text:
"Vampire Diaries" Alum Confirmed to Play Savitar on "The Flash" S3
Comic Books, TV
Creators | iZombie writer Chris Roberson discusses his recent public announcement that he would no longer accept work from DC Comics and his subsequent dismissal from his last writing job for the publisher. "Well, this has been building over the last few months, and mostly had to do with what I saw DC and Time Warner doing in regards to creator relations. I think the first thing — you have to understand that when I first started working for DC in 2008, the Siegels had just recaptured half of the copyright for Action Comics #1 and I felt very good about that. That seemed like a very positive step. And then over the course of the last few months there has been the counter-suit against the Siegels' lawyer, Marc Toberoff, and I was less sanguine about that, and starting to get a little itchy about it, and then there were just a few general things about the way that it seemed that DC regards creators now that are working for them — and I can talk about that more in detail — but the real kind of proverbial straw that broke the camel's back was the announcement at the beginning of February of Before Watchmen, which I just thought was unconscionable. And so I had already signed a contract by that point to do six more issues of iZombie, of which three of them had been turned in, and so I just made the decision to go ahead and turn in the remaining three, not wanting to jeopardize the livelihood of my collaborators Mike and Laura Allred. But once I turned in the last one, even though I had other work lined up, I would have to at least — if only for my own peace of mind — let people know that I wasn't happy with it." [The Comics Journal]
While fans and retailers at the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo were given a first glimpse at interior art for DC Comics' sprawling Watchmen prequels, BuzzFeed now provides the best look yet at pages and character designs from Before Watchmen in the form of photos of a binder at the DC offices. Among the images are interiors from Rorschach, by Brian Azzarello and Lee Bermejo, Silk Spectre, by Darwyn Cooke and Amanda Conner, Ozymandius, by Len Wein and Jae Lee, and Curse of the Crimson Corsair, by Wein and John Higgins. There are also character designs by Bermejo, Conner, Cooke, Higgins, Andy and Joe Kubert, and Lee.
Before Watchmen debuts in June.
"Some really good people are working on Before Watchmen and it saddens me to see that. I won't be supporting it in any way. I just can't. And in all honesty — I can't help but feel a little bit less for every creator who works on these books. Have you no decency?"
– Erik Larsen, wading into the continuing controversy surrounding DC Comics' sprawling prequels
to the seminal 1986 miniseries by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons
Hello and welcome to another edition of What Are You Reading? Today our special guest is Chris Williams, editor of the web series The Variants.
To see what Chris and the Robot 6 crew have been reading, click below …
"If Alan and I had done another major project together after that, the thing we had talked about was doing something bright and dreamlike, a Captain Marvel kind of thing that was kind of mythic and close to a fairy tale in a way. Alan did go on to do that with Supreme and other things. It was never really our idea with Watchmen to say, 'Here is how superhero comics ought to be.' It was just, 'Here's a possible way to tell this story that you haven't seen before.' After that we were ready to see other ideas that we hadn't seen before but instead we saw our own idea come back to us again and again. Watchmen sprang out of a love of superheroes too, we wouldn't have spent so much time on it if we didn't love the whole thing in the first place. But something was lost in the translation and some people thought, 'Ah, black leather, stubble and a bad attitude, that's the future of superhero comics.'"
– Watchmen co-creator Dave Gibbons, on the unintended legacy
of his 1986 collaboration with Alan Moore
Welcome to Food or Comics?, where every week we talk about what comics we'd buy at our local comic shop based on certain spending limits — $15 and $30 — as well as what we'd get if we had extra money or a gift card to spend on a splurge item.
Check out Diamond's release list or ComicList, and tell us what you're getting in our comments field.
Chris Arrant
If I had $15, I'd first snap up a book I've been trying to track down for years: Amazing Spider-Man: Hooky (Marvel, $4.99). This 1986 lost classic features Bernie Wrightson drawing a webhead story featuring monsters and alternate worlds – looks like a real gem. Now to convince Marvel to republish John Paul Leon's Logan: Path of the Warlord… Next up would be Secret Service #1 (Marvel/Icon, $2.99). I'll buy pretty much anything Dave Gibbons puts out these days, and seeing him with Mark Millar is bound to be a unique experience. Next up is Saga #2 (Image, $2.99); Brian K. Vaughn is really setting up a world – like a sci-fi sitcom here, with loads of direction to go in. Lastly I'd get Conan the Barbarian #3 (Dark Horse, $3.50). Can I admit I might like this more than Northlanders? Brian Wood's definitely expanding how people think of him with this story, and Becky Cloonan is making a lot of editors look foolish for not putting her on these kinds of books sooner.
If I had $30, I'd start out with Secret #1 (Image, $3.50). Manhattan Projects seems more up my alley than this story, but Jonathan Hickman's built up some credit in me to try anything new he puts out even if I'm not too interested. Next up would be Northlanders #50 (DC/Vertigo, $2.99), which I'm sad to see go. I think this will be one of those series that achieves more popularity after it's over, and it's a shame DC can't find a way to continue it. After that it would be Glory #25 (Image, $2.99). I was a bit shaky on the story after Joe Keatinge's first issue, but everything after has really put the pieces into place and Ross Campbell seems to be finding his footing to really land the superheroics of this story. Last up would be Secret Avengers #25 (Marvel, $3.99); Rick Remender's clearly put his own spin to this series, so much I'm surprised Marvel didn't use this as a chance to renumber the series… but I'm glad they didn't.
If I could splurge, I'd throw money at my comic retailer for Pete and Miriam (Boom!, $14.99). Big fan of Rich Tommaso, and he seems to be honing his craft like a knife, creating more pointed and poignant stories here. And Miriam, she's a real gem.
In what very well could be comics' answer to Texts from Hillary, cartoonist Jon Morris has launched Ron Sworschach, a blog that combines "the words of Alan Moore's doomed objectivist vigilante Rorschach with images of Parks and Recreations' lovingly stern libertarian Ron Swanson. Or sometimes maybe the other way around."
Why it's taken this long for a Ron Swanson/Rorschach mash-up is one of life's great and frustrating mysteries …
"Alan Moore has earned his frustration, his suspicions and his occasional flashes of anger. He should be listened to and learned from, not dismissed and certainly never mocked." — Tom Spurgeon
When the comic book industry first coalesced in the late 1930s, it adopted a business model that, to put it lightly, did not put an emphasis on ethical behavior. These were publishing companies run by greedy, exploitive people who had questionable connections to gangsters or had been indicted for mail fraud. They cared little about the quality of their product, the well-being of their workers–sorry, freelancers–or seeing that anyone who contributed to their success was fairly and duly compensated.
Here we are, roughly 80 years later, and everything has changed. Whoops, I'm sorry. I mean nothing has changed. It's still an ugly, cutthroat industry where publishers are all too happy to grab as many rights as they can to artists' hard-won work whenever said artists are willing to take those sucker bets. It's an industry dominated by cynical publishing ventures and easy cash grabs rather than an interest in creating long range, sustainable business models. Perhaps the worst thing about our current era is that those who have legitimate reason to complain about their mistreatment are the ones most frequently shouted down by a certain cross-section of their fans, a mercenary bunch who seem to care more for ensuring that they never, ever lose the chance to get more of the same in a timely fashion than if the people producing that same are treated with a certain amount of decency and respect.
Along with the official announcement of Before Watchmen, its long-rumored prequels to the seminal 1986 miniseries by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons, DC Comics trotted out several of the creators involved to talk about the legacy of the original work, their approach to the new project, what they expect from initial reactions — and, of course, Moore's objections to the undertaking.
Here's a selection of some of the more interesting quotes:
J. Michael Straczynski, who's working with Adam Hughes on Dr. Manhattan, and Andy and Joe Kubert on Nite Owl: "Ever since Dan DiDio was handed the reins (along with Jim Lee) over at DC, he's been making bold, innovative moves that might have scared the hell out of anyone else. At a time in the industry when big events tend to be 'Okay, we had Team A fight Team B last year, so this year we're gonna have Team B fight team C!' Dan has chosen to revitalize lines, reinvent worlds and come at Watchmen head-on. It was, I think, about two years ago that he first mentioned that he was considering the idea, and he's to be commended for fighting to make this happen."
Brian Azzarello, who's collaborating with Lee Bermejo on Rorschach, and J.G. Jones on Comedian: "I think the gut reaction is going to be, 'Why?' But then when the actual books come out, the answer will be, 'Oh, that's why.' "
Following years of rumors, DC Comics announced this morning it's revisiting the characters introduced by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons in the seminal 1986 miniseries Watchmen with seven inter-connected prequels collectively titled … Before Watchmen. What's more, the project now has the blessing of Gibbons, who as recently as last summer seemed resistant to the idea.
"The original series of Watchmen is the complete story that Alan Moore and I wanted to tell," the artist said in a statement. "However, I appreciate DC's reasons for this initiative and the wish of the artists and writers involved to pay tribute to our work. May these new additions have the success they desire."
Moore, however, isn't as generous, describing the prequels as "completely shameless." "I tend to take this latest development as a kind of eager confirmation that they are still apparently dependent on ideas that I had 25 years ago," he told The New York Times.
The writer, who stopped working for DC in 1989 following disputes about Watchmen royalties and a proposed age-rating system, revealed in July 2010 that the publisher had at last offered to return the rights to his most famous creation, if he "would agree to some dopey prequels and sequels."
"So I just told them that if they said that 10 years ago, when I asked them for that, then yeah it might have worked," he said at the time. "But these days I don't want Watchmen back. Certainly, I don't want it back under those kinds of terms."
Designer and letterer Todd Klein continues his artistic trek through the alphabet with another art print, as he and Watchmen co-creator Dave Gibbons team up on one called "It Is."
"Dave has written a poem focusing on the ever-changing nature of our internal perception, that which makes up our own personal 'I.' I've designed and hand-lettered it," Klein says on his blog. The print can be purchased from his website for $20 plus shipping.
Note: The artwork originally accompanying this post has been removed following a cease-and-desist letter from DC Entertainment's legal affairs department.
Any doubts regarding the accuracy of reports about DC Comics' long-rumored plans for Watchmen prequels may have eroded over the weekend with the emergence of character art by J.G. Jones and Joe Kubert and Andy Kubert.
