Tag Superman

Humble heroes

MASQUER-AIDES Tothian, Squeegee Man and Dark Guardian Photo: Imogen Brown

MASQUER-AIDES Tothian, Squeegee Man and Dark Guardian Photo: Imogen Brown


On a recent evening, Tothian, Squeegee Man and Dark Guardian are whisking up the West Side in their heromobile to Port Authority. Their mission is to bring help—in the form of water, granola bars and blankets—to the neighborhood’s homeless. Among bewildered shouts of “Thanks, man!” and “Yo! Is it Halloween already?!?,” the costumed crusaders distribute their goods and speed off into the night.
The three, who met on MySpace, often work independently and don’t even know each other’s real names. Squeegee Man, 26, who carries his signature implement on his belt, wears a uniform that some confuse with Superman’s, but as he indignantly reminds us, his underwear is on the inside. “I fight crime and grime,” he says. “I pick up trash, give things to the homeless and help old ladies cross the street—y’know, regular superhero stuff.” Meanwhile, Dark Guardian, 22—whose bulletproof mask has a smile drawn on it—and the 21-year-old Tothian (who won’t disclose his name’s origin for fear of revealing his secret identity) patrol bad neighborhoods in NYC and New Jersey. So far they’ve avoided brushes with real danger. “I haven’t saved anyone yet, but I’ve reported drug dealers and gambling dens to the police,” Dark Guardian says.
The superheroes take pleasure in the high-profile nature of doing good deeds in costume. “It’s in hopes of inspiring people to make the world a better place,” explains the Guardian. But the romantic returns of being a masked savior have been disappointing. “I’ve only had one girlfriend in my life,” admits Tothian. “Yeah,” snorts Squeegee Man. “And her name was Lady Invisible.” —Kate Lowenstein
For more info, go to superleagueofsuperheroes.com.

Superleague of Superheroes FAQ

F.A.Q. (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q. Why do you do this?
A. Because we are superheroes, this is what superheroes do.
Q. How do I report Crime and Grime to the Super League of Superheroes?
A. If you know of crime or grime that needs superhero attention please send us an SLS.
Q. How would I join the Super League of Superheroes?
A. You would first have to be a superhero and in order to be a superhero you would first have to be super, so if you are not super joining is out of the question.
Q. Can I join the Super League of Superheroes on a mission?
A. No, our missions are far too dangerous for the ordinary person. If you are a member of the press and interested in following members of the Super League of Superheroes around please CONTACT US
Q. What can I do to help the Super League of Superheroes?
A. Being a superhero isn’t a profitable profession, and just like ordinary citizens, we have bills to pay. You can support the Super League of Superheroes by buying merchandise from our store. This will help us support our website and fund future missions and patrols

Masked crusader

showArticle no longer available on source site
This crime fighter may be silent, but he’s far from being deadly.
By Kimiko Martinez
A young man stands on the south side of the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument. The ominous stone memorial looms above him as he waits on the top steps dressed in black pinstriped pants and vest, a pressed black button-down shirt, a black felt hat and silver gloves.
This man, who refuses to reveal his real name when in costume, carries a silver-topped cane. A silver mask hides any expression, revealing little more than soft brown eyes.
While his costume does plenty to conceal his identity, it belies a fit physique. His stealth movements, inspiration for his superhero name Mr. Silent, evidence years of martial arts.
Above him, “To Indiana’s Silent Victors” is etched in the limestone and sculptures representing men who’ve fought for justice adorn the 284-foot tall shrine.
It’s an interesting parallel.
“Hey, what are you?” a passerby asks. “A mime?”
“No,” he responds, handing him a card that reads simply: “Mr. Silent,” along with the Japanese characters for “quiet repose” and an e-mail address.
“Hey, you’re supposed to be Mr. Silent; you just talked,” the man says, looking up from the card. “So what do you do?”
“I fight crime.”
The man in black
Mr. Silent gets this a lot.
“People are always asking: ‘Are you a mime?’ or ‘What are you guys doing?’ ” the 27-year-old tells me. Usually he has his partner Doktor DiscorD along. Not surprisingly, two men in costumes walking around Downtown incite odd reactions.
Mr. Silent just brushes it off. People aren’t accustomed to seeing superheroes patrolling the city . . . yet. But since the duo began this “experiment,” as Mr. Silent calls it, the superhero trend has started to catch on. Others have e-mailed the duo asking how they can join and superheroes have popped up in other cities worldwide, he said.
“A lot of people have told us that they’ve been waiting for something like this to happen,” he said. “Like there was a hole in them; they always wished that something like this was real.”
Certainly people are familiar with the likes of Superman and Batman. Comic book characters are practically ingrained in American culture, as evidenced by the slew of movies released each year. X-Men, Superman and “My Super Ex-Girlfriend” are all on the summer movie circuit. But in real life?
“People have tried to invent time machines because of H.G. Wells or teleporters because of Star Trek,” Mr. Silent said. “It almost makes you wonder why no one has done this before.”
After discussing the idea for quite some time, he and Doktor DiscorD decided to hit Indianapolis streets about a year ago.
“It was just a big experiment to see how people would react,” he said. “We’ve gotten some good responses.”
Unlike Bruce Wayne, Mr. Silent’s alter ego isn’t a billionaire. He has a full-time job to tend to, so he only makes it out about once per week, cruising the alleys of Downtown after dark, looking to help where needed.
Although he isn’t afraid to throw a punch, Mr. Silent is quick to point out that he prefers to avoid confrontations. “We’re really more towards the hero aspect than the vigilante thing,” he said.
Helping people is the focus, even if it means handing out heat packs to the homeless in the winter when hard-pressed to find something to do.
“You don’t have to have superpowers to be a superhero,” Mr. Silent said. “We see heroes every day. We’re just the ones with the costumes on.”
Mr. Silent speaks up to answer our burning questions

So what does it take to become a superhero?

I think the prerequisites are a good imagination and not going overboard. I had this friend who wanted to join, but I think he was using it as an excuse to hurt people.

What’s your superpower?

We’re more along the Batman line. We don’t have any real powers. Although I do have this uncanny ability to spin for a long time without getting dizzy. If there ever comes a time where I can fight crime by spinning, I’ll be set.

Tell me about your name.

Doktor DiscorD is more outgoing than I am, so at first it was an excuse to not have to say anything. But now it’s more because of the way I move. I’m very quiet when I walk, pretty stealthy.

What’s your kryptonite?

Bullets, I’d imagine. Or knives. Anything that can do damage to a human can do damage to me. I don’t wear a Kevlar vest or anything.

Batman or Superman?

I’d say Superman, just because of his ideologies — freedom and all that stuff. Plus, he was the first superhero I was introduced to. I used to hum his theme song when I was running around as a kid.

Lois Lane or Mary Jane?

Lois Lane seems more the powerful type, so I’m going to say Lois Lane. Mary Jane is always getting herself in trouble and needing to be rescued.

What super-toy/tool would you most want?

Maybe grappling hooks, the kind that Batman had.

Marvel or DC Comics?

DC. I’m a big Grant Morrison fan. And they tend to be more superhero-oriented.

What do you get out of superhero life?

Wearing the mask has actually kind of changed me. It’s kind of like the mask took over. I developed a responsibility to do good things because I had the mask on. I’ve started to want to help out at soup kitchens and do things that never crossed my mind before. I feel like I can do more.
In real life, I’m pretty shy, kind of introverted. But when I have the costume on, it’s like I’m a completely different person. The mask kind of becomes like a shield. And now, (the two sides of my personality) have kind of meshed into each other.

Calling all Superheroes

The original thread that inspired the World Superhero Registery.
Originally posted:
By Mark Schmidt

  • UPDATE: This post has become quite popular. Due to this demand, 2 web sites have sprung up as a response. WORLDSUPERHEROREGISTRY.COM founded by Kevlex and superheroes.members.winisp.net founded by yours truly. I didn’t create my site as competition for Kevlex but only as a community service to my friends that visit this page. Who knows, maybe Kevlex and I will join forces in the future to create the first true Justice League type organization! 🙂

Ok, this is an odd post but something I’ve always wondered.  Let me begin by saying that my current game that I’m playing for the PC is called “City of Heroes” which is one of those MMORPG’s.  It’s a great game especially if you’re tired of the same old fantasy based game that all other MMO’s are.  Let’s just hope they start ramping up the content since it only took about 12 days or so for someone to hit the highest level (40).
So I’m sitting at my desk looking at some E3 news when I see an ad for the new Spiderman 2 game coming out (which itself looks awesome too).  I then recalled a question I’ve asked myself many times in the past: Why aren’t there any real life superheroes?  Now, I obviously don’t mean people with extraordinary powers like flight or telekinesis. Let’s take Batman for instance.  He has no powers.  Everything he has is based on technical gadgets that he can afford due to his wealth.
I went on the web to see if in fact there is some real life person walking around trying to be a superhero.  I found one by the name of “Angle Grinder” but he’s boring.  He just goes around and cuts off special locking devices the police put on cars in the UK for some reason.  Another one is named Terrifica (c’mon, can’t we think of something more creative) who apparently rescues drunk women from sexual advances or something.  Another story was about a prankster who got the local media and soon the national media to believe that a man with a brown mask is going around some small town rescuing people (but it is just a hoax).
So, where are all the superheroes?  I know there are some seriously crazy people out in the world but there has to be at least one crazy person with brains that can create superhero gadgets ala Batman.  Bonus if someone can find a superhero with their very own web page and/or blog!

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 5/26/2004 2:19 PM TokyoKid

I’ve actually been thinking about this for some time as well. I noticed those particular “superheroes” you mentioned, and I have to say that while they try, they’re pretty lame. I’ve given it some thought, and I’ve decided that I would try my hand at becoming a vigilante when I become older. I’m a 2nd degree black belt in karate, so I can defend myself and I know how to fight. I know this whole idea sounds stupid, but I’m just replying to the topic :). Training starts this summer…
P.S. spider-man 2 does look badass!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 5/27/2004 8:06 AM Mark Schmidt
So if…I’m sorry…WHEN you become a superhero, what will your name be? All the other names are corny, so it has to be cool. Yes, I’m excited to see spiderman 2 but probably more excited to play the game that’s coming out around the same time.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/9/2004 8:52 AM spiderweb.
I lije it

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/10/2004 10:15 PM Alias -J-
I have also often wondered why no one has tried helping out the police or something like that, and I have also thought of trying it my-self. I am a 2nd degree Black-Belt ( Like the person up their -funny- ) In kung-Fu and a rising Green-belt in Karate. The only problem in this would be tecnology and money, but I guess I have plenty of time to think of something. I think I would pick a simple name like, Scorpion !

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/16/2004 10:38 AM batman
It can be done. I know Iv’e done it. As far as the gadgets it’s not hard to get them if someone ows you a favor.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/2/2004 1:47 PM “Madaline Draven”
I’m only a red belt in karate but I would love to got around helping people – there are definately more than a few bad neighborhoods around where I live. I’ve been training alot harder lately (going for yellow belt in october!! yay!!) and my friend and I have been contemplating the idea ALOT. We can make our own weapons easily but the only problem is getting the project off the proverbial ground.
P.S I saw Spidey-2 on the second day it was out and I was truly inspired also the CGI and effects kicked major octo-butt! (I also managed to use my powers to sneek a McDonald’s breakfast of pancakes and sausage into the cinema with me! I ate it during the trailers!)

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/16/2004 6:36 AM mr bobmcbob
ahhhh nooooooooooooooo

 

# I Can’t Believe they arrested Batman and Robin! 9/13/2004 12:29 PM “Madaline Draven”
I’m back again with nothing better to do. But can you guys believe that they arrested Batman and Robin after they infiltrated Buckingham Palace. We Brits are truly insane (when it’s for a good cause!). I saw all the action from my sofa and couldn’t believe that he’d lasted an entire SIX hours stood up there on his own after they caught Robin as they were scaling the walls. These guys are real heros.
P.S. Mystery Men kicks ass too!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/13/2004 12:31 PM Mark Schmidt[MSFT]
The link didn’t come through. Try again. I’m curious.

 

# Dodgy link 9/13/2004 12:32 PM “Madaline Draven”
Sorry guys the link didn’t work – but if you check out the new link then you should be able to find the link in the search engine – Key word: fathers 4 justice

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/27/2004 7:22 AM Christopher
I have actually patrolled my neighborhood by myself – Did not have too much happen except for me scaring two kids with baseball bats – I don’t know what they were up to but they went back to where they came from and did not carry out what they were going to do.
If you are interested like some have showed in becoming in a way a superhero which in our day do not exist – but a vigilante which is more suitable a name please e-mail me and possibly if you live nearby we can work together or even if not we can share ideas.
E-mail me at [email protected]

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2004 8:51 PM Hiroshi_45
Why be the hero, when you’ve obviously got the know how to be the villan.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2004 10:01 PM Hero
. . .well, that wasn’t the first response I was expecting. . .
I feel kind of embarassed now about throwing all that out there. It’s just, where do you vent about something like this? Who’d understand, you know? I’ve been checking this page just waiting to see if anyone replied.
But you want to hear something funny? That’s occurred to me before, too. I mean, look at it from an “Unbreakable” perspective. My head is larger than a normal person’s should be. It’s noticeable, I’ve had a lot of people ask me about it (including a naval petty officer during a brief stint where I thought I should be a soldier, funny story). And I have beautiful, blue eyes that are slightly larger than the other characters, too. I’m obsessed with heroing, and torn up about it not being real. I’m prone to disregarding laws and religions because I think they’re just man-made things, and whatever a person does doesn’t matter in the universal scale of things. I’ve got a slight megalomaniacal streak. Despite a very muscular body, over the past few years I’ve developed a lower back problem that had me unable to walk for two weeks back in 2002, just because I twisted the wrong way standing up. And damn the Scriptwriters if my high school football team wasn’t called “the Warriors”, too. And I injured my wrist and had surgery at 17 that stopped me from weightlifting two hours every day, and I’ve never been back into it the same since.
There was a time, a few years back, that my best friend from high school told me over the phone that she’d switched from only being a smoker and drinker to weed and harder drugs. I nearly had a breakdown the next morning in an IHOP with my family, sobbing all over my pancakes. Later that day, I was just storming around, and wishing I could invent something that would just make alcohol and drugs poisonous to humans – you use it, you die, instantly, no cures. And I remember thinking, “I wonder if this is how supervillains get their start?” How many villains do you know that really thought they were the bad guy?
It’s even occurred to me that a person could buy a large warehouse, and spend years outfitting it with traps and death-dealing devices without anyone else knowing, and then do something bad to lead the cops to it, but only in the end have it set up so that someone comic-book-heroish could get through and catch you. *Force* a hero to rise, sort of like Elijah did, even if it means you have to be the bad guy.
But. . .I don’t know. It’s all up in the air. I think it’s just the choices you make in life. I’ve been on both sides, just like everybody else is in smaller, less garish ways that don’t require a matching cape. Square jaw, big head, I guess it’s just the one you choose to pay attention to.
Okay, I promise, no more super-long-winded replies. I don’t want to eat up this entire page. Thanks for reading.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2004 11:02 AM “Madaline Draven”
I know how you feel. There are always those questions and sometimes I feel like comics like Marvel, DC and Dark Horse have made us a promise of realism with the depth of their characters – then I realise that I’m an idio for thinking that. I know they’re not responsible. I also think it would be awesome to be an actor as a superhero – then you’d have yourself saving people on screen with all the wire work and stuff! I also agree that capes suck! They look great but still suck! I really wish there was something that people like us can do but there isn’t…yet. Maybe WE NEED to start something. Something big…
P.S. Check out the link it might help. Got my yellow belt! Going for Green!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2004 8:24 PM Hero
I’m sorry, Madaline, what link? The Battle Orders one under your name? I’m not sure how it applies. 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2004 10:01 AM Madaline Draven
www.battleorders.co.uk – it sells weapons and training stuff if you click on the name it should take you to it, if not just copy and paste.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/16/2004 2:38 AM Hero
Thanks. . .I’m just glad I did a little more research online about non lethal weapons before I spent a bunch more money. Apparently stun guns aren’t all they’re cracked up to be, although Tasers still seem to be strongly favored, unless they miss and you use up your one shot. And pepper sprays seem to be unpopular, too. I found dozens of accounts from online people who tested things on themselves and weren’t even remotely disabled by them. One guy recounted an ongoing story of a customer at his gun store he knew that just bought a Myotron, and the guy took the Myotron from him and tested it on himself, through clothing, bare-chested, all of it, with barely any effect. “Designed for the FBI” indeed. Doesn’t mean the FBI actually uses it, or asked for it.
I’ve been thinking more about what you said about needing to start something. . .I can’t help feeling that if just one person managed to do this stuff, there are hundreds of people ready to follow suit, who just needed that extra push. Of course, then comes the bad with the good, and you’ve got a lot of nutjobs doing it too. I’ve also thought a lot about the “alternative” ways of doing it, like the Video Vigilante that films prostitution in action and performs citizens’ arrests, or cyber vigilantes that go after child pornographers. No masks, just brave people making a difference one case at a time. After all, in real life, there’s no such thing as patrolling rooftops and happening upon a crime in progress (not as often as they do in the comics, certainly). I know that law enforcement agencies almost universally discourage this sort of citizen involvement, because of the safety and legality issues concerned in trusting untrained people not to be stupid and get themselves or others hurt. But it’s funny to think that if someone like that makes it on the news, a lot of people will probably think, “What makes them think they have the right to try to fight crime like that?” When really, they never should have forgotten that *everyone* has the right.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/16/2004 11:16 AM Madaline Draven
People are fickle. Like those dudes who watch the football on sunday and scream at the players for not doing something right – yet not having the balls to play the game for themselves. e.g. “don’t fight crime like this, do it like that because we wear blue hats.” People don’t think like they do in the comic book world – no one takes vigilantes seriously enough to trust people like us. Remember – Laws are like eggs – they’re made to be broken… or at least bent enough to find loop-holes.
Did any of that make sense?P.S. Self testing, although dangerous, does cut costs on human guinea pigs!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/17/2004 11:40 AM Madaline Draven
When you really think about it, it’s kind of ironic to be truthful. Because of all these laws etc. the heroes (if caught) will be, treated as the very criminals we want to stop in the first place. It’s a weird world out there…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/19/2004 1:57 AM Hero
After some very heavy thought the past few days, I finally came to a very liberating conclusion. There has not been a *single day* in at least 10 years that I haven’t thought about wanting more than anything to do this. (Before that, it’s spotty. I don’t know what I thought about when I was 3. 🙂 But what I decided was, hell with it. I’m doing this, no matter what happens. I’ll go further into debt, I’ll risk my health, life, freedom and sanity to chase this crazy dream. Because I don’t want to be sitting in my house when I’m 75, and wishing I had taken the chance back when I was 25, instead of choosing to live afraid forever. And I feel so happy right now to have finally just let go and made the choice. Nervous, but happy. 🙂 I think I’ve got a good plan laid out. We’ll see how it works out. If it does, I probably won’t be back here again. I’ll still check in, though. Wish me luck!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/20/2004 11:54 PM angelleafken
You seem so passionate about all of this. It seems like being a fire fighter or police officer would be something you would be suited for. So the question is, why not? Is it the target incident. That you would become too passionate to your work and end up in some sort of Legal trouble? The police officer would be just punishing people again, so I could understand why you wouldn’t want that. But a fire fighter would be helping people. It may not be the glamorous super – hero thing, but it seems like it would be helping people. It sounds like something you should at least check into, maybe. I just recently had a co-worker leave to be a fire-fighter, he had been trying for years to become one, and when he finally left he was happier. That may be irrelevant, but it just seemed that he was happier with the job helping people. Plus it seems that fire-fighting would be able to help you in some ways to at least get closer to what you are wanting. Or is it because of your back that your not able to try the fire-fighting thing?
*Well, anywaz, I hope you find what your searching for.*
Good Luck in what you are trying, and be careful. 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/21/2004 12:21 AM Hero
Thanks for the response. . .and actually, both of those had crossed my mind before, and you hit the nail on the head with each one. I couldn’t stand being a cop, because almost your entire job is to punish people. Too many rules, too much structure, and for good reason, but obviously, the system doesn’t work. There are too few cops against the entire human race, and I think people need to know that there’s something beyond the law that can still get them. As for firefighting, yeah, I am kind of worried about my back, as it would be a full time job and I don’t want to pop suddenly when I’m carrying a victim from a burning building. The nice thing about vigilantism is that you really can pick your battles, and then take as much time to get healthy again in between as you need. Besides, I don’t deal well with heat. 🙂 I’ve grown up in almost exclusively cold places, and Texas summers alone sap the strength out of me. But my older brother has been a firefighter for about 8 years now, for the military. Ironically, he hardly ever fights fires, most of their calls are emergency medical situations. But I don’t want to be an EMT, either.
I think. . .I think it’s the whole anonymity thing. It’s the feeling of being free to do what you have to and not worry about the legal system or crooks getting off on stupid technicalities or what the public will think of you after they see your face and name on every news channel later that night. Any time I’ve considered alternative, legal careers to try to satisfy my dream, they always come up short. It just feels like this is what I’m supposed to be doing with my life. And ever since I gave in to that feeling when I made my choice, I have been so happy. My life feels like it’s been thrown into sharp, clear color. I have been working hard and making things move since then, although I’ll skip out on the details here. I’ve already said quite a bit about myself, so I’d rather stay semi-anonymous and therefore out of jail, thank you. 🙂
Children, put on your tights, and give ’em hell.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/21/2004 2:51 AM angelleafken
I just hope that you don’t turn villain. You said it yourself, looking for real life super hero’s there just are not that many. But I’m sure there are more than enough villains to go around.
Although one other thing seems ironic to me, this:
“and whatever a person does doesn’t matter in the universal scale of things.”
Do you really mean something like this, when you obviously have so much passion for the real life hero thing. I guess I’m not even really sure what I’m asking, It’s just that from the sound of things, you really want to try to make a difference, but at the same time, you can’t possibly mean this, right?
No villains! And Good Luck. 🙂
Fanboys growing up to be villians is such a sad story! Lol. 😉

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/21/2004 9:42 PM Hero
No, I promise I won’t turn villain. 🙂 Of course, a really *clever* villain would say exactly that. . .hmm. . .you’ll just have to take my word on it.
As for the universal scale of things, it’s a tricky one for me. . .I think most problems people stress about are ridiculous, when you finally get a mental grasp of just how unbelievably huge the universe is compared to you. We are subatomic-sized creatures riding around on our atom-planet and getting angry because another subatom-chain pulled its car in front of ours at an inopportune moment. Or there’s the “Silent Earth” theory I think about. . .an atom bomb goes off in a city, killing millions. The world is horrified. Everything changes, globally. Now jump to the surface of Jupiter. You might see a bright flash coming from Earth, but you wouldn’t hear anything, airless space, right? Now to the edge of the Milky Way. You don’t see anything, or hear anything. Now a few galaxies over. You don’t even know our galaxy exists. At the outer edges of the humongous universe, the Earth is comparatively the size of an atom, or less. That’s why I always get amused when every alien we run into in movies and TV is the same size that we are. We have a conditioned, egocentric view of everything that we can’t help. But when was the last time you worried about one of your atoms losing an electron? This theory makes me think that (any religious or metaphysical views aside) the universe *does not care* what we’re doing down here. No good, no bad, just whatever a person does or doesn’t do. Emotions, morals and so on are solely based on our survival instincts, and the things that interfere with them. Good and bad are based completely on the perception of the one perceiving them. Since he lost, Hitler was a monster who killed and experimented on helpless humans. If he won, Hitler was a hero who just wanted to make everyone the best they could be, the perfect race. See? You find a dollar, that’s good. The person that lost that dollar thinks its bad. Same event, two perceptions. And so on, with everything.
But, on the other hand, and this is something I only realized a week ago, I will probably never see the edges of the universe. I’m down here, for life. So the things around me have to matter. It’s all I’ll ever have. To refer to “Watchmen” again, Dr. Manhattan changed his mind about life and its inherent miraculousness, and decided that there were so many miracles going on all around us, all the time, that we forgot they were miracles. That *this* atom would strike *that* one and form this particular life that affects that one, and so on in an ever-weaving ripple pattern on the pool, is unbelievable to think about. Maybe there still is no good or bad, but there is always choice, and how you feel about that choice. So I’m going to fight, and I’m going to help people, no matter how strange it seems.
PS, I saw the picture in that English newspaper of Batman and Robin at the sports arena, after chasing off the streakers. Those guys are awesome! And it made me think, I could always wear a costume under my clothes, just in case someone needs help. . .you never know. 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/21/2004 11:01 PM angelleafken
Well, Even if it is strange, You should be glad you have a dream. That in at least some ways can be met, it sounds like. I grew up dreaming of one thing, and when I got older I realized that I didn’t want that at all. It wasn’t just that I lost I dream, but in reality I never had one to begin with. With each failure I’ve faced, it’s become more difficult for me to find a new dream. I dunno, I guess I’m just slightly venting now. Anywaz, thanks for replying.
It’s a shame Nighthawk was taken, that would’ve been an awesome name. 🙂
And one more thing, I found a few more articles using vigilantes rather than real life super heroes. I’m sure you’ve already figured that out, but just in case. 😉

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/22/2004 11:54 AM Christopher
Hey Hero – I e-mailed you – hit me up – I would like to talk

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/23/2004 3:34 AM Hero
Hey Chaos, yeah, I e-mailed you back. Should be there shortly. 🙂
And Angel, thanks for the encouragement. Same to everyone else. As far as the Nighthawk name goes, it’s not like Marvel could sue me unless they found me first. 🙂 But I definitely think I’ve come up with a better one. Or two. You never know. It’s funny to think, but real-life-practical costume requirements can change the entire identity you were aiming for, and skew you off onto a different one. I’m still curious how a concealable bulletproof vest will look under spandex, and should be finding out in the next few weeks, my new creditors willing.
I can’t help wondering if the gracious Mr. Schmidt has been keeping tabs on this ongoing conversation, and how he feels about it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/23/2004 2:11 PM Mark Schmidt
Actually I have been keeping tabs and reading every last word. Honestly, I’m not in the same boat. My wish is more along the lines of telekinesis and/or flying both of which are impossible. Therefore, it’s simply a “man that would be cool” kind of thing rather than what you’re going through. Anyway, its late so I can’t write much. Take care and if I see you on the news, let’s just hope it’s for doing something good.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/25/2004 11:16 AM Hero
Happy Turkey Day, everybody!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/25/2004 1:10 PM Madaline Draven
Happy Turkey Day to you too!!! What’s a turkey day?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/25/2004 9:35 PM Hero
You know. . .up at 6, peck some corn, mill around, stare at things, some light squawking and then back to bed at dusk.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/27/2004 3:29 AM Madaline Draven
Oh you mean like a chicken’s day. Well, whatever lights your candle! I hope you had fun doing that all day.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/29/2004 8:13 PM me
i have also had thoughts of turning superhero but ave not got so far as creating my own costume, much less weapons. however i donot know if you thought of this or not but i also think it necessary for superheroes to have an information network. obviously criminals can travel from one place to another yet superheroes maybe stuck in one city do to job or summat. maybe it’d be posibble for many heros to start network…. for example, password protected web page, only those who know password can get in and that way no nuts. or maybe email’s better, i do not know. Hero, your ideas sound good but be careful out there. also, you might try reading Alisdaire McIntyre’s book “After Virtue” i am reading it now, hard to get through but very pertinent to your moral discussion/problem/whatever. it argues in favor of morals and morality through appeals to reason. very interesting…. if anyone cares to, you can contact me at [email protected]

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/29/2004 11:25 PM Hero
Madaline: Just to make sure, you do know I was talking about Thanksgiving, right? 🙂
me: Actually, I’ve been discussing that with one or two people. Even one person fighting the good fight in any major city is more than before.
I haven’t stopped back in a bit just because of the holiday, but I’m still raring to go. Minor setback, the credit got denied, but I make enough salary that I can save in the meantime for the things I need. And I really appreciate the people who have contacted me. . .this has turned into a very cool experience all around, because so many people seem to share the same dream.
I’ll be in touch as developments continue. Here’s an interesting thought to puzzle over: Rorschach’s mask is two layers of clear plastic-material with viscous fluid in between them, right?
So how does he breathe? 🙂 Anyone who’s had to wear just a spandex mask knows how labored that can get. Just another example of where comics have to cut off and real life design has to step in. 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/30/2004 9:37 PM Elijah Price
Hero, you know who this is…
I find, especially in darkness, that a hat and hoodie covers the top half of the face quite nicely – without the eyes, its very difficult to make someone out.
Just to think about.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/7/2004 12:36 PM Madaline Draven
Hi guys, it’s been a while – alot on these days and collage is simply craptacular!
Hero: I didn’t know you were American (I just saw the word Liverpool!) and (I think) I knew that you were talking about Thanksgiving – I was just screwing with ya 😛 My humour is a terrible thing.
It’s good to see some new faces around here. It’s really promising to think of. We should start our own organisation! AND because this is the internet we could have branches all over the world…I know I’m getting ahead of myself but I can still dream, right!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/7/2004 1:14 PM Hero
Cheers, cheerio and all that, Miss Madaline. 🙂 Yeah, it’s a funny thing, but a lot of people get confused when I say Liverpool, New York. My family actually almost ended up in England a few years back, but fortunately didn’t (no offense, I just like living in the US. All my stuff is here.)

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/7/2004 4:18 PM me
‘salright madeline, if there were no dreams, then no one think of superheroes, and we not be here. (i dreaming same too 😀 ) nother question i have, will there be one person in charge of intelligence(ie-organizing collected info), or everyone work together? i guess maybe we start small and see what happen? also, what type info we need? known criminals, crime info, what? also, anyone know good surveillance techniques/equipment? that may be good to get someone who know that. ok, so was many question, but i think all can be answered.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/7/2004 9:50 PM Elijah Price
I think Hero can answer the surveillance/criminals questions. Actually, I’d like to know some of that stuff myself. (hero, hit me up)
Just a thought though… maybe you guys shouldnt be broadcasting all your intentions OVER THE NET. If ‘they’ want to, its not difficult to trace it back to you…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/7/2004 8:55 PM Elijah Price
Personally, being a ring-leader intrigues me…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/8/2004 2:28 AM Hero
Thanks for the vote of confidence, Elijah. You want to know something funny? Two people have already figured out who I really am now. 🙂 Ah, well. It’s unbelievably easy to do anyways, I just wasn’t being cautious enough. I just hope any other curious seekers will be equally discreet with their knowledge.
Oh, and Elijah – I *would* promote you to Ringleader, but due to my potophobia, I have never raised a Glass.
Thank you! Good night! *bows*
Okay, anyways. Seriously. One of the big things I want to warn up-and-comers of out there is, *don’t* waste your money before you ask someone else who’s already used the product you’re interested in. There are plenty of self-defense forums full of people who got suckered into buying pen-style stun guns, or Myotrons, or dozens of other self-defense and surveillance items that don’t do the job well. I know quite a bit there myself, i.e. all the credit debt I’ve loaded myself down with finding out what doesn’t really work. I freely invite anyone considering buying something vigilantism-related to e-mail me first and ask me if I’ve tried it, or if I know a place they can get it cheaper.
As for finding criminals, anyone out of their late teens would probably be surprised to discover just how many people they knew from school or work are into, or have done, something illegal. And almost everyone loves to brag about the stuff they’ve gotten away with. An ex-coworker of mine grew up in some bad hoods, and despite being a really nice guy has extensive knowledge of how the crime flows around his home town. Beyond that, if you’re drug-prevention-aimed like me, it’s pretty easy to find people in your area into drugs just by searching online in member lists for popular websites. Most marijuana smokers are pretty open about the fact they do it, because many don’t think it’s wrong. One of the big conundrums once you know who they are is the question of following, or hitting at home? Do you want to catch them in the act, or just “put the fear into them”? Tricky.
I *would* say, if anyone wants to discuss the more in-depth stuff about possibly networking, learning more about surveillance and tactics and so forth, we should do it privately, by e-mail. The last thing I want is to tell some 12 year old on here that it’s okay to run out and try to find dangerous criminals, and then tell them how to do it, too. I remember being that old, and being sure I was strong and no one would hurt me, but to any kids reading this – wait. Learn, grow, and wait until you’re an adult to go into a field this weird and dangerous. And I think that actually trying to set up a webpage is going too far. Despite the rampant publicity this page seems to be getting all of a sudden, having a place for the police to go right to would not be smart. Better to just keep it to straight e-mail between the people who end up being serious about all this, to keep prying eyes away.
Anyways, this vigilante needs some shut-eye. Stay healthy, all, and I’ll talk to you soon.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/10/2004 12:41 PM me
good luck Hero, you wont need it though.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/10/2004 1:03 PM Hero
“Luck favors the prepared. I didn’t know Jak-Jak’s powers, so I covered the basics.”
“Jak-Jak doesn’t have any powers!”
“No? Oh well. He’ll still look fabulous.”
If you haven’t seen the Incredibles yet, *go*. 🙂
Seriously, thanks for the vote of confidence, me. I’m curious about what sorts of ideas you’ve had toward superheroing or vigilantizing, yourself.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/10/2004 11:03 PM the first me
*blushes* ummmm….just so you know, that me who wished you good luck not the me been putting up messages before, (that would be me *rolls eyes*) been busy for while, but checking here much as possible. good luck to you to, though. i try much harder check back more. if not sure which me i be, use email i put up earlier. if still want me to, next week or so, when i have better time, i send you email with ideas.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/12/2004 11:16 AM mixed up me
sprry for the confusion- i didnt realise there was another ‘me’. im a tad confused, but my amazing ignorance should help me out there…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/12/2004 12:21 PM mixed up me
if anyone has read American Psycho, the main character would make a very interesting villain. If you havent read it, be warned: its gore content is unparelled (but its a damn brilliant book)

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/12/2004 12:33 PM Hero
Maybe there *is* only one Me, and they’re schizophrenic. . .*da da DAAAAA!!!* (evil surprise music)

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/12/2004 12:35 PM mixed up me
i think this one at least is a little schizophrenic. now why did i go and post that on the internet? shut up! you shut up! stop it! oh…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/12/2004 12:40 PM mixed up me
yes, another message from (mixed up) me. Hero, me and my friend have been considering e-mailing you. can you please repeat your e-mail? or if you prefer, mine is [email protected]

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/12/2004 12:09 PM Hero
Sure. . .I’ve got a new one, [email protected] Feel free to e-mail me any time.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/12/2004 1:15 PM mixed up me
i just might take you up on that, thanks

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/13/2004 5:34 AM Dark Angel
If you are serious about doing something like this, you must truly think about the risks that are involved. You must think about the skill, time, money, courage, and desire needed to do this.
I’m going to say in 2006 – you will all be hearing about vigilantes and heroes cleaning up crime.
If you are serious leave your e-mail and you will be contacted.
Don’t waste anyones time if you do not posses the skills or drive to do this.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/13/2004 8:21 AM serious me
[email protected] i couldnt be more serious, ive been planning for years. please put ‘hobby’ in the subject.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/13/2004 8:09 AM me the 2nd
also, i fully understand the risks- i was once arrested while on ‘patrol’, incase you have doubts.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/13/2004 9:20 PM Elijah Price
Thinking – it might be the right way to go if I was the Giles or Wesley of the forming group.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/14/2004 6:45 AM Determined
[email protected]
I am the friend mixed up me is talking about (wrongfully arrested on the same patrol). Don’t take the address name the wrong way – trust me, this for the GOOD

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/17/2004 3:50 AM vamp slayers
you know they were going to make a series called ‘ripper’, about giles when he was younger?
wesley and giles are pretty cool, but that robin wood guy (the principal) has gotta be the best vamp slayer, unless spike counts.
out of all of them (even van helsing!) Blades gotta win hands down. id like to see a vampire slayer of somekind in the next Underworld movie.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/19/2004 3:20 AM Hero
Just a quick and vague update – my posts on here are slacking off because things are now moving out in the real world. It’s becoming extremely interesting times for all of us, and like Dark Angel said, anyone with the serious capability and drive is welcome to leave an e-mail address for us. I still check this post at least once a day, so don’t worry about being ignored or missed.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/20/2004 7:54 AM real life heroes
have you read about this ‘Captain jackson and Crimefighter Girl’? http://www.captainjackson.org/captainjackson/

