May be time to pass this site on....

[Freebird]

I started Venturerider.org, I don't know, maybe 15 or so years ago.  It has been my baby for all these years and I've met some truly amazing people through our club.  The fact is though, it may be time to pass it on.  As many of you know, I have struggled with some vision issues, mostly cancer in my right eye, for many years now.  My vision is now getting bad in my good eye.  I am having a harder time seeing  and it seems to be progressing quickly.  I have an appointment yesterday and they have referred me to a retina specialist,.  There is an as yet undiagnosed problem with my good eye and it doesn't look good.

All that being said, I think it's probably time to find somebody to take over this site.  I am looking for somebody with some website experience that understands how to keep this thing going.  I am also looking for somebody who understandss and shares my values for what this site represents.  If I find the right person, then I will turn it over completely.  That means transferring the domain name and everything about the site.  I would stay on as a member and a consultant if you want me to as long as possible.

This is a huge decision for me but one that I know must be considered.  My next appointment isn't until the miiddle of September but I feel that I need to get this discussion started.

I had an opportunity to sell this site a few yards ago for pretty big money but made the deciosn to not do so.  I still don't want to sell it and to be honest, it is no longer worth wait it once was.  But I would rather give it to somebody who shares my vision of what it is.  Please PM me if you are interested.  

 

 

 

I

 

[saddlebum]

@Freebird. Don, I am very sorry for what you must be going through on a personnel level and truly hope something can be done for you to ensure your quality of life does not get compromised more than it already has. My prayers and thoughts are with you and wish you only the best no matter what.

As far you handing over the reins of a horse you raised from birth, it  will definitely be a big pill for all of us that know, love and mostly respect you, to swallow. Finding someone with your convictions and dedication, to this site will not be easy. This site has always been unique and superior in so many ways and in comparison to so many other web sites, not just because of the caliber of its  members but mostly because of you and your dedication to it.

Edited August 12, 2023 by saddlebum

[RDawson]

Sorry to hear of your health issues. This site was the first I ever joined and is still my only forum because of the values you’ve instilled into it.  I wish I had the knowledge to assist in keeping it going but I’m pretty technologically inept. 

[Woody]

 I'm right there with you Ron I just wish I knew more and could help, but I really wish Don could get better. This was my first motorcycle site and I stayed on it even after I sold my Venture and went with a trike. 

[XV1100SE]

Have you considered adding another admin or two and keeping the reins ? Chance to bring someone else up to speed on the maintenance side of things.  I work in I.T. but don't have the website experience and not sure about the time.  Like you would like to keep the site in the "family".

[Motorcycle Mike]

Very sad news.

First about your sight. Shirley has major eye problems so I can relate to you issues.

I pray your doctors can find a way to keep them from getting worse.

If it's a detached retina they should really see you before mid Sept.

I love this site even tho I don't post that much. I check it several times a day.

I hope whomever takes it over has the dedication you have to the site.

I'm glad you will still hang out here

[1BigDog]

Wow, I have no words. Don, you have done a fantastic job since the site was first formed and have maintained it well. Meet and eats as well as maintenance days spawned from here. Your personal dedication to the venture community will not be matched. Unfortunately we get older and changes will happen. Step back knowing that you have done well and take care of your personal life. I certainly won’t forget you and your contributions to the motorcycle community. 

[etcswjoe]

Most of all I hate to hear about your health, hopefully you can get some relief.

Don, it just seems like yesterday you were mentoring folks on newsgroups and bringing riders together from around the world with the current fad at the time, I think it was called the WorldWideWeb :). I wonder how many people you have impacted over the years, been almost a quarter of a century since I got my first advice from you. Hate to see you give up the site, but you need to think of yourself first for a change. 

Hopefully someone smarter than me will step up and take charge and carry on this great group, even if the website goes dark, I don't believe the comradery and friendships you fostered will ever go away. 

[uncledj]

Wow.   Dunno what to say.

Obviously, I...We all...wish you the best and hope and pray for the best possible outcome for you.

This site has brought together a great bunch of people....maybe some not so great, but they seem to slip away over time.

Your firm but gentle oversight has kept the site civil and the members friendly, which is a rare thing these days.

If I weren't such a 'puter dummy I'd think about trying to help out, but my lack of tech skills would likely do more harm than good.   

I'm hoping one of the members with the time and wherewithal would be willing to share or take on the burden that you've handled with such benevolence.

Whatever happens....May God Bless and Keep You.

[skydoc_17]

Don, Say it aint so!?!? I have broken bread with you at your home, I have worked on motorcycles in your garage, (NOT my own!) I have even showered in your bathroom! After all these years, you have been kind and thoughtful, and have taught me to be a better person! Not to mention, the advanced riding skills I developed over the years riding with YOU, Bongo Bobbie, Those Crazy Canucs, and of course the West New York Posse. I began my Yamaha Venture Journey when I purchased my first Venture, an 86' MKII VR back in 1991. Here we are, some 32 years later with over 350,000 miles just on the several Ventures I have owned through the years! What a journey! 

The quality of that journey has in part been a direct result of knowing YOU and the other members of this excellent forum. The new mantra for this forum will have to be, "What would Don Do"? ANY member that would try to put on your shoes, so to speak would earn his money, there's no doubt about that! 

It goes without saying that both Jean and I wish that your current vision issues work out in your favor Don. And we also wish you the best of luck finding your replacement. Maybe Elon Musk will buy the forum, and change the name to "Venture Twitter" or something catchy like that. My only regret is that after you have done so much for this Forum Don, I can do so little for you, my friend.

