Ok, changes are on the way.  I've removed the guidelines and I'll explain what's going on.

Basically this public board was barely breathing.  The story tag (also known as chain stories and roundrobin stories) entries were few and far between.  Initially I tried to manage this by stopping the chatter and directing the story.  Well, that didn't work and I obviously made a few mistakes.  It's clear to me now that if you have a public board and a public story, that (within reason) you simply have to allow any  and all contributions as long as they are following the story line.  But story tag alone is probably not enough to make this board attractive so I'm trying a few other ideas.

I'm still working out all the details but I want feedback.  ;)

* I've made a website where I will put the guidelines.  Once completed, posters will have to access the website to read the guidelines.  I will post something above at the top of the board page but don't want to have too many guidelines posted (otherwise people will have to scroll down for the first post...)

* I've started a links page and will continue adding what I've found.  Members contributions can be sent to groucho-m@comcast.net.

* We have many good writers on BK and many people have written their own short stories.  Members will be able to submit their stories to me and I will post them on the web.  If members have many story contributions I will likey give them their own pages.  It's easy to do.

* Story tags will not be the only activity on this board.  But I'm still thinking through the logistics.  Other activities may include:
    * posting links to member story contributions
    * discussions or comments on members stories
    * story tag stories, when finished, will be posted on the web page
    * limited story related chat
    * other ideas?

There will likely be a guideline that if we are working on a story tag, then that and only that will be allowed (with maybe exceptions to announcements).  But as I see it, story tags are but one aspect of this board.

Comments may be posted here.  Suggestions for the web site may be posted here.  Once we decide what we want (shouldn't take long) we may finish the current story (or begin a new one...I'm for finishing) and then get on with things.  If we all help, we can bring this board to life and have lots of fun with stories.

One thing:  In case anyone is wondering.  Should the ideas I have work out and the website (after a time) contain a lot of member stories - AND - should a new MM take over (one day---anything is possible---but remember I'm a life member hehehe) the web site will stay with BK.  It's easy to transfer any and all data to a geocities free website. 

After a time, if there is success, we can join the web ring too.  ;)

I need to hear from you otherwise you will just get MY ideas. 

Also remember, if 6 people have 6 opposing ideas, not everyone will get what they want.  Just like in real life.  ;)  We're adults and we can all handle that.

Thoughts?