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Rant/Rave: Return of the Wildcard?

Posted 23 months ago|342 comments|5,197 views
Who will be back?
Written by
Hear at Rant/Rave we have had some knock-down slug-it-outs that have left us without a few major players... and it's not as "fun" without them! I want them back. Could it be that I for one have gone too far in my right to be right? Something in me likes a good scrap... yet not at the cost of loosing the privilege of learning from my opponent. So, I was hoping we could bring back a "wildcard" ...a player from the recent past that has kissed-off Rant/Rave in search of greener pastures.

What will it take to get them back? I mean not get back at them... some of you are just dying for that chance. NO, really... what would it take for us to vote back a wayward writer with wandering wit? Apologies? Major butt-kissin? What? Well, let's vote on who we call back... and who needs to make the amends... that way, we will woo wrecked writers with winsome writ. What wo.. I mead DO you think?

1) make a list of who you want back
2) and who you want to make amends to them
3) or have to write the apology that the Wildcard wants

Send this out to all Rant/Ravers... active and non, happy or sad, gruntled and disgruntled... let's see what will happen when we try and bring back a "Wildcard".
UPDATE - 23 months ago
PLEASE provide links to authors you mention, so that we all can enjoy a read of their work... that is if it still exists. THANKS
UPDATE - 23 months ago
I just learned that some "guys" on this site are using multiple personas... is it too late to change the name to "TOSS THE JOKERS"?
UPDATE - 13 months ago
"Don't Waste Your Life" by John Piper
http://dwynrhh6bluza.cloudfront.net/reso...
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COMMENTS
Altruist
Altruist
Eugene, OR
23 months ago: Good idea but this is a sort of chicken and egg proposition. Is it good writers that attract readers, or is it having a lot of readers that attract the writers?

I think that it is sad that apparently we only have about 30 full time readers to RR out of an entire nation. Why is that? I think a lot of the readership was turned off by the endless name calling and vitriol on the site, and the articles that were used for religious proselytizing turned off a lot of people.

One of my favorite writers was Hey Noni Noni. He was a great writer and also a tireless researcher that would back up all of his propositions with endless research. I think what turned him off to the site was that he would make arguments backed up by facts and research but would be responded to with name calling and vitriol.

Good useful dialog needs to be between intelligent protagonists willing to do the research and willing to use facts to bolster their arguments. I generally disagree with everything that Out Of The Box proposes but at least he comes up with some articles to back up his side of the argument. I like Red and he often makes comments on articles, but then he also is prone to just saying that all liberals are nuts, which doesn't further the dialog at all.

Rudi Steiner is a wonderful writer, and he is still listed as # 4 for the week but he has only written two articles in the last four months. How does that work?
23 months ago: Al,

Some of the "proselytizing" you are talking about is no worse than the republican bashing and democrat proselytizing some do... always out for a political dig, I think it is fair. IF someone has something they believe... yell it from the roof-tops... but don't blame others for doing the same.

IF there are links to some of the authors you are referring to, please share.
22 months ago: Get real Albert. This is an opinion site. If you want to read go to a library. People come here for the fun of the battle. You never figured that one out.
23 months ago: Personally speaking. I wish to read Siempre Solo's work! I heard so much about him and yet read so little to substantiate his Rant Rave renowned fame. It could be that he cancelled his account several times thus erasing his legacy but if he has the gusto then he would come back and stand his ground otherwise what are other writers supposed to use for inspiration?
23 months ago: Remember in the movie Animal House when Dean Wormer put the frat on double secret probation. Belushi and the rest of the boys (and girls) start sneezing and coughing and saying "Bull $&#%!".

I'm doing it here now.
22 months ago: No kidding Red. Someone that is wishing to re-invent themself is a load of "Bull Siempre"! I bet if DJ is true to his word. His account will vanish when Siempre III returns. Have you taken a good look at how he has refined his artwork? Too bad an artist can never lose the subtleties that define their work.
23 months ago: The only folks I really miss who were regular contributors are Rudi, Jakarta, Scottmanster and Chrissy.

If anyone was offended by anything religious, political or otherwiseand left for that reason, that's their problem. Grow up, get a spine and stick up for what you know is right.

If it wears on you take a break don't take a powder.
23 months ago: ...Gregoire too... :(
sunny2
sunny2
22 months ago: Jakarta wrote the other day.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: There are some people who attack but go for the juggler. I can take pretty much anything but hateful people I can tolerate only so long.
Those people should be made not to cross the line. It would be nice to have more women express their points of view. I was going to get off of here a few times, but I really like some of you, and I learn from your views. You are good mentors. Anytime a woman gets on this site, she has a battle on her hands from being insulted. That one masked man who taunts me is out of control.
22 months ago: Sunny, spit it out. Who taunts you? How can you ever expect to be equal if your not ready to poke them back in the eye?
Altruist
Altruist
Eugene, OR
23 months ago: I agree that the site would be much better off if we could encourage the fair sex, the other half of the world, to participate.

The guys get their egos too involved. It would be nice to discuss issues on their merits and eliminate name calling and verbal (written) abuse.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: At least you see that Altruist.
Thank you.
markbyrn
markbyrn
 Moderator
23 months ago: ..if we could encourage the fair sex..