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/20/2004 10:57 AM Hero
Heh. . .nothing but respect for people that go out like that (i.e. Terrifica, Captain Jackson) and do the publicly welcomed, mascot-style safety patrol things. And Crimefighter Girl is certainly a gorgeous defender of justice (if way too young to be saying that about :). Not many girls could make yellow work for them. But why do they actually spell out their whole names on their chest plates? I could make them *much* better costumes. *lol*
Still and all. . .some people are just meant to be out in the daytime, encouraging people and being civic-minded. I guess I’m just the other kind. Even Terrifica, ridiculous as her getup is, spends her time in bars at night, dealing with the darker side of life, trying to directly stop women from making stupid mistakes. You have to wonder how many times she’s thought “Why the hell am I still doing this? Does anyone even care?” But the point is, she’s out there. Somebody’s got to do the dirty work behind the scenes. If the system worked, we probably wouldn’t have invented the idea of superheroes in the first place.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/21/2004 3:43 PM Robin
im new but i read all the above. All of you have great ideas but maybe i can help. I dont mean to be rude but you guys need as much help as you can get to take this thing global.
like you, i too have dreamed of being a superhero or vigilante for a long time. what i need is how to make my own gadgets. i want something like batmans utility belt with a grappling hook and bat-arangs. i also need gas pellets of all kinds. if anyone can help me find a website or something to help me make my gadgets. you can reach me on AIM (colombianguy129) or [email protected]
As for the people like terrifica they have no right to wear those costumes. LOL. Im taking thing too serious but i guess thats how vigilantes are supposed to be like 😉

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/22/2004 12:41 AM Hero
Robin – Hi there. . .you know, your name was one of my original identities way back when. 🙂
I’d like to offer my real-life experience and advice about utility belts and gadgets. There is nothing in the real world that even closely matches what Batman has in there. . .like the “batline” attached to his grappling hook, that despite being wire-thin, is also supposedly a deceleration cable with some give to it so your arms won’t be ripped off when you hit the end of it. Real ropes are too thick to coil up inside a belt pouch, because they’re several millimeters thick at best.
The closest thing I’ve been able to find so far are fall protection and fire escape self-descender packs that only work one way, down, and have to be re-loaded by the company after each use. (They only do it for free if it’s a real emergency situation and you can prove it.) The one I’ve seen most online is at http://www.lifecender.com . There’s also a cool one-hand descender designed for military and law enforcement at http://www.capewell.com/mcd.cfm , although I’m fairly sure it’s not available to the public. Also there’s a “Micro Rappel System, Black Belt II” sold all over the net for about $380. However, I’d say the chances of you needing to be on a rooftop are pretty slim to none in this business. And all these items are for going down only. If you want to go up, you should either learn a sport called “Le Parkour”, and rock climbing, and how to climb a rope, or bring along a collapsible ladder. I can go hand-over-hand up pipes that run the back of most stores and commercial buildings, with my feet braced against the wall. And most cities have a lot of fire escapes, if you can reach the first landing in the first place. You might consider carrying only a ten or fifteen foot length of rope with knots tied in, and a good collapsible four-prong hook (or solid one or two prong) just for climbing short distances up to low rooftops. A lot of low roofs on multi-level buildings have no ground ladders or access, but once you’re actually on the roof, there are ladders to the upper roofs for janitor use.
And Batman’s handheld, launching grapnel that automatically hauls him in? Definitely nothing close in real life. There are some good new lightweight collapsible grappling hooks, like the TRG Grabber. (Usually about $150, search for it on Google.) I would *never* trust your life to any “Ninja Collapsible Grappling Hook” that always comes with 33 feet of rope for some reason. And to the best of my knowledge (although I’d like to be proven wrong, if you know different) there are no small, lightweight devices strong enough to reel up an adult human.
I suppose for roof work, your best bet for real-life vigilantism is to be on the rooftop where you think a crime down below is going to happen soon through normal climbing means, and have a one-way-down rappelling set or descender to get you down quickly and get the drop on the crooks.
About Batarangs – the closest thing I’ve found in real life is either throwing stars, knives (or just hurling your baton). The problem there is the sharp edges. You don’t want to kill anyone, and I doubt you’d ever learn enough skill to hit someone with enough accuracy just to wound them non-lethally (or paralyze some limb, like Green Arrow seems to be able to do, such is his skill). I’d say a better idea is to have something heavy but blunt, like a solid steel ball bearing an inch in diameter or more. This could still kill in a hard enough head strike, but is much less likely to than a blade. Or, if you can afford the noise, a shotgun with the new less-lethal rounds (note: less lethal. These can still kill from internal laceration and damage from the strike) or if you’ve got connections I don’t, rubber-ball grenades and the like.
I’m pretty sure gas pellets don’t actually exist. Governments freak out if other countries’ soldiers use knockout or nerve gas of any kind, and it’s not available to the general public anyways. You see Batman & Robin always spraying people with canisters of “VerSed” to knock them out. This is a chemical called midazolam hydrochloride, which is supposed to be used as a conscious sedative before surgeries. It has strong amnesia effects, and works completely in about three minutes after application, which has made it increasingly popular with rapists and robbers. However – you shouldn’t use this for the same reason you shouldn’t buy a tranquilizer gun and shoot people with sedatives. You have no idea whether a person is going to have an allergic reaction, or if you’re overdosing for their weight, or one of many other bad reasons to give a stranger chemicals. You could very easily kill someone. And the other kinds of pellets he usually has, smoke pellets – unless there are some chemistry geniuses out there, you’re probably going to have to stick with smoke bombs and pyrotechnics. Rescue smoke distress signals and flares are good, if you don’t mind colored smoke. Lots of places sell fuse-lit smoke bombs with good smoke thickness and quantity. Just strap a small lighter to the side, and bend the fuse down and tape it in place so it’s fixed right above the lighter for fast one-handed lighting.
I personally don’t intend to use a belt if I can help it. On a vigilante costume, if it’s looped through your pants, the extra weight of your weapons and tools tends to drag your pants down. And if you are wearing a spandex suit, it tries to slide right off. If you pull it tight enough around your waist so it won’t slide, it interferes with your mobility. I usually sew special pockets, compartments and holsters right into my coat or somewhere on my upper body, directly to my oufit.
Anyways, none of this is meant to discourage anyone. Just real-world perspective on stuff the comics and movies has been showing us for too long. Remember, if you see a super-cool weapon or gadget on TV, there’s a reason it works. It’s TV. But if anyone knows of some new technology that I haven’t heard of yet, please, please tell me about it. I’d love to have a handheld grapnel launcher that’ll do all the work for me. 🙂
And about Terrifica, Captain Jackson and so on – they may not be the classic ideas of vigilantes and crimefighters, but I do think they have the right to be out there. We’re trying to skulk around in the dark and be secretive, can you imagine how much guts it takes for them to put on such ridiculous outfits and go out in public, in daylight? It may not be “cool”, but there’s got to be someone out there encouraging people to do the right thing, and I think that makes them as much superheroes as any of us could ever be.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/22/2004 12:18 PM Robin
http://search.netscape.com/ns/boomframe.jsp?query=how+to+be+superhero&page=2&offset=0&result_url=redir%3Fsrc%3Dwebsearch%26requestId%3D2bef904116ee80ad%26clickedItemRank%3D14%26userQuery%3Dhow%2Bto%2Bbe%2Bsuperhero%26clickedItemURN%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.superherosupplies.com%252F%26invocationType%3Dnext%26fromPage%3DNSCPNextPrev%26amp%3BampTest%3D1&remove_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.superherosupplies.com%2F
this link shows lots of advanced techniques for being a superhero. as for gas pellets if i got the chemicals i would just put them in paintball containers. I like the idea of shocking gloves in the link.if anyone knows how to wire one up i would gladly pay them to do it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/22/2004 2:41 PM Elijah Price
You dont need gas pellets or any gadget for that matter.
Fear is your greatest weapon. The element of surprise is your greatest ally.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/22/2004 5:10 PM Robin
i guess i could be like the scarecrow (whoops, he uses gas too) :-/
gadgets are still helpful and its nice to know that you have something to defend yourself besides fighting skill.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/22/2004 8:18 PM Elijah Price
The only gadgets I would ever consider using would be a bullet-proof vest (That is, if I can find one versatile enough), armor plated forearm guards, a grapple – would be nice, you can rapell down pretty quickly on any rope if you know how, smoke bombs/sticks/whatever – to aid my disappearance. Ninja vanish.
If you do things right, you dont NEED to actually have a physical confrontation with someone. Theyll be out before they know youre there.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/23/2004 1:31 AM Hero
Sorry, Robin, but I can’t figure out what in that link was what you were talking about. 🙂 The Superhero Supply Company is (so far) just a front for a tutoring and writing class service. Where were the advanced techniques you mentioned?
And Elijah, I agree with you on the element of surprise, and I always said I’d rather be a throw-in-a-few-knockout-bombs and tie-’em-up-once-they’re-unconscious kind of hero. 🙂 I also considered dressing up so terrifyingly that people would think I was really some kind of monster, but I want people to at least partially trust me, if word gets around.
P.S. – If anybody’s tried to e-mail me in the past few days, I haven’t gotten it because Hotmail won’t let me in for some reason. I think they’re updating their image again and my dialup can’t handle the download or something. In the meantime, anyone who did write, please send your message again to [email protected] Thanks!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/23/2004 3:35 AM The Dutchman
Much personal information is being communicated from folks here. Might be wise to ask Mr. Schmidt to remove certain elements given the nature of the possibilities being explored here. Certainly am intrigued by the response user Hero has gotten, have chatted with him myself. Think Terrifica is a well-intentioned woman doing good in society and approaching a practical issue, but certainly is engaged in a different vocation than the one being discussed here. Some of you will be receiving e-mails.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/23/2004 10:01 AM Hero
Mr. Schmidt actually very kindly agreed to remove some of my posts with personal info (to be re-posted in an edited version by my later), but I haven’t been able to reach him lately for some reason.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/26/2004 10:02 AM link
link you ask? why yes! does that mean i have a link, you ask? why yes! am i really this annoying you ask? yes 🙁
http://www.superherohype.com/news.php?id=2381

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/26/2004 12:21 PM The Dutchman
With his colorful lifestyle, television appearences, and action figures, Mr. Armes recalls to mind the excesses of the fictional Ozymandias.
Am curious to what extent or what lack of blessings he would bestow on the differing options being explored in this discussion.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/26/2004 2:39 PM Elijah Price
you want links?? Alrighty.
Im sure youve all heard the myth of the mother lifting the car off the screaming child?
http://www.manchesteronline.co.uk/news/s/73/73976_wonder_woman_saves_boy_7.html
(Theres anotehr story of another woman lifting a car and crediting adrenaline, but the links dead) Adrenaline.. coincidence??
Maybe real-life captain america’s??
http://www.alternet.org/story/20201/
SUPERDOG!
http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_846074.html?menu=news.quirkies
Wouldnt YOU call not being able to sleep a superpower?
http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_845203.html
The REAL x-men??
http://paranormal.about.com/library/weekly/aa072400a.htm
X-ray??
http://paranormal.about.com/b/a/007171.htm

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/26/2004 4:11 PM The Dutchman
I personally am more interested in precedents in realistic citizens vigilantism. The Guardian Angels come to mind.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/27/2004 7:49 AM edgar allen poe
my thoughts exactly, although the more dramatic superhero style stories are very interesting.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/27/2004 9:26 AM Elijah Price
I was just pointing out that whether or not people can actually have ‘super powers’ , but people ARE more capable of things that they might think.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/28/2004 4:27 AM edgar allen poe
i think many phsycic powers are probably acheivable, through meditation, and that they (and possibly other abilities we have yet to imagine) come from the other 90% of the brain that humans dont use! this in mind, it could probably be said of dogs and other animals with similar brains as they also use only about 10%. although i have to say telekenesis im not so sure about; defying gravity? its too physics-ignorant to really happen.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/29/2004 8:46 AM edgar allen poe
‘bruce almighty’ couldve made a great superhero!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/2/2005 4:23 AM me

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/2/2005 4:48 AM Baked
hero, you sound like a total loser. Get a girlfriend, please!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/2/2005 5:24 AM me
It was so great of you to take time out of your busy schedule to post that.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/2/2005 9:23 PM Hero
Baked: Heh. . .I was wondering when someone was going to say something like that. I was really surprised everyone else was so supportive. Three responses: 1 – If I’m a loser, what were *you* doing on this page in the first place, then? 2 – Read my first post more closely, man, I have a girlfriend. (Congratulate us, everybody, first anniversary next week! :). And 3 – With a name like “Baked”, I’m assuming you’re probably into marijuana or some other drugs. Go get rehab, then tell *me* to get a life again.
Okay. . .feel free to post whatever terrific, well-thought out comeback you can come up with, to put me in my place and crush my spirit utterly. Or, oh wait – I just remembered this was the internet, and you have absolutely no way to do anything to me that actually matters. *shrug* Sorry. Feel free to insult me anyways, if it helps.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/2/2005 9:31 PM Baked
you’re right, I apologize. I guess I’m a total idiot. I’ll go to rehab in the morning. thank you, hero!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/2/2005 9:33 PM Hero
No, no, don’t thank me. It’s all part of my commitment to help my fellow man. I’d do the same for any idiot. Up up and awaaaaay! *flies into the sunset, then remembers his house is several million miles down from the sun, and returns to Earth sheepishly*

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/4/2005 12:47 PM edgar allen poe
first anniversary eh? Congratulations!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/5/2005 1:17 AM Hero
Thanks, Raven. 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/5/2005 1:17 AM The Dutchman
Mr. Baked –
The Internet has long proved itself a difficult medium for discourse. Without the social inhibitions of face-to-face communication, the endless binary landscape of the World Wide Web becomes a playground for folks unable to act restrained once offered the ability to post anonymously. Inane chatter, pointless commentary, and poorly-executed perjoratives become the rule of the land. Cliché cut-downs relying on the ubiquitous title “loser” and the disgusting charge to “get a girlfriend” do nothing to improve this landscape and leave those of us two or three steps above such immaturity often glad that we will never have to meet a person such as yourself in person.
Regardless, I do not see how the potential actions of concerned private citizens engaging in the enforcement of the social contract and the protection of their fellow citizens can be termed actions of a “loser.” The obvious thing would be to point out that your own pointless aside in this discussion would be more appropiate to the conduct of a “loser,” but I think I have already made my point.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/8/2005 4:15 AM edgar allen poe
whhaaa ttcchhh. that was supposed to be a whip sorta noise.
ubiquitous ? perjoratives? are they real words??
seriously though, good points!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/8/2005 4:05 PM Hero
I’ve always been impressed by a good “ubiquitous”. No one can stare down the barrel of a loaded vocabulary!
Although my first thought afterwards was “We’re naught but humble pirates. . .” 🙂
Anyways, we’ve all kind of gotten off topic. Anybody have anything heroic on their minds they want to discuss?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/9/2005 12:23 AM The Dutchman
Curious what motivation people would have for wanting to engage anonymous crimefighting – or crimefighting in general.
I could see various reasons. One stated here is the specific disgust with the traffic and usage of illegal narcotics. A possible issue is that some people may think certain drugs are unjustly banned, but either way I would venture that the drug culture is rooted less in civil disobedience to obtain liberties of consumption as much as willful rebellion against the social contract. However, this serves as an example of a specific vendetta that a particular person may have to bring them into the field of crimefighting. Another motivation could be that perhaps a loved one was shot, or raped. Perhaps white collar crime ruined one’s livelihood.
But the aforementioned social contract could also be a major factor in the decision to join the fight against crime. Human nature often makes the act of “getting away” with something forbidden by society glamorous. The ability to cast doubt on the viability of criminal activites into the hearts of those who would willingly or unwillingly chip away at the foundation of society could be a strong motivation.
However, there are many points in past and contemporary human history where the social contract has been flawed – frankly, I doubt that the practiced, applied social contract of any society in the history of mankind has not had its cracks due to human nature. There have indeed been times in American history where unjust laws existed or certain people groups were unjustly persecuted by society. We can never be too arrogant to say our modern era is free of such things, but perhaps should never be too careless to think of every new social innovation as something worthy of celebration. Some vigilantes may see themselves as fighting condoned or ignored crimes. This type of vigilantism would seem to bring one more closely in conflict with society, but for the person engaged may be a necessity in order to act on one’s convictions.
It may be just for the adventure of it. With a simple set of rules and standards based off our criminal law, one could have an exciting time attempting to bring the allure of the costumed crimefighter into real life.
What do you think inspires the existing (yet more low-key than what we are discussing) costumed agents in real life? Terrifica seems to have a vendetta concerning the protection of women. Angle-grinder Man seems to me to be more of a criminal, but indeed is acting out of his particular views on the social contract.
Someone earlier mentioned a book by MacIntyre. I shall try to obtain a copy this next week.
I think the ideal situation would be a team of anonymous crimefighters choosing a specific metropolitan area and then targeting specific hot spots of illicit activity after careful deliberation upon the various factors of crime in that city.
If the mission is prevention of street crime, then specific areas are targeted and high-risk businesses or residences guarded. Presence is kept clandestine as much as possible, and the area is committed to until visible change is seen or a revolution of civil participation is ignited in the residents.
If the mission is aiding the law in tracking down specific criminal individuals, then careful surveillance should be employed and the goal should be to work as an auxiliary to the police (which should be the goal in all endeavours if the upholding of the social contract is preserved, unless the police force of the city in question is corrupt). “Hero” has enumerated some very brilliant particulars in this vein to me, though I doubt they bear repeating in this thread.
A sense of perspective should always be kept. This is not a comic book. Anonymous crimefighters are unlikely to find themselves fighting the denizens of Hell or an invasion from another world. Instead, crimefighters acting without a governmental mandate should respectfully enforce the social contract and seek to inspire feelings of civil responsiblity in the citizens they protect for the sake of starting a greater cultural revolution where crime is never glamorous and citizens strive to aid law (and thus become stronger participants in their government, perhaps working to put more pressure from the constituents upon any potential corruption in the governing bodies). We want society to function to its fullest.
I would hope that any anonymous crimefighter would spend equal time in his public identity working to improve safety and society.
These are just some thoughts.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/9/2005 5:14 AM edgar allen poe
for me, its doing the right thing, really the only way to do it would be anonymously (is that spelt right?) fighting crimes and ‘spend equal time in his public identity working to improve safety and society’ as you said. its the best way to live, setting an example of hope and justice for the ‘underdog’ and the victims of crime.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/13/2005 12:12 PM The Dutchman
Should be old news to those of us who have been exploring the prospects of civilian crimefighting for a while now, but the Video Vigilante is an example of someone striving to keep the social contract enforced.
His work is purposeful and precise. He has a clear goal and has clear methods. Also, he has shown an impartiality toward offenders by releasing a video depicting possible police brutality.
Videovigilante.com is his website. Should prove inspirational.
With all the talk of the dangers of vigilantism illustrated by the mob rage in South Africa that brings to mind the violent past of the United States’ South and West, it is good to see a fairly successful vigilante. He is not anonymous, but admits he puts himself in danger.
Imagine his methods done by someone leaving nothing but a moniker and a symbol.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/17/2005 2:14 PM Madaline Draven
Guess who’s back! Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Nope it’s some bloke in cheap tights! Missed you lot I’ve just had so much going on lately it’s been inasanely unbelievable!
Hero – congrats on the anniversary. Long time no see!
The Dutchman – You really know what you want out of being a vigilante.
Baker – You’re a tosser. End of story.
The group of people named ‘me’ – I’m glad to know I’m in good company with the identity crisis thing.
Elija Price , Edgar and everyone else – Never give up (holy rusted metal that sounded cheesy! : ) ! )
In the long time since I have been here last I have had so many moments where I’ve seen something – minor things really- I’ve just wanted to help so much. Then I realise that I’m with my family or friends and I don’t want anything to happen to them. This is one of the major dilemmas in the business. Has anyone else had the same thing? (Except for Peter Parker or course)
I go to university next year and by then I could be a black belt in karate! I’m going for green next month. Brown by the end of this October! Boo Ya!
I Shall keep dreaming…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/17/2005 9:31 PM Hero
Hello again, Madaline, good to see you! I have been away for a while, but only because the more things pick up out here in the world, the less I find I want to post anything more about it on the blog. 🙂 I think I’m getting closer to the end of my days of “Walter Kovacs pretending to be Rorschach”, for those who get my meaning, and it’s making it harder to talk about anything.
(While leaving fingers alone and elevator shafts unsullied, that is. No killing.)
Congratulations on the progress with your belts! And yeah, I’ve had similar dilemmas about family and the woman I love. Not so much “Will my enemies attack them?” but “What will they do if I die?” But everyone dies. You can’t hide from it, so you may as well decide how you’re going to live until it happens. Cops and firefighters wake up every day, kiss their families goodbye and go out to face a world that could easily kill them. Of course, everyone’s choice will be different, but I’ve made peace with it, and have made arrangements so they could too, if it happens.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/18/2005 11:23 AM edgar
welcome back Madaline!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/19/2005 1:10 AM Hero
Thank you, Mr. Schmidt! For those of you who may be slightly confused by where my humongous original post went, Mr. Schmidt kindly deleted it at my request, due to the overwhelming amount of personal info it contained that provided an easy avenue to track me down in real life. Fortunately the few that did seem trustworthy and upright (well, one supervillain-in-potentia, but they know who they are, and to stay the hell out of my Fortress. 🙂 So, if any following posts around it cease to make sense, I apologize, but it was really necessary. For those unfamiliar with it, it was a rant about how I’ve been obsessed with being a superhero for my whole life, and even seem to have the skills, physical attributes and strange occurences that make it seem like there’s some Comic Writer in the Sky trying to make me do it. I was terribly upset about it at the time, but I’m not anymore, since I finally gave in to it, and things are becoming ultra-cool from that moment. So, there’s the gist, anyone who wants to chat further can always contact me at [email protected], and I check this blog at least once a day. Cheers all, and keep up the good fight! Thanks again, Mr. Schmidt!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/22/2005 4:02 AM edgar
weve talked about super hero films and games, so what about music?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/22/2005 10:07 PM ninja
yea iv always wanted to be a vigilante. iv been considering it for awhile. then my freind last night said last night that we should get master cheif suits made with bullet proof material, and become a vigilante team. and when he said this he sparked the vigilante spirit in me again, and i searched the net to see if there were people like bat-man who dont have powers but still fight crime independently.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/25/2005 10:41 AM Madaline Draven
Thanks for the welcome guys! Good to see you all too.
Three cheers for Mr.Schmidt! There always has been a big helth hazzard on this business hasn’t there. Must be murder for people like us to get insurance. I do worry though, just incase I do something incredibly stupid to help someone. I suppose you’ve got to be really good a weighing up risks and knowing your own limits.
A friend and I have come up with Nun-jas – The world’s first crime fighting nuns! Also something about an army of MacDonald’s employees with tazer guns came into it. One hell of a way to cook up confusion!
Have any of you guys got a theme tune yet? Something rocky with a catchy tune! Just for the pure fun of it… 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/26/2005 11:59 AM edgar allen poe
www.musictoslayby.com is a site where people put playlist’s they would have on an mp3 if they were vampire slayers (as a character in the film Blade: Trinity does!)

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/29/2005 2:29 AM Supervillain
Destruction and Chaos are sure to ensue. I’ve been on a destructive mess for some time now. Just try to stop me!!!
Hehe, I even scared my little friend. She asked me to not destroy any place she was at. I’m not taking over,
I’m destorying!!! You can not stop me, unless you pay me one billion dollars, *Evil laugh* Mwu ha ha, Mwu ha ha. Miss Evil.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/29/2005 7:24 PM D.A.
This is not a game – hearing about music and superpowers that is perposterous.
This is not a something for little kids to even consider, you will die or get arrested. Read the newspapers, watch the news – we are living in a world of shit. People lack morals and backbones. There are a few people who can make a difference, but not on thier own. It must be a social and cultural thing, all decent people must stand up for what is right. Maybe a few couragous men can spark that in the everday man. This is a dark world we live in. Talk is cheap, make some action. do something whether it is stopping a mugging or helping someone who dropped a bag. Do something. Everyone can be a hero. No one man can do it alone. But I sure as hell will try. I will fight a war against all that is wrong and evil – I will step into the gutters and clean up the streets.
I urge all others do something and make a difference – but dont do anything stupid.
Hero I have not spoken to you for a while – you know who this is – be good my friend

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/30/2005 10:33 AM link
talk about melodramatic 😀

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 1/30/2005 10:37 AM edgar allen poe
perposterous? music just hapens to be one of the most inspiring things you can find- and thats pretty important in this kind of business. something that makes you feel powerful and righteous, that reminds you of what the world is like and who you are. Hardly perposterous.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/2/2005 1:16 AM The Dutchman
With all due respect to one bearing the moniker of such an esteemed poet, the sort of undertaking Hero and the Dark Angel and perhaps myself are contemplating would have to be rooted in an intrinsic feeling of empowerment and righteous that would not need to arise from music. Music can augment passion at a given moment, but I would be reticent to base such preparation on mere feelings. And I would be wary to single out musical preferences for concern of it being an easy means of identification to someone with patience, deductive reasoning, and access to a search engine. To make a cruelly weak pun, it is perhaps naught but Aaron Copland’s revered “Fanfare for the Common Man” that runs through my head, for truly my thoughts are a celebration of human society and a desire to help people in more covert ways than I currently do.
The Dark Angel is correct that entering this sort of vocation isn’t meant to be a pathway to certain glory. It is dangerous and against the flow. That is not a sort of self-aggrandizing assertion to lay claim to some sort of superiority to those of us considering aiding society in the enforcement of its contract. It is true. Look at the slings and arrows leveled at our predecessors who have called the public to enforce the social contract and not let society rot itself without remedy.
And the Dark Angel voices one of my desires – to see men and women of mystery inspire the common man. Any act of kindness or act of civil responsiblity is the sort of thing we want to see.
My goal would never be to make myself a target or to leap at a mugger in order to nurse a fetish.. My goal would be to think, to formulate, to test, and to implement. It is fortunate that Hero is here to temper any baser inspirations of mine and to offer to share his research.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/2/2005 10:08 AM edgar allen poe
im just saying i find certain music can help to inspire people and particularly to remind us of things that cause us to want to do what it is we want to do (and most of you are doing). at least for me. i didnt mean that one day i heard a nice song, and decided i wanted to fight crime and risk everything for people i dont know. basically, the right music can be inspiring in a way, and can stir those ‘mere’ feelings that alot of people need, and are much better with. music is a very important expression and can invoke alot of emotion. if you find that preposterous, im not complaining, but it isnt fair for you to complain because i like a good, powerful song and want to say that.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/5/2005 1:47 AM Hero
Wow, it has been way too long since I’ve dropped in here. I was away on vacation for a week, for those of you who don’t know yet. And, to put a quick and easy conversational end to this music thing, the original point of the whole idea was just “Does anyone have a theme song?”, just for the fun of it. No need to stress or argue fine points. It’s great to plan details and think strictly in real life terms, but most of the people I’ve talked to enjoy letting our inner dreamers run free too and just talking about the wacky side of all this, just for fun, keepin’ it loose. I used to play the theme song from the 1997 “The Saint” Val Kilmer movie whenever I went out to do. . .certain. . .things. *cough* Anyways.
Dark Angel – well spoken, man. Sorry I’ve been out of touch lately. Besides enjoying the surf, I’ve been trying to spend less time on the internet and more time hitting the weights. I am getting seriously musclebound. Plus my girlfriend was hurt when I kept missing her phone calls while online doing the hero research stuff. 🙂 Send me an e-mail, let me know how things are going on your end.
Dutchman – hello again, my friend. I’m sure I don’t know what you mean about me tempering your “baser instincts”. (Homerism: “Of course! Security work! At last, a way to combine my love of helping people with my love of hurting people!”) Dangerous and against the flow – that’s really accurate. I went to a funeral today, my first in ten years, and it made me think a lot about what my death would mean to people I knew. But I’ve cheated death in a lot of ways in my quarter-century so far, what’s a few dozen more times? 🙂
Raven – I forgot to put this in my e-mail to you, but no – I’ve never made it into the paper. I’m really, truly hoping I never will, other than as a crook’s confused, disbelieved testimony as to the crazy costumed freak that tied him up. On the other hand, if my designs come through, my costume’s going to be pretty sweet, so maybe I’ll send some 8 by 10’s to the local press.
Seriously, though, I’m just picturing the day that, no matter how careful and well-prepared I’ve been, some clever reporter or cop is going to come cruising along the net right to this blog, trace me out and make a famous bust. Maybe I’ll change costumes and modus operandi’s every time just to mess ’em up.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/5/2005 1:59 AM Hero
Oh, one more thing – something I find inspirational is to look at the old comics, of the Justice Society of America and others I think of as the “original” costumed heroes. When there was a sudden burst in the world’s (especially America’s) desire for masked heroes in bright costumes, and so in the comic world, where there once were none, one by one they slowly emerged and grew into legends. I feel like that’s what might happen out here, even though we’re in “modern times” (defined as “whatever time I’m living in now”), one by one some of us will venture out into the world just like Alan Scott, Rex Tyler, Wesley Dodds and others did in fiction. Or, for more realistically possible analogies, Oliver Queen, Dinah Lance, Ted Grant and everyone’s favorite Bruce.
If you haven’t read Batman: Year One yet, pick it up.
“I would rather die than wait another hour.”

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/5/2005 10:27 AM Edgar Allen Poe
Dont you just love that bit in year one when you know hes about to face a trigger happy swat team in a building thats being bombed, and then he LOSES HIS BELT?! i remember first reading it, and realising the next few pages would be full of the shadowy and very intelligent techniques that are the reason i love Batman so much. I remember a similar feeling in Watchmen, during the prison riot when the other convicts are breaking into Rorshachs cell. Two heros with no powers, both armed with the most important crime fighting tool of all- a big ol’ can of whoopass!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/5/2005 10:38 AM Edgar Allen Poe
also, i beleive the new Batman film, Batman Begins, is based on year one. a fair deduction based on the title for a start!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/5/2005 1:11 PM chris
how do u play the game

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/5/2005 5:17 PM The Dutchman
Excelsior. The Justice Society of America match very much what we’re talking about – it’s not a group of misanthropes gnashing their teeth at the police and society. It’s a group of people looking to aid the government as every citizen should, and hopefully inspire people in the process.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/6/2005 12:27 AM Hero
“It took a seventy-thousand dollar piece of meteorite to stop the other alien. All I would need for you is a penny for a book of matches.” – Batman threatening J’onn J’onzz 🙂
chris: Sorry, what game are you talking about?
And as for Batman Begins, I was so excited when I heard they were trying to “wipe away the sins and stupidity of the last three sequels”. Then I saw the pictures of the “first” Batmobile. (It’s like a Big Wheels street-racer Hummer with armor plates strapped on.) And read how the Batsuit is going to be muscle-regenerative, have stealth capability, be completely bulletproof, and have been developed by the government. Oh, and Bruce has to spray paint it black. Yeah. Don’t they have *any* real Batman fans working in Hollywood?
I mean, Henry Ducard taught Bruce manhunting. That was it. Manhunting. Not swordfighting with armored bracers, on what appears to be a frozen lake. Gaaaaaaah! And I don’t recall him ever *training* with Ra’s Al Ghul and the League of Assassins, although I suppose that could’ve happened while he was “honing his mind and body to perfection”.
Admittedly, it does look a lot darker and more serious than, say, the last three movies. It’ll probably still be good. But I’m not opening my heart to it until I see for myself. 🙂
Oh, and P.S. to all you other up-and-comers out there. I learned an important lesson today in a SuperTarget dressing room. Spandex looks terrible over a bulletproof vest. It makes your arms look freakishly small in comparison, and all the little bits that stand out from the vest show up all over the spandex. On the other hand, other than the heat, Safariland Zero G ballistic vests can be worn quite comfortably through several hours of shopping, eating and other normal activities. 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/6/2005 12:28 AM Hero
P.S. to Raven – “You’re the one who tried to shoot the *cat*-” *WHAM!*

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/6/2005 12:38 AM Hero
Gah! P-doubly-S. The movie isn’t based on Year One. Supposedly it mostly comes in the years before Year One is supposed to take place, and then overlap the time when it would normally have happened.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/7/2005 9:45 AM Edgar Allen Poe
that sounds as confusing as the time scaling in a tarantino movie! i think they changed the costume ideas to make it more up to date- plus it would makes sense e.g. if you were a billionnaire superhero wouldnt you have your costume more ‘high tech’ as in some sort of armour outfit? if youve heard of ‘lectus’ suits or read ‘the tin man’ you’ll know what i mean, in a nutshell the government and a number of contract companies in the good ol us of a have made jump suits of kevlar and spandex ( they are very complicated- something like you said about the new batman costume being muscle regenerative etc rings a bell) the basilcally stiffen milliseconds before impact to be practically indestructable. they have other qualities, ie in the tin man there is a compressed air jetpack! also the helmets are seriously high tech, so i wont try and explain them! im prety sure i havent made much sense as it is. also i find that the new batmobile reminds me of the model in ‘The Dark Knight Returns’ being more military/tank like. Not as cool as the first two Burton versions though.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/9/2005 9:43 AM Hero
Sometimes I wish they would make the movies to reflect the time Batman actually grew up in. . .I’d like to see an original Batman running around in a 30/40/50’s-ish type world, driving around that big long Batmobile with the pointy bat-head on the front.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/9/2005 10:33 AM Mark Schmidt
Hello, Mark Schmidt your gracious host here.
Just out of curiousity (since I’m a gaming addict) how many of you play the City of Heroes MMORPG? I played it for quite awhile (moved on to World of Warcraft) and thouroughly enjoyed it. Sound off and let me know if you have. If you haven’t, spend the $40 (or so) and play the free month that is included. It’s really a good game and the choices as far as character looks are astounding.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/10/2005 12:27 PM Hero
I only get to play it once a week, but when I do, I do so religiously. 🙂 My character’s only up to level 13, but he’s a hilarious one, and people seem to really enjoy fighting alongside him. It’s so much more fun once you get up into the higher powers. . .I love being able to jump several hundred feet at a time, and one or two levels more and I should be flying.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/14/2005 10:25 AM edgar allen poe
are there any free downloadable demo’s that you know of on the net? the game has always interested me, but i cant find any demos.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/20/2005 9:53 AM edgar allen poe
would you help/ advertise charities to the public as a superhero in some way? its just an idea thats always interested me.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/20/2005 10:22 PM Hero
I don’t think there are any downloadable demos anywhere, but don’t buy it unless you’ve got a Pentium 4, Radeon graphics card and high-speed internet. You can get the game on Ebay for about 10 to 20 bucks now, though, and it’s totally worth it.
Did anyone else see the news about the Video Vigilante getting charged with paying prostitutes to go do their thing so he could film it and make money selling the videos to news outlets?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/21/2005 7:13 PM Hero
I still don’t know what to believe about it. . .that’s the problem with non-anonymous crimefighting. People will always be messing with you, because you’re bad for business. If they can discredit him and get the public to want him to stop, they win. Of course, it’s also easy to believe the whole thing might be one big setup. . .like the old witch hunters, who only got paid by towns for the witches they found. You have to keep finding them, or else you’re out of a job. Might be the same situation here, although I’d like to believe the guy is honest and just being framed by angry prostitutes and pimps (and probably more than one enraged “client”).

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/22/2005 9:06 AM edgar allen poe
with the media as lax and desperate as it is these days, i doubt there is anything to it. when theres a man like that out there, people are going to say that sort of thing, and that is all it takes. characters as ‘radical’ as Video Vigilante are always going to be the victim of negative press, and i should suspect it has probably happened before on a much smaller scale.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/22/2005 9:10 AM edgar allen poe
also thanks for the info Hero, after i purchase that cool batman mask im after ( 😀 ) ill be getting city of heroes faster than a speeding bullet!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/22/2005 10:04 AM Madaline Draven
Long time no see!
Next time I’ll keep theme tunes out of the topic : ) City of Heroes sounds so awesome. I’ll look into getting hold of a copy – I might learn something from it!
Be back soon…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/22/2005 1:26 PM Hero
Raven: Oh, and by the way, I don’t know if you already knew, but CoH is a subscription game. You have to pay about. . .um. . .somewhere between $12 and $20 a month to play, I think. I can’t remember exactly how much. You pay less per month if you sign up for multiple months at once, but it’s probably a better idea just to pay for one and then see if you still like it. Some people get tired of the endless leveling (well, up to 50) real quick, but I’m addicted. Too bad I can’t play more often. 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/23/2005 9:41 AM edgar allen poe
makes sense now- thanks Hero

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/23/2005 9:50 AM Mark Schmidt
Yes, I believe it’s something like $12.95. When you buy the game, you do get the 1st month free. I however am playing World of Warcraft. Sorry 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/23/2005 12:20 PM DA
what are you gong to learn from a video game?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 2/24/2005 2:54 AM Hero
That once you reach level 13, enemies who are only level 3 won’t attack you anymore, even if you walk up and stand right in the middle of them while they mug a helpless woman?
Or, that it’s okay to ignore people in trouble, because the enemies attacking them are so low in level, you won’t gain any experience? Just let the mugger work, man. Damn. You don’t see him throwin’ salt in *your* game.
(These are a lot funnier once you’ve actually played.)
Hold on, I’ll just. . .hover. . .up. . .to. . .the. . .rooftop. . .any minute now. . .

