"The full cost of chartering an airbus would be so high, you'd think they (Australian rescue authorities) would have to work with the U.S. government for that," Marianne Sunderland, Abby's mom, told the Australian newspaper Adelaide Now. "We're not wealthy people."The rescue was initiated by Australia last Thursday when Abby activated two emergency locating beacons after her 40-foot sailboat rolled in high seas and lost its mast and satellite communications equipment.
Australia sent a spotter plane and later -- as the fishing boat was arriving -- used two aircraft to monitor the remote rescue, 2,000 miles east of Madagascar and about the same distance from Australia. The estimated cost of the rescue has been placed at about $300,000.
When reached this morning, Marianne Sunderland said the reporter took her comments out of context and falsely implied she was hoping to pass the buck to Australia. She did not appreciate the story's implication that the Sunderlands, a middle-class family from Thousand Oaks, Calif., were broke.
Abby's partially-sponsored trip, however, was the second costly adventure for the parents. Last July, Abby's older brother Zac sailed home to a hero's welcome after completing a solo-circumnavigation of the planet at the age of 17.
In fact, Zac and Abby were supposed to have been part of a TV reality show series and a separate documentary, and some see this as exploitation of the children for financial gain.
However, the plug was pulled on both projects long before Abby's rescue, because of reasons that also are a source of dispute.
"The networks didn't want to touch it because of the very thing that happened," said Susan Hartman, owner of 23 South Productions, which owns the footage shot beginning last fall and continuing into part of Abby's journey. "They were afraid she was going to die."
Laurence Sunderland, Abby's father, said in a Los Angeles Times story posted today that the opposite is true. "They were assuming Abigail was going to die out there," he said of the producers. "They were relying on her dying, and so we cut the ties."
Abby, 16, was attempting to become the youngest person to sail around the world alone and the dramatic episode occurred last Thursday, just weeks after another 16-year-old girl, Australia's Jessica Watson, had successfully completed a solo-circumnavigation.
Abby spent 20 hours out of contact with civilization and before a spotter plane from Australia located the upright vessel and made radio contact with the sailor. During that period there was speculation that she might have been killed, knocked off the boat or trapped beneath an upside-down boat.
Sunderland today will disembark from the French fishing boat and catch another boat to the French-controlled Reunion Island. She's not expected home for at least a week, and given the size of the controversy swirling like a storm cloud over her neighborhood, she probably will wish she were still at sea once she arrives home.
Critics have taken issue with her age, the wisdom of her parents, the costly rescue and, most recently, the reality TV business.
However, even Hartman says the Sunderlands do not deserve the latter criticism because the idea for the show was not theirs.
When filming began, Hartman was working as an independent contractor on behalf of Magnetic Entertainment. Hartman said Magnetic Entertainment came to the Sunderland's with the idea for the show, not vice-versa.
She said that what's misleading reporters now is that Magnetic Entertainment still lists the "Adventures in Sunderland" show and a documentary on the family among its active projects. It describes the reality show as "a family-oriented Adventure show" that follows "the family in their day-to-day lives as shipbuilder Laurence Sunderland and mother/teacher Marianne try to balance work and family."
Hartman said another reason the plug was pulled on both projects was that film crews found Laurence Sunderland difficult to deal with. They also believed the vessel and Abby were not prepared for the task of tackling the turbulent Southern Ocean, especially so late in the season, after the favorable weather window had closed."We didn't feel the boat or Abby were properly prepared," Hartman said.
Abby's trip was scheduled to begin last fall but because of numerous delays caused by boat issues she didn't depart from Marina del Rey, Calif. until Jan. 23. Soon after she was forced into Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, because Wild Eyes had experienced more problems.
Another unplanned stop caused by equipment problems occurred more recently in Cape Town, South Africa.
The Sunderland parents have acknowledged that the timing of Abby's adventure was not ideal but Marianne Sunderland said their daughter had the backing of Commanders' Weather, which has routed several renowned sailors and racing competitors across the the Southern Ocean, and served as router for Abby's voyage.
Abby's vessel, a cruising sled named Wild Eyes, was built for Southern Ocean travel, but was slammed by a fierce storm that she endured for several days before the boat rolled.
The American Sailing Assn. was critical of the timing of a trip that placed Abby deep into the Indian Ocean when the Southern Hemisphere winter was at hand. Charlie Nobles, the ASA's executive director, acknowledged that storms can develop at any time in this inhospitable region.
"But the likelihood of having to deal with these storms become greater at this time of year," Nobles said.
Meanwhile, there are five younger Sunderland siblings, all of them home-schooled, with a sixth due to be born on July 1. Laurence and Marianne ought to consider themselves fortunate that none of those children, so far, has developed an ambition for extreme adventure.
Top image of Abby Sunderland during her departure in January courtesy of 2010 Lisa Gizara/GizaraArts.Com
Bottom image of Zac and Abby Sunderland by Pete Thomas
324 Comments
1-20 of 324
Posted by debb5862 June 14, 2010 05:58pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
They absolutely are responsible for all rescue costs. Anyone else remembering the ballon boy that hid in the garage while the world looked for him, too??? I also think they need to be investigated as fit parents... you just do not place your children in totally UNNECESSARY danger for profit or any other reason. A 16-yr-old girl ALONE on a sailing vessel - anyone heard of pirates??? I'll stop short of commenting about 8 children and maybe not missing one...
Reply by dagny kennedy June 14, 2010 06:34pm PDTReport Abuse
Many, many adults have had to rescued too. So, if the cost is the issue, let's NOT rescue ANYONE, ever.
The sail around the world was a lot less dangerous than what most teens are doing, sex, drugs and riding in cars.
You don't see there parents too worried about them...although they should be. Where is the criticism for the "standard" childhood which is usually incredibly dangerous - just think back to the crap you pulled in high school.
I guess all the libs of the world feel the need to unify parenting too. Mind your own business.
Reply by mrcowboy32 June 14, 2010 06:42pm PDTReport Abuse
now your talkin dag tell it like it is
Reply by dalsobrook June 14, 2010 06:53pm PDTReport Abuse
I don't mind rescuing people, but it cannot be done for free.
Reply by strudelman88 June 14, 2010 07:03pm PDTReport Abuse
THE PIGGY DEMANDS..............A SACRIFICE!!!!!!
Reply by scomo_thora June 14, 2010 07:03pm PDTReport Abuse
You're absolutely correct, anyone who puts their ass in danger at sea and is not sufficiently prepared to save themselves when they run into trouble should be forced to pay for their rescue or at the very least, some part of their rescue. At a minimum, this policy might cause those seeking this type of self-absorbed "adventure" to think twice before attempting it. Failing that, perhaps these "intrepid souls" would at least think through the possible dangers and anticipate what will be needed to save themselves. Joshua Slocum, Vito Dumas and Francis Chichester (to name a few) were able to circumnavigate without the assistance of the Australian government. They would have accepted death rather than help in their efforts, because they were true Seaman.
Reply by dagny kennedy June 14, 2010 07:07pm PDTReport Abuse
They have paid - in their taxes.
So, all travelers should have to consider that they may get a 14,583.00 bill if they have to be rescued while working on a fishing boat, on a cruise ship or fly in a plane?
What about the people who had to be rescued from the World Trade Center? That certainly wasn't a "customary" rescue. That was above and beyond - how much should we bill them?
Do you really think your taxes are going to go down if you bill them? Not!
Reply by dagny kennedy June 14, 2010 07:11pm PDTReport Abuse
Face it - you people want a communist society where NO ONE achieves, succeeds or excels.
Everyone only has the right to work...and not much else.
Reply by 1onehardlife June 14, 2010 07:19pm PDTReport Abuse
The people in the world trade center did not put themselves in harms way by choice! Very bad comparison!
Reply by froggoddess June 14, 2010 07:24pm PDTReport Abuse
1onehardlife: Actually it was a very good comparison. Anyone who works in a tall building in the middle of the largest city in the most prominent country in the world like that in a time of terrorism and war... Not a brilliant idea.
I am *not* besmirching their memory, only your opinion.
Reply by someone honest June 14, 2010 07:25pm PDTReport Abuse
Why are they responsible for a rescue? Your reason wasn't clear.
Reply by carlyb June 14, 2010 07:26pm PDTReport Abuse
Completely different situations. The Balloon Boy was told by his parents to hide. They knew when they contacted emergency personnel that it was a lie. Abby was really trying to accomplish an incredible feat. She really was on the boat, she really is a sailor, and she really was doing what she and her parents said she was. If she had succeeded, everyone would be applauding.
Reply by temo223 June 14, 2010 07:34pm PDTReport Abuse
debb give me a break, how can you say that they are unfit parents. They simply allowed their kids to follow their dreams, isn't as parents thats what we should do? This is in no way simular to the balloon boy case. This was not a haux, abby was on her voyage and ran into trouble and it was in know way a relfection on her sailing abilities or how good and responsible her parents are. wouldnt you rahter have your kid doing something they love, taking chances and learning by doing. rather than sitting on the couch playing video games and getting fat? They are in no way unfit parents that comment you made was jsut stupid, and if u think they are unfit parents, god bless you and your children.
Reply by photorose June 14, 2010 07:38pm PDTReport Abuse
Dag you're ridiculous. If someone is going to be part of a dangerous hobby or career then that person should have to pay more whether it be in insurance fees or rescue fees. Life insurance policies ask if you participate in dangerous hobbies, or jobs, if you do, you pay more. If I want to participate in something dangerous then I should absorb all costs associated with it, including rescue fees. The people working in the World Trade Center were not participating in a dangerous hobby or career. Extremely bad analagy on your part.
Her and/or her parents own the boat, they either pay fo insurance or not, they made the decision to have her go alone, they made the choice to travel at this time of year, they took on the risks involved in this self-promoting trip. Why should those fishermen have to pay, out of thei rpocket, to rescue her? Yes, human nature says we should save a person in need, that's what they did. But the company who owns that fishing boat now has to pay it's insurance, it's maintenance, it's workers, etc., etc. to go out & rescue a minor who shouldn't have been there anyways. The rescue planes have to pay for fuel, employees, insurance, and all sorts of other things, why should they have to pay out of pocket for this?
I am all for people excelling in all they can do. But I don't profit if they succeed, why do these fishermen have to be out $ if she failed?
I have insurance for driving my car. If I was the cause of an accident & my insurance didn't cover it, I pay. Of if I didn't have any insurance at all, I am responsible. No matter what type of rescue effort was needed to be done I would have to pay, what's the difference?
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 07:42pm PDTReport Abuse
Of course people will always need to be rescued but there is a big difference if a fisherman goes out to make a living or even if someone is traveling as a journey through there life. But when you want to experiment or try to break personal records or do other high risk (x-treem) sports then you put other peoples lives in danger if you are not successful. Thats what you should plan ahead and either get some time of insurance whether it be financial or have a chase boat to follow, just in cast there is a major problem. Taxpayers should not have to foot the bill for someone elses thrills. If she needs excitement that YOU cant afford, have her join Peace Corps, Girl Scouts or any of the other organizations. Either that or collect rubber bands and break the record for the largest rubberband ball, we familys have enough hardships paying for our kids car insurance and school instead of someone wanting to break her brothers record. God Bless her and her goals/accomplishments but you foot the bill.
Reply by 1onehardlife June 14, 2010 07:45pm PDTReport Abuse
Thank you photorose!
Reply by photorose June 14, 2010 07:47pm PDTReport Abuse
Carlyb we'll be applauding when she gets home as it is.
But we shouldn't have to pay when she & her parents were the ones who put herself at risk.
Here in town if you climb the mtn & get injured & rescue workers are called in they determine if you were doing something stupid. If you sprained your ankle, become dehydrated, they don't charge you. But getting stuck somewhere where you shouldn't have been in the first place, they'll charge you, because it was the wrong thing for you to do. Helicopters, mtn rescue climbers, all are put at risk because someone made a stupid decision.
Stupid Motorists Law-drive through a flooded wash & get swept away & rescue teams are called in, you pay. A flash flood comes in without warning, rescue workers save you, no charge.
This reality show says that THEY pulled the plug on the show because they thought it was too dangerous for her to do the trip. I believe that part of the story. Not her Mom's version. Think about it, if a reality show put someone on who then dies, talk about a law suit on their hands, not to mention being out of business.
Reply by cj whitelaw June 14, 2010 07:51pm PDTReport Abuse
Apparently these people are putting a price on her life.(yeah, that means u previous posters) These rescue efforts weren't designed for profit. Maybe u should send those people from LA a bill for being rescued from their roof tops during Katrina. It's called the MILITARY!!!!!! Ever heard of taxes. Never underestimate stupid people in mass quantities.
Reply by gg21 June 14, 2010 07:51pm PDTReport Abuse
I totally agree with you jacskon216 these people are out their minds if they think they can compare what happened on 9/11 to this ridiculous crap. sorry it seems a lot of you need to get your facts straight and pull your head out of you know where!!!!
Reply by sherri kirk roberts June 14, 2010 07:59pm PDTReport Abuse
It shows how dumb people are when they are demanding that the parents "pay" for a sea rescue. Her mast broke in rough seas, it really has nothing to do with her age. People who are writing tht obviously know little about sailing and the ocean.
Mother Nature has taken down better sailors and better ships. If we start demanding that every time someone is rescued at sea they must pay..we have become a sad society indeed. As far as cost goes, I guarantee the rescue Guards from all the countries spend more time rescuing drunk boater and inexperienced sailors every year than they did on this trip. Lets get real people, I don't agree with her parents letting her sail by herself, but that issue is not connected to her being rescued.
Reply by timkerian June 14, 2010 08:05pm PDTReport Abuse
Even if this wasn't a ploy to exploit the child for profit - we cannot afford to allow this to continue. Paying this bill just encourages these types of situations. Additionally if child endangerment charges are necessary to prevent them from profiting from this - those steps should be taken.
We don't want to encourage more darwin award applicants.
I respect the dream, but you will pay the bill - and the dream cannot be to get a million dollars - we cannot allow those who would - to profit from minors lack of wisdom by sending them on some extreme 'adventure'.
Perhaps their sponsors should be complicit as well - their objective was obviously financial.
Reply by nan4170 June 14, 2010 08:09pm PDTReport Abuse
Thank you casper51, photorose, and netball!
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 08:16pm PDTReport Abuse
Yes deadwood, the people in the tradecenter shown of paid for any rescue attempt, IF they were climbing up the side of it or base jumping off of it and that were the cause of the rescue. Big difference from doing everyday life choirs to breaking your brothers record to be on Ripleys or where ever.
Reply by alyssa losoya June 14, 2010 08:20pm PDTReport Abuse
ok do guys forget that another teenager just got done doing the same thing abby was doing, why aren't you targeting her parents, she was in just as much danger. its all because something happened to the boat which can happen to anyone! this story also has no comparison to the balloon boy because abby was actually in danger unlike the balloon boy. and how dare you even bring up missing one, thats just evil, you obviously have no regard for human life.
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 08:29pm PDTReport Abuse
Well cjwhitelaw, to call us stupid for believing they should pay for the rescue is like calling you a genius. You can't see the difference between a natural unplanned disaster at LA Katrina sight and this girls "planned journey" just to break a personal record, you got problems. The folks on the rooftops in LA didn't want to be in a flood while trapped on a roof and loosing lives/homes/belongings. The family of the girl did want to take such a RISK to put herself in harms way along with rescuers. You won't get much sympathy from the poor victims of Katrina with your comments, especially since her family only lost a Yacht, (which I bet was insured). Who's the stupid one?
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 08:35pm PDTReport Abuse
One last thing to you bughead cjwhitelaw, nobody is putting a price on her life, we are putting a price on responsibility, look that word up in the dictionary genius.
Reply by kenosmom June 14, 2010 08:42pm PDTReport Abuse
How come nobody is saying anything negative about the 16 y/o who was successful in her trip around the world? Oh, that's right, because she was SUCCESSFUL!
Reply by gurugordon June 14, 2010 08:56pm PDTReport Abuse
Sherri Kirk Roberts, what a dumb remark. She should not have been where she was when she was, and then her mast would not have gotten broken. She was supposed to be being routed by an ocean weather forecasting company - fat lot of good they were - sending right into the path of a huge storm. They had several days notice of its coming, but the attitude was that it was nothing to worry about. Nothing but gross irresponsibility. Obviously trying to snatch the record from Jessica Watson for the youngest circumnavigation was much more important to the lot of them than her personal safety. They all deserve the criticism that is coming their way. I am only thankful that no innocent people were injured during the course of her rescue.
Reply by kiddstwins June 14, 2010 09:01pm PDTReport Abuse
after reading all the bs posted I have to say that casper is an idiot. You cant compare life to smart -attude, as my kids say. Guess what Casper they got Presidential Awards for BRAINS, you obviously did not. Just shut the F up cause no parent wants to hear your bs
Reply by vm vm June 14, 2010 09:33pm PDTReport Abuse
right on Dagny!
Its sad that most people that comment on here are dyeing a slow,blind death, with their negative, demonic comments..
Lets all revolt.. Lets all burn the city down.. THEN lets all stand on the ashes and look at each other...
And wait for (someone) to build it better than what it was?
Life doesn't need to be lived in a hopeless, dreamless, visionless, (all about me) mentality!!
Reply by letsbereal June 14, 2010 09:41pm PDTReport Abuse
I said this early on in the sage and I'll say it again.
Everyone has the right to pursue their dreams and I applaud Abby for her determination and True Grit. She has no fear!!
Gut he true question is why did she ignore the experts that were try to help her succeed. I used Mt Everest as an example. Many have climbed to within the last 200 feet from the summit only to hear the experts tell them that they have to turn back because of weather. They are disappointed but hey listen to the experts. there are others who ignored and pushed on to the summit and we later removed their bodies or in many cases left them there because it was to dangerous to retrieve them.
Abby is not guilty of fear of lack of determination. but just like the mountain sometimes the victory is so close but yet so far. She did not listen to the very ones that were trying to help her and the end result is thank God only a sank boat.
but now that i have heard about the show and that she and her parents refused and i quote:
(the vessel and Abby were not prepared for the task of tackling the turbulent Southern Ocean, especially so late in the season, after the favorable weather window had closed).
