BoatBanter.com

BoatBanter.com (https://www.boatbanter.com/)
-   General (https://www.boatbanter.com/general/)
-   -   The problem with these off-topic, political threads... (https://www.boatbanter.com/general/930-problem-these-off-topic-political-threads.html)

Joe Parsons September 3rd 03 01:26 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
....is that, for starters, we often see aspects of people we'd be far better off
*not* seeing. Sure--it's easy to characterize them as "marina bar chat;" but
that is NOT what much of this is. Is it really likely that there would be these
kinds of acrimonious, polarizing discussions, replete with namecalling and
speculation about personal habits and ancestry in an actual bar? Of course not!
But the quasi-anonymity of Usenet seems often to give license for behavior that
would be unnacceptable--and even dangerous--in real life.

It's easy to say "just use your filters and shaddup" when people complain about
these highly unpleasant (and invariably unproductive) threads; but just as
people can't avoid slowing to gape at accidents on the freeway, people will
continue to read these threads. And they'll get a certain impression of the
newsgroup, just as they would if they went into a yacht club or marina bar and
found many of the regulars involved in loud, bitter, interminable and pointless
political discussions.

For my part, when I see the namecalling and personal insults, the polarized
thinking on both sides, it tends to give me a very unfavorable picture of ALL
the participants--and if I were seeing that behavior in a yacht club or marina
bar, I'd do a fast 180 and get out of there.

I think the same thing happens on Usenet as happens in The Real
World(tm)--people go where they feel comfortable, and where they feel they can
contribute and receive value.

Most of the time, in my observation, that's not happening here--even in spite of
a number of regulars who keep trying to guide the conversation back to boating.
I often wonder how many people here actually spend time on boats.

I have kept my own political views (and they are views that I hold dear) out of
this newsgroup--but if someone were to call me "light in the loafers" for being
a Democrat, or a "fascist" for being a Republican, I'd immediately lose interest
in any sort of participation here.

I don't think I'm alone in that respect.

Joe Parsons
FWIW


bb September 3rd 03 01:48 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
On Wed, 03 Sep 2003 00:26:37 GMT, Joe Parsons
wrote:

...is that, for starters,


Joe Parsons
FWIW


Not bad Joe. Doesn't fit for everybody, but in general, yep.

bb

Gary Warner September 3rd 03 02:35 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 

- The "bar room" thing is just an anology, don't try to carry it too far.

- The discussions are not just pointless. They show me how others think.
Even when I disagree, I learn something.

- If you dont' want to read the threads, don't. If you can't help yourself
from
"slowing down and gawking" don't blame others, help yourself.

- I disagree that there is little or no boating value here. Post a boating
story
and plenty of people will comment or sympathize. Post a boating or boat
question and there will be very helpful hints, tips, information, web-links,
stories of similar experience, etc., etc.


In the Pot-Kettel-Black department: why not mark your off topic
post with "OT:" ?? Yes, the subject is pretty self-explanitory, but
it is convention to mark subjects with "OT:" so people can easily
filter for them.


Gary




Gary H September 3rd 03 03:47 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
Yea, I come here for boat information not to hear someone's political views.
I think those political people need to find alt.politics.



"Joe Parsons" wrote in message
...
...is that, for starters, we often see aspects of people we'd be far

better off
*not* seeing. Sure--it's easy to characterize them as "marina bar chat;"

but
that is NOT what much of this is. Is it really likely that there would be

these
kinds of acrimonious, polarizing discussions, replete with namecalling and
speculation about personal habits and ancestry in an actual bar? Of

course not!
But the quasi-anonymity of Usenet seems often to give license for behavior

that
would be unnacceptable--and even dangerous--in real life.

It's easy to say "just use your filters and shaddup" when people complain

about
these highly unpleasant (and invariably unproductive) threads; but just as
people can't avoid slowing to gape at accidents on the freeway, people

will
continue to read these threads. And they'll get a certain impression of

the
newsgroup, just as they would if they went into a yacht club or marina bar

and
found many of the regulars involved in loud, bitter, interminable and

pointless
political discussions.

For my part, when I see the namecalling and personal insults, the

polarized
thinking on both sides, it tends to give me a very unfavorable picture of

ALL
the participants--and if I were seeing that behavior in a yacht club or

marina
bar, I'd do a fast 180 and get out of there.

I think the same thing happens on Usenet as happens in The Real
World(tm)--people go where they feel comfortable, and where they feel they

can
contribute and receive value.

Most of the time, in my observation, that's not happening here--even in

spite of
a number of regulars who keep trying to guide the conversation back to

boating.
I often wonder how many people here actually spend time on boats.

I have kept my own political views (and they are views that I hold dear)

out of
this newsgroup--but if someone were to call me "light in the loafers" for

being
a Democrat, or a "fascist" for being a Republican, I'd immediately lose

interest
in any sort of participation here.

I don't think I'm alone in that respect.

Joe Parsons
FWIW




Joe Parsons September 3rd 03 03:50 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
On Tue, 2 Sep 2003 21:35:39 -0400, "Gary Warner" wrote:

- The "bar room" thing is just an anology, don't try to carry it too far.


But it's the analogy that is most commonly used in this context.

- The discussions are not just pointless. They show me how others think.
Even when I disagree, I learn something.


That's true--and my whole point is that one may learn enough about another
person to view him with contempt. Reasoned--even heated--debate is just fine;
it's energizing and often educational for both sides. But when the "debate"
turns so quickly to gratuitous insults--and it invariably does--it says far too
much about the combatants that one might like to know. Characterizing a
"liberal" as a limp-wristed, light-in-the-loafers faggot; or a "conservative" as
a fascist. Or displaying black-and-white, bigoted thinking--on *either* side of
an argument.

For me, it's just too much information--and I personally find it difficult to
separate often valuable information (which is often scarce) from someone's
despicable character traits, regardless of how his politics might play out.

- If you dont' want to read the threads, don't. If you can't help yourself
from
"slowing down and gawking" don't blame others, help yourself.


I'm quite able to set filters--even when the subject line is a moving target.
But my concerns are not for my own sensibilities; rather, they are for the
impression made on people subscribing for the first time.

And the content--quality and quantity--in rec.boats is far less appealing now
than it was, say, two years ago.

- I disagree that there is little or no boating value here. Post a boating
story
and plenty of people will comment or sympathize. Post a boating or boat
question and there will be very helpful hints, tips, information, web-links,
stories of similar experience, etc., etc.


In the Pot-Kettel-Black department: why not mark your off topic
post with "OT:" ?? Yes, the subject is pretty self-explanitory, but
it is convention to mark subjects with "OT:" so people can easily
filter for them.


As we've already discussed, many newsreaders strip out the OT: on follow-ups.
OE is the most widely used newsreader here, and it behaves that way.

Any Usenet newsgroup is a do-it-yourself deal. I just don't think the deal is
being done as well as it should be.

Joe Parsons


Gould 0738 September 3rd 03 04:18 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
Rec.boats isn't purely a spectator sport.

There is a disturbing lack of civility in many of the discussions, both OT and
ON.
That's a greater problem than the fact that the conversation drifts off topic.

We have at least one poster who takes pride in the fact that he only comes here
to
cause trouble, and then immediately blames that on individuals holding opposite
philosophical viewpoints.

It is a bit puzzling how, so often, the people who post the loudest protests
about the signal to noise ratio and the lack of significant boating content in
the NG never contribute any boating content *to* the group.

The content of the group is configured by what we all put in- what we take out
or choose to filter has no effect on the overall character of the group.

Aren't enough boating discussions? Start one.



Bill Cole September 3rd 03 04:39 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
Chuck,
Whomever said they come here to "start trouble" is just being honest. The
majority of the regulars come here to argue their favorite cause and try to
make their opponents looks foolish, ignorant of just to get his goat.