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/3/2005 12:31 PM edgar allen poe
since this seems to be a forum full of sharp minds, i think a little challenge to test your thinking skills might be fun:
http://deathball.net/notpron/notpron.htm
this is the biggest, hardest riddle on the internet. It isnt point and click, the first ‘level’ is a picture you must ‘analyse’ i guess. its a lot of fun and will put your wits to the test!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/9/2005 11:30 AM stien B.
Ive read all this page in the the last two days and I think that your ideas are brill. i live in Britain and ive had the same dream of helping people in the vigilante way all my life. since i was a kid ive been thinking about all this stuff and how i can get different gadgets to work. i think you should make this thing big. i think that parkour is a must (or some form of it)

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/10/2005 9:09 AM edgar allen poe
Have you ever done any vigilante-ing yourself? do you have any ideas?- i am also in Britain, i have to say its good to see a fellow countryman on board!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/11/2005 7:51 AM stien B
Hi Edgar.
I cant say Ive really done much except climb out of my bedroom window at 2 in the mornin. but that was scary.especially since I was only 9yrs old.
on the subject of non lethal weapons maybe shocking gloves would be cool.Ive been making different masks since I was young. my dad showed me how ,and I was away

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/13/2005 1:13 PM Hero
Hey all. . .even though I know I shouldn’t share anything personally damning anymore, I’ve got to tell you all about this, and I swear to your deity of choice that it’s true. 🙂
Last night I was coming home from the gym (I recently got an all-night membership so I can work out after dark) and as I pulled into the parking lot of my complex I saw a teenager trying to sneak around the side of a truck so I wouldn’t see him as I went past. I did a quick three-point turn and pulled up right in front of the truck as he was ducking behind the hood again. I called, “Come on out, I know you’re there.” Nothing. So I parked a few spots down and got out. He was just coming around the side of the truck again, *still* trying to mess with the passenger door even though he knew he’d been seen, the schmuck. I said, “That your car?” in a menacing way as I walked up, and he took off running through some forest between my complex and the next one over. I also called after him, “Yeah, you *better* run, motherf***er.” because, well, what can I say, that’s just me. 🙂
So anyways, I drove to my normal spot just a few hundred yards down, ran inside and called 911, then drove back over and watched the truck in case he thought about coming back, ’cause he didn’t seem too bright so far. I met the officer as he drove past, told him the story and the description, and he and another officer combed both complexes. A few minutes after I went back to my apartment he called me and asked if I wouldn’t mind stepping out to ID the guy, they had him in custody. Sure enough, it was him. Scrawny little punk too. When I said, “Yes, sir, that’s *definitely* him,” the guy put on the worst imitation of innocence I’ve seen and was like, “What??” like he couldn’t believe I would accuse him. The cops thanked me, shook my hand and left, and I went home and hollered quietly to myself for a while. 🙂
Woo. . .I forgot how incredible that stuff feels, sending a crook to jail, even a small-time one like that. I thought, “Personal doubts? Who am I kidding. . .I was *born* to do stuff like that.” I felt completely, totally alive and happy. If you’ve never tried it, it’s the best rush there is.
And to think, if I hadn’t stayed for those extra sets at the gym, or not stopped for milk on the way home, I might have missed it entirely. “Sometimes the night is kind to me.” 🙂
Anyways, cheers all, I just had to get that out. Nice to know you don’t *always* have to wear a costume. (Although my gym pants and tank top coincidentally matched the colors of my new suit, but that’s a little too far private. 🙂 Keep up the good fight!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/14/2005 4:59 AM Madaline Draven
Super kudos on the catch Hero and keep up the damn good work! I haven’t done anything like that in an age.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/14/2005 8:58 AM edgar allen poe
wow its like your a superhero or something! imagine such a thing, catching criminals in the act and sending them to jail… lol 😀 your a naturual

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/14/2005 11:37 AM stien B
awesome! maybe it would be good not to have a real costume just a mask.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/14/2005 5:36 PM Elijah Price
A mask is a lot more difficult to wear than most people think. If its raining, you’re going to basically have a wet twoel over your face. If its not its still insanely hard to breathe. If youre in it all night youre going to be so hot in the thing you wont be able to think. Not to mention that masks scream ‘criminal’ and draw uneccesary attention to whoever is wearing one.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/15/2005 3:23 AM Hero
Thanks for the kudos, all. I’m still riding high on it, although I keep checking my own car in case any retribution may follow. 🙂 He did get a good look at it, after all. Little weasely kind of person, he’d probably never face me in person, either, just slash my tires and run home to hide. Besides, I’ve probably got about 100 pounds on him. 🙂
Good point about the masks, Elijah. . .especially those nomex and kevlar balaclavas they sell in law enforcement catalogs. Those things are hot, itchy, and damn hard to breathe in. The ones small enough to fit over just your eyes (a la Green Lantern-esque) are not enough to hide your identity. Spandex is good, easy to hide in a pocket, and with the new “spandex meshes” available from custom fitters, you can make a breath-easy space over your mouth that still remains dark. Even regular 6 oz. spandex isn’t all that hard to breathe through.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/15/2005 8:12 AM stien B
do you think it would be good to have some sort of batcave. or even some sort of super hero transport?(like the batcar)
what about some kind of globa intelligence network. some kind of passworded website. It would be good to take this thing global

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/15/2005 8:31 AM stien B
I almost forgot something. wouldnt you have to be approved by the police. maybe prove yourself and the then get their approval or be a deputy

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/15/2005 9:23 AM edgar allen poe
As long as you dont break the law (more difficult to avoid than most might think) and go looking for trouble too obviously, it shouldnt be very difficult to at least become legitamate. Although, the ‘name and shame act’ that was debated over here iin Britain, and The Watchmen’s Keene Act are very likely to become a reallity if too many of us operate in the full light of the public. Like you say, guys wearing masks are always going to look suspicious, especially if they crop up on numerous crime scenes…wearing spandex!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/15/2005 12:34 PM DA
You need to go about look unconspicuous, you have to blend in. Running around with a mask on would be idiotic. Using a mask is still important, if you know youa are going to be going after someone carrying a mask with you to put on at the time of reckoning is a samrt idea, but when you are out and about no mask it makes you stick out. The recognizable vehicle is not a good idea either, stick with something inconspicuous.
A passworded website does sound pretty good to share information. I am no good with that type of stuff so I can not help with that, If someone can it would be greatly appreciated. I don’t know how far intco doing something like this some of you are, but just remember this can engulf your entire life. This can ruin your life. Doing this you must not be afraid to die, myself I am growing less afraid of death evryday. The one thing I live for is justice.
Hero glad to hear you helped get that guy arrested.
A little while back I had an experience.
I just left a pizzeria and I saw a guy in the parking lot yelling out who knows what then I see him run across the street into a convient mart. So I decide let me follow. This guy was running aroud trashing the store by the time I got in there. He was drunk and probably on crack otr whatever else. He took a glass bottle and smashed it on the ground and threatened if anyone came near he would cut them. I made sure to stay closest to him, I was walking people out of the store. The cops were called and it took them quite a while to get there. I was really thinking about taking this guy out. He was throwing stuff and yelling out all types of crazy things. I decided I would just wait till the cops came and stay around in case he did anything stupid, If he would have gone after anyone I would have killed him, but thankfully he didnt. The cops came and handcuffed himand took him in the car. I stood around a little longer and heard them talking to the owner. They were not going to press charges because someone would have to go to court. So now all that is going to happen to this ppiece of shit is that he is going to gwt sent to the hospital cleaned up and let back on the streets. That is such total and utter bullshit. This is how justice is dealt. I regret not taking that skell out. Justice must be served. Hopefully there will son be people out there doing so.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/16/2005 4:38 AM Hero
Seriously. . .and also, I agree on nixing the customized-car idea, and similar things. You guys have to understand, *none of this is legal*. The police will never accept or be friendly with a “nutjob in a costume” going around beating up criminals, probably not even just helping people without ever engaging in violence. They’d automatically assume you were at least partially crazy and try their best to prevent you from working. If you drive something like the Batmobile, you’re going to get pulled over unless it’s already licensed and registered. Without plates, you’re a moving target, and with ’em the cops already know who you are. Better to have something that’ll blend in no matter where you park it, and have all your superfly equipment hidden inside, out of sight.
I think the best standpoint to approach all this from is to realize that as a vigilante, you are just a different type of criminal, one who’s breaking the law for good reasons, but who will nevertheless be tracked, caught and punished if you aren’t good enough to elude the law. Before you even start, you need to find out local punishments for assault, vigilantism, breaking and entering and all the other things you’re probably going to be charged with if you get up to the same things Batman does. Then figure out if you’re willing to spend that long in jail and suffer the embarassment of the media making a momentary “big story” out of you once you’re exposed. Think of lost friends, jobs and so on. Yeah, it’s melancholy and sucks to think about, but if you don’t face realities like that first, you shouldn’t even be putting on the mask.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/16/2005 8:29 AM stien B
maybe it was better you not getting him anyway D.A. not that it wouldnt have been hard but you might have gotten aressted for sreet fighting or something.
It cant be easy evading police especially if they use helicopters so you’ll need to knoww all the tricks in the book.
you might need to know the area really well, and it might be usefull to be able to get onto the roofs. have you heard of ”le parkour”.it would really helpful to know or some form of it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/17/2005 7:28 AM kaitlyn
just because u dont like it Mr.people on this site are all wanna be well just becsuar u dont like it dosen’t mean that can lie about this site ok am outy

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/18/2005 2:23 AM edgar allen poe
I believe The Question had an old red Volkswagon with a V6 engine or something like that? also a point- does the Green Lantern have superpowers, or a really cool gadget?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/18/2005 4:17 AM Hero
kaitlyn: Ummm. . .what? I think you called us all wannabes, but I’m not sure what you were talking about in the rest of it.
R: Green Lantern had an ultimate weapon he didn’t use enough, in my opinion. I mean, take the real issue where he was trying to save a broken-down school bus full of kids from a railroad track. Oh no, it’s yellow! So he files them all out, and I think the bus gets trashed. Okay, so what about the tires? The undercarriage? The road underneath it? The man has a ring that can *HOLD THE EARTH TOGETHER* and he can’t figure out how to scoop up a bus out of the way, or stop the train, because one part of the bus is yellow. Yeesh.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/19/2005 10:13 AM stien B
my bro likes green lantern but I dont think much of him.
lately Ive been making my final suite. Ive started with a mask but Im no where near done

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/20/2005 9:28 AM Madaline Draven
I’n glad that I’m not the only one that has no idea what the hell Kaitlyn is on about! I have to admit that I was always more of a Spider-Man fan or Daredevil (he really kicks some ass!) and the ‘yellow’ thing with GL ‘is’ kind of strange when you put it in the hold-the-world-together context. Meh, I guess everyone has their weak points…however strange.
I know their just comics and they’re just fiction but some of them are really logically challenged when it comes to the small details : )
Check out the link for a laugh(http://www.brianmung.com/spiderman.htm)
Did I mention that I’ve got my green belt now! Man it was tough to get. By I’ll be a black belt in under two years time now (Boo ya!) When I get it I’m taking up Kung-fu as well as keeping it up.
Can you tell I’ve had sugar? I’ll be back soon. Keep on truckin’…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/21/2005 7:49 AM Hero
Ha! “Stop hitting yourself, ha ha ha!” That cracked me up.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/21/2005 9:49 AM edgar allen poe
DD really does kick ass doesnt he? i just re-read Ultimate DD and Elektra for the sake of it, and although its not exactly my favoutire story, he’s such a cool character you could do practically anything with him, and that badguy ass would still get some kickin’ !
I was just pondering the thought: if theres a debate about wether Batman is a superhero because he doesnt have ‘powers’ as such, what about GL? Has he got powers, an amazing gadget, a power-giving gizmo?! If its a gadget etc, then is he still a superhero because then, he would technically not have powers? Personally id say its a gadget that is a super-power, but im not so sure. Batman IS a superhero! he took on Superman in Dark Knight Returns, he’s beaten Predator, hes saved the world, even the universe numerously! (and he has a really, really cool car:D)

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/21/2005 11:15 PM The Dutchman
Hero –
I apologize for my lack of correspondence of late. Things have been rather busy in my part of the world, though I am still researching and preparing. The case in question resolved itself – the boycott is over and so no further violence will be done. However, I did contact some folks in the responsible community and let them know that some folks were aware of who was behind this ridiculous incident and would be watching them in the future. And I truly mean that.There are some vigilante activities that are not criminal. One thinks of Brian Bates, the real-life “Video Vigilante,” and his personal stings of prostitution and drugs via his video camera and his role as informant with the police – as well as informant against the police. If he did his work anonymously, he’d be keeping himself from the harassment and dangers he faces.
The current Lunsford child murder makes me think that some of us should be extra-vigilant to respectfully watch the convicted sex offenders in our communities.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/26/2005 1:42 AM KEVLEX
I am very glad to find this forum and have a level kevlar vest that I intend to further reinforce with steel plates for my suit. I am also seriously thinking about setting up a secure website for freelance crimefighters, but am so far unconvinced that it could be made secure enough for our needs. I find it kind unfortunate that everything must be kept covert, as such exploits could be quite inspiring to the average person who may despair for the fate of mankind. A big part of the appeal of the superhero archetype is the ability to inspire.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/26/2005 2:46 AM KEVLEX
IT WOULD SEEM several people here seem to be actively engaged in crimefighting to some degree and have costumes completed, or nearly completed. In that case, has anyone decided on names yet?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/26/2005 8:25 AM edgar allen poe
i think that kind of thing should probably be kept confidential, but as no one knows anything about me, i decided on Raven a couple of years back.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/26/2005 2:01 PM KEVLEX
If I were to set up a site for freelance heroes, would anyone be interested in posting pictures of your costumes, and the names you guys picked, stories, tips, etc. I was thinking of calling the site something along the lines of “NATIONALSUPERHEROREGISTRY.COM” and having links to equipment manufacturers, legal help, etc. There could be different forums for gadgets, tactics, general philosophy, etc. Any thoughts?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/26/2005 2:44 PM Justice
I have just spent the past few hours reading EVERYTHING!
took AGES.
But i am really interested in this, it’s been a dream of mine for some time as well.I walk past a newsagents everyday and see headlines like…
“Counsellors house fire-bombed” and
“Local gang threatens take-away”.
It’s just too much.
Too many of my friends have been assaulted by Chavs who are just *bored*. The police don’t do anything. They’re too tied up in the beaurocracy.
It’s time SOMEONE did something.
People always say “Someone should do something about that” well i am someone.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/26/2005 6:31 PM DA
I might be interested in the site – we can share info
Justice glad to hear your interested in this – there are many if we can get many together we can get this thing going – the web site may be a very good thing.
Let me know about it if this happens.
I have a feeling once a few of us get this started it may really kick off and hopefully have a good effect.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/27/2005 1:19 AM KEVLEX
I HAVE STARTED WORK ON THE SITE AND AM PLANNING ON HAVING IT UP AND RUNNING WITHIN TWO WEEKS. IT WILL BE A BIT SHORT ON CONTENT AT FIRST, BUT I EXPECT IT TO TAKE OFF PRETTY QUICKLY. I BELEIVE THE TIME HAS COME FOR THE SUPERHEROES TO COME OUT OF THE PHONE BOOTH.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/27/2005 2:28 AM Hero
Kevlex: *ROFL*!!! “Come out of the phone booth.” That’s priceless! 🙂
Justice: E-mail me, [email protected] I’d like to talk to you.
I’d been musing for a few weeks now (since “Superhero Supply” is already stolen as the front for a tutoring service, punks) that if I do somehow make it to old age, I’d retire and open up a website/shop catering to the specialized needs of folks like us, with in-house custom-made costumes, gadgets, and (probably imported) weapons. And call it “The Utility Belt”. 🙂 Heh.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/27/2005 7:53 AM Justice
Im not too hot on the idea of a website.
Sounds like a great plan but if anyone really wanted to hack it, then everything would be revealed.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/27/2005 12:46 PM KEVLEX
Justice: I am looking into security measures to incorporate into the site, but precautions could also be taken by anyone using the site, such as uploading anything dubious from an internet cafe, or using a hotspot that cannot be traced easily. I am not an expert. If anyone has suggestions, I am open to them.
Regardless, I feel that this needs to be done and intend to proceed. If the world wide web can support hundreds of sites dedicated to women smearing fecal matter on themselves, I think there room for at least one site that supports those of us who want to make the world a better place in a somewhat eccentric manner.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/27/2005 10:05 PM Elijah Price
Seriously, some of you are retarded.
Spandex suits? Websites? You must not be taking this seriously.
The moment you put on a spandex suit or a mask you’re a sore thumb. You’ve got to think logicially about this. You need to be practical wihout being conspicuous. Its not that hard. Combat boots, gloves, a hat wont draw any attention. They make vests thin enough to take every day bullets tht can fit under a thick shirt without even being noticed. Stick it under a coat or something and you’re in luck.
Second of all, any website can be hacked. Especially you pay 9.99 for after searchnig for two minutes on google. If you guys really become involved vigilantes the FBI is goin to get involved, and they wouldnt even need to hack your site. They flash a piece of paper to the webmasters and they’ll GIVE your IP adresses out.
Get your head out of comics (and your asses) or the first thing your going to be is a jail cell.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/27/2005 11:25 PM KEVLEX
Elijah Price: first of all, if you do decide on something like a traditional costume, the only people that should be seeing your outfit should be those that you are going after, which can be accomplished with a trenchcoat or similar outerwear en-route: Most of the time it should be concealed. If you are going to wear a mask, it should only be for those occasions when anonymity is essential, such as just before entering a hostile environment. A lot of the traditional superhero garments are going to have to be reworked. I personally feel that chainmail, kevlar and steel are superior to spandex, which will stop nothing more dangerous that nerf weapons.
As for safety on the website, I am still looking into that, but I think that it still might be doable for the hard core members, especially if the serious people take precautions. Sending some of the information on a cd or floppy by regular mail to be input by the webmaster might be a partial solution. I hope that you understand that some of the comments here are using comic book terminology, even when it will be less than completely accurate in practice. This is a bit new to all of us, and we are kind of feeling our way along in the dark.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/27/2005 11:37 PM KEVLEX
SORRY, I shouldn’t speak for others without their permission. On my own behalf, this is a bit new to me. I have always thought that there should be real life superheroes and have spent lots of time over the years conteplating the practical means of becoming one. This forum is the first clear evidence that there are others out there taking it seriously, aside from borderline cases like “Terrifica”, “Polar man”, “Angle Grinder Man”, Etc. If we can start some sort of movement, I beleive it will be self-sustaining in short order, and it’s mere existence will say something about the human spirit. A world with super-heroes in it is a world closer to the way it ought to be.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/27/2005 11:51 PM Hero
Kevlex: Hear hear. I disagree with people who are seriously getting into this registering on any kind of website (heck, our IP’s our probably readily available just from this blog), but I respect what you’re trying to do and agree completely with the “feeling our way along in the dark” part. Although, for reference, at least three of the people on here are not from the US. Maybe “International”? 🙂 But there’s no security in a website. The best we could do is talk in vague generalities, like we do here.
Elijah: I understand your feelings on how serious we all need to be, but I think you owe us an apology. For someone who “isn’t ready to get involved” and “has no idea what he’d contribute” but still “wants to be the Giles of the group”, you might be a little more courteous to others who are just as inexperienced as you.
As far as spandex goes, I agree, regular clothing would be easier. I simply personally am choosing to wear it and hope for the best, because one: I’ve got a body that I’ve worked hard for and that looks pretty f***ing intimidating now under spandex, and two: I’m not walking around the streets in it. I’d have tear-away clothing on over it, and no mask or spandex will be showing until the necessary moment. Even then I might not have time to get my outer gear off if someone might be hurt while I do it, so I may just charge in without looking particularly comic-bookish. I know it offers no protection, but offers a lot of flexibility underneath the separate armor I wear on top of it. The parts of me I can make bullet-resistant I am. But having spandex on makes you better contained, agility and silence-wise. I don’t have pantlegs scraping together with each step, and I can kick you in the face without the leg bunching up on me. Plus, there’s nothing extra for my opponent to grab. Just a personal choice. . .I’ve weighed the options in every direction, and this is what I think will work best for me.
It’s all kind of a moot point anyways, as I won’t be “patrolling” any cities, at least I don’t expect to. It’d draw too much attention from the police, and you’d probably never encounter a crime because there’s too much city for one person. Anything I do get into, I expect to have plenty of time to prepare in advance. We should be forcing the “bad guys” to fight us on our terms.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/28/2005 12:05 AM Hero
P.S. to Mark – I finally passed level 14. SuperJump freakin’ RULES. 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/28/2005 3:15 AM The Dutchman
I’m hesitant enough to comment on this site as is and have to use an irregular means of access to do so just so I can rest easier. I would not be interested in a “superhero site” of any fashion as that described.
The Internet is not an ideal place to interact and trade information. There are always holes to be found anywhere, leading to anyone, if one is so inclined to look. The Internet is hardly an exception.
In all truth, my first reaction to the exuberant posts that Mr. “Price” reacted to so harshly was suspicion that a joke is being played by these new posters.
This isn’t a game. Here are private citizens looking to possibly bring the issue of crime to a public awareness by taking active measures to address our local situations – and as of now, full anonymity is a thing to be prized. Some in our number, or perhaps all, may eventually look to be the symbols of a new era of increased civilian participation in the enforcement of the social contract (and aid of the public bodies assigned to that function), but this is not a game.
Am inclined to think that those of us looking to become les gardiens de sûreté, so to speak, should do well to understand that this is not going to be a four-colored battle against garish villains. We are looking to enact change in our cities and neighborhoods like the Guardian Angels or the Video Vigilante have sought to do – and perhaps in doing so create a new culture that prizes the social contract.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/28/2005 9:19 AM Hero
To that end, I think perhaps I’ve stayed here longer than I should have. I’ll be staying in touch with the few I already am. Thanks to all for the encouragement and ideas, but this is going to be my last post. If anyone new down the road wants to contact me, my e-mail’s listed a few times on this page. Keep up the good fight.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/28/2005 8:48 PM KEVLEX
All of the concerns voiced over the possible website are completely reasonable, however, I beleive that I have found a means for even the most cautious individuals to contribute to it completely anonymously. I will have more details later, and I hope you will at least consider the protocols I plan to propose once the website is up. I plan to start the site with Terrifica, Angle Grinder Man, etc. and see who else shows up. I plan to post a picture of my own suit, once it is complete, under a pseudonym, although I do not intend to become an active crimefighter anytime in the forseeable future, because I will be out in the open due to running the website.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/28/2005 10:49 PM KEVLEX
Another reason for starting a site is to be able to reach others who may already be walking this path, and may need support, or words of caution, or both. This is the first forum I was able to find that was leaning in the direction of actually taking some action, but now that I have found it, I doubt we are the first ones. When I was younger, I carried around a mask in case I ran into trouble that might allow me to use it. Just a mask. No weapons, no kevlar, just a mask. I bought the kevlar vest and materials for a costume much later, as an adult, long before I found this group. I felt that this was something I needed to do to bring the world closer to my vision how it could be.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/30/2005 1:32 PM edgar allen poe
Bye Hero! your an inspiration- i hope you will still read this page! youve given more to its readers that the rest of us combined. Nuff said.
Price- if ONE MORE PERSON says ‘this isnt a game’ blah blah blah i think i might implode! we get it already! do you really still think that us guys (and girls?) who are buying kevlar and talking about equipment are not taking this seriously? we all most probably have the same or similar concerns, but we dont display authority issues over it. i dont mean to sound like a punk , and i dont want to offend you in any way (i love your name btw i dont think anyone elso knows where its from) it just annoys me when people repeat that sort of thing, its really unnecessary, we’ve past that point now.
KEVLEX- id love a secure site to unite heroes all over the world, if not just to share & compare, it would certainly gain a more lighthearted view on our little underworld. if it really is secure, and people use other computers to access it other than their own, i dont any problem and would love to be a regular visitor.
edgar allen poe- stop moaning !

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 3/30/2005 5:52 PM KEVLEX
HERO: I completely agree with EDGAR ALLEN POE, I thank you too. This has really got me energized.
EDGAR ALLEN POE: thanks for the balanced perspective. I appreciate it. As for security on the website, I have a completely safe method for submitting profiles and stories. The forums will NOT be secure. Participants in the open forums will be advised to either post from a secure location, or to disclose no information that will cause concern. I am planning on charging 10$ to post a picture along with profile, etc. which will hopefully help pay for site upkeep. I was planning on making an exception for anyone from this forum, but that raised security issues, you will undestand why when you read the security protocols.
I had originally wanted the chat forums to be secure, but barring a huge investment that I cannot afford, It cannot be done to my satisfaction. I refuse to risk other people’s welfare by pretending they are secure. At least the most important parts of the site will be completely safe. I still haven’t totally decided on the site name. the front runners are “InternationalSuperheroRegistry” “WorldSuperheroRegistry” “WorldJosticeLeague” “SuperheroRegistry” “InternationalJusticeLeague”, and I would appreciate input in that area.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/1/2005 12:07 PM marvelmaster123
im under 15 and my dream is to be a hero. i have exelled in moterbikes and pushbikes since i was 4 1/2, heck im even getting my neighbours who support my dream to teach me 2 drive. i need a a load of gadgets to help me. i created a blueprint of loads but need to make them. i really need help 2 save people. i recently had 2 climb onto my mums roof using a gutter so i could save a couple of kittens. can any 1 gimme a site of non leathel weapons or sumin 2 help me.
i ned this 2 save people from crime. i always put my neck on the line.
please help me. i moniter this site every nite and i think its safe to ask for your help.marvelmaster

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/1/2005 7:10 PM DA
Marvelmaster don’t get yourself too involved. You are young and cant get into shit like this. My advice to you is to take martial arts, find a place near you. Find out what the place teaches, give it a run by me and I’ll tell you if it sounds like something good for you. If you start taking martial arts now you can become great if you put the effort in. You need great skill to do this type of stuff. Don’t go out and do anythign stupid. Keep yourself training and maybe when you come of age if you stuill want to do this go for it

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/1/2005 9:59 PM KEVLEX
marvelmaster123: PLEASE get training and give this a lot of thought before you try anything. The good guys usually win when they are better prepared, better trained, and more motivated than the bad guys. Good intentions don’t stop bullets or knives. Another thing to take into account is that the bad guys are hard to sort out. For instance, suppose you find a drug dealer and get into a fight with him. You win, and are completely unharmed. The drug dealer is knocked out and has a busted knee and some bruises. Is this a good outcome? Most people will say “HELL YES!!! Those vermin get what they deserve!” On the surface this is a clear victory, but did our hero consider that this might have been an UNDERCOVER POLICE OFFICER: an honest, worthwhile man, who MAY recover from that head injury, but will never be able to walk properly again due to that knee injury? Those type of mistakes are completely unacceptable! Take your time training and think everything through carefully! You will need a lot of custom equipment and should learn how to build and repair it yourself because it will take a lote of abuse if you become active and actually end up being attacked repeatedly. You must protect the public not only from the bad guys, but from your own potential mistakes.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/2/2005 1:43 AM edgar allen poe
I know how tempting it is to dream up a cool name and run around with a mask on at your age, and that the last thing you want is a speech about responsibility from some guy on the internet, but it is, as im sure you know, a very dangerous hobby. I agree with DA, it is practically a necessity to know some martial arts, as you will probably end up in a fight at some point. You should also probably wait untill your at least 20, because you will be experienced and fully grown by this time. But if you cant wait untill you are 20ish, then i would say for now, stick to being a do-gooder, saving kittens and such. It might be an idea to volunteer at a youth centre, and if you come across information about criminals e.g. drug dealers, send it to the police annonymously. Keep a pencil and paper for taking down license plates etc, and have a cell phone to call ambulance/fire/police services quickly. You might even want to carry a small first aid kit. If this isnt quite superhero-y enough for you, then have a symbol that is always present on your clothing, for example, sew on something subtle to the shoulder of a jacket and the back pocket of a pair of trousers. a costume is not necessary, this will help capture the ‘air’ you are wanting at your age. Just make sure that you dont go looking for trouble too obviously, and DONT carry anyhting illegal! if youre involved in a crime need to give a statement, it is very risky to carry ninja stars and tasers around policemen who are trained to spot such things. I think if you do these things, keep in shape dont get carried away, you should be able to live the superhero dream to a realistic point, untill youre just a bit older. I hope this helps. my e-mail is [email protected] please put marvel master or heroing or somehting in the subject.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/5/2005 8:01 PM the first me
sorry, been gone long time, much changes happen in my life. right now, very hard be superhero. right now, better helping others, have some knowledge of forensics (at some point cops may come look for heroes, we are breaking some laws after all 😉 and can give advice to keep good guys out of jail. also, maybe later work in public relations because hope to get job at news at some point (maybe put in misleading article, lead cops away from good guys.) remember old email i put in? contact me there, if no leave note here. will try catchup soon.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/8/2005 1:35 AM KEVLEX
The website will be WWW.WORLDSUPERHEROREGISTRY.COM and should be ready in just a few days. I am going to start it out pretty simple and see how it goes. It will certainly be online within a week.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/13/2005 11:34 PM KEVLEX
having trouble with the webhost, will have to work on the site a little more. should not be a long delay.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/17/2005 1:57 PM Madaline Draven
Hey guys. I’ve been so busy with one reality that I almost forgot about this one! Although not entirely… BYE HERO!!! I’m slightly miffed that I missed you before the last post but it can’t be helped I suppose.
I haven’t read everything that’s been posted since my last visit because I’m short on time but I’ll be back sooner or later armed with time… and proably a purple belt too!
The good fight shall be fought!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/23/2005 10:59 AM KEVLEX
Continuing problems with webhost, additional delay of site launch.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/24/2005 8:30 PM KEVLEX
WWW.WORLDSUPERHEROREGISTRY.COM THE SITE IS ONLINE!
PLEASE CHECK IT OUT AND TELL ME WHAT YOU THINK! I had to switch webhosts. NEVER, NEVER, NEVER USE “WEBHOSTINGDIRECT.NET” Their service is horrible and their site is usually non-functional. I am now using someone very dependable. I look forward to hearing from you all!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/24/2005 11:04 PM KEVLEX
I SPOKE TOO SOON! I will try and get it back up again soon. AARGH!!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/25/2005 9:44 PM KEVLEX
OK! Check out the site now! WWW.WORLDSUPERHEROREGISTRY.COM

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/27/2005 12:01 PM Edgar Allen Poe
WOW nice going Kevlex! its so cool to have such a big stepping stone toward public acceptance etc for all of us, im going to register as soon as i can get to a public computer! A fantastic job too.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/28/2005 12:01 AM KEVLEX
EDGAR ALLEN: Thanks for the review! I really hope it takes off. I posted a link to it in WIKIPEDIA under real-life superheroes. Check out the submission guidelines and I think you will find them as anonymous as can be if you follow the directions for sending in pictures and a profile. The main e-mail for the site is: “[email protected]

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 4/30/2005 9:39 PM SHJ
When I was a kid I lived by the “superhero code” and that got me involved in martial arts and so-on.
In my 20s (this was the 1980s and the Guardian Angels were big news) I put in some hours on the rooftops of my home city.
No costume. The idea is not to draw attention. I did sometimes carry a mask but I never used it. I also carried a very powerful flashlight and five shrieker alarms.
In two years of patrols I stopped exactly one mugging. The bad guy was a big Polynesian dude and he had a woman by the throat, pushing her up against the wall of an alley. I shone my light into his eyes from across the alley and ordered him to back away. He couldn’t see me and probably thought I was a cop. He grabbed the woman’s handbag and took off down an alley, then for some reason stopped and threw the handbag back at her. It may have been some kind of domestic argument.
At other times I found a bunch of stolen backpacks and handbags in back alleys and dumpsters – always emptied of anything valuable – and one stolen motorcycle. I stopped some kids from throwing bottles at pedestrians from one of the upper levels of a carpark; same tactic as before, stay in concealment and just make it obvious that someone can see what they’re doing. I used the light and a shrieker. I’m sure they thought I was a security guard or something.
My advice; no “costumes” unless your real agenda is to live out a fantasy/fetish or to get publicity.
Don’t confuse a couple of years of martial arts training with the ability to survive a street fight; if you’ve never fought for real in the street then stay out of harm’s way. Even if you can really fight it’s much better not to force a situation to escalate.
Street criminals are paranoid about getting caught in the act and will run if you give them the chance.
Do not carry any illegal weapons nor anything that is readily identifiable as a weapon.
Know your area absolutely including escape routes and stick to that area. I strongly recommend working rooftops as most crime is at street level and distance is your best defense. Light and sound are your best attacks.
Know the laws relating to trespass, citizen’s arrest and self defense. If you adopt my tactics you will almost certainly be engaging in criminal trespass and if you are challenged you must either be able to talk your way out or physically escape. I did both at different times. You need to be in excellent shape. My son is into le Parkour (French urban acrobatic skills) and I would have studied that ’til I dropped if it had been around back in the day.
Consider carrying a video recorder/camera of some sort – these days you could probably use a cell phone (none of this technology was available when I was doing my thing). Do not use the cell phone to alert the police unless you are willing to have the call traced back to you. Any contact between yourself and the police (providing physical evidence, etc.) is up to your own discretion but I did everything anonymously.
Most importantly, unless you are fully prepared to engage and restrain violent criminals – a very serious risk – resign yourself to first response tactics. Your goal is to stop the crime, not to apprehend the criminal, and the best way to do that is to surprise and distract them with the knowledge that they are under active surveillance. Keep above the action, use light and sound as your weapons.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 5/9/2005 10:45 PM KEVLEX
Hi again! I am considering whether to add superbarrio and the batman and robin duo from england to the list of real-life superheroes on the website. I already have AngleGrinder Man, Terriffica, and Polar Man listed and they are the best I have found so far. Any thoughts? I have also added a new onsite forum that does not need any kind of sign-up to participate. The site is not a membership site for various reasons.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 5/10/2005 12:22 AM KEVLEX
I have transferred the couple of posts from the blogs I was using as forums to the new on-site forums. I think it is much nicer now and more convenient..