Don't sell the fair sex short Al - me thinks women are just as adept as men at making words cut like a knife or otherwise holding their own when it comes to passionate debate. In fact, check this out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=okHGCz6xx...
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Thanks Mark. You impress me as looking the other way. You should give people a chance. It is mostly one sided or can't you see that. So why say that at all. I came here after seeing an interview on the Ed Schultz Show. I'm a big fan of him, Chris Mathews, and Cenk. I'm also a fan of a lot of these writers.
23 months ago: Al,

FAIR sex? Who said sex was fair? !:]
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Truth so what about Anthony Weiner, should he resign?
Who said that was fair. Seems woman get a bad deal with these politicians and their powerful egos. I liked this guy at one time. He showed passion for his work which one doesn't see too often. Now look what we got. How many more are like him.
sunny2
sunny2
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sunny2
sunny2
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23 months ago: Sunny,

...just trying to be funny, however it is true that women can get the blame for men not being men... that goes back to the Garden of Eden. IF Adam was have the man he proved.. there would have been one less snake, and a better world to live in.
23 months ago: Weiner?

Don't know much about him, but his name seems to say it all !:]
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: The Congressman from NY.
He turned into one.
sunny2
sunny2
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markbyrn
markbyrn
 Moderator
23 months ago: For the Rant Rave regulars, I don't think it's a matter of getting offended and leaving. From my own observation, those who really get hooked on Rant Rave and become prodigious contributors (be it articles and/or commenting) often get terminal 'game' fatigue and tend to crash and burn. The key is to pace oneself or take periodic breaks to ensure longevity.

As for those who go for the jugular, it's kind of the nature of the Rant Rave beast but I think we're down right civil compared to the constant streams of obscenity laced tirades and threats of violence that I've observed on the broader Internet.
sunny2
sunny2
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23 months ago: Mark,

I have to agree... I hope that's not going to mess stuff up!
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Truth mess what up?
23 months ago: Sunny,

...if I start agreeing with Mark,
my whole reason for being here is going to fall apart !:]
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Truth...You help people. Good reason to be here.
I don't know what Mark is talking about half the time. He is tricky.
I'll never agree with him. Maybe instead of using the word fairer sex the word should have been "gentler." Although, Al, is right.
Not all of us are rough tough bawdy woman that fits into Mark's description of using words that he described... cut like a knife. I don't like that. Especially, since I have to put my boxing gloves on because of some of the low lives baiting me.
21 months ago: Fairer sex? Whoever invented that term was a liar.

Nothing is "fair" about females except maybe their skin and even that is tough!

Gentler my butt!! Just do some research and see which sex is capable of what.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: When I saw one of the people from RantRave on the Ed Schultz Show, I thought that this was a real good thing. Ed had them on. Big Red is a really respectable person and fights for the people. This was the time that the 99ers were going through a lot. Where are the 99ers? They left. I thought RantRave was better than the rest and people could talk about their differences. There has to be some reason people leave. You have to accept that some people are over the top in being rude. You don't have to use obscenities to be low as dirt.
Out Of The Box
Out Of The Box
 Moderator
23 months ago: Sunny

Who from RantRave was on the Ed Schultz show? Do we have a real celebrity amongst us?
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Box...I don't remember the name. I was really impressed by him though.
22 months ago: Sunny? You ask where the 99'ers went? Maybe they lost their money stream when caught. Try this little test. Take a look at the link to all posts and change the filter from most recent to most popular. Look to see who and what shows up. It is clear that most of them were gaming the site. It is not hard to miss if you take the time to look.

Here is the link if you don't have time...

http://www.rantrave.com/category/1/all/p...

Just look at the names and topics on the first 10 pages to get a feel for what happened with the PPC work-at-home crowd.
sunny2
sunny2
22 months ago: Sorry, Cypress, I just saw your post. I'll look at it. Sunny
Out Of The Box
Out Of The Box
 Moderator
23 months ago: Jak Gladney and HeyNoniNoni were a couple of my favorite nemeses.

One thing has changed on RantRave. The archive only goes back 12 months, and if you don't know a specific author's name, it's pretty much impossible to see his work, unless he gets back into the top ten list, like ChrisD and Celebcrazy have done recently.
BruceDPrice
BruceDPrice
Virginia Beach, VA
23 months ago: Could we have an update on how Google is treating this site. Isn't that part of the reason some writers drifted off?
23 months ago: Yeah. An update would be nice.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Bruce you always have such worthwhile comments and narratives.
I enjoy reading what you have to say.
There isn't enough of it generated on here.
23 months ago: How about "Justlogic" ...it seems we really had a scrap the last time I heard from him, that guy really knew how to drop the gloves!
Out Of The Box
Out Of The Box
 Moderator
23 months ago: Here's a few
One of my favs, very witty guy, eloquent and loquacious
http://www.rantrave.com/profile/Gregoire...

Also eloquent, but a bit left wing for my tastes
http://www.rantrave.com/profile/JAK-Glad...

Down to earth, firm grip on reality, clear headed and concise
http://www.rantrave.com/profile/Jakarta9...

An open minded conundrum, fits no molds or stereotype
http://www.rantrave.com/profile/sixholde...

A good arguer, except he never admits when he is wrong
http://www.rantrave.com/profile/HeyNoniN...
TheLegendTomWing
TheLegendTomWing
 Administrator
 Philadelphia, PA
23 months ago: I agree, Jakarta is someone I miss.

Amishking http://rantrave.com/profile/amishking.as... (he seems to come and go, as I do, burn out, as described above)

ColoranterRaver is back, but that wouldve been on the list.

Elguapo http://rantrave.com/profile/elguapo.aspx, Chris D (who no longer works for RR, thus no longer posts) http://rantrave.com/profile/Chris-D.aspx,

Rudi, http://rantrave.com/profile/Rudi-Stettne... (he seems to come and go as well, writes somewhere else, i won't post the name here, but you can google if you're interested).

