House GOP Votes to Move Ahead on Defunding NPR

Keeping America ignorant
Wingnuts • Views: 29,783

As expected, House Republicans voted en masse today to defund NPR.

They had to rush it through with an “emergency meeting,” before any more people got wise that James O’Keefe’s sting video was a dishonest scam. Can’t let a good smear go to waste.

The proposal, sponsored by Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.), would ban any federal money from going to NPR, including funding through competitive grants from federal agencies and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting. NPR receives about $5 million annually in such funds. The bill would also prohibit NPR’s roughly 600 member stations from using federal funds to purchase programming from NPR and to pay station dues.

Voting in favor were 235 Republicans and one Democrat, Rep. Heath Shuler (N.C.), while all 181 Democrats present voted “no.”

The bill has no chance of passing through the Senate, of course. Rep. Louise Slaughter nails the GOP’s real motives:

Rep. Louise Slaughter (D-N.Y.), the top Democrat on the Rules Committee, called the bill a “purely ideological bill so members can go home and brag about what they have done to NPR” when they return to their districts later Thursday for a week-long recess.

Exactly right. It’s an empty gesture to the ignorant base: “Look! We really stuck it to those pointy headed commie intelleckshuls!”

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241 comments
1 Lidane  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:22:48am

As always, the GOP are focused on jobs and the economy.

///

2 Kragar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:23:00am

Its much more important to pander to ones base than to actually do ones job as an elected official.

"If we defund NPR then its one less source telling them how we're fucking them over in the long run."

3 b_sharp  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:23:29am

Jennifer's body. Hot dang.

Oh, sorry. What were we talking about?

The GOP?

Greasy Old Pricks?

4 iceweasel  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:24:29am

re: #2 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Its much more important to pander to ones base than to actually do ones job as an elected official.

"If we defund NPR then its one less source telling them how we're fucking them over in the long run."

Wingnutted up for you!

5 Kronocide  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:25:00am

How many jobs will be lost because of this?

6 wrenchwench  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:25:15am

"Dealing with the grave threat of public radio"

The mission for which they were elected. Bravo.

/

7 Killgore Trout  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:25:27am

It is really spooky that Breitbart has so much influence over the GOP's agenda.

8 Stanghazi  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:25:50am

re: #5 BigPapa

How many jobs will be lost because of this?

I heard approx 9K if the small stations close.

9 SteveMcG  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:26:29am

re: #2 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Its much more important to pander to ones base than to actually do ones job as an elected official.

"If we defund NPR then its one less source telling them how we're fucking them over in the long run."

I listen to NPR probably once or twice a day, for a while now, but I really don't remember hearing anything that controversial. I think John Stewart has it down, it's more likely to put you to sleep than target Republicans.

10 SteveMcG  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:26:56am

re: #8 Stanley Sea

I heard approx 9K if the small stations close.

"So be it"

11 theheat  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:27:03am

They can reallocate the NPR funding to free bible distribution - maybe an automated 1-800 number - and an abstinence support hotline (1-800-RU-HORNY).

12 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:27:06am

Showboating for the base. Nothing new here. I don't even think this move would actually be supported by most people outside of the Tea Party. It may surprise Republicans, but there are a lot of conservatives that enjoy public broadcasting, too.

13 Obdicut  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:27:19am

re: #7 Killgore Trout

It is really spooky that Breitbart has so much influence over the GOP's agenda.

The GOP has lost leadership skill and lost the desire, or ability, to confront actual problems. All they know how to do now is react to media outrage with stunts, and pass reactionary legislation that the public doesn't actually support.

Yay.

14 Kragar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:27:29am

Its birtherism run rampant.

So, out of all the issues and world events that you could actually use to frame an arguement, you go with this one? Really? This is what you decided to go with?

Good call, GOP, good call.

15 webevintage  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:30:07am

They have now moved on to defund financial reform....

When will the TEAGop get around to all those jobs they were going to create?

16 theheat  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:33:42am

re: #15 webevintage

When will the TEAGop get around to all those jobs they were going to create?

Says teabagger momma Palin:

She told Fox News, “Well, I am all about job creation..."
17 Kragar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:33:52am

Conservatives: We Are Being Outworked And Out-Organized In Wisconsin Recall Campaigns

WASHINGTON -- Both national and Wisconsin-based Republican operatives tell the Huffington Post the party is being dramatically outworked and out-organized by Democrats in the recall campaigns being launched against state Senators.

The operatives, who raised their concerns out of hope it would jar the GOP into assertiveness, argue complacency has taken over after Governor Scott Walker successfully shepherded his anti-collective bargaining bill into law. While the Wisconsin Democratic Party, with major assists from progressive groups and unions, has harnessed resentment towards the governor into a full-throttled effort to recall eight GOP Senators, neither the enthusiasm nor organizational acumen exists on the Republican side of the aisle.

18 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:35:26am

re: #15 webevintage

They have now moved on to defund financial reform...

When will the TEAGop get around to all those jobs they were going to create?

They are creating jobs! What do you think this is all about? You defund NPR and that creates millions of jobs while also lowering taxes, fixing the deficit, and stopping divorce. Don't you understand how capitalism works?

19 Nevertires  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:36:47am

Quick question for one who is (slightly) ignorant of the mechanics of the US political system.

Am I correct in assuming that if the GOP held both the House and the Senate these wing nut bills/legislations would pass automatically - barring a presidential veto?

Just processing in my head....

I remember (and I am up in Canada) the little animated educational cartoon on PBS/US TV where the singing bills explains how it becomes a law but forget the lesson now. I hope that is a valid memory and not some serious hallucinating...

20 allegro  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:36:51am

re: #15 webevintage

They have now moved on to defund financial reform...

When will the TEAGop get around to all those jobs they were going to create?

It's still early in the year. Their lawns don't need mowing yet. Come summer the hiring will begin.

21 theheat  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:37:38am

re: #20 allegro

Two things you can bank on: they hate exercise and vegetables.

22 Kragar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:37:39am

re: #19 Nevertires

Quick question for one who is (slightly) ignorant of the mechanics of the US political system.

Am I correct in assuming that if the GOP held both the House and the Senate these wing nut bills/legislations would pass automatically - barring a presidential veto?

Just processing in my head...

I remember (and I am up in Canada) the little animated educational cartoon on PBS/US TV where the singing bills explains how it becomes a law but forget the lesson now. I hope that is a valid memory and not some serious hallucinating...

"I'm just a bill, oh yes I'm only a bill..."

23 Killgore Trout  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:37:39am

re: #17 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Conservatives: We Are Being Outworked And Out-Organized In Wisconsin Recall Campaigns

Yeah, Republicans may have miscalculated. Going after weak targets like ACORN or Planned Parenthood excites their base and carries little risk. I think Teacher's unions looked weak but police, firemen, public servants and other unions are all pushing back. I hope it costs the Republicans dearly.

24 Lidane  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:38:09am

re: #17 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Conservatives: We Are Being Outworked And Out-Organized In Wisconsin Recall Campaigns

Pfft. It's just a bunch of union thugs and bitter leftists. What can they do?

///

25 jamesfirecat  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:38:28am

re: #19 Nevertires

Quick question for one who is (slightly) ignorant of the mechanics of the US political system.

Am I correct in assuming that if the GOP held both the House and the Senate these wing nut bills/legislations would pass automatically - barring a presidential veto?

Just processing in my head...

I remember (and I am up in Canada) the little animated educational cartoon on PBS/US TV where the singing bills explains how it becomes a law but forget the lesson now. I hope that is a valid memory and not some serious hallucinating...

No it wouldn't.

We have a wonderful thing here in the upper house called the "filibuster" which basically says that if one side feels like they can defeat any issue unless the other side has 60 votes for it instead of a simple majority.

26 iceweasel  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:38:36am

re: #17 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Conservatives: We Are Being Outworked And Out-Organized In Wisconsin Recall Campaigns


Don't buy the hype.


THOSE PLUCKY, OUTGUNNED UNDERDOGS: FOX, BECK, AND FREEDOMWORKS

I said a couple of days ago that the right's talking points on the Wisconsin recall were shaping up, and they boiled down to "We're being outgunned by highly organized union thugs!" Well, here's Sam Stein at the Huffington Post retransmitting the propaganda:

and

But how hobbled is the right on this, really? Well, at this moment, the lead "story" at Fox Nation is the video below -- from FreedomWorks -- which is also featured at Beck's Blaze:


see link for vid

So the big guns are cranking up the rabble-rousing propaganda (and you can bet this is just the beginning) while also spreading the notion that no one is rousing the right-wing rabble. This is strategic, folks. The wingers want us to feel complacent about how well we're doing. They want to send the message that we're an evil, powerful juggernaut and they're the brave, disorganized underdogs. Them! FreedomWorks! Fox! Beck!

Don't be fooled. Redouble your efforts. They're coming.

27 Obdicut  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:39:01am

re: #19 Nevertires

Yes, it's true that if the GOP had both houses, they could pass whatever they liked-- as long as they had party lock-step, which they pretty much do.

