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http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202447.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202447.html	Carolyn Hax Live: Spending the Stimulus Checks, Religion and Families, and Tips for Stressed-Out Single Moms	2008050919	Carolyn was online Friday, May 9 taking your questions and comments about her current advice column and any other questions you might have about the strange train we call life. Her answers may appear online or in an upcoming column. Got more to say? Check out Carolyn's brand new discussion group, Hax-Philes. Comments submitted to the chat may be used in the discussion group. washingtonpost.com: Note to readers: I know this is getting to be a broken record, but we have still had complaints this week about problems with accessing or refreshing ongoing chats. If you experience such problems today, please submit a comment to the chat with a description of the nature of your problem, what browser you are using, etc. Or, you can e-mail that information to elizabeth.terry@wpni.com. Some users have been able to refresh the page by holding down the Control button when they hit Refresh. Thanks so much for your patience and your help. ____________________ At A Loss for Words: Submitting early, won't be able to check chat until after it's over. My husband can't be bothered to care about his wardrobe. He has to be forced to shop once a year because he wears his pants till they fall apart. He's still wearing rugby shirts and sweatpants from the early 90s. He'll wear a brown belt with black shoes. Also, he doesn't take care of his clothes - he wears suit pants till they fall part, hangs them so they wrinkle, hangs a suit jacket on a wire hanger till it becomes misshapen. Never polishes his shoes, only buys work shoes every couple of years - I could go on. My own fashion sense isn't stunning, but I try to stay current with trends and replace worn items and generally give the impression to the outside world that I care about my appearance. I feel like if I look good, I have confidence, and that shows in the work I do and the relationships I have. Short of nominating him for "What Not To Wear," or arranging an intervention, I would like to communicate that appearance matters, especially in the professional world (he has a professional office job), and it doesn't hurt to carry that over into your personal life as well. I am struggling with how to put this into words in a way that doesn't totally crush his self-esteem, which is fragile right now for several reasons to complicated to get into here. He'll try to rationalize it by saying, money's tight, we don't have money for me to buy clothes. Well, we buy them for the children, and I buy them, so I think that's a red herring. I know clothes don't make the man, and this man truly is wonderful, kind-hearted, a fantastic father and husband, who has lots of friends. Our marriage is strong, as is our support network. Yet, I wonder if he is unintentionally communicating messages about himself through how he dresses. Help me find a reason to Let It Go, or a way to communicate what I'm feeling about this. I feel like I may not have articulated what I'm trying to say here. Thanks. Carolyn Hax: Normally my inclination is to address the underlying issue, but I think yours is a case for the overlying issue. Men's clothes are easy to to buy for someone else; you find a brand and size that fits and you just do it. Get rid of the wire hangers and replace them all with wood ones that will keep a jacket's shape. Idiotproof his entire clothing storage system however else you can. Tell him you're going to weed out his early '90s stuff unless he objects. If something's really gross, make it disappear--first to some sort of storage place for a probation period, then, if manages to live without it for that time, then out the door. If you object to a takeover of this kind, look at it this way. Almost everyone has a blind spot. Therefore, being part of a good, functioning couple usually means helping someone with his or her blind spot while you get an assist with yours. A good friend keeps making digs about how much money my fiance makes (or doesn't make, in her opinion). Fiance has a degree from a good college, but works as a carpenter because that is what he loves to do. I'm proud of him. My friend complains a lot about being single and has really only had bad relationships, so I tell myself that she's just trying to make me feel bad about my relationship. How do I respond to her comments? It bothers me that she's trying to hurt me, and I want to point that out without hurting her in return. Carolyn Hax: "If you have something to say, please just say it." Not that this is guaranteed to work. Your friend's unhealthy relationship history doesn't (just) mean she's jealous of your happy relationship. It means she has problems dealing with people in a healthy, productive way--all people, friends included. Friendships can often survive this when the two people really like each other, are patient and are willing to make the extra effort to get through rough times, but I think it's unrealistic to see her romantic problems as an isolated things. She's bringing her issues to bear on the way she's responding to your happiness. Think about it, find what you think is a good way to call her on it, and see where it goes. if she trusts that you like her, maybe she'll feel safe enough to be honest, instead of taking cowardly little shots. New York, N.Y.: Carolyn, my older sister lives in France and is married to a French guy. She is five months pregnant. She was over in NYC visiting me last week and when we went out to dinner she ordered a glass of wine! I told her that I was shocked that she would endanger her baby that way and she said that her doctor told her it was okay to have a glass of wine twice a week. I told her that it didn't matter what her doctor told her; everyone knows that you don't drink when you're pregnant, right?? I can't believe that even a French doctor would be okay with this and I think she's being terribly selfish. I called our mom and asked her what she thought and she agreed with me. Now my sister is mad at both of us and says that this kind of thing is exactly why she moved out of the country. I don't know how this turned into such a big deal, I just wanted her to know that what she is doing is WRONG. Help! Carolyn Hax: We are NOT going to make the discussion about this. We are NOT. But for the sake of your relationship with your sister, you need to start apologizing. While I happen to be of the why-even-go-there? camp, there are indeed doctors who counsel moderation as your sister described. Meanwhile, you shouted your sister down, accused her of endangering her baby, and then called your mother (!) to tell on her, and look at the way you stated your case: "Everyone knows that you don't drink when you're pregnant, right??" Well, is it right? Or not? If you're going to challenge someone's judgment that stridently, on such a loaded issue as the quality of her mothering, it's essential that you have more than "everybody knows" to inform your opinion. So, inform your opinion. If you come across the same sources I used, you will see that there isn't a uniform opinion out there. There are cautions, certainly, and those cautions are more than enough for a lot of moms to choose to abstain. But there are also differing schools of thought. Among people who study this for a living. Now read this: "I don't know how this turned into such a big deal, I just wanted her to know that what she is doing is WRONG." It's a big deal because you're refusing to admit you may have done something wrong; instead you're hiding behind an absolute. Be an adult, figure out that you were way out of line, relay that message to your sister, and mean it. Re: Protocol on returning shower gifts when wedding is canceled: Hi Carolyn, Yikes, I didn't know that was the protocol either! However, I've never been married or had a shower, so maybe that excuses my ignorance. And yes, I'd appreciate someone telling me what the protocol is. But hey... the shower was last summer. The wedding was postponed a month later, but we don't know when it was canceled. What if many of the gifts were used, worn, consumed, spent, etc. by then? What is the showeree supposed to do then? And as a showerer, I wouldn't even WANT my gift returned, though I'd probably go with a small token gift if the person had another shower in the future. Taking back a gift (or expecting it to be returned) just seems so petty. Your thoughts? Carolyn Hax: The etiquette for a used gift is to buy a replacement and return that. Better idea, don't use the gifts until after the wedding. Certainly the gift-giver is free to refuse the returned gift, and the ex-bride or groom can then return the intended replacement. Yes, it's messy, but that's what broken engagements are. Still better than a divorce. Providence, R.I.: Hi Carolyn. Regarding the "economic stimulus rebate" check we're getting... I had no intention of using it to stimulate the economy in any way - in fact, I intended to use it to pay off the last of my credit card debt (YAH!). I made the mistake of mentioning this to a coworker, who said we have a "patriotic duty" to do what we can with that "free" money to help the economy. i.e., buy a TV or clothes, etc. Assuming he was joking, I chuckled and he said he's not joking, and that if I just stash away the money, I'm no better than a welfare mom who keeps having kids to get a bigger gov't check. Now I can't help but feel a little guilty about my plans. Is it generally accepted that we're morally obligated to spend this money? What does the peanut gallery think? And what to do about this coworker, who really rattled my concentration for most of this week? Thank you so much. Carolyn Hax: 1. It's your money. Pay off your debt. (If it makes you feel better, this will likely make you a more eager consumer down the road.) 2. Use this experience as a lesson not to share your personal information with him. Or with anyone you don't know well or trust, if outside input has this much of an effect on you. Secular Son in Potomac, Md.: My mother is very religious. Very, very religious. Very, very, very religious. (Dad was similarly devout, but passed away long ago.) I drifted away from the church when I was in high school and have no desire to find my way back and she knows this. When we get together for the holidays, the pre-meal prayer usually includes a word or fifteen about me finding my way back to church. When my son was born eight years ago, my mother assumed there would be a baptism, in spite of the fact that she knew my wife and I don't attend church. (Yeah, I'm not sure how she thought that was going to happen, either.) My sister assumed there would be a baptism, as well. When I told my sister there wouldn't be, she responded melodramatically, "That's going to kill Mom. KILL HER." Eight years later, we still haven't baptized our son and Mom is still alive and kicking. That said, she still insists on sending us "Purpose-Driven Life"-ish books on occasion. Earlier this week, Mom sent me an email containing a Bible verse she intended for me to read to my son. (That's not going to happen.) Asking Mom to stop and reminding her of my choice to raise our son to be agnostic (not atheist) results in crying, wailing, and begging/pleading/nagging for me to go to church. Is ignoring her entreaties to come to Jesus really my only option here? I think it's rather rude and disrespectful to try and force one's religious beliefs on another, but obviously Mom doesn't agree. Carolyn Hax: She's not going to stop. Presumably she feels she has a duty -not- to stop. So, yes, I think ignoring her entreaties really is the only option, since the alternatives are capitulation, which apparently isn't happening, or estrangement, which neither of you seems to want, which is promising. I'm curious. How was a baptism to have been arranged, since your rejection of organized religion would have put you in a position either to lie, or to promise to raise your son according to beliefs in which you openly don't believe? Apparently Unitarian Universalist is an option, but are there others? Re: Rebate Check: Smack! (Head hits keyboard) I am an economist. Please tell the poster to tell his/her co-worker that the check makes its way back into the economy either way. If you spend it, it stimulates demand, which creates jobs, profits, etc. If you save it (or pay back debt), it provides liquidity to the loanable funds market which stimulates demand, which creates jobs, profits, etc. Obviously, this is an over-simplified explanation, and the second way is less obvious to the casual observer. (It is related to the reason that monetary policy works at all.) Anyway, the whole idea of handing out checks as an appropriate economic stimulus (given our growing national debt) is debated by trained economists, many of whom love our country and consider ourselves patriotic. Ignore your co-worker. He has no idea what he is talking about. Carolyn Hax: I like that as a mantra. Thanks. Norfolk, Va.: I had a very good friend who started treating me horribly (comments about how fat I was - to other people, saying she never met anyone with my name that she could stand to be around, etc). I broke it off about three years ago and continued to treat her with civility (our 17 year old boys are best friends). Today I got an e-mail from her trying to bury the hatchet for their sake - saying that she never meant to hurt me. I'm not sure how to respond - I've waited a long time for her to realize that her behavior only hurt her in the end, and now that she (sort of) has, it feels rather like ashes in the mouth. And my son really wants us to get along and I'm not sure how much of this is the boys trying to get us together. Carolyn Hax: What, then, did she mean? If you can ask that in a way that doesn't sound like picking a fight, but instead like genuine curiosity, then I at least would be genuinely curious to know the answer. If she were willing to come clean with both an admission of her hostility, and an explanation for its source--not just a cursory one, but one that has substance and rings true--then I would at least hear her out. Trust her again, maybe not, but hear her out, yes. religious mom: I've had a similar issue with my mom for years. I tried having the arguments and discussions and also tried letting the comments roll off my back. Finally, I said, "Mom. I know your beliefs. You know mine. Every time you hit me over the head with them, all you are doing is driving a wedge between us. I am not able to feel the love you say you feel for me while also hearing you say that you think I'll burn in hell for all eternity. I do want to have a relationship with you, but I need to ask you to please keep your religious comments to yourself." She countered that her religion was a big part of her life, and I said I wasn't going to ask her not to mention that she was at bible study or something -- but to please respect my differences and not mention it in respect to me. I said neither of us were likely to change our minds, her position had been made repeatedly over the years and was DULY NOTED so let's agree to disagree and talk about something else. This actually worked, and it's been over 6 months without any moral condemnations. Happy Mother's Day! Carolyn Hax: Nicely done. Thanks. Arizona: Getting Divorced and getting impatient: Divorce sucks. I'm getting horribly impatient to move on with my life (marriage has been over for 8 months) but I'm sharing a house, can't buy my own place until the settlement is done in early autumn sometime... thinking about dating but keep getting lectures from friends/family that I need to wait until the divorce is final. Any advice on how to pass the time until October? Carolyn Hax: Ugh. More lectures. Are you sharing a house with your ex-to-be? Then that would be a reason not to date. Are you in a situation that has even a little bitterness to it, in which dating could be used against you legally? Then that's a reason not to date. Are you seeing dating as a means of moving on with your life? Then that's a reason not to date. There are lots of other ways to stretch your life-legs than to go out looking for a new entanglement with someone else. If everything is settled and the divorce was amicable and the rest is just listening to a clock tick, and if you're sharing a house with a friend, then I don't think anyone has any business judging you for living your life as an unattached person. I would still be really, really careful with that "horribly impatient" mood you're in, though. Life is long. It's pretty rare when a big rush for anything is necessary. Baptism: I got into a huge fight with my girlfriend about this a couple months ago. She says that if/when we have kids, she wants them baptized in the Anglican church. I was incredulous, because she has told me repeatedly that she was an agnostic, leaning toward atheist (as am I). Neither of us have been to a church (except for a wedding or funeral) for years. I asked her why she possibly could want her children baptized if she didn't believe in it and her responses varied from "Just to be safe", to "It will be so cute and my mother wants it". I refused to be part of it, saying that if my kid wants to be baptized they can do it when they old enough to make their own choice. She thinks I'm being ridiculous. We eventually let the conversation drop, but believe me, this is weighing heavily on my mind as I decide whether to take this relationship any further. Don't even get me started on the church wedding she "has always dreamed of". Carolyn Hax: Context, context. How's her integrity in general? Are these exceptions, or does she often just want things a certain way and then adapt her positions accordingly? Washington, D.C.: Hi Carolyn -- When, if at all, do you bring up your personal financial situation with the person you're dating? I've been seeing my boyfriend for about a year. He's much better off than I financially (he has a very successful business that he started from the ground up). I have a great profession that I love and pays pretty well, but my mortgage payments are set to increase soon, and unless I can refinance my money is going to be TIGHT until the housing market starts bouncing back. On dates, he probably pays 60-70% of the time, and I pay 30-40% of the time. I've prided myself over the years as being a financially independent woman who doesn't expect a man to take care of me. But I know that in a few months, I'm not going to have as much extra money to offer to buy tickets or pay for dinner for even the 30-40% of the time. He's apt to notice, and I don't want him to think I'm turning into a gold digger, but I don't want to divulge my financial situation to him (my loan was the result of having bad credit a few years back, and he's soooo responsible I am just embarrassed). What do I tell him, if anything? Thanks. Carolyn Hax: You tell him, when it happens, that your adjustable mortgage just adjusted and your disposable income is down to nothing and you're going to need to hold up your end of things by having him over for dinner. You are who you are, your situation is what it is, and, if he's a good person for you, he's going to judge you on the whole story, not just one detail of it. What can I say. The only good outcome is one that arises from the truth. Bridezilla-ville, USA: Hi, Carolyn. I've been a longtime devoted reader of your chats. Here's my question: I'm getting married at the end of the month and am having a small wedding. Two of my closest friends, who are traveling to my town for the wedding, are bringing their young baby who, I've just learned, is going through the stranger anxiety phase. We had previously arranged for a babysitter for the wedding (which will be no more than 45 mins long) but now it seems like that may not be an option. We discussed having one of them watch him in the house where the wedding will be held while the other attends the wedding, but they also asked if it would be an option to bring him to the wedding itself. I'm unfortunately not comfortable with that because I feel like it's impossible to predict how babies will behave and I fear that rather than concentrating on the ceremony I'll be watching nervously to see whether the baby starts crying. I told them this and they agreed, but clearly weren't happy. Am I being unreasonable? Carolyn Hax: If it's more important to you to have both of these friends at the wedding, then let them bring the baby in, sit by an exit and scoot out if the baby cries. If it's more important for you not to have a baby start to cry at your wedding, then ask them to stick to the plan of having the baby on-site but not at the ceremony itself. Who knows, maybe the couple can still bring a sitter, and if the baby's okay with it the parent can slip in to the wedding after all. I really am trying to present this as neutrally as possible--I think anyone who wants an adults-only wedding is entitled to have that. There's no law that says everyone has to find kids charming. However, this is life. Friends have babies, babies cry, and the weddings they cry through are still legally binding marriages. Throw in the fact that wedding ceremonies without crying babies often go off the rails for their own reasons, and that's why my answer last week was to gauge the bride (or groom, whichever one the baby's parents are closer to). Is s/he relaxed or stressed? Are you close or a courtesy guest? So that is, again, my advice to you: What are your priorities? Norfolk Again: She called right after you posted your answer, so I asked her. And at least her answer made me feel better: Quote: "To make my son stop hanging out with you." Follow-up as to why: "Because you weren't a good parent then and I can see that you must've changed since I like your son." I asked if there was anything else she wanted to talk about, and I got a "Nope" with a hang-up. I believe that had she been there to hear that would count as a "wow" moment. Carolyn Hax: Wow. I guess you can scratch that conundrum off your list. New Single Mom Drowning, Help!: Carolyn- I'm a newly single mom my to little girl, and I just started back at work after a while off (long story). I have just been losing it this week trying to work, get to daycare on time (late twice - $50 fines), making a meal, and being "there" at all for her. Sometimes I think its just impossible. I have people I can count on for emergencies or a phone call, but no one to clean up when the cat got sick at the same time my daughter needs to go potty and the dinner is burning. I was in therapy to deal with the divorce, but stopped when I started working full time. Anybody have advice how to get through this? Carolyn Hax: Round up some of your emergency people this weekend, and have them help with your little girl while you shop for and prepare some dinners that you can freeze for weekday nights, plan out your work outfits, set out a week's worth of clothes for your daughter, and whatever other element of your weekday morning/evening routine you can knock out ahead of time. It may sound like little answers to a big problem, but, really, your anxiety will drop noticeably if you strip your routine down to almost nothing. Time will take care of the rest. You know how, in the I-can't-handle-my-little-kids movies, there's always a montage showing how they've all found a routine? Well, they never show the puking cat, but they do get the general idea. New things take twice as long as they do when they become old things. You just need to keep from freaking out till you get there, thus the weekend assembly line strategy. I thought your advice to the woman whose ex dated someone else in her grad program was a little harsh. I play a sport whose members make up a close-knit community. I broke up with my fiance of 5 years, and found I couldn't be around a group of people in my community because it reminded me of painful things, particularly after he started dating someone else. I dealt with this by expanding my social circle outside of my sport. A year later, I still can't be around him and his new girlfriend, but I have a whole lot of new friends that know me only as me and not as someone else's ex. It's not always as easy as "grow up and get over it". Carolyn Hax: Well, yes, sometimes it is--it just isn't easy to do. There's a difference. And when you don't have the choice to avoid the painful-reminder person, when you're just stuck with him or her, then you don't deal with it by getting angry at everyone else for the fact that you're upset. You recognize it as your pain, and only your pain, and you deal with it. Again--difficult for sure, but there are no appealing alternatives. Minnesota: Two years ago, my 23 yr old daughter ended contact with me because she disagreed with my decision to divorce her father. A couple months after, I sent her a note saying I missed her. She told me to leave her alone, so I have. I guess I always hoped she'd change her mind. So now I realize she's not going to. Most of the time, I am fine and life goes on as usual, but every now and then, I still cry over her. Are there some hurts that never really heal? Carolyn Hax: Sure. I don't know if this will turn out to be one of them, but, yes, there are wounds that don't heal. I hope for your sake, but in fact mostly for your daughter's, that she grows up and realizes her punishment far exceeds your crime, even if you treated her father abominably. Family estrangement is a last resort for chronic abuse, not a first resort for a statement of principle. There's just too much nuance to families for it all to be flushed over one thing. She will have to come to this on her own, however. One way to hasten that would be for her father to step in to point out what I just did. Another way would take longer--for her father -not- to step in, because he wants to punish you, too. That, I hope, would eventually tap her on the shoulder to point out that if nothing else the divorce was less black-and-white than she had originally thought. Either way, it will take soul-searching on her part, and not a lot of people are naturally drawn to search their souls. It's dark and spidery in there. Usually they need to get to the point where the alternative is so much worse that they're finally willing to go in. Till then, you grieve, and do your best to get on with your life. Broken record re refreshing the chats: Frankly, I don't understand what everyone's deal is. In the YEARS that I have been reading these chats -- Carolyn's and myriad others -- my browser has NEVER automatically refreshed to add new content whenever the host hit "post." This even when there was a link at the bottom of the chat labeled "automatically refresh." So I gave up and just hit "refresh" all the time. It's really not that hard. washingtonpost.com: What you describe is not the problem people are having. The chats don't automatically refresh (maybe they used to, not anymore). What people are experiencing is that when they hit refresh, the page stalls out mid-refresh and they have to close out, re-open the main home page and go again to the chat. If you are experiencing this, please submit a question to the chat letting me know what kind of browser you are using and any other details... or e-mail me about it at elizabeth.terry@wpni.com. Thanks. - Elizabeth Carolyn Hax: Apologies to those having problems. Please do e-mail Elizabeth so we can figure this out. Now back to my own refreshing problems. I'm about to turn 30, I see a doctor regularly, and I am, in her words, "in excellent health." My bad cholesterol levels are extremely low, my heart is healthy, I have excellent lung capacity, everything's functioning properly, my blood pressure is extremely low, yadda yadda. However, I have gained a bit of weight (15 pounds) in the past three years. I have also gotten married, and my parents, who used to live overseas, have returned to the area. My parents, but especially my mom, are constantly jibing at me about my weight. Recently, my mom has even started e-mailing my husband about my weight, telling him that he "has to do something." She claims that she is worried about my health, despite the fact that I have told her that I am, according to my doctor, very healthy. I know that she is primarily concerned about how I look -- she is obsessed with what other people think. I've always noticed that about her and thought it sad, but generally just reacted by being a happy person and ignoring her when she obsesses. However, her e-mails are driving my husband crazy. And since he's not happy that I've gained weight, her constant annoying e-mails to him are becoming an issue between us. I'm already sick to death of hearing my mom's sniping, but I've learned to ignore her. Now that she's driving him nuts, the issue of my weight gain is coming up more often between me and my husband. I feel that, as long as I am healthy, eating well, and staying fit and active, I should be left alone. I think that my metabolism changed in my late 20s, and that that's life. I refuse to court anorexia or take diet pills. I'm sick of sometimes allowing my mom and my husband to make me feel bad about myself, and wondering why they are doing this to me. In fact, I'm crying right now. If I could magically lose 15 pounds, that would be great. But this is me. What can I do to make this situation stop? I told my husband to tell my mom that he understands her point and that she can stop sending the the emails about my weight. I'm not sure if he did that or not. It's an uncomfortable topic to discuss. I'm really frustrated. Please help me. Nothing I say makes a difference. Carolyn Hax: I know you're probably looking for reassurance and a get-out-of-my-face-free card. I do have both, in that you're paying attention to the things that count, and you will always have that to deflect your critics. "I am healthy. I am okay with my body the way it is. I will no longer have this conversation with you." And then (it all fails without this) don't have the conversation with them. However, there seems to be more to this. You have an appearance conscious, boundary unconscious mother, and a husband who is doing a better job of enabling her than he is supporting you. If you have a similar hunch that there's a pattern here, then counseling wouldn't be an out-of-proportion response. It could help you figure out the dynamic, which would then help you deal with it more productively. Say my name!: Hi Carolyn, So I like this guy on my pick-up soccer league and would like to ask him out. We're always friendly and chatty, he's single, and since I find myself constantly thinking about him, I figured it was a sign I'd like to get to know him better! I'm not always good at reading the signs but though he might be interested in me as well, until he suddenly started calling me the wrong name (after calling me the correct one up until then). Doh! I mean, I can be forgetful with names as well, we hadn't seen each other for a month or so, and it was a variant on my name (think Joan/Joanne or Laura/Laurie). But still, if you're into someone, that's something you usually remember, no? What's a good way to approach this- "Actually, I'm _____. By the way, do you want to go out for coffee sometime?" Or is this a sign that I should just save my dignity and not pursue it? Carolyn Hax: Well, at least not till he gets your name right. Correct him and give it a little more time. Drowning moms: Yes! When I had full-time lawyer job + 1-hr commute each way, I used Saturday to do as much as I could, and it made it manageable. Add to the list: Pack lunches for the week Sunday night (or at least make sandwiches and put everything in a "grab-n-go" spot in the fridge). Buy more prepackaged stuff -- a turkey sandwich is healthier/cheaper than a Lunchable, but Just Not Worrying helps in particularly bad weeks. You can go back to the better stuff later. Lower your standards. After we had no. 2, we all dressed out of clean laundry piles for a while. And yet, we all survived. Buy as much nonperishable stuff as you have room for in one swell foop on a weekend when it's on sale. It's nice not having to worry about cat food or toilet paper for a month at a time. Consider new daycare, if that's at all doable. Sucks, but you can't control traffic, and when your quitting time is too close to daycare closing, worrying about whether you're going to get out in time will add immeasurably to your feeling of stress (BTDT). Finding a daycare that gives you even another half-hour leeway will make a HUGE difference in how rushed/frantic you feel all day. College soul-searching: I go to a competitive Ivy League school. In general, I like it here -- I love my education and my surroundings, and the people I spend time with are passionate and interesting (not the soulless types). I've been slowly realizing that I'm really not the ambitious type, and while I'm passionate about a lot of things, I'm not that driven. I derive much more satisfaction from day-to-day life than the glamour of accomplishing big and exciting things (which are sincerely big and exciting; I don't begrudge my friends their successes), and I think I'd like a life of working a 9-5 job in environmental protection, volunteering, and hanging out. I haven't found my grand passion yet, and I think that can be OK. Right? However, in this environment, it's been hard to figure out how to be completely OK with this attitude. Part of this is a simple question of contributing to conversation -- next to hearing about the progress of a play a friend's directing or the research grant another friend got to travel to exotic locales, it seems kind of lame and inadequate to say "Today I overheard a great joke, watered my plants, and said hi to someone who was having a bad day." And then there's this weird guilt -- anytime I mention reading a novel, I get some variation on "Oh, I wish I had time to read books for fun" -- as if by reading for fun, I wasn't devoting enough of my time to big important awesome things. Because what they spend time doing is legitimately good stuff, and I wouldn't at all mind having the personality traits that allow them to do that. So, honestly -- am I doing something wrong? Should I be listening to these feelings of inferiority and trying to change myself for the better? And if my attitude is fine, how do I make it fit in with people whose approach is different (whom I nevertheless like and who like me)? Carolyn Hax: They: "Oh, I wish I had time to read books for fun." You: Yeah. I'm glad I do. That's really it. I'm not sure we have enough for an it's-simple-to-spell-out-but-much-harder-to-do theme, but this fits in if we do. You're in this mode now, which means it -is- right. Period. Let's say there's an underlying wrong somewhere ... for example, you have low self-esteem and you're thinking small because you don't think you have the talent to think bigger (I certainly don't believe this, by the way; this is purely for the sake of argument). Even if that's true, then the way you're responding still isn't "wrong." It's right for you now, which is right enough. It's your way of coping with life in Achieverville. Just because you choose coping over confronting/battling uphill now, doesn't mean that's your only choice forever after. Any underlying problem will probably not go away, and your feelings of inferiority will eventually intensify and you'll know for sure you need to deal with your self-esteem issue (or whatever else you might be afraid is holding you back). No over-compensatory hanging out you decided to do in college will prevent you from taking on a problem when you're good and ready. Which happens to be the universally perfect time for taking on a problem. That is, again, if there's even a problem. Not everybody wants a high-powered life, is temperamentally suited to a high-powered life, or would be doing the world a favor by having a high-powered life. Having your kind of academic training can make you an asset in any life you choose, at any speed--9-5, volunteer, professional hanger-out. It's fine to be glad you;re not the one who's swamped, and it's okay to skip trying to fit in and just tell the really great joke you heard. (If you have the skill to re-tell it well, then you might well be more marketable then all your high-powered friends combined. Just a happy thought for the back of your mind.) twist on single mom question: I am friends with a married couple who recently had a baby. Since the birth, they have expected friends to pitch in often. They never discussed this with us before. The past few times they've asked for a sitter, I haven't been able to help for legitimate reasons. Yesterday I received an angry email from the husband accusing me of not doing my duty as their friend and telling me to shape up. My duty? Shape up? I don't recall that my name is Nanny. Carolyn Hax: I don't see this friendship lasting much longer, but if you're inclined to give it one last shot, please feel free to ask if there's some other reason they're upset? Because having prior plans when asked a favor hardly seems like an act of treason. If you need the point of reference (it doesn't sound as if you do): What the new parents are asking is extremely presumptuous. They had the baby, not their friends. Pitching in is strictly a volunteer proposition. Who would want conscripted help, anyway? Half waving, half drowning: Carolyn, what if you're feeling overwhelmed but you're NOT the newly single mom of a toddler? I've got no particular reason for being unable/unwilling/disinclined to put the laundry away, do the dishes, pick up after myself, engage in some creative expression, etc... and I have a good motivation, in that I would love to someday be a self-actualized person with a cleanish house. But just going to work and dance or yoga seems to exhaust me through the rest of the evening and on into the weekend. The idea of being marginally tidy is daunting. Am I terminally lazy, or mildly depressed, or what? Carolyn Hax: Um. You work, then do a workout class? That's a lot for people who aren't particularly young or particularly energetic. Cordon off some evenings and two weekend hours on your schedule as chaos-management time, and see if that doesn't nudge you toward cleanishness on its own. If that doesn't work and you feel too listless even to lift yourself up to do dishes, then it might be time for a physical. And by the way France does have different policies on alcohol during pregnancy, as does the Netherlands and the UK. In the Netherlands the waiters won't serve a pregnant woman steak unless it is well done, but there are no restrictions on cheese. In France children are encouraged to eat blue cheese from an early age. In the Netherlands tea is encouraged from age 1 as part of the national health protocol. Government policies and propaganda have in part to do with who is lobbying and how much sway they have with the politicians in addition to the scientific credentials. washingtonpost.com: BTDT = Been There, Done That Carolyn Hax: If there's a country that encourages coffee, wine, chocolate and a sedentary lifestyle for middle-aged women, please let me know. cleaning: Don't tackle it all at once. Do 15 minutes a day, or less. Far less overwhelming than everything all at once. And it gets you to a "cleanish" standard that most normal people can welcome. Carolyn Hax: Right. And bait it with something you want--after the 10 minutes, you can go watch X and go to bed. D.C.: My boyfriend's parents are divorcing after more than 30 years of marriage. While there wasn't any cheating, and things are not as bad as they could be, his parents are both relying on him as their support through the process. He won't tell them to back off, and I know he's hurting from the amount of negative information he's hearing about their marriage and his childhood. His concept of marriage is rapidly deteriorating, and I don't know how to help him see that strong relationships do exist. We're at a point of our relationship where it's hard NOT to think about eventual marriage. I'm having a hard time dealing with his new non-belief in long lasting relationships. Is his new outlook a reflection on me? Carolyn Hax: It's not about you. Well, most of it probably isn't. What he's going through is -huge-. He's holding up every bit of his childhood bedrock and inspecting it for cracks he never knew were there--that he never knew to look for before. I would argue that someone who goes through this awful process is actually a better candidate for a lasting, long-term relationship. Far better to entrust your happy ending to an informed skeptic than to someone whose idea of a happy marriage was created by two people who spent multiple decades propping up a lie. He may take a while to settle into a peaceful state of mind about all this, since it's all pretty new, and you may be long broken up by then, who knows. But better that he's getting the truth now, before he's heavily invested in his pre-truth view of the world. For your part, you can help him see that strong relationships exist by being an open, honest, flexible partner, the kind who helps create a strong relationship. He may not be able, ready or even interested in being the other half of that partnership. But it's not your job to be an unpaid lobbyist for marriage, especially not if all you're after is to be married. Your job is to be yourself, to be his friend, to be someone he can trust, and to let this play out the way it needs to play out. For the woman who may have married her mother: Ever try saying to either of them what you said to Carolyn here today - why do you want to hurt me so much? I hear a lot of ignoring going on, and even a "tell Mom you understand her point," which I really don't get - because her point is wrong - but nothing to indicate that she's ever told either of them how upsetting this is for her. It may not make a bit of difference - but that's something to know, too, isn't it? Cleaning: Or just pay someone to come every other week and clean, if you can afford it. You feel like a yuppie tool at first and then you realize it is the awesome-est decision you ever made. Seriously. Carolyn Hax: Yuppie tool. Heh heh. Washington, D.C.: Carolyn, I know it's a little late in the chat for this, but I thought I'd give it a shot. I recently lost my mother, and am feeling overwhelmed by all of the Mother's Day this-and-that going on around me. I go back and forth between being really sad and really annoyed. Other than crawling under a rock, what can I do to get over it? Carolyn Hax: You can be really sad, really annoyed AND crawl under a rock. There's no magic fairy dust that gets people through crap, and there's no one this-is-the-high-road-and-you'll- feel-better-if-you-suck-it-up-and-do-it formula. Resist any self-destructive impulses, act on kind impulses, take care of yourself and cry at inopportune times. Then, it will be Monday. I'm sorry about your ma. Today's chat: I see a theme in this discussion today. Observe: - mother attacks son about his religious choices (with daughter's help) - never-pregnant sister tells pregnant sis about how to be pregnant - mom nags daughter AND son-in-law about daughter's weight - ex-friend impugns parenting skills - friend makes digs against friend's fiance - co-worker waves the flag about how to spend stimulus check What is up with people telling others how to live their lives??? Is it always like this, or is today special? Carolyn Hax: I thought every day was special around here. You forgot, new dad chastises friend for not helping with his new baby. RE: Baptism/Wedding and Church again: The thing is, she's completely aware of and readily admits the contradictions, but doesn't want to back down. Part of it is pressure from other forces in her life - her mother, who she can't say no to, and her friends who have had those dream weddings. Both a wedding and children are a long way off for us. We've been dating 18 months and wouldn't get married for at least a few more years. And we have a great relationship otherwise - rarely ever fight, challenge each other (in a good way) constantly, have great adventures, share some interests, willing to try the interests of the other person that we don't share. She is an amazing girlfriend because she is a great friend and great companion. But, again, it's taking that next step that I don't know about. I've told her flat out that we have a lot of work to do if we want to get married someday because we are both stubborn people who disagree on some of the big things in a marriage that you don't deal with in our current situation: not just the wedding, but finances, number of kids, etc. She understands and agrees there is work to be done. So the tricky part now is figuring out how much each party is willing to give and, if one or the other decides that the amount the other is giving not enough (or decides "I'm not willing to give any more myself"), when do you say "We're a great couple, but marriage just isn't in the cards for us." If that last sentence makes sense, any advice on how to know when you've reached that point? Carolyn Hax: I see stubbornness as being a problem for both of you. All marriages are different, all people bring different advantages, you know the list--but the thing that gets people to work together is that they work together. Duh, you'd think, but I bet you can tick off five marriages that are strained by someone who doesn't budge. Talk about a special theme in these discussions: "He won't go to therapy," "She refuses to talk about it," "We've been having the same fight for years," you know this list, too. Stubbornness is immaturity wearing a veil of social acceptability. That's it. And immaturity kills marriages. As it happens, your girlfriend has immaturity running around in two other costumes, too--caving to Mama and looking over her shoulder to see what everyone else is doing. So, yes, you two do have a long way to go, and the number of kids or location of the ceremony would just be the markers of what needs to change, not the substance of it (though they can become substantial, even to mature people, especially the family size issue). Boston: Please resolve a disagreement between husband and myself.... last week we received a wedding invite that said "Please no boxed gifts." Rude?? I took it to mean: "please don't bring your crummy presents - cash only!" He said it was no different than a registry. What do you think? Carolyn Hax: Rude. You never tell people how to give you gifts unless they expressly ask. Which is why the registry is a useful, not rude, tool if handled properly--i.e., as a courtesy to guests, not a make-me-a-princess kit. This to is offered only when requested. Now I'm leaving, I swear. Thanks all, type to you next week. Listlessness: PLEASE have your adrenal level as well as your thyroid checked if exercise makes you tired instead of energized. Learning about this saved my sanity. (OK, I'm lazy, but I also have adrenal exhaustion that responds to treatment.) Carolyn Hax: Okay, one more thing. Thanks for the tip. The anxious mom whose hair was falling out, from a few weeks ago, should get her thyroid checked, too; I heard from a reader on that and meant to pass it along. Bay Area, Calif.: As someone whose parents divorced after almost 25 years, let me say emphatically that the boyfriend whose parents are divorcing will be much better off if he establishes proper boundaries NOW and not after he's been told too many toxic details and dragged into the pain and muck of a disintegrating marriage. As much as he might feel like he needs to support his parents in their time of need, like they have no one else to talk to or even he might secretly want to hear the dirt so that he understands what happened, he will be better off if he resists getting involved. Even seemingly amicable divorces can go wrong on the separation path and establishing himself as a touchstone or "friend" to his parents will really lock him in the middle and in the muck. He should direct his parents to their friends, therapists, other family members, but try to stay out of it. My father always felt close to me and told me way too much during the initial separation. He was depressed so I let him. Plus, they claimed to be getting along and everything was going to be fine! When I finally asked him to stop, he "tried" but really couldn't understand why I couldn't be on his side and hate my mother for what she did to him. Maybe if he just explained again, explained better, I would understand. Years of this and my relationship with my father is in shreds, but my siblings that did a better job of setting boundaries with him are doing much better. There is just too much pain involved in the average divorce after a long marriage. As a child to the marriage, you already have a lot of sorting and dealing to do with the portions you witnessed, you don't need that added burden of supporting your parents on the specifics of their divorce. Be there for them, do stuff with them, call them to talk about your life or the weather, but direct them to other people for support on the specifics of the divorce. Carolyn Hax: Meant to get there but went in a different direction--v. important point, thank you. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Carolyn takes your questions and comments about her column and any other questions you might have about the strange train we call life.	462.583333	0.958333	12.208333	high	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/03/DI2008050302492.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/03/DI2008050302492.html	On TV	2008050919	Lisa Watches So You Don't Have To: "American Idol" \| TV columns \| On TV discussion transcripts. De Moraes has written "The TV Column" for The Post since 1998. She served as the TV editor for the entertainment industry trade publication the "Hollywood Reporter" for almost a decade. "How I Met Your Mother": What are the chances they ditch the premise and stop focusing on Ted, by far the most boring character on the show? More Barney and Lily, please. Lisa de Moraes: Hi. I agree, and it's a shame they haven't. There's that famous story -- and, who knows, it may even be true -- that the focus of "Family Ties" originally was supposed to be very much on the former-hippie Keaton parents and how they coped with having a conservative son and idiot daughter ... only Michael J. Fox so clearly stole every scene, it quickly became his show and the parents became more supporting roles -- kind of his straight men. That might be harder to do with this show because, sadly, it's not called "Friends," it's called "How I Met Your Mother," and the gimmick is that the show starts every week with the guy -- supposed to be Ted -- talking to his bored children about how he met their mother. Of course, they always could employ the cable network school of name changing and start calling the show "HIMYM" only, like the Discovery company does with TLC. I mean, does anyone still think that's The Learning Channel? Ditto A&E -- surely no one there still pretends it's about Arts & Entertainment. She Already Called Me Pookie: Sorry in advance for a comment about something other than "American Idol." The reality host Emmy -- I know you talent show devotees are in love in with the likes of Seacrest and the dance show guy, but don't overlook Jeff Probst of "Survivor." Last night was a prime example of him at the height of his powers, delicately humiliating Erik without alerting him as to what an idiot he is. This has been going on all season. Does he have a credible shot? Lisa de Moraes: No. "Delicately humiliating Erik" doesn't hold a candle -- what does that mean, anyway?-- to "making sense of Paula Abdul" for seven seasons. There's simply no comparison. Arlington, Va.: Lisa, I forgot to mention something in the "Idol" chat! I figured out how Syesha lasted so long. This year, for the first time in a few seasons at least, there wasn't a group of three or four power divas in the final 12 to split the vote! I predict David Cook is gone next week. He's the best one left, so it wouldn't be fair to end his career by making the Top Two. Lisa de Moraes: I'm surprised he didn't screw up worse this week to make sure he got cut. I mean, he messed up pretty badly, but couldn't compete with Jason Castro, the Maestro of Messing Up. Really, no rocker worth his salt -- and what does that mean, anyway? -- wants to actually win "American Idol." It's too corny. Not in keeping with bad-boy rocker image. I gag every time I see him up there on stage at the start of results night, singing the Idol Medley and doing a soft-shoe. He looks ridiculous, and he ought to be blushing with shame.. Cheltenham, U.K.: Hey Lisa. I never believe anything about TV unless I see it from you, so I'm hoping you can help with this rumor: I heard "Top Model" is getting rid of Tyra. Is that true? If so, who would replace her? Lisa de Moraes: Not so... Philadelphia: Is the problem with this season of "American Idol" that they're all too risk-averse and professional (except for Jason Castro), leading to a lack of star-making performances, or can we just trace it all to Young David Archuleta and his dead, dead eyes? Lisa de Moraes: Hey, Roboleta is a remarkable facsimile of a teenager. It's amazing what they can do with technology today. Seacrest: I agree with your view about Ryan Seacrest. Can you imagine what the show would be like if that second guy (Burgerbinder or something) still were hosting with him? Lisa de Moraes: In my dream, Seacrest, the presumed Larry King replacement on CNN, and Larry King, switch jobs for one week. I think Tom Bergeron is the only other competition series host capable of wrangling Paula... Fairfax, Va.: So Ted is more the straight man. Who cares? So was Seinfeld. Also, when shows like that begin to concentrate on the supporting characters, it becomes too much. "Will & Grace" started out as a decent show, but then it became Jack and Karen and was unwatchable. The zany characters need to be given to viewers in small doses, or they lose that spark that makes them funny in the first place. Lisa de Moraes: Yes, that's one school of thought -- but Seinfeld, the guy, was more fun to watch on screen than Josh Radnor, who plays Ted. And I loved Jack and Karen. "American Idol": I have an increasingly strong suspicion that David Archuleta is stupid. Not naive (although he's that, too), stupid. Lisa de Moraes: I would not have agreed, until this week's Phone Company Presents Actual Phone Calls from Viewers segment on results night and he said he could not answer the question regarding what was the most challenging thing about being an Idolette. I mean, golly, couldn't he have just winged it with "lack of sleep" or "picking new songs" or "not fainting when I met Dolly Parton" or something? Herndon, Va.: What is happening with "Men In Trees"? I love that show. Thanks. Lisa de Moraes: Cancelled. Sorry for your loss, but frankly the show was going nowhere. San Diego: Are new episodes of "Army Wives" coming back to Lifetime this summer? Lisa de Moraes: Season 2: June 8 at 10 p.m. Washington: Any somewhat interesting TV programming for the summer, or are we going to be subjected to "Deal or No Deal" and its kind five nights a week? Lisa de Moraes: I'm guessing Olympics could be fun if they keep cameras trained on the French and British fan sections of the bleachers... "Idol" idea: I would like to see "Idol" do a "comeback" season. Same format, same judges, but the contestants all would be former "stars" like Vanilla Ice and MC Hammer and Tiffany (and maybe Paula could both judge and compete). The only problem I see is that TVs might become drenched in desperation and short out. Lisa de Moraes: What a frightening thought. Please tell me you are not Mike Darnell... "Top Model": Tyra makes the show with her crazy antics (see "The Soup," which always has a clip of her!). And why does she call herself "mama" to the girls? Kind of strange! Lisa de Moraes: Doesn't she kind of think of herself as Den Mother from Hell? Washington:"Now, Voyager" will be on "The Essentials" on Turner Classic Movies tomorrow. Will you be watching? Lisa de Moraes: Duh! Even though I saw it a couple weeks ago on a big screen at the Aero Theatre in Santa Monica as part of its Bette Davis festival. Imagine: a double feature, "Now, Voyager" and "Dark Victory." I wept buckets for two hours. It was brilliant. Nobody did melodrama like Bette Davis. Two nights later I went back for "All About Eve," which I'd never seen on a big screen. Everyone in the audience knew all the lines by heart. When she delivered the "Fasten your seatbelts" line the place erupted... TLC memories: I once stumbled across airings of Kenneth Clarke's BBC series "Civilization" on The Learning Channel. I'm surprised I can remember back that far. Bravo is very different too, but I like some "Project Runway," so maybe it is hypocritical to complain, but I would like to see Sir Derek Jacobi's "Cyrano de Bergerac" again. Lisa de Moraes: Oh yeah, like that's gonna happen. No room for "Cyrano" when you're chasing 18- to 34-year-olds... Tyra...: I stopped watching her shows because her eyes gave me nightmares. I tend to watch TV in bed ... maybe that's the problem. Lisa de Moraes: Definitely the problem. I used to watch doctor dramas like "ER" and the "CSIs" at 10 p.m., but I couldn't sleep afterwards. That's why god gave us DVR. I now watch during the day, and have hours to try to forget the gore... Re" "Idol Comeback Season": They already had that show in 2005, and it was called "Hit Me Baby One More Time." They brought back Vanilla Ice, Cameo, Glass Tiger and Wang Chung, and it was awesome. washingtonpost.com: "Hit Me Baby One More Time" (Wikipedia) Lisa de Moraes: Sadly, you were in the minority... Falls Church, Va.: I was channel surfing and ran across an infomercial for colon cleansing. People were sitting there discussing how to make their (fecal matter) not stink. My jaw just dropped. Have you ever seen this? How could TV get any worse (or better, depending on your point of view)? Lisa de Moraes: How did I miss this?! When and where -- I need details... Washington: What happened with "Frasier"? Your "Family Ties" story made me recall that "Frasier" was meant to be about the conflict between a prissy shrink/talk show host and his retired, tough-guy dad ... but David Hyde Pierce made such a strong impression that the arc of the show shifted to focus in large part on Frasier and Niles. John Mahoney's Martin Crane was still a vital part of the show, but not as much of a one as was planned. Lisa de Moraes: Another good example. McLean, Va.: Pookie, are you old enough to remember Troll Dolls? If so, you must agree that Roboleta looks exactly like one. That smile, those blank eyes ... makes me throw up in my mouth a lil' bit. Lisa de Moraes: He reminds me more of Baby Elmo and Eddie Munster... Olney, Md.: My wife thinks David Archuleta is of the Jim Nabors school of singing: no obvious connection between the speaking and the singing voices. Lisa de Moraes: Great observation! Herndon, Va.: This was too late for Tuesday's discussion, but doesn't anyone on "Idol" know that "Proud Mary" is not Tina Turner's song? John Fogerty wrote it, and Creedence Clearwater Revival recorded the original version. Lisa de Moraes: All true, but Syesha was clearly doing the Tina Turner take on the tune. I'm back: Just when I was going to leave you after the "I loved Jack and Karen" comment, you come back with "Dark Victory." I'll stick around a little longer. Lisa de Moraes: Welcome back. Boulder, Colo.: I just read that Comedy Central is bringing back "The Gong Show." I'm sorry, but nothing can top the original. Why do they even bother? Lisa de Moraes: I'm guessing they believe 18- to 34-year-old guys do not realize "The Gong Show" is not a new concept. They may well be right. Hey!: Why did they give "Family Guy" guy so much money? Lisa de Moraes: I'm guessing it's because he will be producing three shows for the network -- "Family Guy," "American Dad!," and the new "Family Guy" spin-off "The Cleveland Show," and he's also the lead vocal talent on all three. And who knows, maybe Fox is hoping MacFarlane will bow out of that suit filed by 16 "Family Guy" writers against the studio regarding the DVD "Family Guy Presents Stewie Griffin: The Untold Story" -- just guessing. Washington: The ad where Tyra dances with lizards would be less creepy if she and the lizards were the same size. Lisa de Moraes: I just took the time to watch it again and, as I thought, it's not Tyra, it's Naomi Campbell. That said, I wouldn't want the ad to be less creepy or the lizards to be the same size. It's brilliant, just the way it is... Herndon, Va.: It would be nice if a contestant did it like Creedence. At least it would be something different. Lisa de Moraes: Are you being neo-ironic? Because if an Idolette did it, um, like Creedence Clearwater, then it would not be different. It would be like Creedence... Severna Park, Md.: TV used to be square, and now it's more rectangular. This is really messing with my head. Lisa de Moraes: But better for watching flicks... Bethesda, Md.: No Chuck Barris, no "Gong Show"! Idol Chat?: There was an "Idol" discussion? Oh no! How'd I miss that?! washingtonpost.com: Discussion Transcript: de Moraes on "Idol" (washingtonpost.com, May 7). The next "Idol"-specific discussion will be Wednesday, May 21. Lisa de Moraes: Sorry about that, but you still have one more chance... "How I Met Your Mother": Meanies ... I like Ted. And I don't think the show focuses at all on the gimmick -- pretty much every episode is enjoyable whether the story features the yellow umbrella or Barney and Robyn (woo-hoo!). Lisa de Moraes: Ted is very bland ... like cauliflower Anonymous: Pookie, when is "Damages" coming back to FX? Thanks. Lisa de Moraes: In theory, "Damages" is scheduled to go into production next month, with the next season scheduled to start in January '09 -- though a Screen Actors Guild strike (SAG's current contract with Hollywood studios expires June 30) could maybe change things... What the Scarnato?: Syesha is the last woman standing?! Who'da thunk it? Lisa de Moraes: Not me, certainly. If only Carly Smithson had discovered three-quarter-length sleeves earlier than Andrew Lloyd Webber week, and had convinced her husband to stay home, she'd be with us now. Heck, Alexandrea Lushington is a better singer than Syesha, and she didn't even make it to the top 12. "The Mole": So, I was watching "Lost" last night and saw and ad for the "Series Premier" of "The Mole." Does ABC think we're idiots with no memory? Even though it has been a few years since Anderson Cooper hosted a show of the same name with the same premise, I don't think the network is allowed to rewrite history, regardless of how low the ratings were for that history. Lisa de Moraes: Yes, it appears they think we're idiots. I think we should begin mailing them thousands of moles with notes attached to collars around their little necks, saying "Remember Anderson Cooper!" Summer TV: I know they killed "Side Order of Life" (grrrr), but what about "My Boys"? And the series version of "The Starter Wife"? I love fluffy girly scripted summer TV! Lisa de Moraes: "Starter Wife" is not back until October and "My Boys" is back June 12. Dexter: So, how did "Dexter" do for CBS overall, and in particular for the finale? Does CBS plan to show Season 2 as well? (I have Showtime and am looking forward to a fresh Season 3, but I enjoyed watching Season 1 again, and thought it made the leap to network pretty well, without too much chopping -- no pun intended.) Lisa de Moraes: Compared to how "Monk" and "Psych" are doing on Sundays on NBC, the "Dexter" run on CBS on Sundays was a brilliant success. Yes, CBS has done better in the time slot, but this was about filling a time slot when a strike had shut down production of CBS programming. It was this or reruns or another night of "Big Brother." Re: "Gong Show": You are (or claim to be) a Serious Student of Television. My question to you is, which of the 786 shows produced by Chuck Barris was the most horrible, no-good, un-edifying, sure-to-destroy-society show? I ask this as a fan. Lisa de Moraes: I'm thinking probably "The Game Game," though it's a very hard call. The shrink panel has to be the lamest game show concept ever. Am I the only person who doesn't think "Family Guy" is so great?: Hi, Lisa. Am I in the minority because I don't think that "Family Guy" is as great as some people think it is? Yes, they weave in several pop culture references every episode, but I liked "Futurama" better. More original and wittier than "The Simpsons." Why didn't FOX bring it back? Lisa de Moraes: Because young men -- the target audience here -- disagreed with you. Silver Spring, Md.: What, "The Gong Show" is not a new idea? Are you going to tell me that talent shows and primetime game shows aren't new either? You know what TV needs? I don't have time to watch cable news around the clock, why doesn't somebody have a 30-minute summary of national and world news before primetime starts? I guess I've got a lot of questions for somebody from Silver Spring. Lisa de Moraes: Pookie, you don't need to watch cable news around the clock, given that the networks are repeating themselves all day long. You can get your 30-minute summary of national and (a little) world news any time of day before primetime, when they turn into talk radio models. ... But heck, if you want to sit down at 6 or 6:30 p.m. to watch about 15 minutes of actual news, you go ahead and watch one of the broadcast networks. All I ask is that you watch CBS -- that poor Katie Couric needs all the viewers she can get... Of course Chuck Barris's shows were awful: He was busy being a CIA covert operative. Where have you people been? Lisa de Moraes: I'm hoping he was better at his day job than he was at his side job... Arlington, Va.: Hi Lisa. What long-running reality TV series will be the next one to get the axe? I'm thinking "The Bachelor," but is there another that is even more out of steam? Yes, MTV's "Real World" comes to mind, but given that it's on MTV, it will keep going -- nearly as many seasons as "MAS*H" already! How did that happen? Lisa de Moraes: That's easy. "ER" is finally, finally, finally, throwing in the towel next season, ending my long nightmare... Washington: Surprised no one has said anything about the biggest blunder in "Survivor" history last night -- that Erik gave up the immunity necklace only seconds before he got voted out. He calls himself a fan! Lisa de Moraes: Erik is a moron. Sorry I missed it. I had to watch NBC last night to see the "30 Rock" season finale and the "Scrubs" NBC finale ... will watch Survivor tonight for sure, to catch up... Bremerton, Wash.: How whacked out was last night's "30 Rock" with Matthew Broderick as a Bush administration flunkee? "We've studied that there is no leak." I've heard the Gay Bomb actually was developed at some point. Could we set one off between Simon and Randy and see what happens? Or maybe Tyra Banks and her models? Or the girls of "The View"? Lisa de Moraes: Matthew Broderick and Alec Baldwin are the perfect comedy duo -- who knew? They need to make Broderick a regular on this show. Surely they can make him the network's chief legal counsel or something. Head of marketing? Boulder, Colo.: Best Chuck Barris show ever: "The $1.98 Beauty Pageant." I loved that show as a kid. The winner got a bunch of carrots to hold while walking down the aisle ... that's pretty much all I remember. It was the '70s, after all. Lisa de Moraes: It's true, Barris's shows seem so much more interesting when medicated -- the viewer that is, not Barris... "Family Guy" and "Futurama": Thanks for the put-down, Lisa. I happen to be a mid-30s male. Guess that means that I'm too old to "get" "Family Guy," huh? Lisa de Moraes: Pookie, Pookie, Pookie. You are too sensitive -- which I like in an 18- to 34-year-old guy. Fox targets 18- to 34-year-old guys on Sunday night. The shows that get brought back are the ones that more 18- to 34-year-old guys are watching. "Futurama" was cancelled because the audience for the show was too small; 18- to 34-year-old guys preferred other shows Fox has offered on the night. I love 18- to 34-year-old guys ... except when they're watching "Jackass." Then they're pretty useless... Washington: What do you think of "Gossip Girl"? I am totally addicted to that show -- I can't wait for next week! I'm out of time. Bye. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Join live discussions from the Washington Post. 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http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/05/DI2008050501755.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/05/DI2008050501755.html	The 'Lost' Hour: Deconstructing 'Cabin Fever'	2008050919	Has "Lost" got you a mite confused and ready to hurl at the next mention of smoke monsters? Or do you have the fate of the Oceanic 6 and the Jack-Kate-Sawyer-Juliet love square all figured out? Who got Scooby Dooed this week? Are you a new viewer, adrift on an unfamiliar isle or an old hand ready to bare knuckle some quantum physics? In either case, we're here for you and armed with more mediocre puns and pop culture references than a hunky con man than you can shake a stick at and ready to explain exactly what it is that Cheech Marin and Bai Ling have to do with any of the above. Post.com "Lost" bloggers Liz Kelly and Jen Chaney will attempt to get to the bottom of these matters every Friday. Liz and Jen, both obsessive "Lost" fans, have been writing their weekly dueling analysis of the show since 2006. When not debating the merits of Sawyer's hotness, Liz Kelly writes the Celebritology blog and Jen Chaney acts as movies editrix and DVD columnist for washingtonpost.com. For episode analysis, discussion transcripts and more, visit washingtonpost.com's Lost Central. Liz Kelly: Welcome to this afternoon's "Lost" Hour -- which may be an apter name than usual, since I gather some folks are having a little trouble accessing today's chat. Hang in there. Jen and I may have led you down a dead end in the analysis posted earlier in Celebritology. We were convinced (at least early this morning) that Richard Alpert was Locke's actual daddy. But, luckily, some astute commenters chimed in to show us the wrongheadedness of that assumption. It's still open for debate, though, and I'm sure Jen has something to add. I brought it up because this is a perfect illustration of how this whole "Lost" watching experiment we do is an open process. Jen and I don't have all the answers and we learn as much from you as you can potentially learn from us. So, thanks for keeping us real. Now pass the candy bar. Jen Chaney: Yes, my memory may have been fuzzy on Swoosie Kurtz saying at some point that she wasn't really Locke's mom. I should say, however, that some posters on other Web sites have raised the same question: Is it possible Alpert could be Locke's dad? I am not an expert on kidney donation, so maybe someone can enlighten me, but I don't think it has to be a family member if there is an exact match, right? Again, could be totally wrong. I think the age thing is what's throwing me. If Emily was dating someone twice her age, then Cooper would have to be 30 years older than John. And he simply never looked that much older. Batmanuel, on the other hand, never ages so he would always look in the mid 30s range. Anyway, we'll let the debate continue. Chat begins now. Lost in Alexandria: Hey there, I think the biggest question from last night isn't how Locke is going to move the island, but came from the captain before he bit it, which was, "What's that on his arm?" Maybe something that keeps Keamy from feeling the effects of the island? Finally, Ben seems genuenly disturbed by the lost of Alex, not like I stole this child from some crazy french lady and raised her as my own, but like this is my gene pool, did we ever get the back story about Ben and Rousseau? Jen Chaney: That is a stellar observation. If you look at this screenshot, it kinda looks like Keamy is picking up XM satellite radio on his bicep. But your theory -- that somehow he has managed to stave off the effects of "island illness" with some special device -- makes a lot more sense. Again raising the question, who is helping Keamy? And who is this Keamy character, really? Liz Kelly: See, I thought it was some kind of explosive device. Which would explain why Keamy warned the captain not to shoot him by showing him the thing. As in "Don't shoot me, or we all go up in flames." Burke, Va.: I am just curious - was anyone else as upset as I was with Channel 7 for running those warnings throughout the entire show? It ruined the show for me. I appreciate concern for safety but when I checked neither Ch. 4 nor Ch.9 were running similar warnings. Plus, why the need to do it throughout the whole show? If they understood the Lost audience, they would realize most of us tune in from the start. It just seemed less about safety and more about Ch. 7 blowing its own horn about how on top of things they are while ruining the only show I watch religiously. If other people complain, could the Post kindly tell Ch. 7 to smarten up. Liz Kelly: Hi Burke -- I watched on HD and they only ran the tornado warnings over the commercials. Which I thought was nice. Arlington, Va.: So last night Christian said Aaron was "where he was supposed to be." Didn't that woman tell Claire she was supposed to raise Aaron, no one else? I think these conflicting viewpoints could be key to the story line. Jen Chaney: Thank you for bringing this up. Tthat choice of words -- "He is where he is supposed to be" -- has been used multiple times this season. Miles said it to Kate when he was being held hostage by Locke -- "I am exactly where I am supposed to be" -- and I believe Ben chose that same phrasing at some point, too. It suggests that destiny is playing a role in what's happening, or that the characters involved have some greater understanding of the big picture. In this particular instance, I thought Christian meant that Aaron is where he is supposed to be because the child must live. Claire -- and we didn't mention it in the blog, so we should certainly address this issue here -- is dead. Some suspected this earlier because it was hard to imagine how she could have survived the explosion. When Christian summoned her on the beach, it seemed to me that he was calling her to the other side, if you will. He had to pick up baby Aaron to entice her over, but left him behind because Aaron still has some living to do. Liz, am I blowing smoke (but not the smoke monster kind) or does this sound right? Liz Kelly: Nope, you're right on target here. And I was thinking about this whole notion of dead people returning to (seemingly) do Jacob's bidding... as I mentioned in the blog or somewhere, the dead -- Christian, Horace and now Claire -- seem to be Jacob's foot soldiers. But the living dead seem so wildly out of character (hence the freaky, leering Claire in the cabin last night) that it's reminiscent of Stephen King's "Pet Cemetery" -- where reanimated pets came back, but were a little off somehow. In fact, one could make the case that Eko's brother was also another one of Jacob's foot soldiers. This unfortunately raises some questions about Walt, too. Or I'm wildly wrong. Which isn't exactly out of the question. Jen Chaney: We may have been wildly wrong at least a couple of times today, so wouldn't be a first. I do think we're right at least about Claire being dead, though. That seems undeniable. Not Shlomo: Dear Lost Ladies, Now that it's become clear that Locke has long been intend to be the Island's salvation, what does that tells about the song and dance that has led up to this point over four seasons? If Locke is the chosen one, why didn't the Others capture him right off the bat? Why go after Claire and the children? Why torture Kate, Sawyer and Jack? Ben knew the plane's manifest, did Alpert? Wouldn't Alpert have made a bee-line to Locke now that his was finally on the Island? I like the direction Lost is going, but it brings into question a lot that has transpired so far over the years. Liz Kelly: Well, although LindeCuse have said in the past that they have had a clear idea of how the show would end from day one, they had no way of knowing if the show would survive long enough to see that conclusion or be able to reach it without stretching on and on just to satisfy advertisers. Now that they have an end-date in sight, they are free to optimize each remaining episode and get their original plan on track for wrap up sometime in 2010. But, come on, this is a TV show -- and we have to suspend disbelief just a little to scrape any enjoyment out of the experience. Jen Chaney: I am not convinced Locke really is the chosen one. He thinks he is but that may not turn out to be the case. I have to say, at the end of every season I feel like I have to rewatch the entire series again with that new info in mind, to make sure everything connects. This is such a complicated show to process, especially over the course of several years. Your questions are valid ones, for sure. There may be valid answers but I must admit I don't know what they are necessarily. Readers, chime in and help out a gal who only got four hours' sleep. Baltimore, Md.: Insane episode last night...Richard Alpert is a creeper. So in the beginning Emily Locke was going on a date with a man twice her age. I'm assuming she was 16 so he would be 32 or somewhere around there. Are we to assume that she was meeting to see John Locke's dad? From past episodes I didn't really notice a 16 year age difference between them both. Thoughts? Jen Chaney: I assumed she was meeting Richard Alpert, which is why I said in today's post that he must be Locke's real father. The fact that she got hit by a car -- not unlike Anthony Cooper and Juliet's ex, both in accidents that seemed to be "arranged" by the Mittelos/Others peeps -- further connected her back to Alpert in my mind. Jen Chaney: But as we established in the intro, I could be high on Jack's sleeping pills. Liz Kelly: Well, to come at this question wearing my Celebritology hat, I would totally prefer to hook up with Richard Alpert than Anthony Cooper. (No offense, Kevin Tighe). Jen Chaney: And there you have it, ladies and gentlemen. I think that solves this mystery once and for all. Midtown DC: Love Lost, love the Chat. Just like some of the Lost characters I feel like I'm having flashbacks. After the last 3 episodes my girl and I have the same conversation. Me: "Nothing happened. I'm getting tired of details, I want an actual answer to something big." GF: "You're crazy, we learned a lot." Where do you come down on this? Jen Chaney: Yes. Actually, I'm in the middle, leaning toward GF's side on this one. Generally, I think we are getting a lot more answers this season than last. And the episodes seem to be leading us somewhere. But there are times when I'm ready for a big reveal -- like last night, when I thoroughly expected to meet Jacob and realize he's Locke's doppelganger -- and then that doesn't happen. Is it fair to say you're both right? Liz Kelly: Jen, you're a born politician! I'm in the "we learned a lot" camp, so I was pretty satisfied, though I do feel like we got ripped off just a little with promises of a Jacob reveal only to see Christian Shepard yet again. But if it's action you're after, I think you might get some starting next week -- what with Keamy's aggressive return to the island and all. Salmon, Idaho: Hi ladies, Can you explain this: Alex was kidnapped by Ben 16 years ago. Horace has been dead for 12 years. Are we to believe that Work Man, Jr., brought an infant home to the barracks without raising any eyebrows? Where was little Alex (about 4 yrs old) when the Purge went down? Something doesn't add up, methinks. Liz Kelly: Okay, this is a good point. Alex was indeed four at the time of the purge. Which would lead me to believe that Ben didn't adopt her as an infant because -- as far as we know -- she wasn't around at purge time. Jen? Jen Chaney: Can we chalk this up to the Ben-lies-like-all-the-time-so-he-was-lying-about-when-she-was-adopted theory that's so popular with the kids these days? Liz Kelly: Okay, we'll go with the convenient "Ben's a liar liar pants on fire" out. Locke is not the ONE: I agree that Locke isn't the chosen one. I get the idea that Alpert et al. thought he may be but he proved them wrong again and again. Him failing the "Dalai Lama" test is just one example. He may have been a possibility, and a false messiah, but he has proven to not be the true savior. He is too selfish, violent, and afraid. Liz Kelly: Right -- he's pulled in two different directions. There's the forthright John who thinks he is the one and the real John, the one that creeps out and delights in killing chickens and gets a little power hungry from time to time. He's Salieri. The question is "Who is Amadeus?" Bad Locke: Locke and his knife. Alpert told him no, Abaddon told him yes. Locke walking into the cabin, with his knife, was straight from Empire Strikes Back when Luke walked into the cave, with his lightsaber, and met... His father. So, maybe Christian is the real daddy. Again. Liz Kelly: If so, that Christian Shepard is one virile guy. Although we have seen John get protective of Claire in the past, something tells me that wasn't motivated by sibling love. Jen Chaney: I think an intended "Empire" homage -- especially since there have been about 800 this season -- is not out of the question. But I also don't think it means Christian is Locke's dad. As for Locke's protectiveness of Claire, I feel like she subconsciously reminds him of his mother: A young girl, pregnant by accident, etc. And the young Emily looked a little like young Claire to me, too. Since Locke was abandoned by his mother as a baby, perhaps he feels a particular need to protect and nurture Aaron. Brooklyn, N.Y.: I love your analysis each week! Thanks for sorting out all of the theories of Lost. My head hurts a little from trying to figure it all out. I was thinking about your theory that Ben and Locke are brothers. I think I have to disagree. Emily Locke (played by Swoozie Kurtz), was actually not lying about being his mother. She just conned him to get his kidney so Anthony Cooper would give her money. http://www.lostpedia.com/wiki/Deus_Ex_Machina Doc Jenson suggests that Ben and Locke are just on similar paths, and maybe Ben took Locke's place until the Others were able to finally bring him to the island. Now that Locke is there and is discovering his destiny, Ben is no longer the leader. Thoughts? Jen Chaney: Doc Jensen is a smart man and he could very well be right. I just never trusted Cooper so I always maintained a seed of doubt -- be it logical or not -- that maybe he wasn't really Locke's father. And I clearly had a brain freeze this a.m. when I said Swoozie said she was lying. I must have thought she was lying but I don't think the character actually said that. It's been a long week, people. Liz Kelly: Seriously -- if Swoosie really is Locke's mom, it just seems odd that producers would choose to name Ben's mom "Emily," too. Unless Alpert & co. are scouring the earth for men with superhero complexes born to women named "Emily." Nova, Fairfax, Va.: I completely do not understand Claire. When did she die? Why would she give up Aaron? She was clearly a live person described in earlier seasons. What did I miss? Jen Chaney: Two schools of thought on this: One is that Claire died in the explosion and was a ghost of sorts in the scenes that followed with Miles and Sawyer. I, however, subscribe to school No. 2: Claire sustained a serious head injury after the explosion. She complained of a headache but insisted she was fine. But once they got to the beach, whatever cranial bleeding or what have you was happening got the best of her and she died. At that point, Christian came to her and asked his daughter to join him in Walking Dead Town. She obliged, but left Aaron behind because he still must live. And yes, she was alive in previous seasons. The scenario described above does not change that. Liz Kelly: I don't think they made it to the beach -- in fact, Sawyer was conspicuously absent in last night's episode. I can't believe we didn't even get a "we musta made a wrong turn at Albuquerque" moment. But I'm with Jen on the rest -- Claire is dead and probably died in her sleep or was somehow led to her death by the ghost of Christian Shepard. I hope, though, the producers keep her around as a recurring character. Jen Chaney: Liz is right, they camped on the jungle and not on the beach. I wish I was at the beach right now, though ... with Sawyer. Not so much Miles, though, much as I relish his sarcasm. Liz Kelly: Jen -- are you sure you wouldn't rather be at the beach with Duran Duran's John Taylor? Jen Chaney: Oh, that is so true, Miss Liz. So true. Bender again: Since someone stole my prior point -- Will Hillary join forces with Widmore to find the Island so that she can manipulate time and space to get the nomination? Jen Chaney: Great. Thanks for spoiling the game changer in the finale for everyone. Liz Kelly: Well, but what we still don't know is whether Hillary will be wearing a pantsuit or a skirt in that episode. The Chosen One: I don't think Alpert (who is as hot as ever!) still believes that Locke is The Chosen One. He had doubts when Locke was a kid, and maybe the Island is testing him. Liz Kelly: Right, Locke does not meet Alpert's chosen one criteria, but he's still serving a purpose in whatever game it is that Jacob is running. What is that game, though? We still don't know whether Jacob is a good or a malevolent force, so this could be going anywhere at this point. Jen Chaney: I think Alpert still has some belief in Locke, though. He was the one who convinced John that he shouldn't kill his dad in front of the Others, as Ben requested. So while Alpert may have doubts, I think he is rooting for Locke in a way. Bethesda: Hey Burke, just be glad that "Lost" is on channel 7. I watched "The Office" and "30 Rock" on channel 4's HD channel, and they not only bumped the picture from wide HD to normal TV, but cut out the sound entirely whenever the warning scroll ran! Channel 7's HD channel only changed the picture, but kept the sound. I don't mind having the weather warnings -- I'd be pretty grateful to know if something were heading toward Bethesda (though probably I'd find out 15 minutes too late, since I start watching on DVR at 10:15 or so to cut out the commercials). But they don't have to ruin the whole show! Jen Chaney: Sound cut out on "30 Rock" for me, too, also in Bethesda. I was on pins and needles during "Lost," though, just waiting for Doug Hill to interrupt right as they cut to Jacob for the first time. "You want to see Jacob, John? Well, here he..." "This just in from the Channel 7 Storm Alert/Center/Tracker/Super-Fighting Machine...." I love your chats/posts/crazy research...keep it up. After last night's episode, I kept thinking of 2 references: The M. Night Shyamalan movie Unbreakable and Seinfeld, the bizarro episode where Elaine encounters bizarro Jerry, George and Kramer. In comic books, every good must have an evil counterpart (as is the premise of Unbreakable, right?)...So while I see your brothers connection between Ben and Locke, I raise you the simple good vs. evil counterpart...and I'm not sure the answer is so clear. Also, from last week or the week before, it seems that Widmore may be Ben's constant and vice versa, no? This would be another explanation as to why they can't kill each other. Finally, Hurley. I believe Hurley (much like Australia) is the key to the whole game. And please let us know more detailed thoughts on Claire's appearance last night! Thanks again for your obsession! Liz Kelly: I like that -- but you have to wonder, who is good and who is evil? My first reaction would be to pin the evil tag on Ben, but if you think for a minute, John's done some pretty evil things in the hopes of getting his way, too -- pointing a gun at Hurley, killing Naomi, etc. I like to think of myself, by the way, as the Bizarro Jen. Jen Chaney: On the constant thing: Interesting idea. I am very unclear on the whole Widmore and Ben thing at this point. And Liz, that is so weird because I thought I was Bizarro Liz. (Actually, I might just be bizarro period.) I woke up with in the middle of the night with the following thought - if, in fact, some Others can travel off the island (Ben, Richard Alpert, Ethan and Mr. Friendly) why wouldn't Ben send Alex off the island once he knew that Windmore and his boat were coming for him/them? Do you think it was a leadership thing (kind of like FDR's son serving in WWII) or an island/time travel thing (Alex may not be one of the Others who CAN travel off the island). Jen Chaney: I love that I am not the only one who wakes up in the middle of night with thoughts of "Lost." I am inclined to believe your second theory. Alex was born on the island. And I still, as I have said before, believe anyone born on the island has some "issues," which is why I am concerned about young Aaron's fate. Ben would certainly know that and for that reason, might not want to send Alex off somewhere. Oh, sorry...That's "30 Rock" not "The Black Rock." My husband recently informed me that "Mittelos" is an anagram for "lost time." I think that's been discussed many times already, I just can't remember the details anymore. I'm so happy I found you guys and Doc Jensen, otherwise I'd have no clue what's going on because Season 1 and 2 stuff has left my memory! Thanks! Liz Kelly: We're happy you found us, too. What I'm not happy about is the neighbor's car alarm that has been going off for the past five minutes. Don't they know I'm doing important work in here?! Jen Chaney: That's just inconsiderate. Re: Mittelos and Lost Time. It has been discussed and LindeCuse, I believe, confirmed they intentionally came up w/ that name as an anagram. I wonder if, perhaps, anyone who works with the Mittelos team -- Abaddon, Richard, Ethan -- is someone who doesn't age. Hey, I just remembered something tangentially related. In one of the Lost mobisodes, Ethan tells Jack that he lost his wife in childbirth, which reminded me of Ben's mom Emily. I wonder if all of these life stories are overlapping in some way because of the space-time continuum, which is why sometimes we make connections between certain characters being related? Liz Kelly: First the car alarm, now this. My head is going to implode. Carroll, OH: This may have been discussed already but when Locke mentions moving the island could he be, to quote Doc Brown, speaking 4th dimensionally? Not moving it to a different locale, but to a different time? Liz Kelly: Right. He could. He could be talking about a different geographic location, a different time, a different plane of existence, a parallel world. Jen Chaney: I think that's right. I don't think Locke is going to load the island into a U-Haul and try to relocate. (Don't you hate it when your friends ask you to move an island? It's such a pain and all you usually get out of it is a free six-pack of Dharma beer.) And you mean Doc Jensen, right? Because Doc Brown makes a heck of a soda but I don't think he writes about "Lost." But if he does, I love him even more. Bailey's XRoads: I don't think that Richard could be Locke's Dad. In the very beginning, Locke's grandmother was telling her daughter she disapproved of her boyfriend, so theoretically knows who her boyfriend is. When Locke is born and Richard comes, though, the nurse asks "Is that the father?" and Locke's mom says "I have no idea who that is." She didn't say "No, I have no idea" so I guess conceivably she never met her daughter's baby Daddy, but it seems unlikely. Liz Kelly: True, that thought crossed my mind, too. But she could've been lying or not wanting to acknowledge that this man had any right to block her plans to get the kid adopted out. Raleigh, NC: From you picture of Keamy, are we to believe that while aboard the boat he had time to shave his pits but not his face. Last week Jack's chest was clean shaven after he'd been off the island for several years. What is it about the island that causes facial hair to grow but not chest/pit hair?! Liz Kelly: Another one of the island's unexplained enigmas. Another is the mystery of Desmond's disappearing shirt buttons. Jen Chaney: Keamy also has superb teeth. Desmond's shirt buttons disappearing is not a mystery. It's called working it, baby. Awwww, yeah. Liar Liar Land: How about this to explain Alex: Rousseau never really says who takes her. Only says, "they took her." The 'they' could have been Richard Alpert, et al, who then give her to Ben to raise once the purge has been carried out on the Dharma people. Jen Chaney: Very, very true. And that may be one of the reasons why Rousseau would get even more offended when Ben calls her his daughter. Hide the Island: I don't think Locke was lying when he said that Christian told him to move the island. John may be a lot of things, but he isn't good at being a creative, on-the-spot liar like Ben. Besides, what would be his fake, trying to move the island plan of attack? I think that was what they really told him, and that they gave him some clues or direction about how to accomplish that. It makes sense. Moving the island would close the hole in the compass bearing that lets people in and out. Which is why after they did it, Jack can't find the island ever again. Have we found all the hatches yet? Also, the recurring Horace wood-chopping was eerily twin peaks-esque. Cannot WAIT for next week! Jen Chaney: So many things about last night's ep were "Twin Peaks"-esque. That whole scene in the cabin is another example. To clarify: I don't think Locke was lying in a manipulative way, the way Ben does. I think he genuinely believes that he is supposed to move the island. But I wonder if he is interpreting the information Christian (or Jacob) shared with him in the wrong way. As we said this a.m., "How can I save the island?" may not have even been the right question to ask. Again, I could be totally wrong but I feel like whatever happens at the close of the season, it won't be a happy ending. Liz Kelly: I do like your idea, though, about the island move being the reason Jack can't get back. That makes total sense. In fact, it is reminiscent of 1983's fine sci-fi epic, "Krull," in which the bad guy's castle rose in a new location every morning. OK help, please! : All these people think this episode confirms Locke is in the coffin, but to me I would say is proves he's not. But why do they think it's confirmation of that?? And also - AWESOME AWESOME episode. Jen Chaney: Well, we are supposed to find out who is in the coffin before the season ends. But I don't know that this episode proves it's Locke. I'd have to hear the arguments in favor of Locke being in the coffin. I think one could easily make a counter-argument. Lost, IN: Logged on late so just tossing out a comment. Thanks for The Tick reference. Jen Chaney: You are welcome. Palo Alto, Calif.: How are the Losties going to feed 3-month-old Aaron until he gets back to civilization (presumably in a few days, given the promo for next week)? For that matter, what did Ben feed baby Alex, stolen when she was only a week old? Dharma formula? Why would Dharma need formula if their women can't conceive on the island? Inquiring minds want to know... Jen Chaney: What is this, Babycenter.com? I don't know what Aaron will be eating. I am doubtful there is formula on the island. And Hurley's candy bars are not a good substitute for breastmilk. Liz Kelly: I don't want to ever read "Hurley" and "breastmilk" in the same sentence again. Doc Brown: That was a Back to the Future reference, Jen. Some poor Lostie needs a nap! Jen Chaney: Oh, of course! And thank you for bringing it up, since it allows me to make the requisite, weekly flux capacitor reference. Sorry, my brain was not in a McFly place when I was reading that question. Washington, DC: Questions About Jacob: Liz, you said that Locke is still serving a purpose in whatever game Jacob is running. Actually, I don't think that we can assume that Jacob, whatever he/it turns out to be, is running things. Maybe, maybe not. Remember his desperate whispered plea to Locke last season: "Help me!" So........Jacob may actually be as much a victim as some of the other characters. It's just layers and layers, huh? Jen Chaney: It's entirely possible Jacob is an emperor with no clothes. He may not exist at all, I agree with that. He also could be Locke's doppelganger, as I continue to contend just because I like saying it. Liz Kelly: He could also be another entity locked in battle with a nemesis -- much like the Ben vs. Widmore set up, Jacob (or whatever Jacob represents) could be one supernatural force, but not the only one. Jack's appendicitis: Maybe there's no larger meaning to Jack getting sick. Maybe it's just a plot device to get him off the island. Assuming the Oceanic Six are the people Sayid takes off the island in the boat, there's no way Jack would've gone in the first load if he weren't sick. Liz Kelly: But Juliet took care of that little appendix problem for him and Jack actually seemed much better last night. Locke's Destiny: Didn't we learn a few seasons back (don't know which one, because I watched the first three seasons back-to-back on DVD) that John wasn't the chosen one? I seem to remember him sitting on a hill with Alpert, around the time he was supposed to sacrifice is dad to at the temple, and Alpert saying that they thought he was the "one" but now weren't so sure. Am I remembering wrong? Liz Kelly: No, you recall correctly. But maybe I'm just wary or over-analytical, because I trust nothing anyone on this show says -- especially the Others and time travelers like Alpert and Abaddon. I assumed that was another test for John -- see how he reacts when he's told he isn't the one. Which actually calls to mind another test John failed -- Ben asked him to kill his own father (Cooper). John wasn't able to, but did manipulate Sawyer into doing it. John just can't seem to make the right decisions. Emily in Rosslyn: Does this mean my son will be born with a superhero complex? Liz Kelly: Right. Start looking for a good therapist now. And ix-nay on the science camp. Jen Chaney: Also, please keep all knives and comic books away from him. Bristow, VA: I am also getting the impression that LindeCuse have decided to write a different show than the one that they started out to. I don't believe for a second, for example, that they had any notions of the whole Widmore/Ben dynamic at the beginning. Which means that there will likely be many, many elements from Seasons 1-3 that will never get resolved, both mysteries that won't get explained and actual events that no longer make any sense in light of new information. I guess we'll just have to enjoy the journey over these next two seasons, without expecting any comprehensive explanations. Liz Kelly: Right, though they get an A for effort so far in tying in as many strands as possible. Now if only they could figure out a plausible reason for that four-toed statue. (Or was it three-toed? Six?) Jen Chaney: They claim the statue will be explained at some point. I am still hopeful that we will, eventually, get a somewhat comprehensive explanation that will, of course, contain a few minor holes. Fairfax, Va.: No mention of young John's picture of a person being pummeled by a pillar of smoke, which Richard noticed on the wall? What do you think could be up with that? Jen Chaney: Ah, yes, that was interesting. It suggests that maybe Locke is a remote viewer of some sort, who can see the future on the island? Or that he has been there before? Liz, little help? Liz Kelly: The man is having visions, much like young Walt. Who may well be another of Richard Alpert's little projects. I'm still wondering if/when we're going to see Walt resurface. Jen, any intel from the LindeCuse team? Jen Chaney: I don't think anyone specifically asked about Walt during that conference call a few weeks ago. But that is a great point -- Locke and Walt have the same gift, tied together nicely by the fact that Lil' Locke was playing backgammon in that scene, something he and Walt used to do together. Liz Kelly: Re-watch last year's season finale. Jack goes to an ill-attended funeral for am mystery honoree. Jen Chaney: Causing much speculation in the blogosphere for several months, which will hopefully be resolved in the next few weeks. St. Petersburg, Fla.: Guys - well, I'm pretty sure I'm going straight to hell (or perhaps the island). After last night's episode, I've decided that I really like the character of Martin Keamy, not as a role model, of course, but as a really nasty plot element that propels the story forward in great big jumps. (That said, I was really amused by his inability last night to off Michael.) Anyway, you really couldn't get any further away from my single most favorite Lost character, Hurley. Consider me conflicted. Liz Kelly: Okay, and pit hair or not, Keamy's just hot. Jen Chaney: Keamy is weirdly hot. And scary. Washington DC: Please don't go all "Twin Peaks" on me. I won't be able to sleep for imagining a demented dancing dwarf on the Island. Dead Folks Walkin' is one thing; demented dwarves another. Jen Chaney: I can and will get all "Twin Peaks" on you. I like to do it whenever possible. Liz Kelly: Okay, just so long as you go all "Twin Peaks: Season 1" on us, and not "Twin Peaks: (I suck out loud) Season 2." Arlington, Va.: Why didn't John recognize Alpert when he saw him in season 3, when Alpert gave him that file on Sawyer? He should have recognized him. I don't care that he was so young when he first saw him. Also, when he was in high school, and the principal mentioned the school and Alpert's name, John had a weird look in his eye when that name was mentioned. Did anyone else wonder why John didn't recognize Alpert? Jen Chaney: I chalk this up to a. Locke not remembering Alpert on the island or b. the writers not having formulated the full backstory on Locke and Alpert. Liz Kelly: And remember, Locke has been through a lot in the intervening years -- having his (alleged) dad steal his kidney and push him out of a window, dating the chick from "Married With Children," going on his walkabout and surviving a plane crash. I'll forgive him the little memory lapse. He spent, what, probably no more than 6 minutes total in Alpert's company when he was a small boy? Jen Chaney: But it is true that the high school Locke seems to vaguely remember Mittelos. But I guess there was les time in between the visit as a 9-year-old and high school. Ottawa, Canada: What happened to the notion that if Charlie succeeded and drowned in the Looking Glass, Aaron AND Claire would get in to a rescue helicopter? Because if Claire's dead, that would mean dear Charlie died for no reason. Jen Chaney: Well, it would mean Charlie willingly died for something that didn't happen. But did he die for no reason at all if Claire is dead? That remains to be seen. Aaron at least managed to get off the island. But as I said before, I don't know if that is a good thing. Manassas, Va.: What are your theories on the phone that the helicopter pilot dropped? Are they supposed to follow it, or use it to track Kreamy and company and stay away? Liz Kelly: My guess is that Jack and the rest of the Losties will figure out soon enough that Keamy and his crew are hostile and that they can keep track of where Keamy is using the GPS. But I do have a bad feeling about Jeff Fahey. Kindness of his kind is usually rewarded with death. Jen Chaney: Interesting question since we don't know who dropped the pack. We assume it's Lapidus but it's possible, theoretically, that Keamy discovered it and threw it down to the Losties as a ruse. I also can't even remember "Back to the Future" references today, so I could be full of beans. Boulder, CO: Have you ever considered Christian might actually BE Jacob? Jen Chaney: I have considered it. And I think it's possible. With Jacob, anything is possible. He could well be Cheech Marin. Liz Kelly: Okay, that's it for today's show. Lots of questions remain and, as ever, some new ones have got us stumped. See you back here next week. Jen Chaney: Yes, thanks, as always, for raising good points, questioning our logic and, occasionally, making us laugh. We'll see you back here next week when we'll undoubtedly have even more "Lost" leftovers to chew on. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Join Liz Kelly and Jen Chaney, both obsessive Lost fans, as they try to get to the bottom of the show's mysteries. Bring them your questions, comments and theories (no matter how far-fetched) about just what the heck is going on.	160.72549	0.960784	2.176471	high	high	mixed
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/08/DI2008050802749.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/08/DI2008050802749.html	U.S. Women's Soccer	2008050919	Reilly has played 85 times for the USA, scoring 19 goals. This year she has started 12 of the USA's 13 games and played in all of them, scoring four goals with four assists. She was named MVP of the Four Nations Tournament in China last January. She was a starter at the 2007 FIFA Women's World Cup in China, where she scored twice, including a big goal against North Korea in the opening game 2-2 tie. She is considered by many as perhaps the U.S.'s fastest player. After playing forward for all of her youth and full National Team career, this year she is playing right midfield and doing very well. She has four goals and four assists so far this year. washingtonpost.com: Heather will be with us shortly. She's wrapping up a shopping trip. Leesburg, Va.: What's the biggest change in the team that you've seen with the coaching change since the World Cup? Heather O'Reilly: I think the biggest change is a completely different style of play. Pia is trying to instill a much more possession-oriented game. So I think that we're still in our journey of developing what we want to play and what we'll look like in August. Piney O: In the early part of your playing career when you first got to Carolina there was the American public's tradition of trying to match every young athlete as the next so and so...in your case it was Mia Hamm, did you feel pressure from those types of expectations? Heather O'Reilly: I think I tried to keep my head above water and when I heard comparisons like that I just kind of shook it off. What Mia did for the game will never be done again. I'm just trying to be the best me I can be. I have enough trouble with that already. Bowie, Md.: Heather -- what do YOU see are some of the differences between the men's and women's game. During the World Cup disaster -- the media kept saying how much the women's team needs to like each other. As someone who has played sports -- I could care less if I like who is next to me as long as they get the job done. Do you have to like the person you play with to do well? Heather O'Reilly: In men's or women's sports team chemistry is crucial for success. I think that both men's and women's ... you have to feel like you're supporting your teammates and they're supporting you. Washington, D.C.: You played for one of the most competitive soccer clubs, PDA. How did their training and coaching help you get to where you are today? Any influential coaches while you were there? Heather O'Reilly: Absolutely. I can talk a long time about my soccer club PDA. They just provided the most competitive environment in critical years of my soccer development. I can thank Charlie Naimo and Mike O'Neill especially for developing me as a player. Burke, Va.: OK Heather, I am going to ask the tough question. How would you have handled the 'Hope Solo' keeper fiasco at the last World Cup? Heather O'Reilly: I think all that I want to say about that is that things were handled as a team last year. There's really no point in looking back. This whole year has been about moving forward and looking to the Olympics. Potomac, Md.: Do you feel that you have more freedom to play creatively under Coach Sundhage than under the former coach? Heather O'Reilly: I think that under Pia I'm playing a new position; I'm playing right midfielder and not forward -- so my role is quite a bit different from last year. But at the same time the play is much less direct. So all of us have a bit more play-making responsibility. Park City, Utah How does it feel to be playing without Kristine Lilly and with so many new names? Heather O'Reilly: We miss Kristin a lot and I know she misses us as well but is looking forward to having her fist baby but I think the tradition of this team is so strong that personalities can change and players can change but the core of the national will always stay the same with a very high standard. Annandale, Va.: What is your favorite tournament to participate in each year? Heather O'Reilly: My favorite tournament to play in ... the 2004 Olympic Games were very exciting for me and hopefully they'll be okay for me this summer. Overall, the Olympic Games. Philadelphia, Pa.: Heather -- Good Luck against Canada -- make syrup out of them! The question I have is what happened at the World Cup? Which upset the team more in the form of chemistry -- the coach's decision or Hope's response? Also -- is there a clean slate now with Hope and the rest of the team. GO USA Heather O'Reilly: We as players just play. Coaches decisions are going to be made and we as players need to have positive responses to that. Things have definitely moved forward and that seems like a long time ago. Pacifica, Calif.: What an exciting game your team had against Australia recently. Congratulations. Is the team moving toward a more attacking style or is the great motivation to succeed and sense of urgency make it appear that way? Also, as a coach of U10 girls I am interested in what you think is the best way to relate to young girls/women. Anson Dorrance, your excellent coach at UNC, stresses the importance of having a good one-on-one relationship with his players -- a more personal approach than he would probably use with boys/men. Do you think this difference in philosophy is or was helpful in your situation? Heather O'Reilly: I think it's fair to say that our attack now is a more team oriented attack and instead of just sending the ball forward and having only a couple attackers, the team is moving up as a unit. At any age you need to find what's gonna make your players tick. Anson is always looking for ways to get the best out his players and what motivates them individually. In order to do that you really need to know your players. Arlington, Va.: Heather -- Do you know why Brazil was not given a top seed for the draw, so that we now have Brazil and Germany in the same Group? From what I have seen, the USA got an excellent draw. Heather O'Reilly: I don't really know how they do the drawing but I do know that Brazil doesn't play that many games so it's hard to rank them internationally. Aldie, Va.: The officiating at the World Cup was uneven at best. Do you believe that the Olympics (and the World Cup) should use the best refs in the World, even if that means using refs from the men's leagues? Heather O'Reilly: As unfair as we feel that refs are at times. FIFA says they are providing the best refs out there. So at a point we have to forget the officiating. Falls Church, Va.: What is your favorite thing to do on your days off? Heather O'Reilly: Hmm. When we have time off, I'm spending a lot of it with my boyfriend Dave in New York City. We like to do a lot of New York City things, like try new restaurants, go to plays and museums. The shopping's not bad either. Washington, D.C.: So how are you all going to do against Canada Saturday at RFK? Heather O'Reilly: I think we're gonna win. I think we outplayed them in a qualifying tournament and came away with tie. But this time around, hopefully we'll finish better. Alexandria, Va.: There are always very high expectations for the US women's soccer team -- along the lines of the Yankees, Patriots (lately), Lakers, etc. For new players coming onto the team, is it hard to get used to that? Heather O'Reilly: I don't think it's very hard because for most of use we've been on very successful college teams so we're accustomed bo being held to a high standard. Alexandria, Va.: How did it feel to have your UNC jersey retired earlier this year? Heather O'Reilly: It was a thrill. UNC is known for such a great tradition of athletics and it's really special to be put in the books forever, retired forever. UNC is definitely a very special place to me. Arlington, Va.: Just to follow-up, I would have thought that the two finalists from the World Cup would have gotten the top seeds for the draw. Anyway, I see you first game against Norway will be on at 7:45 a.m. here on the East Coast on August 6. I'll be watching. Also, what other teams will you be playing friendlies against in the lead-up to the Games? Heather O'Reilly: We have two friendly matches against Brazil later in the summer. Re: Brazil not playing that many games...: There was some speculation after the World Cup that Brazil was a hard team to prepare for because they don't play a lot of games between competitions and therefore are difficult to scout and prep for. The U.S. on the other hand plays many games throughout the year and perhaps teams were well aware of and prepared for your style of play. First, have people "figured out" the US style? Second, is there a more delicate balance that could be struck to keep the opposition off guard between competitions? Heather O'Reilly: I think that's a great question. I think that our view is that the more games will be the better because we'll be the best "us" that we can be. And when we reach our potential nobody can stop us come Olympics time. Washington, D.C.: Congrats on getting MVP at the Four Nations. I love watching the new style of attack the team is utilizing because the goals can come from anywhere on the field. What is your most memorable goal for the National Team? Heather O'Reilly: The most recent goal that we scored by Angela Hucles in extra time for the win against Australia. It was a beautiful goal. Heather O'Reilly: We're very excited for our game against Canada tomorrow, Hope to see you out there to watch, hopefully, the progress in our preparation for the Olympic Games. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Women's soccer team forward Heather O'Reilly discusses Saturday's exhibition game against Canada at RFK Stadium and what's in store for the Beijing Olympics in August.	72.275862	0.827586	1.931034	high	medium	mixed
