A public apology to Meck77...

[Taco John]

As everybody knows, Meck has put a lot of effort into his bus and the tailgates that he's thrown in the last couple of years. About a week ago, Meck called me up frustrated because he didn't feel like he's been getting the support from the Orange Mane that he feels like he should be getting for the tailgates that he hosts. Things have been getting overwhelming for him and his crew, and apparently he says that Orange Maners are starting to ruin the experience because they're always reaching into the coolers, but they're never the ones cleaning them out. Meanwhile, he feels like a sense of entitlement is growing around the tailgates, with not enough people chipping in to lend support.

Frustrated, we spent an hour last week talking about the situation and brainstorming on some ideas. My idea was to have a sign-up sheet and charge people a set amount to participate. Turn it into a business and only serve those who pre-register to be a part of it. He had a good point, though and said he didn't really want to turn it into a business. That it's a party, not a soup kitchen. That's a good point.

Another idea that I had was to maybe throttle it down so that the bus only comes out for special occassions. Its a lot of work, not to mention liability to drive that bus out to every game. And that's without mentioning the cost. The effort is tremendous to get that thing rolling. Meck didnt' like that idea either, saying that he doesn't want to "lose momentum" on the bus tailgates.

In the end, we decided that maybe the best idea would be to take it to the community and see if there were enough people out there to "keep the wheels on this thing."

Things start to get controversial here...

On August 8th at 5:05PM meck started a thread titled "Looking for Broncos fans.........To help keep the tailgate going." At 5:31PM, I browsed the thread, stuck it, and then started on preparations for dinner as my wife in her final month of pregnancy would be home soon and we have a nightly routine. I needed to get dinner done, because I had work to do upstairs once it was over. I lost a client at work, and as such am getting my paycheck cut until we manage to get the business healthy again. That's just a reality of the career field I've choosen, and I'm confident we'll be ok... The timing is just bad with a son on the way, while I'm also trying to tune up the server for the upcoming season. I did my work, and popped into different threads now and again to break the monotony of the sales writing.

What I didn't do, and what I should have done, was pop into the thread Meck started and encourage more people to take part in supporting Meck and his tailgate bus. I've been on that bus a few times, and know first hand what a great thing he's got there. I know first hand the work that goes into it. I know first hand the stress it causes Meck, as he tries to manage the entire thing. I should have said something to support Meck in that thread as quickly as I could have. The guy has done a lot for this site, volunteering himself by printing up cards that he hands out to people that walk by that include the Orange Mane website address. He's given of himself, and the least that I could have done was drop a line of support. I didn't do that and am ashamed of myself for it.

At 8:21am, the next morning, Meck asked me to unstick the thread and tore me a new one for not having said anything in the thread. He then asked a mod to have the thread moved to the Tailgate forum where he has the powers to delete it. I'm disappointed that he took this action, as the thread was actually starting to take off. Meanwhile, feeling the pressure of all the various things happening in my life right now, I echoed the tone he took with me in his gripe, I shot back at him that "I don't have time right now in my life for the drama surrounding this place or your bus. My son is being born this month, and my paycheck hangs in the balance." It was a poor thing to say, even under the pressure. I know better than echoing the frustrated tone of a frustrated man. When you do that all that comes next is more drama and frustration.

Sure enough, we've been having it out trying to get the other person to see things from eachother's point of view. Unfortunately, neither of us seems to be succeeding. Steve feels like the Orange Mane isn't reciprocating the efforts that he's putting in. I feel like I'm doing everything that I can to maintain my little part of the universe and have to make certain I take care of priorities like mortgage payments, baby preperation, and keeping things together with this site to be able to offer anything but moral support for the bus right now. But when he started a thread, I didn't even provide that, so what kind of friend am I?

In any case, Meck has made it clear that he no longer wishes to be the official "Tailgate Coordinator" for the Orange Mane, a position I created for him when he offered to get involved a few years ago. I don't blame him. He's been great at the position, and I wish it could have worked out forever. While the bus has never been an official part of the Orange Mane, Meck has always held his doors open for the folks of this community, asking little in return but a few bucks in the coffee tin, and some help on the side.

