Redundant threads--run a keyword search first!!!

[divinggirl]

I know that the nature of these boards is to help people out and to share information, but it becomes tiresome after a while to come and see the same topics over and over, rehashing the same things ad nauseum. So PLEASE, people, take 2 minutes before you post a new question to search the forum for a keyword pertinent to your topic, to see if it has already been recently discussed. Just because it's not on the first page doesn't mean it hasn't been talked about recently. I'm tired of questions regarding the alcohol policy, among others. Thanks, I feel better now.

Nikki

[HeatherInFlorida]

Nikki, I agree with you 1000%. Just yesterday, I mentioned the very same thing on a thread wondering how many different ways the same question could be asked and answered.

Good idea to post this!!!:D

[jcrandle]

I know that the nature of these boards is to help people out and to share information, but it becomes tiresome after a while to come and see the same topics over and over, rehashing the same things ad nauseum. So PLEASE, people, take 2 minutes before you post a new question to search the forum for a keyword pertinent to your topic, to see if it has already been recently discussed. Just because it's not on the first page doesn't mean it hasn't been talked about recently. I'm tired of questions regarding the alcohol policy, among others. Thanks, I feel better now.

NikkiMrPeteLI posted this link on the Carnival boards. http://albinoblacksheep.com/flash/posting.php

[doowillie]

As an occasional "lurker" for sevearl years, and a long time HAL cruiser, I come here primarily for new info and developments. The same old topics and same old questions, along with the same old answers and arguments, by the same people are always to be found. If nothing but "new" topics were here, this board would be very short, indeed.:)

[Globaliser]

I'm tired of questions regarding the alcohol policy, among others.Sorry, just what is the alcohol policy, again?

:D

Just kidding. And helping to keep this thread at the top.

[Pudgesmom]

For those who need help-

On the top of page with all the thread names, look at the top on the far right on the blue area for: "Search this forum." Click on that, and when the little box appears, type in your topic. For example, "dress code," or "bringing alcohol on board."

You will get a list of threads discussing your topic of interest.

I hope this helps. Maybe someone more computer literate than me can describe this better. :D

Beth

[divinggirl]

jcrandle and Globaliser, that is great!! I think we should all make a pact to not perpetuate the alcohol, (can I bring it?) smoking (do you hate it?) and children (will they like it, be bored, happy, well cared for, etc) threads, especially...we've all heard all the arguments for and against everything, and could very kindly suggest the OP of any new thread regarding those topics do a search first, to see what can of worms they are opening! Now, of course, I know this will never happen, but I try to do my part by not even reading those threads, as it's obvious where they wind up. I know the well-being of people's kids are paramount, but it's not that hard to type "child care" or "babysitting" into the search box, dammit!! :cool:

[Time2sail]

Okay?

[Quendryth]

I used to really enjoy these boards but - yes, it has become same old, same old & it is far from fun anymore due to everything being redundant.

I rarely visit or reply but I had to on this one.

[divinggirl]

Bump...ABOVE the Bringing alcohol thread!!! :mad: Maybe I should change the name of this thread to "New Posters Please Read!"

[Oceanwench]

These boards helped me immeasurably when I first started cruising.
They continue to do so today.
Naturally there are going to be some repeats of topics.

I post on several other bulletin boards, one music-related, one entertainment-related. The same thing happens as far as topics. For instance, a newbie will come along and post, "When is the summer concert tour being announced?"
Then some of the more veteran posters will answer. Some will be sarcastic, others informative. And someone will advise the newbie to do a search before posting.
I've seen this happen for 6 years on one of my favorite boards ... but newbies will be newbies, and in their excitement to find out more about a topic of interest to them, they'll post a question the veterans have heard a thousand times.
I'm sure I did the same thing when I was a newbie. Mea culpa.
I'm sure on this board I was so excited about going on my first HAL cruise, I asked all kinds of questions that were repetitive to those who had been here a lot longer.

A veteran can make a choice: Avoid the threads that are obviously repeats of the alcohol/dress code/age of pax/kids on board questions.
Or choose to read those threads and share your wealth of knowledge with the posters.

Veterans of this board can avoid falling into a potential trap by not responding emotionally to those topics.

That being said ... I have to think that some of the newer posts regarding alcohol, a hot-button topic on this board ... were just posted to stir up trouble. It's not hard to start a new account with a new name. I've seen it done on other boards too, and eventually the posters with 3 or 4 names are found out.

[jhannah]

What I try to do in the case of a "worn out" topic (especially when I see the poster is relatively new) is find the thread then post the link. That helps them get the info they need without undue rehashing. I agree with Oceanwench that newbies will be newbies ... which we all were at one point. They (we) come here excited and maybe aren't familiar enough with this forum to know how to look for what.

