Post by urbancinderella on May 30, 2005 3:21:17 GMT
Submitted by Artos
Originally written for the June edition of the Herald
Artos:
The quintessential question, Joe- what brought you to Solidsnake Designs?
Joe:
Ah, lemme see. Well, I would have to thank one person, Naruto. Yes- our quiet, but faithful [Introductions] mod mentioned the place to me in a PM. ....I wasn't too impressed with SSD at first, but after about a week of posting, I soon found myself in a community that I knew I wanted to be involved with for a long time.
Artos:
What was it about the community that drew you in?
Joe:
The people, honestly. SSD's "culture" was quite different from my old stomping grounds [Shoryuken]. I have always been interested in meeting people from all different walks of life. And before long, I found myself entangled in curiosity. I was [drawn into SSD because I felt relation] to the people, even though they are, at times, thousands of miles away. Also, I have always been interested in graphics, and I soon realized I was in the Mecca of Proboards designers.
Artos:
You said that you are interested in the graphic arts. How many items have you shown at SSD? Do you still design?
Joe:
Ah, yes. I am still, in fact, very much into [creating] graphics. I started designing around May ‘04. I was a real newb (as we are all at some time). Sigs were my main interest. I think we all go through that phase of just making sigs.
Artos:
Ha. Yes, I have to agree.
Joe:
Well, I reached my pinnacle [of making sigs], then I had a sudden burnout late last year. I think it had much to do with my conflicting personal life as well as boredom. But, as of last month, I resumed designing. I have changed my style. moving more into pieces where I can express my thoughts. I find manipulations very enjoyable at the moment. As for the amount of artwork I have submitted to SSD...I would say around 15 -20 pieces.
Artos:
Who has influenced you the most at SSD?
Joe:
Hmmm, I am not too sure [on how to answer] this one. I ended up focusing more on the request/tutorial board when I first joined. Then, well, while waiting for my requests (which were done mainly by the gorgeous E) I found myself taking part in rather entertaining threads in the Chillout board. Before long, I noticed I was spending way more time in that particular board- and less on the others. I must thank the loveable Oreokooky for keeping me interested. She is, in my opinion, the best moderator SSD has ever had. Her and UC are so much alike. The new members [of today] would really love her.
Artos:
How did you become the moderator of Chillout?
Joe:
Well, as you look around most boards nowadays, [in the FAQ] you often see the "Don't Ask to Be a Mod" thread. Funny thing is, after Flash left, I actually sent Ash a PM and told him I was interested in becoming the moderator. Well, he said Avtar had asked first, so he was initially made mod- alongside Oreo. About two weeks later, she left SSD and the Proboards community for good. I logged in that same day and notice I am, along with Avtar, the moderator of Chillout. (Oh, and I remember this, too: Alan sent me the password to the Mod Inn!) It’s funny that after all this time we are both still listed as moderators of the Chillout board.
Artos:
Ha- that's practically blasphemy nowadays, eh?
Joe:
Haha. Yeah. I guess I was in the right place at the right time. (ed. - Indeed.)
Artos:
Is it a satisfying position? Do you enjoy being the moderator?
Joe:
Yes, I enjoy it quite a bit. Besides making me feel more responsible, I like the feeling of being able to help people. SSD was the second message board where I became mod at; I must say that it has been the most satisfying. It has had its ups-and-downs, but I don't think I would have it any other way.
Artos:
"Ups and downs?"
Joe:
Well, there have been times where I haven't wanted to fulfill my duties as a mod. Much like the workplace, it becomes stressful and a real hassle. But, I have learned and (hopefully) grown from this experience.
Artos:
How do you feel about the members and staff of SSD?
Joe:
Good question. I have so many mixed feelings. The Staff- I think that so many have been a great choice for their position. At the same time, I feel that others weren’t. I feel the most deserving person of his spot was Peter. His contribution to SSD will never be outdone by anyone. This guy spent so many hours coding for our betterment. I know he sacrificed a lot (offline) with his financial situation, social life, and everything else. He helped make SSD what it is now. He has my eternal respect, not just as an admin, but as a person as well.
Artos:
Amen.
Joe:
...And the members. Well, we have had some interesting members over the last year-and-a-half. One particular person comes to mind: Stealth/Depth. I honestly can't describe him. It would unwise to say his influence wasn't a factor in our growth; I wish things could have been different. He is definitely a PB legend. Whether you love him or you hate him, he will be known forever.
Artos:
...Oh, yes. THAT debacle.
Moving on- this also isn't the first time you were a moderator. Why did you have to leave SSD for a while?
Joe:
I left [the first time] due to some personal problems. I guess things started going downhill earlier than I said- though not as bad as the latter half of 2004. But, yeah, things between my parents were becoming worse. Also, my grades were subpar (at least to my standards). I’m irrational sometimes. I deleted myself more than a few times- even though I knew I’d return a month later. I give more thought to my actions now.