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202121.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202121.html	Real Wheels - washingtonpost.com	2008050919	Brown test drives all types of cars, from luxury sedans to the newest minivans and hybrids. His On Wheels auto reviews are lively, detailed accounts of cars' good and bad qualities. Brown's Car Culture column addresses the social, political and economic trends of the industry. Brown comes online Fridays at 11 a.m. ET to answer your questions on every aspect of the automotive industry -- from buying your dream car to the future of the internal combustion engine. Bethesda, Md.: Warren, Acura RDX vs. Infiniti EX vs. BMW x3? Warren Brown: Good morning, Bethesda: If you want to spend $31k+, the Infiniti EX35 is a good way to do it. Exceptionally well-styled and very pleasant ride and handling. Looks and feels better than the RDX. And it's more practical for daily hauling than the BMW X3. Washington, D.C.: Have you driven the new Subaru Forrester yet? If so what are your thoughts? How does it compare to the Honda CR-V? Warren Brown: We've driven the 2009 Subaru Forester. But we tested only one in what is an 11-model/trim level vehicle line. Ours was the premium. We appreciated the sensible styling and superior (to the CR-V) utility. Eastern Market, D.C.: I would like to get a new car. I would prefer a wagon, crossover or car with ample cargo space. I don't care much about looks, but I do want one that gets good gas mileage, is well made, and is safe. Also, I heard VW is coming out with a Jetta wagon that runs on diesel. I'm interested, but have two questions about it: 1. How hard will it be to find diesel in the D.C. area? and 2. Has VW improved its quality of late? I used to have a Golf in the early '90s. It was a fun car, but it was built with about the same quality as the Transformers my son plays with. Thanks. Warren Brown: Hello, Eastern Market: I just hit the wrong button and shipped my answer on the Subaru Forester earlier than intended. We were impressed with the utility of the Premium trim model we drove recently. All of the new Foresters come with a 2.5-liter, 170-hp, flat four (horizontally opposed) cylinders. We though there was reasonable power there. But we wouldn't be surprised if others disagreed. It's all-wheel-drive, as is the case with all Subaru models, which means it is not as fuel-efficient as you might think. But it certainly can meet your needs quite well. Extremely reliable and very well built. I take it that, on the diesel question, you are referring to the excellent Jetta TDI. If you can get one, buy it. VW overall quality much improved. And VW/Audi finally have gotten around to fixing their repair bays. Diesel availability? Google "diesel stations, D.C. and area." How do you feel about the Volvo S40 base model? Is there something comparable, in terms of styling/size, and luxury? I just wish the Volvo didn't take mid grade fuel and got a little better gas mileage. I want the car (I don't necessarily need the car) but I also feel that I should use my pocketbook in a smarter fashion. Warren Brown: Yes, Falls Church. Trust me, you are much better off buying the excellent new Toyota Corolla in that segment. Displacement, wheelbase, et cetera are reasonably comparable. But the Corolla beats it in fuel efficiency and overall costs. And the new Corolla appears to be as bullet-proof as its predecessors. I'm looking for a new car, and my first priority is gas mileage, since fuel is getting so expensive. But a close second is the car's fun/sexy factor. No sunroof makes the Prius a dealbreaker for me. I'm thinking of a MINI cooper, but I can't find your review; have you reviewed it? Is there another cool fuel-saver that you recommend? Thanks very much. I reviewed and bought the 2002 Mini Cooper. And my producer has that review at the ready. We've only had one annoying problem with our Mini, which we still own and refuse to abandon. There is an annoying rattle emanating from the front of the sunroof. No one seems capable of fixing that. I recently drove the Mini Cooper Clubman and loved it. It's a wagon, probably not what you're looking for at this point. But it's well made, cleverly designed. The base Mini Cooper coupes are now approaching bullet-proof reliability. You should get at least 33 mpg hwy. The bummer is that our model strictly requires premium. I think that applies to newer models as well. Another fun fuel sipper, truly reliable and well made -- the legendary Mazda3. washingtonpost.com: Here's Warren's review of the 2002 Mini Cooper. Oak Hill: Recently we had the opportunity to rent a Toyota Prius. I'd never considered buying one but I might now because I found the car fun to drive. It could have been the unique experience, but I found it to be spacious and much more responsive, getting on the Interstate, for example. I'd consider buying this not for its MPG -- I'm not one to buy because it is a hybrid, etc. -- but based on this experience. I drove this more than any other car before purchasing. Any problems or issues you are aware of other than possible battery replacement/disposal, etc. Has there been any data on reliability? Can independent mechanics repair/service? Sorry for the series of questions but I was really impressed with the performance and drivability. Warren Brown: Hello, Oak Hill: The Prius, so far, has proved quite reliable, based on testimony from a bevy of Prius owners. But don't be surprised if your mileage is lower than Toyota and some owners claim. Based on my extensive experience with the car, there is a lot of exaggeration on the mileage issue. Future problems? Yes. But on this one, I've abandoned my habit of allowing the perfect to be the enemy of the good. Current Prius battery packs are nickel-metal hydride. They should become obsolete in five years or so. When that happens, and it will, Prius resale value will drop, too. Battery disposal is another problem. Remaining battery life at time of resale most certainly will lower resale price. Treat a Prius purchase the way you would the purchase of a laptop, which becomes obsolete almost as soon as you take it from the store. Buy it and use it until it can't effectively be used anymore. Clifton, Va.: What are the greens and anti-SUV crowd going to do when GM, Ford Mercedes and BMW come out with diesel hybrid SUVs that get 30 to 38 mpg? This also means large pick-ups can get the same mileage! I think you and Ria need to test new Porsche GT2 and the Aston Martin DBS. DBS is your type of car, Sir. Brown, Warren Brown. Warren Brown: What's up, Clifton? GM and Daimler, as you know, already have produced a dual-mode hybrid that substantially increases the fuel-efficiency of big rides, such as the Tahoe. Those two companies, as well as others, are working on advanced diesel engines and diesel-electric hybrids. GM has something else up its technological sleeves, the Homogenous Compression Combustion Ignition engine, or HCCI. Think of it as efficient diesel technology applied to a gasoline engine up to a point (55 miles per hour in the current case) where Spark Ignition (SI) technology takes over. We tested a prototype last week in Saturn Aura dress. Improved fuel efficiency over tradition internal combustion engine technology was 15 percent. There's other stuff, much of it, out there. I suppose the greens are going to have to figure out if they are more interested in viable solutions than they are in raising funds through polemics. Washington, D.C.: Is the MazdaSpeed 3 worth the extra money? Warren Brown: Is Picasso worth the extra money? Rembrandt? Beauty here is very much in the eyes of the beholder. If you want and love speed and performance in a package that is reasonably affordable, you'll pay the extra money for a MazdaSpeed3. Lewiston, N.Y.:"All of the new Foresters come with a 2.5-liter, 170-hp, flat four (horizontally opposed) cylinders." Wrong -- the two top models, the 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited, come with a 2.5 liter turbo boxer, with 224 hp and 226 lb/ft of torque - this should allay the concerns of anyone who doesn't think it's powerful enough. Warren Brown: You are right, Lewiston. I stand corrected. I forgot about those turbos. Top hp is 224, as you said. Many thanks. A few years ago, Ford released a new "Bronco Concept." Do you know what is happening with this concept? Will we see a new Bronco anytime? Also, does the new Subaru Forrester have any off-road capability? Thanks. I was surprised, three years ago, I think, when Ford had the temerity to unveil at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit a concept with the "Bronco" moniker. That name is synonymous to "lawsuit" and "rollover." Given the current environment of a down economy and high fuel prices, I doubt that Ford would trot out a new vehicle with a name that carries a lot of negative baggage. But, I've been wrong before... The Forester is good for snow, slush, rain. It is nobody's rough-and-tumble off-road vehicle. Richmond Hill, Ga.: This is more a question/comment/rant on car buying than on cars themselves. A couple of weeks ago I had to buy a new car. The old Sable with 160K miles needed some major repairs and it wasn't worth putting the money into it any more. So I did my research on the Internet, narrowed my search down to three small cars, got comparison features and prices, and went shopping. In two of the dealerships they were only interested in selling me the cars they had on their lots -- loaded with options I didn't want -- rather than the car I wanted. When I asked for the full price of the car, they would only give me the per month payment for a 5- or 6-year loan with a minimum down payment. I finally walked out of the Nissan dealership when the salesman would only reply to any question by saying, "What can I do to make you buy this car now?" I finally bought a Honda Fit, which I do like very much, because the dealership said that though it didn't have exactly what I wanted, it could get it within a few days and would give me a loaner car in the meantime. They also gave me the full price when I first asked and reduced it when I showed them the comparison prices I had gotten from the Internet. But in this Internet era, why do car dealers still try to pressure knowledgeable consumers into buying what they don't want at inflated prices? I'm posting this for all of those executives at the National Automobile Dealers Association who keep telling me that dealers no longer engage in such stupidity. Clifton, Va.: What are the greens and anti-SUV crowd going to do when GM, Ford Mercedes and BMW come out with diesel hybrid SUVs that get 30 to 38 mpg?: Umm, be happy that the producers are responding to the science of global warming? Although I still find it crazy to see a mom and one kid in a Yukon. As a Rob Riggle on the Daily Show says, just because there isn't a mountain in between my home and my kid's school doesn't mean I don't need a Hummer. Warren Brown: You're whacked, Clifton. You mentioned the Subaru Forrester earlier, but how does it compare to the Subaru Tribeca? The Tribeca seems to be a Forrester on steroids (and a bulked up price tag). How do these 2 cars compare? Thanks a lot for the great columns and the chats. The Tribeca starts at $30,000, about $10K more than the Forester. It seats more people, seven versus five for the Foester. It has a longer wheelbase and a bigger engine -- a flat 3.5-liter six at about 256 hp, I think. Oh, and it has a much uglier rear end. Crystal City, Va.: Comfort (I'm 6'2"), reliability, good acceleration and resale value are important factors for me when deciding on a car. I am considering Cadillac CTS, or similar BMW and Mercedes models. Which one would have the above factors for me? Warren Brown: All. Seriously. Nobody really slouches on quality and reliability anymore. San Francisco: The days of cheap gas are over ($4.00+ here!). It also appears ethanol is not the solution to the high cost of driving. Which kind of fuel-efficient vehicles will deliver the best value over the next few years? Hybrids, diesels, electrics, some combination or something we haven't even heard about? Cheap gas is gone. Ethanol NEVER was meant to be the solution. But ethanol will remain one of many parts to the solution. It can be obtained from a variety of non-food sources. We will see a mix of vehicles -- hybrids of all sorts, electrics, natural gas, advanced diesel, biodiesel. Despite what some of my media colleagues suggest, or what vote-hustling politicians would have you believe, there is not now, nor will their ever be a silver bullet to take care of our energy needs. The laws of thermodynamics control that. We're in the crux of a necessary, major change in how we relate to fuel and automobiles. Despite what any glad-mouthing politician claims, there will be pain. What is the most economical car that you can recommend that would have room for three child seats? Thanks so much. Warren Brown: A Hyundai minivan. Seriously. Okay, folks. That's it. Thanks for joing us today. Thanks, Amy. Eat lunch, Ria. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	The Post's Warren Brown answers your questions about every aspect of the automotive industry.	179.8125	0.875	3	high	medium	mixed
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050802977.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050802977.html	A Net Loss For Washington	2008050919	Kolzig's only regret, he said over lunch, is that his tenure did not end the way he always had envisioned it: with him hoisting the Stanley Cup and skating around the ice at Verizon Center. Instead, his Capitals career came to an abrupt conclusion April 22, when the free-agent-to-be watched from the bench as the Philadelphia Flyers vanquished Washington in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals. "For me, it was disappointing the way it ended," said Kolzig, who led the Capitals to their only Stanley Cup finals appearance in 1998. "It's unfortunate, because they have a good team here now. It's a fantastic team, fantastic group of guys. Not to be a part of that is going to be tough, especially after 17 years and three years of what we went through post-lockout." After a long pause, he added: "It just doesn't feel right. But at the same time, as an athlete, you have to know when to move on." Kolzig, Washington's longest-tenured professional athlete and a fan favorite, knew that the time had come after Game 4 against the Flyers, who won in double overtime to take a 3-1 series lead. He was hopeful Coach Bruce Boudreau might turn to him. But the night before Game 5, goaltending coach Dave Prior told Kolzig that the coaching staff had decided trade-deadline acquisition Cristobal Huet would make his 12th consecutive start. Prior told him that switching net-minders had not been discussed, Kolzig said. "When you're down three games to one in the playoffs, I felt like it was an opportunity for me to get in there with the experience I have," said Kolzig, who is tied for 22nd on the NHL's career victories list with 301. "Our backs were against the wall, but it didn't happen. I said to myself: 'My time here in Washington has passed. They've chosen to go in a different direction, and this was the exclamation point on it.' " After the Game 7 loss in Washington, Kolzig removed his nameplate from his locker stall and skipped a team meeting the following morning. He said he plans to frame the nameplate with a jersey. "In my mind, there wasn't anything hateful," Kolzig said of removing his nameplate. "I wasn't there for the meeting because I didn't want to have to face the media. I wanted to avoid [reporters] as long as I could. It got blown out of proportion. "I realized that Game 7 was my last game as a Cap. That night was a very emotional time for me. I was one of the last guys to leave. It sucked that I wasn't playing, but I wanted us to go as far as we could. In the back of my mind, I thought that it's ironic, I'm not playing, but this could be our time to win a Cup. And in a weird way, this is how I get my ring, especially the way we were coming back. So I was even more disappointed when we lost Game 7, knowing that was going to be my last game." The season had begun like the previous nine: with Kolzig, the 2000 Vezina Trophy winner as the league's best goaltender, entrenched as the Capitals' starter. But Kolzig's dominant performances became less frequent as the season wore on. So as the Capitals attempted to battle back from their worst start in 26 years, General Manager George McPhee traded for Huet, sending a second-round draft pick in 2009 to the Montreal Canadiens for the 2006-07 all-star. At first, Boudreau split playing time between Huet and Kolzig. But Kolzig did not start another game after a 5-0 loss in Chicago on March 19, his 711th game as a Capital. Huet started the final seven regular season contests, winning them all to help the Capitals clinch the Southeast Division title -- and their first playoff berth in five years -- on the final day of the regular season. When Kolzig sat down on the team bus after the loss in Chicago, he had a sinking feeling.	Olie Kolzig, the Capitals goaltender through some of the best and worst moments in the team's history, confirms that he has played his final game for the franchise that drafted him in 1989.	22.324324	0.756757	1.081081	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050803083.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050803083.html	Grunfeld Aims to Keep Arenas, Jamison	2008050919	Grunfeld put a positive spin on Arenas's statement, via his blog, that he won't return unless the Wizards retain Jamison, who is an unrestricted free agent. "It's good because we're on the same page, because we want to sign Antawn and we want to sign Gilbert," Grunfeld said. "I kind of like that he's supportive of his teammate, he's supportive of Antawn and that's been our plan all along. So, I'm glad to see everybody in the organization on the same page." Teams can begin negotiating with free agents on July 1. Arenas, who has said that he plans to opt out of the final year of his contract in order to become an unrestricted free agent, has until that day to file the necessary paperwork with the league. Jamison and Arenas have said that they would like to return, and Arenas has repeatedly expressed a desire to see Jamison taken care of first. On March 30, Arenas went so far as to suggest that he'd take less money if it would ensure Jamison's return. Jamison earned $16.3 million this season, the final year of his deal. Arenas made $11.9 million this season and could earn $12.8 million next season if he does not opt out. If Grunfeld is successful in retaining Arenas and Jamison, the Wizards could look very much like the team that has made the playoffs four consecutive seasons but has been eliminated by the Cleveland Cavaliers for the last three. Guard Roger Mason Jr., the team's only other free agent, could sign for more elsewhere. And the Wizards might be looking to free up more playing time for Nick Young, who averaged 7.5 points in 15.4 minutes while showing flashes of being a big-time scoring threat as a rookie. The team holds the 18th and 48th picks in the June 26 NBA draft. Grunfeld said he is open to adding a player with the first-round pick but also will consider packaging the pick if a good trade opportunity presents itself. Grunfeld said he understands the frustration felt by some Wizards fans who want him to make drastic changes but believes the team can be competitive in the playoffs if key players such as Arenas, Jamison and Caron Butler stay healthy. Arenas and Butler missed the team's 2007 first-round playoff loss to Cleveland; and this season, Arenas's knee injury limited him to 17 games, including the playoffs, while Butler missed 24 games with hip, ankle, wrist and knee injuries. Grunfeld said he has not considered breaking up the team's current group of core players and starting over. "From my standpoint, no," Grunfeld said. "This team has shown that it can be one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference when we have all of our pieces together. I think the team has grown. I think our young players have improved. Brendan Haywood had an outstanding year, the bench is much deeper and better than it has been in the past and I would like to see how we can do with all three players [Arenas, Jamison and Butler] playing for a significant amount of time. Very few teams in the league can put three legitimate all-stars out there." Grunfeld also touched on a number of other subjects: Â· When asked if he considered making a coaching change, his answer was an emphatic "No." "The coaches did a very good job for us under tough situations and kept us afloat," Grunfeld said. "I think that if you would have said that our leading scorer was going to be out for as long as he was, I don't think most people would have said that our record would be what it was and we'd have the fifth seed, so I think our coaches did a very nice job for us." Â· Center Etan Thomas, who missed the entire season following open-heart surgery, is expected to return at full speed by the opening of training camp. Â· He has no firm mandate from team owner Abe Pollin to remain under the luxury tax threshold, which was $67.9 million this season. Teams that go over the threshold must pay a dollar-for-dollar tax. Following the season, that money is pooled and split among the teams that remained under the threshold. Because of this season's rash of injuries, Jordan was forced to run some practices with seven or eight healthy players. "That's going to be determined by how much it costs to sign everybody," Grunfeld said.	In his annual postseason news conference, Wizards President Ernie Grunfeld said his summer priorities are to retain all-stars Gilbert Arenas and Antawn Jamison.	32.925926	0.703704	1.074074	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050803319.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050803319.html	Pentagon Is Open to Moving More Marines to Afghanistan	2008050919	Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and Adm. Michael G. Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said that the proposal by the Marine Corps commandant, Gen. James Conway, to focus his force on Afghanistan -- which they rejected late last year -- could be reconsidered. "Should we be in a position to move forces into Afghanistan, I think that certainly would come back into consideration," Mullen said at a Pentagon briefing. He said that he understands it is challenging for the Marines to have "a foot in both countries" and that Conway seeks to "optimize the forces that he has," but stressed that any shift is likely to occur "down the road." Gates said he agrees that the Marine Corps shift is "a possibility" for next year. He explained that when he earlier said the change "wouldn't happen on my watch," that was not an unchangeable policy decision -- he meant it would not unfold until 2009, when he plans to step down. Gates said that the Pentagon is still looking at options to increase U.S. troop levels in Afghanistan in 2009, but that there is no plan to extend the seven-month deployment of about 3,200 Marines dispatched there this spring. "I'd be loath to" extend the Marines beyond November, when they are scheduled to leave Afghanistan, he said. A senior military official said this week that after a "vigorous debate," Mullen, Conway and other members of the Joint Chiefs recently hammered out their priorities for employing stretched U.S. ground forces: first, Iraq; next, Afghanistan; and finally, bringing troops home to increase the amount of time they have in the United States to train and recuperate. Long, 15-month deployments and troop increases in Iraq and Afghanistan have severely stretched the Army and Marine Corps. That has led to more soldiers under "stop-loss," which means they are required to stay in service beyond their contractual departure date. As of the end of March, the number of active-duty, National Guard and reserve soldiers on stop-loss had risen to 12,100, Army officials said. Gates asked the Army last year to minimize the number of soldiers on stop-loss, and said yesterday he is "troubled" by the trend, detailed for him in a briefing yesterday by Army leaders. "It is an issue. It troubles me. And I think it is a strain," he said. Still, he said the practice is important to maintain "unit cohesion," noting that about half of soldiers under stop-loss are sergeants. "If they left a unit, it would leave a pretty gaping hole, while still deployed," he said. Gates said Army leaders told him they expect the number of soldiers prevented from leaving because of stop-loss will begin to decline in September, after five Army combat brigades return from Iraq by July. Turning to another key troop morale issue -- proposals in Congress to increase benefits under the GI Bill -- Gates said he supports more generous benefits but wants to link them to a longer mandatory term of service, six years compared with three under the leading Senate legislation.	The Marine Corps may begin shifting its major combat forces out of Iraq to focus on Afghanistan in 2009 if greater security in Iraq allows a reduction of Marines there, top Pentagon officials said yesterday.	16.621622	0.756757	1.189189	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050802292.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050802292.html	Respiratory Illness Rose in Children After Katrina Hit	2008050919	Hurricane Katrina provoked increased complaints to doctors of pneumonia, bronchitis and other lower respiratory illnesses among 144 children studied in Mississippi, according to a report released yesterday by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But the researchers said they could not determine the reason. They reported finding no difference in the patterns of visits to doctors by children who lived in disaster housing provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and those who did not. However, they said the findings could not be generalized beyond the small sample. The study's limited conclusions did not resolve broader concerns raised by health officials and pediatricians, who previously reported heightened complaints of breathing problems among children on the Gulf Coast after Katrina. Those experts had voiced suspicions about a link to elevated levels of formaldehyde found in FEMA-financed temporary housing. "The issue of what, if any, effects did the hurricane -- and the changes that occurred in its aftermath -- have on the children of the Gulf Coast is one that we remain very much interested in," said Ed Thompson, state health officer for Mississippi. "People whose children were not part of the study can't draw any conclusions, positive or negative, from it," he said. "It did not answer whether exposure to indoor air contaminants, including formaldehyde, has any effect on health." The study was based on a review of medical charts and interviews with 144 children between 2 and 12 years old who were treated at Hancock Medical Center and four physician practices in Hancock County from August 2004 to August 2007. Two-thirds of the children lived in FEMA housing. However, the storm destroyed thousands of records at four of the five facilities, and researchers were unable to determine how many children lived in the county, the CDC reported. Researchers also were unsure whether the results were skewed because the study included only children who reported health problems before Katrina, or because families increased visits after FEMA housing problems were publicized. "Basic medical information systems in Hancock County were severely compromised . . . creating a particularly challenging environment for performing a retrospective investigation," according to a summary of the 49-page CDC report. "The nature and . . . effects resulting from these issues are unmeasured and remain unknown." The study said the total number of medical visits to the five facilities by the children during the year before Katrina -- 411 -- was about the same as the number during the second year after the storm -- 414. Researchers discounted the year after the storm, because damage to medical facilities was severe and the community was disrupted. The study said the proportion of doctors' visits prompted by cold-like symptoms fell from 63 percent to 52 percent, while the share of bronchitis-like symptoms increased from 22 percent to 31 percent. The shift was similar for children in both FEMA-supplied homes and other dwellings. Michael A. McGeehin, director of the CDC division that oversaw the report, said the findings could not be applied to other children living in or out of FEMA housing along the Gulf Coast. "I don't want this study generalized," McGeehin said. "The numbers were very small." "I really don't think it answers a lot," said Keith Perrin, a New Orleans physician and past president of the Louisiana chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Formaldehyde, a colorless gas released by glues used to make wood products such as plywood, particle board, furniture and cabinets, can cause nasal cancer and eye, nose and throat irritation, and can worsen respiratory diseases such as asthma. CDC testing found the chemical in high levels in 519 FEMA housing units tested last year, 18 months after the first resident complaints in March 2006. In follow-up tests, FEMA has continued to find elevated levels in nearly 40 percent of 1,241 units tested. CDC has recommended that all families leave trailers as soon as possible, saying formaldehyde levels were found to be three times higher than those in conventional homes, but about 25,000 trailers and mobile homes remain occupied. FEMA has received 11,069 health complaints since July 21 and relocated 4,052 families because of formaldehyde problems.	Complete Coverage on Hurricane Katrina and Rita including video,photos and blogs. Get up-to-date news on the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and Rita,news from New Orleans and more.	21.105263	0.657895	0.868421	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050800578.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050800578.html	Putin Sets Plans for Tenure as Premier	2008050919	"I think no one doubts that our tandem will grow strong," Medvedev said in a short speech presenting his nominee to the lower house, or State Duma. "Today, the most important task is to maintain our present course." Lawmakers voted 392 to 56 to confirm Putin, with only Communist Party legislators opposing his candidacy. Medvedev later signed a decree formalizing the appointment. The United Russia party, which Putin heads, has 315 seats in the 450-member Duma. Putin was barred by the constitution from seeking a third term as president. His assumption of the ostensibly subordinate position of prime minister has fueled speculation about how this novel power-sharing arrangement with Medvedev will work and whether it is, in fact, a mechanism to propel Putin back into the Kremlin. In a 45-minute speech to the Duma on Thursday, Putin stuck to economic and social themes, the prime minister's traditional areas of responsibility, saying "massive, grandiose tasks" lay before the country. "Russia has become much stronger in recent years," he told legislators. "Our resources are sufficient to achieve even more complex, even more ambitious tasks and goals. I'm for using our accumulated potential effectively and judiciously." Because of soaring revenue from oil and gas sales, Russia now has the world's third largest combined foreign currency and gold reserves. The new prime minister outlined ambitious plans to increase spending on transportation, health and education, among other areas, while vowing to reduce inflation -- dual goals that some economists regard as incompatible. Rising food prices have begun to hit ordinary Russians. "To avoid growing prices, we need to develop the agricultural sector," Putin said. "Up to 70 percent of foodstuffs in large Russian cities are imported. This is certainly unacceptably high." Putin also promised changes in tax policy, including ways to stimulate oil production. There has been concern that the Russian energy industry, much of it state-controlled, is not investing sufficiently in developing new oil and gas fields. "We're taking 75 percent to 80 percent of oil companies' profits for the budget by various means," which helps explain the "slowness to explore and put new fields on stream," Putin said.	MOSCOW, May 8 -- Russia's lower house of parliament overwhelmingly approved Vladimir Putin as prime minister Thursday, completing a choreographed two-step in which his political partner and protege, Dmitry Medvedev, assumed the presidency a day earlier.	9.909091	0.568182	0.704545	low	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050802858.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050802858.html	'Blue Dog' Democrats Join GOP in Opposing War Bill	2008050919	Pelosi (D-Calif.), who also faces Republican stalling tactics in protest of unusual parliamentary procedures, predicted that the complaints of "Blue Dog" Democrats would be addressed and that the bill eventually would receive unanimous support from Democrats. "I am very confident that, next week, we will come to the floor with a bill that has the full consensus of the Democrats and hopefully can attract a large number of Republicans, as well," she told reporters. The Blue Dogs have objected to the creation of a program that would guarantee veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan a year of in-state college tuition for each year served in the war zones. The Blue Dogs said the House had not found any additional money, through spending cuts or tax increases, to pay for the program, a violation of pay-as-you-go rules imposed by House Democrats in early 2007. "We have a duty as a country to tend to [returning soldiers]. But we also have a duty as a country to pay for them," said Rep. Allen Boyd (D-Fla.), a leader of the Blue Dog coalition. When House Democrats unveiled the proposal earlier this week, they put its price tag at $195 billion, including more than $162.5 billion for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, enough to keep them going well into 2009. The bill has been divided into three pieces. The first is the war funding, which is expected to pass, largely with Republican votes. The second is a set of policy limitations on the war, including a goal of withdrawing all combat troops by December 2009. The third contains the proposed domestic spending, including the veterans' education program and an $11 billion extension of unemployment benefits. Without the votes of most of the 47 Blue Dogs, the domestic spending provisions would have great difficulty passing the House. House Minority Leader John A. Boehner (R-Ohio) yesterday called the domestic add-ons "unnecessary extra spending" and denounced Pelosi's decision to bring the bill to the House floor without first letting the Appropriations Committee review it. To show their displeasure, Republicans forced procedural votes this week that delayed consideration of the bill. Democrats on the Senate Appropriations Committee are poised to approve their own bill that would provide more funding than Pelosi's initial proposal, including $6 billion more for Iraq and Afghanistan operations. That bill may face a Republican filibuster because of its price tag, raising the possibility that the Senate would turn to the House bill. Either way, the Senate is expected to strip the provision calling for troop withdrawal and, if Democrats can round up the 60 votes needed to fight off GOP objections, send a bill with war funds and domestic spending back to the House. "The Senate will work its will, and it will probably come back to us, and we will send it to the president. And, yes, we intend to do that by Memorial Day break," Pelosi said. However, President Bush has announced his opposition to any bill that contains veterans' benefits and unemployment insurance in addition to the war funds.	House Speaker Nancy Pelosi yesterday postponed consideration of a bill that would continue funding for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan as a bloc of conservative Democrats balked at the high cost of including several of Pelosi's favored domestic spending programs.	14.325581	0.72093	2.023256	low	low	mixed
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050803128.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050803128.html	Police Union Says Fenty Unwelcome	2008050919	But administration officials said the mayor intends to keep his commitment to speak at today's event as a guest of Police Chief Cathy L. Lanier. The standoff could result in an awkward and uncomfortable scene at the ceremony, which is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 441 Fourth St. NW. Marcello Muzzatti, president of Lodge 1 of the Fraternal Order of Police, which represents 11,000 active and retired officers in the region, said that some officers might turn their backs to Fenty (D). "It won't look good for him," Muzzatti said, adding that Fenty's name will not be in the printed program that the group plans to distribute at the memorial. The D.C. police union, a member organization of the Fraternal Order of Police, has been angered by Fenty's handling of the September shooting death of 14-year-old DeOntÃ© Rawlings. Fenty helped pay for the teen's funeral, and the administration, under pressure from the public and media, released the names of the two off-duty officers involved in the incident. Last week, a months-long federal investigation determined that the officers, who thought Rawlings had stolen a minibike from one of them, had acted in self-defense. Neither officer was charged with wrongdoing. Authorities said they are convinced that the teenager fired first at police, even though no weapon was found at the scene. At a meeting Wednesday of about 100 members of the Fraternal Order of Police, the group voted to rescind Fenty's invitation to the memorial service, Muzzatti said. In a two-page letter to Lanier yesterday, Muzzatti wrote, "Fenty's statements and actions over the last eight months . . . have sent a clear message to all of law enforcement that this Mayor does not respect the sacrifices made by members of the law enforcement community on a daily basis." Lanier's spokeswoman, Traci Hughes, said the chief does not intend to disinvite the mayor. Carrie Brooks, Fenty's spokeswoman, said the mayor does not think that he has lost the confidence of the city's police force. "The mayor sees and talks to frontline officers every day, and he has not gotten that impression," Brooks said. Since taking office, Fenty has attended every police promotional ceremony and recruit graduation as a show of encouragement to the officers. The memorial service is among the activities planned in connection with National Police Week, including a candlelight vigil set for Tuesday at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. The memorial service is sponsored each year by the auxiliary of Lodge 1 of the Fraternal Order of Police to honor officers from area jurisdictions. D.C. Council member Phil Mendelson (D-At Large), chairman of the Committee on Public Safety and the Judiciary, said that because today's ceremony is for officers who died in the line of duty, it is appropriate for the mayor to pay his respects. Still, Mendelson added that he is "surprised at how strong the ill will is." Kristopher Baumann, head of the labor committee of the city's 3,600-member police union, said he will encourage officers to be professional and respectful. But if Fenty is "desperate enough to show up, that will probably keep a lot of officers away and damage the event," Baumann said. "I do not understand his need for publicity and showing up at a solemn event and embarrassing himself and the city," Baumann said.	Tension between D.C. police officers and Mayor Adrian M. Fenty over a high-profile shooting case escalated yesterday when the Fraternal Order of Police rescinded an offer to him to attend its annual memorial service.	18	0.621622	1.27027	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050803004.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050803004.html	Teen Marijuana Use Linked to Later Illness	2008050919	Teenagers who smoke marijuana put themselves at risk for future mental illness and higher rates of depression, according to a report to be released today by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. Although fewer teens overall are smoking marijuana, the report said, there is growing concern that those who do, particularly those who view the drug as a way to cope with depression, do not understand its consequences. It also is not clear whether their parents, who might have indulged when they were younger, understand the risks, experts say. The report, whose release coincides with the start of Mental Health Awareness Month, said studies show links between marijuana use and risk of mental illness later in life, and that use could increase the risk by as much as 40 percent. Teenage girls who smoke marijuana are particularly at risk, the report said. It found that teen girls who smoke marijuana daily are more likely to develop depression than those who do not. The report also found that teenagers who smoke marijuana at least once a month are three times more likely to have suicidal thoughts than non-users. It said that even though the percentage of teens who are depressed is equal to the percentage of adults who say they are depressed, teenagers are more likely to seek solace in marijuana or other illicit drugs. "Significant numbers of teenagers are self-medicating,'' said John P. Walters, director of the White House office. "They're turning to marijuana to reduce [symptoms of depression], and [the depression] is getting worse." The report said that too often teens do not seek treatment for their depression, choosing instead to seek relief by smoking marijuana. They do not realize that pot can make their problems worse and can set them up for serious health consequences, it said. Susan Lydick, coordinator of the Youth Suicide and Depression Initiative at the Fairfax Partnership for Youth, said the report offers new information to parents and the general public -- groups that are often unaware of the interplay between drug use and depression. Walters said advances in technology allow researchers to better understand the effect drugs such as marijuana have on brain function. The research being done today "is breaking new ground in showing the role marijuana use is playing in depression," he said. Added Larry Greenhill, president-elect of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: "What's new in this report is that it documents how serious the impact is of what was thought to be a mild recreational" drug. Lydick said that in addition to teenage girls, minority youths are likely to seek relief for depression through drugs or other substances partly because of the social stigma some cultures attach to mental health problems. "They don't want to go to mom, they don't want to go to their pastor, so the safer thing to do is to self-medicate with marijuana and other drugs,'' Lydick said. She said the report's conclusions mirror many of the findings of a 2005 survey of Fairfax County youth. According to that study, Hispanic, Asian and African American teens reported higher percentages of depression than their white counterparts. Lydick said her agency is hosting a community forum next week to explore teen depression and addiction. Nationwide, about 2 million teenagers report having felt depressed or having lost interest in daily activities during the past year. Beth Kane-Davidson, director of Suburban Hospital's Addiction Treatment Center in Bethesda, which serves teens and adults, said the report offers important information for people in her field. It "opens the door for parents and teens to start thinking about their own decisions and the possible impact of their decisions on their future,'' she said. Too often, Kane-Davidson said, parents and teenagers downplay marijuana's impact because they see it as less harmful than other drugs, such as cocaine. Contributing to the risk is the higher potency of marijuana being distributed today compared with what was available in the 1970s, when federal officials began analyzing the drug. A study done last year by researchers at the University of Mississippi found that, since the 1980s, the potency has doubled. Walters said that despite a drop in usage among teenagers, those who are using are becoming more dependent on it. About 60 percent of first-time users are under the age of 18. "We forget because we think of marijuana as something that's the least dangerous of illicit drugs, but far more teens are in treatment for dependency on marijuana than alcohol," Walters said.	Teenagers who smoke marijuana put themselves at risk for future mental illness and higher rates of depression, according to a report to be released today by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy.	23.810811	1	37	medium	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050803006.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050803006.html	A School Budget Era May Be Over	2008050919	That era might be coming to an end. The County Council will adopt an education budget this month that provides the smallest year-to-year increase in a decade for public schools. County Executive Isiah Leggett (D) has recommended trimming $51 million from the $2.11 billion spending plan submitted by the Board of Education. County leaders say the budget can no longer keep up with the spending pace of Superintendent Jerry D. Weast, who has overseen a billion-dollar expansion since his arrival in 1999. Weast has reduced elementary class sizes, expanded preschool and kindergarten programs and invested heavily in the high-poverty area of the county known around his office as the Red Zone. "Laudable goals, objectives, nobody's going to argue with that," Leggett said in a recent interview at his Rockville office. "But is it affordable?" It's a question being asked of every department in a county whose overall budget has swelled from $2.1 billion in fiscal 1998 to $4.3 billion this year, a growth rate Leggett terms "unacceptable." Up to now, the mounting cost of Montgomery County education has not posed much of a problem. The suburban county is largely defined by its superior public schools. Over the past 10 years, a time of virtually unfettered real estate growth and rising test scores, the County Council has approved annual spending increases of 7 and 8 percent with hardly a second thought. "We could probably have a good school system for less," said Michael Knapp (D), the County Council president. "Could we have a great school system for less? I doubt it." This year, facing an economic downturn, the school board seeks an increase of $126 million, or about 6 percent. County leaders say they cannot afford even that. Leggett recommends trimming the requested increase to $75 million. The council's education committee favors something in between: $95 million to $105 million, Knapp said. Similar negotiations have played out this spring in Anne Arundel, Loudoun, Fairfax and Prince William counties. Each faces a gap of at least $20 million between the amount the local school board says it needs in the coming school year and the sum county leaders say they are willing to spend. Montgomery County is coping with an almost $300 million shortfall in the current budget year. To make ends meet next year, Leggett proposes raising property taxes by an average 8 percent, the largest increase since the Reagan administration. Rank-and-file parents are being mobilized to lobby the council for full funding. One recent e-mail blast to parents at Walt Whitman High School in Bethesda advertised a three-day call-a-thon: "[M]ake the point that you are calling during Teacher Appreciation Week and let the council know that honoring [teacher] contracts is important to you." Among community activists, the school budget is a target of increasing criticism. One County Council candidate captured the mood recently by circulating a chart, obtained via a public information request, that shows 1,097 of the 20,844 school-system employees earning more than $100,000.	The budget for Montgomery County's public schools has doubled in 10 years, a massive investment in smaller classes, better-paid teachers and specialized programs to serve growing ranks of low-income and immigrant children.	15.275	0.6	1.05	low	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050803002.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/08/AR2008050803002.html	Proposal Limits Progress Reports	2008050919	At two hearings within the next four weeks, Northern Virginians will have a chance to weigh in on a state plan to revise special education rules that has already drawn thousands of written comments and raised concerns among many parents of children with disabilities. The most controversial proposal would give schools more leeway to suspend certain special services for students, such as speech or occupational health therapy. The targeted services would remain in place if parents object, pending a resolution of the dispute with the school system. But other proposals are also drawing close scrutiny. One would reduce the number of regular progress reports families receive on a student's "individualized education plan," or IEP, a roadmap of objectives and goals. Another would allow school systems to refuse a parent's request for more than one IEP meeting a year with school officials, and a third would expand the criteria used to define student disabilities. Parents say the latter measure could make it harder for children to qualify for special services. Charles Pyle, a spokesman for the Virginia Department of Education, said the revisions would align state regulations with the federal government's, improve efficiency and ensure that the right services go to the most qualified students. But Pyle also stressed that the recommendations are not final and that the state welcomes criticisms and suggestions. So far, the state has received more than 3,000 comments. "We've exceeded the federal regulations in the past," he said. "It's understandable" that parents have concerns, Pyle added. "We would expect to hear about this." Gov. Timothy M. Kaine (D) has said in a statement that he opposes many of the proposed revisions. The state Board of Education, whose nine members are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the General Assembly, could vote on the rules by December. The state is holding several public hearings on the proposal, including one at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Freedom High School in Loudoun County, and at 6:30 p.m. June 2 at Oakton High School in Fairfax County. The proposals would affect many families. About 14 percent of Virginia students in public schools have disabilities, according to a state report last year. Some parents say the proposals would drastically alter the state's historically progressive stance toward special education. Sheree Brown-Kaplan, vice chairman of the Fairfax County Council of Parent Teacher Associations' special education committee, said she worries that parents would be helpless if school systems are allowed to reject a request for additional IEP meetings during the school year. "If you don't have the team IEP meeting, you're basically talking to one teacher only," said Brown-Kaplan, who has two children with communication disorders. That teacher, she said, is likely to be focused on the curriculum. "But maybe the child's problems have something do with other subject matters, and the problem's there. You need everybody there. It's called consensus. You have to make these decisions together." Parents also worry about new state criteria for disabilities, Brown-Kaplan said. She said some children could be disqualified from help they need, citing students with Asperger's Syndrome as an example. "These kids are often bright and are able to function in general education classrooms," Brown-Kaplan said. "But the school could say, 'He doesn't fit the [disability] category and doesn't get any services.' "	At two hearings within the next four weeks, Northern Virginians will have a chance to weigh in on a state plan to revise special education rules that has already drawn thousands of written comments and raised concerns among many parents of children with disabilities.	14.347826	1	46	low	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050201451.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050919id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050201451.html	A Day in New York	2008050919	So sing the sailors in "On the Town," Leonard Bernstein's 1944 musical fable about the exploits of three men with just 24 hours of shore leave in that helluva town where the Bronx is up and the Battery's down. "The wheels on the bus go 'round and 'round." So sang five members of the Travel section, who had shamelessly cribbed Bernstein's plotline for our annual New York issue, adding only a budget-minded twist to the proceedings. To wit, we caught the 7:30 a.m. Bolt Bus from the District (some of us paying as little as $1.50 for the privilege), a four-hour journey that allowed us plenty of time to plan our 24 hours in Manhattan. The gastronomically curious Nosher pored over restaurant reviews, while the museum- and theatah-loving Culture Hound dog-eared the pages of the latest New Yorker. The Adventurer limbered up for her Central Park bike tour, Family Guy pondered kid-friendly attractions and the Tourist Trapper dreamed of the Empire State Building. When the Bolt dropped us at West 33rd Street and Seventh Avenue, each of us, mindful that we had only a single day, fled in a different direction. It was 11:54 a.m. To see how we filled the next 24 hours, turn to	Find Washington DC, Virginia and Maryland travel information, including web fares, Washington DC tours, beach/ski guide, international and United States destinations. Featuring Mid-Atlantic travel, airport information, traffic/weather updates	5.790698	0.302326	0.302326	low	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/03/DI2008050302514.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/03/DI2008050302514.html	Election 2008: Karl Rove on Campaign Strategy	2008050719	Rove is an informal adviser to the McCain campaign and contributes to Newsweek, the Wall Street Journal and Fox News. Prior to working on the 2000 and 2004 presidential campaigns, Rove worked on dozens of state and national races and was a pioneer in direct-mail political efforts. Karl Rove: Give me a little bit of slack, I've had three hours of sleep after last night's excitement. Mount Vernon, N.Y.: Where would the hero of your youth, Richard Nixon, fit in the modern Bush/Cheney GOP? Karl Rove: Nixon was a Republican President, but Barry Goldwater probably was the hero of my youth. Nixon was a modernizer and coalition builder who brought together the disparate parts of the party and brought in outsiders with the Philadelphia plan and the outreach to China. "As our cause is anew, so must we think and act anew." was their motto for the '68 convention. Naperville, Ill.: You were a pretty successful political strategist. It seems like more or less conceding the caucus states to Obama has got to go down in history as one of the greatest political blunders of all time. What do you think of Hillary Clinton's campaign strategy? Karl Rove: I think it has been appallingly poor. You pick out a critical example, her failure to contest the caucus states. In New Hampshire, 300,000 Democrats distributed 22 delegates to the convention. It took billions by all the candidates to contest that state. Idaho on the other hand gave out 18 delegates based on 20,000 votes and took probably tens of thousands from the Obama campaign. Not only the caucus states, however. I still don't understand why she let Obama base his campaign on two things she could have taken away from him early on. The first theme was that he wanted to bring Republicans and Democrats together, but his thin record shows little evidence of this, while her record shows considerable efforts in the Senate. The other issue she let him get away with was to suggest the "fierce urgency of now" requires new leadership. She's been willing to jump in the middle of tough legislative fights, while Obama has been AWOL on most of these fights. My theory is that she was afraid of the Netroots and how they'd react if she emphasized these centrist themes, and so she allowed him to get traction when it was her record, not his, that would have provided a firm foundation for these themes. Washington: Very brave of you to show up -- thanks. Do you think that the current political climate portends a permanent Democratic majority? This is, of course, a joke. But could you please comment on the political climate of the day (party identification, changing demographics, etc.) as it compares to what you saw in 2000? 2008 figures to be a Democratic year, but will it be followed by a Democratic decade, or will it be a temporary backlash to an unpopular administration? Karl Rove: Nothing is permanent in politics -- the question is whether there will be a durable majority. While the environment is bad for Republicans this year, McCain is very competitive with both Democrats, leading Obama and only recently falling behind Clinton in state-by-state polls. I expect the two parties' leaders to trade places in standings several times this fall, it'll be a very competitive election. And appearing on the Internet doesn't require bravery, just a free block of time. Washington: In October 2006, you told NPR that "the math" which you were "entitled to" showed Republican majorities in both the House and the Senate in the upcoming congressional elections. How was this math so wrong? Karl Rove: First of all there were more than 80 million votes cast in the House races, and the 15 closest races were settled by 85,000 votes. The 2006 election, while bad for the GOP, was an average off-year election. Republicans lost 30 House seats and 6 Senate seats. It was a very close fight, a very close election, and a shift of 45,000 votes would have had a House majority and a shift of some 1,800 votes would have had a Republican Senate. Washington: What's your advice to John McCain about embracing or distancing himself from President Bush? Karl Rove: He should do neither. He should define himself. To distance or embrace would be to choose someone else's path as opposed to defining his own and would be seen as calculation either way. As he defines himself he must have appropriate ways to differentiate himself from this administration. This is the task of any candidate running for president with an incumbent in the office. The American people are prospective in these elections, not retrospective. Differentiating yourself is seen as a natural expression of who you are and what you believe. Portland, Ore.: John McCain is the Republican nominee, yet he's failing to break 75 percent-80 percent of the vote in primary after primary. Is this typical of past elections? Karl Rove: It's a little atypical, but not a lot. Turnout in these primaries is low because the contest is over, so turnout is driven by local contests. If you look at the national polling data in individual states, he has unified the Republican Party and is at or ahead of where Bush was in 2000. However, McCain does have an enthusiasm gap. The measurements available to us shows he trails the enthusiasm among Democrats, which he has to work on. These votes for Huckaback or Paul or others who remain on ballots is a reflection of this. But there are twice as many Democrats who defect to McCain as Republicans who defect to Obama and roughly three times as many defecting from Clinton as defect from McCain. Hamilton, Bermuda: Prediction time. How many seats will the GOP gain or lose in each house of Congress in November? Karl Rove: Republicans will lose seats in the Senate and have a shot at picking up a few seats in the House, but it's too premature for me to forecast. New Orleans: By looking at the demographics of who voted for Obama and Clinton yesterday, which do you believe would be easier for McCain to defeat in November? Karl Rove: Again, I think it's premature to answer that because both the candidates have flaws, and in order to exploit them you have to have an adroit candidate whose profile allows him to take advantage of those. Clinton's flaws are well known; Obama has major problems with blue-collar working class whites who are economically populist and socially conservative. This has grown in the contest to the point where in Indiana and North Carolina, less than half of Clinton supporters saying they were willing to vote for Obama in November, with the rest saying they'd vote for McCain or sit the election out. Columbus, Ohio: You boldly predicted that Bush's approval ratings would rebound -- instead he is, according to Gallup, the most unpopular president in history. Will you finally admit that your vision for this nation has been overwhelmingly rejected by the majority of the people? Karl Rove: Get your facts right -- there are at least three president who had worse approval ratings, Truman, Johnson and Nixon. I'm absolutely positive history will be kind to this president, who made the right decisions in a difficult time for this nation. And what about those terribly low ratings for the Democratic Congress, which I suspect you're enormously proud of. Atlanta: The Clintons have loaned Hillary's campaign a total of at least $11.4 million. Add this to her stated debt of $5 million and she's at least $16.4 million in the hole. A pundit last night speculated that Hillary's campaign will approach Obama's campaign and offer to drop out if Obama pays off her debt. Has this been done before? Would Obama have to pay this out of his personal wealth, or from his campaigns coffers? Karl Rove: First of all, we don't know how much of her debt from the beginning of April is still there. It's not unusual for a candidate to end a primary campaign with a debt and then receive aid from the winner. The pay-off would have to be done by tapping the winner's fundraising lists, not out-of-pocket. Washington: When Hillary went negative against Barack, most voters and superdelegates rejected that tactic. Do you believe that McCain will still go negative, or will he shut down the 527 Swift-Boat attack machine you used against McCain and Kerry? Karl Rove: I'll ignore the last sentence, but I do think McCain will make a good-faith effort to get Obama or Clinton to use federal funding and join with him in stopping 527 activity. Since both Democratic candidates are benefiting from multimillion independent expenditures on his behalf, I doubt either will be open to this. Obama already has seen his allies unleash ads against McCain without rebuking them. Bristol, R.I.: What is it about the U.S. Constitution that you don't like? Karl Rove: I love the Constitution and carry a copy with me all the time. It is the sacred document of our nation, and I revere it. Plattsburgh, N.Y.: With independents expected to be such an important factor in November (the percentage of self-identifying independents is up 20 percent from 2004), what, if anything, does McCain risk by moving to the center to court them? Are his recent statements, such as those regarding the Supreme Court, evidence that he is moving to a base strategy against Obama? Karl Rove: I disagree that judges and other McCain statements are base appeals. Judicial activism resonates across party lines and a wide part of the political spectrum, as do earmarks, another issue he's been using to attract independents. I'm not certain I agree with the phrase "moving to the center." Many independents defy any consistent ideological label. Any successful presidential candidate has to appeal to independents and disaffected members of the opposition party in order to win. Dallas: Just curious as to why you didn't wear your wedding ring during last night's broadcast. And why does Fox network fail to mention your relationship as an advisor to the McCain campaign? Thank you. Karl Rove: When I left my house I accidentally left my ring in the shower. My wife has it and will give it back when we get back together tomorrow. Nice of you to notice, she'll be touched. I'm not certain that I qualify as an advisor to McCain. I have friends at the campaign who occasionally ask me for reactions, and the Fox network is well aware of that, and similar contacts by some of their Democratic analysts. Tampa, Fla.: I hope I might ask you a tangentially-related question: How much would direct election of the president, by abolishing the Electoral College and using total popular vote, change the way campaigns are run? I'm not asking if we could or should do this, I'm just curious how much this would affect how presidential campaigns are run. With the concept of "swing states" gone, would advertising be spread more uniformly throughout the nation? Would national party organizations gain power at the expense of state party organizations? Would advertising focus more on broad issues and less on narrow policies? Would the ability to turn out the vote become more important than fundraising? Karl Rove: It would change it dramatically. It would put a premium on large media market appearances where you could touch large numbers of your party's base numbers, and it would place a premium on regional appeals, as opposed to requiring a national focus for any successful candidate. Richmond, Va.: I'm curious about your thoughts on Obama's attempt to avoid mudslinging in this campaign. Do you think it can last? And what are your general views on the negativity in campaigns? Karl Rove: I don't think Sen. Obama has avoided negativity, he simply has suggested he'll run a positive campaign and then with a very deft scalpel cut up his opponents. Consider last night when he said he'd be the only candidate telling the truth in this campaign, deftly taking a scalpel to Clinton's and McCain's reputations. Washington: Which states do you see as critical with respect to the November election -- and do those states vary depending on who the Democratic nominee turns out to be? Karl Rove: Yes -- if Obama, he will have greater traction in Colorado, Nevada and New Mexico, but will be weaker in Pennsylvania through Wisconsin. But the map is gonna look largely familiar. Karl Rove: Thanks for your questions and I appreciate your interest. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Karl Rove, chief strategist in President Bush's successful 2000 and 2004 campaigns and a former deputy chief of staff at the White House, will examine the results of the Indiana and North Carolina primaries and critique the campaigns of the three remaining 2008 presidential candidates.	51.346939	0.795918	1.44898	high	medium	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/07/AR2008050701380.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/07/AR2008050701380.html	Obama Pulls Ahead as Narrow Win in Indiana Keeps Clinton Going	2008050719	Clinton secured the Indiana result after a late rush of votes for Obama from the city of Gary and surrounding Lake County dramatically narrowed her margin in a bizarre end to a long night of counting. Inexplicably, Lake County did not report any votes until nearly 11:30 p.m. and the county was still reporting precinct results after 1 a.m. today. The twin results solidified the status quo in the Democratic race, one that now gives Obama the clear advantage in the battle for the nomination because of his solid lead in the tally of pledged delegates. Despite her Indiana victory, Clinton emerged even more the underdog in the nomination battle. The results meant the senator from Illinois would add both to his pledged-delegate margin and his lead in the popular vote, leaving Clinton with an even more daunting challenge in trying to deny Obama the nomination. Clinton nevertheless added a campaign appearance in West Virginia to her schedule today, and supporters took to the airwaves to emphasize that she remains in the race and to urge unpledged "superdelegates" to stick with her. The New York senator also planned to continue campaigning tomorrow in West Virginia before flying to South Dakota and Oregon. West Virginia holds its Democratic primary May 13. Although she managed to squeeze out a victory in Indiana, the night produced a far different outcome than the Clinton campaign had hoped for. In the closing hours of the campaigns in the two states, her advisers expressed confidence that she was gaining ground on Obama in North Carolina rapidly enough to hold his anticipated victory margin to single digits. They also thought she was positioned for a solid victory in Indiana. Instead, Obama won North Carolina by 56 percent to 42 percent, and his popular-vote margin there -- about 230,000 votes -- wiped out the gains Clinton had made with her decisive victory in Pennsylvania two weeks ago. In Indiana, Clinton won by 51 percent to 49 percent. Obama, declaring that he is now fewer than 200 delegates away from locking up the nomination, used his victory speech in Raleigh to begin to try to heal the divisions in the party that have resulted from the long and difficult campaign and to sound the themes of a general-election race against Sen. John McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee. "This fall, we intend to march forward as one Democratic Party, united by a common vision for this country," he said. "Because we all agree that at this defining moment in history -- a moment when we're facing two wars, an economy in turmoil, a planet in peril, a dream that feels like it's slipping away for too many Americans -- we can't afford to give John McCain the chance to serve out George Bush's third term. We need change in America." Clinton appeared more than a hour after Obama spoke, before any final call on Indiana had been made, to declare that she would continue fighting. "Tonight we've come from behind," she said. "We've broken the tie, and thanks to you it's full speed -- on to the White House." But there were other signals that she and her advisers recognize the long odds she faces. Her speech was tinged with a sense of urgency, as she pleaded with her supporters to go immediately to her Web site and make a contribution to allow her to continue to campaign against a rival who enjoys a sizable financial advantage. She followed that with an e-mail appeal to supporters asking for funds.	Sen. Barack Obama scored a landslide victory in North Carolina's Democratic presidential primary yesterday, moving him ever closer to locking up an insurmountable lead among pledged delegates, while Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton posted a razor-thin win in the hotly contested Indiana primary as she ...	13.42	0.58	0.82	low	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602960.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602960.html	For Hoosier Democrats, Endless Laps On a Racetrack	2008050719	INDIANAPOLIS, May 6 -- Tuesday, as Indiana went to the polls to weigh in on the never-ending Democratic race, it was officially sick and tired. "I'm sick of it," says John McCain supporter Pat McBroom, 78. "I'm tired of it," says Hillary Clinton supporter Sister Gloria Gallagher. "Most people would be glad if one of them would just go ahead and sit down," says Barack Obama supporter Miles Dodson, 50. You can just see the angry political science professor shaking his finger in Indiana's face: Democracy is the chance for every voice to be heard! Except when democracy means that Iowa and a few other states decide the race before Indiana even gets to open its mouth. Does Indiana want to go back to those days? Huh? Does it? No, Indiana doesn't want that. Indiana has just been confused. "It's a Catch-22 here," says Mitchell Tandy, 36, a FedEx employee leaving St. Andrew Presbyterian after casting his ballot, though for whom he won't say. Part of him was overjoyed that his state finally got to weigh in on the Democratic nomination, and part of him was just wearied by The Race That Will Not End (TRTWNE). Even late Tuesday, after Obama said it appeared that Clinton had won Indiana, and Clinton took the stage and vowed to continue, the final votes had still not come in and the news organizations had still not called it, and the race went on and on. Indiana has had two weeks of ads, two weeks of news reports. ( You think you had it bad, Pennsylvania says. Try six.) And in recent days, it got uglier, with an Obama ad referencing Clinton's "bogus gas tax gimmick" and a Clinton ad asking, menacingly, "What has happened to Barack Obama?" The folks who've had it the worst are the Clinton supporters, who know that their candidate is behind in pledged delegates. They are alternately tortured and defiant. "Part of me says that perhaps she should give in for the good of the party," says Brenda Holstine, 64, who then casts her vote for Clinton. Will Clinton give in? Let's ask. Here is the candidate herself, making a morning stop at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to tour the garage of Indy 500 driver and supporter Sarah Fisher. "Oh my goodness," Clinton says, walking into the garage, and it isn't clear if she is awed by the blue race car at her feet or by the number of reporters who've squeezed into such a tiny space to witness TRTWNE. She betrays no hint of what's at stake today. "This is the technology of the future!" she says enthusiastically, after Fisher hands her the car's steering wheel. "Now what's the top speed of this car?"	Get style news headlines from The Washington Post, including entertainment news, comics, horoscopes, crossword, TV, Dear Abby. arts/theater, Sunday Source and weekend section. Washington Post columnists, movie/book reviews, Carolyn Hax, Tom Shales.	11.156863	0.333333	0.333333	low	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602447.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602447.html	Washington's Battle Over Israel's Birth	2008050719	In the celebrations next week surrounding Israel's 60th anniversary, it should not be forgotten that there was an epic struggle in Washington over how to respond to Israel's declaration of independence on May 14, 1948. It led to the most serious disagreement President Harry Truman ever had with his revered secretary of state, George C. Marshall -- and with most of the foreign policy establishment. Twenty years ago, when I was helping Clark Clifford write his memoirs, I reviewed the historical record and interviewed all the living participants in that drama. The battle lines drawn then resonate still. The British planned to leave Palestine at midnight on May 14. At that moment, the Jewish Agency, led by David Ben-Gurion, would proclaim the new (and still unnamed) Jewish state. The neighboring Arab states warned that fighting, which had already begun, would erupt into full-scale war at that moment. The Jewish Agency proposed partitioning Palestine into two parts -- one Jewish, one Arab. But the State and Defense departments backed the British plan to turn Palestine over to the United Nations. In March, Truman privately promised Chaim Weizmann, the future president of Israel, that he would support partition -- only to learn the next day that the American ambassador to the United Nations had voted for U.N. trusteeship. Enraged, Truman wrote a private note on his calendar: "The State Dept. pulled the rug from under me today. The first I know about it is what I read in the newspapers! Isn't that hell? I'm now in the position of a liar and double-crosser. I've never felt so low in my life. . . ." Truman blamed "third and fourth level" State Department officials -- especially the director of U.N. affairs, Dean Rusk, and the agency's counselor, Charles Bohlen. But opposition really came from an even more formidable group: the "wise men" who were simultaneously creating the great Truman foreign policy of the late 1940s -- among them Marshall, James V. Forrestal, George F. Kennan, Robert Lovett, John J. McCloy, Paul Nitze and Dean Acheson. To overrule State would mean Truman taking on Marshall, whom he regarded as "the greatest living American," a daunting task for a very unpopular president. Beneath the surface lay unspoken but real anti-Semitism on the part of some (but not all) policymakers. The position of those opposing recognition was simple -- oil, numbers and history. "There are thirty million Arabs on one side and about 600,000 Jews on the other," Defense Secretary Forrestal told Clifford. "Why don't you face up to the realities?" On May 12, Truman held a meeting in the Oval Office to decide the issue. Marshall and his universally respected deputy, Robert Lovett, made the case for delaying recognition -- and "delay" really meant "deny." Truman asked his young aide, Clark Clifford, to present the case for immediate recognition. When Clifford finished, Marshall, uncharacteristically, exploded. "I don't even know why Clifford is here. He is a domestic adviser, and this is a foreign policy matter. The only reason Clifford is here is that he is pressing a political consideration." Marshall then uttered what Clifford would later call "the most remarkable threat I ever heard anyone make directly to a President." In an unusual top-secret memorandum Marshall wrote for the historical files after the meeting, the great general recorded his own words: "I said bluntly that if the President were to follow Mr. Clifford's advice and if in the elections I were to vote, I would vote against the President." After this stunning moment, the meeting adjourned in disarray. In the next two days, Clifford looked for ways to get Marshall to accept recognition. Lovett, although still opposed to recognition, finally talked a reluctant Marshall into remaining silent if Truman acted. With only a few hours left until midnight in Tel Aviv, Clifford told the Jewish Agency to request immediate recognition of the new state, which still lacked a name. Truman announced recognition at 6:11 p.m. on May 14 -- 11 minutes after Ben-Gurion's declaration of independence in Tel Aviv. So rapidly was this done that in the official announcement, the typed words "Jewish State" are crossed out, replaced in Clifford's handwriting with "State of Israel." Thus the United States became the first nation to recognize Israel, as Truman and Clifford wanted. The secret of the Oval Office confrontation held for years, and a crisis in both domestic politics and foreign policy was narrowly averted. Clifford insisted to me and others in countless discussions over the next 40 years that politics was not at the root of his position -- moral conviction was. Noting sharp divisions within the American Jewish community -- the substantial anti-Zionist faction among leading Jews included the publishers of both The Post and the New York Times -- Clifford had told Truman in his famous 1947 blueprint for Truman's presidential campaign that "a continued commitment to liberal political and economic policies" was the key to Jewish support. But to this day, many think that Marshall and Lovett were right on the merits and that domestic politics was the real reason for Truman's decision. Israel, they argue, has been nothing but trouble for the United States. I think this misses the point. Israel was going to come into existence whether or not Washington recognized it. But without American support from the very beginning, Israel's survival would have been at even greater risk. Even if European Jewry had not just emerged from the horrors of World War II, it would have been an unthinkable act of abandonment by the United States. Truman's decision, although opposed by almost the entire foreign policy establishment, was the right one -- and despite complicated consequences that continue to this day, it is a decision all Americans should recognize and admire. Richard Holbrooke writes a monthly column for The Post. He co-authored Clark Clifford's "Counsel to the President: A Memoir."	Remembering the epic struggle over how to respond to Israel's declaration of independence.	77.933333	0.933333	7.066667	high	medium	mixed
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602445.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602445.html	The Mitzvah and the Mania	2008050719	My family knew I was losing it when I started growing grass. No, not the mind-altering kind. Not even the suburban homeowner kind. I was growing wheatgrass to use in centerpieces for my daughter's bat mitzvah. A bat mitzvah -- bar mitzvah for boys -- marks the entry of 13-year-olds into Jewish adulthood. It has also evolved -- mutated might be more accurate -- into the occasion for a celebratory extravaganza. Which explains the wheatgrass: Despite my determination to resist, I found myself caught in the iron grip of bat mitzvah mania. And I began to understand how ordinarily sane parents get carried away and how the resulting excesses reflect not only conspicuous consumption but also abundant love. When I was growing up, there was a commercial for rye bread whose signature line was, "You don't have to be Jewish to love Levy's." Well, you don't have to be Jewish to understand bat mitzvah mania. Any mother who's planned an elaborate Winnie-the-Pooh birthday party for her 2-year-old, any bride who has sweated the most trivial details of her wedding, has suffered from a similar syndrome. Certainly it has its unattractive, even vulgar, side. Now we have "My Super Sweet 16," the MTV reality show about overindulged teenagers having over-the-top parties, such as the one that featured sisters borne into their party on litters in a procession led by elephants. Hispanic girls who celebrate their quinceaÃ±era can hold the event at Disneyland and be greeted by Prince Charming as they step out of Cinderella's coach, or on weeklong quinceaÃ±era cruises. Non-Jews even put on faux mitzvahs -- all party, no purpose. One rabbi I know reports receiving calls from non-Jewish mothers inquiring about ceremonies for their children. All this is mere run-up to the Wedding Industrial Complex, premised on the conviction that no wedding can possibly be held without three participants: bride, groom and wedding planner -- not necessarily in that order. The average cost of a U.S. wedding is $30,000. When I plugged my Zip code into a wedding Web site, it produced the sobering information that the average price of a wedding in my area was $55,016, ring and honeymoon not included. Note to my daughters: No way, girls. So when we started the bat mitzvah process -- without the $10,000-a-pop planner -- I was determined to maximize the religious and minimize the glitz. When my daughter pondered what her "theme" should be, my response was, "How about, 'We're Jewish!' " Then the mania kicked in. Imagine planning a wedding, except instead of dealing with a nervous bride, you are coping with a hormonal teenager being asked to chant in a strange language in front of a synagogue full of strangers (bad) and friends (worse). Instead of having to satisfy prickly in-laws, you have to entertain her closest friends -- every last one of them. Having convinced Emma that themes were tacky, I decided we needed one to organize our thoughts. Hey, what about springtime? In one of my more lunatic decisions, we made the invitations ourselves, which involved many hours of glue-sticking strips of Japanese rice paper printed with cherry blossoms and tying little pink bows. In an even more lunatic decision, we made the centerpieces, too, after the florist said the understated tulip arrangement I admired would run $75 a table.	My family knew I was losing it when I started growing grass.	52.153846	1	13	high	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/03/DI2008050302470.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/03/DI2008050302470.html	Real Life Politics	2008050719	Ruth Marcus: Hi everyone. Thanks for reading. Happy to talk about anything from primary politics to party planning! Themes: My wife is a Cantor in the D.C. area, and in the '80s worked in Los Angeles, where themes were the rage. Her favorite story was the bar mitzvah where the theme was the Crusades (marauding bands forcing the guests to convert, I assume). And then there was the bar mitzvah ceremony at a hotel were a chimp handed out yarmulkes! Ruth Marcus: This definitely tops any of the stories that I was tempted to tell! Crusades is fantastic. Baltimore: Ms. Marcus: I am a 60 year old gentile who spent a lot of time in grade school going to bar mitzvahs for my Jewish male friends, but I do not recall in the 1950s any bat mitzvahs. Is this rite of passage for Jewish girls a newer development? And is it recognized by all three of the major branches of American Judaism? Thanks. Ruth Marcus: Yes, the bat mitzvah is relatively new, 1960's and 1970's vintage -- mine was in 1970. It is recognized by all three branches mostly (modern Orthodox do bat mitzvahs but not the Hasidim, for example), but practiced differently -- i.e. an Orthodox bat mitzvah would not take place at a regular service, would not include the girl reading from the Torah, etc. Mine, at a conservative synagogue, was far different from my daughter's, including a woman rabbi! Rochester, N.Y.: The country is in the midst of a $3.5 trillion war with no end in sight, 45 million Americans are without health insurance, we may be nearing the worst recession since World War II ... and you're writing about bat mitzvahs? Can you say "self-involved and frivolous"? Ruth Marcus: Well, I was just about to move on to politics when this question popped up, so let me explain: I really believe in writing a column that is different and surprising every week, at least as much as it can be. Last week I wrote about a very serious subject -- two, in fact: the farm bill and the candidates' spending plans. And I have to say, I have gotten far more e-mails this morning about the bat mitzvah column than I did about that one. Silver Spring, Md.: So, now that we know what Jeremiah Wright eats for breakfast (mercifully having been spared the underwear question), what sort of nonsense do you figure the press will move on to next? More vetting of Obama's controversial kindergarten essays? While they were fixated on this idiocy, 60,000 people died or are missing in the latest global-warming-exacerbated hurricane, a world food shortage developed and millions here still are without health care. Perhaps the lapel pin business again? That seems urgent to me. Ruth Marcus: I happened to have been at the MTV event when President Clinton was asked about the underwear, and I really regret not having figured out a better way to write about its outrageousness. But I do have to take issue with the matter of what nonsense "the press" focuses on. Certainly there have been times, too many times, when the trivial took the place of the substantive; I would like to see more serious coverage of the issues. But character matters in selecting presidents, and the differences among the two remaining Democrats on substance are not so great -- hence some of the more trivial aspects. Moreover, I think "the press" has not flogged these issues so much as a particular part of "the press," conservative talk radio. Tuckahoe, N.Y.: First, if you're using the same keyboard as Karl Rove, make sure you wash your hands. Second, I think on balance that by continuing in the race to this point Clinton has enhanced her reputation as a fighter, more than she has angered some Democrats about the tactics she's used. A lot of people like that. Provided that she gets out within the next few days, I think she has helped herself, even with some people who formerly detested all things Clinton. You agree? Ruth Marcus: Interesting question -- and, by the way, my hands are on my own keyboard! I think she has proven her impressive tenacity and endurance and substance, and I do think that -- assuming there is a graceful and not-too-prolonged exit -- she will have helped herself overall, though the Clinton-detesters are an awfully hard to move group. I think the Clinton whose reputation ends up suffering is the former president. Bethesda, Md.: You can already hear the pundit-buzz growing louder about why Obama can't knock Hilary out of the race. The real question is, why can't Hilary -- who entered the campaign as the blow-away front-runner -- re-establish herself as the leader? Ruth Marcus: I think that pundit-buzz has dissipated -- Sen. Obama helped himself last night with a significant win in North Carolina and a very strong showing in Indiana. Rochester, N.Y.: As the mother and grandmother of several beloved biracial children, I am not a racist -- attempts to paint me and my generation so will not prevail -- but I refuse to let the liberal media, none of whom have given Sen. Clinton an inch, shove Obama down my throat. From 50 years of voting Democratic Party, this man will surely take us to defeat ala Dukakis, McGovern, Kerry, et al. Ruth Marcus: I understand the argument that "the media" have given more breaks to Sen. Obama than to Sen. Clinton, but I don't think liberal media shoving Sen. Obama down people's throats possibly can explain the phenomenal amount of money he has raised, the votes he has gotten, etc. New York: Why can't Hillary "close the deal" with African Americans and the well-educated? Ruth Marcus: She is more than not "closing the deal" with African Americans -- that support has been dwindling since the start of the race. I think there is enormous and understandable pride in the African American community about Sen. Obama and his historic race, and some understandable unhappiness about some of the Clinton campaign's tactics/comments on racial issues. And I think the education gap is fascinating -- obviously real, but less intuitively obvious to me. mshimazu: Why bury McCain's principled and consistent opposition to agricultural subsidies seven-eighths of the way through your column, while proclaiming at the top that he has offered no budget cuts? Ruth Marcus: That's a fair question, and something I wrestled with. The column violated a basic rule of column writing, which was that it was about two things -- the candidates' spending/tax plans and, secondarily, the farm bill. Because that was the secondary issue, and because I think his tax plans are so much more irresponsible than his opposition to subsidies is responsible and commendable, that was where structurally could go in the column, and I tried to make up for that by saying it was to Sen. McCain's credit to oppose the measure. Minneapolis: A few weeks ago on this chat, you pooh-poohed discussion of the wealth of Cindy McCain and her family's connections to McCain's political success. Subsequently, it has been revealed that use of Cindy's private jet saved the McCain campaign hundreds of thousands of dollars, and the slender amount of information in John's tax returns indicates that most of the wealth in the family is in Cindy's name. Are you ready to call for more disclosure of Mrs. McCain's wealth (at least up to the level of disclosure that Teresa Heinz Kerry did in 2004)? Ruth Marcus: Yes, fair point, and stay tuned. Washington: Where did you hold the special event, Ruth, and how did it go? Ruth Marcus: At the National Press Club (my daughter's choice, not mine), which turned out to be a pretty timely venue given Rev. Wright's appearance earlier in the week! It was fun for the out of town guests because there are all sorts of interesting pictures on the walls and other memorabilia. Arlington, Va.: Okay, character matters. But what does Rev. Wright's character have to do with Obama's character? What does a lapel pin or putting your hand over your heart for the national anthem or Pledge of Allegiance have to do with character? These are phony, made-up "issues" that people toss out there to further inflame small-minded people. This country is going down the tubes fast. The next Great Depression is on its way, people -- if we don't get some real leadership to fix our very real problems very soon, we are doomed. This country gets what it deserves. I agree with Wright that we reap what we sow. Ruth Marcus: I'd distinguish between those two issues. I think, though people disagree, that Rev. Wright's statements were so troubling that it was fair to at least ask what Sen. Obama was doing sticking with/by him for so long. The flag thing is, by contrast, a total phony issue. There is no reason to question Sen. Obama's patriotism. leftofleft: I don't see any sort of budget -- we merely borrow it all from China. Perhaps we have promised (under the table) to throw a few of the games in August. Ruth Marcus: We borrow too much of it from China -- or, to be more precise, we are lucky in some sense that they are willing to underwrite us -- and we are borrowing too much. als47: Perhaps these budgets are a reflection of the nonintelligent (obviously a polite euphemism!) voting masses, who do not seem to make the simple connection between taxes and services expected in a rich, civilized nation. Add to this the total obliviousness regarding the growing deficit and debt, and we have a winner... Ruth Marcus: I believe in giving voters credit for being smarter than some people think. Look, Ross Perot made the deficit his major issue and got 19 percent of the vote. People understand that the national budget is not very different from their household budget (though the absence of savings and the amassing of credit card debt might suggest that this understanding doesn't take them so far.) Anyway, I have really enjoyed the gas tax debate in the past few weeks because it has posited the possibility that a candidate could be against a gimmicky, irresponsible, probably ineffective but juicy-sounding tax break and, if not benefit from it, at least not be punished too much. Arlington, Va.: With an Obama camp that is not nearly as Pro-Israel as the Jewish population is used to, strong support for Israel by McCain and strong rising stars like Eric Cantor, how long until we start to see Jewish support become at least 50-50? The religion as a whole tends to be trending to the right as so many liberal organization throw Israel under the proverbial bus. Ruth Marcus: My guess is that the Jewish voters' support for Sen. Obama will be much less than the usual Jewish support for the Democratic nominee. jack824: Ms. Marcus -- thanks for continuing to shine a light on this incredibly important topic. These are the hard issues that should be the focus of presidential debates, not relegated to the opinion page. Instead of asking candidates whether they will take a no-tax pledge, moderators should be asking how they intend to pay for them -- and pushing the issue beyond the popular but inadequate "I'll cut earmarks" or "I'll make the oil companies pay" responses. You get my vote for inclusion on the next panel of moderators. Ruth Marcus: Thanks, but no one has asked! And I believe we have a Post policy against participating. But I really enjoy helping raise these issues, both in columns and in my day job as an editorial writer, and I always appreciate seeing Sunday show questioners and others raise them with candidates. Thanks! Chicago: If Hillary does not revert to a Mike Huckabee-style campaign, will the media make the incontrovertible point that her only remaining reason to stay in the race is to hurt Barack Obama for the general? Ruth Marcus: I like the Hillary-as-Huckabee comparison. No doubt that point will be made. Atlanta: I thought it was bad enough when I was growing up (and I did not have half the bat mitzvah my friends had). It is so horrible. I mean, really, take the money and save it for college, right? My cousin was so caught up for it for her kids. It was incredible. She was afraid that the kids wouldn't like it (she was telling me stories of the kids leaving early, etc.). I mean, what is the deal with that? If my kid were at a party and they didn't think it was exciting enough, they still would stay to the end -- they would be polite and suck it up. What are these kids looking forward to? What are their expectations about life? It's unbelievable. We're hoping to take at least one of the kids to Israel for the bar mitzvah. It might be as expensive as the crazy party, but it definitely will be more meaningful. washingtonpost.com: The Mitzvah and the Mania (Post, May 7) Ruth Marcus: My mother reminded me that she and my father gave me the choice between going to Israel and a party ... and I chose the party. So I guess I don't have standing to complain -- and the kids at our party had, I think, a great time -- they behaved beautifully, and I did enjoy seeing them, and my daughter, have fun. Rolla, Mo.: I wonder if Rochester enjoyed the "bitter" taste of Rev. Wright and other nonsense about Obama being shoved down her throat by the "liberal" media? Ruth Marcus: Everyone remembers and focuses on the negative stories being written about their candidate, and forgets the ones about the other candidates. But that's human nature. Chicago: Ruth, your columns are very thought-provoking. Keep 'em coming, even about bat mitzvahs. With that aside, I have to agree with Silver Spring's assertion that "the media" -- not just right-wing radio, or pundits, or other small segments -- is fixated on the trivial and inane at the expense of real issues. I read only mainstream media sources, avoid cable TV, and go into a coma whenever "the blogosphere" is mentioned. I'm also a late-30s lawyer from a privileged background who has worked extensively for big business; in short, I'm the last guy to buy into conspiracy theories or fringe arguments railing against the system. But the past few months have convinced me that the mainstream media has a dangerous obsession with these idiotic issues like what Rev. Wright ate for breakfast. That obsession is causing real and lasting damage to this country, not only because it crowds out discussion of serious issues but because it punishes the candidate who is anything but bland and noncontroversial. It's such a self-destructive policy. We've already seen the results: eight years of W. It's like getting a drill instructor to teach eighth-graders who makes his students do push ups whenever they ask a question in class but can't answer it themselves. Pretty soon they'll stop asking questions, which is the last thing you want young students to do. Thanks. Ruth Marcus: Thanks very much for that thoughtful comment. Look, I worry a lot about the present and future of our business, whether we will be able to support and produce the kind of deep, substantive reporting that helped win The Post six well-deserved Pulitzers this year. I certainly think that press coverage in general is too light on substance and explanations of policy differences among the candidates. But I do think that there is a place for character/personality reporting as well, that we do try (even if not enough, even if we don't always succeed) and, well, I said the rest already about the worst offenders. zewebster: I appreciate that Ms. Marcus is fighting the good fight on the Farm Bill, but way to bury the lede here. Obama and Clinton may not be paragons of fiscal conservatism, but their plans are vastly more responsible than McCain's batch of almost completely unfunded tax cuts on the wealthy. When there is a difference between Obama and Clinton's planned shortfall and McCain's planned shortfall that is measured in trillions of dollars, shouldn't the media actually report it that way? Ruth Marcus: That's what I tried to do. Savannah, Ga.: Forget the Democrats -- what's up with John McCain's Republicans? He lost over 20 percent of the vote to candidates who already have left the race (either formally or informally). What's up with that? Ruth Marcus: I looked at that -- probably not so surprising in the sense that you have to be pretty motivated to get up and go out to vote when the election is a fait accompli (though I guess there were some down-ballot races.) And conservatives probably benefit from sending Sen. McCain a message that he can't simply sit back and count on them. And I think he's hearing it (see for example his speech yesterday on judicial nominations). Re: Negative stories: You write "everyone remembers and focuses on the negative stories being written about their candidate, and forgets the ones about the other candidates." Do you remember any negative stories being written about John McCain lately? washingtonpost.com: McCain Missing in Action \| McCain Offers Tax Policies He Once Opposed \| McCain's Plan for Working Class Offers Plenty for Corporate World Ruth Marcus: Sure, the story another poster mentioned about his wife's wealth and use of her corporate jet, and the unfortunate New York Times story about his dealings with a female lobbyist. Falls Church, Va.: Re: Obama and the flag pin. Let's remember, it was Obama himself who started the flag pin issue. He used to wear one, and he stopped because he objected to the symbolism that he considered it to convey. So, you can argue that it's just a pin, but Obama himself believes, and I don't understand why it should be off-limits to ask him about that belief. Ruth Marcus: Fine, ask -- that's not off-limits -- but I would say get the answer and move on. Wokingham, U.K.: It struck me that the gas tax was remarkable in that it was a genuine policy issue in a contest where policy differences seem to have emerged slowly and rarely. Have there been other serious differences beneath the surface of the Clinton/Obama debate, which has seemed to be about backgrounds, attitudes and feelings rather than plans? I'm particularly interested in plans for us in the non-American world. Ruth Marcus: A few. The one that has gotten the most attention is Sen. Obama's decision not to include a mandate for individuals to purchase health insurance in his health care plan, while Sen. Clinton has one in hers. On this one, I think Sen. Obama does not come out looking well because of the way he has attacked Sen. Clinton for allegedly forcing people to buy insurance they can't afford, which I think goes too far. Another difference is in their tax policies -- Sen. Obama would devote a lot more money to another big -- and, I think, unwarranted/unaffordable -- tax cut for the middle class and the elderly. So his responsibility on the gas tax gets balanced off, in my book, against his irresponsibility on the other. Arlington, Va.: Earlier commenter: "I wonder if Rochester enjoyed the 'bitter' taste of Rev. Wright and other nonsense about Obama being shoved down her throat by the 'liberal' media?" Actually, Wright's sermons surfaced on YouTube and in blogs. It was a long time before the traditional media picked up on the story. To this day, the New York Times news pages still have not reported on Wright's "God damn America" remark. Ruth Marcus: I can't believe the New York Times has not reported on that comment, but perhaps I'm wrong. And certainly it was the ABC report on the sermon that really caused the issue to explode. Washington: Does Obama need to hop to it and find another church, fast? Ruth Marcus: I don't think so. Rev. Wright has retired. It would look opportunistic and insincere at this point. Woburn, Mass.: Sen. Obama should take the golden chance his victory has given to insure his future. He should immediately declare that the Florida delegation should be seated as divided by primary vote, and that the Michigan vote should be split 60-40 for Sen. Clinton based on the fact she got half of the vote there. That way, he is still ahead, he is the one to give Florida and Michigan Democrats representation, and he looks like a generous victor. That will heal a little of the damage his supporters' extremely sexist and aggressive tactics have done, and ensure that in November the Democratic Party can use the fact they didn't deprive Michigan and Florida of their representation, unlike the Republicans. Ruth Marcus: Without endorsing every element of what you said, I think something gracious that gives Sen. Clinton some of her due and, more important, makes Florida and Michigan feel enfranchised would be a smart move at this point, or some point soon. New Baltimore, Mich.: Do you think Clinton really will push the Democratic National Committee to seat the Michigan and Florida delegates as-is? I find her "support" so transparently self-serving. Why wasn't she fighting the DNC to count us before the primary? She sold us out to make nice with the party bigwigs. Ruth Marcus: She might ask for as-is but she's not expecting to get it. There's a lot of hypocrisy on this one, certainly. Helena, Mont.: On May 1, longshoremen on the West Coast staged an eight-hour work stoppage as a way of protesting the war in Iraq. If our elected officials do not bring this war to a resolution within the next two to three years, do you see more actions such as this by the American people? Ruth Marcus: Probably not. I do think the more effective way to make the point is by voting. HFNY: I'm surprised you didn't lead with the McCain-Clinton plan to suspend the federal gasoline tax from Memorial Day until Labor Day. This will help no one -- individuals will save a measly $30 in the course of the summer (about a half a tank of gas), thousands of construction workers will be out of work, and the government will lose about $8 billion dollars, most of which goes to repairing our infrastructure. This is the most egregious fantasy foisted on the public in recent memory, and by two politicians who know better but apparently continue to think the American public is just plain old dumb. Ms. Marcus, perhaps you might want to take a look at this fantasy, too. Ruth Marcus: I'm not sure that Sen. Clinton had put in her two cents (or 18.8 cents) when I wrote that, but the truth is that while she and Sen. McCain are in the wrong on this, it is a small, albeit telling issue in comparison to larger issues of tax policy and spending. childressp: You began the article talking about fantasy budgets, but if memory serves we had projected surpluses just seven years ago! At the very least this shows that fiscal discipline is possible. Then you attack all three candidates, but McCain is less scathed. The funny thing about conservatives is the hypocrisy when it comes to taxes. The three privates interests (drug, oil and job-shippers) all have received billions over the Bush tenure. Where was your conservative outrage over that corporate welfare? AWOL, I guess. All the while corporate profits soared and the spending class hasn't even maintained. Well, now we're seeing the short-sighted policies come to fruition in the form of a country with no savings, a falling dollar, falling assets, rising prices for fuel, food and commodities, and involved in a war that will run into the trillions. The idea that anyone should take your advice on governmental budgets is laughable. Ruth Marcus: We did have projected surpluses, although some people warned rather presciently at the time (not me; I was not writing about these issues then), that some of this was in fact fantasy. Certainly, fiscal discipline is possible, and I disagree with you that "McCain is less scathed." I gave him a lot of credit when it came to the tax bill and said he was way more irresonsible in both the amount that he planned to spend (in the form of tax cuts) and in his seriousness about paying for it. bkmj : I love the crazy way trickle-down economics work -- give the wealthy money and they spend it to help the poor man. LOL. McCain will give us four more years of the bush league economists that we have had. Congress can give itself another raise, because the cost of food and fuel has risen since their last one. Thank God I only have about four more years to live and enjoy what little I have left to live on. Ruth Marcus: One could still hope that McCain the president would be more like the first version of McCain the senator (the one who vorted against 2001 anad 2003 tax cuts) and less like McCain the candidate. RE: Your John Yoo op-ed: John Yoo's 2003 interrogation memo was a dishonest attempt by Bush administration higher-ups to protect themselves with legal opinions by hack lawyers rather than Constitutional scholars. Bush shrouded Yoo's fig-leaf arguments in secrecy to protect the usual suspects, but left exposed low hanging fruit running Abu Ghraib and Guantanamo prisons. Apparently Bushies felt they, like dreadful leaders throughout history, could do anything in the name of national security without regard to established laws. Bush simply got biased lawyers to argue that -- no matter how frivolous -- anything he and his inner circle did was within his executive authority. Although lawyers claim to be truth-seekers, in justifying Bush's torture program, apparently Yoo and other Bushies considered lessons the world learned from the Nuremberg Trials as quaint arguments, and that Bush's thinking was -- as ridiculous as it now sounds -- infallible. Ruth Marcus: This was a column from several weeks back that talked about whether John Yoo should be fired from his teaching position at Berkeley law school. I thought--and still think--not, though I thought his memo was appalling. Ruth Marcus: Ok, everybody, thanks for checking in--we'll see where the presidential race is in a few weeks when I'm back. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Join live discussions from the Washington Post. Feature topics include national, world and DC area news, politics, elections, campaigns, government policy, tech regulation, travel, entertainment, cars, and real estate.	130.04878	0.707317	0.804878	high	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/undergod/2008/05/germany_and_scientology.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/undergod/2008/05/germany_and_scientology.html	Germany and Scientology	2008050719	as an american living ANYWHERE on earth, i support the german government's stand on scientology. our fetish with free speech uber alles (pardoning the expression) is what let the demented kraken of the Co$ into the world in the first place. so then, i'd like to respond to you point by point. (other anons, TL;DR incoming!) "Whatever you think about Scientology, you have to wonder about the Church's treatment by the German state." actually, the first things that i think about are typically their egregious abuses of human rights, and complete abandonment of ration thought and critical thinking skills. i suppose germany pops up eventually, though. "In December, Germany's interior ministers said they considered the religion to be "not compatible with the constitution." Yesterday, an AP story reported that the German Scientologists have dropped a legal battle to keep the country's intelligence services from monitoring its activities. What is Germany so afraid of?" germany is a unique case in the world, in that they hosted an absolute fascist state with goals of world domination (nazis. and no, not godwins law.), and suffered for it. as such, they are the BEST suited in the world to detect the same type of thought that leads to those ends. they are correct, scientology is not compatable with the constitution. scientology hopes to 'clear the planet', or make everyone on earth a sceintologist, loyal only to their dead messiah, and his current dictatorial stand-in. "German officials have categorized Scientology as a business, not a religion, and tax accordingly. Scientology has responded by complaining about "religious discrimination." The AP reports that "The North Rhine-Westphalia Higher Administrative Court in Muenster refused last month to hear an appeal to a February ruling allowing the intelligence agencies to continue observing the Scientologists. German authorities suspect Scientology of maintaining ''ambitions against the free, democratic basic order,'' according to the February ruling." A: if they thought it would garner support, scientologists would accuse you of religious persecution for eating scones too loudly across the street from their 'orgs'. B: aside from the fact that judges do occasionaly want to stop listening to laywers, scientology's history of abuse of the legal system makes denial of appeals MORE desirable, not less. C: again, good for them. they are correct in their suspicions. "The Church of Scientology has long battled to end the surveillance, saying it is an abuse of freedom of religion, and the U.S. State Department regularly criticizes Germany for the practice in its annual Human Rights Report." my earlier comments on the US Gov't's fetishistic view towards freedom of religion notwithstanding, the IRS all but admitted IN COURT that they'd been bought off by the Co$ to proclaim it as a religion. really, though, there's nothing on this point i can do or say except for expressing my collective shame at the poor behavior of my nation. "Germany's top security officials reiterated in December that they consider Scientology to be in conflict with the principles of the nation's constitution. They asked state officials to begin gathering information to consider whether they have sufficient grounds to seek a ban on Scientology." Ban Scientology? Doesn't that seem kind of extreme? They are a religion largely focused on self-improvement. While I'm well aware of their checkered past, decrying it unconstitutional seems like a threatened position to take by a nation. " no, it does not seem extreme. not if you listen to hubbards writings as a sane and free man (or woman). no, they are not a religion. they meet every criteria in every way of being BOTH a cult, and a pyramid scheme. scale and name do not change the underlying purpose. this does not mean that i disagree with their right to believe. mormonism is a valid religion, the mormon cult in texas was still raided 100% lawfully. without the state department condemning the government of texas, i might add. perhaps the mormons should have hired a few hundred lawyers, like scientology did when the IRS revoked their tax break after deciding that they preformed no valid religious services? if you were truly aware of scientology's "Checkered Past", you would not have bothered writing this article. look up 'Lisa McPhereson'. she DIED, because scientologists did to her what the accepted teachings of the CoS demanded. look upo operation snow white, or operation PC Freakout. scientologist's infiltrated the us government to purge records critical of them, under indirect orders from their founder. scientologists attempted to drive a journalist to suicide, because she wrote the truth about them, under orders from their founder. the same founder that, under scientology policy, is INFALLIBLE. his orders, his paranoid delusions, are more than standard operating procedure in the CoS to this day... they are the ONLY operation procedure. i'd like to close with a few quotes and an admonishment: HUBBARD Wrote to this effect: enemy, SP. may be tricked, sued, lied to, or destroyed. (later cancelled, IN NAME ONLY) those below 2.0 on the tone scale must be eliminated, quietly and without sorrow (guess where YOU fall on the tone scale, public at large.) have you ever read 1984 by george orwell? yes, that is but the palest shadow of what a world entirely under scientology would be like. these are (close to) the words of L Ron Hubbard. in the CoS, that man CANNOT be wrong, his words CANNOT be changed or interpreted differently once he sets them forth. Mrs. Hoffman, i would beseech you to join the rest of the world outside of the American nightmare where religion can trump other rights at will. i plead with you not to hold our government's most embarrassing international actions as shining examples of tolerance. and most of all, i ask of you what i would ask of every journalist and every politician. Do Your Job. worry first about the world, and second, if at all, about ratings and re-election. find the truth, act on the truth. and in this case, the truth is that Germany is correct and justified in its every action in this case, for the crimes commited by scientologists, for scientology would shock even the most callous, jaded, and cynical person imaginable.	On Faith is an innovative, provocative conversation on all aspects of religion with best selling author Jon Meacham of Newsweek and Sally Quinn of The Washington Post. Keep up-to-date on global religious developments with On Faith.	28.522727	0.568182	0.704545	medium	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/eboo_patel/2008/05/smearing_muslims.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/eboo_patel/2008/05/smearing_muslims.html	Smearing Muslims	2008050719	I didnât know whether to laugh or cry when I read last week that Nelson Mandela was on the terrorism watch list. At least Condeleeza Rice had the grace to call the situation âembarrassingâ. Daniel Pipes, who earns his living by making Americans scared of their Muslim neighbors, has no such decency. I suppose there is a case to be made for a file to exist somewhere in the national security apparatus with the name âMandelaâ on it. After all, he did co-found an organization, Spear of the Nation, that carried out violent actions as part of the struggle against Apartheid in South Africa, albeit a half century ago. When Pipes puts someone on one of his lists, it isnât about what you did, however long ago. It is about who you are â especially if you are an Arab or a Muslim. The story of how he derailed Debbie Almontaserâs career is just the most recent egregious example. Almontaser - an American Muslim of Yemeni descent who is well-respected in both interfaith and education circles in New York City â was hand-chosen to lead the cityâs first Arabic-English school, the Khalil Gibran International Academy. By his own admission, Pipes, a professor and commentator, didnât know much about Khalil Gibran International Academy. But that didnât stop him from stating his bias in an OpEd published by The New York Sun: âArabic-language instruction is inevitably laden with Pan-Arabist and Islamist baggage.â He referred to the school as a âmadrasaâ, a term meant to conjure up the image of suicide bombers, not kids learning algebra. I bet Pipes did not point out that this school was one of sixty-seven innovative dual-language programs in New York. Or that the schoolâs brochure expressly says that it is about building bridges between cultures, citing Gibranâs words, âIn understanding, all walls shall fall down.