[divinggirl]

Very valid points everyone--however, my feeling is that being excited and needing instant gratification/information does not warrant constant repetition, as a new poster may actually find their info FASTER if they took the time to look for what has already been discussed. As Quendryth said, it makes these boards less enjoyable.

That is why I'd like to keep this thread near the top, so that someone looking for info may think about searching before rehashing a topic. But I can imagine that when I or anyone suggest an OP go and search for their info, we'll hear the "The HAL board is so nasty" comments that tend to pop up...ever notice on which threads those comments appear most? ;)

[peaches from georgia]

I know that some new posters don't know or understand the 'search' function, but with the constant repetition of some topics, so often the same subject is asked and already answered right on page 1.

[divinggirl]

Very valid points everyone--however, my feeling is that being new, excited or needing instant gratification/information does not warrant constant repetition--as Quendryth said, it makes the boards less enjoyable for the rest of us.

That's why I'd like to keep this thread towards the top, so that those newbies and others may think to search BEFORE they post. And thanks Beth, for the instructions, by the way. I think that new posters may find that much of what they seek can be found by searching, and information already there is faster to find than that which is not (make sense?)! ;) But I can already hear what will happen if we kindly suggest a poster who is rehashing do a search for their info--"That HAL board sure is nasty"...ever notice where most of those comments pop up--it wouldn't be talking abou tkids, drinking or smoking, would it?? :confused: :rolleyes: :o

[Time2sail]

:) Isn't it a lovely day.

[HeatherInFlorida]

I agree, diving girl, and keeping this near the top is a good idea.

I wish jcrandle's video link was a "sticky". Everyone should be forced to see that before posting.

I'm a little more cynical than everyone else. I think there are people who are purposely starting some of these threads just to stir things up. Their lives are a little boring so they create a new name and post yet another alcohol, dress code, etc., thread. The other threads on the same subject are still so near the top that it makes no sense at all to start a new thread.

I think Jim's idea is the best one. When we see something that has been discussed to death, the best thing to do is post a link to the other thread. And if we try not to comment further on the subject, the thread will die a natural death making its way to the 2nd, 3rd, etc., pages.

So if it is just a person trying to fill their day with debate, we're not feeding their illness.

JMHO.

[Mary Ellen]

I'm a little more cynical than everyone else. I think there are people who are purposely starting some of these threads just to stir things up. Their lives are a little boring so they create a new name and post yet another alcohol, dress code, etc., thread. The other threads on the same subject are still so near the top that it makes no sense at all to start a new thread.Another cynic here. When the "newbie" states: 'I've seen threads....." they have been (at least) lurking. They should know 'search' is an option. It seems that every year, when Spring Break season rolls around, we get a rash of trolls wanting to be fed.

[Time2sail]

Bumping up thread

[cruzincurt]

I guess I'm in the minority here. Who died and made you expert veterans (old farts) the board hosts?

I see these boards as a dialog, a conversation, not an encyclopedia of facts. New people are aways coming in and I enjoy reading their questions and the answers. Nothing worse than old news; I want to read fresh information. Since you already know everything, why do you bother to visit these boards anymore and then complain about other people's postings?

Sure, some people start threads just to incite things, so don't click on them. I don't want any newbie to be afraid to post an honest question. In my opinion, at least to me, some are really unnecessary and trivial, such as "which pool has the salt water", "what time is lunch?", "who is the CD?", "beds together or apart?" "what do you wear to disembark?" and so on, but I don't berate them for asking. Because, to those who posted them they are obviously important and they want to participate in this dialog among those of us who enjoy cruising.

It's not your place to denigrate newbies, welcome them one and all. I've been on 15 cruises over most of the lines and ship sizes so I pretty much know everything I need to know about cruising. But I come here every night to relive my cruises through the curiosity and excitement of others finding this great vacation experience for their first time.

[JDee]

It is certainly true that the search engine will provide the answer to many questions. But, are those answers really up-to-date?? Even old encylopedias have much information that is current, but necessarily current. The cruise industry is in a constant flux. Yesterdays tipping policy is no longer valid - we all remember the "no tipping required". Dining times have changed... Even dress codes have changed--sports coats now officialy sanctioned as part of the formal dress. Certainly true that many of the posters never bothered to tune in the HAL web site for answers to many of the questions--but here too, is the web site answer current?? Even the old timers question the accuracy of items posted on the HAL web site...

Yes, and even that old liquor policy changed a few years ago...Gosh was it that long ago....Seems even the Pinnacle has on again/off again lunches, used to be only for Suite pax, now have seen el-cheapo pricing for anyone at lunch. Don't think the HAL web site mentions Pinnacle Lunches.

