The Cuter Side of Politics

Skeptics in the Jeep!

2009-09-19T15:39:00.000-07:00

I was going through some of my pictures today and came across this video I had forgotten about from my Skeptics in the Jeep adventure last month. I'd tell the story, but Brian Dunning has already done a fantastic job of that over on Skepticblog, so your best off just reading his version of the Jeeping trip of doom, as it's better (and far less wordy) than anything I could have written.

Obama's Healthcare Speech: Can You Have Too Many Choices?

2009-09-11T16:31:00.000-07:00

If you want to read more on the subject of what happens when a person is offered too many choices in an area that is rather complex, I highly suggest Thaler and Sunstein's book "Nudge". Specifically chapter 10 on Medicare Part D (i.e. prescription drugs for the elderly).

Also, if you like the necklace and want one for yourself, just head on over to Surly-Ramics.

Welcome to the California DMV

2009-08-12T12:32:00.000-07:00

Sure, I'm on vacation, but I got back from the DMV and just had to share my experiences. Serious props to the DMV workers. You have had your schedules slashed and your workload increased, but still managed to have a pleasant and happy demeanor.

Nothing to see here, move along

2009-08-04T22:01:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to check in. I'm currently in the process of redecorating the site, so it may look different every time you come look at it. I can't figure out how to do it offline and then upload (if anyone knows, please tell me!!), so it might look funny at times. I appologize. Blog posts and videos may be a bit lacking for the next few weeks while I work on designing the site. If you happen to be really good at stuff like this and want to help me, please send me an email at jamiebb at uchicago dot edu and let me know.

However, I did want to pimp out my friend Phillip's new web comic, Brain Emancipation. It's adorable, funny and smart all at the same time. He's only got a few comics up so far, but they are really well done, so you should go check it out.

I think my favorite of his so far is this one.

Oh, and follow me on twitter.

Domain!!

2009-07-31T00:59:00.000-07:00

I now have my very own personal corner of the web.

http://www.cutersideofpolitics.net

(yah, ".com" was taken -- boo).

I'm now official. I'm going to work on redecorating and logos and such over the next month.

Oh, and follow me on Twitter! Seriously, do it.

Some Opinions, Please

2009-07-27T20:39:00.001-07:00

Just wanted to check in to say that I'm not giving up so soon on my new found enthusiasm for the blog and videos. I'm currently in the middle of a big move, so I'm really busy. Posting is going to be a bit lax for the next week or so.

In the meantime, I need some opinions. I've realized it is super cheap to get my own domain name. I have no idea why I haven't done this earlier, but it really is about time. I was thinking either www.thecuterside.com or www.cuterpolitics.com or maybe something else. Any opinions or ideas?

Gerrymandering and Open Elections

2009-07-22T18:33:00.000-07:00

I was chatting with some friends via email today. With permission (and identifying data removed) I'd like to share it.

-----Original Message-----
From: Ty
Sent: Wednesday, July 22, 2009 7:33 AM
To: Jamie, Brian
Subject: Video

Have either of you seen the video of a Republican congressman (I can't remember which one, but I think it was in Maine) at a town hall meeting where a lady stands up and shows her birth certificate? She starts shouting about how Obama isn't a legal citizen and that her grandfather fought in WWII (but she doesn't remember/know that Obama's grandfather also fought in WWII). Then the audience starts to recite the pledge of allegiance to drown out the congressman as he tries to explain that Obama is a citizen. It's funny/scary/weird as hell. What has happened to the Republican party?

-----Original Message-----
From: Jamie
Sent: Wednesday, July 22, 2009 7:37 AM
To: Ty, Brian
Subject: RE: Video

I'm glad I never saw that.

-----Original Message-----
From: Brian
Sent: Wednesday, July 22, 2009 7:57 AM
To: Jamie, Ty
Subject: RE: Video

I have not seen that either.

My teacher had email that listed Dilbert's rule of order.

One reads

"Never argue, with an idiot they will lower you down to their level and beat you with experience."

I believe that is applicable for this video.

In response to what has happen to the Republican Party. It is the same thing that is happening/happened with the Democratic party. To win a primary you have to appeal to the extreme of your party. In the general election (mostly with congressional elections) the district is gerrymander so the hard liner wins, because a Democratic/Republican would never vote for the other party, no matter how crazy their candidate is. When the hard liner wins it fuel division and scars people to their corners (democratic/republican), so moderates slowly die. People become more radical because the minority party has a perfect example to hate the ruling party and the ruling party uses the attacks as an excuse to attack back. It is really a cycle.

