Second Day Winners

This is more winning than we did all of last season. A welcomed change in the team philosophy and I look forward to what the Redskins do next.

John Clayton:

3. Washington Redskins: Like the New York Jets, the Redskins often have only three to five selections in some years. Under Mike Shanahan and Bruce Allen, the Redskins kept trading back and now have 13 picks. That's fine, but they also got some pretty decent players they liked while making those moves. Jarvis Jenkins, a second-round pick from Clemson, is a big body to put on the 3-4 defensive line. The Redskins considered taking wide receiver Leonard Hankerson with one of their two second-round picks. They ended up trading down and still getting him, in the third round. Ryan Kerrigan, the first-round pick, will be the team's left outside linebacker. And to make it official, the Redskins had no plans to draft a quarterback in the first three rounds. The abundance of young players should add depth and help on special teams


I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Nothing Funny

Hate to be a nitpicker, but there's nothing funny about the former Secretary of State, of one of the worst administrations in our nation's history, getting a cameo on a hit show. What a sick country we've become.

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Break From Boredom

More Manchester Orchestra:



Chow!

Get Your Dunkin Friday

Well it's Friday and Royal Wedding Day! You think they had it on a Friday because it was cheaper? Or was it simply for more attention? Tradition? Oh fuck it, I don't really care. One thing is for sure, Kate Middleton looked absolutely stunning. All that should get me a few morning clicks on the ole blog, sorry to disappoint people this is a liberal RAGING MOTHERF-IN BLOG! Speaking of which, wtf is going in Oklahoma? Where do they find these racist reps and why do they hand them a microphone? At least she likes Asians, see she doesn't hate all minorities just lazy black ones....RAAAAGE!!! We should be past this point. It's 2011. People in office should not lack basic social skills, however we get teh stupid like this in states across teh Uhmerika! Happy Friday hippies!

Here are your highlights:

Donald Trump is attacks the Chinese now not so colorful language

The Village and the Deficit

Right Wing Mainstream, Inciting Violence via Television

Tell Bill Maher: stop legitimizing Andrew Breitbart

More news from the South

Draft Day came and went, there were some surprises, but ultimately what I care about is my Redskins. What a RELIEF! We traded down, didn't go for the overrated QB option and picked up a much needed, ready to play defensive end in Ryan Kerrigan. Can't wait to see what happens tonight!

Chow!

Ninja Thought

Drill baby shrill

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

The Matthew Filipowicz Show Episode 8

From Matt:

On today’s episode, we have not one, but two Lee’s!

We have Think Progress investigative reporter Lee Fang here to talk about the Koch Brothers and the Astroturf money that’s funding right wing causes.

We have comedian and satirist Lee Camp here to talk about his new album Chaos for the Weary, and the state of political comedy in America.

We’ll also be joined by Cindy Sunday from the Best Church of God, we will have royal wedding coverage from New York Times Style Writer Evgenia Q. Hernanadez Flotts, plus we will boldy go where no Matthew Filipowicz Show sketch has gone before.

Our writer/performers today were Lauren Maul, Frank Chow and Kate Ward.

You can subscribe and podcast the show on iTunes and at www.matthewf.net, follow the show on Twitter and Facebook. We have new shows every Tuesday and Thursday.

Also, take a second and review our show on iTunes! It really helps! Thanks!

Thanks again for your support and hope you enjoy the show!

Chow!

Get Your Dunkin Thursday

So were in the After Birth...certificate. The reactions from Wingnuttia have been predictable, nothing will satisfy their foaming mouths. Some reactions from the Left have even surprised me, however the most moving was by Baratunde Thurston (video above). It's often lost on the media, over saturated with the David Gregory, Chuck Todd, Chris Wallace, Sean Hannity and Jake Tapper's of the world, but Barack Obama is the first black president and it means something entirely different to African-Americans (should go without saying). I won't try to offer any profound statement just that the more this transgresses, the more I'm beginning to believe that this is the storm before the calm. What Barack Obama did yesterday took an amount of humbleness and leadership not found in ordinary men. And certainly not found in his opponents. As an American I am truly proud of that, he proved me wrong (I thought he would let it roll along) and instead convinced me it was the right thing to do. Maybe not in my life time, but perhaps in my children's, there will be more than one "adult in the room."