Bleeding Cool characterizes the illustrations of Nite Owl and The Comedian as cover art for the projects, purportedly being assembled under the code name "Panic Room," but considering the characters' names are written on the pages, it seems more likely they're concept designs.
The four prequels to the seminal 1986 miniseries by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons are said to also involve Darwyn Cooke, J. Michael Straczynski, John Higgins and even Gibbons himself. Cooke, however, seemed to dismiss reports he was working on one of the miniseries, telling CBR News recently, "Ah, get out, man. That's like three years old."
For a while now, Bleeding Cool has repeatedly linked Eisner Award winner Darwyn Cooke with the hotly rumored Watchmen 2 from DC Comics, driving the world's Twitterati into a Walter Kovacs-like frenzy.
But if that's the case, Mr. Cooke is unaware of his connection.
When I spoke with the Canadian cartoonist in a recent interview about his artwork for an upcoming issue of James Robinson's The Shade, I asked Cooke point blank if he would be working on Watchmen 2.
Cooke responded, succinctly, "Ah, get out, man. That's like three years old."
Now if DC Comics was planning Watchmen 2, the publisher would not want the sure-fire hit to be announced as a throwaway line during an interview for an unrelated series, so Cooke easily could have been smoking out CBR News with a red herring.
And his answer did lean toward the question being "old" news and not "no" news, so DC Comics may very well be prepping a sequel to the groundbreaking maxi-series by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons. It just doesn't appear that Cooke will be playing a role.
Which is too bad, because Cooke writing, drawing or even thinking about the characters from Watchmen, especially The Comedian, would qualify as about as pitch-perfect as you could get in terms of a creator getting on board a project that would certainly come with equal parts praise and ire, if and when it is ever announced.
Evidence for DC Comics' long-rumored Watchmen prequels keeps mounting, with apparent unofficial confirmation that Andy Kubert will be drawing one of four miniseries.
Bleeding Cool contends it's been "informed quite conclusively from a reliable source" at the publisher that the artist is among the A-list talent involved in the secretive project, which reportedly will use key characters from the seminal 1986 miniseries by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons.
Other previously mentioned creators include Darwyn Cooke, J. Michael Straczynski, J.G. Jones, John Higgins and even Gibbons himself.
Murmurs of DC's desire for a Watchmen follow-up gained steam in 2010 after the departure of President Paul Levitz, believed to be the last in-house obstacle to using the Moore-Gibbons characters. The writer seemed to confirm as much last year when he revealed the publisher finally had offered to return the rights to the property — copyright and royalty issues form the roots of his legendary feud with DC — in exchange for a concession: that Moore "agree to some dopey prequels and sequels." He refused.
Then-newly minted Co-Publishers Dan DiDio and Jim Lee said at the time that DC "would only revisit these iconic characters if the creative vision of any proposed new stories matched the quality set by Alan Moore and Dave Gibbons nearly 25 years ago, and our first discussion on any of this would naturally be with the creators themselves."
As recently as August, Gibbons addressed perennial rumors of a sequel and the possibility of the characters being transplanted into the DC Universe, telling Comic Book Resources, "It's not something that I'd personally like to see happen. […] What I would say is, intrinsic to the whole idea of Watchmen is that they existed in a world that was the way it was because of their existence. And I think to transplant them into another world actually removes a huge part of what is the essence of Watchmen."
The auction for the rights to name the supervillain in the new comic from Kick-Ass writer Mark Millar and Watchmen artist Dave Gibbons ends in a matter of hours — at 3:54 p.m. Pacific, to be exact.
Officially unveiled Tuesday on Comic Book Resources, The Secret Service is the duo's long-simmering first-time collaboration, based on an idea by Millar, Gibbons and Kick-Ass and X-Men: First Class director Matthew Vaughn (who holds the film rights to the project). More details will be revealed next month in CLiNT #12.
As he did with Kick-Ass, Nemesis and Superior, Millar is auctioning off the opportunity to name a character in The Secret Service — specifically, the villain — with the proceeds going to charity. This time the beneficiary is St. Bartholomew's Primary School Pantomime Fund, established by Millar (a former student there) and Head Teacher Christine Boyle. The current bid on the eBay auction is $3,100, with mere hours to go.
The six-issue miniseries is set to debut in February.


text:
- Report: #329221
Report - Rebuttal - Arbitrate
Complaint Review: 24 Hour Fitness, Inc. 24 Hour Fitness
24 Hour Fitness, Inc. 24 Hour Fitness12647 Alcosta Blvd., 5th Fl. San Ramon, California U.S.A.
24 Hour Fitness, Inc., 24 Hour Fitness 24 Hour Fitness is being SUED by a terminated "whistle-blowing" investigative/loss prevention employee! San Ramon California
*Author of original report: 24 Hour Fitness Lawsuit
*Author of original report: 24 Hour Fitness Lawsuit has been filed in Southern California; Fitness Centers of Ca.
*Consumer Comment: I can't wait to read about this! I experienced bad stuff at the Fontana location.
Ripoff Report
About you?
Ripoff Report
A business' first
line of defense
on the Internet.
If your business is
willing to make a
commitment to
customer satisfaction
Click here now..
Does your business have a bad reputation?
Fix it the right way.
Corporate Advocacy Program™
Ok, first of all I am very upset as I write this. It is interesting that my friend, who was working as an investigator or loss prevention employee, was terminated after he uncovered unlawful and ethical issues involving lower, middle, and upper-management staff. He said he couldnt tell me specific details about this at this time. I do know that he was devastated when he was terminated, as I know that he dedicated his everyday life to helping the members at 24 Hour Fitness. I asked him why they terminated him and he said that they didnt give him a reason, but he said that he had received a positive review and a raise just a month before. I know from talking to him (he was always at work) that he was dedicated to his job and did things like talking to members about their lockers, cars, and how they could prevent their cars from getting robbed.
I am writing this story because when I last spoke to my friend, I found out he had been blown-off by the legal department at 24 Hour Fitness leading up to his decision to sue them in court. He mentioned to me that his attorney just filed a lawsuit against 24 Hour Fitness in Orange County. Being that he was an internal investigator or loss prevention employee (I dont know the difference but I know that he looked into safety, ethical, and criminal problems) I know that he has witnessed all sorts of bad things that occurred and were tolerated on a regular basis. Heck, from the bad things I have seen written by so many of you on this board Im sure he has a lot to say. Since I had to wait 5 months for 24 Hour Fitness to stop taking money out of my checking account (I still havent received a refund for this time I didnt use the gym) I dont have any faith in this company.
I asked my friend what exactly he is suing 24 Hour Fitness for. He said that he shouldnt tell me at this time because of confidentiality. I asked him if the lawsuit would become public record. He said he thinks so. So I asked why he couldnt say anything. He said that there are many detrimental issues addressed in the lawsuit. He also said he saved a lot of proof that will ultimately become part of the lawsuit through the discovery process. He said that at this time it would probably become part of the public record. I asked him if he could ask his lawyer what he could tell me. He probably wont, does anyone have any advice for me to get details from court records?
I know from my friendly discussions with him throughout his employment, that if any member knew what he knew, they would probably join another gym ASAP. I remember one time when I told him that I saw a news report about how many lockers and cars are constantly broken into. He said there are things that any business should do to address this issue and many have done so with excellent results. Im sure that this is going to be part of his lawsuit. I wonder if the celebrities like Magic Johnson, Andre Agassi, Lance Armstrong, and whoever else who have clubs named after them would be embarrassed when finding out about what he has to say.
One time my friend asked me advice about what I would do about some bad stuff he uncovered, but had no one to turn to that he felt safe doing so without losing his job. I was amazed at the management structure he was in that appeared to be like a good ole boys club.
I asked him if I could see the lawsuit papers so I could get the juicy details. He said he didnt have a copy for me and laughed at me, but said would give me the case number and a copy of the lawsuit when he gets it. I told him that I am pissed because of the problems that they caused him that I still see affect him today. I have known my ex-employee friend of 24 Hour Fitness for a long time and am going to do what I can legally do to let all of you know so you can help yourselves with issues that may be relevant.
The only problem at this time is that he wont give me details right now because he said, it is not public record. Is this true that he cant tell me? Well, if I have to, I intend to get a hold of the public record that I just know will probably be shocking for 24 Hour Fitnesss members, as soon as I can get it from the court house. Anyone who knows how to get this information can contact me to help me out (unless my friend will be able to give me his case information). My friend is being restrained about discussing the stuff he knows to others and myself. I think he doesnt want to tell me details of what he knows or has because he doesnt want to hurt his case against 24 Hour Fitness. Like I said, I am the opposite and will legally tell what I can find out from the courts on this case. I will update this as soon as I can, including the case number if it helps.
Orange County, California
Clickhere%20to%20read%20other%20Rip-off%20Reports%20on%2024%20Hour%20Fitness' target='nw'>Click here to read other Rip Off Reports on 24 Hour Fitness
This report was posted on Ripoff Report on 04/27/2008 08:44 PM and is a permanent record located here: http://www.ripoffreport.com/r/24-Hour-Fitness-Inc-24-Hour-Fitness/San-Ramon-California-94583/24-Hour-Fitness-Inc-24-Hour-Fitness-24-Hour-Fitness-is-being-SUED-by-a-terminated-whis-329221. The posting time indicated is Arizona local time. Arizona does not observe daylight savings so the post time may be Mountain or Pacific depending on the time of year.
Ripoff Report has an exclusive license to this report. It may not be copied without the written permission of Ripoff Report.
Click Here to read other Ripoff Reports on 24 Hour Fitness, Inc. 24 Hour Fitness
If you would like to see more Rip-off Reports on this company/individual, search here:Search Tips
In order to assure the best results in your search:
- Keep the name short & simple, and try different variations of the name.
- Do not include ".com", "S", "Inc.", "Corp", or "LLC" at the end of the Company name.
- Use only the first/main part of a name to get best results.
- Only search one name at a time if Company has many AKA's.
#1 Author of original report
24 Hour Fitness Lawsuit
AUTHOR: Cruiselinejamie - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Wednesday, April 30, 2008POSTED: Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Who are you to tell me what I should or shouldn't say about this matter. I am only telling what is public and what I have seen as far as the affects this has on my friend. I will post more when I can get it. I saw that the lawsuit was filed with the court. Since I can't get any documents out of my friend I will see if I can get them from the court. I am trying to contact my friend about this and I will see what he says about what I am doing. I think I am helping others like myself with information that may help when putting up with poor, rude, and irrational attitudes from this company.
