Since I was introduced to the StarCraft community, I've seen more than I care to. It seems the majority of the players are a hateful, insensitive, cruel and ignorant bunch. At first I attributed it to the game itself and the immaturity to the age bracket of the players. But it's frightening to think that these people are OUR future.
I defended gamers when parents were, in my opinion, being unreasonable about video games. I made excuses for players who were bad mannered.I called off lawyers, when intellectually I knew that the NASL and Uservoice should have a suit brought against them for libel.
When I saw sexism firsthand on both GameReplay and TeamLiquid forums, I ignored it. After all it was simply a few small minds with dix to match, who probably don't get any; and if they did, wouldn't know what to do with it.
GameReplay was, at first, the lesser of the two evils. It felt to me like a closer knit community; friendlier, less hateful, more accepting of women. But when a Polish girl, who goes by the name of Effka, was the first woman ever to win a CraftCup tournament in a male-dominated arena, the forums on GameReplay were inundated with smut and sexist remarks.
Initially I came to the forums, trying to learn more about the game so that I could support a man whom I care about a great deal. There were always Avilo haters and he'd always tell me I'm too sensitive. There were always remarks about women and again I was told to just ignore it.
Recently, someone on GameReplay asked if I was avilo's mother. I responded as sincerely as the question was presented. Then, came the standard, "Pictures or get out." After which another small-minded, immature poster said, "Tits or gtfo."
I decided to not take this Blob guy's post seriously or be offended by it, so I posted to be funny. "Dick or gtfo...but wait, I have to get a magnifying glass." Yeah, I sunk to their immature level. Then, was shocked (whilst I shouldn't have been considering the mentality of this group)when a gamer that goes by the name of Solhei, responded by posting, "This is why girls in general are only meant to stick ur dick in." (Wonder if he feels that way about his mother. Wonder if he even has one)
How have these people been raised? Or have they been? Do their parents, their mothers in particular, know how their sons view them? Were they taught by their fathers to disrespect women in such a way?
It's not easy to "ignore" remarks like that and I guess that's why the more professional gamers stay away from the forums. That's probably good advice for avilo. I know that I've already seen enough of forums to know that there's nothing there for me to learn.
Yesterday, I read a forum thread on TeamLiquid about the NASL commentators and how rudely they conducted themselves during a game. They probably took lessons from the immature and sans testicles, Jim Raynor from GameReplay. (Wonder if he was raised by parents)http://lifeandotherfantasies.blogspot.com/2011/02/starcraft2-and-craftcup-tournament.html
The original poster took exception to their behavior, (guess he had a proper upbringing) but every comment thereafter threw hate at him. "It was fun." "They made me laugh." "Lighten up, it was funny." And that's the mentality of gamers?
Today, I once again defended avilo in Gamereplay, because I wanted to appeal to the "mature and caring" nature of gamers, if there was any. I wanted to prove parents wrong. I wanted to prove to myself that only a few of the gamers that post are insensitive and rude, I wanted to prove avilo wrong.
The responses I received left me sad for the future. I don't envy parents nowadays. Most parents do their best to instill a strong moral and ethical belief in their kids, but when do they have the time? Both parents work, most parents are stressed, some parents don't even know what they're kids are doing or where they are doing it. For other parents, it's just too late.
If all gamers are reflective of some of those in the StarCraft community, then all I can say is, parents beware.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
To Tip or Not To Tip - That is the Question
This was inspired by my cousin, who in no uncertain terms is against tipping. Also, because I recently read a thread on a forum that addressed this topic.
Firstly, after doing some research, I am absolutely sure that no one on the face of this earth knows exactly where this practice first originated. But I do know that it's not only customary, but obligatory. Face it, if you "stiff" a server, would you go back to that restaurant?
In the U.S. we tip everyone from servers to mechanics, most of whom make more money an hour than the person leaving the tip. Hell, there are guides that tell us exactly what percentage of a tip is the norm.
Tipping, started somewhere in Europe. Historians claim it began in 18th century English coffee houses. Of course ask any Brit and they'll tell you that they don't believe in tipping for any service rendered.
I've heard that TIP is an acronym. A container with a label that read "To Insure Promptitude" was placed in English coffee houses and those that donated coins were seated quicker than those who did not.
It's also said that it began in the 1500s when a server asked a customer for a "trinkgeld" which in German is "drink money."
Still another theory is that 400-500 years ago well-to-do folks threw coins at thieves to prevent being accosted.
