What should we do with the donations?

[iheartskins]

In light of the "bets" placed in rayprils' thread (http://www.extremeskins.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1825912), the ES Staff has decided to poll you, its constituents, to see how you feel about how to use the money generated from the bets placed in that thread.

We currently are considering the ideas that appear above among others. If you have an idea that doesn't appear above, please share in detail what you think we should do. The best suggestions are likely to be those that contemplate a plan that benefits the largest numbers of members of the Board, so while we'd like to fund the Staff Retirement Fund :), we are looking for ideas that would provide the most benefit to the most of you.

This is the amount of money that we have to work with:

If the Redskins don't make the playoffs: Current Total: $1710 + TBD

If the Redskins make the playoffs: Current Total: $2845 + TBD + incentives

If the Redskins win the Super Bowl, total donations will be: $4680 + TBD + incentives

If the Eagles win the Super Bowl, total donations will be: $200 + incentives

If the Cowboys win the Super Bowl, total donations will be: $150 + incentives

If the Giants win the Super Bowl, total donations will be: $50 + incentives

Please note that while the ES Staff welcomes suggestions, we are not bound by the outcome of this poll, or by any of the suggestions in this thread.

[Warhead36]

Instead of having to look through all the pages of that old thread, could we see how much was donated and from what bets, as well as what money could still potentially be paid?

[SkinsForLife260]

I dont like the trust fund idea. Ironically i would be the one who most benefits. But only a few of us even get to go to the tailgates so I don’t think that’s fair.

I think the donation to the hurricane is also nice but how do we know all those people want their money going their.

Not to sound negative but why not cancel the bets altogether so we don’t have to worry about disturbing money?
:helmet: :logo: :helmet:

on a side note where wb36?

[LD0506]

Put it towards the solid gold statue of Joe Gibbs that will go out in front of FedEx after he wins his next SB.

[rvan1]

use the money to buy tix for veterans (or higher) on the board randomly.

[JimmiJo]

Inital payment for ES hats and Shirts, which you then sell in order to buy more so that we can wear 'em proud!

[SittingBull]

Belated bachelor party for Gibbs after the season

[SkinsNut73]

How about hiring the Redskin cheerleaders to make a guest appearance at the Extremeskins tailgate? :)

Seriously (well, I am serious about the cheerleaders...sorta), how about splitting it between several worthy causes....25% to the tailgate, 50% to the Red Cross, 25% to me....or something like that.

[Monte51Coleman]

You could offer it to T.O so that he could feed his family. Or maybe divide it equally between T.O., Latrell, & Marcus Camby?

[Grizz]

How about purchasing pairs of tickets to games next year and then randomly picking winners from those that made the bet? Sort of raffle style.

[SoCalSkins]

The dynamics of the thread changed once the site was purchased by the team. The intent of most people was to help off set the cost of running the site. The "make a donation" buttons are gone. It should be voluntary as to whether or not the pledges are made to any particular cause at this point. It is very disengenious to expect a show of support for a site that was not run by a billion dollar organization, to now go the team indirectly. If the site wants to continue to collect donations, the make a donation buttons should come back.

I financially supported ES happily whenever I could the last couple of years, but I find this thread pretty absurd to be honest. I would have zero issue donating if the orginal owners were going out of pocket to keep the site running without advertising, but to try and mandate donations that were intended to go to basically keep the site going, to something less is pretty bad form in my opinion.

[Mr. S]

The dynamics of the thread changed once the site was purchased by the team. The intent of most people was to help off set the cost of running the site. The "make a donation" buttons are gone. It should be voluntary as to whether or not the pledges are made to any particular cause at this point. It is very disengenious to expect a show of support for a site that was not run by a billion dollar organization, to now go the team indirectly. If the site wants to continue to collect donations, the make a donation buttons should come back.

I financially supported ES happily whenever I could the last couple of years, but I find this thread pretty absurd to be honest. I would have zero issue donating if the orginal owners were going out of pocket to keep the site running without advertising, but to try and mandate donations that were intended to go to basically keep the site going, to something less is pretty bad form in my opinion.

you do have a point, but I would make the claim that the donations were also made in faith (or no faith) about the outcome of our team. I think maybe we could let the people slide who said they would donate if we dont make the playoffs, but I put up a minor expected contribution and I still have no problem donating if it comes to that. Im sure most here feel the same.

I think that if we donate to the tailgate, it is still supporting the site, cause it is still offering a service of tailgating which is good for all of us to meet each other if we go to the games. Plus, the people running the tailgate (Pez and Huly, 4C, Raub, everyone else) are probably shelling out money of their own for this already. I think we should split the money down the line if anything, though I have no problem giving it for a tailgate fund.

[Doozinbrah]

What if all the money was given to Make A Wish, Susan B Komen, or Operation Smile. I'm sure we could distribute the money to a few charities. Maybe take a poll and let the board decide. Now I have not read the whole thread so I am assuming someone has already said this but just wanted to put it out there. I also like the idea of giving to ES Tailgate for those who put out money to make it happen.

[jrockster21]

The dynamics of the thread changed once the site was purchased by the team. The intent of most people was to help off set the cost of running the site. The "make a donation" buttons are gone. It should be voluntary as to whether or not the pledges are made to any particular cause at this point. It is very disengenious to expect a show of support for a site that was not run by a billion dollar organization, to now go the team indirectly. If the site wants to continue to collect donations, the make a donation buttons should come back.

I financially supported ES happily whenever I could the last couple of years, but I find this thread pretty absurd to be honest. I would have zero issue donating if the orginal owners were going out of pocket to keep the site running without advertising, but to try and mandate donations that were intended to go to basically keep the site going, to something less is pretty bad form in my opinion.


This is sort of the way I feel about it...I mean, I was going to happily donate the $300 to the site because you guys were running it out of pocket. Now that you've got the Danny's checkbook behind the site, these bets ARE kind of disingenious.

