RealJock - Gay Fitness, Health, and Life

FORUMS > General Discussion Forum Rules

TRACK THIS

Sort by:

Real Jock's supporter service, ie, membership charge
redheadguy Posts: 2275	Jun 30, 2008 5:10 AM GMT Quote http://www.realjock.com/article/1162 I guess it was inevitable. Will you pay for those extra services? I'm already paying for a couple of other sites so I'm not sure about realjock.

Hidden/Deleted Member	Jun 30, 2008 5:15 AM GMT Quote Oh no =/
Hidden/Deleted Member	Jun 30, 2008 5:52 AM GMT Quote I get a badge?! SAWEEEEEEEEEET! Now all I need to do is get my extending baton back and then I can go rough up some drunks down at the tavern! There be truth here! Roy asked me to dance last time I went there.. I wonder about him.
Timberoo Posts: 2863	Jun 30, 2008 11:25 AM GMT Quote I'm not sure about that t-shirt color.
SurrealLife Posts: 4496	Jun 30, 2008 12:09 PM GMT Quote If there is a charge I hope it is options and is not foisted on everyone. Last thing I need is another T-shirt I never wear. I have about 10 of them from gay rec. volleyball in my closet that come included in my membership fee to the league.
briarhawk Posts: 560	Jun 30, 2008 12:13 PM GMT Quote I don't know if I will. I love RJ, but the optional services they offer aren't really that vital to my use of the website. Teeshirt is cool though, although i'd really prefer they stuck with the red and gold and gray.
Hidden/Deleted Member	Jun 30, 2008 12:45 PM GMT Quote Seems like trying to raise money for services and then giving away a t shirt seems dumb. Just be confident in charging for the service and roll on. If i wanted a t shirt i would buy one. I do think that the site is worth a fee though. I have enjoyed myself and met some great guys who are just not interested in cam sex like other sites. This is my last week on RJ for some time. Though I would pay to stay on, I need to refocus my energies. Its been swell, but the swelling has gone down. see you later in the year. Good luck all! Thanks everyone here for great conversations, the occasional flirt and a whole lot of support and laughs.
McGay Posts: 3220	Jun 30, 2008 12:50 PM GMT Quote I probably will pay as I'd hate to see a site this good go belly up. 60 Bucks for a year's worth of contact with this many gay men without ever having to be in the same room with them and being able to shut them up whenever I want to (click) is a treasure not to be buried. 60 bucks is a bargain.
MunchingZombi... Posts: 2203	Jun 30, 2008 1:21 PM GMT Quote Caslon alone costs thousands of dollars in bandwidth with his lolcatz. We should all do our part and pitch in.
tommysguns200... Posts: 943	Jun 30, 2008 1:25 PM GMT Quote I'll pay $60 if DJBens doesn't leave. Hell, I'd pay the 60 bucks just to stare at Lawson and Zdrew's pics. (props to Chizzad and zdrews, bf.)
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 1:39 PM GMT Quote tommysguns2000 saidI'll pay $60 if DJBens doesn't leave. Hell, I'd pay the 60 bucks just to stare at Lawson and Zdrew's pics. (props to Chizzad and zdrews, bf.) I suspect that they have a revenue sharing agreement w/RJ to entice the little people. I dunno, I think $60/year is too much. I am a paid supporter of a couple of other gay social networking sites, but those subscriptions run about $30/year.
tommysguns200... Posts: 943	Jun 30, 2008 1:43 PM GMT Quote Are you saying I'm little?!?!? I AM GONNA KICK YOUR AS.. oh, wait, I just looked at your profile. Yessir...can I get you some coffee, sir?
Caslon8000 Posts: 8134	Jun 30, 2008 2:33 PM GMT Quote MunchingZombie saidCaslon alone costs thousands of dollars in bandwidth with his lolcatz. We should all do our part and pitch in. That's right...stick it to the guy with cancer...who has been practically house-bound for the past year and a half. For whom, RJ has been a lifeline to humanity. It's all his fault....so let him know it. I guess I should have gotten a gun and blown my brains out rather than struggle thru the depression with the help of RJ, cuz all I do is run up the bandwidth. How much better the world would be without me! Who am I kidding? Nobody is ever going to want me now. I am damaged goods...old and damaged. ...a waste of breath and bandwidth! ...BEGONE, YOU OLD, BALD, BANDWIDTH BURNER, BEGONE! ...I guess there comes a point when people just aren't worth keeping alive anymore....just pull the plug and save the bandwidth. ...Then fight over who gets his computer, because there is someone better to burn the bandwidth than he.
Caslon8000 Posts: 8134	Jun 30, 2008 2:40 PM GMT Quote I will be willing to pay the $60 a year for all the resources that are provided on this site. RJ is packed with lots of good stuff and I think it is well worth supporting. And I like the looks of the muscle shirt. ...now how much do I have contribute to get a strap with Real Jock stenciled across the band ...
DiverScience Posts: 959	Jun 30, 2008 2:42 PM GMT Quote 8$ is annoying. Personally, the "rise to the top of searches" feature is one that a lot of sites do and pisses me off royally. It's frelling stupid and just makes for a haves and have nots situation.