I think losing Google news also hurt morale a bit, not that we were making tons of money, but the fact that you could see your stuff in the news was truly something special.
23 months ago: I agree with Mark and Tom, it is a combination of many things that has driven many of us from the site. Losing Google News and having that additional spotlight was a tough pill to swallow as well as the lack of administration going on with the site.

The Rant and Raves of the day seem to continue for a week at a time and not turned over daily making the site stale. I stuck around for a little while hoping that it was just a phase the site was going through but I'm afraid that Alex and the new baby as well as "other projects" he is involved in has let RR sit on the backburner.

I'm going to keep checking in with RR and drop a Rant of Rave in once in a while; however, without more administrative participation or new ownership I can't see RR moving past this stagnate state.

Good luck to all the contributors and let's hope that RR can bust through it's dulldrums and become a fun and robust site again...
23 months ago: Hang around please. Your contributions are appreciated.

We shall overcome...
TheLegendTomWing
TheLegendTomWing
 Administrator
 Philadelphia, PA
23 months ago: I think an easy solution to upkeep would be to allow someof the moderators admin privileges, that way the rant/rave of the day would change, etc
23 months ago: Marketing!

Mr. Layton aught to advertise this place as an opportunity maintain world peace. People can come YELL at Al and get it out of their system and be pleasant with their obnoxious something-in-law the next Sunday afternoon.

Another possibility that I've been kicking around in my limited mind is that we all, together, us rantravers write a book here. I figure we'd all have to waive any rights and let Mr. Layton have his way, but, we rantravers could write a historic book.

Think about it.
23 months ago: Red,

I think you have it... marketing is a big deal, and if everyone could do a bit in their own circles too, things might change exponentially.... like TCG and his efforts with Twitter.
22 months ago: My little twitter thing was an attempt to show Alex that it would increase traffic. I offered to setup the site on a automated feed to twitter and asked for the RSS feed address. He told me that they were not considering twitter as a tool. So, what would be better? Dying on the vine or rotting in the vegetable bowl? Either way you will attract a few flies.

Yep, every author I targeted made it to the front page within two days.

Who do you want to see next?
21 months ago: Cypress i think what you do with twitter is pretty cool and red you are right it is marketing.
the people behind rantrave need to market it better.
in the early part of this year that recipe lady spammed it so many times i think it drove people away and since the loss of the google news feed it closed that free marketing avenue.
21 months ago: Just wait. I'm working on a new set of victims...uh...rantravers. It's going to get real fun real fast when they kick into attack mode. No? Funny. Just watch the political posts.
21 months ago: Who? When? Will you annouce it here?
21 months ago: I just did. They can come out when they are ready. I'll just keep plugging away. It is not a following. I could give a rats rear about that as I already have RSG watching my back. Just start writing tons of political posts and see what happens. It is the beginning of the election cycle. Let's see how it ends.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Red...I like your ideas. It would make the site evolve. Maybe that's all it needs. just a few new ideas and some refreshing thoughts to throw out there. Maybe some essays on topics of interests would be a good starter on our beautiful Country. Maybe some contests.
I think the sharks need a good talking to either put up or shut up.
You're probably kidding, but I'm thinking something new would help get people back.
23 months ago: I went away for a bit because I got bored. I was also trying to start a new job. RantRave changed about the time of the Super Bowl spammer and all those recipes and all that nonsense. It seemed the haters were taking over and even I reacted with just a little bit of that hate too.

The RantRave staff seemed a little lax in controlling some of the name-calling and the flame replies. One member chastised me for using my real name and insinuated they were some sort of expert on security. That was until I put their e-mail address that they publish on their own web page into Facebook and found their real name. This same expert somehow found out my wife worked for the Police and said she must be helping me stalk them.

I don't know how they found that little tidbit out and makes me wonder who was really doing the stalking. Attacking me for my opinion is one thing, bringing my wife into the mix is way out of line.

RantRave also lost the GoogleNews feed and there went any incentive to get paid to post. Not, that making money of my posts was the reason I was on RantRave, it was not. However, it was a nice little extra that has since gone away.

I came back to RantRave to update a couple of my posts, one about the trouble I am still having with Wells Fargo and the other about 99'ers becoming 1099 self employed workers. My experience being a 1099 employee has not been great but it's the only type of job I've been offered lately.

As for how long I'll stay, who knows, but I wish it could go back to the way it was.
23 months ago: First I want to say you are all "crazy"…….. No that's not what I want to say, though some of you and me to some degree may fit that category. No I want to tell you all that you are the salt of the earth. You are great and noble warriors of a plane most people will never see or understand and do not ever cut yourself short (but don't get a big head either o.k. : )… Those of you who participate on a serious level here at RR are the ones who help provide a foundation for this country, as well as your communities. You are the truth seekers and if this world ever loses people like you it will be in trouble.

I think much of you guys and gals and I love Rant/ Rave. I have not been hurt or insulted in anyway but rather life has become more in depth for me in the last year or so and this has unfortunately put RR a bit lower on the priority list.
23 months ago: Cont..

I won't go into boring details but about a year ago I accepted a position with my company that has been a major undertaking and responsibility on my part. This has taken most of my time recently. Then my wife became pregnant at the end of last year only to have a miscarriage. Again she became pregnant in March of this year and we were so happy. Then about two months ago her mother passed away and we had to fly to Indonesia immediately. Well two days before we were to come back my wife had a "threatened miscarriage" and her and my daughter had to stay there until recovered. It has been a month and a half since I've seen them but I will be picking them up this morning from the airport (so I may not be back to this article anytime soon). My wife and the baby are doing better and I will need to spend some quality family time for a while.