Here are your highlights:

Death Toll Mounts as Fierce Storms Batter South

Arrrghh, John Yoo does it again

‘In shock’: Cardinal George suspends Rev. Michael Pfleger

Man, Amazon is cold blooded

What is it with people? Yes I'm from the suburbs, but this is just too stupid GET OVER YOURSELVES!

Bernanke dissapoints

It's DRAFT DAY!!!! In a season that has yet to be determined, the draft goes on. My buddy has his own take on what the Redskins should do. And here is the latest Insider approach. I'm hoping for something other THAN A FUGGIN QUARTERBACK

Chow!

In His Own Words

Shorter Obama, Are you not entertained?!!!

Fallows with a real break down & video (h/t Widder Shinnz)

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Ninja Thought

They won't stop, they can't stop, it's not in their nature

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Get Your Dunkin Wednesday

(SUCK IT BIRTHERS!!!)

Oh Wednesday you're here! Halfway done with the week, relief! Last night was a fun and rambunctious Drinking Liberally. We talked. We drank. We drank some more. And we argued and acquiesced. All in all a good time. Don't forget to tune into the Matthew Filipowicz Show, yes it's a shameless plug since I'm a contributor, but also tune in because Matt rocks a solid mic. Today will be another work day from pffffffffft fml.

Here are your highlights:

Bulls finish the job. Blackhawks not so much. Valiant effort though valiant indeed.

Barack Obama handing out his birth certificate like lollipops to the press corps kiddies...sadly that won't satisfy the racist mob

Facts vs. Feelings, more media fail

Bernanke to open up the vault doors! Not really, but a press conference is a good start

Forced to shut down looking for aliens *Le Sigh

Felix Salmon doing what he does best, Where does value lie in a restaurant meal? I'm not privy to all restaurant traditions nor do I think the best meals are necessarily the most expensive. Salmon in this extended post skewers and grills! (puns intended)

Chow!

Early GOP Presidential Polling = Meaningless

It takes a comedian to point out teh stupid:

The Daily Show - Indecision 2012 - Premature Ecalculation
Tags: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Ninja Thought

Maybe if we freedom bomb red states with knowledge...they'll notice

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Get Your Dunkin Tuesday

Busy Morning!

Here are your highlights:

NATO kills senior al Qaida leader, so are we fighting like 8 people now?

Customers angry! Apple getting sued over IPhone spying

Gov. Jindal pulling a Mayor Daley?

WAKE UP! We don't have a debt crisis

ESPN's weak weak weak sauce

This weekend is meant for special people. People who understand the importance of A) Drinking & B) Zombies. If you are down with both, you can register for Chicago's Zombie Pub Crawl

Chow!

Disconnect

Conundrum. I can't discover the disconnect amongst friends and family members who in person are truly kind and yet want to punish the poor. Not just warm or nice people, but truly kind, generous people who on a dime can be real assholes when it comes to assisting the poor or less fortunate. Ex. They chastise people on food stamps for choosing foods they deem as "luxurious" purchases (god forbid they eat steak or cereal). Then use phrases like "Can't give people handouts, they just want more." As if people rush in line to be the poorest of the poor because government assistance programs are SO FRIGGIN AWESOME! I don't know what the mechanism is, where they switch from being truly kind to temperamental and hateful pricks, but it's awful. Also too, Christian. Any thoughts?

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Update: And to put things in perspective, here's one report on what a family needs to have economic security in America.

NPR:

According to the report, to achieve economic security the average minimum income needed for a family with two workers and two young children is $67,920 — that's with both parents working, and earning just over $16 an hour

and

The income requirements in the index are about three times more than the federal poverty line, which is $21,756 for a family of four and $10,956 for an individual.

And here is how we decide eligibility for SNAP.

Aviary Opens

The Aviary, brainchild of Grant Achatz, opened to the fanfare you'd expect. Above a video on their approach to a Gin & Tonic using Junipero Gin.

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Ninja Thought

Dikembe Mutombo couldn't even defend it

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Get Your Dunkin Monday

I'm baaaaack! Did the fort get attacked while I was gone? Everyone still bitter and pissed off? Awesome. It was a much needed escape to Middle Earth for the weekend. The lady and I chilled in her hometown and hung out with all of her nieces and nephew. It was great to see them up and walking around. For those of you who partake I hope your Easter was fantastic, for those who don't I hope your weekend was fantastic. I'm looking forward to this week as it starts a big turn in the Frank story...it's the end of the month...

