FF:SA Future direction of SAFF...?

I must say that I'm feeling increasingly disconcerted and frustrated (pretty much echoing the sentiments of those who had posted most recently in the RFL thread). This feeling has been developing for a bit, but I thought I'd leave it and see how things went for a while. I also thought it better to wait and chat to a few of you guys, which I did at the SAFF picnic. Enlightening.

SAFF was started as a group of friends. The friendship group grew, the direction evolved, but it remained primarily a bunch of friends. Most people stayed, some people followed their own path, but SAFF grew healthily.

Costuming and charity stuff grew out of this, which was / is great, but it seems that for whatever reason(s) a 'split' occurred. Some people stopped posting here. As AD mentioned in the RFL thread, those that still post here have no control over others, although I must admit to becoming a little annoyed yet saddened in equal amounts with those who chose to 'throw the baby out with the bathwater'. I still consider them good people who I get along with...some I even consider friends. Not that I don't get along with the people that have chosen to remain in SAFF, I still love you crazy cats

On the most superficial level, that just means a decrease in traffic here. I know that many of you guys still keep in touch via the RL / 501st boards and in person.

On a bigger level, what of things like trooping, fundraising, Norwood Christmas Pageant, social gatherings, parties, 'open days' etc??? What about people who don't want to join the RL or 501st but are still interested in this sort of thing? (although Jen probably could with slight modification of one current costume or completion of a future one)

BTW, where's the SAFF banner?

Examples of why I'm a little frustrated: When going into town to grab something for work just before Easter, Jen happened upon a troop for a launch of some charity thing (can't remember who/what) and ran into a bunch of you guys and some who aren't here anymore. I would've loved to have gone in to see it (Phoon had his Chewie costume) as I finished up work early that day. Upon checking the RL board that evening, I saw it was on, but obviously nothing here. So I now sporadically check the RL board to find out what's going on (eg. a fundraising thing at Marion this weekend). I'm tempted to join just to keep in touch, although I've more than enough forums to visit...I really, really don't need any more stuff to waste my time on the net. Nor do I feel it 'fair' that I feel compelled to do that.

So, what of SAFF? Purely on online message board of friends who still catch up IRL? Make it totally what it was originally? Are we still going to do the RFL and Norwood Pageants? Are we going to do our own 'costume' type events? (although I feel that the balance of sheer weight of numbers and interest is elsewhere) Any chance of SAFF doing an 'open day' type thing again? Could SAFF ever do a combined thing with the other two groups? (given that Adelaide is so small, the whole splintering of groups really baffles me) Perhaps SAFF could incorporate a left of field change of direction that hasn't been thought of?


If you've made it this far through my drivel, thanks for reading I'm just feeling annoyed/saddened/frustrated that part of what was the SAFF has been ripped away in an apparently planned, all or nothing manner...at the risk of sounding controversial, and no disrespect at all to the departed, but I personally feel like it was an "If you're not with me, you're against me" kind of manner. And given that friends who aren't here won't respond at this point, I guess that friends that are here will have to be the ones whose brains I'm going to pick

 

I think any future/direction of SAFF will happen once R4L has been completed.

I still think that events, particularly costumed events, such as Norwood Pageant and social events, ie Xmas Picnic will still happen.

The events that happened in the Mall and on the weekend were (from what I gather) purely 501st and RL events. Those two groups have a common agreement where they can invite each other to their events. Someone please correct me if this is incorrect.

As for why SAFF members weren't made aware of/invited to the events, is a question for whoever organised said events.

People who were a part of SAFF chose to leave. They weren't asked/forced to leave. I certainly want to contribute to the future of SAFF. That's just a snapshot.

 

Cheers buddy...nice to know I'm not the only one up at a silly time (supposedly cleaning the house and doing the washing...ooops)

Hope so. The one Pageant we went to was great (despite the flu I had).

Yeah, sounds right. Details used to be posted here too, but what are you going to do?

 

posted on behalf of e-i (to clarify his position on this situation):

It was made apparant to us that the SAFF was nothing more than a social group, that costuming and fundraising were not going to be the main focus. A portion of the SAFF broke away to join the other two groups, to be able to pursue the goals that they felt were important.

We were told that there was too much charity and fundraising work and not enough social events, most of us prefer to do this type of work. We also find that we get our social "fix" from these events, where we can catch up with each other at these events, and get together afterwards for drinks, etc, often at someone's home or local coffee shop.

Personally, on my behalf, it's no secret that I have issues with several members of the SAFF, and whilst I don't encourage/brainwash other people (I let people make up their own minds on any decision), I would prefer not to be associated with the SAFF in future events, to avoid any future conflict.