I've stopped by RR at times and wanted to comment on articles but I do not like to do things half way. Knowing I can not participate at a very deep level I just don't feel it would be doing justice to the writers or the debaters to throw a few comments in here and there only to disappear. I am hoping that I can get back to spending some quality time here at RR and writing some more articles. I love this site and think the world of all of you whether I agree with your opinions or not, you are seeking the answers and you will find as time goes by that more and more people around you will look to you for direction. Let the truth be our professor…..
23 months ago: Jakarta99,

Thanks for the update, I haven't had the privilege of getting schooled by you yet...
looking forward... hope all things go good for you and your family!
23 months ago: Thank you for the kind words Truthbrary and for writing this post. It has encouraged me to try harder to work some RR time into the schedule.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Just to let you guys know, I voted for Sarah Palin and Mc Cain.
Not because I belong to any particular party, but I thought Mc Cain was more experienced, and this was a good opportunity for a woman.
I thought that she had a lot of energy and would be able to contribute.
It is good that you believe in her, and I hope she is given a chance again.
Only after everything that has been said and done, I couldn't find it in my heart to vote for her. Not that my opinion matters. I like Hillary because she is smart and has proven it. She never made the Presidency, but her husband did. There were rumors she would run. People win some and lose some, but they try. I still say I give Palin credit but not my vote. What is all the fuss about her?
Jakarta99's words are very refreshing to read. Nice Jakarta99
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: I'm disappointed in Mr. Obama, and it only takes one time to make someone feel that way.
He won't look the Americans in the eyes and tell them straight. Look at us what has happened to us. It doesn't seem that there is anyone there who is looking out for us as people. Americans are unhappy, without jobs, without homes. People are struggling and needing to get back on their feet. As a President he should come right out and address the people and let them know he is there for them through all this. Give them confidence back. In place of that, we have him supporting the Republican's demands. What have we gotten out of that action, more out of work. Whatever he did good doesn't make any difference. I still like the guy, and I just wish he could connect. People who have the jobs and everything else that goes along with it, aren't going to be sympathetic to any of the others that were effected by this economy. That's obvious. What's the difference anymore. No one has respect here for anyone's opinions but yet we are Americans and together in this. I give up.
23 months ago: That's what I'm talking about! We already have some new posts by writers that haven't for awhile... for the Sharks there's new blood in the water...
for the Remoras it's a FREE ride !:]
23 months ago: Let's see if we can dig up some older posters, like...

kiwibird
http://www.rantrave.com/profile/kiwibird...
23 months ago: Would it be possible for me to proof read your post? The opening sentence should start with here rather than hear. One is related to listening the other is related to a location.
23 months ago: girltaristhan,

Yeah... I saw that, nasty way of starting out a post... should have had my wife proof read it... thanks for the correction. I am surprised Markbyrn didn't catch it... he is my grammatical mentor! He probably did, he was just bored with all the things he has tried to help me set strait in my posts... and was glad someone else finally stepped in !:]
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: I think he knows that. It is what he says that has meaning.
I don't think anyone else cares or noticed. He has the personality and the intellect to make his point.

22 months ago: Great! Another professional editor. You probably will use the word colour instead of color. You couldn't figure it out without reading it more than once?
22 months ago: Thanks TCG,
I missed have your ability to weed-out anal-retentives !:]
22 months ago: I'll try to check in more often. Mom and I have been very busy with doctors and tests. TCG Jr. is being a real trooper. He makes me feel very small at times. But you know, God only places the amount of burden you can carry on your shoulders. Some can just carry more than others.
22 months ago: Thanks for stopping by!
23 months ago: Articles at Rant Rave get stagnant because they are long and drawn out as are the comments( I know I'm guilty of this) . The majority of the people who surf the net have small attention spans and would rather read short blurbs instead of in depth commentary. Perhaps if we could directly record videos onto Rant Rave instead of YouTube first and connect that to a rant no longer than one hundred words then it might make the content more accessible. But that sounds to much like any other YouTube wanna be, doesn't it?
23 months ago: DJ,

You said...

"Articles at Rant Rave get stagnant because they are long and drawn out as are the comments( I know I'm guilty of this)"

...we don't mind,
you seem to think you know what you are talking about !:]
23 months ago: lol :)
Ghost Rider 17
Ghost Rider 17
Methuen, MA
23 months ago: I've been out on a ship for a while, but I'd be willing to jump back in on the conversations if anything good comes up again. Where's TCG?
23 months ago: Hey, Glad you are still around!
22 months ago: Sorry. Been busy writing speeches for Rick Perry. You know...the in your face kind of stuff.
23 months ago: Speaking for myself, many of the conversations I am involved in pertain only to a single subject, for they are written by only a single writer. Terryeo is the online handle used by an agent of the Office of Special Affairs, if not multiple individuals.

It exists solely to spread propaganda and counter-propaganda as part of the Church of Scientology's agenda to create good PR and downplay bad PR. Similarly, I, and quite a few of those who no longer post here, are concerned only with countering their lies and exposing the truth of the cult. As evidenced by the lack of Scientology related postings for the past year, we have succeeded in preventing Rant/Rave from becoming another front from which they utter their falsehoods.

