My mindless rant, in no particular order or sense of clarity...

[galactus]

Well, I figure it's about time for one of my rants on the boards since there has been so much strife and BS lately (I suggested to Danny that the site be shut down for a while so people can get a grip). From the Bucky Fiasco to Sasquatch, people arguing with each other, and the general nonsense going on, I figure my time on these boards is pretty much up. I've never had a more negative sense of this hobby nor it's collectors as I have right now. And the funny thing about this whole situation is that we seem to be in the best period of collecting there can be!

- The number of people interested in the hobby is tremendous
- There are NUMEROUS companies creating very high quality product
- EVERY subject matter is being covered, from movies to comics to anything...
- We have a great place to discuss the hobbies we love...

BUT...

people want to *****, moan and complain about EVERYTHING. People want to argue. People want to make sure that everyone else is in their "proper" place, without being able to take care of themselves in the first place. Well people, let me give you MY opinion on a few topics, and I don't give a flying f-uck if you agree or not...

-BOWEN DESIGNS-
People, get your heads out of your asses. Randy is NOT the only person out there. He was the FIRST to create this niche in collecting, and for that he should be recognized. He was a pioneer that took a huge risk and ended up creating a very profitable company. AND THAT IS WHY HE IS ON THESE BOARDS!!! He's not here to be your friend, he's not here to make sure that YOU get the pieces that YOU want, and he certainly isn't here to have us run his company. He is here because he wants to continue on with HIS business, so HE can make a living. Go on and thank him all you wants for "caring" about the consumer, the customer, his "loyal" fans. We are $$$$ to him, plain and simple. If you think he is on here for ANY other reason, you're insane. You know why something like Gold Bucky happens? Because it can. There are enough of you suckers out there who would literally buy a solid turd from this man if he made it. You are actually THANKING him for selling you a rehashed, BS, money making character for $157?!?!?! Are you people nuts!!!!
Bowen is not a stupid guy. He KNOWS all of this, and is playing everyone. "Oh, people wanted the other base, so thats why I made it. Oh, yeah, by the way, a 100 pieces slipped through with a different base..." OH PLEASE, are you people f-ucking stupid!!!! You mean to tell me that this person you all revere as a GOD has no way of having those 100 pieces destroyed??? You mean the $500 in costs he has to swallow is too much??? OF COURSE NOT!! But the "buzz" it creates is well worth it, and watching you people argue, *****, moan and COMPLAIN about it is probably worth 10 times that amount.
"Oh, but people ASKED for the change". Yeah, about 50 people on these boards, THE SAME 50 PEOPLE WHO ALWAYS OPEN THEIR MOUTHS, mentioned something. Well, there are about 2450 other people who didn't say anything. The only other time when the minority decided anything was when Bush won in 2000, and we all know how THAT turned out. In any case, if the piece is already in production, why the hell is Bowen asking us what we think anyway?? It's a done deal, let it go, the f-ucking piece was going to sell out anyway. You are all a bunch of fiddles, and Randy is playing those strings.

-CURSING/PEOPLE ARGUING WITH EACH OTHER-
What the hell is wrong with everyone? Danny and MODS have REPEATEDLY asked that all personal attacks, rude/sexual language, or ANYTHING you wouldn't want your own kids to see be stopped. Well, nothing happens. The thing I am personally most pissed off about is that my own friends here in NY are among the worst offenders (myself included due to this thread). I have personally asked, on behalf of Danny, that some of the guys try to chill out a little, not be so overtly "NYer" in your language and comments. Well, to the rest of the forum, I apologize. It appears that us NYers aren't as savvy and great as we would like to think. My advice is to ignore whatever you deem inappropriate, and report it to a mod (for everyone, not just us NYers). PEOPLE WILL BE BANNED WITHOUT QUESTION FROM THIS POINT FORWARD.

-BUYING/SELLING/TRADING-
"What are your grails""Where is a good place to buy these pieces BESIDES ebay or a store??""Oh, I got this piece, but I'm not sure if I really want it..."
THESE ARE ALL B/S/T threads, whether you think you are making one or not. We have ALL seen the results of deals gone bad on this forum. This is the reason why public B/S/T threads are forbidden. This is not a suggestion, it is a rule. Dannys rule. If people are incapable or unwilling to police themselves, then they will be policed by us.