Anyway, any poster should be able to ask any question his/her little heart desires.....Newbies should be encourged, rather than discouraged. We we all newbies at one time...live and learn.....

Happy cruising.....

[dakrewser]

No one is suggesting that newbies be put on probation, for heaven's sakes!

But questions like "tell me everything I need to know about the Hooverdam" won't really get all the details. A decent search will bring up a lot, but will also suggest areas for the newbie to dig deeper into.

The suggestion is intended to help the newbies to a better experience on CC, not to chase them away.

[stanford's girl]

I have to say as a relative "newbie" that everyone has been more than happy to answer my questions. I'm not new to cruising, just to HAL. Every cruise line does things different so wanted to get my info from experienced HAL cruisers. But if I has never cruised at all, I'm sure I would have had some questions that would have been considered trivial or unnecessary to some. I "lurked" for weeks to gather info but sometimes was not able to find it. I'm not computer savy and someone was nice enough to show me to the search engine. Thanks to all of you that were so patient with me!!!!:D

[Chadzbrew]

Well why dont they just shut this message board from any new posts and have anyone with a question just search existing threads?:rolleyes: I mean how many NEW topics can there be. To me a lot of the times I see "Veterans" posting, just to be posting, and not adding any good info. Is it so that the you "Veterans" can one day say "Look I just hit the 5000 post mark, I officially have no life and just post on this board in virtual land to be heard, because in real life I am a loser!!!!":D

[stanford's girl]

Well why dont they just shut this message board from any new posts and have anyone with a question just search existing threads?:rolleyes: I mean how many NEW topics can there be. To me a lot of the times I see "Veterans" posting, just to be posting, and not adding any good info. Is it so that the you "Veterans" can one day say "Look I just hit the 5000 post mark, I officially have no life and just post on this board in virtual land to be heard, because in real life I am a loser!!!!":D
I really hope you were kidding with your remarks because if not, you were being extremely rude!!!!!:(

[cruzincurt]

I think CHADZBREW was being a bit "tongue-in-cheek" and not rude. Touche! about the veterans with thousands and thousands of posts.

Welcome newbies, ask away! That's what this board is here for.

[gaylenhazel]

Cruzincurt - Your NOT in the minority. Ditto your whole post! Thank you!

[Lanson5]

Cruzincurt - Your NOT in the minority. Ditto your whole post! Thank you!

You certainly are not in the minority Cruzincurt, I also was in agreement with your entire post. I kept thinking to myself the entire time I was reading this thread "I wonder what STUPID questions I've asked.

Probably wont ask anymore!!!!!!!!!:(

[JDee]

Stupid questions?? I would guess almost everyone who ever cruised has had the misfortune of hearing the CD run off about the 10 most stupid questions. The one that really irks me, is when that smart a.. CD recites "and when is the midnight buffet?" I feel just like shouting back, "read the daily program stupid (meaning the CD) and you will see it's at 11:30. Just because a question ought to have an obvious answer, it ain't necessary so.....

Happy cruising.....

[JohnR49er]

Score tied at halftime........................ LOL:D

[jaguarstyper]

Well why dont they just shut this message board from any new posts and have anyone with a question just search existing threads?:rolleyes: I mean how many NEW topics can there be. To me a lot of the times I see "Veterans" posting, just to be posting, and not adding any good info. Is it so that the you "Veterans" can one day say "Look I just hit the 5000 post mark, I officially have no life and just post on this board in virtual land to be heard, because in real life I am a loser!!!!":D

Tee Hee Hee!

That oughta ruffa some feathas

[jander]

If something is redundant, don't read it, click on something you want to read. Like those who complain about what is on TV. There is a on or off switch or channel selector, use it as you like.

[Flydude1063]

I totally agree with you Jander. Why is it such a horrible problem to see a subject that has been discussed before? Is it that hard to just skip that particular thread and not read it? Sometimes it's nice to have new opinions about some subjects even if they have been discussed previously. Even if you do run a keyword search first, you may find that a particular subject hasn't been discussed in several months. It's just my opinion, but I really don't see a huge problem with redundant threads. Just one cruisers opinion.

[Ziggy7]

It's not your place to denigrate newbies, welcome them one and all. I've been on 15 cruises over most of the lines and ship sizes so I pretty much know everything I need to know about cruising. But I come here every night to relive my cruises through the curiosity and excitement of others finding this great vacation experience for their first time.

What right do you or anyone else have speaking poorly of someone because they have 5000 posts ! Or because they have more time to spend on here then you do ! Instead of just coming here for your own gratification, I personally think you need to grow up and spend more time answering newbie questions since you know so much!

Who died and made you expert veterans (old farts) the board hosts?

