...

I have a few friends there I met during a trip last year. And I hope they are doing well. No news yet (it is the night for them so I'll have to be patient).

Yet another reminder that nature is all-powerful and makes human squabbles and war look like a stroll in the park.

Oh BTW, there are two a's in New Zealand.

For our American colleagues who usually only get American news on their TV's, New Zealand is a land where foreign people live - down towards the South Pole near Australia, with lots of sheep. There was a big earthquake there, in Christchurch.

Col

Zealand yes, I saw my mistake in the subject but couldn't change it anymore. My bad.

and lol for your wink.

Yet another reminder that nature is all-powerful and makes human squabbles and war look like a stroll in the park.

Oh BTW, there are two a's in New Zealand.

For our American colleagues who usually only get American news on their TV's, New Zealand is a land where foreign people live - down towards the South Pole near Australia, with lots of sheep. There was a big earthquake there, in Christchurch.

ColJealous and predictable, you really need a new gig.

Jealous and predictable, you really need a new gig.
Jealous of an earthquake?:confused:, what a strange thing to say:rolleyes:

Jealous of an earthquake?:confused:, what a strange thing to say:rolleyes:
No wonder you are puzzled, you don't read.:rolleyes:

No wonder you are puzzled, you don't read.:rolleyes:

Cols point was off the mark - cos his target audience who dont know where NZ is - probably wont know where Australia is either.

For those watching in black and white the pink is behind the green.

For those watching in black and white the pink is behind the green.

The actual quote was "For those watching in black and white the yellow is behind the blue." Ted Lowe. snooker commentator, Pot Black circa 1969.

The actual quote was "For those watching in black and white the yellow is behind the blue." Ted Lowe. snooker commentator, Pot Black circa 1969.

I googled it as well ! Cant trust the tinterweb for answers!

They are all in my thoughts and prayers, it is almost unbelievable to see some of such a pretty city crumbling and crushed piles of rubble where historic buildings stood.

...
I have a few friends there I met during a trip last year. And I hope they are doing well. No news yet (it is the night for them so I'll have to be patient).

Earthquakes may be unpredictable, but Col's narrow-viewed attack on the U.S. is always reliable. :rolleyes:

It's such a horrible situation over there. This quake was supposed to be an aftershock from the relatively harmless one they had last year, but it was far more devastating since they were out and about in mid-day instead of the middle of the night like the original. They are in my thoughts.

Earthquakes may be unpredictable, but Col's narrow-viewed attack on the U.S. is always reliable. :rolleyes:



I resent that:rolleyes:

I understand it to be true that it is a well known fact that many people in the USA have no idea where virtually any other country is in the world. Just because you know doesn't mean others will.
For example - Many people in the USA think Europe is a country.

Don't knock people when they are trying to help, it may come back to haunt you.

How are you getting on with my original username? How long does it take to reinstate a name?

Of course I feel for the people of New Zealand, I have been there and toured round, it is a beautiful country. I wish them well in their hour of trial.

Col

I resent that:rolleyes:

I understand it to be true that it is a well known fact that many people in the USA have no idea where virtually any other country is in the world. Just because you know doesn't mean others will.
For example - Many people in the USA think Europe is a country.

Don't knock people when they are trying to help, it may come back to haunt you.

How are you getting on with my original username? How long does it take to reinstate a name?

Of course I feel for the people of New Zealand, I have been there and toured round, it is a beautiful country. I wish them well in their hour of trial.

Col

I could, of course, make a snarky remark such as "Col is still smarting over the loss of the "Empire" and longs for the days when British colonists could legally oppress the Maori and other indigineous populace." But instead I wonder what pathetic thrills he gets from America-bashing. Obviously it assuages his own feelings of inadequacy or he would not attempt to inject his diatribe into every thread, no matter what the subject happens to be. Poor Col. Someday he may find a friend and then we will see him no more.

Com'on guys
I want to say for those who don't know where New-Zealand is to google it.
For the others, we know how far can be clichés and stuffs about other nationalities but that is not the point here. Can we avoid that kind of xenophobia and other bad jokes or eventually open another thread?
Christophe, from the country Europe

For example - Many people in the USA think Europe is a country.



Christophe, from the country Europe


I'm not sure if that was an intentional joke or not, but I'm having a hard time not laughing either way.

I'm not sure if that was an intentional joke or not, but I'm having a hard time not laughing either way.

