| atapi46 | 09-24-2002 06:46 PM |
what does rice mean?
Does it stand for anything?
| imprezton | 09-24-2002 06:49 PM |
It's a grain that originated in Southern Asia, and is grown in wetlands worldwide today.
In Chinese, it's Fan, I think it's Com in Vietnamese.
:D
In Chinese, it's Fan, I think it's Com in Vietnamese.
:D
| kami333 | 09-24-2002 06:51 PM |
kome in Japanese:D
| imprezton | 09-24-2002 06:51 PM |
seriously, though, it was originally a deroguatory term for any engine produced in Japan...."riceburners", insinuating that the engines used rice for fuel.
Import Tuners have brought the term to a new level, though.
Import Tuners have brought the term to a new level, though.
| Choku Dori | 09-24-2002 07:46 PM |
IMO, "rice" in the context of this forum is supposed to be a modification done to a car that is both useless and in poor taste. A rather subjective term, "rice" often also describes the average poorly modified car and has come to include: Altezza lights (unless on an Altezza, IS300 or RX300), big tipped mufflers with small piping in the rear, uselessly oversized and gaudy wings, nonfunctional "racing" parts (i.e. stick on hoodpins, strange graphics, decals for parts not on car), rim tuck (my personal "favorite"), mismatched rims, poorly fitted "conversions" (a la CL lights on an Integra with a large gap between the light and the body's metal), neon underbody kits, and in general poor quality parts (broad and general term). These criteria are what I consider rice, and I'm sure there are other criteria that I have neglected to mention in this post. If I have stepped on anyone's toes on this board, my sincere apologies. I do hope this helps. BTW, most cars with these parts are also called "rice rockets," and my friend Thanh screams "RIIIIICE!!!" at the top her lungs when she sees one of these. :D Just thought you'd like to know!
| pakman916 | 09-24-2002 07:56 PM |
It's still kinda derogatory, don't you think? I take offense to it. Look at what context it's used in.
"That car is so RICE" or "Is my car RICEY?"
I mean...is there a word for german cars? or American cars? I'll refrain from more derogatory words, but I know some of you out there can think of a few.
And come on people...the car IS made in Japan. It's a Japanese Auto Maker with Japanese parts. Most of the mods people want are from Japan. No matter how much you don't want to be like a honda or a mitsubishi, the WRX is and will always be a Japanese car.
If anything, we need to have words that put down the maker, not the culture.
And lastly, what's wrong with having a "rice" car? They (asians)must be doing something right because we all bought one. And if we didn't buy one, we are either planning to or already own a different "rice" car.
Who cares what other people think of your car. If you like how it looks...more power to you. If you like Altezza lights or big wing spoilers or "rice" mobiles...MORE POWER TO YOU! To each his own. Don't be a hater.
"That car is so RICE" or "Is my car RICEY?"
I mean...is there a word for german cars? or American cars? I'll refrain from more derogatory words, but I know some of you out there can think of a few.
And come on people...the car IS made in Japan. It's a Japanese Auto Maker with Japanese parts. Most of the mods people want are from Japan. No matter how much you don't want to be like a honda or a mitsubishi, the WRX is and will always be a Japanese car.
If anything, we need to have words that put down the maker, not the culture.
And lastly, what's wrong with having a "rice" car? They (asians)must be doing something right because we all bought one. And if we didn't buy one, we are either planning to or already own a different "rice" car.
Who cares what other people think of your car. If you like how it looks...more power to you. If you like Altezza lights or big wing spoilers or "rice" mobiles...MORE POWER TO YOU! To each his own. Don't be a hater.
| TGC | 09-24-2002 08:26 PM |
RICE:
you've got a ricer if:
*You have more exhaust decibels than your engine has horsepower.
*You have aftermarket FRONT wheels for racing but stock rear wheels.
*Your engine makes twice as much horsepower as torque.
*You put your automatic car in neutral at every stoplight in order to roll it back and try to fool other people into thinking you have a manual
*Your mod list includes stereo equipment, shifter handle, MOMO steering wheel, PIA driving lights, exhaust tip, but no REAL engine parts.
*You see cars like yours in a Shriner's Parade for Children and clowns are driving them
*You bring a empty Maxwell House coffee can with you to compare size when you shop for an aftermarket exhaust system.
*Your Eclipse GS-T hardtop has a "SPYDER" emblem on the rear...
*You add a super tall rear wing, and a hundred pounds of aftermarket ground effects, yet you gut the interior and yank out the rear seat for weight savings
*You have to find a way to drive AROUND speed bumps in a parking lot.
*You install clear corner and brake lights to be different.
*You install colored bulbs in your clear lenses.
*You ever put neon on the bottom of your car, and then busted it on the first speed bump you went over
*You spent $5,000 on the engine and you can not out run a stock Camaro, Firebird, or Mustang GT
*You want the 'wastegate' sound, but don't want to install a turbocharger system
*If you have stickers on your car for parts that you could not point out if asked where those parts are installed.
*Every Honda you EVER owned, all the way back to your 1978 Accord was either a V-Tech or a TYPE-R.
*You claim you lost the race because you had a passenger in the car.
*You claim how if you went from a roll you would have beat him.
*You claim you lost because you missed a shift.. and your car is an automatic.
*You claim you lost because he must have been on the juice..
*Flying past the person who is 10 car lengths in front of you after they have put on their brakes.. and claim a victory
need i say more :devil:
oh yea--->you take offense when I say.. "your sister is like your car.. small, tight and relatively easy to get into." :D
CHAD
(sorry if any of you fall into this "rice" sterotype....but %#$@ it's funny)
you've got a ricer if:
*You have more exhaust decibels than your engine has horsepower.
*You have aftermarket FRONT wheels for racing but stock rear wheels.
*Your engine makes twice as much horsepower as torque.
*You put your automatic car in neutral at every stoplight in order to roll it back and try to fool other people into thinking you have a manual
*Your mod list includes stereo equipment, shifter handle, MOMO steering wheel, PIA driving lights, exhaust tip, but no REAL engine parts.
*You see cars like yours in a Shriner's Parade for Children and clowns are driving them
*You bring a empty Maxwell House coffee can with you to compare size when you shop for an aftermarket exhaust system.
*Your Eclipse GS-T hardtop has a "SPYDER" emblem on the rear...
*You add a super tall rear wing, and a hundred pounds of aftermarket ground effects, yet you gut the interior and yank out the rear seat for weight savings
*You have to find a way to drive AROUND speed bumps in a parking lot.
*You install clear corner and brake lights to be different.
*You install colored bulbs in your clear lenses.
*You ever put neon on the bottom of your car, and then busted it on the first speed bump you went over
*You spent $5,000 on the engine and you can not out run a stock Camaro, Firebird, or Mustang GT
*You want the 'wastegate' sound, but don't want to install a turbocharger system
*If you have stickers on your car for parts that you could not point out if asked where those parts are installed.
*Every Honda you EVER owned, all the way back to your 1978 Accord was either a V-Tech or a TYPE-R.
*You claim you lost the race because you had a passenger in the car.
*You claim how if you went from a roll you would have beat him.
*You claim you lost because you missed a shift.. and your car is an automatic.
*You claim you lost because he must have been on the juice..
*Flying past the person who is 10 car lengths in front of you after they have put on their brakes.. and claim a victory
need i say more :devil:
oh yea--->you take offense when I say.. "your sister is like your car.. small, tight and relatively easy to get into." :D
CHAD
(sorry if any of you fall into this "rice" sterotype....but %#$@ it's funny)
| Knightmare69 | 09-24-2002 08:37 PM |
Originally used as a Racial term by cops when some of the drug dealers were whipping the imports around and some were Asian.
The new term is for overly huge or exsessive bodyparts that are not functional. Also, stickers of parts that your car doesn't have or isn't made for your car.
I don't feel that Altezza's are "rice" since they are made specifically for your car. It's a subject where too many people don't the meaning and decide to throw it around anyways.
The new term is for overly huge or exsessive bodyparts that are not functional. Also, stickers of parts that your car doesn't have or isn't made for your car.
I don't feel that Altezza's are "rice" since they are made specifically for your car. It's a subject where too many people don't the meaning and decide to throw it around anyways.
| DrunkenDragon | 09-24-2002 09:13 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by imprezton [/i]
[B]It's a grain that originated in Southern Asia, and is grown in wetlands worldwide today.
In Chinese, it's Fan, I think it's Com in Vietnamese.
:D [/B][/QUOTE]
LOL! more like 'gom' in vietnemese! lol ahaha.. if u think about it.. itz a funny word..lol:lol: :lol: :lol:
[B]It's a grain that originated in Southern Asia, and is grown in wetlands worldwide today.
In Chinese, it's Fan, I think it's Com in Vietnamese.