I'm not going to link to the video in question because 1) I REALLY don't want to see it and 2) that's not really the point. Brian's statement about gerrymandering leading to polarizing politics got me thinking. I'd actually like to argue that this is not the case with all states, perhaps just most. We can't all be the gerrymandered (yet lovely) California, but every state does have a bit of this going on, pushing out moderates and putting all the power in the hands of extremists.

I have argued previously that one of the best ways to avoid this is via open elections. In other words, independents would be allowed to vote in the primary for a party of their choosing. Since independents make up a good 40% of the country, this would greatly change the type of candidates who make it to the general election. It will also cause candidates to do less pandering to their party and move towards the middle in order to pick up the independent voters.

The biggest argument I always hear against open primaries is that voters in one party could vote in the rival party's primary for the candidate that s/he believes will do the worst in the general election. The problem with this argument is that there is currently nothing stopping someone from registering in a different party and voting in their primary anyways. Since there doesn't seem to be a problem with this in closed primaries, I don't see why open primaries would change anything.

The other day, the Economist had an article about Washington State's primary system.

Washington’s old system, adopted in 1935, was a “blanket primary”. Voters were not required to declare a party affiliation and instead voted for one candidate for each office, no matter from which party. The leading vote-winner from each party for each office then went on to contest the general election.

Apparently, sometimes this system can even end in two democrats or two republicans running against each other in the general election. However, in 2000, the Supreme Court declared this system unconstitutional. In 2008, the Supreme Court reversed their decision and Washington has since gone back to having open primaries. The Economist said it best.

Daniel Evans, a three-term governor of Washington in the 1960s and 1970s and the epitome of moderation admits that it is too early, after just one cycle, to say that “top-two” primaries always lead to to centrism. In places with gerrymandered districts, the outcome could even be more polarisation. But so far the system looks promising, and California is right to consider it. Maybe the country should, too.

I'm Sorry in advance, ASU

2009-07-21T22:18:00.001-07:00

I wanted to post these months ago when they originally aired. In fact, I even got requests for it, but I just couldn't do it. It just wasn't particularly nice. I mean, what if an ASU person likes reading my blog (assuming s/he can read of course). See! I can't help but take swipes at ASU.

Anyways, I just can't hold out any longer. It's one thing when my friends and I make jokes at ASU's expense, but another when ASU bashing is featured on the Daily Show and SNL.

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c

Arizona State Snubs Obama

www.thedailyshow.com

Daily Show
Full Episodes

Political Humor

Joke of the Day

Also, don't forget SNL's take on the matter. Seriously, click the link because unfortunately this video won't allow embedding.

The best part, though, came a couple days later when Obama gave his commencement speech at Notre Dame. He said the following:

I want to thank you for this honorary degree. I know it has not been without controversy. I don't know if you're aware of this, but these honorary degrees are apparently pretty hard to come by. So far I'm only 1 for 2 as President. Father Hesburgh is 150 for 150. I guess that's better. Father Ted, after the ceremony, maybe you can give me some pointers on how to boost my average.

Listening to the President make a swipe at ASU is probably the greatest thing ever!

Some thoughts on Sarah Palin Fans

2009-07-20T18:22:00.000-07:00

The other day I was reading this Economist article on Sarah Palin and the people that love her. Specifically, I found this part really interesting.

Many Americans want as president someone who is exceptionally well-informed about public policy, who surrounds himself with experts, who weighs the evidence and then does what is best for the country. But few people are policy experts, so they often follow their hearts rather than their heads when deciding whom to vote for. Often, they assume that someone culturally similar to themselves will be more likely to look out for their interests. And that is why Mrs Palin is still so popular. There are an awful lot of Americans who see her as one of their own. She talks like them. She guts her own fish. She wears her faith on her sleeve. She obviously didn’t go to Harvard. And when people who did call her stupid or mock her faith or her family, her fans take it personally.

The Economist seems to be implying that many of the people who follow Palin take criticisms of her more personally than they would for other politicians. This would certainly explain the barrage of defensive comments I got on my Sarah Palin video the other day. From the comments you would think I had said something horrible about her, but all I did was make a silly, and rather non sequitur joke.

