The historic and original "Welcome new posters! Introduce yourselves here!" thread - Page 107

wahrheit · 28th November 2006, 11:37 AM

Originally Posted by JonnyFive

I don't think I've been here long enough to "get this".

Wudang, a member of this forum, made a joke about the administrator of this board (Darat) in another thread, stating that Darat is nothing but a shell script he wrote, thus a "bot".

JonnyFive · 28th November 2006, 11:46 AM

Originally Posted by wahrheit

Wudang, a member of this forum, made a joke about the administrator of this board (Darat) in another thread, stating that Darat is nothing but a shell script he wrote, thus a "bot".

Ah, thanks for the explanation.

Darat · 28th November 2006, 11:48 AM

I am not a bot, I am free code!

wahrheit · 28th November 2006, 11:55 AM

Originally Posted by Darat

I am not a bot, I am free code!

You're such a cute open source kitty

Mr. Skinny · 28th November 2006, 01:09 PM

Originally Posted by Darat

That's OK we understand noobs are still learning....

I know. It was always the understanding and kindness of the older members here that kept me coming back to this forum.

As I recall, it was CFLarsen that taught me the value of admitting my mistakes.

Thanks, Claus!

wahrheit · 28th November 2006, 01:54 PM

Originally Posted by Mr. Skinny

I know. It was always the understanding and kindness of the older members here that kept me coming back to this forum.

As I recall, it was CFLarsen that taught me the value of admitting my mistakes.

Thanks, Claus!

I'm a fairly new nember compared to you antique blokes, but in response to the above quoted post, I fee like posting this smiley, nevertheless:

Mr. Skinny · 28th November 2006, 02:03 PM

Originally Posted by wahrheit

I'm a fairly new nember compared to you antique blokes, but in response to the above quoted post, I fee like posting this smiley, nevertheless:

Not sure why you find my post ironic.

Were you looking for your sarcasm meter perhaps, and grabbed the wrong one?

wahrheit · 28th November 2006, 02:17 PM

Originally Posted by Mr. Skinny

Not sure why you find my post ironic.

Were you looking for your sarcasm meter perhaps, and grabbed the wrong one?

From a strictly philological point of view, I found the ironic one quite appropriate. Let alone that this board does not have a sarcastic smiley

KanmuX · 28th November 2006, 02:40 PM

Hello, everyone!

I'm a secular humanist and a major fan of Shermer and Sagan's work, not to mention a skeptic -- which is why I joined.

So, uh, hello. Again.

Katana · 28th November 2006, 03:51 PM

Originally Posted by Mr. Skinny

Not sure why you find my post ironic.

Were you looking for your sarcasm meter perhaps, and grabbed the wrong one?

No, it was this one.

And welcome, KanmuX! On behalf of those-who-will-never-be-anything-but-a-noob, darned glad to have you.

Mr. Skinny · 28th November 2006, 03:56 PM

Originally Posted by Katana

No, it was this one.

Well, that one I can see.

wollery · 28th November 2006, 04:59 PM

Originally Posted by wahrheit

From a strictly philological point of view, I found the ironic one quite appropriate. Let alone that this board does not have a sarcastic smiley

That would be the rolleyes smiley, or my preferred one, the oldroll smiley.

COLONEL · 28th November 2006, 05:06 PM

Just wanted to say hi to every one and to say I look foward to joining in on the forums and I have a wierd, sick sense of humor at times

~enigma~ · 28th November 2006, 07:49 PM

I guess you can consider this my introduction and my first post

Tanstaafl · 28th November 2006, 08:33 PM

Welcome COLONEL, we'll expect to see you in the humor section.

And hello to ~enigma~, though it's a little hard to get a read on you so far...

~enigma~ · 28th November 2006, 09:09 PM

Originally Posted by Tanstaafl

Welcome COLONEL, we'll expect to see you in the humor section.

And hello to ~enigma~, though it's a little hard to get a read on you so far...

That mystery I'm wrapped in does a good job of hiding me

Kiyu Mayi · 29th November 2006, 05:54 AM

Hello all.

I've been referred here and thought I might as well say hello since the board told me to. And you can never argue with a webpage, as far as I've learnt.

By the looks of it this place is a haven for discussion and not a sanitised nightmare, which is pretty delightful.

Hutch · 29th November 2006, 06:09 AM

Welcome kiyu mayi (that's a nice sounding name, rolls off the tongue quite welll) and as for the words...

Quote:

By the looks of it this place is a haven for discussion and not a sanitised nightmare, which is pretty delightful.

I agree (I think). But beware the political threads...

Porkpie Hat · 29th November 2006, 09:34 AM

Hello all,

I'm a fellow WTC controlled demolition debunker who found your forum by complete accident and just had to stop in and say "thank you" to the many here who have made this site an invaluable resource in debunking the many theories that have popped up since that tradgic day in September of 2001.

My own background is in the fabrication industry and I am currently working as a contract inspector for various engineering and inspection companies overseeing the construction of projects related to the oil and gas sectors. I have a working knowledge of statically and cyclically loaded structures, pressure components and metallurgy and regularly deal with engineers of different disciplines (civil, structural, mechanical, thermal...).