:D [/B][/QUOTE]
LOL! more like 'gom' in vietnemese! lol ahaha.. if u think about it.. itz a funny word..lol:lol: :lol: :lol:
| GDub | 09-24-2002 09:27 PM |
Dont for get the guy in the next lane who has the flashing lights on his valve stems,or the 16 year old with a ford escort with the type r stickers plastered all over:D just my opinion.
| SonicYellowWRX | 09-24-2002 09:37 PM |
its all subjective...
basically, rice is "tacky mods that do nothing to add to performance."
best way I can sum it up. you can see where the subjective part comes into play there. to me, altezza's are tacky... which means those who have altezza's are rice. However, to someone who likes altezza's... well, they might be a ricer to those who dislike altezza's.
however, there are a few variations of the word... just as "sport" and "sporty" are different. "rice" and "ricey" are different. a sports car is a ferrari, porsche, etc. but a sporty car is anything from a kia sephia to an acura integra. rice is tacky and adds no performance. ricey is something with rice characteristics, but not necessarily rice. like say a loud buzzy exhaust... ricey cuz it does produce a power gain despite its annoying sound.
basically, rice is "tacky mods that do nothing to add to performance."
best way I can sum it up. you can see where the subjective part comes into play there. to me, altezza's are tacky... which means those who have altezza's are rice. However, to someone who likes altezza's... well, they might be a ricer to those who dislike altezza's.
however, there are a few variations of the word... just as "sport" and "sporty" are different. "rice" and "ricey" are different. a sports car is a ferrari, porsche, etc. but a sporty car is anything from a kia sephia to an acura integra. rice is tacky and adds no performance. ricey is something with rice characteristics, but not necessarily rice. like say a loud buzzy exhaust... ricey cuz it does produce a power gain despite its annoying sound.
| DannyGT | 09-24-2002 11:11 PM |
I once saw on this integra..... "My other ride is your girl"
I thought that was rather ammusing...
I thought that was rather ammusing...
| ImpreziveWRX | 09-25-2002 01:15 AM |
Rice = Whatever you do to make your car look worse than stock
Keep your car the way it is even its a green Civic DX with 13 inch caps and 1 inch exhaust tip.
If you remove the wheel cover for the front, and 2 rims from Pepboys for the rear, altezza light, home made exhaust, and type-r emblem, you are a true rice!!
Keep your car the way it is even its a green Civic DX with 13 inch caps and 1 inch exhaust tip.
If you remove the wheel cover for the front, and 2 rims from Pepboys for the rear, altezza light, home made exhaust, and type-r emblem, you are a true rice!!
| MagRX | 09-25-2002 01:26 AM |
so really, my friend has a sooped up A4,
Always makes fun of me,
Subaru,
Subaru,
U R A BUS
rice
what is his car
Sourcrout?
:monkey:
Always makes fun of me,
Subaru,
Subaru,
U R A BUS
rice
what is his car
Sourcrout?
:monkey:
| ATX25RS | 09-25-2002 11:21 AM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by pakman916 [/i]
[B]It's still kinda derogatory, don't you think? I take offense to it. Look at what context it's used in.
"That car is so RICE" or "Is my car RICEY?"
I mean...is there a word for german cars? or American cars? I'll refrain from more derogatory words, but I know some of you out there can think of a few.
And come on people...the car IS made in Japan. It's a Japanese Auto Maker with Japanese parts. Most of the mods people want are from Japan. No matter how much you don't want to be like a honda or a mitsubishi, the WRX is and will always be a Japanese car.
If anything, we need to have words that put down the maker, not the culture.
And lastly, what's wrong with having a "rice" car? They (asians)must be doing something right because we all bought one. And if we didn't buy one, we are either planning to or already own a different "rice" car.
Who cares what other people think of your car. If you like how it looks...more power to you. If you like Altezza lights or big wing spoilers or "rice" mobiles...MORE POWER TO YOU! To each his own. Don't be a hater. [/B][/QUOTE]
i believe that is obtained from here, this is the entire list...
[url]http://www.goingfaster.com/spo/you_might_be_a_ricer_if.html[/url]
and yes, rice to me is usually any vehicle equiped with cheap aftermarket universal parts, usually APC from pepboys.....outrageous wings, cheap 1000W hyperwhites, usually drive with the high beams on, just because to them it looks like HID, WINDSHIELD WIPER LED NOZZLES, decals everywhere, that misrepresent the vehicle or mods [type R decals] badges off of other cars, same thing, ie SVT badge on a focus sedan......nasty camber, that cannot be useful on daily driving, cut springs, and a bunch of other ghetto DIY mods gone bad....etc,etc
andres
[B]It's still kinda derogatory, don't you think? I take offense to it. Look at what context it's used in.
"That car is so RICE" or "Is my car RICEY?"
I mean...is there a word for german cars? or American cars? I'll refrain from more derogatory words, but I know some of you out there can think of a few.
And come on people...the car IS made in Japan. It's a Japanese Auto Maker with Japanese parts. Most of the mods people want are from Japan. No matter how much you don't want to be like a honda or a mitsubishi, the WRX is and will always be a Japanese car.
If anything, we need to have words that put down the maker, not the culture.
And lastly, what's wrong with having a "rice" car? They (asians)must be doing something right because we all bought one. And if we didn't buy one, we are either planning to or already own a different "rice" car.
Who cares what other people think of your car. If you like how it looks...more power to you. If you like Altezza lights or big wing spoilers or "rice" mobiles...MORE POWER TO YOU! To each his own. Don't be a hater. [/B][/QUOTE]
i believe that is obtained from here, this is the entire list...
[url]http://www.goingfaster.com/spo/you_might_be_a_ricer_if.html[/url]
and yes, rice to me is usually any vehicle equiped with cheap aftermarket universal parts, usually APC from pepboys.....outrageous wings, cheap 1000W hyperwhites, usually drive with the high beams on, just because to them it looks like HID, WINDSHIELD WIPER LED NOZZLES, decals everywhere, that misrepresent the vehicle or mods [type R decals] badges off of other cars, same thing, ie SVT badge on a focus sedan......nasty camber, that cannot be useful on daily driving, cut springs, and a bunch of other ghetto DIY mods gone bad....etc,etc
andres
| kami333 | 09-25-2002 11:36 AM |
So if I put a Honda [H] emblem on, that would be rice, right:D
I want to do it, except I'm afraid someone's going to key my car.
I want to do it, except I'm afraid someone's going to key my car.
| Ghost | 09-25-2002 11:40 AM |
_Rice_
Fill the blanks and go to [url]www.****BOYPage.com[/url] and find your answer young Padawan ;) :D ....sorry is prohibit to write it down! :D
| CirrusWRX | 09-25-2002 11:59 AM |
Just a few more graphical illustrations
[IMG]http://miamirice.net/Comic/comic6.jpg[/IMG]
SRT w/ "dual exhaust"
[IMG]http://miamirice.net/01Typical/mugenaccord3.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://miamirice.net/01Typical/celicawing.jpg[/IMG]
This one is entitled, "Fear the Civic's superior wiping power!!!!!"
[IMG]http://miamirice.net/01Typical/civicuniwiper.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://miamirice.net/01Typical/prelude.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://miamirice.net/08Concept/ricebus.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://miamirice.net/Comic/comic6.jpg[/IMG]
SRT w/ "dual exhaust"
[IMG]http://miamirice.net/01Typical/mugenaccord3.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://miamirice.net/01Typical/celicawing.jpg[/IMG]
This one is entitled, "Fear the Civic's superior wiping power!!!!!"
[IMG]http://miamirice.net/01Typical/civicuniwiper.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://miamirice.net/01Typical/prelude.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://miamirice.net/08Concept/ricebus.jpg[/IMG]
| pakman916 | 09-25-2002 12:35 PM |
Okay...I think I need to make some distinctions here...
If you are trying to be racist, derogatory or don't really care that you are ignorant and childish, then this debate really has no reference to you. You continue being your oblivious, ignorant racist self. What I say really doesn't matter because you really don't give a ----.
To all those people who really never thought about the fact that by calling something "rice" you could possibly be making a racist remark, this thread is for you.
I understand why it is used and in what reference the word is made towards. I too do not like posers who have really ugly cars with a nasty paint job and some homemade body kits. I hate those guys with the unpainted car parts. I've seen some Altezza lights done right, but for the most part, they look hideous. But to call everything done in poor taste "rice" is saying that all things "asian" are in poor taste.
I can't change the world and I'm not trying to, but I'm sure some of you had no clue you were being offensive to people.
We as Americans can be so ignorant at times...
If you are trying to be racist, derogatory or don't really care that you are ignorant and childish, then this debate really has no reference to you. You continue being your oblivious, ignorant racist self. What I say really doesn't matter because you really don't give a ----.
To all those people who really never thought about the fact that by calling something "rice" you could possibly be making a racist remark, this thread is for you.
I understand why it is used and in what reference the word is made towards. I too do not like posers who have really ugly cars with a nasty paint job and some homemade body kits. I hate those guys with the unpainted car parts. I've seen some Altezza lights done right, but for the most part, they look hideous. But to call everything done in poor taste "rice" is saying that all things "asian" are in poor taste.
I can't change the world and I'm not trying to, but I'm sure some of you had no clue you were being offensive to people.
