… I’ve developed a higher confidence in myself and my work. … I’m learning to become a better crafts(wo)man. … I’m learning to become a better designer. … I’m learning to become a better business person. … I’ve broken the barriers of my comfort zone! … I’m learning about things that work, and things that don’t. … I gain knowledge and stay current with the nuts and bolts of this biz, like tools and technology. … I’ve gained a deeper respect for the history of our trade. … I gain a better understanding of the people in our industry. … I gain insight on the emotional aspects incurred with the trials and tribulations of this biz. … I feed off and strive to contribute to the talents and creativity of others. … I feel less alone in my dilemmas. … I’ve been positively influence by many folks and situations. … I’ve had the opportunity to learn from other’s mistakes. … I’ve had the honour of being boosted by my peers. … I have problem solving at my finger tips. … I have a sounding board, and expertise available to me. … I’m working smarter, not harder. … I stay motivated to stretch myself farther. … I’ve learned the value of networking and team playing, thus have involved myself in doing work on a global level. … I’ve broadened my horizons, both mentally and physically. … I’ve learned to balance work and play. … I’ve learned the importance of good business management. … I have adopted more of a “can do” attitude, and challenge myself more. … I have made PRICELESS LIFETIME friends.
Just some random ramblings on some of the ways this BB has helped me personally. I will always be grateful for having stumbled onto this wonderful resource and I remain a loyal servant to all it’s intended goodness.
To view conduct that tries to discount this place is disappointing, and to miss the true benefits of this board is just a crying shame.
Letterville is something truly worthy of pride. A diamond in the sea of cyberspace and in the rough of the sign trade. THE place where the MOST signpeople come if they want to mingle with or be heard by the MOST signpeople.
Some visit every so often to meet their needs, others are regulars. Some are vocal, others more subdued. All have their reasons for being here, … I can’t help but feel that most of those reasons are good.
I have the utmost respect for the two that had the vision and gumption to start up this whole thing, and I'm grateful to them. These two, Steve and Barb Shortreed, are among a very small group of people whose actions are responsible for starting a domino effect that has made some of the biggest differences in my life. Whew … and whatta ride! Their footprints are definitely cemented in the sidewalk of my lifelong journey!
Glad to be part of this crazy bunch. Just thought it was about time I heard myself say it out loud.
Have a great day folks! Janette
Posted by Don Hulsey (Member # 128) on :
Thanks Janette,
I have wanted to say that for a long time, but it would take me 3 days to type all that. heh heh
Reader's Digest version... I agree.
Posted by Jeffrey Vrstal (Member # 2271) on :
I completely agree. Well said.
Posted by George Perkins (Member # 156) on :
Thanks, that was beautiful Posted by Nevman (Member # 332) on :
BRAVO - Nettie - BRAVO!!!
Posted by Brian (Member # 39) on :
Because of this board...
... I have become jelous of people like Janette. But that of course makes me try harder, thanks!
Posted by Kenneth Sandlin (Member # 3014) on :
I am really glad that there is such a great active forum for the sign industry and am suprised that more people aren't aware of or participate in it. So often you see someone start something like this on the web and it not go anywhere.
It's heartwarming to see how well newcomers here are treated and the value of knowledge given freely to anyone simply asking.
I've really enjoyed reading everybody's posts and hope I've been able to contribute a little to the betterment of this wonderful community. And everybody here at Oracal is really happy that we are able to participate at this level with the people who use the products. I love printing off discussions and sharing them with folks here.
Thanks everybody!
Posted by Suelynn Sedor (Member # 442) on :
Amen Nettie! Very well said.
Suelynn
Posted by Amy Brown (Member # 1963) on :
Because of this board I am doing things I never thought of doing and I think getting better all the time. I'm still trying to figure out how to market my stuff though. Is there a marketing board out there??? I have also met a lot of people who have been of tremendous help and become good friends. Thanks Steve and Barb!
Thanks Nettie! I agree as well! Posted by goddinfla (Member # 1502) on :
Ditto, Nettie. I've also gotten to meet in person some of the fantastic people here and renew acquaintances with old friends. It's the first place I visit when I get on line, usually several times a day.
Posted by Chris Elliott (Member # 1262) on :
Awesome post Nettie!!! Thank You!!! Posted by Randy Campbell (Member # 2675) on :
It's allright Steve you can wipe the tears away now -Great post Netie.
Posted by Dan Sawatzky (Member # 88) on :
Thanks Nettie!
I too appreciate this place... and feel like I belong... even though what I do is somewhat different than most here.
Here I find inspiration, friendship, a sense of belonging and understanding. And it helps me in my daily journey as a person and letterhead.
Thanks Steve & Barb!