The regulars who come here to discuss boating are few and far in-between,
they have been chased away ages ago.


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Rec.boats isn't purely a spectator sport.

There is a disturbing lack of civility in many of the discussions, both OT

and
ON.
That's a greater problem than the fact that the conversation drifts off

topic.

We have at least one poster who takes pride in the fact that he only comes

here
to
cause trouble, and then immediately blames that on individuals holding

opposite
philosophical viewpoints.

It is a bit puzzling how, so often, the people who post the loudest

protests
about the signal to noise ratio and the lack of significant boating

content in
the NG never contribute any boating content *to* the group.

The content of the group is configured by what we all put in- what we take

out
or choose to filter has no effect on the overall character of the group.

Aren't enough boating discussions? Start one.





Gould 0738 September 3rd 03 05:00 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
Chuck,
Whomever said they come here to "start trouble" is just being honest. The
majority of the regulars come here to argue their favorite cause and try to
make their opponents looks foolish, ignorant of just to get his goat.

The regulars who come here to discuss boating are few and far in-between,
they have been chased away ages ago.



Without going waaaay back, we're still runing a 3:1 ratio of on topic *threads*
vs.
off topic threads. Of the last 59 threads initiated in rec.boats, 45 had some
direct relevance to boating and 14 did not.

Problem is in the number of posts.

Example:

I.M. Uhground posts: "Where is the secondary fuel filter on my Spitz and Putz
inboard?"

Hal P Fulwrench replies: "Look under the second framus past the diogenator."

End of thread, two posts.

Example two:

Left wing Louie posts: "Bush is a war criminal!"

Right wing Rickie replies:"No, he's a hero and you liberals are all
traitors........"

And 450 posts follow. 225 from the right, 225 from the left, with insults and
bad manners split equally between the pair. End of thread nowhere in
sight.......


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Rec.boats isn't purely a spectator sport.

There is a disturbing lack of civility in many of the discussions, both OT

and
ON.
That's a greater problem than the fact that the conversation drifts off

topic.

We have at least one poster who takes pride in the fact that he only comes

here
to
cause trouble, and then immediately blames that on individuals holding

opposite
philosophical viewpoints.

It is a bit puzzling how, so often, the people who post the loudest

protests
about the signal to noise ratio and the lack of significant boating

content in
the NG never contribute any boating content *to* the group.

The content of the group is configured by what we all put in- what we take

out
or choose to filter has no effect on the overall character of the group.

Aren't enough boating discussions? Start one.














Gould 0738 September 3rd 03 06:09 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
Most of the on topic posts are done by newbie's stumbling in. They have no
idea rec.boats is all about politics. The regulars are the ones who turn
the on topic posts into off topic posts and start the majority of the off
topic threads.


How many of the 45 on-topic threads did you originate?

The regulars can't complain about a lack of on-topic threads if they don't
start any.



Jim September 3rd 03 12:01 PM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
You know Chuck you act like you are a saint in this whole mess. And that is the
furthest thing from the truth. Granted, you post one or two boating related items, but
the far majority of your posts are political. You and Harry have been involved in the
mudslinging and OT political posts long before most of us have been here.

Yes, I admitted I come here for the politics. I never said, however, that I come here
to cause trouble and I challenge you to find where I said that....because I did not.

Move out of that glass house before you start throwing stones.

"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Most of the on topic posts are done by newbie's stumbling in. They have no
idea rec.boats is all about politics. The regulars are the ones who turn
the on topic posts into off topic posts and start the majority of the off
topic threads.


How many of the 45 on-topic threads did you originate?

The regulars can't complain about a lack of on-topic threads if they don't
start any.




Bill Cole September 3rd 03 01:38 PM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
I am not complaining, I am making an observation. I have accepted the fact
that the NG is a venue to discuss politics and make rabid accusations
concerning anyone who disagrees with your philosophy.

If I was moderating a NG would I would not allow the personal attacks and
the off topic political discussion, because it does nothing towards building
a community. It's only purpose is to divide the community. But, this is
not a moderated NG, so all I am doing is making the observation that the
majority of the regulars come here to argue and call each other "trash".

Do you disagree with my observation?


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Most of the on topic posts are done by newbie's stumbling in. They have

no
idea rec.boats is all about politics. The regulars are the ones who turn
the on topic posts into off topic posts and start the majority of the off
topic threads.


How many of the 45 on-topic threads did you originate?

The regulars can't complain about a lack of on-topic threads if they don't
start any.





Gould 0738 September 3rd 03 03:14 PM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
I am not complaining, I am making an observation. I have accepted the fact
that the NG is a venue to discuss politics and make rabid accusations
concerning anyone who disagrees with your philosophy.

If I was moderating a NG would I would not allow the personal attacks and
the off topic political discussion, because it does nothing towards building
a community. It's only purpose is to divide the community. But, this is
not a moderated NG, so all I am doing is making the observation that the
majority of the regulars come here to argue and call each other "trash".

Do you disagree with my observation?


I think you have a specific regular in mind when you use "trash" as the
commonly exchanged offensive moniker. My frank opinion is that you are quicker
to criticize the left leaning OT posters than the right.
That has to be OK, since I am quicker to criticize the right leaners than the
left. We should all be aware that our own bias usually shows through.

I don't disagree entirely. I see redeeming value in most of the posters, from
both (or all) sides of most issues provided they have a genuine interest in
boats and boating. There have been several instances of posters who appear
*only* to fire off anonymous flames and, when anybody calls them on this
behavior they say "I could give a rip about boating, I'm only here because you
have some GD liberals (or conservatives) that require my enlightened flaming."

You can't have a viable boating NG if a large percentage of the participants
don't own a boat, (or own a boat but never use it), and don't care aboat
boating one way or the other. What are these people going to talk about?
Certainly won't be boats or boating.

Boaters have the option to post on topic or off. Non-boaters have nothing of
substance to contribute on topic, beyond the "I'm looking for a boat and need
opinions on.........." type of thread.

Anybody who feels like a helpless victim of the NG content should consider
bringing more on-topic ideas to the forum.

One of the reasons you don't see more "pros" posting here is that the first
time anybody in the engine business or brokerage business or accessory and
supply business mentions a product or service that they perform and are
therefore
extremely familiar with, one of two or three "usual suspects" will get on that
person's case about spamming the NG. Were you around when Dave Brown posted
here? There's a good example. Very good outboard mechanic, and a gentleman.
Everytime he said "boo" he was subjected to a relentless onslaught of flaming
from an individual poster who had a low opinion of a brand of outboard motors
he sold in his shop and who had a differing opinion of the
technology associated with those engines.
The flaming went well beyond the engine technology, with Dave's personal morals
and ethics being challenged because he would dare sell such a "defective"
product.
He must have been called "spammer" a thousand times. One poster announced an
intention to drive Dave Brown from the NG, and crowed about "victory" when it
was finally accomplished.

Even Peggie Hall has had to endure some
harsh, mean spirited, criticism for offering advise on her areas of expertise.
Has always been an odd double standard: If you work as a truck driver, radio
repairman, shoe salesman, plant manager, or accountant, your opinion on some
technical aspect of boating is welcomed by all. If you actually make a living
in the field and dare to post anything based on your professional experience,
expect to be
loudly criticized for "spamming."


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Most of the on topic posts are done by newbie's stumbling in. They have

no
idea rec.boats is all about politics. The regulars are the ones who turn
the on topic posts into off topic posts and start the majority of the off
topic threads.


How many of the 45 on-topic threads did you originate?

The regulars can't complain about a lack of on-topic threads if they don't
start any.










Gould 0738 September 3rd 03 03:18 PM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
Chuck, it really is quite telling that you fail to mention (or cast any blame
on) the
most prolific political poster (and flamer) here, namely your comrade Harry
Krause.


Is it equally telling that I didn't mention any
of the other political posters by name? Regardless of individual political
perspective?