-RESPECT-
Basically, I see very little of it on these boards lately. Brown-nosing, yes. Admiration for peoples works, yes. Compliments, thank yous, shout outs...yes. Respect, not for a very long time.
I have seen lots of new members get jumped on for asking a question which was previously asked. For asking about something which was already discussed. For stating THEIR opinion, simply because they had this silly notion that being on these boards allowed them to do so???
NO ONE OWNS THESE BOARDS. Even Danny avoids posting too often in order to avoid seeming like a pushy landlord. I don't give a rats ass if you've got 1 post or 100,000, you are due respect from the others on this forum. There are going to be arguments and there are going to be people who join for no reason other that to cause problems. Deal with these issues in a RESPECTFUL matter. Inform a MOD about any issues. Don't start 14 page threads with nothing but an argument (regardless of how entertaining some of them can be).
But mostly, be respectful of this site. Everyone here is given this place for FREE. NOTHING. ZILCH. NADA. Danny pays for this site on his own and asks for nothing but a little civility. He doesn't push comicstatues.com at the expense of other dealers. He has tried to create a cool site from the ashes of the Bowen Forum. YES, BELIEVE IT OR NOT, THIS IS NOT THE BOWEN FORUM. Damn, even Bowen Designs had to be asked (numerous times) about why Comicstatues.com wasn't on their list of retailers when Randy basically uses this site for free customer feedback, focus groups and product suggestions.
I'm sure you folks would never want someone to walk into your house and start arguing that the color of your rug is off and that the legs your kitchen table is on are too square!! Try to be a little positive once in a while, you may find that it's not too hard.


Ok, I'm done. I could probably go on for about another 14 pages, but I already mentioned that those types of threads are a little tedious. Reply all you want to this, but I won't see it, so do it for yourselves.
And people, try to actually ENJOY collecting this stuff, that's why it's here.

[Collection King 13]

Drew lets go have a drink!

[boondocksaint]

all i can say is drew...youre my man..i love ya man

but this is all TRIVIAL!
i dont want to sound like a preacher but life is to short to get upset over statues and ignorant people who poison this great forum
i admit i was a whiner but those days are long gone...
this is a great,,,,GREAT forum...and like i said in another thread for you to leave this great forum because of idiotic people is ridiculous.,! ignore the whining and ignorance....its only about 5% of this forum...youre one of the most informative people on here...youre also a friend and i wouldnt want to see you not participate because of a few bad apples(well maybe more than a few) you help everyone out and always have great insight,,,,
bottom line...the forum is a better place with you here,,,,forget about the nonsense and enjoy the hobby and the forum

[MiamiLoco]

uh, I guess I don't take a lot of these "BS" posts that serious. If I see a thread where people start arguing I just completely avoid it (like the fiasco that happened in the Miami Meeting thread). I personally have made great friends through this board and I don't see any problems with it, but if you want to go, you are free to do so.

[JDH]

Wait, all this time you Yanks have been talking about Rantsgiving Day? That makes a lot more sense.:) I kimd of know how you feel, Galactus. In the past I have frequently felt like there's no future in posting here because of this, or that, or the other. I've kind of overcome that nowadays, accepting that this is the internet, and you're gonna get all those things you mention. Short of having an application process and vetting members, there's no way to really prevent it. So I just try to have fun where I can, but then I don't have your responsibility. I hope you find a way to be sanguine about things so you can carry on being here.

[Bullseye]

Well said Big G. This should be a sticky and posted on all sections. There are enough good people on this board to survive.

[Tetragrammaton]

Well said? Really? I disagree.

Suggesting the forum be shut down? I got along fine before the forum and will learn to get along without it as well. I find the forum, for the most part, fun and informative. Just because you are soured on it, don't go out of your way to ruin it for the rest of us.

BOWEN

Of course it is a business to make money. Yes people complain a lot. This is not limited to this forum. Being a Mod gives you the right to call other members stupid and to tell us to pull our head out our ass?

CURSING

Maybe you should edit your own post before preaching.

B/S/T

As the last thread of the "grail" type was mine, let me say that this was not in any way posted to buy, sell or trade with any one on the forum. Members had mentioned to me in public and in PM as to where they had seen them being sold. Is this wrong? Oh right, you won't see this reply but maybe one of the other mods can answer me.

RESPECT

On this point I agree with you totally, but your point might have been stronger if you posted with more thought and less emotion.

I do enjoy myself and while I can understand everyone needs to blow up once in a while, I think you are coming off a little "holier than thou" Galactus.

[candyrocket786]

-BOWEN DESIGNS-( and all other Suppliers)
There's no room for friendship in business and vice versa.
Cash is King

-CURSING/PEOPLE ARGUING WITH EACH OTHER-
Be Civil

-BUYING/SELLING/TRADING-
Don't do it!!!

-RESPECT-
(See response for the "Cursing" topic)



Well said G.... There's alot to read so I did my own summary that gets to the point. :laugh:

[Bullseye]

Guess i should expand...

There are enough good people on this forum and i for one hope that it won't be shut down because of the very strong views of certain individuals who in particular post in the Bowen section and occasionally in the other sections simply to slag off their product. I guess at the beginning i found this to be very annoying but I’ve come to expect it of some people and just get over the 'Mindless' views IMO but i guess i have enough respect for the forum not to start 'Too Many' arguments on the forum. I try to be respectful of peoples views yet i cannot sometimes fail put take the piss of their views...I don't mean to be disrespectful its just my funny bone i guess. Maybe we Irish/Brits have different sense of humour to our American brothers but in the main i find that we are very similar.