Who died and made you Judge, Jury and Executioner ??? No one ever said don’t ask stupid questions, the OP was talking about repetition of hours of each other. If you don’t like what someone posts, calling them names (old farts) is better than asking someone to try searching their question first, then if not found ask away ???

Since you already know everything, why do you bother to visit these boards anymore and then complain about other people's postings?

If everyone that knows all the answers left these boards, who would answer all the newbie’s questions ???? Maybe you should go back and read what this message board is for.


I’m not saying there aren’t times when things are out of control but for the most part I see a lot of caring people on here willing to help everyone out by sharing that said knowledge!

And for the other “nay Sayers” on this thread, I say go back and read carefully your responses, because they certainly don’t speak well for you! :)

[trubey]

Hey, this board is a GREAT mix and GREAT fun! -- questions from newbies so the (ahem) old folks can be grandparents and put their fears at rest. Some questions like, "What's room 707J6S on the Statendam like?": 3% or so of actual, useable questions of general interest (did anybody hear . . .): and then all the funny, creative, threads which really help us to know what some of the other cruisers are like.

With the possible exception of the Great Voices of Reason (Jhannah and the Rev) everybody on the board mouths off sometimes, and I think sometimes screeching at other people is healthy and fun. C'mon, guys, let's have another smoking thread, with a side trip into diapers!

Lane

[Globaliser]

I see these boards as a dialog, a conversation, not an encyclopedia of facts. New people are aways coming in and I enjoy reading their questions and the answers. Nothing worse than old news; I want to read fresh information. Since you already know everything, why do you bother to visit these boards anymore and then complain about other people's postings?Using the search function to see whether your question has already been answered is just simple netiquette. You should watch that video.

If it's a question that hasn't already been answered, or if the poster wants to know if things might have changed since 2003, or whatever, then it's a perfectly valid question to ask. If the poster's searched for an answer but can't find one, I'm sure nobody would mind.

The irritating questions are those which have plainly been posted without any prior thought being applied - which you can often tell not only from the tone of the post, but also from the fact that the very same question has been asked and answered within the previous 6 hours or so.

[cruzincurt]

Ziggy7, Thanks, for your post, I rest my case. By the way, thanks for the super size and colored fonts.

[Golfgrl1911]

One of the things I LOVE about this web site is the ability to simpliy point my curser over a topic title and read a bit about what the poster is asking/commenting on. If it isn't of interest to me I simply skip on until I find a topic that is of interest. I do not feel compelled to read every single posting or response, I personally don't have that kind of time. I'm not really interested in topics that center on Club HAL, formal attire, etc. so I read on. It doesn't bother me that other people have a vested interest in these topics. I think it's great that this is a very busy web site and look forward at the end of the work day reading what others' are chatting about. I don't believe this site is going to run out of pages to write/comment on. So I guess my question is what's all the fuss about?:confused: Nancy:)

[doowillie]

Ziggy, you asked a poster "what right" ? I submit the First Amendment of the Constitution of the U.S.A.

Is there any topic that can be discussed on this board without causing a cat fight ?

[Lanson5]

And for the other “nay Sayers” on this thread, I say go back and read carefully your responses, because they certainly don’t speak well for you! :)[font=Wingdings]
And what you have said here certainly does not speak well for you at all, as you rant and rave because someone disagrees with you
I for one am out of here, you along with others have taken something that should be fun and turned it into something ridicuous. My only hope is that this is not typical of HAL cruisers, I would hate to stop on the ship to ask directions and upset an entire group because I failed to check the ship diagram on the wall first!!!!!!!!!! Lighten up Ziggy:eek:

[cbeachrose]

Amen, cruzincurt! Hope the pax (which is "peace" in Latin, isn't it?) on our cruise are not as condescending as some on these boards. Geez! loosen up a little.

Pax vobiscum. ;)

[cbeachrose]

Wow, Ziggy! Did somebody strike a nerve? Stop yelling; I'm not deaf. Your response reminds me of why I don't like to join clubs, organizations, etc. Ususally the people who start them think that they own them and when someone new joins and tries to offer new ideas they are look down upon for stirring up the group. Tradition is good but progress is good too else I still wouldn't be able to vote.

Just a thought.

Pax vobiscum. ;)

[Globaliser]

I don't believe this site is going to run out of pages to write/comment on.In case it's passed anybody by, this site seems to be struggling at the moment. Starting lots of redundant threads is definitely not going to help matters.

Ironically, every time we have a server slowdown, a number of "usual suspects" pile in immediately to post new threads asking "The boards have slowed down again". Isn't it obvious, when it happens?

[HeatherInFlorida]

What a bunch of obnoxious, hypocritical, and rude posters. I've made a note of the names to be sure that I stay away from any threads they're on. A really good way to gain information is to insult the very folks who are there to help. Of course, most of you will be back with new names in a month or so.