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 5/11/2005 6:00 PM KEVLEX
the site is doing very well. traffic is picking up, but no new profiles have been submitted yet. The forums are not getting much response yet.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 5/12/2005 1:09 AM KEVLEX
I have added a tutorials section to the site. Check it out and see if you have any wisdom to lend newcomers.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 5/23/2005 3:17 AM Dragonfly
Hey if I want to buy this game onnline but not wait for it to get here in the mail where can I download it please.. ty

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/3/2005 10:20 AM Edgar Allen Poe
sorry i havent been here for a while- my computer had a mid life crisis! KEVLEX, the site is, of course, looking fantastic! your hard work is obvious and well apreciated. The nano-second im able to, ill post my profile before you can change into your super-tights! Dragonfly i presume youre asking about City of Heroes- ive had a look but i cant find a downloadable version anywhere, im afraid.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/3/2005 11:50 PM KEVLEX
Thanks Edgar Allen. I will keep working on the site. More improvements to come when time allows. I look foreward to seeing your suit! Someone needs to get the ball rolling and it would be great if it was someone from this forum!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/5/2005 7:44 AM Can’t give my name
There will be the emergance of a vigilante/superhero on the east side of the united states starting soon.
God Bless you all and keep up the good fight.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/9/2005 9:19 PM KEVLEX
HEY! “Can’t give my name” at least tell us your superhero name! It won’t compromise your real identity.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/11/2005 5:33 AM Can’t give my name
You can call me Dark Guardian

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/13/2005 2:32 AM Batman (not Whitley’s)
Before we begin, we’ll start with my name. It’s just a nickname that stuck back in late 2002. I find capes to hinder stealth maneuvers in real life.
Which brings me to my point:
SHJ, you, as well as the Video Vigilante, are amongst my list of well-respected vigilantes. Psychological warfare, if done correctly, can oftentimes end the fight before it begins and prevent the crime from going any further. A one-man Neighborhood Watch so-to-speak.
My tactics are very similar to yours. I’m glad I’m not the only one using their brains before anything else. I’m not calling anyone else stupid, but SHJ is the only one I’ve noticed who publically spoke of his exact methods from experience.
SHJ, do you have an e-mail address?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/15/2005 9:12 AM Dark Guardian
Next month my mission will begin. I will clean up the scum from the sreets and bring down the drug trade in my area. Hopefully I can inspire others to stand up for what is right ineveryday life. God bless all those who stand up for what is right.
I will not fail.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/16/2005 1:51 AM black knight
Real life super heroics will be an important part of future society. Hopefully some oif the people on this board will follow this path. Crime fighting is too important to be left in the hands of the government.
On a practical note ‘going on patrol’ is not a productive use of time I’ve done it and in three months never saw a single crime in progress. Investigating local crimes or actively hunting local criminals is alot more productive.
Pick up some books about crime investigation and private detection (Paladin Press is a useful outlet for this).
One of the easyist criminals to find are drug dealers. Ask your local pot heads who there dealer is (or pay a homeless person to take you to there dealer). Once found you can give the dealer a serious beating with a warning to find another career. You can leave him tied up and call the police but in my experience he will just be let go bwith no charges pressed so these days I don’t bother.
Buy all your local papers every day. Unsolved crimes are reported that you may be able to deal with and criminals named when convicted in court (you should start a database of these people, you may want to contact them when investigating future crimes).
Some other tips:
Wearing a suit and tie while crime fighting means you won’t be stopped and searched by the cops unless you act ‘really’ suspicious. Only put you mask on at the last minute.
A cash bought mobile phone with cash bought credit is the only way to be anonamously contacted.
If questioning people don’t pretend to be a cop people will ask for ID or clam up. Pretend to be a reporter for your local (small scale) paper, if neccassary say that your paper lets you pay for information. (telling people you are just a concerned citizen will only get you funny looks not information)
Do carry a personal weapon, a billy club and brass knuckles are best but martial art stuff such as tonfu or nunchaku are ok.
Avoid ranged weapons, guns are too dangerous and throwing knives/stars, cross bows, e.c.t are all inaccurate.
Smoke bombs and flash bombs can be bought legally from paintballing stores.
Try to add boxing to your martial arts training. It not only improves your punches and footwork but it gets you used to being hit (which most dojo’s don’t).
And always have an escape route prepared (for use against cops and criminals) it should go over rough ground where cars cannot follow. Most cops let there fitness drop after they come out of the acadamy so you will be able to outrun them if you haven’t stinted your training.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/18/2005 12:18 AM Dark Knight
Indiana’s Citizen’s Arrest laws for our Midwestern Superheroes who wish to fight crime without becoming criminals:
IC 35-33-1-4
Any person
Sec. 4. (a) Any person may arrest any other person if:
(1) the other person committed a felony in his presence;
(2) a felony has been committed and he has probable cause to believe that the other person has committed that felony; or
(3) a misdemeanor involving a breach of peace is being committed in his presence and the arrest is necessary to prevent the continuance of the breach of peace.
(b) A person making an arrest under this section shall, as soon as practical, notify a law enforcement officer and deliver custody of the person arrested to a law enforcement officer.
(c) The law enforcement officer may process the arrested person as if the officer had arrested him. The officer who receives or processes a person arrested by another under this section is not liable for false arrest or false imprisonment.
As added by Acts 1981, P.L.298, SEC.2. Amended by Acts 1982, P.L.204, SEC.7.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/18/2005 7:54 PM KEVLEX
Thank you! Very useful information!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/19/2005 1:32 AM Dark Knight
No problem. Check your Registry e-mail accounts, Kevlex.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/19/2005 3:17 PM KEVLEX
HEY!: THANKS DARK KNIGHT!!! I HAVE MAKE THE IMPROVEMENT TO THE SITE YOU SUGGESTED!!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/22/2005 2:27 PM Elijah Price
Batman Begins got it right. One man can do nothing, he can be destroyed and locked up.
But a well oiled machine can make a difference. A group, a network. It also really makes you question yourself. If you had his toys would you be out there every night? If Bruce didn’t, would HE?
I still think some of you are ridiculous. Purple capes and spandex britches keep popping into my mind when I think of some of you. Galivanting about because Dungeons and Dragons is getting boring now that you”re 35.
But if you want my honest to goodness advice. If you want to kill a snake – go for the head. Dont take out the drug dealers and pot smoking teens – take out the drug lords polluting the streets and causing poverty, sickness, hunger, desperation. Dont concern yourself with purse snatchers. Get to the bottom of the WHY, why is he stealing. Hunger? Lose his job? Figure ways to AID, not aresst. Take out one crooked cop, rememebr there’s a thousand more most likely. Get to the bottom of the corruption, kill the head.
But above all, lead by example. As one man you’re dust. But by motivating an entire community you build a network, you’ll find friends in higher places, people that can do thigns you can’t. Stopping politicians, changing laws, firing corrupt officials. Things you can’t do with your fist and a grappling hook.
You’re not Batman. Dont try to be.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/22/2005 7:29 PM Wolf Blade
Anyone who’s still checking this post out, meet your newest vigilante ally. In a few years, once I’ve gotten some martial arts training, costume, allies, weapons,etc., I’m hitting the streets. I intend to kick evil where it hurts the most.
Anyone who’s posted here, I owe you. I needed the wake-up your words gave me. Anybody still here, I would love to talk to you. Oh… whoever created this post, I owe you a gigantic thank-you. Thank you for asking that question.
Let’s go get ’em, fellow vigilants!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/23/2005 10:42 AM Wolf Blade
Hey Hero…I really want to talk to you, but e-mailing isn’t an option, so…if you’re still checking this out, I’ll be checking all the time.I haven’t had time to read this whole post (has anyone noticed how darn BIG this thing’s gotten?!) but I know that you are someone extraordinary in your own right and I would give my right leg to talk to you.
Anyone else on here who isn’t freaked at the sudden emergence of some crazy person on a private board who says they want to be a vigilante, please keep up!!!!! I never in a trillion years realized that there was ANYONE who shared my dream, and to find so many people…it’s too good to be true!!!!
So…anyone listening, write soon.
Thanks, people.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/23/2005 8:15 PM KEVLEX
Wolf-Blade: That was the same reaction I had upon finding this forum. If you have not yet done so, check out www.worldsuperheroregistry.com We need more input if you have anything you feel like contributing in the forums or perhaps even sending in a tutorial if you have any advice to newcomers.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/23/2005 8:54 PM Wolf Blade
i know i’m hoggin’ all the space here,but don’t wrench me please!! i don’t dare vent this stuff anywhere else and u seem 2 b the kind of people who’ll get where i’m coming from.
dark guardian:how’s your crusade going?my training is going really sssllloww. i’m not telling anyone i know about this and it can be really hard to keep myself motivated. but every time i hear a siren and know that there’s nothing i can do but pray…i tighten my belt, drop+do pilates as well as re-reading any info i’ve got. i’m under 15 + i intend to hit the streets at 18. is that too soon? i’ve got a martial arts teacher lined up, but weaponry’s another subject entirely.
kevlex:cool-o site!!!!! you rock at that, really awesome!
Elijah Price:i agree about taking the head, but dudes! we’re out there to do whatever we can!!!! we’re not out there because we’re bored, we’re out there because we NEED to be. get me?
*sheepish grin* ok, off my high horse. no more chattering til some1 else does.
Keep the faith.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/23/2005 8:56 PM Wolf Blade
yo kevlex, you there?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/23/2005 9:00 PM Wolf Blade
i already checked the site…really cool! however i don’t think i’ve got the expertise to give any advice, and i don’t have the guts to make an idiot of myself!
if ur reading me please write!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/23/2005 9:31 PM KEVLEX
Hey, Wolf Blade: Don’t worry about hogging the space! If you have something to say, go ahead and it will be a welcome addition. If you wait until you are 18 and train in the meantime, you can really get to where you can kick some ass. Be choosy about the martial arts instructor if you can. There are a lot of real posers out there running studios. As for weapons, it would be best to make your own and you should spend some time learning the different skills needed to construct your gear.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/23/2005 9:44 PM KEVLEX
Elijah Price: One man can do a lot if it is the right man and he chooses his fights well. It is of course most effective to strike at the head of the snake, but not everyone has the time or resources to do so. If I did not have to work for a living, I think I could get a lot done, but currently anything I do has to fit in in between working eight or more hours a day etc. I am working toward getting to where I can work for myself full time and can do as I wish, but until then, I am doing what I can. As for reforming the political system, I would rather tackle the criminal underworld: it is a much more realistic task.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/23/2005 11:57 PM KEVLEX
One thing that I have been contemplating: Criminals are not that difficult to find if the search is global. If a superhero organization had sufficient resources and personnel to handle trouble wherever it arose, it would never lack worthwhile foes. Genocide is occuring as we speak. Slavery still exists in some countries. Prostitution is not a pretty industry, but there are some places where brothels are stocked with people literally kidnapped and held captive to be raped for money! Occasionally serial killers are released on technicalities and are allowed to merge back into the general population. I have a newspaper clipping describing a man who raped a woman and CUT OFF HER ARMS! He later was released from prison and soon had killed someone else!!! Why was no-one watching him? Why would anyone EVER let him out!!!????? If an organization of superheroes with sufficient resources to be truly global could be assembled they would NEVER lack for important work!!!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/24/2005 5:14 AM Wolf Blade
kevlex-thanks 4 the encouragement!! i really need it! im looking at a jujitsu instructor. he’s also a cop so i figured he knows what he’s doing. problem: he’ll know my fighting style and trace it back 2 me once i get out!! ARGH!
what kind of weapons do you think? non-lethality is uncompromisable.i have no intention of bcoming the evil i fight. but except 4 ninja stars and tear-gas, i’m having trouble coming up with stuff! oh…do u think my name sounds cheesy?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/24/2005 9:45 AM KEVLEX
WOLFBLADE: The name is fine. This is a dramatic sort of activity, well suited to dramatic names. The important thing is that YOU like it. As for the teacher tracing your fighting style, I would advise that you learn at least two styles prior to going into action. It will make your style less specific and make you a much better fighter. If you do only learn one style, it is unlikely that anyone will be able to pinpoint you by it even if they get a good video tape of the action: martial arts are very common now. As for non-lethal weapons, I probably would not include the ninja stars. They can do real damage in the right hands. I would lean more toward stun guns (perhaps adapt them as stun-gloves or a stun-baton or sword) and tranquilizer darts(Choose the ingredients carefully: Ketamine is the most harmless one I am aware of, but there may be even better choices.). People can still die from either one in unusual circumstances, but the risk is greatly reduced. The most important things you can do to reduce the risk of death or injury to others is to become well trained and to plan your actions well! As for “Becoming the evil you fight” if you end up killing someone, I feel that that only truly applies if you are going after people who are not worth apprehending. If you get in a fight with a casual pot user and he ends up dead due to your sloppy planning or execution, you are indeed guilty of poor judgement, both by attacking in the first place and by letting it get out of hand: you will have committed a deep injustice that cannot be corrected and should consider getting off the streets permanently! If, on the other hand you have the same scenario but your opponent was a serial child murderer, you made a minor mistake that indicates a need for more training, but you have still improved the world significvantly.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/24/2005 12:57 PM Wolf Blade
kevlex: thank u SOO much!!! i really needed the advice. u totally rock, dude! + darn straight!some people wouldn’t blieve the kind of trash going on the alley next block down!!! there’s ALWAYS a need 4 justice. there’s no shortage of evil in this world.
here’s a thought:
what if u get injured in a fight?what if it gets infected? how do u explain it? this is 1 point i don’t c bing discussed. 1st,u should perhaps study medicine @ least a little so as 2 take care of urself. no sense in telling the nurse @ ur local hospital: “My cape got in the way,” “my mask slid,” or “my grapple broke.”
2nd, u should always have a ready alibi.if u own a quad/motorbike, u could say u wrecked. b sure to pick an out-of-the-way place 4 ur alibi. a crash on main street would b in the news. + pick ur alibi carefully. u may not b able 2 use it twice.
anything i screwed up?
Keep the faith.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/24/2005 3:40 PM KEVLEX
Wolf Blade: That is an excellent suggestion: you should know at least first aid, not just for yourself, but for assisting others. If you pull someone out of a burning building or out of the water you need to know cpr. If you are rescuing someone who has just been shot or knifed by an attacker, you should at least know the basics to keep them alive until the ambulance shows up. Eventually, perhaps we can find sympathetic folks in the medical field to assist us in times of need. The motorbike crash excuse is good too. You could even buy an old junk motorbike or bicycle stored someplace in pre-crashed shape to back up your alibi on a moment’s notice without having to sacrifice a useful vehicle.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/24/2005 8:46 PM Wolf Blade
aAny suggestions for smuggling stuff past people you’re living with?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/24/2005 9:15 PM KEVLEX
what size stuff?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/25/2005 6:47 AM Wolf Blade
Anything and everything to do with this!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/25/2005 8:09 PM Wolf Blade
oh, and can you recommend any sites on how to make a stun sword or baton? I have absoluetly no knowledge on the subject!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/25/2005 8:09 PM black knight
Ninja/throwing Stars; a few posters have suggested adding throwing stars (or shuriken) to their arsenal.
Throwing stars are often described as metal confetti. They are useless for engageing a enemy and inadequate for ‘distracting’ an enemy.
Avoid them.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/25/2005 8:37 PM KEVLEX
first off, you are still in school and probably carry around a backpack for school books, etc. If you don’t, get one and start carring it more and more often, using it during non-school hours as somplace to keep snacks and general junk. If it is too much of a pain to take all your school junk out of your backpack that often, you can always get a second, smaller backpack for that purpose. Once you establish a pattern of carring it around for general use, you can carry whatever you want in and out of the house that way without being noticed. BUT THAT IS NOT YOUR REAL PROBLEM! The real Issue is that it is your parents are in charge of making sure you don’t do things exactly like this! You should assume that ANYPLACE you store unusual items will be inspected by them at some point. I would recommend two things to take care of this: FIRST: Do not go active for at least two or three years and get trained! SECOND: develop hobbies that will mask your real purposes. Start learning electronics: there are books on building countless devices in the library, or available from edmond scientific.(Perhaps tell your parent you want to build a battle-bot, which will explain away a lit of weird stuff lying around!) If you have electronic projects in progress, you can easily have others that will not be noticed at all, such as making your own homing devices! (EASY) If you take martial arts, involve your parents, and behave responsibly. If you do you will probably be able to keep the associated weapons and equipment in full view without alarming your parents. Costumes can be passed off as halloween costumes in progress, especially if thrown in a drawer with a few cheesy masks, etc. You should also learn how to sew and perhaps learn metal forming and how to laminate fiberglass. The sewing will help with costume construction and the experience with working with fiberglass will help if you want to manufacture laminated kevlar body armor. You can explain the sewing by saying you want to earn some spare money and are thinking about learning to make halloween costumes to sell in early october.(Get a cheap used sewing machine with metal gears) You might actually sell stuff and earn some extra dough for your equipment! The possibilities are endless for ways to do everything you want right out in the open! (((PLEASE NOTE: If you solder, use lead-free solder and if you work with fiberglass, read up on the appropriate safety gear and use it every time!!!! It does you no good to prepare for crimefighting, only to develop severe health problems due to skiping safety procedures! Fiberglass resins are really nasty! Always read all the safety warnings and then assume the person writing them was an optimist!)))

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/25/2005 8:43 PM KEVLEX
Mass produced throwing stars are for the most part fairly poor weapons, but my father, who is trained in many martial arts and hand-makes his own swords and stars makes ones that are quite effective: quarter inch thick, large, and razor sharp. I would not want to get in their way!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/25/2005 11:33 PM Dark Knight
To Elijah Price,
First off, I would like to commend you on your clever name. However, starting at the bottom isn’t always bad. In cases where you start at the bottom end of a large problem for a community (such as meth distribution) it can be a very good thing. It all depends on how exactly you go about it.
For example, in this county one arrest from a buyer can lead up to 7 more arrests in under 24 hours that go right up the “food chain”. Being that there’s more than one source for the same problem here, you can’t just go to “the source” and be done with it like it’s a comic book. There are many sources and starting at the bottom gives you chains that lead to the multiple sources.
However, rather than beating up the buyer and making him scared enough to just GO COMMIT THE CRIME ELSEWHERE, it’s best to gather information and be a bit of a Detective about it and then give it to the law enforcement officials who have the authority, manpower, firepower, and forensic resources to make the arrests and put them in jail instead.
So, though purple spandex and flowing capes are pretty stupid when dealing with real dangers, don’t let yourself believe that there is only one way to get things accomplished.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/26/2005 6:36 PM Wolf Blade
black knight: nice name. yeah, no ninja stars in my artillary. the only ones i could afford are the cheap, mass produced ones that couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn anyway.
Kevlex: don’t know what I’d do without you! I already carry a backpack, so that’s no problem. i think i’ll be doing ok. what are the pros and cons of having a sidekick, do you think? a partner in this kind of situation can be handy, but how do you know you can trust someone? If my questions are bugging the crap out of you, just tell me to shut up. I know you have better things to do than answer some internet wannabe’s inquiries.
my dad *groan* will jump for joy when he finds out i’m taking up sewing. one complication is that i’m homeschooled, which means, hey, a heck of a lot more contact than I bargain for! the electronics should be no problem either. (by the way..homing beacons are REAL?!)
keep writing all, i check this every day!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/26/2005 10:02 PM KEVLEX
WOLF BLADE: Hold off on the sewing part if you think your dad might give you flack. Sewing can be learned easily and quickly. You can save that for later when you have a place of your own. As far as working with someone else, build your personal relationships over the next few years while you are building your equipment and getting trained. It will take time to learn which friends will stick with you over the years and which ones are going to flake out on you. As you learn more about your friends you will come to understand which ones might be worth approaching. Working with a sidekick or partner has risks both for yourself and for them, but is may also save your life at some point if you take an extreme path. If you do end up involving someone else, they need to be well trained in the skills that will keep you both alive. You might want to keep an eye out for friends in your karate class. In the handfull of years until you are ready to get into the action, we may end up with enough activity in your area that we may be able to find a sidekick for you. It just depends on how thing evolve on the website and in the real-life Super Hero community. Homing beacons are real and the low tech ones cost almost nothing to make, although their range and precision is not as good as the higher priced ones. (I will try to get a simple schematic and instructions up on the site sometime soon.) I am still experimenting with various stun weapons. Once I get a design I think is presentable, I will be posting schematics and photos. If anyone out there is aware of someone working in this area let us know. And finally, no, you are not bugging me at all. I appreciate your enthusiasm. Feel free to ask anything!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/26/2005 10:36 PM KEVLEX
a link has been added to the tutorials section that gives details on how to build a small homing device.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/27/2005 2:25 PM Wolf Blade
Is spandex all it’s cracked up to be, or should it be avoided when constructing a costume? And are there any bullet-proof materials besides kavlar?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/27/2005 7:55 PM KEVLEX
My favorite bulletproof material is dyneema-UD. I have not been able to find a good souce for the raw fabric, though. Spandex has it’s place, but it is mostly popular due to it’s prevalence in comic books, where superheroes are usually invulnerable no matter what they wear and mainly use costumes for decoration or concealing their identity. It does have the advantage of allowing freedom of movement, though.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/27/2005 9:39 PM KEVLEX
I checked on ebay and found that a variety of inexpensive bugs and homing devices are available on ebay. They do not sell bugs that record, though, LOL!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/28/2005 11:50 AM Dark Guardian
Kevlex e-mail me at [email protected] .
I would like to speak with you.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/29/2005 9:54 PM KEVLEX
DARK GUARDIAN: E-mail has been sent.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/30/2005 10:31 AM Wolf Blade
Kevlex: If they’re no glitches, I’ll be signed up as a martial arts student today. The guy who runs the place is a cop. Do you think I should try to be friends with him and maybe have him as a police ally? Or is that an absolute no-no? Are jeans w/belt a good idea for a costume, or do they inhibit movement? I’m working on getting my dad to teach me soldering. There’s a guy I’m eyeing for sidekick, nothing certain yet though. I’ve known him for a long time. He does martial arts, plus he has a LOT of knowledge concerning weapons, crime, computers and law.I’m going to hold back for a while, no worries.
There’s this book I’ve got called The Batman Handbook. While some of the stuff is WAYYYY over the top, there are a couple good pointers. The problem is they wrote it assuming you want to BE Batman, so that sucks.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 6/30/2005 8:11 PM KEVLEX
WOLF BLADE: Don’t give yourself away to the cop. you will have at least a few years to get to know him better, and it really does take at least years to find out who you can trust. For all you know he might sell pot on the side, or be a garden variety dirty cop. By all means make friends with him and perhaps bring up topics that might give you an idea as to his world-view, but give it a lot of time. If you approach a cop and make a mistake, it is a BIG mistake! Personally, I would not approach him at all due to the high risk. Jeans and a belt are not bad, assuming they are not too tight to allow freedom of movement. Once you are enrolled th the class, try practicing your moves in whatever you were thinking about wearing and it will be easy to tell if it is practical.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/6/2005 10:05 AM Elessarsecret
This is Wolf Blade, but from now on I’ll be going by Elessarsecret on here.
Kevlex: I don’t think he’s dirty, but I’m not taking any chances!! I’ve decided not to risk it. I just want the cops to know we’re both on the same side (provided they’re not in for pay only.) I would much rather have the police as backup rather than rivals. I’m FINALLY enrolled in the class. Is it wrong to have fun training for a job like this? Because I love it.
I’m holding back on the costume for a while, since it probably won’t fit in a few years.Does anyone have any ideas on mask designs?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/6/2005 6:32 PM Elessarsecret
P.S. Has anyone heard of M.S. 13? I think they definately deserve attention.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/7/2005 12:27 AM KEVLEX
Elessarsecret: Of course it should be fun! Martial arts are a blast. The entire process of becoming a superhero should build confidence, self reliance and strength of body, mind and character, as would any life lived well and with purpose. I did not think that the cop was likely to be bent, I was just pointing out that possibility as an example of problems with approaching him. More likely, he would turn tou in to the police to keep you from getting in too much trouble. What is M.S. 13?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/7/2005 10:54 AM edgar allen poe
hey kevlex im working on my costume over the next couple of months, i cant wait to see it on your site, which is looking great btw. elessar secret, interesting name, from lord of the rings isnt it? i think youve got what it takes as far as i can tell. my email is [email protected] if you want to talk on msn. sounds like your really keeping a level head and asking all the right questions, so add me and we’ll talk.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/7/2005 5:47 PM Elessarsecret
Kevlex: I’ve linked my name to a site page that explains MS-13. They’re a gang that’s, in short, a death sentence for every law-abiding citizen this side of the globe.
Edgar Allen Poe: how the crap did you know it was from LotR?! No one else has caught on yet. I’m obssessed to the drowning point with that story. Elessar is, as you might know, another one of Aragorn’s names.’Secret’ is because…well, I’ll tell you when I get to know you better. Let’s just hope I can handle myself when I hit the streets, or it’s curtains, then a nice long dirt nap! I would e-mail you but my housemates (aka the parents) don’t even know I come to this site, so that’s out of the question. They would NEVER!! support this crazy scheme, so I’m stuck. But I’ll be thinking, I REALLY want to talk!
P.S. The level head comes from way too many operations going into smitherines due to not asking enough questions. And 5 years is going to be a LONG time to keep excitement going!!!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/7/2005 11:28 PM KEVLEX
Elessar: I am a big LOTR fan, but it has been years since I last read them. Interesting info on MS-13: Definitely worth looking into.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/7/2005 11:50 PM KEVLEX
EDGAR ALLEN POE: I look foreward to seeing your costume too. Thanks for the kind words about the site. I work on it when I get the time, more to come!
ELESSAR: You could always e-mail EDGAR ALLEN from the library or an internet cafe, using an anonymous e-mail service, give him a MAILINATOR e-mail address (Check it out! very handy!)to use to reach you, then return there a few days later to check the e-mail.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/9/2005 6:57 PM Eiro the Hero
Hello. I don’t want to talk to much here. But I highly suggest someone writes a detailed guide for trainee’s…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/9/2005 6:57 PM Eiro the Hero
Hello. I don’t want to talk to much here. But I highly suggest someone writes a detailed guide for trainee’s…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/9/2005 6:59 PM Eiro the Hero
Dam it double posted on it’s own. This is why I didn’t want to post here. Now I look like an idiot…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/9/2005 8:08 PM KEVLEX
Eiro: don’t be silly! You don’t look like an idiot, I have tried to post before, gotten a really good thought together, then erased it all by entering the code wrong! LOL! It happens, don’t worry about stuff like that. The idea for a beginner’s guide is good, but it might be hard to create a universally accepted one due to the very different philosophies postulated here. Hopefully the superhero website will be usefull for that purpose eventually, allowing people to pick and choose what they want to incorporate into their personal style of crimefighting.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/10/2005 4:22 AM Eiro the Hero
I am considering writting a guide myself. Although I am new, I can write it as I go, and it will detail much more because it will include the entire experience.
I was wondering though, i’d like to join the forums despite the risks. But my problem is that they are difficult to look at. Maybe you could consider using an Invisionfree forum (www.invisionfree.com). They are very secure, and only the Administrator has access to I.P.’s….

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/11/2005 10:48 AM www.worldsuperheroregistry.com
Yo Kevlex and Edgar Allen! Guess what? My computer crashed! I escaped being caught sneaking on my mom’s by the skin of my teeth. I’m looking for the mailinator thing,but don’t be surprised if it takes a while.Nice to know I’ve got a fellow LotR fan on here! Edgar: are you an MSN member?
If so, you could create a private chat room and we could meet there. Now keeping an eye out for good costume things.
Eiro: Hey! I’ve done the same thing as Kevlex, no problem! That guide thing would be good, but I have to agree with Kevlex, there’s just too many views.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/11/2005 10:51 AM Elessarsecret
CRAP! The above post was from me.See, Eiro? I make mistakes too.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/11/2005 8:48 PM KEVLEX
Eiro the Hero: Despite my earlier doubts about producing a guide, you should go ahead with it. People may not all agree about it, but what the hell, It is worth doing none the less. Elessarsecret: Tough break with the computer! I have had them fail on me many times too. If you want to check out mailinator, just go to mailinator.com. you can pick any e-mail address such as [email protected] and you can send e-mail there without any setup. the downside is that anyone at all can read anyone’s e-mail, but if you pick an obscure e-mail that will not matter much. It is an interesting setup.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/12/2005 11:50 AM edgar allen poe
i’ll look into the private chatroom thing anyway, i havnt done it before, but i’ll ask my friends i know some of them have so it shouldnt be a problem. As for this guide idea, i agree with Kevlex. There are a lot of views, so write a guide and put your views out there for us all to read. On top of that, just getting your ideas down may help you develop them, and you’ll always find it useful to spend time musing and improving old ideas, trust me!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/14/2005 5:26 AM Elessarsecret
Kevlex: not only a tough break, ALL OF MY STUFF GOT WIPED! You name it, it’s lost! Dang it! I’ll check out mailinator when I can, but I won’t be able to for a while. That sounds very handy though!
Edgar Allen: Let me know when the chatroom is up. I won’t be back here for at least 5 days due to circumstances.
Eiro: Yeah, go ahead with the guide, it’s a good idea. If the readers want to follow their own style, there’s nothing stopping them, after all!
See y’all when I get back!!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/15/2005 10:54 AM Eiro the Hero
Thanks for the encouragement everyone. I’m getting my thoughts together right now. I want to be a writer when I get older so I should be a valid candidate…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/17/2005 1:52 PM reseeker
elessarsecret-think was you, had idea to wear jeans for part of disguise? maybe rethink, wear patterns on seams are unique. if pic of jeans caught by any surveillance cams you maybe in trouble. surveillence pics will only be useful if same jeans found, but could make circumstantial evidence if you arrested and charged by police. Also, maybe good idea find VERY common shoes to wear. shoes wear differently on different people but type of shoe sold to many people in many different stores much harder to trace.
ps-was first anonymous
pps-i LOTR obsess too, very good b ooks and movies!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/17/2005 1:55 PM reseeker
Also, yes tracker transmitter real. use many on wild wounded animal when release. give info on animal movement, others

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/20/2005 4:08 PM Video Vigilante
Thanks to whomever emailed me with a link to this site. My name is Brian Bates, better known as the Video Vigilante. Hope i can offer some useful information to your little corner of the Internet.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/21/2005 12:47 AM edgar allen poe
VV do you have any sort of costume or outfit/uniform ?? just wondering because if you did, it would make you a certifiable ‘superhero’ !

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/21/2005 1:03 AM Video Vigilante
No mask, no cape, not even a “bat signal.” Just me, a video camera, and an unwavering will to see my mission thru. I have found though that what I wear has a direct impact on the reaction I receive from criminals, law enforcement, and the media. If I am dressed casual, then I am treated casual. If I dress in business attire then I am treated with more respect – the bad guys back down with lots of “yes sir” and “no sir,” while the media and law enforcement take me more seriously too.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/21/2005 8:21 PM KEVLEX
VIDEO: Do you have a website?
What kind of camera do you use>

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/21/2005 10:32 PM The Gaurdian
No. This Forum was the begining, But this place will be the end. for those of you that are serious about this…..No more posting here.Post with eachother….this place is being watched. Remember that.Private e-mails only…..Video Vigilante, We appreciate your interest in us, but your services will not be needed. Take care…God Bless and be safe..But your troubles are your own. If you need us we willl be there….but if not, please do not endanger us.There is a Revolution to be started……Let it begin….for those who think I am being harsh……Listen to reason, and see what s being sacraficed…..i am not being paranoid, I am being careful. Secrecy is our best weapon.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/22/2005 6:20 PM KEVLEX
The Gaurdian: I for one would like the video vigilante’s input. Personal e-mail only gives the illusion of security. It is all accessible to any govt agency that is interested, or any competent hacker. We enjoy a degree of safety here for the time being simply because the authorities do not take us seriously. I doubt they will devote significant resources to watching us anytime soon.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/23/2005 12:35 AM edgar allen poe
i agree, KEVLEX. Revolution? Secrecy is our best weapon? I was under the assumption that we were helping people, not taking over the world, and since when do the good guys use weapons? perhaps ‘security is an essential factor’ or ‘hidden identity is a nessecary tool’….seriously, revolution?? Those kind of messages are going to attract wanna be anarchists and thus are the ONLY reason ‘this place will be the end’ or whatever pre-apocolyptic prophecies you phrase. ‘for those who think I am being harsh……Listen to reason’

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/23/2005 1:04 AM Hero
Mr. Bates, I tip my mask to you. 🙂 What you’re doing is truly incredible, and I think you will be a very welcome and valuable addition to this forum.
Hello, all. 🙂 Yep, I’m still around, and have been watching the blog and registry with interest. I’m not going to go into the whole “be careful, don’t give away anything!!!” speeches that will always be popular here. Anybody considering this work has to have a pretty extreme personality to begin with, and it takes all types.
Want to hear a funny story? On the Registry, an up-and-coming applicant is called Green Scorpion. Based on something I recently *coughweaponcough* built, I was trying to think of Scorpion-related names. And I also was thinking “Hm, Green Arrow, Lantern, Hornet. . .what about Green Scorpion? Naaah, it’d never work.” I swear, later that night I went to the Registry, and Bam, there it was. Sorry, guy, no offense. 🙂
And yeah, to anyone interested in corresponding, I’m still available at [email protected] Look forward to hearing from you, and I’ll offer any advice I can.
Keep up the good fight, all.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/23/2005 8:45 AM The Gaurdian
Ok, Let me try this again,
After Reading your reactions to my post, i was very offended. Especially what Mr. Poe said. This is just something that I am very passionate about. Since as far as I could remember. IT wasn’t til recently the drive returned to me, But then came a decision…either pursue this or I go pursue my career with full force. I felt I could not do both, It hurt, It really did.. Because I know what I wanted to do, I know if I devoted myself to this cause. I felt it in my bones, That I may have a chance to help change this world. Help people, protect. When i say revolution, I mean kinda what the Dutchman said before. A group of Mystery men, sparking something in people. To do good. So we could not only be the ones that can help, But we could inspire everyone in this world to stand up and belive in themseleves to make a difference. Those people that think that there is no more hope. For instance,(this maybe a long stretch, but please hear me out.) In places where ther are still slavery,oppression.Rwanda for example. Women and children being killed and raped. What if by some chance there was girl or guy..that heard a story of masked individuals going around and saving the lives of people. What if they were tired of what was happening to their families and friends. What if they were inspired by the actions of people like us…..That may be far fetched. I don’t want to take over ther world. i want to help inspire it, help change it, Because face it, If it didn’t need to be changed or helped. There would no reason for this site……And Mr. Bates, I aplogize for the rudeness, I had no place. As I did more research, and looked at what you do…IT is very neccesay in your town. Again I apologize. And as for the remark of Secrecy is our best weapon…..If we are reall going to start a network, then we need to be secretive of how we do it. Cause when this gets to the magnitude that i know it will. We will be a target…not only from the goverment. But from the very people we put away. i only have our Families and friends in mind….Now, back to the decision I had to make, I made the decision that involved my career. But i always had this in the back of my mind. After some soul searching. and a random incident in finding this forum. I think i know what I am going to do. i am not going to Give up on my dream job..but nor am i going to forget about what i know is right. I decided to pick up my mask…I mean hell, “SECRET IDENTITY” right?…anyways. i hope that explains me, and where i am coming from. I was in the wrong as how I went about things. You guys re-inspired me…angain,I’m sorry.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/23/2005 11:33 AM edgar allen poe
i intended no offense with my response, and im sorry i wasnt more understanding, i just acted on first instinct. I first read your message and thought that it was …a lot of things i didnt like. I stand by what i said, only i regret that my reply was not as understanding as it was insensitive. we are all passionate about this, and, well, we’re talking on msn right now so ill leave it there!!!!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/23/2005 8:16 PM KEVLEX
The Gaurdian: I certainly do not wish to lose your input or that of the video vigilante. I also think that heightened security will be necessary eventually: if you look at the Profile submission guidelines for the superhero registry, you will see that I have been putting thought and effort into that, but we also need to be available to assist those who wish to join the ranks of real-life superheroes.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/24/2005 8:37 AM Elessarsecret
I’m back! Finally! When I read the Guardian’s post, I totally freaked. I was shaking all day. So thanks for renewing my faith, guys, I was too scared to post there for a while! Guardian: I’m afraid I owe you an apology. I was all up and ready to write an accusive post, with every motive I could think of that you might not want vigilante allies to contact eachother, or newbies like me to get the proper training. I’m sorry. My fear overloaded my common sense.
Edgar Allen: Write me at [email protected] I think it’ll work. Any luck with the chat room?
This whole deal has only strengthened my resolve. Sirens are heard on a daily basis in my town now. If ever I had any doubt that this is what I’m meant to do, it’s not there now.
Let’s hit it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/25/2005 10:30 AM The Guardian
Elessasecret: I applaud your your enthusiasm and drive. Stick to this, I already know you will be a valuable asset.
Kevlex: You have been putting a lot of thought into your site. I like it alot..It will be helpful.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/25/2005 10:59 AM edgar allen poe
elessar good to have you back! i have ‘my space’ blog thing for anyone to post on if they cant contact me via email. the link is above.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/25/2005 3:34 PM Elessarsecret
Edgar Allen: good to be back! Look i havent got much time, but it seems that ur page is password protected or something. Might want to check that. my email is in my last post, sooo. ill write more later!!!!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/25/2005 8:58 PM GREEN SCORPION
AM HERO: I picked the name because I live in the desert (scorpion) and care about the environment (green), but Id be willing to let you have it if you are interested. If you want to use it, let me know soon, though.
EDGAR ALLEN: The good guys always have used weapons, they just use them for good, not evil! Ask any cop. I know you were just turning a phrase, but I get sorta bent when I hear the philosophy that the good guys can’t use anything more potent than good intentions to defend themselves and still be good. Good guys are defined by their actions, not by equipment.
ELESSAR: Like yer attitude. Try an stay in one piece and outa jail so you can put it to good use. Take the time to train.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/25/2005 11:27 PM Hero
Green Scorpion: Heh, nah, appreciate the gesture but you can keep it. It’s just that I have something that kind of resembles something to do with scorpions. ‘Nuff said. 🙂 I’ve got a huge imagination, I’ll figure something else out.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/27/2005 6:05 AM Elessarsecret
Thanks for all the support guys! I’m definately meant for this. I know I’ll get impatient in the years to come, but, hey: “The difference between ‘skilled’ and ‘killed’ is only one letter.” 🙂
Here’s a few questions:
1.Do police check rooftops at the scene of a crime? I don’t intend to “patrol” on the roofs, but if the police arrive sooner than expected and I need to dissapear…
2. Does anyone know of a sturdy, waterproof, common brand of shoe/boot with excellent tread? I check all over but for this kind of job we’re not talking about flip-flops at the local Wal-Mart:)
3. Is there a place where you can get a good quality, second-hand digital camera for under $50?
I’m open to suggestions.
Edar Allen: Have you written yet? My e-mail is kind of weird, I’ll have to get a real one soon. I’m still fiddling with your blog thing!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/27/2005 6:11 AM Elessarsecret
P.S.-Edgar Allen: I just tried to check my e-mail and the site’s down for maintainence. If you tried to write me, I probably won’t get it for a while.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/27/2005 6:37 PM Elijah Price
“Is there a place where you can get a good quality, second-hand digital camera for under $50?
I’m open to suggestions.”No.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/27/2005 7:16 PM KEVLEX
Elessarsecret: you could probably get a decent digital camera cheap off ebay. You probably won’t get cutting edge technology but you should br=e able to find something with a megapixel or two that will do the job for most purposes.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/27/2005 7:24 PM reseeker
elessar- maybe ebay for cams, but be careful, no gaurantee on quality. when shop for shoes, maybe ask staff for “running shoes” because you “like to run” or check camping store. rocky mountain boots good for camping boots, or other camping gear also very good, very cool.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/27/2005 7:25 PM reseeker
ps-Hero-good to see/hear from you and know you still around