Here are some of my favorites:

i wanna unsubscribe to your channel cos you are wrong about Palin

You seem to me to be someone really adept at regurgitating the media mumbo jumbo. Congradulations for being a dumb person with a webcam.

jesus christ, get off the woman's back.

At least have an educated response!

The Endangered Species Act

2009-07-19T14:35:00.000-07:00

Just because a policy feels good, doesn't mean it works.

Part 1

Part 2

Citations:

United States Code (2008). Conservation: Endangered Species. USC Title 16, Ch. 35, Sec. 1531-1544.
Link

Brown, G. M., Shogren, J. F. (Summer 1998). Economics of the Endangered Species Act. The Journal of Economic Perspectives, 12(3), 3-20.
Link

Lueck, D., Michael, J. A. (Apr 2003). Preemptive Habitat Destruction under the Endangered Species Act. The Journal of Law and Economics, 46(27). Retrieved November 3, 2008, from Lexis Nexis Academic database.
Link

Just in case you're not getting enough of me already...

2009-07-18T14:54:00.000-07:00

I'm finally on Twitter as UAJamie! I'm usually the first to get into all the new internet technologies, but Twitter is one of those things that I just don't quite get. It's to the point now, though, that I just can't hold out any longer. So, all of you who are already on twitter should go follow me so that I have a reason to actually use it.

On another note, I spent last weekend in the only place with hotter weather than in Tucson. That's right, I was at the Amaz!ng Meeting 7 in Las Vegas. If you don't already know about it, shame on you! But seriously, if you've never heard of it, quick get yourself over to JREF blog and Bad Astronomy and do some reading. Then, open up your itunes and subscribe to the following podcasts: The Skeptic's Guide to the Universe, The Skeptic Zone, Skepticality, Point of Inquiry, and Skeptoid. Listen to all of them for the next year or so and then when registration opens to TAM 8, go ahead and plan your trip to Vegas. Finally, when July comes, head on over to the South Point and buy me a drink (it's worth a try, right?).

Here's a picture of me at this year's meeting with the Amazing James Randi

Also, you should head right over and download the latest episode #39 of the Skeptic Zone. Really, you should listen to the entire hour and 25 minutes because it's full of awesomeness, but if you just don't have the time, skip to the one hour mark. We did a Think Tank Las Vegas and Richard Saunders and Moriel Schottlender did a neat experiment with beer bottles. I approve of any science that involves beer. Not to mention that yours truly makes a surprise appearance at one point. Seriously though, go listen.

Coming up tomorrow: New video on either Cap and Trade or the Endangered Species Act. (I haven't quite made up my mind yet!)

The Zicam Debacle and Homeopathy Loophole

2009-07-07T18:40:00.000-07:00

What is up with Sarah Palin?

2009-07-03T13:52:00.000-07:00

The media is all asking themselves, what is up with Sarah Palin resigning as governor? Well, I happen to know the answer.

Ask the President

2009-03-21T16:03:00.000-07:00

I have previously mentioned how totally awesome David Colarusso is, but if you need a reminder, he was the brains behind the Community Counts and 10 Questions. Now he has partnered with the Nation and the Washington Times to bring us Ask the President. Ask the President is a new forum where any user can post a question via text or video that s/he would like to ask the president. The public then votes on the questions they most want to see President Obama answer. Ask the President will be sending a credentialed journalist to the next presidential press conference to ask the top questions directly to the Obama administration.

Here is the video I submitted asking Obama why he is taking so long to fulfill his promise to repeal our military's "Don't Ask Don't Tell" policy.

If you like my question, go vote for it at Ask the President. Then, read/look at all the other questions and vote for other good ones. If you have a question you don't see already posted, go ahead and enter it. Who know, maybe the Obama administration will get a chance to respond to it. Hurry though, the press conference is this Tuesday.

Shameless Self Promotion

2009-02-18T17:59:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to promote two things of me that you can buy. Ok, that sounds a little weird when put that way, but you know what I mean.

First of all, if you're having a craving for some rockin music, you should consider buying the Pride of Arizona's new album Monkey Feet. Although I graduated back in 2006, I have played on every song the album (either french horn or cymbals depending on the song) which was recorded over the course of 4 years. The album is only $10 and the proceeds go to the UA Cancer Center.