Are you an owner, employee or ex-employee with either negative or positive information about the company or individual, or can you provide "insider information" on this company?
#2 Author of original report
24 Hour Fitness Lawsuit has been filed in Southern California; Fitness Centers of Ca.
AUTHOR: Cruiselinejamie - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Wednesday, April 30, 2008POSTED: Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Are you an owner, employee or ex-employee with either negative or positive information about the company or individual, or can you provide "insider information" on this company?
#3 Consumer Comment
I can't wait to read about this! I experienced bad stuff at the Fontana location.
AUTHOR: John2003 - (U.S.A.)
SUBMITTED: Monday, April 28, 2008POSTED: Monday, April 28, 2008
When I reported the locker theft and truck break in to the staff at the club they could care less on both occasions. At both times they said that it happens all the time and even said that it was my fault that my truck was broken into. They also said that they were not responsible for my locker theft. What BS, I did what was reasonable to protect my stuff, and they had an environment that allows theft. I can't doi anything? They even made me call the police myself, who when the officer came out, he told me that they get tons of break-ins at the location.
I also have issues with the club's manager about the thefts. The manager, actually it was the sales manager, was useless. She could care less about my situation. When she left to use the restroom after blowing me off, I spoke to one of her employees who told me that he couldn't do anything even though he wished he could. I figured that he was scared of his boss. Why was he scared? Nice atmosphere they have for their happy staff. I spoke to another guy, a trainer about my locker in passing. He was more interested in selling me training and vitamins. I couldn't believe this guy. He didn't give me the time of day when I said I wouldn't spend a dime. He said read your contract your locker and truck are your problem. What an a*s. I stopped going to this club when
Are you an owner, employee or ex-employee with either negative or positive information about the company or individual, or can you provide "insider information" on this company?
Advertisers above have met our
strict standards for business conduct.

subset: commoncrawl


text: These days, mineral makeup is becoming very popular and people are switching to this rather than settling for the traditional makeup which is much heavier. But if you have decided to give mineral makeup a try then you may be wondering about how this makeup should be applied. After all it is mainly made up… Continue Reading


text:
Definition of adrenaline in English:
(also adrenalin)
noun[mass noun]
A hormone secreted by the adrenal glands that increases rates of blood circulation, breathing, and carbohydrate metabolism and prepares muscles for exertion: performing live really gets your adrenaline going Also called epinephrine.
More example sentences
- Chemicals such as adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol are pumped into the bloodstream.
- It is known that adrenalin is the hormone that frees fatty acids of the adipose tissues.
- This is due to the liberation of the hormone adrenaline at these times.
For editors and proofreaders
Line breaks: adren|aline
Definition of adrenaline in:
What do you find interesting about this word or phrase?
Comments that don't adhere to our Community Guidelines may be moderated or removed.
= trending


text:
Real Name: Nick
Previously Known As: iamhydrogen1
Date Joined: 10/27/2010
Messaging: Send a Private Message
Twitter: Follow me @FrictionSlide
Bio: 33y/o Gearhead, Musician, and Med Student.
Music: All of the tunes by most of the people.
Phish, in a few words: Missed the 90's, Hooked in '02. Fully indoctrinated in all phishtory.
Location: Burlington, Vermont


text:
TAUNTON — Mechanics Cooperative Bank recently launched a new investment group to complement its banking services through expanding bank product and investment options for customers, the bank said.
Glen A. Chretien, who joins the organization with over 20 years of banking experience on both the sales and management side of multi-million dollar investment portfolios, has bee appointed financial consultant for the group. Chretien has worked for both Sovereign Bank and Citizens Bank Investment Group.
Investment and insurance products and services are offered through Infinex Investments, Inc.
"This new Investment Group allows our customer base the option to choose their long term investment strategy and plan for retirement; to be more dynamic in their investment approach and be sure they have the right information to make the best possible decisions — that is our vision for this group," said president and CEO of Mechanics Cooperative Bank, Joseph T. Baptista Jr.
Location, ST | website.com


text:
BJP attacks UPA govt for hike in fixed cost of urea
New Delhi: BJP on Friday attacked the UPA government for its decision to hike fixed cost of urea saying this "anti-farmer" step will adversely affect peasants.
"The government has increased the urea price. This will adversely affect the farmers. It is an anti-farmer step, which we denounce," BJP spokesperson Prakash Javadekar said.
He also criticised the 10 per cent hike in dearness allowance for government employees and pensioners as "too little" and said the employees have been suffering badly from high inflation and high cost of living and the raise in DA was inadequate.
The BJP leader also attacked the government for fixing a minimum pension of Rs 1,000 for all beneficiaries of the EPFO scheme and said it is insufficient and needs to be fixed at Rs 3,000 at least.
He said the government has been contributing only 1.16 per cent to the Provident Fund while employees and employers are contributing 8.33 per cent each and it needs to raise its contribution to 8.33 also.
"If government contributes 8.33 per cent, then it is possible to give Rs 3,000 minimum pension to all. We reiterate our demand for this raise in pension," Javadekar said.
He also termed the raise in poll expenditure limits for Lok Sabha and Assembly a result of high inflation and said it only factors in inflation.


text:
- Report: #546606
Report - Rebuttal - Arbitrate
Complaint Review: http://www.publicrecordschecks.com
http://www.publicrecordschecks.comInternet United States of America
publicrecordschecks.com Publicrecordschecks.com did not deliver the services promised for a $42.99 fee. Internet,
Ripoff Report
About you?
Ripoff Report
A business' first
line of defense
on the Internet.
If your business is
willing to make a
commitment to
customer satisfaction
Click here now..
Does your business have a bad reputation?
Fix it the right way.
Corporate Advocacy Program™
This report was posted on Ripoff Report on 12/28/2009 10:42 PM and is a permanent record located here: http://www.ripoffreport.com/r/httpwwwpublicrecordscheckscom/internet/publicrecordscheckscom-Publicrecordscheckscom-did-not-deliver-the-services-promised-for-546606. The posting time indicated is Arizona local time. Arizona does not observe daylight savings so the post time may be Mountain or Pacific depending on the time of year.
Ripoff Report has an exclusive license to this report. It may not be copied without the written permission of Ripoff Report.
Click Here to read other Ripoff Reports on http://www.publicrecordschecks.com
If you would like to see more Rip-off Reports on this company/individual, search here:Search Tips
In order to assure the best results in your search:
- Keep the name short & simple, and try different variations of the name.
- Do not include ".com", "S", "Inc.", "Corp", or "LLC" at the end of the Company name.
- Use only the first/main part of a name to get best results.
- Only search one name at a time if Company has many AKA's.
Advertisers above have met our
strict standards for business conduct.


text:
Letter was misleadingFebruary 13,2013
Letter was misleading
This letter is in response to a Montpelier city officials letter in Tuesdays Times Argus which suggests that the town of Berlin has not communicated with the city regarding options for a water supply in the town. Nothing could be further from the truth. This letter is misleading and was published at the last minute in The Times Argus for the sole purpose of trying to defeat todays bond vote. The town has been meeting with city officials for several years, and at one time in 2010 the two municipalities were discussing the purchase of water from the city at a rate that did not exceed $7.29 per 1,000 gallons. On July 20, 2012, the city insisted on a different arrangement that resulted in a bulk water purchase rate in the range of $11 per 1,000 gallons. This rate is about twice the estimated cost to Berlin customers than if the town used the state-approved town wells, and the city has been informed that its proposed water rate is not acceptable.
The state-approved wells in Berlin produce a quality of water that analysis has shown to be superior than even the technologically advanced treated water from the city plant. The well water is of such high quality it does not require the treatment that the citys surface supply requires. Approved volumes are sufficient to provide predicted connections to the system once it is constructed.
The proposed system, which requires a positive bond vote to proceed with final design and to develop the financial package, will provide safe, high-quality water to Berlin customers at almost half the cost of purchasing water from Montpelier. Fire protection including hydrants will greatly benefit the town, and insurance costs may go down while the tax base may increase. Only users of the proposed system will pay, and connection to the system is completely discretionary.
I have felt compelled to write this letter in order to assure Berlin residents that we have tried to work with the city over the years, but the high cost of water from the city did not serve Berlin customers well. Last-minute letters from the city of Montpelier should not try to influence affairs in a neighboring community and todays bond vote.
Tom Willard
Berlin Water CommitteeMORE IN LettersThe advertisements say: Decision America Tour 2016 with Franklin Graham. Full StoryThe city of Montpelier (and other) wastewater treatment facilities do and will continue to... Full StoryThe Class of 1966 would like to thank Tom Allen, director of maintenance at Montpelier High... Full Story
- Most Popular
- Most Emailed


text:
FiltersShow / Hide
- All Events
- Music
- Comedy
- Theatre & Shows
- Sport
- Cinema
- Festivals
- Days Out
- Edinburgh Fringe
- Anywhere In The UK
- Location: Anywhere in the UK
Radius: ... miles
Get an alert when new The Andy Fraser Band dates are announced
Featuring the Free legend who produced and co-wrote the classic Free song "All Right Now" with Paul Rogers, a No1 hit in over 20 territories.
The Andy Fraser Band tour dates listed on Ents24.com since May 2013.
The Andy Fraser Band Tour Dates
Track The Andy Fraser Band
- You are tracking The Andy Fraser Band
Fans of this artist also track:
- Receive email as soon as new tour dates are announced
- 1,299,696 fans now rely on Ents24 alerts
- Alerts are free and always will be!
- We never share details with 3rd parties
No current UK tour dates for The Andy Fraser Band
Alert me when new The Andy Fraser Band tour dates are announced...
You are tracking The Andy Fraser Band.
We will email you as soon as UK tour dates are announced.
- Be the first to know about new The Andy Fraser Band tour dates
- Alerts are free always will be
- We hate spam and will never share your email address with anyone else
- 1,299,696 fans now rely on Ents24 to track their favourite artists and venues
Puttour dates on your web site
- Customisable, flexible tour date widget
- Super quick set-up, get the code here
News and Announcements RSS feed
No current news or announcements.
Have Your Say
- Have you seen The Andy Fraser Band? Why not write a review?