Caslon8000 Posts: 8134	Jun 30, 2008 2:47 PM GMT Quote ruck_us saidI dunno, I think $60/year is too much. I am a paid supporter of a couple of other gay social networking sites, but those subscriptions run about $30/year. RJ isnt supposed to be a social networking site. Do those social networking sites give you info, plans, and articles that compare to what is provided here on RJ? If someone doesnt have a trainer, he can really get great guidance on exercises, workout plans, nutrition, etc. here on RJ. I am very impressed with not only what is presented, but also how it is presented...all those vids demonstrating the exercises. Not to mention the 12 week workout plans and diets.
Hidden/Deleted Member	Jun 30, 2008 2:50 PM GMT Quote McGay saidI probably will pay as I'd hate to see a site this good go belly up. 60 Bucks for a year's worth of contact with this many gay men without ever having to be in the same room with them and being able to shut them up whenever I want to (click) is a treasure not to be buried. 60 bucks is a bargain.
Caslon8000 Posts: 8134	Jun 30, 2008 3:08 PM GMT Quote Better features to offer to yearly subscribers are: 1) You get to edit the title of your thread 2) You get to delete the whole thread you have started if it goes terribly, terribly wrong
jaydub Posts: 606	Jun 30, 2008 3:13 PM GMT Quote Caslon4000 said2) You get to delete the whole thread you have started if it goes terribly, terribly wrong definitely worth it now!
zdrew Posts: 1978	Jun 30, 2008 3:18 PM GMT Quote jaydub said[quote][cite]Caslon4000 said[/cite]2) You get to delete the whole thread you have started if it goes terribly, terribly wrong definitely worth it now![/quote] Pffft! If I'm shellin' out the dough, I wanna be able to make entire members disappear! Kidding. I don't think I'd use any of the extra services, but I'd gladly pay if it helped keep the quality of the site high.
Hidden/Deleted Member	Jun 30, 2008 3:24 PM GMT Quote Maybe they'll be kind and give us current members a break after they realize noone's buying it.
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 3:24 PM GMT Quote tommysguns2000 saidI'll pay $60 if DJBens doesn't leave. Hell, I'd pay the 60 bucks just to stare at Lawson and Zdrew's pics. (props to Chizzad and zdrews, bf.) It's sad because it's true!
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 3:32 PM GMT Quote Caslon4000 said[quote] RJ isnt supposed to be a social networking site. Do those social networking sites give you info, plans, and articles that compare to what is provided here on RJ? If someone doesnt have a trainer, he can really get great guidance on exercises, workout plans, nutrition, etc. here on RJ. I am very impressed with not only what is presented, but also how it is presented...all those vids demonstrating the exercises. Not to mention the 12 week workout plans and diets. "Supposed to" being the key term. However, if you Google the term "social networking," you'll find definitions that describe RJ pretty darn well. I wouldn't mind paying a $30 annual fee for the additional personal training-type content; I just think $60 is excessive. RJ could also contract with a couple of freelance ad execs who could increase that revenue stream.
Caslon8000 Posts: 8134	Jun 30, 2008 3:43 PM GMT Quote ruck_us saidI wouldn't mind paying a $30 annual fee for the additional personal training-type content; I just think $60 is excessive. RJ could also contract with a couple of freelance ad execs who could increase that revenue stream. It sounds like $30 is the going rate for a social networking site. Then if you add in $30 for the additional personal training-type content, you get $60. Just what the Powers That Be are asking for a site that gives you both. That's only a little more than a dollar a week. And look at the quality of men here!
gettoknowit Posts: 1073	Jun 30, 2008 3:48 PM GMT Quote Janet Jackson - "Call on me"
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 3:57 PM GMT Quote Just remember that it does take money to run a site like this, probably more money and time than you realize. Why we a lot of people always seem to expect something for nothing is beyond me. Besides it is only an option which one does not have to choose to take part in. If you are already a member of other sites that you pay for yet spend most of your time here then well, that should tell you something. The workout articles, training tips, videos, the people here, and everything that makes up this site has been accomplished by people that have devoted their time and effort to make it a good place to be so chip in just to show your appreciation if you want to. Guys can make assumptions as to why all they want to but I do not see them spending their hard earned money and time to create something as well created as this site. For those that think it is easy and cheap to create a place like this then I will expect to see your new site up and running in a month. I for one will support the site because the information is good and most of the guys here are pretty cool. Besides I piss away $60 on 15 gallons of foreign fuel all the time so what is it to spend here?
HotToddy Posts: 206	Jun 30, 2008 3:58 PM GMT Quote Basically, here's my beef with the charges. It turns the whole thing into a "dating service". It's all about getting noticed and being popular. All of the features that are part of the "supporter" package are in effect the same services you would pay for at gay.com, manhunt.net, outinamerica.com, ect. I like RJ because of it's social networking atmosphere, as opposed to the sleazy hook up feel of most other gay websites. I feel that the whole supporter package is going to fundamentally alter the makeup of the site. It's a poorly laid out plan to appeal to more of the mainstream gay culture, but I think all it will really accomplish is attracting money from people who aren't really fitness oriented, but simply looking for hot guys. Because let's admit it, we're the hottest group of "gentlemen" (I use that term with more looseness than.... I'll stop there) anywhere. On the other hand, I do love me some RJ, so the thought of paying a slight membership charge doesn't necessarily make me cringe. $60 makes me cringe. However, for $60 I'd better see an LOLcatz delivered to my inbox every day of the week.