I have yet to meet an engineer who believes any of the crap these woowoo's (now thats funny) spout and will be willing to assist in any way I can show these nutters for what they really are.

Thanks, Porkpie Hat

Mojo · 29th November 2006, 09:50 AM

Hello Porkpie Hat.

RikkaP · 29th November 2006, 12:43 PM

Hello!

I stumbled here from the frozen north. I joined up with this lot because I am an info junkie and I have seen references to this site on several of interweb trots. So I thought I would come on by and join the fun.

RecoveringYuppy · 29th November 2006, 12:54 PM

Hi, I'm a skeptic in Tucson and about to lose my TAM virginity in January. A mathematically inclined computer programmer. Biker, Hiker and theatre volunteer in my spare time.

Mr. Skinny · 29th November 2006, 01:52 PM

Welcome to the forum Colonel, enigma, Kiyu, ~~Hutch~~, Porkpie Hat (a little dab'l do ya underneath there, Porkpie) (I'll explain later

), ~~Mojo~~, RikkaP, and RecoveringYuppy, and everyone else I've missed.

We're getting new members here so fast, I think we need to appoint an official welcoming committee. Ya know...sorta like Welcome Wagon was back in the 60's...someone to tell you which market had the best prices, and which hairdresser to go to...that sorta crap.

Anyhow, good to see all the new faces!

wahrheit · 29th November 2006, 01:56 PM

Second that

IceSage · 29th November 2006, 05:03 PM

Greetings and Salutations!

I go by the internet alias of IceSage. I had never in my whole life heard of James Randi, until I was searching "psychics" on the site, YouTube. What I was looking for, was looking for a "live action" video of someone actually using "psychic" powers. Even though looking at a video wasn't going to amaze me that much or prove to me anything, since such things can obviously be faked in front of a camera, I still wanted to see such a thing before, as I don't get out much to magician shows and I'm certainly not going to pay money to see one either. Instead of getting actual videos of people trying to levitate something with their mind or some bull like that, what I found was clips of James Randi. I'm shocked that I've never heard of him before, although, I'm not that old either, and wasn't around to see media videos of him on news and general TV. I was truly inspired by a guy who FIRMLY believed to doubt ALL that was suggested as supernatural. Not only that, I was rather impressed with that fact of, not only did he not believe in any of it at all, but he KNEW and studied those tricks themselves. Usually, I really back away from people who are "closed" minded, but the way James Randi expresses and explains himself, it turns out to be the exact opposite, he's VERY open minded... All he needs is proof and to see it. I've read posts on the internet saying he's a "jerk" of the sorts, because he won't believe those who, truly believe themselves, that they have these abilities, or know certain things. I'm not quite sure how anyone could say such things, as since all James Randi wants is PROOF. The pattern seems to be that each time James Randi shoots someone down, they immediately say he's a con, and a fraud, simply dismissing everything people show him. This is very unreasonable, as how can someone who just wants actual EVIDENCE of something paranormal, be a "fraud." Naturally, someone like Mr. Randi is going to shoot down something that the "believer believes in" if it's not factually true. Amongst these people, I found an internet post about someone who tried to write Mr. Randi about clarifying the prize money. Apparently Randi and his associate couldn't give a clear, straight answer. Although, in that case, it seemed like the whole thing is a bit harsh... However... If someone does have paranormal powers and is interested in such a prize, they should go for it... Even if they're afraid the prize wont turn out to be real... Why exactly do they have to LOSE? Nothing. Only something to GAIN. If I had such an ability, and could demonstrate it, I don't care if I was being paid in ice cream... I'd just love to show the guy "wrong" and expose paranormal activity to the world... Especially in front of someone as popular and well known as Mr. Randi.

Anyway, I joined these forums, checked out the site, etc... Is because I personally wanted to go on a "hunt" to find proof of such things. Obviously, as a child I would believe in ghosts, and other such things. (And I'm not close minded to the idea that they DON'T exist.) However, one day I realized... "Hey, if ghosts exist... and I'm afraid of 'creepy areas with things that lurk in the shadows' then, why don't I prove to myself that they exist?" Up to this date, when I enter a "creepy area" (Dark basement, "haunted' house, etc) I'm not longer afraid of "what's there" because there ISN'T anything there. If there is, they should confront me! I take a liking to the show on the SCI-FI channel, called "Ghost Hunters." They actually try to expose ghosts... If they exist. Although, them and their friends who investigate on the show, do as well believe themselves that something exists... However, they're on a mission to PROVE it. It's all about the proof. I'm a very open minded person, however, just like Mr. Randi, I would also like to see some proof. People say Mr. Randi doesn't believe in ANYTHING supernatural and think he's close minded. From what I've seen, he's anything BUT close minded. He seems like the most open minded person there is. He gets letter from people saying "I can do _______" all the time, thus, opening his mind to giving some of these people some time to PROVE that they can do it. It's like me saying I'm above the drinking age, and someone saying I'm not. How can anyone believe you if you don't show proof?

Anyway, enough ramblings about my personal views about the fact that Mr. Randi is so awesome. I tend to write large paragraphs when somethings on my mind... And usually the first impressions count the most... or at least, that's what some people say.

