Say Thank You - the hard way!

[phishphorphun]

As of now, I want it to be known that I made the FIRST suggestion that we ought to have an annual "contribution" policy to qualify for the additional site perks. In fact, mine will be made regardless if it's policy or not... every first of the year. And I think the advice team should be rewarded for all the help and time they give us.

This will be my way to say "Thank You" for teaching and being so patient with me.

It may be harder on some to drop a small contribution in the mail, but I'm sure anything would be appreciated.

And really, these folks have to get tired of seeing some of the redundance, but they suck it up and constantly pitch in to answer our questions. Heck, even if there weren't any extra perks, it's a good deal.

[paradise]

Bobby, thank you. The people who run this site, the Admins, Mods, Advice Team members and other members, are truely interested in growing our community. It warms my heart to see quick improvements in members, and see them offer further help to others who just join in. It's like nothing else in the world.

We ask for the one time contribution for one reason. It's not so that we can make money on this site, that is not our goal. All the money is spent on ways to improve the site. Some of it is invisible to members, like expanded server space as our gallery membership grows (space is getting cheaper but is still pretty expensive). The others are more obvious, like the Gallery software that we are using, which had to purchased, or the licenses to use the Forum software that have to be paid yearly. We are also building up a fund that will be used for Contest Prizes and other cool events.

We could have done it as a "Subscription" type service that asks you for your donation every year, but we dont want to "force" people to enjoy. There are other "paid" alternatives for photo hosting online, so ours is a FREE option, the donation is a one time thing to help us be able to offer this option.

Now, that does not mean that we wont welcome your subsequent donations. We could always use more funds to keep this place going. In the future we may offer further levels of hosting, and all your donation records are kept for those purposes, so some will automatically qualify.

[benny]

I'm touched by your gratitude and appreciation. I'm sure the rest will feel the same way too.

Cheers,

[phishphorphun]

Very nicely said Ed.

You and the staff at APF are commended for doing a great service to the aspiring photo hobbiest. Your hard work and contributions to the membership should not go without recognition. For me, I've always believed in reciprocation. When I receive from another's generosity, whether it be their time or their gift, a willing obligation to return the favor is in my nature.

I still encourage the members who live by those same morals to think about an annual donation. You better believe I'll remind them when I make mine. :-D

[nomaddan]

I would just like to add as a new member to the site, I was really suprised by the feedback and support of the members and Admin/Mods here. I have been a Photographer for about 15 years, since I was 14, and have never found a place where other Photographers are so helpful and willing to share thier experience, secrets and talent.

Thanks for allowing me to increase my knowledge and welcoming me!!!

[Obliviou$]

Me neither Normadden.

To bad my wallet is way to slim for now.
But I will promise, when I start making money, if this site is still running, I'm contributing =p

[hir0]

I have been a Photographer for about 15 years, since I was 14, and have never found a place where other Photographers are so helpful and willing to share thier experience, secrets and talent.
That, my friend - is what makes this a great little community. People helping people. That makes it worth the effort. I've been a regular here since the first day I stumbled upon this place for this very reason.

[JerseyJay]

Wow. I'm very excited about your positive feedback and appreciation.

This community has been kept troll-less and we intent to keep it that way for a long time and even further. We will not allow any trashing, bashing and disrespect among the members.

We have top notch Advice Team and top notch Mod Team. Those guys are making it happen and I appreciate their feedbacks, comments, tips and time they spend on this forum.

Last but least, I want to thank all our members for participation, help, entertainment and especially CONTRIBUTION !.

Thank you all and keep snapping !