â In fact, Mr. Pipes, an adviser to Rudy Giuiliani's failed presidential campaign, was interested in building higher walls, not better understanding. The focus of his strategy was going after Debbie Almontaser. Pipes referred to her by her birth name, Dhabah, even though she had gone by âDebbieâ since she was a child. He called her views âextremistâ. What was his evidence? There were young people selling t-shirts that said âIntifada NYCâ at a festival that Almontaser attended. Imagine if you were held responsible for the t shirts young people wore at every event you went to. Long story short, Daniel Pipes got his way. Debbie Almontaser is not the principal of the Khalil Gibran International Academy. You can read the whole sad, scary tale in Andrea Elliottâs illuminating New York Times piece. Elliott puts this incident in a larger context, and states explicitly something that American Muslims have known for a long time: â(there is) a growing and organized movement to stop Muslim citizens who are seeking an expanded role in American public life.â Mr. Pipes and his supporters have many names for this group: âsoft jihadâ, âlaw-abiding Islamistsâ, âpolitical cover for ideological support of the jihadi movement.â The activities of these âlaw-abiding Islamistsâ include requesting meals that meet Muslim dietary requirements in cafeterias. I have worked with students from all faith backgrounds who are requesting food that they can eat at universities. We generally call such efforts reasonable accommodation for minorities in a diverse society. Why, when Muslims do it, is it called âsoft jihadâ? Daniel Pipes told The New York Times, referring to Muslims: ââ¦ are they on our side or are they on the other side?â Since Mr. Pipes has a history of wondering aloud about where Muslims stand, let me make my definition of the side I am on very clear: I am for a world where people from all backgrounds â Muslim and Jewish, American and Arab, black and white, men and women, gay and straight â live in equal dignity and mutual loyalty. On this side, no one gets smeared for their ethnicity or language or religion. I believe I stand with Debbie Almontaser, Nelson Mandela and the vast majority of humanity. What side are you on, Mr. Pipes?	On Faith is an innovative, provocative conversation on all aspects of religion with best selling author Jon Meacham of Newsweek and Sally Quinn of The Washington Post. Keep up-to-date on global religious developments with On Faith.	18.136364	0.590909	0.636364	medium	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/pomfretschina/2008/05/why_we_need_china.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/pomfretschina/2008/05/why_we_need_china.html	Hillary's China-Bashing	2008050719	Every election cycle, somebody likes to bash China. (Remember Bill Clinton accusing George Bush of coddling âbutchers in Beijingâ?) China is an easy target, and bashing it is fun because itâs so much simpler to blame foreigners for our troubles than to focus on our own issues. But more broadly, I think, making a case for relations with China is tough for politicians who feel the need to dumb-down their rhetoric and identify an enemy. Letâs take Hillary Clinton as an example. After mowing down NAFTA, Clinton has now turned her anti-aircraft heavy machine gun toward China. Here are a few snippets from her campaign: "We do have to get tough on China," she said on Sunday while campaigning in North Carolina, which has seen a loss of more than 200,000 factory jobs since 2001. "It is long past time for us to blow the whistle." "This country manipulates its currency to our disadvantage, they engage in broad-based intellectual property theft, industrial espionage, they do not follow the rules they agreed to follow when they joined the WTO. What do we get in return from them? Well, we get tainted pet food, we get lead-laced toys, we get polluted pharmaceuticals." HARSH! (And very interesting considering Bill Clinton was the godfather of the trade-will-set-the-Chinese-free school of U.S. diplomacy â another canard, but thatâs another blogpost.) Yes, I know thereâs a massive trade imbalance here, about US$260 billion at last count. But letâs take a closer look at some of Clintonâs claims. On the tainted imports, sure, Chinese companies â and arguably the Chinese government -- have been sleazy, but the real problem is right here at home. Itâs easy to blame China, but the real story is that the U.S. regulatory structures have failed to cope with the globalization of trade. Yes, there are bad actors all OVER the globe (China included, although actually more product recalls involve Mexico than China). But the real solution is not to shut down trade with China, itâs to make a better FDA and Consumer Product Safety Commission. But thatâs harder to do, so Clinton bashes China. As for currency manipulation, wrong again, Senator. China has quietly allowed its currency, the Yuan, to gain substantially against the dollar over the last year. In April, $1 bought less than 7 yuan for the first time since 1994. Over the last three years, the Yuan has appreciated more than 18 percent vis-Ã -vis the dollar. Yes, China is allowing the yuan to gain against the dollar for domestic reasons â because it might help lower Chinaâs high inflation. But the point is that theyâre doing it. In April, Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson recently praised China for doing so, although he added that China should let the yuan appreciate more. On the issue of stealing U.S. jobs, again, China is an easy target but Clinton seems to be firing blind. First, manufacturers have been bleeding jobs in the United States to developing countries for decades. So any developing country is an easy target: Mexico, Thailand, Malaysia, Bangladesh, you name it. China just happens to be big â and Asian. (it all has the whiff of Japan-bashing in the 1980s). But trade goes two ways, and Clintonâs call to âget toughâ with China ignores the fact that Americans profit from trade with the PRC. First, low-cost imports keep prices down â and that especially helps consumers living through a recession. And, second, all those imports means China has a lot of extra cash to buy foreign goods. And buying they are. The U.S.-China Business Council (you can tell by the name that theyâre pro-trade) released a report on May 1 that shows that: 1) Almost all congressional districts (406 out of 435) registered triple-digit growth in exports to China between 2000 and 2007. 2) Nationwide, from 2000 to 2007, exports to China grew 301 percent to $65.2 billion. Worldwide U.S. exports grew only 44 percent. 3) Contrary to common perceptions, congressional districts in states such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, North Carolina, and Michigan also benefit from rapidly growing exports to Chinaâand these exports include manufactured goods and machinery, computers and electronics, transportation equipment, and other high-end products. In North Carolina, where Clinton railed against Beijing, China is the stateâs third most important export market. Last year, North Carolina exported almost $1.8 billion worth of goods to China, up 405 percent since 2000. As for Indiana, where Clinton has continued her China-bashing, exports have jumped 355 percent since 2000 to $758 million. Politicians seeking to look at China with a more textured view also get little love from pundits who, as one former U.S. official involved in U.S.-China ties said, âare more comfortable talking about American values than American interests.â A close relationship with China may not jibe with American âvaluesâ â human rights, the First Amendment, religious freedom â but itâs crucial to American interests. Somehow weâve got to get used to that.	Pomfret's China features China expert John Pomfret as he deciphers what's behind the latest news from China.	50.55	0.45	0.55	high	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/kinming_liu/2008/05/chinas_fall_from_grace_no_surp.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/kinming_liu/2008/05/chinas_fall_from_grace_no_surp.html	China's Fall From Grace No Surprise	2008050719	The Current Discussion: In his recent PostGlobal blog post, "The Ugly Chinese," commentator John Pomfret says the world's perception of China isn't as rosy as it used to be. Do you see China as a threat? Why? Why not? HONG KONG â Clear-eyed observers of China are a rare breed, but Steven Mosher is one of them. In his brilliant 1991 book, China Misperceived: American Illusions and Chinese Reality, Mosher wrote: "For the past two centuries, American perceptions of China have oscillated between the poles of love and hate. In brighter moments China was seen as the land of Marco Polo and Pearl Buck, peopled with wise, industrious, and courageous folk. But regularly, almost cyclically, the pendulum swung back, and the cruel and violent China of the Mongol hordes, the Boxer Rebellion, and the 'human wave' attacks reasserted itself. The Chinese heroes of the anti-Japanese resistance became the totalitarian masses of the 1950s, the riotous young rebels of the 1960s, the public-spirited proletarians of the 1970s, and the poor but deserving folk of the 1980s. The Tiananmen massacre has once again tilted the balance, and the pendulum has swung to the other dark extreme." When the book came out in 1991, China's image had hit rock bottom. For a while, it almost seemed the pendulum would never swing back to the other direction. Who would have thought Beijing could pull off the rebound that it did? And what an astonishing bounce back it was. A decade after the Tiananmen massacre, China joined the World Trade Organization, won the right to host the Olympics and became Wall Streetâs darling. With the help from leading politicians, business executives, scholars and diplomats in the West, China has successfully implanted a rosy picture of its future in the world. Dubbed the "Soothing Scenario" by James Mann in his book The China Fantasy: How Our Leaders Explain Away Chinese Repression, it contends that the successful spread of capitalism will inevitably lead to the development of democratic institutions, free elections, an independent judiciary and a progressive human rights policy. China is destined to open up its political system, and trade is the key to unlocking the door. The Soothing Scenario looked like it was all set to bloom this summer, when a supposedly peaceful-rising China was scheduled to have a coming-out party at the Olympics. Then, out of the blue, the plan was derailed. The Ugly Chinaman took the stage. The pendulum is once again swinging, and fast. It's really extraordinary for knee-jerk anti-American Europeans to view the Middle Kingdom as more dangerous than the Great Satan. In fact, it should have come as no surprise to anyone who sees through to the real nature of the regime, which has remained unchanged despite spectacular developments on the surface of Chinese society. The Chinese Communist Party is interested in only one thing: holding on to power. It has only two tools with which to do so: more lies and more repression. After the Tiananmen massacre, the eminent China scholar Simon Leyâs assessment was, I believe, still valid for China today: "Unfortunately, its poison might outlast the beast itself. The legacy of such a regime can even be more evil than its rule. The collapse of the present government is ineluctable; what is to be feared is that, after 40 years of economic mismanagement, in the present circumstances of overpopulation and poverty, with a population brutalized by four decades of relentless political terror, worse horrors may follow." (After the Massacres The New York Review of Books, October 12, 1989) Brainwashed by the regime and ignorant of the bloody history of the People's Republic since 1949, the new generation of angry youths smacks of the Red Guards during the Cultural Revolution. Michael A. Ledeen, a scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, points to a likely chilling future of China. In an article, "Beijing Embraces Classical Fascism" in the latest issue of the Far Eastern Economic Review, Mr. Ledeen argues that the heirs to Mao Tsetung and Deng Xiaoping act more like disciples of Mussolini and Hitler than communists. "Hitler's Germany and Mussolini's Italy were every bit as sensitive to any sign of foreign criticism as the Chinese today, both because victimhood is always part of the definition of such states, and because it's an essential technique of mass control," Mr. Ledeen writes. Like their European predecessors, the Chinese claim a major role in the world because of their history and culture, not just on the basis of their current power, or their scientific or cultural accomplishments. "It is only a matter of time before China will pursue confrontation with the West," predicts Mr. Ledeen. "A great Roman once said that if you want peace, prepare for war." Beijing 2008 has always reminded me of Berlin 1936. I'm not the only one who feels that way. Some Jewish leaders in the U.S. are calling for the boycott of the Olympics. In a petition called "China Olympics Are Not Kosher", they say: "We remember all too well that the road to Nazi genocide began in the 1930s, with Hitler's efforts to improve the public image of his evil regime. Nazi Germany sought to attract visitors to the 1936 Olympics in order to distract attention from its persecution of the Jews. Hitler's propaganda minister, Joseph Goebbels, called the 1936 games 'a victory for the German cause.' We dare not permit today's totalitarian regimes to achieve such victories." I can only pray that the West will find another Churchill and Roosevelt.	PostGlobal features David Ignatius and Fareed Zakaria and other international figures in debates on global news and politics. Stay on top of international news and join the conversation at PostGlobal.	33.030303	0.454545	0.454545	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/07/AR2008050700642.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/07/AR2008050700642.html	Scant Aid Reaching Burma's Delta	2008050719	BANGKOK, May 7 -- Small quantities of drinking water, food, tents and other vital supplies reached Burma's devastated Irrawaddy Delta region Wednesday, as bodies floated uncollected in swollen rivers and sea-flooded rice paddies five days after a cyclone roared through. Survivors, speaking in video interviews, gave harrowing accounts of clinging to the trunks of palm trees to escape swirling floodwaters and then escaping to high ground in rickety boats, the Associated Press reported. A U.S. diplomat said the human toll, now tentatively at least 22,000 dead and 40,000 missing, could reach 100,000 dead. As evidence mounted of long-term damage to one of the world's premier rice-producing zones, international aid agencies expressed new frustration that a huge operation to help the estimated 1 million survivors is being held up by the apparent reluctance of Burma's military rulers to let foreign relief experts into the country. Four Asian citizens who are part of a U.N. emergency team were cleared by the government to enter Burma on Thursday, but a fifth member, a Westerner, got no permission, and nearly 40 others remained uncleared, the United Nations said. U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon urged the government to speed "in every way possible" the arrival of workers and supplies in Burma, a Southeast Asian nation surrounded by India, China and Thailand. "The government authorities have never had to deal with a disaster on this scale before, and it is imperative that the lessons from other major disasters can be applied rapidly, rather than having to be re-learnt," said Richard Horsey, a spokesman for the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. As impatience mounted, Bernard Kouchner, France's foreign minister, proposed invoking a newly established U.N. doctrine known as "responsibility to protect" in order to deliver aid directly to people without waiting for official approval. France pressed the idea at a Security Council meeting at U.N. headquarters in New York on Wednesday. But China, Russia, South Africa and Vietnam blocked the initiative on grounds that the council -- which deals with threats to international peace and security -- had no business meddling in a domestic crisis. Some U.N. officials voiced irritation with the proposal. "I'm not sure that invading Myanmar would be a very sensible option at this particular moment," said John Holmes, the chief U.N. emergency coordinator. "I'm not sure it would be helpful to the people we're actually trying to help." Burma's official name is Myanmar. Shortly after the disaster, the Burmese military authorities said they would welcome international help. Analysts are split over whether their continuing delays are caused by the generals having trouble overcoming their traditional xenophobia, particularly toward Westerners, by simple bureaucracy, or both. The Burmese government has said the cyclone killed at least 22,000 people, with 40,000 more unaccounted for. Shari Villarosa, head of the U.S. Embassy in Rangoon, told reporters Wednesday she was hearing indications that the death toll could rise to 100,000, the AP reported. She did not elaborate. Despite the continuing uncertainty, the Rome-based U.N. World Food Program has sent four aircraft containing almost 50 tons of high-energy biscuits and other supplies from storage facilities in Bangladesh, Italy and the United Arab Emirates. Staff members of the program, which has long operated non-emergency programs in Burma, worked with private relief personnel to distribute about 90 tons of rice to destitute civilians on the outskirts of Rangoon, Burma's largest city. City residents are facing the prospect of weeks without electricity, a worsening shortage of drinking water and spiraling food prices, as authorities slowly begin the massive task of cleaning up and repairing the city's shattered infrastructure. According to the government, 671 people were killed in and around the city.	BANGKOK, May 7 -- Small quantities of drinking water, food, tents and other vital supplies reached Burma's devastated Irrawaddy Delta region Wednesday, as bodies floated uncollected in swollen rivers and sea-flooded rice paddies five days after a cyclone roared through.	15.125	1	48	low	high	extractive
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/capitalweathergang/2008/05/inside_the_burma_cyclone.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://blog.washingtonpost.com/capitalweathergang/2008/05/inside_the_burma_cyclone.html	Inside the Burma Cyclone	2008050719	As the number of dead and missing continue mounting in Burma, it's natural to wonder what kind of storm inflicted this horrible toll. The answer is simple: A hurricane, but by another name. "Tropical Cyclone" Nargis, as the culprit storm is called, formed due to the same forces of nature that spawned the likes of Hurricanes Hugo, Andrew, and Katrina closer to home. Keep reading for more about this storm. Also, see our full forecast through the weekend. A "tropical cyclone" in the Indian ocean (where Nargis formed) is no different than: All of these storms begin as small clusters of thunderstorms and draw on surrounding warm, tropical ocean water to become monstrous, swirling storms often hundreds of miles across with a calm eye in the middle. These storms produce sustained winds of at least 74 mph, deadly storm surges (onshore rushes of sea) that can easily exceed 10 feet and copious amounts of rain. Tornadoes often form inside these storms when they interact with land but they generally produce damage on a smaller scale than the storm (hurricane, typhoon or cyclone) itself. The National Hurricane Center explains: When Nargis made landfall in Myanmar (Burma) Friday night, it had sustained winds of 130-135 mph. These winds classify Nargis as a low-end category four hurricane (out of a possible five) on the Saffir-Simpson scale, a rating of hurricane intensity. While the 130+ mph winds were destructive, meteorologist Jeff Masters at Wunderground.com writes the staggering casualty figures resulted mainly from Nargis' storm surge: Relative to recent major landfalling hurricanes in the U.S., Nargis packed about the same intensity as Hurricane Hugo when it struck Charleston, S.C., in 1989. Katrina was also approximately this intensity (when it struck Louisiana) but Andrew, a rare category five hurricane, was stronger (albeit smaller in size than these other storms). As devastating as Hugo, Andrew and Katrina were here in the U.S., the impact of Nargis on Burma has been many times more severe. Chris Mooney, the author of "Storm World" and blogger for Science Progress, in a very insightful post suggests a confluence of meteorological, socio-economic and political factors contributed to the catastrophe: All of this not to mention the government's failures in responding to this devastating storm. The destructive qualities within a storm only mean so much. So much of the storm impact depends on societal resilience and storm preparation and response. While we are way ahead of Burma in our readiness for powerful hurricanes, our recent experience with Katrina in the U.S. reminds us we remain vulnerable as we head into what may be an active hurricane season. The importance of readiness cannot be overstated. By Jason Samenow \| May 7, 2008; 9:24 AM ET International Weather , Tropical Weather Previous: Forecast: Sunny Stretch Slips Away \| Next: CommuteCast: A Taste of Mid-June One common characteristic of all TROPICAL cyclones. The low is a WARM-CORE system, as distinguished from the unstable COLD-CORE cyclones which generally affect us in the "Temperate" Zone. The conditions for tropical cyclone intensification seem to be related basically to the following; (1) A warm core system or disturbance over the ocean at low latitudes which can be affected by the Coriolis force. (2) Upper-air high pressure which appears to promote outflow from the developing tropical cyclone. (3) Ocean water surface temperature of circa 26 degrees Celsius (ca. 80 F) or higher which promotes a supply of warm humid energy-rich air to fuel the developing cyclone's heat engine. As for Nargis, the storm peaked at or near Category 3 on the Saffir/Simpson scale making it an "official" hurricane by our standards. The death toll could run as high as 60,000, considering the current "missing" figure of 45,000+. This approaches but does not quite equal the six-figure tolls historically given for Bay of Bengal cyclones which have struck India and Bangladesh over the years. It's possible that mismanagement by the repressive Myanmar government may have enhanced the toll. An interesting note here is that both Tibet and Myanmar populations speak languages of the Tibeto-Burman family and both are currently governed by repressive regimes. The difference is that Myanmar, unlike Tibet, is being ruled by an INDIGENOUS dictatorship. (Interestingly enough, however, the Chinese support BOTH repressive regimes!!!) Posted by: El Bombo \| May 7, 2008 9:53 AM Bombo: Good comments. A number of sources online rank Nargis as a Cat 4 -- although not sure there is a definitive answer. But whether it was a strong 3 or a low-end 4 is largely irrelevant given the storm's terrible effects. Posted by: Capital Weather Gang \| May 7, 2008 10:21 AM Was the destruction increased because the winds and the cyclone eye wall were situated just right to pull in the maximum ocean surge? Posted by: BeenThereDoneThat \| May 7, 2008 10:49 AM Beenthere: Yes--right in the Delta region as Jeff Masters described. Good observation. Posted by: Capital Weather Gang \| May 7, 2008 11:18 AM What effect did the tide have on the storm surge's landfall? I'm not a weather expert, but I'd expect a storm making landfall at high tide to do more damage than one coming ashore when the tide was out. Posted by: Zathras \| May 7, 2008 11:57 AM wow- what a disaster, and so sad... Posted by: madison \| May 7, 2008 12:24 PM Having survived Hurricane Hugo, I can say for certain it was storm surge combined with poorly constructed shelters that caused the great majority of deaths. At a spot 10 miles inland and surveyed at 12 ft. above sea level, we were still in waist-deep water when the Hugo's eye made landfall - inside a brick home made in the 1950's, when homes were still built correctly. I couldn't imagine being in a mud or bamboo hut at or near sea level when a 20 ft surge comes ashore! I will say a prayer for all. Posted by: BenJovi \| May 7, 2008 1:45 PM Zathras: Can't find historic tide data for that part of the world. A good question though. Posted by: Capital Weather Gang \| May 7, 2008 1:59 PM Which has a greater effect on storm surge? Winds, or the low pressure? I always kind of visualized the sea surface covered with a flat balloon- the relatively higher pressure surrounding the storm pressing down, with the lower pressure in the center allowing the sea surface to bulge. The bulge comes ashore as the surge. Is there anything to this, or does the wind push the water ashore? Posted by: CM \| May 7, 2008 2:58 PM Posted by: Jason, Capital Weather Gang \| May 7, 2008 9:50 PM Thanks Jason! I've always wondered how to quantify the pressure component of the storm surge- the link says it's only about 3 feet. Posted by: CM \| May 8, 2008 8:51 AM Posted by: bil jin \| May 8, 2008 12:21 PM i was in it im useing a frieds computer most of my famliy are dead Posted by: kbi guyi \| May 8, 2008 12:22 PM Zathras: I learned the storm did hit at high tide ... making a bad situation much worse. Jeff Masters' at Wunderground has a new blog post which discusses this. Posted by: Capital Weather Gang \| May 8, 2008 2:31 PM Posted by: Mckendry \| May 16, 2008 10:10 PM We encourage users to analyze, comment on and even challenge washingtonpost.com's articles, blogs, reviews and multimedia features. User reviews and comments that include profanity or personal attacks or other inappropriate comments or material will be removed from the site. Additionally, entries that are unsigned or contain "signatures" by someone other than the actual author will be removed. Finally, we will take steps to block users who violate any of our posting standards, terms of use or privacy policies or any other policies governing this site. Please review the full rules governing commentaries and discussions.	Visit www.washingtonpost.com/.	801.5	0	0	high	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/07/AR2008050700581.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/07/AR2008050700581.html	For Russia, a Second Center of Power	2008050719	After a brief but pomp-filled ceremony in the gilded Grand Kremlin Palace, Medvedev immediately nominated his highly popular predecessor to be the next prime minister. Russians are watching to see how much power Medvedev will exercise and how much will move to the traditionally low-influence office of the prime minister. According to the Levada Center, a polling organization, 67 percent of Russians believe Medvedev will continue to "act under the control" of Putin and his inner circle. The Russian parliament is to confirm Putin as prime minister Thursday. A decade of freewheeling and often chaotic democratic rule in Russia followed the demise of the Soviet Union in 1991. Putin reestablished central control in the presidency while overseeing a withering of political pluralism. In the past year, he had orchestrated a transfer of his post to Medvedev, who had never before run for political office. Addressing the nation after taking the oath of office, Medvedev said, "We must achieve true respect for the law and end the legal nihilism that is seriously hindering modern development." That echoed language he has stressed since he emerged late last year as Putin's chosen successor. Russia "should be truly just and take care of its citizens to provide the highest living standards so that as many people as possible can consider themselves members of the middle class," Medvedev said. That will be a daunting task in a country that, while flush with revenue from oil and gas exports, is still riddled with corruption, saddled with a vast and stubborn bureaucracy, and facing a debilitating demographic decline. How he and Putin will share power remains unknown. "Medvedev was elected president, but will he now run for the presidency?" asked Vladimir Ryzhkov, a critic of the Kremlin and former independent member of parliament. "Will Medvedev fight for power?" For now, Medvedev and his predecessor have stressed harmony and the continuity of policies set by Putin over the last eight years. "It is very important to continue together the already chosen course of the country's development," Putin said in a short farewell address before Medvedev was sworn in. "I made a commitment to work openly and honestly, to faithfully serve the people and the state. And I did not violate my promise." Medvedev swept into the Kremlin in a stretch Mercedes limousine shortly before noon. He walked along a red carpet through three halls of the Grand Kremlin Palace and past about 2,000 guests, including foreign diplomats, members of both houses of parliament and regional leaders from across this country. With Putin, legislative leaders and the head of the constitutional court by his side, Medvedev placed his hand on a copy of the Russian constitution and took the oath in the golden splendor of Andreyevsky Hall.	MOSCOW, May 7 -- Dmitry Medvedev, a 42-year-old former law professor and protege of Vladimir Putin, was sworn in as Russia's third president Wednesday, creating an unusual dual power structure in a country long dominated by one man.	11.543478	0.565217	0.913043	low	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/07/AR2008050702048.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/07/AR2008050702048.html	Platypus Genome Found Fittingly Strange	2008050719	When the British naturalist George Shaw received a weird specimen from Australia in 1799 -- one with a mole's fur, a duck's bill and serpentlike spurs on its rear legs -- he did what any skeptical scientist would do: He looked for the stitching and glue that would reveal it to be a hoax. "It was impossible not to entertain some distant doubts as to the genuine nature of the animal," Shaw wrote of the seemingly built-by-committee creature, which he eventually named "platypus," for its flat, webbed feet. Now, more than 200 years later, a team of scientists has determined the platypus's entire genetic code. And right down to its DNA, it turns out, the animal continues to strain credulity, bearing genetic modules that are in turn mammalian, reptilian and avian. There are genes for egg laying -- evidence of its reptilian roots. Genes for making milk, which the platypus does in mammalian style despite not having nipples. Genes for making snake venom, which the animal stores in its legs. And there are five times as many sex-determining chromosomes as scientists know what to do with. "It's such a wacky organism," said Richard Wilson, director of the Genome Sequencing Center at Washington University in St. Louis, who with colleague Wesley Warren led the two-year effort, described today in the journal Nature. Yet in its wackiness, Wilson said, the platypus genome offers an unprecedented glimpse of how evolution made its first stabs at producing mammals. It tells the tale of how early mammals learned to nurse their young; how they matched poisonous snakes at their venomous game; and how they struggled to build a system of fertilization and gestation that would eventually, through relatives that took a different tack, give rise to the first humans. "As we learn more about things like platypuses," Wilson said, "we also learn more about ourselves and where we came from and how we work." Platypuses (preferred over "platypi" in U.S. dictionaries) live on a sliver of Earth along Australia's east coast, in Tasmania and in Papua New Guinea. They are not endangered, but few people see them since they spend their days in burrows built into stream banks. But Ornithorhynchus anatinus has a global fan base, it seems, serving as the mascot for countless companies, products and events. The animal's complete genetic code, or genome, turns out to have 2.2 billion molecular "letters" of DNA, or about two-thirds as many as the human genome, and contains 18,500 genes, about the same as humans. Finding the order of all those letters was grueling, scientists said, because no similar animal has ever been sequenced. The platypus inhabits an isolated branch on the evolutionary tree with just one cousin, the echidna, also of Australia. That left researchers with no model to help them figure out how the platypus's DNA fits together. "It was quite a difficult thing," said Jennifer Marshall Graves of Australian National University in Canberra, who led part of the analysis after the St. Louis team derived the basic sequence. "The genome was completely unknown, and we knew it was going to be fairly weird," Graves said. "You'd look at some of these repetitive sequences and think, 'What on Earth is that?' "	When the British naturalist George Shaw received a weird specimen from Australia in 1799 -- one with a mole's fur, a duck's bill and serpentlike spurs on its rear legs -- he did what any skeptical scientist would do: He looked for the stitching and glue that would reveal it to be a hoax.	11.118644	1	59	low	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602510.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602510.html	'03 White House E-Mails Not Found	2008050719	The Bush administration has not found disaster recovery files for White House e-mails from a three-month time period in 2003, according to court documents filed this week, raising the possibility that messages sent before and after the invasion of Iraq may never be recovered. The White House chief information officer, Theresa Payton, said in a sworn declaration that the White House has identified more than 400 computer backup tapes from March through September of 2003 but that the earliest recorded file was dated May 23 of that year. That period was one of the most crucial of the Bush presidency. The United States launched the invasion of Iraq on March 20, 2003, and President Bush declared the end of major combat operations on May 1. Payton and other officials said that older e-mails could still be contained on the tapes because of the way the files are dated. The administration also said it is still searching computer archives for e-mails that have been filed in the wrong "digital drawer." In addition, Payton and other officials have said that any e-mails missing from the White House archiving system might still be available on disaster recovery tapes. But that did not satisfy an advocacy group suing the administration for e-mail records. "We're talking about the White House, and documentation of our history that may be lost," said Anne Weismann, chief counsel for Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington. Administration officials had acknowledged last year that thousands of e-mails might be missing from White House servers, but the administration has shifted course in recent months to arguing there is still no clear evidence of a problem. A White House spokesman declined to comment yesterday. Two federal statutes require presidential communications, including e-mails involving senior White House aides, to be preserved for the nation's historical record. The White House's electronic archiving system has come under scrutiny from Democrats who allege that nearly 500 days' worth of White House e-mails from 2003 to 2005 may be missing. CREW has joined the National Security Archive, a private advocacy group, is suing the Executive Office of the President in an attempt to preserve the e-mail records. The administration said in a brief, filed Monday with U.S. Magistrate John M. Facciola of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, that a court proposal to search and preserve all e-mail records on the White House network would "yield marginal benefits at best, while imposing substantial burdens and disruptions" on the government.	Full coverage of the White House and Bush administration from The Washington Post and washingtonpost.com, including a guide to the members of President George W. Bush's Cabinet.	16.3	0.7	1.033333	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602889.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602889.html	Clinton's Best Oil Idea: Get Tough on OPEC	2008050719	Poor Hillary. It must be tough trying to pass yourself off as a working-class, beer-drinking populist who refuses to kowtow to elite opinion or put her lot in with economists when, deep down, you're still that same solid middle-class kid who went to Ivy League schools, made partner at a corporate law firm, speculated in hog futures and real estate development, reveled at Renaissance Weekends, wonked up on health care, lived off millions of dollars in speaking fees and book advances, and hasn't pumped gas in decades. Having just lived through seven years with a president who proudly ignored the advice of economists, scientists, military commanders and foreign policy experts, I'm not sure we can survive another. Her proposal for a gas-tax holiday, ripped from John McCain's playbook, is so ill-conceived that she's managed, if only for a moment, to unify the entire economics profession in opposition. Nor is it the only example of her misguided populism. There's also her proposed moratorium on mortgage foreclosures and her threat to cancel the North American Free Trade Agreement. But here's the dirty little secret: Hillary Clinton is actually in favor of raising gasoline prices, not lowering them. That's right. And for that matter, so are McCain and Barack Obama. That's because all three would-be presidents support some version of a cap-and-trade system for carbon dioxide emissions to deal with the very real problem of global warming. As Peter Orszag, the head of the Congressional Budget Office, reminded the Senate Finance Committee the other day, any cap-and-trade system effectively imposes a carbon tax on businesses and households. How that burden is distributed depends on how the program is designed, and how the proceeds from selling emission credits are used. But, based on Orszag's estimates, any plan that is likely to pass Congress is almost sure to raise gasoline prices and reduce the after-tax income of the average household. That may well be a modest price that Americans are prepared to pay to help save the planet. But if a gas holiday is a bad idea, aren't there some other things that could be done to reverse or offset the ridiculous run-up in oil prices? Hillary even hit upon one this week when she called for taking tough action against OPEC. These days, people who want to be thought of as sophisticated aren't supposed to rail against the oil cartel, either because it is viewed as ineffective in controlling supply or because there's nothing legally that can be done about price fixing when it is done by sovereign governments. Both assumptions are false. While OPEC may not be so good at controlling how much its members pump, particularly when supply is plentiful, it has been very effective in limiting the pace at which new capacity is developed. We were reminded of that reality only last month when the Saudi oil minister said his country would not go beyond the 11 percent increase in pumping capacity that it embarked on several years ago after decades of almost no growth. And in recent weeks several of his OPEC colleagues have acknowledged that as long as prices remain this high, they have no incentive to make the investments needed to dramatically increase supply. Nor is it true that there is nothing to be done about this. While the Supreme Court has ruled that current price-fixing laws do not apply to foreign governments, there is nothing preventing Congress from changing the law -- or, as Hillary and others have suggested, challenging the legality of price fixing at the World Trade Organization. Short of that, the United States could deny visas to top officials from OPEC governments, prohibit U.S. oil and drilling companies from doing business with known price fixers, and make it more difficult for the sovereign wealth funds of price-fixing countries to make direct investments in the United States. Such unilateral actions could aggravate our dear friends in the Gulf states, and in the short run shut off access to Middle East investment capital. But one should not underestimate how much Arab elites value the respect they are accorded and their access to our markets, our companies and our top officials. After a couple of years of being treated like political and economic pariahs, they might begin to realize that there will be a cost to their piggy price-fixing behavior.	Poor Hillary. It must be tough trying to pass yourself off as a working-class, beer-drinking populist who refuses to kowtow to elite opinion or put her lot in with economists when, deep down, you're still that same solid middle-class kid who went to Ivy League schools, made partner at a corporate...	13.171875	0.984375	62.015625	low	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202387.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202387.html	Washington Nationals	2008050719	Svrluga covers the Nationals beat for The Post and writes the Nationals Journal blog for washingtonpost.com. He's also the author of "National Pastime: Sports, Politics, and the Return of Baseball to Washington, D.C." Barry Svrluga: Greetings folks. This chat comes to you from a Starbucks at the Galleria Mall on Westheimer Rd. in Houston -- a good 20-minute drive from Minute Maid Park. Not my favorite city, Houston, but so be it. Much about which to chat. If you're wondering how a bunch of former Nationals are doing elsewhere, check out today's entry on Nationals Journal. But for now, let's get to questions. Thanks for dropping by. John Sterling: Do you hate Houston because it's one of those damp humid cities that has bugs as big as animals? Barry Svrluga: No public transportation to speak of. Sprawl that's out of control. Roads that are like those backgrounds on The Flintstones, where Fred would run and the same table and chair would be behind him like 20 times (Starbucks, Chipotle, CVS, Walgreen's, Starbucks, CVS, Chipotle, ets. Wash, rinse, repeat.) Section 241: Thank God Manny sat him down. After being saddled with "The Face of the Franchise" and knowing that Nationals' Park is "The House That Zim Built" (and yes, the free program offered as you enter the stadium really did feature that headline under its cover photo of Spanky), the last thing that Zimmerman needed was to build any Ripken fantasies into his self-image. Wait; it would help if he realized he's hitting like BILLY Ripken. Do you think that Acta and Bowden and Stan the Man realized that they used their PR machine to dump just a little too much on the kid? Barry Svrluga: That's an interesting take, and definitely a possiblity. But I still think the franchise believes in, well, the franchise. Zimmerman may not be a three-hole hitter long-term, but I think all the evaluators in the organization believes he'll either hit third or fifth. His slow starts are interesting, though, and he's not making the necessary adjustments. This is something he's going to have to do to get better. Last night, he finally drove a ball with authority to left-center. To my mind, he's been hitting too many balls to right. You want to make sure he CAN go that way if they pitch him outside, which is what they do right now. But his power is really to center and left of that. He's got to remind himself that it's okay to pull the ball on the few occasions he gets a pitch on the inside half of the plate. washingtonpost.com: The one that got away -- and Where are they now? ( Nationals Journal, May 7) Dupont Circle, Washington, D.C.: I know we're not even halfway through the season and I'm already asking free agency questions....but Boz had me thinking. How likely is it that the Nats will try and sign a Furcal/OHudson or both this offseason? And is it realistic to go after SP like Sabathia/Sheets given the obscene price of pitching? Barry Svrluga: I think the Nationals will get involved on one or more -- or even all -- of these names. Boz did not pull them out of thin air. But keep in mind: Entering into negotiations and saying you have interest are quite different than actually signing the players. The biggest check usually wins those derbies. Will the biggest check be signed by Theodore N. Lerner? Cheltenham, Md.: Hi Barry, thanks for taking my question. You may have answered this before, but I'm wondering what happened to the spinning baseball that was supposed to be on top of the Red Porch restaurant in the new stadium? Has it been scrapped? Will anything replace it? Thanks! Barry Svrluga: My understanding of the giant baseball is that they thought it was too much, too tacky, in the end. I could be wrong about that, and I'll double-check. Washington, D.C.: What's your view of Jim Bowden? Seems like if Stan Kasten is "architect" of The Plan, then Jimbo is the "general contractor." Is he the right guy for the job? Doesn't seem like his history of churning a lot of former Reds through town is the way to go. Is he capable of thinking big and really bringing in quality players? I have my doubts. Barry Svrluga: Bowden is several things, but one of them is very, very bright. The guy is a furiously fast thinker, and I think even his detractors in the game -- and he has several -- would grant that he is creative in his thinking. I would say two things: Look at the list of players the Nationals have let get away over the past few years, since Bowden came into the job. Are there really big mistakes there? And secondly, I'd be fascinated to find out how Bowden would do with a truly competitive budget. He's never had one, not here, not in Cincinnati. That would help give us a complete picture. Boz wrote yesterday that the Nats could go after 4 top-tier free agents and still be around $85 million. Now we all know it's not going to happen, but do you see the Nats going after 1 top guy? I assume the company line is going to be that they're not 1 player away, but the fans know that the Nats are making a ton of money. I don't think goodwill goes beyond this year. washingtonpost.com: Identifying The Core ( Post, May 6) Barry Svrluga: This will be a very interesting thing to chart. They keep claiming they're closer to being a contender than they thought they would be. That might be true, but it can't/won't happen until they sign top-tier guys like Sabathia. (Sheets, Hudson and even Furcal don't quite qualify.) Kasten is on the record as thinking free agents are his least-favorite way to build a team. But they have to increase payroll somehow if they're going to be competitive. Their best prospects are still a few years away. We have to hold their feet to the fire on getting more competitive. Des Peres, Mo.: Why would the Nats start Bergmann instead of O'Connor if they don't use Chico, he seems more deserving (not that deserves have anything to do with it), or even better just skip him and start Tim Redding on normal rest? Barry Svrluga: Also a possibility. It's also possible Chico (0-5, 6.87 ERA) will start Friday on his normal turn. I'll get that news at the ballpark. Section 409: What's up with that fake-to-third, turn-back-to-first would-be pickoff move? I counted at least five of those by Nats pitchers last night, and I seriously think the umpire called the balk on Rivera just because he was tired of it. Are those being called from the bench? Has that move worked, ever, in the history of baseball? Barry Svrluga: Yes, it's worked. And yes, it's called from the bench. But it's not called, necessarily, to throw a runner out. It's so the bench can read the other team's intent. Is the runner on first trying to swipe second? Is the batter squaring around to bunt? This happens lots of times on throws to first; they're not intended to pick the runner off, but to get the batter to reveal what he's intending to do. Here's what one Nationals official told me about plays like that. Say there's a runner on first and no outs, and the pitcher throws to first. A savvy hitter will do the opposite of the play that's on. If they're going to bunt, he won't show anything. If they're swinging away, they'll show bunt. So many little decisions go into it all. Silver Spring, Md.: The non-Kearns portion of last night's starting outfield is starting to seem like a real serious liability defensively. What's your take -- how much of a concern should this be? Barry Svrluga: Wily Mo Pena is not surprising, and yes, he made some bad plays out there. I thought he was better than expected during his brief time with the Nationals last year, and now I think he's reverting to form. Milledge is simply not a good center fielder. His routes are poor, his instincts are poor, and he even reminds me at times of -- gulp -- Preston Wilson. They're out there right now to see if they can develop -- offensively first, but also defensively. It's a process, and we'll see what happens. Minneapolis, Minn.: I believe Houston has more restaurants per square mile than any other city in the country. The place smells terrible, but at least the food is good. Last night's game was blunderful! Of the many makeable plays (or made plays that should have been avoided), which was the worst in your eyes? Berkman stealing third still galls me, but my favorite, I think, was Lopez striking out on a ball that hit him on the foot. Barry Svrluga: Man, it's a potpourri of pitiful plays. Lopez did not have a good night, and that strikeout was ridiculous. If Lo Duca makes a throw to the other side of the bag, they nail Berkman at third. The balk was poor, too, and we've discussed the outfield play. I'll go with Milledge's misplay of Berkman's "double" in the seventh. Ouch. MountieNatsFan, Vienna, Va.: Observing Manny Acta's reticence to challenge an umpires questionable call (see Lopez check swing last night for called strike three) got me wondering what it would take for Manny to go Bobby Cox on an ump. Would an opposing catcher giving Nick Johnson...okay, make that Austin Kearns...a wedgie during an at bat do the trick? If so we should pass the word to our homie Brian Schneider, because it's high time for Manny to get lathered up at least once in response to us getting jobbed. Barry Svrluga: Acta always has the same response on these things. He does not believe arguments from the manager turn around teams. Simply isn't true. He will go get things explained, and he gets upset, but long ago, in the minor leagues, he came to believe that getting thrown out does not have a positive effect on his club. People disagree with him, but he is steadfast in this belief. So don't hold your breath for a Lou Piniella imitation. Virginia: How do you see the catcher situation working out? Will Estrada be traded? Do you really believe the Nats can carry three catchers for a significant amount of time? Barry Svrluga: No, I don't, and I think Estrada is the most expendable now. He can't throw well (yes, Lo Duca's having his own problems) and he's basically serving in the Dmitri Young role as a switch-hitter off the bench. Wil Nieves is going to be a late-inning defensive replacement to protect a one-run lead, at least on occasion (with the first occasion being last night). Bratislava, Slovakia: Can you describe the mood in the clubhouse last night after giving the game away? Upset and/or somber? Or businesslike and/or nonchalant? Barry Svrluga: I would say somber/businesslike. Very quiet. No smiles. But one thing I've come to realize about this sport is that guys simply can't afford to get that down about losses in May, however bad they are. They're generally playing better baseball, and if going crazy after one loss happens all the time, they wouldn't arrive at the park with the right attitude today. Do the Nats intend to change the Friday games to 7:05 rather than 7:35, so that the fireworks won't get canceled out simply by a slightly-longer-than-average game? Otherwise, it would seem Saturdays might work better for fireworks. The current set-up seems like poor planning. Barry Svrluga: Yes, it's an interesting question. I don't believe they'll be changing the plan now, but I'd be suprised if they fireworks aren't cancelled a couple of more times this year after a 3-hour, 20-minute game. Perhaps they'll change it up next year. Anonymous: Had some free time on my hands this morning and decided to look at the stats for the Nats Minor League teams. Came across Luke Montz catcher for AA Harrisburg. I don't recall hearing much about the guy but he is absolutely tearing it up w/.342 AVG, 7 HR, .701 SLG and 1.127 OPS. Is he considered a prospect or just a player that is having an abnormally good year? Barry Svrluga: Not considered a true prospect, but certainly off to an encouraging start. Part of a Harrisburg team that just got an influx of new arms. The minor league affiliates of this club are getting more interesting to watch all the time. RE: The big baseball: Instead of a big baseball, how about a big nest with big eggs, and after every home run, have Screech pop out of one... Barry Svrluga: I am going to pretend I never heard that. Sec 114, Row E: When watching on TV, Wily Mo doesn't look very good in the outfield. In person, it's downright scary anytime anything is hit out to LF. Is he as bad as he looks? Why does it seem more noticeable this season? Barry Svrluga: I believe it's more noticeable this season because he is simply not playing as well out there. You're right: Everything over there seems like an adventure. Washington, D.C.: With Guzman playing so well are the Nats likely to sign him to another contract or use him as trade bait? If he were to continue to play like he is now it would be hard to imagine that the Nats would be able to upgrade at the SS position. Barry Svrluga: This will be an interesting situation to watch. I think we need to play out a bit longer, but if you throw in the 46 games from last year with his performance thus far, we're approaching a half a season of very solid play for Guzman since he had eye surgery. Is he really this much better? I would say both your suggestions are possible. Yes, he could be used as trade bait if a contender's shortstop goes down. And yes, he could be re-signed if the Nationals deem him the best option in the offseason. That could happen even if they trade him. But let's let this one play out a bit more before we draw firm conclusions. Any thoughts on Chris Needham giving up blogging for Capitol Punishment this morning? Barry Svrluga: I have to say, I was crushed by this. There are lots of Nationals blogs. Only one was bookmarked on my computer and in my BlackBerry. Chris offered intelligent, analytical, scathing and funny takes on the Nationals. I would try to talk him out of it, but I know what goes into stuff like that. It certainly opens up a spot for someone else to bring that kind of discussion about the team. Thanks for all the fun, Chris. RE: the big baseball: Perhaps it can be turned into a soundproof cell where we can banish Clint for eternity Barry Svrluga: For the record, I did not suggest this. Navy Yard: Minute Maid Park looks beautiful. Is it? Also, the Nats have consistently hit better there than at home. Do they like it better? Barry Svrluga: Beautiful? I wouldn't say that. Tricked-up? Certainly. I mean, there's a hill and a pole in the outfield. That's ridiculous. There are also train tracks above the left-field wall, which is only 315 feet away. It's very well-kept and a great place to watch a game. But it's not beautiful, and not nearly one of my favorites. DJ: I keep hearing good things about our pitching prospects. So when does Mike Rizzo get JimBo's job? All kidding aside, I know that Jay Z (Jordan Zimmerman) and cVa (Cory Van Allen) are still bits away ... when do we get to see Garrett Mock, Tyler Clippard or Collin Balester? Or even Jason Bergmann or Mike O'Connor (I know he's in the pen)? Barry Svrluga: I think we'll see one or more of those folks by the end of the year. But take some deep breaths. The starting pitching, surprisingly, isn't this team's biggest problem in the early-going. And Mock and Clippard clearly need some more work at Columbus. At least we have promising people about whom to talk now. That wasn't the case in the past. South Kennebunkport, Va.: Did anyone else notice George HW and Barbara Bush watching the game in what I presume are the expensive seats behind home plate? I didn't hear the TV announcers reference it (though I missed the first couple of innings, so they may have said it then). Give 'em credit: They were there, and seemingly paying attention, through the 8th inning! Barry Svrluga: They're there a ton. And yes, they were there till the eighth. Wonder when they're headed out to Crawford for the big nuptials this weekend. Minneapolis, Minn.: I hate to keep this topic alive, but I was at the game last Tuesday, and I noticed that -- along with the moustache -- Nick was sporting the high socks again. Did he lose his comfortable pants? Was this a nod to his mother, who apparently prefers the high socks? Was this done to see if we were paying attention? Barry Svrluga: Nick's slumping, and is trying to mix it up some. Maybe the homer and the three walks last night help him get out of it. One thing I find fascinating about him, though, is that even when he's not hitting, he's still able to draw walks. Some of it has to do with how little protection he has in the lineup. But he always has a good eye. Entering last night, his batting average was .211 -- not anywhere near what he's looking for -- but his OBP was .390, quite respectable. If he were just hitting .270, he'd be close to the league lead in OBP. Rosslyn, Va.: Any rumblings on what the Nats are planning to do with the #9 pick in next month's draft? Barry Svrluga: Would like a shortstop first, but would take a starting pitcher. But keep in mind, too, that the baseball draft is less "need-based" than, say, football or basketball. These players are usually a long way from the majors, so ... Bob Boone told me last week that he's got 10 players in the draft that he really likes, so the Nationals will get someone about whom they're excited. GM Jim Bowden will spend the next month making sure he sees all of the players the Nationals are considering -- some even a few times. Wilmington, N.C.: Jason Bergmann seems to have started to pitch pretty well down in Columbus. Any word on what he has been working on or any adjustments he has been making? Bergmann has always been inconsistent so even though he was IL Pitcher of the Week and has pitched some pretty good innings, its hard to get excited about the guy anymore. Barry Svrluga: Adjustments for Bergmann are not physical. They are mental. He must trust his stuff, because it is good enough to work in the majors. Bergmann can be his own worst enemy sometimes when he starts overthinking. If he doesn't do that, he's a major league pitcher. Arlington, Va.: Though I'm sad to see you move on to the Redskins, I'd like to say hello to your replacement, Chico (easy name to remember!). Any plans on when he'll introduce himself via the Journal or one of these live chats? Barry Svrluga: There are a few questions like this, and thanks for asking. Chico Harlan started at the Post earlier this week, and is currently going through orientation, etc., back at 15th and L NW. He and Sheinin went to lunch today. He and I went to lunch the other day. To my knowledge, he has not quit yet. Chico and I will go to the park together over the weekend, and then I'll accompany him to New York for the Mets series after that. He should be introducing himself via Nationals Journal either Friday or Monday (depending on when I decide to give him the keys to the offices, or when I can get a copy of the keys made for myself). He's excited about the challenge, and knows he has a rabid constituency to keep informed. Silver Spring, Md.: I'm guessing with your comment about Zimm's rare left field shot last night you're not completely enamored with Lenny Harris' go to the opposite field philosophy. Is that opinion shared with any decision makers in the Nats FO? Barry Svrluga: That particular comment is not a slam on Harris. It just means that as Zimmerman understands that he must be able to drive the ball to right field, he can't be happy just flicking it there every time he sees an outside pitch. He has serious power, and can hit the ball out on occasion to right. But he must somehow get himself situations where he gets HIS pitch, which is clearly one from the middle of the plate in. Section 409: Are the Nats going to auction off the Grays jerseys they wore the other day, as they've done in years past? Barry Svrluga: Don't know. Will ask. Chicago Ill.: Why aren't you staying downtown? There are a dozen hotels within walking distance of the juice box. I read once that reporters love staying at Marriotts for the points, even if that means being a $20 cab ride away from the park rather than next door. Isn't that what's going on here? Barry Svrluga: There's some huge oil convention here in Houston this week that made hotel rooms ridiculously expensive. Thus, I'm way out Westheimer at a Residence Inn (which, coincidentally, is a Marriott property). (If pressed, I could give you a list of the best Marriott properties at which to stay in each National League city. Come to think of it, Chico already has that list. When the boss found out I did that, he said, "Did you mention the words 'Red Roof Inn?'" Somehow that didn't come up.) Please make it stop: When will the Milledge-in-CF joke end? It is painful to watch. Barry Svrluga: When the Nationals get a legitimate center fielder. Or when Elijah Dukes comes back, possibly. Wilmington, N.C.: Collin Balester: MLB ready or not? Barry Svrluga: He is 2-2 with a 4.13 ERA. I simply haven't seen him pitch enough live to know, but the Nationals remain excited about him. They say his velocity is up to 94 this year. But I believe they don't want to rush him. When he comes up, they'd like it to be for good. Lenny Harris's hitting philosophy: Barry, Does Lenny Harris have a hitting philosophy? Walt Hriniak (sp?) preached the Charlie Lau approach, Ted Williams published his in a book, etc. In particular, is he trying to instill pitch selection into the Nats' hitters? They still seem to be swinging at the first sign of a halfway decent pitch to hit, and not working the count even if it means a walk. Just looking at the box scores from the past week across MLB, way more often than not the team that draws more walks is the team that wins. Barry Svrluga: This is an interesting question. Harris has a distinct philosophy that worked for him during his long career, much of which was spent as the best pinch hitter in the game. He had to be aggressive in those situations. "I may give you one strike, but I'm not going to give you two," he said a couple weeks ago. Is that approach right for an entire lineup? Is Harris tweaking his advice to different hitters? There have been internal discussions about this with the Nationals. Remember, though: He was thrust into this position, and the club said they would see how he developed into it. That process is still happening. Reflecting Pool:35-40 days into the season, who are the biggest surprises? If you had to pick your playoff teams now, which would they be? Barry Svrluga: I think anyone who says the Tigers aren't the biggest surprise would be crazy. I still look at the names in that lineup -- I mean, last night, Edgar Renteria hit eighth -- and find it staggering. But they have serious issues in the starting rotation and the bullpen. They may not recover. Playoff teams, in May? Oh, what the heck. I won't be around to be held accountable anyway. AL: Boston, Cleveland, Angels, Yankees NL: Mets, Cubs, Diamondbacks, Dodgers Cleveland, Ohio: Barry, thanks for taking time today. It seems like Manny Acta has done everything he can do, except pitch himself, to allow the Nats to win more games. Will he be a fall guy, and if so, does he deserve to be? Barry Svrluga: Under no circumstances would I expect Acta to be the fall guy. Just like everyone else around him, he's being given a chance to develop. If the team played sloppily, as it did during the early losing skid, for several months, there might be serious questions. But that didn't last, and I think the top officials hope/believe Acta is part of their long-term solution. Cleveland, Ohio: When all is said and done, will the Nationals be the worst team in baseball? Barry Svrluga: No. Definitely don't think so. Re: Chico: Have you given him the most important tip? Never, never utter the names, Baltimore, Orioles, Washington and Post in the same sentence in these chats. The wrath of the rabid consitutency is one slip away. Barry Svrluga: Actually, maybe I'll throw him under the bus and tell him to write in the Journal about how the Post has a commitment to covering the Orioles, and that he hopes to cover them some day. (Kidding. My God, I have apparently learned nothing in four years.) Washington, D.C.: Any details on Elijah Dukes getting ejected for arguing balls and strikes? Should we be worried? Barry Svrluga: Manny Acta said the report was that it was pretty normal stuff. It was his second call out on strikes, and he went back to the dugout and yelled from there. A good indication that the beef was legit is that his manager, Tim Foli, got ejected shortly thereafter. Speaking of your departure, I really am going to miss you, your writing style and your interaction with all us fans. I hope you don't think that I am crazy, but I snapped a couple of pics of you up in the skybox at a game last week just for posterity. Look forward to reading you on the Skins. Barry Svrluga: You don't think that's why I'm getting off the beat? In all seriousness, thank you (for reading, not for the photography). I am going to miss the beat very much as well. But I'll also be dropping in occasionally to spell Chico. I'll look forward to that. And you'll get a fresh approach from a really talented writer who's itching to get started. Section 204 Row K Seat 11, Bethesda, MD: Great Blog Post on Where Are They Now? Most posters there will live with Church gone if Milledge comes through. However, most (I among them) miss Snyder's presence behind the plate (throwing out runners and handling pitchers). Do you feel LoDuca's bat will come around enough to make the fans forget his shortcomings and thus validate the trade? Barry Svrluga: I love those Where are They Now posts. They're good a few times a season. I think every time a runner steals a base, a certain segement of Nationals fans will say, "Schneider would have thrown him out." But let's remember: Schneider threw out 24 of 77 would-be base stealers last year. That's a third of them. Not Lo Duca-esque, but also not 100 percent. It'll be interesting to see if Lo Duca starts to hit. Mount Vernon, Va.: What will it take for you to reveal the skeletons in the closet before you leave? How many pounds of brisket will it take? Barry Svrluga: I've got the key, and I plan on swallowing it at some point next week. Glover Park, Washington, D.C.: Barry -- Who are your favorite baseball beat writers, people you would recommend that we read? Barry Svrluga: I really like Tyler Kepner, who has covered the Yankees at the New York Times for years, and I have to give a nod to Gordon Edes at The Boston Globe, who I think is perhaps the best in the business. But there are not a lot of newspapers who let their beat writers really write a game story any more. They seem to be brief accounts of what happened, not deep stories about decision-making, etc. When I get defensive about the Post's baseball coverage, it's generally around that point, that we're given space to explain what happened and why. 9th and V: Barry, I hope that your Chico-mentoring obligations aren't going to keep you away from here this weekend! Barry Svrluga: Oh, they won't. I'll be stranding the young lad at the ballpark on Saturday night and scooting out to the 9:30 Club to catch Drive-By Truckers. If you spot me and Sheinin, you have permission to buy us beers. Barry Svrluga: My goodness, folks, so many left over questions. Thanks so much. It's my intention to have a chat next week from Shea Stadium, and then the next one will be Chico's to take you home over the last four-and-a-half months of the season. Thanks for stopping by. I'll get you lineups from the ballpark. Enjoy the games. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Washington Post writer Barry Svrluga takes your questions and comments about how the Nats look this spring, the new stadium and what to expect from the team this season.	199.096774	0.967742	1.612903	high	high	mixed
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202404.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202404.html	Wizards/NBA - washingtonpost.com	2008050719	Ivan Carter: Lots of questions on this super-nice day in the district. Let's get to it. Hagerstown, Md.: Do you think that there is any chance that Ernie could convince Gilbert not to opt out? If so, and Antawn signs for about $6 million less than he made this year, the Wiz would have money to resign Roger Mason Jr. and bring somebody else in. Ivan Carter: Gilbert has been very consistent in saying that he will opt out by July 1, but it's worth keeping in mind that he doesn't have to and he does have the option of seeing what's out there before making a decision. The thing complicating all of this is the fact that Agent Zero doesn't have an agent. He's going this alone, so there is no telling what he's thinking on a daily basis. We'll just have to wait and see how it plays out but, I do see a way for Ernie to get Gilbert signed, get Antawn signed and still have money left over to add a player. However, I see Roger Mason Jr. ending up elsewhere given the fact that Arenas will be back and Nick Young should be better for a larger role. It would be nice if Ernie could find a veteran front-court player. Think about how Joe Smith has helped Cleveland. Arlington, Va.: Do you see a scenario where Gilbert ends up signing with Cleveland (as he and LeBron are "good buddies")? Hopefully this won't be another Larry Hughes situation. Michael Lee: No need for an intro. Let's go... No way Gilbert signs with Cleveland. I could go all day listing why that won't happen, but the first would be that the Cavaliers have the third-highest payroll in the NBA, with almost all of their money tied up in Ben Wallace and Wally Szczerbiak. Washington: Pecherov seemed to have the roughest season of all the rookies; do you think it was the injury, or a little bit of nerves? Ivan Carter: The injury he suffered right before the season really stunted him. He missed several weeks of valuable practice time, and there is no way for a rookie -- especially one as young and raw as Pesh -- to make that up. He told me that the ankle really only started feeling better in the past few weeks. College Park, Md.: Do you think Ernie considers moving the Wizards' first-round pick this year? they already have four young guys coming off the bench -- I'm not sure they need another. What do you think? Ivan Carter: That is an option. As you point out, the team already has four young players (Young, McGuire, Pecherov and Blatche) so if Ernie determines that there is nothing there that can help right away, he could package it in a deal for veteran help and/or future picks. One thing on the draft: The season just finished, so I know very little about this class right now. Have to get caught up on my research quickly. It never ends. Charlottesville, Va.: Hey guys, I love your work! My question is, do you think other teams can or would offer Arenas max money? I just don't think you can give him a max contract without fearing of getting a Grant Hill or Penny Hardaway situation. The way I look at, he has been paid a salary for two straight years without having to work! Why don't players ever consider that fact? Michael Lee: When it comes to contracts and negotiations, players/agents never ask "how much am I worth?" It is always "how much is somebody willing to pay me?" If a player/agent believes he can get a maximum salary and he finds a willing participant, it is going to happen. That's why you've seen so many players who aren't max players getting max dollars the past eight or nine years. Teams are afraid to lose their stars because some other team is willing to buy them, so they blow all of their money on the star. It happens time and time again. Rockville, Md.: Ivan/Michael, I'm confused. Why would Arenas opt out of the last year of his contract? You would think he would have little-to-no leverage at this point, given that he has had a bum knee for two straight seasons and no other team can afford to pay him the max this offseason. Wouldn't it make more sense for him to play out his contract, show that he's healthy next season, and then get his max deal? I must be missing something... Ivan Carter: Exactly. The issue may be that Gilbert wants the security that comes with a long-term deal right now -- and that makes sense given that he's coming off of the first serious injuries of his life. New Orleans: How would you advise Popovich in defending Chris Paul? Ivan Carter: Get a pack of guard dogs, a fence, a few security guards with Tasers and then pray. You can't keep that dude out of the paint. From watching the first two games, it's obvious that the Spurs have some major matchup issues. Bowen can't stay in front of Paul and he can't defend both West and Peja. We'll see how it plays out in San Antonio, but the Hornets look good. San Francisco: Are there any trade or free agent possibilities for a hard-nosed forward like Kurt Thomas or Al Horford? We need rebounding and inside toughness. Ivan Carter: A guy like Kurt Thomas is exactly what this team needed this season and I agree with you, Ernie has to address that this summer. Horford is going to be a beast in this league for a long, long time. I love the way he plays. Gaithersburg, Md.: When he returned, Gilbert's lackluster defensive efforts were even more glaring when compared to the increased focus the rest of the team displayed in playing defense. Has there been any indication or signs from Gilbert that he will commit to learning defense next season? Ivan Carter: Not that I've seen. Then again, we didn't get to really see how he would have been this season because of the injury. The team clearly bought into a more defensive-minded philosophy. As Eddie Jordan has said: "Teams take on the personality of their best players." If Gilbert makes a commitment, the team will only get better. Wichita, Kan.: Are the Spurs done? Will the Lakers sweep? Michael Lee: No and no. The Spurs aren't done until they are beaten four times. It doesn't matter if they are down 0-2 or 1-3, I wouldn't count them out until the clock reads zero and their opponent has won their fourth straight game. They are too talented and too well coached to go down like chumps. That being said, if they can't find an answer for Chris Paul -- and soon -- they will be gone till November, if you know what I mean. Dale City, Va.: Hey guys, don't you think the Wizards need to change something? Three years of first-round exits to the same team is a disgrace. Someone needs to be held accountable. In NBA cities that matter, a coach or general manager would have been fired by now. The problem is that being mediocre is acceptable for Wizards basketball in this area. Ivan Carter: If I were Ernie Grunfeld and Abe Pollin, I'd be taking a long, serious look at my medical staff and figure out whether the injury thing is just bad luck or something else. There have been too many cases where a player was originally diagnosed as having one thing only to find out later that is was more serious. Jarvis Hayes and his knee. Pecherov and his ankle. Butler with his hip. Gilbert with his knee. etc. etc. etc. I'll ask Ernie about that tomorrow when he holds his postseason presser. Falls Church, Va.: Besides Gilbert, who will be the big free agents? Monta Ellis? Michael Lee: The big unrestricted free agent will be Antawn Jamison. Then there is a list of players with options to become free agents, like Elton Brand, Corey Maggette, Shawn Marion, Baron Davis (although it is unlikely that any player other than Maggette actually leaves). But the list of restricted free agents includes Andre Iguodala, Josh Smith, Luol Deng, Ben Gordon and Emeka Okafor. This is a pretty solid free agent class. Washington: Hey guys -- am I one of the only Lakers fans who really is worried about Utah? For a while now the defense has been adequate at best, but in Game One you could see that Gasol was going to get pushed around all series, and he gets tentative when he gets pushed off the block. We can't rely on boozer to get in foul trouble the whole series. Michael Lee: I think your concerns are justified. Utah is good. I know a lot of people who see them coming out of the West because they are so solid defensively and efficient offensively. They are a terrible road team, so I wouldn't put much into their performance in Game 1. The Jazz shouldn't be overlooked. You have a right to be nervous. Alexandria, Va.: I met the Cavs after the last Wiz game while the team was heading to the bus. Of course everyone was there to see LeBron and get an autograph. All the other players were really cool and signed autographs and took pictures and talk to the crowd waiting for them. Of course, LeBron comes out last and walks by the crowd like we didn't exist. One lady yelled "that's messed up, LeBron." LeBron said "y'all don't like me anyways" and continued to walk away. Even though Cavs won the series, seems like LeBron James really took it to heart with all the booing at the game and people calling him crybaby. Ivan Carter: I could be wrong because I don't truly know him, but LeBron has always come off to me as a super arrogant guy. I guess that's what happens when the world kisses you're rear end from the time you are a kid. Great player though. Washington: What's the point of keeping this team together when the reason why they lost was because they had no low-post threat, no defense in the front court, and were out-jumped and out-hustled and out-shot by the opponent? This team needs new blood, not year-to-year promises and hopes for health and prosperity. Ivan Carter: A lot of folks share your frustration. It's like a broken record. Falls Church, Va.: Question about the Olympics ... in crunch time, who are your starting five? I got Chris Paul, Kobe, King James, Melo, and Dwight "Superman" Howard. Michael Lee: I might have to go with Paul, too. Jason Kidd was the starter last summer and he played great, but Paul ate him alive in the playoffs and is playing on another galaxy right now. I'm with you on that five because Carmelo Anthony proved that he can play the four last summer. I don't see that unit losing -- unless they are out-coached or unprepared. That's too much talent and too many players willing to sacrifice for the greater good. That's a dangerous mix for the rest of the world. Bethesda, Md.: Did you catch LeBron last night? Sam Cassell touched him on the shoulder and LeBron acted like he got punched in the face, and Cassell ended up get a flagrant. Ivan Carter: I fell over laughing when I saw that. I watched the game at Solly's Pub on U Street and when that happened, a bunch of folks started hissing and booing. The guy next to me said it best: "What a drama queen." But hey, it got Sam I Am a flagrant, so it worked. The refs have to stop rewarding that kind of behavior. Washington: Does the "no leaving the bench during an altercation" rule only apply to players? When Songaila and James got into it in Game 5, Eddie Jordan and was all over the court trying to keep his guys away and arguing with the refs. Why is it different for coaches to step in and hold back players than it is for a player to go on the court and do the same thing? Michael Lee: Chances are coaches won't throw blows! The coach is within his rights to run on the floor, while his assistants are advised to keep the players on the bench. The situation has a greater chance of diffusing with a coach on the floor and a greater chance of escalating if players run wild. Tampa, Fla.: Great job of coverage this season. What's the preliminary outlook for Etan Thomas playing next season? Although he's an undersized "big," the Wiz could have used his fouls and rebounding against Cleveland. Ivan Carter: As long as his sternum heals up, Etan should be good to go. Ronny Turiaf of the Lakers came back from the same thing and plays a very physical style. Richmond, Va.: First, what about the Wizards drafting D.J. Augustin to feel a crying need at point guard? Second, what kind of deals might be out there for an Arenas sign-and-trade? Third, did you see the ridiculous fakery by Little Lord James last night and how he got that flagrant call? Now the Celtics fans know how we feel! Ivan Carter: I like Augustin a lot. Will he be around that late? New Orleans: Who do you think the Wizards will be looking looking to draft? What position? Who would you draft with a midrange/middle pick? Ivan Carter: As I said earlier, I have to do some research before trying to answer that question. You'd be amazed how little college ball you see as an NBA beat writer. You're either at a game, traveling to a city for a game or watching an NBA game. I'll get a good feel during the pre-draft camp and individual workouts. Hyattsville, Md.: Isn't it time to send Gilbert Arenas packing for a true point guard and a center? Michael Lee: If it's really time for Arenas to go, why would another team give up a point guard and a center for him? The problem for the Wizards is that they have never had the opportunity to see what this team will look like in the playoffs. It's a crying shame, really. You can't say that Gilbert isn't good enough to build around because he's been dealing with the same injury for the past two seasons. He's been hurt, so you really don't know what you have with an improving Caron Butler and Brendan Haywood. What the Wizards really need is size, depth and veteran experience. They don't need to get any younger. Washington: Why has Arenas been given so much leeway on this team? Why does team management and the coaches seem to put up with his disrespect for authority (i.e. not telling the coach first he was coming back to play and then not telling Eddie Jordan first he was shutting it down for the season)? The coach and medical staff should have the final say on when Arenas plays, not him or his blog. Arenas is a great player, but he needs to mature, grow up and start respecting authority. Ivan Carter: I agree with you on that. I like Gilbert a lot as a person and don't think that he's vindictive, but he did disrespect his coach twice this season. And the antics he pulled on the night of his return made him look bad. Again, I don't think he intends to do that but he has to be more careful about how some of his actions are perceived. Falls Church, Va.: Do you see the 2006 draft pick, Veremeenko, coming over anytime soon? Ivan Carter: Good question. I'll ask Ernie about that tomorrow as well. Last I heard, he suffered some kind of shoulder injury that impacted his season overseas. Again, I'll get you an update and put in the paper and/or blog tomorrow. Falls Church, Va.: Ivan, do you get to travel to any of the other playoff games since the Wiz are out? Or is Michael Lee taking all the per diem money? Ivan Carter: It's a Michael Lee production baby! If I don't see an airport or hotel within the next month, I'll be thrilled. Washington: Hi. Being older than most and having seen a lot of teams, it seems as though most really successful teams have a strong point guard who demands the ball but not the shots. Most who had point guards who demanded the ball and shots did not get to the championship games. How will the Wizards, with Gilbert at point, reconcile this (or will they)? Michael Lee: I know everybody likes to make that argument about having a "pure" point guard, but can anybody tell me how many assists Tony Parker gets for the Spurs? How many rings does he have? Parker is not your typical pass-first point guard, but the Spurs aren't suffering because he shoots a lot, are they? How many rings have Jason Kidd or Steve Nash won? When I look at the past, I don't know, 10-15 NBA champions haven't had a the prototypical point guard running the show. Did Jason Williams demand the ball for the Miami Heat? Chauncey Billups took a fare amount of shots for the Pistons, but they excelled as a team sharing the ball. I just think you can win with a number of formulas. The most important position the past nine years, though, has been center, because Shaq and Tim have won eight rings. Falls Church, Va.: What did you guys think of the Verizon Center crowd for the three playoff games? I thought the crowd was probably the best I've heard since the 2005 playoffs against the Bulls. Michael Lee: I thought the crowd was great in Game 3, pretty dull in Game 4 and only great for one quarter in Game 5. Compared to Cleveland, it doesn't even come close. D.C. fans were pretty cool but by no means as rowdy as the folks by Lake Erie. Colmar Manor, Md.: How long will LeBron James remain Kevin Garnett's punk? Michael Lee: When did that happen, again? I must've missed that. Washington: Why wouldn't Baron Davis leave if Nellie dissed and benched him during the final game of the season? Michael Lee: I can think of 17.1 million reasons why he'll stay put. Washington: Why are people so high on Kurt Thomas? He's won nothing, and has been traded time and time again. He was traded to the Sonics, and was supposed to mentor their two young forwards, but was traded. He was in New York, and won nothing. He was with the Suns, and won nothing. Now he's with the Spurs, and they are 0-2 this round. Michael Lee: I don't know anybody who looks at Kurt Thomas as a franchise changer. He's a role player. He's wanted because he rebounds and defends. I don't know what you want him to do. It's not his fault that the Spurs are down 0-2. And I bet you he won't have trouble finding a job if he wants of next summer. I don't know a team in the league that doesn't want a rugged rebounder and defender who can get the occasional baseline jump shot. Silver Spring, Md.: Mike D'Antoni needs not to take (or even consider taking) the Knicks job. Those players will walk all over him. Who actually would make the better head coach for the whole organization, Mark Jackson or Avery Johnson? Michael Lee: I think Mark Jackson makes sense because I believe he's familiar with New York and the Knicks and wouldn't have to make a difficult adjustment to Donnie Walsh. Avery Johnson would be a terrible fit for New York. I was really surprised that Charlotte was in a such a rush to hire Larry Brown because I thought Avery would've been a better fit with the Bobcats. D'Antoni would be great for Chicago. Falls Church, Va.: Whom did you guys vote for in the MVP race? Michael Lee: We don't have votes at The Post, but I would've voted for Kobe because it seems like every year voters kept coming up with new criteria for him to meet so that they wouldn't give him the award. Now he has done what has been asked of him and his team had the best record in the West, so he deserved it. Since Ivan is from Minnesota, he will always pledge allegiance to Kevin Garnett. Washington: Guys, any reaction to Wilbon calling your blog overrated? Michael Lee: He did? Let me call up Jay-Z... A Disgrace?: When I read comments about the "disgrace" of three straight first round exits, and the need to hold someone "accountable," I have to ask whether the writer has any sense of history, either of the Wizards or the league for that matter? How long did it take Jordan to get the first of his championships? How many decades did it take the Lakers to beat Boston in a championship series? Everyone needs to take a deep breath and enjoy watching this team being built. Michael Lee: I'm with you. A disgrace is what happened in New York this season. A disgrace is what the Wizards were the seven years before they made the playoffs four years in a row. A disgrace is what the Atlanta Hawks were for nine seasons before this one. Or the Golden State Warriors were for 13 seasons before last year. Charlottesville, Va.: Can we trade for the Phoenix Suns' medical staff? How did Shaq get healthy so quickly, and why does Steve Nash look like he's 28? I completely agree, something has to give! Michael Lee: Phoenix and Detroit are well-known for having top-notch medical staffs. They focus on treating the causes of injuries as opposed to focusing on the injury itself. They look at see which core ligaments are out of whack and work on that. In Shaq's case, they discovered that he had some problems with his buttocks that contributed to his bad hip. Look at Jarvis Hayes. He had a bad kneecap for two seasons, went to Detroit and played an entire season injury free. A lot of organizations should follow their leads. New York: What is your honest assessment of the quality of the playoff officiating so far? I'm supposed to believe that game clocks "randomly" malfunction only when the home team has the ball for the last-second shot? Michael Lee: It's so inconsistent. They are missing so many calls this postseason, it is ridiculous. That clock malfunction was terrible. I don't think an apology will make Orlando feel any better. That being sad, the NBA officials are the best in basketball and this is one of the toughest sports on the planet to call. They have some room for improvement, though. Arlington, Va.: Despite the loss last night, it looks to me like LeBron and Co. will be making it to the Eastern Conference finals this year (and probably for as long as LeBron as around). Do you see anyone in the East really stopping him in the long term, or are the Wiz to become the Jazz of the Michael Jordan Bulls dynasty? Michael Lee: I think Boston can beat Cleveland this round. This Cleveland team is not very good, and it is not better than the one that went to the Finals last season. I still believe that. The Wizards can't beat Cleveland without all of their weapons. They went into battle with two hands tied behind their back last season and one hand tied behind their back this season. Boston is at full strength. They have three all-stars - although only one showed up Tuesday. Fortunately for the Celtics, LeBron James was absent too. I think Cleveland needs to get another legit All-Star to team with LeBron before they become a truly elite team. LeBron is awesome, but he needs consistent help. Even Michael needed Pippen -- a legit All-Star/All-NBA player. Falls Church, Va.: Will Avery Johnson be able to motivate Eddy Curry and Zach Randolph in New York? Michael Lee: I don't see anybody being able to motivate Eddy Curry. He has to do it himself. I know Avery turned DeSagana Diop into a serviceable big man, but Diop wanted to get better. I haven't seen enough out of Eddy to make me believe that he wants it. As for Zach; he wouldn't listen to Nate McMillan. I'm not sure how Avery could get through to him. That's why I think a smooth communicator like Mark Jackson is the best fit for the Knicks. Washington: Mike, to follow up on your "pure point guard" argument, none of the guys that you mentioned, such as Tony Parker or Jason Williams disrupted the flow of their team. With Arenas, when he's on the court, all the players react based on what he does. Arenas just commands the ball much more than anyone you mentioned, and he's good like Michael Jordan where it works for the team. Michael Lee: I wouldn't classify Arenas as a ball-stopper. I think his teammates defer to him because they what he is capable of doing. I think this past season showed him that he doesn't have to be the hero in order for the Wizards to win. That comes with maturity and growth in the game. This injury has probably humbled Arenas a lot more than he'll ever let on. Reston, Va.: What do you think about using one of the two picks to select Dorsey of Memphis? He seems to be the type of physical presence and interior player that the Wizards need for their defense. I like the fact that he works to get his shots off the offensive glass rather than relying on being set up. Michael Lee: I think the Wizards should use the pick to get some veteran help. They really don't need to develop any more players -- unless they get some can't-miss prospect. Even still, for the Wizards to be a legit contender, they need more size, depth and experience. Young guys can carry you in the regular season, and even the first round -- but you need some vets to get it done in May. Michael Lee: Alright, everybody. It's been fun. I've got to run. Talk to you soon. Peace. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Post staff writers Ivan Carter and Michael Lee discuss the Washington Wizards and the rest of the NBA.	281.421053	0.894737	1.526316	high	medium	mixed
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/03/DI2008050302469.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/03/DI2008050302469.html	Federal Diary Live - washingtonpost.com	2008050719	Archive: Federal Diary Live transcripts Stephen Barr: Welcome to this discussion! If you have not read The Post front-page story today on federal agents raiding the Office of Special Counsel, I urge you to take time to do so. It was a rather remarkable event but also a perplexing one for federal employees who trust agencies to protect their interests. With that, let's go to the questions and comments. Washington: What are the chances the new inspector general legislation gets signed into law by the president? What are the president's issues with previous versions? From your perspective, do inspectors general really help make the government more effective? Again, from your perspective what could be done with the IGs to make needed improvements to help government become more effective? Stephen Barr: The chances are good. The House and Senate are strongly on record in favor of IG reform, so all that is needed is for the bill sponsors to reach a compromise. The Senate version is closer to what the president wants, so that's the bill to watch. Assuming good will all around, the Hill should have another bill to vote on before the August break. As for your question about IGs making the government more effective, that's difficult to answer. They clear help police federal programs, crack down on wasteful practices and make numerous recommendations for improvement in the management of the programs. They also have more to do than they have staff and money, and so I think IGs tend to focus on areas where they get their greatest rewards, rather than stepping back and taking a more strategic view. The IGs like to be independent and do things their own way, but this is a big government and I would like to see them work in a more collaborative fashion, teaming up to tackle certain issues, make their recommendations and then move as a team to the next big issue. I think that would help make the government more effective. Washington: Steve: The Department of Defense Office of the Inspector General has decided to split its GS-12/13 pay band into two segments -- "auditor" and "senior auditor" -- and require "auditors" to have one year in grade (GS-12 or equivalent) before they can be promoted to senior auditor. You also have to be a senior auditor to be promoted to a project manager position (GS-14). What do your readers think of that? FYI, I have applied for GS-14 positions within Defense and have made the best-qualified list even though I am not a senior auditor. Feel free to use the Department of Defense OIG in your discussion -- maybe someone will realize how stupid the policy is. Stephen Barr: This prompts a couple of thoughts. Is there a big distinction between the responsibilities of auditor and senior auditor? Is this being done as part of the National Security Personnel System, which offers a lot of flexibility in pay bands and in lateral moves? Washington: Your Monday column touches on many issues facing the government. Thank you. washingtonpost.com: Not Asked What They Can Do for Their Country (Post, May 5) Stephen Barr: Thank you, I appreciate the feedback. Washington: Former Hill staffer and recent law school graduate. The early comments on this morning's column were dead on ... the Federal hiring process is ridiculous. I've applied for GS-11 attorney position in 11 agencies and had one interview, three rejection letters, and seven nonresponses. The veteran's preference, while politically expedient, seems to impede efficient hiring and timely filling of positions, especially given the drain at FAA among others. What can be done to resolve the problems? washingtonpost.com: Hiring After the Baby-Boom Brain Drain (Post, May 7) Stephen Barr: Goodness knows people have tried a number of ideas to fix federal hiring -- with little success. I'm not sure any of this will change unless the No. 1 and No. 2 in each agency make it a priority. Let's face it, smart, talented people have a lot of employment choices these days, and a slow-moving government is going to lose people that it needs. Hiring for the retirement boom: The biggest problem with federal hiring is still that it is toooooo sloooooow. Qualified young people (especially new/recent grads) want/need a job now, and will take the private industry job offered because it means an income coming in, rather that waiting months for the government to act. In fact, I would wager that there are many who would make great public servants who don't even apply because the government has that reputation. Stephen Barr: I agree. A would-be applicant, with good skills and an upstanding demeanor, took a look at the USAJobs application process and deemed it not worth his time. He related all this in good humor, knowing that he'll get a warmer welcome in private-sector HR offices. Des Plaines, Ill.: I was interested in your column about federal jobs. I was job hunting last fall. One of the positions I applied for was with the VA. I'm sure the job paid less than half of what I'm making now as an association executive, but I was interested as a Marine Corps veteran and because it was in West Virginia, and we love the mountains. Weeks later I received a notice saying I had not been considered because I failed to file a particular form I had not known about. I still have no idea what the form was for, they just gave the document number. They didn't notify me my application was incomplete, or give me a chance to file it, but just discarded my application. I decided not to apply for other federal jobs -- not worth the effort. For private sector jobs, you send a resume, references and a cover letter. For government jobs, you fill out endless forms, and if you miss one, you're out. It seems designed to protect people already in the system from outside competition. Stephen Barr: Thank you for providing this example of what's wrong in federal hiring. I don't understand why the government doesn't just ask for a one-page letter and a one-page resume. Most bosses can use those two pages to weed out applicants who are not qualified. The survivors could then be put through the rigors of filling out all the forms. And you are spot-on -- the agencies should send out a complete package, not leave it to the applicant to figure out what forms are required. Midwesterner: I see many articles out that financial positions (accountants auditors analysts) are in demand by the federal government and will be short-term with the so-called "wave of retirements" that is supposed to happen. Where I reside you can count openings on your hands. What is the truth about these "vacancies"? washingtonpost.com: Swell in Contracting Officers May Not Keep Pace With Retirements (Post, May 6) Stephen Barr: Job openings vary by agency and region, so it is possible that the overall totals for supply and demand have little relation to your community. There's also one big unknown: Baby boomers often say they are retiring, but when the times come, they decide to stay on for another year. I currently am looking for data on whether the economic slowdown is going to mean more feds are sticking with their jobs rather than heading off into retirement. Washington: It seems from what I've heard that if you are applying for higher-level positions, the listings are merely for form -- that an internal candidate is already in mind for those positions. So, the only way to get a high-level spot is by starting at the bottom, especially if you have no prior government experience. Is this true? Stephen Barr: Not sure. Clearly, entering the government after college on an intern program is a time-tested method of getting in the door and assessing how long it might take to move up. But the government's average hiring age is now about 33 years old, which means Uncle Sam is bringing in people who have held at least one or two jobs and know what kind of occupation they want to pursue. I also hear of more agencies hiring older workers, especially for high-level management positions and technology positions. But data also shows that many agencies promote from within, which suggests that only youngsters ready for the lower ranks need apply. Falls Church, Va.: Mr Barr, thanks for taking my question. I feel a need to correct a common misperception about NSPS. While we can supposedly hire new employees much faster under NSPS, my experience was very different. It took me eight long months of constant battles to hire two bright young people into my agency in the Department of Defense. Do you think this was an unusual experience, or is it commonplace with NSPS? How are we supposed to address the impending "brain drain" in government if our hiring practices do not allow quick hiring decisions? Thanks. Stephen Barr: Good point to raise, Falls Church. My sense is that despite the streamlining provided by NSPS, that most agencies are moving cautiously and feel more comfortable doing things the old way. Some poor political decisions at the launch of NSPS, especially those that triggered court battles with unions and led to congressional tinkering, has no doubt reinforced a sense of caution among Defense managers. And it's also possible that everyone is waiting for the next administration... Washington: Re: Hiring -- I'm a current fed who was told I would be in the running for a career SES, but that OPM and the agency have put a stop to all SES hiring for the rest of this administration. What do you know about this, and is there a way around it? This was my big chance. Stephen Barr: That is news to me. Most agencies are allocated a certain number of SES slots, and some like to keep them filled. OPM suspended a SES development program that it runs because of concern over how it was handled this year, but it will be on track by this summer and only involves about a dozen people, I think. You may be encountering some flip-flopping because of budget issues or because agencies are starting to focus on the presidential transition and may be deciding to leave some personnel decisions to the next team. But frankly, I don't really know. Washington: Does the federal government have a freeze on hiring? Why does the federal government hire only contractors? Some of these contractors have employees' personal information, which makes identity theft very easy. Stephen Barr: Most government hiring is driven by budget resources and program demands. In many agencies, contractors are easier to hire and let go, and salaries are charged off to program accounts. And, truth be told, some agencies could not deliver today without contractors. Northern Virginia: The incoming president will be the first one after the creation of the Department of Homeland Security. Any thoughts on what may happen to the agencies under its umbrella -- any shifting around/in/out? Stephen Barr: A good question. At one point, I thought it was possible that some Department of Homeland Security agencies might stage a jail break. But I'm less certain of that now, given the passage of time and the reluctance of the Congress to give up its jurisdictional power. What we may see is more components evolving into independent fiefdoms inside DHS, with the headquarters serving as a policy coordinator and crisis manager. Will be interesting to watch, regardless. Here in Governmentland: I think the biggest problem with most agency secretaries is that while they're into public service, most never have been in the federal service at some higher level to see for themselves what the problems are. They're often academics or from the corporate sector and have no idea about the various government agency cultures that exist. I think if more former feds were approached with the option, many would take it. Stephen Barr: A good point. I sometimes think that for every good political appointee there are a half-dozen who parachute in and never understand how their agency works. Still, many agencies are rather insular, and that kind of culture does not serve employees well over the long haul. Federal jobs -- complete package: FYI, many openings require that you log on to their internal system before being able to see additional details about the job, especially the questionnaire. Part of the logon process includes supplying your social security number. Why would anyone want to take the time and effort to supply their personal information just to find out that they don't qualify for the job? OPM is too lax on forcing agencies to make it easier to obtain information about a job before applying. Stephen Barr: Excellent point -- we're all wary of handing out personal information via the Web these days. Washington: When a federal job is posted and open for only two weeks (at the GS 11-13 level), does that indicate that the agency is in a hurry to fill the position, or already has chosen an internal candidate and is going through the motions? Stephen Barr: Maybe. Maybe not. I always think it is good to throw your hat in the ring if you genuinely are interested in a position. Arlington, Va.: I'm submitting early, since I can't be online during the chat. What is the reach of the Hatch Act? As a federal employee, I know I can't wear a campaign button, campaign for anyone running for any office in the U.S. or forward any e-mail from my work e-mail that supports a candidate, but where does it stop? What if I'm at a party where there are none of my coworkers and someone asks me who I'm voting for for president and why? If I answer, can that be construed as campaigning? What if I'm on my home e-mail account, and I want to forward something about a candidate to someone? Can that do me in? What about visiting a candidate's Web site? At work? At home? Some of these restrictions strike me as flat-out unconstitutional, but the message I've been getting from media sources (not my office -- it's pretty apolitical) is to keep your mouth shut and fingers silent 24/7. What are the real guidelines? What can I safely say without losing my job? Can I still vote? (Okay, that last one was sarcastic...) Stephen Barr: Just now found your query in the pile here, and your questions are important. I'm no Hatch Act expert, so take me with that grain of salt. One of the problems is that the law was written in 1939 and updated in 1993, just as the Internet exploded. So the lawmakers were worried about campaign buttons in the office, not where to draw the line on the content of e-mails. Here's my take: don't engage in political activity inside a government building or while on duty. Restrict your political fun to your off-duty hours. But don't solicit political donations for a candidate; that should be easy, but some Hatch Act lawyers think that posting political comments on a candidate's web site, from your home computer, could be a violation if the Web site requests campaign contributions. Two ideas. Visit www.osc.gov and review the Hatch Act dos and don'ts. Ask your agency ethics officer to make a town hall presentation on the Hatch Act and the proper use of government equipment and office space. Silver Spring, Md.: Regarding the question from Des Plaines, Ill. -- while I agree that the federal application process is tedious and hard to follow, on USAJobs postings, I always have seen a list of the exact items and forms needed to complete the application, and a clear statement that if any of the information is missing, the application will be considered incomplete and will not be reviewed. Stephen Barr: Good to know. Still, some of the job announcements pack a lot of information and it may be understandable that some things don't pop out at people who are focused on job qualifications rather than all the forms that may have to be filed. Washington: Take private sector job while you wait: Honestly ... I feel for the applicants in the federal job process ... the best thing to do is to apply and still take that private sector job while you wait ... I have done this and it really relieves the anxiety associated with the waiting game. Best of luck! Stephen Barr: Yep. It always seems better to be in a job while looking for a job. Federal Hiring...: The process is too bogged down with bureaucracy ... uses outdated methods to classify personnel with outdated criteria that haven't kept pace with evolving curricula ... requires too many forms. ... It only took 19 months to hire someone with 10 years of experience. Stephen Barr: And I'm surprised someone would wait 19 months ... but it could have been a dream match... Hiring from within: At my federal agency, the short "open" period for a position is very clearly meant to say that management already has "hot-wired" somebody for that position and it's not worth the effort to apply. People should look for open periods of a month or longer. Stephen Barr: Thanks for the feedback. Fed Veteran: Re: Former Hill staffer and recent law school graduate -- veteran's preference is neither politically expedient nor is it likely your problem. More to the point, if you're losing jobs to veteran-applicants, then the preference is working exactly as Congress intended. If you strongly disagree, the recruiter is right down the street. Stephen Barr: Veterans preference is the law of the land. Congress also asks agencies to hire the disabled and maintain diversity in their workforces. Federal hiring is a regulated process, more so than in the private sector. Washington: Every couple of years, something happens like gas prices rising, a new report on climate change, etc., that makes the heads of federal agencies drown us in press releases about how friendly they are to telecommuting -- unless an employee actually wants to do it. Last week I had to get something quick done while home sick, only to discover that the agency I work for has failed to update the software that allows us to work from home to accommodate Vista, and has no plans to do so. When I called IT to ask why, they said "no one's really supposed to use it, anyway." Stephen Barr: Aaargh, as they say. I hope you gave your boss an earful about the IT office. Washington: I find all this talk about the cumbersome hiring process interesting. My agency posts an ad, get resumes, interviews people the next week or so, then decides if they want to hire them. I know people who have started their jobs within three weeks of applying. Oh, and we routinely post for upper-level (GS-15) people and hire from the outside. My agency (and many others) didn't hire people for a long time, so now that we have more retirements, there are a lot of people with one to six years of experience, but nobody to take the senior spots that need 10-20 years. Stephen Barr: Thank you for the posting. Congress has provided a lot of leeway in hiring, and some agencies have taken advantage. OPM also backs a 45-day hiring process, which is better than the model used by some large corporations. But, alas, my sense is that your agency is the exception, not the rule. Arlington, Va.: In response to the earlier poster's inquiry about whether or not the government hires higher-level people from outside, I think it is more rare than promoting from within, but it does happen. I had a friend get an offer for a GS-15 attorney position at the Department of Labor this year, and he never has worked for the feds a day in his life! I am not saying it is terribly common, but I do think the government is looking for people with certain skills sets (he had very specific litigation experience) and will look outside if need be. Stephen Barr: Thanks, Arlington. The high-level jobs require certain types of education and experience, and many agencies are open to bringing in outsiders to get the right skills. KSAs: Your suggestion that a one page letter and one page resume would be a better way to recruit new feds makes so much sense it has no chance. If that were offered to your average personnel specialist, they would run in the other direction because they look at the mysteries of the KSA as a way to eliminate applicants and weed them to a manageable number. Heaven knows the opening of the administrative law judge exam last year proved that. Of the approximately 1,300 who managed to submit their (long and involved) applications to OPM before the (very short) deadline, only half went on to the testing and interviewing phase: the rest were deemed not qualified because they did not put the month in their bar admission, and who knows what else. When you have 20-year litigators found to be "not qualified" by OPM screeners, you know there is simple weeding going on, and not just a search for the best of a (large) pool of applicants. My guess is that some agencies are swamped in applications from people who are not qualified and will never get a job there, and others have a ton of exceptional applicants and can't figure out what to do. Swansboro, N.C.: I am a CSRS retiree with qualifying social security credits. I have made many contacts with congressional offices asking support to eliminate the windfall provision that reduces social security benefits. It only seems fair that what one has earned should be given back. What are the prospects? Also, do you think that retirees ever will get the same break as regular employees in paying health care premiums with before-tax income? Thank you. Stephen Barr: Don't think so. These two legislative fixes carry big price tags, and this Congress does not seem in the mood to absorb such costs. Springfield, Va.: I'm seriously concerned about the FERS retirement. I will not retire until 2018, but the 1 percent is nothing for federal retirees as the Consumer Price Index is rising. Food, gas, health, mortgages -- this will not be enough, not even with TSP and Social Security (if the illegals haven't sucked all of it out), which could be gone. Help. Whom do we contact about the FERS retirement? Stephen Barr: FERS was created by the Congress, so you should bring your concerns to the attention of as many members of Congress as possible. Silver Spring, Md.: Is it true that sometime later this year that federal employees (I'm in Health and Human Services) will be able to use not only the flexible spending account program (for dependent care and medical expenses), but also a health savings account? My accountant made some noises about that earlier this year. I told him not to get my hopes up. I would love to do that too, but it would be on top of the pre-tax family health insurance, TSP, FSA and post-tax CFC (sigh). Of course that's assuming I'll have a job and can somehow get by on less than 50 percent of my gross. I'm getting by on 53 percent now. ... A woman can dream, right? Stephen Barr: Many of the high-deductible health insurance plans feature a health savings account. My personal feeling is that they work best with a flexible spending account. You will see them advertised again in the next FEHBP open season. But they are rather tricky creatures, so read the literature, ask a lot of questions, check with your doctor for his view, and only then make a decision on HSAs. Washington: Thanks to all for your answers on the nonstop throat-clearing last week. I wish it were allergies, but this has gone on for several months. Stephen Barr: Best of luck! Peace Corps: Insofar as the HIV-positive volunteer is concerned, a tenet of operating a Peace Corps operation in the country is that we must follow local laws. The local law in Ukraine is that the volunteer was no longer eligible to stay. Should the Peace Corps have placed the volunteer in another country where he would be welcome according to local laws? Perhaps ... but Peace Corps is not set up like the State Department's bid process. The volunteer contracted HIV, an absolute pity and shame. Medical accommodation is a priority for Peace Corps, and we strive to provide a Western level of care in developing countries, but it's simply too difficult to support the medical needs of a HIV-positive individual given the circumstances. Stephen Barr: This is a complex area, and I'm not an expert. But the State Department recently announced it would consider supporting the medical needs of HIV-positive diplomats on a case by case basis because of advancements in treatment and medication. Hopefully, we'll have an announcement from the Peace Corps that clarifies the agency's rules and procedures for the volunteers. Eldersburg, Md.: What happened to the proposal to have a two-person -- husband/wife (no dependents) -- health benefit rate for federal employees? We are being penalized unfairly under a family rate. Stephen Barr: There's been no movement, and Congress does not seem interested in mandating a new premium structure. Many retirees are interested in two-person coverage, as you probably know. Once again, we've run out of time today. Thanks for all your questions and comments. We'll see you back here at noon next Wednesday! Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Washington Post columnist Stephen Barr answers questions about navigating the federal workplace. Federal Diary runs weekdays in the Business news section of The Post.	197	0.769231	1.153846	high	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/06/DI2008050602051.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/06/DI2008050602051.html	'American Idol': Sing Quartet	2008050719	Lisa Watches So You Don't Have To: "American Idol" \| TV columns \| On TV discussion transcripts. De Moraes has written "The TV Column" for The Post since 1998. She served as the TV editor for the entertainment industry trade publication the "Hollywood Reporter" for almost a decade. Washington: Look, clearly Jason Castro is the weakest of the remaining singers -- and yeah, he doesn't seem to be putting in much effort -- but I think the judges were unnecessarily cruel to him. For the first time, I was annoyed with Simon. I found him to be smug and obnoxious. Thus, I voted for Jason last night, just to spite Simon. Lisa de Moraes: Hi. I tried to follow your logic but I got lost. Did you see his first performance? It was like a bad frat house stoner performance... Washington: So Ryan says three of the final four were the top vote-getter at least once this season. We know the Davids are in that trio. Jason has had his good weeks, but good enough to top Cookie and Archie? I think not. Could Syesha be the third? That's my guess, considering that the week she was in the bottom two with Brooke they never actually called it the "bottom two," and DialIdol had her as the most popular in its busy-signal predictions. What say you? Lisa de Moraes: Last week Seacrest never said Nanny Brooke and Syesha were the bottom two vote-getters -- he only brought the two of them on stage and said one of them was going home. Meanwhile, this is the time of year when DialIdol gets very accurate, and it said last week Syesha got the most votes. It's just a conspiracy theory, but I love conspiracy theories... Potomac Falls, Va.: Did anyone else notice that Rascal Flatts was on two live shows last night? They were in the "Idol" audience, and then they also sang live on "Dancing With the Stars." Hmm, are the studios that close, or was something not as live as it was being touted? Lisa de Moraes: They are that close... Song choice: I don't understand why so many of the song choices have sucked this year. It seems that every year on "Idol" a lot of the contestants are decent enough singers, but really don't know that much about music. What has made David Cook so great is that the songs he has picked have been cool ... and then last night he picked "Hungry Like the Wolf"? At least it wasn't an obvious, overused "Idol" song (yes, I'm looking at you Syesha). Lisa de Moraes: His performance of "Hungry Like the Wolf" was hilarious. Sadly, I don't think that's what he was going for. ... Yes, I agree this years crop of songs has been very poor. Not sure whether it's about what songs are being cleared or whether this group of Idolettes -- and their scary stage dads -- are particularly bad at song choice. Or maybe Idolettes should never, ever, ever be asked to sing Andrew Lloyd Webber tunes. Fairfax, Va.: I think Syesha already has figured out that she isn't going to win, so she's acting/singing for any Broadway producers who are watching. Her voice really isn't that great, but she is really strutting her stuff! Lisa de Moraes: I'm guessing it's both. We all have seen that "Idol" winners and non-winning Idolettes can have successful careers on Broadway because, sadly, an Idolette in the cast will lure tourists -- I'm trying hard not to think about that. On the other hand, her voting seems to have improved since she went "Broadway" in her performances, if DialIdol is to be believed. And we have to believe in something, don't we? New York: So glad you're having this chat today -- what was up with Jason Castro last night? I could not believe what he did to the Bob Marley song! I haven't been a regular watcher this season but he was stunningly awful. Has he been this bad all season? If he doesn't go tonight, I have lost all hope in my fellow Americans. Lisa de Moraes: Jason Castro is the first red light of the season on DialIdol, which means it's the first time this season the Web site -- which claims to track viewer voting on the show -- has committed to one Idolette who it says will get the sack. ... He has become increasingly bad. I confess there was a time when I thought him quirkily charming as a singer, but I snapped out of that pretty quick and now see him for the lazy singer he is. Could he have tried less hard last night? Only had he forgotten to show up. Richmond, Va.: Cook was so-so. Seemed afraid to be his usually daring self. Syesha is good when she does upbeat song like Broadway jive or Tina, but not Whitney ballads. Jason took the whole thing as a lark all along. He'll be packing, just as Simon said. Archuleta is just scary -- in a good way or a bad way? Just scary. Lisa de Moraes: Archuleta's scary in an early-Wayne Newton way. I'd be happy if he only sang "Imagine." Ever. Herndon, Va.: What will happen if Jason Castro does not get voted off tonight? Lisa de Moraes: Duh -- the republic will not survive. ... Chaos will erupt, blood will flow in the streets, women and children will not be safe... Mea Culpa: Okay, I admit it -- I am one of those people who has been voting for Jason Castro all this time because he is so darn cute. But last night was just embarrassing. I am so sorry and I would like to take this opportunity to apologize to all of you. Lisa de Moraes: Apology accepted. Because we too briefly fell under the Castro spell, though, we did snap out of it weeks before you did. Still, you are forgiven. Welcome back to the sane side... Ears ... bleeding: Seriously, is anybody going to buy an album put forth by any of these finalists? Lisa de Moraes: Not moi ... anybody else? Blasphemy!: Lisa don't you dare suggest that Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber should not be invited back. He was the best mentor ever. And I love his music. That was a great week. Almost as good as the first Beatles week. Lisa de Moraes: I'm on record saying he's the best guest judge ever and I wish he'd replace Randy. But the Idolettes massacred his songs and it was painful. I think I really got over Jason when he said he had not realized that the song he sang from "Cats" had been sung by a cat because the play was about, um, cats... Arlington, Va.: I don't understand the level of animosity toward David Archuleta from some corners. He clearly has the best voice on the show this year and one of the best voices ever on the show. Also, give him credit for being 17 but singing like he's 30. Lisa de Moraes: Like I said -- totally early Wayne Newton. He'll have a brilliant career. He has a wonderful voice, or "instrument" as Paula would say. ... She is talking about his voice, isn't she? The Sigma Chi Marley House: Hey, stop criticizing frat boy stoner performances! We've got feelings, too. No woman, no cry! Lisa de Moraes: Yeah, yeah, yeah... Is Jason really that clueless?: Do you think the poor guy basically just said "screw this" and gave a couple performances he knew would get him sent home? I mean, they haven't been too kind to him for the past few weeks. On the other hand, he seemed more energized than usual at the thought of singing the two Bobs. If that was the case, why in heaven's name didn't the guy bother to practice? Lisa de Moraes: I think he got stoned and missed practice. Or, more likely, missed the whole week. The Ford Music Video tonight will tell us all we need to know -- I'm certain of it. Syesha's Alternate Universe: How can Syesha not go home after comparing her journey on "American Idol" to the Civil Rights movement?! Are you kidding me? My jaw dropped when I heard where she was going with this. And then to cry and be so moved not because of the fact that the Civil Rights Movement allowed her to even be in this competition, but because she has had it rough on "Idol"? Oh please -- Castro was awful, but she is an idiot! Lisa de Moraes: Yeah, my jaw fell into my lap as she explained that the song might originally have been about the civil rights movement, but has come to be about her journey on "American Idol." Bethesda, Md.: Who are the typical voters? I am 40-plus and the only person among my friends (all of them watch the show -- great bus stop talk) who votes. Lisa de Moraes: We get precious little information about voters. Viewers, I can say, are getting older, like they do on all shows -- particularly reality series, which viewers who are younger tend to abandon first, to move on to their next fave reality series. Theory: Jason Castro is the Kellie Pickler of this season. Can he really be that dumb? He seemed to admit every week that he hadn't heard of the songs. And yet, like Pickler, there is something very charming about him. Lisa de Moraes: He's the love child of Kellie Picker and Sanjaya... Silver Spring, Md.: My wife and I can't understand Randy's praise of the kid. He sings every song the same way and shows no real emotion. Why does Randy love him so much? Am I missing something here? Lisa de Moraes: Randy seems desperate for there to be someone people are getting excited about, and appears to believe that if the judges rave about someone, viewers will think that persons must be great. I did think Archuleta finally broke out of his sameness to a degree last night -- he seemed to be connecting to the songs more and not being so robotic -- but he's never come close to his performance of "Imagine" very early in the competition. Castro vs. Guarini: Early on, I suggested a comparison between these two, and you thought there was none other than looks. Have you changed your mind? Lisa de Moraes: I think Guarini tried a lot harder than Castro. Or have I merely blanked out the first season? Fairfax, Va.: Biggest "American Idol" bonehead move of the season: Neal Diamond as mentor. Just exactly what demographic are the producers shooting for? Wonder why ratings are down? No mystery. Next season, try to line up mentors like Bruce Springsteen, 50 Cent, Alicia Keys, Adam Duritz, Dave Matthews, sooo many more. Lisa de Moraes: When they've had more contemporary mentors, they seem totally disengaged with the Idolettes. Sometimes they didn't even seem to want to touch the Idolettes -- they just wanted to plug their new tunes. At least the older ones genuinely seem pleased to be there, not annoyed that their manager made them do it. That said, yes, Diamond was pretty bad. His comment about every Idolettes's rehearsal was "I think he/she is gonna do great." It was funny at first, but then it got annoying... Washington: Yesterday on a plane from Seattle a passenger near me was asked a question about "American Idol," and he replied by saying he never watched the show. People within earshot actually clapped for him. Including me. Just thought I'd share. Lisa de Moraes: Why does everyone else always get the fun airplane crowd and I'm always stuck sitting between the ginormous snoring man and the screaming moppet? Oh, and I wonder how many of those clappers are people who actually watch "Idol" but want people to think they don't, like those people who used to say they only watch PBS. Alexandria, Va.: Archuleta has a nice voice -- that's it. No stage presence, no musical creativity, and picks the low-hanging fruit with his song choices every week. And why does he always look like he's about to sneeze when he sings? I know it's hay fever season, but come on. I think he could be good, with a little more training and way more life experience, but as he is now he's deadly dull and completely generic Lisa de Moraes: And when he sings, he always throws out his right arm with his palm up. Now that it's been pointed out to me, I barely can watch him, he's such a robot. One of the reasons I liked his second song last night was that the camera zoomed in on his facial pores and hung on for dear life so I could not see his right arm. It's like Connie Chung -- once someone pointed out to me that when she would be telling a happy story on the evening news, her head would bob up and down but when she was reading a bad or sad story, her head would go side to side, and I haven't been able to watch her since... Crofton, Md.:"At least the older ones seem genuinely pleased to be there, not annoyed that their manager made them do it." Elvis would be genuinely pleased to be there; that doesn't mean you should let him do it. Lisa de Moraes: He's already done it. He was dead, yes, but he's done Idol. And it was the best guest performance ever on Idol -- ever. I'm hoping they make the Celine Dion Duet with Dead Person a regular feature of the Idol finale. John Lennon anyone? Archie-leta: Murdered "Love Me Tender"! My daughter said Elvis would die if he heard it (which made me laugh and have to explain that he's already dead). It was like Elvis on valium! That boy has no soul! Lisa de Moraes: See, I liked it. And really, how can you call that a murder compared to Jason's two songs? No comparison.. Damn Shame: I can't recall which contestant did it, but the best song I heard last night was the one about a free credit report. Lisa de Moraes: Isn't it sad when the best musical performances on Idol that night are the tunes in the ads? Shoot Someone...: A couple of years back, I saw a list of the worst songs ever written. One of the top vote-getters: "I Shot the Sheriff." It's just not a good song, no matter who sings it (Marley is tolerable, Clapton is not awful ... and after that, well, its a long drop off to Castro-horrible). Jason Castro had a week or two of good songs, but ever since then he has gotten by on his extra-long lashes. "Mr. Tambourine Man" wasn't bad -- but really, the words aren't that hard. I actually voted for Syesha, because if Jason didn't get the boot, I would begin considering a career in the music biz -- I mean, I know a good song when I hear one. Lisa de Moraes: I seriously do not understand why Syesha is still in the competition. She's great for dinner theatre, but that's about it... Silver Spring, Md.: Why hasn't anyone noticed Paula's other flub last week? Yes, she critiqued an unsung song, but she also called Syesha "Brooke" at the end of the night when giving her opinion on that performance. I have it on tape and rewound it to double check, and she does indeed call Syesha "Brooke" before going into her rambling monologue. Does "American Idol" do random drug screenings? If not, it may be time to start... Lisa de Moraes: Why would you want to do random drug testing? Would you deny us the fun of watching Paula every week? I will fight your proposal with every ounce of strength I have left after blogging "Idol" for nearly six months... Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber : I am still hearing his voice saying "glamoupuss!" in my nightmares Lisa de Moraes: Honestly, that's the best line ever from a guest mentor. He was brilliant. Why hasn't anyone snatched him up to be a regular judge on one of these competition series? Kellie Pickler's "shoes" are better than Jason Castro's dreadlocks: Pookie, I just had to give my two-cents' worth. Kellie Pickler's "shoes" are better than Jason Castro's dreadlocks, and her single that won her a Country Music Awards nomination (award?) was catchy. She's a better singer/performer/entertainer than he is. Okay, so maybe it's not just the "shoes" -- sorry, Mars Blackman. Lisa de Moraes: Isn't there room enough in the pop music world for both shoes and hair? What about Madonna? Herndon, Va.: Enough! Give Jason some credit for all his good performances. Basically the only bad ones were during last night. There are reasons why he is still in the competition. However, I do think that he will get voted off tonight. Lisa de Moraes: You're too kind -- to Jason. And I think it's a safe bet he'll go home tonight. Surely there can't be enough pre-pubescent girls in the country with cell phones to save him this week, right? Clueless singers: Okay, now let's all take a deep breathe -- none of them are rocket scientists, okay? They are singers. 'Nuf said. What stabbed me in the heart was realizing that I am old enough to be David Cook's mom. Thank goodness I don't think he's cute. Lisa de Moraes: I take it you're not an advocate of the whole cougar movement. ... And they don't have to be rocket scientists, they just have to be smart enough to remember the lyrics to two tunes ... I think we're setting the bar pretty low here... St. Louis: I can't figure out by what criteria "Hungry Like the Wolf" was allowed. What's the connection to any Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame artist? Lisa de Moraes: Sadly, I'm no Hungry Like the Wolf" expert. I actually thought the song name was a joke when Cook first said it ... yes, I'm that clueless.. Ears not bleeding: I purposely have been avoiding iTunes during the "American Idol" shows, because I know I will be suckered into buying some of David Cook's songs. Lisa de Moraes: What about Syesha tunes? Are you okay with buying those? And Jason Castro's two tunes from last night? Or are you strong enough to resist that urge? Reston, Va.: Why would anyone sing a Tina Turner song? It just makes it clear how awesome Tina is. Lisa de Moraes: Syesha was so lame doing Tina Turner. I don't know why the judges did not savage her. Tina is not one of the pop music icons the judges consider sacred -- only Whitney and Mariah. What's up with that? Arlington, Va.: In my wildest dreams, I want to see either of the Davids go tonight, then the other next week. Isn't that how it's worked the past few seasons? Or is the Irish chick the only surprise eviction we get this season? Lisa de Moraes: Is this the dullest "Idol" season or what? I don't think there's any hope of resuscitating this season at this late date. And yes, it would take whacking both Davids and having Jason Castro win the whole thing -- that would be brilliant. I'd love to see the "Idol" producers try to market Castro. He'd be their worst nightmare... Silver Spring, Md.: Lloyd Weber does his own reality show in England -- currently, it's casting a new version of "Oliver." Lisa de Moraes: Yes, but that does me no good here. I want to see him on a show I can watch. Why should they have all the fun... Best idea ever: Was the idea to, instead of vote who to keep, vote who you want to vote off. Neutralize the teen girls. Lisa de Moraes: Why would that neutralize teen girls? Do you think they're too nice to vote against someone? Did you skip high school? Best line in a blog/article ... ever!: "We've seen Beyonce doing Tina Turner doing "Proud Mary" at the Kennedy Center, Syesha, and you are no Beyonce doing Tina Turner doing 'Proud Mary.' " Well done, Lisa. Well done. Lisa de Moraes: I just call them as I see them. I loved Beyonce doing Tina Turner at the Kennedy Center Honors. Archie-leta: Having seen the Web site with objects in David A's hand, the 9-year-old and I survive Archuleta by imagining various objects on his hand- -- last night it was Elvis trying to make him stop, or a monkey and the mic was a banana. Lots more fun that way, and less creepy. Lisa de Moraes: My father used to work in the aerospace industry (I know, you're wondering where this is going) and he used to tell me -- often -- about great things that had been developed for space travel that have helped people and enriched their lives in many other ways. And not just Tang. Anyway, I think "Idol" is a lot like that too. What "Idol" needs is a federal agency, like NASA. Reston, Va.: Why would people clap for the person who hadn't seen "American Idol"? It's like bloggers who go on endlessly about the show, but then proudly say they never vote. It's a fun show. I don't watch every week and I rarely watch the horrorfest that is the results show, but I don't think there's anything wrong with enjoying a little pop culture. Lisa de Moraes: I suspect they're all closet WWE watchers, anyway... Washington: The most annoying thing about Archuleta is his bashful Bambi reaction whenever the judges praise him. Not as bad as last season's "lil' ole me?" backup singer, though. Where is she now? washingtonpost.com: Former 'Idol' finalist Melinda Doolittle in town to hawk ice cream, talk 'Idol' (St. Louis Post-Dispatch, April 16) Lisa de Moraes: Nobody was as annoying in her reaction to praise from the judges as Doolittle. Nobody. Most Boring Season: Sorry, this season is much better than last. Blake Lewis? To quote Lisa de Moraes: Gak! To me the biggest shock of this season was Michael Johns leaving. Lisa de Moraes: I was surprised by his early exit and by Carly Smithson, who I still believe was the most talented singer vocally this season, by a long shot... Jessica Simpson -- great "shoes" and hair, but not talent: Yet another example of a singer having great "shoes" and hair, but lacking talent -- Jessica Simpson. There's only one Madonna. Of course, if we wanted to see a death-match feud between rabid fan bases, pit Madonna's against Kylie Minogue's! Lisa de Moraes: The music industry is based almost entirely on finding that magical combination of great shoes and hair -- at least when it comes to the chicks... Silver Spring, Md.: I think Jason blanked on the chorus of "Tambourine Man" because he was concentrating on remembering the upcoming verse, which is a bit trickier than the usual pop song. It is Dylan, after all. I'd like to see one of them try early Springsteen sometime -- "Blinded by the Light," anyone? Lisa de Moraes: Oh paleeze. He only had to learn one tune this week because he said he was very familiar with his Bob Marley tune. None of them are rocket scientists, okay? They are singers.: Which is exactly why they should know songs if they love music so much. We're not asking them to do quadratic equations ... just to know a little bit about the subject they claim to love and live. Lisa de Moraes: I only ask that if they pick a tune from "Cats" they know it was sung by a cat in a play about cats. Then, hopefully, pick another song... Boston: Is it just me or is this is the second season in a row where there doesn't seem to be any compelling performers? This season in particular seems to be dragging to the end. ... Any opinion on what the producers are doing wrong? Or is it just because it has been around too long? Lisa de Moraes: The Idolettes totally have run out of gas, and I maintain it's because they are being run ragged by the producers. It's like a sweatshop scene in a Dickens novel. They have to learn two songs. They have to learn the week's dreadful Medley sing-along, with horrendous accompanying choreography. They have to shoot a Ford Music Video. They have to do photo shoots. They have to go into a studio and record, re-record and re-re-record until they get it right, the entirety of the two tunes they've learned 1.5 minute versions of for the TV show. It's too much. They have no energy left for the show, and it's affecting their performances -- a lot. I've run out of time. Bye. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Join live discussions from the Washington Post. Feature topics include national, world and DC area news, politics, elections, campaigns, government policy, tech regulation, travel, entertainment, cars, and real estate.	126.853659	0.634146	0.780488	high	low	abstractive
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/celebritology/2008/05/morning_mix_britney_wins_exten.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://blog.washingtonpost.com/celebritology/2008/05/morning_mix_britney_wins_exten.html	Morning Mix: Britney Wins Extended Visits with Sons	2008050719	Headlines: Britney Spears gets extended visits with sons... Barbara Walters tells Oprah she lied for Star Jones... Steven Colbert named Webby Person of the Year... Heath Ledger "Joker" dolls sell out at New York toy stores... 25 years after leaving school, Vanessa Williams gets college degree... "The Hills" renewed for fourth season... Robin Williams vows to keep divorce civil... Ellen Page to star in "Jane Eyre" remake... Gwyneth Paltrow rules out porn as a career path... Perez Hilton to debut line of clothes and accessories at skeevy mall store. Crime Watch: Man found guilty of stalking Uma Thurman... Wesley Snipes asks to stay free on bail while he appeals tax evasion conviction. Rumor Mill: Lindsay Lohan gets more work... Charlie Sheen to tie knot for third time on May 30... Amy Winehouse's husband ready for divorce... Liv Tyler on verge of breakup with husband Royston Langdon? Say What? "I wore my Daisy Dukes. All of the guys were so cute. They were like,'Thank you for wearing your Daisy Dukes.'" -- Jessica Simpson, on doing her part to support the troops. By Liz \| May 7, 2008; 8:02 AM ET \| Category: Daily Mix Previous: 10 Truths About Tom Cruise \| Next: Comment Box: Celebrity Memoir Redux Keep up with the latest Celebritology scoops with an easy-to-use widget. If you have tips, ideas for stories or general suggestions, let us know. "In 1983, [Vanessa] Williams became the first black Miss America. She surrendered the title in July 1984 after Penthouse magazine published nude, sexually explicit photographs of her taken several years earlier." Sigh. Also lost in the fire. Posted by: byoolin \| May 7, 2008 8:52 AM Lindsay Lohan will play "a young woman who pretends to be pregnant to avoid being fired." So it's not set in the U.S.A., then? (RCR, good work on the 'Eh,' a few minutes ago, btw. I'll speak to my people and they'll let you in.) Posted by: byoolin \| May 7, 2008 8:55 AM I look at the picture accompanying the article and I just can't believe Amy Winehouse's husband would be willing to give her up. I imagine Amy reacting in the same way Judy Greer as Kitty did in Arrested Development: "Say goodbye to these!" Posted by: byoolin \| May 7, 2008 9:02 AM $1.75 is too money to spend on Perez Hilton clothing line. His line will at the discount bins by July. Posted by: Lisa1 \| May 7, 2008 9:04 AM Liz Kelly, I think you got the Jessica Simpson quote wrong: surely it was ""I wore my Daisy Dukes. My dad was so cute. He was like,'Thank you for wearing your Daisy Dukes.'" Posted by: byoolin the tycoon \| May 7, 2008 9:05 AM I am really confused about what is going on over on the Tom Cruise board from yesterday. Why are these weirdies asking Liz Kelly to write a political blog? Is one of the nuthatch blogs down today, or what? Folks, please, this is NOT a political blog - if and when we want politics we go to a political blog, not an entertainment blog! Thank you for your kind attention to these important matters. Posted by: sunnydaze \| May 7, 2008 9:12 AM sunnydaze-I've found its best not to look at comments after around 11 am central time. All of the "cool kids" post early in the am, and all the weirdies (your word) come knuckle dragging in the afternoon. Its amazing how normal Liv Tyler looks, like an actual human being of normal size. Posted by: jelo \| May 7, 2008 9:23 AM Amen, jelo. I think she looks great. Posted by: RiverCityRoller \| May 7, 2008 9:25 AM Re: the TC column - Maybe the Thetans were alerted to the fact that we were trying to have a little fun at Tom's expense Posted by: Thetans? \| May 7, 2008 9:30 AM Poor Perez Hilton... he doesn't seem to get that, while his blog is popular among 18-25 year olds, this is not a guarantee that his clothing line will succeed. After all, folks don't have to admit to reading the blog. And many will deny it. Hard to do that when you've got his "brand" pasted across your... feet. Posted by: CoHi \| May 7, 2008 9:43 AM Sorry to break it to you Jessica, but the troops were only glad you wore your Daisy Dukes because it was the only way they could endure your singing. Posted by: jake e. poo \| May 7, 2008 9:46 AM I'm confused, why would anyone want to look like Perez Hilton? Posted by: michael \| May 7, 2008 9:46 AM Liz -Why no mention of Lindsay Lohan stealing a woman's $11,000 mink coat from a nightclub? There were numerous photos of Lindsay wearing the mink in the days after it disappeared. After the victim saw the photos of Lindsay wearing her missing coat in the tabloids she contacted Lindsay's lawyer and then the coat magically was returned. What a coincidence. Posted by: Woodbridge \| May 7, 2008 9:49 AM Best line in any Celebritology-linked article today: "In 1990 [Charlie] Sheen was engaged to actress Kelly Preston, but the relationship ended when he accidentally shot her in the arm." Posted by: byoolin \| May 7, 2008 9:50 AM Oh, jelo, that's when it really gets fun - when the crazies wander by. I suggest sticking with it one day. Posted by: h3 \| May 7, 2008 9:51 AM I agree that Liv Tyler looks great--just like a normal person with a normal figure. Unlike Amy Winehouse--gal needs to eat a sandwich. Make that several. Posted by: Sappho \| May 7, 2008 9:51 AM So anybody can just have their own clothing line now? I was at Steve & Barry's over the weekend and along with SJP and Venus Williams, Amanda Bynes has her own clothing line, and I'm like "who the f*k is Amanda Bynes and why does she rate her own clothing line?" So being a long time member of the Celebritology Club, I rushed out of the store and drove home with much haste and looked her up on IMDB. Funny enough, still didn't answer my question as to why she rates her own clothing line. And now some guy who knows how to cut and paste and makes snarky comments get his own line? Posted by: jake e. poo \| May 7, 2008 9:56 AM I think the Perez line will do well. It's obviously for 14-year-olds, it's gonna be dirt cheap, and at their favorite rebel-against-my-parents store. It's also a celeb line they can afford, since most tend to be higher "fashion." People wear those t shirts with his slogans. He's interesting, because he's a total leech and writes snarky things about the celebs he hates (Dunst) and slavishly praises or reluctantly criticizes the ones he loves (Minogue). But it's a little more that that (maybe not much more). He shows interest in some current events (Castro) and writes about them to maybe educate the texting tweeners. He hightlights new, little-known bands and charities. It's easy to knee jerk hate him, but I sort of find him interesting, even if a ltitle distasteful. I wish Liz could get another interview with him and analyze him. Posted by: Sigh \| May 7, 2008 9:58 AM [ahem] Someone I know, uh, you know, my friend, has a pair of pajama shorts from the Amanda Bynes line at Steve & Barry's. They're super cute. And comfortable. And don't make me think of trainwreckerifficness that was What a Girl Wants. Posted by: h3 \| May 7, 2008 9:58 AM Wasn't Amanda Bynes in that movie with Colin Firth? Posted by: michael \| May 7, 2008 10:00 AM gwen and porn??? since when was that even a consideration?? Doesn't winning an Oscar gives you some sort of "Pass Go - collect $200 (million)"? Why was it even brought up? Lilo, Paris and etc. (dingbats: Heidi/Lauren/etc.) on the otherhand... Oh what the future has in store... Posted by: unmute \| May 7, 2008 10:04 AM Isnt theft of something more than $10,000 a felony? Way to go LiLo! White Oprah - aka mother of the year - should be so proud! Posted by: Lilo \| May 7, 2008 10:07 AM WOW - I TOTALLY stopped reading the blog yesterday way too early (and missed the excitement of this morning!) WOW! Too funny! Posted by: Betty \| May 7, 2008 10:08 AM "Why was [Gwyneth Paltrow acting in porn] even brought up?" Now, see, that* I'd watch. And since we're on the topic of porn, Traci Lords turns 40 today. It seems like just 25 years ago she was lying about her age on model releases. Posted by: byoolin \| May 7, 2008 10:09 AM yes, Colin played her father. Posted by: unmute \| May 7, 2008 10:10 AM And even if you happen to be a person who is in love with Colin Firth, you don't really need to see What a Girl Wants. Posted by: h3 \| May 7, 2008 10:15 AM Congrats to Vanessa Williams! I went to Syracuse the same time she did, (actually, I lived in the same small bldg she did) and I was drinking in Faegan's Pub the Saturday night she won Miss America. What a celebration that was! Syracuse also won their football game that day. Good times! It's all coming back to me now..... Posted by: jlr \| May 7, 2008 10:19 AM Luckily for Kelly Preston, Charlie Sheen is no William S. Burroughs. Posted by: M Street \| May 7, 2008 10:28 AM Oh. My. Gawd. I just went back and read yesterday's afternoon comments. I hereby rescind my comments advocating the avoidance of postings made later in the day. Hi-larious!! Posted by: jelo \| May 7, 2008 10:30 AM Oh and: I'm really unsnarkily happy that things seem to be going better for Britney at the moment. Let's hope it's a trend. Posted by: h3 \| May 7, 2008 10:30 AM Amanda Bynes is actually very popular with teen-types (she was in a very popular show on Nick a little while back) which is who her line at S&B's is aimed at. The reason you don't know who she is, is that she's not out partying like a lunatic like the rest of the young women we mostly read about on this blog. She works, does the school thing and minds her own business. As a woman well past her teen-type years I find her quite charming and funny, although she has yet to get that one big break out role, I think it's only a matter of time. Posted by: tl \| May 7, 2008 10:30 AM Star Jones had gastric bypass ... that turned her into a squirrel? Seriously, how long has she looked like that? I haven't seen her in ages. Posted by: o.l. \| May 7, 2008 10:31 AM I think I enjoy the tweeners more than the folks on the TC blog now. They're a little scary. Posted by: RiverCityRoller \| May 7, 2008 10:34 AM I think I enjoy the tweeners more than the folks on the TC blog now. They're a little scary. Posted by: RiverCityRoller \| May 7, 2008 10:34 AM Yeah, check out Helene's post... Posted by: WDC 21113 (posting from the psych ward at the prison) \| May 7, 2008 10:35 AM just read over today's posts on yesterday's blog entry...now I have coffee all over my monitor. what up? did a psych ward just get a bunch of free computers with Internet? Posted by: b \| May 7, 2008 10:39 AM Whoa, that Helene. She tried to make a point (and she even used capital letters and punctuation) but just couldn't get the grammar straight. Sample sentence: "I didn't know Washington Post hire retards." Posted by: h3 \| May 7, 2008 10:40 AM Luckily for Kelly Preston, Charlie Sheen is no William S. Burroughs. Posted by: M Street \| May 7, 2008 10:28 AM All those posters from yesterday are scratching their heads and saying, "What?" at this. M, have you ever heard REM's "[Star] Me Kitten" with Bill Burroughs doing the vocals? Cool stuff. Posted by: byoolin \| May 7, 2008 10:41 AM I can't beleive I missed BKD in Scientology form. On the upside I have reading material for lunch. Posted by: petal \| May 7, 2008 10:43 AM Yeah, I was just over there. Apparently fleas have ATMs or some such. It won't stop. I can't get any work done this morning because I can't stay off the Tom Cruise blog. Oh and about Star Jones, not only did she lie about having the gastric bybass surgery, but didn't she write a book about how she lost the weight through diet and exercise? Posted by: jake e. poo \| May 7, 2008 10:44 AM I hear you, Jake. I'm at the point where I'm considering figuring out how to get Firefox to block the whole Post website, 'cause clearly my self-control ain't doin it. Posted by: h3 \| May 7, 2008 10:47 AM h3, you could download the Adblock extension and block the 'washingtonpost.com' domain, but then you'd disappoint Liz Kelly and she'd park her car on your street, send you handmade cards and bother your housekeeper. Believe me, you don't want that. Posted by: byoolin \| May 7, 2008 10:54 AM Star Jones gets a pass on the lying, if only because one should assume that what one sees on the televizzle is 99 and 44/100ths % BS. In fact, the only thing on tv that is guaranteed to be accurate are the results of the surveys they use on "Family Feud." Posted by: byoolin names something good for you that tastes like chalk. \| May 7, 2008 10:57 AM So far nothing on par with "Yo fatty carm down." Surely Tom's posters can out do the texting tweeners. Posted by: petal \| May 7, 2008 11:00 AM From Justine at the TC column: But the ROCKERFELLAS ARE THE ROCKERFELLEAS! Live of us they do! Every ATM transaction anywhere at anytime has Fleas that is paid to the Rockerfelleas, Did'nt you know that? And how much money is that!? More than you can think with. _________________________ AH HA! It's actually Yoda over there. "Live of us they do!" Posted by: Thetans? \| May 7, 2008 11:00 AM Thank you Thetans? That is exactly what I thought too, but I was so distracted by the Fleas (note the capitalization!) being paid to the "Rockerfelleas," that I just couldn't get to the Yoda thing. These people, strange they are. Meds they need. Posted by: sunnydaze \| May 7, 2008 11:26 AM OK, what the heck are "Daisy Dukes?" Hooters? Cut-offs? Pasties? Sorry, I misplaced my Redneck Dictionary. Posted by: possum \| May 7, 2008 11:27 AM Charlie you are not marrying kind. Accept it. Look how well not marrying worked out for George Clooney. Although Clooney never used hookers. Guess Uma's stalker found out that the "Nobody explained to me that schlubby guys have no chance with Uma" defense doesn't work. Posted by: ep \| May 7, 2008 11:28 AM Oh yeah, why did the Hills get renewed??? Why??? Why??? Why??? Posted by: ep \| May 7, 2008 11:29 AM Daisy Dukes = cheek-high cut-offs. Only the classiest of girls choose Daisy Dukes for their summer wardrobe. Posted by: Thetans? \| May 7, 2008 11:33 AM I agree h3- I'm glad Britney seems to be pulling herself back onto an even keel. I hope she keeps it up. And I'd like to nominate "more money than you can think with" as the best explanation of why common sense and wads of cash don't mix. Posted by: 51 \| May 7, 2008 11:37 AM Daisy Dukes = cheek-high cut-offs. Only the classiest of girls choose Daisy Dukes for their summer wardrobe. Posted by: Thetans? \| May 7, 2008 11:33 AM As in Daisy from the Dukes of Hazard TV show from the 80's that's on TV Land or CMT or something. Posted by: Side note... \| May 7, 2008 11:37 AM ::looks over the comments at the TC post since midnight:: Liz, did you drop a crate of feral monkeys on your computer last night? Posted by: 51 again \| May 7, 2008 11:44 AM M, have you ever heard REM's "[Star] Me Kitten" with Bill Burroughs doing the vocals? Cool stuff. Posted by: byoolin \| May 7, 2008 10:41 AM __________________________________ No, but I'll have to check it out now. Posted by: M Street \| May 7, 2008 11:44 AM All righty, now, everybody! It's Seventh Innign Stretch Time for Charlie Sheen! Everybody up on your feet to sing the chorus to Take Me Out to the Old Marriage Ballgame: "And it's ONE TWO THREE Strikes Yer OUT At the Old Marriage Game!" Posted by: Sasquatch \| May 7, 2008 11:46 AM The problem is that Jessica Simpson's Daisy Dukes Display supports only those troops who like women. What about those troops who prefer a Manly Man in a pair of Daisy Dukes? Hey, Stallone! It's not like you're doin' much these days! Show us your HGH-enhanced glutes!! If Jessica Simpson REALLY wanted to show support for the troops, she'd auction off her uuuhhh....attention...for charity. The least she could do would be to flash them. Posted by: Sasquatch \| May 7, 2008 11:50 AM I'm sorry, Perez Hilton. I'm holding out for the Amy Winehouse collection. Posted by: MoCoSnarky \| May 7, 2008 12:08 PM And we thought the TC thread skewed young. Daisy Duke was the little sis on the "Dukes of Hazzard." She wore the very short shorts named after her. Posted by: MoCoSnarky \| May 7, 2008 12:09 PM Holy crap the TC comments are awesome. Byoolin, congrats on your promotion to "tycoon" although I'll always think of you as "Captain Byoolin Snarkster-extraordinaire" in my heart of hearts. Posted by: PGM \| May 7, 2008 12:21 PM For you TV column fans -- maybe the troops would be cheered by seeing Jessica's "shoes." Posted by: Thetans? \| May 7, 2008 12:32 PM OMG! The stuff I miss when I don't log in early or check yesterdays posts!! In text/IM speak, ROLFMAO!! Sounds like the TC Fan Club was out in full force & emailed all of the New Canuckia group to come & invade our happy little Celebritology world. What a crazy pirate-esque raid huh? We really should have our own message board instead. Anyhooo....if Gwyneth mentions not doing porn, does that mean that there is/was a possibility she was ever offered a porn gig that she turned down. I shudder at the thought. Posted by: Bored @ work \| May 7, 2008 12:37 PM I would be remiss if I didn't remind everyone that the 2nd episode of Farmer Wants a Wife is on the CW tonight, right after the (so exciting!) 2nd to last episode of America's Next Top Model. Posted by: h3 \| May 7, 2008 12:58 PM Hey jelo, what about us way out here on the left coast? ;-) And here I thought we sometimes made cool comments. Darn. Posted by: Californian \| May 7, 2008 1:01 PM And we thought the TC thread skewed young. Daisy Duke was the little sis on the "Dukes of Hazzard." She wore the very short shorts named after her. MoCoSnarky - I am guilted by my geekiness to point out she was a cousin. cringes Yesterday's comments are hilarious! I can't wait to see if they come back today! I didn't get a chance to snark at any of them! Posted by: NC2 \| May 7, 2008 1:14 PM MoCoSnarky - I am guilted by my geekiness to point out she was a cousin. cringes Posted by: NC2 \| May 7, 2008 1:14 PM I'm glad you pointed that out first...LOL. Posted by: WDC 21113 \| May 7, 2008 1:54 PM Hey jelo, what about us way out here on the left coast? ;-) And here I thought we sometimes made cool comments. Darn. Californian-the Left Coast isn't all that far behind time-wise. Just visit WaPo before checking your work email. Posted by: \| May 7, 2008 2:37 PM Mariah Carey has made how much money and the best she could do for a wedding veil was a white sheer curtain? Yeesh. It looked like the curtain that used to hang in my grandmother's front room. Posted by: methinks \| May 7, 2008 2:40 PM Agreed, methinks. As my grandmother used to say, "Money can't buy taste." Of course, this is the same woman whose overall decorating theme was macrame. Posted by: Wikijen \| May 7, 2008 2:51 PM NC2, you're not alone - I saw caught it too! How mortifying! (Must channel Jane Austen to cleanse brain of Dukes of Hazard facts.) Posted by: rachelt \| May 7, 2008 3:07 PM saw... caught.... whichever verb you choose. It's a verbal buffet. Posted by: rachelt \| May 7, 2008 3:09 PM In Hazzard County, was there any difference between sister and cousin? Posted by: MoCoSnarky \| May 7, 2008 3:17 PM I wonder if Helene is the same Tom Cruise obsessed psychotic Frenchwoman who's on the E Online chat boards. Her mission in life is to destroy Nicole Kidman through the internet. She likes to insult strangers and has often said she hopes that American soldiers are killed overseas. Ironically her name on E Online is "justpeace" Posted by: TallulahBankrupt \| May 7, 2008 3:31 PM Good lord. I just went back and read the Tom Cruise comments. I think I wet my pants. Posted by: \| May 7, 2008 3:59 PM Tallulah, I didn't see anyone that venomous on the Tom Cruise comments. Just a lot of crazy incoherent people. Ah, crazy incoherent people - how I love 'em. Posted by: h3 \| May 7, 2008 4:36 PM These are the funniest damn comments I think I've ever read. Y'all should carm down and start a flea circus... Posted by: mam \| May 7, 2008 8:11 PM Colbert spells his name "Stephen." Posted by: Abby \| May 8, 2008 11:59 PM We encourage users to analyze, comment on and even challenge washingtonpost.com's articles, blogs, reviews and multimedia features. User reviews and comments that include profanity or personal attacks or other inappropriate comments or material will be removed from the site. Additionally, entries that are unsigned or contain "signatures" by someone other than the actual author will be removed. Finally, we will take steps to block users who violate any of our posting standards, terms of use or privacy policies or any other policies governing this site. Please review the full rules governing commentaries and discussions.	Washingtonpost.com blogger Liz Kelly dishes on the latest happenings in entertainment, celebrity, and Hollywood news.	275.055556	0.722222	1.055556	high	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602528.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602528.html	A Scholarship Hunt With Strings Attached	2008050719	Two thoughts occur to just about any parent whose child is about to enter college. The first is "I can't believe how quickly the years have gone by." The second: "I can't believe how much it costs." As one of those parents, I did my best to get past the disturbing first thought and tried to calm my churning stomach while dealing with the second. That's when a fellow fretter pointed me to FastWeb, the most popular Internet scholarship site, self-described as "the best way to get free money for school." A few sessions with FastWeb and a hard look at some of the scholarships it offers, and I had another reason to hate the college-financing process. My first problem was the volume of the personal information requested to get going -- from the student's grade-point average and ethnic heritage to prospective major. Steve Boyce, director of marketing for FastWeb (which started as an independent company but was acquired by the job-placement site Monster.com in 2001), explains that it's necessary to link relevant scholarships to applicants. If customers agree to release that information, FastWeb will share user data with third parties. According to the FastWeb privacy policy, recipients can include "data aggregators" and marketers compiling lists. "In the old days, you used to go into the library and flip a book to find out about scholarships," says Marc Rotenberg, head of the Electronic Privacy Information Center. "Now you don't find out about the scholarship until they find out about you." Nor was I charmed that, before I saw the scholarships, the site required me to click "no thanks" to offers from survey companies, online universities and U.S. Navy recruiters. Boyce says that FastWeb tries to get a proper balance between users and advertisers who fund the business, but the pushiness of the ads gave me the impression that FastWeb knows that its users won't bail because they're desperate for college funds. Once you get to the scholarships FastWeb finds for you, though, how many are really worth pursuing? Put aside for a moment the esoteric nature of some of the grants, such as the $1,500 scholarship for duck-calling. The instant access the Internet provides about awards, as well as the desire of sites such as FastWeb to list thousands of opportunities, has led to an abundance of what are called promotional scholarships. These are an inexpensive way for a company to woo customers under the guise of kindness to a worthy young person. Since FastWeb doesn't rate the quality of its scholarships, these are cheek-to-cheek with more-traditional, less-exploitative grants. (Boyce says that the site is working on a system to identify and explain these promotional scholarships.) A case in point is Coca-Cola's College Bound Contest, brought to you by the Chuck E. Cheese's pizza operation. The winner gets $25,000 toward a college fund. To qualify, one was asked to register for the Chuck E-Club, thus opening one's inbox to a stream of offers from the company. (Tucked in the bottom of the Web page was a link that allowed one to enter the contest without joining the club.) According to Chuck E. Cheese's spokeswoman Brenda Holloway, more than 1.6 million people signed up for the contest, which ended last week. She did not specify how many of those joined the club (typically in contests, the majority of entrants take the suggested path) but did say that the club's population rose. That's hundreds of thousands of new Chuck E-Club members, at a cost to the company of a few pennies each. And only one got a scholarship. Many of the FastWeb offers ask entrants to write essays -- in the aggregate, students spend millions of hours creating themes that will pay off to only a very few. Sometimes the assignments appear to be a form of indoctrination, like the ones offered by the Ayn Rand Institute to expound on issues in "The Fountainhead" or "Atlas Shrugged." Then there is the $250 prize given to the best essay based on the themes of the book "High School's Not Forever" -- a gift offered by the book's authors. One of the more ubiquitous scholarship sponsors on FastWeb is a company called Brickfish, which often asks students to compete for small grants ($500 or less) by making a video or blog post involving a consumer product that pays Brickfish to run a marketing campaign. "Scholarshiping sends a positive message, one of goodwill," says Brickfish chief executive Brian Dunn. And though college costs are high, modest prizes are sufficient to get the reaction Brickfish wants. "Oddly enough, people react better to smaller amounts -- they think they're more likely to win," Dunn says. Donald Heller, director of the Center for the Study of Higher Education at Pennsylvania State University, says applying for scholarships found on FastWeb and similar sites isn't worth the effort for most families. "The real action is in the dollars given by the institutions themselves," he says. (FastWeb's Boyce says he doesn't have statistics to prove it, but "anecdotally, we are helping students meet their goals.") As for my own family's strategy, I've filled out the usual government forms and ones offered by the college my son will attend; I will also keep an eye out for local programs that don't involve competing with FastWeb's 38 million registered users. And when the jackpot gets high, I play Mega Millions. At least with the lottery, you don't have to write an essay. Steven Levy, a senior editor at Newsweek, can be reached atsteven.levy@newsweek.com.	Two thoughts occur to just about any parent whose child is about to enter college. The first is "I can't believe how quickly the years have gone by." The second: "I can't believe how much it costs." As one of those parents, I did my best to get past the disturbing first thought and tried to calm my...	15.9	0.985714	68.014286	medium	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602603.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602603.html	Applicants for Citizenship Take To the Courts to Force Action	2008050719	Mark Sapir got fed up waiting years for immigration officials to act on his citizenship application. So the native of Russia did the most American thing he could think of: He filed a lawsuit. Sapir, a mathematics professor at Vanderbilt University, asked a federal court to enforce the law that requires U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to decide whether to grant citizenship within 120 days of interviewing an applicant. In Sapir's case, that deadline had long passed. "Since nothing worked, I decided this was the only thing I can do," Sapir said in an interview last week. He is not alone. An increasing number of immigrants seeking U.S. citizenship are using legal action to force a decision from the perennially backlogged immigration office, which in 2003 became a part of the new Department of Homeland Security. In fiscal 2005, applicants filed 370 such lawsuits against the agency. By last year, the number had jumped to 3,900, and applications this year are on pace to surpass 5,200. "We acknowledge a significant increase in litigation against the agency during the last few years," CIS spokesman William G. Wright said in an e-mail. A big reason for the agency's slow pace is that immigration officials began scrutinizing applicants' backgrounds more extensively after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. Applicants for citizenship must undergo an FBI name check to determine whether they appear on any terrorism watch lists or are mentioned in a federal law enforcement investigation. If red flags arise, the applicant must prove that he is not the person in question. Since October, immigration officials have submitted 792,397 name check requests to the FBI. In March, 345,600 were pending, including 72,000 that had been in process for more than six months. "We are making significant progress in reducing the backlog," said Wright, who noted that the vast majority of name checks are completed within six months. Sapir and his family came to the United States in 1991 on a work visa, obtained permanent resident status in 1994 and applied for citizenship in 1999. In 2000, immigration officials interviewed them and gave them the required exams in English, civics and U.S. history, all of which they passed. "After that, nothing happened for like three years, during which I tried all possible ways to speed it up," Sapir said. "After some time, it was clear they had lost my file." By April 2003, Sapir decided that he had waited long enough. With the help of an attorney, he filed his federal lawsuit that month. He even managed to garner some press coverage. A trial was set for August 2003, but it never got that far. By July, he and his wife and their older daughter had been granted citizenship. (Two of his other children were U.S. citizens by virtue of being born here.) The court ordered the government to pay half of Sapir's legal fees -- about $4,000, he said. The government received nearly 1.4 million applications for naturalization last year, according to federal figures. Most applicants will never reach the point where suing the government would make sense tactically, and even among those who do, the cost might be a powerful deterrent. Such lawsuits cannot force immigration officials to grant citizenship only to make a timely decision on an application. In defending itself in these cases, the government has argued that the "examination" stage includes the FBI check, so the 120-day clock should not begin ticking until that is completed. Federal courts have come down on both sides, experts say. Even so, filing a lawsuit has become an increasingly popular tactic. "The mere bringing of an action puts pressure on the immigration service by the assistant U.S. attorneys, who call them and say, 'Look, I don't want to deal with these 400 cases. Why aren't you acting on them?' " said Muzaffar A. Chishti, a lawyer and senior official at the Migration Policy Institute, a nonpartisan Washington think tank. "And that inevitably may result in the senior bureaucrats making those cases rise to the top of the pile."	Mark Sapir got fed up waiting years for immigration officials to act on his citizenship application. So the native of Russia did the most American thing he could think of: He filed a lawsuit.	21.648649	1	37	medium	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602566.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602566.html	Mexican Drug Cartels Making Audacious Pitch for Recruits	2008050719	It was printed on a 16-foot-wide banner and strung above one of the busiest roads here, calling out to any "soldier or ex-soldier." "We're offering you a good salary, food and medical care for your families," it said in block letters. But there was a catch: The employer was Los Zetas, a notorious Gulf cartel hit squad formed by elite Mexican army deserters. The group even included a phone number for job seekers that linked to a voice mailbox. Outrageous as they seem, drug cartel messages such as the banner hung here late last month are becoming increasingly common along the violence-savaged U.S.-Mexico border and in other parts of the region. As soldiers wage a massive campaign against drug trafficking across Mexico, they are encountering an information war managed by criminal networks that operate with near impunity. The cartels' appeals -- which authorities generally believe to be authentic recruitment efforts -- seem designed in part to taunt a military plagued by at least 100,000 desertions in the past eight years. Even though the drug war has traumatized Mexicans, cartels still use bravado and a dash of humor to gain supporters. The Nuevo Laredo banner, for instance, promised that the cartels would not feed new recruits instant noodle soup, an allusion to the cheap and frequently mocked meals that many poor soldiers are forced to eat and that the government often provides to stranded migrants. A similar sign in the Gulf of Mexico city of Tampico promised "loans and life insurance." "What else could you want?" it read. The banner closed with a boast: "The state of Tamaulipas, Mexico, the United States and the world -- territory of the Gulf cartel." "The cartels are very good at this -- they've had songs written about them, they put up these signs, they make themselves out to be Robin Hoods," Carlos MartÃnez, a Nuevo Laredo elementary school principal and community activist, said in an interview. "People like this. We Mexicans like a good joke -- we like to make fun of our problems." The banners also appeal to many poorer Mexicans who respect the brashness of the cartels, which provide food, clothing and toys to win civilians' loyalty. Marcelino, a 74-year-old pensioner who did not provide his last name for fear of retribution, said that he had been wronged plenty of times by police but that drug traffickers had given him a sturdy mountain bike. When the subject of the cartel's banner here came up, he laughed until he broke down in a coughing fit.	NUEVO LAREDO, Mexico -- The job offer was tempting.	45.818182	0.818182	1.181818	high	medium	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602473.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602473.html	Panel Will Subpoena Assistant to Cheney	2008050719	A House Judiciary panel voted yesterday to subpoena vice presidential aide David S. Addington as part of a broad inquiry into the Bush administration's treatment of detainees. Addington, the chief of staff to Vice President Cheney, signaled in correspondence released last week that he might testify under oath about controversial interrogation policies if lawmakers demanded his testimony. Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.) took that step yesterday morning, initiating a voice vote in which Democratic lawmakers called on Addington to answer questions about his role in drafting legal memos that underpinned coercive U.S. interrogation measures. Civil liberties advocates have likened the methods to illegal torture. Lawyers for the vice president have sought to limit the subjects about which Addington can be questioned, and committee sources say the scope of his testimony remains under negotiation. A former legal counsel to the vice president, Addington was a key player in formulating antiterrorism strategies after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. He has not previously discussed his views or his role in public. House Judiciary staff members said they are also arranging voluntary testimony from former attorney general John D. Ashcroft and John C. Yoo, a former deputy in the Justice Department Office of Legal Counsel who is now a professor at the University of California at Berkeley. "Congress has the prerogative and duty to demand the truth from the executive," Nadler said. A spokesman for Nadler said the subpoena to Addington could be issued as early as today. Lea Anne McBride, a spokeswoman for the vice president's office, said staff members would review it and "respond accordingly." Earlier this year the House sued Joshua B. Bolten, President Bush's chief of staff, and former White House counsel Harriet E. Miers for refusing to provide information under subpoena about the firing of nine U.S. attorneys. Bush cited executive privilege in an effort to thwart lawmakers' demands. The case is pending in U.S. District Court in Washington.	Follow 2008 Elections & Campaigns at washingtonpost.com.	45.5	0.25	0.25	high	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602527.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602527.html	McCain Says He Would Put Conservatives on Supreme Court	2008050719	WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., May 6 -- Highlighting an issue he plans to use aggressively in the general election campaign, Sen. John McCain on Tuesday decried "the common and systematic abuse of our federal courts by the people we entrust with judicial power" and pledged to nominate judges similar to the ones President Bush has placed on the bench. The presumptive Republican presidential nominee said that Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. "would serve as the model for my own nominees, if that responsibility falls to me," highlighting the gap between Republicans and Democrats on the question of who should sit on the Supreme Court. Both justices have established strong conservative records since Bush appointed them, and the appointment of one more conservative to the nation's highest court could tip the balance on issues such as abortion, discrimination, civil liberties and private property. The two remaining Democratic candidates, Sens. Barack Obama (Ill.) and Hillary Rodham Clinton (N.Y.), opposed the nominations of Roberts and Alito. "My nominees will understand that there are clear limits to the scope of judicial power, and clear limits to the scope of federal power," McCain told a crowd of several hundred at Wake Forest University's Wait Chapel, as he stood in front of nine American flags and mock-ups of the preamble to the Constitution. Later in the day, he announced the formation of a conservative-leaning Justice Advisory Committee, which he said will counsel him on judicial appointments if he wins the presidency. The group, which will be chaired by former solicitor general Theodore B. Olson and Sen. Sam Brownback (R-Kan.), is a Who's Who of prominent conservative legal minds, with members including Princeton University professor Robert George and Rachel Brand, former assistant attorney general for the Office of Legal Policy. "Here's what McCain was really telling the party base: If you liked George W. Bush's nominees, you're going to love the judges John McCain will put on the bench," said Kathryn Kolbert, president of People for the American Way. Conservatives -- who have been frustrated that Bush has appointed 303 federal judges, compared with President Bill Clinton's 372 -- were quick to praise McCain. Edward Whelan, a former clerk to Justice Antonin Scalia who heads the Ethics and Public Policy Center, called the speech "very encouraging" and added: "McCain has drawn a clear line between his support for judicial restraint and Obama's promise to appoint liberal judicial activists." While McCain criticized the judgment of both Democratic candidates when it comes to voting on judicial nominees -- "It turned out that not even John Roberts was quite good enough for them" -- he reserved his sharpest attack for Obama, drawing applause from the audience. "He went right along with the partisan crowd, and was among the 22 senators to vote against this highly qualified nominee. . . . Apparently nobody quite fits the bill except for an elite group of activist judges, lawyers and law professors who think they know wisdom when they see it -- and they see it only in each other," he said. Obama spokesman Tommy Vietor countered: "Barack Obama has always believed that our courts should stand up for social and economic justice, and what's truly elitist is to appoint judges who will protect the powerful and leave ordinary Americans to fend for themselves." McCain made a point of noting that he had voted for Bill Clinton's two Supreme Court appointees, Stephen G. Breyer and Ruth Bader Ginsburg, "because I believed that they were qualified." He added: "Elections have consequences. One of the consequences is the president of the United States gets to name his or her nominees to the bench." Staff writer Robert Barnes in Washington contributed to this report.	WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., May 6 -- Highlighting an issue he plans to use aggressively in the general election campaign, Sen. John McCain on Tuesday decried "the common and systematic abuse of our federal courts by the people we entrust with judicial power" and pledged to nominate judges similar to the...	12.912281	0.982456	55.017544	low	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602890.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602890.html	Dominion Pursues 18 Percent Rate Hike	2008050719	Dominion Virginia Power announced yesterday that it would seek permission to raise electricity rates 18 percent this summer to make customers pay for part of the increased cost of coal and other fuels. The request, if approved, would raise the average monthly bill from about $91 to about $107, Dominion officials said. That would be the largest one-time rate increase for the utility since the 1970s, although Dominion customers would still pay less, on average, than many electric customers in Maryland. Dominion, which serves about 800,000 customers in Northern Virginia, said it wanted the rate increase to begin July 1. The proposal must first be approved by the Virginia State Corporation Commission. Company officials conceded that the heftier power bills could be painful for many customers but said the price increase was necessary to offset $1.1 billion that the utility would spend on fuel. "Obviously, we are not keeping pace with the domestic and international commodity market," said Mark McGettrick, president and chief executive of Dominion's generating arm. The company's base rate is capped by state law, but Virginia officials allow Dominion to petition for increases based on fuel costs. Dominion's request is one of several recent signs that a global increase in energy prices -- driven by Wall Street maneuvering as well as increased consumption in the United States, China and India -- is affecting Washington area consumers. The region's other major utilities, Pepco and Baltimore Gas and Electric, have also cited rising fuel costs in applying for recent rate increases. Last year, Dominion made a similar argument as it pushed for, and ultimately won, a 4 percent increase in rates. Since then, the utility said, coal -- which provides 37 percent of the utility's electricity -- has increased in price by 95 percent. Oil and natural gas, which each supply less than 10 percent of the total, have risen 55 percent and 20 percent. Because rates have not kept up, Dominion officials said yesterday that there would be a $1.8 billion difference between the cost of the power they buy and the money they will receive from customers from July 2007 to July 2009. They said that the rate increase proposed yesterday would recover about $1.1 billion of it and that the rest would be sought from customers in later years. A spokesman for the State Corporation Commission said yesterday that he had not seen the utility's request. He said the commission will hear public comment and investigate Dominion's finances and costs before making a ruling. The commission will try to determine whether Dominion's request is reasonable, spokesman Andy Farmer said. Dominion officials said yesterday that, even if the proposed increase is approved, the company's average monthly bill would remain below the national average of $113.56. It would also be less than the $140.11 that Pepco customers in Maryland pay and the approximately $150 paid by customers of BGE. The average for Pepco customers in the District is $88.77 a month, a spokesman for that utility said. The number is lower because city dwellers use less electricity than suburbanites, he said. Dominion officials said yesterday that they would offer ways to ease the burden on customers, including a "budget billing" program that allows customers to pay their bills in 12 nearly equal installments. That way, they said, the bills are not especially high in summer, when usage is greatest. More information is available on the utility's Web site, http://www.dom.com. They also said that future rate increases might be reduced if Dominion is allowed to build a coal-fired power plant in Wise County in far southwestern Virginia. But environmental groups oppose the plant, citing consumer costs and greenhouse-gas emissions. The environmentalists have other ideas about how to spend the money. "If we are going to be paying more for electricity anyway, the increased costs ought to be invested . . . in efficiency and renewable energy," said Glen Besa of the Virginia chapter of the Sierra Club.	Dominion Virginia Power announced yesterday that it would seek permission to raise electricity rates 18 percent this summer to make customers pay for part of the increased cost of coal and other fuels.	22.647059	1	34	medium	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602724.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050719id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/06/AR2008050602724.html	It's a Hard-Knock Medieval Life	2008050719	Translated from the Spanish by Nick Caistor Mark Twain's description of the art of storytelling consisted of a laconic "Oh, I chase the characters up a tree and then throw rocks at them." Ildefonso Falcones has evidently taken Twain's correspondence course. Life for Arnau Estanyol, Catalan hero of Falcones's international bestseller, starts out rocky: The local lord rapes Arnau's mother on her wedding night and then, not wanting his wife to accuse him of fathering yet another bastard, forces the young woman's husband to have sex with her immediately -- with witnesses -- to confuse the issue. A fortuitous birthmark establishes the husband as Arnau's father, but now the noble lord is infuriated because he thinks his manhood has been impugned. He forces mother and child into his castle, leaving the husband bereft. From there things go downhill for the Estanyols. "Cathedral of the Sea" could be subtitled "Nobles Behaving Badly." Whenever an aristocrat enters a scene, expect Big Trouble. Arrogant knights, debt-ridden barons, conniving wives, greedy kings -- it's soap opera on a grand scale, made believable and enthralling by the inclusion of the commonplace brutalities and small compassions of life in medieval Barcelona. Watching Arnau's rise from literal rags to riches is frequently like watching a series of train wrecks; you're horrified but can't look away. Between disasters, we're treated to exegeses regarding the political affairs of Pedro the Cruel, Pedro the Ceremonious and Pedro the Third, with Phillippe the Bold, two or three Infantes and King Jaime of Mallorca thrown in for comic relief. We also get descriptions of the financial and legal complexities of money-lending and Mediterranean trade, and occasional lessons in the history of Barcelona and Catalonia. Readers who don't read historical novels for educational purposes might be tempted to skip these passages. Don't: All of them have something to do with the plot, which is so beautifully structured that the last 60 pages detonate like a string of firecrackers. Stylistically, Falcones is a minimalist. He rarely describes what characters look like, and here is virtually his entire description of an important sea battle: "At dawn, Pedro the Cruel ordered the attack. His fleet approached the sandbanks, and his men began to fire their crossbows and to shoot stones from catapults and bricolas. From the other side of the banks, the Catalan fleet did the same. . . . Many men died from the crossbow bolts fired from both armies." Though uncomplicated, the prose is powerful, no doubt due in part to the skill of the translator, Nick Caistor; the simplicity allows us to appreciate the riveting story without the distraction of ornamental language. Falcones has an eye for the singular, telling detail, and if his characters are simply drawn, they're believable. Arnau is not quite your stereotypical hero. He's not all that bright, and most of his successes are the result of sheer luck or of falling in with people who are much smarter than he is. But he is good-hearted and stubborn about the few things he believes in. Falcones's women really are all madonnas or whores and sometimes both at once, with the odd scheming harpy thrown in. Oddly, while most of the men in the book, other than the horny nobles, are celibate, many of the women are seething masses of molten desire. This was, of course, exactly the view of women promulgated by the Catholic Church at the time. Falcones's women eloquently make the point that for much of human history, women had no value other than sex and thus no power aside from it. And sex, as anyone -- especially Arnau -- can tell you, is a double-edged weapon. Given Arnau's involvement with the ongoing construction of the cathedral of the title (a real one, Santa Maria del Mar) throughout the book, comparisons with Ken Follett's architectural historical novels, "The Pillars of the Earth" and "World Without End," are inescapable, but aside from length and the central concept of architecture as metaphor, Falcones and Follett are entirely different in style, structure and theme. Follett merely describes the medieval mind-set to a modern audience; Falcones enters it, complete with its acceptance of brutality and embrace of religious sensibility. "Cathedral" deals with the right of an individual -- a serf, a slave, a Jew or a woman -- to be recognized as a human being. This wasn't a popular concept in medieval Catalonia, but Arnau stands by it. While his principles frequently get him beaned with an authorial rock or arrested by the Inquisition, they also see him through. Arnau is the common man, and his eventual victory is one that every reader will celebrate.	CATHEDRAL OF THE SEA By Ildefonso Falcones Translated from the Spanish by Nick Caistor Dutton. 611 pp. $26.95 Mark Twain's description of the art of storytelling consisted of a laconic "Oh, I chase the characters up a tree and then throw rocks at them." Ildefonso Falcones has evidently taken Twai...	15.677966	0.881356	23.186441	medium	medium	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050203331.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050203331.html	Plenty of Juicy Plot Twists in a Thriller of a Race	2008050519	A s a novelist, I am jealous of the present national moment. I'd love to have invented it -- what author of thrillers wouldn't? The fate of the nation is at stake. Powerful characters vie for the chance to save it, and each one's supporters contend, loudly, that the others are being manipulated by the malevolent forces that secretly run Washington. No albino monks or evil wizards -- not yet -- but the plot is still chock-full of unexpected twists and turns, cliffhangers, even car chases (well, chases by journalists, which can be equally harrowing). We have war, we have religion, we have race, we have gender, we have class, and we have confusing subplots galore. What reader could resist? Not many, evidently. Rasmussen Reports recently released a survey in which four out of five respondents said that they've been watching this year's presidential campaign "very closely" or "somewhat closely." Older people followed unfolding events more closely than younger ones did -- just as older people buy more books. And while those who read a novel only somewhat closely instead of very closely may miss some of the key clues, they can and often do develop a rooting interest. This year, almost everybody seems to have one. And why not? Consider the lead characters. Will Hillary Clinton be the first president who's not a man? Will Barack Obama be the first who's not white? Will John McCain be the first to have suffered in a prisoner of war camp? We follow their adventures avidly, wondering which one might be the secret enemy of all that is just and which will turn out to represent the forces of good. The bit characters, too, are fun to watch as we try to guess which one will play the biggest role in the ending. Might it be the Rev. Jeremiah Wright, last seen declaring that any criticism of his words represents an attack on the black church? What about former Georgia congressman Robert Barr, who, perhaps unsatisfied with the many signs pointing to the Republican Party's defeat in the fall, is considering adding to the mess by running himself? Or former Georgia congresswoman Cynthia McKinney, who evidently has similar feelings about the Democrats? (What is it about Georgia, anyway?) And then there's Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, who is apparently in our thriller as a plot device, enabling the Democratic candidates to show their steel by promising to use force if he dares to do what he says he's going to. But what readers really want to know -- the sooner the better -- is who the hero is. Every novel, especially every thriller, needs a hero. They take huge risks for the greater good -- including the risk of defeat. In the contemporary thriller, the plot comes down to a standard model (sometimes called the Ludlum Formula, in tribute to master thriller writer Robert Ludlum). In the Ludlum Formula, the hero alone knows the truth and spends several hundred pages fleeing the good guys, who think he is a bad guy, and the bad guys, who know he is a good guy out to expose their secrets. He is not popular. He has no cheering section. But he knows he's right, and he presses on. Usually, the novelist tells us early on who the hero is. This is important. Once we know the hero, we know whom to root for. We also know who's likely to win in the end, unless of course the writer is someone like John le CarrÃ© or Graham Greene -- authors from the noir school, whose heroes often fail. McCain, of course, is already a hero, with a war record and hard-earned medals to prove it. He has tried to be heroic in peacetime, too. In the Senate, he has been aggressively bipartisan, so often forsaking the GOP grass roots that many on the Christian right seem willing to sit the election out. Most of the country, however, seems to have forgotten that a Republican is even in the race; the only reminder comes when pundits opine about whether the fierce contest for the Democratic nomination will help the GOP in the fall. Nevertheless, any candidate can be a hero. The question is whether his or her supporters will allow this to happen. Powerful forces restrain the would-be hero from taking chances. The media often make new ideas look scary. Interest groups demand obeisance. Now and then, one of the candidates looks ready to lead rather than follow. But each step forward is followed by a step back. One way supporters keep their candidates from becoming heroic is by trying to shield them from adversity -- even when adversity only means tough questions from the media. If reporters challenge McCain, it's evidence of their left-wing bias. If they challenge Obama or Clinton, they are playing the Republicans' game. Forgotten is a crucial lesson from literature: Only by confronting adversity can the potential hero be tested. But supporters try to keep adversity at bay. Thus it turns out that it's fair to criticize only the sermons of political pastors of the Christian right. On the left, well, we should try to understand the roots of the preacher's "controversial" comments. And you might remember the last time around, when each candidate's supporters said, in effect, "Checking on your guy's military record is important, but checking on my guy's military record is dirty politics."	A s a novelist, I am jealous of the present national moment. I'd love to have invented it -- what author of thrillers wouldn't? The fate of the nation is at stake. Powerful characters vie for the chance to save it, and each one's supporters contend, loudly, that the others are being manipulated by...	16.476923	0.984615	63.015385	medium	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050203311.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050203311.html	They're Global Citizens. They're Hugely Rich. And They Pull the Strings.	2008050519	We didn't elect them. We can't throw them out. And they're getting more powerful every day. At the moment, Americans are fixated on the political campaign. In the meantime, many are missing a reality of the global era that may matter much more than their presidential choice: On an ever-growing list of issues, the big decisions are being made or profoundly influenced by a little-understood international network of business, financial, government, cultural and military leaders who are beyond the reach of American voters. In addition to top officials, these people include corporate executives, leading investors, top bankers, media moguls, heads of state, generals, religious leaders, heads of terrorist and criminal organizations and a handful of important cultural and scientific figures. Each of these roughly 6,000 individuals is set apart by their power and ability to regularly influence millions of lives across international borders. The group is not monolithic, but none is more globalized or has more influence over the direction in which the global era is heading. Doubt it? Just look at the current financial crisis. As government regulators have sought to head off further market losses, they've found that perhaps the most effective tool at their disposal is what the president of the New York Federal Reserve Bank described to me as their "convening power" -- their ability to get the big boys of Wall Street and world financial capitals into a room or on a conference call to collaborate on solving a problem. This has, in fact, become a central part of crisis management, both because national governments have limited regulatory authority over global markets and because financial flows have become so large that the real power lies with the biggest players -- such as the top 50 financial institutions that control almost $50 trillion in assets, by one measure nearly a third of all assets worldwide. Most major companies are both bigger and more global today, which effectively makes them able to pick and choose among various governments' regulatory regimes or investment incentive programs. They play officials in country X against those in country Y, gaining leverage that makes the old rules of trade obsolete. The world's biggest corporations, such as Exxon or Wal-Mart, have annual sales (and thus financial resources) that rival the gross domestic product of all but the 20 or so wealthiest nations. The top 250 companies in the world have sales equal to about a third of global GDP (these are very different measures, but they give a rough sense of relative size). Major media organizations such as Rupert Murdoch's News Corp., which is effectively controlled by a single individual, touch far more people each day than any national government can. Just a few weeks ago, Italian media billionaire Silvio Berlusconi once again used his extraordinary resources to win election as prime minister, which will give him a seat at G-8 summits and other global conclaves. Even global terrorist organizations such as al-Qaeda or Hezbollah have both the ability, through their international networks, and the will to project force more effectively on an international level than all but a handful of governments. The people who run these big international organizations can have much more power over key aspects of your daily life and over global trends than most officials in Washington are likely to have, except in the most extreme circumstances. They can affect investments and job creation, shape culture and influence lawmakers. The Federal Reserve Bank has played a critical role in the financial crisis, but it couldn't have intervened successfully without a financial leader like Jamie Dimon, chief executive of J.P. Morgan Chase, which stepped in to purchase the failing investment bank Bear Stearns. The rise of the global superclass signals the latest evolution in the age-old tale of the few who corner the market on power. There have always been elites. But this contemporary group is very different from those that preceded it. Study these 6,000 or so individuals, and you'll find that unlike past aristocrats who inherited their wealth, many -- Bill Gates, for instance, or Warren Buffett -- have built their fortunes over their lifetimes. Many more come from the worlds of business, finance and media than in the past. What's more, many acknowledge that they increasingly have more in common with fellow members of the global elite than they do with the people of their own nations. Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich, for instance, may be governor of a Siberian province, but he also manages to live large in London, where he owns a famous English soccer club. Even though he has donated millions to help his province, he spends considerably more time with global business partners or his posh neighbors in Britain than he does with his constituents back home. At the same time, political and military elites are fading in relative influence -- the former bound by geography, the latter by the extraordinarily high cost of modern warfare. The regional composition of the group is changing as well, as transatlantic elites who today make up about 60 percent of the class gradually give way to a rising cadre of Asian leaders, such as the 100 Chinese billionaires estimated to have emerged in the last couple of years. In a world with only two kinds of international institutions -- weak and dysfunctional -- the members of this superclass are filling a power vacuum when it comes to influencing decisions about transnational issues such as financial-market regulation or climate change. (Many countries voted for the Kyoto accords on global warming, but it took just Exxon and a handful of other oil companies to successfully lobby the White House to opt out and undercut the entire initiative.) In so doing, they raise real questions about the future of global governance. Will the global era be more democratic or less so? Will inequality continue to grow, as it has for the past three decades of this group's rise, or recede? Will the few dominate because the government mechanisms that traditionally represent the views of the many are so underdeveloped on a global scale?	We didn't elect them. We can't throw them out. And they're getting more powerful every day.	52.227273	1	22	high	high	extractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/guestvoices/2008/05/till_disloyalty_do_us_part.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/guestvoices/2008/05/till_disloyalty_do_us_part.html	Till Disloyalty Do Us Part	2008050519	Marriages are neither made nor dissolved overnight, and make no mistake about it, the relationship between a parishioner and his minister is something of a spiritual union. This is why those who say Barak Obama waited too long to divorce himself from Rev. Jeremiah Wright have no appreciation for how wrenching the experience of spiritual separation can be. I canât speak to the particulars of the bond these two men developed over the past 20 years, but as a former parish minister I can say with certainty that these kinds of relationships carry their own unique level of intimacy. As ministers we are brought into peopleâs lives at their zeniths and at their nadirs. We wed them, baptize their children, counsel them through difficult times, bury their parents. We hear confessions that might not be heard by any other human being. We lend a compassionate ear to their fears about the future, their doubts about the existence of God, their anger at the enormous and seemingly irreconcilable pain that exists in the world. We also preach to them, parsing scripture in a way that might make them uncomfortable one Sunday and inspired the next. Some of the things we say they will applaud, some they will disagree with, some they will be offended by, some they will simply pay no mind to. Like a marriage, the relationship will have its quarrels. But they will be like loversâ quarrels; grounded not in enmity but in mutual respect. It is precisely because we have lived through so much together that the quarrels will seek accommodation. They will not threaten the union but rather will be understood as the price that is paid when two people care passionately about faith but â at least as it is brought to bear on some issues â interpret it differently. There is one thing, though, that almost no union can survive, and that is betrayal, and I think this is what finally ruptured the relationship between these two men. Wrightâs most recent efforts either to exonerate or exalt himself have come at Obamaâs expense. The minister put himself first and his parishioner second, and this is something we clergy must never do, because when we are ordained it is an ordination into service. In this instance, Obama was not served by his minister, which is why Wright no longer is his minister. It is also why there was so much anger and pain in Obamaâs voice when he renounced Wright. Anger and pain are the feelings that attend divorce. Their relationship took years to build; it was Obamaâs right to dissolve it only when he saw fit. Erik Kolbell is a United Church of Christ minister, formerly on the staff at The Riverside Church in New York City. He is a licensed and practicing psychotherapist. He is the author of three books: "What Jesus Meant," "Were You There," and "The God of Second Chances." All three are published by Westminster Press.	A conversation on religion with Jon Meacham and Sally Quinn. Visit http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/guestvoices/	39.857143	0.357143	0.357143	high	low	abstractive
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/just-posted/2008/05/follow_the_campaign_trail.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://blog.washingtonpost.com/just-posted/2008/05/follow_the_campaign_trail.html	Follow the Campaign Trail	2008050519	If you're a political junkie in North Carolina or Indiana, let us know how things look on the primary trail. You can share your photos from campaign events here. Find out if one of the candidates will be in your area using our Campaign Tracker, which allows you to browse upcoming events by date, candidate or state. Posted by Carol Touhey \| Permalink \| Comments (4) Share This: Technorati \| Tag in Del.icio.us \| Digg This \| FAQ: What Are These Links? I'm not sure of the validity of this clip but if it's real then I'm changing my vote to Obama!!! This is disturbing. Posted by: Indiana Hoosier \| May 2, 2008 1:25 PM The clip has already been shown to be doctored. It is disgusting that people feel the need to create smears while pretending to be taking the high road. And for you, Indiana Hoosier, looks like you don't need to change your vote. Posted by: Ohio Voter \| May 2, 2008 2:08 PM I am writing to ask people who are voting today to look at Obama's record on the Iraq war and how he has lied repeatedly when he says that he NEVER SUPPORTED THE WAR! He always voted to continue funding for the war and never gave a speech saying that he was against the war (and only voted for funding to protect the troops). You can read his speech on 11/22/05 at www.senate.gov. In paragraphs 24 and 46 he talks about the need to "extinguish the insurgency", etc. He also says that we need to bring the troops home. This is what someone who supports a war would say! I am horrified that he has gotten away with lying to the public about such an important issue. People have voted for him because of these lies. His campaign manager and supporters are saying the same thing; the campaign people at the grassroots level don't even realize that he's lying! This is unbelievable! How will he lie to us as President? Please tell people to look at the truth in his record - it's very easy to find it at www.senate.gov. I don't want a President who feels comfortable lying about such a serious matter! PLEASE GET THIS MESSAGE OUT TO AS MANY VOTERS AND SUPERDELEGATES AS POSSIBLE! Posted by: Laura Monroe \| May 6, 2008 12:53 PM I just posted a comment and would like to add that I realize that Senator Obama is saying that he does want to bring the troops home, even though his advisor stated to the BBC,(before she resigned) that when he is elected the situation may change in Iraq and that may not be possible. What bothers me is that his speeches in the Senate are not consistently against the war in Iraq, and as he has said repeatedly, "I've always been against the war". When you read his speech on 11/22/05, it seems as though he is trying to say two things that are very contradictory. He says that we need enough troops (I'm paraphrasing) to diminish the insurgency, but not enough to aggravate them. This is crazy, because I'm wondering how you can diminish the insurgency without aggravating them! It's so bad it's almost funny! I really recommend reading his speech on 11/22/05. It's as if he's trying to please everyone and in the process sounding like a typical politician. He also says something to the effect that he's not an expert on the war. If people knew what he has said in the Senate about Iraq, and how he has lied to us over and over again, they would want to make sure that he is not elected to any office. What is so sad is that most people don't read his Senate speeches and want to elect him because they want a change. I'm afraid that people are so worried about the economy that they are blindly voting for "change". History has shown that when people are worried about their jobs, etc. they will vote for people that (they have realized in hindsight) are not the best candidate to solve the economic problems. I think we have a better chance on improving our economy if Senator Clinton is elected. She has concrete plan and more experience with politics in Washington. When President Clinton left office we had a large budget surplus. I'm really interested in what other people think of this, and if anyone has any suggestions on how to get Obama's record on the war out to the public I'd appreciate hearing from you. Posted by: Laura Monroe \| May 6, 2008 2:16 PM The comments to this entry are closed.	Visit www.washingtonpost.com/.	453.5	0	0	high	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/eboo_patel/2008/05/we_host_about_two_dozen.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/eboo_patel/2008/05/we_host_about_two_dozen.html	Jeremiah Wright, Revisited	2008050519	We host about two dozen international delegations every year at the Interfaith Youth Core - African journalists, Pakistani businesspeople, European activists, Central Asian religious leaders, the list is long and colorful. They come to learn about the âAmerican systemâ, and ask lots of questions about the Constitution, checks and balances, separation of powers â all the stuff of high school American history. Those things are all necessary to understanding what America is about, I tell them. But they are far from sufficient. To really know America, I emphasize, you have to dig into the African-American tradition. You have to know that a race of people who were enslaved and subjugated for centuries by America decided that instead of leaving this nation in disgust, they would create it anew. When African Americans had every right to seek revenge, they decided instead to build wholeness. At the open casket funeral of her brutally murdered son Emmitt Till, Mamie Till Mobely said, âI donât have a minute to hate. Iâm going to pursue justice the rest of my life.â When African-Americans had every right to call this nation a lie, they chose instead to say that it was a broken promise, and risked their lives to repair it. When they could have focused only on their own freedom, African-Americans dedicated themselves to building a nation where everyone would be free. As Langston Hughes wrote in Let America be America Again: O, let America be America again-- The land that never has been yet-- And yet must be--the land where every man is free. The land that's mine--the poor man's, Indian's, Negro's, ME-- Who made America, Whose sweat and blood, whose faith and pain, Whose hand at the foundry, whose plow in the rain, Must bring back our mighty dream again. I owe my life to the African-American tradition. When I was in college and just discovering the shadow side of America â the brutal conditions our underclass endures, the marginalization our minorities experience, the wars we should never have fought â I could well have been stuck forever on rage had it not been for the African-American tradition. The remarkable lesson of Louis Armstrong, John Coltrane, Martin Luther King Jr., James Baldwin, Gwendolyn Brooks, Cornel West and the thousands of other distinguished names (and the millions we will never hear about) is that they understood rage but viewed it as a way station to something higher â love. âLove is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend,â said King. That love changed me. And it changed America. And so I listened to Jeremiah Wrightâs snaps and jabs at the National Press Club on Monday with deep disappointment. Before this past Monday, I felt like the way Jeremiah Wright was treated by the media was a travesty. A hugely significant 36-year ministry twisted into a series of incendiary three-second sound bites. I hoped (and frankly, expected) that he would respond to that unfair treatment with the magnanimous love that is deeply embedded in the African American tradition. I believe he is capable of that love, but for some reason, when the moment mattered, he offered us something very different. Those minutes on Monday were not the whole man, but heroes are made by how they respond to adversity when the whole world is watching. I say this with great sadness: When I speak to international delegations about the people who embody the transcendent love of the African-American tradition - the love that changed a nation - Jeremiah Wright will not be one of them.	On Faith is an innovative, provocative conversation on all aspects of religion with best selling author Jon Meacham of Newsweek and Sally Quinn of The Washington Post. Keep up-to-date on global religious developments with On Faith.	15.931818	0.522727	0.568182	medium	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/energywire/2008/05/energy_waste_subsidy.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/energywire/2008/05/energy_waste_subsidy.html	PostGlobal at washingtonpost.com	2008050519	As I said in my previous post, a gasoline tax holiday wouldn't make much, if any, difference in the price of gas at the pump. But if it did lower prices, the U.S. would be joining much of the rest of the world in helping keep demand artificially high. That's a recipe for fiscal disaster, and it distorts the market in disturbing ways. Many countries - especially in the developing world -- are actually directly subsidizing fuel prices. In the name of helping their citizens cope, they are subsidizing energy waste, subsidizing an addiction to imports, and subsidizing the growth of greenhouse gas emissions. Of course, as oil prices rise, so do the costs of these fuel subsidies. Many of these countries are also trying to hold food prices steady as the prices of global food commodities soar. This came up in a conversation I had this week with Rob J. Routs, executive director for oil products and chemicals at Royal Dutch Shell Group. "Half of the world is not seeing the real oil price," he said. He cited India, Indonesia and China, among others, who are subsidizing oil prices so that consumers don't pay the full amount. The subsidies, he said, create false economic signals. "In some countries," he said, "people have gone 12 months and they haven't seen an increase at the pump. That keeps demand up." For more information I turned to the International Monetary Fund Web site where Amine Mati of the fiscal affairs department wrote a paper earlier this spring tactfully titled "Managing Surging Oil Prices in the Developing World." Actually, they're not being managed very well. "Less than half of a sample of 42 developing and emerging market countries fully passed through sharply higher world oil prices to retail customers in 2007," Mati writes. The biggest culprits: Oil exporting countries. They can afford it, given high oil prices. But it's still bad energy and climate policy. Not surprisingly, the Middle East is the one area of the world whose increase in oil consumption rivals China's. Some countries do tax fuel, but over the past couple of years they have used the McCain-Clinton approach to limiting the big increases in domestic prices. Lebanon, Mexico, and Peru have cut excise taxes and the Philippines and Ukraine have lowered import duties. In India, subsidies for widely-used kerosene are also important and the government floats special bonds to cover the losses oil companies have because of price controls. The Economist reported late last year that India's fuel subsidies might cost as much as $17.5 billion in 2007, according to Lombard Street Research, a British firm of economists. "That amounts to as much as 2% of the country's GDP," the magazine said. If that's right, then higher than expected oil prices this year will probably punch a $3 billion or $4 billion hole in the government's budget. In all these cases, the dilemma for the governments is the same: Pain now or pain later. With rising oil prices, the pain deferred gets bigger all the time.	A debate with Steve Mufson on how energy prices are moving money, nations, and lives.	33.777778	0.5	0.611111	medium	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/needtoknow/2008/05/tackling_the_iranian_threat.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/needtoknow/2008/05/tackling_the_iranian_threat.html	PostGlobal: PostGlobal on washingtonpost.com	2008050519	Obviously the writer and the commentators have not been visiting Iran over the years. The comments are out of line with the facts. As my wife is Iranian and has famiy in the country I have had the oppoetunity to visit the country 6 times in the last 8 years. Contrary to the comments posted, Iran is doing well and the people complain just as people in all nations do. In my visits I have travelled most of the country and on each visit, the country is improving with mostly new cars on the road, stylish resturaunts and a housing boom to match anywhere in the World. In fact the apartments that we build in the West would never sell in Iran, too small low ceilings and just not fancy enough. As for food and goods to buy everything is there Sony, LG, Mercedes,Puegot, Nissan, Lalique Chanel et'c. Young people in the street holding hands and very attractive girls, women everywhere, Even enhanced by wearing the Hajib. Fashion in the Iranian style with tight tunics albeit in conservative colours. But at night at home just the same as everywhere else, high fashion whatever that is. A Barbari is about 10 cents, there are numerous newspapers including at least 3 English newspapers in Tehran. More real news in those papers than in the NY Times or The Guardian. Iranians as you know or should Know are not Arabs, do not think like Arabs and are very polite and sophisticated down to the merchant or taxi driver, and contrary to what the AEI, Bush and others would have you believe openly talk about the rulers just as we do. They are not a threat but a threatened society having been abused by the US as recently as the 8 year war with Iraq when chemical weapons supplied by the US namely D Rumsfeld were tried against the Iranians. The US also built a 4 lane road from Aquaba Jordan to Iraq to support the US supply line to there then friend Saddam. Sanctions will have little effect on Iran because from the outset of the Revolution ( A CIA instigated plot that went of the rails) they have recognised that no assistance is coming there way so they have concentrated on building domestic resources for most of there requirements and have been ingenius in keping old technology in work on such as aircraft because the US will not supply parts even for commercial aircraft. Bombs and missiles to the rest of the World but not flight safety parts for commercial aircraft. So Iran is no threat are they developing nuclear power, YES and as a signator to the Non Proliferation Treaty are legally entitled to do so. AS rhe nation (Cirrus the Great) who freed the Jewish tribes from the Baghdad getto and allowed them to return to Palestine are they a threat to others NO. Like every other nation that has any pride they will look to defend there national pride when attacked verbaly by others. As Churchill would say JAW JAW not WAR WAR. Unfortunately like Cuba, the Iranians embarressed the US with the hostage crises and will never be forgiven. That and the fact that they are the only country in the region that does not live from US handouts (Jordan, Israel, Egypt, Iraq, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Libya, Pakiston, Azerbijan et'c et'c) dooms Iran in the eyes of The Great White Father. That is the real truth ask an American Indian if you can find one outside a reservation or the control of the Bureau of Indian affairs. Reservation World the next step from The American Enterprise Institute.	Need to Know - PostGlobal on PostGlobal; blog of politics and current events on washingtonpost.com. Visit http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/needtoknow/	36.210526	0.421053	0.421053	high	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/daoud_kuttab/2008/04/israels_ipr_irony.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/daoud_kuttab/2008/04/israels_ipr_irony.html	Israel's IPR Irony	2008050519	The Current Discussion:Software and media piracy costs U.S. businesses as much as US$58 billion a year. Will the U.S.'s anti-piracy report announced last week do any good? If not, what will? It is ironic that Israel -- the country with which the U.S. has a "special relationship," the country with which the U.S. shares so many "values," the country with which the U.S. shares the Judeo-Christian ethos with that includes Thou shalt not steal -- is among the top seven countries that are stealing from America's creative talent. But unlike China and Russia, the U.S. has a number of vices against Israel, including the fact that the U.S. contributes to Israel at least $3 billion in no-questions-asked, direct military and civilian aid and much more in tax-deductible contributions. Wouldn't it be fair if the U.S. would deduct some of its losses in intellectual property from some of this undeserved generosity of the American taxpayers? Please e-mail PostGlobal if you'd like to receive an email notification when PostGlobal sends out a new question. Email the Author \| Del.icio.us \| Digg \| Facebook	PostGlobal features David Ignatius and Fareed Zakaria and other international figures in debates on global news and politics. Stay on top of international news and join the conversation at PostGlobal.	6.69697	0.393939	0.393939	low	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/03/AR2008050301707.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/03/AR2008050301707.html	Is Horse Racing Breeding Itself to Death?	2008050519	The camera cut away from her, but it should have stayed on her. Eight Belles had run herself half to death yesterday, and now the vets were finishing the job as she lay on her side, her beautiful figure a black hump on the track. Horses don't just fall down like that, you thought as NBC flitted away, cowardlike, from the sickening picture to the more appealing image of the Kentucky Derby victor, Big Brown. There is no turning away from this fact: Eight Belles killed herself finishing second. She ran with the heart of a locomotive, on champagne-glass ankles for the pleasure of the crowd, the sheiks, oilmen, entrepreneurs, old money from the thousand-acre farms, the handicappers, men in bad sport coats with crumpled sheets full of betting hieroglyphics, the julep-swillers and the ladies in hats the size of boats, and the rest of the people who make up thoroughbred racing. There was no mistaking this fact, too, as she made her stretch run, and the apologists will use it to defend the sport in the coming days: She ran to please herself. But thoroughbred racing is in a moral crisis, and everyone now knows it. Twice since 2006, magnificent animals have suffered catastrophic injuries on live television in Triple Crown races, and there is no explaining that away. Horses are being over-bred and over-raced, until their bodies cannot support their own ambitions, or those of the humans who race them. Barbaro and Eight Belles merely are the most famous horses who have fatally injured themselves. On Friday, a colt named Chelokee, trained by Barbaro's trainer Michael Matz, dislocated an ankle during an undercard for the Kentucky Oaks and was given a 50 percent chance of survival. According to several estimates, there are 1.5 career-ending breakdowns for every 1,000 racing starts in the United States. That's an average of two per day. Eight Belles collapsed after crossing the finish line, her front ankles broken so severely she could not be taken from the track. "She didn't have a front leg to stand on to be splinted and hauled off in the ambulance, so she was euthanized," said Larry Bramlage, the Derby's veterinarian. Make no mistake, most of the people in thoroughbred racing love the animals and want them to be healthy. The Keeneland Association hosted a summit on the "Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse" after Barbaro's breakdown, to urgently consider how to better protect the horses. Synthetic surfaces are one result of the soul-searching. But the problem is more complex than just surface; it's pervasive in the sport. Modern thoroughbreds are bred for extreme speed, maybe to the point of endangerment. Thoroughbreds are muscularly more powerful than ever, but their bone skeletons seem to be getting lighter and frail. A Kentucky Derby horse has to run a mile and a quarter on a dirt track around two turns by the age of 3. It is the horse equivalent of asking a college kid to play in the Super Bowl. A racehorse therefore has to be bred for many things at once: strength, speed, size and stamina, and it has to be fast maturing, as well. Thoroughbred breeding is like trying to make four dials all stop on the same number. How to mate the right stallion to the right mare so as to produce a perfectly weighted, formed, balanced animal? Too often, the makeup of a horse isn't right. If it's fast, it's not strong enough, or if it's strong, it lacks stamina. Its chest is too big, or its legs are crooked. Maybe the trouble starts when people try to take the gambling out of gambling. Breeders try to eliminate the unpredictable from the bloodlines -- the weak or the ordinary or the unknown. Maybe they are trying to breed too perfectly, down to the smallest technicality in pedigree. Pedigree is just another way to reduce the dauntingly long odds. As if you can beat luck with a checkbook. "See, here's the deal," Nick Zito said once. "The horse don't know what it costs. He doesn't know. Owners put the price on horses, okay?" Part of the trouble is the makeup of thoroughbreds themselves: They are creatures physically at war with their own nature. The heart and lungs are oversize knots of tissue placed in a massive chest, and huge amounts of blood course through legs that are dainty. Anyone who has spent time around a barn understands that horses love to run. They do it for fun. A few years ago, I stood in a field of yearlings in Ocala, Fla., and watched them tear around in circles like children in a playground. They need to be given the bodies to accommodate their hearts. "It's not always the horse with the most class you remember," trainer Allen Jerkens once said. "It's the ones who tried hardest all the time even though they weren't great horses." It's unfortunate that NBC chose to shy away from the breakdown of Eight Belles, because we need a hard look at the real cost to the horses, no matter how upsetting and painful it is to see.	Horse racing is in a moral crisis as Eight Belles joins Barbaro as the most famous horses to fatally injure themselves at a race, a tragedy that occurs, on average, twice a day.	27.675676	0.891892	2.243243	medium	medium	mixed