The Democrats could do what the GOP did so much over the past couple of years in terms of massive obstructionism, holding up bills, etc., but in certain ways the GOP would want that-- like having a government shutdown.

28 Kragar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:40:21am

Maybe the Koch brothers could send money up North. Dumping millions into a campaign worked great for Sharon Angle and Meg Whitman.

29 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:41:14am

Words that come to mind: ignorant, morons, anti-intellectual, hicks, dumb fucks.

30 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:41:19am

re: #25 jamesfirecat

No it wouldn't.

We have a wonderful thing here in the upper house called the "filibuster" which basically says that if one side feels like they can defeat any issue unless the other side has 60 votes for it instead of a simple majority.

Even going beyond that, basically every vote in the US Congress is a free vote and, unlike many other systems, there is relatively little a party can do should a rank and file member oppose the leadership on something. This is why the Democrats couldn't just pass everything they wanted when they controlled both houses last term.

31 theheat  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:41:38am

re: #28 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Unfortunately, the Koch brothers could just about afford to have each potential GOP voter bussed to the polls, and give each one a free pony. It would take a wallop to hurt them financially.

32 Nevertires  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:43:50am

re: #25 jamesfirecat

re: #27 Obdicut

Thanks - I should have known that.

I just think how fortunate it was that the Dems did not lose the Senate. Regardless of what one thinks of them - idealogically speaking -there has been some unbelievably-backwards legislation that has come forward from the House Republicans in the last 2 months+.

33 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:45:08am

Oh yeah. Here's Doug Lamborn's district:

Image: US-Congressional-District-CO-5.PNG

Yep, Colorado Springs. Embarrassing Colorado since 1886.

34 SteveMcG  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:51:53am

re: #17 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Won't matter if they restrict access to the voting booth by next November.

35 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:51:56am

The GOP truly is the Know Nothing Party.

36 Bulworth  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:52:13am

Yet another milestone on the way towards re-establishing full-employment.

37 Nevertires  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:53:41am

re: #22 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Its coming back to me now!

Schoolhouse Rock!

Thank goodness... Falsely remembering pieces of paper singing about political processes would not be good! It was seeming kinda Hunter S Thompson-ish for a second.

38 ProMayaLiberal  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:55:03am

re: #33 Gus 802

That's my home district. I live with parents here when not at school.

39 Varek Raith  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:55:07am

re: #37 Nevertires

Its coming back to me now!

Schoolhouse Rock!

Thank goodness... Falsely remembering pieces of paper singing about political processes would not be good! It was seeming kinda Hunter S Thompson-ish for a second.

40 Kragar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:55:39am

re: #37 Nevertires

Its coming back to me now!

Schoolhouse Rock!

Thank goodness... Falsely remembering pieces of paper singing about political processes would not be good! It was seeming kinda Hunter S Thompson-ish for a second.

Sometimes I worry about how my brain works.

41 jamesfirecat  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:56:06am

re: #37 Nevertires

Its coming back to me now!

Schoolhouse Rock!

Thank goodness... Falsely remembering pieces of paper singing about political processes would not be good! It was seeming kinda Hunter S Thompson-ish for a second.

I'm an amendment to be,
yes I'm an amendment to be
And I'm hoping that they'll ratify me
There's a lot of flag burners who have got to much freedom
I wanna make it legal for policemen to beat em
Cause there's limits to our liberties
Least I hope and pray that there are
Cause those liberal freaks go too far....

42 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:57:13am

The Republican Party: we still suck.

43 simoom  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:57:28am

Speaking of NPR, I've been listening to them and they've had a number of UN watchers on to discuss action on Libya. Sounds like they're expecting a vote on a resolution to use "any means necessary" (excepting boots on the ground) perhaps around 6pm tonight. They're also saying that permanent members are expected to either vote for it or abstain and that it will likely pass narrowly. Also there are supposed to be a couple of Arab nations that have secretly promised to participate but won't reveal themselves until the resolution passes. Someone also mentioned that planes are being fueled and action could happen very quickly if the resolution passes and isn't heavily watered down in the interim...

44 Ming  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:58:47am

I must agree with the Republicans on this one: I don't see any reason for the government to fund NPR at all. I really don't like many of the new Republicans in Congress, but I'm afraid they have a winning issue here. Of course, Congress shouldn't be wasting its time on this issue, but since the Republicans just won't let this one go, I wish the government would just defund NPR and get it over with. Otherwise, we'll be arguing bitterly about NPR at least through the 2012 election.

45 jamesfirecat  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 11:59:41am

re: #44 Ming

I must agree with the Republicans on this one: I don't see any reason for the government to fund NPR at all. I really don't like many of the new Republicans in Congress, but I'm afraid they have a winning issue here. Of course, Congress shouldn't be wasting its time on this issue, but since the Republicans just won't let this one go, I wish the government would just defund NPR and get it over with. Otherwise, we'll be arguing bitterly about NPR at least through the 2012 election.

If we let them defund it now they'll just run on keeping democrats from refunding it.

46 SteveMcG  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:00:37pm

re: #44 Ming

I must agree with the Republicans on this one: I don't see any reason for the government to fund NPR at all. I really don't like many of the new Republicans in Congress, but I'm afraid they have a winning issue here. Of course, Congress shouldn't be wasting its time on this issue, but since the Republicans just won't let this one go, I wish the government would just defund NPR and get it over with. Otherwise, we'll be arguing bitterly about NPR at least through the 2012 election.

Sorry to hear that debate annoys you.

47 Obdicut  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:01:17pm

re: #44 Ming

I don't see any reason for the government to fund NPR at all.

Can you explain why not, please?

48 Lidane  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:02:26pm

re: #44 Ming

What a load of nonsense. The Republicans are just pandering with all their threats to defund NPR. Same goes for PBS. It's just red meat for the knuckle-draggers that make up the party base, nothing more.

If the GOP were serious about cutting government spending, they'd go after all those bloated defense contracts that waste billions, or the obsolete weapons systems that the Joint Chiefs would love to get rid of. Or oil subsidies. Or corporate welfare. Defunding NPR and PBS is just a bunch of grandstanding bullshit.

49 iceweasel  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:02:27pm

I wish Congress would get a move on defunding Planned Parenthood too. It's a winning issue as Planned Parenthood is a genocidal plot to abort black babies. A plot by democrats! Who hate black people. Why can't black people tell that and vote Republican?

51 Killgore Trout  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:08:20pm
52 Stanghazi  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:08:32pm

RepWeiner

Kudos to the GOP. Crisis averted. #cartalk defunded.

53 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:09:03pm

re: #51 Killgore Trout

Classic.

Weiner's got a winner here. ;)

54 Stanghazi  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:11:50pm

re: #50 Gus 802

Rep. Weiner : Crisis Averted! Click and Clack Defunded

[Video]

Jinx and that was the best speech on the floor this year.

55 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:12:20pm

re: #54 Stanley Sea

Jinx and that was the best speech on the floor this year.

The GOP has lost their mind.

56 allegro  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:14:49pm

re: #55 Gus 802

The GOP has lost their mind.

I think that was lost a long time ago. They just aren't trying to hide it anymore.

57 blueraven  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:15:27pm

re: #44 Ming

I must agree with the Republicans on this one: I don't see any reason for the government to fund NPR at all. I really don't like many of the new Republicans in Congress, but I'm afraid they have a winning issue here. Of course, Congress shouldn't be wasting its time on this issue, but since the Republicans just won't let this one go, I wish the government would just defund NPR and get it over with. Otherwise, we'll be arguing bitterly about NPR at least through the 2012 election.

It would be one thing if the republicans were really serious about our debt. If they would look at revenue (small tax increase for the wealthy), if they would look at defense spending, if they would look at corporate subsidies, then maybe this would make sense.

But no, they are just being political opportunist, as usual.

58 Lidane  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:17:34pm

re: #55 Gus 802

The GOP has lost their mind.

That's what happens when you pander to the whackjobs and religious extremists for decades then never follow through. Eventually, they get wise to your bullshit and decide to take over the party.

59 Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:23:42pm

and O'Keefe gets another dud on NPR

not that this matters much, this will just make NPR a bigger boogie man being funded by one of the ultimate boogiemen george soros.

60 SanFranciscoZionist  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:23:59pm

re: #44 Ming

I must agree with the Republicans on this one: I don't see any reason for the government to fund NPR at all. I really don't like many of the new Republicans in Congress, but I'm afraid they have a winning issue here. Of course, Congress shouldn't be wasting its time on this issue, but since the Republicans just won't let this one go, I wish the government would just defund NPR and get it over with. Otherwise, we'll be arguing bitterly about NPR at least through the 2012 election.

Oh, come on guys. I disagree, but that wasn't fourteen dings worth of bad.

That said, we've been arguing over NPR for years. It's a benefit to the public, and it's not expensive to keep up. Is there any reason to defund besides the Republicans REALLY CARING about it? Because they like to win battles by REALLY CARING, and frankly, we're going to lose things we really need if we start giving in every time they whine.