Reply by jones2005 June 14, 2010 10:02pm PDTReport Abuse
You are such a moron Deb. This could have happened to anyone at anytime. It could have happened to an entire crew, just like it happened to Abby. Although after all the initial problems she had with her boat, I don't think she should have continued alone. And who cares how many children they have? They aren't on welfare or food stamps. They support themselves, so how does that affect you in any way?
Reply by rsh641 June 14, 2010 10:22pm PDTReport Abuse
I agree, loads of people have been rescued from sea. Just leave them alone, it is between any of the rescue agencies and the Sunderland family about who pays for what.
Reply by grindmind June 14, 2010 11:25pm PDTReport Abuse
two totally different situations. one family made it all up for publicity. the other was setting out to do something they felt was going to be a great feat.
Reply by grindmind June 14, 2010 11:26pm PDTReport Abuse
still, they should pay.
Reply by theo June 15, 2010 12:04am PDTReport Abuse
Unless you have viewed every video and read every word from Abby's web you have no business making the moronic comments I have read. Example-She and other solo sailors have a planned route that takes them outside of the shipping lanes-little boat big ship-so they are far beyond any pirate. There was three years in the planning of her voyage, not some reality show quest. To young? On may 15th, 16 year old Austrailian Jessica Watson completed her 210 day, 23,000 mile unassisted-no human contact- world circuvation. View her videos and read her words. Both of these young ladies have more moral fiber,integrity, and passion for life than in any of you couch potatos critics wildest dreams. They both will be winners in life because they both have what it takes to handle the most extreme challanges. There is no one to pick up the slack when you are a solo sailor.
Reply by sberger58 June 15, 2010 12:35am PDTReport Abuse
DEBB5862-YOU TOOK THE WORDS RIGHT OUT OF MY MOUTH. I COULDN'T AGREE MORE. HMMM...WHAT IS THE OLD SAYING (GREAT MINDS THINK ALIKE!)
Reply by pawpawbear June 15, 2010 01:14am PDTReport Abuse
And I have not seen it acknowledged yet that Magnetic Enterainment approached the family for doing the show, not the other way around. They set out to do this before there was any reality show involved. Three years of preparation in fact. So how does the reality show play into motive?
theo makes some very good points.
I'm on the fence with regard to the parents. I personally would not easily agree to letting my kids do this. But then I know nothing about sailing. I would hope they (my kids) would have to courage and character to take on a great feat. However, people need to stop bashing Abby. She's no different than Jessica Watson or her brother who already did this. I don't see anyone getting a panty bunch over their endeavors.
Reply by dblstf June 15, 2010 05:44am PDTReport Abuse
The difference between the VICTIMS of 9/11 and Katrina are that they didn't CHOOSE to be put in harm's way. She (and her family, by extension), did. Same with mountain climbers. They CHOSE to be put at risk, therefore, they should be at least partially responsible for the rescue efforts.
Reply by mark baloun June 15, 2010 05:54am PDTReport Abuse
Our soldiers KNOWINGLY put themselves in harms way..If they get stuck behind enemy lines and a rescue needs to take place..they should pay for it too. And people in car accidents, we should detemine if the victim was speeding, then they should pay for the rescue also. All of you people constantly arguing about this..arguing on the internet is kinda like the special olympics, even If you win, your still retarded.
Reply by jenniewest June 15, 2010 06:29am PDTReport Abuse
The IMO established with its member countries, SAR - International Search and Rescue. The same people that monitor the EPIRBs and distress beacons established these network of countries and search equipment; vessels and planes , through exchange with their own countries resources (USCG, Navy vessels, commercial contracts) Although this was established for commercial vessels to protect maritime commerce, they do not normally charge for their efforts since it is a give and take. Next week the US may save an Australian crew. I do not think they should start asking for a credit card in advance before deploying rescue efforts when lives are at risk. Commercial and private operators may reimburse some costs if the rescue becomes also a Salvage operation for a vessel. That is why Abby's boat was left, other than just the risk in towing would have been impossible and the Sunderlands were looking for funds to get the boat back.
Although many are critical of the family, the reprecussions of asking for one to pay and one to not pay would be damaging to the program. However, that does not mean that Abby has a free ride all the way to Thousand Oaks. They only have to get her to a safe port, then the cost is on the Sunderlands to get her home. It doesn't sound like she is going anywhere near an International Airport. Under the same circumstances, I also do not think a normal sailor would have got an Airbus flyover. I think that was completely due to her age and that the world was watching. If they do not charge her from the time she hits soil to the time she hits Thousand Oaks, then she is getting a free ride.
Reply by foscouni June 15, 2010 07:16am PDTReport Abuse
Mark Baloun..arguing on the internet is kinda like the special olympics, even If you win, your still retarded...
That was cruel and uncalled for! I know you were trying to be witty..but you missed the mark.
I guess you've never been around a Special Olympian have you?
Reply by foxxyrida85 June 15, 2010 07:28am PDTReport Abuse
msmcgruff: I agree 100% with you and all other supporters of Abby. I don't have kids myself, still pretty young but I do have younger siblings and the trends in society have changed so ridiculously (not for the better either). Why bash a teenager that is trying to fulfill her dreams & live vicariously? All you parents that are saying how horrible this is, how you would never condone to your child doing such a thing, etc...how about what your teenagers are doing when they're not with you? Really, you think they're telling you the truth? Sure, some kids are truly good but most experiment. Whether it be sex, drugs, alcohol, theft, fighting, gangs, whatever. Look at teen pregnancy rates, look how young children are experimenting these things, look at our obesity numbers...Its all to blame on the parents. You don't push your children to strive to their best potential. Instead, you go buy them that $60 video game that teaches them soooo much. I personally would be scared s***less if my child approached me wanting to do something so extreme, so dangerous BUT as a parent, I'd support them. I would encourage my children to fulfill any dream they may ever have as long as I am able to provide for it and it is done responsibly. That's what it should be about. Somehow, somewhere that has been lost...instead its been construed as child neglect, endangerment, wrong and so on...I encourage ANYONE to go free falling off a cliff, climb mt. everest, swim the great whites, etc. but do it responsibly. There are risks in everything you do in life, but why live in a bubble taking precautions before every step you take. Live life, but don't do it recklessly.
Reply by foxxyrida85 June 15, 2010 07:29am PDTReport Abuse
And regarding the cost issue for the rescue...I don't believe she should be responsible for the whole cost. She didn't ask for her mast to be broken, she wanted to succeed. That is why she went on even after her previous boat complications knowing that no record would be broken. A personal success for herself is what she was then trying for. As far as any rescue goes, as a rescuer, that is your job, that is what you get paid to do regardless the reason for your mission. You don't get to pick and choose who gets rescued. I am sure that in the 3 years that they planned this adventure, they had thought about this and planned for it. We do not know every single detail, we only know what the media has passed to us & we all know how the media likes to twist things.
Reply by andy stringfellow June 15, 2010 07:35am PDTReport Abuse
Dear debb5862,
I have some replies to you comments.
"They absolutely are responsible for all rescue costs." - This is the one comment I don't completely disagree with. Luckily, all of the countries involved in the rescue efforts have government agencies (paid for through taxes) who's purpose is to perform rescues.
"Anyone else remembering the ballon boy that hid in the garage while the world looked for him, too???" - That was a hoax created by criminals. This was a real opportunity to do something very few people have ever been fortunate enough to try. Please learn the difference.
" I also think they need to be investigated as fit parents..." - Great idea! BUT, only to prove you wrong. Also, Abby's parents have been and are making huge sacrifices in order for their children to be able to follow their dreams. Which is more than can be said for a LOT of parents.
" you just do not place your children in totally UNNECESSARY danger for profit or any other reason." - Interesting... First-The parents were approached about the show, not the other way around, READ THE F-ING ARTICLE. Second-by your logic, nobody under the age of 18 should ever do anything...ever (drive a car, shower standing up, eat solid food with out supervision). WTF. Third-Sometimes following your dreams and doing what you know will make you happy (not to mention a better person) comes with a calculated, NECESSARY, risk. To you,
"A 16-yr-old girl ALONE on a sailing vessel - anyone heard of pirates???" - She was sailing that far south because of pirates. Also this was NOT, by any means, Abby's first time "ALONE" on a sailboat.
" I'll stop short of commenting about 8 children and maybe not missing one..." - That's good. Otherwise everyone would know what a horrible person you really are for speaking that way about someone else's family.
In closing....
Your an idiot and PLEASE, do a little research before talking Sh*t.
Reply by llulua June 15, 2010 08:39am PDTReport Abuse
My comments are concerned with Abby, not anything that may or may not be behind her parents motives.
For us sailors, it's not the destination but the adventure.
Being knocked down (Being blown on your side so that the mast is in the water) by a sudden gust of wind in calm waters is bad enough, but knock downs in a storm at sea with 30 ft waves is horrifying.
This girl must be extremely competent to have survived her ordeals. The only mistake I see is that she shouldn't have been in that part of the southern hemisphere at this time of the year. And that was caused by those who were planning her course...and only then because it had to be altered due to pirates.
We used to be a nation of risk takers and doers.
We wanted to be the best at everything and win at everything.
Those attributes are what made America the greatest and we lumped them all into one phrase, the American way.
Now, we're becoming a nation of pansies and losers because of political correctness, coddling and dumbing down.
Rather than living our dream, most of us are dreaming our lives.
Thank god this girl is an exception.
Reply by scyren June 15, 2010 08:52am PDTReport Abuse
The people who worked in the World Trade Center, knowingly worked in a place where terrorists had already tried to take it down unsuccessfully. But yet, they still worked there knowing it was a target. So, how do you figure that they didn't knowingly put themselves in harms way? They knew there were risks working there.
Reply by gurugordon June 15, 2010 08:56am PDTReport Abuse
Llulua: Where are you getting this pirate stuff from - this was the cover story spouted by Laurence Sunderland in a futile attempt to justify Abby being so far south. How many times do you have to hear it - there are NO pirates in the southern Indian Ocean. Jessica Watson followed a more northerly course in complete safety - and she had a team who did steer her clear of all the major storms as she sailed from Cape Aguilas to Australia.
Reply by brianseuter June 15, 2010 09:18am PDTReport Abuse
Jenniewest...Captain West. What the hell! You cannot use logic against a bunch of Arm Chair Sailors and laymen! I know who you are. Whatever you think of Abby, wouldn't you agree we would be fired if we made the same decisions her team made? When you coming back to Port Everglades?
Reply by tlnelsn June 15, 2010 09:29am PDTReport Abuse
photorose, excellent point. There should be insurance policies to pay for this type of risky activity. Pay or don't play or pay a fine and/or go to jail.
froggoddess @ 1onehardlife, you are out of your mind. The government is responsible for protecting its citizens during normal daily activities not otherwise insurable (motor vehicle operation, healthcare, ad&d, life insurance). Working in the World Trade Center was considered a normal activity by rational person standards. Hindsight is 20/20, though it wasn't exactly unforeseeable. To imply otherwise is not realistic.
Mark Baloun, talk about the pot calling the kettle black. Only your effort is nothing compared to the Special Olympics.
Reply by jenniewest June 15, 2010 09:40am PDTReport Abuse
BrianSeuter...definitely fired. I am off right now, 70 days on/70 days off, obviously with apparently too much time on my hands. Enjoying the Cape Cod summer muggies. Not sure where we will be headed when I get back. She is on the west coast right now. I
Reply by mark baloun June 15, 2010 10:08am PDTReport Abuse
foscouni Im a Special Olympian myself, so I can make jokes like that. tlnelsn - Yes the kettle is black, and I fully agree I am also retarded for getting involved. Excuse me have to go wipe the drool of my chin now before I go compete in the electric wheelchair race. Thanks.
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 10:12am PDTReport Abuse
foxxyrida85 -
All I can say is those of us who are responsible parents and take the rearing of our children seriously - are so so sooooooo glad you DON'T have kids - you obviously would be a horrible parent! You - like so many other morons here - are missing the entire point.
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 10:15am PDTReport Abuse
Illuna.. May I ask how old you are and if you have children? Because really - your being a 'sailor' has much less to do with this discussion than those two questions.
Reply by brianseuter June 15, 2010 10:19am PDTReport Abuse
Jennie....(there is a reason I am putting this up for all commentors because I want them to learn something). What I find so fascinating about this whole thing is that if I had a cargo with a delivery window that meant penalities to the company for being late and I made the same decision to go South to save time and jeopardized the crew and vessel, I would be fired. Even if being 2 hours late with my Notice to Readiness for delivery cost my company hundreds of thousands of dollars difference on the spot market. Yet, Abby's team can do this to save time in pursuit of a record with the life of a 16 year old girl. No pirates, like the dad said. It is amazing that this may not be investigated as it should be. Like pilots have to file a flight plan, perhaps these sorts of endeavors need to be vetted by a board for approval as well. Let's not take away all of the adventure but let's not leave the decisions to incapable dopes.
Reply by sstamkos June 15, 2010 10:20am PDTReport Abuse
$300,000 to rescue her. 310,000,000 US Population. 22,000,000 Australian population. Let's do the math. 9/100ths of a cent to save her. You wouldn't pay 9/100ths of a cent to save a life? Sally Struthers would be pissed.
Reply by foxxyrida85 June 15, 2010 10:53am PDTReport Abuse
llulua - that is exactly the point I'm trying to make. Bless her kindred soul! Your comment pinpoints exactly the point of this discussion.
jondm63- A bad parent I'd make?! I would def have to say you are the moron here. What do your children do? More than likely nothing. People like you have the kind of children that are sheltered, always rely on someone for something, nowhere near independent or mature as young Abby is. When I turned 16, my parents gave me a roof over my head & encouraged me to take life by the reigns, not vice versa. Everything else, I've worked for. I don't take handouts and because of the way my parents raised me, I am a strong, independent woman that'll jump at any amazing opportunity. I can owe that to my parents. Abby will grow to be a stonghearted, strongwilled, courageous woman. How many kids learn a lesson like she has at the age of 16??? How about parents that let their children ride dirt bikes or 4wheelers? Oh man, their children should be stripped from them right away, that sport is horribly dangerous. But is that ever looked upon and shunned? The only reason this child & family is catching so much b.s. is b/c the media had followed them & she failed everyones expectations. If it was a success, everything would be different. Leave them be. Don't you think that the poor kids heart isn't crushed & that she isnt scared? Has it crossed your mind that the parents freaked when they heard the beacons and that not a day went by that they didn't worry about their daughter? Many of you act like the parents put her on a dingy & said bye. So foolish.
Reply by foxxyrida85 June 15, 2010 11:01am PDTReport Abuse
Brian - I agree with your last statement. Having her plan approved before a board would've been a great idea. Would be a wonderful suggestion for any future young sailors or whomever to attempt a great feat. There's always those risks that can't be controlled. You expect things to go smoothly if things are done responsibly & with as many precautions as possible. Do the best you can and her family believed they did before she left. I'm sure she'll attempt it again but with many changes now. Learn from experience!!!
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 11:14am PDTReport Abuse
foxxyridda-
You are the moron - you speak of things you have no experience at except from the standpoint of a child. The point is Abby may not have grown up at ALL because of the recklass decision her parents made. This was not about courage or bravery - lets not confuse them - this was about stupidity and making a name for themselves! Courage and bravery are needed in the face of situation we may not be prepared for but are nonetheless necessary. There was NOTHING necessary about this trip!
As far as my kids - ha - if you only knew - you are so pitiful.
Reply by tlnelsn June 15, 2010 11:15am PDTReport Abuse
sstamkos, your point is a twist on the law of large numbers, i.e. insurance. However, who's collecting the money and deciding on whom, among millions needing rescuing from various accidents and failures in judgement, to spend it? Who is worthy? Those are among the main questions everyone is debating. Sorry, but your point is pointless.
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 11:22am PDTReport Abuse
This is not about what any of us would be WILLING to pay to rescue her. It is about why, due to extremely poor judgement on her parents part for a NEEDLESS adventure, any of us should NEED to pay. Who gives a rip about the money - the point is if people are allowed to make assinine decesions with no responsibility they will continue to make them and have somebody else foot the bill.
Bet you this - send them the bill - then see if any of their other children embark on such a journey putting so many at needless risk. Bet they dont. Their are PLENTY of things you can encourage your children to do without puttiing their lives and the lives of others at risk.
Reply by foxxyrida85 June 15, 2010 11:59am PDTReport Abuse
jondm63 - I forgot that you know me & my life & what I've been thru, COMPLETELY inexperienced...pfft...I'm not having a personal arguement with you, its uncalled for.
You see nothing good in this situation. Like I said, you are one of the many fools that act like she was sent out with absolutely nothing. Do a little more research. It's not entirely about courage or bravery, it's about the experience. Don't you get it?? If everyone did only things necessary in life, we'd all be a bunch of robots sitting around doing a whole lot of nothing. Life is an experience and shouldn't be taken for granted at any age (young or old). Anyone that is a "go-getter" and not a "maybe I'll get lucky" kind of person, would understand. If you sit back and wait for things to happen, nah, you're not going to get it, things like this will always be wrong in your eyes.
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 12:06pm PDTReport Abuse
While I agree that we should not all sit back and do nothing as you say - Sixteen is too young to start doing this kind of thing.
As far as me knowing you - you are correct - I do not - Just the same as you do not know me or my life experience OR my children. how hypocritical of you to say that after your dumb ass comment about my children.
I can say this about you based on your comments here - if you would sanction your sixteen year old to do this sort of thing - you would not be a fit parent. Parenting is about knowing WHEN to say that hard word that so many parents today do not know how to say - "NO".
You guide and support and encourage your child when they are young to follow their dreams without putting them in harms way. If you dont get that - then what I said earlier about being glad you dont have kids rings even more true.