On the other hand, a bet was made, so I feel obligated to man-up and pay the money I pledged (50 bucks so far). The money going to charity sounds like the best idea in my opinion, because its something every ES member can benefit from (if you don't feel good about donating to charity, then you are a cold individual). The tailgate, while it is definitely a good thing, there are what, maybe 100 members that will benefit from that? And something like 20 or 30 members that will continuously benefit? There are a LOT of fans from different locations who will never be able to benefit from this. Luckily, I will be going to the 12/24 Giants game, but I still think this is a bad idea for the money. Huly, Pez, et. al, what you guys do is wonderful, and I don't know how you support the tailgate, but I do believe it is your choice to do so. I would feel the same way if I lived across the street from Fed-Ex and went to every tailgate, so its not because I'm ~5500 miles away.

And the charity idea is chosen, I definitely think a poll should be created with 5-10 different choices and then voted on by the members. That is the fairest way, imho.

The raffle thing is a bad idea as well, because that is COMPLETELY the opposite of what this bet was originally intended for. I for one would be extremely ticked off if the money I originally intended to help offset the cost of this site went to some random person's game tickets. Maybe that's just me...

Another idea that just came to me is setting up an ES charity? That would probably be a lot of work (and I'm by no means volunteering to do it :silly: - also, being that I'm 5500 miles away, I'm probably not the best choice anway), but it could be pretty cool....maybe taking poor inner city kids to Skins games or something like that. Or buying jerseys for them, or something. Since you have "insider" access to the Skins, you'd probably be able to get discounted prices. Just a thought...it would be specific to the site (not some random charity) and would help spread the Redskins love. You could even set up for the kids to be on the sidelines for the games, meet the players, etc. A lot of good could come from it. Just a thought...

I bet you could convince the Danny to match any donations made as well! I'm actually kind of excited about this idea, the more I think about it. If you want, I'd be willing to do a little research into starting a charity. Or maybe some of the lawyers on this site already know some things about it...?

[Grumpy Vet]

........Plus, the people running the tailgate (Pez and Huly, 4C, Raub, everyone else) are probably shelling out money of their own for this already.

I'm not advocating that the money go to the tailgate as I did not pledge any money and I'm pretty unreliable about showing up at their tailgate.......

That said, you are right on the money. The amount of money that all the organizers of the Unofficial Tailgate spend on the tailgate would really surpise most people.

I usually tailgate w/ 4-8 people. Generally I provide the main course food(s) and do something kinda fun for all home games. Everyone provides their own drinks. It really is amazing how fast the costs add up even just in our little circle. The amount of time expended in preparation is more considerable than most would believe.

I cannot fathom the expenses these ExtremeSkins people incur for hog noses, glow sticks, propane, beer, prizes, pinatas, food and everything else that goes into their tailgates. Maybe I'm wrong, put the organizers of this tailgate don't strike me as people that bring home mid 6 figures every year. They are honest hard working folks that are incurring some serious costs for something they really love to do.

If they don't get any money.......b/c the vast majority of ExtremeSkinners don't go to the tailgate - I'd understand.

However, just take what I type to heart and as much as they say just come and bring nothing - try to bring a little something if you attend. A 12 pack of beer - a blow up doll - a couple bags of chips - something to donate to their prize chest - some award winning chili....some food.......

I'm not sure I'd go as far as to say the Unofficial Extreme Skins Tailgate will cure cancer.....but I'm sure it will continue to be a fun place for Skins fans to congregate. I just hope they don't ever lose sight of the tailgate being a place for everyone to come together, feel comfortable and just have a good time tailgating and rooting for YOUR Washington Redskins.

[altair4]

Start a museum for Clinton Portis's costumes....

[iheartskins]

The dynamics of the thread changed once the site was purchased by the team. The intent of most people was to help off set the cost of running the site. The "make a donation" buttons are gone. It should be voluntary as to whether or not the pledges are made to any particular cause at this point. It is very disengenious to expect a show of support for a site that was not run by a billion dollar organization, to now go the team indirectly. If the site wants to continue to collect donations, the make a donation buttons should come back.

What do you mean by this? That it would be disengenious to expect people to support a site that is run by a large organization? If you hold this to be true, then why would the "make a donation buttons" come back? Who would be the recipient of that money if there's no viable recipient to this money? With that said, I understand your point to the extent that expecting people to give money to an entity that's already well funded would not make sense.

I financially supported ES happily whenever I could the last couple of years, but I find this thread pretty absurd to be honest. I would have zero issue donating if the orginal owners were going out of pocket to keep the site running without advertising, but to try and mandate donations that were intended to go to basically keep the site going, to something less is pretty bad form in my opinion.

I don't know where you are reading that the donations are going to "something less" and I'm not even sure what you mean by that. Certainly the need for donations for site maintenance has diminished since rayprils' thread was started; that I don't contest at all. The point of this thread, which coincidentally I don't think is absurd, is whether we, collectively, can determine if there's a cause that would merit keeping the "bets" in place so that the original intention of rayprils's thread (to help keep ES.com going and to benefit all of the members, thereby) is met in some shape or form.

Where we differ, perhaps, is whether such a cause is out there or if the premise is defeated by virtue of the merger. I maintain that it's not but maybe the responses to this thread will prove otherwise.

Finally, it's obvious that no one, not the staff, not other members, not the 'Skins, has any control over whether a donation is made--so this whole exercise could prove totally theoretical as anyone and everyone can back out whenever and however they please. Then again, that is just as true now as it was when rayprils' thread was started originally.

[jrockster21]

I don't know where you are reading that the donations are going to "something less" and I'm not even sure what you mean by that. Certainly the need for donations for site maintenance has diminished since this thrad was started; that I don't contest at all. The point of this thread, which coincidentally I don't think is absurd, is whether we, collectively, can determine if there's a cause that would merit keeping the "bets" in place so that the original intention of rayprils's thread (to help keep ES.com going and to benefit all of the members, thereby) is met in some shape or form.

Where we differ, perhaps, is whether such a cause is out there or if the premise is defeated by virtue of the merger. I maintain that it's not but maybe the responses to this thread will prove otherwise.

