Why I want to take the challenge

[The Professor]

For months now many have accused me of not actually wanting to take the JREF MDC. Even now many are saying I've painted myself into a corner and I'm looking for a way out. Not true.

A little critical thinking will show why anyone honestly will benefit from taking the Million Dollar Challenge. I've seen the advantages from the very beginning.

There are two basic outcomes.

1) I take the challenge and WIN.

I Hope we all can see the benefit of this. if not, you are in the wrong forum. :)

2) I take the challenge and lose.

Here's where the thinking comes in.

I am currently in contact with Rozzie Franco. You've probably seen her on Nancy Grace, Heraldo Rivera, or the Fox Network.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rozzie_Franco
She also is heard on one of the nations largest radio networks.
I'm also in contact with several other media outlets.
They all would love to do a feature about the challenge here in Florida. There would be huge National coverage and great publicity for Randi and the Foundation. (They will need it once Randi retires.)
It's a done deal if the JREF accepts the Challenge. The publicity on both sides is worth much more than the original million.

If I lose I will take my place with the other losers or those Randi has debunked, such as....

Uri Geller .... Just cut another multi-million dollar deal for his next TV show after over a dozen countries having big hits with his "The Next Uri Geller" type program.
That's good :)

Derek Ogilvie ... Most recently defeated and now has his own TV series and a fantastic tour.
That's good :)

Peter Popoff .... Still making millions on the TV.
That's good for him :) (But I don't like the guy myself)

Not to mention John Edward and Sylvia Brown, who both have all kinds of cash and gigs. (I don't like these guys either)
But they remain fairly unaffected.

So I'm willing to take the chance.

It is only logical. :)

NOT TO MENTION THAT I WANT TO PROVE THAT PARANORMAL EVENTS DO HAPPEN!!!!!!!!

[RoboTimbo]

For months now many have accused me of not actually wanting to take the JREF MDC. Even now many are saying I've painted myself into a corner and I'm looking for a way out. Not true.

A little critical thinking will show why anyone honestly will benefit from taking the Million Dollar Challenge. I've seen the advantages from the very beginning.

There are two basic outcomes.

1) I take the challenge and WIN.

I Hope we all can see the benefit of this. if not, you are in the wrong forum. :)

2) I take the challenge and lose.

Here's where the thinking comes in.

I am currently in contact with Rozzie Franco. You've probably seen her on Nancy Grace, Heraldo Rivera, or the Fox Network.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rozzie_Franco
She also is heard on one of the nations largest radio networks.
I'm also in contact with several other media outlets.
They all would love to do a feature about the challenge here in Florida. There would be huge National coverage and great publicity for Randi and the Foundation. (They will need it once Randi retires.)
It's a done deal if the JREF accepts the Challenge. The publicity on both sides is worth much more than the original million.

If I lose I will take my place with the other losers or those Randi has debunked, such as....

Uri Geller .... Just cut another multi-million dollar deal for his next TV show after over a dozen countries having big hits with his "The Next Uri Geller" type program.
That's good :)

Derek Ogilvie ... Most recently defeated and now has his own TV series and a fantastic tour.
That's good :)

Peter Popoff .... Still making millions on the TV.
That's good for him :) (But I don't like the guy myself)

Not to mention John Edward and Sylvia Brown, who both have all kinds of cash and gigs. (I don't like these guys either)
But they remain fairly unaffected.

So I'm willing to take the chance.

It is only logical. :)

NOT TO MENTION THAT I WANT TO PROVE THAT PARANORMAL EVENTS DO HAPPEN!!!!!!!!


David,

If you didn't know it already, I think just about everyone here knows why you want to take the MDC. You want the face time on tv, even if you lose. Nobody is surprised by it, other than that you're admitting it.

The problem that most have is, that's not what the MDC is for. Despite your shouted last sentence, I don't think you believe that you have paranormal abilities. Everything you've said shouts, "MEDIA!" even though you didn't capitalize those sentences.