Reply by schmazzy713 June 15, 2010 12:11pm PDTReport Abuse
Wow....all these negative comments!! Do any of you know this family?? Especially to be able to judge them so close?? Remember one thing: she is a girl trying to fufill a dream. Her family fully supports that. Nobody is on here arguing about fire fighters who risk their lives every day doing what they love. Yeah, they save lives, but she is trying to make a huge trip all by herself!! If this was your child, would you shut their dreams down, simply because you're too worried about the cost of finding them if something were to happen?? NOPE...I sure hope not. I know if my son came to me at 16 and wanted to follow a dream, I would support him 100% of the time. These parents do NOT need counseling, do not need to be investigated, they were simply giving their children what they wanted. And all you guys can do is whine about how you had to hear about it. Don't read the story if you don't care. Don't watch the shows if you don't want to see. Think of how you would feel if this happened to you, and people wanted you to get your children taken away just because of a dream....
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 12:19pm PDTReport Abuse
schmazzy713-
So let me get this straight - you are saying that I need to personally know these people to judge whether they made a responsible decision?
So then - by that line of reasoning - you would have to personally know someone to say whether their decision to leave their 3 year old child home alone for a day or two to decide if their decision was responsible? Or maybe to decide if a parents decision to allow their 12 year old to take up smoking was responsible? Would you then also have to know these people to decide if their decision to host a party where alcohol was served to a minor children was responsible.
I think not - clearly. And if you cant see how letting a sixteen year old navigate a worldwide trek in the open seas by themselves during storm season is just as irresponsible then we have nothing to talk about. They DO need counseling - they DO need to be investigated and I would HOPE that if I did something that clearly put my child in harms way somebody WOULD investigate me!
Reply by foxxyrida85 June 15, 2010 12:25pm PDTReport Abuse
Such an angry man. Closed minded you are. Your children may not be ready at 16 to do such thing, doesn't mean others out there arent. Some dreams to be followed need to be started young. NO doesn't always solve the problem, there is compromise as well. Every family is different...
Schmazzy713....THANK YOU!!! I am pretty sure Abby & her family are not reading anyone's posts about their adventure. (if I had to guess lol) They're a family that is sticking together and are more than likely just as proud of her if she would have finished. Nothing is more important than that. Some people are so uptight that they cannot see the amazing things in this story. I don't think I've read or heard ANYWHERE that Abby is complaining that her parents shouldn't have let her go or that they should be tried in a court of law for their actions. It was a family decision that was made. But hey, some people would prefer their children to do nothing spectacular in life and just blend in with the rest of society. Why not? It's that said that anything that everyone isn't doing, is wrong.
Reply by foxxyrida85 June 15, 2010 12:27pm PDTReport Abuse
jon-u can't compare things that are illegal to this. And leaving a 3 yr old alone is common sense & once again not comparable.
Reply by schmazzy713 June 15, 2010 12:27pm PDTReport Abuse
Not talking about a 3 yr old, or a 12 yr old. What does ANYTHING in your second paragraph have to do with me or this topic?? I never said anything about all that nonsense...this is ABOUT ONE GIRL...you guys always drift off to other subjects. It's fine to have an opinion, but to put these parents in the spotlight like this is disrespectful. You have no idea how advanced/knowledgable she is in this area. Her father builds boats for a living, so clearly she's been around the ocean and navigation her whole life, or most of it. I'm just simply saying, from this one action, this family does not need to be torn apart. Sorry that I try to look at the best in people...unlike YOU, JERK!
Reply by schmazzy713 June 15, 2010 12:30pm PDTReport Abuse
FOXXY - I had to say something. I get judged and poked at all the time by people who don't know me at all. They hear ONE thing, and stupidly believe it and twist it to their own likings. I know what it's like to be judged by strangers, when they don't see me everyday or live my life. I just wish people would understand that NOBODY IS BETTER THAN ANOTHER...
Reply by foxxyrida85 June 15, 2010 12:40pm PDTReport Abuse
Agreed!! I love a good debate and this can be such a strong one when sensible points are made. I understand people coming from both sides but each side is as argumentable as the other. I love her story. I love all the stories of young ambitious people. It should be inspiring to everyone. You have one girl that succeeds, one that failed in her mission, it happens. Should never discourage you to go for what you want. If you can accomplish something like what she has already done so young, just IMAGINE what the goals she has set for herself in the future. Her brother did it, family didn't receive any harsh criticsm that time so why now??
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 12:43pm PDTReport Abuse
I am not an angry man at all. And if you think this discussion has to do with children being "ready" then I see why you can not see the point. If you that any child at sixteen could be 'ready' for the dangers she could find out on the ocean by herself - wow......even experienced adult sailors recognize that this was a foolish endevour at this time of year for anybody. But I am sure that you know more about it. And supporting this childs 'dreams' is SURELY more important that insuring her safety. Just think about that for a moment..... this thing went bad - not this child is on a boat with a bunch of men who she doesnt even know - brave men it would seem. But really - would you send your sixteen year old daughter across country with a bunch of men that you had no personal knowledge of? really? Come on - please - be reasonable. I am neither angry nor were my children 'sheltered'. I am however a parent and I do take that job seriously.
Since you are not a parent, this is not something you can really comment on with any knowledge. As far as leaving the 3 year old alone being common sense - you are correct - and so is this. It is sad that you cant see that.
And Schmazzy - I am not saying i am better than anyone - im saying this is a sad situation and commentary about peoples definition of a good parent.
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 12:46pm PDTReport Abuse
BTW - I am now done with this conversation -
Reply by schmazzy713 June 15, 2010 01:06pm PDTReport Abuse
Ok run off LMAO!! Although, I never said YOU thought you were better than anyone. I'm SIMPLY saying that these people do not deserve the kind of treatment and comments they are getting. MAYBE if you knew them personally and saw that they did not care or take care of their children, then you would have the right to say that they are unfit parents. But like i also said before, she is clearly capable of taking the trip...her brother did it recently, and she did survive. She wasn't hurt, other than the fact that her dream got pushed back from being fufilled. No reason to get so defensive, its not like we're blogging about you...how could we?? WE DONT KNOW YOU!! HAHA
Reply by schmazzy713 June 15, 2010 01:10pm PDTReport Abuse
BTW....she went on the trip alone...all by herself...no men...read into the story a little more before you get into it
Reply by foxxyrida85 June 15, 2010 01:16pm PDTReport Abuse
She may have made a poor decision with not delaying her trip long enough to pass the winter season out there but too late for that. Never heard of a perfect sailor. Adults could've failed just as well as she did. Age is nothing, experience is everything, which she has. If they didn't think she was safe enough, it would've been brought to a halt. It wasn't an impossible endeavor. Can't always play it safe. Safe enough, yes, 100%, no.
You're so ridiculous. Not having children of my own doesn't limit my experience or my knowledge. I have had a lot of experience with children. This is not common sense. This is a decision where many things were taken into factor.
Goodness gracious!
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 01:19pm PDTReport Abuse
Ok - one more -
Perhaps YOU should read the story - she was picked up by a group of fishermen and had to sail with them for two days to get back to shore. And she will have another week of sailing with unknowns before she gets back home.
Also - my knowing or not knowing these parents would have no barring on whether they made a responsible decision. It doesnt matter how nice these people are or how much they 'love' their children. The fact that her brother did it too also has no barring on this discussion except to say that they have shown poor judgement twice at least now.
And you - I do get it now - you are a 23 year old who yourself - if you are a parent it looks like you started very young (if that is your child in the picture that is)- you were raised in a generation where most parents were under the misconception that telling your child no meant you were stunting their growth. The Dr. Spock generation.
I am not defensive btw - it is just that from what i have seen here - most of the comments just miss the real issue here - and that saddens me.
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 01:22pm PDTReport Abuse
And Foxxy-
WoW - "Age is nothing, experience is everything" - agreed - point is at sixteen there is no possible way that she had enough experience - forget sailing - she didnt have enough life experience - no way she could have. A sixteen year olds perspective of the world is much different than that of an adult.
And your not having children of your own defineately limits your ability to see this matter clearly - and you can say whatever you want - until you do you will not know what i am talking about.
Reply by foxxyrida85 June 15, 2010 01:32pm PDTReport Abuse
Soo next time anyone is in grave danger and needs help, they should hold out til someone they know can help?? That is stupid. Could be too late. I'll be sure to pass that along...
Judegemental is all you keep proving to be. You as a parent could not do what they have done for their children. Like I said before, every family is different.
Wow!! Apparently everyone other than yourself & anyone that agrees with you are horrible parents.
Pretty sure I've aimed at the real issue the whole time. You need life experience to do something huh?? Not every 16 yr old is irresponsible. I held 2 PT jobs, went to school (GPA 3.7 at that time and was taking AP classes), was involved in many sports & extra curricular activities at school. Had my license & a car to get me where I needed to be. Never got in trouble, didn't drink, didn't do drugs, nor was I interested in sex. But hey, what did I know?? Who are you comparing Abby and her family to?? Bring your standards up a few notches.
Reply by brianseuter June 15, 2010 02:12pm PDTReport Abuse
I feel terrible for Abby! She got saved from the sharks and they will be waiting for her when she gets home. The truth of the matter that I see is that this was a maritime casualty, that is how it gets classified when you lose your boat. Abby is very skilled, no doubt. She probably had every detail down. It is hard to see what you could have done better when you are so close to it and it becomes personal. At the 10,000 foot level it is easier to see that this was poorly planned and the pursuit of the record during the winter season limited her options and increased her risk. You know who has a hard time seeing the big picture.......16 year olds.
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 02:19pm PDTReport Abuse
WOW - you sure know how to twist words. My point was not that she should hold out until someone she knows shows up - obviously she had to accept the help - My point was that she wouldnt be in this position had her parents been wiser.
I never said horrible parents - i said they made a poor decision and were not acting in their childs best interest. And everyone is welcome to have different views on many things. And then there are some things that are right or wrong no matter what opinion a person may have.
And I dont care about your 3.7 grade average - I was a straight A student and graduated a year and a half early - big deal - has nothing to do with this. This is not about smarts - im done hun - some day when you grow up maybe your life experiences will teach you something.
Reply by sorenhansen June 15, 2010 02:33pm PDTReport Abuse
BrianSeuter...Nail-Head, thank you. Her latest remarks seem utterly arrogant. Poor thing. Completely dismissive. Exactly what you would expect from a 16 year old. The arrogance to say she is not a typical 16 year old, so not to evaluate her as any 16 year old you know. Regardless of her kill as a sailor, she is not to be the judge of that and every time she opens her mouth she proves it.
Reply by schmazzy713 June 15, 2010 02:43pm PDTReport Abuse
Look here JON....my first comment was no directed to you in any way shape or form. ALSO...you said yourself that the parents let her go off with a bunch of men, and you are once again, WRONG...they picked her up to save her life. You decided to comment on it and jump down my throat for MY opinion. I never once said you weren't intitled to your opinion...everyone can have one...who's boss am I? I would HIGHLY recommend leaving MY personal life out of this...I haven't said one thing about you your choices or your life, so don't you dare put me down for what you THINK you know about me. Dont look at my profile, my picture, you need to know nothing about me....people say something about me and don't know me, that pisses me right off...now I am done with this conversation. You are a piece of work...the nerve of some people!!
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 02:58pm PDTReport Abuse
LOL-- you are a funny girl - uh - note to self oh highly edjumacated one - if you dont want people looking at your profile - uh - dont post it ONLINE! WOW. And when someone calls me a JERK as you did - I dont really thing they can condemn me because "i dont know them" - LIKE YOU KNOW ME LITTLE GIRL.
As far as me saying they let her go with a bunch of men- I believe what I said was and I quote, "Perhaps YOU should read the story - she was picked up by a group of fishermen and had to sail with them for two days to get back to shore. And she will have another week of sailing with unknowns before she gets back home."
Hmm - I guess I will attribute your lack of ability to READ to your age - 3.7 grade average my ASS!
Reply by jondm63 June 15, 2010 03:01pm PDTReport Abuse
"Dont look at my profile, my picture," - LMAO - sorry - just cant get past this one - And you post it online??? - ROFLMAO - WOW - you said all you need say about your intelligence level!
You probably think that online cant be dangerous to kids too... ROFLMAO...
Reply by schmazzy713 June 15, 2010 05:39pm PDTReport Abuse
you really crack me up...is this what you do all day rather than be such an allmighty parent?? And what I was talking about was you said her parents were bad parents because they 'let her go off to sea with a bunch of men' YOU said, as I copy and paste..."But really - would you send your sixteen year old daughter across country with a bunch of men that you had no personal knowledge of?" Call me a little girl I couldnt care less...I am small...I am asking you NOT to look at my profile anymore. I was unaware this is a PUBLIC site, I only signed on to comment...and stop talkin shit like ur the best person in the world. I never said anything about my grade point average...u argue with so many people every day you got them confused!! BAWHAHAHAH!!!!! So we will just agree to disagree from this point on...you say anything else I will not respond. I have better things to do. I clearly stated my opinion and you can't stand it when someone disagrees with you. Sorry, but you won't convince me old man. I am well aware of the story, I don't need someone trying to tell me how it is. Thank you SIR
Reply by tlnelsn June 15, 2010 07:19pm PDTReport Abuse
schmazzy713 and jondm63, you might consider a private chatroom. You got so heated in your angst that you ended up taking comments out of context trying to put each other in their respective places. Yes, quite publicly. Who needs to look at a profile? No, I'm not a site administrator, just another oddly entertained user.
Posted by jose12323243523 June 14, 2010 06:08pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
WOW! Octomom, Balloon Boy, and the Salahi's all wrapped up into one loser family.
Reply by froggoddess June 14, 2010 07:26pm PDTReport Abuse
Congratulations! You have won an award for being the stupidest asshole in this entire comment section! Please fly to Nigeria to help a prince to collect your 500k reward!
Reply by big city kid June 14, 2010 08:07pm PDTReport Abuse
Wow. Froggoddess... you say that people working in the world trade center knew anything about the occupational hazard of having PLANES flown into the buildings? I think you won your own award for stupidest asshole. Congratulations yourself! Now go play russian roulette because you've blown our minds quite enough
Reply by nan4170 June 14, 2010 08:08pm PDTReport Abuse
I totally agree with casper51 - photorose - netball.....thank you!
Reply by jelennuie June 14, 2010 09:08pm PDTReport Abuse
Nan, I'm with you. I totally agree as well.
Reply by jones2005 June 14, 2010 09:50pm PDTReport Abuse
Seriously Jose? Shut your pie hole and get a clue. You don't know anything about this family. Why don't you learn a thing or two before you make a dumb ass comment again?
Reply by kats3sons June 15, 2010 12:45am PDTReport Abuse
1) octomom is single this is an intact family who apparently has the means to raise their kids. 2) balloon boy was a dad telling a kid to hide to get attention and spent our tax dollars on a fraudulent missing child report 3) salahis?? really? These people didn't do anything illegal last I checked.. or fraudulent... and they arent having welfare pay for their babies while they go out and have their nails done and lips plumped.
Reply by jose12323243523 June 15, 2010 07:08am PDTReport Abuse
Octomom=Sunderlands: Great! If you're going to have eight kids, don't expect others to pick up the tab for you when something goes wrong with them. Both families are wasting precious public resources. $300,000 will pay for a lot of plumped lips.
Balloon Boy=Sunderlands: Both pulling ridiculous "stunts" to gain a reality show. The cost to the public be damned. What self-centered, self important jerks.
Salahi's=Sunderlands: Both families nothing more than attention seeking w****res. Nuff said.
Reply by hypersonicx June 15, 2010 07:17am PDTReport Abuse
Okay Jose, don't expect us to pick up the tab for any kids, period. Is that what you're saying? Because unlike Octomom, the Sunderlands are not on welfare and they raise their own kids AND they're not just getting pregnant by a turkey-baster.
The Sunderlands decided to let their daughter go on the trip BEFORE they were approached by a reality TV producer. And I don't see them breaking into high-society parties uninvited so Salahi's? Hardly.
Your logic is lacking, your cynical critique is aggregious, and you should really consider thinking before coming off as an asshole with all of those accusations. Enough said...
Reply by jose12323243523 June 15, 2010 08:47am PDTReport Abuse
Say what you want hypersonicx, but people like the Sunderlands, the Hennes, the Salahis, and Octomom are all about one thing, self-promotion, regardless of the cost to society. They're self indulgent jerks that leech off of society. People like that make me sick. Hey, pay the $300,000 tab for the rescue, and it was still an irresponsible and totally ridiculous stunt to send a 16 year old (girl or boy) on the high seas by themselves in a little boat. The rescue boat captain almost died saving this self centered little girl. Apparently, you've never been on the ocean on a boat by yourself and see what a person can get into. And yes. I have. That's why I know what a stupid "stunt" that was. She's lucky she's alive. And if she weren't, I doubt you'd be so supportive at this point.
Reply by sstamkos June 15, 2010 10:33am PDTReport Abuse
She didn't "almost die", because she was prepared & trained. She wasn't even injured. She showed no signs of stress. Nobody "almost died" saving her, they go a little wet. What in the hell is wrong with you? $300K works out to about 9/100ths of a cent for every US & Australian citizen. Are you really that dense? Are you just sucked into numbers and stats whenever they are posted? Here's a few numbers for you:
There were nearly 6,420,000 auto accidents in the United States in 2005. The financial cost of these crashes is more than 230 Billion dollars. 2.9 million people were injured and 42,636 people killed. About 115 people die every day in vehicle crashes in the United States -- one death every 13 minutes.
115 EVERY DAY. That's the equivalent of a Boeing 737 (Southwest Airlines-sized plane) or an Airbus A320 crashing and burning EVERY SINGLE DAY. If that happened every single day, you'd never step foot on an airplane...yet everyone agrees it is okay for a 16-year-old to get behind the wheel of a car.
Reply by debbie whitt cardwell June 15, 2010 11:53am PDTReport Abuse
I agree! Well said.
Reply by jose12323243523 June 15, 2010 12:31pm PDTReport Abuse
Great!! Well, I wonder if the Australian and US people wouldn't mind sending me $300,000 since it's "only" 9/100ths of a cent per citizen. Shouldn't be a problem right? Hell, make it a cool million. After all, I'm special, I deserve it, I'm somebody, look at me, wow, aren't I something. Just like princess Abby right? Oh, P.S., Did I mention how special I am? You stupid self centered people are too much.