I guess I should tell you a bit about me, eh? Well, I'm an artist and an animator of sorts (although, rather poorly.) I enjoy reading & writing stories. I also enjoy some of the other stuff around my age, like video games and electronics. Although, this is a forum filled with a bunch of skeptics, you'd be interested to know that most of my stories, art, and animation, and interests, are all blatantly related to Magic, Fantasy, Sci-fi, Myths and the Supernatural. However... unlike a lot of people, I can distinguish between what's real, and what's not.

Also, I saw a video on Mr. Randi saying, that he couldn't understand people's interest in things that do not exist. To answer that, the fascination of it all is that we're all looking for something more. Either that, or we would like to be entertained in some fashion. And to hope and dream that such things are possible, would be glorious if they actually ARE possible. I indeed would love to be able to move things with my mind, be able to predict the future, etc. However, sadly unlike myself, some people can't DISTINGUISH that it's fantasy! That can't make the judgment that it's fake, because the media and the constant new generations that come after us, are lead to believe that such things exist. Each person who comes from a religious family and practices such religion, turn out to be one of two things. One: They were raised to be like that, thus, they believe in whatever they were told, and in the future, such things don't seem so nonfactual because they believe nonfactual things themselves. Two: People forced into religion the most, become the MOST apparently aware people to the shams that exist.

I for one, am Agnostic/Borderline Atheist. I don't discount religions, nor do I actually believe in any of them either. The one thing I'm sure of is what's around me. I believe SOMETHING created all of... this. Animals, people, nature... Is all too complex and created too "perfectly" to have been random chance. Evolution takes part in it, but the RANDOM CHANCE that eyes exist, for us to see in accordance to light particles, and the fact that we breathe air to keep us... breathing. The need to ingest food to constantly stay alive and nourish our bodies, etc. That personally, to me, is too much for "random chance and evolution." THAT mystery is the only "ghost" that I chase after. But like Mr. Randi and others, I want to be able to face it, to prove it, without my own personal proof that I just explained.

Anyway, this has become well much more than an introductory post, but... I wanted to share some of my views, and compare them to others and the views of Mr. Randi, just to tell you a little bit about myself, and why I was so curious to visit these forums in the first place.

Before I stop typing though, I was wondering if Mr. Randi has made a commentary or article about such recent frauds similar to ones he's talked about in the past, like "John Edwards." People like him sadden me, because they give false hope. The only time I was ever interested in people like John Edwards, or psychics... Is to see if they and prove what they do is real, or just to simply be entertained. Because, that's all that really are, entertainment.

Thanks for reading my horribly long post. O_o
If you have any questions for me, just ask! I'd love to share views and opinions... cause that's what I came here for!

Edit:

P.S. I also wanted to give thanks to "Lisa" for helping me properly register and answering my questions. =D

SkepticPunk · 29th November 2006, 08:19 PM

Hello World?

switchtech · 29th November 2006, 09:43 PM

Welcome and Howdy Porkpie!

Originally Posted by Porkpie Hat

I have yet to meet an engineer who believes any of the crap these woowoo's (now thats funny) spout and will be willing to assist in any way I can show these nutters for what they really are.

Be prepared for a few of the WTC Conspiracy Theorists (CT) to run around in circles, never recognizing the truth slapping them in the face. Oh well, some you just have to abandon them in place.

And "Howdy Y'all" to all the other recent additions, too. Glad to see so many new folks.

jbs

Porkpie Hat · 30th November 2006, 04:32 AM

Originally Posted by switchtech

Welcome and Howdy Porkpie!

Be prepared for a few of the WTC Conspiracy Theorists (CT) to run around in circles, never recognizing the truth slapping them in the face. Oh well, some you just have to abandon them in place.

And "Howdy Y'all" to all the other recent additions, too. Glad to see so many new folks.

jbs

Thanks for the welcome and I should say that the main reason I have an interest in 911 is due to a brother-in-law who is a short order cook by day and demolition expert by night.

I personally am skeptical by nature and have had many run ins with CTers so I can understand what you're saying.

BTW, what's the deal Mr.Skinny?

JonnyFive · 30th November 2006, 07:08 AM

Hello Porkpie, and SkepticPunk.

Hey there IceSage, I like your verbosity.

Mr. Skinny · 30th November 2006, 10:02 AM

Originally Posted by Porkpie Hat

BTW, what's the deal Mr.Skinny?

Sorry for the mystery.

It's just that your user name reminded me of some lyrics from the song "Memphis in the Meantime" by John Hiatt:

Quote:

I need a little shot of that rhythm baby
Mixed up with these country blues
I wanna trade in these ol country boots
For some fine italian shoes

Forget the mousse and the hairspray sugar
We dont need none of that
Just a little dab'll do ya girl
Underneath a pork pie hat

Until hell freezes over
Maybe you can wait that long
But I dont think Ronnie Milsap's gonna ever
Record this song

Katana · 30th November 2006, 02:02 PM

Originally Posted by Porkpie Hat

Thanks for the welcome and I should say that the main reason I have an interest in 911 is due to a brother-in-law who is a short order cook by day and demolition expert by night.

I personally am skeptical by nature and have had many run ins with CTers so I can understand what you're saying.

BTW, what's the deal Mr.Skinny?