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2008/05/03/clinton_gets_personal.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://blog.washingtonpost.com/the-trail/2008/05/03/clinton_gets_personal.html	Clinton Gets Personal	2008050519	By Dan Balz CARY, N.C. -- Hillary Clinton talked about short skirts, Snow White and trying to break open a very tough coconut Saturday morning as she began her campaign day with a revealing and very personal conversation about the pressures of raising children and balancing the demands of work and family. This was not the normal campaign rally but an opportunity for the candidate to show her personal side. For almost 45 minutes, Clinton fielded questions about herself, her mother and daughter and asked for advice from an audience of women assembled by the website momlogic.com. She related experiences common to all families, like calling frantically for someone to take care of her daughter after Chelsea's caretaker called in sick and Clinton was due in court at 9 a.m. She was asked by a young mother what advice she had for women who are guilt-ridden by the strains of working and raising children. Clinton said there were times when she and Chelsea assumed most children "just throw a fit when you get dressed to go out the door" for work. "It's wrenching," Clinton said. "[Former Israeli Prime Minister] Golda Meir, I think said something once about how when you're at work you feel guilty, when you're at home you feel guilt. So look, guilt and worry are in a mother's DNA. I'm a designated worrier in my family about everything.... I still worry all the time. My mother said the other day she worries as much about me now. I tell her to turn off the TV, she wouldn't worry so much." Clinton told stories about raising her daughter when her husband, Bill Clinton, was governor of Arkansas, about trying to eat dinner together whenever possible and setting aside time alone with Chelsea. "Among the decisions I made during those early years was to spend as much time as I could with my daughter and her friends," she said. "That meant we didn't have much of a social life." Instead, it was time for "silly things" and for watching endlessly "Snow White" or "The Sound of Music" or old reruns. She said Chelsea once told her,"'You know, you're my favorite mother, but my second favorite is Donna Reed.' I mean Donna Reed did housework in high heels." She said the family tried to set aside at least one night a week for one of them to propose an activity -- a movie or hitting tennis balls. One night Chelsea said she had heard about coconuts but had never seen one. "So we went to the store and bought a coconut and took it home," she said. "And Bill and I, you know, between us we've had 50 years of education. We could not get the coconut open. We were throwing it on the driveway. We were beating it with a hammer. It was so embarrassing. Here's our four-year-old daughter thinking, what is this?" The questions inevitably turned to the strains on her during the public humiliation of her husband's affair and eventual impeachment, although the questioner was oblique in the way she asked about it. Her faith, Clinton said, gave her the support and confidence to work through it. "And to try once again to come to a resolution that was right for me and my family.... I believe that family is the core of your relations, your sense of identity." But she said friends helped get her through as well -- phone calls or notes or a funny gift. She recalled that a close friend who later died of lung cancer "would always send me a little something to make me laugh, like some kind of stuffed doll that she said, you know, use this to beat the table with, or stick pins in it or whatever you want to do with it.... Women are really good about that." Another woman asked what was the first question she asked the boys her daughter brought home when she was in high school. "You really cannot extrapolate from my experience because Chelsea was a teenager in the White House, which meant that the Secret Service went on her dates," she said. "A lot of her girlfriends' mothers loved it when they double-dated because, you know, there was the guy with the gun in the front seat." When the topic turned to how teenagers act and dress, Clinton offered a lesson from her husband's second inauguration. The family was getting ready to leave the White House that morning and, Clinton said, her daughter came downstairs wearing a very long coat. She asked her daughter what she was wearing. Just an old thing, she said Chelsea replied. "The skirt was so short. I was sitting there looking at the short skirt -- there was no time to change. And I thought, okay you just have to take a deep breath, here we go. There are so many things there are worth engaging your kids on, and there are so many things that are not that that important." Trying to figure out the line, she said, is the challenge. Posted at 11:25 AM ET on May 3, 2008 Share This: Technorati \| Tag in Del.icio.us \| Digg This Add The Trail to Your Site Wake up everybody...this upcoming Presidential election will be very important because there is so much at stake. I submit to ALL AMERICANS that the fighting must STOP and we should unite behind the candidate who will bring our nation together. "Barack Obama" will keep to his word and be the President that is for ALL AMERICANS! Change can be scary, however, without taking a chance, we will be stuck with another four years of Mccain/Bush policies. (America cannot afford that notion). Indiana and North Carolina, we know you can see through the negative political stategies of the media and Hillary. CHANGE YOU CAN BELIEVE IN! Posted by: Michelle \| May 5, 2008 3:09 AM Mrs.Clinton doesn't relate to the problems of most families. Most families have either a son or a daughter who is fighting in Iraq or Afganistan. I don't see Chelsea anywhere near a battlefield. Even the prince Williams and prince Harry went to the battlefield. But we have Bill Clinton who dodged the Vietnam draft. We have Hillary who mocked as if she was under sniper fire. That is as close to where she gets relating to most families. Not knowing how to open a coconut is not how one shows they are like the guy next door. She was a governors wife when Chelsea was born. They had secret service agents and aids doing most of the work them. Bill even had interns to blow him off. Hillary did not have to look for a childcare provider. She did not have to drive to work or go to the gas station to pump gas. But just like her made up sniper fire story, she is making stories as she moves amongst the crowds, hoping that she gets a few extra votes from some gullible voters. That woman has no decency or moral value when it comes to lying. Both Bill and Hillary lie through their teeth just to get a few extra votes. Posted by: John Kjellevold \| May 5, 2008 1:38 AM Hillary Clinton is quoting Golda Meir. She wants to be like other female world leaders. But she aint no Golda Meir. You take any of the other female world leaders and you will see a trail of accomplishments and leadership skills. For Hillary it is all stolen credentials from her husband. Whatever Bill did in his administration Hillary will claim it as her own. From the beginning all we have eard of Hillary was her pork barrel stock sale where she invested $1000 and got back $100,000. Or her involvement in firing the travel agency employees in the white house, whitewater deal, and her being constantly hauled to the court for all her lies and deciets. Most of the other female world leaders probably ended up spending some amount of time in jail for rising against governments in support of the people. That will never happen to Hillary. She is too elite to fall prey for that. But she shamelessly tries to create an aura about herself which isn't there. Posted by: Lily Shepley \| May 5, 2008 1:26 AM That woman war-monger is really beginning to scare me. While Obama would negotiate with Iran, she wants to obliterate the Iranians. Doesn't she realize that would start a 3rd World War? It is frightening to think that a woman with no talent for diplomacy could be the supreme commander of the US military forces. Posted by: Bodo \| May 4, 2008 2:15 PM Chelsea on her way to Iraq, Hilary gives her servant a tip, for her daughter was spitten mad about fighting and the chance of not being alive to see her mom win the election. Help me Momma. I can't Dear, Im off to work. Yep, she knows what it's like to struggle Posted by: justadad55+ \| May 4, 2008 1:52 AM ...............The 44th President of the United States Posted by: \| May 4, 2008 1:48 AM . BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA IS A LOSER! BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA IS A LOSER! BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA IS A LOSER! HE'S ONLY 160 DELEGATES AHEAD! HE'S ONLY 160 DELEGATES AHEAD! HE'S ONLY 160 DELEGATES AHEAD! HE'S ONLY 160 DELEGATES AHEAD! Posted by: \| May 4, 2008 1:46 AM He rode easy in the saddle. He was tall and lean, and at first you'd a-thought nothing but a streak of mean could make a man look so down right strong, but one look in his eyes and you knowed you was wrong. He was a mountain of a man, and I want you to know. He could preach hot hell in freezin' snow. He carried all his courage in a canvas sack and folks just called him Mr. "President, Mr. Black. He was poor as a beggar, but he rode like a king. Sometimes in the evening, I'd hear him sing: Chorus: I gotta walk that lonesome valley. I got to walk it by myself. Oh nobody else can walk it for me. I got to walk it by myself. You got to walk that lonesome valley. You got to walk it by yourself. Oh lord those Clintons, can't walk it for you. You got to walk it by yourself. Wake up America, for you are indeed walking by your self. Posted by: justadad55+ \| May 4, 2008 1:46 AM Hillary Clinton cannot win. . Even if Hillary Clinton wins every remaining primary by 70%, Obama will still maintain his lead in pledged delegates. This is true, even when one counts the delegates from Florida and Michigan. Mrs. Clinton cannot catch up to Barack Obama in pledged delegates, and pledged delegates will determine this election. She has lost, Barack Obama has won. See for yourself . . Posted by: \| May 4, 2008 1:42 AM America wants change. May my God forgive me for saying this, but there is always cotton fields, You will indeed get change from this lady. Hope your ready for it. Please give Peace a chance. Dam songs, oldies in my head again. Thats all right, for the next sound you people will hear will be your last. Ka-boom. Posted by: justada55+ \| May 4, 2008 1:17 AM Senator Clinton talks about Snow white, but leaves out the little guy whose nose grows whenever he lies, and lies, and lies. Very odd and should I say very crafty on her part. Sick and unforgiving lady whom will indeed win living in a world of Disneyland. Black is Black, America Whites, wants their baby back. Sounds like a tune I heard long ago. The Clintons will stop at nothing and will probably succeed. Good luck, you all. The people can still have change, but it looks doubtful to the world. OVER 4,500 dead and yet there is still Iran in the works?? Where have all the children gone?? When will they ever learn Man another oldies song slips into my head? Clinton for war, her daughter will never suffer. Wake up Neighbors. Posted by: justadad55+ \| May 4, 2008 1:02 AM I know who the foul mouthed-uncouth-May3 poster is. He is deranged yellow belly poster who doesn't have the brains or guts to identify himself. Also WHERE IN THE HELL IS THE WASHINGTON POST'S MONITERING THE KIND OF DRIVEL THAT THE COWARD HAS PUT FORTH. I WILL DESCRIBE THE MAY3 POSTER. HE IS A MEMBER OF THE KKK--HE IS A BLACKMAN--HE BELONGS TO THE NAZI PARTY AND HE DOESN'T have a brain in his head. If ALL you obama lovers tolerate this kind of crap THEN LET'S BRING THE LOW LIFE REV BIGOT--A POOR EXCUSE OF A PASTOR-- BACK ON TV. I say the idiots who put such junk on this site should be put back on a fast boat to AFRICA> If obama wins this country is doomed because of the dumb a-s people who post this s@#&t!!! IF your checking Washington Post where are you? In an article recently your paper said it would be more careful in checking and reading the posting on you sites because the content was getting nasty and out of hand. It seems the screed by the s-b that posted today--gutless moron should be banned. If that racist miserable human being--Mr. May 3rd--reads this let him know I will not for for that 2 faced black man named Obama--the h--l with you-- you are poor excuse of a human being. Obama deserves you and you will both GO DOWN in the election!!! Posted by: vergens2 \| May 3, 2008 10:12 PM "Hillary Clinton said on Thursday night that members of Congress should tell the American people where they stand on a plan she backs to suspend the gas tax for three months. Are they with us or against us? she said. But that bit of bombast may backfire. On Friday, one of Sen. Clintons top backers, Massachusetts Rep. Barney Frank, called the gas-tax holiday a bad idea. I think it would be counterproductive, Frank said in an interview to air today on Bloomberg Television. I dont think it would be a significant savings for the individual. It would be more of a cost. Add Frank to the growing list of pols who have rejected the idea, including Clinton supporter and Washington Sen. Patty Murray. Others include House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, New York Gov. David Paterson and New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, who was particularly blunt on Thursday. It's about the dumbest thing I've heard in an awful long time, from an economic point of view," Bloomberg, who hasnt endorsed a candidate, told reporters. We're trying to discourage people from driving and we're trying to end our energy dependence...and we're trying to have more money to build infrastructure...." So much for experience. Its not just Obama's delegates. This is why we need to hear about real issues. Otherwise, ask Rev. Wright what he thinks about the gas tax idea. Debate on ...gas tax. Obama ahead. 1 Clinton 0 McCain 0 Bush The Decider is thinking about it. (Sorry couldn't help myself.) Rev. Wright so far (0) By the way, does anyone know how many would be lose jobs if we went with the holiday gas tax idea? Posted by: Needs to show "experience" instead. \| May 3, 2008 9:57 PM BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA 'O8 BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA 'O8 BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA 'O8 BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA 'O8 BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA 'O8 BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA 'O8 BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA IS A LOSER! BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA IS A LOSER! BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA IS A LOSER! BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA IS A LOSER! BARACK HUSEIN OBAMA IS A LOSER! Posted by: chicagolum \| May 3, 2008 9:23 PM our professor says he knows so much about the world, we should just elect him to be president() Posted by: zombies in penn \| May 3, 2008 9:19 PM our professor told all of us to vote for obama, so most of us did) Posted by: zombies in penn. \| May 3, 2008 9:18 PM my professor told me to vote for obama, so i did) Posted by: zombie \| May 3, 2008 9:16 PM A VOTE FOR OBAMA IS A VOTE FOR MCCAIN Posted by: Jack Straw \| May 3, 2008 8:39 PM . ............_. ,-Â´``; . . . . . . . . . .,`. . .`-----Â´.. . . . . . . . . . .,. . . . . .~ .`- . . . . . . . . . . ,Â´. . . . . . . .o. .o__ . . . . . . . . _\|. . . . . . . . . . . . (#) . . . . . . . _. Â´`~-.. . . . . . . . . .,Â´ . . . . . . .,. .,.-~-.Â´ -.,. . . ..Â´--~` OBAMA 2008 . . . . . . /. ./. . . . .}. .` -..,/ . . . . . /. ,Â´___. . :/. . . . . . . . . . /Â´`-.\|. . . `Â´-..Â´........ . . . . . ;. . . . . . . . . . . . .)-.....\| . . .\|. . . . .Â´ ---........-Â´. . . ,Â´ . . .Â´,. . ,....... . . . . . . . . .,Â´ . . . .Â´ ,/. . . . `,. . . . . . . ,Â´ . . . . .. . . . . .. . . .,.- Â´ . . . . . Â´,. . . . . Â´,-~Â´`. ;. . . . . ..,=======, . . . . . .\|. . . . . ;. . . /__. . . . . . .......... . . / . . . . . /. . . . . /__. . . . .). . . . . . . ..... . . / . . . . . Â´-.. . . . . . .)----~Â´. . .. . .\______/ . . . . . . .Â´ - .......-` Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 8:36 PM Posted by: Missy Michelle \| May 3, 2008 8:33 PM There is nothing, if there was Hillary would already be spouting it. So far Rev Wright is like the biggest thing they have and thats pretty weak. Obama supporters, plague on your house!! I thought you are educated. i wonder what kind of education you got. my growing years have taught me more respect for others, my thinking improved with age. you all have a lot to learn, to improve your character. Learn more about Obama lies and false claims in Illinois. and a whole lot more, you may just be sorry you are backing an incompetent person. Posted by: li'l nel \| May 3, 2008 8:18 PM Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 8:26 PM Mccain can't beat either. He is nothing but an ex drunk and drug user. Dumped on his first wife, married his current wife for her money. His father-in-law bought him his political career. He is also a wife abuser and has even abused his current wife in public numerous calling her a ct and a tramp as well as a dope addict. He has a past that public record that is atrocious. the republicans are just serving him up as fodder because no decent candidate wanted to run for real and get beat. If you really think he will win you can make some money on it. I would say most off shore betting lines will be like 3 to 1. "Obama doesn't want to count the votes of Florida or Michigan but is glad to count Guam. This election is turning into a bad joke. Obama's supporters will do anything to get him the nomination. The good news is that Obama will never be President. There is no way Obama can win a national election. His Hard Drug history makes him unelectable. Its too bad Hillary let Obama slide so much by. Obama can't win, but he can cause Democrats to lose". Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 7:56 PM Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 8:24 PM Mccain can't beat either. He is nothing but an ex drunk and drug user. Dumped on his first wife, married his current wife for her money. His father-in-law bought him his political career. He is also a wife abuser and has even abused his current wife in public numerous calling her a ct and a tramp as well as a dope addict. He has a past that public record that is atrocious. the republicans are just serving him up as fodder because no decent candidate wanted to run for real and get beat. If you really think he will win you can make some money on it. I would say most off shore betting lines will be like 3 to 1. "Obama doesn't want to count the votes of Florida or Michigan but is glad to count Guam. This election is turning into a bad joke. Obama's supporters will do anything to get him the nomination. The good news is that Obama will never be President. There is no way Obama can win a national election. His Hard Drug history makes him unelectable. Its too bad Hillary let Obama slide so much by. Obama can't win, but he can cause Democrats to lose". Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 7:56 PM Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 8:24 PM Mccain can't beat either. He is nothing but an ex drunk and drug user. Dumped on his first wife, married his current wife for her money. His father-in-law bought him his political career. He is also a wife abuser and has even abused his current wife in public numerous calling her a ct and a tramp as well as a dope addict. He has a past that public record that is atrocious. the republicans are just serving him up as fodder because no decent candidate wanted to run for real and get beat. If you really think he will win you can make some money on it. I would say most off shore betting lines will be like 3 to 1. "Obama doesn't want to count the votes of Florida or Michigan but is glad to count Guam. This election is turning into a bad joke. Obama's supporters will do anything to get him the nomination. The good news is that Obama will never be President. There is no way Obama can win a national election. His Hard Drug history makes him unelectable. Its too bad Hillary let Obama slide so much by. Obama can't win, but he can cause Democrats to lose". Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 7:56 PM Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 8:24 PM Mccain can't beat either. He is nothing but an ex drunk and drug user. Dumped on his first wife, married his current wife for her money. His father-in-law bought him his political career. He is also a wife abuser and has even abused his current wife in public numerous calling her a ct and a tramp as well as a dope addict. He has a past that public record that is atrocious. the republicans are just serving him up as fodder because no decent candidate wanted to run for real and get beat. If you really think he will win you can make some money on it. I would say most off shore betting lines will be like 3 to 1. "Obama doesn't want to count the votes of Florida or Michigan but is glad to count Guam. This election is turning into a bad joke. Obama's supporters will do anything to get him the nomination. The good news is that Obama will never be President. There is no way Obama can win a national election. His Hard Drug history makes him unelectable. Its too bad Hillary let Obama slide so much by. Obama can't win, but he can cause Democrats to lose". Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 7:56 PM Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 8:24 PM Obama supporters, plague on your house!! I thought you are educated. i wonder what kind of education you got. my growing years have taught me more respect for others, my thinking improved with age. you all have a lot to learn, to improve your character. Learn more about Obama lies and false claims in Illinois. and a whole lot more, you may just be sorry you are backing an incompetent person. Posted by: li'l nel \| May 3, 2008 8:18 PM Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 8:10 PM Idiots, Republicans, terrorists, mental patients for OBAMA 08! Posted by: MIa \| May 3, 2008 7:57 PM Obama doesn't want to count the votes of Florida or Michigan but is glad to count Guam. This election is turning into a bad joke. Obama's supporters will do anything to get him the nomination. The good news is that Obama will never be President. There is no way Obama can win a national election. His Hard Drug history makes him unelectable. Its too bad Hillary let Obama slide so much by. Obama can't win, but he can cause Democrats to lose. Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 7:56 PM Now that Barack has won in Guam, how long do you think it will take for the Clintonites to dream up some kind of challenge, probably based on arguments that just last week they said they opposed? Posted by: martin edwin andersen \| May 3, 2008 7:38 PM Hillary's pick in the Kentucky Derby finished second and had to be euthanized. What a terrible tragedy. Big Brown won the race. However, the symbolism is astonishing. Posted by: Lilly1 \| May 3, 2008 7:38 PM p i n k o "change we can believe in" "screw the rich white man" this ad was sponsored by the rev. wright enjoy p i n k o Posted by: Tom Jefferson \| May 3, 2008 7:37 PM if there was ever a reason to vote for Obama and change Washington all you have to do is read the poison and vitriol on this post Does any of this carping solve any problems? Some of you have WAY too much time on your hands -- We need a fresh start And lets start with someone who at least talks to us like we are adults -- posters here nonwithstanding Posted by: alison \| May 3, 2008 7:37 PM p i n k o "promote homosexuality as a traditional american lifestyle" p i n k o Posted by: Tom Jefferson \| May 3, 2008 7:35 PM Oh STOP it! Hillary Clinton has no "personal" side anymore ... at least not in public. She's been politicking for so long I doubt even SHE doesn't know what she really is. What's the differnce between Hillary Clinton and a car salesman? A: a cars saleman KNOWS when he's lying to you. Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 7:33 PM p i n k o "wish more americans were dying" this add was sponsored by the rev. wright p i n k o Posted by: Tom Jefferson \| May 3, 2008 7:32 PM It's time for everyone to face the truth. Barack Obama has no real chance of winning the national election in November at this time. His crushing defeat in Pennsylvania makes that fact crystal clear. His best, and only real chance of winning in November is on a ticket with Hillary Clinton as her VP. Hillary Clinton seemed almost somber at her Pennsylvania victory speech. As if part of her was hoping Obama could have proved he had some chance of winning against the republican attack machine, and their unlimited money, and resources. But it is absolutely essential that the democrats take back the Whitehouse in November. America, and the American people are in a very desperate condition now. And the whole World has been doing all that they can to help keep us propped up. Hillary Clinton say's that the heat, and decisions in the Whitehouse are much tougher than the ones on the campaign trail. But I think Mr. Obama faces a test of whether he has what it takes to be a commander and chief by facing the difficult facts, and the truth before him. And by doing what is best for the American people by dropping out of the race, and offering his whole hearted assistance to Hillary Clinton to help her take back the Whitehouse for the American people, and the World. Mr. Obama is a great speaker. And I am confident he can explain to the American people the need, and wisdom of such a personal sacrifice for them. It should be clear to everyone by now that Hillary Clinton is fighting her heart out for the American people. She has known for a long time that Mr. Obama can not win this November. You have to remember that the Clinton's have won the Whitehouse twice before. They know what it takes. If Mr. Obama fails his test of commander and chief we can only hope that Hillary Clinton can continue her heroic fight for the American people. And that she prevails. She will need all the continual support and help we can give her. She may fight like a superhuman. But she is only human. Sen. Hillary Clinton: "You know, more people have now voted for me than have voted for my opponent. In fact, I now have more votes than anybody has ever had in a primary contest for a nomination. And it's also clear that we've got nine more important contests to go." Posted by: jacksmith \| May 3, 2008 7:28 PM This ad is sponsored by Bill Ayers Posted by: freaks'n'fools \| May 3, 2008 7:26 PM This add is sponsored by the Rev. Wright Posted by: Trinity Church \| May 3, 2008 7:24 PM Obama will divide, but he will not conquer! Posted by: Paul Revere \| May 3, 2008 7:21 PM i advise all democratic, white working class people, in the case of an obama nomination, to switch their vote to the republican party, and vote for john mccain in the general election. this will wipe out obama, and all his phony followers. Posted by: white working class guy \| May 3, 2008 7:19 PM MY FELLOW "BITTER", STUPID, WORKING CLASS PEOPLE :-) If you think like Barack Obama, that WORKING CLASS PEOPLE are just a bunch of "BITTER"!, STUPID, PEASANTS, Cash COWS!, and CANNON FODDER. :-( You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think Barack Obama with little or no experience would be better than Hillary Clinton with 35 years experience. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that Obama with no experience can fix an economy on the verge of collapse better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) led the greatest economic expansion, and prosperity in American history. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that Obama with no experience fighting for universal health care can get it for you better than Hillary Clinton. Who anticipated this current health care crisis back in 1993, and fought a pitched battle against overwhelming odds to get universal health care for all the American people. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that Obama with no experience can manage, and get us out of two wars better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) went to war only when he was convinced that he absolutely had to. Then completed the mission in record time against a nuclear power. AND DID NOT LOSE THE LIFE OF A SINGLE AMERICAN SOLDIER. NOT ONE! You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that Obama with no experience saving the environment is better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) left office with the greatest amount of environmental cleanup, and protections in American history. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that Obama with little or no education experience is better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) made higher education affordable for every American. And created higher job demand and starting salary's than they had ever been before or since. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that Obama with no experience will be better than Hillary Clinton who spent 8 years at the right hand of President Bill Clinton. Who is already on record as one of the greatest Presidents in American history. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that you can change the way Washington works with pretty speeches from Obama, rather than with the experience, and political expertise of two master politicians ON YOUR SIDE like Hillary and Bill Clinton.. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think all those Republicans voting for Obama in the Democratic primaries, and caucuses are doing so because they think he is a stronger Democratic candidate than Hillary Clinton. :-) p.s. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you don't know that the huge amounts of money funding the Obama campaign to try and defeat Hillary Clinton is coming in from the insurance, and medical industry, that has been ripping you off, and killing you and your children. And denying you, and your loved ones the life saving medical care you needed. All just so they can make more huge immoral profits for them-selves off of your suffering... You see, back in 1993 Hillary Clinton had the audacity, and nerve to try and get quality, affordable universal health care for everyone to prevent the suffering and needless deaths of hundreds of thousands of you each year. :-) Approx. 100,000 of you die each year from medical accidents from a rush to profit by the insurance, and medical industry. Another 120,000 of you die each year from treatable illness that people in other developed countries don't die from. And I could go on, and on... OBAMA AIDE: "WORKING-CLASS VOTERS NOT KEY FOR DEMOCRATS" :o Posted by: jacksmith \| May 3, 2008 7:15 PM Gays are 2% of the population, big deal! I'm more concerned about the baby killers, what's their breakdown? And what about the Atheists? And the Anarchists? Narrow profiling here, but it could add up to something....) Posted by: Jennifer USA \| May 3, 2008 7:15 PM I'm a male homosexual, and I cast my superdelegate vote for Barak Obama....yippie! Posted by: Joe Andrew \| May 3, 2008 7:12 PM "I'M AS ANGRY A PERSON AS REV. WRIGHT(((((( Posted by: Tom Jefferson \| May 3, 2008 7:07 PM OBAMA SUPPORTER....AND I'M REALLY MAD((((( Posted by: Tom Jefferson \| May 3, 2008 7:05 PM You have to love how mad the Obamamams are, especially in light of his cascading poll numbers, and the fact that his secrecy has now been exposed. This guy is toast, and as he moves to the general election, his past, and those very narrow constituents that support him, will become ever more suspect. Inevitably, he will fall by a minimum of 5-6% in the fall election, and if his remarks, and his past continue on their present course, you can make that a 10% margian of victory for JMC. Sorry, Obamamamas, but you guys chose the wrong candidate, all the more gut-wrenching because this election was one to walk away with by the Democrats. Posted by: matt \| May 3, 2008 7:03 PM I support Obama because I know he is by far the best one left running. Will I be depressed? Maybe, but not for the reason you think. Obama will be fine, he will go on to be one of the most important people of our time I am sure. He will write books and most likely like Clinton and Gore become fabulously wealthy. I am already retired and wealthy, weather Obama is elected or not it will effect my life one way or another. I am depressed for our country with a public so easily duped by con men or in this case woman. It saddens me. This tax thing is like a mass I.Q. test and from what I see on the news, half of the people don't have the smarts to screw in a light bulb. You don't need Hillary or Obama to tell you what to think, just do a little study research on your own and you will know what right. By the way, I mentioned I was wealthy, I made it in advertising. I can already tell you the average level of intelligence of the public, I retired at 45 based on it. Quote There will be a lot of sorry and depressed people if their elite candidate loses in both NC and IN, I can tell by their postings that they are starting to be frustrated and angry, just like Barry Obambi.... Posted by: Lunatics On Line \| May 3, 2008 2:20 PM Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 6:59 PM So the average age of every poster today is 12, either pro-Obama or pro-Clinton? Posted by: cori \| May 3, 2008 6:55 PM I don't believe that the way the Obama supporter's, that have commented on this article, are behaving will have any permanent or detrimental affect on Obama himself. Here we go again with the, "well so and so support Obama and they are saying/doing something inappropriate, obviously since they support Obama he is somehow behind their actions, and should be faulted for it" mentality.. When will people wise up? This is the Clinton and McCain strategy, and you poor saps have been suckered into believing their desperate attempts to bring Obama down actually has relevancy to the issues and what this man is trying to accomplish.. I'm glad I can see through the media and every sad attempt the Clinton and McCain campaigns have thrown Obama's way.. These are some of the most dishonest people I have ever known of, and it's a shame, they are both shameful candidates and they know it.. Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 6:54 PM Mrs. Clinton voted to give the president authority to use military force in Iraq. She did not vote in favor of using military force in Iraq. Can you imagine someone running for president, Commander in Chief, who'd voted against the president having authority to use military force? I too oppose the war. There should be a '+dead' for every Iraqi civilian killed as a result of the U.S. invasion. How many? We don't even know. 'Credit' where 'credit' is due, though, please. George W. Bush ordered and orchestrated the invasion of Iraq. Posted by: jamie baldwin \| May 3, 2008 6:35 PM MY FELLOW "BITTER", STUPID, WORKING CLASS PEOPLE :-) If you think like Barack Obama, that WORKING CLASS PEOPLE are just a bunch of "BITTER"!, STUPID, PEASANTS, Cash COWS!, and CANNON FODDER. :-( You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think Barack Obama with little or no experience would be better than Hillary Clinton with 35 years experience. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that Obama with no experience can fix an economy on the verge of collapse better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) led the greatest economic expansion, and prosperity in American history. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that Obama with no experience fighting for universal health care can get it for you better than Hillary Clinton. Who anticipated this current health care crisis back in 1993, and fought a pitched battle against overwhelming odds to get universal health care for all the American people. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that Obama with no experience can manage, and get us out of two wars better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) went to war only when he was convinced that he absolutely had to. Then completed the mission in record time against a nuclear power. AND DID NOT LOSE THE LIFE OF A SINGLE AMERICAN SOLDIER. NOT ONE! You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that Obama with no experience saving the environment is better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) left office with the greatest amount of environmental cleanup, and protections in American history. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that Obama with little or no education experience is better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) made higher education affordable for every American. And created higher job demand and starting salary's than they had ever been before or since. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that Obama with no experience will be better than Hillary Clinton who spent 8 years at the right hand of President Bill Clinton. Who is already on record as one of the greatest Presidents in American history. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think that you can change the way Washington works with pretty speeches from Obama, rather than with the experience, and political expertise of two master politicians ON YOUR SIDE like Hillary and Bill Clinton.. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you think all those Republicans voting for Obama in the Democratic primaries, and caucuses are doing so because they think he is a stronger Democratic candidate than Hillary Clinton. :-) p.s. You Might Be An Idiot! :-) If you don't know that the huge amounts of money funding the Obama campaign to try and defeat Hillary Clinton is coming in from the insurance, and medical industry, that has been ripping you off, and killing you and your children. And denying you, and your loved ones the life saving medical care you needed. All just so they can make more huge immoral profits for them-selves off of your suffering... You see, back in 1993 Hillary Clinton had the audacity, and nerve to try and get quality, affordable universal health care for everyone to prevent the suffering and needless deaths of hundreds of thousands of you each year. :-) Approx. 100,000 of you die each year from medical accidents from a rush to profit by the insurance, and medical industry. Another 120,000 of you die each year from treatable illness that people in other developed countries don't die from. And I could go on, and on... OBAMA AIDE: "WORKING-CLASS VOTERS NOT KEY FOR DEMOCRATS" :o Posted by: jacksmith \| May 3, 2008 6:29 PM From "Head of State" http://headofstate.blogspot.com/2008/05/top-10-inducements-to-vote-for-hillary.html Saturday, May 03, 2008 Top 10 Inducements Offered By Clinton Camp to Vote For Hillary (For Letterman) The Chicago Tribune's "The Swamp" has called for suggestions for the "Top 10" list for Hillary Clinton's upcoming Letterman appearance. Top 10 Inducements From the Clinton Camp To Vote for Hillary 10. All future Hoosiers teams can draft players from the NBA 9. Superdelegates will get actual Spandex costumes along with Super Power of choice 8. Permanent liquor tax holiday 7. Will limit husband to "low traffic" zones of White House 6. Promises to use only one personality throughout first 100 days of Presidency 5. Will hold Inaugural Ball in Smiley's Pub, Allentown, PA. 4. Free rides on Mark Penn 3. Will provide personal armed one-woman security detail through any combat zone 2. New shampoo: No More Tears And the number 1 Clinton camp inducement to vote for Hillary Clinton: 1: New National Bird: Barbeque. Cite: Head of State http://headofstate.blogspot.com/2008/05/top-10-inducements-to-vote-for-hillary.html Posted by: Robert Hewson \| May 3, 2008 6:16 PM ====================================================== . war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war war ! . ===================================================== Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 6:06 PM ....................HILLARY VOTED FOR THE WAR Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 6:03 PM --------------- O B A M A ---------------------------------------------------------------------> ---------------------------------------------------------------------> Posted by: - MAD AVE AD - \| May 3, 2008 6:01 PM ........... o b a m a . = . s h a l o m Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 5:57 PM Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 5:54 PM ......................................CLINTON : MORE WAR . Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 5:51 PM If her "personal side" refers to the 95% of her that will say, or do anything to get elected, I could not agree more. Posted by: gthstonesman \| May 3, 2008 5:32 PM I have no issue with your post/Facts are facts. Lets have the big one already. Posted by: justadad55 \| May 3, 2008 5:22 PM CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! 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CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! 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CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! CLINTON = MORE WAR ! 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CLIN	CARY, N.C. -- Hillary Clinton talked about short skirts, Snow White and trying to break open a very tough coconut Saturday morning as she began her campaign day with a revealing and very personal conversation about the pressures of raising children and balancing the demands of work and family. --Dan Balz	359.018519	0.981481	50.092593	high	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050203829.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050203829.html	In D.C. Area, a Superdelegate Tug of War	2008050519	Pressure is mounting on the 67 Democratic superdelegates from the District, Maryland and Virginia to choose between Obama and Clinton in the most heated presidential nomination fight in a generation. With neither Clinton nor Obama likely to win enough pledged delegates to secure the nomination, the 793 superdelegates nationwide will have the final say on who will face Sen. John McCain of Arizona, the presumptive GOP nominee. Clinton is ahead in commitments from area superdelegates, but several said they are undecided and others said they are considering switching. Clinton (N.Y.) and Obama (Ill.), as well as their official surrogates and rank-and-file supporters, are fighting for every superdelegate vote, launching aggressive campaigns across the region to sway the outcome at the convention in August in Denver. "This is the most stressful thing I've been through in my whole life," said Virginia Del. Jennifer L. McClellan (D-Richmond), a superdelegate who endorsed Clinton last year but is now wavering. "It was never supposed to be like this." The superdelegates from the District, Maryland and Virginia are being cornered in grocery stores by their constituents. Some have been threatened with retribution if they vote for one candidate or the other. And many of them now dread the personal phone calls from Obama or Clinton and their surrogates. Similar scenes are playing out across the country, but the efforts to persuade superdelegates are particularly intense in the Washington region. Obama scored decisive victories in the Feb. 12 Potomac Primary. But Clinton leads in commitments among the area's superdelegates in part because she and her husband go back years with many of them. In the District, she is supported by 10 of the 24 superdelegates, most of whom are longtime Clinton loyalists, including her senior strategist, Harold Ickes. Many of the superdelegates with more local ties are backing Obama. Of the 27 superdelegates in Maryland, nine are pledged to Clinton, including Gov. Martin O'Malley and Sen. Barbara A. Mikulski. Of the 16 superdelegates from Virginia, six are pledged to Clinton. Her superdelegate support in Virginia includes Del. Lionell Spruill Sr. (D-Chesapeake), who, like McClellan, is African American and unsure whether he will stick with Clinton. "I'll decide after the primaries," Spruill said last week. Four superdelegates in the District are undecided. Anita Bonds, chairman of the D.C. Democratic Committee, said that she is in charge of shepherding the process and that she believes she should remain neutral as long as possible so as not to sway the delegates.	Maryland Democratic Party Vice Chairman Lauren Glover is fielding calls from Sen. Barack Obama. Jim Leaman, executive director of the Virginia AFL-CIO, is being inundated with personal letters and e-mails from supporters of Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton. And D.C. Council member Harry Thomas Jr. just...	9.111111	0.537037	0.722222	low	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050203648.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050203648.html	In Special Elections, GOP Tests Anti-Obama Strategy	2008050519	BATON ROUGE -- Don Cazayoux insists he pays so little attention to the presidential campaign that, even on the verge of capturing a seat in the House of Representatives, he was unaware that if he wins Saturday he will become a superdelegate, tasked with helping to decide the Democratic presidential nominee. Yet in the run-up to Saturday's special election, the state representative's image popped up time and again in local television ads, paired with that of Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.). One spot had side-by-side photos of Cazayoux and Obama with the words "big government scheme" describing the local candidate's stance on health care. Another showed Cazayoux with Obama and Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and charged that Cazayoux supports a "radical liberal agenda." Another spot mocked him as "Don Tax You." Faced with the prospect of losing a seat that the GOP has held for the past 33 years and the further thinning of their ranks in Congress, Republican committees and their conservative allies have poured more than $1 million into an effort to turn the race for Louisiana's 6th Congressional District into a referendum on Obama, the Democratic front-runner for the White House. And this Baton Rouge-based district's ad war, which is being fought largely on policy positions, is softball compared with the high and tight pitches Republicans are throwing in northern Mississippi. With a surprisingly competitive House special election there set for May 13, Republicans are running ads showing the Democratic candidate with Obama; his former pastor, the Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright Jr.; and outtakes from Wright's controversial sermons. Having shed their belief that Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (N.Y.) would be the bigger drag on down-ticket Democrats in the fall, congressional Republicans are field-testing a potential general-election strategy that pins Democratic candidates to Obama. It comes just as Wright reclaimed the national spotlight this week with a series of controversial appearances, sparking new questions about how white working-class voters will respond to Obama's candidacy. If their strategy succeeds here in the Deep South over the next 10 days, GOP strategists expect to take it nationwide. "We like the way that's unfolding," Rep. Tom Cole (Okla.), chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee, told reporters this week, adding that he would like to see races become debates about broad, "national" issues this year. One of the NRCC ads in the Baton Rouge market suggested that "a vote for Cazayoux is a vote for Obama." Another 30-second spot asked simply: "Is Obama right for Louisiana? . . . You decide." Obama's backers on Capitol Hill are watching anxiously, hoping Democratic victories in Louisiana and Mississippi will blunt Clinton's argument to uncommitted superdelegates that she would be a stronger general-election candidate. "It'll be very interesting to see how people react to these kind of subtle, or not so subtle, quasi-racial appeals," said Rep. Melvin Watt (D-N.C.), a former chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus and an Obama supporter. The anti-Obama ads have put their targets on the defensive. In Mississippi, Democratic candidate Travis Childers, a county court official, launched his own ads saying he had never accepted Obama's endorsement and had never met him. And at a senior citizens center outside Baton Rouge on Thursday, Cazayoux (pronounced caz-you) was confronted mainly by questions about the "Tax You" ad. He offered a lengthy explanation about state budget crunches early in the decade that forced tax increases to maintain funding for Medicaid and education programs. Then he quickly moved on, working the room and shaking hands. "I know presidential politics is on everybody's mind, but I have really focused on my campaign. I've got to get elected," Cazayoux said in an interview afterward.	Complete Coverage on Hurricane Katrina and Rita including video,photos and blogs. Get up-to-date news on the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and Rita,news from New Orleans and more.	19.973684	0.552632	0.605263	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/03/AR2008050301600.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/03/AR2008050301600.html	$30 Million Lost in Diplomatic Scandal, Taiwan Says	2008050519	TAIPEI, Taiwan, May 3 -- Two middlemen entrusted with almost $30 million in Taiwanese government funds as part of a secret effort to forge diplomatic relations with Papua New Guinea made off with the money and are refusing to give it back, according to officials in Taiwan. The scandal has further embarrassed President Chen Shui-bian's administration only 17 days before he is to leave office. It is the latest in a series of financial irregularities involving his wife, son-in-law and political associates that have tarnished his pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party and contributed to its loss to the Nationalist Party in the presidential election in March. The money's disappearance illustrated the behind-the-scenes inducements, often called dollar diplomacy, used by Taiwan and China in their relentless struggle over diplomatic recognition. In recent years, Taiwan has fared poorly in the contest, reduced to 23 countries -- most of them small and impoverished -- that accord it recognition. Mainland China has gained recognition from 170, all of which acknowledge Beijing's right to rule over all of China. Foreign Minister James Huang told Taiwanese reporters that Vice Premier Chiou I-jen, one of Chen's closest aides, handpicked the two men to convey the funds in 2006. Huang and Chiou both said they had no idea where to look for the money, an estimated $29.8 million withdrawn from secret funds used to induce governments and leaders to extend diplomatic recognition to the self-ruled island. "The key to this case is not that our diplomatic work has been negligent, but it is that the people we trusted had problems with loyalty," Huang said at a news conference Friday. Huang denied that the money was to be used to bribe officials in Papua New Guinea and said that it was intended for a variety of development projects in the tiny South Pacific nation. "This is no so-called dollar diplomacy," he said. Chiou, who at the time headed Chen's National Security Council, met the men several years ago. Taiwanese officials identified them as Ching Chi-ju, a U.S. passport holder, and Wu Shih-tsai, a Singaporean national. Believing they had influence over political figures in Papua New Guinea, he introduced them to the Foreign Ministry. The government-run Central News Agency said the Foreign Ministry, on the strength of Chiou's recommendation, deposited the money into a Singaporean bank account jointly held by Ching and Wu. Huang said Papua New Guinea told Taiwan it needed the sum as a guarantee while talks were underway about switching relations from mainland China to Taiwan. After months of fruitless talks, Taiwan decided that Papua New Guinea was not committed to becoming a long-term ally and ended the negotiations. But the two intermediaries did not return the money, and Ching dropped out of sight. Huang said the ministry tried to keep the fiasco secret. Taiwanese officials visited Ching's wife in Los Angeles several times, he said, and pleaded with her to try to get him to return the money. When that failed, Taiwanese representatives brought suit in Singapore seeking to freeze the two men's bank account. As a result of the court action, the episode was reported in the Singaporean media and then exploded onto the scene here in Taiwan. Wu is believed to be in Singapore, barred from leaving pending an investigation, according to Taipei's United Daily News. Ching's whereabouts are unknown. Huang and Chiou were questioned by Taiwanese investigators, meanwhile, to see whether corruption was involved. Chen was briefed when the money went missing, Huang said, but did not know all the details.	TAIPEI, Taiwan, May 3 -- Two middlemen entrusted with almost $30 million in Taiwanese government funds as part of a secret effort to forge diplomatic relations with Papua New Guinea made off with the money and are refusing to give it back, according to officials in Taiwan.	13.5	1	52	low	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/03/AR2008050301079.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/03/AR2008050301079.html	Fighting Global Warming Block by Block	2008050519	"We are totally committed to reducing emissions, but it requires rethinking the way we do our activities," Sims explained. "People are saying, 'But we've always done it this way.' We're saying, 'That way doesn't work in an age of global warming.' " Officials in King County and other places are rethinking the way their communities grow and operate, all with an eye toward reducing their overall carbon footprint. After decades of policies that encouraged people to move out to the suburbs in pursuit of larger homes and bigger back yards, some policymakers are now pushing aggressively to increase urban density and discourage the use of private cars. In Massachusetts, the state demands that developers calculate and disclose the climate impact of their projects. In California, Attorney General Edmund G. "Jerry" Brown Jr. has sued communities and power companies for failing to offset the greenhouse gases generated by their expansion plans. And Washington, D.C., officials are installing a new trolley line and bike rental kiosks in an effort to cut back on car trips within the city. Even though national politicians are beginning to eye a federal carbon cap more seriously, the flurry of activity in state and local jurisdictions highlights a little-noticed reality: Most of the measures to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions will be enacted outside the nation's capital. "The vehicle for delivery, in terms of achieving greenhouse-gas reductions, is often going to be the states," said Ian A. Bowles, Massachusetts secretary of energy and environmental affairs. "It's going to happen through things like building codes, utilities and zoning." But not without occasional resistance. Brown has sued entities as varied as San Bernardino County and petroleum giant ConocoPhillips to hold them accountable for the impact of their growth on the state's greenhouse-gas releases. He reached settlements with both last year: San Bernardino officials agreed to estimate the county's 1990 and current emissions levels, analyze how its land-use decisions will affect its emissions by 2020, and develop a plan to cut emissions stemming from its land-use policies and government operations. ConocoPhillips agreed to pay the state $10 million to offset the climate impact of expanding its oil refinery in Rodeo, Calif. Brown, however, acknowledges that government alone cannot change where Americans decide to live and work. "It really takes a sea change in attitude, a shift in how the urban and suburban are perceived," he said in an interview. "It's not something that government can just mandate without a change in how the public views it. You can't just order it into being." Some public officials are relying more on incentives than penalties to reduce sprawl. Bowles, who noted that Massachusetts has 351 cities and towns that each set their own zoning laws, said state officials are hoping that requiring developers to disclose their emissions will encourage them to build more efficient projects. "It's a lighter touch," he said, adding that officials can drag out the permitting process if they decide a developer is not cooperating. "At its core, it's an analytic requirement that says, 'Find ways to reduce your emissions.' " Harriet Tregoning, director of the D.C. Office of Planning, said Washington is operating on "a pleasure principle," meaning that steps taken to reduce emissions should also make the city more attractive to tourists and full-time residents. "We're not doing it solely for greenhouse-gas benefits. Our goal is to be a globally competitive city," Tregoning said. "If a low-carbon lifestyle is a lifestyle of deprivation and denial, we're going to have a hard time."	SEATTLE -- King County Executive Ron Sims has a simple test for every new public works project, building plan or government land purchase: Will it increase the region's total greenhouse-gas emissions, or reduce them?	17.463415	0.634146	0.97561	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/03/AR2008050301602.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/03/AR2008050301602.html	GuzmÃ¡n Reemerges in '08	2008050519	Perhaps by yesterday afternoon, though, some of those images had been if not erased, then altered. There was GuzmÃ¡n, lining a ball over the fence in the first. There he was, with an RBI single. There he was again, drilling a three-run double. Add it all up, and GuzmÃ¡n drove in six runs in the Nationals' tenuous 9-8 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates before a Saturday afternoon crowd of 34,128 at Nationals Park. On Sept. 1, 2005, GuzmÃ¡n was hitting .195. After yesterday's 4-for-5 performance -- one that delivered the Nationals' fifth win in their last six games -- the shortstop is hitting .303. Why even bring up the past? "That's three years ago," GuzmÃ¡n said. "Why do I have to think about 2005? We're in 2008. Let's think about 2008." It is, of course, so much more palatable. GuzmÃ¡n has undergone two career-altering surgeries since the nadir of his career, the first to fix his shoulder, the second a Lasik procedure to fix his eyesight. That one he considers more important, and the evidence could be in his 46-game stint last season, when he hit .328. "For me, I think that's the biggest, my eyes," he said. In all the analysis of the Nationals' offensive woes through the first five weeks of the season, GuzmÃ¡n has been largely overlooked. Perhaps it's because being a hot hitter in the Washington lineup is an anomaly. He helped the Nationals build a 5-1 lead with a two-run homer in the first and an RBI single in the second. After starter Matt Chico and reliever JesÃºs Colome combined to give that back, he broke a 5-5 tie with a bases-loaded double in the sixth. His six RBI -- tying a career high set in 2001, when he was with Minnesota -- gave him 14 this year, one off Nick Johnson's team high. "He's healthy," Manager Manny Acta said. "He's not walking a lot. But just being healthy, having that [eye] surgery a couple of years ago, he's making better contact and really enjoying the game." This, then, is the player General Manager Jim Bowden envisioned when he signed GuzmÃ¡n to a four-year, $16.8 million contract after the 2004 season, the Nationals' first major acquisition after they arrived from Montreal. Though GuzmÃ¡n shudders at the mere suggestion of the 2005 season, it must be considered when discussing his turnaround. Yesterday, playing in his 30th game, he collected his team-high 40th hit. In 2005, his 40th hit came on June 11 -- in his 60th game. His 14th RBI in 2005 came on Aug. 4 -- his 95th game. "He's swinging the bat real good," catcher Paul Lo Duca said. "He's been swinging it real good all year." Yet all of this might have meant little had the Nationals not held on, improving to 7-3 on their longest homestand of the year, one that concludes this afternoon. Chico squandered that 5-1 lead in the fifth in part because Pittsburgh first baseman Adam LaRoche, Chico's last hitter of the day, hit a bouncing ball up the middle that barely eluded GuzmÃ¡n and second baseman Felipe LÃ³pez. That single made it 5-4, and Colome gave up the single to JosÃ© Bautista -- who is 6 for 11 with three homers and seven RBI in the series -- that tied it. "I wanted to get deep in the game only to help the team out," Chico said. "I ended up losing the lead for them." GuzmÃ¡n got it back in the sixth. With no one out and runners on first and second, LÃ³pez hit a fly ball that Pittsburgh right fielder Xavier Nady lost in the sky. It fell for a single, loading the bases. Guzman followed by scalding the first pitch he saw from reliever Franquelis Osoria deep, just to the right of center field, scoring the three men ahead of him. "I trust the guy behind me," LÃ³pez said. Eventually staked to a 9-5 lead, the Nationals' relievers -- still a bit queasy with closer Chad Cordero on the disabled list -- had to trust the guys behind them, too. SaÃºl Rivera gave up three straight singles that led to a run in the seventh. Nady tagged Luis Ayala for a two-out, two-run double in the eighth that made it 9-8. So it was up to de facto closer Jon Rauch to protect a one-run lead on a day when the Nationals matched a season-high with 14 hits. With one out, Rauch walked Ronny Paulino, and speedy Nyjer Morgan pinch-ran. Morgan stole second on Rauch's first pitch to pinch hitter Ryan Doumit. Doumit eventually flied out, but Morgan remained the tying run at second. Rauch turned several times to check on Morgan, with GuzmÃ¡n dancing behind him. "You got two outs," Rauch said. "You're trying to get the guy at the plate. But at the same time, if he hits a weak single, you want to keep that guy at second close so he doesn't have an opportunity to score and tie the game up." At the plate was Pirates' leadoff man Nate McLouth, a left-handed hitter. The Nationals shaded him to pull. When McLouth grounded a ball up the middle, there was -- who else? -- GuzmÃ¡n, playing almost behind second. He snared the ball, twirled to make the throw, and perfectly ended his perfect day.	Cristian Guzman has six RBI as the Nationals jump out early then score four in the sixth inning to edge the Pirates, 9-8, on Saturday.	37.2	0.8	1.333333	high	medium	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/03/AR2008050301105.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/03/AR2008050301105.html	9/11 Charity Held Up as Model Of How Best to Help Bereaved	2008050519	The Survivors' Fund raised $25 million from more than 12,000 area residents and businesses after the 2001 terrorists attacks and spent it over the subsequent years helping the grieving, the distressed and the traumatized in a way that is being hailed as a model of charitable giving. At a global philanthropy summit starting today at National Harbor, leaders of the charity will present a 44-page report that they believe provides a framework that charities in other cities could replicate. "We've given them the key to the kingdom," said Terry O'Hara Lavoie, the fund's executive director. The Survivors' Fund's closing brings an unofficial end to the nation's philanthropic response to the attacks, in which millions of people and businesses donated $2.7 billion -- an unprecedented amount of private dollars at the time -- to hundreds of charities. Although some leading charities cut large checks to the families of victims, the Survivors' Fund followed a unique approach to giving, establishing a long-term personal trust of sorts for the victims, their families and first responders. Using a model similar to the one used after the 1995 bombing of the Oklahoma City federal building, the Survivors' Fund hired professional case managers to work with families one-on-one to help them move beyond their grief and on with their lives. That meant paying household bills for families who fell behind and guiding survivors to medical care and mental health counseling. If a family's primary breadwinner had been lost, the charity helped other family members return to school and find jobs. "There really was no way to compensate anybody for what happened," said Lavoie. Instead, she said, case managers helped guide people through the maze of available charities and programs. Although the nation's confidence in charities fell amid intense scrutiny of many Sept. 11 nonprofit groups that were accused of having poor accountability and making bad spending decisions, the Washington area's experiment with disaster-relief philanthropy is being hailed as a model by some experts. "I think it was extraordinarily well organized," said Kenneth R. Feinberg, a D.C. lawyer who served as special master of the federal government's September 11th Victim Compensation Fund of 2001. Paul C. Light, a nonprofits expert at New York University's Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, said a case-management model works particularly well in some instances. "Some victims of disaster will know exactly what they need and have the personal resources, education, connections to spend the money wisely," Light said. Others, he said, may not know what to do or where to turn. So how was the charity built? How did the Survivors' Fund spend its $25 million in private donations? And did the charity accomplish its mission: to help victims and their families achieve long-term financial and emotional stability?	Nearly seven years after a hijacked airplane crashed into the Pentagon, the largest charity established to help Washington area victims and their families is closing, becoming the last major Sept. 11-related charity to shut down.	14.421053	0.605263	1.078947	low	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050204001.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050204001.html	Palestinian Recruits Hit Streets Unprepared	2008050519	RAMALLAH, West Bank, May 2 -- The first class of Palestinian security officers trained under a multimillion-dollar U.S. program to strengthen the Palestinian Authority is deploying to one of the West Bank's most restive cities without promised supplies of body armor, helmets or even flashlights after Israel blocked a shipment of equipment. The shortage in U.S.-funded supplies threatens the Palestinian government's ability to provide security in the West Bank, which Israel has made a condition of future withdrawals from the occupied territories. There have also been significant problems with the training, including a final round that one American involved in the program described as "a complete fiasco." Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, who arrives in the region this weekend, has said the training program is an essential part of the Bush administration's push for an Israeli-Palestinian peace agreement before it leaves office in January. But Israel has traditionally viewed Palestinian security forces as potential adversaries, even though this training class is affiliated with the moderate Palestinian government that serves as the Jewish state's counterpart in peace talks. In this case, Israel failed to approve delivery of the requested supplies in time for the deployment, according to senior Palestinian officials. A Western security official familiar with the aid program said the list was submitted months ago and included only nonlethal items. As a result, hundreds of newly trained Palestinian security officers will arrive in Jenin as early as this weekend -- the first big test of their nascent security capabilities -- without a promised infusion of uniforms, first-aid kits or protective gear. "If we come under fire, we will have to take the bullets with our chests without any kind of protection," said Lt. Col. Nidal Abu Dukhan, commander of the battalion being deployed to Jenin. "We don't have helmets and body armor because the Israelis are against these things." As Dukhan prepared to lead his forces to Jenin, one of his main concerns was getting them there. He had only 10 unarmored Volkswagen vans, each of which seats 10 people. He planned to deploy with 300 men. Israel has frequently criticized the Palestinian Authority, run by the relatively moderate Fatah party, for not doing enough to combat armed groups such as Hamas and Islamic Jihad that have pledged to eradicate Israel. Israeli officials said their military forces cannot withdraw from the West Bank -- occupied by Israel in the 1967 Middle East war -- until the Palestinian Authority proves it can take control. Last summer, the U.S. Congress approved $28 million for an initial program to train and equip roughly 1,000 men as part of an $86 million appropriation for Palestinian security. But the training program has been beset by delays and a shortage of resources. Much of the training equipment -- including vehicles, two-way radios, dummy pistols, rifles and batons -- arrived after the first training sessions had begun. Israel also placed restrictions on the kind of equipment and curriculum available to the Palestinian trainees. The first 430 to be trained, members of the Presidential Guard, returned to the West Bank from Jordan in April. Israeli and Palestinian Authority officials chose as their initial testing ground Jenin, a city and sprawling refugee camp of about 50,000 people that was the scene of some of the fiercest fighting of the most recent Palestinian uprising. In a visit to Jerusalem this spring, Rice spoke of making Jenin a model for Palestinian self-sufficiency and economic development. She was due to arrive in Jerusalem on Saturday to promote the administration's peace plans.	RAMALLAH, West Bank, May 2 -- The first class of Palestinian security officers trained under a multimillion-dollar U.S. program to strengthen the Palestinian Authority is deploying to one of the West Bank's most restive cities without promised supplies of body armor, helmets or even flashlights...	13.057692	0.980769	50.019231	low	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/03/AR2008050300082.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/03/AR2008050300082.html	The Cavs Have a LeBron, And the Wizards Don't	2008050519	Great pitching is the most important ingredient in postseason baseball. Great coaching tilts the table in football. Great goaltending is the overriding factor in the Stanley Cup playoffs. Great players own pro basketball. The Washington Wizards have some nice pieces; the Cleveland Cavaliers have a truly gifted and great player. Over the last two weeks, it was easy to get distracted by Soulja Boy and trash talk, hard fouls and championship-level whining. It was entertaining in the way only the NBA playoffs can be, with public posturing and melodrama ruling the days between games. But in the end, the Cavaliers had LeBron James and the Wizards didn't. The tags on LeBron's $410,000 Maybach, if I saw this correctly as he cruised by the other night in Cleveland, say "KING OF OH," which is a bit understated when you consider he's perhaps one all-star teammate away from being King of the Basketball World. And even if he never reaches that status, the Wizards as presently constituted can't touch him. LeBron had a triple-double by the end of the third quarter of Game 6, scoring, rebounding and finding teammates at will. He told Wally Szczerbiak before the game that he needed Wally to score 17 to 20 points, and Szczerbiak, who's been around for years, complied. LeBron screamed at his teammates for letting Antonio Daniels rumble down the lane for an uncontested dunk, and the Cavaliers tightened it up then and there -- for the rest of the game. The Wizards can hit him in the head, knock him to the floor, double-team him, zone him, whatever, and the result always is the same. Two years ago, last year, this year, LeBron wins. And in this case, he didn't just win, he tapped the Wizards out, as they say in mixed martial arts. LeBron, by himself, had more assists than the Wizards as a team, playing on their home floor. Is it a rivalry if the same guy always wins? So what's the antidote to LeBron? You have to have a great player of your own, a special player who by skill, intelligence and force of personality controls his team and yours. That's pretty much the only way you win in the NBA, with a truly great player. Not all-star players, or great offensive players (such as Gilbert Arenas), or terrific No. 2 players (such as Caron Butler and Antawn Jamison), but with truly dominant players, with MVP-caliber players. Just look at the league's history. For every Detroit Pistons team that wins a championship (2004) without a great superstar, there have been six with a Michael Jordan, four with a Tim Duncan, four with a Shaq and/or Kobe, two with a Hakeem Olajuwon, two with an Isiah Thomas, five with a Magic Johnson, three with a Larry Bird. That's 26 of the last 28 championship teams that have had one of those all-time great players. You've got to draft one, trade for one or steal one (the way the Celtics got Bird). You've got to be lucky in the lottery, and perhaps more than once. Remember the Cleveland Cavaliers of the late 1980s and early '90s? They, like the Washington Wizards, had three all-star-caliber players: Brad Daugherty, Ron Harper and Mark Price. But they couldn't beat Michael Jordan in the playoffs. Look at who has advanced through the first round already? Duncan, LeBron, Kobe. Great players. Lacking one of their own, the Wizards needed an out-of-this-world performance from one or both of their star players last night, and the two who were healthy enough to play (Butler and Jamison) gave fine accounts of themselves. Jamison had 23 points, 15 rebounds and 3 blocked shots, a very nice line. Butler finished with 18 points and nine rebounds, but it took him just a few minutes too long to counteract the double-team Cavs Coach Mike Brown came up with after Butler torched Cleveland in Game 5. There's been quite a bit of talk about what Brown isn't as a coach, and nobody is going to argue that he's Mike D'Antoni when it comes to offensive basketball. But Brown knows defense, and when a team plays great defense it's because they're well coached on that side of the ball. The Wizards didn't get an open look for a spell of about 5 1/2 minutes when Cleveland turned a six-point deficit into a double-digit lead, and Brown should get credit for that. Everything else, and Brown will be the first to tell you this, is credited to LeBron. He challenged his teammates, then set them up to do what he asked. The 27 points and 13 rebounds were nice, but the 13 assists were the way he controlled Game 6. How do you think Boobie Gibson got most of his 22 points off the bench? How do you think Szczerbiak got most of his 26? Mike Brown called them "H-O-R-S-E" shots. "They're going to run a second guy and sometimes a third guy at LeBron. [The shooter has to get his] feet ready, hands ready and shoot it," he said. It wasn't literal double- and triple-teaming as much as it was "loading up" the defense on LeBron. Brown said the Wizards' defense "blitzed" LeBron. Asked about the defense tilting toward LeBron, Eddie Jordan said: "Great players do that. They make you load your defense on them . . . and if you've got support people to make shots. . . He's a load, man." What I really don't want to hear is anybody say the outcome would have been different had Darius Songaila played. Of course, the Wizards were out of their normal personnel rotation, and of course it was silly for the NBA to suspend Songaila when there were at least four fouls in the series harder than his, more flagrant than his and more intentional than his backhand to LeBron's face early in Game 5. Brendan Haywood's body block of LeBron in Game 2 while he was in midair and entirely vulnerable to real injury; DeShawn Stevenson's swing at LeBron's head in Game 4; Anderson's Varejao Game 2 elbow to the face of Andre Blatche; and the top blow of the series, LeBron's elbow to Blatche's mug in Game 1, all were more egregious and none of the above were suspended. Still, that had little play in last night's action and in the soul-searching that begins as the Wizards try to figure out what they have to do to play deeper into springtime. There are hard questions to ask and answer concerning Arenas, first and foremost, and the team's ability to continue to improve defensively, and perhaps even about Jordan, though there's zero chance I'd make a change there. As Jordan said, "If it's true you have to take your lumps and your beatings before you [ascend] . . . we're on the brink of that, hopefully." Cleveland, meanwhile, will continue on because that's mostly what teams with great players do in pro basketball. "We follow his lead," Brown said, meaning wherever he goes, not just to Boston for the second round and a match with the Celtics (if they can get past the Hawks). "If he keeps his poise like he did [in Game 6], we will hop right on his coattails and follow him as long as he takes us."	Simply put, the Wizards have some nice pieces while the Cleveland Cavaliers have a truly gifted and great player in LeBron James.	63.041667	0.916667	5.5	high	medium	mixed
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202613.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202613.html	Post Politics Hour - washingtonpost.com	2008050519	Don't want to miss out on the latest in politics? Start each day with The Post Politics Hour. Join in each weekday morning at 11 a.m. as a member of The Washington Post's team of White House and congressional reporters answers questions about the latest in buzz in Washington and The Post's coverage of political news. Washington Post White House reporter Peter Baker was online Monday, May 5 at 11 a.m. ET. Get the latest campaign news live on washingtonpost.com's The Trail, or subscribe to the daily Post Politics Podcast. Archive: Post Politics Hour discussion transcripts Peter Baker: Good morning, everyone. Lots to chew on as always, so let's get started. Seattle: With the next set of Primaries once again being called the "make-or-break" by the pundits, does anyone in the media really think that if Clinton loses in Indiana or Obama loses in NC that that campaign will close shop and go home? For that matter, does anyone think that if Clinton loses the pledged and superdelegates, she will go quietly into that good-night rather than complain all the way to Denver? Peter Baker: The one thing the past few months have made clear is that we should stay away from predictions. It's easy to play out any number of scenarios in our heads depending on tomorrow's elections in Indiana and North Carolina, but we've been down this road too many times to think we actually have a clue about what will happen. Medford, Ore.: Because of all the whoop-de-doo by Hillary Clinton about the federal gas tax I went back three months and computed my tax. I would have saved about $47, or $16 a month. What does Hillary think I should do with my savings? washingtonpost.com: Dueling Appeals On Taxes From Obama, Clinton (Post, May 5) Peter Baker: That certainly has been Sen. Obama's point, that the savings would be rather marginal and that the real point is that it's a political stunt. Sen. Clinton argues that this view is all "elite opinion" showing how out-of-touch he and her other critics are. Hong Kong: In Dan Eggen's piece on the White House on Sunday he said: " 'Don't ever underestimate the leverage of the presidency,' said a senior White House official, who requested anonymity in order to speak candidly. 'Many of us here still believe there are a number of things that will get done.' " Why do Post journalists give anonymity for even such motherhood-and-apple-pie sentiments as expressed above? washingtonpost.com: For Bush in Last Year, It's the Principle (Post, May 3) Peter Baker: I thought Dan did an excellent job of trying to capture this moment in the presidency. You ask why we "give anonymity," but believe me, it's not our preference. Any White House -- and this one more than most -- is a pretty opaque institution where the people we interview outside of the press office rarely are allowed to speak on the record. We wish that weren't so and push to get as much on the record as possible. It's frustrating that they don't speak on the record more, but we'll keep pushing. Seminole, Fla.: How has the Internet changed American politics, and could Barack Obama have run for president without it? Peter Baker: The Internet has changed politics in more ways than we reasonably could outline in a single answer -- among other things, we're here right now having this dialogue about politics, something that wasn't really done just a decade ago. It has changed the way we communicate about politics, it has changed the speed of politics, it has changed the economics of politics and it has changed the culture of politics. Could Sen. Obama have run in a pre-Internet age? Interesting question. He certainly has been the first one to really figure out how to tap the Internet for financing that has helped make him so competitive -- and his popularity among young people, in particular, has been spread in part by the Internet. Would he have found another way to do that without it? Hard to say. Maybe, but he does seem in part a product of this new generation. Rockville, Md.: Hi Peter -- thanks for the chat! Given that you used to be in Russia, do you today see anything with Putin that the U.S. should be aware of? washingtonpost.com: Questions Consume Kremlin-Watchers As Putin Steps Aside (Post, May 4) Peter Baker: Love any Russia question. Winston Churchill's old line about Russia being a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma certainly fits the current "transition," where Vladimir Putin steps down this week as president in favor of his hand-picked successor, Dmitry Medvedev, who plans to then name Putin as prime minister. Will Putin still be the one really running the show? Is this just a plan to formally abide by the constitutional limit of two consecutive terms while plotting to return to the presidency later? Is it possible that Medvedev actually will wield power and even overrule Putin at times? Hard to know. I think you have to start with the assumption that Putin did not spend the past eight years consolidating power just to give it up entirely -- there's very little precedent for that in Russian history. Alexandria, Va.: Can you guess what did Alec MacGillis and The Post meant yesterday about Obama trying to sell his "brand of" patriotism? Might it be a little like asking a vegetarian how he's going to sell his "brand of" meat, even though he doesn't eat meat? You certainly can be patriotic without wearing a pin, but the only way Obama seems to show pride in his country is in saluting how far the country has let him ascend in the political world. Under those conditions, if Hillary finds a way to beat him, his patriotism will vanish completely. washingtonpost.com: Obama Faces Test in Asserting His Own Brand of Patriotism (Post, May 5) Peter Baker: Well, Sen. Obama argues that he's patriotic and loves his country even if he doesn't show it in the conventional ways other politicians do, such as wearing the flag lapel pin. That's the question Alec was trying to explore with his terrific piece yesterday. Does the public buy it? Do voters agree with patriotism as Obama defines it, or do they see it as you seem to -- a convenient crutch for a politician trying to win office? A provocative question, it seems to me. Anonymous: You have an article about the media's love affair with Obama. Now there's a small increase in scrutiny of his background, but it seems to be too little, too late. One of the most important ones -- which the Chicago press had covered but never made it national -- is "Obama's Slums," because it shows Obama's total lack of concern for the poorest of the poor in his district when Obama was in the Illinois Senate. He always is bragging about being a "community organizer" in the poor parts of Chicago, but when he got elected to the state senate, Rezko got $100 million for slum repairs -- including 11 of the worst which were in Obama's own district -- but the work was never done and Obama did nothing about it, even though it would have been impossible for Obama to not know about it. This report on Obama, Obama's slums, Rezko, and $100 million of wasted taxpayer money, is from Channel 5, NBC news in Chicago. The original story was in the Chicago Sun Times People went without heat for five weeks during the coldest winter in years; according to the Sun Times the slums were so bad that they were "unlivable" washingtonpost.com: Why the Press Turned on Obama (Post, May 5) Peter Baker: Thanks for the note. There doesn't seem to be a question in here, but let's post it for the sake of discussion. For what it's worth, I never bought the idea that the media had a "love affair" with Sen. Obama, nor do I now buy the idea that it has "turned" on him. For one thing, the "media" is too broad a term encompassing a lot of different folks with different journalistic missions -- television, radio, Internet, newspapers, wire services, talk show hosts, etc. The idea that they (or we) all march in lockstep first for a candidate and then against him or her seems simplistic. Do we really equate Dan Balz's smart and thoughtful analyses to the on-air shout-a-thons on cable television? But there are certainly rhythms to any presidential contest, times when a candidate seems to get "good press" and times when he or she seems to get "bad press." It seems to me these reflect the events on the campaign trail as much as anything else -- a candidate who's winning tends to look better in the headlines than one who's losing, etc. My view is that we should be doing smart scrutiny of all the candidates -- and I think we try, with varying degrees of success, to do just that. Roanoke, Va.:"I would have saved about $47, or $16 a month. What does Hillary think I should do with my savings?" Take it and donate it to your local food bank. What is apparently a minimal amount of money to you can really help some other people out. Peter Baker: Thanks for the response to our earlier participant. Anyone else want to weigh in? Springfield, Va.: Further to the Internet/Obama question, do you think that has played a part in why he doesn't connect as well with low-income and elderly voters? Those are the voters least likely to have computer access. Peter Baker: Maybe in some way. Certainly he has been embraced more by higher-income, better-educated voters who may identify with him more, which is somewhat ironic given that he does not come originally from a wealthy background. Of course, Sen. Clinton has a pretty sophisticated Internet operation as well, even if she hasn't been as successful at using it to raise money. Baltimore: How many delegates are actually at stake tomorrow, and how do you expect them to be divided? Peter Baker: North Carolina has 115 pledged delegates and Indiana has 72. As for how they divide, let me refer you back to our earlier answer about not making predictions. Suffice it to say, though, that because of the Democrats' proportional rules, neither candidate is likely to win by a large enough margin to significantly change the overall race in terms of pledged delegates. Instead, what both are looking for are victories that will allow them to claim momentum. Patriotism and Obama: I don't think Barack is using it as a convenient crutch to get elected. He stopped wearing the lapel because of the Sept. 11 fearmongering attached to it. He's in the unusual -- and possibly untenable -- position of being something other than a rich white man running for president. He is going to see the country as something far more flawed than members of the demographic America favors most. Saying this a white woman who supports Hillary, Obama articulates very reasonable thoughts on why he's not a blind-faith cheerleader for patriotic optimism. His views may be much closer to the truth of our country, but the truth might also be political suicide. If he panders, he's seen as retreating from his platform of integrity. If he speaks his mind, he is seen as being "un-American". It's a tough spot. You can love your country while not liking how it conducts itself, but can you feel that way and get elected? Peter Baker: Thanks for the thoughts. I'll go ahead and post them to keep the discussion going. I'm actually going to defend Hilary: Ouch! But here goes: You can't look only at the savings from not paying gasoline tax. When people drive more in the summer, they spend more when they're out in their cars, especially if they're tourists. For states like Florida, which are so dependent on tourism for tax revenues, anything that encourages people to get into their cars and drive is good news. So it's not just the $46 that the previous poster mentioned. Peter Baker: Another interesting comment for the conversation. Thanks for posting. Fairfax County, Va.: You asked, "Anyone else want to weigh in?" Yes. The earlier poster made a mistake. They would not save $47. Right now, the price at the pump, which is awful and really destroying people, is also -- cold-bloodedly -- what the market will bear. If you take the tax away, the price quickly will rise right back to what the market will bear, so you will not save anything. It is not that the amount is "too small" for some but helpful to others with less money. Instead, there will be no savings for anyone -- not the local food bank, and certainly not the highway trust fund currently funded by the tax. Don't ask me, ask the economists, business leaders and newspapers who that commented on this. Peter Baker: Here's another thought to chew on. Would the price of gas simply go up to compensate, even if the government suspended the gas tax? Thanks for the note. Washington: Do most politicians wear flag pins? I thought they were sort of a partisan thing on the Hill -- a friend used to call them right-wing fraternity pins. Peter Baker: A good question. I haven't really surveyed it to give you a smart answer. Certainly a lot of politicians of both parties do, and certainly quite a few don't. Would Republicans be more likely to than Democrats? Maybe. Or maybe it would depend on the individual congressman/congresswoman and his/her district. Boston: Do you personally feel that Chelsea is "out of step" with her generation? washingtonpost.com: Upcoming Discussion: Chelsea Clinton and Her Generation (washingtonpost.com, noon today) Peter Baker: I wish I were still part of her generation so that I could say! This question stems from a provocative Outlook article that ran yesterday. Check out the discussion of this coming up in just a few minutes. Washington: Mr. Baker, I just want to drop a note saying that I'm a master's student and I've just read "Kremlin Rising." Congrats on an amazing book -- it has been an invaluable resource for school. Any thoughts on updating it for future issues? Peter Baker: Flattery will always get your question picked! Thanks for the kind words. Not sure if you read the hardback edition, which came out in 2005, or the updated paperback, which came out last year. There are no plans at the moment for any further updates, but our paperback publisher has talked about that as a possibility at some point down the road. Anonymous: So, Hillary is going to get a federal gas tax hiatus bill through Congress and signed by George Bush before the summer driving season which starts in three weeks? Then she is going to get a windfall profits tax on oil companies through Congress and signed by George Bush within the same timeframe? Peter Baker: Not likely, obviously. President Bush did say he would consider a gas tax holiday, but seemed quite dubious that it was the right way to go. Sens. Clinton and McCain, who first proposed the suspension of the gas tax really are talking about what they would do if they were president, rather than making any serious play to affect policy right now from their Senate perches. It's their way of showing how they would be reacting to the situation that confronts the sitting president. Winnipeg, Canada: In reading the coverage of the Guam primary on Saturday, I noticed that the original articles talked about "heavy turnout" predicted to reach 3,000. The final count exceeded that projection by more than 50 percent. Guam is small potatoes in the larger electoral picture, but the same increased voter turnout happened in this remote location as has happened across your country. In Pennsylvania, both the leading Democrat nominees gained over a million votes. I can't help but think that this turnout will have a large effect on the overall political landscape. I also see a danger, because obviously a lot of people are participating at a level unseen in the past. How big a danger do you see of disillusionment, or do you think that these newly energized voters are here for the long haul regardless? If so, how might this affect the political landscape? washingtonpost.com: The Trail: Obama Wins Guam by Slimmest of Margins (washingtonpost.com, May 3) Peter Baker: Good questions. Turnout generally has been higher in many of the Democratic primary states, and that has a lot of party officials optimistic about the fall. Eli Saslow had a smart report last week noting that the past seven states to hold primaries registered 1 million new Democratic voters, while Republican numbers were basically flat. How that plays out in the fall we'll have to wait and see. I do wonder if a lot of these new voters eventually will grow disenchanted once their favorite candidate invariably compromises in the ways that politicians tend to. It's pretty rare that a candidate lives up to all our hopes and dreams. Point of Rocks, Md.: On the flag representing "Sept. 11 fearmongering," how much can your knee possibly jerk? The flag represents our country, not "our country right or wrong." It represents our nation, not just whatever president's in power. Obama supporters decry "blind boosterism," but doesn't this sound like a blind anti-boosterism? Would they buy it as a Republican "brand" of patriotism if the GOP stopped wearing flag pins if Obama were president? Peter Baker: This is why the issue of a pin, simple though it may seem, in fact takes on larger meaning -- it taps into a lot of our emotions in a powerful way. It becomes a way of talking about our country and our values in a way that differences about, say, the gas tax doesn't. Thanks for the post. Boston: Well, your photo that accompanies this chat makes you look young enough to be a Gen X-er, so you're doing well then. Peter Baker: High school yearbook picture. I'm secretly 80 years old. Don't tell. Columbia, Md.: So by the same token, if the dollar improves against foreign currencies, and the price of oil drops, and gas goes down to say $2.50 per gallon (wishful thinking), the government immediately should raise taxes to jack it up to $3.69, the price the market has been shown to bear now? Peter Baker: Actually, I guess I should amend my previous answer, because it does look like the gas tax issue stirs a lot of strong thoughts. Thanks for the note. Re: Gas tax savings: Problem with previous poster's equation: If people drive more because of the gas tax savings, gas prices will increase. This is because (at least as claimed by the oil companies) price is set by demand. This is precisely why energy policy experts are opposed to the gas tax holiday. In other words, you give a gas tax break to people that they are likely never to see, but oil company profits will increase. Peter Baker: And another voice on this. Thanks for participating. Minneapolis: You know, the majority of other countries manage just fine with higher gas taxes. Yes, they have better public transportation -- which is supported by their gas taxes -- but people haven't stopped spending money just because they're not in a car. They might have cut back on some things, but we can't say let's just do away with the gas tax so that people go out and drive frivolously and slap down money on something just for the heck of it. That mentality -- rampant buying is good, show your patriotism by buying! -- is part of why we're in the trouble we have now. Besides, if there's a gas tax holiday, what happens to those pesky little things like bridges and roads that the gas tax pays for? Peter Baker: And one more. This has been an interesting discussion. Bethesda, Md.: "Any White House, and this one more than most, is a pretty opaque institution where the people we interview outside of the press office are rarely allowed to speak on the record. We wish that weren't so and push to get as much on the record as possible. It's frustrating that they don't speak on the record more, but we'll keep pushing." Yes, but the quote was nothing. The line is somewhere between this and, say, Watergate, but there was absolutely nothing special about that quote that warranted anonymous treatment. The reporter could have gotten the same thing out of any number of named sources outside the White House. The problem is that granting anonymity for even the most banal statements has become entirely reflexive. Your answer -- that they won't speak to you on the record -- suggests a complete lack of interest in considering whether you've gotten anything substantive when they do speak. This idea that you need a quote -- any quote -- from an administration official is just lazy "X said, then Y said" journalism. Peter Baker: I understand your point and appreciate it. I thought the quote gave at least some indication of the way folks inside the White House were thinking about their situation, and in my mind there's value in quoting someone from the inside rather than someone from the outside. But it's a balance. Did the story absolutely need it? Maybe not. But was there any harm in using it? I don't think so. As you say, it was a harmless quote. I'm more concerned about anonymously sourced quotes that attack someone else or make spurious assertions, which this did not do. Lyme, Conn.: I have been sending several versions of the same question for several weeks now to every Post political analyst, and I notice no one will touch this question. I am giving the question one last shot. Has anyone fully explored the testimony of the Rezko trial and how it implicates Sen. Obama? I ask not to tear Obama apart -- in fact, from my read of what I have read on the trial, he has done nothing wrong. The questions I have, though, in reading about the trial are the following: How was Obama able to help Rezko cut through the Illinois political machinery if Obama, as he claims, was independent of the machinery? Didn't Obama ever become suspicious as to why Rezko wanted people placed on the boards for which he requested Obama's help? Finally, when Obama's constituents complained to his office about the conditions of Rezko's buildings, did Obama ever ask Rezko or any of the appointees he helped put on oversight boards what was going on? Peter Baker: Thanks for the post. These certainly are interesting questions. As a White House reporter I haven't covered the Rezko case, but I'll pass these questions along to our political reporters who have. Peter Baker: Thanks everyone for another robust and thought-provoking conversation. You guys make these a lot of fun, and hopefully useful for readers as well. Hope everyone has a good day. washingtonpost.com: Discussion: Previewing the Indiana Primaries (washingtonpost.com, Live Now) Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Washington Post White House reporter Peter Baker discusses the latest buzz in Washington and The Post's coverage of political news.	213.181818	0.954545	8.954545	high	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/01/DI2008050101794.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/01/DI2008050101794.html	Post Magazine: Maternal Truths	2008050519	Today's mothers of adolescents came of age during a time when women had much more freedom to indulge in youthful indiscretion. Now they have to decide -- how much they should tell the kids? Post staff writer Liza Mundy was online Monday, May 5 to discuss her Washington Post Magazine cover story, "Maternal Truths." Mundy writes often about parenting issues. She is the author of Everything Conceivable, a book about assisted reproduction. Liza Mundy: Hello everybody and thanks for joining the chat. There are a bunch of questions posted so I'll begin answering them, and feel free to weigh in as you read. Thanks, Liza Mundy Arlington, Va. : Great article! But if you did tell your kids about some of the things you did, do you really think they would BELIEVE you? For example, I did not believe my father -- a stern, balding middle-aged stockbroker -- went to Led Zeppelin concerts in his youth... until he showed me ticket stubs! Liza Mundy: Thanks. And yes, one advantage that we all have, as parents, is that it's almost impossible for our children to imagine that we truly were young, once. So that provides some leeway. Our pasts may seem so far away and unreal to them as to be almost irrelevant. Or amusing. Dunkirk, Md.: I do not understand why you felt it necessary to include the anecdote about your friend who was a stripper. Don't you feel remorse that you 'outed' a friend who felt she was participating in a private group sharing of experiences and discussion of whether or not to reveal them to one's children? Unless you obtained her permission, it seems an awfully selfish and potentially destructive thing to do. I find it particularly so because it was hardly critical to your story. It was only there as a titillating bit of color. Given your explanation of how easy it will be for people who know your circle of friends to determine her identity, you may have created serious problems for this woman and her family. It is virtually certain that she, her daughter and husband will suffer some embarrassment with their friends and relatives. Seems to me that reporters and columnists should have some type of ethical code that would discourage this type of thing. Liza Mundy: And hello to you, too. Of course I told my friend that I was writing this article, and of course she okayed having the details included. I told her at the party that I was thinking about writing on the issue, and then we had a second interview about it, to discuss the topic further. I left out any details that would be identifiable and went over everything with her. She was on board about everything and was glad to be included. Sheesh. Readers really do assume the worst, sometimes, I must say. Your article definitely struck a chord with me. I'm 25 now, but I remember my mom and I having uncomfortable talks about sex where she gave me the impression that she had waited until she was married to my dad at age 27 before having sex. Therefore, I felt confident that I too would wait until marriage. Unfortunately for her, she and my dad were not on the same page about this. I distinctly remember feeling like my whole word was collapsing when my dad casually mentioned that my mom was not a virgin when they married. I started second-guessing my own choices and then wondered why she had lied to me. To this day we've never discussed it, but I have certainly questioned other things she told me about her past and wondered if she was lying too. (I should mention, however, that despite this my mom and I have a great relationship). So my advice to parents is: make sure you are telling your kids the same story! Liza Mundy: Excellent advice, I must say, about being on the same page. It's good to know your relationship survived those uncomfortable conversations. I think it's impossible for any parent to do this perfectly. DCer: When I grew up in the 1970s I quickly got into punk and totally rejected the hippies' sex and drugs hedonism. I find it odd that people equate the 1970s with drug use when there were many of us who felt drug use was completely nerdy when people's PARENTS would talk about doing lines at a corporate party at Rumors. After about 1975 drugs were for nerds trying to act cool or people with problems. I have a cousin who never touched anything after Altamont! Liza Mundy: Duly noted. I don't think I really suggested that everyone was doing drugs in the 1970s. I wasn't, for example, and neither were plenty of people I knew. I always look forward to your articles, as they are uniformly smart, incisive and very well-written. I haven't ever posted to you, and I felt compelled to do so now. Based on personal data you shared, I assume I am not much younger than you. However, growing up and attending public school in NJ, I had a steady diet of sex ed from the time I was very young - and these classes involved plenty of information about contraception as we got into later high school years. Moreover, we had a steady diet through high school of information about the dangers of drinking and driving. I was surprised to read that you didn't get this. Yes, about the sex ed, I don't know what to say or why we didn't get it. I grew up in Virginia. Maybe the South was a little behind New Jersey. Falls Church, Va.: Why is it "maternal" truths and not "parental" truths? Your article mentions fathers who have struggled with these issues, so why frame it as something that only women struggle with? Liza Mundy: Actually, I did include references to fathers in the piece. For example, there is a discussion of Beautiful Boy, a journalist-father's book about his son's addiction. But it's true that it focuses more on women's experiences. Part of this is because I have more conversations about this with women, and I do think that for women, some of the issues might be slightly different. There may be more stigma and judging. For example, some of these postings refer to daughter's perceptions of their mothers sexual activity; I haven't yet gotten one about children's curiosity about their dads. Maybe I will. Also, next weekend is Mother's Day, and to a certain extent the essay was pegged to that. Chris, Frederick, Md.: Your story seemed very timely. I'm from San Diego and a big story there is about a lady who had escaped from prison in Michigan due to drug charges over 20 years ago. She raised two grown-up children and was, by all accounts, a wonderful wife and mother. She was arrested about two weeks ago and is headed back to Michigan. I would think this is something you could tell your children about once they had turned eighteen or older. I also this is sort of the extreme version of your anecdotes. What do you think? Liza Mundy: Yes, if you have spent time in prison, and escaped, this certainly does seem like an issue that might affect your kids.....on the other hand, I can understand why she, optimistically perhaps, kept it hidden. IT does seem quite an extreme example. Vienna, Va.: So, you outed a mom in your social circle as a former stripper. You didn't use a hypothetical and you didn't (it appears) get her permission to share her story. Instead, you took a story from a private conversation and shared it with the world. (Meanwhile, you really didn't share much of anything about your own past.) I guess I don't have a real question, other than wondering how this fits within the code of journalism ethics and everyday ethics. Too soon: I dated older boys when I was a teenager and probably went too far for my age. I also had sex early. I took a break from dating and met my husband just before going to college and we've been together since. I consider him my first real relationship and wish I had waited. I don't want to divulge my dating history, but my sense of regret makes me feel that it's a good teaching tool for my daughter. How do I walk this fine line of saying "don't do this" without saying "I did this"? Liza Mundy: Gosh, that's a hard one. As I mention in the piece, the experts are divided on this. Some say to err on the side of disclosing as little as possible; others say that children can find an honest conversation about what you did, and the fact that you regret it, quite powerful. Personally, I think that parents have a right to privacy. I don't think you have any obligation to reveal your own history if you don't want to,and the fact is, your daughter may not really want these details. I think that it's very likely that you are going to be attentive to these issues with your daughter, and that you will talk to her early and often about sexual activity and promiscuity and whatever is or is not going on in middle school or high school when she gets there. I bet that you will be the "warm, askable adult" that people say we are supposed to be, and that your daughter will feel comfortable opening up to you. That's the important part--helping her through her own decisions. You aren't obligated to talk about your own, I think, unless she really asks you point blank or the situation otherwise calls for it. Washington, D.C.: This story clearly demonstrates why moms are so darn hot. Who knows, that friendly attractive mom sitting at the bench on the playground could be a former stripper. Savannah, Ga: No question here, I just wanted to let you know that not everyone assumes you are an awful person who mines your friends' most intimate stories for material. I assumed that with so much obviously identifying material that you had cleared the stripper story with the friend. It was a great bookend for the article and very funny. I'd have to say that I wouldn't want to find out my mom did anything like that until... well I'm 30 now, so I'll let you know when I'm mature enough to hear that from Mom. Liza Mundy: Thanks. Actually, the details were not identifying. Washington, D.C.: I'm not sure about the "role model" theory. Probably the biggest reason I was never tempted to smoke was that both my parents did - and I was painfully aware of how un-cool they were. Liza Mundy: Yes, the question of whether our children copy our behavior, or rebel against it, is a complex one and I'm sure varies from child to child, or even from one developmental stage to another. I do think they watch us very carefully, though, and make constant judgments. Falls Church, Va.: Earlier comment: "When I grew up in the 1970s I quickly got into punk and totally rejected the hippies' sex and drugs hedonism." That commenter's kids are still going to have some questions after they rent "Sid and Nancy." I don't think punk rock has some sort of squeaky-clean image. Liza Mundy: Yes, there is always something they can get their parents on. Being punk, not being punk, being too cool, being hopelessly uncool..... Annandale, Va.: I am for open communication with children, but see no need for parents (mothers OR fathers) to provide excruciating detail of their past indiscretions. It is common sense. We can admit to some minor things such as, "...I drove too fast when I was your age and paid the consequences (as I should have) and you will bear the full consequences of you behavior without my help if you drive too fast." To suggest that parents NEED to provide details of their past suggests that parents who do not have such backgrounds do not have the credibility to provide guidance. My parents were such good role models that I never once asked them about their past indiscretions, and I do not recall our daughter asking my wife and me what kinds of things we did. Yet, nearly every day, as part of normal conversation, we talked with our daughter about issues and how to make wise choices -- and of course -- accepting the consequences for our actions. I do not recommend parents spilling their guts about their past such that they undermine their dignity and authority. The objective is to be a role model and teach kids right and wrong -- not go to confession with our kids. Liza Mundy: Well put, I think. Omaha, Neb.: Interesting article... though I was a bit disappointed that more attention wasn't paid to gender issues. E.g., while you mentioned a few sons, ("Beautiful Boy") most of the stories involved moms deciding what to tell their daughters about drugs and sex. Earlier generations lectured their daughters about the evils of sex, while their sons were told to always use condoms. I'm curious as to if this dynamic has changed at all. And it seems you consciously focused on moms as opposed to dads (based on the title of your article). Was this because you had immediate access to moms rather than dads, or was there a different reason? Thanks for taking my question. Liza Mundy: Yes, I'm sure I could have explored the gender issue more. And the article could have been even longer! I do suspect that there is a difference, still, in the way parents talk to daughters and the way they talk to sons,at least when it comes to sex and relationships issues--maybe it's the same when it comes to drinking and driving and cigarettes and drugs, I don't know. There also may be some difference in the curiosity kids have about their mothers versus the curiosity kids have about their dads. Possibly it may depend on who drives them around more; they always lob these questions from the back seat, so I personally think that mothers, who still (I think this is fair to say) do more of the playdate driving, are more vulnerable. But feel free to differ. Omaha, Neb.: FWIW - it never once occurred to me that you would have published the information about your friend's "stripper" past without her permission. It's just common sense that you would get the permission of your interview subjects; not only because journalism ethics require it but because the personal repercussions would be too great for you (no more invites to wine-and-cheese gatherings). I'm frankly a little surprised that you had (at least) more than one reader question your integrity. Everybody take a deep breath, please! Liza Mundy: Yes, cleansing breaths! Just as you say, preserving friendship is paramount here. Richmond, Va.: The only thing that my parents did not tell me that I wish I had known was that my mom's dad committed suicide. In their generation I think it was a taboo subject. Someone else told me, but I couldn't verify it. I haven't told my own children yet, and they are grown. So sometimes family past should remain that way, perhaps? Liza Mundy: Well, that's a powerful question. The fact that someone in the family committed suicide is an important family truth, and I do think that important family truths should be shared with children, and carefully explained and put in context. Otherwise, like you, they feel like they have been cut out of the conversation. D.C.: I was the kid who asked my parents point-blank questions, and then followed up on every detail. To their credit, they answered every question, explaining not only what they'd done but why, its short- and long-term effects, and why they'd stopped. I learned a lot of useful lessons to apply to my own life that I might otherwise have stumbled through first-hand, and perhaps not have survived as well as they (luckily) did. Had they lied or refused to answer, it would have shattered my trust in them (and my willingness to trust them with my own confidences). If a kid is old enough to ask a question, they're old enough to get an answer -- a true and complete one. If a parent isn't willing to give it to them, why should they ever expect their child to be truthful to them? Liza Mundy: That's really interesting. You make a very good point and your experience is convincing. On the other hand, do you really think that parents are obliged to answer every single last question? Kids just get to ask and ask, and parents always are obliged to answer, in full? What about when your child is just messing with you? I wonder what other readers think. Falls Church, Va.: Its funny that this article ran. My boyfriend and I were just arguing about this sort of thing because I got into all that trouble as a teen, never severely, but he was totally straight and narrow. He doesn't want our future kids to know anything, but I think some honesty is important! Liza Mundy: This may say something about the people I run with, but it's funny how often I talked to women who had been much more experimental, in their youths, than their husbands. This may be purely anecdotal. I was talking on the cellphone with one friend, and she was in the car with her husband, and going on and on about her youth, and he was saying, in the background (with amusement): "What did you do?" Anyway, sounds to me that it's good that you and your bf are having these conversations. Unfortunately I don't know what the answer is. But you might reference earlier post about being on the same page. D.C.: You made slight reference to the "Dad double standard", but then seem to apply it throughout the piece. Consider the aging frat boy whose escapades now need to be translated as his son begins to form opinions on women or, worse, for his daughter explaining why she deserves better treatment than all of his early girlfriends. Or those dads whose behavior still isn't all that responsible when they get with the guys. If kids consider past parental behavior formative, what about current parental behavior? Liza Mundy: Well, I certainly didn't mean to perpetuate any double standard. It's hard to incorporate every possible viewpoint into an essay. I for one would welcome an essay from an aging frat boy reconsidering his attitude about women, and I wouldn't feel left out if he didn't include my experience in it. But I do think your point is a really important one: a man's view of women, and how he treated them, or how he regarded them, and the question of how to talk through all this with his son. I think that's crucial. Father-son conversations on the topic could do so much good and every woman would thank a father for even bringing this up with his son and (one hopes)urging him to treat women with respect and affection. What an important conversation to have. And I do think that if a father was regretting his own long-past behavior, this would, indeed, be a powerful conversation. Please, dads, have it! I also think that present behavior is way, way more important than what one did in the past, when, after all, one was a different person. Purely based on my own instinct I think that present behavior is 99.9 percent of what children are affected by, and watching. Washington, D.C.: You should definitely share with your children anything that could be considered medical history, and that includes issues like mental illness, addiction and suicide. Children should be aware, for example, that while it is appropriate for adults to drink occasionally, there are adults who cannot do so, and that it's possible based on family history that they could be one of those adults. Liza Mundy: Yes, absolutely. Thank you for saying this so clearly and cogently. Addiction is one thing and must be addressed. Madcap misbehavior is, perhaps, another. Annandale, Va.: I do not agree that if a kid is old enough to ask a question that they deserve an answer. Answer yes, but not necessarily what they want to hear. Sorry if they are "crushed." Liza Mundy: I'll just post this, to share another viewpoint. Obligated to answer: I think the poster who wrote that parents should answer every question truthfully had great parents who were able to 'read' their kid and decide their past could make a positive impression on him/her. But not every kid is like that. My middle-schooler is VERY sensitive and has a lot of anxiety. My past experiences would be too much for her to handle and she would end up scared. Maybe things will change as she matures. I will certainly be open to being more open, but I think being completely revealing is not always the best choice. Liza Mundy: This is so interesting. It reaffirms my belief that every child is just so different from every other child, and that good and loving parenting involves understanding your child's personality and what's right for that child, and that family relationship, at that moment. Re: Answering Every Question: I don't think being someone's kid entitles you to every single detail of that person's life. We all have our spheres of privacy which we can define as we like. But maybe that's a teachable moment, too- honesty about not answering the question. I do agree that if you lie, and that lie comes out, it can do some serious damage to your credibility. Liza Mundy: Point well-taken. Just FYI, though, one mom I spoke with thought that it's possible to say one thing to your child in middle school, and another much later, in college. I.e., she thought it was possible to "dissemble" when her daughter was in middle school, and then, later, explain why she had done so. It worked for her. McLean, Va.: I've got to tell you, I was a bit disappointed in the timing of the article so close to Mother's Day. I don't suppose we'll have a more heartwarming story to follow next week. washingtonpost.com: Oh, stay tuned! I am looking at Sunday's issue right now and there is a great Mother's Day article coming up... - Elizabeth (producer) Liza Mundy: Yes, actually, heartwarming story to come! Metairie, La.: Re: the grandfather's suicide I'm of the opinion that information should be shared with children not just because it's part of the family history, but because it's part of the family MEDICAL history. Had I known that pretty much every woman in my family suffered from clinical depression and anxiety (though very rarely was it identified as such), I perhaps would have sought help before I hit bottom. Liza Mundy: Yes, absolutely, I agree. Falls Church, Va.: Regarding the kid from DC who expected "true and complete" answers from her parents, is she reciprocally willing to answer their questions about her life in every detail, with nothing held back? Liza Mundy: Very interesting question. Kid from D.C.