61 Romantic Heretic  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:29:05pm

re: #50 Gus 802

Rep. Weiner : Crisis Averted! Click and Clack Defunded

[Video]

Damn. I like him. I wish we had someone with that much fire up here in Canada.

62 Romantic Heretic  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:29:54pm

re: #55 Gus 802

The GOP has lost their mind.

No need to worry. It's so sick it couldn't have gotten very far. /

63 darthstar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:29:56pm

re: #50 Gus 802

Rep. Weiner : Crisis Averted! Click and Clack Defunded

[Video]

Rotating Headline: Teabaggers in GOP flogged by Weiner.

64 Ericus58  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:30:00pm

re: #60 SanFranciscoZionist

Oh, come on guys. I disagree, but that wasn't fourteen dings worth of bad.

That said, we've been arguing over NPR for years. It's a benefit to the public, and it's not expensive to keep up. Is there any reason to defund besides the Republicans REALLY CARING about it? Because they like to win battles by REALLY CARING, and frankly, we're going to lose things we really need if we start giving in every time they whine.

No kidding - sure, I think Ming's position is wrong... but it is his opinion and he's entitled to it.
He's not advocating death and destruction.

Gang-piling like that just looks silly and Borg-Hive'ish.

65 allegro  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:30:03pm

re: #60 SanFranciscoZionist

Because they like to win battles by REALLY CARING, and frankly, we're going to lose things we really need if we start giving in every time they whine.

Exactly this. Like the CDC, EPA, and so much more that are now on their chopping block. I think the comment was worth all of the 14 dings since it is indicative of the attitude of "what's the big deal?" Collectively it is a huge deal and one must must say "enough!" and call them on their bullshit.

66 recusancy  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:30:51pm

re: #44 Ming

I must agree with the Republicans on this one: I don't see any reason for the government to fund NPR at all. I really don't like many of the new Republicans in Congress, but I'm afraid they have a winning issue here. Of course, Congress shouldn't be wasting its time on this issue, but since the Republicans just won't let this one go, I wish the government would just defund NPR and get it over with. Otherwise, we'll be arguing bitterly about NPR at least through the 2012 election.

That's been the Democrats' spineless strategy for years.

67 Brother Holy Cruise Missile of Mild Acceptance  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:33:18pm

re: #63 darthstar

Rotating Headline: Teabaggers in GOP flogged by Weiner.

they'd like that.

68 jamesfirecat  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:33:52pm

re: #64 Ericus58

No kidding - sure, I think Ming's position is wrong... but it is his opinion and he's entitled to it.
He's not advocating death and destruction.

Gang-piling like that just looks silly and Borg-Hive'ish.

I was the first one to down ding him and I did it because I don't like the idea that democrats should just roll over and give Republicans everything they want, so that they can't use it as a campaign position. It's especially stupid since it wouldn't work (like I said the GOP would just run on keeping NPR defunded) and so I saw it as worthy of a downding.

69 blueraven  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:35:41pm

President speaking on Japan...now

70 garhighway  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:37:05pm

re: #64 Ericus58

No kidding - sure, I think Ming's position is wrong... but it is his opinion and he's entitled to it.
He's not advocating death and destruction.

Is that the test?

I don't mean that as a snarky question: I am curious about your process. When do you think a down-ding is appropriate?

I'm still relatively new here and trying to learn the ropes.

71 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:37:27pm

re: #65 allegro

Exactly this. Like the CDC, EPA, and so much more that are now on their chopping block. I think the comment was worth all of the 14 dings since it is indicative of the attitude of "what's the big deal?" Collectively it is a huge deal and one must must say "enough!" and call them on their bullshit.

I'm inclined to agree with SFZ and Ericus. I may think that Ming's statement is wrong and wrongheaded, but it's not really so out of line that it seems like it needs to be dinged into oblivion. Rather, I think it's more constructive to challenge such a statement and explain why it is wrong. If that is greeted with persistent, ignorant responses that dismiss that reasoning out of hand, maybe *then* is the time to go to town. Granted, I'm not much of a down-dinger outside of statements that seem clearly hateful and bigoted.

72 Stanghazi  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:38:32pm

re: #70 garhighway

Is that the test?

I don't mean that as a snarky question: I am curious about your process. When do you think a down-ding is appropriate?

I'm still relatively new here and trying to learn the ropes.

A down ding is yours for the taking. A feature for all. No need to stress about it imo.

73 Kronocide  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:38:46pm

I'd prefer to down ding the GOP. They deserve to be mocked over this.

74 darthstar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:39:18pm

It's a good thing Republican donors aren't dishonest people like those Democratic ones...

Timothy Durham, the chief executive officer of National Lampoon, Inc., who donated major money to Republican candidates, was arrested by the FBI Wednesday for allegedly running a $200 million Ponzi scheme.

Nope...they're dishonest people who fail to have equals across the aisle.

75 Ericus58  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:39:24pm

re: #68 jamesfirecat

I was the first one to down ding him and I did it because I don't like the idea that democrats should just roll over and give Republicans everything they want, so that they can't use it as a campaign position. It's especially stupid since it wouldn't work (like I said the GOP would just run on keeping NPR defunded) and so I saw it as worthy of a downding.

And you have the ability to do so, fair enough.
Rather though, follow up with a solid position that outlines where you feel that position is incorrect.
Engagement rather than a downding dog pile.

Now, if he comes back with vitriol and stupidness - Fire away!

76 recusancy  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:39:39pm

re: #70 garhighway

Is that the test?

I don't mean that as a snarky question: I am curious about your process. When do you think a down-ding is appropriate?

I'm still relatively new here and trying to learn the ropes.

I just downding so people stop and read the, in my opinion, bad comment when they are skimming through the thread. It makes it stand out in it's badness. A few people act as if their personal wealth took a hit from it.

77 Stanghazi  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:39:51pm

LOL

Obama: We do not expect harmful levels of radiation to reach US


marcambinder Marc Ambinder

Obama sends potassium iodide equities plunging.

78 Ericus58  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:39:55pm

re: #70 garhighway

Is that the test?

I don't mean that as a snarky question: I am curious about your process. When do you think a down-ding is appropriate?

I'm still relatively new here and trying to learn the ropes.

see my #75

79 Obdicut  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:40:23pm

re: #75 Ericus58

I think the problem is that he didn't explain his position at all. He still hasn't. It makes his post kind of baffling.

80 iceweasel  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:40:57pm

Sometimes a comment gets downdinged too much simply because the threads are moving so fast. I think I was one of the first to downding Ming and I took it back when I saw it had reached 14 and people mentioned it.

81 Achilles Tang  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:42:21pm

re: #44 Ming

I must agree with the Republicans on this one: I don't see any reason for the government to fund NPR at all. I really don't like many of the new Republicans in Congress, but I'm afraid they have a winning issue here. Of course, Congress shouldn't be wasting its time on this issue, but since the Republicans just won't let this one go, I wish the government would just defund NPR and get it over with. Otherwise, we'll be arguing bitterly about NPR at least through the 2012 election.

My understanding is that there would be no local news stations in many rural areas without NPR. It is also uneconomical to provide electrical and telephone services to many rural areas, but for some strange reason those are considered a must.

The bottom line however is that if NPR had more country music playing and replaced Prairie Home Companion with Glenn Beck, then the Republicans would be clamoring for more stations to support the rednecks and tea drinkers (in name only).

82 garhighway  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:43:00pm

re: #78 Ericus58

see my #75

Thanks.

83 Jeff In Ohio  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:43:19pm

re: #80 iceweasel

Sometimes a comment gets downdinged too much simply because the threads are moving so fast. I think I was one of the first to downding Ming and I took it back when I saw it had reached 14 and people mentioned it.

Flip flopper.

84 jamesfirecat  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:43:21pm

re: #75 Ericus58

And you have the ability to do so, fair enough.
Rather though, follow up with a solid position that outlines where you feel that position is incorrect.

I did, see my 45.

85 Jeff In Ohio  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:45:38pm

I only downding when people write words like blowjob or teatard or nancy boy.

86 iceweasel  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:45:45pm

OT: there is a fish and chip van that visits our street twice a week and it freaks me out because it plays Dixie.

Tonight a rival ice cream van showed up and it plays Yankee Doodle Dandy.

The civil war apparently lives on in Scotland.

87 Achilles Tang  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:45:54pm

re: #70 garhighway

When do you think a down-ding is appropriate?

I'm still relatively new here and trying to learn the ropes.

Depends. Will the recipient understand the brevity of your comment, or think you are too lazy to make a counter point?

Of course there are troll, but that is a different matter and they seem to be scarce these days since Charles is faster at catching them than just about anybody else.

88 nines09  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:46:22pm

If they defund it will affect the more rural stations. No NPR, no choice. That way more people who listen to radio as they work in the sticks can get all the news and facts via Beck and Rush and Fox and other hacks and get the facts straight.
///

89 iceweasel  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:46:24pm

re: #83 Jeff In Ohio

Flip flopper.