Fans who like 'The Andy Fraser Band' also like:
Do you represent The Andy Fraser Band, or are you a member of their promotional team? Click here to claim this page


text:
ESRB Investigates San Andreas
Ratings board, parental group throw fuss over hidden content.
Lee sparked renewed controversy (and by nature, increased sales) for the already ridiculously popular Grand Theft Auto series while discussing a sex-based mini-game, now accessible through a 'Hot Coffee' download. ESRB president Patricia Vance announced the organization had "opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the 'Hot Coffee' modification."
When contacted, Rockstar Games provided 1UP.com with a statement respecting the ESRB's statement, but holding true to the game's original rating. "We can confirm the ESRB is conducting an investigation and that we will be complying fully with their enquiries. We thoroughly support the work of the ESRB, and believe that it has an exemplary record of rating games and promoting understanding of video game content," said a company spokesperson.
The current plan aims to determine if the lewd content was tucked away by Rockstar Games or added by clever fans. All signs point to leftover code created by the actual development team, but fans are known for heavy modifications for the PC releases. "We also feel confident that the investigation will uphold the original rating of the game, as the work of the mod community is beyond the scope of either publishers or the ESRB," continued the company.
The organization isn't taking the information lightly. "If after a thorough and objective investigation of all the relevant facts surrounding this modification, we determine a violation of our rules has occurred, we will take appropriate action," said Vance. It's not likely the results of the search will change anything, though.
In the video game world, the M-rating assigned to violent and sexually explicit video games is akin to a film's R-rating. You don't see people throwing a fit when an R-rated movie shows off a little flesh, and in this case, the sexual content doesn't actually include nudity, only suggestive actions.
The ESRB aren't the only ones a little upset. The National Institute on Media and the Family issued a press release this afternoon warning about "explicit pornographic and violent content" in San Andreas and encouraging the ESRB to change the game's status to a the much-avoided Adult's Only (AO) rating.
"We are calling upon Rockstar Games to come clean with the ESRB, the nation's retailers, and especially America's parents," said psychologist David Walsh. "What is your involvement in the production and distribution of pornographic content in your game?"
The ESRB was unavailable for additional comment before the day was out. 1UP.com will be following up on this story in the weeks ahead.
See Also
Comments (101)
retardedPosted: Jul 21, 2005 12:00AM PST by kuto
Who cares, you can see people screwing in an R movie. You can't get close to that in a M game. The whole rating system is dumb as Shyt. AO should be 17 and up. Not M, I can get into a R movie. But can't buy an AO game, that's just stupid.
crapPosted: Jul 21, 2005 12:00AM PST by evilkillersniper
half the peiople who buy computer games don't even know what a mod is? so they should put a warnig or somthing like you can get modifications on the internet.... somthing like that... what about other games like vice city... you can probably find SOMWHERE on the internet a mod that has some nudity or some ther crap.... in dead to rights you control a half-naked stipper....its an m
bsPosted: Jul 21, 2005 12:00AM PST by losing_innocence
i think louis black put it best when he said that politicains are running out of good causes to make them look good in the public eye
What FagsPosted: Jul 20, 2005 12:00AM PST by cadilac_escalade
omg. What Fags these people are Geez. i mean really! adult only for GTA: SA!? it's not like it's a porno flick! it's just a game for crying out loud! a damn good game if i might add...:D mwhahahah
Stupid!Posted: Jul 19, 2005 12:00AM PST by EK9_ROCKMAN
Like our government officials dont have better things to do other than protecting America's children from fully clothed fornicating polygons. What a joke and a waste of time and money. If Hilary runs, I'll at least know who I will NOT be voting for.
A or M? it DOES make a difference.Posted: Jul 18, 2005 12:00AM PST by sarnsereg
one major reason A or M makes a difference. gamestores will carry an M rated game. they will not carry an A rated game. wal-mart already doesn't carry conker's which is rated M. it wouldn't make much of a difference now though after the fact that it's been released and everyone has it, but there is a consequence for having an A rated game. that consequence is that stores will no longer carry the game and it would reduce sales.
A or M??? It makes no differencePosted: Jul 17, 2005 12:00AM PST by AlmendraManX
It's bad for GTA to keep "hidden" this mini-game? Maybe. In the end, is the same. If a 17 year old or a 21 years old gamer get to see/play this really don't matter. It probably deserves be rated "A", but if people don't read the boxes is people's fault. Blood and Gore,Intense Violence,Strong Language,Strong Sexual Content,Use of Drugs. What part politian's don't get? THAT'S WHAT ESRB SAYS! An A or a M change nothing. Videogames and "kids". Is really that hard to not associate them?. How sad....
This is stupid!Posted: Jul 17, 2005 12:00AM PST by tumble_weed
People these days can be so stupid! I mean, you don't see any body parts! This is absolutely ridiculous! And saying GTA San Andreas has graphic violence is a little extreme. There aren't even any realistic body physics like ragdoll physics in GTA! I hate those groups of people who protest against Rockstar Games and blame them because other people make "Hot Coffee" mods.
Crazy...Posted: Jul 17, 2005 12:00AM PST by Iso1ith
This is ridiculous...people seem to not like taking responsibility for their own actions. These parent groups are a joke who seem to care so much about their children yet not enough to guide them or raise them. Rockstar is creating a product which is not much different than what a movie does. However,I do agree that if Rockstar did create this supposed mini game (which I strongly don't believe) than they should be held accountable.
AFFRAID!!!Posted: Jul 16, 2005 12:00AM PST by bay-burnah
What are these people affraid of, first it's too much violence, and now it's too much sex!!! These people will use entertainment to blame for all of young childrens countless acts... so what now, the'll blame GTA-SA for teen pregnacy, the increase in STD'S, and abortions...People, these people have jobs to do, and one of those jobs is nit-picking, soooooo! lets just let them do what they have to do so they can feel like they have done some good in this worl, one thing is for sure, they cant take our games away from us...if so, they violate our freedom of speech, and expressions :)
"Category9"Posted: Jul 15, 2005 12:00AM PST by jakob493
Well if you think the sex scenes in GTA SA are bad than you are retarded. First off, when you screw a hooker in GTA:SA, 2 things. 1. They dont take their clothes off. 2. They dont even leave their seats in the car. And a 3rd thing:: So what???? Sex is completly natural, i dont see why people think it's so bad! i mean for gods sake, the people that complain about sex in video games usually have like 6 kids! where do you think they came from?
Why not attackPosted: Jul 14, 2005 12:00AM PST by blitz34
The Porn industry my cousin is nothing but like 12 and watches porn and hey why not attack Playboy the Mansion but I mean really come on and I have two other cousins who are underaged looking at Porn they're 15 and they go to the movies and watch R rated movies I mean really and to top it off they don't know shit about this mod they could probably care less but naw you stupid ass bastards are worried about a game but when it comes too at least a billion kids a day sneaking into a movie that's rated R you don't care or when they watch a porno movie you don't care geez what the hell is this world coming to anyway
DamnitPosted: Jul 14, 2005 12:00AM PST by Me_Izme
This whole thing is getting rediculous. Nobody wants to be a parent anymore. There are movies that are worse than GTA (in terms of content), and yet you don't see anybody attacking that aspect. If parents can regulate what movies a child sees, they can sure as hell regulate what games the child may play, wether the game has some form of sexual content or not. Go ahead and give GTA an AO rating. Nobody will care. Rockstar isn't going to care. They're not going to change the game, or future titles, just to avoid the rating. They've been pushing the bar of the M rating since their third installment. People are still going to purchase, or find another way to play, the games. Hell. I'm suprised they're not attacking Playboy: The Mansion. That just pisses me off.
Is it an election year in Yee's district?Posted: Jul 14, 2005 12:00AM PST by madnavigator
It's as if the congressman is trying to play hero to the "Angry Parents With Powerful Lawyers" constituency. I'm sure that scum-sucking douchebag Jack Thompson's been sporting wood over this as well. People are just so oversensitive. Why? Because no one wants to take responsibility anymore. But hey...all this is doing is increasing sales for Rockstar and notoriety for the GTA franchise. And the ESRB's "A-O" label? Feh. As cautionary as it may be, the warning device might become as iconic as "The Tipper Sticker" (ie: "PARENTAL ADVISORY: EXPLICIT LYRICS") in our gamer (if not popular) culture.
Hey...Posted: Jul 14, 2005 12:00AM PST by wembley1967
I've got an idea.Instead of picking on defenseless video games that can't defend themselves maybe Mr. Lee should,I don't know,worry about real legislation.I mean,I guess it's to hell with education,fighting crime,and the war on terror as long as Mr. Lee can bash video games.Hell,I'm sure all the sick and hungry people in this world are worried about GTA.And,just for the record,somebody might want to tell Mr. Lee sex can be a good thing.And that the more he whines and bitches the more GTA sells.Please,Mr. Lee,for the love of God,find something else to bitch about.We can't help it if the only reason you have started this witch hunt is because you suck at video games.
Won't affect it at allPosted: Jul 13, 2005 12:00AM PST by PhyrexianMeatdog
If the M rating didn't keep away young teens and tweens, an AO won't do squat. But if it'll make the PMS moms go away, is it such a bad thing?
Irish creme anyone.Posted: Jul 13, 2005 12:00AM PST by vhorizon
I saw the video, and at first is was strange to see Caral do that, but I also thought it was funny too. They have it right when they say that. People don't have any fuss when promoting sexual content on movies, so I think it wouldn't be too bad on video games. The parants have to watch out on what the ratings are in video games, just like movies.
