Okay, let's talk about accurately labeled items.
OFFER: Kemore sew machineNeeds to have clutch fixed I don't know how to fix it after I took it apart
This is not "Kemore sew machine". This is "Box of Kenmore sewing machine parts".
As Always,
Me.
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
Monday, February 3, 2014
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
I received the following screen cap this morning:
"OFFER: 16'1" aluminum crestline boat
"trying to sell an aluminum crestline boat with a 48 spl johnson runs great asking 1200.00 obo without being lowballed. i drive this everyday, if not i start it up, its in he water now. anyone intrested [sic] can contact 10 min from pc beach by water <no wake zone> to get there. it needs a trailer"
Okay. The first and most important rule of Freecycle is, EVERYTHING IS FREE. It's in the name! Once in a while, there's a scammer who thinks they can pull a fast one by trying to sell an item through the list or even trick people to come to a yard sale to buy something. These individuals deserve a swift kick from their local lists. They haven't read the rules, they haven't applied basic good sense, and they have not shown interest or consideration for their fellow freecyclers. Any one of those three would have made it obvious that you do not sell things on Freecycle. They are selfish and don't care for the integral community aspect of Freecycle that allows the system to function.
As Always,
Me.
I received the following screen cap this morning:
"trying to sell an aluminum crestline boat with a 48 spl johnson runs great asking 1200.00 obo without being lowballed. i drive this everyday, if not i start it up, its in he water now. anyone intrested [sic] can contact 10 min from pc beach by water <no wake zone> to get there. it needs a trailer"
Okay. The first and most important rule of Freecycle is, EVERYTHING IS FREE. It's in the name! Once in a while, there's a scammer who thinks they can pull a fast one by trying to sell an item through the list or even trick people to come to a yard sale to buy something. These individuals deserve a swift kick from their local lists. They haven't read the rules, they haven't applied basic good sense, and they have not shown interest or consideration for their fellow freecyclers. Any one of those three would have made it obvious that you do not sell things on Freecycle. They are selfish and don't care for the integral community aspect of Freecycle that allows the system to function.
As Always,
Me.
Friday, December 13, 2013
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
The giver in a Freecycle transaction, that is the person who has posted the OFFER, has tremendous freedom in choosing who the taker, that is the person who picks up the OFFERed item, will be. Givers can request that interested people send them jokes and then they'll choose someone based on the joke they liked the most. Givers can request that interested people pick a number between 1 and 100 and whoever got the closest to the number they were thinking gets to be the taker. There are any number of relevant, irrelevant, sensible, or silly ways to choose a taker.
I make use of the 3-Day Courtesy Rule, a day that allows both the giver and the taker three days to sort out a convenient pick-up time, by requesting that interesting people send me times that are convenient for them to pick-up during a three day span (a time frame for each day). I disregard responses that neglect to include that information. I also give some time to allow for digest freecyclers to see the post and respond. I never respond to "Is this still available?" because, if it weren't, a TAKEN post would be distributed and the OFFER would no longer exist. Having these time frames is valuable to me when I have a No Show because I can choose a back-up quickly based on the times already provided. I know who is available that evening or the next morning.
When a loved one passed away, we inherited a collection of items that were popular during the 1980's but are worth nothing now. My husband is choosing one to keep for memory but we have no use for the full collection. Still, despite being worthless, based on their '80's fame these items can be found on eBay listed anywhere from $100 to $1500. No bids, mind you. These poor souls list and re-list these worthless things until someone foolishly buys them thinking they can turn around and sell them for profit. In truth, not even the scrap yards will take them to melt down the bronze. They are worth only the aesthetic for those who enjoy what they are.
So, when I posted the OFFER, I was cautious of the reason people may want them. I knew there would be people who wanted to make money based on a shallow Google search. A gift for an elderly father is the best possible scenario for a new home for these things and so I chose the taker accordingly.
I have received some very desperate and pushy multiple requests for pick-up from individuals who reply to every OFFER and I know are only trying to make money. They would have made none. In fact, the ones who have repeatedly messaged me to push their desire for the items, in a tone that suggested I was doing them wrong by not responding, go on my list of people I will never allow to take an OFFER.
Remember, Fellow Freecyclers. No one is entitled to anything.
As Always,
Me.