I updinged you and jimmah will remove it later. ;)

90 Jeff In Ohio  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:47:44pm

re: #86 iceweasel

That is EXCELLENT!

91 BishopX  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:48:16pm

re: #85 Jeff In Ohio

A teatard nancyboy blowjob? Sounds like a stalker worthy fit of projection to me.

92 Jeff In Ohio  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:48:29pm

re: #89 iceweasel

I updinged you and jimmah will remove it later. ;)

You guys better stop that now!

93 researchok  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:48:56pm

re: #80 iceweasel

Sometimes a comment gets downdinged too much simply because the threads are moving so fast. I think I was one of the first to downding Ming and I took it back when I saw it had reached 14 and people mentioned it.

The only time I downding is if the remark is deliberately malicious or hurtful.

Simply disagreeing with someone or an idea I don't agree with is not reason to downding, in my opinion.

More can be accomplished with civil exchange. You'd be surprised how many times I've changed an opinion or belief simply because an exchange clarified an issue for me. And it works the other way as well- I can get a message across with a back and forth rather than a single comment.

94 Ericus58  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:48:59pm

re: #86 iceweasel

OT: there is a fish and chip van that visits our street twice a week and it freaks me out because it plays Dixie.

Tonight a rival ice cream van showed up and it plays Yankee Doodle Dandy.

The civil war apparently lives on in Scotland.

Did they have a James Cagney look-a-like do some fancy stepping?!

95 Jeff In Ohio  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:50:05pm

re: #91 BishopX

Conjunction junction, what's my function?

96 researchok  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:50:58pm

re: #86 iceweasel

OT: there is a fish and chip van that visits our street twice a week and it freaks me out because it plays Dixie.

Tonight a rival ice cream van showed up and it plays Yankee Doodle Dandy.

The civil war apparently lives on in Scotland.

Try the Yankee Doodle fish.

Colder waters up north make for better F&C

97 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:51:12pm

downding me baby

98 blueraven  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:51:27pm

IMO down dings are a personal statement and should be followed up by a comment if possible.
In this case Ming even admits that we shouldn't be wasting time on this, but at the same time suggest Democrats should just roll over because the Republicans have a political win here. The cynicism is rotting our culture.

99 ProMayaLiberal  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:52:00pm

re: #97 albusteve

No! You get an upding.

100 Our Precious Bodily Fluids  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:52:32pm

re: #95 Jeff In Ohio

Conjunction junction, what's my function?

Hookin' up words and phrases and clauses.

I'm pretty sure that my most solidly-retained elementary education came from School House Rock.

Three is a magic number...

101 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:53:11pm

re: #79 Obdicut

I think the problem is that he didn't explain his position at all. He still hasn't. It makes his post kind of baffling.

Granted. And people are pretty much free to set their own conditions for up/down dings. In this case, though, I felt the comment in question was, while completely wrong, not quite at a level where a down ding was merited from me. Or, at least, it seems like it would help to also respond as well, which you, I will say, did, in fact, do.

And yes, I got a great deal on commas in bulk.

102 Jeff In Ohio  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:53:17pm

On topic:
[Link: www.cnn.com...]

The move to strip funding comes after a conservative activist secretly taped a NPR fundraising executive criticizing Tea Party supporters and saying public radio would be better off without federal money.

Glad to see the staff at CNN is devoid of critical thinking skills.

103 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:53:26pm

re: #99 ProLifeLiberal

No! You get an upding.

DRINK!

104 Jeff In Ohio  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:54:19pm

re: #100 negativ


Three is a magic number...

105 abolitionist  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:54:40pm

Shortly before Obamas Rosegarden address this afternoon, he visited the Japanese Embassy to officially convey condolences and messages of sympathy and hope from America. Video - [Link: news.yahoo.com...]

106 recusancy  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:55:25pm

re: #77 Stanley Sea

LOL

Obama: We do not expect harmful levels of radiation to reach US

marcambinder Marc Ambinder

Obama sends potassium iodide equities plunging.

Meanwhile, on Fox right now they have a guy in a full body protective suite and a radiometer telling people how they'll die and how quickly they'll die. Gotta keep the scare up!

107 Our Precious Bodily Fluids  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:55:48pm

Committee to consider "In God We Trust"

The House Judiciary Committee will consider a resolution Thursday to reaffirm “In God We Trust” as the national motto.

Rep. Randy Forbes (R-Va.) sponsored the resolution, which also encourages displaying the phrase in public buildings, schools, and other government institutions.

When they're not busy with budget proposals that actually make things worse (so be it), they'd wasting time (and presumably resources) on things that don't have anything to do with anything.

108 Ericus58  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:56:09pm

re: #97 albusteve

downding me baby

You like it too much, Steve. Where's the fun in that?!

109 ProMayaLiberal  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:57:27pm

Of Topic, but I just saw this on the side of LGF in a link:

If Rush Limbaugh’s heart fell out of his chest and into a bowl of raisins, you wouldn’t spot it

Also, about Libya:

9:39pm Citing sources in the French government, AFP reports that air raids on Libyan army positions could begin as soon as the UN Security Council approves the use of force in Libya.

"From the moment the resolution is adopted, military actions could begin in the hours that follow," a diplomatic source said.

110 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:57:37pm

re: #106 recusancy

Meanwhile, on Fox right now they have a guy in a full body protective suite and a radiometer telling people how they'll die and how quickly they'll die. Gotta keep the scare up!

I expect I-25 east to be filled with CA refugees any time now, pouring into New Mexico

111 Stanghazi  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:57:49pm

re: #107 negativ

Committee to consider "In God We Trust"

When they're not busy with budget proposals that actually make things worse (so be it), they'd wasting time (and presumably resources) on things that don't have anything to do with anything.

Fucking A, MORE JOBS. Kudos GOP!

112 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:58:15pm

re: #107 negativ

Committee to consider "In God We Trust"

When they're not busy with budget proposals that actually make things worse (so be it), they'd wasting time (and presumably resources) on things that don't have anything to do with anything.

Oh brother. More bullshit. When is it going to end?

113 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:58:53pm

re: #108 Ericus58

You like it too much, Steve. Where's the fun in that?!

the fun is knowing that people are wasting their time, so serious with their dingdongs

114 Stanghazi  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:58:57pm

First bracket buster!

espn ESPN

Yep, it's March! Morehead State SHOCKS Louisville in the final seconds, winning 62-61 [Link: es.pn...]

115 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 12:59:35pm

re: #109 ProLifeLiberal

Of Topic, but I just saw this on the side of LGF in a link:

Also, about Libya:

Sorta sounds like the French already have the pilots in the cockpits (Or in the air). I suppose they're pretty eager to fight back against the image they were projecting early on with the Arab uprisings, were they seemed pretty damn supportive of the regimes.

116 Obdicut  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:00:04pm

re: #112 Gus 802

Oh brother. More bullshit. When is it going to end?

It's the GOP version of political correctness. 23 hours out of every day have to be spent talking about god, family, judeo-christian values. Otherwise you're clearly a bad person.

117 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:00:44pm

re: #116 Obdicut

It's the GOP version of political correctness. 23 hours out of every day have to be spent talking about god, family, judeo-christian values. Otherwise you're clearly a bad person.

Say patriotism a lot and mention the Constitution...

118 abolitionist  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:01:39pm

re: #107 negativ

Committee to consider "In God We Trust"[snip]

Beck suggested we change it to In Gold We Trust. It's such a little change. Why all the fuss?

119 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:01:39pm

re: #109 ProLifeLiberal

Of Topic, but I just saw this on the side of LGF in a link:

Also, about Libya:

why was a resolution not handed down last week?...there is no sense of urgency with the UN...I hate those guys....even two weeks ago the situation became dire

120 Ericus58  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:02:34pm

re: #113 albusteve

the fun is knowing that people are wasting their time, so serious with their dingdongs

keep yer mitts off my dingdongs!

121 Obdicut  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:02:46pm

re: #117 Gus 802

It reminds me of that crazy dude screaming at Obama about reciting the pledge of allegiance. That's what the GOP has become.

122 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:03:23pm

re: #121 Obdicut

It reminds me of that crazy dude screaming at Obama about reciting the pledge of allegiance. That's what the GOP has become.

The GOP has become Orly Taitz!

/

123 Kragar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:03:44pm

re: #107 negativ

Committee to consider "In God We Trust"


When they're not busy with budget proposals that actually make things worse (so be it), they'd wasting time (and presumably resources) on things that don't have anything to do with anything.

I trust in Krom and the riddle of steel.

We good now?

124 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:04:04pm

it's 5 0'clock somewhere, eh?

125 garhighway  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:04:09pm

Back to Japan: This is a subtle but encouraging shift in tone from the NYT:

[Link: www.nytimes.com...]

The headline is "Taming Reactors May Take Weeks"

That's a better outcome than I thought we were headed towards, which was a full blown melt-down through the bottom of the containment to the groundwater below.