But Harry shares your views on politics and unions, so that would not be
quite right,
now would it Chuck?


It's a conspiracy. :-)





Bill Cole September 3rd 03 03:38 PM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
Chuck,
Your observations are accurate, while I used the word "trash" because it was
in a post I had just read, the insults and name calling are equal on both
sides of the aisle. You would have to agree that the person who likes to
call people "trash" is one of the more rabid regulars. He may occasionally
post a boating thread, he may contribute to a boating thread every now and
then, but as he has admitted his real reason for posting here is to put down
the right wing trash who come here.

There is nothing you and I can do to stop this, there are too many people
who enjoy this blood sport. It is the reason most of the regulars read
rec.boats.

"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
I am not complaining, I am making an observation. I have accepted the

fact
that the NG is a venue to discuss politics and make rabid accusations
concerning anyone who disagrees with your philosophy.

If I was moderating a NG would I would not allow the personal attacks and
the off topic political discussion, because it does nothing towards

building
a community. It's only purpose is to divide the community. But, this is
not a moderated NG, so all I am doing is making the observation that the
majority of the regulars come here to argue and call each other "trash".

Do you disagree with my observation?


I think you have a specific regular in mind when you use "trash" as the
commonly exchanged offensive moniker. My frank opinion is that you are

quicker
to criticize the left leaning OT posters than the right.
That has to be OK, since I am quicker to criticize the right leaners than

the
left. We should all be aware that our own bias usually shows through.

I don't disagree entirely. I see redeeming value in most of the posters,

from
both (or all) sides of most issues provided they have a genuine interest

in
boats and boating. There have been several instances of posters who appear
*only* to fire off anonymous flames and, when anybody calls them on this
behavior they say "I could give a rip about boating, I'm only here because

you
have some GD liberals (or conservatives) that require my enlightened

flaming."

You can't have a viable boating NG if a large percentage of the

participants
don't own a boat, (or own a boat but never use it), and don't care aboat
boating one way or the other. What are these people going to talk about?
Certainly won't be boats or boating.

Boaters have the option to post on topic or off. Non-boaters have nothing

of
substance to contribute on topic, beyond the "I'm looking for a boat and

need
opinions on.........." type of thread.

Anybody who feels like a helpless victim of the NG content should consider
bringing more on-topic ideas to the forum.

One of the reasons you don't see more "pros" posting here is that the

first
time anybody in the engine business or brokerage business or accessory and
supply business mentions a product or service that they perform and are
therefore
extremely familiar with, one of two or three "usual suspects" will get on

that
person's case about spamming the NG. Were you around when Dave Brown

posted
here? There's a good example. Very good outboard mechanic, and a

gentleman.
Everytime he said "boo" he was subjected to a relentless onslaught of

flaming
from an individual poster who had a low opinion of a brand of outboard

motors
he sold in his shop and who had a differing opinion of the
technology associated with those engines.
The flaming went well beyond the engine technology, with Dave's personal

morals
and ethics being challenged because he would dare sell such a "defective"
product.
He must have been called "spammer" a thousand times. One poster announced

an
intention to drive Dave Brown from the NG, and crowed about "victory" when

it
was finally accomplished.

Even Peggie Hall has had to endure some
harsh, mean spirited, criticism for offering advise on her areas of

expertise.
Has always been an odd double standard: If you work as a truck driver,

radio
repairman, shoe salesman, plant manager, or accountant, your opinion on

some
technical aspect of boating is welcomed by all. If you actually make a

living
in the field and dare to post anything based on your professional

experience,
expect to be
loudly criticized for "spamming."


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Most of the on topic posts are done by newbie's stumbling in. They

have
no
idea rec.boats is all about politics. The regulars are the ones who

turn
the on topic posts into off topic posts and start the majority of the

off
topic threads.

How many of the 45 on-topic threads did you originate?

The regulars can't complain about a lack of on-topic threads if they

don't
start any.












Gould 0738 September 3rd 03 03:42 PM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
Yes, I admitted I come here for the politics. I never said, however, that I
come here
to cause trouble and I challenge you to find where I said that....because I
did not.


To paraphrase Carly Simon: You're so vain, you probably think each post is
about you........

Challenge back to you. Where did I say that "Jim stated he is only here to
cause trouble"? Without that, your concern is completely ridiculous. I don't
recall mentioning you by name at all. What makes you think I was even referring
to you? Why would I?

You know Chuck you act like you are a saint in this whole mess. And that is
the
furthest thing from the truth. Granted, you post one or two boating related
items, but
the far majority of your posts are political. You and Harry have been
involved in the
mudslinging and OT political posts long before most of us have been
here.


I don't sling much mud, and whatever direction the NG takes is up to the
majority of participants. It isn't determined by one or two people. Personally,
if you want to talk boats, I can participate in most discussions (except I
don't know much about outboards, sailing, carbs, and a few other subjects). If
you want to talk politics, I can do that too.

For every Yin there's a Yang. Blaming the political threads solely on the left
or the right is ridiculous. Follow one through- typically goes
l,r,l,r,l,r,l,r,l,r, etc. Only difference most of the time is who goes first,
and over the long run that tends to be about 50/50.



Joe Parsons September 3rd 03 04:37 PM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
On Wed, 03 Sep 2003 05:36:36 GMT, WaIIy wrote:

On Wed, 03 Sep 2003 00:26:37 GMT, Joe Parsons
wrote:

I have kept my own political views (and they are views that I hold dear) out of
this newsgroup--but if someone were to call me "light in the loafers" for being
a Democrat, or a "fascist" for being a Republican, I'd immediately lose interest
in any sort of participation here.

I don't think I'm alone in that respect.

Joe Parsons
FWIW


You are not alone. Around our marina, politics are spoken about very
little. Dissention is left away from our boats.


I spent the long weekend at the Stockton (CA) Yacht Club with our yacht club. I
got into a "political" discussion over a beer or seven with a long-time member
who's far away from me in his politics. As our discussion intensified (and got
louder), we stopped, looked at each other and burst out laughing. We *knew* we
wouldn't change each other's mind--but we realized that we were beginning to
lose sight of the fact that we were there to enjoy the river, the boats, the
company and the beer.

I've found that face-to-face conversations have certain "safety valves" that can
keep debates/arguments from getting too unpleasant. Usenet, with its
quasi-anonymity and lack of face-to-face contact, doesn't.

Joe Parsons

Jim September 3rd 03 07:32 PM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 

"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Yes, I admitted I come here for the politics. I never said, however, that I
come here
to cause trouble and I challenge you to find where I said that....because I
did not.


To paraphrase Carly Simon: You're so vain, you probably think each post is
about you........

Challenge back to you. Where did I say that "Jim stated he is only here to
cause trouble"? Without that, your concern is completely ridiculous. I don't
recall mentioning you by name at all. What makes you think I was even referring
to you? Why would I?


Yeah, you were sure to originally phrase it so you had an out. You took it. Nice move
Chuck.


You know Chuck you act like you are a saint in this whole mess. And that is
the
furthest thing from the truth. Granted, you post one or two boating related
items, but
the far majority of your posts are political. You and Harry have been
involved in the
mudslinging and OT political posts long before most of us have been
here.


I don't sling much mud, and whatever direction the NG takes is up to the
majority of participants. It isn't determined by one or two people. Personally,
if you want to talk boats, I can participate in most discussions (except I
don't know much about outboards, sailing, carbs, and a few other subjects). If
you want to talk politics, I can do that too.

For every Yin there's a Yang. Blaming the political threads solely on the left
or the right is ridiculous. Follow one through- typically goes
l,r,l,r,l,r,l,r,l,r, etc. Only difference most of the time is who goes first,
and over the long run that tends to be about 50/50.



Where did I blame the political threads solely on the left or the right?