The second thing I'd like to bring your attention to is the new Wapsi Square book by Paul Taylor, based on the online comic strip by the same name. I've been reading Wapsi Square for a couple years now and Paul Taylor asked me to write a short paragraph to be featured on the back cover of his new book. For proof, just click the book link and click the button that says "view back cover." If you're exceptionally lazy but still curious, here's my back-cover review of the book and comic:

Silly, Sexy, whimsical, and inspiring, Wapsi Square combines light-hearted adventure with sincerity and substance. Each girl’s life is a struggle to get along in the real world while simultaneously living in a fantastical environment where inner demons come to life and mystical situations abound.

Our hero, Monica, is a spunky anthropologist that has found herself at the center of a dark mystery that has spanned the centuries. Into this affair she drags her friends, like the strong and boisterous Shelly and the shy and introspective Katherine. If these characters seem like mere stereotypes, they are anything but. Every character has her own story and personality that shines through the artwork, creating something altogether completely authentic.

If you've never read the comics before, I actually don't suggest buying the book since it follows on a story line that has been going on for years. However, if you feel you have many hours to spare, I highly suggest heading over to Wapsi Square and flipping through the archives.

AZ Education Budget Cuts

2009-02-11T16:23:00.000-08:00

I actually filmed this a bit ago, but completely forgot to upload it. Ooops. Oh well, here it is now although it's getting a bit out of date.

(By the way, I am proud of myself for making it through this entire video without one one-liner making fun of ASU. It's truly an accomplishment.)

Some Outgoing Bush Humour

2009-01-21T19:08:00.000-08:00

Enjoy

The Daily Show With Jon StewartM - Th 11p / 10c

Final Message From the White House

Barack Obama Interview
John McCain Interview

Sarah Palin Video
Funny Election Video

By the way, I was listening to the inauguration broadcast via CNN radio (I was at work). CNN announced Yo Yo Ma's performance as a piece written by John Williams for the occasion. The piece, of course, was Copland's Appalachian Spring. I figure John Williams probably arranged this version and CNN just doesn't know the difference between composing and arranging, but I still think that CNN's remarks were funny considering John Williams' reputation for "borrowing" music from other composers.

The US Civil Service

2009-01-19T15:19:00.000-08:00

I've been extremely busy over the past few months with grad school applications. Now that I've got the last of them submitted, I figured I'd use some of my new-found free-time to make a video.

71 Degrees

2009-01-02T11:32:00.000-08:00

That's the high today in this beautiful January in Tucson. I'm going to miss this next winter.

Oh, Minnesota

2008-12-16T17:20:00.000-08:00

Have you been wondering what all the fuss is with the recount in the Minnesota senatorial race between Norm Coleman and Al Franken? This website lists a sample of some of the ballots that are under contention. It even lets you vote on who you think the vote should go to for each ballot. Although some are rather obvious, on others it is impossible to figure out just who the person filling out the ballot meant to vote for. It really puts this whole recount thing in perspective.

Who do I think won the Minnesota race? I'm going with Lizard People.

(via VSL)

Now for something completely off topic...

2008-12-08T19:20:00.001-08:00

Arizona is going to the Vegas Bowl!!

WOOOO!!!

Viva Las Vegas, Baby!

Post-Election Commentary

2008-11-24T12:58:00.003-08:00

One Day More

2008-11-03T19:47:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys,

I know I disappeared, but I'm still here, I'm just really, really busy. Like crazy busy. Anyways, as it is the night before the election, I thought I'd post this letter a friend of mine wrote to John McCain and that I found rather hilarious. I noticed that there have been some similar ones that have cropped up lately, but I can assure you all that my friend wrote this piece within a week of McCain announcing Sarah Palin as his running mate. Enjoy!

Dear Sen. McCain:

I am writing to you to let you know that I would like to throw my hat in as a candidate for your Presidential Cabinet. I believe that I am supremely qualified to be in your cabinet. After your bold selection of Sarah Palin as your Vice Presidential running mate I feel that I too can bolster your image. Just like Gov. Palin I have sold things on eBay at a profit, but not really. As Secretary of State I would sell Air Force One to the highest bidder, we don’t need that polluting jet flying the leader of the free world to important events. I also, plan on cooking flapjacks and bacon on Mondays, that way we can fire the White House cooking staff.

Not to sound competitive with Gov. Palin and diminish her accomplishments of being able to drive, but I go beyond driving myself to work – I car pool. If I were to be Secretary of Transportation, I promise to drive everyone to work personally. Also, since Air Force One will have been sold, I promise to paddle Canoe One to Europe and Asia.