Reply by jose12323243523 June 15, 2010 01:45pm PDTReport Abuse
P.S. Mr. Expert Sailor sstamkos, yes, this little girl IS lucky to be alive. There's a good reason that there wasn't a vessel within hundreds of miles of her. That's because that area in the winter is extremely dangerous. Only a fool would venture into that area in a vessel of that size, of any size actually, when they absolutely don't have to be there. It's not called the Roaring 40's because it's so calm there. Many sponsors, especially sailing companies, pulled out for that exact reason, because they thought she was taking an unacceptable risk going the route she was at this time of year. Fools and their boats are soon parted.
Posted by netball June 14, 2010 06:12pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
Debb haveto agree with you there. The parent's should be charged for the rescue and with felony child negelect.
Reply by haydel June 14, 2010 06:50pm PDTReport Abuse
YES, I Agree.!
Reply by user7188 June 14, 2010 07:22pm PDTReport Abuse
ever watch the movie 300? stop blaming about her age and the parents, if she is trained both in mind and skills then she is more than qualified compared to all people just competing for obesity.
Reply by msmcgruff June 14, 2010 07:32pm PDTReport Abuse
Well, 2-3 weeks ago, a very young man -- 14 or 15, maybe -- climbed Mt. Everest and got all sorts of kudos for that. Did we hear screams of "child abuse" or "parental negligence" in that case? No -- probably because he made it to the top successfully and unscathed. Last year, Abby's 17 y/o brother successfully completed the very same trip she attempted, although I think his voyage started at a different time of year, hence escaping the nasty storm season. We didn't hear "child abuse" or "parental negligence" when he successfully returned, either. I don't think Abby's trip involved abuse, negligence, or anything of the sort. I can't imagine her parents would have waved her off into the sunset (or sunrise) if they didn't think she was capable of accomplishing what she set out to do. And, unless she had a death wish, I doubt she would have sailed off if she didn't think she was really ready/. I understand that, often, 16 y/o's might not have the experience to make that judgment call totally on their own, but it sounds as though Abby's a prfetty mature girl and, clearly, an experienced sailor. As for the rescue costs, I don't think the parents owe anything. Nations -- ours, Australia's, France's, Spain's, etc. keep rescue crews at the ready for all sorts of emergencies. It's part of their cost of "doing business". That's what they're there for, and it's built into the countries' budgets. Why should the rescuees have to pay for what these various countries have already made provision?
Reply by 1onehardlife June 14, 2010 07:47pm PDTReport Abuse
The kid who climbed Mt. Everest was not alone! Totally different!
Reply by photorose June 14, 2010 07:53pm PDTReport Abuse
If I had heard of a 14 or 15 yeard old climbing Mt Everest with or without others I would've screamed "STUPID PARENTS"! If the kid had been injured, or lost, you would've heard just exactly the same stuff you're hearing here.
Reply by jackson216 June 14, 2010 07:59pm PDTReport Abuse
Exactly, that kid was not alone, drinking and commenting should be discouraged msmcgruff.
Reply by nan4170 June 14, 2010 08:12pm PDTReport Abuse
mrcowboy32...maybe she should stay home and play video games.
Reply by msmcgruff June 14, 2010 08:33pm PDTReport Abuse
Well, what I'm drinking (and have been drinking nothing else all day) is Crystal Geyser lime flavored sparkling water. So, I shall not be discouraged and shall comment as I please, thanks.
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 08:44pm PDTReport Abuse
I have an idea, for those that think its such a low risk family outing kind of adventure. Why don't all of you sponsor the next member of her family that wants to break her record. You can all buy the insurance because I am sure the insurance company wouldn't charge very much for such a boat ride.
Reply by jonny miles holden June 14, 2010 09:34pm PDTReport Abuse
watch out msmcgruff, you may spill that water on your computer and want someone else to pay for it's repair to cover your irresponsibility. Don't worry I pay taxes, that should cover it. It is probably Better that my money go there than something useful and productive.
Reply by jonny miles holden June 14, 2010 09:34pm PDTReport Abuse
watch out msmcgruff, you may spill that water on your computer and want someone else to pay for it's repair to cover your irresponsibility. Don't worry I pay taxes, that should cover it. It is probably Better that my money go there than something useful and productive.
Reply by letsbereal June 14, 2010 09:52pm PDTReport Abuse
I said this early on in the sage and I'll say it again.
Everyone has the right to pursue their dreams and I applaud Abby for her determination and True Grit. She has no fear!!
But he true question is why did she ignore the experts that were trying to help her succeed.
I used Mt Everest as an example. Many have climbed to within the last 200 feet from the summit only to hear the experts tell them they have to turn back because of weather.
They are disappointed but hey listen to the experts. there are others who ignored and pushed on to the summit and we later removed their bodies or in many cases left them there because it was to dangerous to retrieve them.
Abby is not guilty of fear or of lack of determination. but just like the mountain sometimes the victory is so close but yet so far. She did not listen to the very ones that were trying to help her and the end result is thank God only a sunk boat.
but now that i have heard about the show and that she and her parents refused the voice of experts i quote: from the story above
(the vessel and Abby were not prepared for the task of tackling the turbulent Southern Ocean, especially so late in the season, after the favorable weather window had closed).
She is only guilty of timing and patience. Just like the mountain is there to climb another day so is the ocean.
Reply by letsbereal June 14, 2010 10:03pm PDTReport Abuse
What is this teaching other teenagers..
Are we now going to see an influx of irresponsible actions because of this.
Dreams must be sought and perused. but if we responsible adults our telling our children to go out and do what ever you want regardless of the cost then we have all lost it.
I cannot believe the adults that are condoning this. what are you saying to all the young thrill seekers. Are you telling them to ignore the experts in what they are trying to achieve and just do it!!
We have become a microwave society we want it now!!!!
parents listen to yourselves..
I cannot believe what you are saying to all the young out there. do you realize what irresponsible actions can result from this!!!
Reply by msmcgruff June 14, 2010 10:13pm PDTReport Abuse
Johnnie, I'm a responsible water-drinker who re-caps the bottle after each swig and keeps it on a table to the right of the desk. Maybe a little OCD about that, but I watched a friend (in seemingly slow motion) as her bottle of water spilled onto her keyboard as the expression on her face changed (also in slow motion) from "Hey, I'm just typing along here," to, "Oh shit!" I have other areas of my life where I might be called a Danger Mouse, but watering my computer ain't one of 'em!
Reply by stormcreeper3000 June 15, 2010 05:40am PDTReport Abuse
Did anyone else realize someone tried to compare this situation to the movie 300? I hope she gets home and decides to try it again, only to be captured by pirates. This way we can compare it to pirates of the carribean and it can be an all around happier ending......fucking tards
Reply by foxxyrida85 June 15, 2010 07:22am PDTReport Abuse
msmcgruff: I agree 100% with you and all other supporters of Abby. I don't have kids myself, still pretty young but I do have younger siblings and the trends in society have changed so ridiculously (not for the better either). Why bash a teenager that is trying to fulfill her dreams & live vicariously? All you parents that are saying how horrible this is, how you would never condone to your child doing such a thing, etc...how about what your teenagers are doing when they're not with you? Really, you think they're telling you the truth? Sure, some kids are truly good but most experiment. Whether it be sex, drugs, alcohol, theft, fighting, gangs, whatever. Look at teen pregnancy rates, look how young children are experimenting these things, look at our obesity numbers...Its all to blame on the parents. You don't push your children to strive to their best potential. Instead, you go buy them that $60 video game that teaches them soooo much. I personally would be scared s***less if my child approached me wanting to do something so extreme, so dangerous BUT as a parent, I'd support them. I would encourage my children to fulfill any dream they may ever have as long as I am able to provide for it and it is done responsibly. That's what it should be about. Somehow, somewhere that has been lost...instead its been construed as child neglect, endangerment, wrong and so on...I encourage ANYONE to go free falling off a cliff, climb mt. everest, swim the great whites, etc. but do it responsibly. There are risks in everything you do in life, but why live in a bubble taking precautions before every step you take. Live life, but don't do it recklessly.
Reply by foxxyrida85 June 15, 2010 07:27am PDTReport Abuse
And regarding the cost issue for the rescue...I don't believe she should be responsible for the whole cost. She didn't ask for her mast to be broken, she wanted to succeed. That is why she went on even after her previous boat complications knowing that no record would be broken. A personal success for herself is what she was then trying for. As far as any rescue goes, as a rescuer, that is your job, that is what you get paid to do regardless the reason for your mission. You don't get to pick and choose who gets rescued. I am sure that in the 3 years that they planned this adventure, they had thought about this and planned for it. We do not know every single detail, we only know what the media has passed to us & we all know how the media likes to twist things.
Reply by netball June 15, 2010 10:20am PDTReport Abuse
This is known: She was in danger of getting raped, murdered,drowning or eaten alive. I still say, the parent's should be charged twofold: financial and criminally. Society has little tolerance for a child left unattended in a hot car. What makes a child sailing alone in all types of weather conditions anymore tolerable? This is not an issue of her hopes and dreams because we all have them. It about her right to be protected by her parent's at all cost. After all, who is the child here and who is the parent.
Posted by mrcowboy32 June 14, 2010 06:13pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
sorry debb i have to disagree , at least she 's not sitting at home playin video games or doing drugs or contributing to the world of crime , she had a goal that even i wouldnt attempt at my age today . i comend her in every aspect i comend the parents , i also comend the rescuers, this would have been just one more record for AMERICAS record book . the parents are FIT , this was no scam as the balloon boy , im sorry to be so blunt but this family had no bad intentions , this family should not be responsible for the rescue cost . you wouldnt be so upset if she achived her goal , at least she tried . HATS OFF TO ABBY . , AND HER FAMILY
Reply by wittbelle June 14, 2010 06:37pm PDTReport Abuse
You know what I don't "comend"? Your spelling. I would much prefer my kids were playing video games than stranded in a life boat in the Indian ocean with 30-60 foot swells. Just because a kid isn't sailing a boat solo around the world doesn't mean he's a menace to society. Maybe they are studying hard and learning how to spell words like, oh, I don't know - commend.
Reply by afassetta June 14, 2010 06:42pm PDTReport Abuse
The family is certainly responsible for the rescue. In any water, if you wreck your boat, you are expected to cover the costs of salvage of the boat or of sinking it as well as all other costs of rescue. There is no reason why these people should not be responsible. Who should pay then? The taxpayers of Australia? Why? They had nothing to do with this irresponsible stunt. There is quite a long way between 'sitting at home playing video games etc' and 'being let loose at 17 to sail a boat around the world facing untold danger. I know many teenagers who are not doing the things you describe AND their parents are responsible enough to see to it that they don't do the equivalent of sticking their finger in a electric socket or play in traffic as these people did.
Reply by mrcowboy32 June 14, 2010 06:44pm PDTReport Abuse
im sorry fer mi spelin i dunt rememb er sayin i wuz perfect , must be nice to be perfect
NUTCASE
Reply by lshcat June 14, 2010 06:54pm PDTReport Abuse
lol wittbelle :) Also agree with afassetta... seriously, the only job a 16 year old should have is to be in school and study.. not be out in dangerous ocean waters in different parts of the world, alone, a minor child... unbelievable to me! This is neglect. And a goal or 'wish' that is her parents' not hers alone... like her brother jeez.. talk about a twisted family and twisted parents who set dangerous standards and encourage ridiculous feats. Records mean more to them than the safety of their children? Shame on them for raising them this way!
Reply by dalsobrook June 14, 2010 06:57pm PDTReport Abuse
It's very nice! At least I don't expect people to clean up my messes nor my children's.
Reply by ingrid linders June 14, 2010 06:59pm PDTReport Abuse
COMPLETELY agree with you. This girl has more balls than 99.9999 % of the population and for her parents, wow, what a supportive support system. I take my hat of for this family, they have adventure running through their veins, how exciting is that, something to be jealous of, to admire and to respect.
Reply by gg21 June 14, 2010 07:02pm PDTReport Abuse
Yes I agree learn how to spell before you say anything. It is really silly how you and a lot of other people seem to think that if kids are not sailing in dangerous waters they are screw ups so does that make you and a lot of other people screw ups too? I am in the armed forces, got straight A's all through high school, and not once did I have to do something like this in order to 'stay out of trouble' I mean come now all this wasted time and money for what? Who exactly did it benefit except for the parents ego. If she were going to harvard or something like that then I would be very impressed but to do something as dangerous as this she may as well take other risks that also do not benefit anyone else such drugs, sex, crime, etc.
Reply by rachel rhoades taylor June 14, 2010 07:07pm PDTReport Abuse
And this child gives me hope for the future. She has not only undertaken one of the hardest sports in the world, she survived an event that others haven't. Prepared? i think so. She kept a cool head where adults three times her age would have freaked.
You go, Abby.
I guess we need to charge everyone or like Dagny says, lets just leave everyone that needs rescuing to chance. If this had been an adult male, or even a young man, no one would have said a word about the adventure, or the rescue. As for her rescue, it is the law of the sea, but then unless you are a part of that crowd, you most certainly wouldn't understand.
Reply by gg21 June 14, 2010 07:16pm PDTReport Abuse
Well I take it you do not have kids and if you, you should understand that the decision to let them go that far away is hard and you also know that you are responsible for whatever happens to that child correct? or did that change too? just saying you were not on the boat how do you know how she acted appearently not that calm or there wouldn't have been a need to go and save her. Who it was is not the case it is the fact that she has parents is not an adult and she was in danger because of that choice. She could have had another boat following behind or whatever else to make sure she would be safe and even an adult should do this.
Reply by conversing June 14, 2010 07:27pm PDTReport Abuse
wittbelle, I commend you on your post. I'd much rather have my kids safe at home playing video games, too. And not only are they not costing governments and taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars to rescue them from dangerously foolish misadventures -- they can spell.
Many of the same people who praise this girl because "at least she tried" to achieve her goal would be outraged if this girl's father were unemployed and their taxes had to feed his eight children.
mrcowboy32, what's wrong with video games? You seem to equate playing them with taking drugs and committing crimes. In fact the sales of video games are one large component of our recent economy that has been doing well. It's also interesting that you malign games that are often at least partially about keeping scores and achieving records while commenting that if this girl had achieved her goal, it "would have been just one more record for AMERICAS record book." Instead, it's just "Game Over" for her. Fortunately, she lives to play again another day, but the fact that she and her parents picked a more dangerous and expensive game (at which she failed) is no reason to knock the many successful video game products or those who play them. And by the way, when my sons' computers or game consoles break down, they don't expect you or other taxpayers to pick up the tab.
Reply by rachel rhoades taylor June 14, 2010 07:31pm PDTReport Abuse
Kind of hard to sail a boat without a mast. Hard to get the sails up. As for children, yes I have them and have always encouraged them to chase their dreams. She set off two EPIRBS after coming to from being knocked out. That takes presence of mind.
Reply by conversing June 14, 2010 07:41pm PDTReport Abuse
rachel rhoades taylor, you say this girl gives you "hope for the future." It will be a pretty expensive future if very many teenagers cost society as much as she already has by the age of sixteen. My video-game playing, straight-A kids have been a bargain for taxpayers.
Reply by delyn richardson June 14, 2010 07:58pm PDTReport Abuse
Where did MrCowboy say that video games led to drugs? I don't know what post you all read, but all I saw was that he didn't feel video games were a very productive activity. He also mentioned that doing drugs and committing crimes were not productive activities. He never once said one led to the other. Then he spelled one word wrong and you all jumped on him. Ridiculous.
Reply by nan4170 June 14, 2010 08:19pm PDTReport Abuse
To conversing, thank you!
Reply by conversing June 14, 2010 08:45pm PDTReport Abuse
delyn richardson, if you're referring to my post, I don't know what post you read, but I "never said once" that he said that "video games led to drugs." I said he seemed to equate them, which is pretty much what you say when you say that he mentioned they "were not productive activities." He equated video games, drugs, and criminal activities when he wrote "at least she 's not sitting at home playin video games or doing drugs or contributing to the world of crime." According to you, he said that none of those are equal to "productive activities." In other words, he equated them.
Reply by kiddstwins June 14, 2010 09:06pm PDTReport Abuse
Australia, who sent the plane, even says, We would expect same if our people were stuck,. We will not charge for it, The US lost nothing, ya fn tax dollars go to Methane produced by a cows fart.. Serious study 3 million dollars. Now shut up
Reply by kiddstwins June 14, 2010 09:12pm PDTReport Abuse
BTW yall believe me or not . USA is developing new tracking, They wanna know ya license plate number and where you are. If ya think I am Lying, I can prove it. Try me.. So while you complain about this people are being hired to report your plates and where you were at the time. Not kidding and I CAN prove it
Reply by jonny miles holden June 14, 2010 10:05pm PDTReport Abuse
You know what? We need more people like this in our country. Why can't all American's all be as adventurous as this girl and her parents. At $300,000 per rescue, this country sure wouldn't be around too long if this was the norm. You know what, how about just a select few are allowed to do this. The rest can stay home and work to pay for it and receive our excitement hearing about there exciting life that we are supporting at our expense. I am from Thousand Oaks, Ca, the same city as the Sunderlands. It is a very wealthy area. If they can afford a house here they aren't hurting. If they knew the risks of sailing around the world for entertainment (death, sinking, storms, etc), then they should have known one of the risks would have to be paying for the rescue in the event something went wrong. She put herself in harms way, and by doing so put others in harms way as well. I remember a few years back (i am 24) I was in Boy scouts and I received an ear full on how irresponsible my actions were for climbing Mt Whitney (the highest mountain in the Continental United states.) with the rest of the troop after receiving only one hour of sleep that night. (I had arrived late and came straight from work. I was on my high school football team, track team, and wrestling team. I was more then physically able, yet I was still irresponsible. My actions would not have only effected me but also everyone in the group. Everyone must realize that her actions aren't only effecting her but everyone involved. I remember reading another article were it mentioned the Captain of the rescuing vessel was swept into the ocean and had to be fished out. Just because we aren't encouraging these adventures doesn't mean we are encouraging Video games and T.V. There are other things to conquer, sports championships, dance competitions, science conventions, mathletes, hobbies, etc.