Finally, it's obvious that no one, not the staff, not other members, not the 'Skins, has any control over whether a donation is made--so this whole exercise could prove totally theoretical and anyone and everyone can back out whenever and however they please. Then again, that is just as true now as it was when rayprils' thread was started originally.


Well said. I for one don't plan on backing down from my bets. I may have to go on a payment schedule :silly: if everything I bet on comes to fruition which I hope it does, but I'll pay!! :)

[G-Town]

United Way

[Tarhog]

No one on Staff wants any money from any of you. If you recall, we never actively pursued your money when we DID need it. The farthest we ever went in that regard was to sell a few t-shirts and hats and put a 'no pressure' Make-a-Donation link (which btw, still got you a hat, t-shirt, or fleece). Thats in stark contrast to just about every other internet site out there. We were so concerned that your time here be enjoyable, we turned away advertisers for years so your view of the best Redskin's site anywhere would be unmarred by pop-up ads and other advertising eyesores.

So if you guys want to discuss these 'bets', knock yourselves out - but it has nothing to do with this Website. They were your bets to begin with, we did nothing to either encourage them or promote them. We didn't care about money then, and we don't care now.

[Pedro]

Our heros take the time out to make us here on ES feel more a part of the family, what charity do they support? Would be a cool gesture to have a seasonal collection to help those less fortunate than the majority of us here, and support the people who bust a gut trying to give us what we want as fans at the same time.

Get something like that going and I am happy to donate.

[jrockster21]

No one on Staff wants any money from any of you. If you recall, we never actively pursued your money when we DID need it. The farthest we ever went in that regard was to sell a few t-shirts and hats and put a 'no pressure' Make-a-Donation link (which btw, still got you a hat, t-shirt, or fleece). Thats in stark contrast to just about every other internet site out there. We were so concerned that your time here be enjoyable, we turned away advertisers for years so your view of the best Redskin's site anywhere would be unmarred by pop-up ads and other advertising eyesores.

So if you guys want to discuss these 'bets', knock yourselves out - but it has nothing to do with this Website. They were your bets to begin with, we did nothing to either encourage them or promote them. We didn't care about money then, and we don't care now.


I didn't get a hat, t-shirt or fleece when I donated to the site! :( Of course, that wasn't the reason I donated to the site...

[Dah-Dee]

How about donating the funds to some Redskins-related charitable activity such as The Darrell Green Youth Life Foundation (http://www.dgylf.org/). :)

[bubba9497]

The Bubba Fund Home for attractive wayward nympho's 18-29

also affectionately known as

Hump House

[Park City Skins]

The Bubba Fund Home for attractive wayward nympho's 18-29

also affectionately known as

Hump House
Right. The one where the better half clearly approves of. ;)

[Tarhog]

I didn't get a hat, t-shirt or fleece when I donated to the site! :( Of course, that wasn't the reason I donated to the site...

PM me your name and address, and we'll give you a late 'thank you'.

[Gallntfox]

Now that the board is owned by the Skins I say giving the money to a third party not connected with the Skins is not the right direction. The Skins and the league have already held fundraisers for hurricane victims. I say keep the money in the community and purchase tickets for disadvantaged youth in the DC area so that they may have the once in a lifetime opportunity of attending a game. Most ES members can come by a ticket one way or another if they don't have season tix already...give a kid a dream that would never be in the stadium otherwise.

[jrockster21]

How about donating the funds to some Redskins-related charitable activity such as The Darrell Green Youth Life Foundation (http://www.dgylf.org/). :)


This is a good idea...I agree that the charity should be Redskins related. And anything with the name Darrell Green has got to be a good thing! :)

[Park City Skins]

Let me preface what I have to say with the fact that with all due respect, the decision of what to do with the money from donations should be up to what the majority decides. Their money, their decision to donate it, and no matter who owns the site, it's their community. As for what to do with it, charity. I would love to suggest the possibility of putting some into to the Tailgate, but from what little I can gather online, these tailgates are organized in a purely atruistic manner and for altruistic reasons. To bring the family closer together and I commend those who organaize them, ( you 3 know who I'm talking about). If they would accept, certainly a little help their way from those who live vicariously through their threads as well as those who attend wouldn't be problem, ( at least not by me). Personally, I'm in favor of a charity accepted by the membership at large. The players and team have theirs,( and some here give to those), but my feeling is that it be something Extreme. A charity or charities that we agree on and put money into. It's independent of the team but representative of the fans of that team. We're pretty good folks here and we can put money to good causes as well. Either one of those two. Just my 2 cents.

[ThatGuy]

I didn't get a hat, t-shirt or fleece when I donated to the site! :( Of course, that wasn't the reason I donated to the site...

Yeah mine never seemed to arrive either. Not a big deal though, the donation was to support the site, not to get a tshirt.

[KingGibbs]

I know this sounds blatantly bias coming from me, but there are a few members (I won't mention names to avoid any animosity) from here that put ALOT of time, money and effort into the ES tailgate and could benefit form a little help via donations or whatever from this site. After all, we do advertise Extremeskins on gameday for thousands to view and members have gone as far as creating 'business cards" for Extremeskins.com to hand out in the stadium and I can tell you first hand that it was a huge success because I had people coming up to me asking if I had anymore.

Anyway, if you don't like that idea, I am all for Nuts idea in bringing a cheerleader to the tailgate. But, if you could put that Panther cheerleader that had that amazing booty in a Redskins outfit, I'm sure you could get even more donations pouring in. :D

[capitolpunishment]

Pay for one or two Fan's out of state to fly to a home game and experience Fed Ex and DTC LIVE!! :applause:

[SoCalSkins]

What do you mean by this? That it would be disengenious to expect people to support a site that is run by a large organization? If you hold this to be true, then why would the "make a donation buttons" come back? Who would be the recipient of that money if there's no viable recipient to this money? With that said, I understand your point to the extent that expecting people to give money to an entity that's already well funded would not make sense.