If this thread were reported to the moderators it would, of course, be gone. One of the Board's "rules" (which none of you like) is that you do not insult people, particularly individually.

As a matter of fact, I don't think there a rule of common etiquette or netiquette that hasn't been broken here.

All Ziggy did was defend a group of people she's come to know and like. The rest of you just don't know what you're doing. But insulting her certainly isn't going to earn you points.

The OP was very clear in her post. She wasn't saying newbies shouldn't ask questions. But when there are 4 or 5 threads going on the front page and they're all about "smuggling liquor", then I really don't think it makes a whole lot of sense to post another one.

[doowillie]

I'm going back to lurking for the occasional new and useful information. Why stick your neck out on this board??

One last question for heather--did you not indict yourself with the first sentence of your last post ? Think about it.

[ekerr19]

Some of these "5,000 posters" you are referring to have been on these boards since their inception. They have taken the time and had the patience to answer many "newbie" questions, no matter how minor or insignificant. Why some folks feel the need to insult them is completely beyond me.

Perhaps some of you are just resentful or jealous that they have so much travel experience on HAL, because for the life of me, I can't think of any other reason why you would posts such mean, disparaging remarks about these "veteran" posters.

I do feel the need to defend them, because I do not want them to take this silliness in the manner for which it was intended - which is merely to be hurtful - and give in to this nonsense by stopping posting altogether.

Tongue-in-cheek or not, it was rude. It reminds me an awful lot of "biting the hand that feeds you." Next time you want an answer to one of your questions, I sincerely hope no one steps up to assist you.

[liv2cruise4ever]

I guess I'm in the minority here. Who died and made you expert veterans (old farts) the board hosts?

I see these boards as a dialog, a conversation, not an encyclopedia of facts. New people are aways coming in and I enjoy reading their questions and the answers. Nothing worse than old news; I want to read fresh information. Since you already know everything, why do you bother to visit these boards anymore and then complain about other people's postings?

Sure, some people start threads just to incite things, so don't click on them. I don't want any newbie to be afraid to post an honest question. In my opinion, at least to me, some are really unnecessary and trivial, such as "which pool has the salt water", "what time is lunch?", "who is the CD?", "beds together or apart?" "what do you wear to disembark?" and so on, but I don't berate them for asking. Because, to those who posted them they are obviously important and they want to participate in this dialog among those of us who enjoy cruising.

It's not your place to denigrate newbies, welcome them one and all. I've been on 15 cruises over most of the lines and ship sizes so I pretty much know everything I need to know about cruising. But I come here every night to relive my cruises through the curiosity and excitement of others finding this great vacation experience for their first time.

Curt, you are not in the minority here. I have to agree with you on this. Very well put. If people don't like one of the "new threads", don't open them. Let a newbie enjoy their own learning experience on these boards. Even though there are those that know everything there is to know about cruising, let the "newbies" have the thrill of posting, and finding out answers to their own threads on topics that they need answers to.:cool:

[Oceanwench]

It seems to me that this whole thread was prompted by the recent abundance of "Sneaking alcohol aboard" posts.
I really believe those posts -- not the original one on alcohol, but the subsequent ones -- were placed there deliberately by someone [or ones] hoping to stir up trouble.

As I said in my first post, there are many hot button issues on this board. Anyone lurking and familiar with the personalities here can easily start a battle by posting about one of the emotionally charged topics.

What I love about these boards is the wealth of information as well as the interesting people who post. I also am happy there are guidelines -- I've been on other message boards where there are none, and the resultant nastiness has driven me away.

I think it's great there is a moderator. I think it is the moderator's job to police the board for transgressions. We have the opportunity to inform the moderator when we think there is an inappropriate post.

But we posters are not the board police.
So I have to disagree with the restriction of what topics can be posted, as far as posts that are repetitious.
Who am I to decide that someone else can't ask about a travel iron, tux or dark suit, tender or dock?
It really doesn't bother me that some questions are asked over and over. I have the choice to read those threads or skip them and move on.

What if I get irritated with poor grammar, bad punctuation, horrendous misspellings? Can I decree that only those with perfect prose can post?
I don't think so.

I say relax. So what if there are reruns? Whatever.
That's the nature of these boards.
There are more important things to worry about in life than a thread that asks for the umpteenth time, "Can I bring wine on the ship?"

Look where this thread has gotten us once again ... people angry and hostile and calling each other names.
That is sad to me.
Call me a Pollyanna, but I really enjoy coming here, reading and feeling happy.

[ekerr19]

I believe the OP is referring to number of new threads being started on the same topic, merely to incite some very passionate posters into yet another argument.

Last week, there was a very heated thread about smuggling alcohol on board, them mysteriously two more show up - with just about the same topic name, both by posters with less than 5-10 posts, in fact one of them was the posters 1st post. Now there is yet another one.

