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Forum Post: Is it inappropriate to keep a list of your OWS Usernames in a post for others to see?

Posted 11 years ago on Feb. 19, 2013, 3:03 a.m. EST by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB
This content is user submitted and not an official statement

I'm talking strictly about the 99% Conglomerate and its supporters/members on this forum.

Interest is growing as people learn this is not a scam or an insincere effort. It is the real deal and destined to be huge.

I think the fastest way to get everyone involved is by displaying the names of prominent members you recognize and know have a large following (as well as all other members, of course).

So the question for you is as follows: Would you be offended/upset if someone listed your OWS Username in posts so others can see you support a particular initiative, without personally asking you first?

I just realized I could make a Yes/No field on the Join page, eliminating the need to ask. I think I'll do that, but still interested in your opinion. Was it a stupid question?

95 Comments

95 Comments


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[-] 3 points by GirlFriday (17435) 11 years ago

Thus far, I like the fact that it is a directory of sorts of 99% businesses. Although, I only see one business. I also like the fact that you now have a space that I can check it out with joining anything. That said, you have an entire forum where there is a discussion set for a constitution. That will be interesting to watch. I'm not down with using my name in a post.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

There should be two actual Subsidiary list members. There are other members in the Ad Recipient list but only group managers can see them. Not sure if some didn't realize they need to check the box or are just hesitant at this point.

[-] 1 points by Builder (4202) 11 years ago

I see two members.

Would join, but I'm in another country.

Considering the long tentacles of octopii like the Koch bros, avoiding their products would be like running blindfolded through a mine field. Good luck.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Sorry, I don't understand what is holding you back. The Conglomerate is international. Canadian, American, Mexican, and a bunch of interest from parts of Europe and Asia. I was hoping you would be the first Australian. Someone will be, if not you, but I thought we made some progress together a few weeks ago and in the last few days. Please do not let borders prevent unity.

[-] 1 points by Builder (4202) 11 years ago

I will look into it more closely.

In the middle of moving house, so I'll get settled again before commenting further.

[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Right, forgot. Have a fun wet season!

[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Does this mean GirlFriday abides? Victory is mine!

Oh did you notice that Trolly McShayneh followed you here?

[-] 2 points by redandbluestripedpill (333) 11 years ago

Good idea. It can offset the bogus twinkle/stinkle tool.

[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

It would be an improvement if we could see how many twinkles and stinkles each person has dished out. I see your point but find it a little fun anyway, rewarding like a video game somehow.

[-] 2 points by redandbluestripedpill (333) 11 years ago

Hopefully we have the basic capacity to unify socially around info and concept. Your idea will help.

[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

The Conglomerate only needs 5 minutes from each person. If you want to be more involved more than that, only good can can come from it.

[-] 1 points by redandbluestripedpill (333) 11 years ago

It's not time capacity, its perceptional capacity.

[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Huge numbers have huge effects on perceptions. The idea will help unify, especially when this is promoted by renowned speakers like Wolff and Chomsky. I can't wait to hear about it on Alternative Radio and Bill Moyers by guests of their caliber.

[-] 1 points by redandbluestripedpill (333) 11 years ago

Perceiving defense our rights through the proper use of the constitution is what i'm talking about.

Large numbers demanding defense of the constitution will stop the 1%.

[-] 2 points by MattLHolck (16833) from San Diego, CA 11 years ago

NO

please inform me of any subject that claims my support

[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Oh, for sure. I wouldn't list non-member names as supporters.

[-] 2 points by NVPHIL (664) 11 years ago

I wouldn't mind. The whole point is too get our msg across. Just make sure we support whatever initiative you say.

[-] 2 points by Renneye (3874) 11 years ago

I think most sincere people here, with nothing to hide will not mind at all...and will love being a part of something this genuine. That being said, given the democratic aspirations and spirit of OWS and the people that are drawn to this site, there will be some who would prefer the choice via democratic method such as the Yes/No field. Further responses here will make it clear soon enough. Great thread by the way. I have come to appreciate your very 'action' oriented presence here Kavatz!