I don't know where you are reading that the donations are going to "something less" and I'm not even sure what you mean by that. Certainly the need for donations for site maintenance has diminished since rayprils' thread was started; that I don't contest at all. The point of this thread, which coincidentally I don't think is absurd, is whether we, collectively, can determine if there's a cause that would merit keeping the "bets" in place so that the original intention of rayprils's thread (to help keep ES.com going and to benefit all of the members, thereby) is met in some shape or form.

Where we differ, perhaps, is whether such a cause is out there or if the premise is defeated by virtue of the merger. I maintain that it's not but maybe the responses to this thread will prove otherwise.

Finally, it's obvious that no one, not the staff, not other members, not the 'Skins, has any control over whether a donation is made--so this whole exercise could prove totally theoretical as anyone and everyone can back out whenever and however they please. Then again, that is just as true now as it was when rayprils' thread was started originally.


The situation after the merger is far different than before the merger. Prior to the merger, it seemed that most donations would go to maintaing the site without the need for advertisements and provide for additional resources to enable the site to handle more traffic. Giving out beer and food, although not a bad cause, was probably not the intent of those placing bets in the thread and is "something less" than the pre-merger ES world.

To say that donations pledged to help maintain a site not run for profit, should continue after the site is acquired by the most valuable sports franchise in the world and to call it "backing out" at this point is absurd and insulting. Everyone did not collectively donate and it is not found money that is being determined, but is the generosity of individual members who should determine what should happen. The one's actually pledging donations should have the only say as to what happens.

If ES wants to continue to drive donations, then the make a donation buttons should reappear. I am not against making a charitable donation, but would not give a cent to a religious based one, including Darrel Green's or Joe Gibbs', even if every member wanted to donate to that cause.

The best idea I can think of is the creation of the unofficial ES daily babe site. ES has not been the same without that thread.

[RonJeremy]

I guess I better put my :2cents: in.

As one of the organizers of the ES Tailgate I will be speaking for ME and only ME. I haven't discussed my opinion on this with Huly/Pez, my 4C partners in crime, Raub, and others.

I don't want the money. Plain and simple. This idea was started by Huly through a PM she sent to me a week before the first game. She asked for the 4C's help and we were happy to provide it. We already had our own tent, beer pong table, grill, etc. We were happy to share these items (items that were purchased long before the ES tailgate was a thought) with everyone here.

The original idea was to have a friendly place that members of this site who attend the games regularly...or just attend one game a year...could get together and put a face with a screen name. I enjoy meeting people from this site and I have made some great new friends because of this tailgate. I have always had the philosphy...more the merrier. I enjoy big parties (and yes, the party has grown) so I don't mind tossing a few more beers in the cooler and a few more burgers on the grill as part of the cause. The financial burden on me is not great. Time burden...well....a lot of planning does go into each tailgate (e-mails, Pm's, answering questions on the threads) but that is something that a donation won't fix. If I ever became overwhelmed and this wasn't fun anymore....then I would step away. BUT, I am having a blast and Extremeskins reputation is growing because of the tailgate.

With all of that said...if Pez/Huly or anyone says I am foolish and we need money...I wouldn't deny it. THEY buy the gifts, prizes, food, beer, etc. for the tailgate. I know for a fact they love doing it...and some people have made donations right at the tailgate and this does defray some of the costs. But I am sure their wallet will be hurting after the season. So, like I said I would understand if I am called a fool. If the membership votes to fund this with these bets then I am sure it will be used to make things bigger and better.

To summarize, the ES tailgate wasn't started because we thought we could get money from the site nor did in my wildest dreams did I think there would be an offer of it. It is a place to meet people from the site, party, and get fired up for the game.

The only thing I will ever ask for is ES merchandise so we can further spread the word about the site.

Give the money to Darrell Green's Charity or send some inner city kids to a game. That's my vote.

:logo:

[iheartskins]

The situation after the merger is far different than before the merger. Prior to the merger, it seemed that most donations would go to maintaing the site without the need for advertisements and provide for additional resources to enable the site to handle more traffic. Giving out beer and food, although not a bad cause, was probably not the intent of those placing bets in the thread and is "something less" than the pre-merger ES world.
Exactly, and that's why I started this thread; as I wrote above, it's not clear if there is any cause or basis post merger and as a result (again) I started this thread to determine if the people donating (and you can check, as I'm among them) had any ideas that could honor the intent of rayprils' original thread.
To call it "backing out" at this point is absurd an insulting.
I don't think I ever accused anyone of "backing out." All I said is that no one has any control over whether people do honor their "bets," so if it's determined that there is no compelling reason to keep the "bets" going, then obviously it's okay if people decline to pay out on their "bets." That includes me and you and everyone else who was involved.
Everyone did not collectively donate and it is not found money that is being determined, but is the generosity of individual members who should determine what should happen. The one's actually pledging donations should have the only say as to what happens.
Right, again, that's why I started this thread, because I'm among those who wanted to donate initially, and I want to see if we can all find a way to keep this thing going.
If ES wants to continue to drive donations, then the make a donation buttons should reappear. I am not against making a charitable donation, but would not give a cent to a religious based one, including Darrel Green's or Joe Gibbs', even if every member wanted to donate to that cause.
This is separate from what is at issue here. We are talking about what we were going to do with whatever "money" was gleaned from the bets, not from donations going forward. If that's something you or anyone else is interested in, then it should be taken up elsewhere.
The best idea I can think of is the creation of the unofficial ES daily babe site. ES has not been the same without that thread.
Ok, now we have an idea of what to do with the money. :)

EDIT: SoCal: I now see your edited post, and have responded accordingly above.

[iheartskins]

To summarize, the ES tailgate wasn't started because we thought we could get money from the site nor did in my wildest dreams did I think there would be an offer of it. It is a place to meet people from the site, party, and get fired up for the game.

RJ, I hope you didn't read the tailgate idea above as being anything other than an idea to help defray the costs of the ES Tailgate. I don't think anyone thinks that the 4C or Pez or Huly started the ES Tailgates with anything other than incredible generosity in mind. The suggestion to give money to the ES Tailgate was just because those of us who have attended one of them see just how much time, effort, and money goes into them. Recognizing this, it occured to a couple of us that it might make sense to share a little bit of the burden so that you all who are giving so much didn't have as much of a burden.

