This message is very late in coming, since it has been a very difficult decision to make.
After Google deactivated m_spank_m because of an alleged conflict with their TOS, we found a way to send in a protest, which resulted in the group being put back on the list of groups, but only visible to members, who could then read the entries in the archives, which have working links (assuming the links are still valid) but do not show pictures or clips. There are buttons to push by members who go to the group online, one stating that they want to see the content and then another stating that the material is not spam and finally another box where they can click, stating that it is not abuse and requesting Google to review the matter. Unfortunately there is no other visible way to contact Google further about this matter, and as we all know since that point in time nothing further has happened regarding the restoration of the group. I do not know how many members clicked on these buttons, nor if there would have been any effect on Google had all 4,000+ members done so, so we are indeed stymied.
Although both SirCPUK and I would be willing to continue moderating m_spank_m should it be resurrected, we have after much deliberation and soul searching decided that we will not try to create a new group to replace it. As I said, this has not been an easy decision, and time has not made it any easier.
Several members have written to us indicating that they would be willing to give a new group a start and there are others who have offered financial help in order to pay for a group domain. The major problem remains finding sufficient men willing to do the moderation, as there were more who were ready to offer financial or technical assistance than those willing to tackle the job itself.
If those of you who are interested in doing such would like to write to us, we can forward your mails to the others who have written so that you can get in touch with each other. We remain available should you have any questions that we can answer and will be more than happy to share our experience with anyone who gets a new group going.
Onkel Ben