--any response? D.C.: In our home, Father will be handling discussions of drugs (I don't think pot is that big a deal, but my husband does and given the meth and other horrors of today's scene I'm willing to defer), and Mother will be handling the sex discussion (my husband was a virgin when we married, and while it's a good choice, there are some things our son should know regardless of choice). The party line is that we agree 100% with the parent that is speaking. And we're not ever discussing why the labor was divided this way. No one has to lie! Liza Mundy: Well handled. Except, do the duties have to be divided? Isn't it important for a father to have some kind of conversations with his son, say, about relationships and sexual behavior and how to relate to women? (See above.) And if the drug question is put to you, presumably you'd give some answer. I definitely agree that the important thing is being on the same page and it's admirable that you have compromised so successfully. But I'm not sure that children will necessarily observe your careful division of labor! Baltimore, Md.: I wanted to ask whether the general sentiments described in your article -- fear of adolescence, or attempts to prevent or restrict teenage experimentation -- are a cultural or gender-based phenomenon. In terms of the first factor (culture), as someone born in another country, I've noticed that Americans are far more fearful of teenagers than other societies, and constantly bombard students with the kind of anti-sex, anti-alcohol propaganda that may surprise a foreign visitor. But also, in terms of gender, I've noticed that women are far more concerned and emotional about these issues than men, who tend to be somewhat more objective and tolerant (e.g., teenage experimentation is a healthy and normal part of growing up). Your thoughts? Liza Mundy: Interesting. Are people not "fearful of teenagers"---i.e., concerned about potential teenaged experimentation--in other countries or cultures? Seems to me there are some cultures where teenaged experimentation is closely paid attention to and guarded against. Are there really countries and cultures where everything goes? Maybe the fabled northern European countries. But among the young people I interviewed were some German au pairs, and their attitudes were much she same as that of Americans. As for women being emotional about teenaged behavior, I really wouldn't agree on that one. Not to perpetuate stereotype or anything, but historically, fathers have been known to be quite protective of their daughters, just to offer one example. I do think that discussion of all these issues with children more often falls to mothers, but people may disagree. I really admire the father, above, who is thinking about how to talk to his son about relationships with women. Yes, VA: In regards to answering a kids direct questions fully and honestly, I had a REALLY bad experience with that one. My eight-year old wasn't ready to give up that Christmas magic. I wished I had come up with my own version of "Yes, Virginia. . ." Rockville, Md: While I am guilty of partaking in sex, drugs and smoking, those actions weren't what caused years of discovery anxiety. What I never wanted my kids to find out was that I repeated the 4th grade. I preached and preached about the importance of school work etc....blah, blah, blah. One day my mother visited and one my kids told her how tough I was regarding their school responsibilities and she said, "that's interesting considering your mother repeated a grade." As you can imagine, I was eaten alive. As my kids feasted on the revelation my mother turned to me and said, "I'm ninety, there's nothing you can do." Liza Mundy: OMG! Great anecdote. But I don't think you are inconsistent. Perhaps the fact that you repeated a grade, and the impact it may have had, made you all the more determined to encourage your children to work hard, get ahead, etc etc. I think it's rather consistent, that you would have been motivated to make them take their school responsibilities seriously. Raleigh, N.C.: I disagree that children should be told about suicide and depression further back in a family, unless it's specifically impacting them at the moment. I think, worst case scenario, it can lead to kids who think it's part of their destiny. Just my $.02. Liza Mundy: That's interesting; I am not an expert, but I'll post this viewpoint. Do you think it's possible to have a long, nuanced conversation in which a child is helped to understand that depression, say, has affected other family members and should be taken seriously, but that it's by no means a given? Washington D.C.: I'm 35. I have no idea whether my mom had sex before she married my dad (at 29). Dad was married once before (which I didn't learn until I was 16 - not sure why, but aside from a few weird weeks back then, it didn't affect me), so I suspect he did. And . . . now I've just thought about that prospect way more than I have ever wanted to or, I suspect, ever will want to, regardless of how old I get. I guess that talking to your parents about sex may be a necessity, but talking to them about their sexual experiences is something I don't want a part of! Liza Mundy: Yep. Many teenagers I talked to said the same thing. ongoing lines of communication: I was a little disturbed about fudging the truth about your life because does that meet the need behind the question? Obviously being caught on the hop happens, but I heard no real discussion mothers having ongoing dialogues so that they're less lightly to be caught on the hop? My mother, who has a huge variety of friends in all walks of life, did a fantastic job of talking to me about their various emotional and physical situations. She did this, toned down and in a age appropriate way, before I was a teenager. These conversations my mother had with me gave me valuable insight and also helped create an atmosphere where I was comfortable discussing topics more relevant to me and what I was going through. This helped impart to me her values and why she had them without her having to write her memoirs. Liza Mundy: Thanks for your posting and your insight, and with this tribute to a mother, I'll sign off. Ongoing dialogues, yes, absolutely. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Today's mothers of adolescents came of age during a time when women had much more freedom to indulge in youthful indiscretion. Now they have to decide -- how much they should tell the kids?	163.27027	1	37	high	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202767.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202767.html	Election 2008: Previewing the Indiana Primary	2008050519	Brian Howey: Greetings from Indiana. I am Brian Howey and I've been publishing Howey Politics Indiana since 1994. I've been writing a newspaper column since my days at the Elkhart Truth, going back to 1985, and it appears in 25 papers across the state -- and, of course, you can find all the top Indiana political news at my Web site. I've attended about a dozen Clinton and Obama events, ranging from press conferences to town halls in the past couple weeks. I can tell you that Hoosiers -- and yes, we are proud to be called Hoosiers -- never have been so excited about political participation. With that said, your questions, please! Kansas City, Mo.: Why isn't anyone asking why Hillary can't win over educated voters, activists, blacks or the youth? Why are white, uneducated "Reagan Democrats" considered so much more important than the educated, the politically involved and the most reliable Democratic constituency? The future of our country is being discounted in favor of the "swing" voters who have not been a strong voting bloc for the Democrats in years. Brian Howey: Our polling is showing that the Indiana primary may be decided by Republican and independent voters. Up to 20 percent may be non-Democrats. In the Howey-Gauge Poll of April 23-24, 10 percent of participants were expected to be Republicans and 9 percent independents. Unlike Pennsylvania, this is a crossover state. Republicans were favoring Clinton 50-44. So the "Reagan Democrats" may not be the ones who decide this election. It could be the Obamicans and the Limbaugh chaos seekers who swing this election. Kensington, Md.: I don't see how Sen. Bayh, who has piled on the Clinton campaign's subtle race-baiting bandwagon of late, would do a thing toward bringing the Obama wing of the party back on board in November. (I'm a longtime Democrat who simply doesn't see much difference between her and McCain anymore: two cravenly political centrist pawns of the military-industrial machine who will say anything to get elected.) Do you think Bayh sunk his chances with his recent stoking of the media's manufactured Wright bull? Brian Howey: Sen. Bayh addressed the Indiana Jefferson-Jackson Day Dinner and went out of his way to stress that he isn't "against" Obama. He urged Democrats to rally around the nominee once they get past their disappointment. I don't believe Bayh had much of a chance to be Obama's vice presidential nominee -- he endorsed Clinton back in September when she was the "inevitable" nominee. It seemed like a good bet then. Should she somehow win the nomination, Evan Bayh certainly would be on her short list, though that decision will be predicated on her political needs. Yes, Bill Clinton selected Al Gore in 1992 from a neighboring state, but Bayh probably wouldn't bring much to an Obama ticket. Dick Lugar would do more for Obama -- if he were truly to be bold -- than Bayh. And my prediction if Obama wins is either Sen. Jim Webb or Sam Nunn. An Obama-Nunn ticket would position the ticket extremely well. Tampa, Fla.: Who has the edge in the Indiana presidential primary and gubernatorial primary? Brian Howey: I wish I had mystical powers. Right now, I have the Clinton-Obama race as a tossup. The polls showed Clinton with momentum going into mid-last week, mostly because of the Rev. Wright controversy. Rep. Baron Hill and Joe Andrew's switch to Obama changed the subject (though Tim Russert and Matt Lauer didn't get the memo that Hoosiers were more interested in gas prices and No Child Left Behind than Rev. Wright). My sense is the momentum may be shifting back to Obama. We will be watching African American turnout and whether GOP turnout will be high. I have to tell you, it was delicious watching Bill Clinton mine Republican votes in Rep. Dan Burton's district. Will it be too late? We have 200,000 new voters in this election and no one safely can predict how they will act or in what volume. In Indiana, we call a race like this ... a barn-burner. Silver Spring, Md.: I grew up in Western Ohio but haven't lived there in nearly 30 years now. Are my old neighbors really as closet-racist as the Clinton/Hannity/Bayh/Limbaugh team are counting on them to be Tuesday? I had hoped the Midwest had opened up some in these intervening decades. Thanks for chatting, anyway. Brian Howey: I hope that sometime in my lifetime, elections will be lost on content of character as opposed to skin color. I wish I could say we're there now, but I can't. People with racist tendencies often don't reveal them to the pollsters. I have Democratic sources who tell me that it exists. It was fascinating to watch Obama come to Evansville on the night of the Pennsylvania primary. He never had been there before and the local papers speculated he might not fill up Roberts Stadium, but about 8,000 people turned out and he got the endorsement of Evansville Mayor Jonathan Weinzapfel. Obama picked up the Baron Hill and Lee Hamilton endorsements, and Hamilton barnstormed across the 8th and 9th congressional districts. We'll be watching to see if Hamilton might have changed some minds. Chicago: I am still not clear on what Joe Andrew brings to the table in terms of impacting the Indiana vote. Is he well-known in Indiana ... did it really make the news there -- among voters -- that it did among the D.C. pundits? Seemed to me mostly an "inside the Beltway" story, but I could be wrong. Brian Howey: Joe Andrew certainly made news with his switch. I don't believe it swayed a huge amount of votes, but what it did was change the subject away from the right Rev. Wright. It came when Barack Obama needed it the most. And here's another angle to Joe's decision: He left the Democratic National Committee chair in 2001; at a Democratic Leader Council the following summer, Terry McAuliffe showed up in Indianapolis and ripped the state of the party on Joe's home turf. Could this have been a wee lil' payback? Other than Evan Bayh and Lee Hamilton's endorsements, I think they have only nominal impact. What largely has been missed by the press is that this could be a turnout election. Obama began this sequence with an advantage there, but Clinton has made up quite a bit of ground. With polls showing this race closing up, who has the best turnout mechanism may rule the day. Baltimore: Delegates aren't apportioned by percentage of the overall state vote, but by percentage in each district. The candidate who wins the most delegates generally does best in districts with odd numbers of delegates to award. How do the two candidates fare in the odd-delegate districts in Indiana? Brian Howey: I believe you're talking about the 6th Congressional District in East Central Indiana with cities like Anderson, Muncie, Richmond and Columbus. The first three have lost many United Auto Workers jobs; some of the locals are closing up shop. I can't project a winner in the 6th. I think it could go either way. All these cities have sizeable African American populations, surrounded by rural areas where Bill Clinton really has turned on the charm. Washington: With seven out of 19 villages in Guam reporting, the stage is set for those Hoosiers to get out and vote. What do you expect for turnout? Is is open or closed? Brian Howey: This is an open election. At dozens of events, we saw people lining up at 3 a.m. and huge lines wrapped around the various basketball arenas. I think we'll have record turnout. We haven't seen anything like this since RFK, Eugene McCarthy and Roger Branigin slugged it out in 1968. I believe there will be significant GOP and independent participation. This one might be as close as Guam ... and, you know, as Guam goes, so go the Hoosiers. Not sure we're going to see an MSNBC projection at 8:10 p.m. It might be more like 10 p.m. or 11 p.m. Chicago (next door to Indiana): Hi. I just wanted to insert a little bit of geography into the discussion of the Indiana primary. I am glad to see that some reporters have made mention of the fact that Northwest Indiana (from Gary to South Bend), which accounts for about 20-25 percent of the Democratic vote, lives in the Chicago media market. It's more than just sharing the same TV, newspapers, etc.; the communities in Gary, Hammond, East Chicago, etc., are in some ways extensions of the city of Chicago -- and, specifically, the southside communities that are the base of Obama's support. The "borders" are nonexistent: families, churches and shopping (especially to avoid Cook Co. sales taxes) all cross state lines. For those of you in Washington reading this -- think Chevy Chase, D.C., or Friendship Heights vs. Chevy Chase, Md. Not a huge difference. Anyway, as you look at tomorrow's results -- keep that in mind. Also, keep in mind that Obama's plurality out of Cook County was 400,000 votes... Brian Howey: I asked Obama last week if his organizing activities extended across the state line into Indiana. He said that as the steel mills closed, there were many Hoosiers in the churches and parishes he worked with, and a number of his Illinois neighbors migrated to Indiana. Yes, it's one large economic entity, all interconnected. Obama was expected to have an advantage in Northwest Indiana, but local sources believe the race has tightened up there, and it was hard to miss the racial fault lines in Da Region. Gary Mayor Clay, Sen. Earline Rogers and a number of African Americans endorsed Obama, but a number of white mayors from Whiting, Hammond, Crown Point and Hobart sided with Hillary. If Obama loses the 1st Congressional District, he won't win Indiana. It was also noteworthy that Rep. Pete Visclosky didn't take a side. If he had endorsed either one, it would have been a big lift. And, by the way, Go Sox! Chicago: How is the gas tax issue playing? To me, even if Clinton is taking a hit for "pandering," at least she appears like she wants to do something -- not a perfect idea, but "something." On the other hand, Obama has spent the past few days arguing against it. To me, that's time spent "on her turf." A personal observation: Being a Chicagoan, when I drive into Indiana (couple times a year), it seems like every gas station, convenience store, etc. has a sign posted telling customers to "shop here to avoid Cook County (Illinois) taxes" ... which tells me that people are concerned about saving every penny, including 18 cents a gallon. Your thoughts? Brian Howey: The gas tax issue could determine who wins. As I've said in other posts, Hillary seemed to have the momentum when all the talk was about Rev. Wright (who, by the way, was awarded an honorary doctorate degree at Valparaiso University for his community work). I think the gas tax debate was critical in shifting the momentum. Polls like Zogby's two-day tracking have Obama up 2 percent -- and if that's indicative, it could be due to the gas issue. It's worth noting that Zogby didn't get it right in California, so we'll see. The local media was full of stories from local economists who saw the Clinton gas holiday as nutty and pandering. If Obama wins, it may have been to the rejection of the gas holiday issue. In 2000, Gov. Frank O'Bannon suspended the gas tax, and in doing so he rendered Rep. David McIntosh's challenge moot -- David never got back in the game. But will Hoosiers see history repeating itself and instead of taking the chump change, ask "why do we keep have exploding gas prices?" Anonymous: Electronic voting in Indiana or paper ballots? Any history of voting irregularities? Will the photo ID voter law dampen turnout enough to make a difference? Brian Howey: Good question. You almost certainly have read tthe U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the voter ID law, but most of the voting irregularities in places like East Chicago, Muncie and Anderson have centered on absentee ballot mischief. The Howard County Election Board in Kokomo just threw out 500 ballots produced by the UAW. After Florida in 2000, Indiana moved to an electronic voting system. It likely is also working on innovative "voting centers" in places like Richmond (Wayne County) and Lafayette/West Lafayette in Tippecanoe County. Instead of dozens of precincts, there are centrally located voting centers where anyone from any neighborhood can vote. They were deemed successful in the city elections last year. Indianapolis has reduced the number of precincts from more than 900 to around 600. Washington: If Clinton doesn't get the nomination, or does get the nomination but loses the general election, do you think that she will go through all this again in four years? Brian Howey: Remember the movie "Roger Rabbit?" A-shave-and-a-haircut? What Toon can resist that? The Clintons cannot resist a good election. Hillary never will drop out because they just love to run. I am certain she would run against a President McCain. I still think Obama wins the nomination, even if he loses Indiana. If he loses Indiana and North Carolina, that's a completely different scenario. Tap, tap, ta-tap, tap! Anchorage, Alaska: Have Jews made bigger political gains in Indiana than blacks? Black mayors? Jewish congressmen? Even the South has gotten over Jim Crow. Except for friends of Strom Thurmond, and we all know who I'm talking about. Thanks. Brian Howey: Indiana does not have a lengthy history of minority representation. In our 192-year history, we've had three African-American mayors, all from Gary. We've elected two African-American sheriffs. We've elected three black Members of Congress, and Katie Hall of Gary lost to Pete Visclosky after just one term (the third, Rep. Andre Carson, is fighting a tough primary to keep his grandmother's seat). We've had two Hispanic mayors. Indiana has not elected a female governor, though the past two lieutenant governors have been female. So while we've had lots of minority city councilmen, there hasn't been much congressional or executive power in black hands. An Obama victory would be historic. Chicago: What do you make of the candidates both heading to North Carolina today? Does that indicate that things are "locked in" (for one side or the other) in Indiana? (By the way ... go Cubs!) Brian Howey: Obama will be back for a rally at 7:30 p.m. at the American Legion Mall in Indianapolis with our beautiful skyline as a backdrop. As a Sox fan, I'm sure Barack Obama will be fighting through the 9th inning. By the way, I hope the Cubs can savor the kind of experience we White Sox fans enjoyed in 2005. Mt. Lebanon, Pa.: I went to junior high school (Maconaquah) when the Air Force base was active there (the '60s). Most of the locals were farmers and townspeople. Not awfully sophisticated, but savvy enough to know shinola from the free range stuff. Are Hoosiers still sharp enough to recognize a gas tax holiday bamboozle from the regular political boozles that appear just ahead of a primary election? In other words, do they get it, or is America condemned to be led for another four years by an aw-shucks huckster so far as Indiana is concerned? Thanks much. Brian Howey: A Maconaquah Brave talkin' to a Peru Tiger! The national media sometimes has portrayed us as a change-resistant state. In the past three election cycles, Hoosier voters have tossed out an incumbent governor, three incumbent congressmen, the president of the Indiana Senate, the Senate Finance Committee chairman, the mayor of Indianapolis and about 40 percent of his incumbent brethren. We've switched to Daylight Saving Time. We can change and do change if someone can logically make the case for such change. If Obama wins Indiana, it will say volumes about our shift as a progressive state. By the way, Hoosiers helped invent the automobile, TV, 2 percent milk and tomato juice. The Bloody Mary wouldn't exist without Hoosiers. Chicago: It was interesting to me how many hits Clinton took for her "shot and a beer" moment a few weeks ago ... in the past few days, I've seen pictures of Obama drinking beer out of a can, shooting hoops, roller skating ... without any of the criticism that Clinton received. Why the difference? Brian Howey: Hoosiers loved it when Hillary "sipped" her Crown Royal. It was the best photograph of the sequence. The big debate here wasn't that she had a shot, it was that she sipped it instead of throwing it back in one gulp. Hoosiers love their beer drinkers, just as long as they don't hit the interstate. Obama drinking a Bud probably was calculated. Talk in rural areas was that he was too intellectual, so the campaign really shifted to accent his Midwestern sensibilities. We'll have to wait and see if it worked. Obama also did the hoops thing here: a three-on-three game in Kokomo, a visit to the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame in New Castle with George McGinnis (just off I-70 if you're cruising through). In Indiana, when it doubt, play basketball. Anonymous: Does Dan Burton come across as unbalanced in person as he does on C-SPAN? Brian Howey: I never have seen him do a gymnastic routine on the balance beam. As a journalist, a long time ago I determined that in most cases it is unwise to assume the mantle of a psychoanalyst. Indianapolis: No question, just a comment: I'm excited to vote tomorrow! This is my first year as a registered Indiana voter (until now, was registered in my home state of Maryland). Wouldn't it be great if all the newly registered voters here managed to switch Indiana to blue this November? Okay, that's just wishful thinking. Brian Howey: I am excited this election, too, as a father. My 18-year-old son Thomas will be voting in his first election. I am proud that he registered and I hope we can go to the polls together at the North Side Knights of Columbus here in Broad Ripple, Ind. As a writer, I've seen dozens of other first-time voters who have engaged in the process -- some even becoming activists. Democracy needs maintenance. Liberty needs an oil change. That is happening now in Indiana, home of the internal combustion engine. I am quite pleased you've seen the light and grabbed the torch. New voters...: About those 200,000 new voters, can you describe them (recently registered, yes?) and how they're expected to vote? Could the Indiana outcome be as narrow as 200,000 votes? Brian Howey: The Obama campaign told me they helped register 90,000. I haven't heard a figure from the Clinton campaign. I suspect the other 110,000 were people attracted to the Clinton-Obama race. How will they vote? I suspect Obama will get a good portion of them. If he does, it could determine the outcome of the election. Having said that, the people turning out to Hillary Clinton's events have been equally animated. I know of many female voters who are looking forward to Tuesday. And, yes, the margin of error could be within that 200,000. Anonymous: Is either Obama or Clinton planning on being in Indiana on Tuesday night? Where the candidates are when returns come in seems to be a good indicator on what their internal poll numbers are showing. Brian Howey: Sen. Clinton will have her election night rally at the Murat Centrein downtown Indianapolis. We're hopeful that either she or Barack Obama (appearing tonight at the American Legion Mall) will join us for a bourbon at The Chatterbox Tavern, the best jazz dive in the Great American Midwest. Obama's tendency always has been to move on to the next state, so I wouldn't be surprised to see him in West Virginia or Kentucky Tuesday night. The man thinks ahead. Rochester, N.Y.: Can we expect whoever wins Indiana to celebrate with shot and a beer? Brian Howey: I am offering both the Clinton and Obama campaigns a victory shot and a beer at the Chatterbox while Claude and Frank hit the clarinet and keys. Anonymous: Do Rep. Hill, Joe Andrew and ex-Rep. Hamilton's endorsements of Obama carry weight with Indiana voters equal to Sen. Bayh's Clinton endorsement? Is the Magnequench story resonating with voters? Is your feel the same as polls, which show Clinton up by 6 percent? Are you getting more hits on your site? Has Sen. Lugar weighed in on this contest, and would he have a lot of pull with Republicans voting in the primary? Brian Howey: I thought Hillary Clinton did a great job using the Magnequench story to her advantage. Tying job loss to national security was astute. The ABC News story that broke about this move to China during the Clinton administration did not get wide coverage in Indiana, so I suspect its impact will be minimal. As for the endorsements, Bayh's is more influential because of his veep prospects and his command of the Indiana Democratic Party. Indiana may be one of the only states where a significant number of voters actually are voting for vice president than president. The big debate here wasn't that she had a shot, it was that she sipped it instead of throwing it back in one gulp: In her defense, that shot was huge. Must be a good bar and bartender Brian Howey: Bronko's in Crown Point has some of the best bartenders in the Western Hemisphere. Anonymous: Is a part of Indiana still not turning their clocks forward for daylight savings time? Brian Howey: The Evansville and Chicago media market areas stay on Chicago time. In Evansville, it's because agriculture wants to stay on the same time with the Chicago Board of Trade. The entire state is now in sync with the civilized world, though many Democrats still chafe that it all came about because of Gov. Mitch Daniels. Indiana Wants Me: What do you make of the chatter about Democrat primary voters switching to John McCain if their Democrat-of-choice does not win the nomination? I can't imagine this happening, regardless of whether Sen. Obama or Sen. Clinton wins the nomination. Which Hoosiers would vote for Sen. McCain if their Democrat does not secure the nomination? Brian Howey: There might be some Democrats who switch to John McCain, but the overwhelming majority will close ranks behind the nominee in reaction to the Oil Presidency of Bush/Cheney. Brian Howey: Folks, it's time to go. Many thanks to The Washington Post for providing this unique forum. And thanks to its readers to engaging this mild-mannered Midwestern journalist. Please remember that if you want to know what's happening in Indiana politics, the best place to do so is Howey Politics. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Howey Political Report editor Brian Howey takes your questions on the Democratic primary in Indiana on Tuesday, the vice presidential chances of Sen. Evan Bayh and how things look in the state for November.	128.555556	0.944444	1.833333	high	high	mixed
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202298.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202298.html	Dr. Gridlock	2008050519	Submit your questions and comments before or during the discussion. The Dr. Gridlock column receives hundreds of letters each month from motorists and transit riders throughout the Washington region. They ask questions and make complaints about getting around a region plagued with some of the worst traffic in the nation. The doctor diagnoses problems and tries to bring relief. Dr. Gridlock appears in The Post's Metro section on Sunday and in the Extra section on Thursday. His comments also appear on the Web site's Get There blog. You can send e-mails for the newspaper column to drgridlock@washpost.com or write to Dr. Gridlock at 1150 15th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20071. Dr. Gridlock: Hello, travelers, and happy Cinco de Mayo. Please celebrate safely. Let's talk traffic and transit. Capitol Hill: Hi Dr. Gridlock: Could you please remind our friends from Maryland and Virginia that it is NOT legal in the District to make a left turn on a red light from a one way street onto the cross one way street? Dr. Gridlock: Our region's traffic laws are pretty consistent. This is one point on which they diverge. In MD and VA, it's legal to make a left turn on red from a one way street to a one way street, as long as there's no sign telling you not to do so. The District is different. I sometimes hear from DC readers who get honked by drivers who state tags, who may not understand the DC law. Bowie, Md.: Do you know when the when the 2nd half of the Wilson Bridge will open? Dr. Gridlock: I believe the second span will open to traffic on the last weekend of this month. You won't want to be part of that fun. I remember the weekend the first span opened and all the quick paving and lane switching that backed up traffic for many miles. Actually, there will be a ceremony in the middle of the month to mark the completion of the span, but that's not the opening to traffic. Even sooner -- this coming weekend, in fact -- there's going to be a re-alignment of the Beltway's outer loop in Virginia. That's likely to create some serious traffic problems Friday night into Monday morning I'll keep you updated on the traffic plan and the recommended detours on my Get There blog, at http://blog.washingtonpost.com/getthere. Falls Church, VA: Does anyone have any idea what has happened on Route 29 North towards I-66 and the East Falls Church? That section used to run very smoothly but ever since last Monday has grinded to a halt. A 1 mile drive to the metro station that usually takes 5-10 minutes is now taking at least a half hour everyday. Dr. Gridlock: I thought I'd throw out this question early to see if readers recognized the problem. I've just scanned the VDOT road work schedule and didn't spot anything that looked like it would cause this problem. Silver Spring, MD: Any update on when the new Silver Spring transit center or whatever will be completed? The buses were supposed to be moved last summer, is that still happening? Dr. Gridlock: There was all that prep work last spring, and then nothing happened, because the project got delayed. Now, the bus stops at Silver Spring Station and supposed to be moved out to the nearby streets this summer, before work gets started on the transit center. There will be a new entryway to the MARC station, too. Arlington, Va.: Is there an online mapping program that directs people to use I-66 inside the beltway? It seems all the programs avoid 66 because of the HOV restrictions during the week. Dr. Gridlock: I have not researched this, but have had the same experience. I've noticed that the map programs I use -- Google, Mapquest, Yahoo! -- will not set a course along highways such as I-66 inside the Beltway that have lane restrictions. Northern Virginia: Whatever happened to HOT lanes on 495 in VA? I thought they were supposed to start construction this year near Tyson's and I haven't heard anything about it. Dr. Gridlock: You'll see more and more evidence of the Virginia HOT lanes project on the western side of the Beltway this spring. There's some test boring and other prep work going on right now. The construction will create four new lanes on the outside of the Beltway. Once they're done, the inside lanes will be converted to the HOT (high occupancy or toll) lanes and the outer lanes will be the regular traffic lanes. That plan is supposed to keep traffic flowing throughout the construction. DC Driver: Thanks so much for mentioning that about the one way/one way turns! That was legal where I moved from, and I've been doing it all the time since I got here. Dumb luck that I haven't been ticketed, I guess. Tell your boss that a reader learned something useful from this chat! Dr. Gridlock: Thanks. It is my fondest hope that many, many readers will learn something useful from these chats. The nation's capital draws visitors and new residents from across the United States. This is a good reminder to old timers that we must be patient and alert on the roads, because many people don't have local knowledge. Arlington, Va.: Can you leave a Metro parking lot after the Metro system closes for the night? For example, if I park at the Vienna station on Sunday afternoon and need to leave at 1 am that night, will I be able to? Will the car be towed? Dr. Gridlock: Parking at the Metro lots and garages is free on weekends. You would not have to pay if you park at Vienna on a Sunday and exit at 1 a.m. Monday. Metro has only a couple of places in its system designated for multiple-day parking. I think that's more of a security issue for parkers than anything else. Crystal City, Va.: Just yesterday Google Maps told me to take I-66 from Tyson's to Crystal City. Google might just give you I-66 if you search for directions on weekends. Dr. Gridlock: I just asked Google Maps to get me from Tysons, or Dunn Loring, or Falls Church to DC, and it wouldn't send me on 66. Could it really be smart enough to factor in the rules based on when we're asking for the directions? Kingstowne, Va.: The first question you took, the one about left on red, made me laugh because my experience is that 95 percent of the people on the road have no idea that this is permitted anywhere. I regularly go through two lights in Virginia at the interchange between I-395 and Seminary Road where left on red is permitted, but since there's no sign advising that this is okay, most people don't do it (and beeping the horn doesn't help, since they don't know it's allowed). On the other hand, I find that a lot of people seem not to know that right on red is generally allowed in the District of Columbia. Perhaps people have experienced New York City's law that it's illegal unless a sign allows it, but in any event, I'm never surprised when people just don't budge in DC. Dr. Gridlock: This isn't to disagree with anything you said, but just an extra thought: There's no law that says a driver MUST turn right on red, or left on red, even where it's legal. Sometimes the driver honking from behind can't see something the driver at the light sees and doesn't understand why that driver is waiting. Alexandria, VA: The thing about online mapping services not using I-66 is not unique to those services. My car's sat-nav will not route me onto any HOV lanes or onto any roads that change direction (examples: Canal Road; 17th Street NW north of K Street). I think part of this is because they know some dingbat will blindly follow the directions, get in a wreck or get a ticket, and then sue them. It's also why sat-navs have that annoying nag screen when you start them up. Google Maps will not even let you drag the route onto I-66 (usually it lets you drag the route to a different road if you wish). Dr. Gridlock: My GPS won't put me onto Rock Creek Parkway. (But based on what I've heard from readers who go through the construction, maybe that's not just the reversing lanes. Maybe the GPS has a sense of pity.) Tourist question: So how is a tourist supposed to know that what is legal at home, or even in the states of Virginia and Maryland that he has to drive through to get here, is not allowed in D.C.? Are there signs? Or does D.C. just view this as an opportunity to raise even more revenue from tourists? Dr. Gridlock: Cities sometimes have tighter traffic rules, because they have more motorists and more pedestrians. The previous commenter noted the restrictions in NYC. Flirting with Disaster: Being a pedestrian in the District, I've come to the unscientific conclusion that the most aggressive drivers for those of us who walk are our friends from the Commonwealth of Virginia. To go along with this unscientific conclusion, I have a theory as to why that's the case: so many people drive in Virginia because there aren't any sidewalks there. Because there are no sidewalks, Virginia drivers never encounter pedestrians until they come into the District, and then they just don't know what to do with us. When I came up with this theory I stopped getting angry at all the near-misses I have with Virginia drivers....I'm just something they don't normally see in their regular suburban lives. Dr. Gridlock: The Coalition for Smarter Growth recently released a study showing that pedestrians in our suburbs, as well as in the District, are vulnerable. I have heard pedestrian safety advocates discuss the idea that you can't really appreciate the dangers of walking -- and sympathize with the pedestrians -- unless you go out and walk. Woodley Park, DC: I noticed I have a hard time getting google maps to route me onto Rock Creek Parkway...which reverses during rush hour to provide 4 lanes in the peak direction. But my GPS device tells me, during non rush-hours, to keep left of the median when heading north, since that is the PM rush hour route to Calvert Street. Hope people have a little common sense before following those directions blindly. I guess they do since I haven't heard of any head-on's on the parkway. Dr. Gridlock: I get lost a lot. So the Gridspouse gave me a GPS two years ago. One of the first things I had to get used to was ignoring it. There are just times when you have to be looking at the road and not a map screen. (My sister argues with the voice.) Silver Spring, MD: Yesterday afternoon while driving on University Blvd. I was cut off by a car that was weaving in and out of traffic at a fairly high speed and cutting it very close each time. Even if I had gotten his license number, I don't know who I would have reported it to in order for the police to be alerted. Do you know how to report such agressive behavior at the time it is observed? (with cell phones, it is easy if one only knew who to call) Dr. Gridlock: Very dangerous for pedestrians, that University Boulevard. I think you're giving us an illustration of why that is. If you think a driver's behavior is putting you or other people at serious and immediate risk, call 911. Also available for reporting risky behavior is #77, a call that will put you in touch with state police. Undershooting the Platform: Re: The 8 car trains stopping short because the drivers are used to 6-car trains: Seems obvious, but the solution would be to have ALL trains stop at the far end of the platform rather than have the 6's stop on one (earlier) mark, and the 8's on another. Dr. Gridlock: In Sunday's Dr. Gridlock column, I ran letters from two of the four people who wrote in to tell me about Metro trains opening the doors on their car while the car was still in the tunnel outside the Rosslyn Station. While Metro still is investigating these two incidents, it's possible that some train operators are forgetting that they're at the helm of eight car trains, rather than the standard sixes. Actually, that's not a bad idea about having one stopping point for all trains. But I wonder whether some people waiting on platforms would consider that an inconvenience, since the lead car would be up at the very end of the platform. First, I'd like to see if it would work to have a placard in the operator's cab saying "This is an eight-car train" and requiring the operator to announce it at each station (partly to remind the operator). Pedestrian safety: I have to disagree (politely) with "Flirting with Disaster" about why Virginian drivers supposedly are the most dangerous for walkers. If you're ever been in Los Angeles, you'll know that drivers there ALWAYS yield to walkers. It has nothing to do with their own walking experience. It has to do with POLICE ENFORCEMENT of laws requiring cars to always yield to walkers. The police in LA enforce these laws with tickets, the police in DC do not. Dr. Gridlock: That's a good point. We don't have enough enforcement of pedestrian safety laws, and that applies to the pedestrians as well as the motorists. Safet experts often talk about successful programs involving three E's: Education, Engineering and Enforcement. We need them all. washingtonpost.com: Some Near Misses For Those in Rear Of Eight-Car Trains (Post, May 4) Dr. Gridlock: That's the Sunday Dr. Gridlock column, with the letters about the eight car trains opening doors in the tunnel outside Rosslyn. Washington, DC: Hey Dr. Gridlock - you know the intersection of K and 17th in the morning where it becomes a one-way? I see drivers ALL THE TIME attempt to turn right, going north on 17th. Some even make it halfway before they realize their mistake. Usually a pedestrian or a driver will alert them, but shouldn't the signage be more clear? It could be dangerous. Dr. Gridlock: I'm not a big fan of any of the reversible lanes. The easier it is for motorists to goof up, the less I like them. And that's particularly true on city streets, as opposed to the highways. Yes, I do wish the warning signs were more prominent. Sixteenth Street NW is another spot where I see some near hits. Kensington: Construction is being done at the 495/270 interchange at Rockville Pike, but do you know if there is ever any plan to add a sidewalk to the Pike there. I live about a mile north of that interchange and like to bike to points south, but it would require getting on the road there at a pretty dangerous place. Instead, I have to detour. Thanks! Dr. Gridlock: That's the bridge reconstruction project, right? I think what you see now is what you're going to get there. It is a good spot for a sidewalk, though. Washington DC: What's with Metro skipping stops? On a couple of occasions during the evening rush, I've been on the Green line heading toward Greenbelt. Once we were told if we wanted to get off at West Hyattsville, we had to get off at Fort Totten and take the next train because our train wasn't going to stop there. Another time, the train was going to skip Prince Georges Plaza. Both times, the train was packed because it had been a long wait between Green line trains. Really an annoyance! Dr. Gridlock: Metro trains do occasionally skip stops. It can happen if too big a gap has developed between trains and the operations managers need to restore balance to the line. They can't skip a lot of stops, of course, because there are only two tracks on each line, and eventually the train will catch up with the one ahead. Yes, it's annoying -- especially if you're trying to make an appointment, or just don't like to back track after a long day. Alexandria, Va.: You just mentioned that the second span of the Wilson Bridge is likely to open sometime near the end of the month. However, what good will it do if traffic just comes up on the bottleneck for the Telegraph Road interchange construction? Why didn't VDOT just have all of the construction along this stretch of the beltway going at the same time instead of staggering it like they have? What looked like a light at the end of the tunnel when the first span opened, now looks like a never-ending construction zone! Dr. Gridlock: I think the project -- the two bridge spans and the four interchanges -- couldn't get done all at once for financial reasons. It had to be stretched out, with the Telegraph Road interchange reconstruction at the end of the line. Chatham, Va.: Down here in the southern part of Virginia, we have a different reaction to articles like the one on the front page of Washington Post today. The article I'm referring to describes how a shortage of tax dollars for roads in Northern Virginia will cancel several road projects. Many of us down here judge our state senators and delegates by how much money they can siphon from Northern Virginia for our own purposes. When we hear northerners in Virginia complaining about traffic, we know our locally elected officials are doing their job. We're sorry that you're choking on your own smog (well, not that sorry), but were happy that the money keeps flowing south. Dr. Gridlock: The entire state suffers from a lack of money for transportation improvement projects. Certainly, it's easiest to see in Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads, Virginia's golden geese. Do think about the consequences of killing them. Silver Spring, Md.: On the dangerous crossings issue: The intersection of East-West Highway and 16th street is a disaster waiting to happen. Motorists trying to squeeze by on a left-hand turn off of East-West often zoom across the 16th Street crosswalk right in front of pedestrians. And the chute that takes cars from southbound 16th street to westbound East-West is a blind turn that hides a cross walk until the motorist is on top of it. On the other side of the coin, pedestrians trying to get across the roadway really push it on the walk/don't walk light. Dr. Gridlock: Big, wide commuter routes passing through areas with lots of shops, offices, apartments, bus stops and a Metro station. Bad chemistry for safety. Washington DC: Any chance the city will post "no cellphone use" signs? I constantly see drivers on their phones - cruising around circles like Dupont. And nobody blinks when these people are not using a hands free device. Dr. Gridlock: I there are some signs -- not a lot-- but I'll bet most people you see are aware of the law. I see lots of drivers at 17th and L streets NW making left turns into pedestrian-filled crosswalks. They spin the wheel with one hand while using the other to hold their phones. Logan Unit, NW: Dr. G., I thought MPD was supposed to be cracking down on idiot jaywalkers and crazy drivers chasing peds in the xwalks. Beyond the few cops handling traffic in some problem intersections during rush hour (I think they're doing a great job. We need more of them), I never see any police handing out tickets or even stopping people who are doing stupid stuff. And if they are, it doesn't seem they have given out enough to show they are serious. What gives? Was this just a publicity stunt or what? Dr. Gridlock: The periodic Street Smart pedestrian safety campaigns are a good thing, but they shouldn't be the only thing. There's always a press conference, and police go out and ticket and we watch. That's fine. It takes a while to re-educate people. But in the meantime, we need regular enforcement. Silver Spring, MD: Good afternoon, I am going to add the the previous questions about Georgia Ave. Someone asked last week about the milling and paving - part of that has been done. The newest problem is water - it runs out of the manhole covers and the new pavement around University Blvd and has been for quite a while, creating quite the mess. Have you any idea what the heck is going on? It was a nightmare this am. Dr. Gridlock: The State Highway Administration is working with local utilities this week on some utility adjustments along Georgia Avenue between Veirs Mill and Randolph roads. Perhaps that's responsible for the unfortunate flow of water. Other news: The final paving work is supposed to proceed next week. Silver Spring, Md.: We are off to Cape Cod for Memorial Day Weekend. Can you provide us with the best way to get there avoiding 95 as much as possible? Dr. Gridlock: This is my reminder that I need to do a Get There blog entry with some recommended routes for the summer travel season. Please watch this week. I'll do a couple of suggestions on a Cape Cod route. (But keep in mind that many experienced travelers tell me that the time you leave counts a lot more than the route you take. There are no undiscovered short cuts in this busy corridor.) Dr. Gridlock: Thanks all for a very interesting chat, with such a diversity of questions and comments. Let's do it again in two weeks. In the meantime, stay safe out there. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Join live discussions from the Washington Post. Feature topics include national, world and DC area news, politics, elections, campaigns, government policy, tech regulation, travel, entertainment, cars, and real estate.	106.512195	0.609756	0.756098	high	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202737.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/05/02/DI2008050202737.html	Critiquing the Press - washingtonpost.com	2008050519	Re: Why the press turned on Obama: Your paper had an article this morning about why the press "turned on" Obama. I think it missed the point. First, they "turned on" Obama, because they were "pressured" by the Clintons. And it appears the press is so vulnerable to any such concerted pressure. To wit. George Bush did the same kind of pressuring for almost his entire tenure, as in "if you're not with me, you're against me." And it worked. Bush was never "turned on" until the --public-- said they didn't like him -- or his war -- anymore. Second, "turned on" was totally accurate, because that is what the press does all the time. They attack, attack, attack, until they move on to something else juicy. How about deciding it was time to "examine" Obama's record, instead of throwing Obama under the bus, as "turned on" suggests. The business with Wright was a perfect example, while it was a "legitimate" subject, the media's endless coverage has almost destroyed this candidate. washingtonpost.com: Why the Press Turned on Obama (Post, May 5) Howard Kurtz: The press turned on Obama because we were "threatened" by the Clintons? What exactly do you think they did? Vowed to ban us from the Hillary White House? Run negative ads against us? Tell Chelsea not to talk to us anymore? She doesn't talk to us now! No, my argument is that the media greatly intensified their scrutiny of Obama because he's lost three big states in a row; because he's nevertheless the front-runner, and this always happens with front-runners (belatedly, in his case); and because Jeremiah Wright and the "bitter" comments hurt him. Washington: Howard: so the press got tough on Obama. Good. If he can take it, even better. However, when is the press going to get tough on McCain? Yeah, I know, you're going to tell me they're tough, or The Post is tough, etc. But I'm not buying it. I'm sure he's one of your favorites, but DailyKos has an interesting review of videos where McCain says one thing -- you know the old straight talkin' express maverick (isn't that the mainstream media meme?) -- and than on video says he either didn't say it or doesn't remember saying it. Know, that's YouTube video ... the question is why isn't it mainstream media journalism? When are Russert (yes, he has done it a little bit) or the rest of them going to explore the inconsistencies of ol' Maverick McCain? The press can be embarrassed into being tough on Obama, but not McCain? Seems like something's wrong ... seriously, do you think it is because they're in awe of a war hero and afraid someone is going to question their patriotism? Howard Kurtz: I don't think journalists are in awe of McCain (though everyone certainly respects what he went through in Hanoi) or that anyone is going to question our patriotism (lot of reckless motive-assigning in today's chat!). I don't think the press has been particularly hard on McCain in the past two months (though The Post's front-page piece about his temper a couple of weeks ago was hardly a Valentine). I just think he's getting little attention while Hillary and Barack slug it out. But I think that will change once the Democrats finally settle on a nominee. Washington: Lara Logan on the evening news more in Washington! My heart sings! That breathy, earnest voice, that intense, nearly hypnotic gaze into the camera: Two thumbs way up! Howard Kurtz: I'll tell CBS you approve. Anonymous: The new, record low poll numbers for President Bush seemed to elicit no more than a yawn from most media. Fox News, of course, was too busy with wall-to-wall coverage about Rev. Wright (as in leading virtually every news program for days with such stories). With the new low poll numbers, one might think that Sen. McCain would be asked more in what ways his policies would be different from those of President Bush, but the only story in this regard I saw receive much coverage was McCain saying the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina was not handled well (something even Bush probably would agree with, and notably does not represent a real break from any Bush policies). Will McCain not be asked more questions about his differences with Bush until the general election? Howard Kurtz: He'll certainly be asked that again and again -- or asked, as he has been, why he flipped on his earlier opposition to the Bush tax cuts. But the president has been in record-low territory for so long now that it's not huge news if he blips down another couple of points. Everyone takes it as a given that George W. Bush is very unpopular. Minneapolis: Why is the media only concerned with Barack Obama's failure to wear a flag pin? Hillary Clinton and John McCain don't wear them, either. Yet, no one questions their patriotism. Howard Kurtz: I don't question Obama's patriotism, and most of my colleagues don't, either. It was Barack who raised the issue by announcing he'd decided against wearing such a pin because he regarded it as a phony symbol of patriotism. That was a gutsy thing to do, but it has gotten twisted up with false rumors about his refusing to pledge allegiance to the flag, and therefore has popped up in media accounts (and in the ABC debate). I'd be perfectly happy if another word about flag pins wasn't written or spoken for the rest of this campaign. Toronto: Hi Howard -- kudos for last Sunday's focus on the New York Times's Pentagon propaganda story. Why do you think the networks still are silent on this? The comments on Brian Williams's blog are at a boiling point -- I'm surprised NBC hasn't shut it down yet! Howard Kurtz: I only can conclude that the networks are staying away from what would otherwise be a legitimate news story because they are embarrassed about what some of their military analysts did, or because they don't want to give the controversy more prominence. Winnipeg, Canada: When I saw "The Daily Show" mock the press coverage of Jeremiah Wright, comparing his coverage to any number of white preachers with loony views (including Billy Graham) who still have managed to stay in the mainstream. I wondered how I would feel if I were a journalist who had insisted that the Wright story was a big deal. Do you get a sense that your colleagues might be feeling embarrassed by the hullabaloo they helped create, or do they conveniently ignore it when satirists like Jon Stewart skewer them? Howard Kurtz: Jon Stewart is very good at skewering, but I'm not buying the idea that Jeremiah Wright is not a major news story. Obama had a 20-year relationship with the pastor and wrote about him in his book. The videos of Wright's sermons prompted Obama to give a major speech on race. Wright's recent media tour (Moyers, National Press Club) prompted Obama to summon reporters to a press conference so he could denounce the man. Polls show that at least some voters are less likely to vote for the Illinois senator because of his association with Wright. Obama also went on "Today" and "Meet the Press" last week knowing full well that would be Topic A. All of that has made it newsworthy. Having said that, I don't think we need to keep flogging it week after week unless there are new developments. Hong Kong: In Dan Eggen's piece on the White House on Sunday he said: " 'Don't ever underestimate the leverage of the presidency,' said a senior White House official, who requested anonymity in order to speak candidly. 'Many of us here still believe there are a number of things that will get done.' " Why do Post journalists give anonymity for even such motherhood-and-apple-pie sentiments as expressed above? Howard Kurtz: I had the exact same question when I read that. The short answer is "because most White House aides won't speak on the record." It's one thing if an aide is being more candid than he can be on the record, revealing inside information or even deigning to criticize the boss, but that one probably wasn't worth a grant of anonymity. Washington: But the job of the press is to report facts, not "turn on" someone, no matter the justification. Meh. If the press we're focusing on the issues and slamming Obama I'd be impressed, but they're not. They're looking for things to attack Obama on, to make their coverage fair. This is why newspapers are losing readers, and why TV is losing viewers -- the media simply isn't doing a very good job reporting facts. Howard Kurtz: Of course the job of the press isn't to "turn on" any candidates. I think the press was so easy on Obama for more than a year that this more typical level of scrutiny seems like ganging up on him. But I'd add this: Dealing with media criticism, fair or unfair, is part of the pressure of running for president, and the Obama folks, to their credit, haven't complained about it. They do question whether Hillary is receiving a comparable level of scrutiny. The most intense media examination of Clinton took place back when she was cast as the front-runner. Savannah, Ga.: Is the story about the Pentagon connection to the media military experts getting any more traction, or is it just old news? I was really looking for some soul-searching on the part of the organizations that used them. Howard Kurtz: You didn't miss it -- it's just not there. The networks are ducking this one, big time. Durham, N.C.: It was refreshing to read Mallaby's thoughtful column this morning, but I still am appalled at the coverage this issue has received in more traditional news and campaign stories. Obama is a member of a church with a pastor who has some crazy views (views that mostly seem to be more recent than not). This pastor also has a history of community building and even was esteemed enough in his profession and community to be invited to the Clinton White House. Obviously Obama's actions and policies don't match the crazy beliefs of Wright. I found Obama's initial response (denouncing the views, but trying to show respect to a complicated member of his spiritual community) to be grown-up, if not super-smart politically. Meanwhile, John McCain, after years of denouncing the likes of Robertson and Falwell as "agents of intolerance," courts the endorsement of a figure like Hagee (who has some pretty crazy and repugnant ideas himself) -- yet the media still presents McCain as a straight-shooting maverick who breaks with his party in order to stand by his convictions. So is the big problem with the Wright issue his beliefs and the implication that Obama honestly believes what Wright says? Or is the issue how Obama handled it? It's perfectly acceptable for the "maverick" candidate to cynically seek and accept an endorsement from a man he once denounced, but not okay for a candidate to have a sincere reaction to his former pastor? In your esteemed opinion, what is this controversy all about? washingtonpost.com: Wright And Ridiculous (Post, May 5) Howard Kurtz: I don't think Rev. Hagee has received enough media attention. I was surprised to read in Frank Rich's column yesterday that Hagee has called the Catholic Church a "whore" that drinks Jewish blood. The difference in Obama's case is that Wright is not just his pastor, but the man who married him, baptized his children and whose sermons provided the title for his book "The Audacity of Hope." But McCain willingly accepted Hagee's endorsement and should not get some kind of pass. Oviedo, Fla.: Came across a January issue of Time magazine with a story about how Sen Clinton was "over" and other deathwatch words of "wisdom." Here we are approaching mid-May with the same thing being said about North Carolina and Indiana. Is this "she's dead now" chorus impossible to mute? There doesn't seem to be any particular harm in the race going this way, does there? The fact that it isn't all preordained is less canned, less rote than normal. Good. Can't the bloggers and others just wait and watch? Howard Kurtz: Some pundits have been writing Clinton off since she lost Iowa. Somehow she refuses to stay dead. Now, it's true that as we get closer to the end of the primaries, the math works against Hillary and the only way she can catch Obama is to persuade enough superdelegates to in effect overturn his lead among pledged delegates. But we should have learned by now about the danger of premature obituaries. Brooklyn, N.Y.: Any word on how the new Fox Business channel is doing? I haven't heard anything about it since it launched. And if it proves to be a flop, will Fox cancel the channel? Howard Kurtz: I have no doubt that Fox will stick with it for at least a couple of years. At the moment Fox is refusing to release its Nielsen ratings; when some early numbers leaked out, it was averaging about 11,000 viewers. I doubt Fox Business ever will catch CNBC, but it's too early to say it's not a viable channel. McCain Went After Hagee's Endorsement: McCain didn't just "accept" Hagee's endorsement, as you wrote. He actively courted it! Now he's distancing himself from the man's statements, but won't distance himself from the man who made them. This is a clear media double-standard and it says more about the media's treatment of race, than it does about anything else, I fear. Howard Kurtz: You are right that John McCain actively sought the endorsement. Arugula: Howie, how does a comment from last summer move so quickly from Michelle Malkin to the cover of Newsweek (and sadly, your second paragraph today)? And what should a candidate speaking to arugula farmers talk about? The price of Kit Kat bars? Howard Kurtz: He was at an Iowa farm last year -- not speaking to lettuce farmers -- when he said "anybody gone into Whole Foods lately and see what they charge for arugula?" That became shorthand for Obama's supposed inability to connect with beer-drinking lunch-bucket Democrats. I did notice that in Indiana last week Obama announced to a group of workers that "I'll have a Bud." As a candidate, you are what you imbibe, I guess. Kettering, Ohio: So you were only 34th on the list. Just wait until next year, when the swimsuit phase is part of the competition! washingtonpost.com: The most influential US political pundits: 40-31 (The Telegraph, May 2) Howard Kurtz: I'll start working on my abs now, just in case. Atlanta: Howard, speaking of "The Daily Show," is their demographic really the 18-25 crowd? I'm 50 and I watch everyday. So do all my friends in their 40s. I think the 18- to 25-year-olds who watch would have to be really well-informed, because Stewart (and Colbert as well) make all kinds of jokes about politics and politicians from 20 to 30 years ago. My age group "gets" the gags -- that's when we grew up. You really think the 18- to 25-year-olds get all those jokes? Howard Kurtz: I think people of all ages enjoy "The Daily Show," but that among the 18-25-year-old set it practically has a cult following. But the notion that young people "get their news" from Stewart and Colbert is just wrong. As both of them have told me-- and as ought to be quite obvious -- if you didn't follow the news you wouldn't get most of the jokes, which are based on riffing off the news. Alexandria, Va.: Didn't you oversell how hostile the Newsweek cover story was on Obama? It seemed to me to be a lot of hand-wringing over how Obama somehow is running not just against the Republicans, but every historical demon from McCarthy to George Wallace. And didn't it read like an editorial instead of a "news" magazine article? Howard Kurtz: I didn't say it was hostile, but it certainly wasn't a wet kiss. Beyond the arugula cover image, the story described how many people see Obama as strange and aloof. You wouldn't be reading that, in my view, if he had won Ohio or Pennsylvania. We do tend to cast winning candidates as geniuses with a common touch and losing candidates as out-of-touch klutzes. Minneapolis: You touch on it in your piece today, but I was wondering if you'd care to give more of your thoughts on what Clinton said to Stephanopoulos during the town hall about how she and George opposed NAFTA in the White House "back when he wasn't an objective journalist." It seems to me that she made George a part of the story when she did that. Should journalists ask him if this is true, or what he thought her opinion was at the time? It seems to me that she put him in a very tough position with that comment. Howard Kurtz: I don't think the main point is whether Stephanopoulos privately opposed NAFTA or not -- Hillary was there, she should know -- but that she was reminding the audience that he was a Clinton partisan at a moment when he was trying his best to be a fair interviewer. So it came off as a real jab. Apparently they had their share of clashes in the White House, according to George's own book. Boulder, Colo.: Hi Howard, in your April 30 column, you wrote: "Has Barack Obama been swift-boated?" Yours is the first reference I remember in the mainstream media to "swift-boating" by Democrats. Until now the stylebook seems to have defined "swift-boating" as any unfair, damaging attack by Republicans. Likewise, "Willie Horton" has come to mean Republicans playing the race card against Democrats. Should the press use media-created pejoratives as shorthand for actual reporting, particularly when the references have no agreed upon definition? The issue of Willie Horton was first raised by Al Gore, not Republicans. The "swift-boat" issues raised about Kerry are still regarded by most Republican voters as reasonable political speech. washingtonpost.com: Collateral Damage (Post, April 30) Howard Kurtz: I never have regarded the term swift-boat as meaning attacks by Republicans against Democrats. It means attacks of dubious accuracy from a questionable source. The actual Swift Boat Veterans may or may not have been Republicans; they were a bunch of guys who couldn't stand John Kerry and were determined to torpedo his candidacy. Somerdale, N.J.: Howie, is it true that Arianna Huffington has been disinvited from MSNBC because she criticizes Tim Russert? I read that she was supposed to go on "Morning Joe" and "Countdown," but her invitation was canceled. Howard Kurtz: That's what Arianna Huffington says; I don't know if she was booked on those programs or not. I had seen her with Keith Olbermann and Dan Abrams, so it's a bit surprising if she's not on now. Fortunately for her, she's been able to promote her book on CNN, "Good Morning America" and elsewhere. Reston, Va.: I often see stories in which the only real action verb is this phrase "raises questions." This can be about a candidates judgment, experience, electability, etc. Unless there are other people raising the questions, this is just lazy journalism at best, and propaganda at worst. I don't think this should count if the person raising the question is the person writing the story. Howard Kurtz: Sometimes other folks -- rival campaigns, political operatives -- actually are raising questions. And sometimes it's a fig leaf in which media outlets themselves are the ones pushing the story line. Kingstowne, Va.: Obama didn't seem to get many Wright questions on his rounds this morning, and CNN even declared themselves a "Wright-free zone." Might it be overdone that the media are somehow frying Obama now? Howard Kurtz: The day before a primary, interviews with a candidate tend to revolve around the horse race -- but in this case it may also reflect a feeling that the Wright story played itself out last week (or at least that Obama was just going to repeat what he's already said about the reverend). Whether the Wright story slides to the back burner may depend on whether Rev. Jeremiah decides he already has had his 15 minutes. Minneapolis: Why is arugula considered elite? You can go down to Applebee's or the Olive Garden and get arugula in their salads right now. It seems to me that the notion of arugula as this inaccessible, elitist lettuce is wholly made up in the first place! Howard Kurtz: I think part of the problem is that there isn't a Whole Foods in Iowa. It's just symbolism, like when John Kerry ordered a cheesesteak with Swiss cheese in Philly, or when George Bush the elder asked for a splash of coffee. I mean, aren't there plenty of affluent, elite people who also drink beer? But symbols -- especially local symbols -- matter in presidential campaigns. Hey, Atlanta: I'm in the 18-25 age group and I get jokes based on things that happened in the past. That seems a little snobbish -- you would understand a joke about FDR, wouldn't you? Howard Kurtz: FDR? Sure. And that Warren Harding was a real knee-slapper! My point wasn't that younger people wouldn't understand jokes involving events before their time, it was that they wouldn't understand Stewart or Colbert joking about current events if they were completely disconnected from the news. On that weighty note, thanks for the chat, folks. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Post media columnist Howard Kurtz discusses the press.	494.333333	0.777778	1.222222	high	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/04/21/DI2008042102222.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/04/21/DI2008042102222.html	Career Track Live - washingtonpost.com	2008050519	The Washington area is a magnet for smart and ambitious workers. Post columnist Mary Ellen Slayter writes a regular column for these professionals who are either establishing their careers or are looking to advance. She also offers advice online. Mary Ellen Slayter is author of Career Track, a biweekly column in The Washington Post's Jobs section. She focuses her chat on issues affecting working professionals. Read Mary Ellen's latest Career Track column. Find more career-related news and advice in our Jobs section. Submit questions and comments before and during the discussion. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Washington Post columnist Mary Ellen Slayter advises workers -- just starting out and experienced -- on how to climb the corporate ladder.	6.608696	0.521739	1.130435	low	low	abstractive
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/celebritology/2008/05/lost_dueling_analysis_somethin.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://blog.washingtonpost.com/celebritology/2008/05/lost_dueling_analysis_somethin.html	'Lost' Dueling Analysis: Something Nice Back Home	2008050519	In which fellow "Lost"-obsessed over-analyzer Jen Chaney and I pick apart the latest episode of what is truly the best show on TV (now that "Rock of Love" is in hiatus). Liz: A slow moving episode, but important, I'd say, as pinpointing the genesis of Jack's descent into addiction, general nuttiness and (we can assume) what shall henceforth be known as "the bearded era." Where are we in this mini-arc, Jen -- episode three out of five? It's all starting to run together. Jen: That was just episode two out of five, hour two out of six since the finale is a two-hour extravaganza. I didn't find it slow-moving, actually, although I understand the tendency to see it that way after last week's shootapalooza. I thought we got back on track -- this was more like a "Lost" episode I recognize rather than an installment of "Benjamin Linus and the Temple of Randomness, Which Happens to Be Hidden Behind a Secret Door." Started out as an episode for the Jaters, and ended on the side of the Skaters, didn't it? Liz: Jaters, Skaters, Haters, whatever. Ben was nowhere to be seen this week -- along with Sayid, Locke and island time Hurley. And is flash forward Kate a happy housewife or are we missing some reference to her post-island career? Jen: That's a good point. We don't know what she does for a living, other than keep promises to Sawyer. And we'll get back to them (Locke, Ben, etc.) next week, since it will be a Locke-centric episode. And a doozy from what it sounds like. And Christian Shephard -- who also popped up tonight -- will be on board as well. Liz: Right, Christian Shephard, who suddenly seems to be taking quite an interest in his grandson. Jen: And also still wearing sneakers with a suit when Jack sees him. He had on a different outfit when Claire saw him. But maybe we should start by talking about Hurley. Dude, I don't think he's crazy. Liz: I don't think he's crazy, either, man, but he's having a hard time handling reality. More importantly, for this episode, he delivered a message from Charlie to Jack. A message, we assume, regarding who should (or shouldn't) be raising young Aaron. Are we to believe that dead Charlie and dead Christian Shephard are in cahoots (I know how you love that word), or are they manifestations of the same entity? Much more after the jump... Jen: After last week's Hurley comment -- "Australia is the key to the whole game" -- and this week's -- "We're all dead. We never got off the island" -- I am starting to think we will understand what is going on by simply believing everything Hurley says. Liz: Right. I thought that statement by Hurley and Rose's bit about people getting better, not sicker, on the island were ways for the writers to address lingering questions without really addressing them. We know you're out there wondering about this and we'll acknowledge your concern. But don't look to us for answers. Yet. Jen: It hadn't occurred to me that Christian and Charlie are the same entity. I wonder about that message. The obvious interpretation is that it means Jack shouldn't raise Aaron. But raise can have more than one meaning. I also wondered if it meant he shouldn't raise people -- perhaps his father? -- from the dead. Liz: Are you going to play the religious card again here? If so, I'm going to light some candles. Jen: Well, in that conference call a couple of weeks ago, LindeCuse did tell all the reporters they should keep reading the Bible to understand the show. But no, I'm not going to get all religiousy on you. Liz: Good question -- though would that be a metaphorical way of describing Jack having visions of his dad? Because it sounded like Charlie predicted Jack would get a visit from Christian. So those would be opposing messages. I'm going to assume the message was meant to shake Jack's confidence in his presence in Aaron's life. And that was further shaken by Kate's doing "something" for Sawyer. Jen: Yeah, they are in contrast. Maybe it does simply mean Aaron and obvious is the way to go here. We know from Claire's psychic that it's very important for her to nurture the boy. Am I the only one just heartbroken every time I see poor Aaron without his mother? And when he walked in on Jack saying Kate's not even related to him, I just wanted to hug him. Which also means Jack does know Claire is his sister, but when and how he found out is unclear. Maybe the island doesn't want Kate to be with Jack. The island is a Skater! Liz: Or, a Jack-iet. A Jacket. Jen: I'm thinking we won't be coining a new phrase with that one. Especially since that relationship is more like an excerpt from The Surgery Channel. Liz: Speaking of which -- that was a straight up homage to "Master and Commander" -- the scene in which Dr. Stephen Maturin directs the removal of a bullet from his guts via mirror. Same exact set up. Jen: Whatever Kate is doing -- including errands for Sawyer, it clearly involved her wearing diaphanous shirts. Good "M and C" pull. I also appreciated the reference back to the pilot, when Kate sewed up Jack. When Kate walked in and saw Juliet playing that role, it clearly impacted her. Liz: Yes, not to mention Juliet's jarring admission of a Jack kiss. What was she getting at, do you think? Does she really like Jack that much? Jen: I think Juliet does care for Jack. But I also think she recognizes Kate is the woman he really loves. Liz: To change the subject, what of Charlotte and her Korean fluency? Jen: Yeah, that was wacky. I will say I picked up on the vibes between her and Daniel several episodes ago and was happy that situation was finally acknowledged. Charlotte clearly has done some traveling, so perhaps she had to learn Korean at some point? Liz: Perhaps, she certainly seems to be a renaissance woman. Though I have to say I never picked up on the Faraday/Charlotte vibe before. I wonder if the feeling is mutual or if the knowledge of Daniel's crush will just become another weapon in Charlotte's arsenal? Next point: Keany and several of his men are still alive. Is the smoke monster slipping? Jen: That's a great question. Smokey was less than thorough. I will say that others have escaped the monster before -- remember Locke did -- so it's not out of the realm that Keany and co. got away. I want to note something about the time frame: Jack picked up the newspaper and -- in keeping with the Yankees/Red Sox thread -- saw that the Yankees swept the Sox in a five-game series. Which means the flash-forward was August 2006. So Aaron should be about two. I wonder why he was playing with a Millennium Falcon at that age. That's what Jack tripped over in the kitchen early in the episode, another nice shout-out to "Star Wars." Liz: Right -- noticed that, too. But I can see a two-year-old playing with that. He might not get the reference, but he would recognize the nice loud noise it made when bashed into the refrigerator door. Liz: But one more point re: Jack. Why would seeing his pops send him off the deep end? After all he's been through at this point -- the crash, the Others, smoke monsters, time warps -- would hallucinating really send him running for the drugs? Jen: It might. He saw his dad shortly after arriving on the island, and discovered his empty coffin. He chalked that up to a hallucination, I guess. Now here dad is again, as Jack is trying to push down any guilt he is surely feeling about leaving people on the island. And if he knows Christian is Aaron's grandfather, that's got to add to his doubt about raising the child. Speaking of, I liked the "Alice in Wonderland" reference when Jack was reading to Aaron. It was nice to tie that back to "Through the Looking Glass," the same of last season's finale. They really did a lovely job of keeping those threads nice and tight, even if there wasn't a lot of Dharma/sci-fi/time travel mumbo jumbo to dissect. Liz: So, is Claire gone or will we see her again before season's end? Jen: Good question. I suspect Claire will return, at least for the finale. Liz: Earlier in the day before Claire disappeared, she mentioned that she'd been seeing things and chalked it up to her being in the Others camp explosion. I'm wondering what she saw since she seemed genuinely surprised to see her dad. If she'd been seeing flashes of him all day, she'd hardly have that reaction. Jen: Right. She supposedly had a vision in last week's episode that wound up being cut for time. So unfortunately we don't know what she saw. Liz: Bernard, who it must be mentioned, was a dentist before the crash. Hence his fitness for administering lidocaine and such. Jen: Bernard told Jack he should be dreaming of "Something Nice Back Home," which happens to be the title of the episode. That, coupled with Hurley's suggestion that raising Aaron with Kate was a form of heaven for Jack, makes me wonder whether Jack was dreaming some of this. I am inclined to think not, but both of those comments are worth thinking about. Jen: I also want to note Jin's instructions to Charlotte. Liz: Yes, why Charlotte? Because she speaks Korean? Jen: He told her to make sure Sun gets on the helicopter, which starts to paint a picture of why he might not be around off-island. It almost seems like he intends to stay behind or knows he is going to die or something. I think the Korean thing makes a difference. He speaks some English but not a lot. And he needed to make sure the person he told would understand. Liz: What of Miles and his desire to hold baby Aaron. Anything there or was he just being a friendly guy? Jen: Oh, I am glad you mentioned that. I am sure someone will enhance the audio on the moment just before Rousseau and Karl were discovered -- which I also want to touch on -- but I got the sense he was having flashes that went beyond just discovering their bodies. Like he knew the baby was in danger, potentially. Although why he would let Claire take off with Christian is sort of a mystery. And we certainly know for sure now that Rousseau and Karl are dead. That was a pretty creepy moment. Liz: But his allowing Claire to wander off with Christian could be the island manifesting its will again, no? If Christian is some kind of agent of the island force, I'm sure it could disable any feelings Miles might have about questioning the logic of Claire wandering off into the jungle at 3 a.m. with a tall man who looks like a refugee from daytime soaps. Jen: He's not a refugee from daytime soaps. That dude was in "Full Metal Jacket," dang it. Let's close with a couple of screencap notes I just found: One, Jack does not have a scar from his appendix surgery off-island. See here. Liz: Well, I can vouch for the fact that Juliet cut him. And cut him good. That was g-r-o-s-s. Jen: Second: His back tattoo says R E, if I am reading that right. I have no clue what that means. Let's hope some of our smart readers have some solid guesses. And that was awesome slicing. This is why they are on at 10 p.m. now. Liz: Hmmm, R E I'm coming up blank. It also kind of looks like a Star Trek logo or a compass heading. So, next week: Cabin Fever -- Locke is enlightened as to the whereabouts of Jacob's cabin, and life aboard the freighter becomes perilous. Jen: And that means our new best friend, Desmond, is back! Liz: Yay, Des. And, umm, sorry I won't be around at 2 p.m. ET for the chat. But I'll be there in spirit. So if you see me sitting somewhere in the middle distance, don't be alarmed. By Liz \| May 2, 2008; 10:42 AM ET \| Category: Lost Previous: Morning Mix: Report -- Mariah Carey Marries Nick Cannon \| Next: Morning Mix: Lindsay Lohan Begins 'Ugly Betty' Taping Keep up with the latest Celebritology scoops with an easy-to-use widget. If you have tips, ideas for stories or general suggestions, let us know. Posted by: dave \| May 2, 2008 10:51 AM I think the Red Sox/Yankees newspaper article was from August 2007 - not 2006. Posted by: Tara \| May 2, 2008 11:09 AM What do you guys think of Doc Jensen's Claire is a ghost theory? It sounds possible.... And lots of Ghost Christian Shepard... Posted by: PC \| May 2, 2008 11:12 AM Per Kate and "what she does"... Um - if Sayid wasn't kidding in his episode flash forwards, it sounds like the Oceanic 6 got massive settlements. Perhaps she doesn't have to "do" anything at all. Posted by: Chasmosaur \| May 2, 2008 11:12 AM Posted by: Sully \| May 2, 2008 11:14 AM Here's my question: Hurley said to Jack, by way of explanation for his "We're all dead" theory, "I was happy too, at first." What was Hurley's 'heaven' and how did he go from being happy (and visiting Sun in Korea) to ending up in a mental hospital? Posted by: JEGS \| May 2, 2008 11:25 AM It's spelled (and pronounced quite clearly on last night's show) "Keamy" not Keany. Posted by: Stella \| May 2, 2008 11:29 AM Who was Kate talking on the phone with? Could it have been Sawyer? Posted by: Vicky \| May 2, 2008 11:31 AM "We're all dead" is a shout out to people with discredited theories. Posted by: \| May 2, 2008 11:35 AM No - it was August 2006. I'm a Sox fan, those games are ever so painfully etched in my memory. I try to forget, but I can't. I thought it was weird that Jack's appendix scar wasn't visible off the island too... very strange. Posted by: U street girl \| May 2, 2008 11:37 AM JEGS, maybe Hurley was happy before he started seeing dead Charlie. From that point on he hasn't seemed to be doing well. Posted by: cb \| May 2, 2008 11:39 AM i think hurley was happy until charlie started visiting him. my first reaction when i saw jack's back tat is that it's someone's initials. i'll bet the island heals jack in a hurry, which is why he doesn't have any scar from his appendectomy. anybody notice a scar from where kate stitched him up in the first or second episode? Posted by: b \| May 2, 2008 11:40 AM I think the back tat might say 'R S', not E. Am I the only who thinks that? not that RS makes any more sense than RE. Although, S for Sawyer? I always hoped he & Jack, those crazy kids, would work it out. Posted by: different liz \| May 2, 2008 11:45 AM What were the initials on Naomi's bracelet? Wasn't it R something? Posted by: Courtney \| May 2, 2008 11:47 AM Posted by: \| May 2, 2008 11:49 AM The thing I noticed - or wondered about - was why Jack didn't look happy when Kate accepted his marriage proposal. He just look teary-eyed and resigned. Perhaps he just wanted to be Aaron's father more than Kate's husband. IMHO Posted by: BeachGirl \| May 2, 2008 11:52 AM Re post-island careers: Don't you think the Oceanic Six got massive settlements? I mean, those golden passes could hardly be their only compensation (and hush money). My guess is that they're all set for life (and Kate has even more, as she would have Aaron's share too). The only one we've seen working is Jack, and that's just because he wouldn't know what to do with himself if he weren't fixing people, right? Saayid isn't playing hitman for money -- he's working with/for Ben for his own reasons (revenge, guilt, whatever else). Posted by: jane \| May 2, 2008 11:53 AM ok, he does still have a scar. You can see it (faintly) in these pictures (if I can get this to work). If it doesn't, go to losteastereggs.blogspot.com & scroll down to 'Jack's Scar'. But given the conditions he had his surgery in, that scar healed up really nicely! A lot nicer than my appendectomy scar. Posted by: different liz \| May 2, 2008 11:55 AM I'm going to take Hurley at his word. They are dead. So, what we're seeing in the flashforwards is not necessarily reality. Perhaps the Oceanic 6 are experiencing a kind of (un)consciousness, but they're not truly conscious. As with dreams, some are pleasant, some are not. I tend to think that a lot of these sequences have a dream-like quality to them. Things just don't add up. Kate's trial; Jack's descent; Hurley's visions; Sayid's loyalty. Posted by: pano \| May 2, 2008 11:55 AM claire's toast. last time she disappeared it set up a majore plot turn. i think the same is going on. where ever she is, she's going to change the direction of the story when she leaves. and if that's the case, and "austrailia is the key to the game", maybe the show is really all about jack and claire, not penny and des? Posted by: los angeles \| May 2, 2008 12:00 PM I thought it said RS and it looks like the South arrow from a compass. Is there another Shepard (Robert or Rebecca) who died? What does Kate have to do for Sawyer? Does it have to do with his daughter? Does she figure out that she knew the mom? Posted by: \| May 2, 2008 12:01 PM I agree with U Street Girl about it being August 06, but as a Yankees fan, I have it etched in my brain, and the hard drive on my computer, and a couple dvds I made to commemorate the event. I thought the initals were R.S., too. It looks the symbol in the middle had a 7 in it. The "we're all dead" statement kind of brought me back to Anthony Cooper's "A little to hot for heaven" quote. It really looks like they're trying to make up for the Season 3 snafus by giving us an awesome season 4. I end every episode with a "Whoa..." Posted by: VaYankeeGirl \| May 2, 2008 12:03 PM Regarding the Red Sox, it was August 2007 per http://www.boston.com/sports/columnists/wilbur/2008/05/02/game_time/. Plus, the columnist makes a good point that Aaron would be about 3 years old at that time and certainly looked 3 in the ep last night. Posted by: 1buj \| May 2, 2008 12:08 PM Jack's tatoo: RS - Red Sox? I don't know: but here's a good screenshot of it: http://bp1.blogger.com/_Hxnvg45zlCw/SBqNfki_uoI/AAAAAAAAA4M/JQTGKV 3YIao/s1600-h/back+tat.jpg Posted by: U street girl \| May 2, 2008 12:09 PM I thought this was a "meh" episode. Though I did find it interesting that after the gamechanging ep of last week, they threw us a very old school, season 1 type episode: interesting reveals in the flashbacks/forwards; mysterious island doings; Claire disappearing (again!). Poor Hurley. Of all those we know of from the flashbacks, Hurley is the only one who was innocent/a good person before the crash, and yet of them all, he now seems to be paying the price for all of them. And what does it say about Jack that pre-crash and post-rescue he is a miserable, paranoid control freak, but on the island he seems to have found some calm? I think the reason he is so freaked about his dad is because he can't be sure it is not real. He saw the empty coffin after the crash and then saw his dad walking into the jungle. As an empiricist, not having that definite closure (my father is dead) has to be maddening. Posted by: BDL \| May 2, 2008 12:13 PM Ok, the Sox were swept buy the Yankees in August 2007, but it wasn't nearly as devastating as when they were swept in 5 games in 2006. I can tell by that screenshot that the fine print says it was a 3 game sweep, not a 5 game sweep - which was in 2006. So yes, date is August 2007. Though, deductive reasoning would think that being "bludgeoned" would be the 5 game sweep in 2006 which killed the Sox's season. I mean, it wasn't that devastating in 2007, they won the freaking World Series. Posted by: U street girl \| May 2, 2008 12:16 PM Re: Kate's phone conversation. What was the name of Sawyer's "baby mama"? Wasn't it Noreen? He could have asked Kate to help her and his child. And Kate knows her already... Just a thought. Posted by: oceana \| May 2, 2008 12:17 PM losteastereggs.blogspot.com has the image of the paper blown up, and a google search finds the same text in a NYT article dated August 31, 2007. Posted by: \| May 2, 2008 12:21 PM Lostpedia gives the date as August 31, 2007 but notes that the paper "may be simply a prop, and may not be canon". I'm inclined to agree, especially since the newspaper in the bearded Jack ffw puts that in April 2007, even though it has to be after this ffw. Posted by: julia \| May 2, 2008 12:27 PM I do like that Miles is now playing the same pain in the a$$ to Sawyer that Sawyer played to everyone else. And I do so enjoy seeing Sawyer get annoyed by it. Not nearly so charming as you think, eh James? Posted by: BDL \| May 2, 2008 12:31 PM I think Kate works, because they have a nanny with apparently set hours. I don't think Christian is a ghost because Miles behaves/reacts differently when he's "seeing dead people." I think he let Claire (who's not a ghost either) run off in the dead of night because he doesn't care about the survivors and he wanted to screw Sawyer. Good catch on the mercs having survived Smokey. I didn't even realize that - I was too busy worrying about Sawyer/Claire/Aaron. Speaking of Smokey, I think all the dead people (and Kate's horse) being seen on the island are somehow solid manifestations of Smokey. It is somehow able to read minds (as it did with Eko) and create physical representations of what it sees there. Something similar could be at work off-island (temporarily given independence, a la The Doctor on Star Trek Voyager) when Christian or Charlie appears. Posted by: fft5305 \| May 2, 2008 12:33 PM the tatoo is not an R, its a K. It says K 8, or Kate! Posted by: Meredith \| May 2, 2008 12:34 PM FYI-My husband has had our baby girl playing with a Millenium Falcon since just about the time she could sit up, so I don't think the MF is anyway to date the flash forward. Although, this probably says more about my husband than anything else, ha ha. Posted by: tl \| May 2, 2008 12:35 PM Also, we don't know how many mercs started out from the ship for sure, so we may have just seen the survivors (with one not surviving so well), and not the whole bunch. Posted by: Joe from VA \| May 2, 2008 12:47 PM Lostpedia gives the date as August 31, 2007 but notes that the paper "may be simply a prop, and may not be canon". I'm inclined to agree, especially since the newspaper in the bearded Jack ffw puts that in April 2007, even though it has to be after this ffw. ______________________________________ well is it possible that Jack got better after the bearded phase and this is after that? he could be relapsing? Posted by: \| May 2, 2008 12:48 PM Looks like future Kate has decided to give up pants! Is there a message there? Posted by: so... \| May 2, 2008 12:50 PM "Re: Kate's phone conversation. What was the name of Sawyer's "baby mama"? Wasn't it Noreen? He could have asked Kate to help her and his child. And Kate knows her already... Just a thought. Posted by: oceana \| May 2, 2008 12:17 PM " Good catch! I don't remember her name either, but it's certain she's the only person Sawyer would care about. Don't forget- he didn't die, according to Jack he decided to stay behind. Posted by: PIT \| May 2, 2008 12:52 PM I really don't think that Jack saying Kate isn't related to Aaron implies he knows he is Claire's sister. Also I found it very interesting that Kate was able to communicate with Sawyer over the telephone. If in the future they have gotten to the point where communication to and from the island is that simple, then I gotta think that Sawyer and the rest of the gang back on the island are definitely there because they want to be there. Or is Sawyer secretly off the island the way Michael once was? Posted by: ARM \| May 2, 2008 12:53 PM I think Sawyer's baby momma was named Cassidy, or something similar. Also, Kate was saying something about "being able to stay for an hour," which makes me think that she was talking to someone locally, not Sawyer on the island. I'm guessing if the-powers-that-be wanted the O6 to pretend they are the only survivors, they wouldn't give Kate the phone number to Sawyer's bunkhouse for afternoon chats. Posted by: \| May 2, 2008 12:56 PM So... did anybody else notice that Jack, in the flash-forward at the beginning of the episode, has a completely smooth chest, like it had been recently shaved? Could this whole flash-forward sequence be a dream or hallucination he experienced when he was knocked out for the surgery? (After all, didn't one of the other characters--Juliette or Bernard--tell him "dream of something nice" when they put him under?). I also noticed that the producers/writers seem to be giving the audience some wink-winks--first Bernard's wife saying something like "it can't be a coincidence that Jack gets a life-threatening illness right before we're supposed to get rescued [because it's a necessity for the plot, wink wink] and Hurley telling Jack "we're all dead!" (which was one of the initial theories about this show). Posted by: John B. \| May 2, 2008 1:01 PM "well is it possible that Jack got better after the bearded phase and this is after that? he could be relapsing?" It seems unlikely, because this episode seemed set up to explain Jack's descent into crazy bearded Jack. Posted by: julia \| May 2, 2008 1:07 PM I'd guess Kate got a nanny when going through thru the trial. Maybe Kate doesn't have a job at all. I know there's gotta be plenty of moms that don't work outside the home yet still have nannies because they can. Posted by: Bored @ work \| May 2, 2008 1:08 PM Good Call John B. I hadn't thought of that Posted by: Whoa \| May 2, 2008 1:09 PM Just a curious thought from one of the previous episodes... When Charlie came to visit Hurley at the mental hospital, who was busy with his painting/coloring activity...it was one of the other patients that pointed out to Hurley that someone was watching/looking at him that made him look up to see Charlie standing there causing him to freak out... If Charlie is really dead, his ghost/spirit (whatever) can be seen by anyone????? Posted by: perplexed \| May 2, 2008 1:10 PM jack might have fantasized a life with kate while being unconscious, but i don't think he would have fantasized kate raising aaron. it's an interesting idea, but i don't think that part makes much sense. Posted by: anony \| May 2, 2008 1:12 PM ::It's spelled (and pronounced quite clearly on last night's show) "Keamy" not Keany.:: Thank you! This has been bugging me since last week's recap when Liz/Jen kept insisting on calling him Keany. Posted by: \| May 2, 2008 1:16 PM Did anyone catch the artwork on Kate's refrigerator? There were cut outs of a shark and butterflies. The butterflies looked just like the ones that were on the wall in the activity room of the Mental Hospital where we see the meeting between Hurley and Abbadon. The shark reminded me of the drawings on the chalkboard in that room as well. Just thought it was interesting... Posted by: \| May 2, 2008 1:19 PM The Sawyer-Claire-Kate thing is simple. Sawyer is still on the island with Claire (they're moving towards a relationship between them anyways). The favor Sawyer is asking is for Kate to keep taking care of Aaron for Claire. Next, everyone on the freighter is putting on an act. Lapidus led Keamy and Crew to the Losties so they could see Miles convince them to keep moving (to earn the Losties' trust). Miles wants to snatch Claire's baby (I haven't resolved that part yet, but he's just biding his time). Posted by: Please \| May 2, 2008 1:40 PM BDL - Great point about Miles becoming Sawyer's Sawyer. SULLY - You're not dumb. That poster last week was weird. my first question : Kate's horse ?? Did I miss something?? Posted by: camis \| May 2, 2008 1:40 PM The Sawyer-Claire-Kate thing is simple. Sawyer is still on the island with Claire (they're moving towards a relationship between them anyways). The favor Sawyer is asking is for Kate to keep taking care of Aaron for Claire. Posted by: Please \| May 2, 2008 1:40 PM This doesn't make much sense since she's already been watching him for almost 3 years & everyone in the outside world either thinks he's Kate's child or she's his legal guardian there wouldn't be any reason for Sawyer to ask her to 'keep taking care of him'. What's she going to do? Put him on the curb? Also, if Miles wanted to snatch Aaron he easily could have done that while Sawyer was sleeping. He saw Clair leave so he could have just followed her. Posted by: jes \| May 2, 2008 1:44 PM "Looks like future Kate has decided to give up pants! Is there a message there? Posted by: so... \| May 2, 2008 12:50 PM" I was so annoyed by that- I'm not a prude either, just so sick of her "come hither" looks to Jack. Also annoyed that she continues looping Sawyer into that annoying 3-way relationship. Ugggh- I actually said out loud, "make up your mind woman"! I did enjoy the Sun/Jin/Charlotte/Farraday trek to the medical station and Jin calling Charlotte out on understanding Korean. I found his instructions interesting- it makes me wonder as I did during the ep "Ji Yeon" whether or not he is dead in the future. I think he will choose to stay behind. Posted by: plamar1031 \| May 2, 2008 1:52 PM I think Jin's telling Charlotte to make sure Sun gets off the island is his way of making sure she'll be safe. Farraday has admitted the freighter isnt' there for the losties so everyone knows deep down rescue is iffy. Jin wants to make sure that if only everyone doesn't get save then at least Sun will. Posted by: jes \| May 2, 2008 1:57 PM "Also I found it very interesting that Kate was able to communicate with Sawyer over the telephone" Posted by: ARM \| May 2, 2008 12:53 PM Although she told Jack that she was doing something she promised Sawyer, I don't think Kate was actually talking to him. That is another thing annoyed the crud out of me- if she was simply doing a task or favor for Sawyer who is still on the island, why couldn't she tell Jack what was going on. Posted by: plamar1031 \| May 2, 2008 2:01 PM When Juliet was waking Jack at the beginning of the show I thought there was 2 time periods, the first as if she was trying to wake bearded Jack up an the second was the present time. Maybe Juliet gets off the island and tries to help Jack Posted by: adam \| May 2, 2008 2:26 PM People with faith are healed. People without faith get appendicitis. Posted by: \| May 2, 2008 2:48 PM WOW! I can't believe everyone has missed this, but I thought the Kate contact with Sawyer in the flash forward went back to the very FIRST flash forward of last year, when Jack went to a bad part of town for a funeral and we never saw who was in the COFFIN. Then, this season they give us the Oceanic 6 and Aaron is one of them. But Aaron wasn't born when the plane went down, so maybe it's trickery. Maybe SAWYER is the last of the Six and he's in the coffin. Remember: When Jack asked if she was going to the funeral service, Kate said: "Why would I go see HIM?" Posted by: rickNmd \| May 2, 2008 3:23 PM Jack assumed - or jumped to the conclusion - that the smoke detector went off because of low batteries; we don't have to make the same assumption. Far more likely that the ghost of Dr. Christian Shepherd is somehow manifested by Smokey - as is probably Tall Walt, Ghost Charlie, Kate's big black horse, and Sayid's cat. Posted by: Jean \| May 2, 2008 3:36 PM I am the smoke monster, beware. I will eat you all. Prove me wrong. Posted by: really \| May 2, 2008 3:40 PM I don't think we can accurately assume that everytime Kate uses a masculine pronoun ("HE" "HIM") she is referring to Sawyer. There are lots of men on this show. I don't think Sawyer is in the coffin. And the O6 have been confirmed--Aaron is one of them. Let's just take that at face value for now. Posted by: \| May 2, 2008 3:45 PM Not only are there lots of men in the show, there are a few in America too. Posted by: \| May 2, 2008 3:52 PM rickNmd -- Maybe, but I can't imagine why Kate wouldn't go to Sawyer's funeral, even if they had some kind of falling out post-island. Or why Jack would say (in last night's episode) that Sawyer chose to stay on the island. Jean -- The smoke detector didn't go off, it just chirped periodically. If you press the "test" button on your detector, you'll see (well, hear) that there's no confusing "going off" with a low-battery chirp. Posted by: jane \| May 2, 2008 3:52 PM I agree with previous poster that Jin was trying to ensure Sun's safety by pushing for Charlotte to take her off the island. Don't forget that, unlike everyone else, Sun only has a few weeks before she is predicted to get sick and die, if Juliet is telling the truth about pregnant women. So while Jin and others can wait for rescue, he can't afford for Sun to miss any opportunity to get off. Although, when I first learned Charlotte could speak Korean, I immediately thought maybe she was hired by Sun's father. Don't forget that he too is a rich and evil man, and I've read speculation about a possible connection with him and Widmore. Posted by: watcher \| May 2, 2008 4:43 PM For my money, the future of this show lies in the characters who have "father issues." Maybe the reason no one is mentioning this idea is b/c it is too obvious. All of the following characters have father issues: Jack, Claire, Sawyer, Kate, Hurley, Locke, Sun, Jin, Ben, and Penny. Now Aaron, Sun's son, and Sawyer's son will have them, too. (I've probably forgotten others who suffer from "daddy deeds.") As much as I like Desmond, Michael, and Sayid as characters, they don't have father issues, and may end up secondary characters. Recently on LostPedia Lindelof or Cuse reminded viewers to read their Bible if they want clues to the future of the show. That said, Jacob is the father of the 12 tribes of Israel. Of his 12 sons, only one, Ben, has an eponymous counterpart in "Lost." (Interestingly, if I remember the Bible correctly, Jesus, eventually comes from the tribe of Ben, and, since Lindelof/Cuse like literary references, Renaissance writer Ben Jonson often referred to a group of fellow writers as the Tribe of Ben.) So, I'm watching Ben Linus VERY closely. I can't help but feel that Jacob (who has appeared in the guise of Christian Shepherd, the key father figure on this show) and some twist on the biblical Jacob will help form where Lindelof/Cuse plan to take things. I'm not bright enough to see that path. Perhaps some of you in this discussion group have ideas along this line, and I'd love to read your opinions. Posted by: HarryMerkin \| May 2, 2008 4:59 PM Interesting theory. Walt has father issues too, of course. The biblical angle is also intriguing. I've never known what to make of Aaron's connection, though last week's episode really made me think of (biblical) Aaron's brother, Moses. Didn't Sawyer put Aaron in a woven basket at one point? (And this week, he finds Aaron abandoned, lying in a blanket in a tree.) Moses's mother put him in a basket and put it in a river, where another woman found him and raised him as her own. Hmm. Posted by: jane \| May 2, 2008 5:13 PM Good show, especially for those few of us who do like the Jack/Kate story line : - ) That said, I too got a little irritated when Kate found it almost impossible to tell Jack what the substance of the phone call she was having because it had something to do with her doing something for Sawyer. Why couldn't she simply tell Jack? Was it because she knew any mention of Sawyer would set Jack off? Wait, I think I just answered my own question because that's exactly what happened. Yet, if that's the case, we will need to see more as to why Jack still feels threatened by Sawyer for Kate's affection, if that is his issue. I'm pretty sure Kate wasn't talking to Sawyer himself though as some above speculated. I agree that Jin, in his discussion with Charlotte (I thought her Korean was pretty good unless they dubbed it in), was simply trying to ensure that Sun at least got off the island. I think it's quite clear to the Losties that the freightor people don't have their best interests in mind. Good thoughts above about the show continuing to focus on those folks with father issues. Next week's show featuring the trip to the cabin and possibly meeting Jacob will likely go along way to fleshing out this idea. Good use of the original freightor people this week. They had been side-lined for the most part the last couple weeks. Finally, Sully, I hope that strange poster from last week didn't turn you off to this chat forum. I do like hearing your thoughts. Posted by: emcdoj \| May 2, 2008 5:50 PM Jesus was of the tribe of David, not Benjamin - that was why Joseph and Mary were in Bethlehem, "the city of David," for the Roman-ordered census when Jesus was born. Posted by: dc-native \| May 2, 2008 6:24 PM "Master and Commander"? Please. Robert DeNiro removed a bullet from his side while Jean Reno held the mirror a few years earlier in "Ronin." Oh, wait. Maybe "Ronin" was doing an homage to the book, which was decades earlier. I take it back. Posted by: DeNiro et Reno \| May 2, 2008 6:43 PM I think the O6 are, for the most part, resigned to the fact that once they had left the island there was no way they could get back. Each of them deals with this is different ways: Sun focuses on raising her child; Sayid on revenge; Jack on delusion; etc. So, as others have said, the post-island triangle of Sawyer-Kate-Jack must go deeper than what we've seen. I think Jack is just trying to act like he can move on. But, he can't because he knows fate will catch up to him. And, we know this because of how last season ended. He goes from avoidance to trying to get back to the island by flying weekends to Sydney. Anyhow...I agree...Sully needs to come back...much better at this than I am... Posted by: pano \| May 2, 2008 6:58 PM correction: "David" is not a Tribe of Israel. It's true Jesus' geneology was traced back to King David in the New Testament, but David is of the tribe of Benjamin. Posted by: to dc-native \| May 2, 2008 9:19 PM Sorry, actually I confused King David who was from the Tribe of Judah with his predecessor, King Saul who was from the Tribe of Benjamin. Posted by: to dc-native \| May 2, 2008 9:25 PM the tatoo is not an R, its a K. It says K 8, or Kate! Posted by: Meredith \| May 2, 2008 12:34 PM Nooooo! It's not K8. Jack isn't a Tween Texting Twt! Posted by: 98102 \| May 2, 2008 9:28 PM Jack assumed - or jumped to the conclusion - that the smoke detector went off because of low batteries; we don't have to make the same assumption. Far more likely that the ghost of Dr. Christian Shepherd is somehow manifested by Smokey - as is probably Tall Walt, Ghost Charlie, Kate's big black horse, and Sayid's cat. Posted by: Jean \| May 2, 2008 3:36 PM I think this was a great catch. No, the smoke detector wasn't going off, but I think the fact that the smoke detector is what led Jack to Christian is probably a clue that Smokey is somehow involved in the "ghosts" all the Losties have seen. Not sure how Smokey can be appearing off island, but I think this was a good catch for a clue. Posted by: 98102 \| May 2, 2008 9:32 PM OK, West Coaster here just getting around to reading the chat transcript... Jen, totally agree that the kiss is going to be between Claire and Charlie. Hopefully with all the "dead people" coming back and Jacob in the picture we'll get some answers on where the ghosts are coming from. I also think Claire is not going to survive the season. So I definitely for a Claire and Charlie reuniting in the afterlife scene. Especially since she really didn't get any "grieving" scenes when he died. Posted by: 98102 \| May 2, 2008 10:10 PM I, for one, thought that there was absolutely no passion between Jack and Kate. Their kissing scenes seemed very forced. Not like when they kissed in the beginning of Lost. Also, neither seemed really happy at the thought of marrying each other. Like they are just doing it because they don't know what the hell else to do. Kate really wants Sawyer, and she can't have him, so she's settling for Jack. For everyone trying to figure out what Jack's tattoos mean, they probably don't mean anything - apparently he got them during his "Party of Five" days. Maybe the island is Purgatory. Posted by: Georgetown \| May 2, 2008 11:25 PM Watching last night's episode, I now can't help but wonder if when Jack says to Kate in last season's finale, "We have to go back!" that it isn't somehow related to taking Aaron back to the island. After Hurley told Jack that he's not supposed to raise "him" it just sparked that little theory. With Claire missing -- but maybe not dead -- Jack and Kate probably thought it would be best to take Aaron with them when they left the island. Just a thought. Posted by: srm1138 \| May 3, 2008 1:10 AM I'm focusing on one thing from the show, Jack's lack of a scar from the surgery. They went to great lengths to give us a shot of his abdomen, and no scar. So there are only three possibilities: 1) It was a dream. 2) Is was actually a flashback. 