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

So very glad to read your reply, Renneye, most motivating!

[-] 2 points by gsw (3407) from Woodbridge Township, NJ 11 years ago

I support the concept of a pro 99 list of business. Supporting them, better wages and workplace democracy

I think you should add the yes no button, then there will be no confusion.

You can use my username. I see no harm in that.

.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

You're a star! Just my opinion, but people who don't support workplace democracy don't belong on this forum, don't you think? Hey, sounds like a good topic for a new post. Thanks again!

[-] 2 points by repubsRtheprob (1209) 11 years ago

People who try to ban different political thought probably don't belong here.

Workplace democracy is a great idea, but many need to be convinced so I wouldn't ban them because they don't share an opinion.

We need to know that our beliefs are strong enough to withstand debate with those that disagree.

No banning for political beliefs.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

You're right again. Maybe it's the sleepless night talking, but I guess I was trying to call them out for a debate on the topic.

[-] 1 points by repubsRtheprob (1209) 11 years ago

No excuses necessary. I respond to that reflex like all ofus. But your idea must be strong enough to withstand debate in the marketplace of ideas.

It's the only way.

So how do we make money in your conglomeration?.

[-] 2 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Just thought I'd throw in one attractive feature of the Conglomerate, since it's something you'll appreciate in particular:

The 99% Conglomerate is basically a mass boycott of 1%-owned corporations.

[-] 2 points by frovikleka (2563) from Island Heights, NJ 11 years ago

Yes this done sound like a good idea on the face of it, but as I sit here in my garage with an imported gas fireplace-type stove keeping me warm tapping away on my LT which is probably made in China, and most of the clothes i have on also made by huge corps overseas....how do you honestly boycott all 1% corporations

I really do wish we could boycott all those bastards, but I just don't see how we can

Picking them off one at a time would work, I think, like the worst one in retail, the worst of them in electronics, clothing, etc.

~Odin~

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Well, when the Conglomerate has many subsidiaries all over the place, you just whip out your Directory Subsidiary (will eventually be a mobile app) and see if there is a 99% alternative close enough to you.

When you come to understand all the current plans for Phases 1-3, you'll see how effective this will be for boycotting and creating a "Responsible Capitalism". I'm looking forward to new better plans too when people start getting more involved.

All YOU need to do to help is create a Subsidiary. Doesn't matter what it is... sell advice for $1 each or sing songs. You can start a subsidiary selling houses if you want. If someone asks to buy one, say "I'm out of stock" or "Sorry, too busy" if it's a service.

Can I help you start one, or can you figure it out? It's incredibly easy.

[-] 1 points by frovikleka (2563) from Island Heights, NJ 11 years ago

You need to do a thorough explanation of how this would work on your thread, and then ask people for their support

~Odin~

[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Did you see that new thread I started about the same time you replied?

http://occupywallst.org/forum/your-ows-username-can-just-as-easily-be-your-tempo/

Is this what you mean by "how this works" or the whole purpose and plans of the Conglomerate? That info is currently being assembled HERE

[-] 1 points by repubsRtheprob (1209) 11 years ago

That does sound good.

[-] 2 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Most appreciated. I'm always seeking to pull out those roots before they get too big! This idea is becoming quite solid thanks to great constructive criticism. I believe your question is being answered in your other replies as they come in.

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[-] 2 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

That's pretty much what I was attempting to do. Is there an easier way to do this here that I'm not aware of?

[-] 2 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

It would be nice if the person who mass-stinkles me here had enough guts to say why. Sorry if I offended you, but please step up. I have a tendency to say foolish things so let me adjust myself.