But, like you say, if this isn't something you (or other organizers of the ES Tailgate) are interested in, then I'm glad to know it so that we can try to pursue other ideas.

[TK]

The best idea I can think of is the creation of the unofficial ES daily babe site. ES has not been the same without that thread.
Google. It's FREE. :)

[RonJeremy]

RJ, I hope you didn't read the tailgate idea above as being anything other than an idea to help defray the costs of the ES Tailgate. I don't think anyone thinks that the 4C or Pez or Huly started the ES Tailgates with anything other than incredible benevolence and generosity. The suggestion to give money to the ES Tailgate was just because those of us who have attended one of them see just how much time, effort, and money goes into them. Recognizing this, it occured to a couple of us that it might make sense to share a little bit of the burden so that you all who are so giving so much don't have as much of a burden.

But, like you say, if this isn't something you're interested in, then I'm glad to know it so that we can try to pursue other ideas.

I certainly uderstood the intent..I am not as eloquent as some others here. :D

I do appreciate the thought to include it as a possible receipient of the donations. I personally don't think it is necessary. Like I posted earlier...the time is the biggest part of it for me and that's something a donation won't fix. I enjoy doing it and will continue to do so until it isn't fun.

Like I said Pez/Huly may have a COMPLETELY different viewpoint than me.
:silly:

[TXREDSKINS44]

I say donate it to the Red Cross for victims of Hurricane Katrina, Rita, and Wilma. I went through Hurricane Katrina down here in Gulfport MS. I came ok but there are so many people down here who still need help from the Red Cross.

Oh by the way great ideas mods!!!

[Park City Skins]

I guess I better put my :2cents: in.

As one of the organizers of the ES Tailgate I will be speaking for ME and only ME. I haven't discussed my opinion on this with Huly/Pez, my 4C partners in crime, Raub, and others.

I don't want the money. Plain and simple. This idea was started by Huly through a PM she sent to me a week before the first game. She asked for the 4C's help and we were happy to provide it. We already had our own tent, beer pong table, grill, etc. We were happy to share these items (items that were purchased long before the ES tailgate was a thought) with everyone here.

The original idea was to have a friendly place that members of this site who attend the games regularly...or just attend one game a year...could get together and put a face with a screen name. I enjoy meeting people from this site and I have made some great new friends because of this tailgate. I have always had the philosphy...more the merrier. I enjoy big parties (and yes, the party has grown) so I don't mind tossing a few more beers in the cooler and a few more burgers on the grill as part of the cause. The financial burden on me is not great. Time burden...well....a lot of planning does go into each tailgate (e-mails, Pm's, answering questions on the threads) but that is something that a donation won't fix. If I ever became overwhelmed and this wasn't fun anymore....then I would step away. BUT, I am having a blast and Extremeskins reputation is growing because of the tailgate.

With all of that said...if Pez/Huly or anyone says I am foolish and we need money...I wouldn't deny it. THEY buy the gifts, prizes, food, beer, etc. for the tailgate. I know for a fact they love doing it...and some people have made donations right at the tailgate and this does defray some of the costs. But I am sure their wallet will be hurting after the season. So, like I said I would understand if I am called a fool. If the membership votes to fund this with these bets then I am sure it will be used to make things bigger and better.

To summarize, the ES tailgate wasn't started because we thought we could get money from the site nor did in my wildest dreams did I think there would be an offer of it. It is a place to meet people from the site, party, and get fired up for the game.

The only thing I will ever ask for is ES merchandise so we can further spread the word about the site.

Give the money to Darrell Green's Charity or send some inner city kids to a game. That's my vote.

:logo:
Damn. Well said Art...er...Ron. ;)




:movefast:

[HOF44]

I'm not advocating that the money go to the tailgate as I did not pledge any money and I'm pretty unreliable about showing up at their tailgate.......

That said, you are right on the money. The amount of money that all the organizers of the Unofficial Tailgate spend on the tailgate would really surpise most people.

I usually tailgate w/ 4-8 people. Generally I provide the main course food(s) and do something kinda fun for all home games. Everyone provides their own drinks. It really is amazing how fast the costs add up even just in our little circle. The amount of time expended in preparation is more considerable than most would believe.

I cannot fathom the expenses these ExtremeSkins people incur for hog noses, glow sticks, propane, beer, prizes, pinatas, food and everything else that goes into their tailgates. Maybe I'm wrong, put the organizers of this tailgate don't strike me as people that bring home mid 6 figures every year. They are honest hard working folks that are incurring some serious costs for something they really love to do.

If they don't get any money.......b/c the vast majority of ExtremeSkinners don't go to the tailgate - I'd understand.

However, just take what I type to heart and as much as they say just come and bring nothing - try to bring a little something if you attend. A 12 pack of beer - a blow up doll - a couple bags of chips - something to donate to their prize chest - some award winning chili....some food.......

I'm not sure I'd go as far as to say the Unofficial Extreme Skins Tailgate will cure cancer.....but I'm sure it will continue to be a fun place for Skins fans to congregate. I just hope they don't ever lose sight of the tailgate being a place for everyone to come together, feel comfortable and just have a good time tailgating and rooting for YOUR Washington Redskins.


GrumpyVet's position is probably the closest to how I feel. The organizers of this tailgate to put out a significant amount of money for the tailgate and are happy to do it.

Some of you are right when it says it only benefits a few compared to the total board, but it does introduce many people to extremeskins. There are alot of people that come up and ask about extremeskins when they see the banner and all the good times going on. This brings more people to the board and hopefully enhances the experience for everyone on the board.

On a little bit of a tangent as RonJeremy said it would be nice if there were some extremeskins items to purchase and wear at the tailgate, or anywhere else for that matter. I know I had an extremskins hat made myself because it was the only way to get one now.

[Bugs']

Let me preface this by saying that I was not part of the "bets" that took place. So, I don't feel very comfortable saying where the money should or should not go. But, I will offer my opinions and make a couple comments. Just like RJ, I am just speaking for myself on how I feel regarding this issue.