I blamed you for throwing stones in your glass house.


noah September 4th 03 01:13 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
On Wed, 03 Sep 2003 00:26:37 GMT, Joe Parsons
wrote:

...is that, for starters, we often see aspects of people we'd be far better off
*not* seeing. Sure--it's easy to characterize them as "marina bar chat;" but
that is NOT what much of this is. Is it really likely that there would be these
kinds of acrimonious, polarizing discussions, replete with namecalling and
speculation about personal habits and ancestry in an actual bar? Of course not!
But the quasi-anonymity of Usenet seems often to give license for behavior that
would be unnacceptable--and even dangerous--in real life.

It's easy to say "just use your filters and shaddup" when people complain about
these highly unpleasant (and invariably unproductive) threads; but just as
people can't avoid slowing to gape at accidents on the freeway, people will
continue to read these threads. And they'll get a certain impression of the
newsgroup, just as they would if they went into a yacht club or marina bar and
found many of the regulars involved in loud, bitter, interminable and pointless
political discussions.

For my part, when I see the namecalling and personal insults, the polarized
thinking on both sides, it tends to give me a very unfavorable picture of ALL
the participants--and if I were seeing that behavior in a yacht club or marina
bar, I'd do a fast 180 and get out of there.

I think the same thing happens on Usenet as happens in The Real
World(tm)--people go where they feel comfortable, and where they feel they can
contribute and receive value.

Most of the time, in my observation, that's not happening here--even in spite of
a number of regulars who keep trying to guide the conversation back to boating.
I often wonder how many people here actually spend time on boats.

I have kept my own political views (and they are views that I hold dear) out of
this newsgroup--but if someone were to call me "light in the loafers" for being
a Democrat, or a "fascist" for being a Republican, I'd immediately lose interest
in any sort of participation here.

I don't think I'm alone in that respect.

Joe Parsons
FWIW


Joe, I respect that opinion.
noah

noah September 4th 03 01:21 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
On 03 Sep 2003 05:09:52 GMT, (Gould 0738) wrote:

Most of the on topic posts are done by newbie's stumbling in. They have no
idea rec.boats is all about politics. The regulars are the ones who turn
the on topic posts into off topic posts and start the majority of the off
topic threads.


How many of the 45 on-topic threads did you originate?

The regulars can't complain about a lack of on-topic threads if they don't
start any.


I disagree.

I **look** for newbie posts, to see if I can help somebody out. If I
can, or think I can, I respond. About 1 in 1000, I start a thread,
and only the boaters respond: which is OK by me.

rec.boats.lounge

noah

noah September 4th 03 01:24 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
On Wed, 03 Sep 2003 15:37:24 GMT, Joe Parsons
wrote:

On Wed, 03 Sep 2003 05:36:36 GMT, WaIIy wrote:

On Wed, 03 Sep 2003 00:26:37 GMT, Joe Parsons
wrote:

I have kept my own political views (and they are views that I hold dear) out of
this newsgroup--but if someone were to call me "light in the loafers" for being
a Democrat, or a "fascist" for being a Republican, I'd immediately lose interest
in any sort of participation here.

I don't think I'm alone in that respect.

Joe Parsons
FWIW


You are not alone. Around our marina, politics are spoken about very
little. Dissention is left away from our boats.


I spent the long weekend at the Stockton (CA) Yacht Club with our yacht club. I
got into a "political" discussion over a beer or seven with a long-time member
who's far away from me in his politics. As our discussion intensified (and got
louder), we stopped, looked at each other and burst out laughing. We *knew* we
wouldn't change each other's mind--but we realized that we were beginning to
lose sight of the fact that we were there to enjoy the river, the boats, the
company and the beer.

I've found that face-to-face conversations have certain "safety valves" that can
keep debates/arguments from getting too unpleasant. Usenet, with its
quasi-anonymity and lack of face-to-face contact, doesn't.

Joe Parsons


Amen?

I'll buy the next round.
noah

Butch Ammon September 4th 03 01:34 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
I have kept my own political views (and they are views that I hold dear) out
of
this newsgroup--but if someone were to call me "light in the loafers" for

being
a Democrat, or a "fascist" for being a Republican, I'd immediately lose

interest
in any sort of participation here.

I don't think I'm alone in that respect.

Joe Parsons
FWIW


Joe, I respect that opinion.
noah


....Sounds exactly how I feel too! I have stepped away from this NG more than a
few times.

My interest is freshwater lake boating and try to see where I would fit in. I
have drifted off topic a few times as well (guily as charged...) and mentioned
my beliefs and political opinions once and got ripped to shreds by a few
people. Like, I'm some horrible evil creature because:

* I am a moderate, conservative, middle of the road republican.
* I am an outdoorsman, fisherman, hunter, etc...
* Heck, I go to a Presbyterian church on occasion too. Does that make me a bad
person?

Let's get back to boating and enjoying the outdoors on the water.

Butch Ammon

Gould 0738 September 4th 03 01:46 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
The regulars can't complain about a lack of on-topic threads if they don't
start any.


I disagree.

I **look** for newbie posts, to see if I can help somebody out. If I
can, or think I can, I respond. About 1 in 1000, I start a thread,
and only the boaters respond: which is OK by me.

rec.boats.lounge

noah


Fine, but are you then complaining about a lack of on-topic threads? I don't
maintain that everybody has to start on-topic threads, but it does seem
inconsistent that manyh people who virtually never begin an on-topic thread
then complain about a lack of same.

noah September 4th 03 01:56 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
On Wed, 03 Sep 2003 14:38:46 GMT, "Bill Cole"
wrote:

Chuck,
Your observations are accurate, while I used the word "trash" because it was
in a post I had just read, the insults and name calling are equal on both
sides of the aisle. You would have to agree that the person who likes to
call people "trash" is one of the more rabid regulars. He may occasionally
post a boating thread, he may contribute to a boating thread every now and
then, but as he has admitted his real reason for posting here is to put down
the right wing trash who come here.

There is nothing you and I can do to stop this,


Yes, there is.


there are too many people
who enjoy this blood sport. It is the reason most of the regulars read
rec.boats.


rec.boats.bloodsport?
It's not that hard to set up a group.


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
I am not complaining, I am making an observation. I have accepted the

fact
that the NG is a venue to discuss politics and make rabid accusations
concerning anyone who disagrees with your philosophy.

If I was moderating a NG would I would not allow the personal attacks and
the off topic political discussion, because it does nothing towards

building
a community. It's only purpose is to divide the community. But, this is
not a moderated NG, so all I am doing is making the observation that the
majority of the regulars come here to argue and call each other "trash".

Do you disagree with my observation?


I think you have a specific regular in mind when you use "trash" as the
commonly exchanged offensive moniker. My frank opinion is that you are

quicker
to criticize the left leaning OT posters than the right.
That has to be OK, since I am quicker to criticize the right leaners than

the
left. We should all be aware that our own bias usually shows through.

I don't disagree entirely. I see redeeming value in most of the posters,

from
both (or all) sides of most issues provided they have a genuine interest

in
boats and boating. There have been several instances of posters who appear
*only* to fire off anonymous flames and, when anybody calls them on this
behavior they say "I could give a rip about boating, I'm only here because

you
have some GD liberals (or conservatives) that require my enlightened

flaming."

You can't have a viable boating NG if a large percentage of the

participants
don't own a boat, (or own a boat but never use it), and don't care aboat
boating one way or the other. What are these people going to talk about?
Certainly won't be boats or boating.

Boaters have the option to post on topic or off. Non-boaters have nothing

of
substance to contribute on topic, beyond the "I'm looking for a boat and

need
opinions on.........." type of thread.

Anybody who feels like a helpless victim of the NG content should consider
bringing more on-topic ideas to the forum.