We as Americans can be so ignorant at times...
| Yotsuya | 09-25-2002 01:02 PM |
I think the problem is that a term the used to be used to describe Asian vehicles (rice burner for Japanese cars in the 70s, or rice rockets for bikes) has changed to include a group (scene, subculture, whatever) the no longer is limited by race (there are plenty of crummy Cavaliers out there, and plenty of non-asian "ricers") or type. Think of it as the inverse of someone from the 19th century using the term "gay" as a comparison.
The main reason I don't find it ovely offensive is it's used by Asians and non-asians alike. However, for domestics, I'd rather use "corn," to differentiate the location of manufacture rather than any ethinic identity. Plus it would be nice resurrection of the fifties to claim a car is "corny."
And think of what you could call the owners. :)
The main reason I don't find it ovely offensive is it's used by Asians and non-asians alike. However, for domestics, I'd rather use "corn," to differentiate the location of manufacture rather than any ethinic identity. Plus it would be nice resurrection of the fifties to claim a car is "corny."
And think of what you could call the owners. :)
| Rojorex | 09-25-2002 01:03 PM |
Although I don't feel as strongly about it as pakman916 does, I have to say that I do see his point and for the most part... I agree.
I wouldn't say that all who use the term "rice" are racist, but I will claim that most people who openly use it and express it without any regard are being ignorant. I know ignorant, to most, is a harsh word, but I'm referring to it as "a lack of knowledge or intelligence" for a particular subject.
I'm sure it's more of an accepted term among us (i.e., younger generation/car enthusiasts), but you must realize that using that term WILL offend many. Especially if someone has never heard that term and does not understand the context in which it is being used.
Think of it as any other word that stereotypes or puts down any other race, nationality, etc.
Remember folks... just my opinion.
-Rob
I wouldn't say that all who use the term "rice" are racist, but I will claim that most people who openly use it and express it without any regard are being ignorant. I know ignorant, to most, is a harsh word, but I'm referring to it as "a lack of knowledge or intelligence" for a particular subject.
I'm sure it's more of an accepted term among us (i.e., younger generation/car enthusiasts), but you must realize that using that term WILL offend many. Especially if someone has never heard that term and does not understand the context in which it is being used.
Think of it as any other word that stereotypes or puts down any other race, nationality, etc.
Remember folks... just my opinion.
-Rob
| imprezton | 09-25-2002 01:04 PM |
My Opinions:
1. Rice originated as a deroguatory term referring to the powerless engines produced in Japan in the 70's and early 80's.
2. Japanese manufacturers have VASTLY improved performance since the term was coined.
3. Rice, as used today, is used without racial connotation by the user. Most "rice-boys" I've seen so accused have been white. "ricer" has referred to everything from Civics to Escorts to Neons to Hyundais to VW Golfs.
You know, it's really funny.....kids were doing poser mods to their Mustangs, Camaros, Novas, Vegas and Pintos in the 70's.....The only deroguatory term we could come up with for them was "wannabe." :lol: :lol: :lol:
I do wish there was another term we could coin that didn't have the racist heritage of "rice." "wannabe" isn't specific enough to the application. With the wealth of intelligence we have in these forums (I don't say that sarcastically), maybe we can come up with a word.
1. Rice originated as a deroguatory term referring to the powerless engines produced in Japan in the 70's and early 80's.
2. Japanese manufacturers have VASTLY improved performance since the term was coined.
3. Rice, as used today, is used without racial connotation by the user. Most "rice-boys" I've seen so accused have been white. "ricer" has referred to everything from Civics to Escorts to Neons to Hyundais to VW Golfs.
You know, it's really funny.....kids were doing poser mods to their Mustangs, Camaros, Novas, Vegas and Pintos in the 70's.....The only deroguatory term we could come up with for them was "wannabe." :lol: :lol: :lol:
I do wish there was another term we could coin that didn't have the racist heritage of "rice." "wannabe" isn't specific enough to the application. With the wealth of intelligence we have in these forums (I don't say that sarcastically), maybe we can come up with a word.
| imprezton | 09-25-2002 01:05 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by Yotsuya [/i]
[B]
And think of what you could call the owners. :) [/B][/QUOTE]
Cornholes? :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :devil:
[B]
And think of what you could call the owners. :) [/B][/QUOTE]
Cornholes? :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :devil:
| ATX25RS | 09-25-2002 01:15 PM |
the term is not necessarily racist, it is all about context, now derrogetory, yes...that is what it is by car definition......
it all depends on the context, if i made a comment towards an asian person, and used the term then yes, but if it is talking about a car, i dont think it is racist.....
an i a racist when i order crackers with my soup?...i dont htink so, CONTEXT....
it all depends on the context, if i made a comment towards an asian person, and used the term then yes, but if it is talking about a car, i dont think it is racist.....
an i a racist when i order crackers with my soup?...i dont htink so, CONTEXT....
| imprezton | 09-25-2002 01:22 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by ATX25RS [/i]
[B]an i a racist when i order crackers with my soup?...i dont htink so, CONTEXT.... [/B][/QUOTE]
"cracker" in the context you used it is a specific definition that wasn't borne of negative connotation. Bad example.
No one who orders steamed rice with their vegetables is being accused of racism either.
[B]an i a racist when i order crackers with my soup?...i dont htink so, CONTEXT.... [/B][/QUOTE]
"cracker" in the context you used it is a specific definition that wasn't borne of negative connotation. Bad example.
No one who orders steamed rice with their vegetables is being accused of racism either.
| imprezton | 09-25-2002 01:25 PM |
Ohhhh.....here's another memory I have....just coming back to me:
The first I heard "riceburner" was by Harley bikers referring to japanese manufactured motorcycles. The more I think about it, bikers HAD to come up with a deroguatory term for a bike that was clearly faster, smoother riding, better handling, quieter and more reliable than a Harley. Otherwise, how could they justify riding those oil sieves?
SOOOOO, maybe "rice" was born from jealousy?
The first I heard "riceburner" was by Harley bikers referring to japanese manufactured motorcycles. The more I think about it, bikers HAD to come up with a deroguatory term for a bike that was clearly faster, smoother riding, better handling, quieter and more reliable than a Harley. Otherwise, how could they justify riding those oil sieves?
SOOOOO, maybe "rice" was born from jealousy?
| SonicYellowWRX | 09-25-2002 02:13 PM |
i like to call domestic owners who do tacky mods that add nothing to performance, "Wheat boys". Feel free to use that term. ;) This has nothing to do with their race... this is based purely on car. Now a racist remark would be "beaned out" when used to describe a car modified by a mexican with their bad taste. I'm not trying to be racist, but its ONLY mexicans that I've seen do this. Stickers everywhere, 13 inch daytons, riding low... in a toyota tercel!:lol:
| pakman916 | 09-25-2002 02:25 PM |
Okay...let me paint an illustration if I may...
(Disclaimer : I am not trying to offend any race, just simply making a point so please don't take offense to what I'm about to say.)
Say a bunch of Asian Americans got together and made a car company. Just as any fledgling company, they make sub performance cars in the beginning. Being the racist society that we were (and still are at times) we named them something like...chinkmobiles. Overtime, we shorten the title to just chink. Over more time, the word takes on a new meaning which is not bound by race anymore. We start calling cars "chink" or "chinky".
Apply this same principle to ANY race or ethnicity today. Doesn't matter what it means now, it's origins weren't good to start with. Take the word used to refer to black people back during slavery. Negro. Turned into ******. Now it's *****. And today, every ethnicity now uses it regardless of color or race. Does it make it okay?
Here's a little known fact that I learned in college. Calling an Asian an Oriental is derogatory. Oriental refers to an object not a person. You have Oriental rugs or Oriental food. But to call an Asian an Oriental puts them in the same category. Now, I'm not trying to get all politically correct here, but we gotta draw the line somewhere. I'm not saying everyone needs to be uptight. I'm just telling people not to be so ignorant. The little things we do that we think won't harm anyone can be like a spark in a dry field. You can do more damage than you think.
(Disclaimer : I am not trying to offend any race, just simply making a point so please don't take offense to what I'm about to say.)
Say a bunch of Asian Americans got together and made a car company. Just as any fledgling company, they make sub performance cars in the beginning. Being the racist society that we were (and still are at times) we named them something like...chinkmobiles. Overtime, we shorten the title to just chink. Over more time, the word takes on a new meaning which is not bound by race anymore. We start calling cars "chink" or "chinky".
Apply this same principle to ANY race or ethnicity today. Doesn't matter what it means now, it's origins weren't good to start with. Take the word used to refer to black people back during slavery. Negro. Turned into ******. Now it's *****. And today, every ethnicity now uses it regardless of color or race. Does it make it okay?
Here's a little known fact that I learned in college. Calling an Asian an Oriental is derogatory. Oriental refers to an object not a person. You have Oriental rugs or Oriental food. But to call an Asian an Oriental puts them in the same category. Now, I'm not trying to get all politically correct here, but we gotta draw the line somewhere. I'm not saying everyone needs to be uptight. I'm just telling people not to be so ignorant. The little things we do that we think won't harm anyone can be like a spark in a dry field. You can do more damage than you think.
| imprezton | 09-25-2002 02:29 PM |
ooooh, I know, how about we start calling them mint gino bling-bling pimpmobiles or whatever.