Don't worry about his blather, Porkpie Hat (such a great name). He's harmless in a rather dorky way.

Hello, everyone!

We have some great names among the lot o' you.

Porkpie Hat · 30th November 2006, 06:40 PM

Originally Posted by Katana

Don't worry about his blather, Porkpie Hat (such a great name). He's harmless in a rather dorky way.

Hello, everyone!

We have some great names among the lot o' you.

No worries. Thought that he might have a funny story about porkpie or something.

Thanks for the complement btw and the moniker is in reference to a tune by Charles Mingus called Goodbye Porkpie Hat.

TheGreatNotchweed · 1st December 2006, 06:53 AM

Hello everyone

Katana · 1st December 2006, 06:54 AM

Another excellent name.

A hearty welcome to TheGreatNotchweed!

Mojo · 1st December 2006, 09:37 AM

Originally Posted by Porkpie Hat

...the moniker is in reference to a tune by Charles Mingus called Goodbye Porkpie Hat.

Hence my response.

Ah, Lester Young!

Porkpie Hat · 1st December 2006, 04:39 PM

Originally Posted by Mojo

Hence my response.

Ah, Lester Young!

Your speaking my language friend!

TheGreatNotchweed · 2nd December 2006, 05:13 AM

Originally Posted by Katana

Another excellent name.

A hearty welcome to TheGreatNotchweed!

Thanks! Nice smilies you've got here

LibraryLady · 2nd December 2006, 07:48 AM

I'm embarrassed that I haven't visited this thread in quite a while, but I see some great posts and newbies and welcome you all. I did want to ask ~enigma~ about that riddle, but I'll postpone that until later.

Instead I will ask the standard questions I ask all the new members who post here.

Have you returned your library books?

and

What is your stand on budgies?

diggergig · 2nd December 2006, 12:04 PM

Hullo, have finaly been accepted into the forum after my 24hr wait for the eye in the triangle to beam the thought-scan into my bedroom. As I have never had a bad thought, I got through, and here I am.

Look forward to posting...I also exist on the BP and PSC forums under the same name.

Cheers ears ((thanks, triangle-eye))

~d

Vrana · 2nd December 2006, 04:07 PM

Hello folks,
My name is Richard and I'm a US expat teaching English in the Czech Republic (Vrana is Czech for crow).

These past few years I've been learning about critical thinking and skepticism. When I was younger I succumed to the woo woo of tarot, magic rocks and all that crap. Fortunately I kept questiong and I now live much more securely in relation to the world.

My current goal is to develop awarness and strategies to counter fallicious arguments that are commonplace (family, friends, at the water cooler). So, my questsions will focus on such things; if you've any suggested reading or websites I'll be happy to learn about them.

Glad to be here and I'm very glad for the JREF community. Keep up the good work.

Cheers,
Richard

28th November 2006, 11:37 AM	#4241
wahrheit Pac-Man Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 5,591	Originally Posted by JonnyFive I don't think I've been here long enough to "get this". Wudang, a member of this forum, made a joke about the administrator of this board (Darat) in another thread, stating that Darat is nothing but a shell script he wrote, thus a "bot".
wahrheit Pac-Man Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 5,591	__________________ For a moment, nothing happened. Then, after a second or so, nothing continued to happen. D. Adams -- THHGTTG You're a sick man. The Atheist

28th November 2006, 11:48 AM	#4243
Darat Lackey Administrator / JREF Forum Liaison Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: South East, UK Posts: 64,754	I am not a bot, I am free code!
	__________________ If it were all so simple! If only there were evil people somewhere insidiously committing evil deeds, and it were necessary only to separate them from the rest of us and destroy them. But the line dividing good and evil cuts through the heart of every human being. And who is willing to destroy a piece of his own heart? - Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn 1918-2008

28th November 2006, 11:55 AM	#4244
wahrheit Pac-Man Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 5,591	Originally Posted by Darat I am not a bot, I am free code! You're such a cute open source kitty
wahrheit Pac-Man Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 5,591	__________________ For a moment, nothing happened. Then, after a second or so, nothing continued to happen. D. Adams -- THHGTTG You're a sick man. The Atheist

28th November 2006, 01:09 PM	#4245
Mr. Skinny Alien Cryogenic Engineer Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Dayton, Ohio Posts: 8,192	Originally Posted by Darat That's OK we understand noobs are still learning.... I know. It was always the understanding and kindness of the older members here that kept me coming back to this forum. As I recall, it was CFLarsen that taught me the value of admitting my mistakes. Thanks, Claus!
	__________________ U.S.L.S 1969-1975 "thanks skinny. And bite me. :-) - The Bad Astronomer, 11/15/02 on Paltalk "He's harmless in a rather dorky way." - Katana "Deities do not organize, they command." - Hokulele

28th November 2006, 01:54 PM	#4246
wahrheit Pac-Man Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 5,591	Originally Posted by Mr. Skinny I know. It was always the understanding and kindness of the older members here that kept me coming back to this forum. As I recall, it was CFLarsen that taught me the value of admitting my mistakes. Thanks, Claus! I'm a fairly new nember compared to you antique blokes, but in response to the above quoted post, I fee like posting this smiley, nevertheless:
wahrheit Pac-Man Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 5,591	__________________ For a moment, nothing happened. Then, after a second or so, nothing continued to happen. D. Adams -- THHGTTG You're a sick man. The Atheist

28th November 2006, 11:46 AM	#4242
JonnyFive Insurance Underwriter of Doom Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 4,473	Originally Posted by wahrheit Wudang, a member of this forum, made a joke about the administrator of this board (Darat) in another thread, stating that Darat is nothing but a shell script he wrote, thus a "bot". Ah, thanks for the explanation.