The giver in a Freecycle transaction, that is the person who has posted the OFFER, has tremendous freedom in choosing who the taker, that is the person who picks up the OFFERed item, will be. Givers can request that interested people send them jokes and then they'll choose someone based on the joke they liked the most. Givers can request that interested people pick a number between 1 and 100 and whoever got the closest to the number they were thinking gets to be the taker. There are any number of relevant, irrelevant, sensible, or silly ways to choose a taker.
I make use of the 3-Day Courtesy Rule, a day that allows both the giver and the taker three days to sort out a convenient pick-up time, by requesting that interesting people send me times that are convenient for them to pick-up during a three day span (a time frame for each day). I disregard responses that neglect to include that information. I also give some time to allow for digest freecyclers to see the post and respond. I never respond to "Is this still available?" because, if it weren't, a TAKEN post would be distributed and the OFFER would no longer exist. Having these time frames is valuable to me when I have a No Show because I can choose a back-up quickly based on the times already provided. I know who is available that evening or the next morning.
When a loved one passed away, we inherited a collection of items that were popular during the 1980's but are worth nothing now. My husband is choosing one to keep for memory but we have no use for the full collection. Still, despite being worthless, based on their '80's fame these items can be found on eBay listed anywhere from $100 to $1500. No bids, mind you. These poor souls list and re-list these worthless things until someone foolishly buys them thinking they can turn around and sell them for profit. In truth, not even the scrap yards will take them to melt down the bronze. They are worth only the aesthetic for those who enjoy what they are.
So, when I posted the OFFER, I was cautious of the reason people may want them. I knew there would be people who wanted to make money based on a shallow Google search. A gift for an elderly father is the best possible scenario for a new home for these things and so I chose the taker accordingly.
I have received some very desperate and pushy multiple requests for pick-up from individuals who reply to every OFFER and I know are only trying to make money. They would have made none. In fact, the ones who have repeatedly messaged me to push their desire for the items, in a tone that suggested I was doing them wrong by not responding, go on my list of people I will never allow to take an OFFER.
Remember, Fellow Freecyclers. No one is entitled to anything.
As Always,
Me.
Monday, August 19, 2013
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
We always want to make our OFFER sound like it's a great item to have. There's nothing wrong with that. You want someone to take something and you want them to feel good about having it. Make sure you're telling the truth.
This following story comes from a Fellow Freecycler who wishes to remain anonymous:
On my local list, if someone did that, the moderator would want to know so she could kick them off the list. I could not imagine how frustrating it must be when the moderator pulls unethical and dishonest stunts like this.
In this specific case, the OFFERer should have waited until she had all the pieces together before posting an OFFER for a complete drafting table. It obviously was not complete. She made no attempt to clarify that the Fellow Freecycler could possibly pick up an incomplete piece of furniture and to make sure they were okay with spending the gas to do just that. She was also dishonest about the materials the drafting table was made from and did not attempt to clarify this information before the Fellow Freecycler picked up. What's even worse is that the Fellow Freecycler said they picked up the table at her convenience, meaning she set the time for them to come to get the furniture she OFFERed. Since the Fellow Freecycler took the available piece in good faith and it's been two weeks with no word from the OFFERer, I recommend that the wooden drafting table top be returned to the OFFERer's home and placed where it was originally picked up from the yard or driveway. If the OFFERer has a problem with this since it's not good form in the Freecycling guidelines, this supposed moderator could take a nice, long look in the mirror and consider setting the example for a standard. I have a suspicion that the Fellow Freecycler's wife would agree with me.
As Always,
Me
We always want to make our OFFER sound like it's a great item to have. There's nothing wrong with that. You want someone to take something and you want them to feel good about having it. Make sure you're telling the truth.
This following story comes from a Fellow Freecycler who wishes to remain anonymous:
I answered an offer for a drafting table. I was planning on buying a drafting table but there was a post for one sounding exactly like what I wanted so even better! She said it was a complete metal drafting table. I agreed to come pick it up at her convenience and got there on time. When I got there, her and her son had a bunch of stuff just strewn all over the driveway and yard... and her garage was still packed from floor to ceiling with furniture. She said they didn't have a yard sale and they'd been "at it" all day with the stuff. She had set out the drafting table top, which was wood not metal, and then said she couldn't find the legs but the legs were metal and they go with the table. She said she would email me when she found the legs. It's been two weeks. My wife has already yelled at me for taking the drafting table top and trusting this person. But I thought it would be ok since this is the moderator.
On my local list, if someone did that, the moderator would want to know so she could kick them off the list. I could not imagine how frustrating it must be when the moderator pulls unethical and dishonest stunts like this.