After much research, the practice of tipping is still as clear as mud. What I did learn, however, is that Americans tip more than any other country. And that, too, differs according to location. Up north 15% to 20% is what someone performing a service "expects." In some southern states, one dollar per person served is the norm. The latter seems more logical to me. I mean if two people spend a hundred bucks on dinner, did the server do anymore for them than the two patrons that spent 10 bucks?
But why did we, as customers, become responsible to pay the wait staff's salary? How can government allow restaurant owners to pay sub-standard wages and then make patrons feel responsible for making up the difference? Let me tell you this, some people treat servers like sub-humans, but those servers can make anywhere from 40 to 100 plus dollars an hour. And the real kicker is that they only report 40% of their tips to the government.
I always thought if I tipped well (and trust me I tip everyone that does anything for me) that I'd be remembered as generous and would receive not only prompt, but better service. To my disappointment it's not true. What I believe now is that they just see the word SUCKER written across my forehead.
I'd also like your opinions on "Christmas" gratuities given to those who have come to expect them, such as: Trash collectors, Mail carriers, Hair Dressers/Barbers, Waiters/Waitresses (if you frequent the establishment), Housekeepers, Lawn Maintenance workers, Taxi drivers, Doormen, etc.
Let 'er rip!
Firstly, after doing some research, I am absolutely sure that no one on the face of this earth knows exactly where this practice first originated. But I do know that it's not only customary, but obligatory. Face it, if you "stiff" a server, would you go back to that restaurant?
In the U.S. we tip everyone from servers to mechanics, most of whom make more money an hour than the person leaving the tip. Hell, there are guides that tell us exactly what percentage of a tip is the norm.
Tipping, started somewhere in Europe. Historians claim it began in 18th century English coffee houses. Of course ask any Brit and they'll tell you that they don't believe in tipping for any service rendered.
I've heard that TIP is an acronym. A container with a label that read "To Insure Promptitude" was placed in English coffee houses and those that donated coins were seated quicker than those who did not.
It's also said that it began in the 1500s when a server asked a customer for a "trinkgeld" which in German is "drink money."
Still another theory is that 400-500 years ago well-to-do folks threw coins at thieves to prevent being accosted.
After much research, the practice of tipping is still as clear as mud. What I did learn, however, is that Americans tip more than any other country. And that, too, differs according to location. Up north 15% to 20% is what someone performing a service "expects." In some southern states, one dollar per person served is the norm. The latter seems more logical to me. I mean if two people spend a hundred bucks on dinner, did the server do anymore for them than the two patrons that spent 10 bucks?
But why did we, as customers, become responsible to pay the wait staff's salary? How can government allow restaurant owners to pay sub-standard wages and then make patrons feel responsible for making up the difference? Let me tell you this, some people treat servers like sub-humans, but those servers can make anywhere from 40 to 100 plus dollars an hour. And the real kicker is that they only report 40% of their tips to the government.
I always thought if I tipped well (and trust me I tip everyone that does anything for me) that I'd be remembered as generous and would receive not only prompt, but better service. To my disappointment it's not true. What I believe now is that they just see the word SUCKER written across my forehead.
I'd also like your opinions on "Christmas" gratuities given to those who have come to expect them, such as: Trash collectors, Mail carriers, Hair Dressers/Barbers, Waiters/Waitresses (if you frequent the establishment), Housekeepers, Lawn Maintenance workers, Taxi drivers, Doormen, etc.
Let 'er rip!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
We Dodged the Bullet - Guess Kendra Did Too
After last nights devastation tonight seemed mild. Yes, we're still under flash flood warnings and it did storm, but there were only three tornadoes in the state. Naturally, one had to be in my backyard, but far enough away that our town only felt the tail end.
So, lucky me, I got to watch the last 15 minutes of Dancing with the Stars. I was sorry to see Chris up there and Ralph. I wasn't sorry to see Kendra. Whilst her last two dances were pretty good, I don't know that she'll be consistent and it's only right that she is voted off. But wait! Huh? Surely there's been a mistake! Granted, I didn't see last night's competition, but to think that she was better than Chris, who has proven he can dance numerous times and Ralph, who is a real showman, is ridiculous. I mean, the end of the competition is still a month away and she's bound to suffer more "hormonal" days.
Just goes to show you that fans shouldn't be allowed a vote.