:D
:D
| Yasin | 09-25-2002 03:25 PM |
Calling someone an Asian, though, is too vague. Now "asian" means people of Chinese, Phillipino, etc. descent, but Asia includes Russians, Turks, the entire Middle East, Southeast, Japan... just using "asian" for one race is limiting the others...
Besides, Koreans, etc. often call themselves "orientals"
So can I call Indians "asians" or people from Oman? They don't call themselves that... the "middle east" is a Eurocentric term. Mid east from where? England. That's why "ASians" are from the "far east". So middle east is an elitest term now, too!
Words are words. Take them as you will. I am called white, but am I really white? Blacks are mostly a brownish color... dark tan if you would.
It's a slippery game. You can poke holes in a lot of our language, that's life. Get thicker skin is my idea... I joke racistly with my friends, it helps to drop the barriers and fears. To jump on all issues of race I think keeps us seperated.
We're all just people trying to make it.
Yeah, you could call messed up Beamers "krauts", but who has seen a riced out beamer?
laughin,
peace,
Y
Besides, Koreans, etc. often call themselves "orientals"
So can I call Indians "asians" or people from Oman? They don't call themselves that... the "middle east" is a Eurocentric term. Mid east from where? England. That's why "ASians" are from the "far east". So middle east is an elitest term now, too!
Words are words. Take them as you will. I am called white, but am I really white? Blacks are mostly a brownish color... dark tan if you would.
It's a slippery game. You can poke holes in a lot of our language, that's life. Get thicker skin is my idea... I joke racistly with my friends, it helps to drop the barriers and fears. To jump on all issues of race I think keeps us seperated.
We're all just people trying to make it.
Yeah, you could call messed up Beamers "krauts", but who has seen a riced out beamer?
laughin,
peace,
Y
| ATX25RS | 09-25-2002 03:47 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by imprezton [/i]
[B]
"cracker" in the context you used it is a specific definition that wasn't borne of negative connotation. Bad example.
No one who orders steamed rice with their vegetables is being accused of racism either. [/B][/QUOTE]
granted, you are right, but i was saying it depends on the context, all i was saying was i know personally when i remark a car is rice, it has nothing to do with race....my home town is 95% hispanic, and i can tell you there is TONZ of rice there......although we call it arroz :D just kidding, we do, but its not because they are hispanic, just cuz it confuses people:D....anyway i can see how it can be taken offensively, but as it is used on this board, and how it relates to cars, i think has nothing to do with race, more than with origin of cars...
[B]
"cracker" in the context you used it is a specific definition that wasn't borne of negative connotation. Bad example.
No one who orders steamed rice with their vegetables is being accused of racism either. [/B][/QUOTE]
granted, you are right, but i was saying it depends on the context, all i was saying was i know personally when i remark a car is rice, it has nothing to do with race....my home town is 95% hispanic, and i can tell you there is TONZ of rice there......although we call it arroz :D just kidding, we do, but its not because they are hispanic, just cuz it confuses people:D....anyway i can see how it can be taken offensively, but as it is used on this board, and how it relates to cars, i think has nothing to do with race, more than with origin of cars...
| Stanley | 09-25-2002 04:15 PM |
"Yeah, you could call messed up Beamers "krauts", but who has seen a riced out beamer?"
I see plenty of slammed bimmers around here, particularly E30's. There's a lot of neons and civics as well. btw, beamer=motorcycle and bimmer=car.
Most people I know refer to "riced" out cars as either "racer boys" or "ghettomobiles" depending on the level of fit and finish the type R stickers have.:lol:
I see plenty of slammed bimmers around here, particularly E30's. There's a lot of neons and civics as well. btw, beamer=motorcycle and bimmer=car.
Most people I know refer to "riced" out cars as either "racer boys" or "ghettomobiles" depending on the level of fit and finish the type R stickers have.:lol:
| 1quikrex | 09-25-2002 04:50 PM |
I like rice!!!:devil:
| pakman916 | 09-25-2002 05:23 PM |
Just a correction. Koreans don't refer to themselves as "orientals". Koreans refer to themselves as Koreans. I would know. I'm one of them. :D
Oriental comes from Orient which was a term used to discribe East Asia. I forget what the definition is...I learned that in college to. Most people refer to Asians as East Asians and Southeast Asians. The referred to Russia as Russians, and India as Indians, not to be confused with native americans.
I don't want to get all PC on everyone. Yes...Black - African American, White - Caucasian, Asian - Asian American/Pacific Islander/East Asian/Southeast Asian/Indian/Russian/Mongolian...etc. I know all of that. That's not the point.
Back in the day, I used to not care either. Why get so uptight about stupid words. As the saying goes, sticks and stones may break my bones...yada yada yada. And I'll have to confess, with my friends, we'll joke around calling each other derogatory names like chink, honky, white devil, kimchee, ching chong...that starts the long debate about how African americans call each other *****. But it's one thing to joke with a friend. It's another to joke with someone you don't know. Or in this case, on a forum where you don't know everyone.
But I've learned, unless we actively work on improving a situation, the situation won't necessarily work itself out. You might not be racist, but some other dude reading this forum might be. You might not be ignorant, but that other dude is.
Anyway, this topic is getting pretty deep. I appreciate everyone's comments and I hope I haven't offended anyone with mine. I'm not trying to make enemies here.
Oriental comes from Orient which was a term used to discribe East Asia. I forget what the definition is...I learned that in college to. Most people refer to Asians as East Asians and Southeast Asians. The referred to Russia as Russians, and India as Indians, not to be confused with native americans.
I don't want to get all PC on everyone. Yes...Black - African American, White - Caucasian, Asian - Asian American/Pacific Islander/East Asian/Southeast Asian/Indian/Russian/Mongolian...etc. I know all of that. That's not the point.
Back in the day, I used to not care either. Why get so uptight about stupid words. As the saying goes, sticks and stones may break my bones...yada yada yada. And I'll have to confess, with my friends, we'll joke around calling each other derogatory names like chink, honky, white devil, kimchee, ching chong...that starts the long debate about how African americans call each other *****. But it's one thing to joke with a friend. It's another to joke with someone you don't know. Or in this case, on a forum where you don't know everyone.
But I've learned, unless we actively work on improving a situation, the situation won't necessarily work itself out. You might not be racist, but some other dude reading this forum might be. You might not be ignorant, but that other dude is.
Anyway, this topic is getting pretty deep. I appreciate everyone's comments and I hope I haven't offended anyone with mine. I'm not trying to make enemies here.
| WHTWRX | 09-25-2002 05:42 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by DannyGT [/i]
[B]I once saw on this integra..... "My other ride is your girl"
I thought that was rather ammusing... [/B][/QUOTE]
Here's another one: [i]"Powered by your girlfriend!"[/i]
[B]I once saw on this integra..... "My other ride is your girl"
I thought that was rather ammusing... [/B][/QUOTE]
Here's another one: [i]"Powered by your girlfriend!"[/i]
| NGNIOUS | 09-25-2002 05:52 PM |
1 Attachment(s)
I just had to sorry.
| Rojorex | 09-25-2002 06:01 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by Yasin [/i]
[B]Besides, Koreans, etc. often call themselves "orientals"[/B][/QUOTE]
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by pakman916 [/i]
[B]Just a correction. Koreans don't refer to themselves as "orientals". Koreans refer to themselves as Koreans.[/B][/QUOTE]
I just had to chime in on this one as well. I have never heard any Korean refer to themself or another Korean as "oriental."
Although I am "white," I would know because my wife, who is Korean, would be seriously offended if some referred to her as oriental. It has just recently happened since we moved here, but then again, we are living in Florida... :rolleyes:
[B]Besides, Koreans, etc. often call themselves "orientals"[/B][/QUOTE]
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by pakman916 [/i]
[B]Just a correction. Koreans don't refer to themselves as "orientals". Koreans refer to themselves as Koreans.[/B][/QUOTE]
I just had to chime in on this one as well. I have never heard any Korean refer to themself or another Korean as "oriental."
Although I am "white," I would know because my wife, who is Korean, would be seriously offended if some referred to her as oriental. It has just recently happened since we moved here, but then again, we are living in Florida... :rolleyes:
| Dolphin Overton | 09-25-2002 07:09 PM |
[voice/rodney carrington]
here's your sign
[voice/rodney carrington]
here's your sign
[voice/rodney carrington]
| migs76 | 09-25-2002 11:25 PM |
when did we become so terribly politically correct? being an asian-american myself, i find the term hilarious. i've come to the realization that "*******s" come in every shape, size and color. i think that people tend to focus on its ethnic relationship to asians/pacific islanders. how bout we all just go back to using the word...ugly. :D
| Yasin | 09-25-2002 11:41 PM |
I am guessing it's just Koreans in Spokane WA (that I know), that call themselves oriental. Maybe they're what... removed?