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/28/2005 4:41 AM The Gaurdian
Friends: I need help, Does anyone know of anyway to research an individual? I need criminal bacground,driving history,addresses…..i know there are background checks we can buy online, but I don’t want it to link back to my credit card..This is very important. I can’t go into on here..please help any way you can. Thanks in advanced.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/28/2005 6:56 PM Elijah Price
Email Hero on that one. BTW, the internet is a veritable treasure trove of info.
A tip: go to Google/maps.com. Yes, it truly is f-ing awesome. In a jam? Have your ‘operator’ (via transmitter) talk yuo through the city with SATELLITE IMAGES of any place you can think of. Also good for scoping out places before you infiltrate.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/28/2005 7:01 PM Elijah Price
I just zoomed in so close to my own house I could see my car!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/28/2005 8:25 PM KEVLEX
AM The Gaurdian: If the internet is not going to work for you, and you can afford it, hire a private detective for cash under an assumed name. It would not take one long at all to find out that sort of info. You might also think about taking a correspondence course to become a private detective. they are inexpensive and would give you the skills you would need to find out that sort of info in the future.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/29/2005 4:26 AM The Gaurdian
Most of the “cases” that i have had in the past, the investigative work wasn’t too extensive. i mean I was able to get info from people….but in this case I need to stay as far away as possible. The things i’m dealing with, It’s just better to stay as far under the radar as possible. I just thught maybe someone knew of a faster and efficient way to find this info. I didn’t want to involve a lot of other people(private investigator). I appreciate your help Elijah Price and Kevlex.
i don’t know team….this “case” that i am looking into, there is something bigger going on. I can feel it….Days like these I wish we had an Established Network.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/29/2005 5:10 AM edgar allen poe
Elessarsecret, sorry it took a few days to post, for some reason the message wouldnt show (??) i have sent you an e-mail, when you first told me about you mailnator address but dont worry it wasnt anything important(or interesting im afraid!) i’ll keep checking my blog. Guardian, a network would be great, i think we would all benefit greatly from it. You guys in the US must surely be able to set something up, if not just to share you resources? just an idea to get the gears rolling. Also Elijah Price i checked out google maps and loved it, thanks for the tip it’ll be very useful.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/29/2005 10:03 PM Hero
Gaurdian, send me an e-mail at [email protected], I can probably help you with your investigation needs.
And. . .errgh, sorry, but this is a sticking point with me. . .”Guardian”. Please. 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 7/30/2005 4:47 PM KEVLEX
I was just re-reading an article relating to a massacre of a busload of people in Honduras. The gang responsible just randomly murdered a busload of people to show their displeasure with their president’s attempted crackdown on gangs. They said “Enjoy this Christmas, because next year will be worse.” I wish we the resources to go after people like that and prevent whatever they are planning for this Christmas.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/1/2005 10:40 AM edgar allen poe
i can only suggest that a contact who is employed in the relevant law enforcement agency would be necessary. Unless there is an actual superhero who by day works with the national law enforcement? it is a far stretch, but there must be people like us with that sort of job.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/2/2005 2:50 PM The Gaurdian
Border town in texas, Nuevo Laredo.It is being over run with drug dealers. They can’t even get a police chief, who ever gets the job, is killed. I’ve been looking at this for a while.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/6/2005 4:20 PM theunknown
Well then, sounds like I’m not the only person on the planet who might like to go night-prowling in tights :-D. Okay, Hero, I read the up to like December’s comments where you were talking about little kids waiting (good idea), so I don’t know specifically what you’ve said since, but I have dreamed of doing exactly the same as you for quite some time (flashback of playing Spiderman with friends from kindergarden to 4th grade, Webhead being yours truly), and I’ve even made countless designs of suits and costumes for how I would like to appear. Anywho, if ANYONE wants to talk about the hero-biz further, please write or IM- [email protected]
-theunknown-

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/6/2005 4:26 PM theunknown
Okay, if anyone does want to contact, just send me an email with the subject ” -theunknown-herobiz ” thanks bunches, I’m hoping to especially hear from Hero, Elijah, or Madaline Draven 😀

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/6/2005 7:38 PM Elijah Price
We’re special. 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/9/2005 2:25 AM Scarecrow
I’m working on becoming a superhero, was even before I found this. I’d like some advice on the matter of masks.
I’ve done my research and found that in my state it is illegal to wear a mask in public except on holidays or at officially sanctioned rallies. This law was created to curtail the Ku Klux Klan in the years following the Civil War, so I don’t have a problem with it on principle.
Problem is, it makes it rather difficult to have a costume you can quickly change into or out of. I thought about a motorcycle helmet, but considering I don’t own a motorcycle and can’t drive particularly well to begin with (hey, we all have our weaknesses), that won’t work.
I’ve also toyed with greasepaint, but it can get kinda hot, even at night. I’ve also found that I’m too readily identifiable under it, and even some of the tricks I learned in theater to alter my facial outline either only really work at a distance or require stage lighting, which is not something a superhero wants to have much of. Application also takes about an hour, though at least baby oil can remove it quickly.
Any other ideas for how to circumvent the mask law?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/10/2005 6:04 AM edgar allen poe
as i have not had a costume (yet… 🙂 ) i always use a wool hat and scarf, or a hood to cover my face. i also try and waer something with a collar that can be stuck up. what about false beards, tattoos or even nose ? there are also masks/ helmets for other sports i.e. paint balling. even some cool shades can help conceal your identity.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/10/2005 6:06 AM edgar allen poe
Scarecrow PS a bit tatty hood would look especially good coupled with…i dont know, say a black poncho? 😀

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/11/2005 2:05 PM The Gaurdian
Mr. Poe…..it’s been too long.
and by the way, Welcome Scarecrow

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/11/2005 11:43 PM Hero
Welcome as well, Scarecrow. . .and honestly, I think you may be thinking too deep into the law. If you’re going to be wearing a mask to do something illegal like vigilantism, then getting arrested for having a mask on will probably be the least of your worries. If you’re going to get caught, it’s going to be mask or no mask. Like most of us here are probably planning to do, the mask won’t even be on your face until it’s just before go time, and then will come off again once you’re safe and sound afterwards.
As for helmets. . .not owning a motorcycle doesn’t mean you can’t carry a helmet with you in a backpack. Who’s going to know you don’t have a bike? You could have parked it somewhere and not wanted to leave your helmet behind. Of course, a level III ballistic helmet and faceshield may be a bit harder to explain should some sort of search ever be performed. 🙂
I’d definitely avoid facepaints and wigs and such. . .especially for anyone out there thinking about the Robin/Green Lantern/etc. style “domino” mask that’s supposedly held on with spirit gum. As an ex-veteran of the theater, I can tell you that spirit gum will not hold stuff to your face reliably for *any* length of time, especially once you start to sweat. Besides, you can’t apply it to the mask in a hurry, and afterwards you’re going to have sticky stuff all over your upper face. Not too inconspicuous.
Here’s what I think I’d recommend. . .if you’re going to do general snooping or patrolling around and feel you *have* to wear a mask, get a simple spandex hood with eye holes. It’s pretty easy to breathe through, I have several of different thicknesses. You can tuck it in any pocket and it will probably not be felt during a pat-down, plus it takes up almost no space at all. Then, if you have a helmet in a backpack for protection during a fight, you can pull it on over the mask, or exchange the two quickly. Just some thoughts.
Oh, and I’m just a touch too lazy right now to read back through this entire page and see if I said this already, so here’s another thing I discovered. . .there’s a special “spandex mesh” being sold with custom made spandex gear (or as fabric by itself, but if you don’t know how to sew, I’d have it done for you by the shop) that can be used for breathing holes, or eye holes. I have a mask with it in place at the eyes, and it’s pretty awesome stuff. Even in the dark, with it right next to your eyes, you can almost see as if there were nothing there. But anything except a light pointed directly at your face will just show it as opaque. If your mask has, say, Spidey-shaped eyes, with black spandex mesh in them, you’re in the dark, and have a light shone up or down at your face, the mask’s eyes look cool and scary. In bright light, you can see through the mesh from the outside, but your face is still pretty shaded.
Anyways. Just some thoughts, as I said. Hope this helps. Have any more questions?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/12/2005 8:20 PM GREEN SCORPION
HI SCARECROW: I have not come up with much regarding your mask problem, but if you are going to use a scarecrow outfit, maybe you could glue straw to your face? I pretty much agree with hero though, If you are going to be sought by the police for your other activities anyway, the mask won’t make much difference.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/14/2005 5:15 AM edgar allen poe
what about some bandages? that would be scarecrow ish, and it wouldnt break the mask law, plus its light, easyily breathable, compact, simple to put on and you’d look as cool as ‘Hush’ !

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/14/2005 9:22 AM KEVLEX
I just read that we are sending 600 troops to Nuevo Laredo to whip the place into shape, so I guess that is pretty much taken care of.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/15/2005 3:22 AM edgar allen poe
hey KEVLEX, my costume is really coming along now, the gloves are done and im halfway through the torso peice and gauntlets 😀 ill submit for the registry the second its finished!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/15/2005 4:21 AM The Gaurdian
Kelex, The Nuevo Laredo sitch…They have sent troops there before to attempt to restore order. It actually wasn’t too long ago. It didn’t help. It is going to take some drastic measures in order to clean that place up.I live near the border…and the drug dealers run the city. They have most of the police in thier pockets. And even before it got so bad.most of the cops were not much help,unless it would benifit them in some way…but who knows, maye this time the mexican government will make a difference.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/15/2005 8:24 PM KEVLEX
EDGAR ALLEN POE: Nice to hear about the costume progress. I look forward to seeing it.
THE GUARDIAN: I thought it was the USA sending troops this time. I will have to go re-read the article.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/16/2005 9:57 AM The Gaurdian
Kevlex, From what I understood it was the mexican troops…I know they have sent theor troops before…but maybe it is us….i need to check, it just didn’t seem very likely for us to do that.
Edgar allen: I haven’t recoved any e-mails from you..Everything ok?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/17/2005 8:47 AM The Gaurdian
Question…..is there other sites like this one? Another place where people like us go to?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/17/2005 11:54 AM Mark Schmidt
Hello,
I’m the owner of this original feed. If you all want, I can get free hosting and set up a snazzy webpage with forums. It’s something I’ve been thinking about. Let me know and I’ll see what I can do.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/17/2005 12:11 PM The Gaurdian
Mr. Schmidt,
That’s sounds pretty cool. I have been curious about something..I appreciate you starting this forum…but what do youthinkn of us? I mean, do you support it? Iknow it wasn’t exactly what you were asking originally…but what do you think?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/17/2005 8:58 PM KEVLEX
THE GUARDIAN: There is WORLDSUPERHEROREGISTRY.COM, although I like the way this forum is laid out better than the one on that site. This forum here is also a lot more active than the one at the registry.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/18/2005 4:10 AM The Gaurdian
Kevlex: Buddy, ofcoarse I know of the site. There was a lot of work put into it. I should have mentioned that sit in my post..i just figured it was understood.I think everyone that comes here know about WORLDSUPERHEROREGISTRY.COM.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/18/2005 4:46 PM KEVLEX
GUARDIAN: LOL! Just making sure anyone tuning in late was up to speed.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/19/2005 12:06 PM Mark Schmidt[MSFT]
Test. Something’s not working for me. Disregard this message

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/19/2005 12:06 PM Mark Schmidt[MSFT]
Hmm, it worked there. Gonna try again with my original message.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/19/2005 12:08 PM Mark Schmidt[MSFT]
Ok, this is weird. I’m trying to post a link but the comment never shows. Something weird is happening. Must be the forces of evil. Gonna keep trying.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/19/2005 12:09 PM Mark Schmidt[MSFT]
superheroes dot members dot winisp dot net

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/19/2005 12:09 PM Mark Schmidt[MSFT]
superheroes.members.winisp.net

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/19/2005 9:03 PM KEVLEX:
Mark Schmidt: I like your site layout and will link to your site as soon as I do the next update on the registry.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/22/2005 9:33 PM KEVLEX
I added the link to Mark Schmidt’s new site on the forums page and the links page. It looks like we will soon have an interview with “Captain Jackson” and will probably be adding him to the registry.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/23/2005 8:23 PM KEVLEX
I just completed my phone interview with Captain Jackson and will post it sometime soon. He will also be added to the registry as soon as possible.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 8/24/2005 9:58 PM KEVLEX
The interview with Captain Jackson is online now after a few difficulties. Check it out!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/1/2005 4:40 AM theonewhosees
Do any of you know if anyof ourpotential heroes lived around the area devestated by katrina?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/1/2005 12:11 PM edgar allen poe
heres an idea for the american heroes among us- isnt there some sort of loophole where you can be reccognised as a public group and perhaps even get government funding of some sort? i know its far fetched…KEVLEX, an interview with captain jackson? that rocks!!!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/1/2005 6:43 PM KEVLEX
I posted the profile for Green Scorpion, but he has not yet provided a usable photo. If he does not provide an acceptable photo by the end of the month his profile will be removed until I Receive one.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/9/2005 9:00 PM KEVLEX
EDGAR ALLEN: Thanks for the kudos on the interview. Captain Jackson was very helpful and even sent me a dvd of his activities. I haven’t had a chance to watch it yet though.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/14/2005 9:16 AM The Gaurdian
How is everyone doing? I have not checked in for awhile. I am trying to limit my time on here for my own security reasons. I hope all is well with you all.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/14/2005 8:39 PM KEVLEX
The Gaurdian: Nice to hear from you again! Thing are going well, although there does not seem to be as much activity lately, probably due to school starting up again. You should think about using internet cafe’s and paying cash if you are very concerned, either that or use other security precautions. Ask your local hackers or do some research and you will find ways of remaining anonymous.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/18/2005 12:15 PM Nexus
Greetings all,
I was first “awakened” to this business September of 1999. I’e done a lot to begin establishing a knowledge base and training for skill sets. I’ve already posted extensive introductions on both Mr. Schmidt’s new forum site, and Kevlex’s. I recommend anyone involved here get to a public computer (libraries are best) and join the new forums. There we can carry on more focused discussions in separate threads. I also hope to help Kevlex improve the site more.
Most of my benefit to this small community will be intellectual based to begin with. I specialize in strategy and planning, as well as knowledge bases. I hope to assemble a great reading and datalink list for our members to use, especially those needing information before we have established an official underground contact network.
The single greatest contribution I hope to make is the Five Heroic Laws, a set of principles I devised to act as a barrier against “undesirable” participants entering this work (none of whom I detect here). Reading the past discussions, it’s obvious we are all very human and differ in our philosophies, but I hope the Five Laws will act as a unifying edict that we can all agree a private crime-fighter must abide by. We may have differeing goals and plans to affect change, but I hope we can be unified in mutual aid.
By Thursday I should have much more to post in Mr. Schmidt’s forums. Please do get around to signing up and declaring yourself (I realize there are those who guard their privacy, so a mere sign of your involvement is appreciated).
I’ll try and contact everyone who has presented emails by tomorrow. Good luck until then.
Strength and Honor,
Nexus
“I am the vengeance of humanity. I am He who is connected to all things. I am Nexus.”

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/18/2005 1:26 PM Nexus
!ATTENTION ALL!
I’ve sent out several messages to create a newsletter address book, so that any major “community” updates can be seen by those who choose to see them, but not by having to visit potentially “flagged” sites.
link, The Dutchman, D.A., stein B, Elijah Price and The Gaurdian have all (wisely) chosen not to post email addresses, but if they do have secure or anonymous addresses they check from time to time, please email [email protected]

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/21/2005 5:06 PM The Gaurdian
Hero: ce-mail-g

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/26/2005 5:41 AM The Gaurdian
Has anyone heard from Hero?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/26/2005 10:42 AM Nexus
No, I’ve heard back from Raven, Kevlex and WolfBlade, but not Hero.
Gaurdian, if you have a contact email (secure), please send it to [email protected]

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/27/2005 9:17 PM GREEN SCORPION
Hey, somebody on the registry forum had a cool idea. Does anyone know where to get glow in the dark fabric?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/27/2005 10:58 PM Hero
Nexus: I’m still here, but I’m in touch with those I need to be. I choose to abstain from your grouping, thank you.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/28/2005 9:35 AM Elessarsecret
Hey everyone.
Ok, I need some help. This might sound weird but:
Is it possible, even theorectically, to put a silencer on an engine? I’ve more or less decided that when I get started I’ll use a motocycle as my transportation means, but who ISN’T going to remember a roaring ‘cycle going down their street at 2:00 AM? Apparently they can silence a gun, so why not a motorcycle? If you know of a way to do this or know that it’s impossible, please let me know. Thanks!”Your focus determines your reality.”
*Elessar

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/28/2005 10:03 AM Nexus
Hero: Understandable. Please keep in touch, though.
Elessar: Electric engines are the quietest locomotion, try researching that. Silencing a combustion engine is essentially a waste of time.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/28/2005 1:20 PM KEVLEX
Elessarsecret: Silencing a gasoline engine can be done and I could probably find a schematic if you really want to. I know someone who has done some research into similar applications, but buying electric is probably easier if you can afford it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/28/2005 4:48 PM theunknown
Hello again everyone! I know I haven’t posted anything lately at all, but I have kinda kept up to date as to what everyone is thinking of. Right now as far as costumization, I do have a couple of general ideas. Black of course, I’m thinking three quarter length-sleeved tight shirt, and depending on the look i’m going for, either a black trench coat and no mask (which would look wicked at night flying by on a black motercycle) or no coat and a black mask with some sort of eye covering (i was thinking a mask very similar to what was used for the footsoldiers in the Turtles movies would work VERY well), and then of course black gloves to prevent any prints being lifted by the cops. I know overall, if I had the materials, what I would want to wear, but what I’m having trouble with is 1. what my name should be, and 2. because I live in a more spread out, in the country-type city, the buildings aren’t close together and aren’t near as tall or elegant as what I would like to use as my homebase. If anyone has any help or suggestions to any of this, please let me know. Thanks to all

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/28/2005 11:29 PM Hero
Heh. . .that was something that bothered me back in my old hometown. . .it was nice suburbs, and I walked around all night without ever being hassled by the cops or encountering a crime. I could easily climb on to rooftops, but they were so far apart I’d have to climb, look around, get down, walk the quarter mile to the next one, climb up, etc. 🙂 It’s the tradeoffs of country and city life. . .the sheer size of most cities means that even though crime happens more frequently on the streets, you probably won’t be nearby when it does. And in the country, crimes tend to be more of the secret, kept-in-the-family kind, but everyone is watching everyone else. The cops around here are too da** efficient in many ways. . .I’ve apparently been reported as a potential burglar several times now because people in the same neighborhoods saw me sneaking around a crook’s house, or leaving my vehicle dressed in black at 3AM. *sigh* Real life sucks. Fortunately they don’t seem to be cross-checking occurences, otherwise I’d probably have been officially taken in and questioned by now.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/29/2005 5:32 AM Nexus
Sorry to hear of your troubles, Hero, though it certainly does stand as important lessons for the rest of us to be aware of.
As for naming, unknown, you usually need to consider various factors:
-What impetus was it that made you believe you should do this? Are there specific crimes or ills you’ll be attacking?
-What manner or character would you operate under? What type of personality and demeanor does your alter ego carry?
-What area are you going to operate in?
-Are you using a totem or symbol of some kind, or even a theme?
A decent real world name is hard to come by, because without real powers, overly fantastical handles are laughable (at best). You just need to consider something that is an identifier, but also isn’t outside the realm of a real-world nickname.
**But don’t choose anything closely related to your cvilian identity!**

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/29/2005 1:47 PM Jackalope
I have a name i descarded MonkyMan
take it if you want itI wanted a more regional name

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 9/30/2005 7:19 AM edgar allen poe
Unknown: i would have said ‘ghost rider’ but thats kind of taken!
how about: Phantom Rider
Pale Spectre
Grim something…
Highway Phantom
Pale Rider
Easy Rider!!!
who are your heroes?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/2/2005 6:55 AM D
Some of you were discussing some type of hero guide earlier. What do you think about a more literary approach? Not a step by step guide but just a story that you can learn from. When I read the bit about not using a grappling hook because your arms can be ripped off, I laughed for a full thirty minutes. Perhaps a story about someone just getting into the business and trying out different techniques could be a more helpful and interesting guide.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/2/2005 8:03 AM Nexus
Perhaps. At the moment, I’m more concerned about dispelling myths about this work that are hold-overs from the fantastical world they’re inspired from, ie rooftop patrolling, flashy costumes, adolescent wards, etc.
There’s a lot of hard facts to face, and it’s better we disillusion those who see this as another wekkend warrior activity that is easy to separate from your private life.
I hope to start compiling a good list of literary references and posting it on both Mark and Kevlex’s forums. There are plenty of books out there to help improve valuable skills, but any text on real world superheroics would have to be an underground publication. In fact, it might be best served to be an online document formatted for ease of printing.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/2/2005 3:51 PM DarkShadow
I found the comments on this board facsinating and am offering my information services to anyone who is interested. If your serious, and you need suits, gear, or weaponry(non-lethal, of course) drop me a line. S/N is ShadowWithNoName

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/2/2005 7:16 PM GREEN SCORPION
ShadowWithNoName: do you have any info on the netguns coming out of china? Are they effective? Where can we get ahold of them at a decent price? What about ballistic masks at a reasonable price?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/3/2005 11:38 AM Nexus
Shadow, please send me an email at [email protected] if you have a secure address. I’d be most interested in talking.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/3/2005 12:23 PM DarkShadow
Green Scorpion, if your talking about the police type Netguns that the Chinese police currently are using…the closest thin i can recommend is a monofilament net launcher that animal control uses to capture animals with. From what I do know, they appear to be quite effective if you know how to use them the right way. as for Prices….
i’ll have to get back with you on that.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/3/2005 12:26 PM DarkShadow
Nexus, being that i just got broadband and am still setting up a secure network, i’m not totally secure yet. But i will be soon. You can contact me at [email protected] for now. Soon as I’m secure, we can discuss anything thats on your mind.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/3/2005 2:36 PM Professor Widget
I enjoy a challenge. I can fabricate costume elements and equipment. If there is something that you cannot make or find, come to me, and we can negotiate. Leave a note in this forum or any of the others and I will notice it eventually.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/3/2005 3:32 PM DarkShadow
Professor,..where ya been hiding all this time? LOL Your just the person I’ve been looking for 😀 Been looking for some reasonably priced grappling gun/components for quite a while now. Email me at ShadowWithNoName and we can talk. Thanks in advance.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/3/2005 5:56 PM The Gaurdian
I don’t know if this is a re-post..
AM D : In regards to the manuel with the literary approach.I like the idea. You should put an outline together, or if you have anyhting all ready done…that would be cool.. any ideas to help the cause are always welcomed.
Nexus:with all do respect, I don’t think that you should be striking down ideas just because they don’t fit your way of wanting to do things. I think it’s great that you are trying to get things together. but personally, as i stated before, I like Am D’s idea, and so did a few others here.
Most of the people that some here are new to all this….heck all of us us are a nivice to some sense….I’m just trying to let eeryone know that all ideas are welcomed.
We are all in this together…we walk the same path…Remember that..This is about making a difference and helping others. The good fight.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/3/2005 6:18 PM D
I’ll begin working on this guide and try to make it as realistic as I can. I might end up posting peices of it instead of throwing the whole thing down all at once. Peer editing has always been helpful so feel free to add to it. And I wouldn’t mind if some of you decide to throw out some ideas because I’m coming up short in that area right now.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/4/2005 4:27 AM The Gaurdian
nivice?…..lol..novice anyways.
So this will not be made up from expierence? I think Any technique or gadget that is used,should have been done successfully.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/4/2005 5:51 AM Edgar Allen Poe
D: why not see if you can post your guide on the registry? i think a more realistic, literary guide is a great idea, btw.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/4/2005 10:20 AM The Gaurdian
Professor Widget: What is your background? I do appreciate you offering the help…i am just wondering Do you have any expierence in creating gadgets and costumes for this type of lifestyle?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/4/2005 5:53 PM Dark Shadow
hey Green Scorpion….i saw your post on glow in the dark fabric. Thought you might want to check this site that I have in my archive. Let me know what you think.
Luminex.it

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/4/2005 6:38 PM GREEN SCORPION
Dark Shadow: Thanks, that is very cool! I didn’t even know they made stuff like that!
Professor widget: Do you work with laminated kevlar?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 4:09 AM Professor Widget
DARKSHADOW: what specs are you looking for in a self-deploying grapnel?
All who wish to reach me can do so by going to: professorwidget.tk
The Gaurdian: I stand by the peerless genius of my work: if any of the creations fail, resulting in your early demise, return it in person for a full refund.
GREEN SCORPION: I can work with any suitable material. Period.
All who wish to reach me more directly may do so at: PROFESSORWIDGET.TK

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 4:58 AM Hero
Professor: Not to be insulting, but you didn’t really answer their questions. Beyond your newly-created webpage, what specific proof do you have that you’re not just another teenager playing around and pretending to be more experienced than you actually are?
This has always been a pretty common phenomenon, no matter which unusual webgroup you belong to. . .there’s always someone bright enough to think, “I’m not experienced now, so no one will listen to me or give me a chance. So if I pretend to be experienced, they’ll give a chance, and then hopefully I’ll gain enough knowledge as I go that no one will know the difference.” Just like the individual-pretending-to-be-a-group thing. They pretend they’re an already established group or organization, in the hopes that eventually enough people will join to make it true, because no one would trust just one person with a crazy idea.
Just like why I don’t watch soap operas. . .don’t we have enough stumbling blocks to contend with without people inventing more?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 5:00 AM Edgar Allen Poe
D: a more literary guide is a brilliant idea, what about putting it on the registry?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 5:06 AM Edgar Allen Poe
btw Hero- amen to that!
and i realise i re-posted, it seems the first time round everyone decided to ignore it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 5:34 AM Hero
P.S. – There are a lot of people here now trying to take the “if you can’t do, teach” route, and offering “informational” services or advice because they’ve never actually been out to do this stuff, but still want to help. But I think, in the interest of community spirit and sifting out the good advice from the bad, perhaps everyone who has links or info on where to find costume/weapon/etc bits should go to Kevlex’s Registry, and make their own thread where they share all that in one big post.
Comparison shopping is always better, after all. . .this way you don’t tell an up-and-comer through e-mail that yeah, you found this great price on bulletproof vests, only to discover that you actually listed the most expensive website on the net because you didn’t really look around too much. Not that most of the new people around here *have* a few hundred dollars to throw around anyways. 🙂
Same thing for people who are in the process of writing guides right now. . .please, for the sake of the newcomers, do not offer advice on something you’ve never at least gone out once in real life and tried to do.
Kevlex: Hey there. . .you might want to drop Stungloves.com off the Tutorials section of your site. They don’t actually respond to e-mails, and their Paypal account is deactivated. I think their product bombed so badly they had to close up shop, but keep the website running in hopes someone might try to buy them out or something. (Also, the Nero foundation link is dead.) Plus, for anyone else who’s been thinking of buying stun guns. . .I’ve tested a bunch of them, on myself, over the past few months. 🙂 Putting my money where my mouth is. . .I’ve knocked myself on my *** so many times I lost count, but after the initial shock of being. . .er. . .shocked, I recovered really quickly. I mean one-to-two second quickly. I’ve run the gauntlet from little 10KV pen-style stun guns (please. . .it almost tickled) to the big 900,000 King Cobra (and yeah, damn that sucked, but it didn’t put me down for long). My poor gf has had to hold these things on me because I involuntarily dropped them when I tested them on myself. 🙂 However, the Air Taser rocks. (That’s an official Taser, not the outdated “Dual Defense System” like Katie Holmes uses in Batman Begins.) It doesn’t stop everyone. They even show you in the training video CD that comes with it that not everyone will be incapacitated by it, and can even still make it across the room and stab you if they’re ready for it. But my god did it keep me down. I turned into a board and fell over. 🙂 I even got two round burn marks on my chest when we tested it stun-drive style (direct contact instead of the cartridge-launched probes). The company I bought it from was originally charging only about $272 for it, but since then they’ve gone up to $399. (Good thing I re-checked that link before I posted it here.) Check on Froogle.com and compare prices. Remember, if you do get an Air Taser for this type of work, you can’t use the cartridges. It’s up-close-and-personal or nothing, because the cartridges blow out almost impossible to find ID tags that identify that specific cartridge, and all sales *are* tracked and traced. (Unless you find some that “fell off the truck”.) The Taser itself also keeps an internal data log of when it was fired, but if the police never recover it, they can’t check it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 5:41 AM Hero
Heh, double-P.S.- Interesting philosophical point. . .back when Batman first came out, he killed almost *all* the criminals he encountered. Shot, hung, threw off towers. He had no problem with guns back then. Just like the first Michael Keaton Batman movie. . .he blew up an entire warehouse full of henchmen, and attacked Joker with missiles and machine guns. I guess it’s all in the eye of the beholding artist.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 5:52 AM Hero
Ha, Triple-P.S. – There’s just too much to say I keep forgetting about. Ballistic masks. . .I know what most of you are thinking of here, but they don’t exist yet. If you wrap a panel from a b.p. vest around your face, yes, it’ll stop the bullet from penetrating, in the same way it stops a sledgehammer from penetrating. You will be knocked out, at best, and will probably suffer severe head trauma or die. Ballistic helmets stop bullets, but only a few at *maximum* before they’re useless. These are designed to save your life just long enough, and you will probably still need hospitalization to check for skull fractures, etc. Ballistic faceshields can be bought that hook to the helmets and can supposedly stop one or a few bullets, depending on design. They usually run around $200, cost as much as the helmet themselves, and the first time they get shot, you have to buy a new one.
Remember, cops wear this stuff because they hope they won’t need it. . .they want the situation they’re walking into *locked down* so no one tries to shoot them in the first place.
Okay, that’s all for today, I promise. Now to hit the weights and face the day.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 7:49 AM Nexus
Thank you for all your commentary, Hero, and your necessary criticism Gaurdian.
It is not our intention to be outright insulting to newcomers, but for our own safety, skepticism is a must (and I’ll admit, the Professor does do things in a rather tongue-in-cheek manner). However, there’s no law against being humorously eccentric, even if it’s disconcerting to the diehards like us.
In the end, Gaurdian and Hero are right, though, we believe when we see. When the gadgets prove themselves, we have faith in the creator.
An important thing for all of us to consider is the concept of the “contact network”. People you come in contact (or directly contact) through an assumed identity and uitilize either during your career, or in training beforehand. Many of us would benefit from training from ex-military and police who now run seminars on survival, self-defense and other courses. This is obviously not a replacement for official training, but it is much better than merely purchasing books and DVDs on the subjects.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 12:12 PM D
Hero: In response to your first P.S. I agree with you. I realized when I set about writing this guide that I have no actual experience in this business aside from reading about it in books or from the movies. No one should attempt to give advice on something they are not familiar with. I’ve also realized that a literary guide would be interesting but not very helpful. So if I’m going to write anything, it will have to come from experience. This is going to take a very long time so I wouldn’t expect any guides coming from me very soon. Thanks for pointing this out to me before I made a big mistake.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 12:47 PM Jackalope
On the other messege board HERO made a few comments about “arresting” people.
I would like to know if he is a cop.
If so woudent it be jeperdising to his career to be a superhero?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 2:25 PM Dark Shadow
Hero: #1 i agree with you, anyone can come on here and preach or say they know about things and such…let me be frank. I am not one of them…..got it? I’m 30-something and am probably older than anyone here. (I’m just young at heart) 😀 I do know about certain stuff from what I have found on here, you’d be surprised at what you actually CAN find on here….it can be wild at times. but I do admit, you did hit on a very important thing when you said things about certain equipment and all..and your right, If it works like it says it does, then you got something good. But if it doesnt,…then buyer beware.
I currently have a list of equipment from places that i have purchased from and canbe certified as genuine if you or anyone else is interested.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 2:29 PM Dark Shadow
ProfessorWidget: I have been combing the Net for months looking for the real-world equivlant of Batman’s Grapnel Gun Launcher..Similar to the one found in the Batman: The Ultimate Guide to the Dark Knight book. I have found a few sites that are close to it, but price-wise they are out of my reach. Any info you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 3:09 PM Dark Shadow
Poe: I’ve been thinking about doing that, putting equipment resources where they could do the most good. ‘Dont know if its a good idea or not though…I’m currently not “active” as of yet but have several resources that others here could use….perhaps private emails would suffice better?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 4:35 PM DarkShadow
hey Group, I’ve tried the Lifecender website but it appears to be a broken link….so i cant get access. Is anyone else having trouble? From what I’ve been told this thing could be a good prototype platform for a grappling gun. Thoughts or suggestions?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 4:52 PM Professor Widget
Dark Shadow: It would not be difficult to design a grapnel gun, however a compact automatic ascender such as he uses would be tricky.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/5/2005 5:47 PM Nexus
The thing to remember is that the grapnel as we would use would be a purely situational tool when we know we must reach a location and our only entry is through the exterior of the structure, at the bottom.
Using this commonly would probably be very unlikely. Building scaling is most useful as a tactic in engagement, not really something we could usefor traveling from rooftop to rooftop or swinging between great distances. If the object of a propelled grapple is to achieve greater range, remember that there are those that actively scale skyscrapers and other modern buildingns purely through traditional rock climbing techniques. It’s an important sport to pursue should you be needing a grappling hook and operating in a large or industrious city.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 12:14 AM Hero
Exactly my points, Nexus. . .at the risk of repeating my 12/22/04 post, there is literally nothing in the real world that matches what Batman has. It’s simple problems of unrealistic physics, and we can break them down into categories.
Ropes strong enough to support a human body are too thick to fit inside a handheld unit. Check out what the pros use. . .hit google.com for “Personal Evacuation kits” for firefighters, and keep in mind these are devices evolved over decades of use by people risking their lives. . .they’re going to be as compact and efficient as modern tech allows. These usually carry about 8mm thick ropes, minimum. And they’re designed for one-way (down) use. Rock climbers typically use around 10mm thick ropes.
Something that could launch a strong, thick rope and some sort of sturdy hook to the top of a building is going to be pretty dang bulky, too. Ironically, U.S. Cavalry used to offer a rescue rope launcher that looked like a grappling hook on a stick, and could launch a hook by spring up to 75 feet in the air. Too bad they discontinued it years ago. And, as I said in December, I’d love to be proven wrong about this, but there is no engine or reel or winder strong enough to haul a human body straight up that you could actually carry on your body without breaking your back. Not to mention how you’d power it. . .huge battery, or noisy gas engine?
Actually travelling between buildings by hook like Batman would probably be the last thing you ever did. Unless you’ve got an infinite supply of hooks that can almost instantly magically readjust their rope length from several hundred feet to a few feet, you wouldn’t even be able to reach other buildings with a launched hook, and compensate for the fact that you’re now swinging at another brick wall, or towards a building who’s roof is shorter than the one you just left, meaning you’re about to smack the ground. Plus, think of this – you only have to fall *once*. I wouldn’t stake my life on equipment failure, my hook missing it’s shot or slipping.
If I had to design an ideal, realistic setup for myself, I would get a full-body rock climbing harness, and rig up a reel to my chest, so I could access the rope with my hands easily. I’d attach a spring-locking carabiner to the end of the rope, so I could swing the rope around objects and clip it to itself if a hook wouldn’t be safe enough, but keep a hook in a separate pocket to clip to the carabiner if needed. If the reel didn’t have a built in drop-rate controller like the Lifecender does, I’d have a separate handheld rock-climbing descender to hang on to, also tethered separately to the harness in case my hands slip. I would wear all this gear only if I had planned out an entire course in advance, and knew that there was no better way to get down from the place I was going to be. And when I reached ground, I’d have means to immediately cut the rope and abandon it, or have rigged up some special remote-control device as part of the hook/carabiner to detach it from the rope, and an automatic winding reel inside my chest reel just strong enough to reel in the rope by itself.
As for going up. . .if I couldn’t find a way to climb a pipe, use the stairs or so on, I’d carry maybe a ten to twenty foot length of rope with a small hook on the end and knots tied in it, to reach fire escape ladders or rooftops just a *little* too high.
I know this probably won’t end the debate and the hopefulness, because grappling hooks are an intrinsic part of comic book legend. But that’s the point – they’re comic books.
And the Lifecender link does appear to be dead, but you can still find it by Googling.
Cheers, all.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 12:25 AM Hero
DarkShadow: I’d like to hear your shopping list, if you want to e-mail me at [email protected]
Jackalope: Nope, I’m not a cop, I would never be able to stand the rigid control structure. I did, however, used to work in a private security field that provided daily opportunities to chase thieves, get in down-and-dirty fights and send people off to jail. I mean, *every day*. Funny history fact – you know what Viewmasters are, those toy binoculars? I caught the guy that *invented* those stealing, and had him jailed. Funny ol’ world, innit. Now I work in a job that pays tons of money so I can afford to experiment with potential weapons and gadgets and pass the savings on to you all.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 7:02 AM Edgar Allen Poe
take a leaf out of Tom Strong’s book- a helicopter/rotor style back pack….seriously, a couple of those extending batons with welded hooks can help to extend reach a few feet, but a grapple hook setup is unrealistic, unless going down.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 12:54 PM DarkShadow
Poe:Which book are you referring too exactly?
Hero: not a problem. I’ll send you a list of suppliers that I found on here asap. I’m currently updating it as we speak.
Hero: What you said about the grappling hook is indeed correct. I desire one not for looks or cuz they migthbe way-cool, but for emergency uses or in case i really need one. I did however find a motor that, if incorporated properly, might do the trick in raising and lowering someone off the ground. It canbe found at Empiremagnetics.com. I admit, it’s terrible expensive though, but the specs on it could do the job.
ProfessorWidget, If you have plans for one or know of where i can obtain a grappler please send it to me. Even if its only a compact one that just shoots a line and that it…it would suffice. Thanks in advance.
By the way, Nexus and The Gaurdian, your comments on here are both real-world and very very down to earth. I am both impressed and honored that you are here with your words of wisdom. I salute you both
Carry on fellow heros

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 1:11 PM Nexus
Just be thankful Gaurdian and Hero are around to keep me on my ideological toes. It’s good we have a community with differing viewpoints, because it increases our survival and collective intel. It also keeps us from doing stupid things.
I’m still young, and I believe I need to be aware of those that came before me and what they established, because if I truly want to achieve what I’ve been dreaming and calculating for so long, I need to grow more through trial and experience. I know all of you can help me do that (and I can help in return).