Hot Coffee... PlayStation 2 & Xbox (How To..)Posted: Jul 12, 2005 12:00AM PST by AntiGWB
A kid named Jay FNG posted this info on a message board: ActionReplay Max (PlayStation 2) Uncensored Hot Coffee Note: USE AT YOUR OWN RISK JD3N-EV68-AGRW0 4PMG-6VNA-PBZQ7 BKR1-JF84-6Q23C U7Q0-6H91-6JATX 5540-HY63-181MY 7FB5-3052-PWB8N 03AH-5PBC-9K2T7 Xbox: Uncensored (Story Complete)! WARNING: ADULT CONTENT FOUND HIDDEN IN SanAndreas! Story Complete; Game 100% Uncensored! Hot Coffee after Successful Date! You WILL be stuck after adult scene; use instant death cheat to continue. - Jay "FNG" This SAVE has been downloaded 12303 times. http://us.codejunkies.com/codes_show.asp?rf=0&c=US&cr=USD&cs=$&r=0&l=1& g=13633180&p=13
Tired of thisPosted: Jul 12, 2005 12:00AM PST by philpm
Geez, you'd think that these people were being strapped down and forced to watch this stuff. Goddammit, I've had it with these people. If ya don't like it, don't buy it (for yourself or your kids). And be an adult and a parent and EXPLAIN TO THE KIDS WHY THEY CAN'T PLAY IT, AND STICK TO IT!!!
this is bullshitPosted: Jul 12, 2005 12:00AM PST by blitz34
It isn't Rockstars fault as a alot of people are saying if they put AO on the PC version might as well do it to Xbox and Ps2 versions cause they have the mod out on those two systems as well bu they need to stop using GTA as a prime example what about God of War its rated M and has sex scenes that show us things too and another game I saw on X-play that Adam reviewed had a sex mini game on it too. but one werid thing is they get mad when something like this happens but not if they go to a strip club that's sad
Ever heard of Hollywood?Posted: Jul 12, 2005 12:00AM PST by Tomkat5
Why dont these pricks go after Hollywood. Nothing is done on any of these games that hasnt already been done in a movie or on cable TV. I've been exposed to movie violence for over 30 years now and havent killed anyone because I know the difference between right and wrong.(Thanks Mom and Dad)The same applies to games. Parental Guidence. If the ESRB thinks kids are getting bad messages from video games they should go to Blockbuster. Chew on this one.Is there some reason the politicians are leaving Hollywood alone? Hmmmm. Sounds like the video industry would do well to make some campaign contributions. I wonder if they've ever seen Wonder-Showzen on MTV2. The jack-booted thugs would kick down your door and take your whole damn TV.
Getting too much exposurePosted: Jul 12, 2005 12:00AM PST by Prince_Of_Darkness
They just had a fifteen minute segment on my local news station this morning. They showed the scene only blocked out the nudity. My opinion is that if companies can get away with making God of War and their scene, then GTA should just be fine. I mean it was a mod for crying outload. I mean anyone with any intellectual information in modding could have done it for the PC. I mean you could have done that type of modding to any type of PC game. It's just parents and other legislators that want to make it look like they are trying to make sure these type of games stay out children's hands. I don't know why they try. Kids will still get these games. I mean everyone gots to learn about stuff enventually.
WTF????? WHY PICK ON GTA???Posted: Jul 12, 2005 12:00AM PST by psplayer89
Why is this an issue?Posted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by Xebius
This game is rated M game meaning 17+. So why should people be complaining about this game having sexualy explicit content. When it's adults that are the only ones that should be buying it. If you don't want your kid buying the game then don't let them buy the game it's as simple as that. Instead of complaining about the game. How about we raise awareness about the game so parents can make better desitions when purchasing/renting games for their kids. Also game retailers really should be more strict about the M rating, if the parent is there with the kid then tell them about the M rating make sure they know it's there.
parents need to be parentsPosted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by dingledavey
at what point is the parents responsibility to moniter what the children are doing with there spare time. If every one would take a little more care and concern in raising there children and spend less time blaming the esrb we would all be way better off. i was at an EB games just last week and this 8 year old kid was at the register with a copy of san andreas and the mother didn't even ask the clerk about the apropriateness of the title for her son, she was more in tune with weather that was the one he wanted. so in closing "PARENTS BE PARENTS" and the rest of us won't be punished for your clear neglagents
stupid ass argumentPosted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by mandangsbelow69
This is just redundant looking for excuses to blame pointless violence on How about all those Iraqi terrorist killing 40+ people at a time and injuring hundreds. They never played Vice city San andreas and it lets you kill the u.s military. Or maybe they all have and thats why they do what they do, Why not just blame every act of violence on Games SEx and violence are a natural part of life. SEX created every one on this Planet
cry babiesPosted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by dOOmShrOOm
stop whining. If what GTA had in it wasn't bad enough to keep it off the shelves then who cares. Sex sells. Bottom line. 18 or older to buy porn and 18 or older for the Mature rated games. Goodnight.
Well damn!!Posted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by SunOvSpazz
Yeah Im with bacon, whats the major fuss here. 17 plus is the rating so who cares about content. I can get that from normal tv programming. Just good ol fashion nagging we have here people!
"Strong Sexual Content"Posted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by Pre_Wrapped_Bacon
Why are people complaining when the game already says "Strong Sexual Content" in the ESRB Rating? From what I know there's no actual nudity in this "Sex Game"...
Tell me something newPosted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by PsycicGirl
GTA is bad for kids. DUH!!!! Even a total idiot should know that! So if a parent buys a child GTA, does that mean that the parent is dumber than a total idiot? No wonder why our society is in bad shape!
ESRB = SERVICE, If its not exactly how you like it, don't complain!Posted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by Rip001
Its always the same. Parents start complaining that the game they bought their kids is distorting their little minds......since when is the video game industry supposed to be parrenting? Diciplining and monitoring your child's actions is not their responsibility, and especially if you buy this game for your kid you have no right to complain about it. Yes, this game is totally unapproperate for people under 17, and even for people over 17 its really an explicit game.....but you realize that when you buy it. Its like when you go into a movie, you realize that if you go into an R movie what might be in it, i mean, titanic was almost as suggestive and equally explicit as this game - and that was rated PG-13!!!! I was playing in on the airplane not that long ago, headphones of course, and some little kid comes up behind me and was like "Is that GTA, thats my FAVORITE game!".....this kid was like 9 or 10.....The group of people I was with at the time were all shocked that thsi little kid knew and recognized this game.......and that his parents allowed him to play it. So don't blame Rockstar or ESRB if you completely ignore the ratings when you buy a game and / or don't monitor the games your children are playing.
Policy doesn't matterPosted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by CamoBear
I also work at GameStop and we don't sell M games to minors without parent approval. It's a matter of company policy. However, I can't even count the number of times that I have told the parents of a ten or eleven year old that the game was rated M for it's content, but the parents their kid plays it all the time at their friends house or they would look at it later. I don't understand why a parent would think that it was okay for their child to continue playing an inappropriate game when they claim that they have already played it at a friend's. just becasue the door has been opened to the kids playing the game doesn't mean the door can't be closed. "Well if they've done it once we can't stop or monitor him ever again.", seems to be the mentality. If you were to apply that to drug use (I know its quite a leap) or cigarettes with children that young this country would be in a major health crisis. But, the parents, generally, put a stop to such us because they don't agree with it. Why can't they apply the same logic to video games?
Why doesnt anyone ever blame the parents?Posted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by FourBanger
If the parents are so concerned about the games their kids are playing you would think that they would take the time to look at the box before they buy the game for thier kids. i cant speak for every store but at the gamestop i work for we never sell mature rated games to people under 17. The ratings for games are prominently displayed on the cover and on the back of the games box. and even on the game disc. a parent who bought the game for thier kid has no right to blame anyone else for the content of the game and how it may affect their child.
sex minigame?Posted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by MrCrazySwords
Like in God of War? Frankly this whining about video games whould just roll over and die. But still why just GTA? Are the people who research this stuff just so lazy they can't look beyond the one video game everybody KNOWS is bad?
anything but...Posted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by n25philly
make the parents actually parent. I love how most parents today can be bothered to even try to parent thier kids and yet anything and everything that goes wrong is everyone elses fault. No wonder society if falling apart the way it is.
This is what the world's come to?Posted: Jul 11, 2005 12:00AM PST by MissingInMind
I'm sorry, but there's no need to make a large arguement about something that's outside of the retail version of the game. The fact is that it's a downloadable modification, so the rating is 100% correct for the retail version. Anything after the retail version is entirely on person who obtains the modification.
Leland YeePosted: Jul 10, 2005 12:00AM PST by shadowfox22
this is the dumb moron who chewed out the esrb in order to gain politicalpull with gaming bills, the president of the esrb now offically hates this man for his attemps to undermind the system. Another note the esrb probably will not shift the rating from m to ao simply due to the fact that even though it may have enough to shift it the esrb rarely rates ao and the fact that the only people that could no longer buy it are 17 year olds. M 17+ AO 18+ no difference Leland Yee is a dumb politian
god of warPosted: Jul 10, 2005 12:00AM PST by Pac-Dude
if god of war had become as popular as the GTA series the same thing would happen. which is why the esrb only picks on GTA is because its sooo popular. but GOW has a sex minigame, its not only implying it, you can hear the moans of a wilderbeast and the bed pounding. why doesnt the ESRB get mad over that?
It all starts with ParentsPosted: Jul 10, 2005 12:00AM PST by Prince Laharl
We have Parental Advisory lables, ratings on movies and the ESRB...and still people are worried about too much sexually explicit content in video games. Ratings are made for PARENTs to monitor what their children watch or play. We have prime time TV showing half nude women, we have cable, we have the V-chip so parents can limit what their children watch. What is going on, If parents start taking a proactive approach and PARENT THEIR KIDS....these things wouldn't/shouldn't happen!!
responsibilityPosted: Jul 10, 2005 12:00AM PST by sub-zero82
Amen TRIBE, parents do need to be more attentive to that they buy their kids. Most parents expect everybody else to teach their kids, and then what happens is that they learn from the media. Not because the media influenced them to do so, but because they were neglected by their parents. Anyway, GTA is overhyped, i'm sorry thats how I feel. It's always the same stuff over and over again. I do own GTA 3 and Vice City, and I thought GTA 3 was the best because it was inventive at the time. Now, it's all the same, especially with all the copycats. San Andreas might be huge, but it has lost a lot of the edge that GTA 3 did. Rockstar doesn't care what they do as long as their games sell. They probably did put that code in the game to be found by gamers to unlock the XXX rated acts, just like they knew that "Kill the Haitans" qoute would get them in trouble too. If Rockstar truly believes in the product then they won't have a problem giving it an AO rating. Even with an AO rating, unfortunately it will still sell.
Who is responsible........?Posted: Jul 10, 2005 12:00AM PST by Aquacure
Well there's a few sides to that. 1. A parent has to have an active role in their childs upbringing. If they enforce right from wrong long enough then when the child gets old enough to play games he/she will see games as a form of entertainment and nothing they should go out and mimic even though they could. In part they are responsible 2. If you're one of these impressionable jackholes who are so weak minded as to try some violent act you see on TV or games, then you need a shrink. But something was in you long before you saw said violent act. So in another part they are responsible. Why doesn't any of these criminal types ever say "Hey, I was playing baseball or basketball and figured, what the hell, I'll do that."? Or say "I was playing SOCOM and thought, I'll join the military."? One has to be a few turns short of a race track.