I do like calling people what they are (Russian, Brazillian, etc) When I say that I am a muslim, people assume I'm Arab, though less than 20% of muslims are arab...
I hadn't heard of anyone calling someone an east asian or southeast asian, but it makes sense. I'll try to work those into my vocab.
Ching Chong? that's a new one... I think it's good to joke with friends, cuz then it's not an issue. Racial tensions don't lay dormant and build up, and I feel, if done in a "sensitive?" way, can help people overcome these things.
You make some good points, pakman. Good to hear from both sides of the "rice" fence? No offense, topic's name...
PEACE!
p.s. Seattle's much more fun than Spokane
p.p.s I have kimchi in my fridge
Y
I do like calling people what they are (Russian, Brazillian, etc) When I say that I am a muslim, people assume I'm Arab, though less than 20% of muslims are arab...
I hadn't heard of anyone calling someone an east asian or southeast asian, but it makes sense. I'll try to work those into my vocab.
Ching Chong? that's a new one... I think it's good to joke with friends, cuz then it's not an issue. Racial tensions don't lay dormant and build up, and I feel, if done in a "sensitive?" way, can help people overcome these things.
You make some good points, pakman. Good to hear from both sides of the "rice" fence? No offense, topic's name...
PEACE!
p.s. Seattle's much more fun than Spokane
p.p.s I have kimchi in my fridge
Y
| Yasin | 09-25-2002 11:58 PM |
I'm picking up Dru from the airport tonight. His ma's Korean, I'll get his info and post later tonight, if i remember.
anyangkasayyo
Y
anyangkasayyo
Y
| SoLiDbReAkZ | 09-26-2002 01:24 AM |
[QUOTE] [i] from the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary [/i]
[B][SIZE=3]Rice[/SIZE][/B]
Pronunciation: 'rIs
Function: [I]noun[/I]
Etymology: Middle English [I]rys[/I], from Old French [I]ris[/I], from Old Italian [I]riso[/I], from Greek [I]oryza[/I], [I]oryzon[/I], of Iranian origin; akin to Pashto [I]wrize[/I] rice; akin to Sanskrit [I]vrIhi[/I] rice
Date: 13th century
: the starchy seeds of an annual cereal grass [I](Oryza sativa)[/I] that are cooked and used for food; [I]also[/I] : this cereal grass that occurs in southeastern Asia and is widely cultivated in warm climates for its seeds and by-products.
[/QUOTE]
just thought you'd like to know....
:lol:
-John
[B][SIZE=3]Rice[/SIZE][/B]
Pronunciation: 'rIs
Function: [I]noun[/I]
Etymology: Middle English [I]rys[/I], from Old French [I]ris[/I], from Old Italian [I]riso[/I], from Greek [I]oryza[/I], [I]oryzon[/I], of Iranian origin; akin to Pashto [I]wrize[/I] rice; akin to Sanskrit [I]vrIhi[/I] rice
Date: 13th century
: the starchy seeds of an annual cereal grass [I](Oryza sativa)[/I] that are cooked and used for food; [I]also[/I] : this cereal grass that occurs in southeastern Asia and is widely cultivated in warm climates for its seeds and by-products.
[/QUOTE]
just thought you'd like to know....
:lol:
-John
| SoLiDbReAkZ | 09-26-2002 01:32 AM |
calling an Asian-American "oriental" these days is just as not politically correct as calling an African-American a "negro"....
Oriental was considered "eastern" and "Occidental" was considered "western" according to old European terminology. It's old.. it's outdated... and it has a "Suzy Wong'ish" connotation..
My old aunt met my gf for the first time last month and said to my mom with my gf (unknowingly) in earshot "what a nice oriental girl he's with." I think my gf wanted to smack her silly... that would have been fun to watch :lol:
Oriental was considered "eastern" and "Occidental" was considered "western" according to old European terminology. It's old.. it's outdated... and it has a "Suzy Wong'ish" connotation..
My old aunt met my gf for the first time last month and said to my mom with my gf (unknowingly) in earshot "what a nice oriental girl he's with." I think my gf wanted to smack her silly... that would have been fun to watch :lol:
| Eric SS | 09-26-2002 01:37 AM |
Rice to me is all show and no go.
Eric
Eric
| Yasin | 09-26-2002 02:13 AM |
So.... putting an old school chromed emblem on the back of my debadged wrx wagon... is that considered bad taste?
I think it could be well done, there are some nice older emblems I could pull from a junkyard and get polished up...
Just thought I'd ask
Y
I think it could be well done, there are some nice older emblems I could pull from a junkyard and get polished up...
Just thought I'd ask
Y
| pakman916 | 09-26-2002 03:22 AM |
migs76 - I agree...ugly is a much better word.
Yasin - I went to spokane on business a few times. Spokane is like a ghost town. At least downtown is. I went out to the mall in downtown to grab some food and ate at the panda express there. The food had been sitting out so long it was thick like jello and had a glaze over it. Every restaurant I went to was practically empty. Uh...removed? More like backwards....don't tell your friend I said that.. :cool:
You kind of prove my point with the word "oriental". Most people don't even realize that it's not a good word to use. They use it indiscriminantly. Solidbreakz also proves my point. His aunt wasn't trying to offend anyone. She just didn't know any better. The same thing with "rice". Even though it's meant to offend people with retarded looking cars, it's not meant to be a racial thing. But no matter how you cut it, it will always be racial.
I'm just trying to educate not regulate. :D (Sorry...I know that was corny...no reference to American cars.) Continue using "rice" if doesn't matter to you. But if I've struck a chord with you, then I've done my good deed for the day. Peace out.
In the famous words of Rodney King, "Can't we all just get along?"
P.S. - Kimchee ROCKS! :eek:
Yasin - I went to spokane on business a few times. Spokane is like a ghost town. At least downtown is. I went out to the mall in downtown to grab some food and ate at the panda express there. The food had been sitting out so long it was thick like jello and had a glaze over it. Every restaurant I went to was practically empty. Uh...removed? More like backwards....don't tell your friend I said that.. :cool:
You kind of prove my point with the word "oriental". Most people don't even realize that it's not a good word to use. They use it indiscriminantly. Solidbreakz also proves my point. His aunt wasn't trying to offend anyone. She just didn't know any better. The same thing with "rice". Even though it's meant to offend people with retarded looking cars, it's not meant to be a racial thing. But no matter how you cut it, it will always be racial.
I'm just trying to educate not regulate. :D (Sorry...I know that was corny...no reference to American cars.) Continue using "rice" if doesn't matter to you. But if I've struck a chord with you, then I've done my good deed for the day. Peace out.
In the famous words of Rodney King, "Can't we all just get along?"
P.S. - Kimchee ROCKS! :eek:
| SoLiDbReAkZ | 09-26-2002 03:35 AM |
everyone I know uses the word "rice" when talking about riced out cars......even Asian-Am's...well at least the one's I know :D
| Yasin | 09-26-2002 03:45 AM |
damn PC blah blah**********
struck a chord... what do you do for a living, motivational speaking?
rice this, rice that... the rice in my fridge is getting hard...
hmm. come up with a replacement word, then... ugly doesn't cut it, cuz it's not funny. rice is funny. edgy, maybe.
I'll deal w/ a bunch of viet kids this weekend and see what they think, too. my friend missed his flight, so he'll be in tomorrow morning.
You're a smart guy. YOu get props for that, pakman.
Spokane's downtown is a ghost town. WalMart, TArget, etc. have all sucked the life out of that cracker-ass town. I am beginning to hate chain commercialism... Downtown has major problems keeping business up. I'm driving the rex there for a wedding this weekend. Glad my ride's got new hooves.
peace
Y
struck a chord... what do you do for a living, motivational speaking?
rice this, rice that... the rice in my fridge is getting hard...
hmm. come up with a replacement word, then... ugly doesn't cut it, cuz it's not funny. rice is funny. edgy, maybe.
I'll deal w/ a bunch of viet kids this weekend and see what they think, too. my friend missed his flight, so he'll be in tomorrow morning.
You're a smart guy. YOu get props for that, pakman.
Spokane's downtown is a ghost town. WalMart, TArget, etc. have all sucked the life out of that cracker-ass town. I am beginning to hate chain commercialism... Downtown has major problems keeping business up. I'm driving the rex there for a wedding this weekend. Glad my ride's got new hooves.
peace
Y
| rankink | 09-26-2002 07:19 AM |
Rice... Racist... Lighten up!
I think some need to lighten up about the "rice" term. It is just a commonly used term for "all show, and no go" cars, and these include cavaliers, neons, and saturns... If someone can not take a little humor towards this subject then that is their problem. I am the only one of my friends that drives a Japanese car. The rest all have some very modified muscle cars. They always joke that the WRX is "rice" and I laugh, but it is all in fun. I will say they have grown to respect it quite a bit though. They know what it can do. But anyway, the other vehicle I drive is a 97 Ford F150 lifted 10 inches, with 36 inch tires, and pushing over 400 horsepower. I am commonly called a "redneck" because of this. Do I care? Does this offend me? Do I think I am a target of racism? NO NO NO. Hell, I think it is pretty funny. Everything does not have to be politically correct these days is all I am saying. As Americans we are allowed to be ignorant. I know some are just trying to educate others, but I am just getting tired of that too.