;)


Yesterday I got news from my Christchurch' friends. They are good ... compared to many others, their house is partly broken but all members of their family and their friends are fine.
They do their best to help out around and confirmed electricity and water are rare, like mobile coverage. They hope to have a better overview during the weekend.

No wonder you are puzzled, you don't read.:rolleyes:
That should be "you can't read", don't they teach English properly in your schools?:rolleyes:

Don't knock people when they are trying to help, it may come back to haunt you.

Thank you so much for the geography lesson. Is that better? :rolleyes:

How are you getting on with my original username? How long does it take to reinstate a name?


It's not looking likely. I would suggest taking it up with Jon or David at this point as my requests were denied.

Thank you so much for the geography lesson. Is that better? :rolleyes:

It wasn't aimed at you actually. Just those with less geographical skills.

It's not looking likely. I would suggest taking it up with Jon or David at this point as my requests were denied.

Nah, no point. They hate me anyway so they'll only ban me for asking. Thanks for trying though.

Col

I could, of course, make a snarky remark such as "Col is still smarting over the loss of the "Empire" and longs for the days when British colonists could legally oppress the Maori and other indigineous populace."

Phew! It's a good job you didn't say it then.:rolleyes:

But instead I wonder what pathetic thrills he gets from America-bashing.

Where did I "bash America"? I'm not aware of it.

Col

That should be "you can't read", don't they teach English properly in your schools?:rolleyes:Colin's lap dog showing his teeth.:rolleyes:

That should be "you can't read", don't they teach English properly in your schools?:rolleyes:

If you separate the conjunction "don't," your sentence would read:

"Do not they teach English properly in your schools?"

This is clearly a badly worded sentence. That should be:

"That should be "you can't read." Do they not teach English properly in your schools?"

Also, you created a compound sentence and question without properly separating the two.

If you're going to correct others, at least make sure you do so correctly. ;)

:D

I believe they are still removing bodies from the rubble in Christchurch.

I believe they are still removing bodies from the rubble in Christchurch. Vassago should have stopped it here #2 (http://www.access-programmers.co.uk/forums/showpost.php?p=1044459&postcount=2) when the thread was hijacked by his buddy.

Vassago should have stopped it here #2 (http://www.access-programmers.co.uk/forums/showpost.php?p=1044459&postcount=2) when the thread was hijacked by his buddy.



I'm not sure there's any need to slag off Vassago here is there?

Vassago should have stopped it here #2 (http://www.access-programmers.co.uk/forums/showpost.php?p=1044459&postcount=2) when the thread was hijacked by his buddy.
More nonsense from an illiterate known troublemaker:rolleyes:

Vassago should have stopped it here #2 (http://www.access-programmers.co.uk/forums/showpost.php?p=1044459&postcount=2) when the thread was hijacked by his buddy.

If you have a complaint about a moderator's actions, be it mine or another staff member, the best route is to contact another moderator, admin, or the site owner and voice your opinion. Public complaints about any members are juvenile and not honestly tolerated on most forums. ;)

Vassago is a neutral and tolerant, some may say too tolerant, moderator, I think that the adjective 'super' suits him to a T.

Brian

Earthquakes may be unpredictable, but Col's narrow-viewed attack on the U.S. is always reliable. :rolleyes:

It's such a horrible situation over there. This quake was supposed to be an aftershock from the relatively harmless one they had last year, but it was far more devastating since they were out and about in mid-day instead of the middle of the night like the original. They are in my thoughts.

The epicentre of this one was much closer to the surface.

Brian

They are all in my thoughts and prayers, it is almost unbelievable to see some of such a pretty city crumbling and crushed piles of rubble where historic buildings stood.

Surely its just the people that count, it matters not as to whether the buildings are ugly or pretty, historic or new.

Brian

Vassago is a neutral and tolerant, some may say too tolerant, moderator, I think that the adjective 'super' suits him to a T.

Brian

Thank you. I do try to remain pretty neutral. :)

Surely its just the people that count, it matters not as to whether the buildings are ugly or pretty, historic or new.

BrianI completely agree.

Nevertheless, buildings such as Christchurch Cathedral do seem to become shrines to those who have lost their lives. And monuments of hope and remembrance for those who have survived.

If you have a complaint about a moderator's actions, be it mine or another staff member, the best route is to contact another moderator, admin, or the site owner and voice your opinion. Public complaints about any members are juvenile and not honestly tolerated on most forums. ;)
Complain really? I love the fact that you obsess about America 24/7 in fact I encourage it whenever possible. What else would we talk about the United Kingdom? LOL Either way it’s all good.