I have no other concern at this time with the subjects discussed here, and if I did participate it would be under a separate identity. Have no fear though, for Anonymous is vigilant and we shall return if we are needed. Thank you.
23 months ago: Anonymous Voice,

Would it help to keep you around if we could get a guest appearance from Tom Cruise?
23 months ago: ...but we have no Oprah sofa for him to jump on?
23 months ago: To the Noodle -

Are you still out there???
Ghost Rider 17
Ghost Rider 17
Methuen, MA
23 months ago: I'm pretty sure Noodle decided he was done with this once some of the arguing started being more annoying than funny. I'll talk to him and try to bring him back, though.
sunny2
sunny2
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sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Truth...It might be good to try to encourage new blood on this site. Some of the older writers who aren't on here any longer may have just gotten tired of the debates, ran out of things to say, or just moved on to a greener site. There has to be more human interests topics on a whole. Many issues are out there to talk about, yet it seems people steer clear of them. Technical discussions that only a few may be adept in don't always hit home to attract readers. Possibly if someone asked for debates on certain subjects, which there are plenty of in the media daily, would encourage people to write. This site should get away from the sharks who hinder it and are do their damage nesting on this site to those who have something of value to offer in what they say. There are a handful on here that are great, but it would be good to leave room for others to jump in to challenge your intellect. I'm having fun talking to all of you, but I also react to what I hear and see on the news that is worthy to talk about and generate discussions instead of yelling at the tv set or radio.
23 months ago: Sunny,

I have sent out many invites to anyone I could find that would allow a "contact" ...I have checked out many older rant/raves to find them... some have responded.. maybe it will take an official invite from Rant/Rave, seeing as they know all authors and can contact them... maybe all they need it the encouragement.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: That's positive. Why not? It would be interesting.
23 months ago: I agree with Sunny2. Every time I post a topic that is not political or religious in nature it gets 1 comment at the most. It seems like the only essays that get people interested are those that are controversial. I saw a video yesterday about an orangutan that saved a little bird from drowning but I bet if I posted a rave about it that it would get no comments! There is little subject diversity because the core membership is into hard core politicking and proselytizing. I too would like to see more human interest stories and product discussions.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Dwayne some people tell me not to comment or ignor me totally. I guess I can't help myself, so I don't care. These people, aside from yourself and a few other intelligent regulars, don't really say enough about their political views to make any real arguments. They kind of jump on other's coat tails.
See, I like the story of the orangutan and the bird. Something that Steve Irwin would talk about or Jeff Corwin, and it is human interests. This can have tons of informative information included with it. I went to a seminar on Earth Day a couple of years back and Jeff Corwin spoke. There were people in the audience that were competing with Jeff in his expedition travels and comparing it to their vacation travels. They were blowing their own horn when this guy supersedes the ordinary life. It was stupid to hear them glorify themselves, and they professed to be teachers. I find it here. I think here they tend to lean on each other and don't want anyone else brought into it because it can either be a macho thing and uncool within their circle. Looks like they are trying to impress each other. Not all of them feel that way but a few that are pretty miserable characters. If I get offended from them tossing me aside, than so do others. I won't take it and the boxing gloves go on. People should try to be more respectful on an open forum because it kills the site and they are causing it to happen. I don't think it has anything to do with Google that people left. People like to express themselves.

sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: There are so many topics to speak about, they should give it a chance.
"Build it and they will come" isn't that the phrase from the movie Field of Dreams. Of course, I'll be accused of saying weak metaphors by that one person who is a real meanie.
The fact is that's exactly what we have here. It is becoming less interesting with fewer people, and it has to be built up again with some new debates and interests. Even some of the regulars on here, don't answer or refuse to talk about anything else but what they are interested in; therefore, they are only keeping the site from evolving. Everything has to evolve.
23 months ago: DJ,

OR... maybe an orangutan saving a bird from drowning isn't that interesting?

BUT maybe if you added how a pet orangutan almost killed a woman...
http://www.thehour.com/story/465124

Or how an orangutan kills a cat...
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x9lt3_o...
Out Of The Box
Out Of The Box
 Moderator
23 months ago: Nah, more like these dancing monkeys

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmMSBn7gt...
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Ya know Dwayne is only making a point.
There are more things to talk about besides the same old thing over and over again. I really didn't mine Truth speaking about the Bible because it brought debate which was lively.
The problem is people run out of good things to talk about.
I'm sure if they had a chance to talk about fly fishing or deep sea fishing they would have a ball. More fun.
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23 months ago: TB,
I think I'll stick to the bird being saved story, thanks!
23 months ago: Outofthebox,
Now that I like! Why haven't you done this story yet?
23 months ago: Sunny2,

Thank you girl! At least you get me.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Any time.
23 months ago: OOTB,

Best dancing monkeys since Grease!
23 months ago: Sunny2,

Another key point you mentioned was diversity. It helps the site grow if the people participating both in writing the articles and commenting on them have a wide variety of interests. I for one am glad when I see women participate in this site because women tend to talk less about religion and politics than men do. Your contributions broaden the view of that subject and I appreciate that.
sunny2
sunny2
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sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: I was in the middle of testing when I answered you.
A good mix would be interesting.
It would be great to see some woman on here with their views.
23 months ago: I would like to see more from Stan Five. Ooops. I meant to sign in as Truthbrary.
23 months ago: It's hard to keep all my aliases organized !;]
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Just as long as you are not BC.
I have a few bones to pick with that one.
23 months ago: ...and what about Siempre Solo? Have I mentioned Siempre Solo lately? The only two people that still mention Siempre Solo are Red State Guy and the Cypress Gang!
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: A lot of things you guys poke fun of or make a joke over are popular in the media and are money making.
I would like to see more of a variety. Is that difficult? or are there no more options?
Everything on here that people contribute is very good and more so.
I like it, but no one discusses the headlines from day to day. There are a lot of things going on at this moment that no one pays attention to. There should be something for everyone. I still think the site is top notch.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Paper Tiger has a lot to offer.
I wish he would write more.
23 months ago: I agree Sunny,

Paper Tiger does have a lot to give... and has,
his transparency has humbled me... more than once!
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Truth I am so pleased with him too.
23 months ago: What happened to Gary Gutter?
http://www.rantrave.com/profile/Gary-Gut...
Mecca Anon
Mecca Anon
Clearwater, FL
23 months ago: Boring flame-wars were boring.
23 months ago: "flame-wars" ?
Out Of The Box
Out Of The Box
 Moderator
23 months ago: "Flaming, also known as bashing, is hostile and insulting interaction between Internet users.