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 4:08 PM GMT Quote HotToddy saidBasically, here's my beef with the charges. It turns the whole thing into a "dating service". It's all about getting noticed and being popular. All of the features that are part of the "supporter" package are in effect the same services you would pay for at gay.com, manhunt.net, outinamerica.com, ect. I like RJ because of it's social networking atmosphere, as opposed to the sleazy hook up feel of most other gay websites. I feel that the whole supporter package is going to fundamentally alter the makeup of the site. I echo your sentiments. $60 bucks isn't going to break the bank for guys like you and me, Chizzad, but there are a lot of 20-somethings, here, for whom that fee will be a budget breaker -- especially in light of the high gas prices that you mention. And BTW, I manage enterprise-level Web sites, so I am well aware of the time, effort and expense involved. I'm not advocating that RJ completely abandon the subscription membership idea; rather, I think that $60 is more than the market will bear. There are many other ways that Web entrepreneurs can generate revenue, so I'm simply suggesting that the RJ team apportion fees across a number of revenue streams, membership being only one of those streams.
YngHungSFSD Posts: 383	Jun 30, 2008 4:09 PM GMT Quote You know I generally loathe paying for most websites, because lets face it, someone else is usually offering something similar enough to provide pretty much the same features and content for free. I don't think that's the case with RJ though. This is a great site for a unique subpopulation of men. It's got decent content. The members though all in all are pretty sweet. There are a lot of knowledgeable people on here willing to help with all sorts of questions. I mean I've written entire programs for young guys stating out in lifting. I know both myself and others have given targeted workout and diet information. I am about to be a certified trainer and both myself and others on here often offer advice and for free. That type of advice would typically cost you far more then 60 bucks. It seems everyone has become obsessed with the free thing and few are usually willing to pay to keep a good thing going. Honestly, how many guys ever click on a RJ banner to keep the ad revenue coming in? I will pay it because I enjoy the site, meet great guys, and most importantly I think it's important to support the site so the guys that maybe can't pay can continue to use it. If they start cutting out the free features, then I will yank my support. I guess some of us have to support a good thing when we see one. PS: I swear no one at real jock paid me or bribed me to write this opinion.
fastprof Posts: 1459	Jun 30, 2008 4:18 PM GMT Quote Well I don't see this as much of an issue. The basic functions of the website, including emails, posting to Forums etc., will still be free. People can decide if the extra services are worth $60/yr, but even if that was a mandatory charge I disagree with anyone who says that will impact anyone's lives. That's $5 per month....and even the average 18 yr old can afford that. But even if he can't, he can still be on this site as it exists now for free. Who cares that you can't see beyond the last two people who have viewed your profile? Come on. I will pay that $60 not because I need those extra services, but because, like chizzad says, this site is worth its weight in gold. And it's signal to noise ratio is huge.... There is not the slightest doubt in my mind that the extra services are NOT worth the $60 per year. There is also no doubt in my mind that RJ itself as it exists definitely is worth much more than that. My match.com subscription (thankfully, in the past) was something like $120 per year....for what....it was garbage. I have no problems with it. John
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 4:18 PM GMT Quote ruck_us said $60 bucks isn't going to break the bank for guys like you and me, Chizzad, but there are a lot of 20-somethings, here, for whom that fee will be a budget breaker -- especially in light of the high gas prices that you mention. And BTW, I manage enterprise-level Web sites, so I am well aware of the time, effort and expense involved. I'm not advocating that RJ completely abandon the subscription membership idea; rather, I think that $60 is more than the market will bear. There are many other ways that Web entrepreneurs can generate revenue, so I'm simply suggesting that the RJ team apportion fees across a number of revenue streams, membership being only one of those streams. That is why it's an option! Don't want it then don't pay it but also don't bitch about it!
fastprof Posts: 1459	Jun 30, 2008 4:20 PM GMT Quote Chizzad said That is why it's an option! Don't want it then don't pay it but also don't bitch about it! God, I wanted to say something like "quit whining" too. But leave it to Chizzad to have the guts to say it.
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 4:24 PM GMT Quote fastprof said[quote][cite]Chizzad said[/cite] That is why it's an option! Don't want it then don't pay it but also don't bitch about it! God, I wanted to say something like "quit whining" too. But leave it to Chizzad to have the guts to say it. [/quote] Wee, fun flame war! I'll bitch all I want, thank you very much. Who the heck are you all to bitch at me? My God, I have to wade through a barrage of you all's rants, every day, so deal with it if I tactfully offer feedback and alternatives.
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 4:27 PM GMT Quote Now its getting funny I don't bitch in forums, I just simply state some common sense facts. Have at it I have said all that needs to be said
McGay Posts: 3220	Jun 30, 2008 4:29 PM GMT Quote Look at the fighting that has begun and it's all about money. Money money money, it always gets in the way. I'm calling my lawyer. You're OUTTAHERE!
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 4:31 PM GMT Quote Chizzad saidNow its getting funny I don't bitch in forums, I just simply state some common sense facts. Have at it I have said all that needs to be said Common sense from who's perspective? You called me to the carpet for suggesting an alternative. That was inappropriate and unnecessary. RJ can take it or leave it. I'll probably pay the fee, regardless. If I don't see a value-add, I won't renew. Now, there's some common sense.
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 4:37 PM GMT Quote McGay saidLook at the fighting that has begun and it's all about money. Money money money, it always gets in the way. I'm calling my lawyer. You're OUTTAHERE! Haha I will never fight online, it's pointless. It's not like RJ is going membership on yo ass LOL. It is simply a mere option that one can choose to do or one can deny doing. So anyone getting their cute little panties in a bunch over it is just getting shit streaks in their underwear for no reason at all!
