Opinion
THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2010
WWW.KANSAN.COM
FREE FOR ALL
To contribute to Free for All, visit Kansan.com or call (785) 864-0500.
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
Why can't you be happy just being my friend?
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
Because I think about you when I touch myself.
Maybe not too many people have been written on Free For All because they've taken over the Pac.
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
I'm not tanorexic. I'm native.
Don't judge me.
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
This conversation bores me.
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
You have the finest belly button I have ever seen.
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
When I wear the 3D glasses I got from "Avatar, "everything around me seems like it's in 3D too. It's so sweet!
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
My day started with my chemistry lab professor saying "Umm..."137 times before I lost count. Great day!
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
Baxter, you are my little gentleman. I'll take you down to foggy London town.
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
I saw a great ass on the bus today. I wanted to just kiss and
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
I'm pretty sure Gary from "Teen Mom" needs to stop shopping at Baby Gap for
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
Thank you to urinals that inexplicably have ice in them. You know exactly what I'm looking for; a nice "Pee on the Rocks." Next time, can I get a twist of lime in there?
PAGE 5A
"Bad Romance" is stuck in my head because of Lady GaGasaurus!
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
I just found someone's debit card near Wescoe.
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
You didn't find a debit card.
You found a shopping spree.
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
Today I witnessed the epitome of too much tanning when a girl got on a bus with as many wrinkles as my grandmother.
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
I'm eagerly awaiting a drawing from my pen pal in prison.
I just found a group on Facebook called "Fire Bill Self". It only had 30 members, but that still seems like too many. Any number greater than zero is too many for that group.
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
Mother Nature, you are the most confusing woman I know
--lately taken Washington's first public address and brought it first into American homes on TV and eventually onto the Internet for the world to view. Since the first address was given, it has grown from a speech at the Capitol to a drawn-out event that lasts far longer than necessary. The State of the Union has become much more pageant-like over the years, with an elaborate walk by the president in front of the House chamber and the countless interruptions of applause that distract and detract from the address. Major networks also aired the speech in lieu of their normal programming, with the exception of ABC, which opted to air "Lost."
State of the Union important, but ceremony proves outdated
EDITORIAL BOARD
If a turbulent evening of college basketball took precedence over President Barack Obama's State of the Union address Wednesday, don't feel too bad. With technology as advanced as it has become today, the procedure of the State of the Union has become somewhat outdated.
YouTube doesn't just give the everyday person a forum to become famous (or infamous), such as the "Pants on the Ground" guy. It also provides people with the opportunity to see political speeches like Wednesday's, not only when they are aired on TV, but whener it is convenient for them to do so.
The way the State of the Union is done now is outdated. Historically, giving the annual address publicly has proven to be unnecessary. According to the New York Times, the nation's first two presidents, George Washington and John Adams, gave their yearly addresses publicly, but Thomas Jefferson decided to provide a printed message. Presidents after Jefferson stuck with the printed version until 1913 when Woodrow Wilson gave the speech to an audience.
Technological advances have
This is not to say that the State of the Union isn't important; the information presented is incredibly significant. We can just do without the pageantry. In his speech last night, Obama outlined ais plans and goals for this year, including helping middle-class families and addressing the deficit and unemployment. He also talked about his heath care plan, a high-priority domestic policy, which is in hot water after Republican Scott Brown won what used to be a democratic
seat in Massachusetts, ending the Democrat's supermajority in the Senate.
The speech is available online so students who didn't see it should take advantage of modern technology and watch an important speech by our president — just with the advantage of skipping all of the clapping.
How technology has changed the State of the Union:
1947: The first television broadcast of the speech featured President Harry Truman.
1923: Radio audiences tuned in for the first time and heard President Calvin Coolidge.
2003: President George W. Bush became the first president whose address went out on a Web cast.
—Kate Larabee for The Kansan Editorial Board
EDITORIAL CARTOON
Source: www.nytimes.com
WE TOLD PEOPLE "YES WE CAN" & "We CAN DO BOTH!" How'S THE MULTITASKING GOING? THE ECONOMY BACK ON TRACK? Well, I THINK IT'LL GET THERE SOMETIME.
BUT THE UNEMPLOYMENT PROBLEM IS BEATEN. No IT NUDGED INTO DOUBLE DIGITS.
WE'VE GOT THE BAD GUYS ON THE RUN IN AFGHANISTAN, THOUGH.
But we're out of /RAQ?
AND GITMO IS CLOSED JUST LIKE WE PROMISED?