If there is ever anything I can do for you Don, just let me know.

It has been an Honor to be a member of this wonderful Forum Don, and it has been all your doing! 

Earl and Jean Harrell. 

[djh3]

Don sorry to hear this news. Hope you get some relief and a plan when the Doc sees ya. I have been hear a few years and have greatly appreciated the folks I have met thru your vision of the site.

[Marcarl]

Yep! I knew this time was coming. I'm more of a futurist rather than an historian, and we all get older and loose some of the things we hold dear. Loosing the leadership of this site would be a real downer for you Don, you've done a wonderful job of keeping things on track and moving. Those of us who are or have been members can be nothing but super thankful in being able to share together, guide each other, feel sorrow and happiness, develop friendships and help out with misunderstandings. Through your dedication a lot was accomplished. I, for one, would hate to see this site go down or anywhere else, but I also full well realize that all things will come to an end.

Blessings my friend, as you dig through this one, it won't be an easy task. Seek much guidance from the Leader, the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Romans 8:28

[larrydr]

15 hours ago, Freebird said:

I started Venturerider.org, I don't know, maybe 15 or so years ago.  It has been my baby for all these years and I've met some truly amazing people through our club.  The fact is though, it may be time to pass it on.  As many of you know, I have struggled with some vision issues, mostly cancer in my right eye, for many years now.  My vision is now getting bad in my good eye.  I am having a harder time seeing  and it seems to be progressing quickly.  I have an appointment yesterday and they have referred me to a retina specialist,.  There is an as yet undiagnosed problem with my good eye and it doesn't look good.

All that being said, I think it's probably time to find somebody to take over this site.  I am looking for somebody with some website experience that understands how to keep this thing going.  I am also looking for somebody who understandss and shares my values for what this site represents.  If I find the right person, then I will turn it over completely.  That means transferring the domain name and everything about the site.  I would stay on as a member and a consultant if you want me to as long as possible.

This is a huge decision for me but one that I know must be considered.  My next appointment isn't until the miiddle of September but I feel that I need to get this discussion started.

I had an opportunity to sell this site a few yards ago for pretty big money but made the deciosn to not do so.  I still don't want to sell it and to be honest, it is no longer worth wait it once was.  But I would rather give it to somebody who shares my vision of what it is.  Please PM me if you are interested.  

 

 

 

I

 

I hope all works all okay for you ...From March till May I could not look after myself pain and swelling in my complete body , my eye site presting a challenge and am going to eye surgen in August ...We need to trust God in all things even if  things get difficult ...Sometimes hard times make us stronger ...My wish for you is that all things go well 

[dueyk1111]

Thankyou for all that you have done not  only for me, but for all of us!!!! i am so greatful for everything i have learned on this site and the wonderful people i have met because of this site!!! I will pray for you and hope that they can find help for your eye problems!!! THANKYOU THANKYOU THANKYOU!!!!!!

[Freebird]

Folks, let me be clear.  I have no intention for this site to go away.  I also gave no intention of selling it.  My intention is to turn it over to a current member who shares our passion.  No final decision will be made until after my next doctors appointment but somebody has come forward that might just work out.  I think you will all be pleased. 

[PastorCurt]

I, for one , am extremely grateful for your vision and all that you have done with this site. I am praying for your healing and you and your wife’s health going forward. God bless you!

[Steve S]

Freebird I am so thankful you founded this wonderful site that I have been a part of and used so well for many years. I am thankful you have decided to keep it going on and staying with us as a fellow rider. 

I will pray for your health and pray you are able to receive excellent treatment that will secure your vision. 

Steve

[sleepy2]

Agree with everything everyone has said in the replies!!!!!

[bpate4home]

Don, AS all have said you have done a great job. Unfortunately, at this time I don't have the web management experience as that has passed me by and my work schedule has gone crazy with travel. 

[Red Ryder]

Don, our Prayers for your eye sight, and all health issues.  I have truly enjoyed this wonderful site you created and all the great people on here.   

[ReinyRooster]

Don, praying for your health.

[saddlebum]

To add to my earlier comment, Don, through your hard work I have learned a lot about the venture going from knowing very little to becoming extremely knowledgeable and adapt to the point were with my Mechanical back ground there is nothing I cannot do on these bikes and I am now fully capable of assisting others with their issues.

I met a ton of great people some of which have become great friends even beyond the site. 

For this and more I will be forever grateful that you had the inspiration and the determination to start and maintain this site.

Edited August 29, 2023 by saddlebum

[sleepy2]

I also have learned a lot from you and everyone on the site that comments or gives helpful information! Have also received good deals on part etc.

I have also met many people I would not have met that I hope I am considered a friend . I have learned a lot here and hope it continues.

[ragtop69gs]

Don,

Jeannie and I wish for a positive outcome for both Eileen's and your current health issues. Through your vision this forum has not only taught countless thousands about the Venture motorcycles, but more importantly that total strangers from across the globe can interact with respect to each other, even at face to face at events across the country. The friendships created because of Venture rider .org  are a true testament to your leadership and tech skills.  Weather you continue or pass on the reigns, just know you can always call on many of us to help you if and when you are in need.   My tech skills are just good enough to really screw things up so I'll stay out of the way on that issue.

 

 

[luvmy40]

Don,

Kris and I will keep you and Eileen in our prayers, as always.

Sadly, my tech skills end at the most basic level concerning web site management. However, do not hesitate to call me if you need any help with HVAC/Refrigeration, carpentry, electrical or anything else, for that matter. We are here for you as you have been here for us, and always will be.