Sexually explicit? Who'da thunk?!Posted: Jul 10, 2005 12:00AM PST by ShamanYoh
I had no idea there was SEX in San Andreas! They covered it up so cleverly. For example, when you go to your girlfriend's house for "a cup of coffee" and then the house starts jumping, I thought they were just drinking coffee! They must have been pretty thirsty. But seriously people, San Andreas isn't "sexually explicit". The ESRB even says that sexually explicit is when you SEE the sex. Maybe parents should stop being such dumbasses and pay attention to the rating, that way none of their bitching would happen.
To Oni-LinkPosted: Jul 10, 2005 12:00AM PST by Aquacure
"Damn, I can't believe too many ppl here are bi7ching over this fact! GTA, is a pointless game and when one gets over the shock value is very shallow and did I say pointless again. Until, now it amazes me how this series is grouped in terms of sales with true triple A titles like HALO, Zelda, SSBM, Mario, Final Fantasy and Metal Gear. It even astounds me that this series surpassed the likes of Fable, ResidentEvil, DMC, and PoP in terms of acclaim from certain publications. At best the series have been rated a 6.0 in my book nothing more. If someone thinks otherwise (10.0 pleassse) they are a blundering idiot!" It's not about the game making a point. If games made points then Mario's would be that Bowser is some kind of stalker. GTA and HALO, that you can kill all these people and never go to trial. Res-Evil, green herbs and first aid sprays keep you from dying even if you just had a giant tentacle thrown through your body. Games are only about interactiveness. Instead of watching your sport or movie, you're making the visuals that brainwaves respond to happen. But it's good that you think so highly of yourself that you amazingly can shield yourself from what a majority of us cannot. Everyone but you liking this game doesn't make us blundering idiots. It just means that the majority of us has found a common ground.
What was the last M rated game?Posted: Jul 10, 2005 12:00AM PST by TMR_Net_Shark
Come on, ESRB, God Of War was rated M, and it has a sex mini game! Now you might change the rating from M to AO just because some modders changed the game so it suggests sex? Way too many people hate GTA, people like Jack Thompson shouldn't give a crap anymore. HOw many games out there on the market are AO? like 17 games ever?
And from another ticker...........Posted: Jul 10, 2005 12:00AM PST by Aquacure
"The game's plot is already objectionable to many people: Its main character carjacks for fun and profit and picks up women along the way." Aqua's note: Must be a different game I'm playing then. I could've sworn I was using the cars to get around. I guess if the item is sitting there unattended (i.e health power-up, sneakers for speed, growth inducing mushrooms) it's up for grabs. Even most of Snake's weapons were on site precurement, but none of that stuff was his. But how does one build a realistic backdrop of a city without having motorists.....motor? Would it be better if noone else was driving cars? I also remember only about 7-8 women that I picked up but even the girlfriend saga only requires 1-2 of those to be dated to move the story. "But some say its content becomes sexually explicit if players download and install a modification to the game - one of many so-called "mods" available on Web sites maintained by video game enthusiasts." Aqua's note: And your TV becomes sexually explicit if you turn on HBO at about 11 p.m. Ban TV dammit! Nevermind about the SpongeBobs, Doras, Sesame Streets, tuner shows, news, America's Most Wanteds, DIY Improvments etc. "While San Andreas is already full of violent behavior and sexual themes, the pornographic sex scenes push it over the edge," said David Walsh, founder of The Minneapolis-based National Institute on the Media and the Family, which issued a "nationwide parental alert" Friday." Aqua's note: David Walsh needs a Snickers. He's obviously bored as a result of hunger. "The controversy has prompted an investigation by the Entertainment Software Ratings Board, which determines the rating on every video game sold. Rockstar Games issued a statement Friday, confirming the investigation and avoiding comment on whether its programmers created the sex scenes in the first place. "We also feel confident that the investigation will uphold the original rating of the game, as the work of the mod community is beyond the scope of either publishers or the ESRB," the company said." "The mod's author - Patrick Wildenborg, 36, of Deventer, Netherlands - told The Associated Press on Friday that his code merely unlocks content that is already included in the code of each off-the-shelf game." Aqua's note: So this 36 year old created a code that unlocks porn in his game. Which begs the question, why is he writing porn unlocking codes in the first place? Even if he discovered it by accident, it's not likely that everyone will find/write/hack this code anyway so what's with the full scale assault? "If Rockstar Games denies that, then they're lying and I will be able to prove that," Wildenborg wrote in an e-mail. "My mod does not introduce anything to the game. All the content that is shown was already present on the DVD." Aqua's note: Yep, sounds like a 36 year old geek with wayyyyy too much time or 'something else' on/in his hands.
AO ratingPosted: Jul 10, 2005 12:00AM PST by puertorico4444
I cant recall a game that was semi popular getting an AO rating. Did Conkers Bad Fur Day get it? Even if they ever gave it an AO rating it wouldnt effect me so I could care less. Besides it kind of bothers me that my 9 year old cousin wants to play it. I draw the line at under 14 yr olds playing that game. Adult Swim is "inappropriate" for children under 14 and they do about the same as san andreas. Shooting in the head, sex, swears coming out the wazoo, violence. I guess people feel that the concept of being able to control that kind of violence is what makes it "adult". Oh well
Of coursePosted: Jul 10, 2005 12:00AM PST by big_tubby_83
You knew this was going to happen sooner or later. Why cant lawmakers just stay the hell away from the video game issue. The only reason many of them jump on the bandwagon and fight aganist videogame violence because they are trying to get elected to another term. It makes me sick that they blame game developers for the increase in violence in youth. The only way to solve the problem is for parent to take a fucking interest in what their kids are doing. If all parents did this you couldn't blame video games just shitty parenting.
I knew this was goin to happenPosted: Jul 10, 2005 12:00AM PST by GamerTeen247
The ESRB and stupid parents are concerend? What about the other GTA games they tried to tash? In vice city at the malibu club there bar tender had paint over her jugs. Like what many other people said, if you don't want like mature rated games, don't let yours kid buy them. I bet they are probally mothers, because my mom used to be like that. Still I may be a teen, but my parents realized i'm mature enough to play the game.
Just Can't Leave Well Enough AlonePosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by Rage83
Grand Theft Auto has been known for years for it's lude language, it's sex related scenes, as well as other things. ESRB has been very strict about what a game can have in it for it to have a certain rating. And yet they are finding ways to screw with games after they have come out. This is unfair to Rockstar and all gamers who play this game. In closing this is totally BS, and is not fair to anyone. If the parents are so worried about this type of stuff happening they should pay more attention to the games that their kids play.
Damn PuritiansPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by Dark13Matter
So lewd sexual gestures are whut sparked the investigation into the already, bloody, vulger, and violent world of San Andreas. It is a shame that the fuss is over lewd sexual acts which are being deemed pornographic. I always thought pornographic was Hustler magazine. Kids, sex is bad, and if you have or watch other people have sex that you will die.
funnyPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by crazy_gamer1992
hahaha i think its quiet amusing to see these people through hisy fits all the time 10 bucks says there all like 70 years old and dont even have the hand eye coordination to play the game.....
just like youPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by dueceR
like many gamers i could careless for politics from above trying to regulate entertainment stuff. and like many of you i too am disgusted by using video games, artists, and movies as the focus of trouble in society today. yet these are the same people that want to fight wars, and send countless young men and women to their death fighting a war we know nothing about. nothing ever adds up when it comes to politics and how they try to tell us what is good or bad as if we are brain dead.
Anarcho-Capitalist perspective,Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by Oblivion437
To understand all human beings as individuals, one understands all human beings act as individuals... Taking that into consideration, San Andreas' sex content is utterly unimportant. If a person is understood to voluntarily submit their money to a retailer, then receive a given item per that contract, they understand what that item is, and take responsibilities for that item. When you buy food, you accept its nutritional content and taste or lack thereof. When you buy a car, you accept its functional abilities to transport you about and also the dangers it presented to your fellow citizens on the road, as well as the dangers that may or may not be present on the road. A car designer has no obligation to tell you that if you're going 100 miles an hour down a highway and wrap your car around a tree, you might get hurt. When you buy a game, you accept the content therein, for whatever value or purpose you might attempt to gain from it, including any content you may not like. It's a financial risk you assume. It's also a health risk you assume, if indeed a long-term negative effect may exist if someone does something stupid as a result. To date I think the precise number of individuals who were 'inspired' by games in a fashion whereby they were not already mentally deranged and thus other stimuli might have had the same effect under the same circumstances is somewhere in the neighborhood zero to zero. It's a short street, not many addresses besides zero, zero street, zeroville South Zero... I find it ironic that an act of overt sexuality between two individuals is offensive whereas an act of violence against one of those individuals is not, for reasons not ever redressed. There are only two intellectually consistent positions to take in that regard, and this middle ground stepping action is a way to avoid the unpleasant meathook reality of hypocrisy. Good night folks...
They Are Only Making Asses of ThemselvesPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by metalheadache
Don't these people have anything better to do than to complain about a game whose rating is M for Mature. Mature covers violence language and sex. Damn are they stupid.
NO BIG LOSS GTA IS AN OVERHYPED GAME N/E WAYSPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by ONI-LINK
Damn, I can't believe too many ppl here are bi7ching over this fact! GTA, is a pointless game and when one gets over the shock value is very shallow and did I say pointless again. Until, now it amazes me how this series is grouped in terms of sales with true triple A titles like HALO, Zelda, SSBM, Mario, Final Fantasy and Metal Gear. It even astounds me that this series surpassed the likes of Fable, ResidentEvil, DMC, and PoP in terms of acclaim from certain publications. At best the series have been rated a 6.0 in my book nothing more. If someone thinks otherwise (10.0 pleassse) they are a blundering idiot!
This is stupid...Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by c4psycho
I've seen what the "so called" mini-game is. It just looks like two people doing exercises, it's very clunky. I've seen ten times worse in movies. These idiot Liberals need to turn there attention away from stuff that has little or no affect on the country, to other things. Like the fact that they can't win anything...