If you want to continue with costuming and fundraising events, then either organise your own events, or by all means feel free to join the 501st/RL. The past relationships are just that - in the past.

It now seems the SAFF has had a changing of it stance.

Personally, I am not fussed walking with DD in the relay, and am happy to be catching up with him, but won't speak on other people's behalf on their feelings of who they are "paired up" with. You can lead a horse to water, buy you can't make it drink.

It would seem that it's not just one person with this view - it is a common feeling. If people wish to return to SAFF, they are more than welcome to do so - we are not holding a knife to their throats.

 

Again, the words of e-i :

We respect others decisions as well but this has to be viewed like a divorce? it?s not that mommy & daddy don?t love each other anymore it?s just that they can?t live together under the same roof. The spilt HAD to happen. The group that left PREFERS to concentrate our efforts on CHARITY work above anything else. A simple FACT!!!! As stated, we kill two birds with one stone doing our events? we do good for the community & get our social fix. Then you get others complaining that their needs aren?t catered to as they don?t wish to join in? we can?t help that.

It?s great that the SAFF can cater for those who don?t hold the same views we do & can fill that void for them. Those that want to be involved in what we do are free to join in with us on the RL & 501st.. If it?s too hard for them to do so, then it?s obvious that they probably don?t hold the same values to our community contributions as we do?.. I?m not going to pander to a small minority ? sorry.

These people that can?t or don?t understand the split are usually people whom I describe as ?fringe dwellers? that for one or another reason, don?t have the time or inclination to be immersed in this hobby as some of us do. That?s their choice & I respect it, but when they jump up & down about not being ?in the loop?, THAT?S THEIR FAULT ? not ours. I?m not going to waste mine or anyone else?s time contacting people with busy schedules to ask them if it?s ok if we do something? if anyone has the attitude that we should, it?s laughable. THAT?S THE WAY I FEEL ABOUT IT!!

I, for one, am in a position to know 90% of what has occurred and have made my decision to leave based upon the information I know of.

This was not a decision that was made lightly.. I was only second to Adalia in my activity here?.

As for others, they made their own decisions without being forced to do so? make of that what you will but to claim it was planned is unfounded non-sense.

I suggest those who want to know BOTH sides of the story contact myself, MS or any of those who have decided not to post in the SAFF anymore before making any judgements as it will only inflame the situation again?

If anyone wishes to contact me ?

a67darkjedi@hotmail.com


e-i

 

I'm posting this from my point of view, this in no way will mention people directly.

The issues that caused the split started occurring two years ago now, lines were drawn between those who wanted to see the SAFF grow and those who were content to keep it as it was.

From then on the it was a case of day and night, those that wanted change were frustrated because those who didn't were doing everything they could to annoy or stop the changes and the reverse applies.

After this was made evident to the rest of the SAFF, we lost memebers and a kind of contest started. This contest became nothing more than a Value based drinking contest that was always destined to become ugly.

Things became more and more tense between different parties and i know there are some from both sides that genuinely wished that harm would come to others.

Which is when things came to a fork in the road, Either people could continue arguing with one another or they could simply leave and find there own path.

Those who wished nothing more of the SAFF, the people who caused problems and the issues that came from either simple arrogance or down right 'vengeance' decided that it was best to leave and allow the SAFF to grow on there own or fall apart.

Which brings us to why events arn't being posted here on the SAFF.

In some cases it's due to the fact that people are no longer posting or checking the SAFF forums. Another reason is that the 501st and the RL are working together because we have common goals, objectives and measures in place to deal with problems that can and may arise.

Another reason is simply this, there are certain people who wish not to associate with others from the opposite group and it wouldn't surprise me if at the RFL those people simply wont have anything to do with the others.

I believe that time will not resolve this, bridges have been burnt and now it's up to the individuals and groups to continue on.

Quin

 

When & where were things made evident? Not on here that's for sure. That's why I've asked. That's why I was surprised when people left because there was next to nothing other than the two or three posts about 'disagreements' as to the direction. But, as AD has pointed out, if it has to do with costuming and / or charity, it explicitly states in the FF charter (or whatever its called) that people shouldn't be excluded due to lack of costumes.

That would've ruled me out from the beginning, haha

You are kidding right? Harm? Because of disagreements over a hobby?

As far as I'm concerned, SAFF as an entity is not the message boards, it's the people and the fun times/events/pageants etc. And just because some people (a minority from what I understand) don't get along or aren't friends, it shouldn't have needed to have a split. But anyway, people need to do what they've got to do and forge their own path. It would've been nice for things to have been sorted, but that's life.