Reply by letsbereal June 14, 2010 10:12pm PDTReport Abuse
I said this early on in the sage and I'll say it again.
Everyone has the right to pursue their dreams and I applaud Abby for her determination and True Grit. She has no fear!!
But he true question is why did she ignore the experts that were trying to help her succeed.
I used Mt Everest as an example. Many have climbed to within the last 200 feet from the summit only to hear the experts tell them they have to turn back because of weather.
They are disappointed but hey listen to the experts. there are others who ignored and pushed on to the summit and we later removed their bodies or in many cases left them there because it was to dangerous to retrieve them.
Abby is not guilty of fear or of lack of determination. but just like the mountain sometimes the victory is so close but yet so far. She did not listen to the very ones that were trying to help her and the end result is thank God only a sunk boat.
but now that i have heard about the show and that she and her parents refused the voice of experts i quote: from the story above
(the vessel and Abby were not prepared for the task of tackling the turbulent Southern Ocean, especially so late in the season, after the favorable weather window had closed).
She is only guilty of timing and patience. Just like the mountain is there to climb another day so is the ocean.
What is this teaching other teenagers..
Are we now going to see an influx of irresponsible actions because of this.
Dreams must be sought and pursued. but if we responsible adults our telling our children to go out and do what ever you want regardless of the cost then we have all lost it.
I cannot believe the adults that are condoning this. what are you saying to all the young thrill seekers. Are you telling them to ignore the experts in what they are trying to achieve and just do it!!
We have become a microwave society we want it now!!!!
parents listen to yourselves..
I cannot believe what you are saying to all the young out there. do you realize w
Reply by letsbereal June 14, 2010 10:13pm PDTReport Abuse
do you realize what irresponsible actions can result from this!!!
Reply by rexyboy44 June 14, 2010 11:55pm PDTReport Abuse
Well said!
Reply by rexyboy44 June 14, 2010 11:55pm PDTReport Abuse
Well said!
Reply by xaznjazonx June 15, 2010 12:48am PDTReport Abuse
@ ingrid she doesn't have more balls than 99 percent of the teens. I would know because i am one. Why do I know that? because hell, if every teen has parents that can afford yachts that are 40 ft long, they would go for it without thinking. Why? Because EVERY teen wants solitude from their parents, except those who haven't been through puberty. And if you actually try to argue with me, you obviously haven't been through a teen or too old to remember. Oh ya, and just because teens are at home, doesn't mean they're playing videogames or drugs. Hmm, I wonder if anyone invented bikes or sports... or friends. oh ya, it's good for college resume. And, yes, she does want the attention. Yes, I can tell because the place she's from is as rich as beverly hill.
Reply by xaznjazonx June 15, 2010 12:48am PDTReport Abuse
@ ingrid she doesn't have more balls than 99 percent of the teens. I would know because i am one. Why do I know that? because hell, if every teen has parents that can afford yachts that are 40 ft long, they would go for it without thinking. Why? Because EVERY teen wants solitude from their parents, except those who haven't been through puberty. And if you actually try to argue with me, you obviously haven't been through a teen or too old to remember. Oh ya, and just because teens are at home, doesn't mean they're playing videogames or drugs. Hmm, I wonder if anyone invented bikes or sports... or friends. oh ya, it's good for college resume. And, yes, she does want the attention. Yes, I can tell because the place she's from is as rich as beverly hill.
Reply by xaznjazonx June 15, 2010 12:48am PDTReport Abuse
@ ingrid she doesn't have more balls than 99 percent of the teens. I would know because i am one. Why do I know that? because hell, if every teen has parents that can afford yachts that are 40 ft long, they would go for it without thinking. Why? Because EVERY teen wants solitude from their parents, except those who haven't been through puberty. And if you actually try to argue with me, you obviously haven't been through a teen or too old to remember. Oh ya, and just because teens are at home, doesn't mean they're playing videogames or drugs. Hmm, I wonder if anyone invented bikes or sports... or friends. oh ya, it's good for college resume. And, yes, she does want the attention. Yes, I can tell because the place she's from is as rich as beverly hill.
Reply by stormcreeper3000 June 15, 2010 06:15am PDTReport Abuse
What if she would have died? Would all of the mrcowboys of the world be praising her in death saying "she died chasing her dream"? Would they congratulate the parents for supporting their daughter in her decision to sail around the world by herself, unsupervised? Maybe after her memorial as a hero among a video game playing, drug dealing teenage society we can start a program that encourages all parents to be more like the sunderlands and allow....nay....ENCOURAGE their children to sale solo around the world at 16, or partake in another life risking dream! Prefferably said dreams would involve some kind of world record. Now that's a world I hunger to live in!
Reply by hypersonicx June 15, 2010 07:27am PDTReport Abuse
Umm, stormcreeper, obviously it would be tragic if she had died. But just like Amelia Earhart, yes, I do think she would've been commended for her bravery. And I think parents should encourage their kids to follow their dreams as my parents supported me in flying solo at 17 after years of hand-gliding experience and instruction. I have the benefit of hands on experience unlike many of my co-workers in the aerospace world. It's about striving for a goal and having those accomplishments. Don't turn up your nose just because you don't have the drive to look beyond the concrete walls of your office building.
Posted by evelyn luzader June 14, 2010 06:16pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
These parents should be be held responsible for their daughters rescue. If not for their foolish doings, she would have been home, instead of out in ocean by herself, where she could very easly been killed. These parents should also be charged with endangerment of a child.
Reply by nan4170 June 14, 2010 08:20pm PDTReport Abuse
Thank you, Evelyn!
Reply by eduk8r June 14, 2010 09:09pm PDTReport Abuse
And if her boat had drifted off coarse,near the coast of Somalia and those pirates had "taken" her, she would have prayed to be killed!
Reply by kiddstwins June 14, 2010 09:13pm PDTReport Abuse
YA idiots
Posted by a_reader June 14, 2010 06:17pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
The parents should be responsible for every cent of the rescue mission. Case closed.
Reply by triker2 June 14, 2010 06:24pm PDTReport Abuse
absolutely, the parents should pay the full cost. Taxpayers weren't asked if we thought this was a great idea. It was stupid, irresponsible and makes one wonder if they weren't trying to downsize the family a little. We taxpayers have plenty of other things to spend our money on. Yep, they should pay up. I agree case closed
Reply by tiff que June 14, 2010 06:49pm PDTReport Abuse
Agreed, on the note that if she made it and money starts to roll in, her family wouldn't share a penny with us, taxpayers.
Reply by jaginsf June 14, 2010 08:25pm PDTReport Abuse
Word, they should pay. Sell their assets. I think their letting her go was wrapped around greed; the possibility of selling their story, but things went terribly wrong. At that very moment I bet even the parents would have agreed that it was a senseless mistake to let her go alone. Shouldn't we be protective of our children but let them have experiences, even those that have a certain amount of risk? Are we bad parents if the risk could involve dying, I say yes?
Reply by kiddstwins June 14, 2010 09:14pm PDTReport Abuse
Not parents obviously JUST morons
Reply by edman28 June 15, 2010 01:19am PDTReport Abuse
You all are the idiots. Her parents would not have let her go if they did not think that she had a sufficient amount of experience. They had already been through the process before with their son who completed the journey about 6 months before Abby had left. So no they are not negligent or irresponsible. None of you have any idea how much experience Abby had. If you actually had done some research before you made your bs comments you maybe would have come across how the Sunderland's are good christians and dont allow their children to even watch tv. You would also have read that Abby's father was the one that cancelled the documentary. Tiff que you are a complete idiot. It obviously was not about money because she was not sailing to set a record. She was sailing to complete something she had been training for i presume most of her life. There would not be much money gained at all from the trip because all sponsorships and other products for sale went to the price of her trip. Not for making a profit in the end. You are all retarded for acting as if her parent simply put her on a boat and said "see ya!"
Countries such as Australia as well as the U.S. have agencies such as the Coast Guard that assume the responsibility of rescues, etc. Taxpayers will pay for the continuation of these agencies regardless of there being disasters or rescues. There is no "i better make money for this rescue" going on. The US most likely will not pay a dime for this rescue. So all you idiots dont have to worry about losing any money. Maybe someone should look into the statistics of allowing their child to drive. Im willing to bet that allowing an experienced 16 year old sailor travel across the world is safer than allowing a 16 year old to drive a car. Isnt allowing your child to drive a risk that could involve dying? hmmm i think so.
Reply by jay hansen June 15, 2010 12:12pm PDTReport Abuse
Her parents pushed her to go.
Reply by colaw7 June 15, 2010 04:38pm PDTReport Abuse
Exactly, edman!
Jay:
Again, you KNOW her parents personally and KNOW that they "pushed" her to go?????? Wow! Somehow, I doubt that.
Posted by dalsobrook June 14, 2010 06:23pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
I am absolutely of the opinion that these parents should be responsible for every damn dime which has been spent rescuing their daughter. If she had been in a car wreck or some other accident they would be responsible for ambulance bills, doctor bills, E.R. bills, everything. This should be no different . These people, out of poor judgement in my opinion, gave her permission to set out on this adventure, which maybe wasn't an adventure, maybe she was running away from them, at any rate, they are responsible for her and her well being.
So, mrcowboy, all of the responsiblity for this lies at the feet of her parents. Period. I have 4 children, and they don't set in front of video games or do drugs nor are they criminals. Having said that, every football injury, broke bone, split open head they have gotten my husband and I were responsible for paying the bills, whether we had insurance or not, giving them a free pass is just bullshit.
Oh the word comend has two m's in it. Commend. If you comment the rescuers so much don't you think they should get paid? Where do you think that money is supposed to come from? You going to pay them yourself?
Reply by a_reader June 14, 2010 06:28pm PDTReport Abuse
nicely said.
Reply by beantownbaby June 14, 2010 06:44pm PDTReport Abuse
I agree. However I also think that if you are going to rip on mrcowboy for spelling 'commend ' wrong you should also proofread. "If you comment the rescuers"? Bet you meant commend there huh?
I do think the parents should have to pay the rescue cost though.
Reply by sarah brown June 14, 2010 06:46pm PDTReport Abuse
If you're going to comment on someone's lack of grammatically correct spelling, try to not have so many misspellings and run-on sentences in your own posting.
You also have an atrocious command of comma usage.
Reply by mtggal June 14, 2010 06:46pm PDTReport Abuse
"Comment the rescuers???"
Reply by eric epperson June 14, 2010 06:49pm PDTReport Abuse
How do you know your kids aren't doing drugs... Have they told you?
Reply by mrsbish June 14, 2010 06:51pm PDTReport Abuse
You guys totally beat me to it....you yourself have several errors in yours...children don't "set" in front of video games, they "sit". "If you comment the rescuers..." do you also mean, "commend"?
I do agree they should foot the bill for the rescue. However, I do commend the family for supporting their child in doing something different...she wanted to break a world record. If my son wanted to do that, I may have to rent a boat to ride along beside him though.
Oh, and LOL sarah brown!!
Reply by lookingoveryourshoulder June 14, 2010 06:56pm PDTReport Abuse
lol Dalso...If you're going to correct someone's spelling, at least proofread your own post..."If you comment the rescuers..."
Thanks for the laugh! :)
Reply by a_reader June 14, 2010 07:06pm PDTReport Abuse
yea eric... I think you hit a sore spot there
Reply by nan4170 June 14, 2010 08:24pm PDTReport Abuse
I totally agree with dalsobrook and I'd like to add that one of the rescuers almost DIED while trying to rescue this CHILD!
Reply by kiddstwins June 14, 2010 09:17pm PDTReport Abuse
Really, so noone kept up with last yr of court battles and fights about her doing this, all the sudden NOW you have an fn opinion. The girl went through about a year or so of court battles before this, but nice to know you noticed all that, No opinion then, just now, You are like sheep, you are lead to slaughter and you just follow
Reply by ur_welcomedandy June 14, 2010 10:10pm PDTReport Abuse
@ Eric and reader: Some parents actually have good relationships with their kids. Don't get down on other people just because your parents can't stand you!
Reply by fitbrmom June 14, 2010 10:22pm PDTReport Abuse
Kiddstwins--I think you are mistaken about this girl and court battles. Could you possibly be referring to the 13 year old Dutch girl named Laura Dekker? http://abcnews.go.com/Travel/story?id=8433474
She was denied the right in court and her government was actually granted temporary custody to prevent her trip. I've just seen you post quite a bit here and thought you might ought to verify your info before you suffer from diarrhea of the mouth.
Reply by conversing June 14, 2010 10:57pm PDTReport Abuse
kiddstwins, it seems to me if they fought court battles for a year to allow her to do this, that any court would say they were fully aware of the dangers and therefore responsible for the associated costs. Why should we be "like sheep" and just "follow" along paying for those costs?
This isn't as if she got sick through no fault of her own or was assaulted on the way to school. In those cases, society has a stake in helping to pay for her to survive and become a productive citizen, because any of us could suffer the same fate, and one of the main benefits of civilization is that we are stronger as societies than as individuals: we spread the risk.
And perhaps the case could be made that society has an obligation even in this situation--but surely anybody can see that her parents knew what they were getting into and are expecting other people to pay for rescuing her. The fishermen who rescued her lost days of productivity in doing so; should they and the Australian taxpayers bear the cost? Apparently they will, and whether that's a societal obligation or not is debatable, but her parents have done nothing worthy of praise in this; they sent their daughter into a dangerous situation, and somebody else got her out of it, at THEIR risk and expense, not her parents'.
Reply by colaw7 June 14, 2010 11:30pm PDTReport Abuse
Again, I just sit and laugh and shake my head at all the idiotic comments on here. Don't people have anything better to do than to sit around and point fingers and blame???? Australia has said they do not want money, so whyyyyy on earth are people sooooo concerned about whether or not this family pays for the rescue????? Come on, people!!! Get a life! Or a clue!! Surely there are other more pressing things for you to put your time and energy into...like helping those in need?? Maybe spending time with your family???? Getting exercise????
I also laugh at those pointing out everyone's grammar and spelling mistakes. Isn't that a bit childish????? Are you so perfect that you never make mistakes in your typing? The funny part is, most who made rude comments about someone else's spelling or grammar, had made 10 times more errors in their own post. For example....dalsobrook...how about taking the plank out of your own eye before worrying about the speck in the cowboy's eye??? Please refer to mrsbish's post if you don't understand that.
Reply by edman28 June 15, 2010 01:23am PDTReport Abuse
i do believe that everyone is paying for these agencies already. the workers will always be paid regardless of who pays rescue costs. its called taxes. no ones taxes are going to go up because of the rescue.
Reply by eric epperson June 15, 2010 01:25am PDTReport Abuse
Urwelcomdandy... Just because a kid has a good relationship with the parent doesn't mean he or she can't do drugs. I have a great relationship with my dad, but he doesn't know that I've smoked weed.
Reply by jamiemuff36 June 15, 2010 06:20am PDTReport Abuse
eric how do you know Abby doesnt do drugs? Did you ask her? I bet she even plays video games.
Reply by colaw7 June 15, 2010 04:45pm PDTReport Abuse
Just another thought...
dalsobrook:
Ever hear of car insurance???? If your son or daughter get into an accident, all the money you've been paying to the racket called insurance would pay for most of the medical, etc. And, as someone else already stated in a post...coast guard and other rescue agencies get paid regardless of whether or not they have to make rescues (just as police and fire fighters and other public service type jobs do). Therefore, again, there really is no valid money matter in this situation. Not that it really has a thing to do with you...or me...or anyone else blogging here.
Posted by dawn dee June 14, 2010 06:24pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
Regardless of whether she made it or not she is 16! It is also not about what COULD have happened it is the fact that she is 16!
Reply by kristie r June 14, 2010 07:59pm PDTReport Abuse
I agree, As a parent I would never knowingly put my child into any thing that could put her life in danger,accidents happen daily,but actually putting your child in them conditions is ludacris.these parents ( using the word loosely ) should be responsible for the entire bill,following criminal charges,and having there children removed from there house and put into a home of loving responsible people,who will have there best interest at heart...not $$$$$ signs what if that child had died?? then they would be murders, for knowingly and putting there child in harms way......
Reply by nan4170 June 14, 2010 08:26pm PDTReport Abuse
I agree accidents happen every day, but they are just that, accidents. This was tempting fate and that is a very different story.
Reply by jcline June 14, 2010 09:29pm PDTReport Abuse
Allowing your child to play football or get behind the wheel of a car is also tempting fate, what makes this soo much different? Their have been kids killed and crippled from playing football and we all know what happens on our roads. I don't know if I would allow my child to do this ( I have a 15 yr old daughter ) but I would have to be in this situation to know for certain. I love how everyone is going off on these parents, while at the same time they hand their child their cell phone and car keys in the same motion. I commend this girl for her drive and determination, something that most teenagers these days sorely lack.
Reply by conversing June 14, 2010 11:13pm PDTReport Abuse
jcline, I no longer have teenagers, but just about every generation is criticized for their lack of "drive and determination," for their moral failings, etc. Most of the teenagers and young people I know are very responsible and ethical. I "love how everyone is going off on these" kids while praising this girl, whose actions, while maybe brave, have not benefited anybody but her. She's probably a good person, too, but it's a bit hypocritical to defend this family who I assume you don't know while simultaneously criticizing millions of young people you also don't know. It's true that they didn't have the misfortune of having to be rescued from the middle of the ocean at other people's expense, but maybe she could used have a little more forethought to go along with that "drive and determination."
Reply by jay hansen June 15, 2010 12:16pm PDTReport Abuse
My teenager was determined to be a famous chemist. He reacted some glycerol and nitric acid and barely escaped my garage before it blew up. The fire department put the house out and nobody was killed. It wasn't my fault was it? Even though I knew what my kid was doing? Should I pay to put the fire out?
Reply by jay hansen June 15, 2010 12:16pm PDTReport Abuse
Gimme a break!
Posted by yanira g figueroa June 14, 2010 06:25pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
the girl was crazy for attempting agains her life in the middle of the nowhere-ocean.
But the parents of her are INSANE!!!!
yes they should pay for all and every expenses.