Meck has let me know that he's decided that rather than use the Orange Mane to plan his tailgate outings, he will be creating his own forum on his website at http://www.orangeforceone.com to better gain control of the tailgates and solicit the local support he needs to keep things moving and unencumbered by the frustrations that he has with myself and the lack of support he’s been receiving here. While I'm disappointed that he's turned this into an all-or-none proposition with his involvement here, I understand and respect his decision to withdraw his support of the Mane, and let people who are interested in tailgating with him and the bus do so on his terms, and under his own banner. It's probably for the best, as it makes sense that he shouldn't feel obligated to cater to anyone and everyone who claims to be an OManer, especially if he's not getting the support he needs to keep things running from game to game.

I’d like to thank Meck for the time he put into this place with his volunteer efforts, and encourage him to remain engaged in the community here in any way that he’s comfortable with. I hold no ill feelings for his decision to formally split off, and have nothing but love and respect for the guy. We had a lot of fun together, and I’m sorry that it had to come to an ugly situation like this.

[Mediator12]

Damn.

It's at times like this that geography really pisses me off. I can do little to help from INDY but put dollars into play. Dollars are OK, but real service and help are Priceless.

[GonzoLays]

Meck, GROW A SACK!! It definitely ain't Taco's fault that the tailgate is more than you can handle. It seems to me that you are trying to shift the blame to him for your troubles. Even if the almighty Taco did post in your thread, that wasn't going to change the problems you are having funding and organizing the tailgates. You are having a people problem, not a moderator problem. Taco could scream, kick and yell to get people to help organize and fund the tailgate and it wouldn't make a lick of difference.

And why you two guys are arguing is beyond me. You both have been pimping each other's projects since the beginning. You should be thanking each other instead of b****ing.

[Ray Finkle]

Of course it is easy to make observations from the other side of the country but it's pretty crappy to take advantage of Meck's hospitality and not repay him in kind.

[Broncoman13]

Originally Posted by GonzoLays

Meck, GROW A SACK!! It definitely ain't Taco's fault that the tailgate is more than you can handle. It seems to me that you are trying to shift the blame to him for your troubles. Even if the almighty Taco did post in your thread, that wasn't going to change the problems you are having funding and organizing the tailgates. You are having a people problem, not a moderator problem. Taco could scream, kick and yell to get people to help organize and fund the tailgate and it wouldn't make a lick of difference.

And why you two guys are arguing is beyond me. You both have been pimping each other's projects since the beginning. You should be thanking each other instead of b****ing.

I think you missed the point...and the bus... the short bus.

[SpringStein]

Thanks Taco for the post. Meck, wherever you are, you have a lot of friends. Thank you for your heart for the common fan. I often wondered how you could do so much unselfishly. If you are there for the Monday nighter vs. the Ravens, I have a couple bottles of imported (by me) Gorilka for you my friend.

[baja]

Originally Posted by GonzoLays

Meck, GROW A SACK!! It definitely ain't Taco's fault that the tailgate is more than you can handle. It seems to me that you are trying to shift the blame to him for your troubles. Even if the almighty Taco did post in your thread, that wasn't going to change the problems you are having funding and organizing the tailgates. You are having a people problem, not a moderator problem. Taco could scream, kick and yell to get people to help organize and fund the tailgate and it wouldn't make a lick of difference.

And why you two guys are arguing is beyond me. You both have been pimping each other's projects since the beginning. You should be thanking each other instead of b****ing.

Ammazing you are are not smart enough to stay the hell out of this. Do you wonder why so many here don't like you much? This is why.

[Broncoman13]

Originally Posted by Mediator12

Damn.

It's at times like this that geography really pisses me off. I can do little to help from INDY but put dollars into play. Dollars are OK, but real service and help are Priceless.

Ditto. It really is unfortunate that we dont' all live in or around Denver. I don't think OF1 would have all of these problems. A lot of people probably don't realize what Meck puts into the "party". It would be easy to assume that Meck was rich and just had an abundance of money and enjoyed throwing it into the Bus and Tailgates, but that clearly is not the case. He does it for the fun and to bring Bronco fans together, but that clearly has put a burden on his life and pocket book.