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 1:22 PM DarkShadow
Nexus, I couldnt agree with you more. Expeirence is the best teacher…a sound mindset is essential in all things….especially when it comes to heroism and making the world a better place to live in.
Kudos to you, my friend

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 1:23 PM DarkShadow
A thought did cross my mind just now, is the girl who calls herself Terrifica still active? I thought i saw on a site about her that says she retired or something.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 4:47 PM DarkShadow
Hero, sent you an email regarding my list but hotmail says it didnt go thru. Can I reach you at any other address?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 5:25 PM Nexus
I applaud Terrifica’s heart and efforts (despite some possible flawed views on men in general), but wearing such a garish costume might get her beat up. If she organized groups of women to go *incognito* to clubs to prevent harassment and date rape, I would certainly see her as an important figure in the civilian crime-fighting community.
As it is, I don’t take her very seriously beyond her goals.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 5:29 PM Nexus
I’m getting a little worried that Jackalope is operating off some very steroetypical assumptions about the nature of crime and modern crime-fighting in general.
Reading manuals and test prep guides for law enforcement exams would be a big help. The stories presented by Hollywood and television aren’t always as realistic as they present, and the world is hardly as Black and White as it appears. The “good guys” often use bad methods to meet the ends, and the “bad guys” can often do more good to the common person than the authorities.
This is one reason I’ve devoted myself to this style of crime-fighting: it allows a person to give pardons to those that deserve it, as well as judgment to those that avoid it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 5:37 PM DarkShadow
i agree with you there regarding Terrifica, Nexus. Her efforts are in the right place, but she’s going about it all wrong….although she’s got a lotta guts to do what she does. I just hope that nothing bad happens to her.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 6:23 PM Professor Widget
Dark Shadow: what range are you looking for in a hook deploying device? what is the maximum size and weight for the unit? How much of a load must the line and grapnel support?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/6/2005 11:59 PM Hero
DarkShadow: Don’t know why it couldn’t go through. . .you can alternately e-mail me at [email protected] And I checked Empire Magnetics. . .which motor were you referring to?
I respect Terrifica, no doubt. I know we each form our own definition of what is the “right way” to fight crime and solve society’s problems. But saying that she’s wrong just because she wears a garish costume and might get beat up is the same as every time my parents try to encourage me not to get involved if I see crime happening. You could get beaten up or killed *anywhere*, for no reason at all. At least she’s facing it on her own terms. . .and she mentioned in an interview once that she wears the costume specifically to attract attention away from the woman about to be victimized.
I agree with Nexus’ idea about incognito people in groups infiltrating clubs to help out with those sorts of problems. . .clever under-handedness will often succeed where overt action fails.
And, as much as I hate to do this, I’d appreciate it if you all dropped by the Registry and read the “Smoke Bombs” thread, and the Professor’s post before it that lead to my reply. You especially, Professor.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/7/2005 6:12 AM Nexus
Good catch on the chemistry warning, Hero. Most of us would benefit on being taught this kind of topic from a professional, not by reading a book. Amatuer experiments with serious chemicals are often the cause of serious injuries with lifelong consequences.
Smoke bombs and any other sorts of devices/items using chemicals or organic compounds should be pursued through a mediating party, not just directly to the information and personal experimentation.
Personally, I want to look into the development of easily deployed “knockout powder” that can be concealed in crushable shells/molds and thrown at someone discreetly in engagement. Also, a more effective flame retarding device for firefighting, possibly using some sort of cryo chemicals or smothering agent. I realize that can lead to further destruction of property, but in a significant blaze, does that really matter?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/7/2005 11:53 AM The Gaurdian
I agree with Hero. Terrifica may not be what some of you a think a “crime fighter” should be… she has her own mission , she has heart..determination…and a hell of a lot of balls.
Anyways, the weekend is here, Whoever is active, keep safe..and be smart…..have a good weekend everyone.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/7/2005 1:15 PM DarkShadow
I’m not one to judge totally of course…but ok….I’ll have to agree. Terrifica does have a lot of heart in what she does..I’ll give her that much. but you think she could at least dress like say…..Batgirl perhaps? 😀 LOL Clothes do make the person as they say. I’ll say another thing about her too….she is ummm…..kinda cute.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/7/2005 1:17 PM DarkShadow
Professor: I’m looking for something that small, compact, and gun-like that could fire off a line say…100ft? I’d settle for less if its feasable.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/7/2005 1:29 PM DarkShadow
Professor: I’m about 170 lbs…give or take a pound of beef jerky LOL
Nexus, I couldn’t agree with you more. Getting people who dont have a clue what they are doing, add certain cemicals =…BOOM! big trouble.
You said you were interested in obtaining a “knockout” powder or sorts? I got just the thing your looking for…and a site that sells it too.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/7/2005 1:39 PM DarkShadow
Hero, the motor for the grappler is their 0.545 hp, 3 amps, 38 VDC brushless type… its not cheap but it could the job nicely. Its both compact and powerful enought ot life at least 1 person and gear

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/7/2005 2:21 PM DarkShadow
Hero, I sent you that list I promised. check your mail

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/7/2005 6:01 PM KEVLEX
I think the professor is playing into the mad scientist archetype: An archetype which is not well known for considering consequences. I would double check anything he says unless he proves himself some kind of expert. Actually, any advice you get on important life-and-death subjects should be double checked. Doctors get years of specialized training and still prescribe the wrong medicine and kill patients sometimes, as well as amputating the wrong limbs during surgery! Trust no-one until you have checked the facts yourself, especially here, where advice about life and death issues is tossed around like the latest sports scores!
NEXUS: be careful with anything designed to knock people out: the russian military tried knock out gas against terrorists and killed a high percentage of the hostages not long ago.
I don’t have a proble with terrifica’s costume. It attracts attention as it is designed to and is form fitting!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/7/2005 6:59 PM DarkShadow
Noted Kevlex, I’m very careful about this, don’t get me wrong. Finding quality equipment on here is time-consuming and at time very frustrating. The more contacts I make, the easier it is to get stuff.
Terrifica’s suit may do the job, but as far as I can see, one well placed shot and….well, you do the math. That suit she has doesnt look like its made from anything bullet-resistant. It wouldnt make any sense to go out without some form of protection…..I know i wouldnt thats for sure.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/7/2005 8:32 PM AmazingDarkness
DarkShadow, that’s not feasable otherwise it’d have already been done. I was looking up something similar awhile back but the smallest one was about the size of an assault rifle. I think you should just stick to conventional ways of climbing if you insist that the ground isn’t solid enough for you.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/7/2005 10:54 PM Hero
I’d be worried about people just being allergic to any kind of tranquilizer or “knockout” chemical, and dying while they’re too doped to tell me something’s wrong. And how would you ever measure proper dosage on a per-person basis?
Funny thing about climbing and grappling and so on. . .one time, about 6 years ago, I was coming down off a high strip-mall roof, hand-over-hand down a pipe. I had *just* lowered myself over to the point of no return when a security jeep from the mall nearby went cruising through their parking lot. I was dressed in black against a beige-white wall, and was sure he’d spot me if I moved. I ended up hanging there in one spot, clenched to the pipe, for about 2 minutes straight until he pulled around the corner. 🙂
Another time when I was 16, I tried jumping off a 10-foot roof feet first around midnight just to see if I could in an emergency. I hit the ground, left a three inch hole, everything blacked out for half a second and I gently fell over sideways before recovering. 🙂
For all the young, spry and athletic here, go visit Parkour.net, the video section, and watch everything of David Belle you can find. If you’re further interested, go to Urbanfreeflow.com and find a local PK clan in your area to start training with. Bonus if you live in the UK, clans abound there. Keep in mind, David does everything with no wires, no nets, nothing. He’s just out there like Spiderman. I think you’ll be slack-jaw amazed. I started training at local parks last year, places with good obstacles (tables, playgrounds, walls, etc.) and as long as you go during off-hours, you don’t attract too much of a crowd. Nothing like the first time you take a ten-foot wall in five seconds. 🙂

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/8/2005 6:36 AM Beerio
Hello all. I’ve had a really great time reading your posts. Some personal background: I’m 35. I work in telecommunications. I’ve gone through the police academy but never actually been a cop (I was recalled to active military duty). I’ve been in the army and in the air force guard. I started boxing when I was 6 years old and studying martial arts when I was 14? around 14 anyhow and gymnastics when I was 16. I’m an expert with rifles, pistols and know a bit about explosives. Though I’m not as fast these days as I used to be, I’m stronger than ever and press some pretty heavy weight in the gym. I also am good at knife fighting and throwing, nunchuka and not bad with staff fighting and archery. I also am well trained in first aid thanks to the army (where I became a combat life saver) and the police academy.
Now what is my point to saying all that other than introducing myself? Well alot of you have mentioned getting certain training and skills that I already have. As a so called expert I must tell you that what you have planned here wont work. All the skills I have aren’t enough to go out alone against the worse scum of society as a hero all by myself. To even consider being a real life hero you would need more than just skills. You would need some serious equipment that the average man just can’t afford or alot of backup such as what cops have. I’ve actually been playing with making a “Superhero kit”, not because I plan on becoming one, but just for kicks and giggles. I’m thicking about posting it somewhere on the net where other people can share their ideas about it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/8/2005 12:27 PM Nexus
We appreciate the added wisdom, Beerio (gods, I just can’t say that with a straight face). I understand that the media’s portrayal of heroes taking on a room full of armed thugs by themselves is a modern myth, but we still believe we can amass the cunning and training to pick off smaller numbers of criminals or track the lone offenders and apprehend them with proper training.
Something Shadow and I have been discussing is how to network ourselves securely, and be given easier access to data and other operatives on the streets. The idea comes from “smart mobs”, where individuals are united through cellular and wireless technology. This was seen most effectively in the fictionalized (but truth based) Warren Ellis series, Global Frequency. Check out www.wikipedia.com for more info on smart mobs.
Basically, acting together and with shared intel grants us better chances of outsmarting and apprehending larger organizations. I think in the end, we can secure victory not through our physical skills, but our unorthodox planning and organization.
Still, keep posting Beerio. We appreciate more points-of-view.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/8/2005 5:38 PM DarkShadow
The Smart Mobs idea that you mentioned Nexus, is a superb idea. Something like that in the present day could be extremely useful in obtaining information regarding heroism.
Knowlege is indeed Power….as they say.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/8/2005 10:57 PM AmazingDarkness
ROLL CALL!
Who here actually has experience and knows what they’re talking about beyond simple theory and planning?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/9/2005 2:57 AM Beerio the mighty drinker of beer and other intoxi
Well I suppose I understand what you are talking about. I posted my ‘superhero suit’ on the two forums mentioned in the first post.
Anyhow if you guys want I suppose I could post my equipment list as well. For instance I noticed someone mentioning something about a batman like grapple that could lift a man up automatically? They do have that in real life. It can raise a 250 pound person 40 feet in six seconds.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/9/2005 5:46 AM DarkShadow
Amazing Darkness: While it has been a considerable amout of time that has gone by…I do have a bit of observational surveillance time of gangs, social bullies and such under my belt. nothing spectacular of course, but has to start somewhere.
Beerio, that someone you mentioned was me. If your referring to the PowerQuick device that was recently released, I have researched it. Its impressive to say the least and would make a great tool in anyone’s arsenal. I’m uncertain if the civilian model is out as of yet though, and then of course there is the price to consider.From what I’ve seen on it, it is rather large and bulky, don’t know if they will make it any smaller, although it has just come out and it is in the prototype stage, so anythings possible.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/9/2005 9:05 AM Nexus
Hopefully in the ensuing years I can begin ways to help build a community economy. We’re all privately investing in whatever ways we can, but we need community buildings and places were can experiment and train/educate ourselves in secret.
I realize that with how spread out we are it is difficult to say where such places should be established, but I feel it necessary to grant safe havens to people who can travel to key metropolitan areas.
Anyways, big plans, big dreams. I just wanted to share ideas with the rest of you.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/9/2005 9:08 AM Beerio the mighty drinker of beer
I guess I will go post my equipment list as well over in the superheroes.members.winisp.net forum.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/9/2005 9:31 AM Beerio the mighty drinker of beer
Ok I just posted my equipment list and alot of other different information over at inisp.net.forum. If you guys like I can post it here too. I think you will find it VERY informative. I’ve been thinking about how this stuff could work for a very long time and doing extensive research. The links all the information isn’t posted but I can add that stuff later if anyone gets interested.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/9/2005 1:39 PM DarkShadow
Thats an excellent idea Nexus. A place were we can gather to exchange ideas, train and do other things would be beneficial. Count me in if you need any help.
Keep thinking those great ideas up.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/9/2005 8:38 PM GREEN SCORPION
I was just reading faq’s on the mailinator site. They only store e-mails for a few hours before auto-deleting them!!! Everyone be aware of this if you use that service!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/10/2005 6:35 AM Beerio
There doesn’t seem to be alot happening here. I know some would like to keep this private but let me run this idea past you. Have a public type place like this here forum and have a private more exclusive place for inside members and anything secret. Ezboard has a good free forum that you can use for both public and private (password) areas. More people means more ideas and more perspective. Also who know but that eventually you will can have the public forum for use for information gathering purposes ala a spy network. There is also the possiblity of using the collective power of the people for bigger things like getting a law passed or revoked, supporting a member that has gotten into trouble. Picture this: Someone from here comes by a rape in progress and defends the victum but in doing so accidently hurts or kills the felon and gets sued or jailed as a result. Where could the member turn to? Just some random thoughts….

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/10/2005 6:37 AM Beerio
By the way count me on that training thing assuming you are close enough to travel too.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/10/2005 8:19 AM GREEN SCORPION
I am not really very interested in a private forum. I think it would be too limited and would provide a false sense of security. At this point we really have no way of confirming that anyone on this forum is actually credible. If we just take the current participants and allow them access to a cover forum, we could easily be including spies or at the very least multiple dubious characters. We have no way of authenticating anyone. I say keep everything public until we are more organized, otherwise it simply makes the conversation less dynamic and interesting.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/10/2005 9:41 AM The Gaurdian
Beerio, I understand what you are saying. Things appear that they are moving a little slow. But everything here is in the very beging stages. Green Scorpion hit the nail on the head….There are just some people we can not trust. I really think that it is going to be on an individual basis. People in the same region taking it upon themselves to come together.
Another problem, there is not enough “active” members to help lead. It would be very important that those of you who are taking this seriously and will one day take these ideas and apply them to your path, not to go in half cocked, guns ablazing.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/10/2005 9:50 AM The Gaurdian
Preparation, Patience, and Prudence.
This is key. I don’t mean to jump on a soapbox, be all preachy and be all pointy fingery. I’m just concerned

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/10/2005 10:02 AM Nexus
Rightfully so, Gaurdian.
When I first came here, I was worried that people would be too indepedent and devoted to personal ideologies to want any sort of unified community for support and aid. I also wondered if, given how intelligent and resourceful most of us are, we would be insulted by a handful of people trying to establish themselves as “leaders”.
I most certainly *do* want interaction with my brothers and sisters in this fight, but electronic communication just isn’t secure enough for what we hope to do. In time, we will have utilities for people to contact and use anonymously if they wish to remain as a lone operative and “tap the system” only when things are outside their own capabilities. We’re basically constructing something from the ground up, and that takes a lot of personal trust that is hard to establish except face-to-face. I know most of you fear persecution (or more accurately PROsecution) for any activities you’re committed to, so trying to open any real world lines of communication or contact will be difficult. But I’ve got time to whatever it takes. Hopefully within the next 4 years I can begin travelling and meeting some of you (and gain more training than I’ve been able to do in my personal life).

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/10/2005 12:51 PM DarkShadow
Nexus and Gaurdian, I wholeheartedly agree. begin small and such and then work up to more complex system of communication and resources. I especially agree with what you said Gaurdian, I’m normally not the patient type but you just cant rush into something like this without the proper preparation and mindset. I learn patience everytime I think of things like this and realize that soon things that are meant to happen…will happen in their appropiate time.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/10/2005 12:57 PM DarkShadow
Green Scorpion: What we do and what we plan in our operations does require a certain level of security. Public forums are good, but a secure format would be most appropiate of our line of “work” 🙂
Nexus, I have been thinking about what Greem Scorpion said however, and he does have a valid point regarding communications and quicker communication. Do you or anyone on the board know of a secure messageboard, chatroom, emails or other communication methods(snail mail included) besides the ones mentioned that would be easier to use with the number of members we currently have?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/10/2005 5:06 PM Nexus
At the moment, there isn’t really any entirely secure method of electronic communication. Anything can be easily read with enough hardware and time, and even if we extremely good encryption and security, that would just draw more suspicion on us. Having such “public”, out in the open discussions, and on not to complex websites, works in our advantage. To public eyes, we’re a laughingstock, a harmless group of basement nerds who don’t have a thing that could be worth further scrutiny. For the time being, I’d like to keep it that way.
As for securely transmitting information and knowledge that WOULD draw more attention, our best bet now is anonymous emails. By that, I mean email accounts set up on false information and only accessed through public computers, with no traces to your public ID. (Libraries that don’t require you to “check out” a terminal are the best for this)
When things get more established, I’ll see about creating an anonymous “drop” address for people to mail things to. The US mail is something I’m sure is easily gotten by. Just do’nt make your package anything other than plain paper messages and I doubt your words will be read. There are ways to hide messages, if you’re truly concerned with that. Don’t forget to put a FAKE return address.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 1:39 AM Edgar Allen Poe
Also, for snail mail, writing an innocent false letter with the real message written in UV ink on the back means your words will never be read- they’re invisible unless looked at under a UV lamp.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 6:24 AM Nexus
A very good idea, Raven. That will most likely be utilized in the future, but we’d first need to alert all involved in any network to get UV lights.
Still, that will come in handy.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 6:24 AM AmazingDarkness
Before we start getting into how to hide messages and stuff, how close exactly are we to each other, everyone? It might be good to know for these purposes.
I’m in the Midwest in the USA. How about you guys?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 12:12 PM DarkShadow
Outstanding Nexus, as always your input on the subject is valued and appreciated. 🙂
Google UV lights or lamps Raven, see what you can come up with…that idea you have sounds like a good one.
AmazingDarkness…im East, in the Carolinas.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 12:34 PM KEVLEX
I am on the New Mexico/Arizona border
They sell a combo uv penlight and uv ink pen. It is called the “Spy pen” it runs around five dollars and works well. I have one. Stand alone uv flashlights are extremely cheap on ebay too.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 12:50 PM Nexus
Northeast Texas, here. The metroplex.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 2:17 PM DarkShadow
Think I saw something like that not too long ago Kevlex’.
I also saw something called a SpyCam Pen too…it could easily be fixed on to a utility belt or bandolier/chest belt. Could come in handy for recording crimes, mission data, ect, ect.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 3:36 PM KEVLEX
NEXUS: I agree: we are currently better off out in the open where we simply appear to be a bunch of comic book fans with delusions of grandeure. I have experience with codes and could probably come up with a code that could not be broken, however, it is more work than it is worth at this point. We don’t have anything to communicate that requires that kind of security. If we sent each other letters via us mail in uv ink using code, it would take time to translate at both ends on top of the unreliable delivery times via us mail. If we do decide to communicate via coded message, every set of two people should have a different code: if we all use the same code and even one person is compromised, all our correspondence is at risk. If we have a different code for each person we deal with and one person is compromised, all that is exposed is his communications, not those of the entire group. IF YOU WANT A UV PEN AND LIGHT COMBO YOU CAN GET THEM ON EBAY FOR ABOUT 6$ I JUST BOUGHT A NEW ONE THAT LOOKS PRETTY COOL. JUST SEARCH ON EBAY FOR: “SPY PEN ULTRAVIOLET”

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 4:11 PM GREEN SCORPION
There are several towns giving away free land to anyone wanting to build a house there. If we ever get to the point where we have a budget and resources, we could take them up on that and build a base, or bases in several of those locations. If that does not work out, we could just find some cheap land out in the boonies and build a base somewhere centrally located.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 4:26 PM Nexus
Very good info, Kevlex. Glad we see eye to eye. For the next few years (though I know many of us cringe at such a timetable), I’m afraid we all have duties to fulfill in our private lifes before we can devote more time to our mission. I know I have education degrees to pursue.
In the meantime, we will continue to formulate more solidified plans and set hard details (to be sent in secure transmissions) to begin the founding of something permanent. And everyone, please do keep up with the your physical training programs. Know that your brothers and sisters would be there to cheer you on if we could be, encouraging you to each plateau.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 4:35 PM DarkShadow
A Base of Operations has enormous potential Green Scorpion. It’s got me thinking about maybe using a moderate-sized fallout shelter, underground hidden in a remote area or such. Pricey to some, but it would be a decent start. My concern is where to put it though….around here you got to travel a bit to get to the undeveloped areas…then there is the issue of logistics to consider. Dont know if it would be worth the effort……although the idea itself has merit.
thoughts or suggestions anyone?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 4:41 PM DarkShadow
I both cringe at the timetable Nexus….and welcome it too. It gives me some time to make the final designs on the suit im currently working on. although It would be beneficial for all of us to get together somehow and iron out details and such…..but given time, i’m sure that will eventually happen.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/11/2005 9:42 PM The Gaurdian
Remember trust…….there is only a few i trust here. There can be many here that talk the talk. BUT, they have no idea what this is all about.I write this warning,because what is to come. Soon the serious ones will not want to post here anymore. And i don’t feel bad about that….I’m sorry, But something hapened tonite that made me see….Please do not forget what the mission is about.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/12/2005 12:09 AM AmazingDarkness
Nexus: Whether it’s college or a job, there’s always a price for a double life. Get used to the lack-of-sleep now because it’s not going to go away anytime soon.
*rubs eyes*

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/12/2005 2:31 AM Edgar Allen Poe
The Gaurdian is right, we’re being a little unrealistic and our focus could easily slip. Has anyone done anything with Beerio’s information yet? I thought that was some very useful stuff.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/12/2005 8:21 AM AmazingDarkness
Due to having more-than-competent resources for my personal style of getting the job done (I play more the “detective” role on ongoing problems in my general area since there is already a Neighborhood Watch in the worst areas of my city to report crimes in progress) I haven’t done much more than skim through his information yet.
My life outside of the role of “detective” is allowing me the necessary break I need after this week to allow me to look into Beerio’s information more in-depth.
As for realism, Edgar and Guardian, I’m glad the most serious of us will stop posting soon. The serious ones need time for actual work and not for playing around on some blog in the worlds of Fantasy and Theory. I bet the most dedicated never even bothered to post at all.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/12/2005 10:00 AM GREEN SCORPION
The Gaurdian: If some of the more “serious” ones stop posting here because they are busy fighting crime, more power to them. If they bail out because this forum is beneath them, though, I say good riddance! This forum and the others are important. They help aspiring superheroes work through the idea and get important advice. They also provide a sense of community for the active ones. Without feedback from others, it is easy to go astray.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/12/2005 10:43 AM Edgar Allen Poe
Too right GS, this board will always be a priority for me. If it wasn’t for this board, i’d probably be dead by now, no joke. I’ve learnt to take my time and to actually learn stuff, rather than read about it. And i know what skills i need, rather than a random martial art. The list goes on, but the point is, this board is the most valuable thing in *my* superhero arsenal.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/12/2005 11:21 AM Nexus
Members are free to post or not post, but I feel some connecting forum is important. If you can’t keep in contact regular, please at least drop us messages from time to time.
I am very serious about this, but to be realistic for me, I have to have patience, or I *will* be one of those youths going in with guns blazing. If you’re in a position to begin operations, I congratulate you and give you my full support. I am not in an ideal situation to begin my career, and will relegate my extra time to training, study, and planning. It’s hardly the satisfaction I want, but it is necessary for me.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/12/2005 11:38 AM The Gaurdian
Green Scorpion: I never said I was above anything. I’m not denying that this is a good place to start….A STARTING POINT….At some point you will need to go off and stop talking and start doing. I am not going to use this forum as my journal to let everyone know exactly I’ve been up to. Those who know, will becasue I allow them to. I will help those who come to me for it. I was never writting anyone off…I agree you need feedback from others.
At some point hopefully. We will have a network where we can go to eachother. What I’m trying to say….once you start becoming active, and yes “serious”. You need to find people that are close to you…..in the same area. It’s hard, to find those people. But, evetually it will happen.
You acuse me of being “Riding in on my high horse guy”,I wrote that post around 3 in the morning. Like I said somehting happend to me. You have no idea what i go through…went through. So if you want to accuse me of being self-righteous
guy. Please, first look at yourself. You didn’t even bother to think that maybe something wasn’t right…So you jump on the words I wrote, accuse me, without even thinking…whatever.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/12/2005 1:37 PM GREEN SCORPION
The Gaurdian: I didn’t set out to ruffle feathers, I misunderstood the tone of your post. I actually intended to respond to Amazing Darkness, but that would also have been an over-reaction.
Edgar Allen Poe: I too have been helped by this site and am very glad I found it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/12/2005 1:45 PM DarkShadow
I agree with Nexus…This board is very useful and is a good start. I plan to visit it as much as possible (tipping my hat to Mr Schmidt) Like Nexus. I too am in the simple planning stages and information gathering. One has to start somewhere and small, you just cant plans for a house and suddenly say ï’m gonna build the Empire State Building” It just doesn’t happen that way. Green Scorpion, you’d best be aware of that…i’m not harping on you….I’m merely stating the hard facts.
Gaurdian is right. Unless you got your hands on the real Batcomputer…telling the world what your doing is the very last thing you want to do…..especially here on the Net.
A network, like the one that is currently being proposed IMO, will be a very valueable resource…and a needed one. Just because you will eventually be “out in the field” doesnt mean that you will just be gone like a puff of smoke, Keeping tabs on a specific network would be ideal. Green Scorpion….saying good riddence isnt correct….it should be “good hunting, Keep fighting the good fight, or good luck, Stay alive and rock on” Dont belittle a hero/heroine in training or someone who is even just interested in what we are discussing here,…it makes you, and us look bad. again, im not harping on you…this forum isnt beneath anyone. It’s to inform, advise, heck even entertain a bit those who think outside the box(Life) in general and are unique in there own special way.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/12/2005 1:51 PM DarkShadow
We do need to focus on specific things so that none of us lose track of the common goal….good thinking there Poe. 🙂
I did check Beerio’s stuff. It’s impressive to say the least…especially one of his lists. Pity I dona hev Bruce Wayne’s billions to play with. *Sigh*
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/12/2005 2:24 PM AmazingDarkness
How is it easy to go astray? We already have people who have made news in their respective cities showing a good example for us to follow by? Follow the leader then become your own symbol. It’s a simple formula.
I do agree that this place is a good starting point, however eventually the bird has to leave the nest.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/12/2005 3:59 PM DarkShadow
Agreed AmazingDarkness…but I dont think its about following a leader. Its more like following a specific goal using an original method. Like the old saying goes…when the student is ready, then the master will appear.
And yes, the bird will leave the nest, to take his/her place among the rest of the Selected Few who hear the call.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 4:09 AM Beerio
Sorry I have been away for a while but I have a weird schedule. I am here to stay. Well now I am happy some folks liked my postings! There seems a lot of debate about getting more organized, which puzzles me a bit. Being more organized doesn’t necessarily mean giving out private information or breaking the law. I think we should pool our metal resources and at very least make a ‘how to be a hero’ kit and improve on it as needed. And yes I know we all have our own ideas about how to go about this and certainly there is room for individual style but I think we can agree that we can learn from each other and a general ‘how to’ document would be a good thing. I already put out a lot of info and I hope that helps us get started. Interestingly enough I have also learned a thing or two from reading here. Someone mentioned reading ‘The batman handbook’ which I immediately ordered off for and am almost finish reading the first time. Being organized doesn’t mean we have to get all political or designate a leader or leaders, it just means that we can help each other out with information and encouragement. And let me tell ya guys ya got lucky I found ya cause I’m a really high tech guru! Like I mentioned before I work in telecommunications and I know all about how phone systems and the Internet works cause I and other people like me keep all that stuff working! I have a computer information degree and know all about servers, routers LAN switches and class 5 voice switches etc. I may literally provide phone and Internet service to some of you guys. Anyhow what I am saying is that if you have questions about Internet security or things like that if I don’t know the answer I can find out shortly. But I don’t think Internet security has to be an issue because all we have to do is not give out private information or do anything illegal. Why don’t we use the forum with good formatting as a starting point for a ‘how to’ manual. We can post there and debate the merits as needed till we get a final product that can be occasionally updated?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 5:59 AM reseeker
ps-was asked earlier where at? am in east-north of darkshadow
also-concern over mailinator-maybe set standard time to check (ie-everyone check at 7 pm central time) that allows everyone time to get email and be sure it checked
any comments, questions, will check [email protected] at 7

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 6:04 AM reseeker
don’t think earlier post got in, but wanted to say-not post here long time, but lurk much.
want ask question-much talk of post essay thing on important topics, maybe do one on forensic sciences/what can do keep from being detected. one worry though-what if someone see and use for wrong purpose (ie-use to commit crime, not stop)?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 6:25 AM Edgar Allen Poe
Thats a good point reseeker. A hero kit is also a great idea, but the people who would be making it/ reading about it are a great variable- you’d get everyone from 12yr olds up. It is important not to disbarage (the right word?) potential heroes, even the preteen wannabes. Also, and more generally, why are there so many guys? Perhaps we are coming across a little gender specific?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 6:31 AM Nexus
It’s an interesting debate, to say the least. There are those out there that are already active and have begun laying out their own routines and habits, and they don’t want to get bogged down by a bunch of new people telling them their ideas on a structure for unconventional law enforcement.
Our ideologies are diversified and unique to each individual, making teamwork seem difficult when our goals in this work are disconnected at times.
I don’t want to railroad through what’s come before to make my points and get my own agenda out there, but there is some value to keeping ties. At the moment a lot of us are in sensitive areas where we’re unsure about what we cando safely.
Gaurdian: the only thing I want to say is good luck to you every time you go out there. If we cant’ be with you in the field, please remember, you can contact us at any time when you’ve faced something trying or threatening. At the very least we want you to know you have our support, in any way we can give it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 1:30 PM DarkShadow
You have an excellent point there Nexus. Which makes a network tailored to us specifically all the more important to pursue.
Poe, regarding what you said about the “boy-only”attitude, I’ll agree. It might appear that way but for me i could care less if your a guy or a girl. girls have just as many talents and skills as the guys have….and sometimes more.
I’m curious though….just what is a hero kit and what would it contain? I want to know more about it.
Also that mailinator thing is a slight pain in the neck to use. Im think of getting a specially secured laptop with encryption, codes, ect. Beerio, i think im gonna need your help on what to get exactly, computers and myself dont exactly get along well. LOL They secretly have it in for me…more reason to go superhero on their little pesky circuts. 😀 (little Shadow humor there folks)
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 3:23 PM Jackalope
is there such a thing as a portable lie detector?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 3:27 PM Jackalope
I just found out there is such a thing as portable lie detectors. You guys should look in to getting some. They would be quite usefull when your interrigating someone for information.
(who needs a golden lasso)

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 3:36 PM Jackalope
Have you ever heard of the Commando Flashlight II
Its a flashlight/stungun

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 4:02 PM DarkShadow
A flashlight/stungun?
Hmmm interesting little combo there. I might look into that.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 4:39 PM Nexus
You could easily study facial expressions and muscle definition for detecting lies, Jackalope. Many federal officers and intelligence officers have worked among the criminal element long enough to create a skill set out of telling lies by “reading” people. Look up “microexpression” on Wikipedia.org for more information on potential texts for further research.
As far as the superhero kit, Shadow, I think we’re working towards 1) The standard tools one will need for field work in investigating and enforcement/apprehension 2) Advice and tips on technique, professional method, ethics, and other information deemed vital 3) Steps and resources necessary for starting a superhero career.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 5:14 PM DarkShadow
Outstanding Nexus, something like that will definetely come in handy. Keep me(us) informed of the progress on this. I like what i’m seeing.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/13/2005 5:34 PM DarkShadow
I just found this thing on the Web and it floored me…this thing is small enough to fit on a SUIT!! oh the possibilities. 🙂 check it out.
tinyfogger.com
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 7:52 AM Nexus
Definitely something for our “phantoms of the night” brethren to try incorporating. Reminds me of the Phantasm from Batman: TAS.
Good find, Shadow.
And interesting thing I’ve come across was a recent real-estate offering.
www.silohome.com/index.htm
While this will obviously go off the market quick, and isn’t really formatted to our needs, and does implement the ideal superhero base: Inconcspicuous homestead above, headquarters and facilities below.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 8:19 AM Edgar Allen Poe
The house is a little out of my price range, but its definately the Wayne Manor of the real world! Also i can’t beleive that tiny fog machine, and remote controlled too! DarkShadow, i dont know if i’m asking the obvious, but are you inspired by The Shadow? He’s one of my inspirations too, but the fans seem to be dying out…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 8:50 AM Beerio
What is superheroing but bounty hunting with a cape? Here is a legal way to be a superhero:
people.howstuffworks.com/bounty-hunting.htm

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 11:32 AM Professor Widget
Beerio, the difference is that the people you need to deal with as a superhero may not have a bounty on them. That may be a partial solution, though. As to the idea of glowing red eyes in a mask: the three simplest solutions: clear plastic filled with the luminous substance from light sticks, red led’s, or plastic that glows when electricity is run through it. (sold for tricking out computers)

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 1:13 PM Nexus
I posted a link not to long ago to a This American Life radio episode called “Superpowers”. The story towards the end deals with a woman that wanted very much to be a superhero like the rest of us, and even studied and trained in many of the skills that we do. She eventually applied to the CIA, but was turned down. In the end she became a bounty hunter.
My problem with bounty hunting is that it’s just like beat cops: you’re hitting the effect, not the cause. I do’nt want to go after repeat offenders, I want to hit the corporate criminals and drug kingpins. I want to cut off the Hydras head and burn the stump (little mythology reference there). I want to attack what no agency or organization seems to get a clear strike at (legally).