A flame war results when one or more users engages in provocative responses to the originally posted flamebait."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flaming_%28...%29#.22Flame_wars.22

http://barb.velvet.com/humor/flaming.htm...
23 months ago: Gotcha!
...I was thinking a ref to flamboyant !:]

From French flamboyant ("flaming, wavy"), participle of flamboyer ("to flame"), from Old French flamboier, from flambe ("flame")
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/flamboyant
23 months ago: I would bring back felix mannow as some of you got in a lather about him And I got some lovelly emails about his chinese wisdom
Out Of The Box
Out Of The Box
 Moderator
23 months ago: Well, bring him on back then, Lion. Just remember which persona you are writing under this time. Hee hee.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Oh my God. That's funny.
23 months ago: Ooh, ooh, I know, I know Let's bring back Siempre Solo. IO don't thinkl anyone has mentioned Siempre lately! Someone mention Siempre Solo!

SOLO!!!!!!!!!!!!
23 months ago: Out,
i sure shot myself in the foot there after a few too many beers but that persona did get a few people in a lather that was quite funny.
Out Of The Box
Out Of The Box
 Moderator
23 months ago: Who was that Miss Scarlet wannabe that hailed from Austin? I can't remember the name, but that was kinda fun too. Do you still have that account open, SS?
23 months ago: No that account is closed. I have a bad habit of doing that. She was an experiment, but you are right she was fun to play with for awhile. Perhaps I should revive another similar persona without closing out Dwayne. Is that possible?
23 months ago: http://www.rantrave.com/Rave/Would-you-rather-talk-about-Wanda-or-Fantasia-Barrino.aspx

I found one of her Rants OOTB. Her name was Wanda. Have fun reading down memory lane. LOL
23 months ago: What is it with RantRave members having multiple accounts and multiple personas? I don't get it and I knew there were at least one or two here that were doing it.
23 months ago: CULLY,
I don't know about the others but I only have held one account at a time. It's true that there have been many but only one at a time.
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23 months ago: Like playing "christian"?
23 months ago: TB,
Do you like living in perpetual fear of an eternally burning hell? Don't lie to me. GeeZeus knows your "blood circulation organ"!
23 months ago: TB,
Do you actually think that is my intention? Nobody that writes on RantRave should be taken seriously. This is an opinion site. Geeze!
23 months ago: DJ,

I was thinking that there was a few different guys writing under the Dwayne Johnson persona... because sometimes you actually made sense !:]
23 months ago: TB,
If you haven't figured out by now then you soon will. I don't write here to get approval or garner support for my views. Some subjects of interest get more attention from me than others but I love to write primarily for sport.
22 months ago: Yeah. Right. DJ is SS
22 months ago: You sure are a Johnny come lately today Cypress. How Come and don't tell me you were writing speeches!
22 months ago: Does that not just TEA you off Siempre? You do know that silence means consent?
Mr. Multiple Accounts.
22 months ago: So what are you consenting too?
23 months ago: I have been inviting blasts from the past... be they one-time opinionists to forgotten rant/ravers posting only a few items. How I did this is Google search by month...
"www.rantrave.com 27 months" ...then just change the number of the month, it yields a random source of historical data on older posts, and their comments.

Some good stuff back then... I also have more respect for those awful "leftists" that were pioneers in drivel... and have lasted until now.... I guess any hope of them changing their views is either hopeless... or nearer than ever !:]
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23 months ago: Actually if you put "months" instead of "month" it is better:
Google search... "www.rantrave.com 21 months ago"
23 months ago: I just learned that some "guys" on this site are using multiple personas... is it too late to change the name to "TOSS THE JOKERS"?
Out Of The Box
Out Of The Box
 Moderator
23 months ago: Most of us have only one. The few who do use more than one usually leave their fingerprints all over the alternate, and will soon enough slip up. Confession, as they say, is good for the soul.
23 months ago: Well I could use another name and try to be a Conservative, but I think I would gag trying to say some of the things they say.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Sometimes when I write to people they seem as if they are someone else. It became somewhat baffling when I first started writing to all of you. I didn't understand Cypress Gang because one person sounded different than the others. People should be true to themselves and not try to fool others. It is more fun being an individual, and this group brings it out in people. I laugh at myself usually but some of these issues are serious and can't be answered in any other way or taken lightly because it can deeply hurt another person's feelings. Differences in opinions is what makes us.
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: Remember that Charlie Sheen thing. It wasn't him even though some of the phrasing of his manner of speaking seemed like him. I thought that was terrible because he came after me, and he was insulting using that guy's name and forced me to stand up for myself. I won't take that sort of thing.
22 months ago: What is to understand? One person sounded so different than the others?
Somehow you make the others look like they are contestants in a Beauty Pagent.
sunny2
sunny2
22 months ago: Maybe they are?
sunny2
sunny2
23 months ago: I don't know if I have any other personalities that I could create. I'm thinking I'm boring.
Felix Mannow
Felix Mannow
England
22 months ago: sunny sound like someone else on here
sunny2
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22 months ago: I'm not looking to be flashy or make noise to get attention. I've practiced being a real person my entire life. I won't accept less than that from myself.
Yesterday I spent the day out on the beautiful green/blue ocean watching the dolphins swim free but at the same time being protected.
Maybe this site should take a lesson from that Cypress.
I don't have to poke some people back when they are trying to be insulting, I let them give themselves away. Many claim they are educated but yet I see through it and how short sighted they are while they bash others. They like to pat themselves on the back. Too bad they aren't smart enough to see it because their own self importance gets in their way. When I have to put up a good fight, I'll do it on my own terms. Some things are not worth it to me or mean anything to me at all. I only speak out on subjects that are important and hold my ground. You forget I was raised by a Marine. I'm as equal as it gets. Okay Cypress.
sunny2
sunny2
22 months ago: Cypress No, I don't want an avatar.
And you can't tell me what to do.
22 months ago: Wasn't trying to.
22 months ago: Back in all my glory? Sorry. Just giving TB what he asked for in this thread.
It's hard to pass up such a target rich environment. Maybe I need to find a 12 step program for Rant Rave.
sunny2
sunny2
22 months ago: Cypress....Never meant it in a bad way. I know you are one of the good guys no matter what you have to say.
You and Truth have an understanding. It can be very humerous, especially since it is a rainy day today. I love the debates.
JAK Gladney
JAK Gladney
Saint Albans, WV
22 months ago: Battle fatigue would probably be a good guess, re: why we don't see some of the old faces. Most of us here--just a hunch--contribute on other forums: political, pop-culture, etc. Lots of knife-fighting, even for those of us who aren't especially shy about being cut. Or, as an easy out, I'd just quote Groucho: "I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member."