The Bowen section is probably the most aggressive section on the forum and most of the 'Aggressive People' seem to hang out there. There does seem to be a certain lack of respect for other peoples views...my post on Bust Collectors Suck thread was supposed to be funny and comic relief. But it does tell some home truths that seem to be prevalent among bust collectors in that they cannot agree among themselves. I really think Randy should just produce the sculpt/base/colour scheme and forget about asking opinions.

With regard to B/S/T while i don't post threads directly seeking sales i have posted links to 'Wish Lists' posted in the Sonofabid site. I don't know whether this is a breach of the rules. I see it as a loophole yet to be shut.

[d rod]

well tetra, i disagree with you. problem is, you get to ignore what you want. we can't. what drew wrote is correct. because some members become "fanatics", they take posts very personal. this creates a problem. a problem that members, sculptors, artists and others do not want to partake on this forum any longer.
you see, every single complaint comes to us. when posts are insulting, we have to hear about it. you don't. all you have to do is post and ignore if you wish.
there are spoken rules and written rules. many try to go around them. not all but many. the question is why do they do it when they know they shouldn't? when they do, it means nothing to you. sadly, the same doesn't apply to us.
Now, I wasn't going to close down the forum because of a select few. That would mean they won and got the best of us. What will happen is that from now on, we won't be so soft on those who do brake the rules. You see, when I talk to someone from Marvel, DC, Sideshow or any other company, I don't enjoy them telling me about some of the things they read on this forum. Yes, it is publicly accessible but it is privately owned. That means that this becomes a reflection of me.
Many of you have developed an online affection with some sculptors and become very protective over them and this is becoming a problem. Some sculptors are no longer posting because of this. If nobody understood what Drew was trying to say, basically he's telling that the select ones need to chill out or get out. I'm actually tired of trying to be nice and "cutting a break". Well, no more. 98+% are awesome. The select few will either have to change, chill, ignore posts or walk away from the computer when they are inclined to create a bad post because it will no longer be accepted.
For the record, drew is "holier than thou". In my book, he has done so much for this forum behind the scenes and for this industry, he's earned that right. Yes, everyone has contributed here and everyone is important but he has gone above and beyond the majority on his own without asking for anything in return. So if you understood his post as just his position, let me clarify that. It is the position of many. We know because we read the pm's and I listen to the phone calls. So if everyone continues to say what they want and post what they want, as quickly as this forum grew, it will die. I'm not going to let that happen. If someone has a problem with any of this, feel free and shoot me a pm, come up to me at a show or call my office. You want to express your disagreement on a sculpt, fine. Just remember that there is a difference between being critical and insulting. If you can't see the difference, don't post.

[candyrocket786]

You see, when I talk to someone from Marvel, DC, Sideshow or any other company, I don't enjoy them telling me about some of the things they read on this forum. Yes, it is publicly accessible but it is privately owned. That means that this becomes a reflection of me.


So what are they reading that pisses them off? The other subforums aren't as active as the BD one, so what could DC and Sideshow be angry about? That we voice our opinion regarding product direction (DC) or possibly the shipping/prices/quality(SS)?

[d rod]

it's not that it pisses them of about something about them. it's the disrespect. like the f- this and f- that. calling a woman the "c" word, making personal rude remarks about others. continuously ranting about how a certain sculptor or company sucks. there is no problem with giving opinions. many times i agree with them. it's how it is said. one has to have a bit more class.

[grendelscott]

I agree with what the Big G has said here for the most part. I think emotion took over a bit in the Bowen part of his post, but in the end I agree with what the point was.

He also summed up what most (if not all) of the mods are feeling about the way people treat each other around here. If someone is starting a gathering of forum members in their area, let them be. No need to jump in there and start slamming them. If someone loves a statue that you hate, so what? Say why you don't like it, but don't slam the other person because they disagree. A fine example is the whole Moon Knight debate - I am totally for the "white" over the "silver", but I don't think people are stupid for wanting the silver or even their reasons for wanting it. It's just my opinion, and everyone's entitled to their own.

Just because we want people to have fun here, it doesn't mean we are the "politically correct" or have to be the "fun police". Just take a moment or two and think about what you are typing before you hit that submit button...

[Zurbaran1]

it's not that it pisses them of about something about them. it's the disrespect. like the f- this and f- that. calling a woman the "c" word, making personal rude remarks about others. continuously ranting about how a certain sculptor or company sucks. there is no problem with giving opinions. many times i agree with them. it's how it is said. one has to have a bit more class.

Absolutely. I don't know how many times I have brought this up. It's like beating a dead horse. There is nothing wrong with criticism as long as it is constructive. All artists welcome it. But the "this sucks" or "that is crap" posts serve no purpose and sometimes will be downright insulting. Personally, I know a few of these extremely talented people and every last one of them is a great artist and even more so a great person. They share their work and advice with us and add a great deal to this forum. And frankly, I am feed up with the inane posts and agree that we should crack down. If the folks who post this way don't realize what they have here then they won't miss it when they are gone.

