Fund Drive Time- Once Again Into the Breach

Y’all knew it was coming. We held off as long as we could. Our beancounter is telling us the accounts are mighty thin and there are bills to pay. After some discussion, including finger jabs and not-so-veiled threats the decision was made for me to relinquish the fundraiser helm. The Twenty-Fifth Amendment was mentioned, so with good grace I agreed to step aside. I’m very happy to introduce our very own OAM, who is taking the cup-rattling duty.

Because we have no shame

Because we have no shame, we’re rattling the cup during Military Appreciation Month. “We” is not because of a mouse in my pocket. I’m referring to AW1Ed and I. And the rest of the TAH crew.

The sad realization that once again, the coffers are beginning to ring a bit hollow prompted a discussion on how best to rectify the situation, at least for now. Obviously, an appeal to the dedicated, loyal, denizens of this corner of the interwebs must occur. Not so obvious was who would make the appeal.

There is one camp that voluntold me to do it, to which I of course happily acquiesced. Then AW1Ed graciously offered to pull me from under the bus where I was thrown. Meanwhile, there was some discussion on who’s appeal was likely to be more effective. Given the personalities involved, this quickly took on the air of competition. So, both AW1Ed and I will be posting our best heartstring plucking attempts – cue Sarah McLauglin.

For the record, I’m leaving it up to AW1Ed and the others to figure out how to tally and track this ridiculousness. Yep, that is my preemptive excuse for coming in second best.

In all seriousness –

The simple truth is there is a lot that goes into providing this space for all the loyal TAH curmudgeons and deplorables to commiserate, find news of special relevance, and snipe and support one another in our united mission of viewing the news of the day through the military and veteran lens. Others have explained in the past some of those real-world costs like webhosting, as well as the sadly necessary expenses like legal representation.

The one cost that is not measured in dollars is the countless hours so many devote to providing content and attend to the behind-the-scenes details required to keep this site running. To be clear, it is a labor of love willingly given, and no remuneration is requested, nor would such be accepted. Each of us are here doing what we do because we believe in upholding Jonn’s vision as long as we have breath in our bodies.

Over the years, so many have come to form connections with each other, even when real-world names are not known. It’s fascinating to ponder how people who only know each other as a pseudonym offer sincere congratulations for accomplishments, heartfelt care and support in times of tribulation or genuinely grieve when a longtime commentator passes. There is truly something to be said about knowing there are people in the world who simultaneously could pass you in the street without recognizing your face and hold warm, positive thoughts for your well-being based on a connection you share in this virtual world. This is something worthy of saving, and cherishing. I do so without shame.

For me, it has been a most unexpected journey. As one of the few here who never raised the hand, never took the oath, I am deeply humbled and honored to be allowed to share my perspective. Granted, there are those who’d rather I went away and enjoyed my life elsewhere, particularly when I get all psychological. I could make a comment about that being something worth investigating professionally and probably diagnosable, but that would border on the unkind. It would also violate one of the most basic premises of Jonn’s. All views are welcome. If said views are … inelegantly … expressed or unsupported by some semblance of reality, all responses to those views are equally welcome.

So, my appeal is simple. If you can, throw a few (or a lot) of dollars this way. The Donate button sits in the top-right corner of every page. You can do so on a recurring, monthly basis, as a one-time gift, or if you come across some couch change you’re not sure what to do with, we’ll graciously accept it all.

Most of all, your continued presence, participation, and patronage is what is truly appreciated. Happy sniping and may the most honest, heartfelt, and deserving appeal win!

Category: Administrative, Money Honey!