So, lucky me, I got to watch the last 15 minutes of Dancing with the Stars. I was sorry to see Chris up there and Ralph. I wasn't sorry to see Kendra. Whilst her last two dances were pretty good, I don't know that she'll be consistent and it's only right that she is voted off. But wait! Huh? Surely there's been a mistake! Granted, I didn't see last night's competition, but to think that she was better than Chris, who has proven he can dance numerous times and Ralph, who is a real showman, is ridiculous. I mean, the end of the competition is still a month away and she's bound to suffer more "hormonal" days.
Just goes to show you that fans shouldn't be allowed a vote.
I Missed Dancing with the Stars Monday Night...
But I'm alive to tell about it. Still,this is the way I feel :( Not only because I was unable to watch Dancing with the Stars, which amounts to nothing when it boils down to it, but because I spent most of the day and night in the closet again.
Considering that seven tornadoes and flash floods threatened our state last night, our town didn't see too much damage. We experienced high winds, rising waters from torrential rains, cacophonous rumblings of thunder and "omg that's too close for comfort" lightning. We were left without internet access, no service for cell phones, and no long distance calls via landline phones. Dancing with the Stars was interrupted, just like last Tuesday, by Storm Watch.
Throughout the state there were many fatalities and people who lost their homes so, I consider myself lucky. However, later tonight, (probably just in time for Dancing with the Stars)according to the weather service, storms producing tornadoes will once again sweep this state.
It was reported the tornado that touched down in Vilonia was not a twister, but a wall cloud *shrugs* three miles wide. It took everything in its sight for 15 miles.
I'm not from this part of the country; I've never experienced anything like this before, and I'll tell ya, it's damn scary. When I'm standing in the closet feeling totally helpless; trembling, light-headed, my heart racing knowing that I have absolutely no control over what might happen, I realize that the only thing in life that's important is life itself.
If I make it through tonight, I'll see y'all tomorrow. Of course, I'll put on my red shoes like my cousin suggested so if I am blown away I can find my way home. lol If not, I'll leave you with this: Tell your loved ones just how much they mean to you, because their lives, your life can be taken in a "blink of an eye." Of this we have no control.
Considering that seven tornadoes and flash floods threatened our state last night, our town didn't see too much damage. We experienced high winds, rising waters from torrential rains, cacophonous rumblings of thunder and "omg that's too close for comfort" lightning. We were left without internet access, no service for cell phones, and no long distance calls via landline phones. Dancing with the Stars was interrupted, just like last Tuesday, by Storm Watch.
Throughout the state there were many fatalities and people who lost their homes so, I consider myself lucky. However, later tonight, (probably just in time for Dancing with the Stars)according to the weather service, storms producing tornadoes will once again sweep this state.
It was reported the tornado that touched down in Vilonia was not a twister, but a wall cloud *shrugs* three miles wide. It took everything in its sight for 15 miles.
I'm not from this part of the country; I've never experienced anything like this before, and I'll tell ya, it's damn scary. When I'm standing in the closet feeling totally helpless; trembling, light-headed, my heart racing knowing that I have absolutely no control over what might happen, I realize that the only thing in life that's important is life itself.
If I make it through tonight, I'll see y'all tomorrow. Of course, I'll put on my red shoes like my cousin suggested so if I am blown away I can find my way home. lol If not, I'll leave you with this: Tell your loved ones just how much they mean to you, because their lives, your life can be taken in a "blink of an eye." Of this we have no control.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Violence in America
In the morning, as always, I grab my cup of coffee and get online to check out the news. I feel safer online because I can pick and choose which stories pique my interest. When I watch the news on TV I'm subject to everything bad, good (hardly ever), and indifferent. Violence, crime, hate, government, and world issues (which includes violence, crime, and hate). Anyway, online is just better for me as in "ignorance is bliss."
Today, however, I came across an item so unbelievable that I was compelled to read the story. Rosedale, MD; McDonald's; Girl Beaten into Seizure. I cringed at the thought that this could happen; that employees, not only stood around watching, but one actually thought it would make a good viral video, so he filmed it. (Which it turns out will be great court evidence) But, my God, wtf is wrong with people? Why so much hate? Why so much violence? How can people just sit back and watch? Why didn't someone call 911?
There was one man, perhaps a McDonald's employee, I'm not sure, who did try to break it up, but the two black girls kept coming back to brutalize this white girl. Was it race related or just plain hate related?
Finally, an older woman intervened; however, she was threatened as well.
Have we become immune to violence?