[broncos love]

Originally Posted by GonzoLays

Meck, GROW A SACK!! It definitely ain't Taco's fault that the tailgate is more than you can handle. It seems to me that you are trying to shift the blame to him for your troubles. Even if the almighty Taco did post in your thread, that wasn't going to change the problems you are having funding and organizing the tailgates. You are having a people problem, not a moderator problem. Taco could scream, kick and yell to get people to help organize and fund the tailgate and it wouldn't make a lick of difference.

And why you two guys are arguing is beyond me. You both have been pimping each other's projects since the beginning. You should be thanking each other instead of b****ing.

Go **** yourself a-hole. When I was at the Ravens game last year Meck , Disco, and Ak made me feel like I was from Colorado. I had the best time you could have at a tailgate party. Meck and the crew do a awesome job and that beer and food don't come down from the heavens . I put 5 dollars in their box by the bus when I got there. And after the game I was gone to give 20 dollars to Meck because that beer doesn't get in them coolers by accident but being the nice guy that he is he told me to give it to the mane. Orangeforceone keep doing the things you have been doing because for out of towners like me it makes all the diffrence.

[Taco John]

This isn't a thread about criticising Meck. He's put a lot of time and effort into his project, and helped out the Mane along the way. I just want people to know that we're going our seperate ways, and I'm truly sorry it had to come to this.

[Garcia Bronco]

I mean I'm trying to find a job there and move to Denver just to spend more time at tailgates and other things. I'm doing all I can at the moment.

[SouthStndJunkie]

It seems juvenile to grab your toys and go home. You can't tell me there is not a more adult solution to this.

[Northman]

Hate to say it, i share similiar sentiments as Gonzo. If Meck wanted help with the tailgating stuff he should have spoken up sooner rather than later. Although ive never witnessed this personally i was always under the impression it was just Meck's toy and he just liked inviting people to hang out with him at the games. I dont see how this is TJ's fault although i understand that Meck doesnt want to fit the bill for everyone who hangs out with him on gameday. Either way, its really up to Meck to decide on how much people chip in even though im surprised that some people dont do it anyway when they hang out on the bus.

[Sassy]

Originally Posted by Anubis

Hate to say it, i share similiar sentiments as Gonzo. If Meck wanted help with the tailgating stuff he should have spoken up sooner rather than later. Although ive never witnessed this personally i was always under the impression it was just Meck's toy and he just liked inviting people to hang out with him at the games. I dont see how this is TJ's fault although i understand that Meck doesnt want to fit the bill for everyone who hangs out with him on gameday. Either way, its really up to Meck to decide on how much people chip in even though im surprised that some people dont do it anyway when they hang out on the bus.

If you've never been to an OF1 tailgate...it's pretty hard to understand just how big it's gotten...

[freak6]

Gonzo...

Meck - I'll make sure when I come out for a game this year I say what's up and pitch in. Last year I stopped by and checked out the hottub at the Raider game, but didn't feel comfortable eating your food without knowing you outside of this forum. I don't know how others could, maybe you left yourself open and just expected people to donate, but whatever the case---

I think it's a great idea for you to keep the party going by organizing it on YOUR website, that way your compensated for all the hard work. BRONCOS RULE and you both are true Bronco-maniacs.

[Garcia Bronco]

As soon as I find a proper job and salary....I'm there...up in the mix.

[Broncoman13]

Originally Posted by Garcia Bronco

As soon as I find a proper job and salary....I'm there...up in the mix.

Ditto... Loveland I'm coming!!!

[Northman]

Originally Posted by freak15

Gonzo...

Meck - I'll make sure when I come out for a game this year I say what's up and pitch in. Last year I stopped by and checked out the hottub at the Raider game, but didn't feel comfortable eating your food without knowing you outside of this forum. I don't know how others could, maybe you left yourself open and just expected people to donate, but whatever the case---

I think it's a great idea for you to keep the party going by organizing it on YOUR website, that way your compensated for all the hard work. BRONCOS RULE and you both are true Bronco-maniacs.