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 1:48 PM DarkShadow
Thanks you Nexus,…I do what i can. Like i said in a previous post, its amazin at what you can find on the Web in this day and age. And that silo home is amazing, its practically the perfect lair. I’m definetely gonna look into something like that.
Poe, as a matter of fact, the Shadow have been an all time fave of mine. Granted, I’m too young to recall the radio show, but I saw the movie and he has been but one of my inspirations…and yes, most of those who actually do remember the show are, shall we say, moving on and out. Pity though, He’s one of the greater old-time heros from a time when virtue and heroism were actually commonplace….without the cape and cowl being a neccessity. Times certainly changed sine then,..anyway,to answer your question,my main inspiration that I have recieved over the years is everyone’s favorite Bat. 🙂
Thank you for your ideas on the glowing eyes Professor. You said something about a plastic that glows when electricity is sent thru it? Do you by any chance,know where i can purchase this? I’m specifically looking for something that can turn on and off like a switch, like from a small nose pad or switch built in to a mask or helmet. Any other ideas on this would be greatly appreciated.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 2:00 PM badperson
When i was a kid i was in a gang and i killed someone. It has been twenty years and i have not been caught. I will not confess because i do not want to go to prison. However i do want to atone for my actions. Would it be apropriate for me a murderrer to become aq superhero.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 2:04 PM Professor Widget
Glowing electric plastic material: “Fry’s Electronics” or any upscale well-stocked computer store. It comes in several colors and in strips or cutout shapes, usually sticky-back.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 2:35 PM Jackalope
DarkShadow:
The time period when the shadow was aired was not a time of heroism it was a time of tremendous bigotry and injustice. and dont you forget it!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 4:43 PM DarkShadow
*Sigh* Jackalope..perhaps i should have elaborated further….yes in those days there was indeed bigotry and injustice…for both white and black people. What i meant to say is that in that day there were also honest folks who didnt have those qualities, who genuinely cared, and when they came to an agreement with a nod and a handshake…they didnt go back on their word. THAT is what i meant. Sadly, today much of that is now gone, replaced by a politically correct double standard which I loathe. forgive me for not explaining myself better.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 4:49 PM DarkShadow
Thanks once again for the info Proferssor 🙂 You saved me both time and frustration with that. Thanks again
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 7:03 PM KEVLEX
BADPERSON: I do not know you, but I feel that there are probably other better ways for you to make up for your mistakes. Volunteer work is available in a lot of different forms and I think it would make more sense if you were out there helping youths stay out of gangs and improve their lives. I think it would give you more peace of mind if you became involved in programs like Big Brothers and helped others not to make the same mistakes you have.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/14/2005 7:58 PM Nexus
badperson: I agree with Kevlex. We ceratinlydon’t want to act elitist in this community, but a better avenue for your redemption might lie in youth outreach programs. If you still feel you need a more extreme course for your own peace of mind, you are of course welcome to pursue a life that tries to offset the heavy (and pervasive) crime that permeates modern society. Check out the rest of this blog thread for additional info, send out emails to individuals who have listed addresses, and post on the pages listed at thetop of this page.
Still, even if you decide to assume a costumed identity, I think you should put the bad experiences of your youth to good cause. There are several superheroes in fiction that focused on the street-level kids that were susceptible to crime and gang influence. I think it’s something you should investigate.
I’m sorry for the weight you carry, bp, because it does sound like you’ve genuinely felt remorse for your past, which I know several people here do as well.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/15/2005 1:02 AM SHJ
Good to see you guys are still active, but I have to say some of the advice here worries me, particularly re. martial arts, etc. If you’re serious about vigilantism you can’t afford to be naive. 90% of martial arts classes are designed for exercise and sport and there’s a good argument to the effect that no-one who has not grown up fighting stands better than an average chance of winning a street fight.
I posted here a while back on the tactics of using distance as your defence and light and sound as your attacks, and I still recommend that strategy. If you’re going to patrol, the object is to stop the crime, not to engage the criminal in hand to hand combat. The minor crimes I prevented were easily dealt with by shining the beam from a strong flashlight at the perpetrators and using battery-powered screamer alarms. The basic psychology is that the criminal wants to compress time, distance and exposure as much as possible. By extending all three factors you set up an intolerable doubt in his mind and his best option is to run.
No problem with martial arts training, it’s a good thing, but please try to be realistic about it.
Regarding “rooftop patrols”, I would not personally advise relying on any form of grapple, rope system, etc. I did occasionally wear a basic climbing harness and a short cable and carabiner, but this was just as an extra safety measure and I abandoned it after a while as it was more awkward than useful. Swinging between buildings, etc. is pure fantasy. Again, I do recommend Parkour training towards being able to access and move between low-level (1-3 story) buildings.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/15/2005 4:29 AM DRHoax
I am here to inform you that badperson and Mr Heist do not exist.
i created them inorder to test your reactions.You passed each test with colors
Again my intention was not to trick you only to learn in what way you would respond to such shady cherecters
i probobly wont do anything like this again

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/15/2005 7:44 AM DarkShadow
DRHoax…..while i’m certain thing slike that are sometimes neccessary to test one’s heroism ethics…I saw right thru your little deal.
No person in there right mind would dare confess to an actual murder online….EVER. Law Enforcement does monitor certain, if not all areas of the Internet and so does the Government.
You said you wouldnt do this thing again?….you are correct you won’t. I HIGHLY advise that you don’t. It could get you and others in serious trouble, understand? Lets not get stupid ok? Lets concentrate on what needs to be done without falling to low-level junk, it only goes to tait what we are trying to accomplish.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/15/2005 7:49 AM DarkShadow
Just a heads up to all the good heroes on here…I’ll be gone for about a week. gonna be celebrating my 7th anniversary with my bride. I should return by Friday. I plan to do some field research while im away as well.
Until then, Stay the course,and fight the good fight.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/15/2005 8:35 AM Nexus
Many happy anniversaries to come, Shadow. Bless you both.
In regards to Hoax, I have to say, it feels more like a minor prank than manipulation, but either way, being that evasive is a bit rude, if not egotistical. If you want to know who we are, there’s more private means of contacting us with questions. But I suppose this was your way, and I respect it (but more as an intellectual than a person).
If you anything to offer on this, the WSR forums or the RLS boards, please don’t hesitate to post (you might want to post to your entry on the WSR forums in the Mr. Heist thread). My secure email is [email protected]

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/15/2005 8:46 AM Beerio
I’ve put up alot more general information in the superheroes.members.winisp.net forum. Might want to go check it out and tell me what you think.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/15/2005 9:26 PM DRHoax
While I find your open mindedness to be commendable I also find it rather disturbing that you where willing to welcome thieves and murderers into your group.
One of whom even admitted that he would not give up crime.
A small amount of elitism isn’t such a very bad thing.
What if a mob hit man wanted to become a superhero next?Your grade a C-

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/15/2005 11:38 PM The Gaurdian
DRHOAX: Leave here…we don’t have time for your games….hey, a “c” is passing…….I will not post to you again.

 

# HELP needed! 10/16/2005 3:18 AM Beerio
All right let’s quit BS’ing around. You guys really want to be superheroes or not? Well let’s face facts. Most of us (probably none of us) are rich. That means we need to find the cheapest equipment that we can. Therefore I propose two contests.
The first contest is “Find the cheapest ballistic Fiber” We all need Kevlar or Spectra or some other ballistic fiber so least see who can find the cheapest source online! Be careful to find out about the fiber before submitting it because not all fibers are ballistic, for instance the Kevlar fiber MUST be the type used in bulletproof armor. There are types of Kevlar that are UNFIT for use in bulletproof clothing and that type will not count. Why should you enter this contest? Because we all need bulletproof fiber!
The second contest will be “Find me the cheapest kiln” The Kiln has to be capable of temperatures of at least 2732 F which equals 1500 C. What do you get out of finding me a cheap Kiln? I will use it to make cheap STATE OF THE ART onnex plates. Onnex is lightweight, tough, bulletproof, knife proof, capable of withstanding a bounding (such as from a baseball bat) and about as good of plate armor as you can get. Once I get things going I will be willing to make plates for you guys for COST. The cost would be the price of charcoal, boric acid and aluminum plus whatever it costs to run the kiln. All you guys have to do is use your search engine and look hard!
So then let’s stop talking about doing this and actually do something to further our ambitions! This is step one people so are you just talking or are you serious? If you want to enter the contest submit your entries in the superheroes.members.winisp.net forum under the anything goes thread where it says Ballistic Fiber/Kiln contest for superheros!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/16/2005 8:17 AM Nexus
Thanks for the info, Beer, we’ll see what can be found.
DRHoax: I’m with Gaurdian on this. Our behavior is hardly under anyone’s judgment at the moment, and I wonder what makes you so qualified to stand as virtuous judge over other people’s ideologies. Modern law enforcement and civil services often recruit ex-criminals and gang members to work AGAINST the element they once were a part.
Saying, “shame on you for accepting these kinds of people” is ridiculous, considering the only we have to deny anyone at the moment is our time and attention. It’s not like we’re printing up membership cards and starting bank accounts for anyone here. If we choose to associate with someone, that’s our business. Many of the members here work alone, and wish to keep it that way. We don’t go out of our way to convince them otherwise, so please don’t be directing us on how recruitment or community policy should be labelled. Where is the trust we should have for you? You’re just as anonymous as the rest of us.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/16/2005 9:35 AM Beerio
Real life hero in the news:
www.cnn.com/2005/LAW/10/15/attack.witness/index.html

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/16/2005 10:33 AM Jackalope
This kid is a hero I wont deny that
but I don’t think he realy fits into the “superhero” category. But what he did is great give him a round of applause

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/17/2005 11:29 PM Edgar Allen Poe
Any amount of elitism is a very bad thing. Its a community, not a club. Its helping eachother help others, not gaining a membership. Anyone here could be a murderer or thief, but i dont judge anybody, especially not through some punkass ‘test’ so i can gain power in a little internet community. Im trying not to judge you, DRHoax. Interesting moniker.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/20/2005 12:51 PM DarkShadow
I’m back, fellow heroes. Back after a somewhat interesting if not infuriating vacation. I hope all is well and I haven’t missed anything interesting.
the DarkShadow….has returned.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/20/2005 1:59 PM Professor Widget
Greetings all! I propose that you set me three tasks to test my gadget making abilities. Discuss it among youselves.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/20/2005 2:27 PM DarkShadow
An excellent idea Professor. Here are my three:
A hand-held grappling hook launcher…with or without the wind-up winch(I’m thinking this will be a fave on the board)
a Wrist-mounted Launcher – non-lethal of course
a Telescoping Bo Staff: short or long, it does’nt matter

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/20/2005 9:35 PM GREEN SCORPION
Here are my three, Prof:
I—-Working stun gloves.
II—Grapnel launcher
III–Surveilance robot

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/21/2005 4:35 AM Edgar Allen Poe
Be imaginative, anyone could make those! well, maybe not a surveillance robot….

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/21/2005 4:41 AM Edgar Allen Poe
btw Proffesssor,and i mean this in a friendly tone, i hope you dont feel you need to prove yourself for acceptance, you are a part of our community.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/21/2005 8:12 AM Professor Widget
Edgar Allen Poe, I appreciate the sentiment, but I am used to skeptics and am offering to settle the issue and define my role in relation to this community. Just to be clear, I am not a super-hero. I am one the MaD ScIentiSTz that foolish mortals come to, seeking their wishes made real!!! ….Ahem. I mean I am a humble assistant to you brave Heroes. If “anyone” could make those items, why is no-one doing so? Mostly, I have heard complaining about the unavailability of such equipment.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/21/2005 8:42 AM Edgar Allen Poe
ok, not anybody, that was an exageration and a half! Would a harppon gun be a suitable basis for a grapnel launcher?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/21/2005 8:45 AM DarkShadow
Poe, if thats the case, then why cant I find any on the Net? 🙂 Short of going to a special FX store, spy supply,and/or custom ordering one from somewhere,…well….you get the picture? then theres the cost factor to consider too.
The Professor is right…why are items like these so difficult to find and where are the availability of components to make such items? I Google a lot and the only things i can find under those items are stuff for games. movies, RP-stuff, ect. It gets frustrating to say the least.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/21/2005 9:11 AM DarkShadow
Poe, a harpon gun would suffice, but being it falls into what a grapnel launcher does and how it operates. A custom designed one made specifically for special use, be it motorized or not is what im looking for. I seek one simply because of its apparent usefulness and in case of emergency, nothing more. Im not expecting to swing from building to building like the Dark Knight. One has to be realistic of the capabilities of such a device.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/21/2005 9:31 AM Edgar Allen Poe
Ok, i said i was exagerating, but never the less. A surveillance robot? i’d say a small wireless camera on a large remote conrol plane or other remote vehicle- maybe you can get a good enough ‘toy’? of course, you’d have to be withing the average 1,000ft squared reception area if you’re using a direct computer/modem link, but i havent researched this. perhaps the radio controlled vehicle will disrupt the camera signal. Stun gloves? its hard enough to find an effective taser, but if some 15yr old anarchist wannabe can make one out of a disposable camera, surely you guys can adapt your favourite taser, or learn how a taser works and attach a homemade to an insulated glove. Bo staff? well, we all know you can get telescoping steel batons (up to 27″) so why not weld two together by the base? the handle would be 16″ then. or, again, learn how they work and make (or have made) your own. Wrist mounted launcher? Perhaps an old fashioned barrel gun would do, but a co2 powered version can easily be made from a BB gun- the most powerful bb gun goes at $150 and below. Now i have mentioned adapting a harpoon gun, but a handheld grapnel launcher? perhaps an adapted crossbow, but that would be handheld if you can accept both hands. One handed, im vageuly suggesting the general direction that is pneumatics- or compressed air again. it would be large, to accomodate a big enough co2 capsule which will double as the stock, which would have to be a 10″er. These are pretty crap idea’s, but bloody good considering i dreamed it up in 5 minutes. i know theyre basic, and i know you didnt ask me to think these up, look at it as some general ideas. Please do not take offense, Darkshadow or Widget, im just giving a little input.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/21/2005 3:24 PM DarkShadow
No offense taken Poe. Your input is well recieved. The application of real-world technology from the comics and movies does take some method of tinkering in order for it to work in the real world. Imagination does take precedent, for without it, we would still be living in primitive times. Keep up the good work, its always welcome.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/21/2005 3:35 PM DarkShadow
now that i think about it,…Professor, is there anyway that a paintball gun or its pneumatic components could be modified and attatched to say…a metal wrist gauntlet? i found a great site that sells gauntles, wrist cuffs, and armor but dont really know if it would be feasable. Been thinking of a design for this for some time…using a co2 paintball launcher or such to launch pepper balls, arrows, bolts, or rubber projectiles. anything you could sugest would be greatly appreciated.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/21/2005 8:36 PM KEVLEX
Professor Widget: #1: I want a working plan for getting superheroes recognized by conventional authorities. #2: I want a means for us to communicate easily and safely. #3: An effective non-lethal device for apprehending criminals.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/21/2005 10:07 PM Nexus
I would double-up on those requests that KEVLEX made. Hopefully, we can, as a whole, come to realize those things.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/22/2005 4:35 AM Beerio
The only absolutely nonlethal way to take someone out is with pepper spray. I know of a case where a baby who was only a few months old got accidently sprayed from head to foot with pepper spray (the cops used a hose made for crowd control to spray some people who were rioting and the baby was in a car and it went in through the window) though it was a painful thing for the baby to go through there was no ill effect other than a rash around his neck which faded out in a few days. -ole Beerio has alot of interesting real life stories. I learned that one from one of my one of my instructors back when I was in the police academy.
Please bear in mind that pepper spray and mace are two different things. Pepper spray is made of cayanne pepper which is the red pepper you put on your food. Mace is a chemical. Also keep in mind that some people are immune to pepper spray. I myself got sprayed with it twice during training in the academy. The first time it had no effect whatsoever on me. The second time some got in my eyes and it blurred my vision…and hurt just a little bit too.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/22/2005 8:14 AM Professor Widget
I will give everone until midnite Oct 31st to decide on the three most popular items for me to work on.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/22/2005 10:32 AM DarkShadow
An excellent idea Nexus…Kevlex made some very good points there regarding recognition, a secure communication network and non-lethal weaponry. I’m in on those points that he mentioned.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/22/2005 10:35 AM DarkShadow
If i may add something to the discussion Heros…
An effective and cheap way of constructing battlesuits, uniforms would also be a good thing to consider. Equipment for such operations does’nt exactly come at Wal-Mart prices sad to say.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/22/2005 11:35 AM SHJ
My honest impression is that most posters on this board enjoy the fantasy of being a “real-life super hero” but might not enjoy the reality of vigilantism, which is 95% boredom and 5% nasty danger.
If you are more interested in having fun/looking cool, developing comic-book style costumes and gadgets, code-names, etc., why not just play it all as a game? Folks do real-life role-playing/fantasy camps as knights, vampires, ninjas and all sort of things. Why not super heroes? You could develop your weapons and costumes, secret IDs, etc. and get together on weekends to live out your fantasies in relative safety; maybe have competitions where one guy plays a super hero and the other plays a super villain, and figure out some cool (but non-dangerous) way to simulate the combat, like paintball players or medieval battlers. It would be a great way to put all of the skills and gadgets discussed here to practical use without risking your life or reputation. Hell, give it a few years and you could have your own conventions!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/22/2005 12:15 PM Nexus
Thank you for the advice to the community SHJ, though I assure you, I am for real. I heavily considered a career in a police departments or one of the federal agencies before doing something this clandestine.
There are younger web surfers who will confuse the realm of fiction and reality in regards to law enforcement, but I know the gritty side of things I’ll be hitting when I hold operations in a city. Also, the possibility of serious injury or death runs high. There aren’t writers and editors keeping us from dying, just our own level-headedness and luck.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/22/2005 1:46 PM Professor Widget
An additional note: I am primarily attemptiong to demonstrate gadget making abilities, so at least 2 of the three tasks should be gadget related. I will allow one non-gadget related one to be included if that is the consensus.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/23/2005 3:39 PM Jackalope
It has occurred to me that some of you might want to consider taking courses in first aid.
You never know when you or someone else is going to get hurt and need some sort of medical attention.
I’m not suggesting that you try to perform open heart surgery however you should be prepared for emergencies.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/23/2005 4:16 PM DarkShadow
an excellent suggestion there Jackalope…it should be at the top of the main things to learn. Very good thinking

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/23/2005 10:55 PM Dark Knight
Cons about the Job (from Experience):
1) Rain when it makes your partner’s shoes squeak and you lose all stealth capabilities when together
2) When the new guy fumbles around a lot, kicks things over, and stops to pee or buy a soda
3) When your team splits into two groups and the group you’re not with doesn’t follow your orders and (as a result) gets questioned and searched by the police
4) Peeling your uniform off your skin after a night of heavy rain
5) Having to go to work or class the next morning after the busiest night you’ve had
6) Being caught between three different dangerous situations at once and having to decide which one to take on
7) Teammates who wuss out about 1/4 of the way into the night because they forgot how much this work takes a toll on the rest of their life
I could go on, but those cons will phase themselves out after the training I’m going to put them through. Anyone else wanna continue the list?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/24/2005 6:17 AM Nexus
Time management is an important thing to mention, DK.
Until we have more manpower and Contacts to aid in the workload, the work will heavily incringe on personal lives. That’s one reason why it’s ill-advised to get into this specific line of profession if you’re a heavily socially-interactive and/or family person.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/24/2005 2:52 PM DarkShadow
Sadly I will have to agree with that statement Nexus, As a family man, now, finding the time for such a project is nealry next to impossible…I was always a loner in my youth and i wish i would have had better resources when i was younger….i have however found a moderate way of getting around that at the present time…if successful, it will easily enable me to both contruct the weapons, suit and gear while maintaining a life with my family.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/25/2005 12:25 AM Jackalope
i hope you have life insurance

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/25/2005 2:40 PM DarkShadow
LOL Jackalope…you never cease to amaze me. 🙂 of course i have life insurance…and home insurance and fire insurance and and i even save a bunch of money on my car insurance by switching to…LOLOLOL…just some Shadow humor there dude:-D
Seriously, yes i’m insured, and I understand what your getting at too. One would have to be extra careful….just in case.And in this line of work…well, it wouldnt be to hard to see the need for it

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/28/2005 6:02 PM DarkShadow
Shadow here wishing all the good folks here a good weekend.
Peace

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/29/2005 8:00 AM Nexus
Thanks, Shadow.
A safe Hallow’s Eve to all, and good luck if you’re going out in costume BESIDES trick-or-treating.
There are three new articles over at the RLS forums under the Anything Goes link. Please post your comments and ideas in response in “Building the Modern Superhero”. We hope to edit together the general consensus on this work into the 1st Edition of a Modern Superhero Manual.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/29/2005 9:38 AM DarkShadow
Thank you Nexus…looking forward to reading it. Happy Halloween to you and to all here.
Shadow

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 10/30/2005 8:29 PM GREEN SCORPION
Happy Halloween to all. The one night of the year when our costumes will not raise eyebrows. Stay safe and have fun!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/2/2005 5:51 AM the path
You have no idea what’s coming. And i don’t think that you will be enough to stop it. Warning bells ring in my ears as if I stand right next to a fire alarm. And yet you don’t flinch….Are you ready? Of coarse not.
So what does this mean? That you walk around helpless? NO. What matters what you do when it happens, That is what counts.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/2/2005 8:09 AM Nexus
Not like any of us aren’t as dramatic in tense confrontations, but leaving a cryptic warning and then disappearing without details is hardly a way to get any more attention than a raised eyebrow and scoffed remark.
Do you have something to contribute or are you just posturing?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/2/2005 10:24 AM Edgar Allen Poe
And I thought I’d get bored of second rate attention seekers…who cannot comprehend grammar…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/2/2005 1:05 PM DarkShadow
Indeed Poe,…there’s always one in every crowd ::sigh::
I’m all in with what Nexus just said, dramatics are one thing…they are to be used only when neccessary(like they really need to even be used at all?) It would appear that our friend ThePath might need some down-to-earth lessons in taking some things into perspective..oh, and a grammer lesson wouldnt hurt either 😉 (Thumbs up to Poe)

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/2/2005 1:45 PM DarkShadow
If one actually wants to use something dramatic…they might want to use it on the streets…like say, using the element of surprise,distractions and noises on multiple targets (a gang for example) while remaining hidden in the shadows perhaps?
Just a thought

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/4/2005 8:57 AM The Gaurdian
Oh gosh,I’m afraid that cryptic messages would just be the begining. Lets ust keep vigilant.
Anyways, how is everyone? I hope all is well with you guys. Just know I’m still around if you guys need anything.
Mr Poe: long time no talk. How are things?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/4/2005 9:18 AM Edgar Allen Poe
Just fine thanks Gaurdian. Nothing exciting this side of the atlantic, as per. Sirens are getting more frequent around now, so im skulking about double-time! How about yourself? Email me.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/4/2005 2:21 PM DarkShadow
All is well here Gaurdian, thanks for asking. I’ve finally assimilated nearly 3 1/2 yrs of equipment, non-lethal weaponary, and suit information to begin my projects on. Its been exhausting to say the least…now all i’m lacking is the proper funding for it all. Any help from the board members here would be most appreciated of course. 🙂 Hope you all have a great weekend.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/5/2005 3:10 AM Beerio
I’ve started quiet a few threads over in superheroes.members.winisp.net and I need some input in them. In particular I need everyone to brainstorm about example of superheroes OR villains that do not have real powers (such as Batman, Lex Luther or Ironman). When we have a good list we can sort out what is realistic and what is not about them and then we can start the super in this superhero business. Or shall we just rename ourselves, “International neighborhood watch” instead?
You can make your post here if you want and I will copy/paste it over in winsip.net just to keep things organized.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/6/2005 7:44 PM The Garudian
You guys, i realized something tonight. I mean I’ve known. but..something changed…I don’t know what it is. The “fight”..it’s more important than we think. I know it must sound crazy, but the more things i witness…it just seems more clear to me. Something is wrong..and we see it. that’s why we are doing this…I don’t know…..sorry, i just had to get this out.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/7/2005 5:57 AM Nexus
That’s alright, Gaurdian.
You’re seeing and experiencing a lot of things modern media and culture portray in a rather fantastical manner. Most people don’t know how bad certain areas and environs have gotten. Or how cuttthroat some people can be.
Whether on the streets, in shelters, or against big league organizations, it’s important for any of us to affect a fight in some way. There’s too much in danger not to.
We keep applauding you for the hours you put in Gaurdian. I’m just sorry I can’t be out there with you (though I’m sure you prefer to work alone).

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/7/2005 3:52 PM DarkShadow
I’ll second Nexus on that wholeheartedly. Gaurdian, you have had the revelation that I experienced….a few yrs too late. Had i not taken a bride and settled down a few yrs ago and followed the revelation I had, I would be out and about doing more. But one canot argue with Fate. one must deal with it as Life hands it out. I look into the eyes of my little girl and always wonder why can’t I make this world a better place….not just for her, but for all people everywhere. There is still time to make a difference though…as all of us can and I’m sure will. I too applaud your efforts as well as the efforts of all who post here. If something major it so begin, then let it begin with us…..with all of us.
Carry on Heroes

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/10/2005 3:33 AM Beerio
The best way to improve the world has nothing to do with wearing a cape or even a badge. Being a good person and proper example, raising your children up to do what is good and honorable are the best ways to improve the world. Cops are only needed because society has forgotten basic truths and morality. Don’t feel bad that you are doing what is right and raising your child up Darkshadow. The real super heroes are the fathers that give up so much for their familes, not the fathers that go out looking for fun or self glory and endanger themselves or who abandon their children for any other reasons. I’ll always give more honor to a good father who has never faught crime than to a soldier, cop or firefighter that has saved a 100 lives and abandoned their own child. You have to be a man before you can be a superman.
Of course none of the above applies to single guys without kids.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/10/2005 5:03 AM Edgar Allen Poe
I have never thought of it like that before. Makes sense.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/10/2005 5:34 AM Nexus
“None of the above applies to single guys without kids”.
Ha ha. Well then, I guess Bruce Wayne just has to stay stag for the rest of his life.
I agree, I have to give a lot of credit to my father, who despite numerous layoffs due to corporate shutdowns and downsizing, continued to work hard to provide for his family, even when he had to work seven days a week to start his own business. He never gave up on his children or his wife, and always tried to be available for us.
In this day and age, that’s saying a lot.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/10/2005 1:25 PM Zen
Couldn’t agree more Beerio, if we all aimed to be better people, take responsiblity for our actions, and act from love not hate, then the world wouldnt need superheroes.
Nexus, I have a mother who did much the same. You’re right about this day and age. What the general population needs right now is a little inspiration. To me, one of the roles of the modern superhero is to encourage people to tap into that innate urge in us all to improve ourselves and the world around us, whether that means standing up for injustice wearing a cape, or being the best parent you can be.
Now to completely change the subject, I’ve been researching high powered directional sound beams. Any one else come across these or modelled one into a handy purse sized device?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/10/2005 4:01 PM Nexus
Heard of their uses before, as non-lethal means of crowd dispersion, or even military applications. The problem is current technology development. The current units are rather large (a microwave is about as small as they might get, generally larger) and on special mounts, such as stands or atop vehicles.
Minituarizing one wouldn’t just be about downsizing the technology, but also creating a portable power source. A unique battery might only be good for a limited number of uses, hence, a limited tool in the field. It would best be utilized as part of your field vehicle, for use against large mobs.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/11/2005 1:42 PM DarkShadow
I thank you for your words Beerio. they ring so true and are needed, especially in this day and age. It is not glory, fun, or thrills I seek….but to get a better understanding of what makes the Darkness(and i’m sure you all know to what i am referring to) rise and grow in todays society. I already know what it consists of, the Darkness that is, as I was a victim of it. I have focused the pain and anger over the years into positive things and refuse to be labelled as a “victim”. I only have to look at my daughter and I wonder to myself on how the world will be like when she is my age. Its thought-provoking to say the least. I try to be the very best father that I can. There’s no tech manual for raising kids, you just have to wing it. But weather fighting evil from the streets or fighting it by instilling Goodness and Honor to my…or any child. I will do my very best to do it…and do it right.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/11/2005 3:15 PM DarkShadow
You father should indeed be commended for his hard work and effort Nexus, for there lies the heart and soul of a true hero. It does say a lot….and I salute him and all fathers who make those strides for themselves and the ones they love.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/11/2005 3:19 PM DarkShadow
Zen…I have. There’s a site called Amazing1.com that sells them. I’m not sure on how good they are or what their range is, but I’m sure with some modification, they could be a welcome addition to any hero’s inventory.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/11/2005 3:44 PM DarkShadow
Nexus, check out that site that I mentioned to Beerio, and let me know what you think. The units they sell look promising, for 1st-generation systems.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/12/2005 3:46 AM Beerio
I’ll have a look. It sounds interesting.
But now I have to say something. I am not pointing fingers at anyone but this has to be said. For a long time I have looked and listened to the people on this blog and the forums and I think there are some (ok most) of us that aren’t being realistic about what we are talking about. What we are talking about is a very serious business. I realize that most of us will never actually do anything but talk about ‘being a superhero’ but I am worried that someone may read the posts and get inspired, put on a mask, and get themselves and/or someone else killed.
It is best to get real training of some type before beginning not only for your own safety but for other people’s safety as well. If you put yourself out there and interfere in what is going on you take responsibility and if you do and you don’t know what you are doing you can raise the level of what is happening and bad things can happen that would not have happened if you hadn’t been there in the first place.Example: A mugging is going on and you step out and confront that mugger. The mugger shoots you out of panic then shoots the only witness: the guy he was mugging. If you hadn’t of interfered the guy would have only lost his wallet and now he is dead. So now you are dead and he is dead and the mugger is a murderer instead of just a thief.
This isn’t a joking situation. No one should be even thinking about doing this without a lot of hardcore REALISTIC training. Even then it probably isn’t advised. It would take an exceptional person to pull off what we are talking about here. It is best for most of us just to become cops or fireman or part of the neighborhood watch. In fact DO those things first then you can think about becoming a hero.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/12/2005 5:33 AM Beerio
One more thing for the above:
Becoming a policeman, fireman or some other related field isn’t a waste of time to becoming a superhero. Not only do you get free training but you get PAID. Money will allow you to buy much needed equipment. So you get free training, money for equipment and valuable experience, and who knows if you wont save a life or two while getting those things?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/12/2005 9:55 AM DarkShadow
Eactly Beerio. You hit the nail right on target. Like I’ve been saying all along on this Board. A Suit, Equipment, and Weapons are useful….but are nothing without the proper TRAINING and MINDSET. Without either, you will wind up only getting yourself or someone else severely injured and/or killed. The Feds, Cops, and Fireman do what they do because of their TRAINING. Their training teaches them how to handle certain situations and deal with them, unlike the average Joe or Jane Doe.
Beerio is correct, friends. One must learn before He or She can do. Get training. The more skills learned the more proficient you can become….and the greater chance that you will stay alive to fight the good fight another day.
Well said Beerio :::gives thumbs up:::
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/12/2005 3:46 PM SHJ
Beerio,
I agree with you, which is why I suggested developing the live action super hero role-playing game in an earlier post. That way, anyone who is, ultimately, more into living out a fantasy than actually becoming a vigilante would have a positive and active outlet; all the benefits of developing and using the suit, the equipment, etc. but none of the actual risks. I can see this whole thing evolving in that direction and I’d support it.
Real-life vigilantism and comic books have nothing in common. To approach the former with the mindset of the latter is to set yourself up for disappoinment at best, injury or death at worst.
By the way, the Guardian Angels are still active in some places and are as close to the comic book ideal as you’re likely to get. They offer training and have considerable experience in tactical vigilantism.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/12/2005 7:07 PM DarkShadow
Sounds like interesting idea there SHJ…one that might be worth looking into.
To compare what happens in the real world to those in the comics is indeed foolhardy….and thats just saying the least of it too. As for the Gaurdian Angels, they are a joke in my opinion. Sliwa and his so-called Angels are nothing but hot air. If im not mistaken Sliwa has an obsession the the Gotti crime family….Gotti is now dead but his son, thats another story. You all know the drill like father, like son. Mr Sliwa takes it up to another level altogether. While his intentions are nobel at times…I personally wouldnt count on help from him. He’s only in it for the publicity and for himself. Bad traits to have in my opinion. Has anyone even heard of anything major that the Gaurdian Angels have even done since their conception? I sure havent.
Dont get me wrong, he and his troops may have been doing good and its just not reported as much….if at all. but to advertise it like he does, it just doesnt make good sense to me.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 2:45 AM SHJ
Curtis Sliwa is a publicity machine but the Angels have done some good work over an extended period of time and their training is directly applicable to street level vigilantism.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 5:45 AM Nexus
I’ve got to agree to with SHJ on this. Though the leader may not reflect well on his peers, and there’s always propaganda for or against an organization marring whatever the truth is, I think the Angels may be an important route to follow for information and possibly training.
The real people to check are the Angels still present on the streets of the big cities. Tha’ts where most of us will try and start out, and where we need street experience. So if you’re looking for a place to get some urban tactics experience, looking for Guardian Angel you trust might be a good idea.
It should be noted, however, that Beerio had brought up on the RLS boards that you could attend a police academy in another state and not worry about the publicity of the records affecting your public identity. Meaning, I can go to police academy in the NE, and that’s where records of my attendance will be kept. So then I’ll operate on the West Coast.
I think Police Academy deserves some more invbestigation, along with other schools and training routes people can take that will get them important skills and experience.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 6:21 AM DarkShadow
SHJ, Nexus, I trust you both with certainty on that level and will take your words regarding the Angels. While its true that I personally am not fond of Sliwa and his actions…the Gaurdian Angels themselves at least do perform a respectable service that contributes to the safety of others against criminal intentions, on whatever level they might be on.
I can respect that.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 9:06 AM E
www.myhero.com
has anybody seen at this?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 9:06 AM Edgar Allen Poe
www.myhero.com
has anybody seen at this?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 9:09 AM Edgar Allen Poe
*has anybody seen this?
lol sorry for the double post and lack of sense there