3) The surgery is a dream. I'm leaning toward (1) but as another poster noted, why would he dream Kate was raising Aaron, unless that flash forward was also a dream. I'm sorry, but this episode was probably one of the most confusing to draw conclusions from. Why did smokey leave Keamy and some of his men alive? And where was Ben? I'll just wait for next week and hope things clear up a little, but for now its totally possible the whole show was just Jack having a bad dream, or dreaming within a dream, or drwaming within a dream within a ... oh man I love this show! Posted by: Sully \| May 3, 2008 9:18 AM Welcome back Sully. I don't know about it being a dream but you are right. The scar, or lack there of in the flashforward, is probably signficant. Maybe it's just the healing qualities of the island as someone posted but, if that's so, why did Jack suffer the burst appendix in the first place? Posted by: emcdoj \| May 3, 2008 10:32 AM What about the fire alarm going off as being being a sign of Christian being there as a force of the electromagnetic properties of the island? Maybe his being there drained them to signal Jack to come to the waiting room (yet another double term). Posted by: Jan Lopez \| May 3, 2008 11:38 AM Check out these screencaps... Jack does have a scar, albeit a faint one. I find it hard to believe his incision would have healed so cleanly under the conditions but then again, the island has healing powers, right? Posted by: For Sully, other scar naysayers... \| May 3, 2008 1:10 PM **********************************************************This is a beautiful woman from New York. i am just in the beginning of my career and want to find a rich man, maybe to be my sugar daddy. so i uploaded my hot and even photos on****http://www.sugarmatchmaker.com. under the name Michle4184, maybe you want to check out my photos firstlyï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ï¼ Posted by: rosa \| May 3, 2008 3:13 PM is there no moderator on this site anymore ?? about jack asking kate to marry him: seems like he did this right after hurley warned him that he wasn't supposed to be "raising him" (supposedly that was a reference to aaron). the feeling i got was that jack keeps thinking he can "tempt the fates" as it were - control things despite all signs - and he thinks that by marrying kate he can lock in his place as the man who is will raise aaron. He certainly didn't seem to be very focused on or happy about the idea of actually marrying kate. something feels mutually "convenient" about their marriage plan, don't know what yet. she seems secretive and selifish as usual, he seems scared. sully - glad yer back. Posted by: camis \| May 3, 2008 3:27 PM The lack - or dimness - of the scar shouldn't be a surprise, given they're on Super Healing Island of Recuperation. Posted by: Heef \| May 3, 2008 3:56 PM First of all, you two absolutely cannot address each other as "dude". It's really unseemly. And the sports page could come from any year. The Yankees always sweep the Red Sox when it matters most. That's why the newspaper was a red herring. I buried Paul. Posted by: Dave on Demand \| May 3, 2008 4:09 PM That particular article is from 2007. The headline is different, but the text of the article (and Jack's comment about A-Rod) are clearly only applicable to what happened in 2007 ("...finishing off the Red Sox, 5-0, yesterday behind Chien-Ming Wang"). See what a little thought and research can accomplish? You too can sound as bright as a non-Yankee fan! And the Yankees always sweep the Red Sox when it matters most? You mean, like, in the 2004 ALCS, right? Or maybe you mean 2007, when that game happened... I'll go do some more research to see who won the World Series that year... back in a flash with that tidbit. Yankee homers: dumb since 1927. Posted by: Nobody actually demands Dave \| May 3, 2008 6:39 PM Posted by: \| May 3, 2008 9:13 PM Three years allows a long time for a scar to fade, no matter how ugly it was at the start. I think they did a good job with it. Posted by: jane \| May 4, 2008 3:42 PM When Jack was in court at Kate's trial, didn't he say that 8 people survived? The tattoo seems to say R8. Maybe it's related to that. Posted by: Liz \| May 4, 2008 4:21 PM You mean like "There R8 survivors" -- ? that would be cool. I'm still confused about whether there are 6 or 8, though. Has the show given us a definitive answer about that ? Posted by: Camis \| May 4, 2008 11:09 PM Yea, the scar is there, though very faint. I had surgery 5 years ago and it took about 2 years for my scar, using "scar cream" to heal that well. Maybe they have lots of aloe on the island. Ok, so its a flash forward. I think Jack is looking for a normal life. Marrying Kate would give him that, but as you could see after he asked her, he had doubts by the look on his face. As someone else pointed out, the Kate-Jack-Sawyer triangle must be pretty significant, but I'm not sure why it would drive Jack to grow hair, drink and take pills. I mean, he can do better than Kate! As for the Red Sox angle, I'm starting to think that we'll learn that the powers being used by the Widmore people are manipulating things like who wins baseball games in order to make millions, or maybe Steinbrenner is one of Them. Didn't Tom live in NYC? Anyway, if Jack was to learn that the Sox kept loosing due to Widmore, he might be as mad as Sayid and work with Ben too. I mean, loosing the love of your life compares to your team loosing due to supernatural powers. It gets the blood up. As for the ghosts, Hurley is bothered by Charlie, Jack and Claire are bothered by Christian, which makes since since he is the father of them both, Eko was bothered by his brother. Remember Ben saying that there is a box and whatever you wish for will appear in the box. He later said it was a metaphor, but it seems clear Ben can make things appear, like Locke's dad. So why not Jack, Kate, Hurley and others making things appear on the island, though not consciously? If its a real thing, like Locke's dad or Kate's horse, its is transported there. If its dead, like Charlie, Eko's brother or Jack's dad, it appears but ghostly. I think it is significant, as another poster noted, that another inmate told Hurley there was a guy watching him that turned out to be Charlie. But I'm not convinced they are really ghosts and not manifestations created by these people that others can also see. Imaging that you pretend to be talking to a long dead relative, but that relative then appears in front of you and can be seen by others. It does not mean the apparition was a ghost, just your manifesting the person. Miles sees Christian with the baby, which Claire dreamed and woke up to. The inmate sees Charlie that Hurley imagined, but I don't think the security cameras in the convenience store saw Charlie, which sent Hurley running out of the store and then on a high speed chase. And it seems you don't need the island to make these things happen since its happening off island as well. That leads me to Jacob, the ultimate manifestation. Ben conjoured him up and Locke could see him in the cabin. That freaked Ben out. Jacob would be like Ben's imaginary friend, that the island has manifested into a ghostly reality. But like dreams, they cannot be controlled. Posted by: Sully \| May 5, 2008 9:32 AM moderators? what are you, fascists? Posted by: \| May 5, 2008 10:47 AM I just read the chat this morning. (Couldn't watch the episode until the weekend and did not want spoilers) Anyway the big kiss- Hurley and Locke. Why do you think Hurley always chooses to go with Locke and not Jack? He has a big crush on him! And now he is in the mental institution because he misses Locke so much! Joke - for those sacastically challenged. Posted by: DW \| May 5, 2008 11:06 AM Merkin -- Desmond has father issues with Penny's father, Widmore. Michael has father issues -- his fathering of Walt. Not only was he a long distance father, but when he finally picks up Walt, they get stranded on an island and then Walt is kidnapped. The only Oceanic survivor whose father issues have not been developed (as far as I can rememeber) is Sayid. Anyone have any thoughts about that? Posted by: Scandibaby \| May 5, 2008 2:27 PM Thanks, Scandibaby. I told you in my original post I'd probably forget one or two. Also, to correct my original post about folks w/ "pater problems," I know Sawyer's child is a girl. Don't know why I typed "son" in my original post. Why is it I never find a mistake until I press the "submit" button or until the 10th copy comes out of the Xerox machine? Posted by: HarryMerkin \| May 5, 2008 2:56 PM Whether that smoke alarm "chirped" or "went off", it would have been interesting to know whether the female doctor passing by even heard it - as she clearly did not see Dr. Christian Shepherd walking the corridor. I still think it's an imbedded "clue" that ghosts are Smokey manifestations. As someone else hinted - it's probably also "electromagnetically" connected since I think Ben once saw the ghost of his mother near the electric "fence" (she was just on the outside of it and he was approaching it). Posted by: Jean \| May 5, 2008 4:24 PM Camis - yes, there are 6 who get off the island, but I meant that in Kate's trial, Jack told his made up story of how only 8 people survived the plane crash. That is when Kate said something like "you've told that story so many times, you seem to believe it". So I meant that the tattoo could be the fictitious 8. Posted by: Liz \| May 5, 2008 5:02 PM Does anyone know why this latest episode isn't on iTunes yet? Posted by: Teri \| May 5, 2008 6:57 PM Does anyone know if the tattoos that we're discussing are actually just Matthew Fox's real tattoos? I'm pretty sure the ones down the inside of his arm are real and Bai Ling only gave him part of the shoulder tattoo, the other part is MF's in real life... On a completely different note, I think it's really interesting that Ghost Christian Shepherd wears different clothes depending on who sees him. Jack always always sees him in a suit (his Going to Work Outfit?) and Claire saw him in a more casual shirt (his Going to See My Illegitamite Daughter Shirt?). Posted by: 98102 \| May 5, 2008 9:13 PM what if Kate wasn't doing something for Sawyer, what if she was doing something for Ben? He's already got Michael and Sayid doing his bidding, maybe he'll get his hook's into Kate as well..... Posted by: clueless \| May 5, 2008 11:41 PM Clueless, you may be on to something. It has been bugging me why Kate felt she couldn't tell Jack that she was doing something for Sawyer off-island, let alone tell him what it was she was doing. I think it would bother Jack even more if he knew she was doing something for Ben and perhaps Kate knew that, thus explaining her reluctance to tell Jack. In any event, it's an intriguing theory. Posted by: emcdoj \| May 6, 2008 6:10 AM 98102 wrote: "On a completely different note, I think it's really interesting that Ghost Christian Shepherd wears different clothes depending on who sees him." Good observation. It jives with my idea that these appearances of Christian Shepard are not real but only imagined, but they are more than just imaginary, the imagined Christian can be seen by others as well. Also, Hurley, up to this point on the island, seems to be holding his own. He's shouting people down, making decisions. But in the flash forwards he is in the institution, humbled, scared. I don't think running into Charlie at the convenience store alone did this to him. Since it seems the O6 will be rescued soon, I think something bad is about to happen to Hurley at the cabin or when they leave the island. Something that makes him feel helpless and questioning what is real and what is not. I'm worried for Hurley this Thursday. Posted by: Sully \| May 6, 2008 8:20 AM Don't worry, Hurley isn't real. Posted by: freaks \| May 6, 2008 12:43 PM Man I am late in responding this week... I agree about both Jack and Kate not looking too excited about their engagement. Could it be because of convenience? It seems that all of them are having a difficult time being labeled and recognized everywhere...Maybe Jack and Kate feel like this is as good as it will get. You would have to think that it would be hard to really relate to people who hadn't gone through that whole experience... And Sully, people are jerks. I like your opinions and ideas! :-) Posted by: Ohyouknow \| May 6, 2008 12:51 PM Re Jack's tattoos - didn't Jack get a tattoo from Claire in Australia before the island? They crossed paths without knowing they are related or that they are about to share the same wacky adventure on that goofy island. the tattoos could be seen as a physical manifestation of the interconnection between them. kinda like the ghosts being physical manifestations of the conscious and subconcious struggles of the characters - lots of unresolved conflicts, lots of manifestations that represent these conflicts and, perhaps, remind the characters they still have work to do. Inter-connection. Dharma. Gotta deal with it or it will continue to eat away at you one way or another until you finally face it. That may be too lofty for the tattoos - but my point is that they represent the connection between Jack and Claire. ... unless I'm wrong about Claire giving Jack the tatoos - which would be highly embarrassing at this point.... Posted by: camis \| May 6, 2008 1:50 PM a few thoughts . . . i was reminded of the movie jacob's ladder (i believe this has been mentioned in weeks past) where tim robbins(?) character "dreams" of his future after vietnam. the dream isn't very happy and in the end he's still on the OR table in nam. but, that seems to work better for a movie than a multi-season show. the timeline has become harder and harder to follow . . . accurately anyway. i'm not certain that bearded jack is after asking kate to marry him. it could be a relapse as someone pointed out above. when jack goes to see hurley the first time (in the gym at the hospital) hurley says something to the effect of jack having "cleaned up" and jack mentioning something about being back at work. am i way off here? my memory ain't what it used to be. so, did jack freak out, calm down, find some comfort in being with kate/aaron and then freak out again? i seem to recall jack having anxieties (and a serious drinking problem) before his first marriage. i don't think that jack knows that claire is his half sister . . . yet. i think that ghost/smoke-christian will let him in on that one. perhaps christian is telling claire that same stuff right now. the jin/charolotte portion was interesting. i don't think charolotte cares about farrady at all. but now she knows he likes her, which gives her a leg up on him. also, i think that jin may do something bad in order to get sun off of the island. just a thought. as for farrady, he seemed to show a little more backbone in this episode when he tells charolotte that her attitude isn't helping. couldn't agree more. she's a total b. and she may be working for sun's old man. good lord, this show is something else. Posted by: Lost in Mpls \| May 6, 2008 2:03 PM thanks for the circle jerk guys Posted by: Sully \| May 6, 2008 5:41 PM Some thoughts . . . . bearded Jack is AFTER the proposal which explains why Kate is reluctant to meet up with him, but I think it's relatively shortly after. He seems to start his dependance on pills during last week's ep Hurley starts HIS downfall next week after an encounter with Jacob's shack. He is happy top be off-island but when Charlie starts to show up, so does Abbodon(sp) and then it all unravels. Remember, he is involved in a car chase after seeing Charlie in the store which probably leads to him going to the ward Sawyer definately is on the island, not dead or in relatively frequent contact with Kate. It has to be the mother of his kid, whose name also escapes me. Sawyer has asked Kate to watch over his kin, so to speak . . . but I do like the idea that Kate could be working for Ben, as prevoiusly mentioned Posted by: isledweller \| May 6, 2008 6:11 PM Camis wrote: "Re Jack's tattoos - didn't Jack get a tattoo from Claire in Australia before the island? They crossed paths without knowing they are related or that they are about to share the same wacky adventure on that goofy island." hmm, did he? I know he got one from Bai Ling, but Claire? I don't remember that part... Posted by: \| May 7, 2008 12:12 AM oh man, I'm getting loster and loster. I thought it was Claire doing the tattos - who is Bai Ling ? Posted by: camis \| May 7, 2008 12:34 AM oh- the actress who played the woman Jack had a fling with - the one who warned him that the tattooo would get him in trouble. right? Posted by: camis \| May 7, 2008 2:02 PM Ok finally got to see the ep last night. Pretty good but I can't believe nobody picked up on the line of the night...when they're in the medical station and Charlotte says "Where do they get the power for all this stuff?" For me anyway that seems to be one of the biggest mysteries of the island...where is all this power coming from and how is it that nobody has discovered it's source yet?? Posted by: Da Plane Da Plane \| May 8, 2008 12:31 PM Da Plane, I also found that a key line. Good catch...It is interesting how the Losties haven't really bothered to question one of the biggest mysteries that is in constant play... Posted by: Ohyouknow \| May 8, 2008 12:41 PM Posted by: camis \| May 8, 2008 10:09 PM I am trying to draw on this biblical theme. Is Jacob actually God and can take on the shape of anything or anyone, like Christian Shepard, for example? Is Ben a disciple, Aaron- Jesus? How would Locke fit into that theory? I think Claire will play a big role, maybe in this theme somehow. Posted by: kc \| May 9, 2008 9:10 AM I thought this episode was a homage to the late Aaron Spelling. I'd like to call it Lost 90210. Could there be more drama??? Juliette's confession to Kate, Jack's marriage proposal, Kate's little secrets, Jack's jealousy scene - which show am I watching, anyway? It seems like not only are all survivors dead, per Hurley's assertion, but all the writers are, too. Who wrote this episode - temps? Posted by: Alina \| May 16, 2008 12:55 PM We encourage users to analyze, comment on and even challenge washingtonpost.com's articles, blogs, reviews and multimedia features. User reviews and comments that include profanity or personal attacks or other inappropriate comments or material will be removed from the site. Additionally, entries that are unsigned or contain "signatures" by someone other than the actual author will be removed. Finally, we will take steps to block users who violate any of our posting standards, terms of use or privacy policies or any other policies governing this site. Please review the full rules governing commentaries and discussions.	Washingtonpost.com blogger Liz Kelly dishes on the latest happenings in entertainment, celebrity, and Hollywood news.	761.944444	0.5	0.722222	high	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050203432.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050203432.html	Reports Fault U.N. Watchdog Unit	2008050519	The management culture in the investigations division has been so dysfunctional, the author of one of the reviews wrote last summer, that the division should be shut down and replaced. "A command and control, fear-inducing, top-down management style served as the basis for day-to-day operations" in the investigations division, Erling Grimstad, a former Norwegian prosecutor, wrote in a confidential June 2007 review commissioned by the head of the Office of Internal Oversight Services, of which the investigations division is a part. "There was an almost obsessive focus on confidentiality and a lack of transparency . . . which gave people outside . . . the impression that it was being directed as an intelligence service" that instilled a "culture of fear and insecurity," Grimstad's report said. His report and another by Michel Girodo, a Canadian management consultant, which were obtained by The Washington Post, were critical of the U.N.'s former top investigator, Barbara Dixon, an American lawyer who ran the unit from 1995 to 2006, and the agency's Vienna-based deputy director, Mark Gough of Australia. As Gough resigned last month, he told his staff in an e-mail that he disagreed with planned changes, according to a U.N. official. Dixon responded that the reports are riddled with inaccuracies that raise questions about their "credibility." Karl Paschke, a German national who hired Dixon in 1995 to lead the division, said he had the "highest regard" for her performance. "That does not sound as if they are talking about the Barbara Dixon that I know," he said. The Office of Internal Oversight Services was created in 1994 to investigate corruption, fraud and other violations of U.N. rules. It includes an audit unit and an investigations division, which came under criticism in the reports for failing to uncover corruption. In 2004, the division exonerated a U.N. procurement official, Sanjay Bahel, who was under suspicion of steering tens of millions of dollars in contracts to an Indian state company, according to U.N. documents. But a procurement task force, established in 2006, reinvestigated him, leading to his conviction this year for bribery. The findings of Grimstad and Girodo were first reported Monday by the BBC. The reports highlight the failure of the investigations division to hold U.N. peacekeepers accountable, Human Rights Watch said Friday in a letter to Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, adding that U.N. investigators "ignored, minimized or shelved" allegations that Indian and Pakistani peacekeepers illegally traded gold, arms and rations with local militias. The two reports "confirmed my own concerns and conclusions: namely that the professional investigators were under very poor leadership in a flawed structure," Inga-Britt Ahlenius, undersecretary general for the internal oversight office, said in an interview with The Post. "The secretiveness and confidentiality of everything really serves us extremely poorly." Girodo's report described a "paramilitary management" culture that discouraged initiative among field investigators and centralized authority in the hands of a few senior officials. "Investigators were not allowed to develop cases on their own, as all major case decisions were made by the Former Director," Grimstad wrote in a 147-page report. "As a result, if the Former Director was not in the office, work processes often came to a halt."	UNITED NATIONS -- The United Nations' internal investigation division has been plagued by leadership that demoralized its investigators and stymied the group's ability to function effectively as an anti-corruption watchdog, according to two confidential U.N. reviews.	15.333333	0.595238	0.97619	low	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050200321.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050519id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050200321.html	Zimbabwe Voting Results Will Force Leadership Runoff	2008050519	HARARE, Zimbabwe, May 2 -- Opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai won more votes than President Robert Mugabe in Zimbabwe's presidential election but not enough to avoid a runoff, according to official results released Friday after a delay of more than a month. The electoral commission said Tsvangirai won 47.9 percent, compared with 43.2 percent for Mugabe. An independent candidate, Simba Makoni, won 8.3 percent. The constitution requires a runoff between the top two candidates if no candidate gets more than 50 percent of the votes. Election officials said they will soon announce a date for the second round, which is required by law to take place within 21 days. Despite Tsvangirai's strong showing and his party's takeover of parliament, the opposition had no clear path to power in this beleaguered nation, where a ruling clique in power since 1980 has shown little interest in stepping aside. Opposition officials, who insist they won the presidential election outright, said they will decide over the weekend whether to participate in a second round of voting that they view as unnecessary. They complained that the results were released improperly and that their concerns about the tallies in several electoral districts were brushed aside. The opposition's own tallies put Tsvangirai's total at 50.3 percent, just enough for a first-round victory. "It's a scandal. It's criminal," opposition spokesman Nelson Chamisa said. "As far as we're concerned, we have won." The delay in releasing the results from the March 29 vote has drawn international criticism, including from other countries in southern Africa, where Mugabe's increasingly destructive rule has rarely been publicly rebuked. The United States and Britain reiterated their concerns Friday. "This isn't a case of better late than never," said State Department spokesman Tom Casey. "That final tally, I think, has rather serious credibility problems, given the inexplicably long delays and some of the post-election irregularities that have occurred." The extra time appears to have suited Mugabe's strategy for hanging on to power. After several initial days of confusion, when some of his closest supporters urged him to step down, the ruling party reasserted control over rural areas with a surge of violence and intimidation. Hundreds of opposition activists were arrested or injured, and thousands were displaced. Many of the top leaders of the Movement for Democratic Change, including Tsvangirai, have been outside the country on diplomatic missions since shortly after the vote. Tsvangirai has said repeatedly that he faces arrest or assault when he returns. As Tsvangirai's party wrangled over whether to boycott the runoff, Mugabe's Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front said it would welcome either another election or an opposition boycott.	HARARE, Zimbabwe, May 2 -- Opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai won more votes than President Robert Mugabe in Zimbabwe's presidential election but not enough to avoid a runoff, according to official results released Friday after a delay of more than a month.	11.347826	1	46	low	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050102902.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050102902.html	How to Spend Your Stimulus Check	2008050219	Starting this week, more than 100 million Americans will receive checks from the federal government as part of a bipartisan initiative to stimulate the economy. Savvy retailers have been promoting special "tax rebate" sales, car discounts, summer trips, and just about everything else that can be pitched, marketed or sold -- all hoping to capitalize on the billions the U.S. Treasury is sending out to qualifying taxpayers. But there's another option for spending the money that represents one of the best ways we can help this nation: Donate it to charitable organizations supporting our troops and their families. This proposal is one that Americans all across the political spectrum should enthusiastically embrace. Many who oppose the war have criticized the Bush administration for not calling on Americans to sacrifice more to assist our men and women in uniform. Well, why wait for the president to ask? Let's just do it. Those who advocated invading Iraq or who support staying there, particularly conservative talk show hosts and commentators, have expressed the need to show our troops that we're behind them. The stimulus checks present a perfect opportunity for citizens, pro-war or not, to give to worthy military- and veteran-related charities -- and to persuade others to do the same. Congregations, civic organizations, fraternities, sororities and other groups could pool their money and adopt a local base, military hospital, Veterans Affairs medical center or homeless shelter for veterans. Now is the time to say, "What can we do to help?" Americans nationwide have contributed time and money, but many of these individuals are themselves veterans or the family members of troops. They give because they are all too familiar with the hardships of military life. It is critical that those of us who are not a part of this community demonstrate our support as well. There are countless ways to help our troops, from sending phone cards and care packages overseas to building homes for disabled veterans and providing scholarships for the children of service members killed in action. The American Institute of Philanthropy, a nonpartisan organization that reports on how efficiently charities dispense their funds, has compiled an excellent list of first-rate nonprofits, including the Fisher House Foundation, Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, Army Emergency Relief, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society and the National Military Family Association. Many others can easily be found online. About the same number of U.S. service members are fighting overseas today as were five years ago, when their heroism was regularly featured in the news. Today, though, when many soldiers, Marines, airmen and sailors are on their third or fourth deployments, and the burden on them and their loved ones has become even greater, our country seems increasingly apathetic about the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. Let's remind our troops and their families, through a surge in giving, that we have not forgotten their sacrifice. If even a tiny percentage of Americans make donations, millions of dollars could be raised. Bumper stickers and lapel pins are not enough. We cannot merely tell these extraordinary men and women how much we owe them for their service. It is time to show them. The writer founded the Legacy Project at http://www.warletters.com and has edited the books "War Letters," "Behind the Lines" and "Operation Homecoming."	Buying a new car or TV may help the economy, but there is a more worthy cause.	33.631579	0.736842	0.947368	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050202794.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050202794.html	Jeremiah Wright's Wider Toll	2008050219	Consider the corrosive effect Wright and others like him have on their communities as they rob thousands of listeners of the American dream: hope that through their hard work they can have better lives. Imagine getting up each morning to go to work in a society that doesn't want you, doesn't respect you and seeks to hold you back. Your spiritual leader has told you this, after all. With powerful rhetoric, Wright has asserted, for instance, that white America sees black women as useful only for their bodies. If this is the message you got from your mentor, would you expect that you could succeed? Would you try very hard, if at all? Through my work with the Illinois governor's task force on human services reform and its efforts to reduce welfare dependency, I have encountered misguided community "leaders" like Wright who tell their followers, for example, that the job market is stacked against them and that the jobs that are available aren't good enough -- that they are entitled to more. The underlying message: You can't win because of who you are, regardless of what you do. I have attended positively focused black church services, and I know that the Rev. Wright does not speak for a monolithic black church. But I also recall a conversation I had during a visit to the maximum-security prison in Joliet, Ill. As I sat in the library there, talking with three men about why they were incarcerated, one man said: "Look around this room -- almost everybody here is black. This is white man's genocide. You put us in here to keep us down." Where would this 20-something black man, or other relatively uneducated young people, get such an idea? From the vitriol spewed by the Rev. Wrights of this world. The black middle class has grown in recent decades, enabling more and more African Americans to move out of cities and into the suburbs. This exodus in pursuit of better schools and crime-free neighborhoods is understandable; in many areas, though, inner cities have been left with a shortage of middle-class role models and community leaders. In the old days, Chicago's South Side, called Bronzeville, was a vibrant community anchored by black doctors, lawyers and businesses. It produced entertainers such as Nat King Cole and Dinah Washington. Today, the South Side is a place where some Chicagoans refuse to venture at night. Productive employment is sorely lacking, and on many streets, drug dealing and loitering still abound. In cities across America, blacks have been left behind in dangerous neighborhoods with poor schools. Often, they must leave their neighborhoods to achieve economic self-sufficiency but face barriers to successful employment. This challenge has not gone unnoticed. Each year the federal government spends hundreds of billions of dollars -- specifically, more than $10,000 per poor person for welfare, Medicaid, the earned-income tax credit, job training and food stamps. Put another way, taxpayers are doing their share. We need to work together to help people move from dependency to self-sufficiency. No one, especially spiritual leaders who ought to be lifting people up, should provide rationales for escaping individual responsibility by encouraging perceived victimization. I have encountered negative messages in many states. A community "leader" in Miami's Overtown neighborhood, for instance, told me that he counseled unemployed people not to work on nearby construction projects because racist employers abused them. Pressed for an example of such abuse, he cited an employer's failure to pay overtime for Saturday work. Two blocks away, more than a dozen homeless men were camped out under a bridge. Yet a man who was supposed to be guiding people was counseling against working. Life isn't fair for people of any skin color. And sadly, in America today, many blacks face barriers such as economic insecurity, scarce jobs and poor schools, which create even higher hurdles for them to overcome. There is no cure-all for this inequity. But the effect that Jeremiah Wright has on Barack Obama's presidential campaign is far less important than the effect of the terrible message that Wright and others like him send to their congregations. Positive thinking isn't going to solve America's race problems. But vitriol will only ensure that our nation's racial divide is sustained. We need to listen to the messages being sent in our communities and ask whether they encourage progress. A positive mind-set is at least a start toward success. The writer was chairman of the Illinois governor's Task Force on Human Services Reform and is the author of "Make a Difference: A Spectacular Breakthrough in the Fight Against Poverty."	Wright's message is more damaging to his followers than it is to Obama.	60.333333	0.866667	0.866667	high	medium	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050202795.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050202795.html	The Art of Folly at Yale	2008050219	"This piece," Shvarts wrote in the Yale Daily News, "is meant to call into question the relationship between form and function as they converge on the body. . . . It creates an ambiguity that isolates the locus of ontology to an act of readership." Horror spread across the Internet. Pro-choice activists, antiabortion activists and pretty much everyone else denounced Shvarts. Eventually, Yale officials said that her "piece" never should have been authorized; they announced that she had faked the miscarriages, and they barred her from exhibiting unless she admitted this in writing and promised not to display human blood. Shvarts defiantly claimed that the self-induced miscarriages were real and showed student journalists a video of her apparently bleeding into a cup. The senior art show closed Thursday, minus her contribution. Yale has taken unspecified "appropriate action" against two faculty members who apparently allowed Shvarts's project. But the damage control smells faintly of hypocrisy. Yale is normally absolutist about academic freedom. If the miscarriages were a hoax, as Yale insists, where was the health danger that officials cited as an argument against the project? Whether Shvarts is telling the truth or, as Yale claims, was simply engaged in bizarre "performance art," the real issue is this: Where did she get such a gruesome, pornographic idea? And who taught her to confuse it with art? Whether a monstrosity or a dishonest provocation, Shvarts's "project" was the reductio ad absurdum -- or ad nauseam -- of ideology and pedagogy that have been standard fare in the humanities at Yale and on many other campuses for years. Her supervisors -- Yale's fall guys -- probably didn't tell her no for the same reason that, in 2003, a New York University professor initially approved a student's proposal to record two students having sex in front of the class. (The NYU administration later nixed it.) The politicized obsession with race, gender and sexuality; the denigration of canonical works by "dead white males"; the callow mocking of convention; the notion that truth itself is merely a construct of power and self-interest -- all characterize the study of art and literature in America's colleges and universities. All were reflected in Shvarts's rationale for her "installation." Among her "conceptual goals," she wrote in the Yale Daily News, was "to assert that often, normative understandings of biological function are a mythology imposed on form. It is this mythology that creates the sexist, racist, ableist, nationalist and homophobic perspective, distinguishing what body parts are 'meant' to do from their physical capability." Shvarts wanted to show that "it is a myth that ovaries and a uterus are 'meant' to birth a child." Yale, of all colleges, never should have been blind-sided by such a stunt. One of the most astute critics of the humanities is on its faculty. Last year, Anthony T. Kronman, the former dean of Yale's law school, published "Education's End: Why Our Colleges and Universities Have Given Up on the Meaning of Life." This superb book traces the historical rise and fall of the humanities, which, Kronman writes, "are not merely in a crisis. They are in danger of becoming a laughingstock, both within the academy and outside it." In the past, Kronman argues, colleges and universities understood that undergraduates were hungry for answers to the Big Question: What is the meaning of life? And schools believed that not only religion but also higher education could help students find them. Humanities departments focused on great works of Western civilization, from Homer to Shakespeare. In short, Kronman writes, they gave their students a four-year seat in the unending "great conversation" of their civilization. But between political correctness and the "publish or perish" ethic of the modern research university, the humanities have lost the desire and the capability to guide students' spiritual quests. Instead, humanities professors stake their authority on an unrelenting critique not just of contemporary society but of meaning itself. Once, humanities teachers cultivated perspective in their young charges; now, many of them instill grievance. The biological function of female reproductive organs can be portrayed as some kind of injustice. Or so Aliza Shvarts learned. What's especially interesting about Kronman is that he writes as a liberal -- an admirer of the civil rights revolution and an unapologetic adherent of secular humanism. He wants students to have an alternative to the soullessness of capitalist commerce and technology on the one hand and fundamentalist religion on the other. But such an alternative is impossible as long as the humanities traffic in nihilism, he argues. Kronman, who also has a doctorate in philosophy, teaches in Yale's directed-studies program, a corner of the university in which students read, discuss and write about great books. It is a credit to Yale that it preserves such an alternative, even if it accepts only 125 students per year. Maybe Yale should admit everyone. The writer is a member of the editorial page staff. His e-mail address islanec@washpost.com.	There's a liberal argument for the study of the classics, but Yale isn't making it.	52.473684	0.842105	1.368421	high	medium	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103763.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103763.html	The Scandal Story With a Most Unhappy Ending	2008050219	Why do we feel so sad? It was a sorry finish to a sordid tale. Had it been a classic literary tragedy, it couldn't have ended any other way. She was a fallen woman, all scarlet-lettered and walking shame, every archetype of female sin and suffering. We didn't feel particularly connected to her. Aside from a few media types, not many people attended her public trial last month, where she was convicted of running a prostitution ring. Everyone had moved on; there were newer and more salacious scandals. Maybe we feel sad because of the gendered irony. The powerful men whose names surfaced in the scandal, the ones who did not appear in the courtroom, who did not have to discuss their menstrual cycles publicly, have all remained unscathed. David Vitter is still that good-looking junior senator from Louisiana. Harlan K. Ullman (creator of "shock and awe") is listed as a senior associate on the Web site of the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Former State Department official Randall L. Tobias, who previously oversaw AIDS relief, promoting abstinence and a policy requiring grant recipients to swear they opposed prostitution, slunk back to Indiana after his resignation. There, he was appointed president of the board of the Indianapolis Airport Authority. The city's mayor said that America "believed in second chances." We anticipated that Palfrey would be sentenced to a few years in prison, do her time quietly and then emerge like Heidi Fleiss, like Lil' Kim, like Martha Stewart, like any number of the bad girls for whom a prison sentence functions as a cleansing ritual, a path back into society's embrace. She wouldn't have had a permanent shunning. There would have been book deals, movies, forgiveness, VIP tickets to charity balls. People can forget almost anything these days. If the voice in Palfrey's head sounded anything like the defense mounted at her trial, she would have been thinking about a lot in the weeks leading up to her sentencing, which was scheduled for July 24. She would have been thinking that she provided a legitimate service -- that college-educated women answered her City Paper ads of their own free will, and that men contacted her of theirs. She would have been thinking that if this was a crime at all, it was surely a victimless one between consenting adults. (Do we feel sad because, deep down, we think that she's right?) Perhaps she was marveling that she was convicted at all. She'd already spent 18 months in prison back in the 1990s for similar charges; she'd told the court back then that her parents "just can't comprehend how my offense could be viewed so harshly." Her likely sentence in this case of four to eight years in jail must have seemed even more dreadful. "I sure as heck am not going to be going to federal prison for one day, let alone, you know, four to eight years," she told ABC News in an interview last year. Maybe she was considering how her death would be analyzed after she was gone, what great meaning would be taken from her existence. Because ultimately Palfrey's death isn't only about feminism or the justice of her sentence or the hypnotic circus of it all. It is also about one woman alone in the shed next to her 76-year-old mother's trailer, deciding that the future seemed too much to bear. Stripped of meaning and analysis and cultural contexts, it's very, very sad.	Deborah Jeane Palfrey, the "D.C. Madam" of intrigue and introspection, committed suicide yesterday. Her mother found her body hanging in the shed on her property in Tarpon Springs, Fla.	19.857143	0.542857	0.771429	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103883.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103883.html	'Iron Man' Shows Strength of Character	2008050219	So it's easy to see why, as "Iron Man" opens, with Downey nursing a Scotch and talking a mile a minute in the back of a Humvee racing through the dunes of Kunar province, Afghanistan, he's greeted with whoops of approval by the audience long before he dons the distinctive red-and-gold metal suit of Tony's superheroic avatar. But those whoops are quickly squelched when "Iron Man" gets down to the business of creation myth, which here is shifted from Cold War-era Vietnam to Bush Doctrine-era Afghanistan. Things go badly awry in Kunar, and for at least a half an hour the film is veritably action-free, as the badly injured Tony is taken prisoner by a provincial warlord who orders him to build a state-of-the-art weapon. Instead Tony, who has been outfitted by a fellow prisoner with a battery-powered device to keep his heart beating, builds a suit out of iron, the better to bust out of the cave and give his swarthy enemies a beat-down. That initial confrontation possesses some requisite cathartic thrills and moments of tough-guy humor (a bullet playfully pinging off of Stark's armor when he's shot at close range), but it turns out to be a false start. The real Iron Man doesn't emerge until Stark is back in California, where he perfects the prototype -- in a series of amusing vignettes involving his robot assistants -- into the sleek flying hood ornament that comic book fans know and love. What's more, Stark has undergone something of a spiritual conversion in the mountains of Afghanistan, having seen his own Stark Industries weapons turned against him. At a hastily convened news conference, he announces that the company is getting out of the weapons business, bringing a shadow of alarm to the face of his business partner, Obadiah Stane (Jeff Bridges). Thenceforward, "Iron Man" sets about the business of proving that plowshares can be as sexy -- or at least as cinematic -- as swords. It succeeds only fitfully. By turns talky, funny, draggy and occasionally pretty cool, "Iron Man" too often gets mired in grim joylessness, especially during the scenes set in Afghanistan (where the story keeps returning). But there's no doubt that, by the time the final showdown ends in a conflagration of overkill and absurdity, yet another Lee creation has proved ready for his close-up. Downey clearly has a ball playing the weapons dealer Stark, best described as a cross between James Bond, Mick Jagger and Howard Hughes (whom Lee reportedly based Stark on). During an early flashback sequence, he's portrayed as a kid in a testosterone-laced candy store, living in a concrete temple to modernism in Malibu, delegating his longtime assistant Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) to dispatch his one-night stands with dry-cleaned clothes and a limo home, partying with his Pentagon liaison Jim Rhodes (Terrence Howard) in a private plane that, after a few drinks, transforms into a flying strip club. Once the guns start going off, "Iron Man" is fueled by so many explosions and sundry ejaculatory ya-yas that watching it is akin to sneaking into a treehouse past a sign saying "No Girls Allowed." But this is where casting Downey was a stroke, if not of Stark genius, then at least of intelligence: Oceans of soul rage and roil behind those melted-chocolate eyes, and perhaps no actor alive better conveys arrogance, weakness, humor and self-awareness by simply being. One of the twists of "Iron Man" is that, unlike comic books in which insecure adolescents come to terms with their burgeoning physical powers, here a powerful, middle-aged man finds strength in vulnerability. It's a psychological balancing act that's right in Downey's wheelhouse, and one can only imagine what he'll make of Stark's dramatic reversals, declines and rebirths in subsequent installments. For now, we have the first one, which suffers from all the expository weight and uneven pacing that bedevil so many origin stories. (As part of the seemingly endless line of comic book adaptations, "Iron Man" often feels like a less innocent and freewheeling "Spider-Man," a more psychologically edgy "Batman" and a slightly creakier older cousin to "X-Men.") Toggling between the Hindu Kush and that fabulous house in the 'Bu, between Stark's impish goatee and Iron Man's full-metal body condom, between so many generic fireballs, kill shots and earsplitting thumps, bumps and crunches, "Iron Man" finally collapses under its own weight (not to mention that of a steroid-infused golem called Iron Monger). It's possible to see a decent franchise in "Iron Man" with Downey at its troubled center; the key is getting rid of the scrap metal. Iron Man (120 minutes, at area theaters) is rated PG-13 for some intense sequences of sci-fi action and violence, and brief suggested sexuality.	It's difficult to imagine a better actor-character fit than that between Robert Downey Jr. and Iron Man, the superhero who, out of all of comic book writer Stan Lee's creations, probably possesses the darkest of dark sides. Like Downey himself, Iron Man, a.k.a. Tony Stark, has addiction issues; like...	15.619048	0.698413	1.047619	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050202218.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050202218.html	Deal Struck on Pakistan Judges	2008050219	"I want to inform the entire nation that on Monday, May 12, 2008, all deposed judges will be restored," former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, of the Pakistan Muslim League-N, said Friday during a televised news conference from Lahore. The announcement came after two days of round-the-clock negotiations in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, that at times exposed the shaky foundation of the political alliance between this country's ruling factions, Sharif's party and the Pakistan People's Party. Sharif had been a fierce advocate of reinstating the judges without conditions as soon as possible. The co-chair of the Pakistan People's Party, Asif Ali Zardari, who was until very recently Sharif's bitter political foe, had pushed for constitutional changes that would spell out the role of the judiciary more clearly but also strip the president of several powers, including the authority to dissolve Parliament. On Friday, Sharif said Supreme Court Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammed Chaudhry and the other deposed judges will be restored to the bench through a parliamentary resolution in 10 days. Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani will then sign an executive order completing the arrangement. Musharraf did not speak out on the judges Friday, and it was unclear how he might respond to an attempt to restore them to the bench. Sharif shared few details of the proposed resolution but said that the day Musharraf removed the judges was "one of the darkest days in Pakistan's history." He also said he had agreed with Zardari's request to allow the current judges to remain on the job, which will expand the number of Supreme Court judges to more than 20. Zardari offered no public comment on the judges Friday. A senior Pakistani government official familiar with the negotiations said the compromise agreement between Sharif and Zardari also calls for setting a five-year limit on judges' tenure, a move that would effectively cut short the chief justice's term by three years. It was unclear why either side would seek term limits. Talks over the restoration of the judges stalled this week after the coalition missed an April 30 deadline to announce a resolution on the issue. Yet members of both parties said Friday that they remain united in support of restoring Pakistan's judiciary. "The coalition government is far more important than a single issue," said Farah Ispahani, a member of Parliament and spokeswoman for the Pakistan People's Party. "We always were in agreement that the justices should be restored. We just had a difference of opinion with Mr. Sharif and his party on how it should be done." The chief justice has been critical of Musharraf and has been especially vocal about the disappearances of hundreds of Pakistanis since the country joined U.S. counterterrorism efforts in 2001. Chaudhry waged an aggressive campaign to force Pakistan's intelligence agencies to disclose the whereabouts of missing terrorism suspects and political prisoners. Musharraf fired Chaudhry in March of last year, but in July the Supreme Court reinstated the chief justice. Four months later, Musharraf fired Chaudhry again and placed him under house arrest after declaring emergency rule. Chaudhry's removal was seen by many as a preemptive strike by Musharraf to head off any legal challenges to his presidency. The power struggle between the two men ignited an unprecedented furor across the country that resulted in widespread protests by lawyers and a wave of violence. Public anger over the state of Pakistan's tattered judiciary in part led to the ouster of Musharraf's party from power in February elections. Gillani, the newly elected prime minister, then ordered Chaudhry's release from house arrest and freed five other judges. Maj. Gen. Rashid Quereshi, Musharraf's top spokesman, said in an interview Friday that the proposed parliamentary resolution will not be sufficient for full restoration of the judges. He said the president's legal advisers and Pakistan's attorney general have determined that a constitutional amendment would be needed to return the judges to the bench. Such an amendment would require a two-thirds majority vote of the National Assembly and Senate combined. Securing that support would be difficult, given that Musharraf's Pakistan Muslim League-Q faction holds a majority in the Senate. Sen. Tariq Azim Khan, chief spokesman for Musharraf's faction, said that his party is prepared to support the judges' reinstatement but that the parliamentary resolution, if passed, would not be "legally binding." The judicial process "has been so bogged down it cannot be changed by a simple parliamentary resolution," he said. "By just putting back a few judges, it will not solve the problem or cure the rot that has set into the judicial system."	ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, May 2 -- The coalition government of Pakistan has agreed to reinstate the country's chief justice and 60 other judges deposed last year under a controversial order by President Pervez Musharraf, a move that could threaten Musharraf's tenuous grip on political power.	17.78	0.78	1.42	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050202193.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/02/AR2008050202193.html	Dalai Lama's Envoys Heading to China	2008050219	The meetings will be the first face-to-face contact between the two sides since talks broke off last summer. Protests in March against Chinese rule in Tibet swelled into a violent uprising, including a deadly riot in the Tibetan capital of Lhasa on March 14. "The envoys will raise the issue of the current crisis in all of the Tibetan areas," said Thubten Samphel, a spokesman for the Dalai Lama's government-in-exile in Dharmsala, India. They will also convey "deep concern over how Chinese leaders handled the crisis and offer suggestions for how peace can be reestablished in the region." Samphel said the talks will not be the opening of formal negotiations, but rather an attempt to see if there is a basis for a meaningful dialogue that could resolve key issues underpinning the decades-long tensions between Tibetans and Beijing. The representatives, Lodi Gyaltsen Gyari and Kelsang Gyaltsen, plan to stay for three days. After intense international pressure to open a dialogue, Chinese officials said April 25 that they would establish contact with the Dalai Lama's envoys, but have said little else about possible talks. Instead, official media have continued an unrelenting campaign of vilifying the Tibetan spiritual leader, who is honored in the West as a man of peace but is accused by Beijing of inciting violence to try to divide the country and sabotage the Summer Olympics in Beijing. State-run Tibet Daily on Saturday accused the Dalai Lama and his followers of a "litany of crimes," including the Lhasa riot. "The Dalai clique launched a bloody violent event -- their last bout of madness," the paper's Web site said. Samphel dismissed the attacks, saying that the Tibetan people "have total trust" in the Dalai Lama and that he has always urged that protests be peaceful. "The very hard-line Chinese policies implemented in Tibet have brought people to protest," Samphel said. The Dalai Lama fled into exile in India in 1959 after a failed attempt to push the Chinese out of Tibet. China's policies, which the Dalai Lama says threaten "cultural genocide" by denying Tibetans freedom of religion and traditional practices, are praised within China for modernizing the region, which has enjoyed strong economic growth. The two sides in recent years engaged in six rounds of talks, which ended last summer, without progress on key issues, including whether the Dalai Lama can ever return to Tibet and what a new Tibetan autonomous region within China would look like. The informal discussions come as a team of 50 Olympic torchbearers and support staff were nearing the summit of Mount Everest in Tibet, the most controversial leg of the global torch relay. News from the mountain has been tightly controlled and the small group of journalists accompanying the journey was not told exactly how close the climbers were to the summit.	World news headlines from the Washington Post,including international news and opinion from Africa,North/South America,Asia,Europe and Middle East. Features include world weather,news in Spanish,interactive maps,daily Yomiuri and Iraq coverage.	11.913043	0.478261	0.565217	low	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103452.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103452.html	Apple to Take on Movie DVDs	2008050219	New releases from studios, including Paramount Pictures and Warner Bros., will cost $14.99, Apple said in a statement. Previously, customers had to wait several weeks after the DVDs debuted. The service will start with such movies as "American Gangster" and "Juno" this week. Chief executive Steve Jobs is counting on movies to increase sales of iPods, Macintosh computers and Apple TV devices, which let users watch downloaded films on their widescreen televisions. In January, Jobs said customers had bought 7 million movies, which was below his expectations. Apple began selling movies and television shows on iTunes in October 2005. "People want to watch a movie as soon as it comes out, and they don't want to have to wait," said Michael Gartenberg, an analyst at JupiterResearch in New York. "What Apple is doing is knocking down one more barrier for why you wouldn't want to buy a movie from them." New titles will also be available from News Corp.'s Twentieth Century Fox, Walt Disney Co., Universal Studios, Sony Pictures, Lionsgate, Image Entertainment and First Look Studios. The studios are betting that Apple will repeat its success in music with films, Gartenberg said. "They are feeling that iTunes is an important venue." ITunes, with more than 6 million songs, is already the most popular site for legal music downloads, according to NPD Group in Port Washington, N.Y. Apple said last month that iTunes had surpassed Wal-Mart Stores as the biggest music retailer in the United States. Apple has sold more than 4 billion songs since opening the iTunes store in April 2003. Apple offers more than 1,500 films, including 200 in high definition. Studios now sell older movies for $9.99 each and provide films for rental under a service Jobs introduced in January. Apple said yesterday that it has 1,000 movies for rent. "The Internet is a growing channel and one that many believe is the ultimate future of entertainment distribution," said Ross Rubin, an analyst at NPD. "For Apple, it's another step in reaching parity with the retail DVD market." With digital downloads and rentals, the studios still need to figure out how to make movies available without jeopardizing the more lucrative DVD sales, said Steve Diamond, an entertainment-law professor at Santa Clara University in Santa Clara, Calif. At the same time, the studios want to put films online to stem the demand for pirated copies, he said.	Apple, maker of the iPod media player, said yesterday that it would start selling movies through its iTunes online store the same day they are released on DVD.	15.516129	0.774194	1.290323	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103225.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103225.html	In Hungry World, Japan's Farmers Are Stuck With High-Priced Rice	2008050219	SHIRAKAWA, Japan -- When it comes to rice, Japan inhabits a strange and faraway planet. Consumption of rice has been falling for nearly half a century, yet rice paddies still account for 60 percent of all farmland. Rice farms here are inefficient and tiny -- about 4,000 times smaller, on average, than rice farms in Australia. Yet Japan's harvest vastly exceeds domestic demand. But what's truly otherworldly about this country's rice is its price -- especially in a year when the cost of Asia's staple food crop has exploded, causing hoarding, riots and hunger. The price of rice on international markets has nearly doubled since January, to about $1,000 a ton. But it remains an absolute steal compared with rice grown in Japan, which costs more than $2,300 a ton. Hiroto Endo, whose family has been growing rice for 10 generations, is struggling to make a living inside this weirdly warped market. On his farm about 120 miles northeast of Tokyo, he and his son Ryoshi have just finished flooding fields to prepare for spring planting. A quarter of last fall's crop, though, sits in his warehouse, unsold, even though it has won national awards for quality and taste. "What we must do is raise demand from consumers," Endo said. There was a tone of hopelessness in his voice, because the Japanese eat less rice with each passing year and international buyers continue to find the rice grown here to be insanely expensive. As a long-term social policy, the government has largely protected rice farmers from imports, while keeping them on small farms with the help of subsidies. As Japan's cities boomed after World War II, the high price of rice helped send some of the wealth generated there to rural areas. Japanese farmers produced 2.2 million tons of rice last year but exported only about 1,000 tons, which on the books of the world's leading rice exporters would be less than a rounding error. Thailand, for example, sold 9.4 million tons last year. Even wealthy countries are put off by the price of Japanese rice. The United States imported just 128 tons last year, nearly all of which was purchased by Japanese restaurants, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. "As far as our rice is concerned, we would like all the world to have some," said Masaaki Edamoto, director of rice policy planning at the ministry. He noted that Japanese rice has outstanding flavor, exceptional quality control and is raised mostly on family farms, which use less insecticide and chemical fertilizer than most farms elsewhere in the world. "Unfortunately, we are not at a price level where we can sell it abroad," he said. The reasons: small farms, expensive machinery and costly labor. Japan's rice problem, however, has little to do with price. As in much of Asia, rice is much more than a food to the Japanese and it is not really intended for export. It is a traditional symbol of plenty and a cultural touchstone. As Japan grew rich in the second half of the 20th century, the exorbitant cost of domestic rice (as measured by world standards) did not bother most Japanese. "I have not heard consumers complaining about the price of rice in this country," Edamoto said. In fact, the price of Japanese rice is considerably lower than it used to be, having fallen by two-thirds in the past 14 years largely because of the surplus production of Japanese rice paddies. But again, cost is not what matters here. What matters is what Japanese consumers want to put in their stomachs. In 1965, 45 percent of all the calories in the Japanese diet came from rice, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. By 2006, 23 percent of those calories came from rice. In that time, per-capita annual consumption of rice fell from about 261 pounds to 134 pounds. The Japanese still eat six times as much rice as Americans, but considerably less than Filipinos, Indonesians or the Chinese. Americans are partly to blame for the Westernization of the Japanese diet, according to Yoshio Yaguchi, a professor of agricultural economics at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology. "After Japan lost the war, the Americans provided surplus food -- bread and milk -- to many young Japanese," Yaguchi said. "There were rumors in those days that rice made you stupid. School lunches included bread and the nation's taste buds were nurtured on a new kind of food." More important, Yaguchi said, decades of rising incomes broadened and diversified the country's food culture. Japan now imports more of its overall food supply -- 61 percent by volume -- than any of the world's advanced economies. The Japanese love of bread has made this country the world's fourth-largest importer of wheat. It is the soaring cost of wheat -- which has roughly doubled in the past year -- that is creating headlines in Japan these days and causing consumers to howl.	SHIRAKAWA, Japan -- When it comes to rice, Japan inhabits a strange and faraway planet.Consumption of rice has been falling for nearly half a century, yet rice paddies still account for 60 percent...	25.102564	0.974359	18.564103	medium	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050101973.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050101973.html	Rep. Fossella Arrested on DWI Charge	2008050219	Rep. Vito J. Fossella (R-N.Y.) was arrested early yesterday in Alexandria and charged with driving while intoxicated, court records showed. Fossella is scheduled to appear in Alexandria General District Court on May 12 for an advisement hearing, the records said. No other details of the arrest were immediately available. "Last night I made an error in judgment," Fossella said in a statement released by his office. "As a parent, I know that taking even one drink of alcohol before getting behind the wheel of a car is wrong. I apologize to my family and the constituents of the 13th Congressional District for embarrassing them, as well as myself." Fossella was elected to Congress in a special election in November 1997. His district includes Staten Island and the Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights, Bensonhurst and Gravesend neighborhoods of Brooklyn. Fossella, a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, began his political career in 1994, when he was elected to the New York City Council.	Rep. Vito J. Fossella (R-N.Y.) was arrested early yesterday in Alexandria and charged with driving while intoxicated, court records showed.	7.461538	1	26	low	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103396.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103396.html	Audit Finds Interior Department Falling Short on Safety Measures	2008050219	Carbon monoxide can accumulate to hazardous levels in the busy summer months because aging tunnel exhaust fans don't work properly. Some experts also fear that a disastrous fire could ignite. Yosemite's Wawona Tunnel is just one of several dozen safety hazards in dire need of repair, according to the report by the Interior Department's inspector general, which found risky conditions at work sites, schools, dams and four popular national parks run by Interior. Auditors also said they found a pattern of department managers repeatedly putting off fixes for long-standing safety problems that threatened both the public and employees. "We believe the Department must take immediate steps to prevent existing hazards from escalating into deadly ones," according to the report by Inspector General Earl E. Devaney, which was released late last month. The audit, requested by Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne, found shoddy conditions at 13 schools that investigators spot-checked among 184 the agency runs for American Indian children on tribal reservations. Nearly 60 dams managed by Interior were found to be at high risk of giving way or overflowing. Interior employees themselves were often at greatest risk, the report said. Staff members of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the U.S. Geological Survey continued to work in a condemned fish hatchery near Jackson, Wyo., until the auditors warned Kempthorne's office in 2007. The building had been closed to the public since 2000 because of dangerous structural flaws, but employees continued to use some of the facility to restock endangered trout. Interior employees' accident rates were among the highest in the federal government, with a rate of 6.27 out of every 100 employees reporting accidents on the job in fiscal 2006. That same year, the department paid $58 million in accident claims and lost 150,000 days of employees' work. The audit said the agency has far too few safety employees for its mission and size, and it faulted the agency for an accident-tracking system that was missing information about the cause of one-fourth of reported incidents. Kempthorne's spokeswoman, Tina Kreisher, said the secretary sought out the bad news on safety problems so he could fix them. "He has made a personal commitment to the employees to improve health and safety agencywide," she said. "When this report came out, the secretary deputized a deputy secretary to immediately create a task force to conduct an expedited review of its findings and recommendations." The auditors had heightened concerns about three problems they noticed early on: the Wawona Tunnel, the schools run by the Bureau of Indian Education and the fish hatchery. In the middle of the audit, they urged Kempthorne to address them quickly. "I am alarmed at the potential for a catastrophic event of massive and deadly proportions in the Wawona Tunnel," one National Park Service official wrote anonymously in a safety survey. Auditors also determined that Yellowstone National Park water systems are significantly deteriorating and that the now-closed Dinosaur National Monument was "literally falling apart" atop shifting soil in Colorado, putting irreplaceable fossils at risk. At Grand Teton National Park, an office headquarters building located on an earthquake fault is not built to seismic codes. A maintenance building there is plagued by unhealthy conditions and has needed repair for at least 10 years, but won't be fixed for another six. Interior arranged for $1.5 million in federal highway contracts to repair the tunnel's ventilation and electrical systems. The work is expected to be completed by the end of this summer, Kreisher said. The Bureau of Indian Affairs inspected all tribal reservation schools reviewed in the audit and began making lists of repairs, she said. Employees were barred from the hatchery buildings. Kempthorne also appointed James E. Cason, an assistant secretary, to take charge of safety for the agency after Devaney said the issue demanded higher-level attention. Previously, Deputy Assistant Secretary Paul Hoffman, a former congressional aide to Vice President Cheney, had been the most senior agency official in charge of safety. In 2004, Hoffman upheld decisions to remove U.S. Park Police Chief Teresa Chambers from her job after she publicly raised concerns about her force's inability to safely monitor federal parkland. "This audit makes a strong case for firing Hoffman tomorrow and bringing in professional managers for a troubled agency struggling through the last months of this administration," said Jeff Ruch, executive director of the environmental advocacy group Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility.	A new report warns that traveling through Yosemite National Park's 74-year-old tunnel to see the views of its iconic granite peaks might literally take your breath away.	27.419355	0.548387	0.677419	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103690.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103690.html	Charles Scores One For the Home Team	2008050219	The story of the 23-year effort to bring professional baseball to Southern Maryland dovetails neatly with Charles's evolution, a period that has seen the area morph from sleepy tobacco farming community into sprawling suburb. Many of the newcomers are affluent. Most work outside the county, making it difficult to connect with neighbors. So when the Southern Maryland Blue Crabs hit the field today for their inaugural game, team members will shoulder the hopes of a county whose leaders want to increase Charles's prominence and build the type of community that newcomers sought when they moved in. Like many formerly rural counties once connected by local businesses, Charles has become a diverse, sprawling suburb where many residents feel detached from their neighbors, a problem county leaders hope they can solve with a 4,500-seat stadium. Expectations are high: The Bowie Baysox in Prince George's County and the Potomac Cannons (now the Potomac Nationals) in Woodbridge helped spur development in once-desolate areas. A 2004 state report concluded that the Charles stadium could generate $27 million in ticket prices, tax revenue and tourism costs and pave the way for commercial development at the site, which sits in one of the few remaining rural swaths of St. Charles, the massive planned community near Waldorf. "The state is starting to awaken to Southern Maryland's potential, and I think baseball is an opportunity that will pay great dividends," said Del. Murray D. Levy (D-Charles). "It's about so much more than baseball." Longtime Charles Commissioner Gary V. Hodge first proposed bringing professional baseball to the county in 1985, after he read about the minor league team in Woodbridge. Hodge said the team in Prince William County, which had twice the population of Charles but a similar rural character, made him realize the economic and quality-of-life benefits of minor league baseball. Several restaurants and shops had opened near the stadium. Economic development officials were able to use the team to woo new businesses. At the time, there was little non-agricultural economic development in Charles, and residents frequently complained that they had to travel long distances to shop or dine. So it didn't take much cajoling for Hodge to convince local officials of the need. Within a year, the governor and county commissioners had signed on, along with the Cleveland Indians, who were seeking a new home for their Class A team. A local developer donated land, the league approved the move, a team manager was hired and construction began. "We just really thought everything was in place," said Peter Kirk, who was then a voting member of the league in which the Charles team would have played. He is now chairman of Blue Crabs' owner, Opening Day Partners. Then came the 1986 county commissioners' election. By all accounts, the baseball stadium was rarely discussed on the campaign trail. But the three commissioners running for reelection, who had approved $4.5 million to build a stadium, were criticized for their stance on a proposed airpark and for failing to address the county's rapid population growth. All three were voted out of office. Within their first few months in office, the new commissioners -- including Levy and Thomas M. Middleton, now a state senator, voted to halt the baseball stadium, paying almost $500,000 in public funds to back out of signed contracts and undo completed work. Construction stopped and the team remained in Kinston, N.C. The donated land has sat empty and is slated for commercial development. "Oh wow, people were so disappointed," said Ron Provenzano, a longtime Little League coach in Hughesville who is now a Blue Crabs season ticket holder. "At that time, there was really nothing for the kids to do here, so losing that was tough."	Twenty-two years ago, construction crews began clearing trees in rural Charles County to make way for a minor league baseball stadium. Today, a very different county finally will hear the cry "Play ball!"	17.780488	0.609756	0.902439	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103269.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103269.html	Dulles Rail Still Has Miles to Go, Hurdles to Clear	2008050219	As business and political leaders celebrate the revival of the proposal to extend Metrorail to Dulles International Airport, those responsible for building, operating and paying for the new line face a cold reality: The project could still fail. Several challenges remain, including as many as four lawsuits and a mandate from the Federal Transit Administration that the project stay within budget and on schedule. Most daunting, however, is U.S. Transportation Secretary Mary Peters's demand that Virginia and its neighbors address the Metro system's nearly $500 million in unfunded capital needs. Metro would not build the Dulles line, but would operate it. In March, Metro officials said they urgently need $489 million to replace worn equipment, improve rail-car safety and fix deteriorating infrastructure, such as crumbling concrete station platforms and corroded track fasteners. Agency managers produced a list of 44 items that they said Metro cannot afford to do -- half of which are needed within two years. That is in addition to $1 billion of repairs and infrastructure needs already identified and slated for completion by 2010. At the moment, Metro doesn't have the money or a mechanism to get the $489 million. "I can't tell you how important this is," FTA chief James S. Simpson said as he announced this week that the agency would advance the first phase of the 23-mile, $5 billion project -- a critical step toward receiving $900 million in federal funding. Very few transit projects are denied funding after moving to this stage. But without the Metro money, that could easily happen, Simpson said. "We've got a system that's operating almost at capacity," he said. "We need new rail cars, new tracks, new escalators. What good is adding 22 percent to the system if the system isn't working?" Project boosters said they will do whatever it takes to save rail to Dulles, long touted as an essential new commuting choice to take cars off congested highways and spur economic development along Virginia's most concentrated jobs corridor. In particular, state and local leaders hope the rail line will promote a transformation of suburban Tysons Corner into a thriving, pedestrian-friendly urban place. Many of Metro's needs would be taken care of with legislation that has been introduced in the U.S. House and Senate to provide the agency with $1.5 billion in dedicated federal funding over 10 years, on the condition that the District, Maryland and Virginia match that amount. All three jurisdictions have pledged to match the federal dollars. The federal bill, though, is being blocked by Sen. Tom Coburn (R-Okla.), who objects because he considers the funding to be an earmark. "It's not completely in Virginia's control," Gov. Timothy M. Kaine (D) said in an interview this week. "There are a lot of other parties that have to be at the table to solve that. But all the parties have a very high stake in resolving it. The D.C. area, which is the center of federal government, is just not going to work well without a functioning Metro system." Federal officials are not demanding the entire $489 million in hand before they award the full $900 million grant for Dulles rail. They want to see a commitment from Metro's partners to help pay for those unfunded needs through Metro's long-term capital improvement plan, and they want a specific funding pledge for the first year, which begins in July. The burden is squarely on Virginia, which has sought rail to Dulles for more than 40 years and initiated the application for federal funding to help pay for it. Few are optimistic that Congress will come through with Metro funding, which means Virginia, Maryland and the District must pledge the money on their own. Metro officials are finalizing the first-year needs and will present them to the board next week. In July, Metro's general manager, John B. Catoe Jr., will present Metro's governing board with a comprehensive 10-year capital plan and his strategy for funding it.	As business and political leaders celebrate the revival of the proposal to extend Metrorail to Dulles International Airport, those responsible for building, operating and paying for the new line face a cold reality: The project could still fail.	18.714286	1	42	medium	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103268.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050219id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050103268.html	Md. Insurance Law Draws Praise From Young Adults	2008050219	"This definitely opens my options," said the 20-year-old from Laurel. Calabrese joined other college students, as well as Del. Heather R. Mizeur (D-Montgomery) and Sen. James C. Rosapepe (D-Anne Arundel), at the University of Maryland student center yesterday to tout the change in state law, which went into effect in January. Previously, young adults dropped off their parents' insurance policies at age 19. In some cases, full-time students could stay on until 23. Under the new law, many young people will be able to stay on their parents' health plans until age 25. The change affects state employees as well as many employees of local governments and large private businesses. Some, such as those whose parents work for the federal government or for small businesses, are not eligible, but the advocates said they hope eventually to expand the coverage. Almost one-third of Marylanders ages 19 to 29 are uninsured, and an estimated 100,000 of Maryland's 700,000 to 800,000 uninsured residents are ages 21 to 25. Until the law was changed, high school and college students underwent a "dangerous rite of passage" in losing their insurance after graduation, Mizeur said. "We want to send out a really strong message: You don't have to become uninsured because you're walking across the stage to receive a diploma," she said. She rejected the idea that young adults forgo insurance by choice, noting that recent studies show that most enroll in insurance when an employer offers it. "Contrary to popular wisdom, these aren't all 'young invincibles' we're talking about," she said. She said expanding the number of young adults in the insurance pool could help bring down costs for everyone by adding healthy premium payers who use few expensive services. The group timed its news conference to coincide with national Cover the Uninsured Week, as well as the open enrollment period for state employees. Mizeur and Rosapepe urged workers to put their young adult children back on their health plans. They said they would hold more news conferences to highlight other recent changes in state law that were also designed to reduce the ranks of the uninsured, including an expansion of Medicaid to working low-income adults and new dental benefits for children. Vincent DeMarco, president of the Maryland Citizens' Health Initiative, said the changes mean that the state is finally moving in the right direction on health care expansion. "In the past, this week's always been about what we haven't accomplished," DeMarco said. "This is the first time we're celebrating what we've done. We've made significant strides in covering the uninsured." It's not clear how many young adults will benefit from the ability to stay on their parents' insurance until they are 25, the advocates said, but they predicted that the number will be in the thousands. U-Md. junior Nizar Dowla said he believes the change could help him. He plans to go to medical school after graduation and will be able to stay on an insurance plan provided to his father, a professor at the public St. Mary's College. "We're being thrown into the real world," Dowla said. "It's one less thing to worry about." Rosapepe said the change could be even more beneficial to high school students who do not plan to attend college, many of whom lost insurance at age 19 in the past. "This is a very significant expansion," he said. Also on hand was U-Md. student body president Andrew M. Friedson, who said he believes young people would enroll in health insurance if it was more readily available. "This isn't an issue of young students not caring," he said. "It's a matter of not having proper access to do it."	University of Maryland sophomore Laura Calabrese is not certain what she wants to do when she graduates in two years. But she is thankful that because of recent changes in state law, she'll be able to stay on her parents' health insurance until she is 25, allowing her to consider a volunteer or...	12.864407	0.745763	1.728814	low	low	mixed
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/just-posted/2008/05/help_fight_childhood_obesity.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://blog.washingtonpost.com/just-posted/2008/05/help_fight_childhood_obesity.html	Help Fight Childhood Obesity	2008050119	In recent years, public health officials have sounded the alarm about rising rates of childhood obesity. To address this issue, we're sponsoring a public service announcement contest. Participants can create short videos on the topic of childhood obesity and/or possible solutions to the problem. Winning PSAs will be posted on washingtonpost.com. The deadline for submissions is May 9, 2008. Read the complete rules or watch a sample video here. Posted by Carol Touhey \| Permalink \| Comments (1) Share This: Technorati \| Tag in Del.icio.us \| Digg This \| FAQ: What Are These Links? Pink ribbons identify the fight against breast cancer. Yellow bracelets symbolize cancer research fundraising. Fighting childhood obesity now has its own unique symbol for awareness and fundraising, the Do Tag. Please visit www.TheDoTag.com to show your support. Your Do Tag purchase supports a variety of foundations and methods that fight this growing epidemic. Put the Do Tag on any laced shoe and show your support. Small enough to fit on any size shoe, but big enough to make a difference in fighting childhood obesity. DO a little bit, to help kids get fit. Posted by: Scott Shaffer \| May 14, 2008 11:17 AM The comments to this entry are closed.	Visit www.washingtonpost.com/.	121	0.5	0.5	high	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/guestvoices/2008/04/the_black_church_as_cultural_c.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/guestvoices/2008/04/the_black_church_as_cultural_c.html	The Black Church as Prophet, Patriot	2008050119	Shortly after the World Trade Center attacks on September 11, 2001 a reporter called requesting an interview about the events of that awful day. He asked me what we ministers were saying about what had happened and what is the responsibility of a pastor in such a situation. I told him that our first responsibility is pastoral. We must seek to comfort those who lost loved ones, to help them work through their anguish and grief; We must respond to the needs of those who were injured, those who had lost their jobs and the emergency workers who were involved in our rescue and recovery efforts. We must calm the fears of all of us who are at various stages of post-traumatic disorder. All of the leaders of our tradition will do their best to make sense of the tragic events and to offer prayers of healing for courage and hope to face the uncertainty of the days ahead. But there is another responsibility. It is called the prophetic dimensions of ministry. What do I mean by that? What is the source of that aspect of a preacherâs task? And how does the prophetic dimension manifest itself in the witness of the black religious experience? Rabbi and Professor Joshua Abraham Heschel in his classic work, "The Prophets," describes the prophet as one who feels the pathos of God, who is moved by the heartbeat of the God of Creation, one who senses a powerful calling to be a courageous spokesperson of Godâs will. The prophets speaks to both the faithful and their foes. The prophet is a seer and a sayer and even a provocateur, who speaks truth to power. The prophet holds up a plumb line against which the present policies of the nation are critiqued by principles of righteousness and justice. The consciousness of the prophet penetrates contemporary circumstances to the core of the moral and spiritual tendencies at work in the society. The prophet foretells and forthtells what is going to happen to the nation if there is no repentance and restoration to truth, justice and compassion. The words and the dramatic declarations of judgment may be inflammatory and denunciatory but they come from a deep love for the people. There is almost an uncontrollable longing to see them repent of their misdeeds before the wrath of God visits disaster upon them. The paradoxical juxtaposition of condemnation and compassion reflects the nature of Godâs love that will not let us go even as God threatens to destroy those who break faith with the covenant and desecrate Godâs holy laws. The black church has become a specialist in bringing the balm of Gilead to a people âbuked and scornedâ and âdehumanized and brutalized.â But on the other hand there is the critiquing aspect of the ministry. Because their members know that their only hope for survival comes from a God of love and justice who hates oppression, they grow accustomed to hearing their pastors burst forth from time to time with words of denunciation and damnation. They know that such harsh words come from the divine Motherâs love pushed to the breaking point. They also know that no matter how blood curdling the critique, compassion is just around the corner. The black church members sense that in their anguished cry for justice they are expressing the mandates of a just God. It is never a plea for themselves alone, it is a yearning for peace, justice and compassion for all Godâs children. It is an incessant longing for a transformed society. In the very fabric of its existence, searching for meaning purpose and power, straining under the weight of oppressive power, there is always a restless revolutionary hope when black people gather to worship the God who has promised to deliver them from bondage. The tone, text, hymns, prayers and the preaching will reflect variations in terms of class culture and style. But their will-to-live-free creates a constant critique of the systems that binds or confines them. We all tend to resent and sometimes reject the criticism of those who would expose our flaws or our signs of decay. Coaches, teachers, doctors, structural engineers and loving friends are expected to tell us the truth even when it hurts. Could the black church be the best friend America has ever had? We have told an unpleasant truth about a fatal flaw in our system and we have stood with our nation in every crisis we have faced. We have offered prophetic patriotic truth about the malignancy of racism, economic exploitation, imperialistic war and rapacious greed to the point that we eviscerate or pollute the environment which is our earthly home. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a prophet who helped to bless our nation with his wisdom and truth. The black church has something on its heart which it has received from the heart of God. Let us pray for the humility and grace to receive the prophetic critique from the same dark corner from which we were given spirituals, blues, jazz and the gospel of hope. The Rev. Dr. James Alexander Forbes Jr. is President and Founder of the Healing of the Nations Foundation of New York and Senior Minister Emeritus of the Riverside Church. Dr. Forbes completed his leadership of this historic multicultural church after 18 years of service, to begin a national and global ministry for spiritual renewal and holistic health.	A conversation on religion with Jon Meacham and Sally Quinn. Visit http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/guestvoices/	70.714286	0.357143	0.357143	high	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/guestvoices/2008/04/what_is_liberation_theology.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/guestvoices/2008/04/what_is_liberation_theology.html	What is Liberation Theology?	2008050119	With all the upset over Jeremiah Wright and his so-called Liberation Theology, many have been asking what Liberation Theology is all about. Well, it is not very complicated! It is the simple belief that in the struggles of poor and oppressed people against their powerful and rich oppressors, God sides with the oppressed against the oppressors. Those who adhere to Liberation Theology point out that all through the Bible we find that God always champions the cause of those who are poor and beaten down as they struggle for dignity, freedom and economic justice. When the children of Israel cry out for help as they suffer the agonies of their enslavement under Pharaoh, God hears their cry and joins them in their fight for freedom. God sides with the Jews as they seek deliverance from Egyptian domination. Later on, when the Israelites are settled in the Holy Land, there emerge rich and powerful Jews who live lives of affluence without regard for the sufferings of the poor. In response to their indifference, God raises up prophets to decry the plight of the poor and call the rich to repent. The prophets of ancient Israel challenged, in the name of God, what was happening to those who were victimized in an unjustly stratified society. When we come to the New Testament, we find that Jesus also comes as a liberator. Mary, the mother of Jesus, responds to the annunciation that she will give birth to the Messiah by claiming that it will one day be said of her soon-to-be-born son: â¦He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich He hath sent away empty.âLuke 1:51-53 Jesus himself, in his initial sermon, declares that He has come to bring âgood news for the poorâ and to âpreach deliverance to the captivesâ (Luke 4:18-19). The social implications of this biblical theme of liberation have been taken up by a variety of oppressed groups over the past fifty years. Christian feminists have claimed that Jesus came to liberate women from oppressionâespecially as oppression of women manifests itself in certain Islamic countries, as well as in the male domination encouraged by some forms of Christianity. Gays who are Christians also have made Jesus their liberator as they have fought for dignity and acceptance in what they believe to be a homophobic society. And of course, Jeremiah Wright has declared for the African-American community that, in their struggle to overcome the oppression they have had to endure at the hands of what he believes is a racist society, the God revealed in scripture will fight for them. There will be those who will claim that Liberation Theology is nothing more than a baptized version of a Marxist revolutionary ideology. There is good reason for this because some prominent Latin American theologians have integrated Marxism with a theology of liberation and offered it up as justification for the violent overthrow of what they considered to be evil dictatorships. But it must be noted that most forms of Liberation Theology have nothing to do with Marxism and violent revolutions. Certainly, Jeremiah Wright is advocating neither Marxism nor violent revolution. What Rev. Wright does say is that, as the African-American community endeavors to establish itself as a people who are both equal with whites and deserving of the dignity that God wills for all human beings, they have God on their side. Rev. Wrightâs words may seem harsh and his style may be strident, but that just may be the way that those of us in the white establishment react. For his African-American brothers and sisters, there may be a different reaction. Many of them will hear him as an angry prophet in the tradition of ancient Israel. To we white folks, Jeremiah Wright sounds threatening. But we might ask ourselves if we deserve to be threatened. Tony Campolo, professor emeritus at Eastern University, is the founder of the Evangelical Association for the Promotion of Education, an organization that develops schools and social programs in various third world countries and in cities across North America. He is the author of 35 books, his latest three being, "Letters to a Young Evangelical," "The God of Intimacy and Action" and his most recently release is "Red Letter Christians, A Citizenâs Guide to Faith and Politics."	A conversation on religion with Jon Meacham and Sally Quinn. Visit http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/guestvoices/	60.285714	0.357143	0.357143	high	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/catholicamerica/2008/04/the_800_pound_gorilla_in_the_s.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/onfaith/catholicamerica/2008/04/the_800_pound_gorilla_in_the_s.html	The 800 Pound Gorilla in the Sanctuary	2008050119	Quoting âGod has had His Plan since before creation and it is unfolding before our very eyes.â âthe anointed of the God of Jacobâ But the sons of Belial shall be all of them as thorns thrust away, because they cannot be taken with hands: But the man that shall touch them must be fenced with iron and the staff of a spear; and they shall be utterly burned with fire in the same place. Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man who was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, said, The Spirit of the Lord spake by me, and his word was in my tongue. The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain. Although my house be not so with God; yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things, and sure: for this is all my salvation, and all my desire, although he make it not to grow. But the sons of Belial shall be all of them as thorns thrust away, because they cannot be taken with hands: But the man that shall touch them must be fenced with iron and the staff of a spear; and they shall be utterly burned with fire in the same place. âhe shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain.â They shall teach Jacob thy judgments, and Israel thy law: they shall put incense before thee, and whole burnt sacrifice upon thine altar. Bless, Lord, his substance, and accept the work of his hands; smite through the loins of them that rise against him, and of them that hate him, that they rise not again. âsmite through the loins of them that rise against him, and of them that hate him, that they rise not again.â And Rehoboam went to Shechem: for all Israel were come to Shechem to make him king. And it came to pass, when Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who was yet in Egypt, heard of it, (for he was fled from the presence of king Solomon, and Jeroboam dwelt in Egypt;) That they sent and called him. And Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spake unto Rehoboam, saying, Thy father made our yoke grievous: now therefore make thou the grievous service of thy father, and his heavy yoke which he put upon us, lighter, and we will serve thee. And he said unto them, Depart yet for three days, then come again to me. And the people departed. And king Rehoboam consulted with the old men, that stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, and said, How do ye advise that I may answer this people? And they spake unto him, saying, If thou wilt be a servant unto this people this day, and wilt serve them, and answer them, and speak good words to them, then they will be thy servants for ever. But he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that were grown up with him, and which stood before him: And he said unto them, What counsel give ye that we may answer this people, who have spoken to me, saying, Make the yoke which thy father did put upon us lighter? And the young men that were grown up with him spake unto him, saying, Thus shalt thou speak unto this people that spake unto thee, saying, Thy father made our yoke heavy, but make thou it lighter unto us; thus shalt thou say unto them, My little finger shall be thicker than my father's loins. And now whereas my father did lade you with a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke: my father hath chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions. So Jeroboam and all the people came to Rehoboam the third day, as the king had appointed, saying, Come to me again the third day. And the king answered the people roughly, and forsook the old men's counsel that they gave him; And spake to them after the counsel of the young men, saying, My father made your yoke heavy, and I will add to your yoke: my father also chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions. âAnd Rehoboam went to Shechem: for all Israel were come to Shechem to make him king.â âIf thou wilt be a servant unto this people this day, and wilt serve them, and answer them, and speak good words to them, then they will be thy servants for ever.â âMy little finger shall be thicker than my father's loins.â âMy father made your yoke heavy, and I will add to your yoke: my father also chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.â Yea, the fir trees rejoice at thee, and the cedars of Lebanon, saying, Since thou art laid down, no feller is come up against us. Hell from beneath is moved for thee to meet thee at thy coming: it stirreth up the dead for thee, even all the chief ones of the earth; it hath raised up from their thrones all the kings of the nations. All they shall speak and say unto thee, Art thou also become weak as we? art thou become like unto us? Thy pomp is brought down to the grave, and the noise of thy viols: the worm is spread under thee, and the worms cover thee. How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit. They that see thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms; That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof; that opened not the house of his prisoners? All the kings of the nations, even all of them, lie in glory, every one in his own house. But thou art cast out of thy grave like an abominable branch, and as the raiment of those that are slain, thrust through with a sword, that go down to the stones of the pit; as a carcase trodden under feet. Thou shalt not be joined with them in burial, because thou hast destroyed thy land, and slain thy people: the seed of evildoers shall never be renowned. Prepare slaughter for his children for the iniquity of their fathers; that they do not rise, nor possess the land, nor fill the face of the world with cities. âHow art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning!â âI will ascend into heavenâ âI will exalt my throne above the stars of Godâ âI will sit also upon the mount of the congregationâ âin the sides of the north:â âI will ascend above the heights of the cloudsâ âI will be like the most Highâ âYet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.â Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. âFor my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.â But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you. âBut if I with the finger of Godâ Solomon âhe shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain.â âsmite through the loins of them that rise against him, and of them that hate him, that they rise not again.â âI will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the sea shore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies;â Son of David âI will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heavenâ Solomon âas the sand which is upon the sea shoreâ Rehoboam âthy seed shall possess the gate of his enemiesâ âAnd Rehoboam went to Shechem: for all Israel were come to Shechem to make him king.â âIf thou wilt be a servant unto this people this day, and wilt serve them, and answer them, and speak good words to them, then they will be thy servants for ever.â âMy little finger shall be thicker than my father's loins.â âMy father made your yoke heavy, and I will add to your yoke: my father also chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.â âFor my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.â âBut if I with the finger of Godâ âHow art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning!â âI will ascend into heavenâ âI will exalt my throne above the stars of Godâ âI will sit also upon the mount of the congregationâ âin the sides of the north:â âI will ascend above the heights of the cloudsâ âI will be like the most Highâ âYet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.â I am Alpha and Omega the beginning and the end the first and the last. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. âMy little finger shall be thicker than my father's loins.â âMy father made your yoke heavy, and I will add to your yoke: my father also chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.â âFor my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.â âBut if I with the finger of Godâ âsmite through the loins of them that rise against him, and of them that hate him, that they rise not again.â Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. âI am Alpha and Omega, the first and the lastâ âhis feet like unto fine brassâ âthey burned in a furnaceâ âout of his mouth went a sharp twoedged swordâ âand have the keys of hell and of death.â âsmite through the loins of them that rise against him, and of them that hate him, that they rise not again.â Rehoboam âthy seed shall possess the gate of his enemiesâ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. âMy little finger shall be thicker than my father's loins.â âMy father made your yoke heavy, and I will add to your yoke: my father also chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions.â âFor my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.â âBut if I with the finger of Godâ âHow art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning!â âI will ascend into heavenâ âI will exalt my throne above the stars of Godâ âI will sit also upon the mount of the congregationâ âin the sides of the north:â âI will ascend above the heights of the cloudsâ âI will be like the most Highâ âYet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.â And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the coasts of Decapolis. And they bring unto him one that was deaf, and had an impediment in his speech; and they beseech him to put his hand upon him. And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue; And looking up to heaven, he sighed, and saith unto him, Ephphatha, that is, Be opened. And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain. And he charged them that they should tell no man: but the more he charged them, so much the more a great deal they published it; And were beyond measure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well: he maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak. âput his fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue;â âHe hath done all things well: he maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak.â Then answered one of the lawyers, and said unto him, Master, thus saying thou reproachest us also. And he said, Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! for ye lade men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers. âMaster, thus saying thou reproachest us also.â âWoe unto you also, ye lawyers!â âtouch not the burdens with one of your fingersâ But he, knowing their thoughts, said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against a house falleth. If Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because ye say that I cast out devils through Beelzebub. And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your sons cast them out? therefore shall they be your judges. But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you. âBut if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you.â This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. âhis finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them notâ âAnd again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.â âJesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.â And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word, And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful. And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred. And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick? For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad. âthese are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the wordâ âthese are they which are sown on good groundâ Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth. âMy meat is to do the will of him that sent meâ âboth he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.â âOne soweth, and another reapeth.â Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. âfor whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.â And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. âGo ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creatureâ âthey cast out devilsâ âThey shall take up serpentsâ âthey drink any deadly thingâ âthey shall lay hands on the sickâ âfor whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.â âGo ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creatureâ âthey cast out devilsâ âThey shall take up serpentsâ âthey drink any deadly thingâ âthey shall lay hands on the sickâ Thomas Baum said I pray for God's Will what other people do is up to them âthese are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the wordâ âthese are they which are sown on good groundâ âFor my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.â âBut if I with the finger of Godâ Your god gave you the royal finger	On Faith is an innovative, provocative conversation on all aspects of religion with best selling author Jon Meacham of Newsweek and Sally Quinn of The Washington Post. Keep up-to-date on global religious developments with On Faith.	85.590909	0.431818	0.477273	high	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/islamsadvance/2008/04/love_blooms_in_baghdad.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/islamsadvance/2008/04/love_blooms_in_baghdad.html	PostGlobal on washingtonpost.com	2008050119	Love has been one of the more unusual casualties of war here in Iraq. Young men and women have kept to their homes, and families have turned to older tribal marriage customs as a bulwark against the insecurity. But as a tenuous calm has returned to Baghdad, thereâs been a brief blossoming of so-called âlove matches.â Newlyweds and groups of young single men and women spend weekend afternoons strolling through the Baghdad Zoo, featured in this video. There arenât many ways to find love in Iraq. There are few such public spaces in Baghdad where couples can meet, even if little more happens than a platonic holding of hands. The majority of marriages are still arranged within families, often between cousins, reflecting the conservative view of marriage as a strategic union that keeps wealth inside the family, and guarantees the good reputation of the bride. Sami, the subject of this video, says he couldnât have married Sejwa if the security situation hadnât improved in recent months. For starters, he found a job with a government office last year, his first since the U.S. invasion, which allowed him to save up the US$5000 needed for the marriage. An Iraqi bridegroom are expected to provide an apartment for his bride with all the modern conveniences:Â¬ refrigerators, televisions, kitchenware, beds, air-conditioning units. That makes for some of the most detailed pre-nuptial agreements in the world, and means many families take a businesslike view of marriage. That means marriage is a distant prospect for many young men in Iraq, where unemployment remains at 30% and under-employment hovers around 60%. Sami says many of his friends have not yet been able to afford to marry. Sami is 37 years old, 10 years older than his bride; under normal circumstances, he would be considered old for a newlywed. âThe Koran says marriage is one half of life. The other half is children,â Sami said. âAs soon as you become a man, you naturally want to be married, but thatâs not possible financially for a long time.â The other benefit of the recent calm, says Sami, is the chance to fall in love. Although his marriage to Sejwa, a second cousin, was arranged by his family, he was able to spend his betrothal with her at Baghdad zoo, getting to know each other. âBecause of the dangers in the last few years, many couples have had to get married quickly, without properly getting to know each other,â he said. âThis has led to many unhappy marriages.â Peace has also allowed a new generation of lovers to court each other in the zoo outside the usual parameters of formal family arrangements. If a boy likes a girl, he may walk past her and drop a piece of paper on the ground with his cell phone number; she can then discreetly pick it up. Mobile phones with Bluetooth have opened up a further world of subtle interchange; boys and girls assign themselves names, and hope to find the one they fancy through the Bluetooth traffic. Only a few boys will actually approach a girl and ask for her name and number. For women in such encounters, the risks are considerable. Mohammed al-Dulami, one such young hopeful shown in this picture, explained to me at an internet cafÃ©: âIf a girl accepts the look of a boy, it can mean that she has declared her love for him. No other boy will think about approaching her, and her family will be very angry if they find out.â The acceptance of an invitation to go for a walk in the park is almost like a betrothal. âWomen are expected to protect their honor and make sure they choose a man who can provide what he says he will deliver,â he said. Mohammed is 18, and does not have a girlfriend, or a job. âI think it will be many years before I can marry,â he said.	Islam's Advance on PostGlobal; blog of politics and current events on washingtonpost.com. Visit http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/islamsadvance/	44.529412	0.352941	0.352941	high	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/pomfretschina/2008/05/the_ugly_chinese.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/pomfretschina/2008/05/the_ugly_chinese.html	The Ugly Chinese	2008050119	Thanks for the correction regarding the authorships of The Quiet American and The Ugly American. In my senility I put Chang's Hat on Li's Head (Zhong Gwen Li Dai) Now, it is indeed open season on the Chinese. For the posters who trace their origin to that time-honored ancient land as I do, rest assured, you and your people and your country are NOT being hated as some of the posts would like you to believe. At the UN (192 member states), the members from the 3rd world which constitutes almost 2/3 of the body, China and the Chinese are held in respect and affection. The Chinese are helping the Africans build roads, hospitals and basic infrastructure even as we speak (in cyberspace). You see, even during our expansionist periods (like the Tang and Han dynasties) we Chinese are NOT colonialists like the Western powers, who after the revolts of the natives, suddenly had attacks of conscience and turned great "humanitarians". But then, of course, to the First World, a rogue gallery of former colonialists and exploiters, the third world hardly counts. Since the Industrial Revolution, this First World has been operating with blinders of hubris and self-righteousness ( We Are the Wrold and Masters of the Universe). Thus, any johnny-coming-lately who might remotely threaten their secured position of supremacy would be subjected to a grueling process of demonization. OK, let's take a look at the great humanitarians who are hell-bent on lecturing the Chinese on the art of governing, human rights, tolerance and democracy, ad nauseam. Do you really, really believe that the Tibet issue is ONLY a matter of human rights? Then I have a Brooklyn bridge to sell to you. In 188os and 1902-04, the Brits invaded twice (from their then colony India)into Tibet. Monasteies were demolished, trees were uprooted for firewood, more than 1400 tibetan soldiers were killed (in the 1904 invasion)and the Potala Palace was used as their headquarters. Bullet holes and ruins were still on display at the Nalnying monastery in Gyangze and other monasteries in Kangmar county. Meanwhile, the Central Government of the Qing dynasty was rotten-to-the -core and on its death bed. (In 1911 it was dealt a death blow by Dr. Sun Yet-sun's KMT party and the Republic was born). The Brits had their eyes set on Nepal, Sikkim and Bhutan and Tibet. India is not enough to whet the Empire's appetite. Ah, the White Man's Burden (R. Kipling)! The world had too many savages to be civilized, too many lands to be colonialized ! What can an Empire do except to oblige with guns and cannons ? After two OPIUM WARs against China from 1839 to 1842, the Brits wanted to change its image from international DRUG TRAFFICKERS to the benevolent colonizer. Yes, the Brits were the first DRUG DEALERS AND TRAFFICKERS in the history of the modern world. The products were grown and processed in their then colony India. When the Canton governor Lin Zexu refused the merchandise, the Brits started wars against China. Hong Kong was ceded to the Empire among other demands, until its return to its rightful owner in 1997. So, you still wonder why the Brits were among the first great humanitarians to jump on the bandwagon to shout "free Tibet!" When in doubt, look back into history. "The sun already set" Empire's design on tibet has not been exactly fulfilled since 1904. OK, let's look at the other players in this international cabal "to get China". The "usual suspects" in this group are the same actors in the 1900 "8 countries united invasion"of China. That was the result of the Boxers'Rebelion during which western churches were burned, missionaries were attacked by cult followers hell-bent on saving China from foreign devils. A defeated Qing gave in and the 8 foreign powers carved up major cities as their sphere of influence and mapped out areas as concessions where "Chinese and dogs are not allowed." Who are the infamous eight ? UK, France, Germany,US, Japan, Russia, Italy, Austria. Does it surprise you to see the AXIS of EVIL of WWII (Japan, Germany, Italy) among this gallery of rogues ? You see, aggression is an acquired taste, once you got it, is is hard to resist. Do you still wonder why Chinese in their collective memories occasionally have nightmares about those darkened nights of history ? But then in the game of geopolitics, former enemies can become friends, former friends become foes. Since 1945, the grandest savior of humanity has been the US. According to the well-known writer Gore Vidal this Savior has had launched, financed, or fought by proxy 200 wars, big or small. Vidal's little book PERPETUAL WAR FOR PERPETUAL PEACE is well documented and well researched, with time, places and names of operation provided. This Saviour also napalmed, agent-oranged,shock-and-awed (l.l6 million Iraqis were killed before they ever saw salvation, according to John Hopkins Univ. study), and Gitmoed in cake-walking democracy and freedom for the downtrodden and oppressed. Oh, are you surprised that the US has set its eyes on Tibet since l950s and financed DL Inc.'s escape in 1959 and its overseas operation ? One poster defended the intimate relation between DL and CIA and said that much of the funding was provided by NGOs. Are they foundations and other orgs with words such as Freedom, Democracy in their names? Are they really private ngos or just grouops with SIX DEGREES OF SEPREATION connecting them all to the same source? Following the money trail and see where it leads. Having said all the above, I still believe the following: 1. we look back in history not to nurse old grudges, but to see and understand clearly the complexities of current events , 2. human beings inspite of their differences in race, religion and ideological beliefs, are basically good and decent and desire peace. 3. though the US has made many lethal mistakes in its foreign policies, its positive role in WWII saved the world from global holocaust for which a grateful world would never forget. 4. The US Constitution is still so far the best political document in the history of civilization, 5.governments may differ and argue and fight, the people should dialogue, communicate and shake hands, 6. a rising China, emerging from the past 150 years of foreign invasions, civil war, poverty, political campaigns( self-imposed) and misrule, is focusing on feeding and healing its 1.3 billion bodies and souls.Though the pace is slow, it is trying, 7. Democracy is a learning and practicing process,which each society will adapt at its own pace and with its own methodlogy. It has to be home-grown. Democracy imposed from outside will not take roots and remain fragile. Examples are plenty. 8. hot-headed nationalism is dangerous and self-defeating. The youth of China should know that the love of one's own people and country is only a prelude to the greater love of humanity as a whole. The great teacher Confucius said it well 2500 years ago : within the four seas, we are all brothers (and sisters too)!	Pomfret's China features China expert John Pomfret as he deciphers what's behind the latest news from China.	70.65	0.55	0.65	high	low	abstractive