The Bureau of Justice reported that violent crimes rose from 42.7% in 1992-1993, to 48.3% from 2006-2007. FBI data reflects a 6.2% decrease, nationwide, in violent crimes, during the first six months of 2010 WOW! So we're not so violent? We don't hate so much? Everything is getting better?
What causes acts of violence? There was a time when pool halls and rock and roll were blamed. Then, of course, TV, now it's video games. The lack of religion in our lives is high on the list, but according to an email I received from a friend, the University of Michigan reports that the U.S. is among the most religious nations in the world. So what really causes a person to be so angry, so hateful that he/she would strike out against a fellow human being? I wish I knew.
The two black girls, ages 18 and 14, who assaulted the white girl were more than violent; more than hateful. One will be tried as an adult, the other will get away with being tried as a juvenile. And the white girl, who could not protect herself from her two attackers, will be traumatized for the rest of her life.
Unfortunately, every time she sees a black person she'll be reminded of the incident and every black person she encounters will be hateful and violent. And whilst that isn't true, it's embedded in her subconscious forever more.
All I can say is "Why?"
Today, however, I came across an item so unbelievable that I was compelled to read the story. Rosedale, MD; McDonald's; Girl Beaten into Seizure. I cringed at the thought that this could happen; that employees, not only stood around watching, but one actually thought it would make a good viral video, so he filmed it. (Which it turns out will be great court evidence) But, my God, wtf is wrong with people? Why so much hate? Why so much violence? How can people just sit back and watch? Why didn't someone call 911?
There was one man, perhaps a McDonald's employee, I'm not sure, who did try to break it up, but the two black girls kept coming back to brutalize this white girl. Was it race related or just plain hate related?
Finally, an older woman intervened; however, she was threatened as well.
Have we become immune to violence?
The Bureau of Justice reported that violent crimes rose from 42.7% in 1992-1993, to 48.3% from 2006-2007. FBI data reflects a 6.2% decrease, nationwide, in violent crimes, during the first six months of 2010 WOW! So we're not so violent? We don't hate so much? Everything is getting better?
What causes acts of violence? There was a time when pool halls and rock and roll were blamed. Then, of course, TV, now it's video games. The lack of religion in our lives is high on the list, but according to an email I received from a friend, the University of Michigan reports that the U.S. is among the most religious nations in the world. So what really causes a person to be so angry, so hateful that he/she would strike out against a fellow human being? I wish I knew.
The two black girls, ages 18 and 14, who assaulted the white girl were more than violent; more than hateful. One will be tried as an adult, the other will get away with being tried as a juvenile. And the white girl, who could not protect herself from her two attackers, will be traumatized for the rest of her life.
Unfortunately, every time she sees a black person she'll be reminded of the incident and every black person she encounters will be hateful and violent. And whilst that isn't true, it's embedded in her subconscious forever more.
All I can say is "Why?"
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Petra is Gone????
For the second time in less than seven days, I was locked in a closet due to severe weather, including funnel clouds and hail the size of tennis balls in places. The channel that airs Dancing with the Stars was interrupted by the emergency Weather Watch people. Just when I thought it was safe to leave the closet for much needed oxygen, the station reported another storm brewing 40 miles south of here, heading in my direction.
When everything settled down, I returned to my office to learn that Petra was eliminated. Only one of my readers guessed right. But how unfair was last night's elimination? I watched a recap today and agreed, once again, with Len, who basically said, it's outrageous to see Chris and Petra standing there waiting for the final results.
Whilst I was never a big fan of Petra, she's not the one that should have been eliminated. I actually had flashbacks of Kate Gosselin and her stint on the show.
Wtf is wrong with people? How could they possibly choose Kendra over Chris? Even over Petra?
Needless to say, I'm extremely disappointed in the results, but happy that I wasn't blown into oblivion and have the chance to watch yet another DWTS - oops, maybe I spoke too soon.
When everything settled down, I returned to my office to learn that Petra was eliminated. Only one of my readers guessed right. But how unfair was last night's elimination? I watched a recap today and agreed, once again, with Len, who basically said, it's outrageous to see Chris and Petra standing there waiting for the final results.
Whilst I was never a big fan of Petra, she's not the one that should have been eliminated. I actually had flashbacks of Kate Gosselin and her stint on the show.
Wtf is wrong with people? How could they possibly choose Kendra over Chris? Even over Petra?
Needless to say, I'm extremely disappointed in the results, but happy that I wasn't blown into oblivion and have the chance to watch yet another DWTS - oops, maybe I spoke too soon.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Dancing with the Stars - The Halfway Mark
Americana Week? Of course, what could be more American than the Samba?