Complain really? I love the fact that you obsess about America 24/7 in fact I encourage it whenever possible. What else would we talk about the United Kingdom? LOL Either way it’s all good.

You really should have a comma after "24/7", and another one after "in fact". After "talk about" you need either a comma or a hyphen. Plus a full stop after "LOL" - whatever that means.:rolleyes:

Just trying to help.

Col

Col, stop being picky and really help by translating this.

What else would we talk about the United Kingdom?

Brian

Col, stop being picky and really help by translating this.

Brian
Brian, I think you are being a little harsh expecting Col to be able to translate Gibberish:D. I know he is a man of many talents but he has never claimed to speak Gibberish

NZ suffers 14,000 tremours per year. The known fault lines areas, like Wellington, earthquakes are a frequent occurance, as there are constant movements in the tectonic plates. With both Napier in 1931 and Christchurch these cities are outside the known fault line, in Christchurch's case sediments have covered the fault lines and earthquake activity hasn't been active for thousands of years.

Having experienced many an earthquake in Wellington, it is the silence before a quake that is eerie, then the rumble as the eathquake makes it way towards you and finally the shaking. With the Christchruch quake its epicentre and shallowness meant there was little warning and people were simply caught in the devastating destruction.

The tradegy is that whilst the majority of buildings structure withstood the earthquate, the people in the CTV buidling had no chance. Very few building collapsed which is a testament to the earthquake proofing of buildings throughout NZ.

The saddest site was the Cathedral, it reminds you of Coventry.

On my way to NZ I meet a number of English travellers that were about to embark on a NZ tour, most were going to visit Christchurch at some stage of their tour.

Our thoughts are with the people of Christchurch, we know that they have been thought an awful trauma, earthquakes of this devastation are rare and loss of life is very extremely upsetting. Christchurch will survive, New Zealand will sruvive but there are tough times ahead.

The antipodean spirit is hard to break and we know that whatever else people will be put first and foremost. From the top down this engenders a togetherness and camaradre that strenghtens a sense of community and identity.

Simon

Good one,
thanks Simon

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/ for news, updates, photos and videos, Christchurch is still keeping 2/3 of the head page

Col, stop being picky and really help by translating this.



Brian

Just missing a comma that's all. Strange that such proponents of grammar are unable to extract the meaning from a sentence even when the grammatical mistake is pointed out to you.

Just remember, some people in Christchurch are missing a hell of lot more than a comma!

Simon

Just remember, some people in Christchurch are missing a hell of lot more than a comma!

Simon

Absolutely

Brian, I think you are being a little harsh expecting Col to be able to translate Gibberish:D. I know he is a man of many talents but he has never claimed to speak Gibberish
I do understand that there is a Rosetta Stone course in Gibberish. I believe it retails for $495.00 US. Someday I hope to visit Gibber. Isn't that also in the UK? For the life of me, I can't recall the name of the capital.

I do understand that there is a Rosetta Stone course in Gibberish. I believe it retails for $495.00 US. Someday I hope to visit Gibber. Isn't that also in the UK? For the life of me, I can't recall the name of the capital.

Youre thinking of Gib , which is inhabited by some famous apes. I know when Americans go abroad they assume everything should be the same as at home - so perhaps you've been talking Gibberish with the Apes , confusing them in the first instance with American tourists. What with their hats and cameras.

Youre thinking of Gib , which is inhabited by some famous apes. I know when Americans go abroad they assume everything should be the same as at home - so perhaps you've been talking Gibberish with the Apes , confusing them in the first instance with American tourists. What with their hats and cameras.

No, I am well aware of Gibralter and it's status as the last British colony. I understand that the Barbary Macaques that so harrass the tourists there are descendants of the original Brits who colonized the place and that they are the only know population of "pure" Brits remaining. I guess I should ask Col if they also speak "pure" English. I am sure he would know. Mayhap he even has relatives among them.

No, I am well aware of Gibralter and it's status as the last British colony. I understand that the Barbary Macaques that so harrass the tourists there are descendants of the original Brits who colonized the place and that they are the only know population of "pure" Brits remaining. I guess I should ask Col if they also speak "pure" English. I am sure he would know. Mayhap he even has relatives among them.

So Americans do think the Barbary apes to be human. Not too far from my first suggestion.

Just for clarification for you and other Americans - the apes are not human - and are not descended from humans - neither English or American.

I beleive the apes are from Africa - - I'd hate to think what an American could do with that statement however.

The Barbary apes are monkeys, which may have led to more confusion than is usual , even for Americans.