Weak attempt by the ESRBPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by papa_nick
Even with the sex minigame, the rating would still be M. From what I have heard there is nothing "pornographic" about the scene. There should be no difference between a sex scene in a R rated movie, and one on a M rated game. Parents don't buy your children games or movies that have adult content if you don't agree with it, very simple solution.
god of war has itPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by Tormented-Ninja
God of War has a sex minigame...but do you see the world launching an all-out assualt on it.
......and I'm proud to be an American......Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by Frizzle Fry
I could go on and on about my views on this topic, but I won't I will just plainly say that... A vast majority of parents SUCK ASS! The ESRB takes the time to test games out and slap a gay little content description sticker on it so that parents will be able to quickly identify that a game is either ok for everyone, or rated M for people over 17. Only once in my life have I seen a parent with a child in Wal*Mart say, "No Billy, you can't get that one, it has an M rating." Yeah, the kid whined about it for a few seconds, but was quickly over it when his momma showed him another game with the Big E rating on it. The lucky little bastid got a $50 game just like that. Parents need to step up and become more active in these kids lives. Monitor what they are doing. or better yet, at least pretend to care.
if I had kids I'd let them see and watch anythingPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by freakin
I'm 28 now, and really, it's ludicrous that the highly religious parents think they can talk for the conservative parents. Kids are on the internet now, where they are being force fed all kinds of porn and violence, the days of being able to block your kids from stuff is over. These religious groups are merely trying to force their muscle in the few things left they think they can control, while ignoring the fact the stuff they can't control is a million times worse. Yes, there should be ratings systems, but these religious groups should not be getting the amount of respect and attention they've been getting lately. Frankly, I think they are doing more harm than good to their kids with their warped views.
Why are people complaining now?Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by Halofreak
Its like the parents are saying its ok to shoot cops and pedestrians in a game and have sex with hookers and listen to continuous use of vulgar language along with drug and alchohal use but, show a sex scene and its go time. If you are stupid enough to buy your kid this game in the first place you are already a bad parent
PS3 version will get the AO rating...Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by new_age_soldier
With better more realistic graphics and content, you know is gonna happend. GTA is a mature game and i my self dont recomend it to the young kids. But if your the right age you should be able to buy it if ya want. Think about it though does a game really need that much Violent and sexual content to be a great game? Also please go to my page and check out my blog about my comic book story and write if you like the story or not. Forget about the drawings there please and focus on the story if you check out my blog. Thanks!
Stupid parents...Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by cortbassist89
unfortunately, gaming in America is still considered mainly for children. Parents throw a fit when their children see this stuff, but really, a good parent should be able to keep their kids from playing GTA. I know that if the child isn't there, they can't do anything about it. Still, I have seen no evidence from the majority of parents who think that these games are bad that they're trying their hardest to keep them from their children. Its amazing, though, to think that this generation (Y) is supposedly the corrupt ones. Generation X, have you seen a Woody Woodpecker cartoon. Or a Friday 13th movie. That was the first time I'd ever seen someone's head sliced clear off, a then roll around. Honestly. Other bad films from the prior generation: Animal House.
mmmn what are they hidingPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by bluedivinchie
these people try to take out thair pain on videogames....
Im only 14...Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by Thanatos180
GTA, San Andreas in specific, is a game certainly worth letting mind its own. As far as games go, God of War has more blood, Leisure Suit Larry has more sex, and Conker is king of the fowl mouthed game heros. GTA is only a mixture of the three main trouble-makers and even more importantly than just having adult content is the game content. If you simply have a level-headed gamer, traveling from the Los Santos international airport to Las Payasdas just north of the Verdant meadows airstip is certainly worth letting everything else pass without trouble. I agree with ESRB, technically I probly shouldn't have this game and neither should anyone younger; and if in this download there is explicit sex, then that unfortunate AO should probly be given. However, it is a download, meaning you would have to go somewhere and actually, willingly download the patch. I say, don't damage this wonderful game this much when the consumer has to make it happen. Its kinda like sentencing someone to death because of evidence with someone else's fingerprints on it.
People...Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by BreakfastPills
take life way too seriously. I think that's all that needs to be said.
publicityPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by nicksahalo
another reason I love Rockstar and GTA. They make these games with the most addictive gameplay, equally controversial, and here San Andreas gets easy publicity, the game that was already the best selling video game of 2004. hahaha way to go politicians! Controversy sells more games! Sex sells! San Andreas sells! GTA games sell! Rockstar, please make more GTA games for PS3 and Xbox 360. Looking forward to Liberty City Stories for PSP later this year. Thank you very much Rockstar Games, you are the best video game company. with much love, Nick grove street 4 life>
Re: I think....Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by Vitamin D
Yeah, but it's not just video games, it's media in general. This day and age, people think that there HAS to be a reason for something. Media is just a scapegoat really. For example, a kid could be failing at school so parents and the like would be quick to think "oh, maybe he has ADD" or something to that nature. Anyhoo, yeah I can go on and on about this subject but the fact remains. No matter what censorship or rating does to media, people need to look after each other. Parents need to be more involved if they can. Wether it's the kids' fault or parents', they need to be more involved.
I think...Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by PsycicGirl
that the world would be a better place if parents took responsibllity in their actions and child's actions instead of using a scapegoat such as videogames. It would help if they used common sence when buying their children games. Unfortunately, I'm afraid all common sence has left this world. The fact that people blame games for all the problems in the world proves my point. What is even sadder is that quite a few politians and goverment officails are in the 'lacking of common sence population'. Also, don't even mention the media; they are using this crisis to their advantage!
Hot Coffee Sex is available on Xbox too!Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by AntiGWB
There was a save released in June for the Xbox console, it doesn't require any game or hardware modifications to access the 'hot coffee' section of the game. Anyone with a copy of the Grand Theft Auto game and a product called ActionReplay can access the same sexual mini-game that PC owners have been talking about. I guess it's true, RockStar left it in the game and tried to lock people out.... as we all know, it didn't work at all. "The current plan aims to determine if the lewd content was tucked away by Rockstar Games or added by clever fans." "...but fans are known for heavy modifications for the PC releases." Here's the Xbox save that was created by a cheat code company and is distributed on their website. It surely proves RockStar left this 'sex game' in intentionally because NO 'havy modifications' are needed to access this one! (it's only a 71k game save file) [quote from codejunkies.com] **OFFICIAL** Uncensored (Story Complete)! Story Complete; Game 100% Uncensored!!! Please girlfriends to get the invite for some ''Coffee'' & Lovin''!!! - Jay "FNG" This SAVE has been downloaded 9945 times. [/quote codejunkies.com] I've even found this game save on another video game site by googling this Jay FNG character: http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/xbox/save/925634.html
Stinkin Demacrats, especially from San Fransisco... ERG!!Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by Halofreak
Ok ESRB do this, just to shut all these dumbass people up about GTA just give all GTA games an A rating. It really wouldnt decrese the sales. I mean people who could legally buy it before still can and now they will have one less thing to bitch about. I mean seriously this blame GTA for everything crap is getting really old really really really fast. And when I mean fast I mean how fast Howard Dean's popularity dropped after his "scream".
I don't understand what the big deal is...Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by TheStagbeetle
So, what? So what if there's porno graphic scene's added to the game. It's rated mature right? So, kids arent supposed to be able to purchase the game right? Pretty much this is just big government busting MY right as an adult to view or play whatever i want to. I guess we better get used to it. Unless there's a change, you wont be able to smoke your cigarettes or drink your beer let alone play any game you want to.
feeding frenzyPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by baggymacaw
It is truly unfortunate that while there is a need for self-policing, this type of action will do nothing but increase sales of the game. Publicity is always good for sales and even if Rockstar is found to be guilty of abusing the rating system, it will still work to their own good. Perhaps a more mature and "punishing" way of reducing this type of material from falling into the hands of minors were to be stricter following of the guidelines by the retailers, and even retailers making moral stands and deciding not to sell certain games that did not meet their standards.
Even more hyprocracyPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by zeldagirl_htm17
So an R rated movie is fine, but a little lovemaking and people are outraged. Whatever...
sex or violence?Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by RayDestructo
What is worse, sex or violence? I'd rather have my kid see a naked woman instead of a guy beating the shit out of her with a baseball bat. Kid should not be playing GTA and parents should not let them... so all this fuss over this lost bit of code is rather pointless when you look at the game as a whole.
Frankly, this is Shameful...Posted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by Yen24
Its sad when a group of Right-minded (capital "R" on Right) parents who probably see videogames as the scourge of western civilization (wadda-bout heroin, or for that matter, the Burning Legion?). These people have seen that they can't get anywhere by publishing newspaper articles or holding protests at RockStars gates. What they've been doing isn't working, so they try to blame ESRB for they're short comings. Obviously they couldn't change RockStar, so instead they tried to manipulate ESRB, the company "responsible" for letting this game see the light of day, into changing RockStar for them. Don't get me wrong here, the ESRB is one of gamings greatest assets, and I do believe that all Mature games should not be sold to people under the age of 17. But what these people are calling for is ludacris, change a rating for a lost bit of code that no one can access without a mod. Thats like giving a PG13 movie an R rating because the bonus features on the DVD contain R-rated footage not shown in theaters. I wish RockStar could see a release without huge controversy. Keep on rockin' RockStar. Keep making GTA games. Heres an idea for the next one, make everyone nude, and how about making a nymphomaniac lead that can only speak in racial slurs and swears, and who's goal is to sleep with everything, that would really piss those groups off. You could even include a mission where the protagonist kills "The National Institute on Media and the Family." Theres a game I'd buy just to spite those groups. Fight fire with fire.
Always putting Rockstar DownPosted: Jul 09, 2005 12:00AM PST by ghettogamer1216
I don't know about that. If this has been in the PC-version all this time, why are they now finding out? are they that stupid!?!? Don't they know you can't stop RockStar? Now,because of this they're going to make the next GTA even more contraversal
(shakes head in disgust)Posted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by Big_McLarge_Huge
Man, I am just sick of hearing about this kind of thing. There's nothing left of that dead horse but a stain on the ground, but that doesn't stop them from grabbing sticks and going at it, does it? OMG SEX IN A VIDEOGAME! (swish) GTA IS THE DEVIL BUT WE CAN'T KEEP OUR KIDS FROM PLAYING IT! (swish) DOOM IS RESPONSIBLE FOR SCHOOL SHOOTINGS! (swish) I'm gonna grab some more cotton balls for my ears and go back in my hole..
