Almost didn't recommend it until I saw this in the Alerts box:

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The Onion 2056

As an introduction to this bit of research, let me present a short quote from the cult cartoon show Futurama (episode [2ACV12] “The Deep South“) in which one of the characters, Fry, tries to engage in “maritals” with a mutant mermaid:

“Umbriel: What the hell is that?
Fry: Yeah I’m a little confused too. How do I… y’now…with the tail and all.
Umbriel: I’m not your first am I? I mean, I lay my eggs and leave and you release your fertiliser.
[Scene: Outside Colonel’s House. Fry runs away from the house at top speed.]
Fry (gasping): Why couldn’t she be the other type of mermaid, with the fish part on top and the lady part on the bottom?”

This is a really interesting look at the evolution of the Starbucks Logo. I had no idea...

Deadprogrammer's Cafe: How the Starbucks Siren Became Less Naughty

In a new article in the Atlantic Monthly magazine, writer James Fallows examines America's economic strength and stability from the vantage point of the year 2016.Hindsight is 20/20 but the author wonders how warning signs that seem to be so clear in the present day are continually ignored. Hear a conversation with Fallows about "America's coming economic crisis."

This is worth a listen. Noteworthy linked this but I think it deserves its own meme. Often this kind of myopic scenario is tacked onto a political perscription in which the speaker has particular interests. This is no exception. However, a number of the things this guy worries about are things that I also worry about. There is something compelling about this scenario regardless of what you think of his politics.

On Point : America's Coming Economic Crisis

"I don't think the public knows what it wants Congress to do, but it wants Congress to do something," said Dan Burton, senior lobbyist, "They don't have a lot of confidence that Congress will do the right thing."

Best Quote Ever.

CNN.com - Poll: Americans are completely confused

We had to do something to honor our friend and co-conspirator Dr.
Gonzo and last time we checked the sign out front said brewery,
so it seemed only right to unleash a tribute beer.

Hunter S. Thompson Gonzo Tribute Beer

How to make a million dollars is: a) something students are interested in, and b) something I am qualified to talk about.

How to Make a Million Dollars, by Marshall Brain

Seen on the MARC commuter train (between Baltimore and DC) today, this picture pretty much sums up the new "National Security:"

Report any unusual activities or packages to the nearest conductor.

Articulatory Loop - Read, Repeat, Remember

Picture of Pete Cabrinha surfing a 70ft wave. Youch.

Pete Cabrinha Billabong Award picture

Is it possible in America today to convince anyone of anything he doesn't already believe? If so, are there enough places where this mingling of minds occurs to sustain a democracy? The signs are not good.

Is Persuasion Dead? - New York Times

I don't think that most bloggers have consciously manipulative online personas, but I do think that it's become a "political team sport" on almost every issue.

Surfing the political blogosphere this evening. Thought this comment was particularly good. Click through to the note he is riffing off...

INDC Journal: Ditto