So Americans do think the Barbary apes to be human. Not too far from my first suggestion.

Just for clarification for you and other Americans - the apes are not human - and are not descended from humans - neither English or American.

I beleive the apes are from Africa - - I'd hate to think what an American could do with that statement however.

The Barbary apes are monkeys, which may have led to more confusion than is usual , even for Americans.

I didn't say they were human. I said they were Brits. I can understand the confusion though.

I didn't say they were human. I said they were Brits. I can understand the confusion though.

You believe they are the decendents of original colonists?

So somewhere down the line youre a bit confused with whether they are monkeys, apes or human. Either you believe them decended from humans - or the colonists were monkeys.

So you are definately confused about whats a monkey and whats a human as I originally tried to point out to you.

Theres no helping some people.

I know when Americans go abroad they assume everything should be the same as at home

Pot > kettle > black

No, I am well aware of Gibralter and it's status as the last British colony.

You seem obsessed with the British Empire and British colonies.

What makes you think Gibraltar is the last British colony? (Notice Gibraltar is spelt with an "ar" not an "er")

Col

You seem obsessed with the British Empire and British colonies.

Pot > kettle > black

Complain really? I love the fact that you obsess about America 24/7 in fact I encourage it whenever possible. What else would we talk about the United Kingdom? LOL Either way it’s all good.

Are you suggesting I obsess about America 24/7? I'd like to see evidence depicting this allegation before I provide any sort of debate to this nonsensical cluster of words.

Pot > kettle > black

Is your keyboard stuck?

Brian

Is your keyboard stuck?

Brian

No more stuck than the prehistoric grammar gag.

No more stuck than the prehistoric grammar gag.

Daniella - trying to help someone with grammatical issues is not a gag. I'm sad you see it that way.

There is too much laxity in writing these days, what with all this text-speak and so on. So trying to advise people may help them in future life.

For example, when I was a manager, if there were punctuation errors or spelling errors on the persons CV or application form, they were rejected. If people can't be bothered to get that right then they don't deserve an interview. Plus, I know many managers who think the same.

I admit, I fail to see it as a gag. I know I make errors too, but I do at least try to get things right.

Col

For example, when I was a manager, if there were punctuation errors or spelling errors on the person's CV or application form, they were rejected.

I hope that the help I've provided you today will in turn help you in the future.

I hope that the help I've provided you today will in turn help you in the future.

Thank you. But I don't plan on looking for any work in the near future. I'm quite happy not working thanks.

Col

If people can't be bothered to get that right then they don't deserve an interview.

Col

You're missing a comma. ;)

You're missing a comma. ;)

Yes, very slapdash writing. Fortunately, it's not a CV or job application.:)

(I did admit I make errors.:rolleyes:)

Col

You're missing a comma. ;)
According to Fowler's "Modern English Usage" a comma is not actually needed there. Seems it is optional :)

There is too much laxity in writing these days, what with all this text-speak and so on. So trying to advise people may help them in future life.

I'm glad you've finally discovered some positive reasoning for your presence on these boards. Good luck with it.

I'm glad you've finally discovered some positive reasoning for your presence on these boards.

That's that sorted. All we need to do now is work out your reasons for being here - which I admit allude me at the moment.

Col

That's that sorted. All we need to do now is work out your reasons for being here - which I admit allude me at the moment.

Col

Shouldn't that be elude Col?

According to Fowler's "Modern English Usage" a comma is not actually needed there. Seems it is optional :)

I don't see how. In this case, he used a conditional sentence with two clauses. These two clauses require a definite pause between them, making a comma necessary. ;)

Shouldn't that be elude Col?

When the teacher becomes the student... :p

That's that sorted. All we need to do now is work out your reasons for being here - which I admit allude me at the moment.

Col

That's pretty simple. I might learn something.

That's pretty simple. I might learn something.

Have you learnt anything here recently?

Have you learnt anything here recently?

I learned that Col can hijack almost any thread by posting an anti-American comment and waiting for me to rise to the bait.

Have you learnt anything here recently?

Yes, the recent trend for long-term members to use alternative profiles. I'm looking forward to learning the reasons why.

I learned that Col can hijack almost any thread by posting an anti-American comment and waiting for me to rise to the bait.

The smart thing to do having learn't this would be to keep him waiting then.

The US is a world super power, so is ripe for criticism - we still get it for things Britain did 150 years ago.

He is allowed to be anti american - much of the world is.

He is allowed to be anti american - much of the world is.