In this specific case, the OFFERer should have waited until she had all the pieces together before posting an OFFER for a complete drafting table. It obviously was not complete. She made no attempt to clarify that the Fellow Freecycler could possibly pick up an incomplete piece of furniture and to make sure they were okay with spending the gas to do just that. She was also dishonest about the materials the drafting table was made from and did not attempt to clarify this information before the Fellow Freecycler picked up. What's even worse is that the Fellow Freecycler said they picked up the table at her convenience, meaning she set the time for them to come to get the furniture she OFFERed. Since the Fellow Freecycler took the available piece in good faith and it's been two weeks with no word from the OFFERer, I recommend that the wooden drafting table top be returned to the OFFERer's home and placed where it was originally picked up from the yard or driveway. If the OFFERer has a problem with this since it's not good form in the Freecycling guidelines, this supposed moderator could take a nice, long look in the mirror and consider setting the example for a standard. I have a suspicion that the Fellow Freecycler's wife would agree with me.
As Always,
Me
Friday, May 10, 2013
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
Honestly, I can't believe I have to write this letter. Unfortunately, as was probably the case for why there are warning labels on toothpaste to keep out of your eyes, I am now prompted by reality to beg of you all to please don't OFFER expired food on your local Freecycle list, especially if it is over a year expired. Just don't do it. I know it probably looks "okay" to you but food has expiration dates for a reason and if your local food pantries would not accept the rancid treat, you should just throw it away or add it to a compost heap.
Please don't make me write a painful letter like this again. Also, don't run with scissors.
As Always,
Me
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
This is a special letter for moderators on how not to annoy the piss out of the entire group.
Be consistent. Consistency with your own rules and those suggested by the Freecycle Network help keep your yahoo-based list going strong. People know what is expected of them and others.
Keep regular hours. If you choose to moderate your list, keep daytime hours, at least for approving posts. While there are many ways that members can silence devices and not be bothered while sleeping at night, it's annoying to have 30+ emails from a single list awaiting in the morning. A solution to that may be switching to Digest, however, since some posts were time-sensitive to the previous day, it just seems like a better solution is not to live nocturnally if you're going to manage a list of people who don't.
Remove psychos. I don't care how much crap someone gives away, if they disturb others with unsettling behavior, get rid if them!
Do not allow 10+ posts from the same person OFFERing or WANTing items. They can condense in consideration of their fellow Freecyclers and, as moderator, it's your job to make sure that they do.
Refrain from editing posts when the post does not contain restricted information. Definitely remove phone numbers and addresses, but leave the cross-street information and item descriptions. These are standard in Freecycle posts and people look to them to know important information before responding.
Now, this is in no way a complete list of tips on how not to annoy the piss out of your Freecycle list. There are special kinds of moderators who find new and unusual ways every day. I hope this is a good start.
As Always,
Me.
This is a special letter for moderators on how not to annoy the piss out of the entire group.
Be consistent. Consistency with your own rules and those suggested by the Freecycle Network help keep your yahoo-based list going strong. People know what is expected of them and others.
Keep regular hours. If you choose to moderate your list, keep daytime hours, at least for approving posts. While there are many ways that members can silence devices and not be bothered while sleeping at night, it's annoying to have 30+ emails from a single list awaiting in the morning. A solution to that may be switching to Digest, however, since some posts were time-sensitive to the previous day, it just seems like a better solution is not to live nocturnally if you're going to manage a list of people who don't.
Remove psychos. I don't care how much crap someone gives away, if they disturb others with unsettling behavior, get rid if them!
Do not allow 10+ posts from the same person OFFERing or WANTing items. They can condense in consideration of their fellow Freecyclers and, as moderator, it's your job to make sure that they do.
Refrain from editing posts when the post does not contain restricted information. Definitely remove phone numbers and addresses, but leave the cross-street information and item descriptions. These are standard in Freecycle posts and people look to them to know important information before responding.
Now, this is in no way a complete list of tips on how not to annoy the piss out of your Freecycle list. There are special kinds of moderators who find new and unusual ways every day. I hope this is a good start.
As Always,
Me.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
PLEASE REFRAIN FROM USING ALL CAPS FOR YOUR POSTS TO YOUR FREECYCLE GROUPS BECAU... <*ahem*>
Please refrain from using all caps for your posts to your Freecycle groups because regardless of whether all caps is interpreted as yelling or a sign of psychological instability, it is annoying for everyone to read. Your post may attract special attention but not the kind of positive attention that would reward you with the item you want. Studies have shown that comprehension of bodies of text written in all capital letters is lower than that of text written in with grammatically correct capitalization or even that of bodies of text written in all lower case.