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[-] 2 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Didn't suspect you at all. Just sometimes people walk into something with no information, make simple-minded perceptual errors, and feel their time is best spent killing a stranger's buzz. Good move, hero, whoever their sorry ass is.

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[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Not the Conglomerate!!! Well, the idea anyway, and it's potential impact on everything. How can I get people get involved? Where is the solidarity? If only like 1% of people on OWS get behind the most promising solution, when it only takes a few minutes (no effort, money or risk whatsoever), we're history.

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[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

You probably don't have time to go through this but here it is just in case http://www.occupywallst.org/forum/conglomerate-and-dgrc-topic-references/

The link to get involved is here, remove join/ to see the current Phase 1 project: https://secure.groupspaces.com/group/99Conglomerate/join/

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[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

You always own it. It costs nothing until Phase 2, but you can choose not to continue. In Phase 2 you only share a small percent of revenue. That percent is decided democratically by you and other Subsidiary owners when the time comes.

One flaw with the way I chose to implement this Phase 1 project, the Directory of Subsidiaries (the groupspaces website) is that you can only have one Subsidiary for each email address, but you can figure out easy workarounds like get another email address and set a rule to forward to your main one. Or just use two emails! When Phase 2 comes and funding comes in, better technology can be used.

So even if your Subsidiary brings in zero dollars to the Conglomerate, you still have full democratic influence in decision-making.

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[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

They can start their own subsidiaries. Also, in Phase 3, workplace democracy is in effect for the large, "consumed" subsidiaries. I can tell you more about how the conglomerate strategically consumes corporations we despise.

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[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

OK, my real reply now that I have the time. Consumers need to support the Conglomerate whenever possible. Now if a mom and pop restaurant didn't want to join the conglomerate, and they ALL will be encouraged to, I wouldn't frown upon its patrons.

On the other hand, of someone walks a block past a Conglomerate Subsidiary coffee shop with decent quality, price, service and convenience, so they can look cool at Starbucks, I'd want to slap that person upside the head and say "Where the fuck do you think you're going?" OK, maybe I wouldn't because it's a little extreme, but it's how I would feel.

We're talking solidarity here and a need to make all the 99% understand that's who they are. The movement needs to go far beyond 5% of the 99% for significant systemic change to occur.

[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

That's funny, I was thinking about making a post with the title "Guilt-trippin out on the rest of the 99%" or something along those lines.

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[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Very glad you're asking great questions.

First of all, the order in which we consume irresponsible corporate entities is strategic, meaning it may not be feasible or possible to consume Walmart or Monsanto before the end of Phase 3, for example. I really REALLY hope it is possible though.

As time goes on and people start purchasing more 99% products/services, profits will shift from the 1% to the 99%. The irresponsible entities will grow weaker while we grow stronger, making them easier to consume in time.

There will come a day when the Conglomerate has the financial leverage to purchase large corporations, with price tags of millions and billions of dollars. The Conglomerate will go deep into debt to make such purchases if necessary.

The 1% won't be complaining much and neither will shareholders as they will get their money. They had better be willing to sell before Phase 3 is done, as a matter of fact, because that's when we take back control of the nation, making rules they will have to accept, like shape up or ship out.

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[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Yes, silly, but since not everyone supports local or realizes what they are doing, they need to be educated.

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[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

The 2nd link is what you're after. Just delete the "/join" part of the link and click About.

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[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

There you go, free ads to members weekly. It wouldn't matter if you sell any. All that matters is the Subsidiary Directory grows.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Oh sure sorry for not linking. I'll have to wait for a bit though, driving and a bit busy. Soon.

[-] 2 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

You'd be wise to completely ignore those karma point, Kavatz. All you have to do is get on someone's bad side and they'll hound you from then on downvoting every comment you make regardless of how valid the comment is. And they'll get their like-minded comrades to do the same. It's a complete abuse of the original purpose of the vote. Not to mention childish as hell.