My opinion... Sorry if iit offends some, but oh well...
K
My opinion... Sorry if iit offends some, but oh well...
K
| BOY | 09-26-2002 10:27 AM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by pakman916 [/i]
[B]I don't want to get all PC on everyone. Yes...Black - African American, White - Caucasian, Asian - Asian American/Pacific Islander/East Asian/Southeast Asian/Indian/Russian/Mongolian...etc. I know all of that. That's not the point. [/B][/QUOTE]
Funny thing is I'm white and I'm not Caucasian, I'm Celtic. Caucasian implies from the Caucus Mountain region of the "middle east"! My family did not come from Armenia, Azerbaijan, or Georgia. The english language has many flaws, please be careful how you use the.
[B]I don't want to get all PC on everyone. Yes...Black - African American, White - Caucasian, Asian - Asian American/Pacific Islander/East Asian/Southeast Asian/Indian/Russian/Mongolian...etc. I know all of that. That's not the point. [/B][/QUOTE]
Funny thing is I'm white and I'm not Caucasian, I'm Celtic. Caucasian implies from the Caucus Mountain region of the "middle east"! My family did not come from Armenia, Azerbaijan, or Georgia. The english language has many flaws, please be careful how you use the.
| pakman916 | 09-26-2002 01:42 PM |
BOY - If you want to get REALLY specific, many "white" people are not "caucasian". Russians are "white" but not necessarily "Caucasian". They are Russian. The same goes for French, English, Germans, etc. If I'm German and I move here to the US, I'm still German. If I gain my citizenship, I'm a German American. I apologize if my classification of "white" offends you, but I'm speaking of the general public. Back in the day, there were only four main racial categories. Caucaziod, Negroid, Mongoloid and one other I don't remember. This obviously was a poor way to classify people, but I believe this is how some of the groupings originated.
ranrink - are you a minority? If you aren't you really don't have much weight when you say "what's the big deal". Discrimination comes in many forms, and in the US, the easiest and more frequent form is in race and ethnicity. The quality of living does not improve if we do nothing to improve it. It just stays the same or gets worse. There is so much that works against us as minorities. And it's with that attitude "lighten up" that keeps discrimination where it is.
Here's a story. I was with a group of Asians at a ski resort in PA. We were packing up to go home and I was walking along this path. A little ahead of me was this meek quite asian girl crossing a narrow walking bridge. Coming from the other direction were a bunch of "white" guys (obviously in high school because they were wearing their letter jackets) and one asian dude. As the girl and the group of guys crossed paths, one of the guys made racial gestures towards this little girl. What's worse is all the guys got a good laugh out of it, even the one asian dude with them. The girl was humiliated.
I agree with whoever said joking among friends helps to relieve racial tensions, but joking with people you don't know can be downright offensive. "Rice" is not all that offensive but to think of it's origins is very offensive.
SoLiDbReAkz - I'm sure most Asian-Am people don't care and they probably do use "rice". But like I said, before I was made aware how my position in life doesn't improve if I don't make any effort to change or educate people when I'm discriminated against, I would probably not care either. You'd see me using the word all the time because I see lots of those rides here in Seattle. It's just down right nasty sometimes what people do to their cars. But now, it just doesn't feel right that everyone is just going about their business using a word that has it's origins in some derogatory term towards Asians.
But like I said, I'm not trying to change the world. Just trying to enlighten the few that have been reading this thread and care to think and listen. It's the least I can do. I think most of us definitely have one thing in common, we're enthusiast about our car. And hands down, I think the WRX rocks. I don't want to make enemies here on this forum. My apologies if I've stepped on anyone's feet.
ranrink - are you a minority? If you aren't you really don't have much weight when you say "what's the big deal". Discrimination comes in many forms, and in the US, the easiest and more frequent form is in race and ethnicity. The quality of living does not improve if we do nothing to improve it. It just stays the same or gets worse. There is so much that works against us as minorities. And it's with that attitude "lighten up" that keeps discrimination where it is.
Here's a story. I was with a group of Asians at a ski resort in PA. We were packing up to go home and I was walking along this path. A little ahead of me was this meek quite asian girl crossing a narrow walking bridge. Coming from the other direction were a bunch of "white" guys (obviously in high school because they were wearing their letter jackets) and one asian dude. As the girl and the group of guys crossed paths, one of the guys made racial gestures towards this little girl. What's worse is all the guys got a good laugh out of it, even the one asian dude with them. The girl was humiliated.
I agree with whoever said joking among friends helps to relieve racial tensions, but joking with people you don't know can be downright offensive. "Rice" is not all that offensive but to think of it's origins is very offensive.
SoLiDbReAkz - I'm sure most Asian-Am people don't care and they probably do use "rice". But like I said, before I was made aware how my position in life doesn't improve if I don't make any effort to change or educate people when I'm discriminated against, I would probably not care either. You'd see me using the word all the time because I see lots of those rides here in Seattle. It's just down right nasty sometimes what people do to their cars. But now, it just doesn't feel right that everyone is just going about their business using a word that has it's origins in some derogatory term towards Asians.
But like I said, I'm not trying to change the world. Just trying to enlighten the few that have been reading this thread and care to think and listen. It's the least I can do. I think most of us definitely have one thing in common, we're enthusiast about our car. And hands down, I think the WRX rocks. I don't want to make enemies here on this forum. My apologies if I've stepped on anyone's feet.
| WR x ACE | 09-26-2002 01:49 PM |
LA Times News
BEHIND THE WHEEL
'Rice Rockets' Find Appeal in Mainstream
(Modified imports are the vehicle of choice for multicultural audience of style-conscious and speed-loving teenagers.)
By LISA LEFF, SPECIAL TO THE TIMES
Southern California's "rice rockets" have gone mainstream. Maybe it had to happen.
A little more than 10 years ago, these customized Hondas, Acuras and Toyotas made their debut on the local street-racing scene as a challenge to the American muscle car tradition.
With their eye-grabbing accessories, souped-up engines and owners who tended to be Asian American, they became a target of ethnic insults and the scorn of traditional performance enthusiasts.
Nowadays, tricked-out imports are the vehicle of choice for a multicultural audience of speed-loving and style-conscious teenagers and young adults coast to coast, industry experts say. They can be found in suburban high school parking lots, at small-town drive-through restaurants and parading through hip-hop music videos. Modified imports are so ubiquitous at UC Irvine that the college has been nicknamed the University of Civics and Integras.
"It's everyone and everywhere," said one UC Irvine student, Bruce Bradford, 21, the proud owner of a Honda Civic coupe that he has lowered two inches and outfitted with an oversized exhaust pipe tip, showy wheels and mud flaps painted white to match the rest of his car. "Image has a big influence--friends who say, 'This looks cool.' "
Although 18- to 25-year-olds make up the core of compact performance enthusiasts, the trend cuts across all races, as well as both genders, according to the Specialty Equipment Market Assn., a Diamond Bar-based trade group for manufacturers of aftermarket auto parts and accessories.
The group's research indicates that nationally whites make up 42% of so-called "import tuners;" Asians, 29%; Latinos, 16%; and African Americans, 8%. Seventeen percent are female.
Such diversity has helped fuel a multibillion-dollar market for exotic-looking spoilers, side panels and fenders, fancy gear knobs and Indiglo-lit gauges, the latest DVD systems and performance-enhancing engine parts that allow a humble four-cylinder to take on a venerable V-8 at a stoplight--and win.
With the average "tuner" spending $5,000 annually on customizing his car, sales of components made especially for compact cars have gone from $295 million in 1997 to a projected figure of $2.5 billion this year, said Jim Spoonhower, vice president of market research for the Specialty Equipment Market Assn.
"You still have a percentage within that 18-to-25 age group that will be content driving a car just the way it came off the lot. But you have a larger percentage that feels like they want to do something to the car," Spoonhower said.
The fad got a big push last year with the release of "The Fast and the Furious," a film that brought the world of import-loving Southern California street racers to the big screen and grossed $144.5 million at the box office.
Craig Lieberman, the movie's technical director and former head of the National Import Racing Assn., said even those within the auto industry had been shocked by the momentum the film generated.
"What company would have predicted that, after 'The Fast and the Furious,' sales of neon [body] kits would go up 1,300% for every company that carried them, that the whole thing is so glamorized that everybody is going to want to be a part of it," said Lieberman, 39, a self-described "sick car person" who lives in Orange County and whose own fully loaded Toyota Supra played a starring role in the movie.
With a sequel now in the works--this time it's being shot in Florida instead of L.A.--Lieberman is once again helping the director and producers find the right cars for the project.
During an open vehicle casting call in early July in Santa Monica, nearly 500 people showed up hoping to have their cars selected for one of the dozen or so main parts. This though the event had been advertised only 36 hours before on Lieberman's Web site, movie carz.com.