Weeks of this is bad, but at least they think maybe they'll get it done.

126 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:04:36pm

re: #119 albusteve

why was a resolution not handed down last week?...there is no sense of urgency with the UN...I hate those guys...even two weeks ago the situation became dire

Oh, it's very likely that this will all be too little, too late. I mean, I suppose a highly aggressive campaign from the air could still work, since I doubt there's much the pro-government forces could do against western air power, but I'm not sure that's what is on the table.

127 garhighway  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:04:55pm

re: #122 Gus 802

The GOP has become Orly Taitz!

/

The GOP has become a lawyer/dentist/realtor? That's mad skills!

128 BongCrodny  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:05:14pm

re: #63 darthstar

Rotating Headline: Teabaggers in GOP flogged by Weiner.


Weiner has balls.

129 recusancy  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:06:07pm

re: #126 Simply Sarah

Oh, it's very likely that this will all be too little, too late. I mean, I suppose a highly aggressive campaign from the air could still work, since I doubt there's much the pro-government forces could do against western air power, but I'm not sure that's what is on the table.

Once we break it we'll have bought it. How much can we own at one time?

130 Ming  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:06:52pm

Just happened to come back and see the comments. I don't think I ever got this much feedback. I must say, I think everyone was polite.

I have nothing in particular against NPR. Also, I'm not familiar with the details. So I certainly can't say that NPR doesn't provide a public benefit that exceeds the cost to the taxpayer.

My basic position is that in the current financial crisis, we either need to raise taxes, or we need to do some serious budget-cutting. Again, I don't know the details, but it seems to me that NPR would be one of the RELATIVELY reasonable things to look at defunding. I would assume that people in rural communities have access to the Internet (via satellite). I'm not sure how NPR stacks up against poison control centers, police and fire departments.

The thing that worries me is that Republicans (whom I generally disagree with these days) apparently have a "winning political issue" here. This is separate from a "winning substantive issue". A lot of the time, Republicans seem totally crazy these days, and I hate to see them have this NPR issue that actually (in my opinion) might cause independent voters to think that Republicans are not so crazy after all.

But again, like I said, the above are the reasons for my opinion, and I don't know any details about NPR's benefits.

I am totally in favor of continued government funding to Planned Parenthood, which I know a little more about, and which obviously provides desperately-needed services (which go far beyond abortion) to families.

132 Kronocide  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:07:52pm

Japan burns while Obama plays golf


March 2011

Obama on perpetual campaign trail

March 2010

133 makeitstop  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:08:09pm

re: #112 Gus 802

Oh brother. More bullshit. When is it going to end?

Can you imagine the list of 'accomplishments' the Repubs are going to offer when it's re-election time?

134 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:08:27pm

re: #126 Simply Sarah

Oh, it's very likely that this will all be too little, too late. I mean, I suppose a highly aggressive campaign from the air could still work, since I doubt there's much the pro-government forces could do against western air power, but I'm not sure that's what is on the table.

no fly zones are exactly that, and the UN resolution will be very clear and strictly enforced...no Libyan planes aloft, period, and from what I gather, it should help the goods guys immensely...air defenses will have to come down and we'll see how good the Fwensh and Brits are

135 BongCrodny  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:09:02pm

re: #85 Jeff In Ohio

I only downding when people write words like blowjob or teatard or nancy boy.


I've pretty much reached the point where I'm going to downding "media/Democrat Party" every time I see it.

136 Achilles Tang  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:10:17pm

I hear that potassium iodide pills have sold out all over the USA. If we ever have a real need they will not be available to those that weren't dumb enough to stock up.

137 jamesfirecat  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:10:45pm

re: #130 Ming

Just happened to come back and see the comments. I don't think I ever got this much feedback. I must say, I think everyone was polite.

I have nothing in particular against NPR. Also, I'm not familiar with the details. So I certainly can't say that NPR doesn't provide a public benefit that exceeds the cost to the taxpayer.

My basic position is that in the current financial crisis, we either need to raise taxes, or we need to do some serious budget-cutting. Again, I don't know the details, but it seems to me that NPR would be one of the RELATIVELY reasonable things to look at defunding. I would assume that people in rural communities have access to the Internet (via satellite). I'm not sure how NPR stacks up against poison control centers, police and fire departments.

The thing that worries me is that Republicans (whom I generally disagree with these days) apparently have a "winning political issue" here. This is separate from a "winning substantive issue". A lot of the time, Republicans seem totally crazy these days, and I hate to see them have this NPR issue that actually (in my opinion) might cause independent voters to think that Republicans are not so crazy after all.

But again, like I said, the above are the reasons for my opinion, and I don't know any details about NPR's benefits.

I am totally in favor of continued government funding to Planned Parenthood, which I know a little more about, and which obviously provides desperately-needed services (which go far beyond abortion) to families.

When your opponent has only a winning political issue that they decide to press it is your job to stand firm and show why it isn't a winning substantial issue thus showing them and the people in general how shallow they are being.

How much does the US give in subsidies to already profitable oil companies?

Do you feel the GOP should just roll over and let the democrats cut those?

138 Ericus58  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:10:51pm

re: #131 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Bipartisan backlash follows state rep's 'joke' on shooting immigrants

I would hope that someone in his family went to him and said "Are you outta yer freakin' mind?! *Slap*"

139 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:11:00pm

re: #129 recusancy

Once we break it we'll have bought it. How much can we own at one time?

Well, that's always been the real sticking point in deciding how to act here. I think there certainly is merit to the idea that getting involved here sets a precedent from getting involved in similar situations in the future (And, perhaps, encouraging the potential rebels to act with the idea of getting international support) when we have no desire to do so.

On the other, it's very hard to say we should just watch them get crushed and, most likely, slaughtered. It's a messy situation without a totally clear best course of action. Extremely frustrating.

140 Stanghazi  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:11:23pm

arwaCNN Arwa Damon
by acarvin

everyone in #benghazi says they R waiting 4 UN resolution, many say its their last change or gadhafi will slaughter them all #libya

141 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:11:27pm

re: #133 makeitstop

Can you imagine the list of 'accomplishments' the Repubs are going to offer when it's re-election time?

That's a lot of manure. None of which has anything to do with the economy or jobs:

Anti-Choise - Check
Anti-Gay Marriage - Check
Anti-Teacher/Education - Check
Anti-Muslim - Check
Anti-Healthcare - Check
Anti-DADT Repeal - Check
Anti-Labor - Check

You see. The Republican Party isn't about creating things. It's about being against things. It's the "anti" party.

142 Obdicut  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:11:37pm

re: #130 Ming

I would assume that people in rural communities have access to the Internet (via satellite)

That's a terrible assumption.

The thing that worries me is that Republicans (whom I generally disagree with these days) apparently have a "winning political issue" here.

Why do you think that?


But again, like I said, the above are the reasons for my opinion, and I don't know any details about NPR's benefits.

Then why do you think you can judge whether or not it's okay to defund it?

143 wrenchwench  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:11:38pm

re: #130 Ming

I would assume that people in rural communities have access to the Internet (via satellite).

Only the well-to-do folks have that. Lots of rural folks got nothin'. No internet, no phone, no newspapers, but NPR gets broadcast through a translator to reach a lot of those folks.

144 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:12:59pm

Anti-Poison Control Centers - Check
Anti-Science - Check
...

145 aagcobb  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:13:09pm

re: #100 negativ

When my wife was in school, they had a test in which they had to write out the Preamble to the Constitution. She began humming the schoolhouse tune, and the entire class sat up and started writing. I still only remember the preamble as a song.

146 garhighway  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:13:10pm

re: #130 Ming

Just happened to come back and see the comments. I don't think I ever got this much feedback. I must say, I think everyone was polite.

I have nothing in particular against NPR. Also, I'm not familiar with the details. So I certainly can't say that NPR doesn't provide a public benefit that exceeds the cost to the taxpayer.

My basic position is that in the current financial crisis, we either need to raise taxes, or we need to do some serious budget-cutting. Again, I don't know the details, but it seems to me that NPR would be one of the RELATIVELY reasonable things to look at defunding. I would assume that people in rural communities have access to the Internet (via satellite). I'm not sure how NPR stacks up against poison control centers, police and fire departments.

The thing that worries me is that Republicans (whom I generally disagree with these days) apparently have a "winning political issue" here. This is separate from a "winning substantive issue". A lot of the time, Republicans seem totally crazy these days, and I hate to see them have this NPR issue that actually (in my opinion) might cause independent voters to think that Republicans are not so crazy after all.

But again, like I said, the above are the reasons for my opinion, and I don't know any details about NPR's benefits.

I am totally in favor of continued government funding to Planned Parenthood, which I know a little more about, and which obviously provides desperately-needed services (which go far beyond abortion) to families.

I disagree with you, but I appreciate that you approach the issue thoughtfully.

I wish the GOP did, too. But they clearly have not. Their budget-cutting exercises have been all about symbolism and score-settling.

