I think it’s time to put the ISTA to work. Why not start a new reviews site operated by us? Linked to snuffhouse. A site like this would only cost a few bucks a year and could be paid by dues paid by ISTA members. Probably just a dollar or two from each member would more than cover the cost. Ownership of the domain and site could be in one person’s name, under a “contract” outlining requirements of a partnership with ISTA, control by ISTA members and moderators, and how to transfer ownership in the event that said person loses interest or desire to have this in their name. Of course this means we also need to elect a treasurer, secretary, president, etc, to put the plan into action and control money and such. What do you guys think? I know it would require some work but it may be worth it. In the meantime we should probably put all the reviews together here under an ISTA members only thread as a temporary storage file where it would be agreed upon by members to not start posting randon stuff and junk it up before moving it to the new site. Or just elect one or two members to make a file for it now in their computers? Let’s hear your input.
I like it. I don’t have any tech skills, but I’m happy enough to pay dues and write reviews.
Not to be pessimistic, but we’ve now had several models suggested over the last couple of years, none of which have got anywhere. There is a simple hard fact here; until someone takes personal ownership and makes it happen then the ISTA will just remain an occasional discussion. Also the more official roles that are involved the harder it will be to manage because we are such a diffuse group. I will happily pay dues and contribute material like Xander but can not offer any technical skills. Patrick, are you able to get the ball rolling? If you are I would suggest a simple business plan with nothing fancy at the inception stage. Merchandise, hard copy newsletters etc etc are all very nice and have been suggested before but would just be a hindrance in the early stages. I would suggest at the start it is not much more than an adjunct to this site and is not too top heavy with personnel; maybe just a manager/treasurer and a couple of correspondents. There is nothing to stop it growing but think compact and achievable to begin with. I love your idea of a review site as the other one seems to have been abandoned by its owner. I also think it would be adviseable to get those reviews off the snuff review site before the thing just vanishes one day. I think you will find most people are up for it but most people won’t have the time or inclination to very involved. Any plan will need Alex’s blessing and Roderick - or one of his staff - may be able to assist in some way. Maybe it could form part of the Toque website?