Poor Ralph doing the Samba to Sweet Home Alabama was challenging to say the least. Frankly, I think the judges are too hard on him. I have no idea who picks the music, but if Karina did, she was too hard on herself.
Ralph is entertaining as all get out in my opinion, but it didn't resemble a Samba to me. His 8-7-7 scores were a slap in the face though.
When Chris and Cheryl waltzed around the dance floor, I was totally impressed. Chris definitely has what it takes and never lets me down. I was thrilled with his 9-8-9 scores and feel that he's a contender. Yes, CarrieAnn, the judges have been underestimating him.
Who they haven't been underestimating and should is Petra. She stumbled a few times when she performed the Quick Step, but I feel Dimitry really challenged her with some aggressive choreography that ended up being not too spectacular. Bruno always seems to give those blonds higher than deserved scores. The sevens from Len and CarrieAnn were more appropriate than Bruno's eight.
While I wasn't (and haven't been) that impressed with Romeo, I suppose one has to take into consideration his age and the genre of music to which he's accustomed. His Foxtrot to New York, New York scored way too high for me. 9-8-9. I seldom agree with Len, but this time I do.
Now comes my man, and I do believe he's going to make it to the top three. He looked, like Bruno said, "An Officer and a Gentleman" and swept Kim around the dance floor with elegance and ease. The judges awarded him with the highest scores of the night; 9-9-9.
I couldn't wait to see what malfunction would present itself for Kirstie and Maks tonight when they danced the Foxtrot to American Woman. Watching the two of them interact just tickles me, but when John "Dance Instructor" Travolta joined them in rehearsal, I laughed out loud. "Did you tell her you love her?" Maks told John "Only in Russian." Maks and Kirstie, despite mishaps have so much fun together that it's refreshing. Of course Len had to ruin their efforts with a seven, but the other two gave them the eight they deserved.
And for the 1000th dance on DWTS, who do we get? Boohoo I can be "F**king elegant." mmmhmm. Okay, so last week she was overly sensitive because she had her "period." She and her partner danced the Foxtrot to Yankee Doodle Dandy and frankly it was her best dance to date. I didn't, however, see much more of a Foxtrot than I saw Ralph's Samba. So, one dance she performs well and basks in the glory of "You weren't that bad this week." 8-7-7 - go home.
Chelsea and Mark's Samba to Miley's "Party in the U.S.A." was fun to watch, but then the couple never let me down as far as being entertaining. I love the choreography and Chelsea pulls it off well. She'll definitely make it to the finals. 9-8-9.
So, who's going home tomorrow night? Please please please, Kendra.
Poor Ralph doing the Samba to Sweet Home Alabama was challenging to say the least. Frankly, I think the judges are too hard on him. I have no idea who picks the music, but if Karina did, she was too hard on herself.
Ralph is entertaining as all get out in my opinion, but it didn't resemble a Samba to me. His 8-7-7 scores were a slap in the face though.
When Chris and Cheryl waltzed around the dance floor, I was totally impressed. Chris definitely has what it takes and never lets me down. I was thrilled with his 9-8-9 scores and feel that he's a contender. Yes, CarrieAnn, the judges have been underestimating him.
Who they haven't been underestimating and should is Petra. She stumbled a few times when she performed the Quick Step, but I feel Dimitry really challenged her with some aggressive choreography that ended up being not too spectacular. Bruno always seems to give those blonds higher than deserved scores. The sevens from Len and CarrieAnn were more appropriate than Bruno's eight.
While I wasn't (and haven't been) that impressed with Romeo, I suppose one has to take into consideration his age and the genre of music to which he's accustomed. His Foxtrot to New York, New York scored way too high for me. 9-8-9. I seldom agree with Len, but this time I do.
Now comes my man, and I do believe he's going to make it to the top three. He looked, like Bruno said, "An Officer and a Gentleman" and swept Kim around the dance floor with elegance and ease. The judges awarded him with the highest scores of the night; 9-9-9.
I couldn't wait to see what malfunction would present itself for Kirstie and Maks tonight when they danced the Foxtrot to American Woman. Watching the two of them interact just tickles me, but when John "Dance Instructor" Travolta joined them in rehearsal, I laughed out loud. "Did you tell her you love her?" Maks told John "Only in Russian." Maks and Kirstie, despite mishaps have so much fun together that it's refreshing. Of course Len had to ruin their efforts with a seven, but the other two gave them the eight they deserved.