Frankly, it is hard to even get them to articulate the goal: is it to create jobs? (This clearly didn't do that.) Is it to cut the deficit? (This was, at best, a symbolic gesture.)

And the fact that those two goals conflict with one another seems to completely escape them.

148 Kragar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:13:33pm

re: #143 wrenchwench

Only the well-to-do folks have that. Lots of rural folks got nothin'. No internet, no phone, no newspapers, but NPR gets broadcast through a translator* to reach a lot of those folks.

*Transponder

149 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:13:53pm

re: #139 Simply Sarah

Well, that's always been the real sticking point in deciding how to act here. I think there certainly is merit to the idea that getting involved here sets a precedent from getting involved in similar situations in the future (And, perhaps, encouraging the potential rebels to act with the idea of getting international support) when we have no desire to do so.

On the other, it's very hard to say we should just watch them get crushed and, most likely, slaughtered. It's a messy situation without a totally clear best course of action. Extremely frustrating.

BO has been pressing hard for a no fly zone, everyday now...and he has stated repeatedly his intention not to put troops in Libya...I don't get your concern over our role

151 SanFranciscoZionist  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:15:56pm

re: #86 iceweasel

OT: there is a fish and chip van that visits our street twice a week and it freaks me out because it plays Dixie.

Tonight a rival ice cream van showed up and it plays Yankee Doodle Dandy.

The civil war apparently lives on in Scotland.

Ten years ago or so, there was a place that sold blue jeans in Dublin called "The Yankee Rebel". It had a giant Confederate battle flag painted across the front.

We American exchange students gathered in front of it and blinked.

152 garhighway  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:17:29pm

re: #151 SanFranciscoZionist

Ten years ago or so, there was a place that sold blue jeans in Dublin called "The Yankee Rebel". It had a giant Confederate battle flag painted across the front.

We American exchange students gathered in front of it and blinked.

English is used in really creative ways in Asia. Sometimes, they name stores based on how the English characters look, not what they mean.

153 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:17:46pm

re: #149 albusteve

BO has been pressing hard for a no fly zone, everyday now...and he has stated repeatedly his intention not to put troops in Libya...I don't get your concern over our role

It's a case of where you draw the line. At what point does the U.S. need to get involved in these kinds of matters? How deeply should they become involved? For how long? What do we do after? How do we determine which side is in the right? Do we want to actually commit to playing world police?

154 Kragar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:18:02pm
155 Achilles Tang  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:18:39pm

re: #143 wrenchwench

Only the well-to-do folks have that. Lots of rural folks got nothin'. No internet, no phone, no newspapers, but NPR gets broadcast through a translator to reach a lot of those folks.

When we first got our place in the boonies of the Appalachians and plugged in the TV with an expensive antenna, the only station that was clear was PBS.

156 makeitstop  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:18:48pm

re: #144 Gus 802

Anti-Poison Control Centers - Check
Anti-Science - Check
...

Anti-tsunami monitoring - Check
Anti-volcano research - Check

157 garhighway  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:18:49pm

re: #153 Simply Sarah

It's a case of where you draw the line. At what point does the U.S. need to get involved in these kinds of matters? How deeply should they become involved? For how long? What do we do after? How do we determine which side is in the right? Do we want to actually commit to playing world police?

America, Fuck yeah!

158 ProMayaLiberal  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:19:04pm

re: #151 SanFranciscoZionist

I probably would have gone in there and yelled at them for using the flag of the nastiest things in US history.

159 abolitionist  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:19:06pm

re: #150 recusancy

Counterpoint:

Reality

Miss his address the the nation last Friday, early afternoon?

160 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:19:45pm

re: #156 makeitstop

Anti-tsunami monitoring - Check
Anti-volcano research - Check

Anti-Background Checks for Crazy People - Check

161 recusancy  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:20:05pm

re: #159 abolitionist

Miss his address the the nation last Friday, early afternoon?

I was adding on to you. Not counterpointing you.

162 Mostly sane, most of the time.  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:20:15pm

re: #152 garhighway

English is used in really creative ways in Asia. Sometimes, they name stores based on how the English characters look, not what they mean.

I had a roommate with pajamas that had little sayings from "Veggie Chan"

I want veggie chan to like me.

Veggie chan is most happy and polite vegetable.

I used to read them out loud, just to bug her. Her English was good enough for her to know how silly they were.

163 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:20:23pm

re: #160 Gus 802

Anti-Background Checks for Crazy People - Check

To by a gun.

Gunz! Gunz! Gunz! Gunz! Gunz!

164 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:20:40pm

re: #163 Gus 802

To by a gun.

Gunz! Gunz! Gunz! Gunz! Gunz!

BUY (cough)

165 garhighway  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:21:03pm

re: #162 EmmmieG

I had a roommate with pajamas that had little sayings from "Veggie Chan"

I want veggie chan to like me.

Veggie chan is most happy and polite vegetable.

I used to read them out loud, just to bug her. Her English was good enough for her to know how silly they were.

Charlie Chan's vegetarian cousin?

166 calochortus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:22:04pm

re: #136 Naso Tang

I hear that potassium iodide pills have sold out all over the USA. If we ever have a real need they will not be available to those that weren't dumb enough to stock up.

Last night on the news the local public health dept. spokesperson said the government had plenty of it stockpiled. The odds of it being needed are miniscule

167 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:22:09pm

In God Big Oil We Trust In God Big Oil We Trust In God Big Oil We Trust

168 Mostly sane, most of the time.  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:22:11pm

re: #165 garhighway

Charlie Chan's vegetarian cousin?

Unless she was pulling my leg, -san is the suffix that means honorable.

-chan means well, happy and friendly.

I wouldn't blame her for putting one over on me, though.

169 iceweasel  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:22:45pm

re: #164 Gus 802

BUY (cough)

There ought to be a way to combine the seed storage with this. Survival seeds that double as buckshot, or something.

170 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:23:09pm

re: #153 Simply Sarah

It's a case of where you draw the line. At what point does the U.S. need to get involved in these kinds of matters? How deeply should they become involved? For how long? What do we do after? How do we determine which side is in the right? Do we want to actually commit to playing world police?

sounds like you mistrust the president...his position, for once, has been clear

171 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:23:32pm

re: #130 Ming

Thank you for explaining your thinking.

On the case of funding NPR (And the CPB) in the current times, I'd argue that they are investments well worth their tiny cost. Removing the funding won't even dent budget issues (Millions out of a shortfall in the trillions is almost nothing), but will really hurt a lot of smaller NPR stations that are an important source of news and entertainment in many less populated areas. The minor savings just don't balance out that loss. This move is entirely political.

172 calochortus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:23:50pm

re: #168 EmmmieG

Isn't chan also sort of the equivalent of san when speaking to a child?

173 abolitionist  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:24:26pm

re: #169 iceweasel

There ought to be a way to combine the seed storage with this. Survival seeds that double as buckshot, or something.

Hemp seeds are about the right size.

174 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:24:32pm

Texas Bill Would Outlaw Discrimination Against Creationists

Discrimination? Having a creationist teach the origins of man is like having some nut that thinks he can communicate with ESP as your radioman.

175 recusancy  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:24:37pm

re: #170 albusteve

sounds like you mistrust the president...his position, for once, has been clear

How does that equate to mistrusting the President?

176 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:24:38pm

re: #169 iceweasel

There ought to be a way to combine the seed storage with this. Survival seeds that double as buckshot, or something.

LOL....edible gold!

177 Mostly sane, most of the time.  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:24:40pm

re: #172 calochortus

Isn't chan also sort of the equivalent of san when speaking to a child?

All I know is what she told me, 20 years ago.

I don't know if she's okay. She's one of the ones that I'm not connected on facebook with.

178 Achilles Tang  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:25:34pm

re: #169 iceweasel

There ought to be a way to combine the seed storage with this. Survival seeds that double as buckshot, or something.

Lots of seeds are treated with anti fungus and other nasty stuff. I wouldn't want to be shot with any. Peas would be good.

179 Kragar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:25:50pm

Japanese honorifics

The Japanese language uses a broad array of honorific suffixes for addressing or referring to people, for example -san, as in Daniel-san. These honorifics are gender-neutral (can be used for males and females), and can be attached to first names as well as surnames, for example, Peter-san, Jessica-san, Smith-san.

180 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:25:57pm

re: #175 recusancy

How does that equate to mistrusting the President?

he leaves little room for question regarding our role in the Libyan thing

181 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:26:18pm

re: #173 abolitionist

Hemp seeds are about the right size.

hemp!
2 pts

182 Kragar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:26:38pm

re: #178 Naso Tang

Lots of seeds are treated with anti fungus and other nasty stuff. I wouldn't want to be shot with any. Peas would be good.

So we should give peas a chance?

183 recusancy  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:26:50pm

re: #180 albusteve

he leaves little room for question regarding our role in the Libyan thing

OK... And if Sarah questions our role that equates to mistrusting the President?