[boondocksaint]

Absolutely. I don't know how many times I have brought this up. It's like beating a dead horse. There is nothing wrong with criticism as long as it is constructive. All artists welcome it. But the "this sucks" or "that is crap" posts serve no purpose and sometimes will be downright insulting. Personally, I know a few of these extremely talented people and every last one of them is a great artist and even more so a great person. They share their work and advice with us and add a great deal to this forum. And frankly, I am feed up with the inane posts and agree that we should crack down. If the folks who post this way don't realize what they have here then they won't miss it when they are gone.


give one warning and then ban for a week 2nd incident ban for good

[Zurbaran1]

give one warning and then ban for a week 2nd incident ban for good

I already gave a warning earlier. There won't be another.

[boondocksaint]

I already gave a warning earlier. There won't be another.


will you be banning for good,for one incident?
it has gotten out of hand and there should be no
2nd chances...everyone has had many warnings

[JDH]

I personally think we have a responsibility to police ourselves to help make life easier for the mods. If someone writes something that seems inappropriate or offensive, I think it is appropriate to post a respectful response pointing out that it may be taken that way. A lot of the problems, and perceived problems, of this forum could be solved, in my opinion, by more folks taking responsibility to end fights before they start. There can be a culture of escalation here whenever something starts - that's something I suspect is endemic to the internet. But if more people counted to ten before posting irate responses, particularly when confronting new members, I think a lot of nastiness could be cut off at the source. This isn't just the job of the mods - it is the responsibility of everyone posting here to do their bit to make it a successful forum in which information and opinions can be shared with as many collectors and professionals as possible. That is what this place offers at its best, and its down to us as much as D Rod and the Mods (you guys really should be a band...) to maintain that standard.

[Tetragrammaton]

well tetra, i disagree with you. problem is, you get to ignore what you want. we can't. what drew wrote is correct. because some members become "fanatics"...

I guess I would rather the offending members be addressed rather than general rants against the entire posting membership.

If what I wrote was incorrect or inapproriate, especially in regards to Drew himself, I do take it back. I can certainly appreciate that moderating on the forum isn't easy.

[risingstar]

I've belonged to numerous fan sites over the years. I'm sad to say that I've seen many of them eventually turn into what you see here from time to time... Why that is, who knows for sure...? Maybe it's because some people here wouldn't be friends out there... Maybe it's because the ages of members range from 12-55... Maybe it's because some people see fan forums as a place to vent personal frustrations.... Maybe there's all sorts of culture clashes going on too... Maybe some people are just wired to confront and stir things up... Maybe all of the above? Who knows?

This site has something unique in the sense that we come into contact with creators and sculptors and fellow fans. We're asked for our opinion on things, we get to see sculpts in progress, and every so often we come across a great scoop. Speaking for myself, I've come to appreciate that aspect of the forum even though I have only been here a short time.

[Zurbaran1]

But if more people counted to ten before posting irate responses, particularly when confronting new members, I think a lot of nastiness could be cut off at the source.

I brought something like this up in another thread. The process of reasoned posting should be something like:

STOP. THINK. COMPOSE. POST

not:

COMPOSE POST STOP THINK.

[boondocksaint]

I brought something like this up in another thread. The process of reasoned posting should be something like:

STOP. THINK. COMPOSE. POST

not:

COMPOSE POST STOP THINK.


maybe THINK.COMPOSE.STOP.DROP.ROLL.POST....some people need more time between thinking and posting :banghead:

[Tetragrammaton]

maybe THINK.COMPOSE.STOP.DROP.ROLL.POST....some people need more time between thinking and posting :banghead:

I chuckled. :laugh:

"Only you can prevent flame wars."

http://tinypic.com/hsqstf.jpg

[rychehitman]

I am a daily reader and poster....That being said...someone used the "c" word? Thats pretty extreme for a hobby forum site! I am all for the Mods booting people that dont have enough control over their emotions as to think posting that is acceptable. Additionally, might I suggest the vomiting little guy be taken off the smiley choices as it is most times used to express dislike over a statue, or sculptor. This ties into the respect thing I suppose! In its place, we can have the bashing Wolverines head guys?!? = )

Galactus, I respect and admire you for being so passionate as to speak your mind!
Drod, You are a class guy for having his back!
Tetra is one of the most entertaining and thought provoking and respectful posters on here, I hope his retort was not misinterpreted!

I for one have NEVER belonged to a forum before this one, and will most likely not belong to another one...all my interests are covered here. I too have noticed a distubing level of frustration building regarding this and that in various different threads..not just the Bowen section! I believe the th ought provoking words by several here will act as a wake up call to many!

The only area of concern i have is in regards to the B/S/T realm. Yes, a simple B/S/T section did not work. Sonofabid was born, and is working on being born again, which is great! I respect the heck out of Drod for not ramming comicstatues.com down our throats. HOWEVER, I view many of you all to be my friends based on a shared passion for collecting these items we all love. I LIKE knowing what pieces hold your interest the most, and what pieces you consider you personal "grails" because I believe it provides insight to US as PEOPLE! I think it is fair to say the majority of us collect and love statues and props because we grew up loving comic books. Well, I enjoy knowing why Iron Man is someones favorite, and why Beta Ray Bill represents all that is good in someones memories....If I happen to have knowledge of a certain piece being available I generally pass that on throuhgh PM's to specific individuals. I have been guilty of posting information about good deals on eBay or other web sites because I like to help people find the items they are looking for. I would hope this kind of friendliness can exist between the members here without violating any rules or regulations. Many people who conduct these conversations are just trying to help each ohter out.