One of the reasons you don't see more "pros" posting here is that the

first
time anybody in the engine business or brokerage business or accessory and
supply business mentions a product or service that they perform and are
therefore
extremely familiar with, one of two or three "usual suspects" will get on

that
person's case about spamming the NG. Were you around when Dave Brown

posted
here? There's a good example. Very good outboard mechanic, and a

gentleman.
Everytime he said "boo" he was subjected to a relentless onslaught of

flaming
from an individual poster who had a low opinion of a brand of outboard

motors
he sold in his shop and who had a differing opinion of the
technology associated with those engines.
The flaming went well beyond the engine technology, with Dave's personal

morals
and ethics being challenged because he would dare sell such a "defective"
product.
He must have been called "spammer" a thousand times. One poster announced

an
intention to drive Dave Brown from the NG, and crowed about "victory" when

it
was finally accomplished.

Even Peggie Hall has had to endure some
harsh, mean spirited, criticism for offering advise on her areas of

expertise.
Has always been an odd double standard: If you work as a truck driver,

radio
repairman, shoe salesman, plant manager, or accountant, your opinion on

some
technical aspect of boating is welcomed by all. If you actually make a

living
in the field and dare to post anything based on your professional

experience,
expect to be
loudly criticized for "spamming."


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Most of the on topic posts are done by newbie's stumbling in. They

have
no
idea rec.boats is all about politics. The regulars are the ones who

turn
the on topic posts into off topic posts and start the majority of the

off
topic threads.

How many of the 45 on-topic threads did you originate?

The regulars can't complain about a lack of on-topic threads if they

don't
start any.












Bill Cole September 4th 03 02:08 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
noah,
You can stop posting, you can stop reading, you can point out how stupid it
is to use rec.boats to discuss politics, you can use a filter, it does not
matter. The people who enjoy using rec.boats as a mud pit will continue.

If you have not figured this out yet, you eventually will. While the name
of the group is rec.boats, that was just the reason why people started
reading the NG, the regulars are here to fight, to call names, to act like
fools. Chuck is one of the more reasonable regulars, but when he is
reasonable his posts are ignored. If he makes a post that says George Bush
is an idiot, it is guaranteed to generate a 200 plus responses.

You may not like my message, but don't shoot me, I am only the messenger.
"noah" wrote in message
...
On Wed, 03 Sep 2003 14:38:46 GMT, "Bill Cole"
wrote:

Chuck,
Your observations are accurate, while I used the word "trash" because it

was
in a post I had just read, the insults and name calling are equal on both
sides of the aisle. You would have to agree that the person who likes to
call people "trash" is one of the more rabid regulars. He may

occasionally
post a boating thread, he may contribute to a boating thread every now

and
then, but as he has admitted his real reason for posting here is to put

down
the right wing trash who come here.

There is nothing you and I can do to stop this,


Yes, there is.


there are too many people
who enjoy this blood sport. It is the reason most of the regulars read
rec.boats.


rec.boats.bloodsport?
It's not that hard to set up a group.


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
I am not complaining, I am making an observation. I have accepted the

fact
that the NG is a venue to discuss politics and make rabid accusations
concerning anyone who disagrees with your philosophy.

If I was moderating a NG would I would not allow the personal attacks

and
the off topic political discussion, because it does nothing towards

building
a community. It's only purpose is to divide the community. But, this

is
not a moderated NG, so all I am doing is making the observation that

the
majority of the regulars come here to argue and call each other

"trash".

Do you disagree with my observation?


I think you have a specific regular in mind when you use "trash" as the
commonly exchanged offensive moniker. My frank opinion is that you are

quicker
to criticize the left leaning OT posters than the right.
That has to be OK, since I am quicker to criticize the right leaners

than
the
left. We should all be aware that our own bias usually shows through.

I don't disagree entirely. I see redeeming value in most of the

posters,
from
both (or all) sides of most issues provided they have a genuine

interest
in
boats and boating. There have been several instances of posters who

appear
*only* to fire off anonymous flames and, when anybody calls them on

this
behavior they say "I could give a rip about boating, I'm only here

because
you
have some GD liberals (or conservatives) that require my enlightened

flaming."

You can't have a viable boating NG if a large percentage of the

participants
don't own a boat, (or own a boat but never use it), and don't care

aboat
boating one way or the other. What are these people going to talk

about?
Certainly won't be boats or boating.

Boaters have the option to post on topic or off. Non-boaters have

nothing
of
substance to contribute on topic, beyond the "I'm looking for a boat

and
need
opinions on.........." type of thread.

Anybody who feels like a helpless victim of the NG content should

consider
bringing more on-topic ideas to the forum.

One of the reasons you don't see more "pros" posting here is that the

first
time anybody in the engine business or brokerage business or accessory

and
supply business mentions a product or service that they perform and are
therefore
extremely familiar with, one of two or three "usual suspects" will get

on
that
person's case about spamming the NG. Were you around when Dave Brown

posted
here? There's a good example. Very good outboard mechanic, and a

gentleman.
Everytime he said "boo" he was subjected to a relentless onslaught of

flaming
from an individual poster who had a low opinion of a brand of outboard

motors
he sold in his shop and who had a differing opinion of the
technology associated with those engines.
The flaming went well beyond the engine technology, with Dave's

personal
morals
and ethics being challenged because he would dare sell such a

"defective"
product.
He must have been called "spammer" a thousand times. One poster

announced
an
intention to drive Dave Brown from the NG, and crowed about "victory"

when
it
was finally accomplished.

Even Peggie Hall has had to endure some
harsh, mean spirited, criticism for offering advise on her areas of

expertise.
Has always been an odd double standard: If you work as a truck driver,

radio
repairman, shoe salesman, plant manager, or accountant, your opinion on

some
technical aspect of boating is welcomed by all. If you actually make a

living
in the field and dare to post anything based on your professional

experience,
expect to be
loudly criticized for "spamming."


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Most of the on topic posts are done by newbie's stumbling in. They

have
no
idea rec.boats is all about politics. The regulars are the ones

who
turn
the on topic posts into off topic posts and start the majority of

the
off
topic threads.

How many of the 45 on-topic threads did you originate?

The regulars can't complain about a lack of on-topic threads if they

don't
start any.














noah September 4th 03 02:35 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
On Thu, 04 Sep 2003 01:08:43 GMT, "Bill Cole"
wrote:

noah,
You can stop posting, you can stop reading, you can point out how stupid it
is to use rec.boats to discuss politics, you can use a filter, it does not
matter. The people who enjoy using rec.boats as a mud pit will continue.

If you have not figured this out yet, you eventually will. While the name
of the group is rec.boats, that was just the reason why people started
reading the NG, the regulars are here to fight, to call names, to act like
fools. Chuck is one of the more reasonable regulars, but when he is
reasonable his posts are ignored. If he makes a post that says George Bush
is an idiot, it is guaranteed to generate a 200 plus responses.

You may not like my message, but don't shoot me, I am only the messenger.


Shoot you? Never!! My question was simply an open one, Bill.
Is rec.boats being whored so that self-involved people have a
political soap-box and anti-social outlet? Dr. Ruth or Dr. Phil could
staighten this out between commercials. YOU ALL NEED TO GET LAID!!!

Believe it or not, ANYONES reasonable posts are not ignored, but a lot
of people interested in boating just "move on". They don't want, and
don't have to, wade through this stuff. Read the threads.

Anyone can **** in a well, but then the water doesn't taste very good
afterwards. rec.boats is a well.
noah



"noah" wrote in message
.. .
On Wed, 03 Sep 2003 14:38:46 GMT, "Bill Cole"
wrote:

Chuck,
Your observations are accurate, while I used the word "trash" because it

was
in a post I had just read, the insults and name calling are equal on both
sides of the aisle. You would have to agree that the person who likes to
call people "trash" is one of the more rabid regulars. He may

occasionally
post a boating thread, he may contribute to a boating thread every now

and
then, but as he has admitted his real reason for posting here is to put

down
the right wing trash who come here.