184 Mostly sane, most of the time.  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:27:17pm

re: #179 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

So, apparently, the vegetables on her pajamas were not her superior.

185 Achilles Tang  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:27:27pm

re: #173 abolitionist

Hemp seeds are about the right size.

Come to think of it, if one misses there is an eventual compensation.

186 calochortus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:27:27pm

re: #177 EmmmieG

Well, I'm no expert on Japanese language or culture, so take it with a grain of salt. I do hope she's OK.

187 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:27:47pm

re: #183 recusancy

OK... And if Sarah questions our role that equates to mistrusting the President?

that's what I posted, yes...good eye

188 Shiplord Kirel  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:27:54pm
The proposal, sponsored by Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-Colo.), would ban any federal money from going to NPR, including funding through competitive grants from federal agencies and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

I guess Car Talk must have really pissed them off somehow.

189 Kronocide  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:28:11pm

re: #174 Gus 802

Texas Bill Would Outlaw Discrimination Against Creationists

Discrimination? Having a creationist teach the origins of man is like having some nut that thinks he can communicate with ESP as your radioman.

Wow. CJ might post that one. Totally insane.

190 Mostly sane, most of the time.  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:28:39pm

re: #186 calochortus

Well, I'm no expert on Japanese language or culture, so take it with a grain of salt. I do hope she's OK.

So do I. I was looking at the friend lists of mutual Japanese friends to see if I could find her, but I don't know her married name.

191 Achilles Tang  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:28:49pm

re: #182 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

So we should give peas a chance?

Double ding.

192 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:29:12pm

re: #188 Shiplord Kirel

I guess Car Talk must have really pissed them off somehow.

It's all that talk about "furrin" cars! Peugeot! That's French!!11ty

193 Mostly sane, most of the time.  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:29:38pm

You will now all address me as EmmmieG-dono.

At least as long as I'm holding this megawatt death laser.

hehehehe

194 Kragar  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:29:58pm

re: #174 Gus 802

Texas Bill Would Outlaw Discrimination Against Creationists

Discrimination? Having a creationist teach the origins of man is like having some nut that thinks he can communicate with ESP as your radioman.

Next, we should stop discriminating against Faith Healers from working in Emergency Rooms.

195 Feline Fearless Leader  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:30:14pm

re: #188 Shiplord Kirel

I guess Car Talk must have really pissed them off somehow.

They employed an immigrant as their chauffer, Picup Andropov. Probably a commie as well.
/

196 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:30:42pm

re: #174 Gus 802

Texas Bill Would Outlaw Discrimination Against Creationists

Discrimination? Having a creationist teach the origins of man is like having some nut that thinks he can communicate with ESP as your radioman.

This is an extremely dangerous bill.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Subchapter Z, Chapter 51, Education Code, is
amended by adding Section 51.979 to read as follows:
Sec. 51.979. PROHIBITION OF DISCRIMINATION BASED ON
RESEARCH RELATED TO INTELLIGENT DESIGN. An institution of higher
education may not discriminate against or penalize in any manner,
especially with regard to employment or academic support, a faculty
member or student based on the faculty member's or student's conduct
of research relating to the theory of intelligent design or other
alternate theories of the origination and development of organisms.

This is basically saying that universities would have to treat ID work as legitimate science for the purpose of, uh, everything. I could see this being used to argue for a grad student or professor being granted a degree/position/tenure despite doing 'research' specifically into ID, which is obviously not a legitimate scientific field of study.

197 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:31:27pm

re: #194 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Next, we should stop discriminating against Faith Healers from working in Emergency Rooms.

Perzactly. Coming up next! No discriminating against astrologers in psychology class and the magician in physics class.

198 Varek Raith  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:31:35pm

re: #174 Gus 802

Texas Bill Would Outlaw Discrimination Against Creationists

Discrimination? Having a creationist teach the origins of man is like having some nut that thinks he can communicate with ESP as your radioman.

Oh geez.

199 iceweasel  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:32:36pm

re: #197 Gus 802

Perzactly. Coming up next! No discriminating against astrologers in psychology class and the magician in physics class.

Alchemists in chemistry!

200 Feline Fearless Leader  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:32:43pm

re: #196 Simply Sarah

This is an extremely dangerous bill.


This is basically saying that universities would have to treat ID work as legitimate science for the purpose of, uh, everything. I could see this being used to argue for a grad student or professor being granted a degree/position/tenure despite doing 'research' specifically into ID, which is obviously not a legitimate scientific field of study.

Grandstanding. If there was an attempt to seriously enforce it the universities degree certification would go into the dumpster so fast it would make peoples' heads spin.

Would you employ an engineer from a college that basically ignored the scientific method?

201 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:32:53pm

re: #198 Varek Raith

Oh geez.

Will you look at that? Bill Zelder is a Republican.

//

202 Varek Raith  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:33:07pm

re: #197 Gus 802

Perzactly. Coming up next! No discriminating against astrologers in psychology class and the magician in physics class.

What about demon magic?

203 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:33:25pm

re: #199 iceweasel

Alchemists in chemistry!

And pharmacology. Witch doctors teaching pre-med?

204 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:33:49pm

re: #200 oaktree

Grandstanding. If there was an attempt to seriously enforce it the universities degree certification would go into the dumpster so fast it would make peoples' heads spin.

Would you employ an engineer from a college that basically ignored the scientific method?

Ah, but you're missing the brilliance of this bill. Under it, those people would be able to get a job in Texas!

205 Mostly sane, most of the time.  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:34:19pm

re: #199 iceweasel

Alchemists in chemistry!

If they could just get to that lead into gold stuff, that would fix the schools' budgetary crisis.

(Of course, this would require some nuclear reactions, which might not be so wise right now.)

206 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:34:21pm

That's not clinical depression. It's just that his stars are out of alignment. //

207 Achilles Tang  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:34:29pm

Atheists teaching bible class (which they would be good at).

208 iceweasel  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:35:21pm

re: #203 Gus 802

And pharmacology. Witch doctors teaching pre-med?

Pharmacology especially! We need more Christian Scientists to go into medicine. And pharmacists with conscience clauses.

209 garhighway  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:35:22pm

The more photos I see that show the areas struck by the tsunami, the more I wonder how they are going to get that mess cleaned up. It looks like miles and miles of homes and businesses turned into kindling. Are they just going to burn it all and start over? They can't possibly have sufficient resources to scoop it all up and cart it away, can they? And if they could, where would they take it? They would need a landfill the size of Mt. Fuji.

What a mess. This makes Katrina look like a cakewalk.

210 Shiplord Kirel  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:35:34pm

re: #196 Simply Sarah

This is an extremely dangerous bill.

This is basically saying that universities would have to treat ID work as legitimate science for the purpose of, uh, everything. I could see this being used to argue for a grad student or professor being granted a degree/position/tenure despite doing 'research' specifically into ID, which is obviously not a legitimate scientific field of study.

I escaped from the professorizin' business just in time then. They'll undoubtedly get around to outlawing discrimination against drunks, disrupters, morons, and chronic no-shows as well.

211 calochortus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:36:08pm

re: #203 Gus 802

And pharmacology. Witch doctors teaching pre-med?

Might make med school more fun...

212 Kronocide  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:36:18pm

re: #207 Naso Tang

Atheists teaching bible class (which they would be good at).

Obviously the bill must be amended to ensure Jesus Camp is shown to all 4th graders. That documentary on Westboro Baptist too.

213 Feline Fearless Leader  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:36:33pm

re: #209 garhighway

The more photos I see that show the areas struck by the tsunami, the more I wonder how they are going to get that mess cleaned up. It looks like miles and miles of homes and businesses turned into kindling. Are they just going to burn it all and start over? They can't possibly have sufficient resources to scoop it all up and cart it away, can they? And if they could, where would they take it? They would need a landfill the size of Mt. Fuji.

What a mess. This makes Katrina look like a cakewalk.

Godzilla. Japan's mobile incinerator.

214 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:37:03pm

(In reality, though, I think such a law would almost certainly be swiftly struck down in court were it to actually pass, since it's very clearly injecting specific religious beliefs into the operations of the state and has nothing to remotely justify doing so.)

215 Varek Raith  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:37:10pm

re: #210 Shiplord Kirel

I escaped from the professorizin' business just in time then. They'll undoubtedly get around to outlawing discrimination against drunks, disrupters, morons, and chronic no-shows as well.

They can have my disruptor rifle when they pry it from my cold, dead hand!!!

216 Achilles Tang  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:37:10pm

GM Suspends Shreveport Truck Output on Japan Parts Shortage

This is the real Tsunami coming over.

217 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:37:41pm

re: #209 garhighway

The more photos I see that show the areas struck by the tsunami, the more I wonder how they are going to get that mess cleaned up. It looks like miles and miles of homes and businesses turned into kindling. Are they just going to burn it all and start over? They can't possibly have sufficient resources to scoop it all up and cart it away, can they? And if they could, where would they take it? They would need a landfill the size of Mt. Fuji.