First, by being a member of 4C I assist in funding, setting up, running, and breaking down the unofficial extremeskins tailgate. The cost to me personally is not enough that I would feel comfortable accepting donations. Like RJ said earlier, we already had our tailgating gear in place because we were going to tailgate at every home game anyway. We just buy a bit more bear, fry up a bit more Scrapple :notworthy , and other food items.

Pez and Huly on the other hand are reaching deeper in their pockets to make this tailgate unique and exciting. There are always props, prizes, and everyone that attends always walks away with an item (necklace, key chain, hog nose, glow stick, etc. ) Some might not think that these are high priced items and there not, but multiply one pig nose by 100 and you start seeing how the price escalates. This does not include around 60 pounds of wings being cooked, propane used, beer, sodas, water, blah, blah, blah. You get the point.

What has been wonderful is that we have very smart, respectful members. Many have offered up food items as well as monetary compensation to the organizers. The money I have received through these donations has covered my costs just fine. If I had participated in these bets and pledged donations I would want some of it to go to Pez and Huly.

As far as where the bulk of the money could go my suggestion would be to help feed the homeless and in need during these cold winter months and perhaps beyond. I would be willing to help set-up and work in a soup kitchen of sorts where we could prepare food and give it out to families in need. This is something that has always interested me.

I understand that the hurricanes ravaged not only land but people's lives. This pains me and if it is decided that the money go towards this cause I think it would be great too.

[Tarhog]

Yeah mine never seemed to arrive either. Not a big deal though, the donation was to support the site, not to get a tshirt.

PM me

[HOF44]

Just sitting here thinking about it and I thought of a fair way to do it. Since the reason the pledges were made has changed, the people who made the pledges should be given the option of where their money goes.

Give them say 3 choices a charity, the tailgate, or withdraw the pledge. That way the people who made the pledges can feel good about where their money goes. I certainly don't think anyone wants somebody to be thinking darn I can't believe my money went to _________________. I would want them to feel good about their donation just like they would have if it had went to maintaining the site.

[iheartskins]

Bob, I agree completely with you in principle.

And like I wrote in the first post, we're really just looking for suggestions. Nothing that is posted here is going to be outcome determinative--given how many people smart people post here, we thought it might make sense to open it up and see if the membership could brainstorm and come up with was some cause that's comprable to the cause that spawned this thread before the merger. And obviously, ultimately its in the hands of each person who made a "bet" to decide whether they are behind the cause that the majority selects and whether they want to endorse it or decline.

As you say, given how much circumstances have changed, it would be unfair to expect all those who placed "bets" to give money unless they agree with what's being done with it.

[HOF44]

Bob, I agree completely with you in principle.

And like I wrote in the first post, we're really just looking for suggestions. Nothing that is posted here is going to be outcome determinative--given how many people smart people post here, we thought it might make sense to open it up and see if the membership could brainstorm and come up with was some cause that's comprable to the cause that spawned this thread before the merger. And obviously, ultimately its in the hands of each person who made a "bet" to decide whether they are behind the cause that the majority selects and whether they want to endorse it or decline.

As you say, given how much circumstances have changed, it would be unfair to expect all those who placed "bets" to give money unless they agree with what's being done with it.

That's great that you guys are still trying to make something positive out of these "bets". I'm sure for the staff it would have been far easier to just say all bets are off and be done with it. Thats a recurring theme of alot of people I've met from this site. Always trying to make things better even if it is makes things a little bit more difficult for them.

[Walking Deadman]

Suggestions:
1. ES pays to get green parking passes for the "unofficial" tailgates to prevent "opposing team" invasion threats as per the Eagles tailgaters from last week.

2. ES can start a fund to help fellow ESers get to games......buy from ebay and brokers to get Skins fans back into the empty seats. "Get the fans back in the seats fund"

3. ES can start a "non-profit" foundation much like the Skins to promote literacy etc. (grammar too for the grammar police :silly: )

4. ES can purchase the pink (ugh) Redskins hats and hand them out to fans at FedEx to promote Breast Cancer awarness.

5. Donate to Red Cross, Salvation Army or Breast Cancer in the name of ES.

6. Put the money in the bank and allow ES Admins/Mods to purchase prizes (Jerseys, footballs, autographs and other Redskins stuff) to give to winners of contests here on ES.

7. Fund to give members ES merchandise for the games (or purchase ES gear at a reasonable/affordable cost).....(can you imagine 30,000 of the 90,000 fans at FedEx wearing ES caps???? I bet we'd get even more membership after that game).

If that doesn't work, I'll be glad to take a contribution to the "goskins" foundation. Me and TO have familes to feed y'know :D

[Major Harris]

i voted other......maybe a 50/50 split.

not that i should have a say, i didn't bet.

[Monte51Coleman]

So I take it that it's a no to T.O.? What will he do, what...will...he do?

[halter91]

anything you decide to do is cool by me. Unless you guys want to start a trust for my season tickets!! :laugh:

[National Defense]

FYI, http://www.mostvaluablekids.org/

Welcome to Most Valuable Kids!

Live sports and entertainment provide a positive source of inspiration for children in a world where there are many negative alternatives. Most Valuable Kids, Inc. (MVK) brings this inspiration, at no cost, to underserved children in the Washington, DC/Baltimore Metropolitan Areas. MVK does this by offering children's organizations access to professional and collegiate sports and entertainment events through an online ticket donation and reward system.

MVK overcomes the financial obstacles associated with live events by distributing unused tickets to children that would enjoy the opportunity to go to an event, but would otherwise not be able to because of the high costs associated with tickets. These tickets are distributed to boys and girls, 18 and under, through the numerous organizations that focus on children in low-income and underserved households.

[Tom [Giants fan]]

How about hiring the Redskin cheerleaders to make a guest appearance at the Extremeskins tailgate?

Could you hire Carolina Panther cheerleaders instead? :D

[Park City Skins]

']Could you hire Carolina Panther cheerleaders instead? :D
:slap: :kungfu: ;)

[#1SkinsFan]

How about purchasing pairs of tickets to games next year and then randomly picking winners from those that made the bet? Sort of raffle style.