And for the 1000th dance on DWTS, who do we get? Boohoo I can be "F**king elegant." mmmhmm. Okay, so last week she was overly sensitive because she had her "period." She and her partner danced the Foxtrot to Yankee Doodle Dandy and frankly it was her best dance to date. I didn't, however, see much more of a Foxtrot than I saw Ralph's Samba. So, one dance she performs well and basks in the glory of "You weren't that bad this week." 8-7-7 - go home.
Chelsea and Mark's Samba to Miley's "Party in the U.S.A." was fun to watch, but then the couple never let me down as far as being entertaining. I love the choreography and Chelsea pulls it off well. She'll definitely make it to the finals. 9-8-9.
So, who's going home tomorrow night? Please please please, Kendra.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Cell Phone vs Cavegirl
Avilo jokingly calls me a cavegirl because I'm technologically challenged, but everyone I know gasps when I tell them I don't have a cell phone. They cause brain tumors, right?
Anyway, I've already locked myself out of the house and had to walk to a neighbor's, (Not around the corner) hoping they were home, in order to call a locksmith. I've broken down on the side of the road and had to wave down another car to call AAA. And if you read my post "STFU With Your Fractions" you know I could have saved myself lots of trouble had I had a cell phone. :(
Finally, the other day,I broke down and bought one of those throw away phones. It took me a day to find out what my number is. I'm a perfectionist, so I don't do anything or try anything before reading all instructions carefully. lol After which I usually forget and have to refer back to manual.
When I figured I knew what it was all about I gave avilo the number and said "call me." He tried and was told, "Number is not connected." Well, of course it was, it said "activated." So I called him only to get his voice mail. I left a message, which he said he never got. :(
Now, I was concerned that our two carriers did not want to connect to one another. I mean what do I know? So I called a "tech specialist" at Tracfone. Already I'm thinking about my "Customer Service - The All Time Great Oxymoron" post.
I explain to this sweet and patient lady from another country the problem I'm experiencing. She tells me to remove the battery. No Problem. "Now remove the Sim card." Problem. "Ummm...what's a Sim card and where is it?" Okay, I found it! Success.
After I put the phone back together she has me do a bunch of other things. Simple enough except I have to keep asking, "How do I get there?" or "What button do I press for that?" or "Sorry, I can't understand you."
She remained patient and understanding and whilst she didn't LOFL, I'm sure she was rolling her eyes on the other end.
When she finishes with all the instructions and I successfully complete the tasks, she tells me everything is working fine and I should be able to make calls and receive them. "I am going to call you now, but don't answer the phone."
The phone doesn't ring so she comes back to me and says, "Miss, do you have the phone on?" Okay, dumb blond moment I guess. "You mean the phone has to be on?" LOL
So 25 minutes later, all the tech specialist would have had to do was say, "In order to receive calls, your phone must be on." That's going to definitely be her story of the day, about "Customers...Just Plain Dumb."
Hell, I thought I was preserving battery life.
P.S. Just so y'all don't think I'm the only one in this relationship who is dumb; when avilo tried calling me again he said, "It still doesn't work." hahahaha...he transposed the first three digits. DUH!
Anyway, I've already locked myself out of the house and had to walk to a neighbor's, (Not around the corner) hoping they were home, in order to call a locksmith. I've broken down on the side of the road and had to wave down another car to call AAA. And if you read my post "STFU With Your Fractions" you know I could have saved myself lots of trouble had I had a cell phone. :(
Finally, the other day,I broke down and bought one of those throw away phones. It took me a day to find out what my number is. I'm a perfectionist, so I don't do anything or try anything before reading all instructions carefully. lol After which I usually forget and have to refer back to manual.
When I figured I knew what it was all about I gave avilo the number and said "call me." He tried and was told, "Number is not connected." Well, of course it was, it said "activated." So I called him only to get his voice mail. I left a message, which he said he never got. :(
Now, I was concerned that our two carriers did not want to connect to one another. I mean what do I know? So I called a "tech specialist" at Tracfone. Already I'm thinking about my "Customer Service - The All Time Great Oxymoron" post.
I explain to this sweet and patient lady from another country the problem I'm experiencing. She tells me to remove the battery. No Problem. "Now remove the Sim card." Problem. "Ummm...what's a Sim card and where is it?" Okay, I found it! Success.