HAHAMISTAN IS ROUGH AND THE ARMY IS STILL DIPERATELY STRETCHED
ALMOST.
NOE. BUT WE ARE SENDING AL QAABA DETAINES TO U.S.
PRISONS AND HAVE GUENTRAMO
READY TO RECEIVE HAITIAN
REFUGIANS
NICHOLAS SAMBALUK
ETIQUETTE
How to disarm a friend who mooches
In talking about etiquette, my first topic to address is how to deal with mooching.
Let me begin by defining what a "mooch" is: A mooch shows up at your apartment and eats your food. He (or she) forgets cash whenever you're out and swears he'll pay you back for cover at the bar. He's always "out of gas" and needs you to drive. A mooch will take advantage of free alcohol whenever possible and is conveniently in the bathroom when the bill arrives at a restaurant. He never offers to pay for household necessities and will avoid spending money for birthdays, graduations or anniversaries.
All of us have loaned a friend a few bucks. However, when the lending becomes excessive or a debt is never repaid, students are left in sticky situations.
Jeanne Fleming, a financial columnist for Money magazine, conducted a study of 1,100 adults across the United States to gauge how often moochers strike. More than 95 percent reported lending money to a friend or family member.
A mooching friend can be financially straining, not to mention downright annoying. Unfortunately, this behavior isn't all that rare.
Manners Made Easy
Those who lent out more than $1,000 were rarely, if ever, repaid. In 43 percent of these large loan cases, the money was only partially repaid. The money was never repaid at all to 27 percent of the people in
Sound familiar?
Fleming, who holds a Ph.D. in sociology, says mooches "are fundamentally motivated by being selfish and self-centered. They habitually forgive their behavior. But the truth is that it's complete self-indulgence."
To effectively disarm a mooch, his motives must first be understood. Unlike someone who is frugal, a mooch isn't saving his money. He's just taking advantage of the kindness of others and has no plans to reciprocate his friends' benevolent ways.
BY RICHELLE BUSER
the studv.
So how should you deal with a friend who owes money or whose moaching habits are out of control?
Luckily, Fleming also described mooching as a "self-correcting behavior." This means you may be able to help a mooch change his ways.
In a recent CNN article, "Mooching friends – and how to deal with them," etiquette expert Lizzie Post recommends politely saying "no" to mooching friends requests for money or extravagant favors. Preparing ahead of time how a bill will
In my experience, the most effective tactic is to point out a mooch's behavior the moment it occurs. Embarrassing a mooch in public for being cheap or taking advantage of others can solve the problem. If all else fails, it may be necessary to directly confront a mooching friend.
be shared, such as asking for split checks at a restaurant, can also help to avoid any problems.
If you suspect you are a mooch, talk to friends and make a genuine effort to amend your ways. Your relationships will ultimately suffer if you continue to abuse the generosity of others.
Taking advantage of others is not only tacky, but downright selfish — a quality most of us aren't looking for in our friends. If, after a talk, your mooching pal still refuses to change, you may be better off without him.
Did you know?
According to a recent US News and World Report poll, 89 percent of people consider rudeness a serious problem in today's society.
Unsure what is and isn't acceptable etiquette?
Buser welcomes any questions and suggestions of topics.
Buser is a senior from Colum bia, Ill., in journalism.
POLITICS
The arrogance of power
Most people have their own reasons for believing the Obama presidency continues to fall apart. Following the election of Republican Scott Brown to fill the seat of long-time Democratic Sen. Ted Kennedy in the very liberal state of Massachusetts, those on the left were faced with the tough job of spinning the election as something it clearly was not. Meanwhile, those on the right tasted blood.
But it wasn't only "Obamacare" Brown ran against he ran against cap and trade legislation, against raising taxes and against giving terrorists the same rights as American citizens. In short, Brown won by running against Obama.
It goes without mentioning that Obama threw his own hat into the ring by making an emergency trip to Massachusetts just days prior to the election in an attempt to gin up support for the struggling Coakley. That makes Obama zero-for-three when he hits the stump to campaign for a candidate, considering his failed efforts in two gubernatorial races this past November.
The problem is, nearly every major issue in the election was about policies Obama and the Democrats are pushing for. Brown made no secret he would be the 41st vote against the healthcare takeover. He made this the cornerstone of his campaign.
What a difference a year makes. It looks as though the man who was once referred to as "the Messiah" is now the kiss of death.
