest who are provided with a space to interact at no economic cost to the contributors. We are asked to follow simple rules to maintain a healthy space and the majority do so without problem and what they create is good, healthy and worthwhile.
THAT is what the majority are looking to maintain and enhance. THAT has to be the aim of whatever moderation takes place communally or through the actions of individuals.
'Don't ask what Grockles can do for you.........'
Well let's suck it and see shall we? A successful outcome would be very little moderator interaction and few referrals because there is no need rather than through general apathy.
Here we go.
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2018:06:24:16:45:18 by Grockle.
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