It's good and bad that you've openly admitted that you are just using the MDC and JREF as a stepping stone to further your own career. I have seen no evidence that JREF is interested in colluding with you for any imagined media attention it might bring to them.

The only reason I'm not sorry about the time wasted here with you is the hope that others have read and learned.

[Azrael 5]

Derek Ogilivie succesful? Last I saw he had egg on his face on national TV.Where's his TV series? Certainly not in UK.

Here's an idea.WHy not show Rozzie Franco some proof of paranormal ability.I will contact her at earliest opportunity to suggest this.

Ah well hard luck Dave,you're gonna have to get your publicity without the JREF. :)

[The Professor]

I've never had a problem admitting that Publicity is good. I have from the very beginning. I thinks it crazy that many of you still think I'm AFRAID to take the challenge. I'm NOT. But many of the Critical Thinkers here seem to miss the point.

Publicity is NOT the basic reason for taking the challenge.

I honestly believe that ITC and EVP are real and Paranormal Events that incorporate these things happen all of the time.

Did you forget that Randi is telling the World that he has a Million Dollars for someone who can prove the Paranormal.

Well that's me. I will prove it can happen!

But I think that Randi see's this coming and is trying to escape free with the Million in tact.

[Pantaz]

... But I think that Randi see's this coming and is trying to escape free with the Million in tact.

Evidence?

[The Professor]

There's a MILLION REASONS :)

[godless dave]

Great. So follow the established procedure for applying for the challenge.

[Azrael 5]

I honestly believe that ITC and EVP are real and Paranormal Events that incorporate these things happen all of the time.


Well go get some proof and have it scientifically analyzed then.
Lots of people believe in Ouija boards,mediums,angels etc etc.Doesn't make it real.

[RoboTimbo]

I've never had a problem admitting that Publicity is good. I have from the very beginning. I thinks it crazy that many of you still think I'm AFRAID to take the challenge. I'm NOT. But many of the Critical Thinkers here seem to miss the point.

I think you're afraid to take it unless you get to stage it as a magic show, not a demonstration of paranormal ability. Thus all the hand waving.

Publicity is NOT the basic reason for taking the challenge.

Maybe secondary only to a million dollars. Take the MDC in a closed room with no media presence. Show that you believe what you just said.

I honestly believe that ITC and EVP are real and Paranormal Events that incorporate these things happen all of the time.

A distant third to the first two, if true.

Did you forget that Randi is telling the World that he has a Million Dollars for someone who can prove the Paranormal.

Well that's me. I will prove it can happen!

So prove it with a protocol that screams paranormal demonstration, not magic show.

But I think that Randi see's this coming and is trying to escape free with the Million in tact.

I strongly suspect Randi has forgotten that you exist.

[Pantaz]

But I think that Randi see's this coming and is trying to escape free with the Million in tact.

Evidence?

There's a MILLION REASONS :)

That is not evidence.

You are insinuating that James Randi is actively working to prevent you from taking the Challenge.

What is the evidence to support that supposition?

[Gr8wight]

For months now many have accused me of not actually wanting to take the JREF MDC. Even now many are saying I've painted myself into a corner and I'm looking for a way out. Not true.

A little critical thinking will show why anyone honestly will benefit from taking the Million Dollar Challenge. I've seen the advantages from the very beginning...


...It is only logical. :)

NOT TO MENTION THAT I WANT TO PROVE THAT PARANORMAL EVENTS DO HAPPEN!!!!!!!!
Edited for Rule 12.

[The Professor]

Have you decided to apologize yet if your prediction about my motives and actions are proven wrong this Friday?

Or are you just going to continue saying that I'm full of it?

[The Professor]

That is not evidence.

You are insinuating that James Randi is actively working to prevent you from taking the Challenge.

What is the evidence to support that supposition?

James Randi has not even acknowledged that I've applied. In fact he claims that I haven't. That's a whole lot of denial right there :)

[The Professor]

I think you're afraid to take it unless you get to stage it as a magic show, not a demonstration of paranormal ability. Thus all the hand waving.