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 4:41 PM GMT Quote For the record I had to post this once already today! Arguing online
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 4:46 PM GMT Quote Chizzad saidFor the record I had to post this once already today! Arguing online Thank you, oh RJ Golden Boy. I bow to your superiority (dance). I pay homage to your perfection.
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 4:49 PM GMT Quote Oh man thanks I had forgotten about that video! Show the one of me wearing my sarong, I like that one too. For more videos please visit my profile!
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 4:51 PM GMT Quote Chizzad saidOh man thanks I had forgotten about that video! Show the one of me wearing my sarong, I like that one too. For more videos please visit my profile! Your wish is my command, oh muscled one.
fastprof Posts: 1459	Jun 30, 2008 4:52 PM GMT Quote ruck_us said Wee, fun flame war! I'll bitch all I want, thank you very much. Oh, geez. Sorry. I didn't mean that personally at ruck_us. I meant my comment just directed to the general tone complaining about $5 per month for extra services. If a guy doesn't want those services, he can just keep the free services, which are considerable. I meant there is nothing to complain about. Just don't pay it. My "whining" comment had to do with the general tone of the thread, making a big mountain out of a molehill. I agree with Chizzad. Sorry ruck_us. John
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 4:52 PM GMT Quote Thanks LOL. I like that one for some reason and even though I can't dance I still like to! Oh yeah in reference to the other video AC/DC ROCKS!
Hidden/Deleted Member	Jun 30, 2008 4:54 PM GMT Quote It's still a fraction of the cost of gay.com and this site actually has relevant social value in addition to health and nutrition resources whereas most gay sites make we want to do this. Though some discussion threads have brought me close.
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 4:56 PM GMT Quote fastprof said Oh, geez. Sorry. I didn't mean that personally at ruck_us. I meant my comment just directed to the general tone complaining about $5 per month for extra services. If a guy doesn't want those services, he can just keep the free services, which are considerable. I meant there is nothing to complain about. Just don't pay it. My "whining" comment had to do with the general tone of the thread, making a big mountain out of a molehill. I agree with Chizzad. Sorry ruck_us. John Yeah I think some things are taken a little too personal. How many people here actually know how much it cost to run a site like this and also how much time it takes? Oh well nanner nanner nanner!
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 5:00 PM GMT Quote Chizzad said[quote] Yeah I think some things are taken a little too personal. How many people here actually know how much it cost to run a site like this and also how much time it takes? Oh well nanner nanner nanner! What was that about not fighting online? Show everyone that you're the bigger man (pun intended) by walking the talk.
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 5:02 PM GMT Quote fastprof said[quote] Sorry ruck_us. John No worries, John. Thanks for that.
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 5:05 PM GMT Quote Haha I am just having fun and will continue to do so. When someone post in a thread after many many others have posted then do not take it as if someone is speaking directly to you by "quoting" them in a response is all I was saying. So smile a little bit and be happy, it is a beautiful day afterall.
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 5:08 PM GMT Quote Chizzad saidHaha I am just having fun and will continue to do so. When someone post in a thread after many many others have posted then do not take it as if someone is speaking directly to you by "quoting" them in a response is all I was saying. So smile a little bit and be happy, it is a beautiful day afterall. Dude, you quoted me. I'm supposed to read your mind now, too? I am having a good day. Charlie the Unicorn makes me happy.
CuriousJockAZ Posts: 2344	Jun 30, 2008 5:10 PM GMT Quote Some people can be so cheap sometimes. $60.00 a year? That's like 17 cents a day, or $5 a month, guys. A site like this surely costs a fortune to keep up and running, not to mention the fact that this is one of the best gay sites on the net. Pony up for God's sake
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 5:11 PM GMT Quote Chizzad saidJust remember that it does take money to run a site like this, probably more money and time than you realize. Why we a lot of people always seem to expect something for nothing is beyond me. Besides it is only an option which one does not have to choose to take part in. If you are already a member of other sites that you pay for yet spend most of your time here then well, that should tell you something. The workout articles, training tips, videos, the people here, and everything that makes up this site has been accomplished by people that have devoted their time and effort to make it a good place to be so chip in just to show your appreciation if you want to. Guys can make assumptions as to why all they want to but I do not see them spending their hard earned money and time to create something as well created as this site. For those that think it is easy and cheap to create a place like this then I will expect to see your new site up and running in a month. I for one will support the site because the information is good and most of the guys here are pretty cool. Besides I piss away $60 on 15 gallons of foreign fuel all the time so what is it to spend here? This was my 2nd post in which you responeded to Rock. I quoted no one it was a mere comment/opinion.
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 5:14 PM GMT Quote ruck_us said I echo your sentiments. $60 bucks isn't going to break the bank for guys like you and me, Chizzad, but there are a lot of 20-somethings, here, for whom that fee will be a budget breaker -- especially in light of the high gas prices that you mention. And BTW, I manage enterprise-level Web sites, so I am well aware of the time, effort and expense involved. I'm not advocating that RJ completely abandon the subscription membership idea; rather, I think that $60 is more than the market will bear. There are many other ways that Web entrepreneurs can generate revenue, so I'm simply suggesting that the RJ team apportion fees across a number of revenue streams, membership being only one of those streams. And from that you called me out in which I still was not and am not offended........at all!