There is nothing you and I can do to stop this,


Yes, there is.


there are too many people
who enjoy this blood sport. It is the reason most of the regulars read
rec.boats.


rec.boats.bloodsport?
It's not that hard to set up a group.


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
I am not complaining, I am making an observation. I have accepted the
fact
that the NG is a venue to discuss politics and make rabid accusations
concerning anyone who disagrees with your philosophy.

If I was moderating a NG would I would not allow the personal attacks

and
the off topic political discussion, because it does nothing towards
building
a community. It's only purpose is to divide the community. But, this

is
not a moderated NG, so all I am doing is making the observation that

the
majority of the regulars come here to argue and call each other

"trash".

Do you disagree with my observation?


I think you have a specific regular in mind when you use "trash" as the
commonly exchanged offensive moniker. My frank opinion is that you are
quicker
to criticize the left leaning OT posters than the right.
That has to be OK, since I am quicker to criticize the right leaners

than
the
left. We should all be aware that our own bias usually shows through.

I don't disagree entirely. I see redeeming value in most of the

posters,
from
both (or all) sides of most issues provided they have a genuine

interest
in
boats and boating. There have been several instances of posters who

appear
*only* to fire off anonymous flames and, when anybody calls them on

this
behavior they say "I could give a rip about boating, I'm only here

because
you
have some GD liberals (or conservatives) that require my enlightened
flaming."

You can't have a viable boating NG if a large percentage of the
participants
don't own a boat, (or own a boat but never use it), and don't care

aboat
boating one way or the other. What are these people going to talk

about?
Certainly won't be boats or boating.

Boaters have the option to post on topic or off. Non-boaters have

nothing
of
substance to contribute on topic, beyond the "I'm looking for a boat

and
need
opinions on.........." type of thread.

Anybody who feels like a helpless victim of the NG content should

consider
bringing more on-topic ideas to the forum.

One of the reasons you don't see more "pros" posting here is that the
first
time anybody in the engine business or brokerage business or accessory

and
supply business mentions a product or service that they perform and are
therefore
extremely familiar with, one of two or three "usual suspects" will get

on
that
person's case about spamming the NG. Were you around when Dave Brown
posted
here? There's a good example. Very good outboard mechanic, and a
gentleman.
Everytime he said "boo" he was subjected to a relentless onslaught of
flaming
from an individual poster who had a low opinion of a brand of outboard
motors
he sold in his shop and who had a differing opinion of the
technology associated with those engines.
The flaming went well beyond the engine technology, with Dave's

personal
morals
and ethics being challenged because he would dare sell such a

"defective"
product.
He must have been called "spammer" a thousand times. One poster

announced
an
intention to drive Dave Brown from the NG, and crowed about "victory"

when
it
was finally accomplished.

Even Peggie Hall has had to endure some
harsh, mean spirited, criticism for offering advise on her areas of
expertise.
Has always been an odd double standard: If you work as a truck driver,
radio
repairman, shoe salesman, plant manager, or accountant, your opinion on
some
technical aspect of boating is welcomed by all. If you actually make a
living
in the field and dare to post anything based on your professional
experience,
expect to be
loudly criticized for "spamming."


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Most of the on topic posts are done by newbie's stumbling in. They
have
no
idea rec.boats is all about politics. The regulars are the ones

who
turn
the on topic posts into off topic posts and start the majority of

the
off
topic threads.

How many of the 45 on-topic threads did you originate?

The regulars can't complain about a lack of on-topic threads if they
don't
start any.














Gould 0738 September 4th 03 02:39 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
Where did I blame the political threads solely on the left or the right?

When you said that Gould, Harry, and jps
had screwed up the newsgroup? When you said that liberals brought "filth and
disrespect" to this public forum?


I blamed you for throwing stones in your glass house.


Jim, I'll proudly compare my ratio of personal attacks and insults vs. civil
discussion with your own, any day.

Why do you try to make this personal all the time? It isn't. You're nothing in
my life- a (constantly changing, often bogus) name on a screen. I should be
nothing in yours. Discussions should center on ideas, not the imagined personal
defects of people we don't know and will never meet.
IMO.

noah September 4th 03 02:43 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
On 04 Sep 2003 00:46:54 GMT, (Gould 0738) wrote:

The regulars can't complain about a lack of on-topic threads if they don't
start any.


I disagree.

I **look** for newbie posts, to see if I can help somebody out. If I
can, or think I can, I respond. About 1 in 1000, I start a thread,
and only the boaters respond: which is OK by me.

rec.boats.lounge

noah


Fine, but are you then complaining about a lack of on-topic threads? I don't
maintain that everybody has to start on-topic threads, but it does seem
inconsistent that manyh people who virtually never begin an on-topic thread
then complain about a lack of same.


Chuck, I know there are whiners. My base observation is that
rec.boats is more about politics-- no: political bashing and
personal insult, than it is about boats.

The regs control the "flavor" of the group. What's it taste like?

I respect you and quite a few other regs in the group, but I am
puzzled about the willingness of some to OT it to death.

noah

Jim September 4th 03 02:48 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 

"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Where did I blame the political threads solely on the left or the right?


When you said that Gould, Harry, and jps
had screwed up the newsgroup? When you said that liberals brought "filth and
disrespect" to this public forum?


And I was wrong?



I blamed you for throwing stones in your glass house.


Jim, I'll proudly compare my ratio of personal attacks and insults vs. civil
discussion with your own, any day.


You have been posting here far longer than me. Anyone can see your noise to signal
ratio is quite high. At least I have been honest about it. Your approach has
been.."Who, me?"

Regardless, you were the one claiming innocence in this whole thing when it was likely
you and Harry that brought it on (the demise of the NG).


Why do you try to make this personal all the time?


I did not. You did.

Glass house = no stones thrown.

Got it?


noah September 4th 03 02:59 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
On 04 Sep 2003 00:34:11 GMT, 123 (Butch Ammon) wrote:

I have kept my own political views (and they are views that I hold dear) out

of
this newsgroup--but if someone were to call me "light in the loafers" for

being
a Democrat, or a "fascist" for being a Republican, I'd immediately lose

interest
in any sort of participation here.

I don't think I'm alone in that respect.

Joe Parsons
FWIW


Joe, I respect that opinion.
noah


...Sounds exactly how I feel too! I have stepped away from this NG more than a
few times.

My interest is freshwater lake boating and try to see where I would fit in. I
have drifted off topic a few times as well (guily as charged...) and mentioned
my beliefs and political opinions once and got ripped to shreds by a few
people. Like, I'm some horrible evil creature because:

* I am a moderate, conservative, middle of the road republican.
* I am an outdoorsman, fisherman, hunter, etc...
* Heck, I go to a Presbyterian church on occasion too. Does that make me a bad
person?

Let's get back to boating and enjoying the outdoors on the water.

Butch Ammon


Butch- I have always enjoyed your posts, and pictures. The group may,
or may not, change, but I hope you'll continue to post here. You seem
to love boats, and so do I.

I'm thinking of buying a "mud motor" for my jon boat for duck hunting,
and nobody in my area knows anything about them. I also just bought a
'30-.06 Browning auto for deer season. Haven't hunted deer from a
boat in years. :o) ...just kidding about the boat...

This group, for the years that I have been here, is good. You might
need to sort through the fertilizer.

My belief is that politics does not matter when you turn the key, and
the damned thing starts. It's all good after that.

Thanks for the reply.
noah

Butch Ammon September 4th 03 03:21 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
...Sounds exactly how I feel too! I have stepped away from this NG more
than a
few times.

My interest is freshwater lake boating and try to see where I would fit in.