28th November 2006, 02:03 PM	#4247
Mr. Skinny Alien Cryogenic Engineer Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Dayton, Ohio Posts: 8,192	Originally Posted by wahrheit I'm a fairly new nember compared to you antique blokes, but in response to the above quoted post, I fee like posting this smiley, nevertheless: Not sure why you find my post ironic. Were you looking for your sarcasm meter perhaps, and grabbed the wrong one?
	__________________ U.S.L.S 1969-1975 "thanks skinny. And bite me. :-) - The Bad Astronomer, 11/15/02 on Paltalk "He's harmless in a rather dorky way." - Katana "Deities do not organize, they command." - Hokulele

28th November 2006, 02:17 PM	#4248
wahrheit Pac-Man Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 5,591	Originally Posted by Mr. Skinny Not sure why you find my post ironic. Were you looking for your sarcasm meter perhaps, and grabbed the wrong one? From a strictly philological point of view, I found the ironic one quite appropriate. Let alone that this board does not have a sarcastic smiley
wahrheit Pac-Man Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 5,591	__________________ For a moment, nothing happened. Then, after a second or so, nothing continued to happen. D. Adams -- THHGTTG You're a sick man. The Atheist

28th November 2006, 02:40 PM	#4249
KanmuX New Blood Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 1	Hello, everyone! I'm a secular humanist and a major fan of Shermer and Sagan's work, not to mention a skeptic -- which is why I joined. So, uh, hello. Again.
KanmuX New Blood Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 1

28th November 2006, 03:51 PM	#4250
Katana Illuminator Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 4,894	Originally Posted by Mr. Skinny Not sure why you find my post ironic. Were you looking for your sarcasm meter perhaps, and grabbed the wrong one? No, it was this one. And welcome, KanmuX! On behalf of those-who-will-never-be-anything-but-a-noob, darned glad to have you.
Katana Illuminator Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 4,894	__________________ "I think Katana is as big of a perv as the rest of us." - Dragonrock "The rationality was there, and clear and concise. The condescention was hinted at and was like french onion dip on the perfect potato chip. Tasted like woo smackdown." - Fowlsound (aka Ducky, darnit) "Katana is one quick shut-yo-mouth!" - JonnyFive StopSylviaBrowne

28th November 2006, 03:56 PM	#4251
Mr. Skinny Alien Cryogenic Engineer Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Dayton, Ohio Posts: 8,192	Originally Posted by Katana No, it was this one. Well, that one I can see.
	__________________ U.S.L.S 1969-1975 "thanks skinny. And bite me. :-) - The Bad Astronomer, 11/15/02 on Paltalk "He's harmless in a rather dorky way." - Katana "Deities do not organize, they command." - Hokulele

28th November 2006, 04:59 PM	#4252
wollery Protected by Samurai Hedgehogs! TLA Winner Join Date: Feb 2003 Location: Land of Eternal Hope Posts: 10,312	Originally Posted by wahrheit From a strictly philological point of view, I found the ironic one quite appropriate. Let alone that this board does not have a sarcastic smiley That would be the rolleyes smiley, or my preferred one, the oldroll smiley.
	__________________ "You're a sick SOB. You know that, Wollery?" - Roadtoad "Just think how stupid the average person is, and then realize that half of them are even stupider!" --George Carlin

28th November 2006, 05:06 PM	#4253
COLONEL Sniper of the Galactic Universe Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: the many voids of the universe Posts: 8,914	Just wanted to say hi to every one and to say I look foward to joining in on the forums and I have a wierd, sick sense of humor at times
	Last edited by COLONEL; 28th November 2006 at 05:09 PM.

28th November 2006, 07:49 PM	#4254
~enigma~ Banned Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Center of the universe Posts: 7,954	I guess you can consider this my introduction and my first post

28th November 2006, 08:33 PM	#4255
Tanstaafl Unindicted Co-conspirator Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Mesa, AZ Posts: 5,622	Welcome COLONEL, we'll expect to see you in the humor section. And hello to ~enigma~, though it's a little hard to get a read on you so far...
	__________________ To forgive is human, to condemn for eternity is divine. -- AudioFreak Truth is where evidence comes from, not where belief leads to. --yy2bggggs Expelled exposed! Sylvia Browne

28th November 2006, 09:09 PM	#4256
~enigma~ Banned Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Center of the universe Posts: 7,954	Originally Posted by Tanstaafl Welcome COLONEL, we'll expect to see you in the humor section. And hello to ~enigma~, though it's a little hard to get a read on you so far... That mystery I'm wrapped in does a good job of hiding me

29th November 2006, 05:54 AM	#4257
Kiyu Mayi New Blood Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 1	Hello all. I've been referred here and thought I might as well say hello since the board told me to. And you can never argue with a webpage, as far as I've learnt. By the looks of it this place is a haven for discussion and not a sanitised nightmare, which is pretty delightful.
Kiyu Mayi New Blood Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 1