Posted by omg June 14, 2010 06:26pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
The Sunderlands had money to sponsor their children's adventures, so they should cough up the money for the rescue.
Reply by yanira g figueroa June 14, 2010 06:38pm PDTReport Abuse
end?
Posted by danielle hatfield June 14, 2010 06:29pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
So should every parent whose child is involved in a potentially dangerous sport be hauled in for neglect? Cheerleading, football, gymnastics, ice skating, racing cars.....the list goes on.. Get over yourselves people!
Reply by dreariver69 June 14, 2010 06:38pm PDTReport Abuse
hey danielle cheerleading is a school sport and 16 yr olds are not allowed tp race cars.The parents should pay for the rescue because they were nuts for letting a 16 yr old girl sail the world alone while they sat at home
Reply by yanira g figueroa June 14, 2010 06:39pm PDTReport Abuse
yes, and it is totallly different Cheerleading, football, etc. o.k.
Reply by guest12345 June 14, 2010 06:43pm PDTReport Abuse
no, but if your child gets hurt doing any of the above sports, the parents pay for it! duh. and besides, if you are doing any of the above sports, aren't there responsible adults present to care for a hurt child (or god forbid dead) ???????
Reply by nasincali June 14, 2010 06:44pm PDTReport Abuse
They may be fit parents but they knew the risks . She could have died .Be glad its only the rescue bill and not a rescue and funeral bill.
The other sports you talked are risky and if my kid gets injured playing these other sports send me the bill.
Reply by justsaying June 14, 2010 06:45pm PDTReport Abuse
Of course I'm no expert, but I think it is safe to assume that the risk involved with sailing around the world are a bit higher than the activities you listed danielle.
Reply by afassetta June 14, 2010 06:48pm PDTReport Abuse
I agree justsaying. Add to that the risk involved with saling around the world at 16 totally ALONE...
Reply by pintodw June 14, 2010 06:51pm PDTReport Abuse
Danielle, are you serious? I thought Abby's parents were the only ones that have the common sense of a house fly. You have proved me wrong.
Reply by eric epperson June 14, 2010 06:54pm PDTReport Abuse
Dreariver69.... You are wrong, kids can race cars. I went to a Sprint car race and there was a 12 year old racing with all the adults... And he almost won. God, I hate ignorant people.
Reply by esuper1 June 14, 2010 06:57pm PDTReport Abuse
See, Danielle here is that type of people that cannot tell the difference between all the stuff she rattled off and what these parents did to their child. All these pursuits are established which means you know the dangers and hopefully you can gage if your kid can do it or not but even if he or she does get hurt then you have people near to attend to emergencies, the insurance to pay for such emergencies making these endeavors relative safe... not 100% safe but relatively. There is a historic and cultural lineage to all this stuff and that's why it is allowed but it is strictly monitored.
Sending your sixteen year old into the world's oceans on a little friggin boat with storms, rogue waves, pirates, things that will eat you and just the sheer unpredictable vastness of the waters while having to answer to no one is nothing but child endangerment. Can you see the differerence Danielle?
Reply by jelennuie June 14, 2010 06:57pm PDTReport Abuse
Big difference: All of the activites you mention are done with an audience as well as teachers, coaches and chaperones present and motorsportsparticipants have a "team" who are nearby in case of mechanical trouble. And if necessary, nearby too is a hospital with an emergency room!
Reply by akeena June 14, 2010 07:00pm PDTReport Abuse
Actually 16 year olds can race cars. There is a track about an hour from where I live that has many divisions. :)
Reply by rd327 June 14, 2010 07:04pm PDTReport Abuse
Hey Danielle, were you deprived of O2 at birth? To many people today do absolutely stupid things and then when things go wrong, they expect someone to bail them out. A bit longer in the drink and the kid would have been out of the gene pool, Darwin awards at work. Hopefully, some of the parent's litter of kids will make better choices. Probably not, look who raised them.
Reply by gg21 June 14, 2010 07:08pm PDTReport Abuse
Well in all honesty yes they should and often do just because you do not hear about it does not mean it doesn't happen. What these parents allowed her to do is beyond crazy and it was more of a selfish choice instead of supportive. She could have waited or had a back up plan of some kind to make sure this wouldn't happen I do not care what a brave thing it was to do that doesn't matter. Theres bravery and theres just plain stupid.
Reply by youmustbejoking June 14, 2010 07:12pm PDTReport Abuse
Danielle, I think you are absolutely right! We just had a case where two 19-year-olds (a male and a female) were drag racing. A female passenger of the female dragster was killed. These two have pleaded "innocent". They probably won't get any sort of real penalty--yet they were doing something illegal and someone was killed. (Oh, and their parents are NOT being held responsible--in any way, shape or form. Oh, and the female racer admitted to drinking 5 shots of vodka, prior to the drag race, at a party. Oh, and they found METH in the female driver's purse.) But, their parents are responsible for nothing---even when an innocent human being was killed. ALL OF YOU----GET OFF YOUR HIGH FALOOTING---HIGH HORSES!!!! THIS YOUNG WOMAN-ABBY-DID NOTHING WRONG AND WAS TRYING TO BREAK A RECORD, OF SOMETHING (HEALTHY AND NOT ILLEGAL), A SPORT SHE ENJOYS. The Sunderlands have PROBABLY done a much better job of raising their kids, than most of you commenting---in cognito. Quit judging and do a better job-yourselves-with your own kids!
Reply by gg21 June 14, 2010 07:22pm PDTReport Abuse
Umm do you see what you posted these two are 19 why would their parents be looked at first?? and it was the dead females choice to get in the car so how exactly can someone be charged for anothers choice does not make sense this case is no where near the same as a cae where someone was killed by a drunk driver. this person knew exactly what she was getting into appearently by choosing to get in the car which she was being illegal too. wow obviously your parents did not do a good job it seems you know so much without knowing anything at all lol
Reply by rd327 June 14, 2010 07:30pm PDTReport Abuse
OK folks, I admit, I voted for Obama, but at some point, people need to actually think and be willing to take responsibility for their actions and not expect the burden of their stupidity to be on others. And yes............. at 19 the parents are off the hook.
Reply by blaze29075 June 14, 2010 07:53pm PDTReport Abuse
At Youmustbejoking:
You must seriously be joking about this right? Of course the parents were not held responsible of the events of these 19 year olds because they were 19! Here in America you are an adult at the age of 18 and if you do not live with your parents at that age or older, your parents no longer have responsibility over you. Whatever those two did should not be thrown back at the parents because the parents may not have known what was going on. Are you sure that those two 19 year olds still live with their parents?
Reply by nan4170 June 14, 2010 08:29pm PDTReport Abuse
Hey danielle....none of the persons you mentioned would have to be rescued from a dangerous situation....so that's not gonna fly.
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 09:00pm PDTReport Abuse
Hey danielle, football, gymnastics,cheerleading, iceskating are all school "activities". You help me make my point by mentioning car racing. Car racing is not an activity but a risky sport (as is sailing across the ocean). Thing is, there is responsibility with racing, age, insurance etc. Its monitored and one of the safety responsible high risk sports around. Tax payers don't have to pay for the accidents or rescues, they pay that themselves because they are responsible. I dont care if she was 75yrs old but pay for your own risk.
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 09:08pm PDTReport Abuse
"youmustbejoking", I feel like I am talking to a wall with my 50 replys, please don't miss my point. Nobody on this website is going to pay for these 19yr olds mess, insurance will pay for it. I don't put down what Abby did or how old she is but if you want to take risks, be it what she does or base jumping off the GG Bridge, pay for your own rescue expenses. Don't do it till you have insurance or sponsors and most important for her, have mom and dad in a boat following her in case something does happen. I am outta here and hope this sinks in some airheads.
Reply by kiddstwins June 14, 2010 09:18pm PDTReport Abuse
You mostly are all idiots
Reply by gg21 June 14, 2010 09:32pm PDTReport Abuse
you are an idiot as well for posting lol
Reply by sailorgirl June 15, 2010 01:50am PDTReport Abuse
You are definitely (mostly) a bunch of sheep. School sports are OK because they are "established." So, if someone breaks her neck & becomes paralyzed doing a flip in cheerleading or in a high school football game, it's fine because there are spectators around and it is a known sport. BUT, someone who has been sailing her entire life and grew up with the sea should not be sailing around the world. Yeah. That makes sense. The things that you know and sanction to be OK are... other things are not. Well, glad we settled that!
Who are you to say that it is not more dangerous for some kids to participate in their school sports than it is for Abby to sail around the world? Who made you the arbiters of anything? You do not know all the kids who play school sports (or anything about their skill levels). And, you nothing about Abby and probably few of you know anything about sailing. You sit and judge people without even knowing them or the whole story. Maybe you should spend more time thinking about and raising your old children...
Some people understand the pull of the sea. Clearly, most of you are landlubbers who do not. Do not judge these people, this sport or other things you know nothing about. Improve yourselves and your own families. Only THEN, maybe, the world will finally become a good place.
Reply by jelennuie June 15, 2010 03:26am PDTReport Abuse
Dear Sailor girl: It's wise for you to pull back. Personally I'm done with this discussion but before I sign off, let me tell you that I grew up in San Diego where my family had its own boat and all of us were accomplished sailors. I was also a fair surfer and pretty good on water skis. I understand the pull of the ocean but that does not excuse me from parental responsibility and allowing a 16 year old to circumnavigate is just plain irresponsible wether she would have made it or not. You know that's true but that doesn't make you "with it" now does it?
Good night and God bless
Reply by sailorgirl June 28, 2010 03:11pm PDTReport Abuse
I did not "pull back." I said my mind... and I stand by what I said. Frankly, it's none of your business. Pay attention to yourself and your own family... focus on your own personal responsibility. Stay out of other people's lives. Your opinion about whether or not her action was responsible is irrelevant.
Reply by sailorgirl June 28, 2010 03:13pm PDTReport Abuse
Jelennuie - I also notice you did not comment on my very excellent points about sanctioned sports... so if your child breaks his or her neck in gymnastics or football... then should we all call you an irresponsible parent? Should I judge you for that? Should I insert myself into your parenting method? Should I have football and gymnastics outlawed at all schools? Think before you write and stop judging.
Reply by sailorgirl June 28, 2010 03:20pm PDTReport Abuse
Jelennuie - Sailing is only one part of the equation. You do not know Abby and you do not know all the children who participate in school sports. Therefore, you have no right to judge Abby and/or compare her to kids who play other dangerous sports.
Also, you say you are an "accomplished" sailor. Maybe I should judge you:
What kind of boat did you grow up sailing? Did you simply cruise or did you race? Were you a dingy sailor? A big boat crew? An ocean racer? Have you spent extended period of time cruising at sea?
Since you think other people have the right to judge others... than maybe we should all be able to judge you. Why don't you lay yourself on the table and let us be the judge of how accomplished you are.... that's right. You want to judge everyone, but do we all have the right to judge you?
Why don't you think for one minute about how it would feel if they shoe was on the other foot.
Stop judging!!!!!
Reply by jelennuie June 28, 2010 03:44pm PDTReport Abuse
Dear Sailorgirl:
There is an old saying to the effect of the pot calling the kettle black which seems to fit you right well. You seem to be the one "judging" everyone who practices the right to free speech and disagrees with you. However, you challenged me as to your point about established sports. It really has nothing to do with sports in school being "established. " The fact that is all of life is a risk. Quite literally each and every one of us could get run over by a bus while crossing the street in a crosswalk. But that's not the point here. If I allow my children to take part in school or other organized sports, I know there is a risk but I also expect that there will be a coach or coaches present and medical assitance quickly available in the case of an accident. In the middle of an ocean, there is no such assitance available.
How proficient a sailor I am, or you are for this matter, isn't the point. Wonderfully trained and experienced sailors and swimmers and other sportsmen can and do have accidents and that is why very few of them venture off on thier own. They need to focus on doing thier atheletic best rather than worry about survival. And frankly, anyone who would sail around the world on his own without being concerned about personal safety is a complete idiot and the last person who should be allowed to even try such a trip.
Y'know what? I think you are all caught up in the romance of the situation! I like fantasy too. And I like playing Devil's advocate. But the game loses its enchantment when the safety of a sixteen year old is involved. Responsible parents say "no." In fact, that's what responsibility is all about; knowing when to say yes and when to say no.
God bless you and keep dreaming. OK?
Reply by sailorgirl August 26, 2010 01:25pm PDTReport Abuse
You said a long time ago that you were through with discussion... but, you'll never be through. You want the last word. And you think that you are right. You are not going to open your mind... and I guess I just have to realize that you are close minded and will never change your opinion.
You say that all sports have risks. You are right. At the end of the day, someone can die playing an organized sport ... or crossing the street.
I don't think you have any right to judge anyone... I do think you are extremely opinionated and somewhat bossy... I think you are blindly close-minded about this issue... and I also think you are 100% wrong... and those are my opinions... which you will never change.
If you don't like the idea of 16 year olds sailing - then don't sail as a 16 year old... and don't let your 16 year olds sail. Beyond that... it's really none of your business.
And that is a fact.
Reply by sailorgirl August 26, 2010 01:33pm PDTReport Abuse
Your logic is just stymieing...
You basically said: all of life is a risk, but with organized sports, coaches are present... therefore, if your son and daughter dies playing an organized sport it is OK because your risk is calculated vs a parent who gives permission to his son or daughter to sail around the world... they are just idiots.
You don't know anything about me other than what I have written. "Romance" isn't my thing, so don't kid yourself that you know me.
I just don't particularly think it's anyone's business - including yours. Take care of yourself and your own kids. Then, the world will be a better place. We don't need everyone weighing in on things they don't understand. That's the major problem we have right now... everyone is so used to judging everyone - probably from watching deplorable Reality TV shows. Well, at the end of the day, as much as you try to make ridiculous arguments to the contrary... the facts are these:
1. You are not Abby Sunderland
2. You are NOT Abby Sunderland's parents
Therefore,
3. You have no business (or appropriate knowledge for) deciding whether or not Abby is capable of sailing around the world.
4. And, you ABSOLUTELY have no methodological way of determining whether it is more or less risky for Abby to sail around the world, then for X to play football or Y to enroll in gymnastics. There is no data to prove or disprove this argument.
These are the facts. Everything else is just supposition and/or your opinion.... which you are entitled to... as I am equally entitled to mine.
Food for thought - going around and calling people idiots is NOT a strong argument - even if you try to end your post with God Bless, it still makes you look rude and unintelligent (because name-calling in the place of a well though out argument is the definition of ignorance).
Posted by mrcowboy32 June 14, 2010 06:32pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
you people cant for one minute think of the possitive side , if it were one of your rug rats you would be singing a different tune , anyway im not gonna sit here all night listening to your cries when you as even i dont know the whole truth , leave em alone ,
HAIL THE SOUTHERLANDS
Reply by yanira g figueroa June 14, 2010 06:40pm PDTReport Abuse
you do not either o.k.
Reply by akpodom333 June 14, 2010 06:58pm PDTReport Abuse
They are the Sunderland family, not the Southerland family. Also, you might want to try using spell check and some punctuation if you'd like your thoughts/words to be given any measure of consideration or respect.
Reply by mrcowboy32 June 14, 2010 07:07pm PDTReport Abuse
BLA BLA BLA YAK YAK YAK
i guess your perfect too
stupid lib
Reply by rachel rhoades taylor June 14, 2010 07:17pm PDTReport Abuse
My God, the spelling and thought police are out in full force. Oh, to be perfect.
Reply by nan4170 June 14, 2010 08:31pm PDTReport Abuse
The spelling and thought police are having a field day!
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 09:17pm PDTReport Abuse
rachel rhoades......you're not saying that what ABBY did was dangerous are you? Because I couldn't see this wonderful family putting 2 of there kids in danger, let along one. Nope, I'm not a sailor either but I am a taxpayer and if what she did is as dangerous as you make it sound, I don't want her to take a risk in case she needs funding for a rescue that I would have to pay. YOU pay for her field trip rachel, you and the other hippies here can put money up and buy her insurance.
Reply by rsh641 June 14, 2010 09:26pm PDTReport Abuse
Maybe Christopher Columbus should have stayed HOME as well. Its not like her parents dropped her off in the middle of the Indian Ocean and said "find your way home". Now the timing of her voyage may have not been the best, but I take my hat off the a girl who has the guts to attempt such a trip. Also, has the Australian Government said that they are sending the bill to the American tax payer.
Reply by letsbereal June 14, 2010 10:32pm PDTReport Abuse
I said this early on in the sage and I'll say it again.
Everyone has the right to pursue their dreams and I applaud Abby for her determination and True Grit. She has no fear!!
But he true question is why did she ignore the experts that were trying to help her succeed.
I used Mt Everest as an example. Many have climbed to within the last 200 feet from the summit only to hear the experts tell them they have to turn back because of weather.
They are disappointed but hey listen to the experts. there are others who ignored and pushed on to the summit and we later removed their bodies or in many cases left them there because it was to dangerous to retrieve them.
Abby is not guilty of fear or of lack of determination. but just like the mountain sometimes the victory is so close but yet so far. She did not listen to the very ones that were trying to help her and the end result is thank God only a sunk boat.
but now that i have heard about the show and that she and her parents refused the voice of experts i quote: from the story above
(the vessel and Abby were not prepared for the task of tackling the turbulent Southern Ocean, especially so late in the season, after the favorable weather window had closed).
She is only guilty of timing and patience. Just like the mountain is there to climb another day so is the ocean.
Reply by letsbereal June 14, 2010 10:34pm PDTReport Abuse
Are we now going to see an influx of irresponsible actions because of this.
Dreams must be sought and pursued.
but if we responsible adults our telling our children to go out and do what ever you want regardless of the cost then we have all lost it.
I cannot believe the adults that are condoning this. what are you saying to all the young thrill seekers. Are you telling them to ignore the experts in what they are trying to achieve and just do it!!
We have become a microwave society we want it now!!!!
parents listen to yourselves..
I cannot believe what you are saying to all the young out there
do you realize what irresponsible actions can result from this!!!
Reply by letsbereal June 14, 2010 10:43pm PDTReport Abuse
What is this teaching other teenagers..