Here are your highlights:

Chicago Blackhawks come storming back, the Capitals did their job

Transit is teh important

With gas prices so high...why are we still subsidizing big oil?

Did the Fed flop? You know I keep reading a lot of analysis, but a lot of this could be fixed by jobs. And no I don't mean Steve...unless he's hiring!

Another leak. Gitmo files this time and it is a reminder of how terribly awful the Bush administration and its "War on Terror" was, but we also have to be reminded Bradley Manning still broke the law.

Chow!

Serious! Brave! Courageous!

Is it me or did Ryan shrug?

I'm off for the holiday, have a great weekend!

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Ninja Thought

Don't know about you, but I'll be doing back flips at 67. That and push ups over hot stones.

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Bon Iver to Release New Album in June

Cover Art

Can't wait to hear it. Details.

Chow!

Blame the Koch?

New Deal Democrat has an extensive analysis of Oil Prices and the recovery. It's alarming, but as of yet no need to panic.

Teh Sauce:

So, am I calling for renewed recession? Not at this time. While I expect the Leading Economic Indicators report on Friday to be "soft," with the strong housing permits data on Tuesday it will certainly be positive. Typically recessions do not begin until at least 8 of the 10 LEI are negative compared with 6 months previous, or the LEI are down 3 months in a row. Also Real M1 is growing at about 10%, and there has never been a recession going all the way back to the Great Depression with Real M1 positive. Further, Prof. Hamilton's point that many consumers have already made the adjustment to $3.75 gas - via for example their small car purchases several years ago - has a lot of merit.

But if Oil prices remain elevated for several more months, the LEI turning negative becomes more of a possibility. At very least, the Oil shock of 2011 has almost certainly begun, and it is likely already causing a substantial slowdown.

Which brings me to a Beckian like theory, what if the Koch Brothers know their only way to unseat Obama is to tank the economy once again? Not too absurd of a thought...

Also too, caliphate!


I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Get Your Dunkin Wednesday

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Well yesterday was fun. I was all over the place. I sold my car. HOORAY! But then I had to head over to an insurance company, followed by a long long trip to the DMV which was to no avail. Then gots my hair did. THEN I went to the doctor. I'm exhausted. The sad part is I have to do most of it all over again on Thursday. Yup, it never fails at the DMV. This weekend we're headed to my lady's parents place for Easter. It'll be nice to get away. What'd I miss yesterday? Anything happen? I feel so out of the loop.

Here are your highlights:

Emanuel searches for his top cop

Sign of the times, McDonald's overwhelmed by job seekers

Democrats attack GOP on Medicare...it's a start

BP Oil Spill One Year Later - Still not looking too hot

Redskins Schedule Released, now if only there were a season

The American electorate really is tough to understand. It's full of contradictions and it seems they are more misinformed than ever. With a media that's no help, it's no wonder Obama has the numbers he currently has...also too, he's out on the road again which means he's not doing enough to sell his plan (heavy on the snark).

Chow!

Get Your Dunkin Tuesday

I have to be out and about doing errands today. New license and such. Don't forget to listen to the latest Trans-Atlantic Throwdown Podcast. I just picked up a sweet new mic, so the quality on my end should improve greatly. It's also going to allow me to record my own music which is something I've been wanting to get back into. EXCITEMENT!

Enjoy your day ya'll

Chow !

Teh Future

Or hopefully not, Comic by Matt Bors:

You can check out his most awesome portfolio here.


I am Frank Chow and I wish I was this talented

Bluffin With My Muffin

Jed Lewison:

Here's one more piece of evidence that Republicans are bluffing when they threaten to hold the debt limit hostage: 81 current senators have voted at least once to extend the debt ceiling since 2001, including all but two of the Republicans who have cast a vote at least once on the debt ceiling during that time. Seventeen current senators have not yet faced a vote on raising the debt limit.

Moreover, all five of the most prolific debt-limit raisers over the past decade are Republicans, with Olympia Snowe and Susan Collins each having voted eight times to extend the debt limit, and Dick Lugar, Mitch McConnell, and Lisa Murkowski having voted seven times apiece to do so.