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/ibsen_martinez/2008/05/worst_piracy_is_governmentappr.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/ibsen_martinez/2008/05/worst_piracy_is_governmentappr.html	When Governments Become Pirates	2008050119	The Current Discussion:Software and media piracy costs U.S. businesses as much as US$58 billion a year. Will the U.S.'s anti-piracy report announced last week do any good? If not, what will? I am not at all surprised at the findings of the U.S. Trade representative's report that the U.S. loses $58 billion a year to software and media piracy. According to IIPA (International Intellectual Property Alliance), a private sector coalition that represents 1,300 U.S. companies involved in copyright-based industry and business, global trade losses to piracy in 2004 alone amounted to an estimated US$12.5 billion. China's piracy level of 95% is the worldâs highest. Compared with China's, Mexico's piracy levels averaged only 67.8% in 2004, but still caused US$862.2 million in losses, second only to Brazil (US$960.9 million in losses) among Latin American countries where massive copyright violations take place. But the really unsettling fact is that 70% of Mexico's copyright piracy is done in just one barrio, Tepito, not very far from the ZÃ³calo (Mexico City's main square), and the Palacio Nacional, the President's palace. Tepito's 72 blocks cover an area comparable to that of New York's East Village and are filled with remarkable historical landmarks. Founded on the outskirts of 18th-century Mexico City, Tepito grew to be the capital's artisan and guild quarter par excellence. Many street names in Tepito bear witness to those bygone colonial times, as in "Calle de los Panaderos" (Bakersâ street) or "Calle de los Plomeros" (Plumbersâ street). But local police have ceded control of the district to ruthless drug gangs. Under-trained and poorly-paid police officers have chosen to join with powerful criminal mafias rather than fight against them. In the heart of Mexico's capital, Tepito is now something of a "protectorate" of the infamous Tijuana drug cartel, the unflagging archrival of the companies that IIPA represents. The whole barrio is now a thriving illicit marketplace with a thick human shield, harboring more than 500 underground digital labs, not to mention numerous warehouses where drugs and stolen goods are stashed. A maze of stands crowd Tepito's streets. They sell anything imaginable: stolen stereos; pirated DVDs, music CDs, business and entertainment software; counterfeit brand-name clothes and shoes; even endangered bird species. Tourists can also haggle for of illegally imported or stolen genuine Levi's and Rolexes. The prices of weapons such as AK-47 assault rifles and Uzi submachine guns are listed in illustrated catalogues. And now the problem is spreading, not just within Mexico but to other Latin American countries. In Venezuela, a barrio on Caracasâs west side has adopted this Mexican "protectorate" pattern for about ten years running. Catia's labs and warehouses reportedly employ thousands of people, but despite sky-high profits from that illicit trafficking, Catians count themselves among the poorest people in Venezuela. On any given day, children equipped with walkie-talkies and cell phones patrol the limits of the hillside barrios that shelter the labs, reporting (to whom?) anything suspicious. I shall have to read the US Trade Representativeâs report to learn how much money is lost to piracy in Venezuela's major cities. But one thing is certain: the dizzyingly fast decay of our legal and police institutions. With our government officials yielding to illicit global activities, ranging from drug-trafficking to arms smuggling, Venezuelaâs traditional populist petrostate nonsense will soon seem like child's play. When high-ranking government officials condone these illicit activities, it is hard to imagine what U.S. agencies can do about it. Please e-mail PostGlobal if you'd like to receive an email notification when PostGlobal sends out a new question.	PostGlobal features David Ignatius and Fareed Zakaria and other international figures in debates on global news and politics. Stay on top of international news and join the conversation at PostGlobal.	22	0.575758	0.575758	medium	low	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/30/AR2008043000897.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/30/AR2008043000897.html	An Upside to The Downturn	2008050119	For months, Long Fence tried wooing customers with $400 and $500 rebates if they spent a few thousand dollars on fencing or stone paving. Last week, Long tripled one such incentive, giving $1,500 back to anyone dropping at least $4,285 on a new deck. "We're trying to make the phones ring," says Karen Richey, marketing director for the company, which is based in Capitol Heights. The housing downturn, declining consumer confidence and spiraling energy costs have taken their toll on many parts of the home improvement industry, from architecture and landscaping to roofing and window manufacturing. This can be good news for homeowners seeking repairs or renovations. While they may not get a cut-rate kitchen makeover, they can often get quality contractors to do smaller jobs that would not even rate a callback during the boom, and have a much shorter wait for work to begin. Last Saturday morning, Meadows Farms -- which has lost considerable landscaping business at the same time that trucking costs for large plants and trees have skyrocketed -- held an "early bird" sale at its 22 nurseries. Already-discounted items were reduced an extra 10 percent between 8 and 11 a.m. "to entice people to come in," says Ted Zurawski, a company senior vice president. That meant, for example, savings of about one-third on popular Knockout rosebushes. Usually $25 each before the initial markdown to $19, the early-bird price was just $17.09. "People are coming to expect sales," says Zurawski, who was careful to emphasize that "we do not" bargain on landscaping, patio-building or other big jobs. In these hard times, however, some contractors will succumb to haggling, though they are not eager to admit it for fear of harming their business. "Everything is negotiable," says one longtime Northern Virginia remodeler, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. "In good times, we have a lot of work and phone calls, and keep our prices up. When we slow down, well, we negotiate." Others try to use speed rather than price as a carrot, says Keith J. Decker Sr., co-owner of Jack's Roofing Co. in Silver Spring. Having laid off six of his 35 employees this year, he grimly jokes, "What time today do you want it done?" It is an overstatement, he adds, but gone is his five-week backlog. "When it's slow, you cut your prices to try to get work," a move that carries some risk. "Then it gets busy, and these few jobs you've cut prices for want it done now." James Ragusa, who owns Certified Window Supply in Fairfax, will not negotiate. But if you sign a contract to buy replacement windows while he's at your home pitching the job, he'll knock off 10 percent "so I don't have to make a second trip and burn more gas" to close the deal.	For months, Long Fence tried wooing customers with $400 and $500 rebates if they spent a few thousand dollars on fencing or stone paving.	21.178571	1	28	medium	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050100689.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050100689.html	At Least 35 Die As Bombers Hit Wedding Convoy	2008050119	BAGHDAD, May 1 -- Two suicide bombers attacked a wedding convoy as it passed through a busy market area in Diyala province northeast of Baghdad, killing at least 35 people and wounding at least 65, police said. As police and rescue crews rushed to the site after the first explosion in the town of Balad Ruz, the second bomb was detonated, police said. They said one of the attackers was a woman. The double bombing was the latest in a series of high-profile attacks in Diyala, a largely Sunni area. The attackers appear to be targeting members of the Awakening movement, mainly Sunnis who have joined with U.S. forces to fight the Sunni insurgent group al-Qaeda in Iraq. Women are involved in an increasing number of the attacks. On Tuesday, a female suicide bomber struck in the village of Mukhisa, killing one person and wounding five, all members of the Awakening movement. On April 21, a female bomber blew herself up in the home of a group of Sunni Awakening members, killing three people. Four days earlier, a suicide attacker wearing an explosives vest killed 55 people at a funeral for Awakening members in a Diyala village. Among those wounded Thursday in Balad Ruz were the bride and groom, the Associated Press reported, citing a provincial official. In central Baghdad on Thursday, a car bomb targeting a U.S. military convoy killed an American soldier, the military said. Three suspects were detained and tested positive for explosive compounds, it said. In the Baghdad district of Sadr City, Iraqi security forces backed by U.S. troops, armor and air power continued to battle fighters tied to the Mahdi Army, the militia loyal to Shiite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr. Police said two Mahdi Army hideouts were raided, leading to clashes in which seven militiamen were killed and 16 wounded. A bombing in the area killed an Iraqi patrolman, police said. Also Thursday, a delegation of five Iraqi lawmakers traveled to Tehran to outline evidence that Iranian security forces were arming Shiite militias. Other lawmakers said the Iraqi government had evidence that fighters were using Iranian-made arms in Sadr City as well as in the southern cities of Diwaniyah and Basra. U.S. military officials have made similar assertions. "They have crossed all boundaries and that's not acceptable," said Haider al-Ebadi, a Shiite legislator. "We don't want our relationship with Iran to deteriorate." Iraq's Shiite-led government has close ties to Iran, whose government is overseen by Shiite clerics. Ebadi said the lawmakers were also expected to meet with Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader. He said the lawmakers would also press the Iranian government for help in lowering tensions in Sadr City. Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki on Thursday released a letter addressed to Sadr City residents, promising to improve security and living situations in the impoverished Shiite area. Maliki also called on elders and clergymen to stop fighters from using houses, mosques and other sites as arms storehouses and civilians as human shields. Elsewhere in Iraq, police said they clashed with gunmen in the city of Muqdadiyah, about 60 miles north of Baghdad in Diyala province, resulting in the eight deaths and 21 injuries. Also in Diyala, a roadside bomb in Buhriz struck an Iraqi patrol, killing a soldier. Special correspondents Zaid Sabah, Saad al-Izzi and Dalya Hassan contributed to this report.	BAGHDAD, May 1 -- Two suicide bombers attacked a wedding convoy as it passed through a busy market area in Diyala province northeast of Baghdad, killing at least 35 people and wounding at least 65, police said.	16.04878	1	41	medium	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050100274.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050100274.html	U.S. Airstrike Kills Somali Accused of Links to Al-Qaeda	2008050119	NAIROBI, May 1 -- A top insurgent leader in Somalia whom U.S. officials have accused of having ties to al-Qaeda was killed in a U.S. airstrike early Thursday, according to the Islamist group he led. The attack in the town of Dusa Marreb in central Somalia leveled a house belonging to the reclusive leader, Aden Hashi Ayro, who was inside at the time with at least one of his top commanders, according to his followers. A spokesman for U.S. Central Command confirmed that the United States had attacked "a known al-Qaeda operative and militia leader" in the vicinity of Dusa Marreb, about 300 miles northeast of Mogadishu, the Somali capital. A U.S. military official said five Tomahawk cruise missiles were launched against the village from a U.S. naval vessel. The official would not confirm the type of vessel or its home base but said ships from the Navy's 5th Fleet, based in Bahrain, "routinely operate in the Horn of Africa area." The group that Ayro headed issued a statement calling him a "martyr." "We are here informing the Enemy of God" that Ayro's "trained and educated colleagues are currently in operation. They are committed to the continuation of the Holy War," said Mukhtar Robow, a spokesman for al-Shabab, the military arm of the Islamic Courts movement that has gained ground recently against Somalia's weak transitional government and the Ethiopian troops backing it. The United States recently designated al-Shabab a terrorist organization. Reports varied on the number of people killed. Abdi Warsame, a headmaster in the area, said he counted 16 bodies strewn around a crater where Ayro's house used to be, on the western outskirts of town. Over the past year, the United States has carried out five known attacks in Somalia that officials have said were aimed at al-Qaeda operatives. The attacks killed civilians and insurgents fighting what they consider the illegal occupation of their country by Ethiopian troops. Some analysts say the United States has exaggerated the insurgents' ties to al-Qaeda and are taking sides in a messy civil war at the cost of rising anti-American sentiment in a moderate Muslim country. Ayro's popularity was built partly on that sentiment. In recent years, Ayro, believed to be in his late 30s, had become a cultlike figure to the young Somali men who followed him. Like them, he grew up in the checkpoint-and-shakedown culture of 1990s Mogadishu, when predatory warlords brutally ruled the streets. In those years, he became a protege of a key Islamist leader.	NAIROBI, May 1 -- A top insurgent leader in Somalia whom U.S. officials have accused of having ties to al-Qaeda was killed in a U.S. airstrike early Thursday, according to the Islamist group he led.	12.55	1	40	low	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050101677.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/05/01/AR2008050101677.html	Bush Seeks $770 Million More in World Food Aid	2008050119	Overall, he said, the United States is on track to spend nearly $5 billion on foreign food assistance in 2008 and 2009. "With the new international funding I'm announcing today, we're sending a clear message to the world that America will lead the fight against hunger for years to come," Bush said at the White House. The president said he is asking Congress to include the money in a broader Iraq war funding bill for fiscal 2009 that the administration sent to Capitol Hill yesterday. The proposal came under immediate criticism from some congressional Democrats and outside experts, who said additional money would do little to alleviate the current crisis if it is not available until the 2009 budget year, which starts in October. Bush has also requested $350 million in additional food aid as part of the 2008 supplemental Iraq war budget, an amount that top Democrats say is too little. "That is far too late for the urgency of this problem," said Sen. Robert P. Casey Jr. (Pa.), who along with Majority Whip Richard J. Durbin (Ill.) has asked Bush for at least $550 million in emergency food aid now. "If you're hungry and your government is collapsing, waiting until December 2008 or January 2009 for food to hit the ground is just too late." House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said in a statement that lawmakers "will respond rapidly to the growing urgent need for international food assistance," but she did not opine on Bush's latest request. Pelosi also urged the president to support new spending for food stamps and other domestic aid contained in a proposed farm bill, which he has called "bloated." Bush's announcement comes as U.S. policymakers scramble to respond to an unexpectedly dramatic worldwide food panic spurred by skyrocketing prices for corn, rice, wheat and other staples of diets in the developing world. In some of the poorest countries in Africa and Asia, where food costs can consume three-quarters of incomes, prices have more than doubled in six months. Droughts, increasing energy costs and growing food demand in poor nations have contributed to higher prices in recent months. The rising costs have prompted violent protests in more than a dozen countries and warnings from the United Nations and the World Bank that up to 100 million people could be plunged into poverty. The U.N. World Food Program has issued an urgent plea for money to keep up with the crisis. "We thank the President of the United States for his urgent call to action to combat the advance of hunger among the world's most vulnerable," Josette Sheeran, executive director of the program, said in a statement after Bush's announcement. White House officials said that the $770 million would include about $395 million for direct food assistance; $150 million for agricultural development; and $225 million for local crop purchases, vouchers and other special programs. The money is separate from the $350 million in emergency food aid that the administration has proposed for the current budget year, officials said. The administration also released $200 million worth of emergency wheat reserves from a special humanitarian trust two weeks ago. If all of Bush's emergency requests are approved, officials said, the current year's budget for overseas food aid would grow 18 percent, to $2.3 billion, and next year's would jump about 40 percent, to nearly $2.7 billion. Historically, the United States has provided about half of all global food assistance. Stephen McMillin, deputy director of the Office of Management and Budget, told reporters yesterday that in addition to achieving humanitarian goals, the funding "contributes to stabilizing unstable regimes in the developing world." Bush also urged nations to remove emergency trade barriers that have been erected in recent weeks to protect domestic food stores, arguing that they only increase pressure on commodity prices. Lael Brainard, a Clinton administration economic adviser who is now with the Brookings Institution, applauded the proposal. "We should use this moment to improve not just the quantity but the quality of our foreign aid by making the reforms that are long overdue," she said. One factor in the crisis is the growing demand for corn used to make ethanol. Joseph Glauber, the Agriculture Department's chief economist, told Congress yesterday that prices for corn and other food commodities will remain at "historically high levels" in coming years as the U.S. ethanol industry expands, the Associated Press reported. While nearly all experts agree that increased biofuel production has contributed to escalating food prices, there is little consensus on the scope. Edward Lazear, chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, argued yesterday that the impact of ethanol on prices was minimal, because corn is a small portion of global food consumption .	President Bush asked Congress yesterday to approve $770 million in new global food aid for the coming fiscal year, the centerpiece of an evolving administration response to a crisis that has sparked increased violence and hunger around the world.	21.928571	0.833333	1.214286	medium	medium	abstractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/04/26/DI2008042602093.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/04/26/DI2008042602093.html	Post Politics Hour - washingtonpost.com	2008050119	Don't want to miss out on the latest in politics? Start each day with The Post Politics Hour. Join in each weekday morning at 11 a.m. as a member of The Washington Post's team of White House and Congressional reporters answers questions about the latest in buzz in Washington and The Post's coverage of political news. Washington Post White House reporter Michael Abramowitz was online Thursday, May 1 at 11 a.m. ET to discuss the latest in political news. Get the latest campaign news live on washingtonpost.com's The Trail, or subscribe to the daily Post Politics Podcast. Archive: Post Politics Hour discussion transcripts St. Paul, Minn.: Hi Michael -- thank you for taking my question. It's the fifth anniversary of "Mission Accomplished," which has gone down as a huge embarrassment for this administration. How will they respond today? How do you think it be used against Sen. McCain in the upcoming election? Michael Abramowitz: Good morning everybody. I don't expect you will hear a lot from the White House about this anniversary today, though the president's critics on the Hill and elsewhere already are having a field day. White House press secretary Dana Perino already has acknowledged this week it was a mistake and that the White House will get beat up because of it. I think McCain certainly will be attacked on the war during the campaign but I doubt that he will be blamed for "Mission Accomplished," because he was always more sober than than the White House about progress in Iraq. Santa Fe, N.M.: Your article yesterday on President Bush's statement on the Syria site attacked by Israel neglected to note that his words were almost identical to those of the briefers on the CIA video released last week. Why didn't reporters press him on the discrepancies in that video that are being uncovered by the blogosphere -- like that the reactor hardly looks "similar" to the Yongbyon reactor, or that two guys standing together is hardly evidence of nuclear collaboration? washingtonpost.com: Bush: Revealing Reactor Was Meant to Pressure N. Korea (Post, April 30) Michael Abramowitz: It doesn't seem particularly surprising that the president's commentary on this subject would reflect what he is being told by the CIA. I was not at the press conference, so I can't speak to why there were not more questions on this (though I would point out there were many different subjects discussed). As you suggest, some smart blogs have raised the question of whether the alleged reactor is smaller than the Yongbyon reactor -- though the CIA came out afterward and reaffirmed that it was the same size. I suspect we will know more as this story develops in the next few weeks. Washington: The suggestion of a gas tax holiday is interesting to me -- not because I think it's a good policy (it's ridiculous and unhelpful, as a matter of fact), but because basically Sens. McCain and Clinton have proposed a policy that would begin and end before they become president. How seriously should we take such proposals, especially when they aren't exactly going back to the Senate to push these things? It seems like it's entirely talk! washingtonpost.com: Clinton Gas-Tax Proposal Criticized (Post, May 1) Michael Abramowitz: Well, they are still senators, and so are theoretically in a position to push the idea if they wish. And they certainly are not escaping scot-free for the proposal -- which is being hammered by various editorialists. Minneapolis: How do you think the Republican Party is going to handle the public handing of the baton from a hugely unpopular Republican president -- who nevertheless is still worshipped by the Republican base -- to their presidential candidate whose, policies are essentially similar to Bush's but who has to run far and fast from that hugely unpopular president? What is going to happen at the Republican National Convention? Will Bush get his speech at 11 p.m. Saturday night or what? Michael Abramowitz: That's a great question -- I think they are somewhat ambivalent about how to handle this. McCain has not hesitated to bash the administration -- for instance regarding its handling of Katrina -- but he also has moved closer to Bush on other issues in recent months, like taxes. I think the one thing that may be of benefit to the GOP is that the networks are so dramatically cutting back their coverage of the conventions that it's very likely there will be no coverage, or very little coverage, of the president's speech. St. Francis, Ark.: I saw Hillary being interviewed by Bill O'Reilly on Fox News. Why is the GOP's favorite person to hate being interviewed by O'Reilly? Is Hillary that desperate to win by doing the interview? washingtonpost.com: White House admits fault on 'Mission Accomplished' banner (AP, May 1) Michael Abramowitz: I was intrigued by that too -- I think she is figuring that there may be some moderate Democratic voters in North Carolina and Indiana who watch O'Reilly. Obama was on Fox too, over the weekend, so there seems to be some loosening of the anti-Fox strictures among Democrats. Boston: Michael, how happy are Democratic representatives from Indiana and North Carolina and all the other "forgotten" states to have so much Democratic Party action in their home states? Do they think this activity today portends well for November? Michael Abramowitz: I am sure this attention is unexpected and welcome. I suspect that both Indiana and North Carolina will be tough for the Democrats to add to their column in November no matter what is happening this week and next. San Francisco: Finally, someone (a Raw Story blogger) in the White House press room asked a question yesterday about the Pentagon's psyops program with retired generals acting as force multipliers. We still don't know if the program was known to or approved at the White House. Why didn't any of the regular White House press corps ask this question, and will any of you follow up? Michael Abramowitz: Well, I think that's a good question and probably ought to be asked. Perino did not make it clear yesterday whether the White House knew about this program or authorized it. I think the real problem here was a lack of transparency about what was going on with these retired generals -- I don't think it's particularly surprising that the Pentagon would try to get its point of view across to these former officials. Arlington, Va.: Has there been any information from the polls to tease out why Bush is so unpopular? It might appear obvious, but it seems to me that people might support his policies while not supporting him. There is a reason, after all, that he won in 2004. Even the Iraq issue might be less of a problem that it appears, if McCain can convince the majority he's more likely to have success than Bush. Thus, if McCain were to run as "just like Bush, but competent," he might get a lot more support than folks assume right now. Michael Abramowitz: I have been wondering the same thing. My own guess is that Iraq has come to be seen as such a debacle by most Americans, and they blame Bush for that -- and there's little he can do to repair that. But I do think McCain has an opportunity to make a fresh case on a range of things, and it's not clear to me at least that he won't get ample support. I think the election will be very close. Montreal: Why are the networks cutting back convention coverage? Both conventions feature parties with potential internal splits going on, and both have featured unusually divisive primaries (remember Limbaugh and Hewitt on McCain)? What's the rationale? Michael Abramowitz: Well, in the past several conventions everything pretty much has been scripted, and there hasn't been much real news other than the acceptance speeches. But obviously the Democratic convention could be a lot more interesting this year, and if so, I expect there will be more network coverage. Fairfax, Va.: Romney and McCain are campaigning in Michigan. Any word if the two are getting along better than when they were competing for the nomination? What benefit does Romney bring to the ticket, other than being a somewhat known entity? Michael Abramowitz: I think Romney and McCain probably get along better now than some of their aides. I do think Romney would bring something to the ticket -- some name identification, as you say, but also he's an attractive personality, a former governor with business experience and appears to be liked now by conservatives. I expect he will be considered very seriously by McCain. It's not the generals being pro-Pentagon: It's the lack of disclosure. For instance, if the guy in uniform saying we should invade Iraq is a founding member of "the committee to liberate Iraq," the viewers deserve to know. Were the networks duped, or were they duping the viewers? Either way it's a vital news story. Michael Abramowitz: I agree with this. That's what I meant by lack of transparency. Arlington, Va.: Re: Syria. At some point, it comes down to whether you trust the government and the CIA or not. While I can understand some of their concern, the idea that blogs or the general public have a right to classified material and can make the same judgments as the CIA is absurd. The blogosphere just doesn't have the same information, nor do they have a right to it. Michael Abramowitz: Well, I certainly think the blogosphere or the traditional news media are entitled to analyze and scrutinize what the administration is putting out, especially given its recent track record on intelligence. But as you suggest it's hard, because we don't have access to the information the CIA has. In some ways, it does come down to whether you trust what the government is saying about these matters. Arlington, Mass.: I don't understand why John McCain is not doing better in the fundraising department. I thought Republicans were suppose to be very generous with their candidate? Bush, for all of his lack of popularity, is still able to raise millions of dollars. What gives? Michael Abramowitz: I am not sure I understand it either -- I suspect it may have to do with the lack of confidence among Republicans that they actually could win this fall. I sense that is changing, and perhaps McCain's fundraising will improve as a result. I need to leave now. Talk to you soon. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Washington Post White House reporter Michael Abramowitz discusses the latest buzz in Washington and The Post's coverage of political news.	95.272727	0.954545	8.954545	high	high	extractive
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/04/24/DI2008042401881.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/04/24/DI2008042401881.html	Home Front: Are Bookcase Headboards a Good Idea? plus Comparing Paint Brands, Fighting Hay Fever, and More	2008050119	Every week, the Washington Post Home staff talks about various ways to improve your home. Find out about new home trends, upcoming antique shows and a variety of how-to help. Staff writers Annie Groer and Jura Koncius take on all things home related. They were online taking questions Thursday, May 1. You may also browse an archive of previous Home Front discussions. Annie Groer: Good morning all - and achoo!!! Hay fever and pollen are killing us here in the home section. Before we get started, Terri Sapienza has a request...If you have a screened-in porch that you love, or if you had one enclosed and now regret that you did it, please email her at Sapienzat@washpost.com Logan Circle, D.C.: Hello! Just bought a condo and am trying to do something a little more interesting with it than white walls and Pottery Barn. My aesthetic is distinctly contemporary, and I need some recommendations on where to source furniture for that. People have already suggested West Elm (underwhelmed; not really looking for pseudo-Asian stuff), cb2 (website looks good, but no local store), and the old standby Ikea (a little more interesting design, please). I'm planning to check out Apartment Zero and Design Within Reach, but fear the prices of the latter and suspect I should fear the prices of the former. With that said, price is not a problem if I fall in love. Any other suggestions? Also, if I may sneak one more question in here: I'm going to do a two-level thirty-foot accent wall in Benjamin Moore Lime Green (2026-10). All furniture, floors, and cabinets is either black or a very light beechwood, and I plan to carry through the lime green with other accent pieces (any ideas on lime-green curtains, by the way?) Do you think that's enough of a paint statement, and I can leave the other walls white? Or is there another color I should be looking at? (There are also two exposed brick walls.) This whole decorating thing is a distinctly new experience for me. Thank you so much for your help! Annie Groer: One long question is all you get today, as we're jammed. Try Anora Home in Chevy Chase, DC - Phone: 202-363-3033 ADDRESS -- 5252 Wisconsin Ave NW...check the website www.cantilevermodern.com or make an appointment by calling 202-213-9768. They sell vintage but it's good stuff. Capitol Hill: Do you have any suggestions on durable, inexpensive patio furniture? I don't want to purchase something that will need to be repainted every year, that won't break the bank, and will still look good in five years. I'm looking into polywood furniture which is made of recycled milk cartons but I don't know much about it. Jura Koncius: Hmmm. What about the Martha Stewart collection at Kmart? Chevy Chase, D.C.: Paint gurus ... what can you say about Farrow and Ball paint? There seems to be something special (to my uneducated eye) going on with their pigments -- the colors just seem richer and more complex than the paints I've used over the years. Better yet: how can I get those same perfect, deep colors for less than $90 a gallon? Can you think of a similar, step-down line? The guy at the Benjamin Moore paint store told me he wouldn't get a exact color match because Farrow and Ball's "ingredients" are just too different from Mere Mortal Paint that I actually can afford. Help. I've fallen in love with Green Smoke. And Pelt. Annie Groer: Actually, it's "only" $69.50 a gallon if you shop around and the reason it's so pricey is that it contains a high concentration of pigment (which like everything else, is rising in price). You may only need one coat (which is a good thing at this price). Maybe bite the bullet and give up Starbucks for a month, or bring your lunch to work. There's nothing better than a great paint job. House Calls and Design House: I loved today's house calls. I'm more than twice as old as the bedroom dweller and I'd love to have my master bedroom look like that. The headboard is fantastic! Also, I was sad to read some of the comments on the D.C. Design House. I went last week and thought it was beautiful. The master bedroom is gorgeous but I didn't care for the master bath. My favorite space was the little girl's room. But I am much more Lilly than contemporary. washingtonpost.com: House Calls: A Room of Her Own (Post Home Section, May 1) What We Saw at the Show House (Post Home Section, April 17) Jura Koncius: Glad you liked it. We will pass it along. Where did you see the bad comments on DC Design House? I think we had maybe one last week - most comments on it seem very favorable. Chicago, Ill.: Hi, Annie and Jura - your column is wonderful. I am looking for a portable vacuum that I can use to vacuum books. Has anyone had experience with the Alessi vacuum - silver, 12" long and looks like a dolphin? Or any other portable that works well and isn't mega-heavy? Thanks always. Jura Koncius: We will send this one off to our loyal chatters to see if anyone has experience with this. Thank you for your kind words. Annapolis, Md.: Hello ladies! I am stuck on a paint color for my soon-to-be remodeled kitchen, and I'm trying to work from the feature I most want to highlight: granny smith leather DR chairs (kitchen will be open to DR). White cabinets, black countertops, stainless appliances, honey-colored wood floors; DR painted Behr's Manhattan Mist (per a recommendation from this chat!) which I would love to keep. DR table is blonde wood. So, working from the green, I thought either a Vermilion red (opposite on the color wheel) or a darker green (Behr's Happy Camper or Painted Turtle)? Any other thoughts? Annie Groer: As someone whose dining room is Vermilion, that's my vote. It's a knockout color, in daylight or artificial light. Makes everyone look great. Just make sure you get your primer tinted red to save yourself a coat or two. Second choice is Happy Camper. washingtonpost.com: High Design, Downscaled ( Post Home Section, May 1) Jura Koncius: Is anyone else out there having horrible problems with allergies? I guess it's the tree pollen. I have been given the advice of using air conditioning and washing pillowcases often to keep pollen away from your face. Any other ideas? Clifton, Va.: Someone in last week's chat from Springfield was looking for wood furniture. Have them go to the Solid Oak and Cherry Gallery in Springfield/Alexandria, behind Marlo Furniture, on General Washington Dr. off Edsall Rd. Great prices and service and their Memorial Day sale starts soon. Jura Koncius: Wow. Great tip. Washington, D.C.: Well, I'll venture my opinion on the two-story lime-green wall: with that much vertical green already, I think green curtains would put it over the top. I might be inclined to look for natural linen colored curtains, and pick up the lime with cushions, wall sconces, and smallish rugs. Annie Groer: Thanks. We love our decor-driver posters. Can you give me a Behr equivalent of Sherwin William's Mauve Finery or tell me where I might be able to find a "translator" from one company to another? I love the Mauve Finery color, but the painter I'm going to use prefers Behr paints. Annie Groer: Excuse me, you are paying this guy. He should use the paint you want. He may have some contractor discount with HD he's not passing on to you. Why risk not getting an exact match? Restoration Hardware Couch: Hello ladies, Posting early etc... Wondering if you (or other chatters) have any thoughts on Restoration Hardware's furniture. Specifically, I have my heart set on the "Baby Grand Roll Arm Slipcovered" loveseat. (Big enough for two, not so big that it will overtake my smallish living room.) Did I mention I have an active 3.5 year old and another on the way? It's a good chunk of money, but I'm willing to spend it if it's comfortable, well constructed, and sturdy. Thank you! Jura Koncius: Check and see if it is made by Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams or another manufacturer - sometimes you can lift up the cushions and see what the label is inside. If it is you can look up the construction at their website. www.mgandbw.com. Bethesda, Md.: This didn't make it in last time - will try again. Anyone know of a good source for free-standing bookcase headboards (full size, to use with a platform bed)? Jura Koncius: Hmm. That is not great feng shui. You might sleep badly because you will subconsciously be feeling that the books may fall down on your head!!! What do others think? Light-challenged in Va.: I'm looking at different bathroom wall sconce options - how do you decide if you want upward or downward facing? The upward opening seems like less potential for light bulb glare, but with downward facing seems like you'd get more light. Right now the bare lightbulbs are embedded in a row across the top of the medicine cabinet that needs replacing. Annie Groer: Get rid of those uglies, yes indeed. I like down-facing light so I can see what I'm doing when putting on makeup. You can get good-looking bar lights with stylish glass shades that don't look like a cheesy dinner-theater dressing room. Chicago, Ill.: I work with Electrolux and we have a new 2-in-1 cordless vacuum with a built-in hand vacuum - perfect for quick clean-ups and for getting in small spaces. Annie Groer: Thanks for the pitch, and for disclosing that you work for the company. Has anyone used "Mystic" no-VOC paint: Have seen ads for it in a couple of design mags I recently picked up. Wondering if anyone has experience? Annie Groer: Poster painters? Yeas and nays, please. Helsinki, Finland (previously Cap Hill): Re: Farrow and Ball paint - My husband and I painted our 1908 condo using only Farrow and Ball paints. It took only one coat and has lasted well since we painted three years ago. Yes, it does cost more, but it is more than worth it. And we receive comments about the colors all the time. I cannot recommend it more. Jura Koncius: Greetings Helsinki!! Thanks for this great review. Furniture: I'm evidently in possession of some mid-century Italian ladderback chairs maybe by Gio Ponti but definitely in the style of Gio Ponti. Their somewhat banged up and fixing them is probably going to cost more than they are worth, but the modernist fan who told me what I had insists it's worth it. I actually do really like them, but what do you think about decisions like this? Annie Groer: I think you've been given some good advice. Take some digital pictures of a chair from all angles, including the underside of the seat which may still have some identifying markings, and send it to a local mid-century furniture dealer for a more positive ID. Sollo Rago auction house in Lambertville NJ does a lot of mid-century sales and they may be able to tell you what you've got and what the chairs could be worth. Good luck. At the very least, if you're not willing to invest in fixing them, you might want to put them up for auction or sell them on eBay or Craigslist. Allergies - Alexandria, Va.: RE: Allergies. Try using saline spray to rinse out your nose (and all the pollen) - it will help you breathe easier. You can buy it at the drug store or use a Neti-Pot from Whole Foods. Also avoid dairy products - they cause heavier mucus production (which you don't need with allergies). Annie Groer: Who knew? Breathe easier without that milk mustache? You all so rock. Talk about repositories of wisdom. Annandale, Va.: For the poster asking about matching paint to Behr's colors. I have painted every wall in my house and used to use Behr. Then I used C2 for my kitchen and saw a huge difference in coverage. I just completed a 2-story addition and my contractor uses Duron paints and they are fabulous -- I can really tell a difference from the Behr. Annie Groer: Thanks for all that info. Behr is among the most reasonably priced paint, which accounts for its popularity. But coverage can be an issue, as you have discovered. I recently inherited a wonderful Empire Period parlor sofa in wonderful condition. It does need new upholstery. But more important, it needs new springs (it probably has the original horse hair). Can you recommend a very reputable upholsterer who can re-condition the springs in this wonderful family antique? It may not be a lounge-around sofa, but I want it be used and enjoyed, as it has been for the past 150 years. Jura Koncius: Termini and Termini at 301 468-0660 has been suggested to us for good reupholstery in Rockville. Also Spicer's in Alexandria 703 751-0320. Design House - a follow up comment: I'm not the original poster but I laughed out loud when I read the letters to the editor in the Home section this am. I understood - though not necessarily agreed - with the gentleman who is apparently a more strict preservationist. After interning for a historical site, I realized I didn't have the stomach for the politics of true preservation vs. modern preservation. As for the reader who wanted mid century modern (MCM). UGH! I am so tired of seeing Barcelona chairs everywhere. And it didn't look like many of the designers at Kips Bay took to the MCM look and that apartment is in a mid century building. Maybe I'm wrong since I haven't seen it in person. Jura? I loved the DC Design House - loved the write up in the paper last week and loved the house. Feeling a little sad for Annie though - did she miss both Kips Bay and the DC Design House?!? Annie to the Milan Furniture Fair! washingtonpost.com: Design House Critics (Post Home Section Letters to the Editor, May 1) Annie Groer: Thanks for the sympathy. I did see the Design House in Georgetown (but since I had to do the chat alone while Jura, Belle, Terri and Liz popped off to G'town ahead of me, they took all the rooms.) And I also checked out the Design Center's color showhouse... And Milan? Your lips to the publisher's ears, I say. Jura will chime in separately about all this. Jura Koncius: Answering the posting about the lack of mid-century or modern design at show houses - Kips Bay had no real prevailing style - you might call it fantasy with low ceilings. You make a good point that the designers didn't even go to a modern look even with a 1952 building! Bookcase headboard: I would try Home Decorators. I definitely see the appeal in doing something like that. Great space-saver. Jura Koncius: Here you go. Allergies: OMG, I have never had allergies as bad as this year. I have found -- and this seems counterintuitive as we head into the more humid months -- that running my a/c, but keeping my cool-mist ultrasonic humidifier going helps keep them down. That, and tumble-drying my curtains on the "air cycle" of my new steam-enabled dryer has seemed to help... doesn't hurt that I finally banished all dust-collecting mini-blinds from our house, in favor of curtains. BAD pollen. Jura Koncius: I keep checking the pollen count - today it is high for Oak Pollen. Hope that is nearing the end of its cycle. Thanks. Annapolis, Md.: I know you get a lot of paint questions, so I hope you don't mind another one. I am a bit desperate, and your help would be truly, truly appreciated!! I am looking for a blue/gray color for the walls of my master bedroom - it's already blue now, but it's not what I really wanted (first room we painted after buying our first house) it's too blue and too bright... I would love a soft grayish/blue that would flow well with the other lighter blues and natural colors I have throughout my home. Thanks again in advance for answering another paint question! Annie Groer: Paint...the world's biggest decorating dilemma. Try Ben Moore's Buxton Blue or the slightly lighter Yarmouth Blue. Both are tinged with gray as is the equally yummy Wedgwood Gray. Bloomington, Ill.: In response to the allergy question -- I'd like to offer a tip. I currently work with Arm and Hammer and we have premium allergen vacuum bags that are allergist-recommended and really help! Jura Koncius: I'm going to buy some at lunch. Thanks. Alexandria, Va.: Re: allergies - see your doctor or an allergist - there is a large arsenal of medications (some very new) that are very effective for the long or short term in battling hay fever. I am about to refinish most of the hardwood floors in my house - I have never done this before. Any tips (before and/or after) for dealing with the mess? Jura Koncius: We have an entire arsenal of drugs already. Unfortunately, it is still awful. If you are going to refinish your floors, get ready for a mess - and lots of dust. Make sure the firm you use is reputable and will help move your furniture and put it back and will use lots of plastic to keep dust out of the rest of your house. Inexpensive Durable Patio Furniture: Try Overstock.com. Got a great table and chairs from there -- really affordable -- look great and seems pretty durable so far. Behr paint match: Take the chip you want to match to Home Depot. Behr has a scanner you can use to match colors. washingtonpost.com: There's No Keeping Pollen Out, But Let's Try to Hold It Down (Post Home Section, April 12, 2007) Jura Koncius: Thanks. That is very helpful! Silver Spring, Md.: As long as the book cases aren't more than four feet high, I think using them as a headboard of sorts would be fine. My parents had a bed with built in cabinets for the headboard. All of the cabinets had sliding doors that opened and closed. If the person can find cube units with sliding doors (doesn't Ikea make some of these?) you get both headboard and storage. The units below the bed could be for rarely used items. Jura Koncius: That's funny. My parents had two shelves with sliding doors in back of their queen size bed. They bought it in the 1950s I think and it's walnut. My mom still sleeps in it! But it's only one shelf and its closed so it doesn't seem like something is hanging above your head! allergies: Use a nasal spray. There are some prescription formats, or you can buy the Zicam homeopathic spray at the drugstore. Or even just plain old saline nasal spray, also available at the drugstore. A spray helps relieve allergy symptoms by washing away the irritating pollen particles which get into your nasal passages. Gross I know but trust me it helps. Enterprise, Ala.: Change your furnace filters and dust and vacuum every day. Pollen season is getting better here now... dog isn't as miserable! Annie Groer: More good tips. And such a nice distraction from paint. Allergies: And if you're a big allergy sufferer, remember to change your A/C filters more often in spring! Also, get the ones that are really accordion-like - they trap stuff better. And wipe your pets' feet before entering the house. They bring in all sorts of pollen. Jura Koncius: Gus isn't allowed outside anymore so thank goodness I don't have to wipe his paws. I do have those 3M $16 air filters. I wonder how often you should change them? They say every three months, but I usually do two months as they seem to trap a lot of stuff. It gets expensive though. re: Bookcase headboards: I've lived with a bookcase headboard for 15 years now. I don't love the look of it, but can't deny its practicality in a small home with a lot of books. And we've never had any books fall on our heads, so no worries there. I can't help with sources, though. My husband made the headboard with the help of a carpenter friend of his at the time. Jura Koncius: So, you can sleep with books over your head! Mt. Rainier, Md.: Paint color question with a twist. I have an older detached garage with wooden doors dying to be painted. I'd like to pick a shade of white, but I don't want it to be stark, bright, in-your-face white. I also don't want to pick a white that looks too gray and dirty. The building has dingy white asbestos tiles. Any suggestions on a basic shade of white that will blend in? Annie Groer: If the tiles are dingy, almost anything you choose will look off. Why not go for a real gray, to make it look like a design statement... Chevy Chase: Allergies and related question -- I've read that an air filter or air purifier (don't know if they are the same thing) at night can help. Question -- I'm thinking of buying one for my daughter's room, and wondering if anyone has recommendations. I'd prefer not to spend too much, of course! Thanks. Jura Koncius: Any ideas on purifier brands? Annapolis, Md.: What is the best way to clean solid oak doors on kitchen cabinets? I dust them, but I think they need a better cleaning. I don't want to use soap and water on wood, nor do I want to use anything that will leave a residue, such as wax or polish. They are about 20 years old and in excellent condition so I do not plan to replace them. I just want to keep them in good condition. Annie Groer: Dear Annapolis - Try a soft cloth you have dampened with warm water and a bit of vinegar to cut the kitchen grease. Then dry carefully. It will be fine. Pollen: If you can, take your shoes off outside the house (and leave them outside) and change clothes when you come in. Design question: What basic design book do you feel every library should have? Jura Koncius: Wow. It sounds like we should live like astronauts or something in indoor space suits with booties!!! Your question about a design library is hard to answer. Don't know exactly what you want to reference. Two of my favorite design books are by Mark Hampton. Mark Hampton on Decorating and Legendary Designers of the 20th Century. Allergies: I'm allergic to dust mites. I wash my sheets in a "demite" solution I got from National Allergy. I've heard you can also wash them with eucalyptus oil. Annie Groer: And what might the demite recipe be...I've also heard you can kill dustmites in pillows by putting them in the freezer over night. Just remember to put the pillow in a plastic bag first. Prettiest blue gray green ever...: BM Wales Gray - I just did my bathroom in it, and love it. Bookcase headboard -- Bad Feng Shui: Agree, have having the books above your head might feel uncomfortable! Feng shui purists would say don't have books in your bedroom at all, but as someone who commiserates about saving space... I got some really cool pyramid-shaped tall bookcases from Pier One a few years ago, and use them as nightstands! These are like 3-D shelves, with openings on all sides, and the top houses lamp, clock, etc. But you might be able to use ladder bookcases instead... keeps the room looking more open than the 80's-looking bookcases flanking a bed. Jura Koncius: Love the pyramid shelf idea! What I love about feng shui is that so much of it is common sense. Allergies: If this is a perennial problem, see if find a local beekeeper and get a chunk of the comb to chew on. When you eat the honey and comb, you get a concentrated, but digested version of your local pollen. Somehow, it's in a form that allows your body to build resistance, but doesn't cause a reaction. Some years are worse than others. We've had droughts for two years. So this year, with all the rain, the trees are doing some extra celebrating. Annie Groer: Adrian, our resident garden guru and rather accomplished beekeeper himself, says this is true to a degree because ingesting local pollen gives your anti-bodies a boost. Kitty Resistant Fabric Help Needed!: I have a couch that needs to be re-upholstered (not slip-covered) More importantly, I have two wonderful, energetic cats with claws. Several years ago (before the cats joined our family) I re-upholstered the couch in an upholstery fabric that is sort of a heavy twill. But the cats' claws have taken a toll. They use the scratching posts and generally don't use the furniture to scratch, but they are not perfect! So now, I need a fabric that will be a bit more claw-resistant. Any ideas? I hate micro-fiber (it shows everything and is hot in the summer). So, any recommendations on what type of fabric might be more sturdy? Jura Koncius: This question comes up again and again and the sad news is that different cats seem to love different types of fabrics. Leather is something you might consider. Also velvet or Ultrasuede. But there is no guarantee! Alexandria: Only one problem I could see in today's makeover - that kid is NEVER going to want to leave home! washingtonpost.com: House Calls: A Room of Her Own (Post Home Section, May 1) Silver Spring, Md.: Hi Jura and Annie, Loved today's piece on the upside of the housing slump -- a tiny bit of good news amidst the gloom. I'm hoping to take advantage of that and repaint the inside of my basic Washington center-hall colonial. I'd like paint my living room, which gets a fair amount of light, a pale yellow and am looking at Duron's Lemon Chiffon or Full Moon. I'd also like to paint a dark north-facing bedroom upstairs the same color to brighten it up. What do you think of those shades and what white would you recommend for the trim? washingtonpost.com: An Upside to the Downturn (Post Home Section, May 1) Annie Groer: I vote for Lemon Chiffon, with just a tad less beige. For trim, try Pure White Or Extra White. And thanks for the kind words about my story. It was fun to research. Southern Maryland: Re: the project bedroom today and displaying jewelry collection. I had a problem years ago when multiple strands of beads and pearls were in fashion. My jewelry boxes were a tangled mess. I bought a couple of those expandable mug racks with pegs (I think I found them at Pier 1 Imports). I nailed them to my bedroom wall over the dresser next to a mirror and have my beads and necklaces hanging from them. The teenager with the bohemian taste might consider that. Annie Groer: Great Solution. And if you want it to "disappear," paint it the same color as the walls. Filtrete by 3M: Speaking of Filtrete and allergies, you can reduce allergy symptoms by using HEPA vacuum filters, then loose particles are trapped in the filter (not the air). Annie Groer: Good idea. It is also suggested that you wash your hair before you go to sleep at night to keep pollen off your pillow (and out of your nose and lungs.) allergies and filters: Here's some advice from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (I work for them). Basically, you change the filter when it gets dirty, or else you block airflow as well - all depends on your environment. And get one that is MERV 6 or higher. Springfield, Va.: My apartment has a white refrigerator that sticks out like a sore thumb because it's in the middle of the wall (kind of by itself) where everything else is beige or darker in my combined kitchenette/living room/dining room. The ceiling is 9 ft. I have 2 beige kitchen towels on the front panel hanging from magnetic clips. I have a basket of flowers on top and thought ivy might be less noticeable. I can't put my ficus tree in front of it because it would be in the middle of the floor. Any ideas about how to make this refrigerator less noticeable? Jura Koncius: Remove the magnetic clips and the towels. This is too obvious a way to try and hide this. Actually, the funny thing is, there is no way to hide something that big! Do not be embarrassed that it is white - it's okay! There is such thing as refrigerator paint if you are really serious about this. Tirana, Albania: Good Morning - though it is late afternoon here. I will be moving back to Maryland in June (yeah!) and will need to repaint most of the rooms in my house in Silver Spring. Have been using BM Linen White for years with BM White Dove for the wood trim. I want to switch from Linen White to a warmer and deeper white. I always have a hard time with whites - they all look the same to me. Do you have any suggestions. Has anyone tried the new Aura Paint by BM? I want to stay with the White Dove wood trim. Miradije! (which is thanks in Albanian) Annie Groer: Wow...you win the prize for most exotic dateline today. Try Cameo White by Ben. And please tell us all how to say "you're welcome" in Albanian. We might as well learn two new things today that are not allergy-related. Falls Church: Help!! I just moved to a new apartment and now I need a new shower curtain. The curtains I've seen in Target, Wal-Mart, Bed Bath and Beyond, and World Market are all understated, tasteful numbers. I'm not a tasteful kind of girl though. I want colorful and whimsical, preferably with teal and orange and bright fishies swimming though it. Can you help me? Jura Koncius: I got my last one at Bloomingdale's. They had some fun ones. Any other ideas? I agree that the ones at the chain bed and bath places are usually boring. Pollen: As someone who grew up in DC and now lives in Texas, where people who have never had allergies in their lives get them, here's my two cents: 1. Good drugs. I like Claritin D, despite the rigamarole you have to go through to buy it these days. 2. Keep washing those pillow cases! I'd recommend keeping white ones on the pillows so the frequent washings won't fade them at a different rate from the sheets. (Sadder but wiser girl, that's me!) 3. Wash, or at least rinse, your hair before you go to bed. An allergist told me hair picks up a LOT of pollen during the day and lying down on your pillowcase with polleny hair just transfers it to the fabric, where it will be waiting when you roll over! Annie Groer: Thanks...I already addressed tip No. 3, but the more info, the better. Can I boast about my cat?: Who uses a plain old oak log from a tree my dad took down to scratch. It sits on its own little rug and he's used it for six years now. People's jaws drop when he displays his talents -- and because he uses it instead of the furniture. Jura Koncius: You must be so proud!!! Amazing. Ashton: Over 30 years ago we bought Tropitone outdoor furniture like the ones at our neighborhood pool. They have the powdered finish metal frame and vinyl strapping. They live outdoors year round (uncovered) and are still going strong! Jura Koncius: WOW! What an endorsement! Alexandria: For the bookcase-headboard person: if there is space, why not try a 30" or 36" bookcase on either side of the bed? Use the shelf nearest the bed height as a night table. You could then have a really useful height for the bookcases and not worry about the books falling on the head problem. For the headboard proper, maybe something creative with MDF? Christopher Lowell has some good ideas in his books. Michigan: Allergies - just started using Veramyst for my seasonal allergies. LOVE IT!! It's a prescription nasal spray that takes care of stuffy/itchy nose and itchy/watery eyes. Give it a try! (And no I don't work for a drug company, I'm just someone who has struggled with allergies all her life!) Jura Koncius: Coughing is our problem. Maybe it would help with that! I am looking for a paint color for my living room. three large windows, but no natural light due to a big tree in the front yard. BM Barley was suggested, but it is too dark. The color looks great with the furniture (dark moss green) and rug (shades of green, gold, and maroon oriental) but is too dark given the lack of light. Any suggestions for a similar lighter color? Thanks much! Annie Groer: Looking at the fandeck, I see your point. Try Ben's Woodmont Cream or Simply Irresistible. But before repainting, try replacing every light in your room, including overheads with higher wattage bulbs (use CFLs to save energy). And take a good look at that tree. It may be possible to prune some of the lower branches or at least thin out some deadwood for a bit more sunlight. Air Purifier: The Sharper Image sells a great one. Linens and Things sells the same model for less. I have it and love it. Not a DIYer: After 40 years, the laminate of my desk top has come off the base. Is there a place that will reglue the laminate? The top is 3 by 6 feet. Annie Groer: You can call a handyman service. Or you can get glue for laminate, a couple of inexpensive clamps to keep it in place while it dries (or a lot of very heavy books.) Re: White fridge: What's on either side of the fridge? Seems to me that the best thing to do is decorate in a way that it is not out there all on its own. Jura Koncius: Maybe a bookshelf so it doesn't look so lonely? A large white object is hard to ignore. Springfield, Va.: My husband is a contractor and very often painters prefer only certain types of paints, for various reasons. It is not an indicator of a bad contractor, just indicates his/her own preference. My husband, for instance, will not use Behr paint for the above mentioned "coverage problems." Just wanted to stick up for contractors here... sometimes they get a bad reputation. Annie Groer: Thanks...You are right. And I wasn't trying to diss contractors, because I've had my share of great ones. But it is kind of like a waiter telling you how you want your meat cooked. He may hate well-done (or nearly raw) steak but it's your dinner. Arlington, Va.: I'm thinking of recovering the seats of our dining room chairs (currently velvet) with something more kid-friendly, like faux suede or vinyl. The velvet is not looking great - we have three kids 6 and under, so durability is key. Just wondering what your take on this idea might be. Is this doable? Do you have any other fabric tips? We use our formal DR every day for meals, cherry furniture and all, and it takes its toll! What I wouldn't give for a casual eating area! Jura Koncius: I'm in your same boat. We use our antique cherry dining chairs every single day. I bought some fabulous leather at Discount Fabrics in Thurmont and had it put on my seats for a small fee. I think I got a whole Argentinian hide for $200 www.discountfabricsusa.com. The leather is wonderful and has held up with kids, cats, relatives etc. I had been replacing fabric every year or so. It's the best. Ellicott City, Md.: I need to reface my wood burning fireplace and don't know where to start. I am thinking of tiling over the very sooty red brick. What kind of contractor can help me with this project? Annie Groer: Anyone who has experience with masonry and stone. You might want to go to a tile/stone place to get some ideas (and perhaps the name of someone who does a lot of fireplace work). Baltimore, Md.: For the refrigerator problem, you might try using it as display space to cut the white. It doesn't have to be crumpled kid art, you can make a "mosaic" of postcards (or whatever) by taping them together and using a few pretty magnets to hold it up. This works on the side as well as the front and can cover as much as you want. Or what about an arty poster in a dark color? Jura Koncius: More ideas. Just don't turn the thing into a sort of junk-drawer for recipes, notes, artwork and pizza coupons. Frustrated: I've tried to post design questions about 5 different times in the last 3 months, and my questions never get taken, yet you are posting things about allergies? What gives? Jura Koncius: Allergies are huge these days affecting the quality of our lives in our homes. We try and deal with lots of issues that affect our home life including paints, pets, allergies, upholstery, discount shopping, fabrics, etc. Blue Gray: I was looking for the same color and have settled on Duron's Sleepy Blue. I'm about to put it in my dining room, very excited. No green undertones if that's what you're looking for. Lemon Chiffon: My in-laws have this color in several rooms, with white-white trim, and it looks very nice. It's a nice clear yellow. For another Duron option, we have a more ambery tone (I think it's Morning Moon? Something beach? This is from memory so maybe something else) in our living room and hall since 2001, and I still really like it. Pale yellow, you can't go wrong. for Springfield: Would bringing some other tall white thing into the room (I'm thinking curtains) balance the fridge? Cats scratching: My kitty destroyed one arm or my sofa even though I have a scratching post she also uses right behind the sofa. I moved the scratching post to the side of the sofa and she hasn't touched the arm since. I'm so mad at myself for not doing that earlier. I didn't want to have to look at the scratching post, so I was sort of hiding it. Now, I just put it away when company comes over. Jura Koncius: Ugly scratching posts are hard to incorporate as part of your decor, but if the alternative is shredded furniture we must all get a little more humble! IMPORTANT!! re: Zicam: Don't use Zicam! They have a class action lawsuit against them because it causes a some of people to lose their sense of smell, permanently! washingtonpost.com: Paying Through The Nose (Washington Post, Jan. 31 2006) Cleveland Park: Loved the House Calls today - especially the headboard! I think I've seen discussion in the past about furniture shopping in Frederick, Va. - is that the correct city? I am looking for places with vintage (though not antique) furniture (especially bookcases) at reasonable prices. Do these stores in Frederick offer shipping ever? Thanks very much! Annie Groer: Actually, you may be thinking of Fredericksburg, Va. (Frederick is in Maryland). Both cities have large collections of antiques and vintage furniture dealers (sort of a step or two up from a flea markets). I'm not sure about shipping...Somehow, the savings you'd realize having someone truck furniture 50 or 60 miles would defeat the purpose. Also check out Gerstel, which sells used office furniture in three locations: Gaithersburg, MD 20877 - Phone (301) 840-5395 4511-A Rhode Island Ave (Rte 1) Brentwood, MD 20722 Phone (301) 927-2215 2928-G Prosperity Ave Fairfax, VA 22031 State College, Pa.: Hi: What is a good paint color for a large kitchen that gets saturated with afternoon sun? The neighborhood landscape outside is central PA farmland -- green rolling lawns, large hills in the distance, a vista with a glorious sunset. HOT in the summer! Jura Koncius: You are so lucky to have such a wonderful view!!! What about a Provencal yellow - Benjamin Moore's Provence Creme would be lovely! Enjoy! Washington, D.C.: Good morning, Annie and Jura. Is it a bad idea to use glass as my kitchen counter top surface? I know that it is becoming popular to install recycled glass counter tops, but those are pieces of glass embedded in a concrete surface. I have a vision of solid glass that I think would be beautiful. Have you ever heard of anyone doing this? Is it a terrible idea? Annie Groer: We will post this today and hope for some good answers by next week. Thanks for a great (and info-laden) chat. Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Post Home staff editors Annie Groer and Jura Koncius are here to answer your decorating-related questions.	448.631579	0.947368	2.631579	high	high	mixed
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/04/30/DI2008043002529.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/04/30/DI2008043002529.html	Slate: 'Grand Theft Auto,' Now With a Conscience	2008050119	It's Not Just About Killing Hookers Anymore (Slate, April 29) Baker is a senior associate editor at Wired magazine. Chris Baker: Hi everyone! This is Chris Baker, and I'm a senior editor at Wired Magazine. I'm here to answer your questions about a piece I wrote for Slate about "Grand Theft Auto IV," as well as whatever you'd like to know about the series or about games in general. Bethesda, Md.: I own a PlayStation 2, any chance that they eventually release a modified version of "Grand Theft Auto IV" for the PSP and PS2? Do I have to bite the bullet and get a PlayStation 3? Chris Baker: Hi there! "Grand Theft Auto IV" really pushes at the edges of what the PlayStation 3 (and the Xbox 360, it's available for two game consoles) can do. I don't think there's a chance of it appearing on the previous generation of game consoles, like the PlayStation 2 or the original Xbox. I'd say you'll probably need to bite the bullet... Cleveland, Tenn.: Does it still have that stupid eat/exercise dynamic? Chris Baker: You're referring to the way that "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas" let players customize their appearance by eating a lot to become fatter or by starving themselves to become thinner. There were also in-game gyms where you could log time on an exercycle or doing reps on a weight bench to make your character more buff. This actually figured into the game play -- certain female characters preferred guys who were a little big-boned, or who had lots of muscles. You needed to alter your body type if you wanted to woo them. That's gone from this game. Eating food still replenishes your character's health, though. (Just shot in the face? Stop off and get a hotdog, and you'll be good as new!) GreenwichJ: This game is evil and should be banned ... that's what my wife said when I bought it. Her opinion was entirely based on a couple of newspaper articles. Which really begs the question -- what's more dangerous, "murder simulators" like "Grand Theft Auto IV," or sensationalist journalism designed to scare the masses half to death? Chris Baker: There certainly is a lot of hue and cry in the mainstream media surrounding games, especially "Grand Theft Auto." Jack Thompson, a lawyer who's often tapped to appear on TV news and comment on games, had this to say: " 'Grand Theft Auto IV' is the gravest assault upon children in this country since polio. We now have vaccines for that virus... The 'vaccine' that must be administered by the United States government to deal with this virtual virus of violence and sexual depravity is criminal prosecutions of those who have conspired to do this." "Grand Theft Auto IV" is definitely not for kids. (It's rated M for Mature, the equivalent of an R rating for films, and can't be sold to anyone under 17. I'd seriously caution any parent to learn more about the game before deciding if it's appropriate for their kids.) But there hasn't been any definitive research showing that virtual violence in video games can spill over into real world behavior. There's an excellent new book out by David Hajdu called the "The Ten-Cent Plague: The Great Comic-Book Scare and How it Changed America." It looks back at the hue and cry surrounding comics in the early 1950s. I think to a certain extent, the hysteria surrounding video games nowadays is similar to what Hajdu describes, and lots of new mediums seem to spark this kind of reaction -- especially mediums that are very popular with young people. Manassas, Va.: Well, I am a big fan of "Grand Theft Auto," and I love the game. The fact that I like the game does not mean that I go killing people in real life. Would you consider that the game somehow helps relieve stress in teenagers, and that it is better to play a game that is somehow sadistic but doesn't hurt anybody? Chris Baker: I think playing an action game can be cathartic. Here in the Wired office, my fellow editors and I will take breaks a couple of times a day to go kill each other for five or 10 minutes in "Halo 3," and it's a great stress reliever. I'm not sure about the appropriateness for teens. But certainly a lot of kids' play involves imaginary good-versus-evil combat -- cops and robbers in the park if not cops and robbers on a game console. Chicago: Have you talked to other people who are morally disturbed by the game's story? Is this a common reaction? Chris Baker: Yes, I've talked to a few other reviewers who've played through the game. My friend Will Tuttle, an editor at Game spy, compares the game's story to Doctorow's novel "Ragtime." But he said that the violence frequently was unnerving, and carried more weight than in past entries in the series. "They're using the Euphoria engine to create disturbingly realistic ragdoll animations," says Crispin Boyer, a Senior Executive Editor at the 1UP Network who gave the game an A+. "Nail a pedestrian with your car and they'll bounce around like Evel Knievel botching a bike jump. It's sickeningly real -- kinda makes your stomach lurch sometimes." Arlington, Va.: Is there anywhere in the new Liberty City where I can get some good coffee? Chris Baker: You can't get "hot coffee," but there is a mission where you can get some "warm coffee." (Inside joke for "Grand Theft Auto" players; not sure it's worth explaining to non-geeks.) Bethesda, Md.: Chris -- you commented that the violence is more realistic and disturbing in "GTA IV." Suppose you shoot someone and then hide around the street corner ... do passersby start to assist your victim? Do an ambulance and police car show up after a short time? Chris Baker: The crowd does respond realistically -- some people will flee, and others will run up and help or try to fend you off. An ambulance will be called, and some passersby might dial 911. In general, the way pedestrians react to you -- and to each other -- is amazing. You can actually just stand around watching people, listening to their phone conversations, watching them have fender benders and getting into fights, etc. with no involvement from you. Washington: My sense is that this game is a bit darker, and challenges one's morals more than previous editions of "Grand Theft Auto." But does it still retain some of the fun irreverence for which the series is known? Chris Baker: Absolutely. There's some quirkiness in the main storyline, and of course you get a lot of humor through the mass media. I wrote a brief impression on that for Wired, it sort of gives you a sense of the dark satirical edge to the "Grand Theft Auto games. Click above to read it. New York: Okay full disclosure -- I am a geezer who is not a gamer, but I am getting more and more interested in it. My IT guy who helps me keep my business going is a major gamer and makes fun of me, as does one of the guys in the office. They are "Halo 3" heads. That's the background. So I am old and inept but wanting to know more. Reading about "Grand Theft Auto IV" is making me very very curious about gaming. How does one go about getting some first-hand knowledge in preparation for becoming a gamer? Chris Baker: I'd start by renting a game console and a few games from Blockbuster, to see if you really want to sink hundreds of bucks into this hobby. The Wii is very accessible, but "Grand Theft Auto IV" is only available on the PS3 or Xbox 360. Washington: "Grand Theft Auto IV" is a lot slower and less cartoonish than "Vice City" and "San Andreas." Plus, it seems like there are police everywhere! Do you think by making a senseless crime spree more difficult to execute in "Liberty City," it diminished the cathartic value the series provides nice kids from the suburbs? Chris Baker: Hi there! The cops certainly are smarter and harder to elude in this latest version. I think the developers consciously are trying to minimize the amount of random killing sprees players go on by making it harder to evade arrest. Some people are sure to be frustrated, but the central story is so much more compelling, I didn't mind. Besides, the new online multiplayer modes are the perfect outlet if you're craving senseless violence. You can compete in chaotic street races that play out like the chariot sequence from Ben Hur, but with machine guns instead of whips. Or imagine sixteen players running around an ersatz Ellis Island, each armed with a rocket launcher. Alexandria, Va.: I beat the game "Fable" playing a relatively "good" person. For replay, I tried to beat it "evil." Couldn't do it -- early on, to be evil, you have to steal dolls from kids. Even as a game, I couldn't do it. Chris Baker: The game "Bioshock," which is brilliant, also turns on whether the player can bring themselves to commit a really terrible act or not. That being said, I think nongamers really don't understand the way that a player might do something terrible just as an experiment, to see what happens, to see how many options the game designers have created for them. It's not necessarily proof that you're a bad person to test the limits of a game's possibility space -- though many of us will want to quit and restart the game from a point before we did something wicked. Washington: I have read that the lead guy now has a conscience. Is this true? How does it work? Chris Baker: The lead character's conscience is mostly expressed through the game's excellent dialogue, and through morally ambiguous situations he finds himself in. Seattle: I have played all the "Grand Theft Auto 3" games, including "Vice City" and "San Andreas." I was wondering how much time Rockstar took to model the city in "Grand Theft Auto IV" after New York? Some of the locations (like the virtual Times Square) really look spot-on. Did they have a big staff on the ground? Chris Baker: It truly is mind-boggling how detailed the recreation of the Big Apple is in the latest game. Rockstar Games is headquartered in New York, and I know that they went on fact-finding expeditions to California for San Andreas and to Florida for Vice City (bunch of pasty Scottish game designers got terrible sunburns!) Mt. Lebanon, Pa.: If "Wolfenstein 3D," the original DOS-based game released by id Software in 1992, is the benchmark, how far up the evolutionary scale would you place "Grand Theft Auto IV"? I played the original "Wolfenstein" on our company's computers (engineering firm) back then. I was impressed at how far gaming had come since the '70s, when "Pong" arrived on the scene. I assume progress in game development, like much of science and engineering, is exponential. Is game development keeping up with the expectations that hype and younger generations place upon it, or is it entering the region now of flatter returns, where actual results start to dampen desires, to borrow another metaphor? Thanks much from an old engineer. Chris Baker: I think you'd be amazed at the scope and the depth of the game world in "GTA4." Steal a car and it really will take you 15 or 20 minutes of driving to traverse the environment -- even longer at rush hour. It's certainly as mind-boggling to me now as "Wolfenstein 3D" was to me in 1992. Arlington, Va.: I'm an adult gamer, and I generally like open-ended worlds where you can do as you like (like "Oblivion," say). I've avoided "Grand Theft Auto" games like the plague, though, because I honestly feel bad killing people in games. In "Bioshock," for example, I can't bring myself to "harvest" the little girls, even if they are monsters. In "Mass Effect," I'm the good guy, and only play the bad guy role to see what other options are there. So my question is: Is "Grand Theft Auto IV" any different? Is there a way to be a "good" guy? Your review appeared to imply there was, but I don't want to play a game for hours if I'll feel guilty. I have real life for that. Chris Baker: There's no way to be good in "GTA4" -- there are degrees of badness and shades of gray, but it may not be what you're looking for. If the violence of "Grand Theft Auto" puts you off, I strongly recommend picking up "Bully" to get a sense of the cleverness and the richness that Rockstar Games are capable of. (It's available for Wii, PlayStation2 and Xbox 360.) The developers call upon every cliche of high school from the Breakfast Club to Archie Comics to Enid Blyton to "Saved by the Bell," and create this brilliant kid-friendly "GTA"-at-a-private-school game. It's built around adolescent rebellion and mischief instead of drive-bys and drug trafficking. Washington: Hey, do you see more video games taking this approach to development, in terms of providing detail and depth in story-based games that give the user a feeling of an interactive "movie-based" environment? Or will "Grand Theft Auto" be the only series to tread that terrain (aside from "Saints Row")? Thanks. Chris Baker: We've seen a lot of games try and do explorable open world environments in the wake of "GTA." "Spiderman" games let you websling all over Gotham, "True Crime" set you loose in Los Angeles and New York, "Crackdown" was set in a sci-fi metropolis, "Jak 2" was like Mario in a cartoony dystopia... We'll probably see even more open world games in the near future, but the design challenges are enormous, and I think some games simply don't benefit from an open world. Let's face it, commuting can be boring. Washington: I watched my boyfriend play this game for about 20 minutes last night and I, too, was struck by how Niko has a background and a conscience. I remember the past games featured a main character who just didn't care about anything and you didn't care about him. But taking a girl out for bowling and conversation? That made me think running over hookers might not be as fun with this character. Chris Baker: Yes, the conversation you mention also stood out to me. For people who haven't played the game: The protagonist is a newly arrived immigrant about to go on his first date. He suggests that they go to the "fun fair," the in-game version of Coney Island. His date is bemused and a little put out that he'd want to do something so cheesy, but she feigns a little enthusiasm to be polite. And then they go bowling. It may sound mundane, but the richness and subtleness of the characterizations surprised me. Alexandria, Va.: Any word on a PC version? Chris Baker: Not yet! Fingers crossed... Falls Church, Va.: "But there hasn't been any definitive research showing that virtual violence in video games can spill over into real world behavior." Fine, but the person I know who works in public elementary schools says that the kids with the worst ADD problems, lack of focus, etc., also tend to play the most video games. I'm headed outside, see ya. Chris Baker: Hi! There's definitely a question of causation versus correlation. Are kids with short attention spans drawn to games, or do games give kids short attention spans? Games aren't simply immediate gratification in some cases. Steven Johnson's book "Everything Bad is Good for You" points out that many young gamers are learning about delayed gratification from games. You need to save up your in-game money or points for some long-term (e.g. ten hours later in the game) goal. Alexandria, Va.: So what is the difference in the violence in games I played as a kid (Cops and Robbers, Cowboys and Indians, Sword fighting (with sticks or Wiffle ball bats))? Did parents complain when Johnny came home saying he just scalped 20 injuns? Seems to me that parents and society is at an upheaval because video games are something they don't understand. Chris Baker: I agree wholeheartedly. I guess the knock against games would be that when you're playing Cops and Robbers, at least you're interacting with other kids and getting some exercise. But many gamers are playing with others, either through online multiplayer or with friends there in the room. And games like "Dance Dance Revolution" and the upcoming "Wii Fit" are great exercise... St. Louis: Chris, are the regulators getting any traction on censoring games, Or is it just a flash in the pan that will go nowhere? Personally I'm a lousy gamer but my son, who is now a middle-aged bank vice president, chills out several times a week with GTA or something equally gruesome, as do all his friends. All of them have been playing violent video games since they were in middle school, and they represent a cross-section of law-abiding citizenry. If society is going to crumble, it's more likely to be from the gas prices, in my humble opinion. Chris Baker: It must be said that the games industry has a ratings board similar to the MPAA called the ESRB. There's a lot of railing against games, but no traction in somehow replacing this independent ratings board with stricter government oversight. Also, it's important to note that the Entertainment Software Association, a lobbying/PAC outfit for the games industry, just launched. I think games will soon employ the same sort of lobbying muscle that the film industry and the music industry does. We'll see if games continue to be a media bugbear when that happens. Washington: What do you think of the idea of letting people play different characters within "Grand Theft Auto"? It would be a lot more interesting if I could be the cops or the ambulance driver... Chris Baker: There's actually a player-created mod of "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas" in which people log on and be taxi drivers or cops. There's a massively multiplayer cops and robbers game in the works. It's called "APB," and it's being headed up by one of the guys who created the "GTA" games. Sacramento, Calif.: I have not played the game, but I'm curious about the in-game reality. What is the law enforcement reality in the game? Can the character be arrested and taken to prison? Is so, are there lawyers? Prosecutors? Chris Baker: Law enforcement is sharper. Some police are suicidally brave, some are shrewd and cautious some will flee at the first sign of danger. Get arrested and you'll pay a huge fine (bribe) and have your weapons confiscated. But then you're back on the street. Richmond, Va.: I think when "Ambulation" finally hits for "Eve Online" we'll see the single most immersive game ever made. The technical gameplay, the complexity of how the world works and is driven by player warfare and economics, is already there. But actual characters (aside from portraits glued to the hull of a starship) were completely missing. The new footage and sound design for avatars is stunning. If people want to see where the cutting edge of gaming is, "Grand Theft Auto IV" is a fine start, but "Eve Online" is the future today. Chris Baker: "Eve" is really an astonishing game. I think the experience is sort of at the opposite end of the spectrum from "GTA," though. So much of what's so incredibly compelling about "Eve" is what the players bring to it, whereas "GTA" is a single-player experience that has been planned out and designed totally before it's release. Washington: Chris Baker: "Here in the Wired office, my fellow editors and I will take breaks a couple of times a day to go kill each other for five or 10 minutes in "Halo 3," and it's a great stress reliever." Where is said Wired Office and are they hiring? Chris Baker: Ha ha ha! It's not all fun and games, but that is a nice perk of being on this beat. Chicago: What about the prostitutes and treatment of women? Which is more uncomfortable for you as a man playing this game: killing civilians and cops or paying for fake sex and then killing the virtual sex worker? Also, do you know anyone who has said that the game is an arena to play out their sexual and/or violent fantasies? (I'm not a gamer. Just trying to understand how this could be appealing!) Chris Baker: Hi there! I think a lot of people engage in these acts just because of the novelty, because it's something a game never allowed you to do before. I don't know of anyone who finds it erotic. And as I said in my piece, that's something that players can do because the game is so open-ended; it's not something that players have to do. Silver Spring, Md.: Hey Chris -- as an avid gamer myself, I actually lost sleep anticipating this GTA. My question to you is, do you think the ultimatums that GTA IV gives you in the game (i.e. the choice to knock someone off or save them) is giving gamers the choice to do the right thing? It also proves to be pivotal in the game when these decisions come about ... what do you think about these interactions in the game? Chris Baker: I think the deeper writing and characterizations add a richness and a level of nuance to a the game. But it's still sort of like the Sopranos, it's about very bad people who do very bad things, though some characters are comparatively more ethical and honorable than others. Bethesda, Md.: What about "Insane Stunt Bonuses" from "Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas"? Silver Spring, Md.: On a scale from 1-10 how do you rate "Grand Theft Auto IV" in terms of graphics, presentation, sound, controls and overall experience? And if you don't mind could you briefly justify those scores? Chris Baker: I don't do the numerical scoring thing, especially without playing through the game at leisure to really absorb it. "Grand Theft Auto IV" really is excellent though. There's a bit of frame-rate dipping, and the pop-in that plagued previous versions of the game is still there. But all of the other aspects of the game are absolutely excellent. Chris Baker: Well, that's all the time I have. Thanks for your questions, and thanks to all of you for reading! Editor's Note: washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions. washingtonpost.com is not responsible for any content posted by third parties.	Slate video game reviewer Chris Baker discusses the surprising narrative richness and moral conundrums presented by Grand Theft Auto IV, and how that might make perceptions of this edition different from those of its predecessors.	128.081081	0.702703	1.405405	high	low	abstractive
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/celebritology/2008/05/celebritology_101_pete_wentz_k.html	https://web.archive.org/web/2008050119id_/http://blog.washingtonpost.com/celebritology/2008/05/celebritology_101_pete_wentz_k.html	Celebritology 101: Pete Wentz, King of 'Lucky In Love' Pack	2008050119	Without an ill-fated, and much publicized, marriage to Britney Spears we probably would've never heard the name Kevin Federline. But his status as the quintessential hanger-on is just so 2005. In fact, over the past year he's even become tolerable when contrasted with his erratic ex-wife. But, fear not, a strapping new crop of boy toys have risen to carry the title of biggest male celebrity hangers-on. Below, in convenient list form, the entertainment world's biggest testosterone-rich accessories: Pete Wentz: The diminutive makeup-wearing Fall Out Boy bassist was just another MTV snippet until he started dating Ashlee Simpson. Now, with rumors of a baby on the way, Wentz has parlayed his romance into 24/7 paparazzi coverage. The Madden Brothers: After Joel scored a coveted gig as Nicole Richie's baby daddy, brother (and Good Charlotte bandmate) Benji worked his way into Paris Hilton's heart and onto the paparazzi radar. Not bad for two pasty brothers from La Plata, Md. Nick Cannon: The former "Wild 'N Out" host and shameless self-promoter is number three with a bullet following recent rumors of an engagement to the current queen of the pop charts Mariah Carey. Previous romances include Kim Kardashian, singer/actress Christina Milian and Victoria's Secret model Selita Ebanks (to whom he proposed marriage on the Times Square Jumbotron). Ashton Kutcher. Sure, he's a "producer" and the brain behind the cultural phenom that is "Punk'd," but our main fascination with the "That '70s Show" alum continues to be his age-defying relationship with super cougar Demi Moore, 15 years his senior. David Beckham. Yes, there's the whole sports star thing, but this footballer would be nothing without his high-glam, high-profile Spice Girl wife, Victoria. The Wannabes - Rick Saloman: His marriage to Pam Anderson lasted only a few months for this one-time Paris Hilton sex tape partner. - Adnan Ghalib: Britney's family has effectively shut down Spears's relationship with this paparazzo with aspirations of crossing to the other side of the camera. By Liz \| May 1, 2008; 10:43 AM ET \| Category: Celebritology 101 Previous: Morning Mix: Kate Hudson is 'Most Beautiful' Cover Girl \| Next: Morning Mix: Report -- Mariah Carey Marries Nick Cannon Keep up with the latest Celebritology scoops with an easy-to-use widget. If you have tips, ideas for stories or general suggestions, let us know. Between Pete Wentz and Ashlee Simpson - I am not really sure which is the hanger and which is hte hangee. Can you really be the hangee if you are only famous for 1) having a more famous sister and 2) a major screw up on SNL? Re Nick Cannon - who? This guy doesn't seem like anything special, so how does he rate Mariah, and the models? Ok, Kim K is a skanque, so maybe he rates her. I just don't think you can rate Beck and Ashton Kutcher as hanger-ons. Becks was just as popular in Briton as Posh and Ashton had a pretty good following going before Demi - in fact, I would argue that Ashton made Demi relevant again, not the other way around! Posted by: sunnydaze \| May 1, 2008 12:02 PM I gotta say, I thought David Beckham was much more popular than Posh ever was. When they got together, sure, it amplified their star power, but Becks was pretty famous as a sports star--world wide, not just in Britain. I mean people in remote places where they watch the World Cup knew who Beckham was before they'd ever heard of the Spice Goils. Posted by: methinks \| May 1, 2008 12:10 PM I have to disagree with you Liz Kelly, and agree with sunnyd on calling Beckham a hanger-on. With or without Posh, he's still a guy pulling down huge dollars to play soccer. He might not have been Celebritology material without Posh, but then again neither was Roger Clemens - until we found out he was putting sliders right in Mindy McCready's strike zone. Posted by: byoolin \| May 1, 2008 12:13 PM Not to worry, ladies. I hear that American Idol phenom Sanjaya is still available. The line forms on the left. Posted by: Sasquatch \| May 1, 2008 12:13 PM DB is hanging on Victoria? Seriously? Seriously??? A fly would have a hard time hanging on Vicki right now, figuratively and literally. Someone get that woman a sandwich. Pretty sure DB is the one driving pop culture coverage of that couple, not the other way around. Unless, that is, you just can't get enough twice washed-up pop star and failed jean designer coverage, then it's definitely skeleboobs for you. Posted by: wtf \| May 1, 2008 12:13 PM It might have been Clemens' hanging curve that sealed that deal. Posted by: methinks \| May 1, 2008 12:14 PM Can Mindy McCready handle a Clemens' fast ball? Posted by: Sasquatch \| May 1, 2008 12:16 PM ...until we found out he was putting sliders right in Mindy McCready's strike zone. Ok, this one almost got me fired. Alright, I thought the phone was on mute during the conference call. My bad. Posted by: jes \| May 1, 2008 12:16 PM Yeah, a couple people have it right here. David Beckham made Victoria, not the other way around. She'd be lucky to be doing Dancing With the Stars now or be as remembered as Sporty Spice if not for her marriage to one of the most recognizable and beloved sport figures in the world. Posted by: Phil \| May 1, 2008 12:20 PM Only problem was that Clemens balked when Mindy tried to get Roger to come to the plate. Posted by: Sasquatch \| May 1, 2008 12:21 PM Phil, Victoria was Posh Spice. And I'm really sorry that I know that. Posted by: methinks \| May 1, 2008 12:24 PM ...McCready takes him deep to center... ...Clemens like to make sure his fingers are right on the seam as he releases... ...she's got a reputation as a long-ball hitter... ...she's really fighting the ball tonight... [Actually, if Harry Caray said it, I think you can use it...] Posted by: byoolin is oiling his glove in the meantime \| May 1, 2008 12:25 PM As someone who could care less about professional soccer, even I knew the household name of David Beckham, with the only others grazing my radar being that of Pele, Ronaldo and that really young kid that used to play in DC - Freddy something? I guess that underscores the point. While pairing with Posh certainly upped his paparazzi target level, he was already "major" in his own right. Posted by: Bend it Like Who? \| May 1, 2008 12:26 PM Byoolin, as long as you're not oiling your glove with K-Y..... Posted by: Sasquatch \| May 1, 2008 12:28 PM Sorry, Liz Kelly, I'm gonna have to agree with the others. Demi was a "Where Are They Now" until Ashton came along. How about Halle Berry's baby daddy, no one knew who he was now he's starring in Macys commercials along side Martha and Mariah. Posted by: jake e. poo \| May 1, 2008 12:29 PM I don't know Sas, if he's sitting there in his cubefarm I kind of hoping he is using K-Y... Posted by: jes \| May 1, 2008 12:31 PM I have another quibble, Liz Kelly: the idea of Nicole Richie as "coveted gig." I refer you to the comments of yellojkt & Sasquatch in today's earlier post, in which they named several other young ladies who were far more attractive than Kate Hudson, who is herself several orders of magnitude hotter than Ms. Richie. Posted by: byoolin isn't usually so contrary. \| May 1, 2008 12:32 PM "Nick Cannon" sounds like a bad 70s private eye show. (Apologies to William Conrad.) I should care about this man why? David Beckham -- I'm bracing myself for the byoozilian commentary. He and Ashton are the larger stars here, definitely. Without them, Victoria would be a has-been social x-ray and Demi an 80's footnote. Liz, "oiling his glove" deserves an IP address warning! Posted by: td \| May 1, 2008 12:33 PM And while we're on the baseball double entendres (if you can't beat 'em, join 'em), I'm surprised no one has said (or has someone?): Mindy received that one low and inside. Posted by: td \| May 1, 2008 12:36 PM I have a sense that by "coveted gig" Ms. Kelly might have been referring to the extraordinary amount of attention paid to Nicole Richie and to those in her sphere. I didn't know who the members of Good Charlotte were before the fellas hooked up with BFFs Richie & Hilton. But then, I'm the Celebritology reader who didn't know who Ashley Tisdale was either. Posted by: methinks \| May 1, 2008 12:38 PM No K-Y, kids. But I appreciate your filthy minds. As Frank Zappa once (or perhaps more frequently) said, "Water makes its own sauce." The question reminds me, though, that the ECHL once had a hockey team in Georgia called the Macon Whoopee (seriously). When they moved to Louisville, Kentucky, I suggested they be renamed the KY Jelly. (No sale; they went with "Men O'War" and folded within a year.) Posted by: byoolin \| May 1, 2008 12:40 PM Posted by: byoolin \| May 1, 2008 12:41 PM When the hockey team was in Macon, did they sponsor a special Whoopee Cushion night for the fans? First 5,000 paid fans get a monogrammed Whoopee Cushion. Posted by: Sasquatch \| May 1, 2008 12:46 PM I also have a quibble with the first item. Pete Wentz and Fall Out Boy have been much more relevant on the music scene than Jessica Simpson's little sister. Pete Wentz has alsways gotten special media attention in particular, even before the whole Ashley thing. As someone already pointed out, Ashley has pretty much only been famous for her botched performing attempts (SNL and the famous Superbowl boo-out). Posted by: Kat \| May 1, 2008 12:47 PM Just imagine the roar from the crowd on Whoopee Cushion Night. Posted by: Sasquatch \| May 1, 2008 12:49 PM 'Mindy received that one low and inside.' Posted by: td \| May 1, 2008 12:36 PM Or, Roger brought that one in high & tight. Posted by: \| May 1, 2008 12:52 PM Hey, what about the guy who knocked up Jamie Lynn Spears? Isn't he a hanger on, considering he was sleeping on the couch. Oh and the ultimate hanger on to the point of moving to the next generation -- Howard Stern. Anna Nicole's lawyer, and the fradulent baby daddy of Daniellynn. He is now sleeping on Daniellynn's couch at her daddy's place. Please kill me that I know the above. Posted by: ep \| May 1, 2008 12:53 PM I hate to pile it on, (actually I kind of enjoy piling it on), but Beckham and Kutcher are much bigger stars then their wives. Beckham may be the biggest star on the planet, as he is hugely popular everywhere outside the U.S. I would say you could ask 1000 people outside the U.S. who Beckham is and 950 would know. You could ask those same 1000 who a big U.S. star like George Clooney is and less then half would know. Posted by: DW \| May 1, 2008 12:55 PM "Please kill me that I know the above." The Governor has commuted your sentence from death to life without parole. Here's your glove, your K-Y and your Whoopee Cushsion. Now go entertain your new cell mate, Mister Snipes Posted by: Sasquatch \| May 1, 2008 12:55 PM "but then again neither was Roger Clemens - until we found out he was putting sliders right in Mindy McCready's strike zone." I agree with sunnydaze, particularly on the Pete vs. Ashley hanger and hangee situation. It's a chicken or egg question. Posted by: petal \| May 1, 2008 12:59 PM "putting sliders right in Mindy McCready's strike zone" Never. Eating. White Castle. Again. Posted by: ol \| May 1, 2008 1:12 PM Pete and Ashlee: Ashlee made him straight; I'm not sure if that good or bad. Nicole and Joel: Nicole was the hanger-on until Good Charlotte's career tank. Now, he's the hanger and she making plans to easy him out. Paris and Benji: Paris does anything for press even if it means dating a hanger. Nick Cannon: Cheaper than a vibrator. Ashton and David do not belong on the list. Posted by: \| May 1, 2008 1:32 PM I've gotta say, this list is really off. Except for Nick Cannon all of those men were famous before they even met their significant others. Becks has a movie named after him, I don't see a "pretty like posh" out there Posted by: MGC \| May 1, 2008 1:34 PM "Becks has a movie named after him, I don't see a "pretty like posh" out there." Good point, MGC. Besides, "Bend It Like Posh" would be a physical impossibility -- the movie would have to be called "Snap In Two Like Posh." Posted by: td \| May 1, 2008 1:48 PM The Wannabes are more the hangers than the 5 in the list. Posted by: omni \| May 1, 2008 1:49 PM I agree w/most of the above about David Beckham. But I think most Americans (especially since we're not pro-soccer, I mean football fans)became familiar w/him as Posh's husband. This guy was hugely popular around the globe before he and Posh married. Agree too, that Ashton doesn't belong on the list, but think that Halle's and Jamie's daddies should be on that list. They were definite no-names until their respective baby mamas came along. Posted by: Plamar1031 \| May 1, 2008 2:04 PM "Nick Cannon: Cheaper than a vibrator." -Posted by: \| May 1, 2008 1:32 PM Posted by: plamar1031 \| May 1, 2008 2:12 PM "Halle's and Jamie's daddies ", intended to say "Halle's and Jamie's baby-daddies" Posted by: plamar1031 \| May 1, 2008 2:14 PM For uncensored news please bookmark: Our Investment: Why We Love George George W. Bush is more than the perfect puppet Reagan was; he's truly one of us. We don't have to convince him of the benefits of helping out the rich and powerful -- he's known them all his life. Billionaires bought him the education his brains couldn't -- Andover, Yale, Harvard -- then bailed out his failed business ventures, and paid his way into politics. As a result, George is as dedicated to realising our vision for America as we are! Tax Cuts, the Deficit and Destroying Public Services We love George's tax cuts! They mean trillions for us and tidbits for everyone else. Better still, they've left Americans with a crippling debt that their children will be paying back to us (guess who loaned Bush the money for a tax cut?!) for years to come while the Government slashes social security, education and health care to avoid going bankrupt. Read more... Investment: $200 million to Bush's 2000 election campaign Return: $1.1 trillion in tax cuts Percent Return: 550,000% The health of Americans is important to us. In fact, it's worth about $1.6 trillion a year! And now George is helping us make even more money from this booming business. He's protecting our profits by barring cheaper drugs from abroad, while his new Medicare bill guarantees that the government can't negotiate bulk drug prices from our companies. Read more... Investment: $44 million in Drug Company donations to Republicans since 2000 Return: $139 billion in additional Drug Company profits over 8 years Percent Return: 315,900% Most Presidents keep our Defense Contractors happy, but George is special. He's increased the defence budget, turned over lucrative government services to our companies and topped it all by destroying Iraq with our most expensive bombs and then paying us to re-build it! So while America gets more wars, less money for social programs, families and the future, we get $250 billion! Read more... Investment: $23.5 million in Defense Contractors' donations since 2000 to Republicans Return: Approximately $251 billion Percent Return: 1,068,000% George is an oil man, Cheney is an oil man. We're all oil men! From Kyoto to Iraq, George has ensured that whether it's global warming or global peace, our profits come first. He even let us write his new energy bill and give ourselves $30 billion of your money in new subsidies. Read more... Investment: $108 million from Oil Companies since 2000 to Republicans Return: $30 billion Percent Return: 27,778% Overtime pay may keep millions of families afloat, but it sure costs us a lot of money! That's why George has fought the whining public and the Congress to remove 8 million workers' right to overtime pay, potentially saving us $1.9billion a year, forever! Read more... Investment: $6 million from Business Associations since 2000 to Republicans Return: $1.9 billion per year forever Percent Return: 31,667% per year George knows the value of having media that'll make him look good, and we know the value of controlling what you think (and of making $billions doing it). Again, George has stood alone against a public outcry, a bi-partisan Congress and the foundations of America's democracy to ensure that our mega-media corporations can get even bigger. Read more... Investment: $25.7 million from media corps to Republicans since 2000 Return: Control over what every American thinks and buys -- priceless Once, governments fought to protect your health and preserve the environment for your children. Maybe they just didn't appreciate how much money could be made? But George does. He's undone decades of terrible, anti-Billionaire policies and fought hard for our rights to make billions polluting the air, endangering health and wrecking the natural world. Read more... For years our "Bomb the Arabs and Steal Their Oil!" bumper sticker has gone unheeded. That is, until George came along. The Middle East has been a constant irritation to us Billionaires for decades. Finally we've gone in and taken control. WMD, human rights, whatever. We've got the oil and that means serious money. Dead US soldiers, dead Iraqis, enraged Muslim world, increased terrorist threats? As long as our profit margins are healthy, we'll make it through. Read more... Posted by: che \| May 1, 2008 2:32 PM dang. just when you thought it was save to go back in the comments.... Posted by: b \| May 1, 2008 2:46 PM G*dammit, who let Che back in? Posted by: \| May 1, 2008 2:46 PM A vote for comment of the week... "Unless, that is, you just can't get enough twice washed-up pop star and failed jean designer coverage, then it's definitely skeleboobs for you." Posted by: \| May 1, 2008 2:48 PM Liz, can't you do something about the mega posts? The comments used to be, you know, fun. Posted by: jelo \| May 1, 2008 2:59 PM Need to clarify-not your* posts, the nimrods with their illiterate and inane comments. You all know who you are. Posted by: jelo \| May 1, 2008 3:00 PM Che must be campaigning to become the next celebrity boy toy. Posted by: Sasquatch \| May 1, 2008 3:09 PM Do Jennifer Lopez's ex husbands count? Or do they not count because they are ex'es. Although one could argue that both Chris Judd and the other guy are still capitalizing on her fame. Posted by: Stuck@Work \| May 1, 2008 3:12 PM we'll have to add "skeleboobs" to the Celebritology lexicon back on the Morning Mix board. Posted by: methinks \| May 1, 2008 3:14 PM "skeleboobs" are the featured fashion item on Booby Kennedy Day. Posted by: Sasquatch \| May 1, 2008 3:15 PM WOW!!!!!! first Booby Kennedy day, then the rich vocabulary of the texting tweens and now che. Dude, where have you been? Posted by: petal \| May 1, 2008 3:20 PM At least Che broke up the bad, junior-high baseball/sex jokes. I thought you didn't like the tween bloggers? They'd love these jokes. Posted by: Amelia \| May 1, 2008 3:21 PM Hey, be fair, everyone wants dirty sports metaphors. Posted by: Sigh \| May 1, 2008 3:35 PM Double entendre baseball metaphors are the only way we can talk dirty in front of Liz without upsetting her. Posted by: Sasquatch \| May 1, 2008 3:39 PM At least Che broke up the bad, junior-high baseball/sex jokes. I thought you didn't like the tween bloggers? They'd love these jokes. Posted by: Amelia \| May 1, 2008 3:21 PM No, texting tweeners don't get the double entendre thing. If it's no in your face obvious it's not funny to them. Posted by: \| May 1, 2008 3:46 PM No, texting tweeners don't get the double entendre thing. If it's no in your face obvious it's not funny to them. Posted by: \| May 1, 2008 3:46 PM Posted by: \| May 1, 2008 3:54 PM "Becks has a movie named after him, I don't see a "pretty like posh" out there." Good point, MGC. Besides, "Bend It Like Posh" would be a physical impossibility -- the movie would have to be called "Snap In Two Like Posh." Posted by: td \| May 1, 2008 1:48 PM Spice World was out before Bend It Like Beckham. And wow, totally "forgot" about che until today. He/she must have been let out of jail or the psych ward. Posted by: WDC 21113 \| May 1, 2008 3:55 PM Wasn't Joel Madden the one that popped Mandy Moore? That guy gets some action. Posted by: yellojkt \| May 1, 2008 4:14 PM Liz, You asked on your chat, who is the bigger star Paris Hilton or David Beckham? The answer is clearly Beckham. He is 10 times more well known around the world then Paris. This is really a no brainer. Posted by: dw \| May 1, 2008 4:31 PM You guys/gals really think David Beckham would be nothing without Spice Gal Victoria? David Beckham was an international soccer star before those two hooked up. We may not have known that over here in the US but in Europe and the rest of the world, where soccer is king they knew it. I gurantee the David B has done for his wife's career/notoriety then she has done for him. Posted by: NP \| May 1, 2008 4:43 PM Oh no, Che is back? Geesh! I always thought that PW was slightly more famous than AS and that she was the hanger-on. Posted by: Always Annon- must find a cool name. \| May 1, 2008 4:50 PM I don't think the twexters get SINGLE entendres either. Posted by: M Street \| May 1, 2008 4:51 PM Regarding Beckham, without Posh, he probably still be a decent right winger playing for Man United. He'd be a star in England, to be sure. Posted by: Deanna \| May 1, 2008 5:20 PM Oh, you guys! Che is really Ashton Kutcher I just know it. His ears were burning. Posted by: possum \| May 1, 2008 5:44 PM We encourage users to analyze, comment on and even challenge washingtonpost.com's articles, blogs, reviews and multimedia features. User reviews and comments that include profanity or personal attacks or other inappropriate comments or material will be removed from the site. Additionally, entries that are unsigned or contain "signatures" by someone other than the actual author will be removed. Finally, we will take steps to block users who violate any of our posting standards, terms of use or privacy policies or any other policies governing this site. Please review the full rules governing commentaries and discussions.	Washingtonpost.com blogger Liz Kelly dishes on the latest happenings in entertainment, celebrity, and Hollywood news.	279.555556	0.722222	1.055556	high	low	abstractive

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