Good to see some familiar faces, carrying the battles to a new group of Ranters/Ravers. Some of you are even moderators now!

I'm looking to get back in. I just need a few topics to make the old blood boil.
22 months ago: That's a fact, JAK !
22 months ago: Hey JAK, I thought you might have become a casualty some time back. I suppose any rumors of your demise were greatly exaggerated (lol). It is great to see you are still in the scrap.
JAK Gladney
JAK Gladney
Saint Albans, WV
22 months ago: Hey Cypress, Jakarta. Nope--still kickin'. Looking to get back, cranking articles out like sausage here once again.
22 months ago: I'm still around....just became an over the road truck driver over the last year....done with that soon, so maybe I will jump back in the fray again sometime.
22 months ago: Look forward to having you back dude.
Perfect Horizon
Perfect Horizon
Chicago, IL
22 months ago: I think the largest problem is that this site, in general, is confused. It's current format lends itself more towards a debate forum. However, since there are so few people capable of mature, intellectual, researched, factual debate it fails miserably in this regard.

If it is to be an opinion site, then there simply should not be a comment stream as all it becomes is immature name calling.
sunny2
sunny2
22 months ago: PH I'm interested in your writings and narratives.
I'm also interested in everything people have to say because each one's thinking is important just as yours. If I wanted to hear so called intellectuals in a factual debate and those that are so called the high brow individuals running our Country, into oblivion may I add, I would watch the events in Washington, DC on a daily basis. How boring can you get? Are those the ones you are modeling everyone after?
These people speak their minds and are real individuals. Not phony. I don't think anyone here is confused. I think our Government is more so and people like Palin and those like her. For example, that's her journey in life, but we don't have to accept it. Her and everyone else like her. We are built on freedom of speech.
Perfect Horizon
Perfect Horizon
Chicago, IL
22 months ago: I certainly am not suggesting a forum that would mirror watching CSPAN. I am simply suggesting that as a debate forum the following is just not productive in any way:

Person A: "I disagree because of FACTA, FACTB, FACTC etc".

Person B: "YOUR A BLIND LIBTARD"
Person Ba: "HAHAHA YOU GOT IT Person B"
22 months ago: Perfect Horizon,

All the petty name-calling is quite juvenile, yet it is also entertaining... some people get a chance to express what most are only thinking. As to the cheesy debates we get into off-topic, it just reveals the human element that is an honest picture of who we represent. I have been called everything under the sun, but if I can carry on... what doesn't kill me, only makes me stronger.
sunny2
sunny2
22 months ago: Perfect H. Don't let a few that are not serious, ruin it for the others who have strong beliefs and opinions. I never read any of what they say because of the mentality of it.
I know for a fact that this site has been a life saver for a few who needed to be heard and spoken to. It is a good place to thrash out beliefs with others. I let some of them bash me to show their "True Colors." I stand my ground and push back. This is fun because it is a Big Game but productive all in one and has good results at times.
sunny2
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Out Of The Box
Out Of The Box
 Moderator
22 months ago: We all get a taste of that now and again. Check out the libtard in these two posts. All he really had to say is "Christians are stupid".

http://www.rantrave.com/Rant/Eugenics-an...
http://www.rantrave.com/Rant/Darwinism-T...
Perfect Horizon
Perfect Horizon
Chicago, IL
22 months ago: It doesn't matter to me to the degree that I actually care. I simply stopped visiting the site because there were only 3 or 4 people who would respond to anything. I strongly believe that it was a select few people on this site who drove away a large number of people. Those select few are consistently immature. They make racist, bigoted comments on a regular basis, ignore all facts that they don't like, refuse to research anything and in general are just awful people to debate with. They were also the loudest folks on the site. The moderators of this site allowed this activity to go on without end...and then the ironic part was it was those same people and moderators who have no clue why this site went into the tank.
22 months ago: "It doesn't matter to me to the degree that I actually care"

I guess it only matters when it comes your way. Sounds kind of duplicitous to me.

PH - You got your bell rung and obviously some people here know how to push your particular buttons and get under your skin.

Complaining is not going to change that. You have spit your fair share of venom as well. Should you be banned? No.