Even Jim DeMint has voted to raise the debt limit.

It's all just a game of who blinks first. There's no reason to tie anything to the debt ceiling, in fact it's irresponsible to play around with it. So the Dems needs to be adamant about the stakes and continue to call out the likes of Captain Douchenugget, Eric Cantor.

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Ninja Thought

France & England, they need bigger dicks

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Get Your Dunkin Monday

Happy Birthday to my lady!!!! Hooray for my fiance! Yup, today is my lady's birthday and this past weekend we spent it shopping, eating delicious food and swimming with the dolphins! Okay not really on that last part, but we did go to Shedd Aquarium and it was awesome. Tonight I'm taking her to one last romantical rockin dinner. So if you know my lady personally, head over to her Facebook and wish her a happy birthday!!

Here are your highlights:

If Ryan's Plan does pass, will insurance companies even partake?

NOT SERIOUS, The "Gang of Six" which sounds like bad softcore p0rn, says they want to fix the deficit, but won't consider tax increases *headslamondesk

Cool Tutorial on How to Make a Dramatic Novel Cover

Heckuva fight weekend. Boxing is alive and well folks. Rematch for both fights will be exciting and props to Ortiz for proving me and tons of others wrong.

Take that bugs! Grapefuit guns!

Let's Not Be Civil, Krugman with the quote of the campaign trail "So let’s not be civil. Instead, let’s have a frank discussion of our differences. In particular, if Democrats believe that Republicans are talking cruel nonsense, they should say so — and take their case to the voters."
It'd be a sight to see, let's hope the Democrats are up to the task.

Chow!

News That Warms the Heart - Fighting Cancer

This is why science and innovation matters.

NPR:

Device maker Novocure said Friday that the Food and Drug Administration approved its first-of-a-kind treatment that fights cancerous brain tumors using electrical energy fields.

The FDA approved the device for patients with aggressive brain tumors that have returned after treatment with chemotherapy and other interventions. Patients with recurring brain cancer usually live only a few months.

Studies showed that people using the device lived about as long as those taking chemotherapy, roughly six months. However, patients using the device had significantly fewer side effects.

For decades, doctors have treated cancer with three methods: drugs, radiation or surgery. Novocure's NovoTTF device represents a fourth approach.

The portable device uses electric fields to disrupt the division of cancer cells that allows tumors to grow and spread. The electric fields have little effect on healthy cells because they divide at a much slower rate, if at all, compared with cancer cells.

"The reason why this is so exciting is that we now have FDA approval of a totally new type of treatment for cancer," said Dr. Herb Engelhard, an associate professor of neurosurgery at the University of Illinois in Chicago. Engelhard helped conduct the study of NovoTTF but received no compensation from the company.

"All of us as investigators were skeptical at first, but I have seen the scans and I believe this is killing cancer cells in patients," Engelhard said.

The NovoTTF is a six-pound device that patients carry with them in a small bag. The electrical current is sent from the device to four electrodes which are attached to the patient's shaved head.

A panel of outside advisers to the FDA narrowly voted 7-6 in favor of the effectiveness of the device last month. The FDA is not required to follow such recommendations, though it often does.

A 237-patient study failed to show a survival benefit for patients using the device, compared with those taking chemotherapy. Patients in both groups lived just over six months, on average. However, those in the device group reported higher quality of life and did not have the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea, diarrhea and infection.

"This is as effective, or better, than anything that's ever been tried after standard treatment has failed. And while you're on it, you don't have any side effects from the treatment." said Al Musella, founder of the Musella Foundation for Brain Tumor Research and Information in Hewlett, N.Y. Musella's father and sister-in-law died of brain cancer.

The FDA approved the device specifically for a tumor type known as glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain cancer. Five-year survival for the disease is just 2 percent for patients over 45 years old, according to American Cancer Society. About 19,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with brain cancer each year, according to the National Cancer Institute.

Standard treatment is six weeks of high-dose radiation along with a chemotherapy pill, and then additional chemotherapy for at least six months or until the tumor stops responding.

Nothing is quite as painful as seeing someone you love suffer through cancer treatment. It's draining on the patient the most, but the family as well who has to bear witness. Hopefully this treatment can be improve upon the quality of life for those battling brain cancer.