29th November 2006, 06:09 AM	#4258
Hutch A broken man on a Halifax pier, the last of Barrett's Privateers Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: About 7 Miles from the Saturn 5B Posts: 6,533	Welcome kiyu mayi (that's a nice sounding name, rolls off the tongue quite welll) and as for the words... Quote: By the looks of it this place is a haven for discussion and not a sanitised nightmare, which is pretty delightful. I agree (I think). But beware the political threads...
	__________________ If sheer righteous fury could accomplish anything worthwhile, Wolverines would have inherited the Galaxy long ago." -Web DuHavel, David Weber's "Honorverse" Series

29th November 2006, 09:34 AM	#4259
Porkpie Hat Thinker Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Gateway to the Rocky Mountains Posts: 236	Hello! Hello all, I'm a fellow WTC controlled demolition debunker who found your forum by complete accident and just had to stop in and say "thank you" to the many here who have made this site an invaluable resource in debunking the many theories that have popped up since that tradgic day in September of 2001. My own background is in the fabrication industry and I am currently working as a contract inspector for various engineering and inspection companies overseeing the construction of projects related to the oil and gas sectors. I have a working knowledge of statically and cyclically loaded structures, pressure components and metallurgy and regularly deal with engineers of different disciplines (civil, structural, mechanical, thermal...). I have yet to meet an engineer who believes any of the crap these woowoo's (now thats funny) spout and will be willing to assist in any way I can show these nutters for what they really are. Thanks, Porkpie Hat

29th November 2006, 09:50 AM	#4260
Mojo Mostly harmless Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: Nor Flanden Posts: 22,084	Hello Porkpie Hat.
	__________________ "You got to use your brain." - McKinley Morganfield "The poor mystic homeopaths feel like petted house-cats thrown at high flood on the breaking ice." - Leon Trotsky

29th November 2006, 12:43 PM	#4261
RikkaP New Blood Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 1	Hello! I stumbled here from the frozen north. I joined up with this lot because I am an info junkie and I have seen references to this site on several of interweb trots. So I thought I would come on by and join the fun.
RikkaP New Blood Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 1

29th November 2006, 12:54 PM	#4262
RecoveringYuppy Illuminator Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Tucson, AZ Posts: 3,851	Hi, I'm a skeptic in Tucson and about to lose my TAM virginity in January. A mathematically inclined computer programmer. Biker, Hiker and theatre volunteer in my spare time.

29th November 2006, 01:52 PM	#4263
Mr. Skinny Alien Cryogenic Engineer Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Dayton, Ohio Posts: 8,192	Welcome to the forum Colonel, enigma, Kiyu, ~~Hutch~~, Porkpie Hat (a little dab'l do ya underneath there, Porkpie) (I'll explain later ), ~~Mojo~~, RikkaP, and RecoveringYuppy, and everyone else I've missed. We're getting new members here so fast, I think we need to appoint an official welcoming committee. Ya know...sorta like Welcome Wagon was back in the 60's...someone to tell you which market had the best prices, and which hairdresser to go to...that sorta crap. Anyhow, good to see all the new faces!
	__________________ U.S.L.S 1969-1975 "thanks skinny. And bite me. :-) - The Bad Astronomer, 11/15/02 on Paltalk "He's harmless in a rather dorky way." - Katana "Deities do not organize, they command." - Hokulele

29th November 2006, 01:56 PM	#4264
wahrheit Pac-Man Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 5,591	Second that
wahrheit Pac-Man Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 5,591	__________________ For a moment, nothing happened. Then, after a second or so, nothing continued to happen. D. Adams -- THHGTTG You're a sick man. The Atheist