Learn from it, hang out and be part of the solution or leave.

Perfect Horizon
Perfect Horizon
Chicago, IL
22 months ago: I don't care about this site the same way that I care about life. Its just not that important to me.

The people I am talking about have never even been within spitting distance of my bell. RSG and TCG and Sunny have literally NEVER made a real argument? They have never, ever won an argument with me EVER.

When I first joined this site (long before they did) there were posts every 10-15 minutes by tons of different authors. Now look at the post history. There is basically a sampling of GlennBeck.com and Al. It is over. There is no solution. There could have been long ago. But since the people of this site (especially the moderators) decided not to recognize a genuine problem with a few select people they let it go to hell. There is nothing left to do. This site will be the same 6 people in a circle jerk for ever while Al tries desperately to make sense and reason with a bunch of people who are content being stupid on purpose.

I have no buttons to push...I'm not sure what the hell you people smoke where you think I am mad or whatever all the time but its just insane. (granted the childish way that you and others try and use the "haha you mad bro" argument really only proves that immature people are immature). The times where I have had these supposed melt downs is more in making fun of TCG and RSG. I act like an ignorant hick because well, there simply is no point to trying to make factual arguments against 2 of the dumbest people I have ever run across on this Earth. Once again, it is amusing to me that when I act like an ignorant hick and decided to be stupid on purpose its just a "melt down" but when the 2 actual ignorant hicks destroy the site and drive away all the posters by doing the same thing its just them expressing their values and using their rights to free speech.

This whole thread is the point I am trying to make. I, in a calm way, said what I think happened to this site. I was met instantly by the hopeless, unrelenting flaming of a bunch of hicks...
22 months ago: Oh well.
22 months ago: "I don't care about this site the same way that I care about life. Its just not that important to me."

I would certainly hope not.

Also, if it's not that important, you sure are spending a lot of time tirading against a site that you wish would go away but hasn't.

Simple observation.
Perfect Horizon
Perfect Horizon
Chicago, IL
22 months ago: I give up. There really isn't a point if everybody on this site refuses to accept the fact that Red State Guy and The Cypress Gang have had a direct impact on the quality of conversation on this site in a negative way it is over. They are insulting, rude, hateful and racist on a regular basis, but yet worshiped by you people.

I don't know what more to say...go back and look at the logs...before they came there were new articles (good articles) posted 3 or 4 times per hour...within a half year of them joining there are articles posted 3 times per day at the most...
22 months ago: Perfect Horizon,

I missed you... and you do have a solid point... "there are so few people capable of mature, intellectual, researched, factual debate" ...looking forward to your next post so I can mature a bit. This site is an important one, we get to solve all the worlds problems in a less bloody style... in fact we feature many subjects that most people are afraid even to mention. Being as it represents a varied demographic... we stand a good chance of really representing the general public. Where else can someone try out a "belief" in a public forum and see it's inevitable result?
Perfect Horizon
Perfect Horizon
Chicago, IL
22 months ago: This site USED to represent a varied demographic. However due to the immaturity and impossibility of debate with a select few the varied demographic because very much homogeneous in belief (polarized perhaps, but really only 2 camps existed). You may (and 2 others for sure will) say that those camps were Far Left (Al & Myself) vs. "Whatever they call themselves" (the other 4 people who used the site). In my opinion it was a fight between people who were willing to present evidence of what we were saying and trying desperately to have a debate of sorts VS. "your blind...wake up" talking heads on repeat.

As for public forums in which I can debate there is more lively, mature debate on WorldofWarcraft.com's forums than there are on this site. The point being that there are literally infinite places to have open debates (I may be spoiled in this regard as I work/attend/live near a major university)
sunny2
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Perfect Horizon
Perfect Horizon
Chicago, IL
22 months ago: The fact that live near a University has nothing to do with this site other than the fact that I can walk myself over to the coffee shop and have a mature debate with people who are willing/able/driven to actually research and learn and hear other ideas.

It sounds like you lived near a pretty sad university or only met a select few people. In my experience both as a student and teacher at a University, there are vast numbers of people who are very interesting to talk to and discuss various issues with. You can't just walk up to one person or a handful of people and assume that they represent the majority of people at a given university.
Perfect Horizon
Perfect Horizon
Chicago, IL
22 months ago: Further: The university I attended for both under and post graduate work. All of my professors had years of experience in their field (the exception to this were my philosophy professors who had all been published extensively but outside of teaching and writing they have no outside experience (which is the norm for philosophy))
sunny2
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Perfect Horizon
Perfect Horizon
Chicago, IL
22 months ago: "Students are people who haven't lived long enough or experienced enough to know what is really going on. Most of the time they want to party. Some of their views are way out there and troublesome. I lived by a major university for years. I remember studying in a teachers lounge at a major NY university and hearing the most ridiculous remarks and philosophies coming from would-be teachers"

This entire statement is condescending. Anybody who says students haven't lived long enough to know what is going on is a close-minded person. Students are capable of learning/reading/studying/researching just as much as people who are older. There are many very serious universities where the students don't like to party all the time and take what they are doing seriously. You stereotype all students and professors and then have the gall to call me a snob for calling you out on it??? (You are one of those select few I was talking about btw)

What sort of 'ridiculous remarks" were being made? The kind that you don't agree with so therefore are ridiculous?
sunny2
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Perfect Horizon
Perfect Horizon
Chicago, IL
22 months ago: You are the one who was condescending towards teachers, students, people who disagree with you etc. etc. I'm not sure what conversation you were reading but I never lost my cool in any way. I never jumped any guns...you were condescending and close minded...I called you out on it...you then went into a very typical defense position (this most recent post).