"People came from four different states and drove all night to get here," he said. "These people spend a lot of time and money on their cars, and the opportunity to have it on screen, whether it's five seconds or 35 seconds--it's great for them."
As it turned out, the producers decided to have their cars built for the primary roles instead of renting them. The decision was based on the difficulty and expense of creating stunt reproductions of import cars that had already been extensively modified with the intent of making them one-of-a-kind, Lieberman said.
Perhaps because of the trend's origins in illegal street racing, or simply because of the generation gap that separates advertising executives from import performance enthusiasts, most auto makers have been slow to capitalize on the car craze.
On Monday, Honda was set to unveil its first Civic campaign featuring souped-up street versions of its cars. The commercial, shot in downtown Los Angeles at night, includes 65 area young people and their rides done up with flashy paint jobs, turbocharged engines, and specialized lights that a dealer isn't likely to throw in with a set of floor mats.
Any doubt that imports are "in" dissolves after a visit to Fullerton Town Center, an outdoor shopping center that is one of several spots where young car buffs gather for cruise nights.
With the sounds of revving engines and squealing tires filling the air behind the In-N-Out Burger and clusters of youths bent over open hoods and rear hatches, it is a scene straight out of "American Graffiti," with one notable exception: Japanese-designed imports outnumbered domestic cars and trucks by at least 2 to 1.
Anthony Hean, 21, of Long Beach was there to show off his 1995 Acura Integra GSR. He has owned the car for a year and has already spent nearly $5,000 customizing it with engine enhancements such as a reprogrammed computer chip to boost performance, and cosmetic alterations ranging from a $400 red racing seat to blue-tinged taillights.
Like other compact tuners, Hean, who has worked as a Mercedes-Benz mechanic, said he was drawn to imports for their affordability, reliability and potential for creative expression.
"I like the fact we are using a small-displacement engine and can beat a Camaro V-8 with a little time and money," he said. "You get all that, plus the girls are looking for the imports too. They know it's the thing to do right now."
As with any cultural phenomenon that has gone from cult status to mass appeal in a short time, "rice rocket" styles are continuing to evolve at warp speed as trendsetters try to stay a step ahead of the masses and on the cutting edge. Imports tricked out with big rear wings, black wheel rims and neon-lighted underbodies--the type of designs that appeared in "The Fast and the Furious"--are already considered passe. The new look favored by the cognoscenti, fashioned after the latest models domestically produced in Japan, is cleaner, with fewer exterior frills.
So does the hobby's popularity signal its ultimate demise? Its pioneers insist not, arguing that, as Generation Y ages, today's Civic and Integra owners will continue to funnel their energy and disposable income into more expensive imports and higher-end parts.
"The passion these kids enjoy for their sport is unrivaled," Lieberman said. "I can't remember when one particular element has been so exciting to a group of people."
'Rice Rockets' Find Appeal in Mainstream
(Modified imports are the vehicle of choice for multicultural audience of style-conscious and speed-loving teenagers.)
By LISA LEFF, SPECIAL TO THE TIMES
Southern California's "rice rockets" have gone mainstream. Maybe it had to happen.
A little more than 10 years ago, these customized Hondas, Acuras and Toyotas made their debut on the local street-racing scene as a challenge to the American muscle car tradition.
With their eye-grabbing accessories, souped-up engines and owners who tended to be Asian American, they became a target of ethnic insults and the scorn of traditional performance enthusiasts.
Nowadays, tricked-out imports are the vehicle of choice for a multicultural audience of speed-loving and style-conscious teenagers and young adults coast to coast, industry experts say. They can be found in suburban high school parking lots, at small-town drive-through restaurants and parading through hip-hop music videos. Modified imports are so ubiquitous at UC Irvine that the college has been nicknamed the University of Civics and Integras.
"It's everyone and everywhere," said one UC Irvine student, Bruce Bradford, 21, the proud owner of a Honda Civic coupe that he has lowered two inches and outfitted with an oversized exhaust pipe tip, showy wheels and mud flaps painted white to match the rest of his car. "Image has a big influence--friends who say, 'This looks cool.' "
Although 18- to 25-year-olds make up the core of compact performance enthusiasts, the trend cuts across all races, as well as both genders, according to the Specialty Equipment Market Assn., a Diamond Bar-based trade group for manufacturers of aftermarket auto parts and accessories.
The group's research indicates that nationally whites make up 42% of so-called "import tuners;" Asians, 29%; Latinos, 16%; and African Americans, 8%. Seventeen percent are female.
Such diversity has helped fuel a multibillion-dollar market for exotic-looking spoilers, side panels and fenders, fancy gear knobs and Indiglo-lit gauges, the latest DVD systems and performance-enhancing engine parts that allow a humble four-cylinder to take on a venerable V-8 at a stoplight--and win.
With the average "tuner" spending $5,000 annually on customizing his car, sales of components made especially for compact cars have gone from $295 million in 1997 to a projected figure of $2.5 billion this year, said Jim Spoonhower, vice president of market research for the Specialty Equipment Market Assn.
"You still have a percentage within that 18-to-25 age group that will be content driving a car just the way it came off the lot. But you have a larger percentage that feels like they want to do something to the car," Spoonhower said.
The fad got a big push last year with the release of "The Fast and the Furious," a film that brought the world of import-loving Southern California street racers to the big screen and grossed $144.5 million at the box office.
Craig Lieberman, the movie's technical director and former head of the National Import Racing Assn., said even those within the auto industry had been shocked by the momentum the film generated.
"What company would have predicted that, after 'The Fast and the Furious,' sales of neon [body] kits would go up 1,300% for every company that carried them, that the whole thing is so glamorized that everybody is going to want to be a part of it," said Lieberman, 39, a self-described "sick car person" who lives in Orange County and whose own fully loaded Toyota Supra played a starring role in the movie.
With a sequel now in the works--this time it's being shot in Florida instead of L.A.--Lieberman is once again helping the director and producers find the right cars for the project.
During an open vehicle casting call in early July in Santa Monica, nearly 500 people showed up hoping to have their cars selected for one of the dozen or so main parts. This though the event had been advertised only 36 hours before on Lieberman's Web site, movie carz.com.
"People came from four different states and drove all night to get here," he said. "These people spend a lot of time and money on their cars, and the opportunity to have it on screen, whether it's five seconds or 35 seconds--it's great for them."
As it turned out, the producers decided to have their cars built for the primary roles instead of renting them. The decision was based on the difficulty and expense of creating stunt reproductions of import cars that had already been extensively modified with the intent of making them one-of-a-kind, Lieberman said.
Perhaps because of the trend's origins in illegal street racing, or simply because of the generation gap that separates advertising executives from import performance enthusiasts, most auto makers have been slow to capitalize on the car craze.
On Monday, Honda was set to unveil its first Civic campaign featuring souped-up street versions of its cars. The commercial, shot in downtown Los Angeles at night, includes 65 area young people and their rides done up with flashy paint jobs, turbocharged engines, and specialized lights that a dealer isn't likely to throw in with a set of floor mats.
Any doubt that imports are "in" dissolves after a visit to Fullerton Town Center, an outdoor shopping center that is one of several spots where young car buffs gather for cruise nights.
With the sounds of revving engines and squealing tires filling the air behind the In-N-Out Burger and clusters of youths bent over open hoods and rear hatches, it is a scene straight out of "American Graffiti," with one notable exception: Japanese-designed imports outnumbered domestic cars and trucks by at least 2 to 1.
Anthony Hean, 21, of Long Beach was there to show off his 1995 Acura Integra GSR. He has owned the car for a year and has already spent nearly $5,000 customizing it with engine enhancements such as a reprogrammed computer chip to boost performance, and cosmetic alterations ranging from a $400 red racing seat to blue-tinged taillights.
Like other compact tuners, Hean, who has worked as a Mercedes-Benz mechanic, said he was drawn to imports for their affordability, reliability and potential for creative expression.
"I like the fact we are using a small-displacement engine and can beat a Camaro V-8 with a little time and money," he said. "You get all that, plus the girls are looking for the imports too. They know it's the thing to do right now."
As with any cultural phenomenon that has gone from cult status to mass appeal in a short time, "rice rocket" styles are continuing to evolve at warp speed as trendsetters try to stay a step ahead of the masses and on the cutting edge. Imports tricked out with big rear wings, black wheel rims and neon-lighted underbodies--the type of designs that appeared in "The Fast and the Furious"--are already considered passe. The new look favored by the cognoscenti, fashioned after the latest models domestically produced in Japan, is cleaner, with fewer exterior frills.
So does the hobby's popularity signal its ultimate demise? Its pioneers insist not, arguing that, as Generation Y ages, today's Civic and Integra owners will continue to funnel their energy and disposable income into more expensive imports and higher-end parts.
"The passion these kids enjoy for their sport is unrivaled," Lieberman said. "I can't remember when one particular element has been so exciting to a group of people."
| rankink | 09-26-2002 02:35 PM |
That is where you are wrong..