I also have Executive experience. Being the Co-head of my household I have established cost-cutting measures like running the air-conditioner at higher temperatures and taking showers with my wife. Which brings us to the issue of family values, I can assure you my friend that there will be no teenage pregnancy controversies with my family. You see, our dog is neutered because we adopted him from the Human Society (also, Bob Barker said it was the right thing to do, even though I don’t listen to those “Hollywood Liberals”).

Although I have never been to a foreign country, Tucson is near the Mexican border, which makes me completely qualified on both international and immigration reform. If selected I plan on eventually getting a foreign visa.

I must also talk about my experiences with the corrupt weeds my back yard. I have worked countless hours fighting them pulling them out, spraying them with weed killer. So, you see I have fought against corruption at home. I can take that experience and fight corruption in Washington. I think we should bring goats back to the White House lawn, another cost-fighting measure.

I promise to fight against the liberal media that has lovingly called you a Maverick. How dare they! Whenever something wrong happens during this campaign we will blame the elitist east coast politicians like Mitt Romney and cosmopolitan politicians like Giuliani. I will also blame everything on the previous liberal administration of the last eight years.

So, as you can see I have executive experience, a record of fighting corruption in my own backyard and International/Border security policy knowledge. I promise to fight against the bills that you sponsored and to continue the Bush administration’s policy errors. If you are interested in a staunch proponent of hypocrisy please feel free to talk to my friends, but not the people I work for, they might say something bad about me. Besides we want it to be a surprise. Lastly, you can put lipstick on a pit bull, but in the end, it’s still a dog.

Sincerely,

Ty Deyoe

P.S. after you nominate me I’m going to need some time by myself to understand what the position entails. Also, I don’t want to talk to the media for at least a week, those elitist bastards!

USPS

2008-08-01T13:15:00.000-07:00

I ordered something recently and have been waiting for it to come in the mail. Unfortunately, this is what my current package tracking looks like:

Est. in Home 07/30/2008
Date Time Description Location
July 31, 2008 1:55 PM Sortation Center Departure DALLAS, TX
July 28, 2008 9:03 PM Sortation Center Arrival DALLAS, TX
July 24, 2008 9:27 PM Sortation Center Arrival PHOENIX, AZ
July 24, 2008 6:49 AM Sortation Center Departure DALLAS, TX
July 23, 2008 5:14 PM Sortation Center Arrival DALLAS, TX
July 23, 2008 4:15 PM Pickup CARROLLTON, TX

What the hell? It made it all the way to Phoenix and then was sent back to Texas?

(By the way...I've just learned that my air conditioning only works well up to about 105 outside. When we start hitting 110 no matter how much I run the AC I just can't get my apartment under 82 degrees. I am so going to maintenance tomorrow)

Housing

2008-07-24T20:37:00.000-07:00

It was the most used word in congress yesterday. Check out Capitol Words for an entire calendar going back to 2000 stating what the most used word of the day was for each session of congress. It's funny sometimes and worrying at others, but definitely a neat minimalist way to view the state of the country in the last 8 years. VSL pointed out that Sept 2001 was rather interesting. For those of you who don't want to bother to scroll back that far (unfortunately the website doesn't let you skip around, as far as I can tell) here it is:

Sept 10, 2001: Available
Sept 11, 2001: World
Sept 12, 2001: Nation
Sept 13, 2001: Terrorist
Sept 14, 2001: War

Rather interesting, no?

(Via VSL)

YouChoose Spotlight 2008: Al Franken & Norm Coleman

2008-07-23T20:32:00.000-07:00

So, I haven't made a video in forever. This is partly due to extreme lack of time and partly due to extreme lack of inspiration. I have ideas on possible videos, but none of them get me excited enough to actually bother to create them. Lucky for me, YouTube has started the YouChoose Spotlight back up and, well, lets just say I do well with prompts; This should get me back into video-making mode.

The new YouChoose Spotlight is focusing on the Congressional and Senatorial races. Basically, YouTube spotlights one race a week and users are invited to make a video question for both candidates to answer. The questions will then be sorted in stars/views order and the candidates will be asked to answer the top 5 videos.

This week is the Minnesota Senate race with Al Franken and Norm Coleman. (Just as an aside, I had to take the work "Minnesota" completely out of my video because every time I said it I wanted to do it with a thick Midwest accent...it's just so funny that way!)