Is this because everybody hates (envys) the top dog, or/and just that every body is anti everybody but themselves.?

Brian

Is this because everybody hates (envys) the top dog, or/and just that every body is anti everybody but themselves.?

Brian

In essence - probably yes.

Its part understandable envy and part understandable frustration with the top dogs lack of empathy with the vast majority of those who aren't top dog.

I shouldn't speak for Col - but its the way I see it.

And its also a bit of fun.

Is this because everybody hates (envys) the top dog, or/and just that every body is anti everybody but themselves.?

Brian

I think it has something to do with the involuntary loss of self-determination.

For instance the reasons given for the UK's involvement in the Iraq war must have been very galling considering Blair was just parroting Bush's rhetoric.

And its also a bit of fun.

It should be but my experience on the forum shows that many Americans take any critiscism of America as serious and personal.

Brian

I think it has something to do with the involuntary loss of self-determination.

For instance the reasons given for the UK's involvement in the Iraq war must have been very galling considering Blair was just parroting Bush's rhetoric.

Our media was calling him Bush's poodle, and many , if not most, of us would be happy to see him strung from the nearest yardarm.

Brian

It should be but my experience on the forum shows that many Americans take any critiscism of America as serious and personal.

Brian


Thats cos they have a lack of empathy with Col wanting to vent.

So far theres 4 main causes

1) Anything but you
2) The top dog
3) The top dog who looks down
4) A bit of fun


Only part 3 should bother an american really.

I think it has something to do with the involuntary loss of self-determination.

For instance the reasons given for the UK's involvement in the Iraq war must have been very galling considering Blair was just parroting Bush's rhetoric.
I dont think too many of us Brits think we have too much control on what our masters get us involved worth - whether they br Brits , Americans or otherwise.

I dont here too much Blair support here in the last 10 years, even when he was supposedly popular.

I'm a bit slow today as I only just realised that Dan was discussing the issue on a UK US level whereas anthony and I had gone global

Brian

Our media was calling him Bush's poodle, and many , if not most, of us would be happy to see him strung from the nearest yardarm.

Brian

Indeed.

Do you think the media makes this resentment worse?

I'm a bit slow today as I only just realised that Dan was discussing the issue on a UK US level whereas anthony and I had gone global

Brian

I was just using the UK as an example because that's where Col is coming from. I'm sure the same resentment exists on a global scale.

Indeed.

Do you think the media makes this resentment worse?

Probably in that through the media we know that he is earning loads of dosh in America and gallivanting round the Globe as a "Statesman" also with American backing, kinda reinforces our view as to why he behaved as he did.

Brian

It should be but my experience on the forum shows that many Americans take any critiscism of America as serious and personal.

Brian

Not I. I am on the "bit of fun" (or mighty craic if your are Irish) side of things.

Probably in that through the media we know that he is earning loads of dosh in America and gallivanting round the Globe as a "Statesman" also with American backing, kinda reinforces our view as to why he behaved as he did.

Brian

Yes. Sorry I meant in terms of making the resentment towards the given superpower worse, not Blair in particular.

Probably in that through the media we know that he is earning loads of dosh in America and gallivanting round the Globe as a "Statesman" also with American backing, kinda reinforces our view as to why he behaved as he did.

Brian

PMs shouldn't be allowed to take the foreign forty pieces of silver after office , as much as thet aren't in office.

Should do as we say bankers should do - take bonueses etc - in shares / bonds etc.

Those who dont like that idea - frankly I see as selfish rather than PM material anyway.

I dont think too many of us Brits think we have too much control on what our masters get us involved worth - whether they br Brits , Americans or otherwise.

I dont here too much Blair support here in the last 10 years, even when he was supposedly popular.

Which was kind of my point. UK didn't have much control over Blair which lead to the "yardarm" sentiment.

Yes. Sorry I meant in terms of making the resentment towards the given superpower worse, not Blair in particular.

Its a natural state. Lifes unfair, and we should dislike that idea. The media does what it does solely to make money nowadays - what the effect is - i have no idea.

To get an in depth view of anything in todays media though - is bloody difficult. Its all sensationalist. Can you name a good source of in depth unbiased opinion.

Part 3 - comes from those who dont recognise lifes unfair.

Which was kind of my point. UK didn't have much control over Blair which lead to the "yardarm" sentiment.


I think I psted the other day on AV - the lack of real accountability our politicians have to us - irrespective of outside influence.

From duck islands to Iraq. Taking the piss from this end to that.