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 10:12 AM DarkShadow
No problem Poe…computers are testy at times 😉
Interesting site btw.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 10:58 AM Nexus
On the RLS boards, codepunk has posted a link to a D/FW group called the Christian Crusaders. At first, I believed it was a group of community do-gooders who have taken their mission from God to help their fellow man. Well, their website does feature some good tools and links for the community at large to examine, but the fervor and tone I get from their leader, The Christian, is a little unsettling. Here’s a clip from the end of a paragraph that welcomes you to their page.
“THE FINAL JUDGMENT OF MANKIND HAS BEEN MADE. EARTH IS NO MORE.”
I can understand some evangelicals talking about armageddon and fighting the forces of evil to an extant, but ‘earth is no more’? That’s a little extreme. The iconography of the End Times (Rapture, Nuclear Explosions, a cracked Earth) is all over the front page, and I have to say, it’s a bit unsettling.
On the more professional side, Christian claims to have just completed a major metroplex sweep completed the nineteenth of this past June. One thing that disturbs me most is the claim about how all the individuals are encouraged guns for self-defense, but also reminded of “thou shalt not murder” not, “thou shalt not kill”. He mentions in the mission log that a confrontation involved shots exchanged but no injuries to his comrades. I find the idea of exchanging shots a little presumption at this stage, especially if this was in an urban area. I’m not saying I might not carry a gun one day, but I’m hoping my training and other weapons will keep me from having to use it outside extreme situations.
The Christian warps his own beliefs to say that, “remember becoming a Christian is the only way to have real-life superpowers”. He boasts some fairly extraordinary abilities himself, such as Demon Cast, Evil Sense, and Holy Ghost Projection. This sounds more like a roleplaying spell list than actual abilities. Listing prayer and the blessing of God is one thing, but Demon Cast and EVIL SENSE? Please.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 10:59 AM Nexus
I ENCOURAGE EVERYONE TO VISIT THEIR PAGE AND EXAMINE IT IN FULL FOR YOURSELF.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 12:12 PM Jackalope
I agree they are a bit unsettling
They seem like dangerous fanatics
It reminds me of when the church told knights during the crusades that it was ok to kill as long as it was in the name of god.ideas like that start witch trials and massacres. I think these people are dangerous marriage of vigilante and fanatic and only tragady can be born of it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 12:34 PM DarkShadow
An excellent observation there Jackalope. Thats what I said as well. Last thing I would want if I was patrolling an area would be running into one of these nutcases. I’d probbaly would have to wind up saving their butts knowing the way that they claim to operate. Definetely not the way to be doing things.
As for Demon Casting and Evil sense, Ive done more demon butt kicking with a wrist rocket/slingshot than what these guys claim to do.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 1:11 PM Nexus
Actually, Shadow, I’D wind up saving them/stopping them for hurting someone: These guys are in my neck of the woods. Kind of ticks me off actually. I almost feel like reporting them to police, but that’s kind of hypocritical. Still, actively going out to confront “criminals” armed? Spells trouble to me.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/13/2005 4:23 PM DarkShadow
Agreed Nexus. I would probably do that too…but i wouldnt have to like it though. Why some people are like that I’ll never know. It angers me as well.
i only did a scouting mission once when i was younger, and i was armed. Good thing too. some dorks started making trouble when i was just walking by minding my own business….sure enough I got chased down. fortunetly it was close to where i lived at the time and i managed to fire off a few rounds from my wrist rocket that i had. Pegged 2 of them really good, but not severely enough to cause serious damage. and ran like hell. forgot the event after a few moments but as i look back….i wonder if that was a sign of what i am considering now? who can tell?
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2005 6:14 AM Nexus
It’s something to consider. I hope to be trained in my own non-lethal weapons and hand-to-hand combat well enough to not rely on a firearm in patrols. Firearms have very little “minor damage” capacity, and should be reserved for situation of serious engagement, where a gun will not escalate things but help to end. Usually it doesn’t help. Being pinned doesn’t mean it’s time to exchange fire, it means it’s time to think.
Anyways, crime-fighting style aside, confrontation is a part of the job.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2005 9:32 AM Beerio
Hmm all that aside, let’s keep religion out of this. If we start discussing religion, things will degrade quickly. I am not saying I am against religion. I am saying that religion and professional discussions should be kept seperate. We are trying to be professionals aren’t we? Emotion is the enemy of the true professional and religious discussions are always religious.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2005 9:33 AM Beerio
Err I meant religious discussions are always emotional

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2005 12:35 PM DarkShadow
Agreed Beerio. you are right. Emotion is indeed the bane of professionalism…in any job.
Very true there Nexus. regardless of the weapon available….the mind is the most potent weapon of all. As for Confrontation, it is the inevitable factor in this line of work…your going head to head with Evil in general, regardless of what form it’s in. How confrontation can one get when dealing with something like that?
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2005 12:51 PM DarkShadow
i meant to say confrontational…i appear to be suffering from a case of the Typos. 😀
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2005 1:05 PM Jackalope
I must suggest that we all try to email these fanatics and at least attempt to convince them to tone things down a little and use non lethal weapons

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2005 1:15 PM Jackalope
Otherwise I think they will probably kill someone within a month and the local police will likely adopt a zero tolerance policy on vigilantes and “superheroes” and probably hunt both them and our friend Nexus like dogs

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2005 1:42 PM Jackalope
I sent them an email I suggest you guys do the same if we present a united front we just may be able to declaw this rabid cat

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2005 1:55 PM DarkShadow
While that doesnt sound like a bad idea there Jackalope….it must be done without hostility. We dont want to be adding fuel to a pontential fire. I sincerely do not want to put Nexus in a bad situation without a resolution.
Remember the mind is the greatest weapon of all. You dont want to give an enemy any power that he might use to mess you over.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2005 3:07 PM Nexus
I’ll agree to that idea, Jack. I was hoping to turn to this community for advice on the situation. I do think we should all email them and makecontact. But it’s the excessiveness of their actions that scare me most, and what their methods are exactly.
I know that sounds hypocritical, but my approach is’nt yet one of individuals sweeping through communities attacking anyone they find breaking into a car or something.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/14/2005 4:10 PM DarkShadow
If thats the case Nexus, and you feel that strongly about it….then you have my complete support. We should make some sort of contact,…keep it friendly and see just what these folks intentions really are.
You’re not being hypocritical at all, in fact your logic is sound. Having different M.O.’s in the way One takes the Path makes it interesting…but what you said about just sweeping thru somplace and taking on someone doing a crime…without prepping or even thinking of the consequences…..is just crazy. You are right in that assumption…people really need to THINK…long and hard before considering doing something like this.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 3:43 AM Jackalope
While it is important that we “keep it friendly”
we must also make it clear that we disapprove of their use of fire arms and promotion of lethal force.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 3:53 AM Prospect
I have been looking into this for a long time. You should also look up Polarman in Canada, a superhero who helps kids and shovels people’s walks for them.
I have considered starting up a group here in Washington DC (USA). It’s a difficult thing to get going. It would be easier if I had one or two people to give me a hand in recruiting.
Here’s a question: If you were to have ‘auditions’ for members of a team, what things would you be looking for?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 4:05 AM Jackalope
someone with martial arts skills and possibly a history in the military

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 4:14 AM The Gaurdian
Ok, Who says we need to keep religion out of this? To eah their own I say. Not that I agree with, “the christian” and his methods, but I think it’s not right to say to keep this”professional”. Keep what proffesional? This is a job? I don’t think so. This is a choice we make. And what proffesional standards are we supposed to obey? We talking about being vigilantes…I’m sorry, i forgot vigilante etiquette…I personally am Christian, and I do serve a greater good. That is why I do this. And if I want to add it everytime I respond here, or in “the field”, That’s me. I’m not going to shove it down anyone’s throat. But that is who i am.
On a different note, the christian is an extremist. People like that can not be reasoned with. I don’t know what anyone is going to do about him. I belive the police are already aware of him, but that doesn’t mean that he is not a threat. So…are there any takers? Anyone close enough to keep tabs?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 6:36 AM Nexus
Forgive me if I seemed to say I disapproved of Christian’s religious beliefs, as it is more his stance that he must “correct” non-christians that annoys me. On his website, a person writing in stating he is a Buddhist, is told, among other advice, to convert to Christianity. I realize it is part of various sects to spread Christianity, but being around so many devout Evangelicals in the south, I grow tired of them spouting that any beliefs other than Christianity are “wrong”. It’s really terrible that the more vocal extremists impact the larger image of Christians in America, who contribute a great deal to community well-being.
I don’t disagree that many of us are taking these roles with some very spiritual or philosophical reasons as impetus. A lot of us feel very deeply about what we are doing and what our goals are, so being personal is part of what we do.
I could technically make contact with this person and develop a relationship, but I’d first have to know why I was doing this and what the result would be. As of right now, I’m asking him outright his intentions and methods explicitly, and I’ll see how he responds. I’d rather be civil before duplicity is called in.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 6:37 AM Edgar Allen Poe
There is no excuse to repress someone’s spiritual beliefs. The Christian obviously believes that following his particular religion means that he has ‘power’ over evil people, and he has obviously hyped this idea up to get more people fighting crime. He uses extreme tactics, but he is not an extremist. He is however letting his dogmatic attitudes hinder his progress, as he is probably putting a lot of people off by using such vivid images and telling everybody to convert to Christianity, etc. It also seems very unlikely that he does have a lot of people following him in the fashion he leads site viewers to believe, and there is absolutely no actual evidence of any of this, or that he has done any of the things that he claims. Guardian is correct; we each play by our own rules. Lets say (PURELY hypothetically) i disagreed with someones attitude on here, for example, i might say you are too emotionally detached in your tactics or something, maybe you praise using violence too much for my tastes. I wouldnt tell you youre dangerous, i would do what Guardian suggests-The Christian is potentially dangerous,so the police and heroes in his area should be aware. Make no judgements yet. Btw, Im not a Christian. Prospect, welcome to the community.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 6:43 AM Edgar Allen Poe
Nexus, maybe if you could investigate further, you could bring The Christian into the community? That way we can talk with him/ her, rather than about him/her. Until then, i choose to respect The Christian for what s/he acheives untill I see actual evidence that I shouldn’t.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 7:01 AM Edgar Allen Poe
What the hell happened to proffessor widget?? maybe he finally made that trans-dimensional vehicle he was working on…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 8:04 AM The Gaurdian
Nexux: I was’t really referring to your comments..I was reffering to Berrio’s. I’m not mad at anyone, i guess it seemed that way..I was just concerned about what was said.
now, When i said keep tabs…I didnt necessarily infultrate, I personally do not want him part of this forum. The last thing we need is some religious fanatic. Speaking from expirence….we won’t be able to sway someone like him.
And regarding Mr.Widget…….yes he actually completed the tasks…..He even made a pill that boots someone’s strength…..But in doing so, he became drunk with power and is now re-named himself, Proffessor Power. And has decided to make all who blog here his enimies, and waging war on allthe heroes……besoming our first archenemy…grrrr.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 8:06 AM The Gaurdian
The last part was a joke….damn….talk about typos….grrrrr

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 12:19 PM Nexus
Heh, not bad, Gaurdian. A bumbling science guy who thinks he’s an incomparable genius. That’s a nice loony to throw the rookies at:)
Well, I also agree that Christian seems a bit to unstable or shall we say, “overly driven” to join this community, but I’m still worried about people in the metroplex. This is going to be something that will concern me for awhile, so at the very least, I’m going to keep hanging around the guys website. Still haven’t received a response back from him yet. He follow the web links Mark Schmidt has up back to here and start posting, I don’t know. But for the moment he’s running his own show.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 1:10 PM Jackalope
Theres nothing that can be done about him being a fanatic but we can at least try to convince him to use less extreme means in his crimefighting

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 1:15 PM Jackalope
And speaking of infiltration perhaps nexus should try to infiltrate their group and ascertain how dangerous they are.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 1:20 PM The Gaurdian
NO. Nexus will not infiltrate them. We will just monitor his website. If action needs to be taken, we will cross that bridge, WHEN and IF we get there…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 2:00 PM DarkShadow
I agree with Gaurdian. Thats the best route to take for the present time.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/15/2005 4:25 PM Nexus
Agreed.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/17/2005 3:41 AM Beerio
Has already contacted this fellow and given him (or her) a link to this site? I wonder how he will feel about you guys talking about infiltrating him? No matter.
Guardian, perhaps we should discuss professionalism. Professionalism does not exclude having different styles. It means having quality of work and not letting emotion rule over you. That is what I meant. You yourself said that you wont force your religion down anyone’s throat and that is what I am talking about. I haven’t got a problem with anyone having religious beliefs and I have some of my own. I do have a problem if someone starts talking on and on about his or her religion for two simple reasons:
1. If I want to hear or read about religion I will go to a religious place like church or a blog that centers on religion.
2. People who talk too much about their religion are usually hypocrites and even if not, I find them to be boring as Hades.
Let me put it another way. I go to work every day. I do so to provide for my family. Other people come to the same job as me and have no family. Their reasons for coming to work are obviously different than mine, however they don’t try to convince me that their reasons for working are better than mine and I don’t do that to them either. That is a part of professionalism. Yes I realize that this isn’t a job we are talking about but if you don’t have professionalism you are going to either find yourself in prison or dead. This ‘superhero’ thing we are talking about will require more training, dedication and professionalism than any job. So I will say this clearly and keep saying it till it gets through:
You need training, experience and professionalism if you are serious about becoming a superhero.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/17/2005 5:06 AM searching
what would someone advice for a powerful non-lethal weapon that i can carry with me at all times. is there anything that is high tech and carries a powerful punch (i’m not a lover of stun guns ect..) is there something like what the ship used against the pirates a few days ago in somalia.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/17/2005 5:12 AM Beerio
Heh I’ve considered getting a squeezable ketchup bottle and filling it with hot sauce. Squeeze it hard and spray hot sauce in someone’s eyes! Bahahahaha! And if that doesn’t work offer them some fried chicken to go with the hot sauce….
Anyhow having hot sauce in your lunch box isn’t illegal and is perfectlly normal.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/17/2005 6:16 AM Nexus
More on the serious side, Searching, other than mace or pepper spray (which are difficult to find in an effective compound), you can possibly think about getting a mini-bullhorn. They’re about the size of an inhaler and carry compressed gas funneled through a horn. It creates a pretty loud directional noise that can startle and disorient attackers.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/17/2005 7:05 AM Edgar Allen Poe
just dont forget your ear plugs!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/17/2005 12:26 PM Jackalope
There are several types of guns that fire non lethal projectiles. there is also the possibility of using tranquilizer darts but you’d have to make sure you had the correct dosage for humans. Keep in mind that tranquilizers are more of a long rang attack device pretty much useless in a situation where you have to act fast.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/17/2005 4:48 PM DarkShadow
You have any sites on where they can be purchased Jackalope? I’d be interested. I’ve got a site that sells armored wrist cuffs/gauntlets that could be used for a wrist-mounted launcher.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/17/2005 5:31 PM Zen
Apologies if this is posted twice, having issues with safari…
I’m a fan of the horn personally, except test it regularly…when I was a young teenager my mum bought me one for personal safety. I kept it in my school bag for about a year, then one day we decided to give it a test. We depressed the button and it chirped like a baby sparrow for a second then died! Not cool.
I posted much earlier about directional sound beams as a non-lethal weapon and these remain my personal favourite.
I wasn’t planning to use one as a weapon as such, (you can also use this technology to direct low frequency sound waves at animals and people which causes nausea at varying degrees). You can get these at amazing1.com under Ultrasonics (thanks for the link DarkShadow).
My plan was to use it as a long range directional microphone. You can also send your voice, music and sounds through similar devices, but I’m still trying to track one down. The amusing experiment I read was of a computer geek type in a shopping centre standing 100 yards away from subject with his laptop and small sound beam device. He’d point it at people randomly walking through the centre, and suddenly they’d be walking through what sounded like a brazillian rainforest. I liked it for its confusion factor.
I think a simple high powered laser torch could also be handy for night blinding, but I’m not planning on getting that close for a long time! As Beerio correctly outlined a while back, if you have a weapon and don’t know exactly what you’re doing you could end up in a hell of a dangerous mess.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/17/2005 11:03 PM SHJ
Zen,
you’re right on the money about using light and sound as weapons. They were my only offensive technology when I was active, and they worked fine both times I saw “action”.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/18/2005 4:22 AM Jackalope
Non-lethal.com
theres a link at world superhero registry

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/18/2005 4:26 AM Jackalope
BlowgunsNW.com: Tranquilizer Darts

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/18/2005 7:00 AM Edgar Allen Poe
People can be allergic to the chemicals used in tranquilizer darts. Also, dosage depends on weight and age.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/18/2005 7:17 AM Edgar Allen Poe
After a little research, i have disovered that apparently dangerous lasers need to be 50milliwatts plus to actually have a decent effect, because visible lasers such as those pen style pointers will not do damage, because they are visible and therefore cause a blinking reflex.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/18/2005 8:14 AM JACKALOPE
just use a dosage that would be considered safe for anyone it might not put them out cold but it would still give you a considerable advantage

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/18/2005 1:46 PM DarkShadow
Not a problem Zen, let me know if you need anything else.
Poe, I think i found a solution for the laser question, go to this site that I found. I’ve been checking it out and it looks very promising.
Xadsgear.com
If my memory serves, Ketemine is very effective as a tranquilizer. Its mostly used on horses, so a standard dose for a person would be minimal and easily measured at best.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/19/2005 12:21 AM Edgar Allen Poe
Darkshadow the laser seems to be the perfect thing, but its still only 5 milliwatts. is that going to be enough ?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/19/2005 7:28 AM DarkShadow
Poe, from what i’ve both seen and heard, it should be more than enough. Because the Dazzler uses the green color, its very effective in blinding someone due to the laser’s color wavelength…or so I’ve read. all in all it should do the job effectively….without any long-term harmful effects.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/20/2005 4:52 AM Edgar Allen Poe
I wonder how effective a camera flash would be in the dark? i have very limited funds, (im a lot younger than most here and still rely on pocket money!) but i wondered if you guys thought a camera flash and personal alarm would be useful for me? i very much like the idea of using light and sound rather than violence, and intend to pursue the idea.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/20/2005 5:02 AM DarkShadow
Brilliant idea there Poe. (no pun intended) A camera flash properly modulated would be extremely effective. Or better yet, a flash type strobe would be sufficiant to blind a person when properly deployed. your on the right track there.
I too am trying to assemble stuff with pocket money, and brother it ain’t easy. I know how frustrating it can be so….your not alone.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/20/2005 5:52 AM Jackalope
if a criminal thinks your taking pictures of him while he’s committing a crime he will not be afraid of you he will be pissed and will try to kill you

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/20/2005 6:41 AM DarkShadow
very true Jackalope. Thats where the art of discretion come into play. A small digital camera or camcorder hidden on person would work nicely in recording any information needed for the police to convict a suspect. Like so…this is something that I would use:
Spooktech.com
An ordinary pen camera purchased at any spy-tech store is enough to do the trick.
Record the crime and apprehend(tie-up) the suspect (if the situation calls for it) and leave the film disc/tape for the police to find. then dissapear. Game set and match….in theory at least.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/20/2005 8:03 AM GREEN SCORPION
On the ketamine, it has started to become a street drug with names like “Special K” and this leads me to beleive that it might not take any special training to calculate a safe dose and that it probably does not have significant side effects. Does anyone here have medical or vetinary training? How safe is this stuff? How common are serious side effects? how easy is it to overdose?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/20/2005 2:37 PM DarkShadow
Ketamine becoming a street drug now you say Scorpion? hmm go figure. Thats no surprise. I would strictly use the Vet type Ketamine if at all possible. I’d hate to think of any side efects or heaven forbid an accidental overdose and death.
However using any drug….and i do mean ANY drug, you certainly would have to know a specific dose amount in order to make sure you would knock your opponent or target out…and not make it permenent. I wouldnt mess with the stuff unless I knew exactly what i was doing. Thats why I’d stick with CQC techniques, with a taser, pepper spray, paintball projecticle launcher, ect
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/21/2005 8:29 AM SHJ
Poe,
light and sound are excellent weapons of confusion and distraction and proved effective for me when I was active, but the choice does depend on your goals as a vigilante and especially your defensive strategy.
My goal was simply to deter street crime, especially violent crime; to stop these crimes as they happened, without trying to apprehend criminals. Also, I only deployed the weapons from low-level rooftops (from one to three levels up), so I had an automatic defense of distance between myself and the trouble-makers. The distance and height advantage obviated the need for any more direct defensive weaponry.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/21/2005 12:59 PM DarkShadow
Smart thinking SHJ, regarding keeping some distance between you and the perps. One should only attempt CQC(close quarters combat) if properly skilled and there is little to no option left.
Light and sound do make excellent weapons when properly deployed and they are quite effective depending on the situation. Using them while remaining unseen takes some skill, but can be a great fear factor that you can use to your advantage.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/21/2005 3:09 PM Nexus
Drugs and other chemical deterrents are things we’re considering when we need to physically confront someone and apprehend them, but without bloodying them up or risking injury ourselves. Potentially, it’s when one would be most outnumbered and need to tip scales in one’s favor.
I wish the herbal/chemical mixtures used by Japanese ninjas were not such a hush-hush secret, because I’m sure they aren’t so overly complex to concoct and use, probably use natural poisons and toxins and regional plants for effect. Undoubtedly certain cultures have a lot more background on compounds as weapons than modern science has tried. I just wish I had access to the information.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/21/2005 5:09 PM DarkShadow
As do I Nexus. Batman’s use of Ver-Sed chemical anesthetic(real in todays present-day btw) would come in very handy in certain situations. But being that its a controlled substance, its not accesible to everyday people
There are ways of course, of getting it. If one has the right contacts and all. I personally wish that they would develop something like a Taser dart. Something small that can be fired from a CO2 pistol or pistol-type crossbow and just stun a target really good without injury. Guess that we’ll have to wait a few yrs for someone to develop it…..not to mention for someone to come up with a street version of such a device.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/21/2005 7:55 PM SHJ
Shadow,
I would always regard close combat as the last and worst tactical option, and that’s with an extensive background in a range of martial arts and considerable professional experience as a self defense instructor. Too many variables to be reliable, especially if you are actually trying to restrain someone who doesn’t want to be held.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/21/2005 9:41 PM KEVLEX
ON LASERS: Whenever I see any type of laser pointer it has a warning that it can cause damage to the eye. I wonder if using a higher power laser to temporarily blind an opponent might cause permanent damage. I would be very hesitant to use something like that.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/22/2005 9:53 AM DarkShadow
Agreed SHJ. Such training would be neccessary, in fact, mandatory for doing such a thing as this. The idea of just “zapém and tie em up”sounds logical, but if your not a good shot and the target comes after you…well, i dont think i need to say more.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/22/2005 10:03 AM DarkShadow
True Kelvex, and yes, you are right. Thats what a laser pointer will do if your not careful with it. but know this….that is with an ORDINARY laser pointer. The laser that is currently being tested and developed at the site i gave is specifically FOR use in this matter.
The spectrum of the color green is excellent to use with a blinding laser being that the eye absorbs it quite well and the effect, and im assuming of course that its properly calibrated is indeed only temporary. I think thats why the police are going with it nowadays. They obviously did their homework. Its reletively safe as long as they dont abuse it or aim it at the subject’s eyes for a prolonged period of time
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/22/2005 11:39 AM SHJ
Shadow,
I agree, but my point was that I actually have that background, and still would not want to adopt close combat tactics as a vigilante. I discounted it early on in my two year “career” because the risks simply outweighed the benefits. That’s one of the choices that every would-be vigilante will have to make for themselves, and it really cuts to the essential questions of overall goals and strategies.
To reinforce the point, although I was a competent hand-to-hand combatant, I deliberately adopted the distance defense and sound/light attack tactics, and found that they worked for me.
As I think I’ve mentioned before, it bothers me that young people who are attracted to this idea may get themselves into serious trouble out of pure naivety, such as mistaking a few years of training in a commercial martial arts school for the ability to survive a street fight.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/22/2005 2:39 PM DarkShadow
Your point is indeed well taken SHJ…and is very valid as well. I commend you for being up front with how you feel regarding the subject and all.
While i wholeheartedly agree that using defensive/illusionary tactics is good and can come in handy, simply put, One never knows when he/she will come into a situation where has no choice but to fight. Don’t get me wrong…i have no problem with the tactics you described, in fact…i might consider using some myself. but like in all things…you must try to come prepared for whats out there. at all times. What works for you is great,….to each his/her own. As they say in ninjitsu, Expect the Unexpected.
Oh i agree. Totally. That is a disturbing thought. i would be deeply grieved if someone would all of a sudden think..”wow yeah thats it i’ll be a superhero and take on the world!”….and then wind up going out and doing something stupid, getting hurt…or worse. 🙁 ….If it were only that easy.
Training, (it just simply cant be said enough time) practice, careful planning and the right equipment and midset are ESSENTIAL. to the young people here I implore you…do not be foolish, please. Learn, grow, gain discipline and wisdom before even THINKING of taking up a mantle against Evil. If its meant to be….it will happen. if not,…then leave it to the pros.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/27/2005 2:41 AM Beerio
Yep. That’s right Shadow out. Say why is your last name out?
Anyhow I’m going to start a new web site. No, not another forum just a site where I can gather and organize what I and others have posted in this blog and the two forums into a coherent format. The index page will be here: geocities.com/beeriobeer/index.html
There is nothing there right now, but I will let you know when I have made a start on it.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/27/2005 3:23 AM Beerio
Hmm forgot to add that I have recieved the materials I need in the mail to begin my superhero suit. Unfortunately I don’t think I ordered off for enough Kevlar, but I can still get started. I plan on using my digital camera to document the procedure in great detail and post it all on my new site.
I will begin making the suit Tuesday and upload the pictures as I go. Of course you wont be able to see the pictures till I have posted them on the site (geocities lets you upload things into files then post them later)
Anyhow I will be back to work on Thursday and begin organizing the site and posting pictures that day. So be sure to check out my site this coming Thursday evening! It wont be complete but it will be started by the end of the day.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/27/2005 4:31 AM DarkShadow
Beerio, I say Shadow out at the end cuz, well….it means,….i’m out, LOL. Like i’m gone, i’m outie, transmission ended for now…ya know..that sorta thing?:-)
Can’t wait to check out your site and see what you got listed. I’m sure that it will rock. I’m just now securing a private material/mail drop and have just recently started ordering materials for a Utility Belt of my own design. This will be the first component in my own suit.
and so it begins…
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/27/2005 4:47 AM Beerio
I know Shadow I was just kidding you. I have a very dry sense of humor. Anyhow I have found myself with a lot of spare time today at work so I have begun to make the site already. I wont have any pictures to upload till Thursday but I decided to go ahead and begin the sorting of information we have all gathered up till now. Also I have a public email now:
[email protected]
Anyone with any other email address of mine can continue to use it but don’t give it out to anyone else please.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/27/2005 5:54 AM DarkShadow
heheh…I know Beerio. Humor, dry or otherwise, it’s all good. 🙂
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/27/2005 3:25 PM Jackalope
beerio when your done with your suit you should consider selling it to one of us since you wont be using it

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/27/2005 3:52 PM DarkShadow
Or at least send us the schematics/blueprints of it, Beerio. If its not a problem.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/28/2005 5:56 AM Beerio
All information about the suit including weaknesses will be freely given out. I forgot I have training this week so I might be a bit slow with the updates to the site so be patient. As for selling it…I’ll keep that in mind as a possibility.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/28/2005 7:32 AM Beerio
My eyes are killing me from reading technical manuals for the last 4 hours. If anyone has been to my site please ignore its total disarray and messiness. I am a good web master believe it or not, but I just haven’t had time to get it looking nice. Once I have it all straightened out I will give it a professional look by cleaning it up and organizing it and making it fancy by using HTML. Right now I am just using a web wizard to get some of the basics up. Tomorrow I will start the suit and start taking/uploading pictures to the site. At the end of the day I think I will make a new link on the index page and just randomly post the pictures without any comment on them so you guys can get a preview if you like. Then later on I will get the pictures captioned with the directions and details of what is going on in them and move them to the ‘dead’ links that I already have up there that right now just say ‘under construction’
I’m actually having a lot of fun with all this!
Guess I better get back to reading technical manuals…ow my eyes and head.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/28/2005 9:12 AM Edgar Allen Poe
Beerio i think i speak for all of us when i say that we appreciate your time and great effort, it sounds like your giving real dedication to the project.
Also, does anyone want to sayanything on the fact that the US will be holding the 1000th executution this week? I know its logically that we should stay as politically neutral as possible, however, on the other hand, perhaps we are making a bold statement as it is simply by choosing our line of work? why not take that further?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/28/2005 9:16 AM Edgar Allen Poe
executution?? oh dear…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/28/2005 9:25 AM Beerio
Err the technical manuals are because I am doing CBT’s (computer based training) at work. My job is the kind where I have to constantly learn new things or get left behind as technology progresses. The web site is easy stuff (so actually there is no great effort!) Actually I have never even visited this site except at work. You might say everything I have done here is a great monument to my laziness and goofing off at work! Bahahahahah! Seriously though I do my job and do it well. I couldn’t spend my pay check if I didn’t fairly earn the money.
Take it further how?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/28/2005 1:35 PM DarkShadow
Beerio, I sympathize with you. I search the Web and stare at sites and screens both on a daily and nightly basis and….ouch is right. It tends to wear you down after a while.
I’ll second that Poe. Beerio, we do in fact greatly appreciate what your doing. Kudos to you my friend, and keep up the good work.
as for the 1000th execution being held in the U.S., well, while i do agree with Poe that a Neutral POV is desired. I for one, simply can’t abide by it. It’s not really up to us…but in my opinion, and this is my opinion now,…if the person did a crime so henious as to warrent death, then so be it. Granted, the current Justice System is this country is in bad(and i do mean BAD) shape and warrents an overhaul in the most desparate manner, people such as Charles Manson(who is still alive, why i dont know) Ted Bundy(executed, thankfully) and BTK(given a life sentence…again why I dont know) do deserve death in all its finality. The horrible things they do not to warrent it is beyond me. I will say one thing however, If and when I do become active…I will leave that finality to the confines of the Law. Neutrality does indeed play a factor in heroism, weather in the comics or in real life. We are here to give the Law the proper nudge in the right direction…I prefer to think of it as leveling the playing field for all and that is all. Get the ball rolling within the confines of the Law and let them take it from there.
Pardon me all if I sounded like I was rambling…it’s an old habit with me. 😀
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/29/2005 12:47 AM Heather Forshaw
Calling all Superheros, I am a researcher working for ITV, a television company in Britain. I am looking for stories and experiences from people such as yourselves for a forthcoming program. Have your or anyone you know had any interesting superhero experiences? If so get in touch!! You will be under no obligation to take part, i’m looking foward to hearing from you, Heather.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/29/2005 1:47 AM Edgar Allen Poe
How do you propose to make a program about our experiences if none of us are under obligation to take part? What is the purpose of making such a program, entertainment? i think id rather wait for my fifteen minutes, on the local news. Please dont take offence, i know im coming across a little harsh, im just trying to make my point.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/29/2005 2:23 PM DarkShadow
With all due respect Heather,…I agree with my associate Poe. Some on this board just talk about the given subject, where as others actually do or are planning such creative endeavors in the real world. I personally wouldnt not advise a real-world hero/heroine to pursuit such a matter unless he/she is actually serious to a certain level and has some actual hours under their belt. I respectfully decline, but might….and i do say this with reservation…Might..consider your idea in the distant future.
Shadow out
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/29/2005 4:36 PM DarkShadow
i hate when that happens LOL

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/30/2005 4:45 AM Web Master
Interesting take but so far there dosent seem to be a real organised effort. I am making 1 and you can get in on it by going to the site I have made for that purpose. No matter wherewe are inthe worldwe can organise on line and be effective. We willbe sharingwhat ever participants have to offer including security measures so folks don’t track down their neighborhood vigilante

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/30/2005 4:47 AM Web Master
if you are for real go to the site

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 11/30/2005 7:24 AM Nexus
Thank you for throwing your hat into the ring, Web Master. And for the site link. Incidently, you’ve misspelled “heroes” numerous times.
If we don’t seem that organized, it’s because we aren’t right now. And to be honest, all efforts to GET organized isn’t done through public websites, but private emailing and snail mail. We don’t want prying eyes knowing everything about us. If you’re interested in making contact, please send me a message at [email protected]
Good luck in your efforts.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/2/2005 5:25 AM Beerio
Hey Heather you can do a piece on me! Come over and watch me drink large amounts of beer and burp loudly! No wait that is my wife’s job…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/2/2005 7:09 AM Nexus
A recent article in TIME magazine focused on The Minutemen, a group of volunteer border patrollers who try and keep out illegal immigrants.
Policy debates aside, they are essentially vigilantes, doing the job they have not been duly appointed to, and often in unconventional ways. I’m not personally supportive of their stance so strongly against immigrants, but that’s for each person to decide. Check out Wikipedia for information on the modern-day Minutemen.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/2/2005 8:26 AM Beerio
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minuteman_Project

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/2/2005 9:35 AM Beerio
My site is starting to shape up. Still no pictures posted up, but those will only be window dressing anyhow. Anyone who wants to have a looksee can find it here:
www.geocities.com/beeriobeer/
I know it is still messy and that there are a few misspelled words so don’t bother to point that out. If you have any other advise or thoughts email me at: [email protected]

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/2/2005 2:04 PM Nexus
Yeah, I have a comment: since when the hell is the Manual entirely *YOURS*?:P
Collaborative effort, indeed….

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/2/2005 6:36 PM Nexus
That was a joke in case anyone was wondering…

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/3/2005 5:27 AM Beerio
Ha! Well I am the most charismatic one here…
Hmm but that is a good idea. I’ll add some names to the credit list. That means I will need a credit list. Make credit list then add names. Sound good? Yes sounds very good! Now shut up and hand me another beer.
Now question is who’s name should be on the list? Well anyone who wants their name on the list email me at [email protected]
Add a suggestion or two for improvements or sections that should be added or whatever and I will put your name on the list. Be patient I will make the improvements and add your name to the list as soon as possible. I’ve been very busy lately.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/7/2005 1:33 PM JACKALOPE
Green scorpion hasnt posted in a long time has he gone active?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/7/2005 6:08 PM Nexus
Possible. A lot of people haven’t posted again after the first time or so.
Never did get direct contact with Green so I couldn’t say.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/7/2005 7:03 PM GREEN SCORPION
Hi, everybody!
I have been busy lately with daily life, car problems, work and other annoyances. The holidays also generate a lot of distractions.
I have not yet gotten more active, but when I do, I will not let that keep me from posting here.
I have contacted professor widget to upgrade part of my costume and am waiting to see the quality of his work.
By the way, he says he is still waiting for us to decide on the three things we want him to do to prove his skills.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/9/2005 4:19 AM Nexus
Alright, I’ll throw in with something:
Tell him to rent Ghost Dog: The Way of the Samurai, with Forest Whitaker.
In it, Ghost Dog uses an “electronic lockpick” specially modeled to confuse electric door locks to open with a pack of circuitry a little smaller than an 80s walkman.
Have him take a look at that and make something that could achieve that, and I’ll be convinced.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/9/2005 2:16 PM DarkShadow
I’m still opting for a wrist mounted grapple hook launcher (no motor) or a wrist mounted paintball/dart launcher
those are my two for the Professor.
Shadow out

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/10/2005 8:39 PM Professor Widget
I have set up a poll on my site to determine what items you would like me to demonstrate my skills with. It is located at the very bottom of the “Poll Vault” page. I moved it way down there to minimize interference from random people who should not be voting. Please only vote once for your three favorite items. I will tally the votes eventually and report the results here. The timeframe for completion of the three most popular items will be my standard timeframe: When I get around to it.
www.professorwidget.tk
I applaud Beerio for tackling the task of creating fighting suits and look forward to developments on that front. I did not include a fighting suit in the poll for this reason, although I think I covered all the other suggestions I noticed here.
Yours, Humbly:
Professor Thaddius Widget, Esq.
PS: MUUUWWWAHHaaaHAAA!!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/11/2005 3:19 AM Beerio
Yep. Eventually I’ll have more info up. Now that winter is here I spend more time shovelling snow out of the #$%^&* driveway than anything else. You guys want to train to be a superhero? Get a job shovelling snow. I swear I get a better workout doing that than lifting weights.
Good news though I will have a 4 day weekend coming up shortly. I’ll tell my wife to go away and try to get some work done. O more superhero advise: Don’t get married. Women take up too much time (and tend to ruin a man’s fun such as drinking, weight lefting, sleeping in late on a weekend, playing games, or anything else that doesn’t involve paying attention to her, or earning her money, or doing chores around the house)

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/11/2005 3:26 AM Beerio
Say what’s up with the link on you page to “So you want to be evil”
You a bad guy in disguise or something?
Anyhow, about your request for an assistant with a deformity. Does a abnormally large tallywacker count? If so I might qualify for the job!

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/11/2005 1:39 PM Hewhosees
Beerio, sometimes you come off as a big perv. I mean come on, How old are you?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/12/2005 3:37 AM Beerio
I am a big perv. You really haven’t figured that out till now? I’m 35. Funny thing about getting older, you actually get less ‘straight jacket’ about sex. You get more comfortable with it and develop a sense of humor about it. You will see what I mean when you lose your virginity! Bahahahaha! Ok ok sorry I just couldn’t resist that one. Seriously though if you want to do something as rough as being a policeman or soldier (or superhero) you have to have a sense of humor. Hang around some cops or soldiers and you will find that they all have a very rough sense of humor. You think anything I’ve said here is rough you should hear the jokes I don’t tell here that I learned either at the police academy or army.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/12/2005 2:50 PM Gaurdian
Hmmm, weren’t you the one who spoke of being professional in all this? Double standard much?

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/13/2005 2:00 AM Edgar Allen Poe
Theres no place here for that subject matter.

 

# re: Calling All Superheroes! 12/13/2005 6:24 PM Nexus

There is, however, place for this:
Over the past two days and nights, race riots have been causing havoc throughout the suburbs of Sydney, Australia.
Although the not directly related to the French race riots of earlier this year, it could be argued that growing anti-arab tensions are largely to blame for bad situations erupting like this.
I think it’s a serious matter to follow these “isolated” incidents right now, because it’s uncertain how things might turn out in the future. Tensions that have been boiling for decades (in some regions centuries) are now beginning to be set off.
This is certainly a time when, even as civilians, we need to advocate tolerance and level-headed response to violent acts, lest we incite mobs and mob mentality ourselves.
See the link attached to my handle for more information.