29th November 2006, 05:03 PM	#4265
IceSage Scholar Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 64	Greetings and Salutations! I go by the internet alias of IceSage. I had never in my whole life heard of James Randi, until I was searching "psychics" on the site, YouTube. What I was looking for, was looking for a "live action" video of someone actually using "psychic" powers. Even though looking at a video wasn't going to amaze me that much or prove to me anything, since such things can obviously be faked in front of a camera, I still wanted to see such a thing before, as I don't get out much to magician shows and I'm certainly not going to pay money to see one either. Instead of getting actual videos of people trying to levitate something with their mind or some bull like that, what I found was clips of James Randi. I'm shocked that I've never heard of him before, although, I'm not that old either, and wasn't around to see media videos of him on news and general TV. I was truly inspired by a guy who FIRMLY believed to doubt ALL that was suggested as supernatural. Not only that, I was rather impressed with that fact of, not only did he not believe in any of it at all, but he KNEW and studied those tricks themselves. Usually, I really back away from people who are "closed" minded, but the way James Randi expresses and explains himself, it turns out to be the exact opposite, he's VERY open minded... All he needs is proof and to see it. I've read posts on the internet saying he's a "jerk" of the sorts, because he won't believe those who, truly believe themselves, that they have these abilities, or know certain things. I'm not quite sure how anyone could say such things, as since all James Randi wants is PROOF. The pattern seems to be that each time James Randi shoots someone down, they immediately say he's a con, and a fraud, simply dismissing everything people show him. This is very unreasonable, as how can someone who just wants actual EVIDENCE of something paranormal, be a "fraud." Naturally, someone like Mr. Randi is going to shoot down something that the "believer believes in" if it's not factually true. Amongst these people, I found an internet post about someone who tried to write Mr. Randi about clarifying the prize money. Apparently Randi and his associate couldn't give a clear, straight answer. Although, in that case, it seemed like the whole thing is a bit harsh... However... If someone does have paranormal powers and is interested in such a prize, they should go for it... Even if they're afraid the prize wont turn out to be real... Why exactly do they have to LOSE? Nothing. Only something to GAIN. If I had such an ability, and could demonstrate it, I don't care if I was being paid in ice cream... I'd just love to show the guy "wrong" and expose paranormal activity to the world... Especially in front of someone as popular and well known as Mr. Randi. Anyway, I joined these forums, checked out the site, etc... Is because I personally wanted to go on a "hunt" to find proof of such things. Obviously, as a child I would believe in ghosts, and other such things. (And I'm not close minded to the idea that they DON'T exist.) However, one day I realized... "Hey, if ghosts exist... and I'm afraid of 'creepy areas with things that lurk in the shadows' then, why don't I prove to myself that they exist?" Up to this date, when I enter a "creepy area" (Dark basement, "haunted' house, etc) I'm not longer afraid of "what's there" because there ISN'T anything there. If there is, they should confront me! I take a liking to the show on the SCI-FI channel, called "Ghost Hunters." They actually try to expose ghosts... If they exist. Although, them and their friends who investigate on the show, do as well believe themselves that something exists... However, they're on a mission to PROVE it. It's all about the proof. I'm a very open minded person, however, just like Mr. Randi, I would also like to see some proof. People say Mr. Randi doesn't believe in ANYTHING supernatural and think he's close minded. From what I've seen, he's anything BUT close minded. He seems like the most open minded person there is. He gets letter from people saying "I can do _______" all the time, thus, opening his mind to giving some of these people some time to PROVE that they can do it. It's like me saying I'm above the drinking age, and someone saying I'm not. How can anyone believe you if you don't show proof? Anyway, enough ramblings about my personal views about the fact that Mr. Randi is so awesome. I tend to write large paragraphs when somethings on my mind... And usually the first impressions count the most... or at least, that's what some people say. I guess I should tell you a bit about me, eh? Well, I'm an artist and an animator of sorts (although, rather poorly.) I enjoy reading & writing stories. I also enjoy some of the other stuff around my age, like video games and electronics. Although, this is a forum filled with a bunch of skeptics, you'd be interested to know that most of my stories, art, and animation, and interests, are all blatantly related to Magic, Fantasy, Sci-fi, Myths and the Supernatural. However... unlike a lot of people, I can distinguish between what's real, and what's not. Also, I saw a video on Mr. Randi saying, that he couldn't understand people's interest in things that do not exist. To answer that, the fascination of it all is that we're all looking for something more. Either that, or we would like to be entertained in some fashion. And to hope and dream that such things are possible, would be glorious if they actually ARE possible. I indeed would love to be able to move things with my mind, be able to predict the future, etc. However, sadly unlike myself, some people can't DISTINGUISH that it's fantasy! That can't make the judgment that it's fake, because the media and the constant new generations that come after us, are lead to believe that such things exist. Each person who comes from a religious family and practices such religion, turn out to be one of two things. One: They were raised to be like that, thus, they believe in whatever they were told, and in the future, such things don't seem so nonfactual because they believe nonfactual things themselves. Two: People forced into religion the most, become the MOST apparently aware people to the shams that exist. I for one, am Agnostic/Borderline Atheist. I don't discount religions, nor do I actually believe in any of them either. The one thing I'm sure of is what's around me. I believe SOMETHING created all of... this. Animals, people, nature... Is all too complex and created too "perfectly" to have been random chance. Evolution takes part in it, but the RANDOM CHANCE that eyes exist, for us to see in accordance to light particles, and the fact that we breathe air to keep us... breathing. The need to ingest food to constantly stay alive and nourish our bodies, etc. That personally, to me, is too much for "random chance and evolution." THAT mystery is the only "ghost" that I chase after. But like Mr. Randi and others, I want to be able to face it, to prove it, without my own personal proof that I just explained. Anyway, this has become well much more than an introductory post, but... I wanted to share some of my views, and compare them to others and the views of Mr. Randi, just to tell you a little bit about myself, and why I was so curious to visit these forums in the first place. Before I stop typing though, I was wondering if Mr. Randi has made a commentary or article about such recent frauds similar to ones he's talked about in the past, like "John Edwards." People like him sadden me, because they give false hope. The only time I was ever interested in people like John Edwards, or psychics... Is to see if they and prove what they do is real, or just to simply be entertained. Because, that's all that really are, entertainment. Thanks for reading my horribly long post. O_o If you have any questions for me, just ask! I'd love to share views and opinions... cause that's what I came here for! Edit: P.S. I also wanted to give thanks to "Lisa" for helping me properly register and answering my questions. =D
IceSage Scholar Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 64	Last edited by IceSage; 29th November 2006 at 05:20 PM.