TallDutchCanu... Posts: 65	Jun 30, 2008 5:30 PM GMT Quote I was initially bummed to read this, but after some thought, I would consider paying a modest memebership fee for RJ only because RJ is actually a useful, enjoyable, and informative site However, if there is a service cost creep over time - where more and more charges appear - then I'll probably close my account. I am a very cynical consumer, so when people have their hand out for cash I'm gonna get really touchy about getting my money's worth!... I do think the the fitness advice, and opportunity for gay guys to talk to each other in the forums, and ability to just email each other, should stay free so those without $$ and who need support can find it
fastprof Posts: 1459	Jun 30, 2008 5:32 PM GMT Quote I just went back and reread the proposal to make sure. RunInTheCity, all the services that a Newbie needs will still be free. They will still be able to post a profile with pictures, still be able to email, still be able to participate in the Forums, have buddy lists, have hotlists etc. The only thing "taken away" from the free users will be the ability to see all the profiles of people who have looked at their profile. They'll be limited to the last two. But, if a person is on here to get advice and to intereact, who cares about that? As for the extra services you get for the $60, none of them are fundamental to the purpose of the site. So I guess I am not following your upset...because everything you say that is important to have for free (a level playing field) will still be free. Again, this is not meant as a Flame. I just don't understand the level of upset here in some of the posts. Some read as if guys think that the basic RJ services that we enjoy now will cost $60. They won't. They still will be free. That's why I think this is a tempest in a teapot. (Gad, now that will sound like a flame!)
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 5:33 PM GMT Quote Chizzad said[quote][cite]ruck_us said[/cite] And from that you called me out in which I still was not and am not offended........at all! You quoted me when you replied: Don't want it then don't pay it but also don't bitch about it! Some of the pro-membership-fee replies have been condescending and rude. Why is that necessary? We understand you all's position. If your position is the superior one, though, then why is it necessary to use a pejorative tone? RJ will do what RJ has to do. If a membership program alters the fundamentals of this community, then so be it. In all likelihood, it probably won't. I'd personally be more supportive if the fees led to significant site and feature upgrades, which may or may not be planned. I think there's a compromise to be had, but I'm not running the show.
CuriousJockAZ Posts: 2344	Jun 30, 2008 5:34 PM GMT Quote RunintheCity said[quote][cite]CuriousJockAZ said[/cite]Some people can be so cheap sometimes. $60.00 a year? That's like 17 cents a day, or $5 a month, guys. A site like this surely costs a fortune to keep up and running, not to mention the fact that this is one of the best gay sites on the net. Pony up for God's sake You do realize that not everyone has $8 a month or $60 a year to spare? Yes, some people - like me - are cheap. But some people are of limited means. That's what I dislike about it most - it assumes that web access and usage are a level playing field. They are not. I get upset about that mindset because I remember my public library days when we were the only way many poor/minority/rural people could access the web. RealJock being what it is - we see how many fitness newbies arrive here and get GOOD ADVICE vs what they might get elsewhere. We see how many young gay guys join and can have their gay-frame-of-mind shaped in positive ways by the discourse and camaraderie here. It'd be a shame to see that limited by the realities of economics. I'm not saying that charges are never justified...but their are alternatives: limits on photos, limits on forum attachments, etc. Hundreds, hell, thousands of other sites do this. Funny that so many of the gay ones do not. [/quote] Sorry, but I don't fall for that pity party. If you can afford a computer, AND internet access, then 17 cents a day is hardly going to break the bank. $5 a month? Hello??? You can barely buy a Big mac, fries and coke at McDonald's for that.
McGay Posts: 3220	Jun 30, 2008 5:34 PM GMT Quote I just heard that they're going to implement a hotness scale based on our profile photos. Those in the top 10% of hotness don't have to pay. All others will have to pay or do laundry for the other 10%.
CuriousJockAZ Posts: 2344	Jun 30, 2008 5:35 PM GMT Quote Okay, guess I'll start sorting my whites and darks :-) KIDDING!!
auryn Posts: 1609	Jun 30, 2008 5:37 PM GMT Quote I'm sure I'll pay... I spend $60 in weekend on frivolous stuff like going out (includes cover and overpriced drinks). I just hope they add a spell checker that works with IE or Firefox so I don't have to keep going to google to check. I'll likely wait to see how I get along without the extra stuff first, though. I'm not here to meet folks to date and I don't think I really need most of the services that were listed; but we'll see. I like the fact that there will be a lot of services that guys that may not be able to pay can still use. Has anyone that has a problem with the concept of membership fees, other than just not wanting to pay, written the RJ powers-that-be? I know they frequently read some of the threads, but it would make sense to send a letter to them too. They're really quite pleasant and professional.
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 5:38 PM GMT Quote McGay saidI just heard that they're going to implement a hotness scale based on our profile photos. Those in the top 10% of hotness don't have to pay. All others will have to pay or do laundry for the other 10%. Confound it all. Guess I better go buy some rubber gloves and borax. (Hmm, on second thought, that may not be such a bad thing :twisted Starch or no-starch? (Oh, and please don't forget the tip jar. Tipping is not a city in China, after all.)
McGay Posts: 3220	Jun 30, 2008 5:38 PM GMT Quote CuriousJockAZOkay, guess I'll start sorting my whites and darks :-) Good thinking. Practice makes perfect.