There are unhinged people on Freecycle lists. These are people who steal, who harass other Freecyclers and who generally cause problems. Even if we assume that the Freecycler who writes in all caps is not any kind of threat or danger to anyone, the use of all caps implies an urgency or importance to the Freecycle post that trumps all other Freecycle posts. This is against the rules and the spirit of Freecycle.
So, for the love of all, just write like a normal, critical thinking human being.
As Always,
Me.
PLEASE REFRAIN FROM USING ALL CAPS FOR YOUR POSTS TO YOUR FREECYCLE GROUPS BECAU... <*ahem*>
Please refrain from using all caps for your posts to your Freecycle groups because regardless of whether all caps is interpreted as yelling or a sign of psychological instability, it is annoying for everyone to read. Your post may attract special attention but not the kind of positive attention that would reward you with the item you want. Studies have shown that comprehension of bodies of text written in all capital letters is lower than that of text written in with grammatically correct capitalization or even that of bodies of text written in all lower case.
There are unhinged people on Freecycle lists. These are people who steal, who harass other Freecyclers and who generally cause problems. Even if we assume that the Freecycler who writes in all caps is not any kind of threat or danger to anyone, the use of all caps implies an urgency or importance to the Freecycle post that trumps all other Freecycle posts. This is against the rules and the spirit of Freecycle.
So, for the love of all, just write like a normal, critical thinking human being.
As Always,
Me.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
It's been a while but, thankfully, my freecycle lists have been normal and uneventful. Today I do need to write about one recommendation for the posting of WANTEDs:
Please be honest. It is true that if you are requesting something for your own personal profit, you are less likely to be given the item, however, do not lie and say you need the item for a project when you don't. Furthermore, do not think people are not smart enough to see that you are lying when your list username reflects that you sell that particular item.
As Always,
Me.
It's been a while but, thankfully, my freecycle lists have been normal and uneventful. Today I do need to write about one recommendation for the posting of WANTEDs:
BE HONEST
Please be honest. It is true that if you are requesting something for your own personal profit, you are less likely to be given the item, however, do not lie and say you need the item for a project when you don't. Furthermore, do not think people are not smart enough to see that you are lying when your list username reflects that you sell that particular item.
As Always,
Me.
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
Every Freecycle group list, whether it is located on a list site like Yahoo!groups or if it's a part of the Freecycle.org site groups, has at least one moderator.
Moderators handle complaints, questions, and posts. They make sure members are informed about Freecycle rules and general safety precautions.
If you have a good moderator, thank them. Send them an email. Tell them they make the list rock. Let them know you appreciate the time and effort they put in to making your local list a positive and organized experience.
If you're on a good Freecycle list, hug your moderator today!
As Always,
Me.
Every Freecycle group list, whether it is located on a list site like Yahoo!groups or if it's a part of the Freecycle.org site groups, has at least one moderator.
Moderators handle complaints, questions, and posts. They make sure members are informed about Freecycle rules and general safety precautions.
If you have a good moderator, thank them. Send them an email. Tell them they make the list rock. Let them know you appreciate the time and effort they put in to making your local list a positive and organized experience.
If you're on a good Freecycle list, hug your moderator today!
As Always,
Me.
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
If you have not been prescribed a medication, you cannot legally take that medication. This is Legal 101, Medical 101 and Freecycle 101. Sometimes people do it, anyway. Sometimes it's not a big deal for many reasons... maybe it's the exact same medicine that is prescribed to them but they're just taking a pill from the amount prescribed to someone else (but it's the same pill), maybe practical knowledge makes it obvious that it's okay to take that medicine for that particular condition... whatever the reasonably justification it's still illegal. It's just as illegal as giving someone a controlled substance that a physician would never allow them to take. The circumstances are different but the law governing both situations is the same. You cannot take medication that has not been prescribed to you.
In light of this law, Freecycle does not allow freecyclers to provide prescription medication to each other. The organization and individual lists simply do not have the authority to subvert the law. The same goes for alcohol, tobacco, firearms and pornography.
I can hardly believe the ridiculous OFFERs that inspire these posts.
Furthermore, if you are caught making this illegal mistake, do not throw a temper tantrum at the person who kindly and respectfully let you know. If you are the list moderator who approved the post with this illegal item, do not lecture the person who kindly and respectfully let you know about minding their own business.