29th November 2006, 08:19 PM	#4266
SkepticPunk New Blood Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 2	Hello World?
SkepticPunk New Blood Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 2

29th November 2006, 09:43 PM	#4267
switchtech Thinker Join Date: Oct 2006 Location: San Antonio, TX Posts: 129	Newbie to Newbie Greetings. Welcome and Howdy Porkpie! Originally Posted by Porkpie Hat I have yet to meet an engineer who believes any of the crap these woowoo's (now thats funny) spout and will be willing to assist in any way I can show these nutters for what they really are. Be prepared for a few of the WTC Conspiracy Theorists (CT) to run around in circles, never recognizing the truth slapping them in the face. Oh well, some you just have to abandon them in place. And "Howdy Y'all" to all the other recent additions, too. Glad to see so many new folks. jbs

30th November 2006, 04:32 AM	#4268
Porkpie Hat Thinker Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Gateway to the Rocky Mountains Posts: 236	Originally Posted by switchtech Welcome and Howdy Porkpie! Be prepared for a few of the WTC Conspiracy Theorists (CT) to run around in circles, never recognizing the truth slapping them in the face. Oh well, some you just have to abandon them in place. And "Howdy Y'all" to all the other recent additions, too. Glad to see so many new folks. jbs Thanks for the welcome and I should say that the main reason I have an interest in 911 is due to a brother-in-law who is a short order cook by day and demolition expert by night. I personally am skeptical by nature and have had many run ins with CTers so I can understand what you're saying. BTW, what's the deal Mr.Skinny?

30th November 2006, 07:08 AM	#4269
JonnyFive Insurance Underwriter of Doom Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 4,473	Hello Porkpie, and SkepticPunk. Hey there IceSage, I like your verbosity.

30th November 2006, 10:02 AM	#4270
Mr. Skinny Alien Cryogenic Engineer Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Dayton, Ohio Posts: 8,192	Originally Posted by Porkpie Hat BTW, what's the deal Mr.Skinny? Sorry for the mystery. It's just that your user name reminded me of some lyrics from the song "Memphis in the Meantime" by John Hiatt: Quote: I need a little shot of that rhythm baby Mixed up with these country blues I wanna trade in these ol country boots For some fine italian shoes Forget the mousse and the hairspray sugar We dont need none of that Just a little dab'll do ya girl Underneath a pork pie hat Until hell freezes over Maybe you can wait that long But I dont think Ronnie Milsap's gonna ever Record this song
	__________________ U.S.L.S 1969-1975 "thanks skinny. And bite me. :-) - The Bad Astronomer, 11/15/02 on Paltalk "He's harmless in a rather dorky way." - Katana "Deities do not organize, they command." - Hokulele

30th November 2006, 02:02 PM	#4271
Katana Illuminator Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 4,894	Originally Posted by Porkpie Hat Thanks for the welcome and I should say that the main reason I have an interest in 911 is due to a brother-in-law who is a short order cook by day and demolition expert by night. I personally am skeptical by nature and have had many run ins with CTers so I can understand what you're saying. BTW, what's the deal Mr.Skinny? Don't worry about his blather, Porkpie Hat (such a great name). He's harmless in a rather dorky way. Hello, everyone! We have some great names among the lot o' you.
Katana Illuminator Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 4,894	__________________ "I think Katana is as big of a perv as the rest of us." - Dragonrock "The rationality was there, and clear and concise. The condescention was hinted at and was like french onion dip on the perfect potato chip. Tasted like woo smackdown." - Fowlsound (aka Ducky, darnit) "Katana is one quick shut-yo-mouth!" - JonnyFive StopSylviaBrowne

30th November 2006, 06:40 PM	#4272
Porkpie Hat Thinker Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Gateway to the Rocky Mountains Posts: 236	Originally Posted by Katana Don't worry about his blather, Porkpie Hat (such a great name). He's harmless in a rather dorky way. Hello, everyone! We have some great names among the lot o' you. No worries. Thought that he might have a funny story about porkpie or something. Thanks for the complement btw and the moniker is in reference to a tune by Charles Mingus called Goodbye Porkpie Hat.

1st December 2006, 06:53 AM	#4273
TheGreatNotchweed New Blood Join Date: Dec 2006 Posts: 10	Hello everyone

1st December 2006, 06:54 AM	#4274
Katana Illuminator Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 4,894	Another excellent name. A hearty welcome to TheGreatNotchweed!
Katana Illuminator Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 4,894	__________________ "I think Katana is as big of a perv as the rest of us." - Dragonrock "The rationality was there, and clear and concise. The condescention was hinted at and was like french onion dip on the perfect potato chip. Tasted like woo smackdown." - Fowlsound (aka Ducky, darnit) "Katana is one quick shut-yo-mouth!" - JonnyFive StopSylviaBrowne

1st December 2006, 09:37 AM	#4275
Mojo Mostly harmless Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: Nor Flanden Posts: 22,084	Originally Posted by Porkpie Hat ...the moniker is in reference to a tune by Charles Mingus called Goodbye Porkpie Hat. Hence my response. Ah, Lester Young!
	__________________ "You got to use your brain." - McKinley Morganfield "The poor mystic homeopaths feel like petted house-cats thrown at high flood on the breaking ice." - Leon Trotsky