I guess my frustration is borne from the fact that I check here almost every day, yet very little evidence of issues can be seen online. But I've said that before. Onward and upward for everyone, whatever their path

 

Skip a lot of the issues that occurred either happened in face to face sessions, at events or off of the boards.

I could go on all day, bring up evidence to support either side but ultimately it would be a waste of my time and energy.

Simply put... The issues occurred, there has been a split and now it's up to those involved to follow what ever path they desire no matter what that means.

And yes, there has been talk of Physical Violence towards some, but there names will remain safely hidden.

Your right thou it is time for those involved to simply move on, the SAFF is in the hands of those who have remained, it is your destiny and your choice in what you do.

e-i said it right, you are welcome to join either the 501st or the RL.

 

Having a brother who nearly died from cancer, an uncle who has, and an uncle who is very, very unwell because of cancer, my contributions toward fundraising and community service outside of the SW stuff have been plenty over the last 22 or so years. I honestly appreciate the efforts of the 501st and RL from a perspective that hits pretty close to the bone.

Inclination to be immersed in the hobby has, I must admit, waned a little over the last few years. I have too many hobbies and interests, SW being just one of them, and I'm personally more interested in some collecting and the video game aspect. But just because I don't costume it up, I'm still a fan. Time...there's never enough of that though...*sigh*

Fringe dweller with regard to costumed events? Sure, I have no costume. But I've been at and supported plenty of events since day one of Parsec.

Fringe dweller at other SAFF events? Nope, been to most picnics, dinners, parties etc.

Fringe dweller with regard to participation on the boards? Nope. As mentioned before, I'm here nearly everyday. I read most things reasonably carefully. How can it be my fault when the issues weren't made obvious here? Very few people ever spoke to me outside of here about any issues. How can that be my fault?

Anyway, I don't want this to denigrate into an argument, that was honestly not the intention of starting the thread. As AD said, life is too short. Past is past. Lets all look to the future, whatever direction it holds

 

I'm very sad to see this going on. I'll be blunt, I've been on the Jedi Council Forums as a Fanfiction Author long before I joined here, (and still continue to post fanfiction,) and I found my way here because everyone was nice and welcoming, everything was being laid out and organised and I really loved being a part of it all.

However, (and I think a lot of people like myself who don't post here as frequently share my thoughts,) what worries me most of all is the bickering going on and naturally I have work, study and personal life to look at which is a far more pleasent situation then watching a group I love fall apart. I always keep half an eye on what is going on and I believe AD when she says to wait untill after the CR election, I believe things could start picking up then.

And no, I don't want any accusations against me for lurking and not participating, I know I'm not the only one who has isolated themselves from the situation untill it starts to improve.

 

I can agree with the quoted statement by Aiel. However I have additional reasons as to why I'm not posting as much any more.
If you care to note that my previous posts have been somewhat small, and my last major post was in the "Did you know?" thread, which after I posted in that, the thread just died. The reasons as to why are unknown to me, but frankly not overly fussed. Just means I won't post as much.

However as to the whole Charity vs Social thing, I'll say this. When I first heard about SAFF, it was due to a little poster flier posted on the community notice board at my college. When I read it I was under the impression that it was a Star Wars Convention. After arrangements I had made to come with friends had failed, I still came even though I was on my own. The fact there was a Star Wars related event, and that The Force Unleashed was mentioned instantly had me so I was determined to go there no matter what.

When I arrived I was told it was a fanclub of Star Wars, which was situated here in Adelaide. I thought this was simply awesome, because the extent of my discussions with other fans had only previously been online with members of my clan. As soon as I got home that afternoon I jumped straight onto my computer and registered here.

Now since then I've been to three events. In total. The main reason of my lack of attendance is mainly because of most events situated at inconvenient times or in places I have neither the knowledge let alone a way of getting to. Most of which are situated on the other side of Adelaide. Another big example is the Relay for Life, which I believe is held at Victor Harbor - Yet another place I cannot get to as I have NFI how. While the suggestion or offer may come up for a carpool or lift there - I must admit that I don't know you guys very well except for what I've seen online. Don't take that to be offensive, just I'm very cautious of who I get into a car with.

While I don't mind the mixture of Charity & Social (I enjoyed myself while raising money for the Victorian Bushfire Appeeal), just there should be a balance, however it is my opinion that if the group was created to be a Social group - then that should be its priority.

On a side note, Darth_Ashara hasn't visited/posted in a while due to not being able to log in. She's lost her password and can't find the email with her details, however she's as concerned about this as I am - I'm just keeping my mouth shut. I guess that all now from me.