Next time, I call the police.
As Always,
Me.
UPDATE:
I have been kicked off of that particular Freecycle list. I was also harassed and threatened by the Freecycler who tried to dish out illegal prescription medications to the public to a point where I had to recite her address back at her and threaten to call the police for her to back off. People can be ugly. And, remember kids, Just Say No!
If you have not been prescribed a medication, you cannot legally take that medication. This is Legal 101, Medical 101 and Freecycle 101. Sometimes people do it, anyway. Sometimes it's not a big deal for many reasons... maybe it's the exact same medicine that is prescribed to them but they're just taking a pill from the amount prescribed to someone else (but it's the same pill), maybe practical knowledge makes it obvious that it's okay to take that medicine for that particular condition... whatever the reasonably justification it's still illegal. It's just as illegal as giving someone a controlled substance that a physician would never allow them to take. The circumstances are different but the law governing both situations is the same. You cannot take medication that has not been prescribed to you.
In light of this law, Freecycle does not allow freecyclers to provide prescription medication to each other. The organization and individual lists simply do not have the authority to subvert the law. The same goes for alcohol, tobacco, firearms and pornography.
I can hardly believe the ridiculous OFFERs that inspire these posts.
Furthermore, if you are caught making this illegal mistake, do not throw a temper tantrum at the person who kindly and respectfully let you know. If you are the list moderator who approved the post with this illegal item, do not lecture the person who kindly and respectfully let you know about minding their own business.
Next time, I call the police.
As Always,
Me.
UPDATE:
I have been kicked off of that particular Freecycle list. I was also harassed and threatened by the Freecycler who tried to dish out illegal prescription medications to the public to a point where I had to recite her address back at her and threaten to call the police for her to back off. People can be ugly. And, remember kids, Just Say No!
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
I'm a firm believer in sharing one's pain so allow me to share with all of you the treat I found in my Inbox today.
From one individual, these OFFERs were posted one immediately after the other, the only delay being the average time it takes to type and post for someone who is possibly a bit insane (It's not likely but I still wouldn't rule it out):
This is a wonderful lady for freecycling so much instead of donating it to a charity that will price it to sell. This way people get what they may actually need or desire without pay any cost beyond going to pick it up. It's fantastic. But...
Oh My Fracking God You Have Got To Be Kidding Me With A Separate Post For Each Type Of Thing.
Here's an idea:
OFFER: Kids Toys - this is all the stuffed animal, purple people eaters, and penguins.
OFFER: Misc Kid Items - stuff that's not toys, ie. the "assorted", and the dress up clothes
OFFER: Junior size clothes - believe it or not, you can put the tops, bottoms, belts and bras in one offer
OFFER: Box of misc items - this includes the vaporizer
OFFER: Ladies shoes size 7-8
That's five down from thirteen and you'll still attract the attention of the people who'll be responding to pick-up these offers.
As Always,
Me
I'm a firm believer in sharing one's pain so allow me to share with all of you the treat I found in my Inbox today.
From one individual, these OFFERs were posted one immediately after the other, the only delay being the average time it takes to type and post for someone who is possibly a bit insane (It's not likely but I still wouldn't rule it out):
OFFER: stuffed animals
OFFER: one eyed, one horned, flying purple people eater
OFFER: penguin
OFFER: dress up clothes for girl
OFFER: box of assorted boys stuff
OFFER: box of assorted girls stuff
OFFER: vicks vaporizer
OFFER: junior tops
OFFER: junior bottoms
OFFER: teen bras
OFFER: junior belts
OFFER: ladies shoes size 7-8
OFFER: box of misc items
This is a wonderful lady for freecycling so much instead of donating it to a charity that will price it to sell. This way people get what they may actually need or desire without pay any cost beyond going to pick it up. It's fantastic. But...
Oh My Fracking God You Have Got To Be Kidding Me With A Separate Post For Each Type Of Thing.
Here's an idea:
OFFER: Kids Toys - this is all the stuffed animal, purple people eaters, and penguins.
OFFER: Misc Kid Items - stuff that's not toys, ie. the "assorted", and the dress up clothes
OFFER: Junior size clothes - believe it or not, you can put the tops, bottoms, belts and bras in one offer
OFFER: Box of misc items - this includes the vaporizer
OFFER: Ladies shoes size 7-8
That's five down from thirteen and you'll still attract the attention of the people who'll be responding to pick-up these offers.