CuriousJockAZ Posts: 2344	Jun 30, 2008 5:39 PM GMT Quote McGay said[quote][cite]CuriousJockAZ[/cite]Okay, guess I'll start sorting my whites and darks :-) Good thinking. Practice makes perfect. [/quote] Uhhhh, just to clarify, I was talking "laundry" NOT "races.
ruck_us Posts: 741	Jun 30, 2008 5:39 PM GMT Quote Auryn said Has anyone that has a problem with the concept of membership fees, other than just not wanting to pay, written the RJ powers-that-be? I know they frequently read some of the threads, but it would make sense to send a letter to them too. They're really quite pleasant and professional. Yes, as a matter of fact, I did that, last night. I offered some suggested alternatives, which included a $30 annual membership fee with a "donation" option for those who wish to contribute more. There's also merchandizing. I'd buy some RJ logo'ed stuff.
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 5:41 PM GMT Quote ORDER ORDER in the flamboyant court LOL. Lets slap a big rainbow on this forum and hold hands running down the street searching the gutters and drink machines for spare change so that those that wish to support the site will have the funds to do so. OK I solved the worlds problems in 30 seconds so now we can talk about something else!
McGay Posts: 3220	Jun 30, 2008 5:42 PM GMT Quote This site is gay, Curious. You probably didn't need to clarify that.
auryn Posts: 1609	Jun 30, 2008 5:44 PM GMT Quote McGay saidI just heard that they're going to implement a hotness scale based on our profile photos. Those in the top 10% of hotness don't have to pay. All others will have to pay or do laundry for the other 10%. I ain't washin' nobodies skidmarked undies, so I guess I'll have to pay up.
McGay Posts: 3220	Jun 30, 2008 5:45 PM GMT Quote They're not called skidmarks anymore. It's racing stripes.
CuriousJockAZ Posts: 2344	Jun 30, 2008 5:46 PM GMT Quote McGay saidThis site is gay, Curious. You probably didn't need to clarify that. This is a gay site? Well, knock me over with a feather!
TallDutchCanu... Posts: 65	Jun 30, 2008 5:53 PM GMT Quote McGay saidThey're not called skidmarks anymore. It's racing stripes. Eeeww!
Chizzad Posts: 678	Jun 30, 2008 5:56 PM GMT Quote Sometimes I get a racing patch, is there such a thing?
CuriousJockAZ Posts: 2344	Jun 30, 2008 6:02 PM GMT Quote RunintheCity said[quote][cite]CuriousJockAZ said[/cite] Sorry, but I don't fall for that pity party. If you can afford a computer, AND internet access, then 17 cents a day is hardly going to break the bank. $5 a month? Hello??? You can barely buy a Big mac, fries and coke at McDonald's for that. RunintheCity said4. Yes, I'm being alarmist - partly because I know people who are limited by these sorts of scenarios and I'm feeling touchy about this sort of thing today. I know gays who still live back in my rural home area. They go to the library to use the internet. They are blue collar people with limited means and even more limited exposure. But they can use things like MySpace and RealJock to relate to the world far larger than their own. And that is hugely important and part of the fantastic nature of the internet. [/quote] Not to sound unsympathetic, but perhaps if times are that tough they need to be out working a 2nd job instead of hanging out in the local library surfing RealJock. Perhaps the RJ owners could have some sort of freebie membership program for people who write them and explain severe financial hardship. After all, we would't want anyone's life to literally crumble if their access to RealJock were to be cut off.
MunchingZombi... Posts: 2203	Jun 30, 2008 6:08 PM GMT Quote Caslon4000 said That's right...stick it to the guy with cancer...who has been practically house-bound for the past year and a half. For whom, RJ has been a lifeline to humanity. It's all his fault....so let him know it. I guess I should have gotten a gun and blown my brains out rather than struggle thru the depression with the help of RJ, cuz all I do is run up the bandwidth. How much better the world would be without me! Who am I kidding? Nobody is ever going to want me now. I am damaged goods...old and damaged. ...a waste of breath and bandwidth! ...BEGONE, YOU OLD, BALD, BANDWIDTH BURNER, BEGONE! ...I guess there comes a point when people just aren't worth keeping alive anymore....just pull the plug and save the bandwidth. ...Then fight over who gets his computer, because there is someone better to burn the bandwidth than he. Oh stop it. You know I love you Cas.
GigoloAssassi... Posts: 257	Jun 30, 2008 6:09 PM GMT Quote WELL, LETS SEE...GAS PRICES SKYROCKETING...FOOD IS GETTING EXPENSIVE...COFFEE'S GETTING STEEP ALSO...I GOTTA PAY MY BILLS...GOTTA FIX MY CAR...YOU KNOW WHAT, I'LL STICK AROUND AND PAY THE $60, IT'S WORTH IT! I LOVE YOU GUYS!!! NOW, LET'S TALK ABOUT THAT TSHIRT...COULD YOU GUYS CHANGE IT TO CHARCOAL GREY OR BLACK?! NOT EVERYONE CAN PULL OFF SKY BLUE!...