 

Wow, SAFF = emo.

I feel exactly the same as skipp...I attempted to attend as many social events as I could, but a lot of the stuff done here was costume-related, which I have exactly zero interest in. The Rebel Legion and the 501st have that as their focus, and that's fine- as mentioned, SAFF cannot be that sort of group under the rules so if that works for them, fine. I struggle to see how that lead to the group practically falling apart. It just seems ridiculous to me that because this group doesn't costume for everything some feel they cannot participate at all. Apparently it even caused some serious personal issues. We're all supposed to be adults and the idea that a Star Wars social group has ruined long-standing friendships is...I don't know what it is.

My experiences with Fanforces means this isn't new to me, but I am still disappointed. I assume I'm not going to see a large number of the people I enjoyed seeing at SAFF events again, since I will never be a member of the 501st or the Rebel Legion. Thanks for the good times.

At least it appears I won't have to put up with EI trash-talking while bowling or laser-tagging any more.

 

You're much more succinct than me. That's nice and brief, probably along the lines of what I should've initially posted rather than dredge up stuff (unintentionally) ...I probably did come across a bit emo, sooky and whiny, hahaha.

Because I do enjoy the costuming aspect, from a viewing perspective (too slack to get/make my own), I'll have to keep an ear to the ground about stuff that's coming up. Not too difficult I guess.

Speaking of bowling, I'm hanging to go out for a game or three.

Laser tag too...once I'm over this damn illness and am up and about with more energy rather than spending my holidays vegging on the couch (which explains (a) why I've been online a bit more more than usual and (b) why I've probably been mulling over this too much).

 

Some ?

Any form of Physical Violence towards a fellow human being over something so petty is quite rightly *****D Up in my opinion.

People are willing to harm another person based on accusations or simple words spoken or written and i find that stupid and childish

Are we like primates here and have to fight over petty squabbles ? I could have sworn humans have evolved

I Quote Grand Moff Tarkin:

This Bickering is Pointless

If any one has anything against another person whether it be SAFF, RL or 501st why can't that be discussed in rational ways without leading to violence.

I personally don't have any issues with anyone but if someone has issues with me i would expect them to come to me and talk like civil human beings.

DLA

 

Eh welcome to the imperfect world, but DLA you already know some of the people wishing violence against others. Needless to say, i'm not in that camp... but there you go

 

May I draw your attention to the word "hobby"?

I probably am one of the "fringe dwellers", for the simple reason that I have other interests and priorities. I'm at uni, work full time, and I don't always have a lot of time to get involved in every event that comes along. You may find that there are quite a few others in similar situations. But I do check the boards on a regular basis, even if I don't post a lot. If there's something I want to get to, and can, I usually put my name down.

I joined SAFF later than most - although I was at most of the events prior to becoming a member anyway. SAFF is the reason I got into costuming, and has provided me with a great deal of fun. I've met some great people, been to some fantastic events, and I've enjoyed every minute of it. I'd like to continue doing that. And I'd prefer not to join another group if I want to get involved with the costuming side of things.

Perhaps a simple suggestion here?

For those of us who haven't joined the other groups, maybe someone who is a member of both SAFF and the other groups could occaisionally let us know about upcoming costume events?

 

You've obviously not seen the generation that is currently occupying our schools. They don't even need a reason now days to threaten someone. Soo I'm unsure as to the extent of the problems here, but I'm certain they can't be anywhere as retarded as the actual kids are.

 

While this next comment could be seen as me seperating myself from the group or becoming a separatist, perhaps we could sort of break off from FanForce.net and reform SAFF into a new group and sorta start a fresh. Not sure how its going to react among you guys, but its a suggestion.

The main reason I suggest this is, what we currently have is CR for SAFF, and the rest are frankly just members.

If this is a social club then do we really need a leader? I mean in all fairness to CR's in the past who have done a terrific job, but the current setup to me seems more like an organization, rather than a social group.

Organization = Head, and members
Social Group = Everyones equal, everyone does what they want to do etc.

I mean sure the CR job isn't just leading, its basically representing, but we all could do that anyway. I'm sure no one here would ever contemplate giving the group a bad name for the hell of it.

Just an idea, don't hate me for it. Just Adalia said there has been little discussion as to the actual topic at hand, and this is an idea for which is a future direction.

 

Well I was actually suggesting that we no longer be a fan force. But aye.

 

If you're referring to the forum space, that part is true. However its fairly easy to set up a forum. Upload the software, configure it to point to a database, add users, set up boards and boom. Easy done.