I think it is the scammers and the flippers that cause most of the problems in regards to B/S/T. Flipping in and of itself is no problem, but trying to flip in THIS educated crowd causes strife because we all know what a good deal is, and what a good deal isn't. Perhaps the "want Ads" section of SOAB can be moved here until such time SOABII is ready to go?

WOW, sorry for the long post! I hope that didnt bore too many of you! I just got home from work...I am going to heat some turkey up!

[lord odin]

I am a daily reader and poster....That being said...someone used the "c" word? Thats pretty extreme for a hobby forum site! I am all for the Mods booting people that dont have enough control over their emotions as to think posting that is acceptable. Additionally, might I suggest the vomiting little guy be taken off the smiley choices as it is most times used to express dislike over a statue, or sculptor. This ties into the respect thing I suppose! In its place, we can have the bashing Wolverines head guys?!? = )

Galactus, I respect and admire you for being so passionate as to speak your mind!
Drod, You are a class guy for having his back!
Tetra is one of the most entertaining and thought provoking and respectful posters on here, I hope his retort was not misinterpreted!

I for one have NEVER belonged to a forum before this one, and will most likely not belong to another one...all my interests are covered here. I too have noticed a distubing level of frustration building regarding this and that in various different threads..not just the Bowen section! I believe the th ought provoking words by several here will act as a wake up call to many!

The only area of concern i have is in regards to the B/S/T realm. Yes, a simple B/S/T section did not work. Sonofabid was born, and is working on being born again, which is great! I respect the heck out of Drod for not ramming comicstatues.com down our throats. HOWEVER, I view many of you all to be my friends based on a shared passion for collecting these items we all love. I LIKE knowing what pieces hold your interest the most, and what pieces you consider you personal "grails" because I believe it provides insight to US as PEOPLE! I think it is fair to say the majority of us collect and love statues and props because we grew up loving comic books. Well, I enjoy knowing why Iron Man is someones favorite, and why Beta Ray Bill represents all that is good in someones memories....If I happen to have knowledge of a certain piece being available I generally pass that on throuhgh PM's to specific individuals. I have been guilty of posting information about good deals on eBay or other web sites because I like to help people find the items they are looking for. I would hope this kind of friendliness can exist between the members here without violating any rules or regulations. Many people who conduct these conversations are just trying to help each ohter out.

I think it is the scammers and the flippers that cause most of the problems in regards to B/S/T. Flipping in and of itself is no problem, but trying to flip in THIS educated crowd causes strife because we all know what a good deal is, and what a good deal isn't. Perhaps the "want Ads" section of SOAB can be moved here until such time SOABII is ready to go?

WOW, sorry for the long post! I hope that didnt bore too many of you! I just got home from work...I am going to heat some turkey up!
Some people don`t have a problem with commies.

[Sam Wilson]

In the comic section and maybe in general discussion I've been stupid and let my mouth run sometimes, mostly I'm trying to be funny or crack a joke, so if I've offended, I'm sorry.

I'm down with big G and Danny, moreso out of friendship than anything else cause I've met those cats and partied with them and they are true friends.

The bottom line is some cats need to check themselves. I honestly wonder sometimes if there are dudes who wander the earth thinking something is owed to them and act disrespectful, like petulant children even. It's like the little kid at the store with his mom, pitching a fit cause he doesn't get what he wants. Life sucks, you rarely get what you want and if you do want something, ask for it politely. It's a damn shame G has to post something like he did, and it's a damn shame danny has to tell people how to act. These are things functioning adults should already know, and if you don't, well, you obvioiusly have greater issues than stirring up trouble on an internet forum.

[bat_collector]

Man, I know I've stirred up plenty of stuff on this forum. But I do also know I've met and spoken with friends from all over the world.

Galactus is a great guy, someone who goes out of his way to be nice with nothing to really profit from. I hope we see him back.

I'd hate to see this forum go down, and I'm gonna be more careful about what I post, and not fall into the temptation of entering into arguments (or worse yet creating them).

Thanks Drod for such an awesome place to visit.

[JDH]

I brought something like this up in another thread. The process of reasoned posting should be something like:

STOP. THINK. COMPOSE. POST

not:

COMPOSE POST STOP THINK.

Sometimes it seems like the thought process with some folks is more: "STOP. POSE. THINK COMPOST." :)

[Jesse321]

Whoa! Now that's a rant G!