No one EVER suggested not asking questions - but, by the way this thread has turned, be prepared not to receive any answers in the future.

Insulting those that have and continue to try and help answer your questions is just guaranteeing that you won't be receiving anymore help, regardless of the question.

[jaguarstyper]

What a bunch of obnoxious, hypocritical, and rude posters. I've made a note of the names to be sure that I stay away from any threads they're on. A really good way to gain information is to insult the very folks who are there to help. Of course, most of you will be back with new names in a month or so.

Heather, welcome to the internet. I frequent several different message boards spanning entirely different topics including golf, cigars, F1 racing and others, and have been doing this since before the world wide web was even invented. How many veteran posters know what usenet is? I've seen the same exact behavior on every other message board I've ever visited. Being on the internet allows people to behave badly with little or no consequences. Its the nature of the beast.

There's plenty of blame to go all around. Newbies are artless when it comes to searching and will always post a question before they figure out how to search. They are newbies, afterall. Veteran posters will always complain about redundant and off-topic posts. Sometimes, I think they just get bored and need to vent. There will always be "trolls" out there that just post things to be rabble rousers and get the veterans all lathered up. They usually find this very amusing. Best advice, dont feed the trolls.

This board is probably one of the tamer ones I have frequented. You should see some of the neverending, ignorant debates over whether NASCAR is better than Formula 1 and viceversa in the racing boards. You think this is ugly...

Bottom line, we're ALL guilty. Everyone should look in the mirror at least once a day. I know I do.

Tim

[ekerr19]

Everyone should look in the mirror at least once a day. I know I do.

Tim

Yes Tim, but you have to shave! ;)


LOL, couldn't resist that one!

[jaguarstyper]

I never said I liked what I saw ;)

[Oceanwench]

I decided it was time for me to review the guidelines posted by our host.

Here is one I found interesting: Please do not manipulate postings on the boards by "bumping" topics to the top of the forum. Members will assume something of value has been posted, only to find that the newest posting is nothing more than a "bump post". This only wastes everyone's time.

It was suggested here that this thread be bumped to the top ... and it was, more than once.

So it's obvious not everyone reads/follows the guidelines.
Which gets us back to rules -- which ones to follow, which ones to break.

Perhaps the guidelines can be expanded to instruct newbies to use the search function before posting?
The guidelines do mention reading through to see if a topic has been discussed.

Tim: You are a voice of reason. Newbies will be newbies. Veterans will be veterans. Welcome to the Internet indeed.

[Kathy & George]

I'm so glad that I read many of the other threads available here at HAL. If not for the wonderful people, both new and old, giving such great info, tips and news, I would have canceled my cruise with HAL. Now I am looking forward to a fabulous retreat on the ZUI. OK everyone, shake hands and be nice.

[ekerr19]

I'm so glad that I read many of the other threads available here at HAL. If not for the wonderful people, both new and old, giving such great info, tips and news, I would have canceled my cruise with HAL. Now I am looking forward to a fabulous retreat on the ZUI. OK everyone, shake hands and be nice.

Kathy & George - Thanks so much for posting this. This is the whole purpose of the boards, imo. I too, am extremely grateful for the information I've received and the friends I 've made on these boards. :)

In my mind, the only "stupid" question, is the one that remains unasked.

[jaguarstyper]

Perhaps the guidelines can be expanded to instruct newbies to use the search function before posting?

Only one problem...where do you post the instructions for the newbies to read the guidelines?

This is a problem that has no solution. In reality, its not even a problem.

Tim

[ekerr19]

I never said I liked what I saw ;)

I am sure you are being far too modest. :)

[Golfgrl1911]

I've made a note of the names to be sure that I stay away from any threads they're on.

I just had this hysterical mental picture of Heather sitting at her computer desk with her little dog on her lap madly scribbling names of folks not to speak to on a note pad!:D LOL

(note to self...always be nice to Heather!):)

[trubey]

Delete. Sorry. I'm not trying to bump it to the top, I just screwed up and pushed a few wrong keys. Dumb, dumb.

lane

[Iggipolka]

Well why dont they just shut this message board from any new posts and have anyone with a question just search existing threads?:rolleyes: I mean how many NEW topics can there be.

I completely agree with the above. There aren't that many different topics that can be brought up about cruising. So, if we ask newbies to simply search out their answers, then what's the point of allowing new posts?

I belong to several boards and if I notice that I'm getting testy with new people asking questions that have been asked before, I know it's time for me to take a break. The new people's posts are valid and important to them, there's no reason for me to get snarky with them. Heck, it wasn't that long ago that I was a newbie too!