The fingers are pointing and the excuses flying. In an ABC interview, Obama pretended Brown's election resulted from anger and
Spinsters came up with the argument that it was simply an election in one state and had little to do with national politics. Some said that Martha Coakley, the losing Democratic candidate, ran a bad campaign. Others just claimed the campaign had nothing to do with Obama.
BY CHET COMPTON
frustration, "not just because of what's happened in the last year or two years, but what's happened over the last eight years"
Where is the logic here? That the anger and rage at George W. Bush results in the election of a Republican in Massachusetts for the Kennedy seat?
Obama seems totally void of reality. He doesn't believe he can do wrong, and that arrogance is exactly why he faces the political opposition he does today.
Obama's approval numbers have fallen from the a high of 65 percent to the 48 percent, according to "Real Clear Politics," Republicans are winning elections left and right. Nonetheless, Obama continues to write off his opponents as "angry."
This is just what he and his allies in the media did during the tea parties and the healthcare town halls. Dismissing the protesters as rednecks, racists, ignorant, evil-mongers and unruly mobs has come back to haunt them. The writing was on the wall, but their ignorance and disdain for the opposition left them blinded.
The "brilliant" president is in the process of learning a very important lesson: Arrogance of power is power's greatest enemy. The election of Brown is a symbol of something much larger brewing in this country. The American people are sending a clear message. They deserve better than leadership that is intolerant of dissent and comfortable with making backroom deals. That's the right idea.
Compton is a senior from Wichita in political science.
BY RACHEL SCHWARTZ
WHAT'S UP WITH THAT? What's up with bad gym etiquette?
The Ember Student Recreation Fitness Center, affectionately known as "the Rec," is here for students who want to work out. However, many people take advantage of the Rec, and, in turn, disrespect those who actually go there to exercise.
Most recently, the main culprits are those who just go to the gym to fulfill their New Year's Resolutions.
If you are one of those people, either use the machines for shorter periods of time — if you are actually working out, less time is beneficial — or just don't go to the Rec.
These people hog the elliptical machines for more than an hour while listening to their iPod and reading "Cosmo." It would be one thing if they actually worked up a sweat and were exercising to exercise, but that's not the case.
BY MANDY MATNEY
Thank you.
Unlike a majority of the females overpopulating the Rec this January, I'm not there to fulfill an unoriginal New Year's Revolution.
I have always done a lot of high-intensity cardio. It's an understatement to say that no part of me looks pretty after 10 minutes on the treadmill.
Before the Rec became the hot social scene this month, I used to be perfectly comfortable with my sweaty appearance. Now, though, the Rec is infested with girls who, with their glistening made-up faces are setting the beauty bar far too high for the Rec.
I find it ironic that I keep getting glared at from these girls, as if I'm some sort of freak for actually burning calories. I'm hoping that these girls figure out that their low-intensity workouts aren't doing anything. They should start working out or they should just move on to a more realistic resolution. Either way, I want my old Rec back.
HOW TO SUBMIT A LETTER TO THE EDITOR
LETTER GUIDELINES
Send letters to opinionkanas.com
Write LETTER TO THE EDITOR in the e-mail subject line.
Length: 300 words
The submission should include the author's name, grade and hometown
Find our full letter to the editor policy online at kansan.com/letters.
CONTACT US
Stephen Montemayor, editor
864-4810 or smontemayori@kansan.com
Brianne Pfannenstiel, managing editor
864-4810 or bpfannenstielikansan.com
Jennifer Torline,managing editor 864-4810 or jtorline@kansan.com
Lauren Cunningham, kansan.com managing editor 864-4810 or lcunningham@kansan.com
Vicky Lu, KUJH-TV managing editor 864-4810 or vkujh@kyan.com
Emily McCoy, opinion editor
864-4924 or emccoy@kansan.com
Cassie Gerken, business manager 864-4358 or cgerken@kansan.com
Kate Larrabee, editorial editor 864-4924 or klarrabee@kansan.com
Carolyn Battle, sales manager
864-4477 or cbattle@kansan.com
Malcolm Gibson, general manager and news
Malcolm Gibson, general manager and news
advisor
985-766-2312 mcalcolm@gibson.com
THE EDITORIAL BOARD
Jon Schlitt, sales and marketing adviser
864-7666 or schlittiukansan.com
THE EDITORIAL BOARD
Monson The Monson Editorial Board are
Stephen McDonald, James Henderson,
Jennifer Tortellino, Luren Curnenning, Vessy Lui,
Emily McCoy and Katarine Lambie.