This is exactly what i was getting at. I personally feel like you could never just walk up and start drinking beer or eating his food. But, if Meck never clarified any of this beforehand i can see how some people might take advantage. Im just not one of them. But i believe this issue just falls more on Meck's shoulders than TJ's but kudos to TJ for maning up and apologizing anyway.

[smalltowngrll]

I don't see the solution as laying blame upon anyone. There will always be the "could've" and "should've" thoughts...but, all that will do is cause division! Obviously there is an issue and instead of causing more division we should come up with a solution! There are so many people who say that they want to help...but, can't because they live so far away! However, more than half of us will make it to one game or another! So, instead of b****ing about it, lets do something about it.

I'd be glad to organize groups for each of the tailgates to do the various tasks. I can't make it to every tailgate, but I bet that there would be a couple of people that will be at most that can take the organization we've put together online and put it into place at the games. The goal would be to have more than enough people to do the work so that there isn't ONE person doing it all the time and everyone still has time to have fun and party!

There will always be hiccups, but the goal is to minimize those and work together as a team and have fun in the process! I told Meck that whatever he needed, I would be willing to support 100%!

[Jetmeck]

I don't know if it's a money issue or a lack of help.

If I was ever lucky enough to get to tailgate with Meck and the crew I know I would not ever assume to reach into any cooler or grab any food without it being offered to me and I would donate for sure. Just the way I was raised I guess. Maybe if more did this then at least the money issue if that is the problem would be nonexistent.

As far as help , I live in KC and when I do get out to a game once in awhile I will plan in some extra time to help out any way I can. THis along with the money issue is pretty common sense stuff........easily remedied if you treat others like you would want to be treated.

There is always a few that F... it up for the rest, I understand his frustation....hang in there...........

[orange 4 life]

Originally Posted by Sassy

If you've never been to an OF1 tailgate...it's pretty hard to understand just how big it's gotten...

no kidding, especially considering it was just a few years ago that i met up with meck in a different lot back when it was just him, a pickup truck, and a few other people.

now he has to play entertainer so much he cant enjoy the games.
my sis and i talked about that not long ago.
he spent SO MUCH time trying to make everyone else have a good time that he often couldnt enjoy himself, and for every person who helped (either physically or monetarily) there were FOUR who would come in uninvited and help themselves to beer or food, and it got SO big that not even regulars like disco, me, ben, or others could distinguish between those that belonged and those that didnt.

anyway, its none of my business what happened between meck and taco, but ill go to bat against someone talking down meck any day, and hopefully all of us who attend can at least see this and try to help more.

[broncos love]

Hey Taco what was your point here. I hope not to bash on Meck

[SouthStndJunkie]

Originally Posted by orange 4 life

now he has to play entertainer so much he cant enjoy the games.

Nobody forced him to buy a bus and promote it. The issues he is dealing with are the issues associated with growth. You take the good with the bad. He chose to go from fan to entertainer/fan and along with that comes a lot of pain in the butt issues. Hard to see how Taco is to blame though. Meck chose the path to take and now there are some rocks in the trail. I am sure it takes a lot of energy to keep it going and maybe the energy is running out. I would not want to play host every week, but that is just me. Meck will figure out a solution, he is not a dummy. If I were him, I would scale back and enjoy the games. I would not want to clean up after drunken slobs every game.

[minibronco]

Meck- I've very much appreciated all the work and pulling you've done the past few years, with OF1 and with the Tailgate Forum itself (organizing all the threads and trips). You've been the man to go to for advice on pretty much anything about going to a game, and for tickets. I really hope you could continue to do what you've done. Keep up the good work!

TJ- You've run one of the best forums on the web. It's a place where I can shell out my free time without saying I've wasted it.

Deal, or no Deal? ;P

[Clockwork Orange]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but shouldn't the issue be with the moochers who are sponging at these tailgates rather than TJ? Perhaps I'm just insensitive, but I don't see what it is that he has to apologize for here.

Whatever. Do what makes you happy.