[HeatherInFlorida]

One last question for heather--did you not indict yourself with the first sentence of your last post ?

Nope.

Once you've been on these boards for awhile, you get to know things. It is rare for a person to register and within one month have over 100 posts. That's a person who's been here before and decided they weren't received well so they came back as someone else.

It's also unusual for a "newbie" to come on and the first question they have is "can I smuggle liquor" or some such thing. So the fakers are quite obvious and also just getting in the way. They're not helping anyone. They find their way to threads that are causing a stir and they try to bubble the cauldron just a bit more.

So it's very recognizable. Sometimes I'm just stupid enough to try to reason with some of you, but now I'm tired of it and it's really quite boring and a waste of my time. So I'm pretty much done with that, I hope.

There are a ton of really nice folks on this board ... some who've been here way before me and some who are really new. It's so obvious when people come here just to get info and have fun. So those are the threads I'll be visiting.

And when even one person tells me I've been helpful, that's really enough for me.

[RevNeal]

Wow ... what a mess.
I'm glad I missed it.

I don't mind dealing with repeated, "old" questions. Afterall, sometimes the data changes. And, besides ... I don't see anything wrong with exchanging experiences and sharing in the excitement of taking a cruise. It's how I bridge the gaps between cruises. :)

Be blessed everyone.

[dakrewser]

There's plenty of blame to go all around. Newbies are artless when it comes to searching and will always post a question before they figure out how to search. They are newbies, afterall. Veteran posters will always complain about redundant and off-topic posts. Sometimes, I think they just get bored and need to vent. There will always be "trolls" out there that just post things to be rabble rousers and get the veterans all lathered up. They usually find this very amusing. Best advice, dont feed the trolls.

This board is probably one of the tamer ones I have frequented. You should see some of the neverending, ignorant debates over whether NASCAR is better than Formula 1 and viceversa in the racing boards. You think this is ugly...

Amen, brother. In lists, groups and boards I frequent the same Microsoft vs. Apple threads keep appearing with regular periodicity, just as they have for 20 years!

And, somewhere along the line, someone will suggest ways (FAQs, "sticky" posts, etc.) to instruct newbies. But newbies, being newbies, don't know what an FAQ is! Thus it has always been and thus it will always be...

[RevNeal]

it has always been and thus it will always be...

"As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end! Amen Amen."

[stanford's girl]

I have only been on the boards for about 2 months. I have gotten to know you by your posts and most have been very nice to me and others. I don't know if it's the moon, water or whatever in the last couple days but if I was brand new today, some of you would scare the H*** out of me.:eek:

[HeatherInFlorida]

StanfordsGirl, .. and I wouldn't blame you! Luckily you have been here long enough to know we're not all nuts. If I offended any of the "good guys" in previous posts I apologize now. But I admit sometimes people get to me. No more, though:D

So to lighten things up a bit, I recall someone earlier talking about some of us being "old farts" and just by chance I came across this great pic taken by the cruise photographer of a friend and me on a recent cruise. I thought some of you would enjoy it:

[stanford's girl]

Love the picture Heather and your outfits are stunning!!;)

[HeatherInFlorida]

Love the picture Heather and your outfits are stunning!!;)

And I thank you!!!:D . Just so you know, I'm the one in the lavender.

[Oceanwench]

Looks like you're in the Red Hat Society, Heather!!!

RevNeal: Thanks for the blessing ... we sure need it some days!

Those who get annoyed with the same old questions: Ignore those threads.
Those who don't mind answering for the umpteenth time "can I take liquor aboard?" -- please, answer the poster!

And for those who are trying to stir up trouble with posts on hot-button issues [are they called trolls?]: Why not just take your toys and go to another sandbox?

[HeatherInFlorida]

Looks like you're in the Red Hat Society, Heather!!!



Actually, no I'm not:D . That's why I'm in lavender ... but my friend is!!! It's bad enough to be getting old ... I'm sure not going to wear a red hat to remind everyone!!!

[dakrewser]

Actually, no I'm not:D . That's why I'm in lavender ...

Actually, the first lines of Jenny Joseph's poem are:

When I am an old woman I shall wear purple
With a red hat which doesn't go and doesn't suit me

So your outfit is perfect! :)

[HeatherInFlorida]

Actually, the first lines of Jenny Joseph's poem are:

When I am an old woman I shall wear purple
With a red hat which doesn't go and doesn't suit me

So your outfit is perfect! :)

Dave! So funny you mention this poem because it is one of my favorites and I have a little book just above my computer with the entire poem. (I just refuse to wear the red hat, but I never was a conformist:D ... in case you hadn't noticed;) ).

I hope when I'm really old that I shall, indeed, wear purple .....

[Starr Mtn]

Seems to me the original poster has "gained her fame". So give it a break.
You certainly have the option to just skip by a subject line if you are not interested!