Its a natural state. Lifes unfair, and we should dislike that idea. The media does what it does solely to make money nowadays - what the effect is - i have no idea.

I agree that the media would initially not have been able to sell their product without broadcasting the 'life's not fair' theme. But as this product is a good seller do you not think that the biased nature of the media stems from the attempt to exaggerate this theme and thus distort the truth of how unfair things really are?

That is to say. The "life is unfair" notion is basically true but the extent of this truth has been distorted to turn a profit.

Yes. Sorry I meant in terms of making the resentment towards the given superpower worse, not Blair in particular.


Ah! sorry for the delay been trying to answer a techie question. :)

I think that our media tends to be harder on our government than on America as what it does affects us more, or atleast the readers think it does and as Anthony said or implied , its out to sell copy and make money.


Brian

I agree that the media would initially not have been able to sell their product without broadcasting the 'life's not fair' theme. But as this product is a good seller do you not think that the biased nature of the media stems from the attempt to exaggerate this theme and thus distort the truth of how unfair things really are?

That is to say. The "life is unfair" notion is basically true but the extent of this truth has been distorted to turn a profit.

That would depend on your view point, Theres horrific cases or unfairness, and equally horrific of those who should know better taking the piss. I'm not sure it can be twisted any further than reality.

That I am in the middle in the UK or very well off internationally - should I not be aware - so that some of that could be equalled out around me?

Ah! sorry for the delay been trying to answer a techie question. :) On a technical site? How rude!


I think that our media tends to be harder on our government than on America as what it does affects us more, or atleast the readers think it does and as Anthony said or implied , its out to sell copy and make money.


Brian

Perhaps this is the crux of it. That our media isn't as hard on authority as the UK's. So when Col, or anyone for that matter, criticizes the US, the tone of it tends to match the norm for the UK, which is 'set' by the media, which in turn comes across as far 'harder' than we are used to.

I'm not sure it can be twisted any further than reality.

I agree and yet the media still feel compelled to exaggerate which suggests that these cases are not enough to meet their needs. That is to say that the typical individual remains unconcerned without a little flavoring.

That's pretty simple. I might learn something.
Well it's an uphill struggle, but we live in hope:p

Not I. I am on the "bit of fun" (or mighty craic if your are Irish) side of things.

Sorry Chipper didn't notice your response. I did say many not all, I remember Shaneman saying, when i met up with him when touring down his way, that he knew where Col and Rich were coming from and only responded if he felt like an argument and that you could walk away at any time.

Brian

Sorry Chipper didn't notice your response. I did say many not all, I remember Shaneman saying, when i met up with him when touring down his way, that he knew where Col and Rich were coming from and only responded if he felt like an argument and that you could walk away at any time.

Brian
I am surprised that Col did not spot the typo right away and claim that it was another American English artifact. I only spotted it myself in your quote. Well I guess I should make the obligatory grammar punctuation are spelling errir here to keep him happy don't you think?

I am surprised that Col did not spot the typo right away and claim that it was another American English artifact. I only spotted it myself in your quote. Well I guess I should make the obligatory grammar punctuation are spelling errir here to keep him happy don't you think?
"OOh You are awful, but I like you" to quote a british comedian from the sixties. Apologies to any fans if I have misquoted

Yes, the recent trend for long-term members to use alternative profiles. I'm looking forward to learning the reasons why.

The reason is, that my original name (ColinEssex) has been deleted and I can't, or I'm not allowed to use it again because I am very very bad, never using foul language or attacking another member personally is obviously a good reason to be banned.
I still have four other usernames to choose from though, three with different IP addresses.

Col

The reason is, that my original name (ColinEssex) has been deleted and I can't, or I'm not allowed to use it again because I am very very bad, never using foul language or attacking another member personally is obviously a good reason to be banned.
I still have four other usernames to choose from though, three with different IP addresses.

Col
Gosh, you must be very proud of that accomplishment! That's right up there with climbing Mt. Everest or discovering a cure for Aids.

Gosh, you must be very proud of that accomplishment! That's right up there with climbing Mt. Everest or discovering a cure for Aids.

Loads of people climb Mt. Everest these days. In fact they have to send people up there to pick up the litter and coke tins.

If people catch aids that's their fault, there are ways to avoid it. Why bother with a cure? If we keep prolonging life then we'll be overpopulated and be unable to sustain ourselves.

In fact, where are the billions of money poured into African aid gone? Why do we see the same old tired pictures of people dying? It's so boring and quite obviously a waste of money as it hasn't helped that much.