Pakman916. That is where you are wrong. Whether I am a minority or not, my opinion caries weight. Don't tell me what I think doesn't matter. It all depends on where you are also. You could say I am classified as "white", or "Caucasian" where that would be in the majority elsewhere, but I live in Miami, Florida where I am a minority. Very much so actually. I also don't think the attitude of "lighten up" keeps discrimination where it is. It is something that will always be here no matter what happens in this world. I have been called redneck, gringo, cracker, or whatever else someone thinks of. Do I care? Not really.. Just words and those who I heard it from where either joking or plain idiots and I realized it was not worth my time dealing with. For example: your asian girl story... Don't know what they said, but that happens to people whether it has to do with race, or just because people being stupid and childish. I am just tired of everything being labeled as racist nowadays. It is just a excuse a lot of the time. Not all, but quite a bit.
By the way, of course you are stepping on people's toes "so to say". But, its your right to speak your mind as well as anyone else's to dissagree. That is what forums are for...
K
By the way, of course you are stepping on people's toes "so to say". But, its your right to speak your mind as well as anyone else's to dissagree. That is what forums are for...
K
| pakman916 | 09-26-2002 03:12 PM |
You carry no weight simply for this reason...
Are you a minority?
Are you a woman?
Are you a homosexual?
Are you a geek?
Are you handicapped?
If you don't fall into any of these categories, you don't experience the same kind of discrimination that people who do fall into these categories experience. The best thing you can say is "lighten up". How can you validate your comment when you haven't lived in that kind of environment? It's like Vanilla Ice saying he knows what it's like growing up in the hood.
So Florida is full of Cubans and Puerto Rican and other latin americans. You actually consider yourself to be a minority? I don't think it's possible for a "white" male to be a minority in the US. You know, let's say I lived in the same town you lived in. If a bunch of latinos beat you in one part of town for racial reasons and a different bunch of latinos beat me in another part of town for the same reasons, do you think I would get as much press as you? As much sympathy from the public? Do you remember that one Japanese student that got shot at the door of some dude in the south (I think it was Georgia). Do you think people would respond the same way if it was a White student? How about that guy who got caned in Singapore. Those terrible Asians with their strict laws...how can they beat our American boy like that. The American mindset is immensely skewed. When we are abroad, we have to obey the laws of that foriegn country. So why was everyone so upset about the boy getting caned? He broke the law. Why should we treat him any different? It's because he was WHITE and AMERICAN. What if it was me? Would people be in such an uproar? I was born here...I'm an american citizen. Why not fight for my protection?
And I say I'm not trying to step on anyone's toes in the sense where I'm not trying to be offensive. Just trying to have a discussion. And I don't apologize for speaking my mind. I apologize for pissing people off. I'd like to keep this discussion civil if at all possible.
Are you a minority?
Are you a woman?
Are you a homosexual?
Are you a geek?
Are you handicapped?
If you don't fall into any of these categories, you don't experience the same kind of discrimination that people who do fall into these categories experience. The best thing you can say is "lighten up". How can you validate your comment when you haven't lived in that kind of environment? It's like Vanilla Ice saying he knows what it's like growing up in the hood.
So Florida is full of Cubans and Puerto Rican and other latin americans. You actually consider yourself to be a minority? I don't think it's possible for a "white" male to be a minority in the US. You know, let's say I lived in the same town you lived in. If a bunch of latinos beat you in one part of town for racial reasons and a different bunch of latinos beat me in another part of town for the same reasons, do you think I would get as much press as you? As much sympathy from the public? Do you remember that one Japanese student that got shot at the door of some dude in the south (I think it was Georgia). Do you think people would respond the same way if it was a White student? How about that guy who got caned in Singapore. Those terrible Asians with their strict laws...how can they beat our American boy like that. The American mindset is immensely skewed. When we are abroad, we have to obey the laws of that foriegn country. So why was everyone so upset about the boy getting caned? He broke the law. Why should we treat him any different? It's because he was WHITE and AMERICAN. What if it was me? Would people be in such an uproar? I was born here...I'm an american citizen. Why not fight for my protection?
And I say I'm not trying to step on anyone's toes in the sense where I'm not trying to be offensive. Just trying to have a discussion. And I don't apologize for speaking my mind. I apologize for pissing people off. I'd like to keep this discussion civil if at all possible.
| Yasin | 09-26-2002 03:48 PM |
my ideas?
1. Ran has a small-town appreciation for being a minority because of the area he lives in, but overall? I agree w/ Pak.
2. The American view is skewed greatly. It's sickening at times how ... sheltered and sometimes apathetic we are as a nation.
3. Stepping on toes happens. I took dance classes for long enough to know.
4. I'd rather be caned than fined.
Y
p.s. - my half Korean friend agreed with "oriental" designating objects or art/style, etc. People tend to be called Asians, as this is more an adjective for humans.
he thinks "rice" is funny, tho. We still have the "chiefs" "yankees", etc. He thinks that if we use these terms enough, they have less negative meanings. I half agree w/ him, half don't.
I'm off to Spoklahoma, peace, all
1. Ran has a small-town appreciation for being a minority because of the area he lives in, but overall? I agree w/ Pak.
2. The American view is skewed greatly. It's sickening at times how ... sheltered and sometimes apathetic we are as a nation.
3. Stepping on toes happens. I took dance classes for long enough to know.
4. I'd rather be caned than fined.
Y
p.s. - my half Korean friend agreed with "oriental" designating objects or art/style, etc. People tend to be called Asians, as this is more an adjective for humans.
he thinks "rice" is funny, tho. We still have the "chiefs" "yankees", etc. He thinks that if we use these terms enough, they have less negative meanings. I half agree w/ him, half don't.
I'm off to Spoklahoma, peace, all
| pjcoregon | 09-26-2002 04:30 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by imprezton [/i]
[B]
"cracker" in the context you used it is a specific definition that wasn't borne of negative connotation. Bad example.
No one who orders steamed rice with their vegetables is being accused of racism either. [/B][/QUOTE]
God forbid if he ordered Rice Crackers. :devil:
[B]
"cracker" in the context you used it is a specific definition that wasn't borne of negative connotation. Bad example.
No one who orders steamed rice with their vegetables is being accused of racism either. [/B][/QUOTE]
God forbid if he ordered Rice Crackers. :devil:
| rankink | 09-26-2002 04:39 PM |
Lighten up...
Hey Pak, I am keeping this discussion civil first of all. That is all it is too. A discussion. Nothing personal either. Again, I must dissagree with you on the issue of my opionion carrying not weight. I have earned the right to my opinion and for it to be heard. As far as I am concerned my opinion carries just as much weight as yours. To answer your question: I am not in any of those categories, but I have experienced discrimination and racism whether you believe it or not. Are you from South Florida? Have been down here for any length of time? If not, then you really are not aware of how things are. Just like I would not be aware of things in Washington and would not presume to think so. In regards to the student shooting, No, I don't remember. But I do remember white, cuban, and black students getting shot at different colleges in Florida (male and female). The response to all of the was about the same too. A terrible thing that should not have happened... In regard to the boy being caned, well the idiot should not have broke the law. I have no problem with that at all. Maybe he learned his lesson...
For Yasin:
Thanks for your ideas, I liked the stepping on toe thing. But Miami does have about 3 million people in it, which I would regard as a large city. Not a small town by any means....
As for America and Americans. We have our problems yeah and faults, but so does every other country and their citizens. I have not another country I would rather live in though.
PS - I think the correct term is hispanic, and not latino...
K
For Yasin:
Thanks for your ideas, I liked the stepping on toe thing. But Miami does have about 3 million people in it, which I would regard as a large city. Not a small town by any means....
As for America and Americans. We have our problems yeah and faults, but so does every other country and their citizens. I have not another country I would rather live in though.
PS - I think the correct term is hispanic, and not latino...
K
| imprezton | 09-26-2002 04:43 PM |
I'll leave this thread (which started with an innocent question) with one simple observation: Japan was the most homogenous, ethnocentric, racist country I ever lived in. My Vietnamese exwife is the second most racist person I've ever known. My Ukrainian girlfriend is the most racist.
I don't think U.S. is "that" racist. Perfect? No. But read the threads. Many of us recognize deroguatory terms as deroguatory. That's a step beyond many cultures outside our country.
I don't think U.S. is "that" racist. Perfect? No. But read the threads. Many of us recognize deroguatory terms as deroguatory. That's a step beyond many cultures outside our country.
| pjcoregon | 09-26-2002 04:52 PM |
How did I find myself in the I-Club Racial Discrimination and Xenophobia Forum? :confused:
Can we all go back to talking about the things we do have in common... cars. :)
Can we all go back to talking about the things we do have in common... cars. :)
| imprezton | 09-26-2002 05:13 PM |
[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by pjcoregon [/i]
[B]Can we all go back to talking about the things we do have in common... cars. :) [/B][/QUOTE]
The thread actually started with a car-related question (I think) :)
[B]Can we all go back to talking about the things we do have in common... cars. :) [/B][/QUOTE]
The thread actually started with a car-related question (I think) :)
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