Artos:
Besides SSD, what do you enjoy doing?
Joe:
A lot, surprisingly. I am a huge music fan- mainly on the Metal side of the spectrum. I have played around with the guitar for a few years or so. I just try to play tabs and whatnot. I would love to take lessons. I could so be in a metal band- touring the country, playing in huge venues, meeting all kinds of girls who would love to be with me.... Okay, back to reality. I also love to go out [shopping]. Seriously, I spend the same amount of time shopping as most girls. I have been shopping at the mall for about 8-10 hours before. It's crazy. If only I had more money to spend...I would come home with way too many clothes [and other items]. And...girls. I love "doing" them. I am quite good at that hobby, too.
Artos:
"Doing?"
Joe:
No comment. Actually, I guess I really am the "bestfromthesoutheast."
Artos:
Shame.
Joe:
I know.
Artos:
What are your plans for life? Anything special you wish to do?
Joe:
My goals? Well, I want to leave an impact. I have been through a lot in my lifetime. If I ever become financially endowed, I would like to help people. You know- maybe try and help find cures for cancer. Also, I want to get married. I think If I do, I will be the happiest guy ever. Just to be with the girl I love for the rest of my life...I really love the sound of that. Also, I hope to provide a better lifestyle than what I had. I come from a poor family; I hope to be the one that breaks that chain.
Artos:
Admirable.
What are your plans for the near future?
Joe:
Well, as of right now, I seem to have a job. Sure, it's not exactly what I was looking for, but I need some money and something to help kill my boredom...so I see it as killing two birds with one stone. I will be working at Best Buy this summer. After that, I hope to finish my Bachelor Degree in Management by next summer and maybe get that business job I’ve been seeking. I have thought of trying out for The Apprentice. I would love to live in NY for a couple of years. Also, I’d like to [travel around the world] a bit...and hopefully marry that girl. After that, I’d like to give my mom a house and then buy my wife and I a huge house somewhere. I just want to become your average Joe.
Artos:
The Apprentice. I don't know whether to laugh or cry.
Joe:
Haha. Yeah, I know. Donald Trump is my hero!
*awkward silence*
Joe:
I take it you're not a fan?
Artos:
He and his hair can go get sued, for all I care.
Joe:
Artos, you're fired.
Joe is a wonderful person. He is charismatic and wise beyond anything I have ever seen. He is always thinking of others, even through his own strife. He is one of the most amazing people I have ever met, and I am damn proud of him.
Originally written for the June edition of the Herald
Artos:
The quintessential question, Joe- what brought you to Solidsnake Designs?
Joe:
Ah, lemme see. Well, I would have to thank one person, Naruto. Yes- our quiet, but faithful [Introductions] mod mentioned the place to me in a PM. ....I wasn't too impressed with SSD at first, but after about a week of posting, I soon found myself in a community that I knew I wanted to be involved with for a long time.
Artos:
What was it about the community that drew you in?
Joe:
The people, honestly. SSD's "culture" was quite different from my old stomping grounds [Shoryuken]. I have always been interested in meeting people from all different walks of life. And before long, I found myself entangled in curiosity. I was [drawn into SSD because I felt relation] to the people, even though they are, at times, thousands of miles away. Also, I have always been interested in graphics, and I soon realized I was in the Mecca of Proboards designers.
Artos:
You said that you are interested in the graphic arts. How many items have you shown at SSD? Do you still design?
Joe:
Ah, yes. I am still, in fact, very much into [creating] graphics. I started designing around May ‘04. I was a real newb (as we are all at some time). Sigs were my main interest. I think we all go through that phase of just making sigs.
Artos:
Ha. Yes, I have to agree.
Joe:
Well, I reached my pinnacle [of making sigs], then I had a sudden burnout late last year. I think it had much to do with my conflicting personal life as well as boredom. But, as of last month, I resumed designing. I have changed my style. moving more into pieces where I can express my thoughts. I find manipulations very enjoyable at the moment. As for the amount of artwork I have submitted to SSD...I would say around 15 -20 pieces.
Artos:
Who has influenced you the most at SSD?
Joe:
Hmmm, I am not too sure [on how to answer] this one. I ended up focusing more on the request/tutorial board when I first joined. Then, well, while waiting for my requests (which were done mainly by the gorgeous E) I found myself taking part in rather entertaining threads in the Chillout board. Before long, I noticed I was spending way more time in that particular board- and less on the others. I must thank the loveable Oreokooky for keeping me interested. She is, in my opinion, the best moderator SSD has ever had. Her and UC are so much alike. The new members [of today] would really love her.
Artos:
How did you become the moderator of Chillout?