Last year, I had one forum member here (who shall remain nameless) that spent literally HOURS of his free time going thru old posts downvoting every comment of mine he could find. Now, how fucking juvenile is that?

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Yup, I know the feeling. I bailed on another forum because of a similar idiot. This guy disagreed on everything everyone said and replied to every post with links to the dumbest website I've ever seen. He always referenced Jesus and thought he had a chance to be the next President of USA. HAHAHA! Well, I think he still watches that forum and is just about the only one left who is active there. He ruined it for everyone.

Now spending hours searching for old posts to downvote makes your guy a candidate for a good curb stomping. (a verbal stomping of course!)

[-] 2 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

Yeah, it was pretty pitiful. I disappeared from the forum for about a week or so, meaning I didn't make ANY comments at all in that time, and when I came back on I was down about five hundred points or so. Not coincidentally, I'd had an extended 'disagreement' with him the night before my absence. He would also spend untold hours using different usernames to massively upvote his own comments because he thinks those points are some sort of validation, although he'll deny that fact. I went thru a few threads last year around that time just out of curiosity and noticed every comment he made on them had 6, 7, 8 points each. EVERY comment. He finally got busted for it though since it was so blatant.

Don't let that bullshit chase you off this forum though. It sounds like you have some good things to say and some good ideas. We need supporters like you.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

I won't leave soon, this is by far the best place for me to be. So many like-minded people. Something I have been yearning for for many years but didn't know where to look or didn't look hard enough until recently.

I'll get the meanest of the meanies, like GirlFriday, to chase away those trolls (love watching her posts!)

I hope I can convince you to start a Conglomerate Subsidiary! I'm willing to spend time with you to show how, answer questions, give you ideas, or anything I have time for.

Appreciate the kind words!

[-] 2 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

Your site intrigues me. I just checked it out briefly last night. Let me dig into it some more and I'll get back with you for more clarification. Got a lot on my plate right now, but things should level off soon and I'll have more time to concentrate on it.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Cool. Good thing about it is it requires no real concentration. You just go to Join, and spend as little as a few minutes. Just get a Subsidiary name up there and put BRB or something in the fields. Call the Subsidiary gnomunny if you want (great idea, why didn't I think of this before!). Then take as much time as you need. You'll get the weekly email, which is just the Subsidiary Directory.

[-] 2 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

I'll definitely be checking into it. Probably after the post I'm working on, which should take a few days. I'll spend some time on your site looking around by this weekend. Time flies too quick to get to it before that. In fact, I just bookmarked it.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

You don't know how glad I am we talked. You gave me the best idea I've had in a while.

[-] 1 points by gnomunny (6819) from St Louis, MO 11 years ago

That's what's great about brainstorming with people. Ideas often come to you out of the blue.

[-] 0 points by Builder (4202) 11 years ago

I got your back.

Twinkles to cancel out stinkles.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Check, mate!

[-] 1 points by WSmith (2698) from Cornelius, OR 11 years ago

What the hell is it talking about??

[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Glad you asked, Will, but could you rephrase the question please?

[-] 1 points by WSmith (2698) from Cornelius, OR 11 years ago

No, I am sure it's you who needs to explain.

[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Do you want me to rephrase this post? Is something not clear about the question? Or would you like an intro to the 99% Conglomerate?

http://groupspaces.com/99Conglomerate/

There is much to add and do there, as the link is to a Phase 1 project proof of concept. I can personally answer any questions you have or point you to relevant posts.

[-] 1 points by WSmith (2698) from Cornelius, OR 11 years ago

An advertisement.

I don't think advertisements are appropriate here.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

It's not an ad, it's an initiative. Some of us believe it is the best solution ever produced for the 99%. I recommend spending some time understanding it, if it is a solution you seek.

[-] 1 points by WSmith (2698) from Cornelius, OR 11 years ago

I always told friends, no clothes, just diapers, Huggies!!

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

I'm a Pampers fan, though I'm not sure I follow.