If you have time, stop by the Chris Elliott Fund site and make a donation.

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

The Democratic Party Gets a Gift Basket

From House Republicans:

House Republicans voted Friday in favor of a vision of the future without Medicare, with a significantly eroded Medicaid, and with lower taxes on wealthy Americans. By a vote of 235-193, they passed their budget resolution -- an opening bid in a broader partisan fight about spending and taxes that will dominate politics in Washington, DC for the rest of the year.

Four Republicans voted with all Democrats against the so-called "Path to Prosperity." Two Republicans and five Democratsdidn't vote.

It's also political poison.

There's your ad campaign for 2012. You don't have to go any other route. The Republicans voted to eliminate Medicare.

One thing is a certain in U.S. politics, you don't mess with granny. She's a feisty and vengeful voter and she'll make sure you pay the next go around. This as far of an overreach as you can get, just as it was when the Republicans tried to privatize Social Security. The ads write themselves. Heck leading into 2010 the Republicans ran on the same premise, Democrats were going to end Medicare. Funny. Very funny how that all comes around.

*Note said basket comes with a bow and inside a nice big chocolatey bunny nom nom nom


I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Ninja Thought

Twiddly diddly deet, twiddly deet

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Get Your Dunkin Friday

Phew made it. Been a long and tiring week, but this weekend we get to celebrate the birth of my lady!! Yes Monday is her birthday! Everyone send awesome, hippie, happy vibes her way, she's earned it. Don't forget to listen to the latest episode of the Trans-Atlantic Throwdown, with the next two weekends being full with holidays (yes my lady's b-day is considered a holiday), we won't be laying down another episode till the end of the month. So check it out, follow us on Facebook and subscribe on ITunes!

Here are your highlights:

Illinois not fixing education any time soon

Georgia, a true *hackspit Southern state, passes immigration law similar to Arizona's

There's that darned word again, Tax FACTS

In Montana a Democratic Governor with a Veto Branding Iron

(insert Simpson's laugh here) More Fun with Paul Ryan's Plan

Since I'll be with the future Mrs....someone please tape this for me (can you do that anymore and no I don't have a DVR) Andre Berto v. Victor Ortiz. Young lions now clashing, gotta love it!

Chow!

Hobbits-esses

Peter Jackson with a behind the scenes look at the beginnings of the Hobbit. (h/t Nerdist)

I am Frank Chow and I just nerdgasmed

Ninja Thought

Punish these people!

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Get Your Dunkin Thursday

And we're rounding the corner! This weekend it's my lady's birthday weekend. Her birthday is actually Monday, but we celebrate early in Chicago! I've been having a hard time finding a gift for a girl who has everything. No really. We've been really blessed of late AND I friggin proposed just three months back...Frank is strapped for cash LOL. I've got some tricks up my sleeve though muahaha. I can't wait for the weekend this work week has blooooown.

Here are your highlights:

A Nod is as Good as a Wink...

Da Bulls! All of D Rose's hard work and a new head coach paid off #1 Seed

Unemployment Numbers not looking too hot

As More Americans are leaving the workforce, how about them jobs Boehner?

Yes Primarying Obama is Teh Stupid

The BIGGEST CUTS EVER!!! Welp, not really. It's pie on the face of the Teabaggers, the Republicans leadership looks pretty foolish and the rage from the Right is hilarious!

Chow!

President Obama's Budget Speech

But I did. Full text is here.

The sauce:

The fact is, their vision is less about reducing the deficit than it is about changing the basic social compact in America. As Ronald Reagan’s own budget director said, there’s nothing “serious” or “courageous” about this plan. There’s nothing serious about a plan that claims to reduce the deficit by spending a trillion dollars on tax cuts for millionaires and billionaires. There’s nothing courageous about asking for sacrifice from those who can least afford it and don’t have any clout on Capitol Hill. And this is not a vision of the America I know.

The America I know is generous and compassionate; a land of opportunity and optimism. We take responsibility for ourselves and each other; for the country we want and the future we share. We are the nation that built a railroad across a continent and brought light to communities shrouded in darkness. We sent a generation to college on the GI bill and saved millions of seniors from poverty with Social Security and Medicare. We have led the world in scientific research and technological breakthroughs that have transformed millions of lives.