CuriousJockAZ Posts: 2344	Jun 30, 2008 6:15 PM GMT Quote No, I get what you're saying, and I don't necessarily disagree. I was merely making the point that if they can't afford what would amount to basically 17 cents a day to belong to RealJock, perhaps they need to step away from the computer, leave the library, and rearrange their priorities
auryn Posts: 1609	Jun 30, 2008 6:16 PM GMT Quote RunintheCity saidLet me be clear, my...issue with the fees is not for myself or any of the educated, professional homos and protoqueers herein. $60 is...what...5 trips to Starbucks or some jeans at the Gap? Blah. I'm thinking about the poor, back-hollow gay kid at some rinky dink public library who googles 'gay fitness' or what ever search criteria he uses and ends up at RealJock. Maybe I'm thinking too far ahead - when the fees are pretty much for complete use beyond 10 profile views a day and 10 emails a day - but whatever. I understand what you're saying. It's kind of how I feel for some of the folks from other countries (not Canada, they're rich now that their dollar is stronger than ours --thanks GWB). They come on here and get better information about themselves than they would on gay.com or other sites and seem to feel more comfortable here than elsewhere.
NNJfitandbi Posts: 1270	Jun 30, 2008 6:20 PM GMT Quote This isn't a public service. It's a business. I don't know whether it's good business to impose a 60 buck a year charge -- I'm inclined to think no -- but it's not my business. As consumers we can decide whether it is or isn't something we want to buy. Runinthecity points out that certain benefits are denied those who can't afford them. How true. But I can't get too worked up about Realjock being too expensive for somebody. I tend to worry more about things like healthcare, food, and heating oil being too expensive. Too poor for Realjock? Oh well. Tough break. There are so many great things people without means can't access. That said, I do think that what I like best about the site -- its sense of community -- will probably be lost. The owners will get a short term infusion of cash, but I bet "added services" is the beginning of the end for Realjock. Maybe it's just too expensive to run. In the long run, though, I doubt there will be too many people renewing after 1 year. So the question is: are they just trying to raise fast cash to sell the thing? Or do they have a plan for the future? A site you pay for has to be WORTH IT, not just in the short run, but the long run.
Sedative Posts: 5570	Jun 30, 2008 6:25 PM GMT Quote I can't pay, so I guess I'm happy that they'll leave the core services.
bgcat57 Posts: 1040	Jun 30, 2008 6:44 PM GMT Quote RBY71 saidIt's still a fraction of the cost of gay.com and this site actually has relevant social value in addition to health and nutrition resources whereas most gay sites make we want to do this. Though some discussion threads have brought me close. My thoughts exactly. I've found this site to be edifying, entertaining, a place where I've 'met' friends who are amazing, and it's occasionally exasperating (which I suppose is a good test of my patience and understanding of alternate perspectives.) Definitely worth it to me! Spending money on Gay.com was less useful than burning money, where I'd at least get a little warmth from the brief fire.
Puppy80 Posts: 83	Jun 30, 2008 6:44 PM GMT Quote The paid services aren't all that much to be getting up in arms about. Like fastprof brought up, the whole function of the site is basicly free. Chatting, Forums, Email. They even kept the instant messenger free. Your only paying to send un-reviewed photos, bump in the searches and reviewing peoples searches on you, and your sent email box. It's not a deal breaker for me staying on this site one way or another. I'm sure I can budget in my RJ fix for a year And lets rally together to get them to change the shirt color. I'll pay extra for that one!
Lazz Posts: 215	Jun 30, 2008 6:56 PM GMT Quote Personally I am not too happy about the new changes coming but it is their site and money is essential for its continued success so it's basically their right to do whatever. Oh well....all good things don't last forever. I guess all those other persons who can't pay wil still get by.
Caslon8000 Posts: 8134	Jun 30, 2008 7:06 PM GMT Quote MunchingZombie said[quote][cite]Caslon4000 said[/cite] That's right...stick it to the guy with cancer...who has been practically house-bound for the past year and a half. For whom, RJ has been a lifeline to humanity. It's all his fault....so let him know it. I guess I should have gotten a gun and blown my brains out rather than struggle thru the depression with the help of RJ, cuz all I do is run up the bandwidth. How much better the world would be without me! Who am I kidding? Nobody is ever going to want me now. I am damaged goods...old and damaged. ...a waste of breath and bandwidth! ...BEGONE, YOU OLD, BALD, BANDWIDTH BURNER, BEGONE! ...I guess there comes a point when people just aren't worth keeping alive anymore....just pull the plug and save the bandwidth. ...Then fight over who gets his computer, because there is someone better to burn the bandwidth than he. Oh stop it. You know I love you Cas. Damn! You made me smile right in the middle of a good tantrum. ...now, where was I? ....
Caslon8000 Posts: 8134	Jun 30, 2008 7:10 PM GMT Quote The Powers That BeGet a Supporter Badge on Your Profile: Show your support. Supporters will get a fancy little icon on their profile letting other people know they support RealJock. The little icon should be a jockstrap....get it? ... Athletic supporter = RealJock supporter Oh I crack me up! ...
Hidden/Deleted Member	Jun 30, 2008 7:22 PM GMT Quote Ahh my 1000th and last post... What a better way to say goodbye. Bitter sweet, but needed. If its not the pay, its the damn whining and judging and other crap that goes on here. In my constant quest for being right and having the last word, I will do it with my family. Really, internet sites do not provide a free service to their users. If RJ wants you to pay, you will pay. Frankly, I would not pay for useless threads (or LOLCATZ). I would really want to see more interactive content as well. Anyway, as it stands the site will have many changes when I come back. Til then
novembermike Posts: 232	Jun 30, 2008 7:25 PM GMT Quote As one of those twenty-somethings mentioned earlier who do have ridiculous budgets to manage, I will say that there are enough weekends where I blow through way more than sixty bucks in drinks alone that $60 bucks per year isn't too bad for something I want. And I agree that this site is a cut above, even though I've only been on here a few months. I probably wouldn't have been willing to pay when I first found it, but then I would still have the option for the free stuff. Next time I pay forty bucks for a round, I'll think "that's more'n halfway to an RJ membership." Plus I'm really excited about the shirt.