[-] 1 points by WSmith (2698) from Cornelius, OR 11 years ago

Try Huggies, you'll never go back.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Hehe I like Pampers Cruisers. We tried Huggies and they didn't seem to compare.

Looking forward to a subsidiary producing superior diapers!

[-] 1 points by WSmith (2698) from Cornelius, OR 11 years ago

it's been a while, perhaps they've changed

[-] 0 points by peacehurricane (293) 11 years ago

They are made of cloth and you buy them one time. Very cost efficient. The babes are fine as long as parents are not too lazy and can change them. They are reusable thereby saving a lot of toxin from landfill and wrapping on child bums.

[-] 1 points by oldJohn (-646) 11 years ago

Yes, it is.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

I created a Subsidiary for you. It's called oldJohn and you're now a member of the 99% Conglomerate.

Ya, sounds like a violation.

I actually never thought about doing that to anyone, the thought just came to me now that I could.

It's pretty clear from the replies here that your answer is right.

[-] 0 points by oldJohn (-646) 11 years ago

Do as you please. I'll just change usernames if it's bothersome to me and you can add that new one then I'll change again. You'll just pollute your username list. I'm OK with that.

[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

I'm not actually creating accounts for anyone.

[-] 1 points by repubsRtheprob (1209) 11 years ago

Permission is obviously critical and required.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

I thought that too but it is debatable. Why would someone be afraid to declare their support for something they believe in? Plus, it's not like any personal information is being shared. Usernames are pretty much a disguise. You're probably right though.

[-] 1 points by repubsRtheprob (1209) 11 years ago

Didn't say anything about being "afraid" of anything.

I would say it is about respect. Either you respect the people choosing to get involved with you're group and inform them how you will you use their property (username), or you will rationalize why they shouldn't object and disrespectfully use their property (username) without permission to market your product.

Good way to lose support.

How much does your deal cost?

[-] 0 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

I agree with you. Maybe it was a silly question after all.

It costs no more than 3-10 minutes of you time at minimum, depending on how much effort you want to put in and how successful you want to be. No $ needed.

[-] 1 points by repubsRtheprob (1209) 11 years ago

How do you measure success?

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Growth and stability in your local community, personal success as an entrepreneur, Conglomerate membership numbers, the Conglomerate's level of political influence, resulting increase in Occupy supporters, and probably more. Would you like me to elaborate on anything in particular?

[-] 1 points by repubsRtheprob (1209) 11 years ago

That measure of success is great. I like it, and support it.

No money involved with your measure of success.? How will I buy food for my family, pay my mortgage, or my childrens tuition.?

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

OK, good question. If you have any way to make money, start a Subsidiary. If you haven't yet thought of a way, I might be able to help you generate ideas. Once you have a Subsidiary, It will be on the Subsidiary Directory which will be distributed to subscribers to the Ad Recipients list on a weekly basis. In time you will become too busy to keep up with demand for your products/services, unless your offerings/service/prices are horrible of course.

[-] 1 points by repubsRtheprob (1209) 11 years ago

"ad recipients"? is there a cost to that?

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

No. I'll manage it for free. It's practically effortless. When/if it gets to be too much work, I'm sure someone will volunteer to help. With the right technology in place, it should be more automated.

Just join (do you know where to go?) and you'll see the Ad Recipients checkbox there with the other ten-or-so form fields.

There are no obligations, in case that was your next question.

[-] -1 points by Shayneh (-482) 11 years ago

I think people are already doing this - it's called "Angies List". She lists people and their comments along with contractors and their profession.

Now the connection between the person and the contractor is the contractor provided a service for the person so there is that connection

There are also lots of other web sites out there that provide info on bueinsesses and some allow input.

So I think what you want to do is already being done - but not to the extent that everyone knows everyone who is involved.

[-] 1 points by Kavatz (464) from Edmonton, AB 11 years ago

Sweet