But in truth a much needed one, and I for one am sorry that the disagreements have gotten you guys to this level as I know I myself have been a part of them from time to time (thought I've honestly tried to be better about it for a while now)

I never thought about it from the prespective of Danny and the rest of the mods, most of the time I completely avoid threads that I've got no interest in, but I never really realized that the mods have to monitor every single post in every single thread .. and that must get frustrating after a while .. so, now more than ever, I have a TOTALLY new found respect for the great jobs that you guys do around here!

[thecallahan]

I'd be content to see anyone who posts more than one Randy.. This or that... tyep thread a month be banned :)

But if it takes people to be banned for others to learn to behave themselves, I'm all for it.

[bat_collector]

I'd be content to see anyone who posts more than one Randy.. This or that... tyep thread a month be banned :)

But if it takes people to be banned for others to learn to behave themselves, I'm all for it.
Not a bad idea, not a bad idea at all.

[Tattoo-X]

Sometimes it seems like the thought process with some folks is more: "STOP. POSE. THINK COMPOST." :)
I was just thinking about compost the other day. :laugh:
Leaves are too wet to burn.

[Colossus]

I think this is a good thread it is making me think. I remember 1 time (no not at band camp) that I was a newer member to this forum and I had asked if information about an upcoming exclusive was out yet and a few of the "senior" members were like yeah it sold out in like 7 hours and such, I was frustrated and made a post to Bowen about my displeasure of how they handled things, only to be laughed at later and feeling like an ass about doing so when I was told no it wasn't out yet.

I am sure most thought it was funny at someone elses expense, but on the other side of things it was kind of wrong, at least IMO. Since then I have tried to not allow myself to get to suckered about something here, without trying to find out true facts. I guess in my rambling what I am trying to say is that sometimes something that is meant to be funny can stir up something that turns out to be anything but.


Secondly, and this is more of just an observation, people in general are alot more rude if they don't have to look someone in the face. It happens in the car all the time someone cuts you off or something, you know they wouldn't try that at the DMV, by cutting 50 people off. If people just tried thinking that there is a real person on the other end of their attacks they may not do them as much or as nasty.

[yodanut]

I've belonged to forums before and there are always bad apples. I admit they can be annoying but have to be tolerated for the sake of the few good friendships that are formed. There will always be posts that involve kindergarten-style name calling and egos falsely inflated because they have such and such item. That's just the way it is!

Ignore them and when they don't get the attention they're craving, they'll find someplace else to go.

[Sniper]

I was getting out of hand , but I didnt curse at anyone. it's in the past. lets move on, my mantra has spoken.

[boondocksaint]

I was getting out of hand , but I didnt curse at anyone. it's in the past. lets move on, my mantra has spoken.



good glad to see you on the bright side... :)

[wizard-comics]

................ -BOWEN DESIGNS-
People, get your heads out of your asses. Randy is NOT the only person out there. He was the FIRST to create this niche in collecting, and for that he should be recognized. He was a pioneer that took a huge risk and ended up creating a very profitable company. AND THAT IS WHY HE IS ON THESE BOARDS!!! He's not here to be your friend, he's not here to make sure that YOU get the pieces that YOU want, and he certainly isn't here to have us run his company. He is here because he wants to continue on with HIS business, so HE can make a living. Go on and thank him all you wants for "caring" about the consumer, the customer, his "loyal" fans. We are $$$$ to him, plain and simple. If you think he is on here for ANY other reason, you're insane. You know why something like Gold Bucky happens? Because it can. There are enough of you suckers out there who would literally buy a solid turd from this man if he made it. You are actually THANKING him for selling you a rehashed, BS, money making character for $157?!?!?! Are you people nuts!!!!
Bowen is not a stupid guy. He KNOWS all of this, and is playing everyone. "Oh, people wanted the other base, so thats why I made it. Oh, yeah, by the way, a 100 pieces slipped through with a different base..." OH PLEASE, are you people f-ucking stupid!!!! You mean to tell me that this person you all revere as a GOD has no way of having those 100 pieces destroyed??? You mean the $500 in costs he has to swallow is too much??? OF COURSE NOT!! But the "buzz" it creates is well worth it, and watching you people argue, *****, moan and COMPLAIN about it is probably worth 10 times that amount.
"Oh, but people ASKED for the change". Yeah, about 50 people on these boards, THE SAME 50 PEOPLE WHO ALWAYS OPEN THEIR MOUTHS, mentioned something. Well, there are about 2450 other people who didn't say anything. The only other time when the minority decided anything was when Bush won in 2000, and we all know how THAT turned out. In any case, if the piece is already in production, why the hell is Bowen asking us what we think anyway?? It's a done deal, let it go, the f-ucking piece was going to sell out anyway. You are all a bunch of fiddles, and Randy is playing those strings..............

ain't that the truth......your saying excatly what I'm thinking....but never have the time to type it all!.....

[darthrobbler]

This site has something unique in the sense that we come into contact with creators and sculptors and fellow fans. We're asked for our opinion on things, we get to see sculpts in progress, and every so often we come across a great scoop. Speaking for myself, I've come to appreciate that aspect of the forum even though I have only been here a short time.
I totally agree here!
I used the quote because I am just too lazy to type it all out.