Col

Loads of people climb Mt. Everest these days. In fact they have to send people up there to pick up the litter and coke tins.

If people catch aids that's their fault, there are ways to avoid it. Why bother with a cure? If we keep prolonging life then we'll be overpopulated and be unable to sustain ourselves.

In fact, where are the billions of money poured into African aid gone? Why do we see the same old tired pictures of people dying? It's so boring and quite obviously a waste of money as it hasn't helped that much.

Col

Cynic much?

Not everyone who has become infected with HIV did so by choice. Between rape, accidental exposure, and birth from an infected mother, it's still very possible to be infected through no fault of your own.

I do agree with you on the "aid" companies. I have a very strong stance that I never donate to a company or organization that: a.) I cannot see where the money is being used. b.) The organization uses guilt to coherse me into donating by showing me pictures of starving children, neglected animals, etc... You don't win my charity through guilt and exploitation. You win my charity by showing me what you will use the money for to help these situations. Show me the food you will supply or the medicine that will be available...

You win my charity by showing me what you will use the money for to help these situations. Show me the food you will supply or the medicine that will be available...

You sound like my bank manager :D

Cynic much?

Not everyone who has become infected with HIV did so by choice. Between rape, accidental exposure, and birth from an infected mother, it's still very possible to be infected through no fault of your own.

I do agree with you on the "aid" companies. I have a very strong stance that I never donate to a company or organization that: a.) I cannot see where the money is being used. b.) The organization uses guilt to coherse me into donating by showing me pictures of starving children, neglected animals, etc... You don't win my charity through guilt and exploitation. You win my charity by showing me what you will use the money for to help these situations. Show me the food you will supply or the medicine that will be available...


You see a starving child - and YOU feel exploited? Wow.

You see a starving child - and YOU feel exploited? Wow.

I see a starving child being shown in a video while some rich celebrity is lecturing me into feeling guilty, and I believe the CHILD is being exploited. I never said I was. :rolleyes:

I see a starving child being shown in a video while some rich celebrity is lecturing me into feeling guilty, and I believe the CHILD is being exploited. I never said I was. :rolleyes:

So hes starving - and exploited. (if indeed he is)

At which point your stance means you do nothing?

So hes starving - and exploited. (if indeed he is)

At which point your stance means you do nothing?

I know what he means. It seems that the more well known and advertised the charity, the higher the percentage of donations that is spent on those ads, etc to attract yet more donations. At some point marketing and management becomes more important that the end purpose of the charity. CEO and administrative salaries skyrocket. The Susan G. Komen Foundation for breast cancer research is a good example. At one time more than 85% of donation money went directly to research. Now everyone is on the bandwagon. You see the name everywhere. It is used my commercial sponsors such as Yoplait to gain sales. Everyone is doing a walk, a run etc for it. The percentage going to research is now barely over 50%. Yes, the total dollars going to research as increased but the fact remains that the generosity of the people donating is also making a lot of people in the organization very wealthy.

I know what he means. It seems that the more well known and advertised the charity, the higher the percentage of donations that is spent on those ads, etc to attract yet more donations. At some point marketing and management becomes more important that the end purpose of the charity. CEO and administrative salaries skyrocket. The Susan G. Komen Foundation for breast cancer research is a good example. At one time more than 85% of donation money went directly to research. Now everyone is on the bandwagon. You see the name everywhere. It is used my commercial sponsors such as Yoplait to gain sales. Everyone is doing a walk, a run etc for it. The percentage going to research is now barely over 50%. Yes, the total dollars going to research as increased but the fact remains that the generosity of the people donating is also making a lot of people in the organization very wealthy.

That is exactly my point. There are smaller organizations out there that don't spend loads on advertising and don't exploit children to show on infomercials. They do, however, provide pamphlets and statistics to show where your contributions are going. I am far more inclined to donate to research and charity organizations that provide me this information so I know how my money is being used than the ones that try the guilt-trip approach when you know they spent a lot of that money on advertising and the $500 suit they are wearing in them. They also show these children looking sad and pitiful. Come on! Do you really think they aren't instructing them how to act in the commercials? It's a ploy and I don't agree with it.

If you are feeling that you would like to a worthwhile donation try:

To make a donation:

- Donate online at redcross.org.nz (http://www.redcross.org.nz/)
- Donate in person at any branch of NZ Post, Kiwibank, ANZ, National Bank, ASB, TSB and BNZ across New Zealand.
- Mail a cheque (made payable to New Zealand Red Cross) to: Canterbury Earthquake Appeal, Freepost 232690, PO Box 12-140, Thorndon, Wellington 6144.