DiverScience Posts: 959	Jun 30, 2008 7:29 PM GMT Quote Chizzad saidJust remember that it does take money to run a site like this, probably more money and time than you realize. Why we a lot of people always seem to expect something for nothing is beyond me. Besides it is only an option which one does not have to choose to take part in. If you are already a member of other sites that you pay for yet spend most of your time here then well, that should tell you something. The workout articles, training tips, videos, the people here, and everything that makes up this site has been accomplished by people that have devoted their time and effort to make it a good place to be so chip in just to show your appreciation if you want to. Guys can make assumptions as to why all they want to but I do not see them spending their hard earned money and time to create something as well created as this site. For those that think it is easy and cheap to create a place like this then I will expect to see your new site up and running in a month. I for one will support the site because the information is good and most of the guys here are pretty cool. Besides I piss away $60 on 15 gallons of foreign fuel all the time so what is it to spend here? Only because I don't have the 60$ to spend on gas, it's hard to justify spending it on an internet site (I'm not on any other pay sites, so there's nowhere to pull the money from except groceries).
MunchingZombi... Posts: 2203	Jun 30, 2008 7:29 PM GMT Quote DJBens77 said Frankly, I would not pay for useless threads (or LOLCATZ). I would really want to see more interactive content as well. Anyway, as it stands the site will have many changes when I come back. Til then But the forums will still be free...
Caslon8000 Posts: 8134	Jun 30, 2008 7:32 PM GMT Quote DiverScience saidOnly because I don't have the 60$ to spend on gas, it's hard to justify spending it on an internet site (I'm not on any other pay sites, so there's nowhere to pull the money from except groceries). Arent the features that you will be "missing" so insignificant that you can easily do without them and save your $60 for groceries? That's why God made old gays...to pay the bills. ...
DiverScience Posts: 959	Jun 30, 2008 7:38 PM GMT Quote That would be why I commented that it's going to turn the site into a have/have nots thing, and specifically objected to the "If you pay, you get to show up first on searches 'cause you have money so clearly you're more important" aspect. Old gays are too stable. I'm not stable.
fastprof Posts: 1459	Jun 30, 2008 7:49 PM GMT Quote DiverScience saidThat would be why I commented that it's going to turn the site into a have/have nots thing, and specifically objected to the "If you pay, you get to show up first on searches 'cause you have money so clearly you're more important" aspect.. I'd be upset about that feature if it forced any paying member into any search. I think the way it will work is that if you select Search without any criteria you'd come to the top. But who uses that way of searching. The only time I have used Search on RJ is to put in a handle, or to specify geography. Now, if the new feature made everyone come up who had paid instead of what you'd searched for, I'd be angry too. I do want to separate out the concerns about the $60 per year for the services listed on the information site as opposed to what MIGHT happen in the future. I now realize that many of the posts in this thread were complaining about what they fear might happen...that the "for free" services would gradually diminish, and the "for pay" services would expand to the point where you'd have to pay to use the site, period. It's true that those that are worried about what might happen are too much like my mom (who is Italian). She can never NOT worry about what MIGHT happen. If what MIGHT happen does occur, then I guess those concerns are legitimate. My posts were about what WILL happen with the $60 surcharge as it is outlined. John
UncleverName Posts: 387	Jun 30, 2008 7:51 PM GMT Quote Chizzad saidFor the record I had to post this once already today! Arguing online Damn! I'm too late to the party! Caslon and Chizzad have already posted, and to top it off, Chizzad uses my favorite photo! I'm ruined! Now I'm definitely not paying the measly $60 per year fee.
CuriousJockAZ Posts: 2344	Jun 30, 2008 7:52 PM GMT Quote DJBens77 saidAhh my 1000th and last post... What a better way to say goodbye. Bitter sweet, but needed. If its not the pay, its the damn whining and judging and other crap that goes on here. In my constant quest for being right and having the last word, I will do it with my family. Really, internet sites do not provide a free service to their users. If RJ wants you to pay, you will pay. Frankly, I would not pay for useless threads (or LOLCATZ). I would really want to see more interactive content as well. Anyway, as it stands the site will have many changes when I come back. Til then Like my dear old grandmother use to say "Don't let the door hit ya where the good lord split ya!"
UncleverName Posts: 387	Jun 30, 2008 8:01 PM GMT Quote I just thought of something somewhat constructive to say... Everyone, keep in mind how well put together this site is! The guys that run and maintain it do an amazing job. And they've managed to pull together an incredible online community. Based on that alone, I'm more than willing to trust that they know what they're doing, and more importantly, that they will course correct as needed. If it turns out that what made this site so great was all of the free features, I'm sure they'll figure out how to make that work. This is a business, and why are in essence the clients. If a bunch of us do start paying, and make it clear that we want there to be equal access for most features to those that can't pay, I'm positive that the powers that be here at RJ will bend over backwards to make that work. They are definitely just as concerned as everyone else that the flavor of the site will change. They've got a great thing going here, and they want to keep it, just as much as we do.
DiverScience Posts: 959	Jun 30, 2008 8:05 PM GMT Quote I think you're misunderstanding, Fastprof. It will put paying members first, the same way it puts photo'd members before unphoto'd members, and verified members before unverified members.