['Nuff]

Well, I figure it's about time for one of my rants on the boards since there has been so much strife and BS lately (I suggested to Danny that the site be shut down for a while so people can get a grip). From the Bucky Fiasco to Sasquatch, people arguing with each other, and the general nonsense going on, I figure my time on these boards is pretty much up. I've never had a more negative sense of this hobby nor it's collectors as I have right now. And the funny thing about this whole situation is that we seem to be in the best period of collecting there can be!

- The number of people interested in the hobby is tremendous
- There are NUMEROUS companies creating very high quality product
- EVERY subject matter is being covered, from movies to comics to anything...
- We have a great place to discuss the hobbies we love...

BUT...

people want to *****, moan and complain about EVERYTHING. People want to argue. People want to make sure that everyone else is in their "proper" place, without being able to take care of themselves in the first place. Well people, let me give you MY opinion on a few topics, and I don't give a flying f-uck if you agree or not...

-BOWEN DESIGNS-
People, get your heads out of your asses. Randy is NOT the only person out there. He was the FIRST to create this niche in collecting, and for that he should be recognized. He was a pioneer that took a huge risk and ended up creating a very profitable company. AND THAT IS WHY HE IS ON THESE BOARDS!!! He's not here to be your friend, he's not here to make sure that YOU get the pieces that YOU want, and he certainly isn't here to have us run his company. He is here because he wants to continue on with HIS business, so HE can make a living. Go on and thank him all you wants for "caring" about the consumer, the customer, his "loyal" fans. We are $$$$ to him, plain and simple. If you think he is on here for ANY other reason, you're insane. You know why something like Gold Bucky happens? Because it can. There are enough of you suckers out there who would literally buy a solid turd from this man if he made it. You are actually THANKING him for selling you a rehashed, BS, money making character for $157?!?!?! Are you people nuts!!!!
Bowen is not a stupid guy. He KNOWS all of this, and is playing everyone. "Oh, people wanted the other base, so thats why I made it. Oh, yeah, by the way, a 100 pieces slipped through with a different base..." OH PLEASE, are you people f-ucking stupid!!!! You mean to tell me that this person you all revere as a GOD has no way of having those 100 pieces destroyed??? You mean the $500 in costs he has to swallow is too much??? OF COURSE NOT!! But the "buzz" it creates is well worth it, and watching you people argue, *****, moan and COMPLAIN about it is probably worth 10 times that amount.
"Oh, but people ASKED for the change". Yeah, about 50 people on these boards, THE SAME 50 PEOPLE WHO ALWAYS OPEN THEIR MOUTHS, mentioned something. Well, there are about 2450 other people who didn't say anything. The only other time when the minority decided anything was when Bush won in 2000, and we all know how THAT turned out. In any case, if the piece is already in production, why the hell is Bowen asking us what we think anyway?? It's a done deal, let it go, the f-ucking piece was going to sell out anyway. You are all a bunch of fiddles, and Randy is playing those strings.

-CURSING/PEOPLE ARGUING WITH EACH OTHER-
What the hell is wrong with everyone? Danny and MODS have REPEATEDLY asked that all personal attacks, rude/sexual language, or ANYTHING you wouldn't want your own kids to see be stopped. Well, nothing happens. The thing I am personally most pissed off about is that my own friends here in NY are among the worst offenders (myself included due to this thread). I have personally asked, on behalf of Danny, that some of the guys try to chill out a little, not be so overtly "NYer" in your language and comments. Well, to the rest of the forum, I apologize. It appears that us NYers aren't as savvy and great as we would like to think. My advice is to ignore whatever you deem inappropriate, and report it to a mod (for everyone, not just us NYers). PEOPLE WILL BE BANNED WITHOUT QUESTION FROM THIS POINT FORWARD.

-BUYING/SELLING/TRADING-
"What are your grails""Where is a good place to buy these pieces BESIDES ebay or a store??""Oh, I got this piece, but I'm not sure if I really want it..."
THESE ARE ALL B/S/T threads, whether you think you are making one or not. We have ALL seen the results of deals gone bad on this forum. This is the reason why public B/S/T threads are forbidden. This is not a suggestion, it is a rule. Dannys rule. If people are incapable or unwilling to police themselves, then they will be policed by us.

-RESPECT-
Basically, I see very little of it on these boards lately. Brown-nosing, yes. Admiration for peoples works, yes. Compliments, thank yous, shout outs...yes. Respect, not for a very long time.
I have seen lots of new members get jumped on for asking a question which was previously asked. For asking about something which was already discussed. For stating THEIR opinion, simply because they had this silly notion that being on these boards allowed them to do so???
NO ONE OWNS THESE BOARDS. Even Danny avoids posting too often in order to avoid seeming like a pushy landlord. I don't give a rats ass if you've got 1 post or 100,000, you are due respect from the others on this forum. There are going to be arguments and there are going to be people who join for no reason other that to cause problems. Deal with these issues in a RESPECTFUL matter. Inform a MOD about any issues. Don't start 14 page threads with nothing but an argument (regardless of how entertaining some of them can be).
But mostly, be respectful of this site. Everyone here is given this place for FREE. NOTHING. ZILCH. NADA. Danny pays for this site on his own and asks for nothing but a little civility. He doesn't push comicstatues.com at the expense of other dealers. He has tried to create a cool site from the ashes of the Bowen Forum. YES, BELIEVE IT OR NOT, THIS IS NOT THE BOWEN FORUM. Damn, even Bowen Designs had to be asked (numerous times) about why Comicstatues.com wasn't on their list of retailers when Randy basically uses this site for free customer feedback, focus groups and product suggestions.
I'm sure you folks would never want someone to walk into your house and start arguing that the color of your rug is off and that the legs your kitchen table is on are too square!! Try to be a little positive once in a while, you may find that it's not too hard.