Are we now going to see an influx of irresponsible actions because of this.
Dreams must be sought and pursued. but if we responsible adults our telling our children to go out and do what ever you want regardless of the cost then we have all lost it.
I cannot believe the adults that are condoning this. what are you saying to all the young thrill seekers. Are you telling them to ignore the experts in what they are trying to achieve and just do it!!
We have become a microwave society we want it now!!!!
parents listen to yourselves..
I cannot believe what you are saying to all the young out there.
do you realize all the irresponsible actions that can result from this!!
Reply by colaw7 June 14, 2010 11:41pm PDTReport Abuse
yanira g figueroa:
You said, "you do not either o.k"
in response to mrcowboy32, when he said,
"anyway im not gonna sit here all night listening to your cries when you as even i dont know the whole truth..."
Just wanted to point out that he already said he didn't. Let me slow things down a bit for you..."when you AS EVEN I don't know the whole truth..." He was saying that nobody knows the whole truth...not you...not him...not I...not anybody except for the people whose business this is...the Sunderland's and those involved. So let it go already!!
Reply by colaw7 June 14, 2010 11:44pm PDTReport Abuse
And to letsbereal: (who thinks posting something repeatedly will make the point come out any clearer or true)...
Oh my goodness!!!!!!! Now, because of Abby's courage and strength of character in her endeavour....ALL teens are going to jump aboard a sailing vessel and sail around the world all alone during winter!!!! What EVER are we going to do now????????? Come on, be real...that is the nick you use...
Reply by pawpawbear June 15, 2010 01:57am PDTReport Abuse
Hey nan4170, I agree with your comment about the spelling & thought police!! Ain't that some sh..
Reply by jay hansen June 15, 2010 12:20pm PDTReport Abuse
Who cares if people can't spell or use proper punctuation. We all know what they're trying to say.
Posted by john pascual June 14, 2010 06:35pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
If she had broken world record. Would this article be here?
Reply by afassetta June 14, 2010 06:47pm PDTReport Abuse
You mean the article about her being rescued? No, I doubt it since she would not have been rescued...duh...But I would still be of the same opinion about her parents regardless.
Reply by mtggal June 14, 2010 06:47pm PDTReport Abuse
Not a chance.
Reply by john pascual June 14, 2010 07:04pm PDTReport Abuse
Well yeah the parents are idiots. But I am sure the girl enjoy the adventure at sea and can exaggerate the story for her friends and family.
Reply by rachel rhoades taylor June 14, 2010 07:21pm PDTReport Abuse
Ever been to sea, John? No exaggeration is necessary for what goes on in a storm in a small boat. I love the arm chair quarterbacking on a subject that very few know about. I'm sure that less than 5% of the posters here have ever sailed. So, you know not of what you speak. Sounds as if everyone is putting voice to their own fears. The fear of the unknown.
Reply by john pascual June 14, 2010 07:27pm PDTReport Abuse
I wasn't talking about the weather exaggerating. I meant like she fought a giant octopus or she killed a man eating shark. Those type of stories.
Reply by lukekerby63 June 14, 2010 07:38pm PDTReport Abuse
I guess everyone forgot that Abbey is the SECOND 16 year old GIRL to attempt this. The 1st one made it. Should her parents have charges filed against them also? Or, about the fact that The Sunderland's son also made the trip when he was 16. I guess they are ok on that one since he made it. They raised their kids to take care of themselves and they should be commended for that. Abby was following a dream, unfortunately it didn't work out. Abbey and her parents should feel and be obgiliated for at least part of the expense, but how many people in OKC, today had to be rescued from their cars while trying to cross water that was across the road. Should parents be charged with negelect when they send their 16 year old to the store for milk and they unfortunately get killed in a car wreck, I think not. People that live by what ifs have nothing to show for their lives except a bunch of what ifs. At least Abby had the courage to chase her dream. How many people would EVER attempt something like that no matter how old they are, and who is to say how old is old enough. No one on here knows Abby, she may have the mindset of someone twice her age. It was just unfortunate that she didn't make it. Way to go Abby!!!!!! Better luck next time.
Reply by kristie r June 14, 2010 07:47pm PDTReport Abuse
yes they should
Reply by gurugordon June 14, 2010 09:04pm PDTReport Abuse
Lukekerby63 - Jessica Watson completed her voyage safely - that is the difference. She was routed by her team, and changed course on many occasions to get out of the way of the worst of the weather. Maybe if Abby Sunderland had been just as sensible, and received the proper advice from her team, she might still be on course to break the record. Remember the old fable about the hare and the tortoise?
Reply by lukekerby63 June 14, 2010 09:12pm PDTReport Abuse
Abby was just as sensible, her team sent her to where she was because they felt she would be safer there than going through where all the pirates were. Regaurdless, how many people, no matter what their age, can say that they attempted to follow a dream. I bet not very many people will be able to tell their kids or grandkids that they attempted to sail around the world.
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 09:20pm PDTReport Abuse
lukekerby63, they should not of attempted to follow a dream, they shoulda followed her, as did Jessica Watsons team.
Reply by lukekerby63 June 14, 2010 09:53pm PDTReport Abuse
Haven't been able to find anything saying Jessica had anyone following her. It says she did it nonstop, solo and unassisted except by radio and phone. Her mast went into the water a few times, but it didn't come off, and her emergency becon was accidently activated once when the mast hit the water. The only difference between the 2 is that Jessica made it and Abby unfortunately didn't.
Reply by sailorgirl June 15, 2010 02:01am PDTReport Abuse
I agree with lukekerby63... the only difference is that Jessica Watson made it. If Abby had made it (like her brother Zac) the naysayers would have been stifled.
The only question I have is with the Southern Ocean. It does appear that after being delayed she continued her route despite the push into winter. If she and her team kept the route solely to beat the record, then I would have questions about that decision (if it were my friend or family member). Also, I do see a problematic, dangerous scenario with younger people trying to beat records. But, I do not think it is appropriate that so many feel the need to judge Abby and her family especially because it does not sound like you are even familiar with sailing. Everyone has different capabilities. No two kids are the same. Some kids are ready for challenges like this earlier than others.
Reply by sailorgirl June 15, 2010 02:02am PDTReport Abuse
No one followed Jessica Watson.
Reply by pawpawbear June 15, 2010 02:04am PDTReport Abuse
rachel rhoades taylor: You hit upon the same concept I brought up in a previous blog. People are condemning what they fear. I think it would be healthier if they just said it was to scary for them and they'll never do the same. While I'm at it, I would not have the guts to do it, and will never try. But i still admire Abby for her strength of character and drive.
Reply by pawpawbear June 15, 2010 02:05am PDTReport Abuse
OOPS! I saw a spelling mistake in my last entry. It was supposed to be "too scary".
Reply by jay hansen June 15, 2010 12:21pm PDTReport Abuse
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! I guess spelling errors can happen to anyone. :)
Posted by david kolen June 14, 2010 06:36pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
1. You're criticizing two parents for encouraging their children to be passionate about something, even if that something might be - god forbid - a little risky?
2. Are you really having an argument over the internet about money in the wake of a girl being rescued? You're genuinely arguing about money instead of being happy that a girl is alive?
3. Who cares who pays for what? Get her home. Get her safe. Be happy she's okay and with her parents.
4. Maybe some of you miserable, stingy, poor excuses for moral, dignified, human beings will trundle away from your computers for one minute and remind yourself of what is actually valuable in the world, instead of incessantly running your mouths on some commentary board in order to feel better about yourselves.
Reply by guest12345 June 14, 2010 06:44pm PDTReport Abuse
aren't you running your mouth on some commentary board........you get a life!
Reply by afassetta June 14, 2010 06:50pm PDTReport Abuse
Let's see..that would be a computer just like yours...the one you are commenting on just like me.. Some people are really just stupid..
Reply by beantownbaby June 14, 2010 06:51pm PDTReport Abuse
I don't know that anyone isn't happy she's alive..in fact no one seems to be blaming her. Her parents however seem to be a bit foolish. Any reason she couldn't indulge in her "passion" with a chaperone? Did she really need to do it alone? Se couldn't wait until she was 18 and a legal adult? I think its great that she has a passion. But I also think the line should be drawn between foolish and not.
And I am not stingy or immoral..I am just tired of footing the bill for all sorts of stuff in the form of taxes when I can barely make ends meet (and do not get or want a handout by any means)..you don't see a lot of people saling around the world in the wake of a recession. And if you an afford to do the trip, you should be able to afford at least 1/2 the cost of rescue.
That's what I think anyway.
Reply by guest12345 June 14, 2010 06:53pm PDTReport Abuse
well said
Reply by parting June 14, 2010 07:07pm PDTReport Abuse
When its taxpayers money that is/will be used to pay for this rescue, you bet we have a right to comment. And, yes we care about how our tax money is being used. There are taxpayers or former taxpayers who are making great financial sacrifice during this recession. There are people who have lost their jobs, their homes and their health care benefits. There are people in the gulf who through no fault of their own will lose their jobs and livelihoods. And, we are expected tolerate the $300,000 whims of a child? Not to mention the potential risks the rescuers took.
Yes, we care that this child is alive, but she ought not to have been in harms way in the first place. The people who are miserable, stingy, poor excuse for moral, dignified human beings are the people who made this unwise decision to put her in danger.
Reply by scomo_thora June 14, 2010 07:08pm PDTReport Abuse
Who cares who's paying for it?....Well here's an idea, we'll let you pay for it! Do you care?
Reply by esuper1 June 14, 2010 07:16pm PDTReport Abuse
1. Yes, I am slamming the parents for sending their child on a trans-oceanic russian roulette of a trek only to have the dinghy break apart and flounder in 30 foot seas. A little risky?... yeah to the tune of life or death.
2. No argument but a point of view. Glad the girl is ok but everyone here knows the girl could have been fish food by now. Money here will serve as punishment to her parent for the stupid stunt and the child endangerement or they will get another sponsor and throw her back out.
3. See #2.
4. Sorry if my sense of morality, dignity and human empathy doesn't agree with you David, I will try and shake it to the point I don't care for anybody but myself in the future.
Reply by youmustbejoking June 14, 2010 07:21pm PDTReport Abuse
DAVID KOLEN---WELL SAID!!! (Thank you)
Also, I'm grateful that Abby was found alive and well. Good job, Abby, for performing as you have trained. Better luck next time---and, maybe you can set your sights on and break a different record. (There are still a lot of records to be broken out there!) Good luck!
Reply by kiddstwins June 14, 2010 09:22pm PDTReport Abuse
It was AUSTRALIA that paid for it so shut the f up, God do you even read news, cause that was obvious
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 09:24pm PDTReport Abuse
david kolen, I see you found a spot on this board, do you feel better? For your information knucklehead, this is a forum for people to voice there opinions, its not your livingroom, so go rest your neck.
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 09:24pm PDTReport Abuse
david kolen, I see you found a spot on this board, do you feel better? For your information knucklehead, this is a forum for people to voice there opinions, its not your livingroom, so go rest your neck.
Reply by colaw7 June 14, 2010 11:51pm PDTReport Abuse
parting:
"When its taxpayers money that is/will be used to pay for this rescue, you bet we have a right to comment."
Um...pay attention at least!!!! It is NOT taxpayers money that is being used for this rescue...because Australia, the ones who are responsible for rescuing her, aren't charging any money!! Imagine that, unselfish people willing to rescue someone for nothing. I know...unheard of/not practiced by many in our country for the most part nowadays. Most are out to make money off someone else's misfortune. That is what this is, a misfortune. Again I say, you'll always miss 100% of the shots you don't take. To do great things, you have to take risks. What Abby attempted was great, and with great risk. Our country would not be what it was today without people like her. In fact, all the people whining about money that has nothing to do with them have the right to do so, BECAUSE of people like Abby. People thought Columbus and many others in history to be nuts and taking too many risks. With pain comes gain. If it isn't your pain, mind your own darn business!!!!!
Reply by david kolen June 15, 2010 12:45am PDTReport Abuse
I see I've awakened some dragons.
First of all, there is a difference between commenting on an article for your own satisfaction and engaging in discourse with other people due to a need to right a metaphoric wrong. Hence the term, "running your mouth."
That being said, back to the money issue, which seems to really be getting to people. The fact is, money is wasted constantly by most major governments, and, when it really comes down to it, money is only granted worth by arbitrary values we assign it, whereas a human life is something that is constant, valuable, and should be celebrated.
My point is, was, and always will be, that it disgusts me that people feel the need to jump on people about the most irrelevant and material bull**** when we should be celebrating the fact that they got their child back safe and sound.
Have fun preparing your scathing remarks, I'm arguing on the side of humanity, so as we say here on the internet, I'm doing it right.
Reply by pawpawbear June 15, 2010 02:16am PDTReport Abuse
Imagine a British accent for the following:
david kolen: yes, you've awakened some very nasty dragons. Prepare to have your balls bit off & roasted on a spit. I've already been there. Perhaps yours will take the place of mine and I can get them back.
Reply by parting June 15, 2010 06:05am PDTReport Abuse
colaw 7:
The article clearly states that Australia initiated the rescue. It does not indicate that they were the only parties involved. The other parties may certainly want their money back. And, yes we come back to US spending tax dollars on this misadventure.
Reply by briar130cow June 15, 2010 08:48am PDTReport Abuse
Yeah David, maybe I am a dragon but I'm not sleeping. You seem to be "running your mouth" quite a bit, don't you think? I've seen just about everything in my 60 years. The most important job a parent has is to protect their children. Makes no difference if Abby grew up sailing with her family. When it comes down to it, safety wins overall. So, am I not on the side of humanity??
Reply by jay hansen June 15, 2010 12:22pm PDTReport Abuse
The only thing Abby is passionate about is being famous.
Reply by littlewoman_1 June 15, 2010 03:40pm PDTReport Abuse
Would someone please point to the entry that We the taxpayers are paying for the rescue.........I have read and re-read everything and have yet to find the entry that the taxpayers are paying. Also grammer and spelling police are out in force anything to argue about its amazing, Pawpawbear good luck with getting your balls out of the fire, thanks for the laugh, Now someone please inform me of what the topic will be on the next bitch session because frankly no one knows WHAT is actually going on with Abby, her parents or the rescuers just a lot of guessing and bitching, As soon as the new topic comes up please be so kind as to let me know so that I can be better prepared. Thank you
Reply by colaw7 June 15, 2010 04:04pm PDTReport Abuse
parting:
You are clearly speculating, and have no idea who will want money or IF they will want money. Believe it or not, some just help others out without asking for a ransom in return. And, if they do want compensation, so what????? There are plenty of parents whose children have done something dumb and had to be rescued by police or firefighters...who are paid by taxes, but they do not expect the parents to pay extra for it. For example, some not so great parents at our school had a son who played around with matches and burned their entire house down. Were they charged with any crime because their son found some matches on the way home from school and they didn't know about it? No. Did they have to pay an extra amount of money for the fire fighters to help rescue their family members and try to save their house??? No. Should they have been supervising their son a little more and being more responsible about their parenting at the time he was playing with the matches? Maybe. Are they perfect? No. Are any of us perfect??? No! Do we all need to pay money for stupid and irresponsible things we've done that affected other people?? Are there tonsssss of other ways our government misuses tax payer's money for their own gain? Absolutely. Why are we worrying about this situation that does not even directly affect us to our knowledge, and worry about all those other things we DO know FOR SURE do????? Just something to think about.
Reply by parting June 16, 2010 01:10pm PDTReport Abuse
colaw7:
You make a fair point; however, someone is paying for this. Even if they don't want the US to cover the cost. While money oughtn't to be our primary concern ---a child's life was spared--- in these economic times, many people are sensitized to the impact of a lack of money. There are some life and death choices people are making now because they have no money.
Posted by geobarkes June 14, 2010 06:37pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
Its so easy to judge people.! Nobody's even grateful that Abby's O K!
everybody wants to jump on her family like a pack of wolves. what taxpayer money has gone to her rescue? Noone in America's. If she hadnt run into foul weather and made the trip successfully, everyone would probably have said how wonderful that her parents supported her and allowed her to follow her dream.
I hope these judgemental crirics dont need help themselves one day and everybody just calls them stupid or criminal for having problems.
I hope people find Jesus that need to learn how to love others. "Judge not lest ye be judged"
.
1
Reply by 1onehardlife June 14, 2010 07:42pm PDTReport Abuse
Why are you making this into a "Jesus" thing, this has not a thing to do about Jesus! It was just bad parenting thats all!
Reply by captainbill June 14, 2010 07:50pm PDTReport Abuse
There goes the liberal mind set about the many ills of our society. I think your problem is this courageous young lady has more character and spirit than all of you combine. She was willing to risk all to accomplish a dream. Would you be wining if she succeeded? No!
Abby Sunderland has true grit, something that is sorely missing in America. Her family may have problems, but legally they did nothing illegal, as there was no fraud or deceit on their part. As far as the rescue mission goes - we who sail the high seas help each other in time of need. Police and fire personal rescue people everyday and do not charge them for their services. So what is your real problem? You are angry that Abby has not been paid to be a state prostate, while having babies for a welfare check. Disappointed that she is not taking drugs, getting pregnant by unknown fathers who do not except their adult responsibilities and angry because Abby is not a victim of the state so you can have a state job that justifies your paycheck of political ideology. Abby's failure to accomplish her dream of sailing around the world is not a failure, but a testament to her courage - something that you lack in spite of yourself.
Abby should be celebrated for her courage, and her parents as role models on how to raise children who have the courage to except life's challenges.
Grow up and leave this family alone.
Captain Bill.
Reply by uncfan4eva217 June 14, 2010 07:51pm PDTReport Abuse
They weren't. They were were simply expressing their "hopes". They did not come close to making this "into a 'Jesus' thing".
Reply by tishaoz June 14, 2010 08:19pm PDTReport Abuse
Wow. It's not Americans paying for it so you don't care? Australia has stood by the US through thick and thin, one of the few countries who has. Sent our soldiers to die in your war in Iraq and are still in Afghanistan. But we aren't American so who cares?
Nice. No wonder Americans are so unpopular in so much of the world.