This is who we are. This is the America I know. We don’t have to choose between a future of spiraling debt and one where we forfeit investments in our people and our country. To meet our fiscal challenge, we will need to make reforms. We will all need to make sacrifices. But we do not have to sacrifice the America we believe in. And as long as I’m President, we won’t.

He hit on all the major points and made the case for his vision. Also too, scorched the Ryan plan in the way it needed to be done. Heck even Krugman is satisfied. Now as they say in corporate speak "let's make it happen."

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Official Video: Manchester Orchestra - Simple Math

As discussed on the latest TATPodcast, I'm looking forward to this release. There's also a great interview where I found teh video.

Chow!

Get Your Dunkin Wednesday

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Weeks half way there and it's been a tough one. Coming back to work, getting a little under the weather and other stuff. I wish I could have stayed in Santa Monica. Enough about me, let's chat about America. AND...AND our sad state of historical recollection, more like rewriting of American history. I know it's tough to admit, but there are some rather large stains in our storied history. To run away from it however and in turn glorify those that inflicted said stains, is another thing entirely. I'm honestly saddened by our nation. How can you not know how the Civil War began? I recommend this post by Jamelle Bouie and this by Driftglass. Frankly I haven't had the time to post at length. Also too, they do it much better.

Here are your highlights:

Planned Parenthood, one of the few truly trying to educate and prevent unwanted pregnancies, a "thorn in the side" of Anti-Abortionists

Book banning. Brave New World.

More bigotry in Illinois, they hate the GAY!

TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES! HEROES IN A HALF SHELL!

So tonight the President is to make an address presumably about the deficit and the budget. Kevin Drum offers a sensible request to "Get Real About the Deficit." Although I don't think the Republicans are into "getting real."

Chow!

So Emo

I'm with John Cole on this one:

Sean Paul Kelley at the Agonist writes the following after an anonymous DC Insider tells him he will support the Catfood Commission:

Obama has lost my vote as well. I will not, I repeat, will not vote for him in 2012. Moreover I will actively work against him.

Can we please just cut the crap? Seriously? I will never, ever understand the need to pre-emptively go emo. If Obama proposes something bad, there will be ample time to flame it and push back.

But the need to rush out and be the first to publicly /wrist? What does this serve? What purpose? How does running around demoralizing your self and your readers serve progressive goals? What is the point of all this?

As Greg Sargent points out Obama doesn't sound like he is entirely Bowling with the Simpsons:

At the White House press briefing today, spokesman Jay Carney hinted that all the reporting out there today is wrong, and insisted Obama’s vision would not be based solely on any particular plan.

“He has said very clearly that he supports the efforts of the so-called Gang of Six and others who are addressing these challenges in a very serious way,”Carney said. “That’s a healthy, good thing, and it’s reflective of the environment that was created by the president’s fiscal commission after it reported last year...He will provide his vision tomorrow.”

I could be wrong, but that sounds to me like the White House actively doesn’t want Obama’s eventual vision to be seen as anything but his own, despite commentary to the contrary. Obama intended the fiscal commission to start a conversation, not set his final blueprint for him. “It will be his,” Carney said.

I know I've fallen for this before myself, but is there some competition of "Most Emo Progressive," that I'm unaware of? Obama has yet to say a word and the towel has been thrown in. Oh gawwwww why?!! Medicare is done! Medicaid RIP! Pour a 40 oz for Social Security!

Yes, part of being a liberal in America is being cynical (it's a given) however, this is almost the Left's version of the often played out "always the victim" of the Right. Play the Snow Patrol now!

Liberals could come up with a plan of their own. I've read somewhere that the idea had been floated about...we could also listen to what Obama has to say AND as in most cases he'll probably concede something (WE HATE IT! SELL OUT! PRIMARY!) yet it won't be as awful as many have preemptively lamented about.

As Booman points out, we have a Structural Disadvantage

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Ninja Thought

Our house in the middle of the street

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Get Your Dunkin Tuesday

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

It's a rushed morning. I didn't wake up right. Lots of rage. Fuck Donald Trump. Fuck the morning shows and their terrible reporting. Everything is not Obama's fault. He is not the flipping flopping president of the whole world. Stop the stupid please. Every day I wake up and hear the next "dumbest thing I've ever heard." It's as if it's on purpose. At least we gots teh Drinking Liberally tonight. I need a drink and yes go on and judge me for wanting to throw a couple back at 9:30am. RAAAAGE!!!....okay that's out of my system. How's everyone else doing?! ; )

Here are your highlights:

Goodwin Liu out of committee

What the FRACK?!