What a mess. This makes Katrina look like a cakewalk.

heh, I've wondered the exact same thing several times...logistically, it's an epic mess

218 garhighway  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:37:43pm

re: #215 Varek Raith

They can have my disruptor rifle when they pry it from my cold, dead hand!!!

Your offer is acceptable.

219 Varek Raith  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:38:09pm

re: #218 garhighway

Your offer is acceptable.

Bring it, bug!

220 Mostly sane, most of the time.  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:39:35pm

re: #209 garhighway

The more photos I see that show the areas struck by the tsunami, the more I wonder how they are going to get that mess cleaned up. It looks like miles and miles of homes and businesses turned into kindling. Are they just going to burn it all and start over? They can't possibly have sufficient resources to scoop it all up and cart it away, can they? And if they could, where would they take it? They would need a landfill the size of Mt. Fuji.

What a mess. This makes Katrina look like a cakewalk.

Well, step one is to remove the dead bodies.

221 Kronocide  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:39:37pm

re: #209 garhighway

.
What a mess. This makes Katrina look like a cakewalk.

Not to diminish the epic devastation of Katrina but it's worth noting that Katrina was flooding on a massive scale, but most buildings stood. Most homes needed drywall removed up to 8' then they rebuilt them on the original wood framing.

Japan was destroyed by destructive waves and now has a radioactivity crisis.

222 Bear  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:40:16pm

re: #209 garhighway

Having seen how soon the areas that were fire-bombed in the Yokohama and Tokyo area were cleaned up, I expect that areas destroyed by the tsunami will be relatively cleared within a few months.

223 calochortus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:40:54pm

re: #222 Bear

Let us hope you are right.

224 Simply Sarah  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:42:08pm

re: #222 Bear

Having seen how soon the areas that were fire-bombed in the Yokohama and Tokyo area were cleaned up, I expect that areas destroyed by the tsunami will be relatively cleared within a few months.

Clean up may happen quickly. Replacing everything that was lost (Well, what can be replaced, at least) will likely take much, much longer.

225 Achilles Tang  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:43:03pm

re: #222 Bear

Having seen how soon the areas that were fire-bombed in the Yokohama and Tokyo area were cleaned up, I expect that areas destroyed by the tsunami will be relatively cleared within a few months.

I noticed many TV programs just a day or two after the wave reporting from completely clear roads with large debris on both sides, but I never saw sign of the dozers that must have done that. Strange.

226 Gus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:43:36pm

re: #224 Simply Sarah

Clean up may happen quickly. Replacing everything that was lost (Well, what can be replaced, at least) will likely take much, much longer.

There's going to be a lot of recyclable materials.

227 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:44:16pm

re: #225 Naso Tang

I noticed many TV programs just a day or two after the wave reporting from completely clear roads with large debris on both sides, but I never saw sign of the dozers that must have done that. Strange.

the photo up on Drudge shows exactly that

228 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:45:30pm

re: #226 Gus 802

There's going to be a lot of recyclable materials.

good call....invest in recycle machinery

229 Killgore Trout  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:46:46pm

Dispensary Raids In Hollywood As Obama Breaks Promise
My guess this is about not paying federal income tax. When I investigated the legal pot scene here in Portland a few weeks ago it became obvious that even though the local cops won't bother legal users there's no way for those who sell "legal" pot to pay income tax on the money. The dispenaries are probably being investigated to other crimes and tax evasion is pretty likely.

230 garhighway  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:48:07pm

re: #229 Killgore Trout

Dispensary Raids In Hollywood As Obama Breaks Promise
My guess this is about not paying federal income tax. When I investigated the legal pot scene here in Portland a few weeks ago it became obvious that even though the local cops won't bother legal users there's no way for those who sell "legal" pot to pay income tax on the money. The dispenaries are probably being investigated to other crimes and tax evasion is pretty likely.

I can hear it now: "Dude!? I was supposed to pay tax?"

231 abolitionist  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:49:05pm

re: #216 Naso Tang

GM Suspends Shreveport Truck Output on Japan Parts Shortage

This is the real Tsunami coming over.

While studying the new science of chaos (years ago), one lesson that stuck with me was that systems that are most highly optimized and fine-tuned tend to be most vulnerable to catastrophic failures. Secretariat (the champion racehorse) was cited as an example.

This was decades before just-in-time manufacturing, etc, became popular with bean counters and CEOs.

232 albusteve  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:49:26pm

re: #229 Killgore Trout

Dispensary Raids In Hollywood As Obama Breaks Promise
My guess this is about not paying federal income tax. When I investigated the legal pot scene here in Portland a few weeks ago it became obvious that even though the local cops won't bother legal users there's no way for those who sell "legal" pot to pay income tax on the money. The dispenaries are probably being investigated to other crimes and tax evasion is pretty likely.

what a clusterfuck...all because the feds refuse to do the right thing, legalize pot...but it's a perfect example of how the pot business still generates income

233 ProMayaLiberal  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:49:47pm

Off topic, but I just found this awesome article about congress on Cracked.


The 6 Most Childish Things Ever Done in Congress

234 Bear  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:51:26pm

re: #223 calochortus

I first was in Tokyo on pass around a month after September 1945 and then next time a couple months later. Areas seen during the first time were not the same. Business along the Ginza (sp?) were open.

235 Killgore Trout  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:52:55pm

re: #232 albusteve

what a clusterfuck...all because the feds refuse to do the right thing, legalize pot...but it's a perfect example of how the pot business still generates income

It's awful to think of all those people who are in jail for it. I think they'll probably legalize it someday. It's such a stupid law. Weed should even cost anything. People grow in their own yards here. Anyone can do it. If they legalized it I suspect the price would drop like crazy.

236 calochortus  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:53:06pm

re: #234 Bear

Impressive.

237 Ming  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:53:57pm

I'm back! JamesFireCat makes a great point, that I agree with completely, that the government spends tons of money on things like subsidies to oil companies, which are far less worthy than NPR. I also agree with GarHighway's criticism of the GOP. I also notice (comment 112) that Republicans are about to waste the taxpayer's time by debating "In God We trust".

George W. Bush proved conclusively that the Republicans can spend government money as wastefully as anyone else.

It seems to me that we will need BOTH tax increases and spending cuts, and VERY SOON. So, I tend to take the viewpoint that just about ANYTHING the government (taxpayers) pay for, should be examined very closely. For example, this blog posted (a month or so ago) about how the state of Kentucky is giving tax breaks to people who own a creationist theme park. I'd like to see Republicans to try to justify that. In my opinion, there is no justification for that.

So all I'm trying to say is, a lot of things, including NPR, need to be closely examined. If I knew more about NPR, I might be in favor of continuing its funding. I'm sure there are a lot of things, like subsidies to oil companies, that I'm against funding. I'm usually in favor of government funding solar and wind energy. But my point is (and I don't think anyone here has disagreed with this), we have to be able to examine things like NPR, or tax breaks for churches, and lots and lots of things that the government presently pays for. Unfortunately, these days, nothing is a sacred cow.

238 Ming  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:59:20pm

Posted my last comment before I saw Simply Sarah's comment. I agree 100% with Simply Sarah that the GOP's move to defund NPR is entirely political.

I am completely convinced that the Republicans are totally unserious about cutting government spending. To give one big example of this, often when Republicans propose something that will move us closer to being a Christian right-wing theocracy, it amazes me just to think about how much federal spending money it will cost. Can you imagine how much taxpayer money it would cost to investigate every miscarriage? Think of all the government money that is wasted now in administering Don't Ask Don't Tell (which unfortunately is still in force).

239 Slap  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 1:59:26pm

re: #86 iceweasel

OT: there is a fish and chip van that visits our street twice a week and it freaks me out because it plays Dixie.

Tonight a rival ice cream van showed up and it plays Yankee Doodle Dandy.

The civil war apparently lives on in Scotland.

Rival ice cream trucks????

Reminds me of this warm and funny little movie:

Comfort and Joy - Amazon

Comfort and Joy - IMDb

....with a delightful Mark Knopfler soundtrack. Well worth it!

"So, is it really the ultimate drivin' machine?"

240 SanFranciscoZionist  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 2:20:26pm

re: #138 Ericus58

I would hope that someone in his family went to him and said "Are you outta yer freakin' mind?! *Slap*"

State Rep. Virgil Peck, a Republican, declined to talk to a CNN en Español journalist who was waiting for him at his office Thursday.

241 Our Precious Bodily Fluids  Thu, Mar 17, 2011 2:44:53pm

re: #196 Simply Sarah

This is an extremely dangerous bill.

other alternate theories of the origination and development of organisms.

This is basically saying that universities would have to treat ID work as legitimate science for the purpose of, uh, everything. I could see this being used to argue for a grad student or professor being granted a degree/position/tenure despite doing 'research' specifically into ID, which is obviously not a legitimate scientific field of study.

It's worse than that. The bolded part indicates that it would be illegal for Texas A&M to prohibit teaching the stork theory to OB/GYN med students.


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