Maybe secondary only to a million dollars. Take the MDC in a closed room with no media presence. Show that you believe what you just said.



A distant third to the first two, if true.



So prove it with a protocol that screams paranormal demonstration, not magic show.



I strongly suspect Randi has forgotten that you exist.

Randi Wishes that I hadn't applied. He is now in the spotlight as to the quality of The MDC and the Not For Profit Forum that bears his name.

[MattC]

Edited for Rule 11.

[KeyserSoze]

James Randi has not even acknowledged that I've applied. In fact he claims that I haven't. That's a whole lot of denial right there
I'm confused about your implication. I thought that an application was not completed until a proper protocol has been made and agreed upon. Have you designed a proper protocol yet? I haven't seen it.

Could you please clear this up for me.

[Pantaz]

James Randi has not even acknowledged that I've applied. In fact he claims that I haven't.
That's a whole lot of denial right there :)

1. James Randi has no obligation to "acknowledge" any applicants. Has he acknowledged the applications of any other recent applicants?

2. When has Mr. Randi claimed that you have not applied for the MDC?
NOTE: Before you mention DragonCon or the iTricks interview again, let me remind you that I have previously corrected you FOUR times* for misquoting those events.
* See [1] (http://forums.randi.org/showpost.php?p=4051902&postcount=27), [2] (http://forums.randi.org/showpost.php?p=4058788&postcount=615), [3] (http://forums.randi.org/showpost.php?p=4085865&postcount=103), [4] (http://forums.randi.org/showpost.php?p=4141885&postcount=140)

Now, back to my question (post #10 (http://forums.randi.org/showpost.php?p=4161053&postcount=10))...

You are insinuating that James Randi is actively working to prevent you from taking the Challenge.

What is the evidence to support that supposition?

[CFLarsen]

If one can't get the media attention one craves by possessing actual skills, one can always try to leech on others with real skills who do get media attention.

Fame for the sake of fame.

"I exist only if I'm in the media."

A sad, empty life.

[chillzero]

Please keep this thread civil and strictly on topic. Do not circumvent discussion of the protocol in the moderated thread by discussing it here.

There's a very fine line to walk here, to discuss the OP and keep it dissasociated from The Professor's actual claim thread. You have an opportunity to walk that line, and keep this thread open. Otherwise ... like so many other threads... it will be placed on moderated status.

[learner]

Outcome number two that you mention in the op "take the challenge and lose". How is that possible if you have paranormal powers? Im confused.
Randi will not be involved in your attempt at the MDC until all relevant procedures such as an agreed protocol are complete. Im sure he is not ignoring you. Just following the procedures. Unlike you.

[Gr8wight]

Have you decided to apologize yet if your prediction about my motives and actions are proven wrong this Friday?

Or are you just going to continue saying that I'm full of it?

Only time will tell.

[Azrael 5]

Professor the problem I-and likely others have-is that you are a magician firstly and secondly have shown no proof of any prior paranormal abilities.It would be churlish of anyone to apply for the MDC for a first time attempt.
All other serious applicants have at least some reason to believe they have abilities.
What is yours?

[ServiceSoon]

Let me reiterate what I think you are trying to say. You are willing to take the MDC because you believe that whether you succeed or fail you will make money money money? Money!

[steenkh]

Randi Wishes that I hadn't applied. He is now in the spotlight as to the quality of The MDC and the Not For Profit Forum that bears his name.
I believe Randi does not care if you apply or not.

You are, on the other in the spotlight for your ridiculous attempt to discount the MDC by stalling the application process as long as possible.

Your latest protocol is a farce where you have studiously ignored everything told to you about how to write protocols. Instead you have reverted to claiming that you need a judge, you need Randi to be present, you want your test to be the final test, and you want all the money now, and you want the JREF to have a ridiculously short time to arrange for the test even though have been told that your next window of opportunity is Halloween 2009, which the JREF has graciously allowed you to ahead with, despite your obvious obstruction efforts.