As Always,
Me
Monday, May 21, 2012
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
Please do not post a TAKEN until the item is actually taken from you.
So often I see posts like this:
Let me say first that I completely understand wanting to end the emails asking for the item or the emails asking specific questions about the item, as if we're running boutiques and are just dying to let this one individual person have our item.
With that in mind, I'm sure it's easy to understand how annoying it is when everyone on the list receives a post two days later that says:
You can delete all the annoying emails after the item is picked up but wait until it is no longer in your life before you post the TAKEN post. Posting TAKEN does not serve the purpose of stopping emails, it serves the purpose of indicating that the item is gone.
RE-OFFER is most appropriate when an OFFER has sit for a significant amount of time and you'd like to remind your fellow freecyclers that you still have this item and would still like to give it away. This is a great opportunity to add a little more detail to generate some interest.
As Always,
Me.
Please do not post a TAKEN until the item is actually taken from you.
So often I see posts like this:
TAKEN: Item
Pending pick-up. I already have a back-up and a back-up to the back-up so Thank You.
Let me say first that I completely understand wanting to end the emails asking for the item or the emails asking specific questions about the item, as if we're running boutiques and are just dying to let this one individual person have our item.
With that in mind, I'm sure it's easy to understand how annoying it is when everyone on the list receives a post two days later that says:
RE-OFFER: Item
Offering this item again. No no-shows.
You can delete all the annoying emails after the item is picked up but wait until it is no longer in your life before you post the TAKEN post. Posting TAKEN does not serve the purpose of stopping emails, it serves the purpose of indicating that the item is gone.
RE-OFFER is most appropriate when an OFFER has sit for a significant amount of time and you'd like to remind your fellow freecyclers that you still have this item and would still like to give it away. This is a great opportunity to add a little more detail to generate some interest.
As Always,
Me.
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
This is a template of how the typical freecycle communication pattern should go:
Freecycler 1 posts an OFFER.
Freecycler 2 replies to say that s/he would like that item.
Freecycler 1 responds in agreement, asks when Freecycler 2 can pick-up.
Freecycler 2 responds with the time that the item can be picked up.
Freecycler 1 then provides Freecycler 2 with the address so the item can be picked up at the specified time.
Freecycler 2 picks up the item at the specified time.
Freecycler 1 posts the item as TAKEN.
Communication should not go like this:
Freecycler 1 posts an OFFER.
Freecycler 2 replies to say that s/he would like that item.
Freecycler 1 responds in agreement, asks when Freecycler 2 can pick-up.
Freecycler 2 never responds.
What is wrong with those people? It's getting worse. The bigger the Freecycle communities are becoming, the more people are wasting other people's time with pointless bids for items they clearly have no intention of ever picking up if chosen to receive the item. It used to be an occasional annoyance. Now, it is the majority of the responses.
If you're going to Freecycle, then Freecycle. Otherwise, shut up.
As Always,
Me.
This is a template of how the typical freecycle communication pattern should go:
Freecycler 1 posts an OFFER.
Freecycler 2 replies to say that s/he would like that item.
Freecycler 1 responds in agreement, asks when Freecycler 2 can pick-up.
Freecycler 2 responds with the time that the item can be picked up.
Freecycler 1 then provides Freecycler 2 with the address so the item can be picked up at the specified time.
Freecycler 2 picks up the item at the specified time.
Freecycler 1 posts the item as TAKEN.
Communication should not go like this:
Freecycler 1 posts an OFFER.
Freecycler 2 replies to say that s/he would like that item.
Freecycler 1 responds in agreement, asks when Freecycler 2 can pick-up.
Freecycler 2 never responds.
What is wrong with those people? It's getting worse. The bigger the Freecycle communities are becoming, the more people are wasting other people's time with pointless bids for items they clearly have no intention of ever picking up if chosen to receive the item. It used to be an occasional annoyance. Now, it is the majority of the responses.
If you're going to Freecycle, then Freecycle. Otherwise, shut up.
As Always,
Me.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
You're awesome. We like you. Your participation in Freecycle is nothing short of spectacular. That said, please don't post Garage Sale notifications. Unless when you say "priced to sell" you mean FREE, a garage sale is not in the spirit of Freecycle.
As a secondary note to the moderator of a group that moderates each individual post to make sure it meets his/her approval, including taking it upon his/herself to modify post content to remove important location and time sensitivity information, do not be so hypocritical and stupid to actually approve a post that offers things for sale.