After I put the phone back together she has me do a bunch of other things. Simple enough except I have to keep asking, "How do I get there?" or "What button do I press for that?" or "Sorry, I can't understand you."
She remained patient and understanding and whilst she didn't LOFL, I'm sure she was rolling her eyes on the other end.
When she finishes with all the instructions and I successfully complete the tasks, she tells me everything is working fine and I should be able to make calls and receive them. "I am going to call you now, but don't answer the phone."
The phone doesn't ring so she comes back to me and says, "Miss, do you have the phone on?" Okay, dumb blond moment I guess. "You mean the phone has to be on?" LOL
So 25 minutes later, all the tech specialist would have had to do was say, "In order to receive calls, your phone must be on." That's going to definitely be her story of the day, about "Customers...Just Plain Dumb."
Hell, I thought I was preserving battery life.
P.S. Just so y'all don't think I'm the only one in this relationship who is dumb; when avilo tried calling me again he said, "It still doesn't work." hahahaha...he transposed the first three digits. DUH!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Avilo Proves That VT Gaming Made a Great Choice
Tonight, Hypercrew streamed another "Clash for the Cache" only this time I took particular interest in the match. VTAvilo vs tQstate - TvP!
The TeamLiquid forums were abuzz and the poll showed 68% in favor of tQstate. But I knew, even when Zyori, from Hypercrew, posted "Poor avilo" that he would win this bo7, just didn't know how quickly.
Even the players in DC were voting against avilo. :( But avilo has a team now and it's good for his morale, they supported him and today avilo got to practice a bit with a Protoss and team member, VTdesrow.
The fact is that avilo has worked hard and long to prove himself. I, of course, always believed in him and always will. I think this is gonna be the start of something big.
Congrats VTavilo :) You done good and like I said in TL post, you left the disbelievers with they're jaw dropped to the floor. Well, hell, you left me in disbelief as well. I knew you'd take State, but 4-0?
Next week they're matching avilo up with a Zerg. @_@
If you ever get a chance to watch the Hypercrew "Clash for the Cache" it's streamed on Thursdays at 8 p.m. est. http://www.hypercrew.com/live.php (P.S. They need sponsors)
The casters are Zyori and Janitor "I know how to use my inside voice at LANs" and they do a great job. Even the chat room, moderated by Luckyfool, who also voted against avilo, was mannered. WOW! Wonders never cease.
The TeamLiquid forums were abuzz and the poll showed 68% in favor of tQstate. But I knew, even when Zyori, from Hypercrew, posted "Poor avilo" that he would win this bo7, just didn't know how quickly.
Even the players in DC were voting against avilo. :( But avilo has a team now and it's good for his morale, they supported him and today avilo got to practice a bit with a Protoss and team member, VTdesrow.
The fact is that avilo has worked hard and long to prove himself. I, of course, always believed in him and always will. I think this is gonna be the start of something big.
Congrats VTavilo :) You done good and like I said in TL post, you left the disbelievers with they're jaw dropped to the floor. Well, hell, you left me in disbelief as well. I knew you'd take State, but 4-0?
Next week they're matching avilo up with a Zerg. @_@
If you ever get a chance to watch the Hypercrew "Clash for the Cache" it's streamed on Thursdays at 8 p.m. est. http://www.hypercrew.com/live.php (P.S. They need sponsors)
The casters are Zyori and Janitor "I know how to use my inside voice at LANs" and they do a great job. Even the chat room, moderated by Luckyfool, who also voted against avilo, was mannered. WOW! Wonders never cease.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
VT Gaming Enlists Two New Players
The other day, the manager of VT Gaming told avilo he was in. I was with him at the time and I can't express how thrilled he was. I am happy for him, because this is what he's worked for. I'm happy too that the people at VT had the good sense to make a wise decision. Avilo will definitely be an asset to their team.
Another player they enlisted is a zerg, Mr. Bitter. I had never heard of him before now, but that's not saying much because there's a lot of players of which I haven't heard.
There will always be posters on TeamLiquid that disagree with decisions other people make, VT's decision to enlist avilo is no exception. Mostly, there were congratulatory posts. Those that either aren't familiar with avilo, or just don't like him, were kind enough to send congrats to Mr. Bitter alone. Those, who are avilo haters, of course, had to have their say. And one idiot even had the audacity to mention vote hacking, perpetuating the NASL lies. I took avilo's advise and overlooked their ignorance.