Simon

I'm not speaking for nationally recognized disastor relief funds. Of course the Red Cross is always a good charity. The Salvation Army is also a reliable charity. I've actually done work for them during disastor situations.

What gets me is the billions sent to Africa (as an example) over the decades, yet there is still the same level of famine and starvation going on. However, the governments seem to manage to pay for arms and weapons to fight their civil wars.

Now we are having massive police / NHS / local government cuts because of the American started global economy disaster - charity should begin at home, not some tinpot little African country.

We still give aid to India, yet on the news the other day, it said India was awash with money and giving aid to other countries - surely that can't be right?

I've been watching people die on TV through starvation since the 70's and it has no effect on me now. I really don't care that someone walks 5 miles for water - they should move closer to the water hole - simples.

Col

They also show these children looking sad and pitiful. Come on! Do you really think they aren't instructing them how to act in the commercials? It's a ploy and I don't agree with it.


Wow - you think a diseased malnourished infant with helpless family , surrounded by tens of thousands of others of similar unfortuates , in a war torn land, is instructed to act sad and pitiful - in order to influence you.

True - I dont know why they also dont just off the elderly and chronically ill to save a few dollars and reduce the population count. Certainly their drain on your little countries finances are hurting those who have to work for a living and not just live on handouts and pensions.

Loads of people climb Mt. Everest these days. In fact they have to send people up there to pick up the litter and coke tins.

If people catch aids that's their fault, there are ways to avoid it. Why bother with a cure? If we keep prolonging life then we'll be overpopulated and be unable to sustain ourselves.

In fact, where are the billions of money poured into African aid gone? Why do we see the same old tired pictures of people dying? It's so boring and quite obviously a waste of money as it hasn't helped that much.

Col

Wow - you think a diseased malnourished infant with helpless family , surrounded by tens of thousands of others of similar unfortuates , in a war torn land, is instructed to act sad and pitiful - in order to influence you.

Your words are a little over-dramatized, but yes!

Think of it like this. What you grow up with is what you are used to, but you make the best of your situation. There is no way they are sad all of the time, but they never seem to capture those non-sad moments. I don't think that's a coincidence.

Either way, if they want my help, they will show me what they do with the money, not guilt me into donating. It's really that simple.

Certainly their drain on your little countries .
Which little countries are you referring to?:rolleyes:

True - I dont know why they also dont just off the elderly and chronically ill to save a few dollars and reduce the population count. Certainly their drain on your little countries finances are hurting those who have to work for a living and not just live on handouts and pensions.

There is alot to be said about euthanasia and assisted suicide.

Col

Your words are a little over-dramatized, but yes!

Think of it like this. What you grow up with is what you are used to, but you make the best of your situation. There is no way they are sad all of the time, but they never seem to capture those non-sad moments. I don't think that's a coincidence.

Either way, if they want my help, they will show me what they do with the money, not guilt me into donating. It's really that simple.

What who grows up with they are used to - the kids or whoever in question?

I dont know what relevence the fact that a year ago - the harvest crop hadn't failed and they hadn't been displaced has to do with it.

The fact they are starving now and desperatley need help is entirely the point surely.

DEC (Disaster and emergency Commitee) campaigns are the ones that get me to donate in particlucar.

The point I was making was that over the last 30 years billions and billions of pounds (or dollars) have been given to Africa.

Where has it all gone?

Why do we still see the same old pictures on TV? [Yawn. . . boring. . . ]

Why do we still give blindly to Africa? (I don't, but loads do get sucked into paying for a civil war or bribery)

Why do they put these pictures of people dying of starvation on TV when you are trying to eat dinner? It almost put me off my wine the other night.

Col

Unfortunately it seems that a lot of aid to Africa has gone straight into the bank accounts of crrupt politicians. There needs to be better checks to ensure that the money goes to help the people who really need it.

Unfortunately it seems that a lot of aid to Africa has gone straight into the bank accounts of crrupt politicians. There needs to be better checks to ensure that the money goes to help the people who really need it.

Exactly. That's why I'm far more likely to donate to someone who can show me their work. There is a small charity here that travels there with supplies. The guy who runs it has pictures of him personally there unloading stuff. He drives around in a 90s cash car. I'm more likely to donate to him because I see the good work he does and he's not standing in a $1000 suit showing me pictures and videos of depressed children filmed with professional $10000s of equipment in order to guilt me into it. :rolleyes: