Point 1 : I agree 100%
Point 2 : OK
Point 3 : True. I released a private version (password protected) to all thread-users for free : see anouncement in the thread : https://www.lotterypost.com/thread/1370489 . I also responded to Todd's wories via PM. Here's the message :
"I have provided a free tool with a very shallow learning curve. I am giving away (for free) an updated version of my tool to anyone who joins the discussion. That upgraded version has a steeper learning curve, but not for those who already got used to the basic version. I have also invited "lurkers" to join lotterypost. If they join the discussion, they get the updated version for free as well. I am not selling the "updated version". If you want access to it, please let me know." I further explained to Todd my future plans : "Maybe I'll add some ads in the future, maybe not. Maybe I add something for sale, maybe not."
Todd made clear to me that he didn't like me building up a membership-list, even when that membership would be free. I understood his point for the full 100% and decided to release the updated version to anyone visting lotterypost. So I announced the release on this page : https://www.lotterypost.com/thread/137048/28 . Later in the thread, I gave away yet another free upgrade (the 3rd one : https://www.lotterypost.com/thread/137048/36 ).
Point 4, 5 and 6 : I understand that Todd has to deal with many issues on LP. I understand that. But his recollection of what I mailed exactly to him was not exactly that... Here's my PM to Todd : "I have a question Todd. I haven't decided anything yet, but if (only if) I would release a "commercial upgrade" of pick3stats , then how can we come up with a good compromise on this." So I understood Todd quite clearly (paying for advertising was acceptable for me if - and only if - I would decide to add some commercial content). Except for the fact that Todd refused instantly. He also explained to me that I was not allowed to post links to a "free portion" of a web site if the other part of the site contains paid content/functionality and that he was sorry to say that there is really nothing to negotiate or work out. I accepted that. My site is still 100 % free today.
Point 7. That's very clear. But like I said, my site is still 100% free. And what's free today will remain free.
Point 8. I am a bit surprised that you didn't told me earlier. At least I know the reason now why the thread has been blocked.
Todd, I understand how difficult it is to run your site. I also understand that someone needs to draw a line somewhere. But I don't believe I have crossed that line. I tried my very best to share something for free here. I think I did. But I am going to do my own thing now. I wish you all the best with your site.
Good luck,
Stefan