It's pretty interesting...I'll always cherish those early times of this forum. My wife really didn't want me answering all those questions. It was 1998, the forum was new and there were five or six questions each day. Well, I'd wait until she was asleep, breathing that deep-sleep breath and then I'd ease out of bed, go to the computer, fire it up and take a look. I'd wonder what we did before 'ol Al Gore invented the Internet, before the advent of cell phones... I know what we did! We went to the library and looked things up. Or, we'd call someone who knew more than we did and have a conversation. Ma Bell charged us as much as a quarter a minute to talk on those land lines...even if we had touch-tone phones. Now, we text, we Google and we look at forums to figure out what we need to know.
It didn't take too long before the likes of Bill Cody showed up. He's member #24. Kelly Duffie, #36, Dave Davidson #60...until he lost his password. These guys came on the forum and received as they gave. In the beginning, I answered every question. But, it didn't take long and these other great people started adding their worth...and their words. Today, I show up long enough to check in and see what's going on. What are the topics? Is everyone getting along?
I remember getting a call from Dave Davidson around 3:30 one morning...seems someone posted some less-than-family-friendly photos in response to an off-color remark by one of our faithful. From that little phone call, the moderators were birthed, so to speak. They're our traffic cops, the guys who keep this site friendly and suited for family.
From those meager beginnings, this site has grown into much more than just some place to learn about ponds and lakes. It's a family of people who are striving to be the best stewards of their land and water they can be.
I salute you, and offer a big bow at the waist. Keep it up. What you are doing is worthy.

And, an announcement. Our long time friend, teehjaeh57, TJ Hudson, from Lincoln, Nebraska is now a moderator. Not only is he a moderator, he's the chairman of an important Pond Boss committee. He's volunteered to spearhead the committee to honor and recognize the best Pond Boss land and water stewards. We are looking to honor the best stewards and also honor our dear friend, Dr. Dave Willis.
TJ is charged with working with his committee to find those people who are deserving...look for a post on the forum soon about the mission of this committee and the prestigious award that will go with it.

Congratulations MR. HUDSON! I know I felt very honored when I was picked to be a moderator. I told Dave Davidson that I felt like a "good guy" who was just "made".

For all intents and purposes, you and several others have played such important roles in keeping this a fun group on the forum and during social gatherings, while still making sure we provide good solid and friendly advice.

Ken

Congrats TJ! Welcome to the fold. Your signing bonus should be in the mail shortly.

It is just another one more of "those" darn moderators you have to try and avoid. LOL. All help is welcome IMO. Individual members of this fishy family sometimes get 'out of hand', ornery, and do not obey the rules.