I
have drifted off topic a few times as well (guily as charged...) and

mentioned
my beliefs and political opinions once and got ripped to shreds by a few
people. Like, I'm some horrible evil creature because:

* I am a moderate, conservative, middle of the road republican.
* I am an outdoorsman, fisherman, hunter, etc...
* Heck, I go to a Presbyterian church on occasion too. Does that make me a

bad
person?

Let's get back to boating and enjoying the outdoors on the water.

Butch Ammon


Butch- I have always enjoyed your posts, and pictures. The group may,
or may not, change, but I hope you'll continue to post here. You seem
to love boats, and so do I.


Exactly. I'm happy in a small 12' aluminum fishing boat with a 6hp OB, just as
I would be happy out on the Chesapeake in a 36' cruiser. Heck, I'd be happy
paddling a canoe on a quiet pond or river somewhere.

I'm thinking of buying a "mud motor" for my jon boat for duck hunting,
and nobody in my area knows anything about them. I also just bought a
'30-.06 Browning auto for deer season. Haven't hunted deer from a
boat in years. :o) ...just kidding about the boat...


That's cool about the 30-06! I don't own a high power rifle, but have a nice
PSE compound bow all setup and ready for deer season. My Remington 870 12GA is
all set for early goose season, and I'm going to meet up with a bunch of guys
on a 300 acre farm hopefully this weekend or next week. Word has it the farmer
has about 1000 Canadian geese landing in his fields and trashing the place and
pooping all over. He put the word out: "Come get these darn things off my
farm!". The guys and myself all responded, "Sure thing. Say the word, and
we're there to help, er, uh, "alleviate" the overabundance of geese.

This group, for the years that I have been here, is good. You might
need to sort through the fertilizer.

My belief is that politics does not matter when you turn the key, and
the damned thing starts. It's all good after that.

Thanks for the reply.
noah


Hey, anytime... I have my AOL newsreader filters setup to filter out "OT"
stuff and a few others.

Take care.

Butch Ammon


Gould 0738 September 4th 03 05:11 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
And I was wrong?

Sorry, that's a different question. You asked, "When did I blame the OT posts
solely on the left or the right?" When I provide a factual answer, switching
the question is a weak tactic.

You have been posting here far longer than me. Anyone can see your noise to
signal
ratio is quite high. At least I have been honest about it. Your approach has
been.."Who, me?"


Regardless, you were the one claiming innocence in this whole thing when it
was likely
you and Harry that brought it on (the demise of the NG).


Likely? What happened to certainly?
But if you think something is screwed up, just look for the closest liberal and
point fingers, right?

I don't claim "innocence." I claim, with justification, to refrain from cheap
shot name calling moreso than most.

Why do you try to make this personal all the time?


I did not. You did.


No, not true. You are the party posting comments in the newsgroup specifically
evaluating, by name, your impressions of other parties' behavior. You are the
individual who makes indirect third party comments about "old Chuck this, and
old Chuck that...." in other threads.

My failure to respond in kind doesn't mean that I don't hold an opinion of you,
just that it isn't important when discussing the subjects at hand.

Trot out the best ideas you've got. But we'll all be better off if you leave
the flames and insults at home. True, there are others here who flame
repeatedly. You have expressed your disdain for that behavior.
Why then, would you choose to emulate it?

Who knows, "with enough work, you just might come around." :-)

Bill Cole September 4th 03 11:22 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
The people who come here to discuss politics, religion, abortion or who "yo
momma" did last night, understand that they are chasing away those who come
here to discuss boats. All of this boat discussion distracts the regulars
from their real reason for coming here,

By the way, did I tell you recently that you are a "stupid liar" and a
hatemonger, whose political beliefs are right wing communism? ; )


"noah" wrote in message
...
On Thu, 04 Sep 2003 01:08:43 GMT, "Bill Cole"
wrote:

noah,
You can stop posting, you can stop reading, you can point out how stupid

it
is to use rec.boats to discuss politics, you can use a filter, it does

not
matter. The people who enjoy using rec.boats as a mud pit will

continue.

If you have not figured this out yet, you eventually will. While the

name
of the group is rec.boats, that was just the reason why people started
reading the NG, the regulars are here to fight, to call names, to act

like
fools. Chuck is one of the more reasonable regulars, but when he is
reasonable his posts are ignored. If he makes a post that says George

Bush
is an idiot, it is guaranteed to generate a 200 plus responses.

You may not like my message, but don't shoot me, I am only the messenger.


Shoot you? Never!! My question was simply an open one, Bill.
Is rec.boats being whored so that self-involved people have a
political soap-box and anti-social outlet? Dr. Ruth or Dr. Phil could
staighten this out between commercials. YOU ALL NEED TO GET LAID!!!

Believe it or not, ANYONES reasonable posts are not ignored, but a lot
of people interested in boating just "move on". They don't want, and
don't have to, wade through this stuff. Read the threads.

Anyone can **** in a well, but then the water doesn't taste very good
afterwards. rec.boats is a well.
noah



"noah" wrote in message
.. .
On Wed, 03 Sep 2003 14:38:46 GMT, "Bill Cole"
wrote:

Chuck,
Your observations are accurate, while I used the word "trash" because

it
was
in a post I had just read, the insults and name calling are equal on

both
sides of the aisle. You would have to agree that the person who likes

to
call people "trash" is one of the more rabid regulars. He may

occasionally
post a boating thread, he may contribute to a boating thread every now

and
then, but as he has admitted his real reason for posting here is to

put
down
the right wing trash who come here.

There is nothing you and I can do to stop this,

Yes, there is.


there are too many people
who enjoy this blood sport. It is the reason most of the regulars

read
rec.boats.

rec.boats.bloodsport?
It's not that hard to set up a group.


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
I am not complaining, I am making an observation. I have accepted

the
fact
that the NG is a venue to discuss politics and make rabid

accusations
concerning anyone who disagrees with your philosophy.

If I was moderating a NG would I would not allow the personal

attacks
and
the off topic political discussion, because it does nothing towards
building
a community. It's only purpose is to divide the community. But,

this
is
not a moderated NG, so all I am doing is making the observation

that
the
majority of the regulars come here to argue and call each other

"trash".

Do you disagree with my observation?


I think you have a specific regular in mind when you use "trash" as

the
commonly exchanged offensive moniker. My frank opinion is that you

are
quicker
to criticize the left leaning OT posters than the right.
That has to be OK, since I am quicker to criticize the right leaners

than
the
left. We should all be aware that our own bias usually shows

through.

I don't disagree entirely. I see redeeming value in most of the

posters,
from
both (or all) sides of most issues provided they have a genuine

interest
in
boats and boating. There have been several instances of posters who

appear
*only* to fire off anonymous flames and, when anybody calls them on

this
behavior they say "I could give a rip about boating, I'm only here

because
you
have some GD liberals (or conservatives) that require my enlightened
flaming."

You can't have a viable boating NG if a large percentage of the
participants
don't own a boat, (or own a boat but never use it), and don't care

aboat
boating one way or the other. What are these people going to talk

about?
Certainly won't be boats or boating.

Boaters have the option to post on topic or off. Non-boaters have

nothing
of
substance to contribute on topic, beyond the "I'm looking for a boat

and
need
opinions on.........." type of thread.

Anybody who feels like a helpless victim of the NG content should

consider
bringing more on-topic ideas to the forum.

One of the reasons you don't see more "pros" posting here is that

the
first
time anybody in the engine business or brokerage business or

accessory
and
supply business mentions a product or service that they perform and

are
therefore
extremely familiar with, one of two or three "usual suspects" will

get
on
that
person's case about spamming the NG. Were you around when Dave Brown
posted
here? There's a good example. Very good outboard mechanic, and a
gentleman.
Everytime he said "boo" he was subjected to a relentless onslaught

of
flaming
from an individual poster who had a low opinion of a brand of

outboard
motors
he sold in his shop and who had a differing opinion of the
technology associated with those engines.
The flaming went well beyond the engine technology, with Dave's

personal
morals
and ethics being challenged because he would dare sell such a

"defective"
product.
He must have been called "spammer" a thousand times. One poster

announced
an
intention to drive Dave Brown from the NG, and crowed about

"victory"
when
it
was finally accomplished.