I like that idea!!!!

[SkinsFTW]

I think that by supporting the ES tailgate you would be doing the closest thing to the original intent of the bets.

I live in Japan and never go to any of the games but I still voted for that since it sounds like something cool that probably costs a ****load of money and time to arrange 8 times a season.

It would also be cool if the site started up a new donation thing so that we could all help pay for the tailgate since the site itself it totally paid for now.

Either that or we could do what some other teams have apparently done and buy us a few home game refs. :D

[Seabee1973]

DOnate it to World Vision. It is a christian organization that helps out Kids around the world and at every National disaster.


Here is there Website.


http://www.worldvision.org

[Heavy Jumbo]

Has the staff made a decision about the use of donations?

[zoony]

This is sort of the way I feel about it...I mean, I was going to happily donate the $300 to the site because you guys were running it out of pocket. Now that you've got the Danny's checkbook behind the site, these bets ARE kind of disingenious.

On the other hand, a bet was made, so I feel obligated to man-up and pay the money I pledged (50 bucks so far). The money going to charity sounds like the best idea in my opinion, because its something every ES member can benefit from (if you don't feel good about donating to charity, then you are a cold individual). The tailgate, while it is definitely a good thing, there are what, maybe 100 members that will benefit from that? And something like 20 or 30 members that will continuously benefit? There are a LOT of fans from different locations who will never be able to benefit from this. Luckily, I will be going to the 12/24 Giants game, but I still think this is a bad idea for the money. Huly, Pez, et. al, what you guys do is wonderful, and I don't know how you support the tailgate, but I do believe it is your choice to do so. I would feel the same way if I lived across the street from Fed-Ex and went to every tailgate, so its not because I'm ~5500 miles away.

And the charity idea is chosen, I definitely think a poll should be created with 5-10 different choices and then voted on by the members. That is the fairest way, imho.

The raffle thing is a bad idea as well, because that is COMPLETELY the opposite of what this bet was originally intended for. I for one would be extremely ticked off if the money I originally intended to help offset the cost of this site went to some random person's game tickets. Maybe that's just me...

Another idea that just came to me is setting up an ES charity? That would probably be a lot of work (and I'm by no means volunteering to do it :silly: - also, being that I'm 5500 miles away, I'm probably not the best choice anway), but it could be pretty cool....maybe taking poor inner city kids to Skins games or something like that. Or buying jerseys for them, or something. Since you have "insider" access to the Skins, you'd probably be able to get discounted prices. Just a thought...it would be specific to the site (not some random charity) and would help spread the Redskins love. You could even set up for the kids to be on the sidelines for the games, meet the players, etc. A lot of good could come from it. Just a thought...

I bet you could convince the Danny to match any donations made as well! I'm actually kind of excited about this idea, the more I think about it. If you want, I'd be willing to do a little research into starting a charity. Or maybe some of the lawyers on this site already know some things about it...?


what he said

[redphoenix]

Have a big party at fed ex for the fans.well call it the 12TH MAn fandango.

Or if not at fed ex do it in the parking lot .Fed ex would be better,have highlights on the jumbotron,maybe some players to sighn autographs,

Do it for the fans we have endored alot .

[zoony]

OK after a little thought on this, if/when the playoff spot is secured, I'll just mail a check to IHeart. Honestly I don't care (is that bad?) where the money goes... I originally pledged it to the site, and that's where it will go. Or if not IHeart, one of the other mods... up to you guys just let me know.

[Taylor 36]

Inital payment for ES hats and Shirts, which you then sell in order to buy more so that we can wear 'em proud!

I like this idea a lot!!! :cheers:

[GrimReefa]

use the money to buy tix for veterans (or higher) on the board randomly.

What an awesome idea!

:cheers:

[Dead Money]

I thought a bump for this thread was necessary. I completely missed what was decided to do with all this money. I really didn't agree with some of the uses mentioned in this thread...

So.... immediately after the Skins clinched a playoff spot I handed a crisp new $100 bill to Pez & Huly for all their efforts regarding the "Unofficial Tailgate" this season.

Yeah thats right I bet that I would pay up $100 if we made the playoffs. So I paid up, to who I felt deserved the money.

I urge the others who lost their bets others to start paying up too!

HTTR!!

[iheartskins]

Before we go any further, the Mod Squad is in the process of coming to a conclusive decision on this. Obviously its in each "betters'" hand to decide what to do with their money. We will provide our suggestion later today or early tomorrow.

[Disco Dave]

That's good to hear. The Extremeskins tailgate should get half. 25% to charity and 25% to get tickets for Extremeskins users.

[redphoenix]

Buy every extremer a ticket to the season opener next year.

[SonnyRules]

This is sort of the way I feel about it...I mean, I was going to happily donate the $300 to the site because you guys were running it out of pocket. Now that you've got the Danny's checkbook behind the site, these bets ARE kind of disingenious.

On the other hand, a bet was made, so I feel obligated to man-up and pay the money I pledged (50 bucks so far).


I kind of feel the spirit of the bet has been violated with the acquisition of ExtremeSkins by the Washington Redskins.

I didn't mind supporting the message board because you guys were on your own and needed the financial assistance. On the other hand, Dan doesn't need any of my money. So my vote would be to call off the bet.

With that said, I have read that you guys need to take money out of your own pockets to finance the road-trips you make with the team. If this is the case, I would support a fund that you guys could draw from to reimburse your expenses. I'm not talking about the purchase of cigars and cocktails, but for your meals, parking at airports, car rentals, etc.. :2cents:

[GSF]

I have no idea how much loot you guys are talking about here so maybe these aren't doable, but I have a couple of suggestions.

1. I would give a portion to the ES tailgate.

2. I would use some money to try to set up some kind of fan day with the players for ES members. Maybe you could have a party with some of the players at a restaurant in DC, or maybe something out at Redskins Park. I, being geo challenged, wouldn't be able to go, but I bet that would be a ton of fun for extremers in the DC area.