Joe:
Well, as you look around most boards nowadays, [in the FAQ] you often see the "Don't Ask to Be a Mod" thread. Funny thing is, after Flash left, I actually sent Ash a PM and told him I was interested in becoming the moderator. Well, he said Avtar had asked first, so he was initially made mod- alongside Oreo. About two weeks later, she left SSD and the Proboards community for good. I logged in that same day and notice I am, along with Avtar, the moderator of Chillout. (Oh, and I remember this, too: Alan sent me the password to the Mod Inn!) It’s funny that after all this time we are both still listed as moderators of the Chillout board.
Artos:
Ha- that's practically blasphemy nowadays, eh?
Joe:
Haha. Yeah. I guess I was in the right place at the right time. (ed. - Indeed.)
Artos:
Is it a satisfying position? Do you enjoy being the moderator?
Joe:
Yes, I enjoy it quite a bit. Besides making me feel more responsible, I like the feeling of being able to help people. SSD was the second message board where I became mod at; I must say that it has been the most satisfying. It has had its ups-and-downs, but I don't think I would have it any other way.
Artos:
"Ups and downs?"
Joe:
Well, there have been times where I haven't wanted to fulfill my duties as a mod. Much like the workplace, it becomes stressful and a real hassle. But, I have learned and (hopefully) grown from this experience.
Artos:
How do you feel about the members and staff of SSD?
Joe:
Good question. I have so many mixed feelings. The Staff- I think that so many have been a great choice for their position. At the same time, I feel that others weren’t. I feel the most deserving person of his spot was Peter. His contribution to SSD will never be outdone by anyone. This guy spent so many hours coding for our betterment. I know he sacrificed a lot (offline) with his financial situation, social life, and everything else. He helped make SSD what it is now. He has my eternal respect, not just as an admin, but as a person as well.
Artos:
Amen.
Joe:
...And the members. Well, we have had some interesting members over the last year-and-a-half. One particular person comes to mind: Stealth/Depth. I honestly can't describe him. It would unwise to say his influence wasn't a factor in our growth; I wish things could have been different. He is definitely a PB legend. Whether you love him or you hate him, he will be known forever.
Artos:
...Oh, yes. THAT debacle.
Moving on- this also isn't the first time you were a moderator. Why did you have to leave SSD for a while?
Joe:
I left [the first time] due to some personal problems. I guess things started going downhill earlier than I said- though not as bad as the latter half of 2004. But, yeah, things between my parents were becoming worse. Also, my grades were subpar (at least to my standards). I’m irrational sometimes. I deleted myself more than a few times- even though I knew I’d return a month later. I give more thought to my actions now.
Artos:
Besides SSD, what do you enjoy doing?
Joe:
A lot, surprisingly. I am a huge music fan- mainly on the Metal side of the spectrum. I have played around with the guitar for a few years or so. I just try to play tabs and whatnot. I would love to take lessons. I could so be in a metal band- touring the country, playing in huge venues, meeting all kinds of girls who would love to be with me.... Okay, back to reality. I also love to go out [shopping]. Seriously, I spend the same amount of time shopping as most girls. I have been shopping at the mall for about 8-10 hours before. It's crazy. If only I had more money to spend...I would come home with way too many clothes [and other items]. And...girls. I love "doing" them. I am quite good at that hobby, too.
Artos:
"Doing?"
Joe:
No comment. Actually, I guess I really am the "bestfromthesoutheast."
Artos:
Shame.
Joe:
I know.
Artos:
What are your plans for life? Anything special you wish to do?
Joe:
My goals? Well, I want to leave an impact. I have been through a lot in my lifetime. If I ever become financially endowed, I would like to help people. You know- maybe try and help find cures for cancer. Also, I want to get married. I think If I do, I will be the happiest guy ever. Just to be with the girl I love for the rest of my life...I really love the sound of that. Also, I hope to provide a better lifestyle than what I had. I come from a poor family; I hope to be the one that breaks that chain.
Artos:
Admirable.
What are your plans for the near future?
Joe:
Well, as of right now, I seem to have a job. Sure, it's not exactly what I was looking for, but I need some money and something to help kill my boredom...so I see it as killing two birds with one stone. I will be working at Best Buy this summer. After that, I hope to finish my Bachelor Degree in Management by next summer and maybe get that business job I’ve been seeking. I have thought of trying out for The Apprentice. I would love to live in NY for a couple of years. Also, I’d like to [travel around the world] a bit...and hopefully marry that girl. After that, I’d like to give my mom a house and then buy my wife and I a huge house somewhere. I just want to become your average Joe.
Artos:
The Apprentice. I don't know whether to laugh or cry.
Joe:
Haha. Yeah, I know. Donald Trump is my hero!
*awkward silence*
Joe:
I take it you're not a fan?
Artos:
He and his hair can go get sued, for all I care.
Joe:
Artos, you're fired.
Joe is a wonderful person. He is charismatic and wise beyond anything I have ever seen. He is always thinking of others, even through his own strife. He is one of the most amazing people I have ever met, and I am damn proud of him.