In short, you want to control what you regard as your show, but the whole point is that the JREF will never allow you to control it.

So "why do I want to take the challenge?" is the wrong question. The right question is "why do I want to apply for the challenge?". The answer is of course, to gain whatever publicity there may be in misrepresenting the process of your application to make it look as if you come out smelling of roses, although you have in fact done everything to ensure that you would not be submitted to the public humiliation of being yet another failed applicant, which know you will be if you cannot control the show.

[Cainkane1]

I've never had a problem admitting that Publicity is good. I have from the very beginning. I thinks it crazy that many of you still think I'm AFRAID to take the challenge. I'm NOT. But many of the Critical Thinkers here seem to miss the point.

Publicity is NOT the basic reason for taking the challenge.

I honestly believe that ITC and EVP are real and Paranormal Events that incorporate these things happen all of the time.

Did you forget that Randi is telling the World that he has a Million Dollars for someone who can prove the Paranormal.

Well that's me. I will prove it can happen!

But I think that Randi see's this coming and is trying to escape free with the Million in tact.
If you could prove EVP I personally would be delighted. As a much younger man I was into ghosts and such. If Mr. Randi won't take you up on this challenge of yours good luck elsewhere..You're without a doubt a fake but if you put on a decent enough show I'd be eternally grateful. I miss my boogy boogy days.

[RoboTimbo]

Randi Wishes that I hadn't applied.

Evidence? Does it bother you to continually be asked for evidence and you can't provide it?

He is now in the spotlight as to the quality of The MDC and the Not For Profit Forum that bears his name.

And always has been. Proudly, I imagine.

Now, back to the OP.

It's a done deal if the JREF accepts the Challenge.

It's JREF's Challenge, you're the one accepting and and following their rules.

If I lose I will take my place with the other losers or those Randi has debunked, such as....

<resists urge and says nothing>

NOT TO MENTION THAT I WANT TO PROVE THAT PARANORMAL EVENTS DO HAPPEN!!!!!!!!

You've not given any indication anywhere that anything paranormal has ever occurred. Don't you think you should prove it to yourself first before you flame out in public this way?

[William Smith]

...
NOT TO MENTION THAT I WANT TO PROVE THAT PARANORMAL EVENTS DO HAPPEN!!!!!!!!

You can repeat it a hundred times or shout it a dozen times: Your actions contradict your verbal statements. Blatantly.

[Dumb All Over]

James Randi has not even acknowledged that I've applied. In fact he claims that I haven't. That's a whole lot of denial right there :)
Hi Mr. Professor,

It is hard for me to imagine that a properly filled-out application would be ignored by Mr. Randi. Perhaps you did not follow the application requirements? This could be easily remedied. Would you mind posting a copy of the application you sent to the JREF here? I'd be more than willing to look at it and suggest any changes so that it complies with the stated rules.

Thanks,
DAO

[chillzero]

I think that would be better placed in the existing challenge thread.

[Dumb All Over]

I think that would be better placed in the existing challenge thread.
Very well.

Mr. Professor, given Chillzero's most excellent suggestion, would you mind posting my request in the other thread?

DAO

[ravdin]

What's your claim, Professor? Can you tell us what your paranormal abilities are, in a sentence or two? A few examples:

I claim I can levitate.
I claim I can see through walls.
I claim I know the contents of Randi's top left desk drawer at any given time.

Any of those claims are easily provable and good enough for the prize, I should think. So what can you do that's so special?

[Darat]

Thread closed pending review by the JREF.

[Jeff Wagg]

For the record.. Randi doesn't normally see applications until they are processed by Alison and myself. Randi is not following The Professor's claim at all, and his is just one of many.

As for all the publicity stuff... this is a concern with many challenges we have, wherein people don't apply for honest reasons, but only to garner attention for themselves.

Our only defense against this is that we demand a strict objective protocol, and most of the publicity hounds are unable to come to agreement on one.