Thanks Rev. Neal - as always appreciate your input.

[Ziggy7]

Hi Everyone,

First let me say I am truly sorry for my post, I was wrong for some of the things I said and I am sorry to those I offended. I am a very easy person to get along with usually and I dont want others to see me as a not so nice person, I'm really not :) I do still stand by my word that there are many good people on this board that add alot to them and I respect them greatly. That said I am also sorry to be bringing this thread to the front page with my appoligy but I have been bothered by it for days and feel its the lesser of the 2 evils. I hope we all can someday meet on a ship in a place far away! :)

[cruzincurt]

Ziggy7, apology accepted, don't worry about it. The problem with posts and email is that we have just a few lines to say something and we don't have the advantage in seeing the other's face, expressions and tone of voice. Now if we could get Heatherinflorida to also...."What a bunch of obnoxious, hypocritical, and rude posters. I've made a note of the names to be sure that I stay away from any threads they're on."

By the way Heather, I've never changed my name and reposted. And I consider myself "an old fart" since I'm now a senior citizen.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Now if we could get Heatherinflorida to also...."What a bunch of obnoxious, hypocritical, and rude posters. I've made a note of the names to be sure that I stay away from any threads they're on."



If you could only get me to also what? I stand behind what I said. I still believe that many of the posts were exactly as I stated. My language was certainly no worse than yours. Have you apologized? Maybe I missed it.

If you read back about 10 posts you'll see my apology to the people I felt I should apologize to. Have to admit I'm honestly at a loss as to what more you want me to do.

I also tried to lighten the whole discussion following my apology and it was quite successful. I'm only sorry to see the thread back up on the front page.

[QuitMyDayJob]

Somewhat off point now, but...

I just tried to do a search on "heat rash", and it came up with 11 posts, but when I clicked on the posts, there wasn't either of the keywords used. I tried the basic search and the advanced search, and although I'm not a computer technician, I usually don't have any trouble with this sort of thing.

So, I guess I'm asking: 1. Any tips to using the search function? and 2. Any experience with heat rash? :)

[divinggirl]

Seems to me the original poster has "gained her fame". So give it a break.
You certainly have the option to just skip by a subject line if you are not interested!


I'll assume that was not an insult, as I don't want to contribute to the hostile tone this thread has taken. My thoughts were simply that it would be, in an ideal world, nice for people to think for a minute before streaming the same questions over and over again, and to observe simple netiquette, as Globaliser very succinctly stated. This is not to say info does not change, as it does, or that some questions do not warrant a new thread, because surely some do, but it is tiresome, IMHO, (if I REALLY need to type that it's MY opinion) to keep coming back here and seeing the same threads. I am aware I don't have to click on them, but that doesn't keep me from having an opinion and sharing it with the rest of you. Welcome to the Internet indeed...

Nikki

[HeatherInFlorida]

Nikki, very well said ... and (again) I certainly apologize for any negativity I added to this thread. I get much too emotional in defending people sometimes.

[RevNeal]

"The real art of conversation is not only to say the right thing in the right place, but also to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment"

Heather, that quote in your signature is fantastic. Mind if I use it in a sermon some day? I'll say I learned it from a friend who also likes to cruise the world on ships ... named "Heather." Is that ok? Pretty please?

It's so TRUE.

[Globaliser]

I just tried to do a search on "heat rash", and it came up with 11 posts, but when I clicked on the posts, there wasn't either of the keywords used. I tried the basic search and the advanced search, and although I'm not a computer technician, I usually don't have any trouble with this sort of thing.Did you try putting the words heat rash inside quotes in the search box? Doing that, I can only get hits on five threads, one post in each thread.

If the hit is in a long thread, you might find that the post that you're looking for is not on the first page. To get around this, you could try using the advanced search page, and asking the software to show the results as posts, not as threads. You can then get directly to the posts which contain the words you're looking for.

[QuitMyDayJob]

Thank you, Globaliser! I didn't try putting it in quotes, but I will. I did try using the advanced search and asking for posts, but the posts it brought up didn't have the words used at all.

I'll try it again. I didn't mean to derail this thread to talk about heat rash (and apparently no one else wanted me to either!:D ) I really appreciate your help.

[HeatherInFlorida]

Heather, that quote in your signature is fantastic. Mind if I use it in a sermon some day? I'll say I learned it from a friend who also likes to cruise the world on ships ... named "Heather." Is that ok? Pretty please?

It's so TRUE.

Of course, Greg!!! Sorry I didn't see this post earlier today. I can't take credit for the quote, though. A very old and dear friend sent it to me with many others, but that one jumped out at me and I think it holds true particularly here.

But sometimes I forget.:o