Honestly.
As Always,
Me.
You're awesome. We like you. Your participation in Freecycle is nothing short of spectacular. That said, please don't post Garage Sale notifications. Unless when you say "priced to sell" you mean FREE, a garage sale is not in the spirit of Freecycle.
As a secondary note to the moderator of a group that moderates each individual post to make sure it meets his/her approval, including taking it upon his/herself to modify post content to remove important location and time sensitivity information, do not be so hypocritical and stupid to actually approve a post that offers things for sale.
Honestly.
As Always,
Me.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
Some Freecycle lists do not allow animals to be posted as an OFFER or a WANTED. They do still allow posts for accessories and habitats for pets, such as toys, dishes and cages. Generally, I don't have a problem with this. This is very much a good thing. I actually support people finding forever homes for their furry loved ones using Freecycle, although I give credit to the argument against it because those who oppose do have very valid concerns.
That said, there's a line and here it is.
Make sure you have everything you need for a new pet BEFORE you bring that pet home. Purchasing a pet from a breeder or even a pet store (or even an adoption fee) can be expensive so if a Freecycler can alleviate the financial burden while also decluttering their home and reusing items left unused, this is great and you'll get no judgment from me; but get that done before you bring the pet home. If you take a pet from an OFFER post, make sure you have purchased everything you need before you go to the location to pick up your new pet. If you cannot afford those items for your pet and would need to ask Freecycle for them, then maybe now is not the time to take that particular pet because you can obviously not afford it.
I'm not a snob when it comes to pet ownership. I generally think it's a good idea.
But just be smart about it.
When I see a WANTED post for a "big cage" because someone already has their bird, I think about that poor bird crammed into a small cage with no toys (since toys were also in that particular WANTED). We're adults here so we can manage the calendar a little better than this to make sure the ducks are in a row beforehand.
As Always,
Me.
Some Freecycle lists do not allow animals to be posted as an OFFER or a WANTED. They do still allow posts for accessories and habitats for pets, such as toys, dishes and cages. Generally, I don't have a problem with this. This is very much a good thing. I actually support people finding forever homes for their furry loved ones using Freecycle, although I give credit to the argument against it because those who oppose do have very valid concerns.
That said, there's a line and here it is.
Make sure you have everything you need for a new pet BEFORE you bring that pet home. Purchasing a pet from a breeder or even a pet store (or even an adoption fee) can be expensive so if a Freecycler can alleviate the financial burden while also decluttering their home and reusing items left unused, this is great and you'll get no judgment from me; but get that done before you bring the pet home. If you take a pet from an OFFER post, make sure you have purchased everything you need before you go to the location to pick up your new pet. If you cannot afford those items for your pet and would need to ask Freecycle for them, then maybe now is not the time to take that particular pet because you can obviously not afford it.
I'm not a snob when it comes to pet ownership. I generally think it's a good idea.
But just be smart about it.
When I see a WANTED post for a "big cage" because someone already has their bird, I think about that poor bird crammed into a small cage with no toys (since toys were also in that particular WANTED). We're adults here so we can manage the calendar a little better than this to make sure the ducks are in a row beforehand.
As Always,
Me.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
Very rarely do I post WANTEDs. It's usually something that I cannot afford for a while but could really put to use if acquired immediately or something that I don't really need but would gladly have if it was available. This way, if I don't get it, it's really not that big of a deal.
I understand that there are pseudo-hoarders who use the Freecycle list to feed their addiction. They post OFFERs often, to make it appear like they are giving things away but, in honesty, they aren't choosing anyone who responds. Then they post WANTEDs. Let me say, I understand this much and generally have accepted it. Hoarding is a manifestation of a legitimate psychological condition. They're going to be at garage sales, poking through curb piles, and posting on Freecycle lists. That's just how it goes.
But I'm really annoyed. It really, really annoys me. I mean I absolutely hate it. When one of these people constantly posts a WANTED for an item that was just posted as wanted by another Freecycler. It's as if the other person reminded that hoarder that they would also like whatever that is. So they just post their WANTED for the same exact damn thing just moments after the original post went out to the group.
It pisses me off because then it becomes a competition and the hoarder's inherent selfishness bubbles to the surface.
It's ugly.
Just ugly.
Don't do it.
As Always,
Me.
Very rarely do I post WANTEDs. It's usually something that I cannot afford for a while but could really put to use if acquired immediately or something that I don't really need but would gladly have if it was available. This way, if I don't get it, it's really not that big of a deal.