-dan
Posted by Mark Pinkse (Member # 1204) on :
As one of the subdue people around here I would like to express my appreciation to all, for the information that I have learned, for the views on how to deal with different situations, and for the people who post regularly.
I would not have been able to put into words what Nettie has said but this is how I feel since I have found this site.
Thanks for doing it for me!
Mark
Posted by Doug Allan (Member # 2247) on :
When I first discovered the internet I aquired access to email only at an old roommates computer & that was a coolnew discovery for me. Then I got to log on to the world wide web! it was amazing to surf around aimlessly like flipping through the pages of the biggest encyclopedia in the world. As I later had my own computer & got a dial up account, I began to use the web for specific research questions & that took it's functionality to a new level for me, along with using email more regularly in my business. When I registered a domain name, studied a little html code, & put my first site out there in cyberspace, & maintained it with my ftp program I really felt like I was grasping what this tremendous technology can be.
This BB has opened my eyes to another completely different facet of the potential for the internet & the impact it is having on history & humanity. & it is the facet that I use & appreciate the most!
Posted by Si Allen (Member # 420) on :
Awwww! Come on Nettie! Quit beating around the bush and tell us if you really like this place!
Posted by Dave Draper (Member # 102) on :
And....you should be around Nettie when she gets her temper up! (Even hurricanes change course and head out of the Tampa Bay area!
Great thread Nettie, and spoken from the heart!
Did you ever get that copy of Songpainter? And did you like it?
[ September 17, 2002, 08:05 PM: Message edited by: Dave Draper ]
Posted by Mark Fair Signs (Member # 289) on :
i have followed this thread all day long.
i have to say that this site has introduced me to lifelong friends. too many to mention.
when i signed on years ago, i never knew that i would actually meet some of the folks that i had read about in trade magazines!
as far as inspiration, letterville is at the top of my list along with SignCraft Magazine.
a humble letterhead,
mark
(great post nettie,)
Posted by Jackson Smart (Member # 187) on :
Posted by Monte Jumper (Member # 1106) on :
All that and more Nettie...
Because of this BB we have been to Ireland...made incredible amounts of life long friends...with everyones help we had a visitor from Austrailia...we've had people from all over the country ...New Zealand ...Austrailia...and Canada...spend time in our home and I might add we're waiting for you to show up too Nettie. Posted by Mike McCloud (Member # 766) on :
Great post Jan. A couple of the people that I've met here I now count as my very closest friends, and highest quality people that I've had the pleasure to know in my life. They go good with my morning coffee too. I also count it a blessing to have met you through the BB. Although I'm sorry that you didn't make it down to my place when I lived in the Keys. Thanks for caring enough to put into words what a lot of us think about often.....
Posted by David Wright (Member # 111) on :
I can't even imagine the improvements and ideas to my business because of this board. There is always somebody who has insight or a different way of looking at a sign problem here. I also have met many quality craftspeople because of the board.
Posted by Mark Yearwood (Member # 2723) on :
You are so right, Nettie! This truly is a unique community with diverse talents and personalities.
Posted by jimmy chatham (Member # 525) on :
Because of this board i don't get as much work done as i used to. Posted by Tony Vickio (Member # 2265) on :
Just read your post Janette............WOW.............I need a tissue! You spoke for many of us I'm sure. Great post!!!!!
Posted by Mark Neurohr (Member # 2470) on :
sniff..... sniff.....
I feel EXACTLY the same! I come here EVERYDAY, don't always post, but there's a need to keep up with everything that is going on. This Bullboard has become a part of my everyday life.
Gotta come home, check e-mail...
Gotta check the weather..........
and I gotta learn something new from all you guys!
Even need to read who 'OP stirred up next!
Maybe that's why I'm from Paintin' Place?
Posted by FranCisco Vargas (Member # 145) on :
When I get asked this question about the BB, This is the first thing that comes to mind is... http://franciscovargas.com/travels.htm I even had the pleasure and honor to me you Ms Nettie Once again thanks a zillion!
Posted by Joe Rees (Member # 211) on :
Hi Nettie, This is a gem. As I was reading through your list I was struck repeatedly by the thought "She'd be doing that anyway". Growing, stretching, engaging. That's who you are. By nature I guess. Lucky us.
Posted by bill riedel (Member # 607) on :
Hi Nettie, You always have had a way with words, but we all are very lucky to have you. You are a very special person and gifted with many talents.
Posted by Rick Sacks (Member # 379) on :
So much of who we are and what we know gets reinforced by the act of re-telling and teaching others. I live in an area without other sign folks around that I can share with, so this community is important for my social exchanges. This is my coffee klatch!
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Once again thanks a zillion!