My quick take on ESRB...Posted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by Raven_Of_Prophecy
The ESRB rating board really isn't that great of a system for judging the content of videogames. The board consists of adults who do not require previous game-playing experience, or, for that matter, adults who likely have never picked up a controller. They rate games based on a developer's compiled video of a game's most violent content, rather than simply playing through the game and then making a final judgement. This, to me, is like writing a review for a videogame based on a game trailer. Shame on you ESRB!
OMFG!!!Posted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by RoylAsult
PLEASE GIVE IT A REST I AM TIRED OF HEARING THE SAME SHIT (go ahead ESRB put a rating on me) JESUS SERIOSULY OK ITS A BAD GAME...THATS Y IT HAS THE RATING OF M(mature) IN MY EYES ALL M STANDS FOR IS IF THE CHILDS PARENTS THINK THEY ARE MATURE ENOUGH TO HANDLE THE GAME. IF U PPL(meaning bitching moms) ARE GANNA TAKE THIS SO SERIOUS JUST BITCH AND FIGHT TO GOVERMENT UNTILL ALL M RATED GAMES ARE LOCKED UP IN A CASE AND THE ONLY WAY U CAN GET ONE IS BY IF U SHOW ID (lol go and do that...kids have older brothers....who can just buy it...they have parents who dont care...they can convince there blind grandparents to buy it for em..there is rly no way u can stop some1 under 21 from buying a game that is simply the best...the best game in a while...most anticipated game...most fun game...) I DARE ALL OF U MOMS(mayb dads?) TO PUSH THIS TO LIMIT AND C WHAT HAPPENS!!! U THINK THIS IS GANNA MAKE CRIME RATE GO DOWN.... THIS IS GANNA STOP CHILDREN FROM GOING TO SCHOOL WITH A GUN... THIS IS THE VIDEO GAME ERA HEAR IT ROAR!!!!! lol theres always tv :) if u have aproblem of what i just said..i have one thing to say to u SCREW U AND DEAL WITH IT!!! ty for listening :)
Hypocrisy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Posted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by nintendofan64
I don't remember any big outrage from parental groups about the sex minigame in God of War! These people are just looking for ammo to use against GTA.
The Generation Gap Strikes AgainPosted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by Vrahl_Morte
Oh lord, a new excuse to ban an old franchise. Suggestive sex in a Grand Theft Auto game? Who would have thought it... Maybe someone should tip off the soccer moms of America about the "hidden" fatalities in Mortal Kombat, or the suggestive, under-aged sex that goes on in any WB lineup. Interestingly, I only hear about Americans, ages 28+, crying foul against video games. Video Games are the new tabboo for the generations that came before us. Every cycle has some new tabboo. It's more or less gone (in descending order) Video Games, Movies, Television, Music. Coincidently, the pattern follows the trend of what's new and popular with the youth of america compared to what's mysterious and forbodding to parents.
ESRB should die and parents smarten upPosted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by corsyus
Lets face it, people have been complaining about "mature" material in videogames since Mortal Kombat as far as I remember, if not before that even. So now we got the ESRB that's supose to be used as a guide for parents to know what games are recomended for people of certain age groups. Comparing the amount of whinning about the content in video games now, as to what we use to hear 10+ years ago, nothing has changed, it's gotten even worse! the ESRB is obviously useless. Parents are the ones who should take their responsibilities as parents and quit blaming the media for their childrens behaviour, if they weren't such bad parents, their kids would grow up just fine, so we could all play MMOG's without having to hear some 12 year old saying what he's done with your mother lastnight. So there's a sex game in San Andreas, big deal.. how could that be soo bad compared to all the characters we beat-up and shoot dead in the game? Since when is sex soo bad that it makes murder acceptable? I'm not bashing GTA, it's one of my favourite series, and it's already rated "Mature", last time I checked, most mature people I know, have been through all their sex-Ed classes, and polygons having sex is far from being at the top of the list of things that get them excited.
Who cares? It was scrapped anyway!Posted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by franwex
Why are people making a big deal outta code that lay hidden in the game? Many games have content that was scrapped. (Such as Goldeneye) Is it even legal to mess around w/ the code like that? Its almost like giving a NC-17 rating to a R movie because they cut out an explicit scene. If its only accecible in legitmate ways why make such a fuzz about it?
M ratingPosted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by jfive28
First of all this game has an M rating so no kids should be playing it in the first place so whats the problem?? Oh thats right irresponsible parents u know i bet the ESRB wouldnt have to worry about mature content in a game if there where less dumbass people haveing kids .
Wow!Posted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by wolfmanforever619
Just shock about ESRB be AO game oh man.
Well Thats Too Bad!!!!Posted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by tommyvercettivc
I say it sux cuz many people are tired of getting bad reports about gta. The ESRB needs to cool down about the mini game, it dosent show much. I dont see the ESRB talking about Mortal Kombat any more and its still being played by minors?
Has any game ever got an AO rating?Posted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by CaNaDiAn_Eh?(JAMES)
What else did you expect me to say lol
Soccer moms are pissedPosted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by ShamanYoh
Thanks a lot Leland Yee, now irresponsible parents everywhere can bitch even more about videogames. Aside from the fact that nobody gives a crap about "sexual suggestions" in a movie (although R is the same as M), the mini-game was an obvious mod by fans. So until someone takes R-rated movies off the market, nobody has a right to complain about videogames. It's why we have the ESRB.
This only proves that...Posted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by AP_Representer
For those few people who actually care about the ESRB rating, the ESRB rating system is fundamentally flawed.
Nobody CaresPosted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by pavia_erik
If it was a modification, there shouldn't be any fuss. Tons of mods and patches are created for PC games. The Sims even has a nude patch.
who cares ou only have to be a year older to get AO rated gamesPosted: Jul 08, 2005 12:00AM PST by shadowfamicom
how much diff does a year make???????????


text:
Offering the finest in Waterfowl hunting and Offshore & Bay fishing on the Texas Coast.
For over 20 years Captain Scott Hickman specializes in
bay & offshore fishing for trophy size Kings, Ling (cobia), snapper, amberjack and dorado in the Texas Gulf Coast / Galveston bay area. We also offer Shark & Tarpon fishing trips as well as Bay fishing trips for trout and redfish in the Galveston Bay - Check our
fishing gallery.
Circle H Outfitters operates three hunting lodges overlooking Copano Bay for
ducks hunting.
We also have over 40,000 acres of hunting property within a one-hour drive from Houston for upper coast
duck and goose hunting.
We offer guided hunts for trophy deer and turkey hunting in Bracketville, Laredo and Refugio (South Texas).
Book with us your dove hunting trip on one of our Alvin, Rockport and Bracketville Texas location.
Don't forget to check our hunting gallery.
Finally we have high fenced, turn key, 1350 acre hunting ranches for sale equiped with with premium blinds as well as corn and protein feeders just east of Bracketville, Tx.
Please visit our Texas Ranch for sale
Home -
Contact us -
Fishing -
Fishing Gallery -
Capt's Report
duck hunting in Texas
Fishing guides Galveston
hunting duck in Texas
Galveston fishing charters


text:
GENERIC NAME: famotidine
BRAND NAME: Pepcid, Pepcid AC, Acid Reducer, Heartburn Relief
PRESCRIPTION: Yes, OTC
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes.
USES: Famotidine blocks the action of histamine on stomach cells, and reduces the production of acid by the stomach. Famotidine is useful in promoting the healing of stomach and duodenal ulcers and in reducing ulcer pain. Famotidine has been effective in preventing recurrence of ulcers when given in low doses for prolonged periods of time. Famotidine also is used for treating heartburn and in healing ulceration and inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) resulting from acid (gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD). High doses are used for treating conditions in which there are marked increases in acid secretion such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Over-the-counter preparations are used for treatment and prevention of occasional heartburn associated with acid indigestion (another name for GERD).
SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects of famotidine are rare. The most commonly reported minor side effects are:
- constipation,
- diarrhea,
- fatigue,
- headache,
- insomnia,
- muscle pain,
- nausea, and
- vomiting.
Other important side effects include:
More serious side effects include:
- depression,
- hallucinations,
- irregular heartbeat,
- visual changes, and
- yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
Quick GuideHeartburn Causes, Symptoms, Remedies, and Treatments
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
Need help identifying pills and medications?
Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.


text:
SIKESTON - Despite raising the bar, the Sikeston Area United Way once again exceeded its goal for the 2004-2005 campaign.
The goal was $78,000 for this campaign, up $2,000 from the previous couple of years, according to Glenna Shy, campaign director.
"We finished with $82,614," she said. "We're at 106 percent - we're really thrilled. We need to exceed our goal because of outstanding pledges."
"I appreciate the generosity of everyone that gave to the United Way to help us make our goal, and for all the people that worked their areas and did that so diligently so we were able to come up with the funds for our agencies," said Sarah Buchanan, chair for the 2004-2005 campaign.
While some contributing industries left the area, Tetra Pak was a big help in making up some of the difference, Shy reported.
"The donation from Noranda that we got this week really put us over the top," Buchanan said. "They are one of our biggest contributors."
Greg Comer, United Way board member, agreed. "They're a major contributor," he said. "They do a payroll deduction which really helps out."
Having served as the chair for two previous campaigns, Buchanan noted this campaign did not go as much over the goal as in previous years.
"It was just a little bit slower this year," she said. "At least we met our goal and exceeded it. The way the economy is and everything I think we did very well - I'm pleased with it."
Money raised by the Sikeston Area United Way stays in Southeast Missouri, Shy said, and is divided between receiving agencies based on need.
As always, feeding the elderly has remained an important priority for the United Way with aid going to nutrition centers in Sikeston, East Prairie, New Madrid, and Portageville.
Other agencies that benefit from the money raised by this year's Sikeston Area United Way campaign include: Bootheel Counseling Services, Boy Scouts of Southeast Missouri Council, Delta Area Blind, Foster Grandparents Program, Girl Scouts Cotton Boll Council, the House of Refuge for Abused and Battered Women, Kenny Rogers Children's Center, the Scott County Transit System, the Sikeston Rescue Mission, Southeast Missouri Network Against Sexual Violence, and the YMCA of Southeast Missouri.
"I wish the new chairman for next year, Lee Bowman, success in his campaign," Buchanan said.