I understand that there are pseudo-hoarders who use the Freecycle list to feed their addiction. They post OFFERs often, to make it appear like they are giving things away but, in honesty, they aren't choosing anyone who responds. Then they post WANTEDs. Let me say, I understand this much and generally have accepted it. Hoarding is a manifestation of a legitimate psychological condition. They're going to be at garage sales, poking through curb piles, and posting on Freecycle lists. That's just how it goes.
But I'm really annoyed. It really, really annoys me. I mean I absolutely hate it. When one of these people constantly posts a WANTED for an item that was just posted as wanted by another Freecycler. It's as if the other person reminded that hoarder that they would also like whatever that is. So they just post their WANTED for the same exact damn thing just moments after the original post went out to the group.
It pisses me off because then it becomes a competition and the hoarder's inherent selfishness bubbles to the surface.
It's ugly.
Just ugly.
Don't do it.
As Always,
Me.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
Giving away a washer and dryer is pretty tricky. I remember going through so much effort to get an ancient looking washer and dryer that I found on the curb back to my apartment, without even knowing if they worked. (They did work. Very well, in fact. And they lasted until I could afford a new set.)
Getting a washer and dryer from Freecycle is even better because the mystery is gone. The person offering it can tell you exactly what's up with it. You know what you're putting all this energy and sweat into bringing home.
Now, with that said, here's an important note for when you might be offering a washer and dryer. If the washer leaks and the dryer needs a new heating element, they aren't in "good condition". If the exterior still looks great, make note of it, sure. But a great looking exterior does not mean the machines are in good condition. The washer not leaking water all over the floor and the dryer actually heating up to dry the clothes is what constitutes a good condition. What you might be looking for is the term, "needs work."
As Always,
Me.
Giving away a washer and dryer is pretty tricky. I remember going through so much effort to get an ancient looking washer and dryer that I found on the curb back to my apartment, without even knowing if they worked. (They did work. Very well, in fact. And they lasted until I could afford a new set.)
Getting a washer and dryer from Freecycle is even better because the mystery is gone. The person offering it can tell you exactly what's up with it. You know what you're putting all this energy and sweat into bringing home.
Now, with that said, here's an important note for when you might be offering a washer and dryer. If the washer leaks and the dryer needs a new heating element, they aren't in "good condition". If the exterior still looks great, make note of it, sure. But a great looking exterior does not mean the machines are in good condition. The washer not leaking water all over the floor and the dryer actually heating up to dry the clothes is what constitutes a good condition. What you might be looking for is the term, "needs work."
As Always,
Me.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Dear Fellow Freecyclers,
In consideration of this letter where we reviewed the types of post labels permitted to Freecycle, I'd like to get into how not to side-step around the WANTED to post a NEED.
I have changed the actual item but the original was equivalent to a stack of magazines.
First of all, you don't start explaining in the subject. The subject should read: WANTED: stack of magazines
Secondly, you don't set a deadline to it. You're asking someone to give you something. Plus, on moderated lists, it's likely the post won't even be distributed to the list before your deadline expires. This will make it even less likely that you will receive what you want because people think the time has passed.
Finally, you don't need magazines. You want them. They may be required for a project but if you're posting same day for a stack of them, that's poor planning on your part and does not constitute an emergency to violate basic posting guidelines and etiquette. Freecycle doesn't post NEEDED, it posts WANTED because everyone is equal and all WANTEDS and OFFERS are equal.
As Always,
Me
In consideration of this letter where we reviewed the types of post labels permitted to Freecycle, I'd like to get into how not to side-step around the WANTED to post a NEED.
WANTED: I really need a stack of magazines by this afternoon
I have changed the actual item but the original was equivalent to a stack of magazines.
First of all, you don't start explaining in the subject. The subject should read: WANTED: stack of magazines
Secondly, you don't set a deadline to it. You're asking someone to give you something. Plus, on moderated lists, it's likely the post won't even be distributed to the list before your deadline expires. This will make it even less likely that you will receive what you want because people think the time has passed.
Finally, you don't need magazines. You want them. They may be required for a project but if you're posting same day for a stack of them, that's poor planning on your part and does not constitute an emergency to violate basic posting guidelines and etiquette. Freecycle doesn't post NEEDED, it posts WANTED because everyone is equal and all WANTEDS and OFFERS are equal.
As Always,
Me
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