Ok, I'm done. I could probably go on for about another 14 pages, but I already mentioned that those types of threads are a little tedious. Reply all you want to this, but I won't see it, so do it for yourselves.
And people, try to actually ENJOY collecting this stuff, that's why it's here.
Don't care how long ago it was...I am impressed...Damn fine "rant"...

[lord odin]

Don't care how long ago it was...I am impressed...Damn fine "rant"...
That`s Drew for you always full of hot air. :laugh:






















I kid I kid. :)

[ANGRYCOMICMAN]

Well, I figure it's about time for one of my rants on the boards since there has been so much strife and BS lately (I suggested to Danny that the site be shut down for a while so people can get a grip). From the Bucky Fiasco to Sasquatch, people arguing with each other, and the general nonsense going on, I figure my time on these boards is pretty much up. I've never had a more negative sense of this hobby nor it's collectors as I have right now. And the funny thing about this whole situation is that we seem to be in the best period of collecting there can be!
edited for space - yadda yadda yadda-
Ok, I'm done. I could probably go on for about another 14 pages, but I already mentioned that those types of threads are a little tedious. Reply all you want to this, but I won't see it, so do it for yourselves.
And people, try to actually ENJOY collecting this stuff, that's why it's here.

Jeez, in alll the years I've known you you haven't said that much in a whole day. :laugh:

[massf]

Hey Drew/Danny

You guys are right...not many people (me included) really get how much effort it needs to keep this forum running smoothly. I guess we don't appreciate that at any time we can walk away and not really worry about it, whereas you guys are on a 24/7 alert for bad posts/language etc. and you have to ultimately deal with the consequences of such posts.

I've been part of this forum for a little over a year, and truth be told, found it by accident because I was looking for info on Bowen mb. I even had the URL linked in my 'favourites' section to go straight into the Bowen section. However in the last 6 months or so I rarely go in there, and it is due to the fact that members in that section do take things too seriously.

I'm in this for one reason and one reason only....to buy products I like from various companies. If I don't like something, then I don't but it...simple. I have no preference to any company/sculptor on this forum. If I get to speak to a sculptor then I consider that cool (especially if I have a piece of his) but that's it...I don't expect him to start sending me birthday cards.

i love this forum, it gives me a good start to the day to log on for an hour or so and read what everyone has been up to and what's getting released etc and it's a shame to see that people have been banned because they let their feelings and emotions get the better of them.

this definately is not the same place it was a year ago...back then it was more civil and people certainly did respect others.

Anyway, just wanted to say "Thanks" to you guys for keeping such a great site going, and for all the mods for doing an undoubtably tough job policing the site.

[firestorm]

After giving the "Holy Moley!" thread, the "Thread of the Banned" thread, and now this one a brief read, I'm totally speechless... I'll be going back and checking out all 3 threads in depth, but... was it really THAT bad this past weekend, and did it really degrade THAT badly?... jeez, 4 of the most well-known SF members get the temporary boot... I just really don't know what to say except, "Come on back, guys, and this time let's not get carried away, let's let cooler heads prevail and let's make nice with each other... after all, it's only about a hobby..."

[chromesamurai]

Drew's rant still holds every bit as much water as it did back then. People need to get their heads together and realized that they're not "owed" anything. This forum is a priveliege and if you're one of those people who can't help but seed dissent, don't even bother posting, please.

[ANGRYCOMICMAN]

After giving the "Holy Moley!" thread, the "Thread of the Banned" thread, and now this one a brief read, I'm totally speechless... I'll be going back and checking out all 3 threads in depth, but... was it really THAT bad this past weekend, and did it really degrade THAT badly?... jeez, 4 of the most well-known SF members get the temporary boot... I just really don't know what to say except, "Come on back, guys, and this time let's not get carried away, let's let cooler heads prevail and let's make nice with each other... after all, it's only about a hobby..."

It really got that bad. And personal.
I know CK13 personally, he is a friend. I met Sam this year, and took an instant liking to him. I don't know the other 2 guys, (I don't think I do).
I really feel for all concerned. I hope this is resolved with no hard feelings.
Oh, and by the way, my fee is $50,000 for the 1st hit, and $30,000, for each after that. :rolleyes2
Lets get the love back guys. :p