Romney starting off with a pffft

Oopsie in Ohio, buyers' remorse

1950 UFO Report

It's easy to predict, but this Pre-freak is Chic is rather funny. No matter what Obama says tomorrow most people have already made up their minds that IT'S THE WORST SELL OUT EVERRRRR!!!!! On the flip-side the WORST SOCIALIST AGENDA EVERRRR!!!!!

Chow!

Medicare: Putting It Simply

Medicare for Beginners

Medicare is a great, great thing for participants, by which I mean both workers and retirees

This is the best write up I've seen.

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Quote for the Day

"It's an old, old story: the customers of a company renowned for decent treatment of its workers in its prosperous home country are shocked to learn of its ruthless exploitation of workers in a less-prosperous country where the laws make it harder for workers to defend themselves. All that's new is that the first-world country is Sweden and the third-world country is rural Virginia."
- Mark Kleiman

Dude, IKEA, you suck. Steven Benen has the story.

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Ninja Thought

Don't blink not even a wink

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Get Your Dunkin Monday

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

I'm baaaaaack! Santa Monica is an amazing place ya'll. The lady and I are sad to return to Chicago after five days in sunny Santa Monica. It's not that we hate it here. just man. you can't beat being a block away from the beach. It was a vacation much needed. We were lucky enough to hang out with some of my college buddies, the lady's work buddies and Paddy's younger broseph. I'm starting to warm to the idea of California (pun intended)...

Here are your highlights:

The shutdown that wasn't

The emo progressives are out and about, clamoring for Obama's primary. Stop it. Please. You're not helping.

It's about the deficit right? Well no, it's not and no one cares

Taibbi at his best, Paul Ryan smackdown

The economy is doing better, but the middle and lower class is feeling good about it. What needs to be done by our president is a change in terms (not just when talking about debt). So yes talk about Medicare, it's a serious issue to address, however stick up for the middle class, the less fortunate and stop giving into more tax cuts for the rich.

Chow!

Tough Life

Get Your Dunkin Wednesday

Heading off to Santa Monica today. It's a bright and early flight, like super duper early. Pray for a safe journey, if you do that sort of thing, it's appreciated.

The latest episode of the Trans-Atlantic Throwdown is up! Take a listen as Paddy and I chat it up about all things Libya, beer, whiskey and metal. We played a ton of tracks that I'm super excited to share with everyone. So kick back on the train, in the car, on your couch and listen to our latest episode! And as always thanks for listening!

Chow!

The Matthew Filipowicz Show

The first episode is now up for your listening pleasure! The Matthew Filipowicz Show will be twice a weekly program full of comedy, progressive politics and great interviews.

Matt is a personal friend of mine and was kind enough to ask me to be a contributor on the show. I'll be popping in every now and again as different characters and stuff of that nature. I'm honored to be a part of his inaugural episode and think you all better listen! :) No really, check it out and let us know what you think! The first episode also has an informative interview with acclaimed author Rick Perlstein.

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Ninja Thought

It all seems so familiar

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Get Your Dunkin Tuesday

Tomorrow!!!!!!! Tomorrow!!!!! Tomorrow!!! We're going to Santa Monica tomorrow!!!! Yes, I can't wait. I'm so fed up with my work place and the lady and I are in need of a vacation, it's perfect timing. Also too, tomorrow will be a new episode of the Trans-Atlantic Throwdown. Paddy and I are excited to share our latest episode as we talk gin, whiskey, beer, Libya, and a tons of new/old music. Don't forget to check out past episodes! P.S. Congrats to Kemba Walker and UConn!

Here are your highlights:

Budget deadlock. Repeat after me: Republican Shutdown, Republican Shutdown.

Sneak peak at the X-Men Anime series

Mike Huckabee, what's in the box?!

Koch Watch

RYAN'S RADICAL, RIDICULOUS, RIP-OFF ROADMAP, The truth in the plan by Paul Ryan is a dangerous path for America, however the media seems all prepped to gush over him. The best way to combat it, personal stories and voters to wake up in 2012.

Chow!