Reply by conversing June 14, 2010 08:21pm PDTReport Abuse
captainbill, I'm glad to see that you support universal healthcare (As you say, "Police and fire personal rescue people everyday and do not charge them for their services." Why should we be charged for the necessary services that doctors and hospitals perform when they rescue us from our illnesses?).
As for Abby Sunderland, you're right: she is not "a victim of the state." The state is a victim of Abby.
And you know who pays the state's bills, don't you? By the way, why aren't you disappointed that Abby's father isn't accepting his "adult responsibilities"? Maybe we'll "leave this family alone" when he has the "courage" to accept "life's challenges" by himself without expecting the rest of us to write a "welfare check" for his sixteen-year-old baby
Reply by nan4170 June 14, 2010 08:38pm PDTReport Abuse
To 1onehardlife....THANK YOU!
Reply by pawpawbear June 15, 2010 02:21am PDTReport Abuse
You go captain bill!!!
tishaoz: Not every American is ugly and unapreciative. Thanks to Australia for all the support given, and in many cases far greater support than many other nations have given as allies! I've even seen some political humor that originated in Australia directed at the US, and i thought it was great!
Posted by roman695 June 14, 2010 06:37pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
mrcowboy32--since when are a teenagers only options to sit around playing video games and taking drugs, OR going on a dangerous trip ALONE that even the American Sailing Assn. was critical of. Debb is absolutely right. Her parents chose to disregard her personal safety in favor of the attention and possible monetary gain they could receive, and now they should have to pay for the costs that THEY incurred.
Reply by kids have opinions too June 14, 2010 07:13pm PDTReport Abuse
roman695- did you know that one in three kids living in America are obese? Why? Sitting around playing video games!! get it through your head
Reply by gg21 June 14, 2010 07:27pm PDTReport Abuse
or sitting on the internet commenting get it through your head first!!!!
Reply by kids have opinions too June 14, 2010 07:46pm PDTReport Abuse
yeah look who is talking!? Try not to be too stupid. And by the way you spelled "else" wrong. Maybe you should get it through your head first :)
Reply by uncfan4eva217 June 14, 2010 07:50pm PDTReport Abuse
Actually, video games are definitely not the problem. Nor are computers the problem. Simple laziness is the problem that causes obesity. I am a teenager and I play video games on a regular basis in my free time and I am still athletic and involved in my school and church. I am definitely far from obese.
Sooooooo..... basically..... this guy ^^^^^ is not a smart one.
Reply by roman695 June 14, 2010 07:53pm PDTReport Abuse
I ask again--are you suggesting "kids have opinions" that unless a child go out and attempt a dangerous around the world trip, their only other option is to be obese? I don't see your logic in how one has anything to do with the other. After all, my three teen-age sons are in great shape and have never been on a sail boat in their lives. It's called exercise (you know, the non-life threatening kind.)
Reply by gg21 June 14, 2010 07:55pm PDTReport Abuse
Yes I agree uncfan4eva217 and I do not see where I spelled else at all in my post wow what are you on???
Reply by radikalmoderate June 14, 2010 08:33pm PDTReport Abuse
Of course video games are part of the problem, but certainly can be in a child's life (relatively) healthy if they don't abuse it as I assume uncfan and my two sons do(n't). But anything that allows/requires you to sit around for long periods of time is not good for the already lazy and some kids (my gf's daughter) just get that attitude that 'there's nuuuuthin to doooo' and seem to just want to avoid any activity (that's booooring) as well. unc is right, simple laziness is the big culprit, parents just don't make their kids do anything and that's how they grow. Roman had a good point tho, some are acting as if the only two choices kids have are drugs/video games/obesity or going on some monumental excursion and my boys have found b-ball (basket for the older, base for the younger) and them and some of their friends do play video games but also play sports and general horsing/running around.
Posted by letkidsbekids June 14, 2010 06:37pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
It sounds like these parents, especially the father, encourages over-achievement, perhaps to receive notoriety. I certainly hope these children were allowed "childhoods," and not pushed to the limit like many "home-schooled" childrens' parents seem to do! I was a caregiver or "nanny" for many families when I was younger. It was a wonderful experience, but I always avoided the hyper-intellectual, home-schooled, extreme left-wing folks that allowed their kids to have more power than they were able to handle at such young ages! Just my humble opinion, which I'm sure will be met with disdain. ; )
Reply by conversing June 14, 2010 08:03pm PDTReport Abuse
I'm a left-winger who homeschooled my very intellectual kids who are now in college with 4.0 GPAs, but generally, far more homeschoolers are right-wing conservatives. I never would have allowed my kids to be in such a dangerous, irresponsible situation, and they were definitely allowed their childhoods. Many kids are "pushed to the limit" in public and private schools, not just those who are homeschooled. This has far more to do with this girl's parents' irresponsibility and "idiotology" than their ideology.
Reply by nan4170 June 14, 2010 08:43pm PDTReport Abuse
Home-schooled kids most often turn out to be socially maladjusted. It's probably why she and her brother sailed alone on their ventures.
Reply by colaw7 June 14, 2010 11:59pm PDTReport Abuse
Again, I just sit and laugh at the silly comments...
Such stereotyping that is done in the name of stating your opinion...
I know many home-schooled kids, and I myself teach public school kids. Most parents who home school are doing more for their kids than many parents whose kids are in public schools. Most home school kids may learn at home, but they are involved in many other social activities and actually become well rounded individuals that can think for themselves rather than let the media feed them a line of balogna that stirs other people up to the point of looking like idiots.
Reply by jay hansen June 15, 2010 12:24pm PDTReport Abuse
All the kids were home schooled. The parents are control freaks.
Reply by jay hansen June 15, 2010 12:25pm PDTReport Abuse
Excuse me, ARE home schooled, not WERE home schooled.
Reply by colaw7 June 15, 2010 04:08pm PDTReport Abuse
Jay:
You know the parents personally??? Or are you saying that all parents who home school their kids are control freaks? Just curious about the credibility of your statement/opinion...
Posted by sllll June 14, 2010 06:37pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
they look like a couple of stoners
Reply by anne hall June 14, 2010 10:15pm PDTReport Abuse
You sound judgmental and ignorant.
Reply by jay hansen June 15, 2010 12:26pm PDTReport Abuse
Lot's of people who poke smot are very successful.
Posted by idreserved June 14, 2010 06:38pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
How many Millions does it cost per day in Iraq? How much per day in Afghanistan? How much per day to provide amenities to our elected representatives in the House and Senate? Our country in my recent memory is all about waste. This money was spent on a rescue of a person needing assistance in a maritime emergency. Don't begrudge a paltry 300K to Abby, it makes you look like a bad tipper.
Reply by sllll June 14, 2010 06:46pm PDTReport Abuse
your comment makes you sound like a pinhead
Reply by matt katella June 14, 2010 07:07pm PDTReport Abuse
a paltry $300K?!!? The world is gone mad with any idiot seeking adventure for thrill thinking that they are entitled to an Airbus being chartered for their rescue... These thrill-seekers or publicity seekers take calculated risks, they should factor in the cost of a rescue and if they cannot afford to pay it, they should stay home. Why should my taxes (or anybody's) go to these stupidity when there is so much to do...I prefer to pay the amenities of Senators...at least they are elected officials.
Reply by scomo_thora June 14, 2010 07:10pm PDTReport Abuse
Oh, what the hell, eh? $300K here, $300K there, I'll tell you what we'll send the bill to you.
Reply by youmustbejoking June 14, 2010 07:46pm PDTReport Abuse
Matt and Sllll and Scomo-thora: I'll tell you what "I" WANT! "I" want all the parents' whose kids have ended up in jail; have robbed persons' homes-while they were out working; have been busted on drugs--and by the way, slll--you said, "they look like stoners"--- guess you'd know? ...I'd like ALL the stoners' parents to be RESPONSIBLE AND PAY THE BILL IN EACH FRICKEN STATE--FOR THE COSTS TO JAILTHEIR KIDS, TO "RE-HABILITATE" THEM-multiple times, AND FOR THE PROPERTY OR PERSONAL DAMAGE THEY'VE CAUSED AND ALL BECAUSE THEIR PARENTS DID SUCH A "FABULOUS" JOB IN RAISING THEM. YEP, I'D LIKE FOR THOSE PARENTS TO PAY-UP FOR ALL THE ILLEGAL ACTIVITIES AND COSTS THAT I'VE HAD TO PAY IN FRICKEN TAXES AND FOR MANY YEARS--FOR THEIR KIDS' PARTICIPATION IN ILLEGAL ACTIVITIES!!!! AND, THAT'S NOT EVEN MENTIONING THE DRAG-RACERS, THE DRUNK DRIVERS, ASSAULTS, BATTERIES, ROBBERIES, GANG CRAP, ETC., BY THESE WONDERFUL "KIDS". WHERE ARE THEIR PARENTS AND HOW COME THEY AREN'T "PAYING 'THE BILL" FOR ALL THE DAMAGE CAUSED BY THEIR EXEMPLARY KIDS! How about you "think" about where tax costs REALLY come from before you open your mouth and engage your foot! (Balloon boy-a fraud; this girl was participating in a sport that she's good at and enjoys. Apples and Oranges.)
Reply by matt katella June 14, 2010 08:15pm PDTReport Abuse
I AGREE...NOW YOU ARE USING YOUR BRAIN...I HAD THE SAME OPINION WHEN I READ THAT MY TOWN HAD TO SHELL $600 TO PICK UP A STUPID TEENAGER WHO HAD STARTED A FIGHT AND NEEDED MEDICAL ATTENTION... I'D RATHER IT WENT TO MY KIDS SCHOOL
Reply by radikalmoderate June 14, 2010 08:19pm PDTReport Abuse
comparing kids on drugs with a girl who took an unwise (time of the year) joyride seemingly for the sake of her fathers financial well-being would be comparing apples to oranges. There are social situations and circumstances and also the issue of choice (especially for younger kids of druggies) that separate the two. Not only that the two positions aren't necessarily opposites, I would agree that Abby's parents should try to help pay, at least from the money they're collecting on their website and that stupid parents who raise kids that basically piss on society in some way should pay something (although it may be too late for that)
good point though, some of those 'parents' even do the sh*t with their kids and they are definitely costing society, no doubt
Reply by nan4170 June 14, 2010 08:44pm PDTReport Abuse
To idreserved....and your point is???
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 10:36pm PDTReport Abuse
youmustbejoking...............geeeeeeez, take a deep breath. Unfortunatly taxpayers have always had to foot the bill for unforseen crimes (don't blow a head gasket, I meant unforseen to taxpayers not those doing the crime. Apples and oranges? Ones a sport, ones a crime. Both are risks, one getting locked up for your mistake the other don't worry about your thrills other people will foot the bill. Next time you see 8 risktakers jumping off the GG Bridge on a bungee and they need rescuing among other things, tell me how you justify tax payers should pay for the sport they love to do. Why don't you get all these folks on your side, put your money together and you can sponsor and pay the insurance for the rest of this family when they go to break there siblings record, then I won't complain.
Reply by knotyboy June 15, 2010 07:42am PDTReport Abuse
People are so damn narrow minded and stupid. If it were a damn whale that swam up some river and couldn't get back to open water and it cost millions and put countless people in danger to "try" to guide it back to open water not a damn one of you would be complaining about the cost. Like this whale had a chance in the first place, there is a reason why that happens and if the whale was "normal" and wasn't impaired in some way it would have been in the open ocean like all the other damn whales. But as soon as a human being makes an error in judgement or screws up in some way we're up in arms. Oh $300.000! Make em pay! If it were that damn important they should have asked them to pay up front in case something happens.
Posted by mom1959 June 14, 2010 06:38pm PDTReply | Report Abuse
This is not at all like the boy in the balloon, which was a scam to get media and the public in frenzy.
I applaud the parents for giving her a great opportunity, to sail the world and maybe be on record as the youngest to accomplish it. to bad she didn't do it, She has the knowledge and the skill that most of us don't. Kudos MOM and DAD.
Reply by sllll June 14, 2010 06:47pm PDTReport Abuse
sure as long as they (or you) pay all costs (including rescue).
Reply by gg21 June 14, 2010 07:41pm PDTReport Abuse
Agreed lets see how you would feel if this were a different situation with different people.
Reply by ttavelli June 14, 2010 08:58pm PDTReport Abuse
I know one thing anyone who thinks the Sunderlands should pay anything or that their daughter should not have done this trip or any Government agency that thinks they should get involved in their life and their kids, should all and I mean all Shut the FUCK UP and keep your opinions to yourself it is nobodys business! Bunch of Liberal idiots who think they have a place in everyone elses life. SHUT UP GET OUT LEAVE THEM ALONE. Their life and the things that happen are between then and the specific agencies they are dealing with to get her home. Which honestly is none of your business or any goverment agency . Keep the Governemnt out of it.
Reply by gurugordon June 14, 2010 09:09pm PDTReport Abuse
Keep the Government out of it? It was the Australian Government who helped rescue her ass from the ocean, prompted, according to Laurence Sunderland, by his local Congressmen - part of the US Government. We can all see what happens when the Government is kept out of it - just look at the Gulf for an ample illustration of that scenario. No doubt you are equally happy that BP seem just as determined to rip off the people down there as Laurence Sunderland is to rip off his daughter's rescuers.
Reply by casper51 June 14, 2010 10:22pm PDTReport Abuse
ttavelli..........hey screwball. I take it she had your number on speed-dial huh? How do you think gets called when theres a rescue at sea, the Boy Scouts? Or maybe superman? I guess you're a slug on welfare that thinks tax payers should foot the bill for little Louie who wants to surf on the back of a shark if thats what thrills him, it would be a new record. Why not make it your business Mr.Save-0-risk and donate part of your paycheck for her hobby and insurance, then tell us to mind our own business slug. Go kick rocks, it's probly what you do as a hobby anyways.
Reply by rexyboy44 June 14, 2010 11:57pm PDTReport Abuse
Well said!
Reply by wyzhui June 15, 2010 03:37am PDTReport Abuse
Abby and her whole family knew she missed the small favorable weather window in the Southern Ocean. Even the tv crew knew that and that's why they pulled the plug.
But breaking the record is more important than safety. Kinna like BP drilling.
If she waited til next season, she won't be the youngest anymore. And, she won't be able to get sponsor deals that easily anymore.
_________
Reply by useyourbrain June 15, 2010 10:54am PDTReport Abuse
letsbreal please stop repeating yourself noone cares. Why is everyone saying that people need to chase their dreams? No-one was stopping her from chasing her dream, (which was probably pushed on her and her brother from birth by the parents) but she took a risk. Which has consequences. Why would anyone send their child out into the ocean......lets just think about that. The ocean which is the most unforgiving dangerous place on earth. Why would they allow a sixteen year old girl, alone in a boat, out on the ocean and not assumes that if something went wrong they would be charged for the rescue? The family gambled and lost. So they should absolutly be charged with the bill. If the family didnt think this could happen well then they are negligent or even reckless. Both of which in the law make you guilty. By charging the family noone is saying hey kids don't follow your dreams. Charging the family actually teaches a much more valuable lesson. Don't do something stupid without thinking about it. Think before you act people!!!
Reply by jay hansen June 15, 2010 12:44pm PDTReport Abuse
I have more skills in my little finger than this girl has in her whole body. I don't sail but so what, it isn't some superhuman feat. If she died what would her tombstone read? Here lies Abby, a sailor... Nothing special or extreme, unless you are such a moron to believe you could never pilot a sailboat. Almost anybody can pilot a sailboat! Here is an example. I am a freediver/spearfisher. I can dive to about 65 feet and stay down almost 2 minutes. Nobody I know personally can do this. Is it superhuman? Of course not. With training and a lot of practice, almost anybody can do it. Sailing is even easier. You don't need special physical attributes such as a larger lung capacity etc.. Even more of you out there could learn to sail than dive deep on 1 breath of air. Think about it. Sailing is not special with maybe one exception. I grew up and live in Hawaii. The Hawaiians sailed double hulled canoes across the open ocean with no charts, compass', or instruments of any kind and accurately navigated to this tiny rock in the middle of nowhere over and over again. Let's see Abby pull that one off!!! HAAAAAAAAAAAA!
Reply by jffrybgtm June 15, 2010 01:02pm PDTReport Abuse
A nation of pansies raising a nation of more pansies. I weep for the future. LIFE IS RISK. Raise children to go into the world and conquer it, not hide from it! Teaching children to do anything else IS neglect. And as far as paying for the rescue? This rescue will have a nil effect on the taxpayers wallets. Stupid people causing accidents on the road has more of an effect, and we ALL pay for that blindly. Give me a break.
Reply by debbie whitt cardwell June 15, 2010 01:08pm PDTReport Abuse
EXACTLY! Well said- jffrybgtm!
Reply by mitch merritt June 15, 2010 01:55pm PDTReport Abuse
Jay, get a life.
I have been into whitewater kayaking, skydiving, scuba diving, snow skiing, desert racing, and more stuff than I can remember. Every bit of it is a learned skill, much like your paltry diving (65ft?). The skill lies in being able to do it extremely well, and with confidence and passion to back it up on an epic challenge. This young lady has all of that, and more. No bragging that I can do this, or do that. She just went out and attempted it. Look up the statistics on people that have successfully sailed around the world solo. It's a short list, and likely to stay that way. This isn't touching the bottom of the ocean in 65' of water. Hell, I could do that. In fact I have done it in my earlier years. Probably while you were still in diapers. But to sail the world alone? That I would be very hesitant to do, even with experience. Take it like a man, and admit this gal has bigger cohones than you do.
Reply by netball June 15, 2010 03:59pm PDTReport Abuse
jay is a pain, ignore "IT", maybe it will vanish. NBFBB
Reply by nasincali August 26, 2010 01:56pm PDTReport Abuse
WTC can not compare to this 16 year old that chose to sail. Bottom line is they need to pay for rescue . Not saying anyone is dumb . Just glad pirates didnt get her. Its their choice to let the 16 old do this . So in the event of their choices a rescue was needed and now they need to pay for it.
If I let me girl do something like this and she needed to be rescued I wouldnt expect tax payers to pay the bill. And taxes are not ever going down only up.
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