3. I would get some really good tix for some of the geo challenged extremers. A lot of us geo challenges are originally from that area, and love to go to games, but by the time you add up travel costs and the tix it becomes pretty darn expensive. You could do a random drawing, or you could select various members that you want to give the tix to. If you do a random drawing, I would only qualify members for the drawing that had contributed to the site in the past.

:2cents:

[redphoenix]

I have no idea how much loot you guys are talking about here so maybe these aren't doable, but I have a couple of suggestions.

1. I would give a portion to the ES tailgate.

2. I would use some money to try to set up some kind of fan day with the players for ES members. Maybe you could have a party with some of the players at a restaurant in DC, or maybe something out at Redskins Park. I, being geo challenged, wouldn't be able to go, but I bet that would be a ton of fun for extremers in the DC area.

3. I would get some really good tix for some of the geo challenged extremers. A lot of us geo challenges are originally from that area, and love to go to games, but by the time you add up travel costs and the tix it becomes pretty darn expensive. You could do a random drawing, or you could select various members that you want to give the tix to. If you do a random drawing, I would only qualify members for the drawing that had contributed to the site in the past.

:2cents:

Number 2 is the best idea.That would be a first for any fans site across the league.It would be one for the history books.

[TMSCAW5312]

I'm a big fan of the Joe Salave'a foundation... (being Samoan and all)




To Empower, Educate, and Encourage the youth by providing educational opportunities, sports clinics, and complimentary programs. The foundation is able to achieve its mission through financial contributions from local and off-island businesses and individuals.

[cactitle]

I say divide it up like 70%/30%. 70% going to the American Red Cross.

[SlinginSammy HOF '63]

offer Lavar a new contract.

[MrSilverMaC]

I think the best way to donate the money (though I didn't get in on the bet) would be to give it up to the kids on Die Hard's team. What better way for a bunch of footbball fans to spend their money they bet on a football team, than to help kids trying to have fun playing the sport we love?


Hell, you never know, we may get the next Baugh or Jurgenson or Green from his team in the future.
________

[MustangSteve]

Iheart, I think its great to donate for any good cause, hurricane victims are donated and granted by the States Government as they should be, never hurts to add a lil more to help a man get on his his feet.

But at the same time this site brings alot of fans together and gives updates to news about our team and even brings many other fans to the site to make the season fun again now were contenders.

Whats donated to this site should be used for extremeskins to better this site any way it can. Im all for that and very thankful a few men got together to give us fans a place to speak oppinions and rival with other fans, this is a great site and thats why many other teams fans show up, never hurts to make things better ;-)

[iheartskins]

Steve,

We've actually decided to go with an alternate suggestion which is to request that people that want to donate to something ES related send their donations to a charity related to supporting young kids playing football. See Die Hard's posts in the "April Fools" thread.

Of course, it's up to those people who made pledges/bets whether they want to pay, and if they don't that's absolutely their prerogative--and no judgment will be made by any of us in any way no matter what each person decides.

Thanks to everyone for their ideas. :)

[MrSilverMaC]

Steve,

We've actually decided to go with an alternate suggestion which is to request that people that want to donate to something ES related send their donations to a charity related to supporting young kids playing football. See Die Hard's posts in the "April Fools" thread.

Of course, it's up to those people who made pledges/bets whether they want to pay, and if they don't that's absolutely their prerogative--and no judgment will be made by any of us in any way no matter what each person decides.

Thanks to everyone for their ideas. :)


Schweet!!!



Maybe we can get together every year and see if we can't get enough money together to sponsor his team every year.

[Die Hard]

Schweet!!!



Maybe we can get together every year and see if we can't get enough money together to sponsor his team every year.

As wonderful a sentiment as that is... and as much as I appreciate it... fortunately, it won't be necessary. The ExtremeSkins donations thus far have REALLY helped us out and increased the likelihood we will be able to achieve our fundraising goals this year.

What we're trying to achieve (Canadian currency):
- 34 Youth Schutt DNA helmets $5100 ($170/each plus tax)
- 14 pairs Schutt ProMaxx Shoulder pads $1200 (approx. $85/each plus tax)

After purchasing this... we will have achieved our goals. The kids will also be fundraising to buy their end of years team gifts (ie. jackets, hoodies, whatever).

I'm confident we can achieve our goals this season... and we won't need to fundraise any more :) We will have gotten it all done in 2 years.

Just some background info. Anyways, thanks again. And if you want to help out... please PM me.

[REDSKINSQ]

Provide a donation to the American Cross to benefit the victims of the various hurricanes.

[skinsman4u]

Lets send the Team and Coaches some good luck flowers for up coming season. Send thenm right after the dust from the draft settles. Coach Gibbs would be proud to show case those in the lobby at Redskin Park. Don't think so ? Okay I'll send the flowers, I sent them last year addressed to the team. Well then lets give Redskin One a complete over haul. Or we could purchase a huge Banner to hang from the Stadium that says The 12th Man !

[topdog]

Let Extreme Skins sponsor a kids day by buying tickets for kids to go to a home game.Maybe make a pregame or post game time to meet the players.A great way to introduce some young fans to the Redskins and walk away feeling good about it.The number and group of kids would have to be figured out.Just a thought.

[peanut0862]

There was a post on here a while back by jimster about one of our member's brother being in a coma and selling memorabilia to raise money for doctor bills. I think you should buy some of the memorabilia to help RavenSuck then maybe you could donate the memorabilia to Die Hard's boys to sell

[iheartskins]

Guys, thanks for the additional input, but we've made the decision. If you want to donate to other causes, obviously, feel free. :)

[jbooma]

I think the choice is clear and a great one at that :cheers: :cheers:

[skinsman4u]

Guys, thanks for the additional input, but we've made the decision. If you want to donate to other causes, obviously, feel free. :)

Okay just let us know and we'll be glad to support....and thanks ES for the site. We have what a lot of people wish they did.

[iheartskins]

Okay just let us know and we'll be glad to support....and thanks ES for the site. We have what a lot of people wish they did.

See my post earlier in the thread about Die Hard's charity. :)