Paul Ryan Wants to Eliminate Medicare

Paul Waldman at TAPPED with the waddup about Paul Ryan's "plan":

If you were paying attention to Republicans over the last couple of days, you'd have heard a lot of repetitions of a particular idea, when the subject of House Budget Committee chair Paul Ryan's new budget proposal came up. "Chuck Schumer and others are going to attack them for the proposals they've made, rather than to try to work in a constructive way," said Sen. John Cornyn. "We are giving them a political weapon to go out against us, but they will have to lie and demagogue to make that a political weapon," said Ryan himself.

Here's the thing: if a criticism is true, it's not demagoguery. Yes, in criticizing Ryan's plan, Democrats will be saying "It eliminates Medicare." That will (and should) make many people who hear it afraid. But you know what? Ryan's plan eliminates Medicare! It takes it from being a single-payer insurance program, in which everyone over 65 is covered no matter what, and turns it into a voucher program, in which seniors will get money from the government, with which they can then go buy insurance from one of the friendly private insurance companies. It eliminates Medicare on a ten-year delayed fuse (so if you're over 55 now, you'll still have access to the program that has been working spectacularly well for the last forty years), but after that, you'll just be getting a voucher (there's some dispute over whether "voucher" is the appropriate term given how the payments would be made, but that's essentially what it is). At that point, you can call it whatever you want, but it won't be Medicare anymore.

The Republicans don't want you to know what they really would like to do, otherwise you might...you know...not like it. I can see grandma pleading before the death panels right now.

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Not in My House!

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Ninja Thought

Every Child Left Behind

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Get Your Dunkin Monday

Man, Monday's suck. Walked into the office today like any other Monday only to discover I was in the only person from my department who showed up. Awesome! The only good thing is that I leave for Santa Monica on Wednesday morning. My lady is visiting her company's LA office and we're heading out there for work and play. I am pumped. Warm weather, beaches, hippies and meeting up with some old buddies from college. Light blogging will ensue starting Wednesday, but I'll try to update it with pictures from places we are visiting. In other news, my Michelle Rhee post is on the front page for Asian Pacific Americans for Progress. Please feel free to weigh in on the discussion!

Here are your highlights:

President Barack Obama announces his bid for 2012, so far he's running against no one

Something's fishy, Gaddafi's sons are offering a plan to oust their father

THE GOP PLAN FOR MEDICAID

Cuts, cuts, cuts and more cuts. Why does anyone take the GOP seriously?

Privatizing Medicare and another Krugman win

Keno!! If you're in Chicago and love cinema check out the 16th annual Chicago Asian American Showcase it runs from April 1-14th.

Chow!

There's Always Another Century

And insert other stupidly pathetic Cubs jokes here. Only one team wins each year, it's just taken us longer to get back there. Insert your next lame Cubs joke here. Feel better?

The season has begun and this one feels more like a Cubs season. I don't have any high expectations nor am I waiting for every word to come out of the managers mouth. In fact I can't even recall the last time I heard the Cubs' manager speak. I think that's fine because that's how being a Cubs fan really goes (for me at least and no I'm not fairweather, I'll still follow the Cubs and see plenty games). I know it's hard for those neanderthal and small-minded South Siders to comprehend, but there's more to the game than simply winning.

I am Frank Chow and I'm okay with waiting another year

Ninja Thought

Jesus hearts Muslims, repeat, Jesus hearts Muslims

I am Frank Chow and I approved this message

Get Your Dunkin Friday

Back from Miami! It was a short trip, but awfully nice to be in a warm climate even for a day. I don't think I have the ability to handle corporate business travel, not career at least. The flying was awful. We had terrible turbulence on the way out and on the way back I almost missed my connecting flight because my initial flight was delayed. And now I'm back to the grind and fucking exhausted. Yes the f-bomb is needed to make my point. This weekend the lady and I will be doing the Catholic marriage class thing. Not sure what to expect!

Here are your highlights:

Former reality star turned Representative Sean Duffy, not living in reality and still very much a douche

Mitch McConnell's "I know you are but what am I?"

The word Uterus is apparently offensive to the people who support dead baby cars...

Congress is Emo

Unemployment numbers are out and they are better, but there should be concerns when Congress is trying to cut, cut and cut some more. We never learn.

Chow!