Okay, so I was rooting for avilo to make this team and was as happy as he was when he got in. I'm pretty sure that not everyone on the team liked him, but the majority did and avilo has a way of burrowing into ones heart, so because most of the team members had no problem with him, he made the team.
There have been times when avilo would do or say something on TeamLiquid or GamerReplay so outrageous that I'd tell him, "No wonder people hate you for crying out loud!" Nevertheless, I supported and defended him. Behind closed doors, however, I'd criticize his - at times - immature behavior and tell him he needed a better command of the English language. "You can actually get your point across without using the 'eff' word in every other sentence."
I defended him when he raged about Zerg being imba and asked him not to post anymore YouTube rants before consulting me. LOL "Your damn shirt was wrinkled!" I kept telling him that Zerg is only imba because "You have that embedded in your subconscious. Get over it. Find a way around it. You're a good player, you can do it. Stop whining and start winning."
Again and again, I reminded him that in order to get what you want, you have to play the game. I'm not talking about Starcraft now, but life. Isn't life really a game we all play? We want something, we go after it. But in my opinion, he was going after it the wrong way. He kept telling me that I don't get it. I don't understand gamers. I kept telling him, I understand what I see. I understand human nature.
Avilo gained the reputation of being bad mannered in game and on the forums, but I've always questioned that. He refused to GG (like a handshake after a tennis match) if the game wasn't played well by the opponent. Does that make him bad mannered? I don't think so! There are much worse mannered players in game and on forums. There's a whole thread in TL about it, and I didn't even see Avilo mentioned in the 28 pages of examples.Besides, most of his posts were to intentionally bait people and when they were dumb enough to bite, he'd sit back and have a good laugh.
Avilo has firm convictions and he adheres to them, despite the opinions of others. He fights for what he believes to be right and I can only hope he continues to do so and that VT is a team that respects his fighting spirit as much as he respects the team of which he is now a part.
I wish avilo, Mr. Bitter and VT Gaming much success.
Another player they enlisted is a zerg, Mr. Bitter. I had never heard of him before now, but that's not saying much because there's a lot of players of which I haven't heard.
There will always be posters on TeamLiquid that disagree with decisions other people make, VT's decision to enlist avilo is no exception. Mostly, there were congratulatory posts. Those that either aren't familiar with avilo, or just don't like him, were kind enough to send congrats to Mr. Bitter alone. Those, who are avilo haters, of course, had to have their say. And one idiot even had the audacity to mention vote hacking, perpetuating the NASL lies. I took avilo's advise and overlooked their ignorance.
Okay, so I was rooting for avilo to make this team and was as happy as he was when he got in. I'm pretty sure that not everyone on the team liked him, but the majority did and avilo has a way of burrowing into ones heart, so because most of the team members had no problem with him, he made the team.
There have been times when avilo would do or say something on TeamLiquid or GamerReplay so outrageous that I'd tell him, "No wonder people hate you for crying out loud!" Nevertheless, I supported and defended him. Behind closed doors, however, I'd criticize his - at times - immature behavior and tell him he needed a better command of the English language. "You can actually get your point across without using the 'eff' word in every other sentence."
I defended him when he raged about Zerg being imba and asked him not to post anymore YouTube rants before consulting me. LOL "Your damn shirt was wrinkled!" I kept telling him that Zerg is only imba because "You have that embedded in your subconscious. Get over it. Find a way around it. You're a good player, you can do it. Stop whining and start winning."
Again and again, I reminded him that in order to get what you want, you have to play the game. I'm not talking about Starcraft now, but life. Isn't life really a game we all play? We want something, we go after it. But in my opinion, he was going after it the wrong way. He kept telling me that I don't get it. I don't understand gamers. I kept telling him, I understand what I see. I understand human nature.
Avilo gained the reputation of being bad mannered in game and on the forums, but I've always questioned that. He refused to GG (like a handshake after a tennis match) if the game wasn't played well by the opponent. Does that make him bad mannered? I don't think so! There are much worse mannered players in game and on forums. There's a whole thread in TL about it, and I didn't even see Avilo mentioned in the 28 pages of examples.Besides, most of his posts were to intentionally bait people and when they were dumb enough to bite, he'd sit back and have a good laugh.
Avilo has firm convictions and he adheres to them, despite the opinions of others. He fights for what he believes to be right and I can only hope he continues to do so and that VT is a team that respects his fighting spirit as much as he respects the team of which he is now a part.
I wish avilo, Mr. Bitter and VT Gaming much success.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)