Even Peggie Hall has had to endure some
harsh, mean spirited, criticism for offering advise on her areas of
expertise.
Has always been an odd double standard: If you work as a truck

driver,
radio
repairman, shoe salesman, plant manager, or accountant, your opinion

on
some
technical aspect of boating is welcomed by all. If you actually make

a
living
in the field and dare to post anything based on your professional
experience,
expect to be
loudly criticized for "spamming."


"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Most of the on topic posts are done by newbie's stumbling in.

They
have
no
idea rec.boats is all about politics. The regulars are the ones

who
turn
the on topic posts into off topic posts and start the majority

of
the
off
topic threads.

How many of the 45 on-topic threads did you originate?

The regulars can't complain about a lack of on-topic threads if

they
don't
start any.
















Butch Ammon September 5th 03 07:10 PM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
Once I got to my spot, behind a small island, I heard the "first
flight" honking it's way down the river behind me, and popped the
leader. Small pleasures keep the idiots happy. :o)

I've never hunted goose in a field, but it sounds like less work and
more fun. Enjoy!

noah


Hey Noah,

Goose hunting in a farmers field is way better than on water from a boat.
Instead of a dozen or so geese flying in, you'll see 100-200 geese on a field!
They are everywhere and just standing around, eating up crops and pieces of
corn kernels and creating a nuisance not to mention a mess to the field.

Take care.

Butch Ammon

Harry Krause September 6th 03 12:51 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
Butch Ammon wrote:

Once I got to my spot, behind a small island, I heard the "first
flight" honking it's way down the river behind me, and popped the
leader. Small pleasures keep the idiots happy. :o)

I've never hunted goose in a field, but it sounds like less work and
more fun. Enjoy!

noah


Hey Noah,

Goose hunting in a farmers field is way better than on water from a boat.
Instead of a dozen or so geese flying in, you'll see 100-200 geese on a field!
They are everywhere and just standing around, eating up crops and pieces of
corn kernels and creating a nuisance not to mention a mess to the field.

Take care.

Butch Ammon


It's sad to watch you devolve, Butch, truly it is. It takes a truly
brave man to shoot a goose.



--
* * *
email sent to will *never* get to me.


Jim September 6th 03 12:59 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 

"Harry Krause" wrote in message
...
Butch Ammon wrote:

Once I got to my spot, behind a small island, I heard the "first
flight" honking it's way down the river behind me, and popped the
leader. Small pleasures keep the idiots happy. :o)

I've never hunted goose in a field, but it sounds like less work and
more fun. Enjoy!

noah


Hey Noah,

Goose hunting in a farmers field is way better than on water from a boat.
Instead of a dozen or so geese flying in, you'll see 100-200 geese on a field!
They are everywhere and just standing around, eating up crops and pieces of
corn kernels and creating a nuisance not to mention a mess to the field.

Take care.

Butch Ammon


It's sad to watch you devolve, Butch, truly it is. It takes a truly
brave man to shoot a goose.


OMG. It is a sport, just like fishing.

I catching a fish and eating it is different in your eyes?

Do you eat meat Harry?

Your PITA membership is up for renewal. Eh?


Bill Cole September 6th 03 01:04 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
Harry,
It truly takes a brave man to catch and kill a fish.


"Harry Krause" wrote in message
...
Butch Ammon wrote:

Once I got to my spot, behind a small island, I heard the "first
flight" honking it's way down the river behind me, and popped the
leader. Small pleasures keep the idiots happy. :o)

I've never hunted goose in a field, but it sounds like less work and
more fun. Enjoy!

noah


Hey Noah,

Goose hunting in a farmers field is way better than on water from a

boat.
Instead of a dozen or so geese flying in, you'll see 100-200 geese on a

field!
They are everywhere and just standing around, eating up crops and pieces

of
corn kernels and creating a nuisance not to mention a mess to the field.

Take care.

Butch Ammon


It's sad to watch you devolve, Butch, truly it is. It takes a truly
brave man to shoot a goose.



--
* * *
email sent to will *never* get to me.




Bill Cole September 6th 03 02:25 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
It sounds to me that Harry only wants people to enjoy the same things he
enjoys. He does not hunt, so you should not hunt. He enjoy fishing, hence
it is ok. He votes democratic, if you vote Republican you are trash.
Sounds very simple.

"Butch Ammon" wrote in message
...
Harry,
It truly takes a brave man to catch and kill a fish.


Exactly....

I remember sociology class in high school and anthropology. Man is either

a
hunter or a gatherer. I discovered what hunting is all about and enjoy it

and
enjoy being out among nature too.

I don't understand how I could "devolve" - that doesn't make sense. I go
fishing and eat fish. I now go hunting and eat the meat too. Depending

on how
it's prepared, goose breasts taste exactly like a Thanksgiving turkey -

except
it's all dark meat.

I think Harry will really be saddened to hear that I went to the seminar

at
Fort A.P.Hill here in Virginia and got my deer permit for the base this

coming
season. Venison steaks will be for dinner!

Butch Ammon




Gould 0738 September 6th 03 02:37 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
I think Harry will really be saddened to hear that I went to the seminar at
Fort A.P.Hill here in Virginia and got my deer permit for the base this
coming
season. Venison steaks will be for dinner!

Butch Ammon



Deer hunting? Maybe your deer are bigger, meaner, and warier back east but
shooting a deer out west here anymore is like gunning down the neighbor's pet
goat.
Darn things are all semi-tame. They are so acclimated to people that about half
of them come up and beg for snacks when they see human beings. There was
probably something to the "sport" at one time, but most of the deer around here
are not much bigger than (and no more clever than) a typical petting-zoo goat.

Jim September 6th 03 03:05 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 

"Bill Cole" wrote in message
news:THa6b.369894$o%2.166159@sccrnsc02...
It sounds to me that Harry only wants people to enjoy the same things he
enjoys. He does not hunt, so you should not hunt. He enjoy fishing, hence
it is ok. He votes democratic, if you vote Republican you are trash.
Sounds very simple.


As I said before, Harry lives in his own black and white world...no room for gray.

In his little mind you are either with him or against him.

A sad world to live in.


Butch Ammon September 6th 03 03:26 AM

The problem with these off-topic, political threads...
 
I think Harry will really be saddened to hear that I went to the seminar at
Fort A.P.Hill here in Virginia and got my deer permit for the base this
coming
season. Venison steaks will be for dinner!

Butch Ammon



Deer hunting? Maybe your deer are bigger, meaner, and warier back east but
shooting a deer out west here anymore is like gunning down the neighbor's pet
goat.
Darn things are all semi-tame. They are so acclimated to people that about
half
of them come up and beg for snacks when they see human beings. There was
probably something to the "sport" at one time, but most of the deer around
here
are not much bigger than (and no more clever than) a typical petting-zoo
goat.


Some of the deer in Virginia (western part around the Blue Ridge Mts and
Skyline drive areas) are HUGE... Massive 16 point bucks that can easily weigh
as much as a full grown man. The rest of Virginia has ordinary, common, deer
herds. They are not tame, but are starting to venture more and more into urban
areas and trash people's gardens - and get hit by cars!

I don't exactly "shoot" deer, as in using a rifle - I don't own a rifle. But I
have a big compound bow with 65 lbs of pull to it, and merely launch an arrow
at a deer. It's more sporty that way - you have to get REAL CLOSE to a deer
too.

Butch Ammon


All times are GMT +1. The time now is 08:25 PM.

Powered by vBulletin® Copyright ©2000 - 2024, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.
Copyright ©2004 - 2014 BoatBanter.com