My question for the candidates deals with the role of personality in being an effective Senator. I know it's not on a policy or issue, but I feel it's still something that needs to be considered.

Anyways, if you think it's a good question, go watch it on YouTube and give it a nice rating. If you hate it, sorry. Just ignore me then.

What you should all do is go post your own video response. So far there aren't any responses attached to the video, but Steve hasn't even approved mine yet so there could very well be a backlog. I have a feeling, though, that there aren't many responses. People just don't seem to care about the Senatorial and Congressional races. That is really too bad, because even if they aren't for your state, they vote on policies that affect the entire country. So seriously, get out there and start video-ing.

Demographic Fun

2008-07-23T18:55:00.000-07:00

A friend sent me a link to this map of the US that shows the electorates going to each party in the 2004 and 2006 elections. What makes this map different than just...well, a map, is that it allows you to break it down by demographic and then change those demographics and see its effect on the electorates.

For example, if everyone votes the same as in 2004, but 4 percent of white 2004 republican voters change their mind and vote democrat, that would give democrats a win. Then again, if 2% less of white voters decided to show up at the polls, even 4% more voting democrat would tie the electorate.

You can change the demographics by race, religion and gender. The overall proportions are the same, but the tool allows you to change what percent of the demographic will go to the polls and how likely they are to vote democrat vs. republican.

What's cool about it is seeing what effect the different demographics have on the total electorate. I started with some likely possible scenarios and then realized it was more fun to just go crazy and just start really changing everything to see what happens. (Ex: In 2004 87% of all Jews in the US voted. If everything else stayed the same for 2008 but all the Jews decided to screw the election and stay home, it would have no effect on the electorates).

Anyways, have fun.

A Last Word on the Autism/Vaccine Debate

2008-07-18T13:28:00.000-07:00

My Autism/Vaccine video has caused a huge amount of controversy. Unfortunately, I don't have the time, patience or expertise to debate on a topic that is so emotionally charged and scientific as this one is. However, I have gotten a fair share of comments regarding the Hannah Poling case. In this court case, a child's family was compensated for possible harm caused by her childhood vaccinations. Although I don't have the appropriate knowledge or background to fully analyze this case, Steven Novella of the Yale University School of Medicine and author of the NeuroLogica Blog does. He wrote a very informative piece titled "Has the Government Conceded Vaccines Cause Autism" on the Hanna Poling case that I highly encourage everyone to read, especially those who see this case as "proof" that vaccines cause autism. His conclusion on the case is as follows:

This is a unique and idiosyncratic case that raises more questions than it answers. In my opinion as a neurologist, with the information provided, the child has a mitochondrial encephalopathy. The role of the vaccines is unclear, but at worst a rare vaccine reaction exacerbated the underlying mitochondrial disorder. This case has no clear implication for the larger question concerning vaccines and autism, which is likely why both sides agreed to settle.

Please go read his entire report to fully understand how he comes to this conclusion.

Nano-Scissors

2008-07-17T17:49:00.000-07:00

Last year after Mr. Wizard died, I made a video commemorating his memory by doing my favorite Mr. Wizard experiment (if you can call it that). I took a normal 8X10 sheet of paper and through some creative cutting, made it into a giant loop big enough to walk through. During this video I made an off-the-cuff comment about how if you had a pair of nano-scissors and could cut the paper to an atom wide it would go around the entire earth. Then I admitted that I had completely made that up and I had no idea how big it would be if it was cut to 1 atom thick.

Well, now I know. DavidSChandler sent me a YouTube message with his calculations. Here's what he had to say:

I thought about how to answer your question about whether the earth could pass through a sheet of paper: equate the area of the paper to the area of a ring of paper around the earth and solve for the width of the ring.

The area of a sheet of paper is 8.5x11=93.5 sq in.
The circumference of the earth is ~40 million meters or 1.6 billion inches.
The thickness of a ring with the same area as the paper would be
~93.5/(1.6 billion)=.0058 millionths of an inch which is ~10 atoms wide.

So yes, it would take nano-scissors.

A 1-atom wide ring might barely squeeze around Jupiter, but you couldn't fit the sun through even a flame-proof piece of paper.

...Hmmm...... yes you could. The ring at this point is one atom "wide" but about .004 inch "thick," due to the thickness of the paper. Change the plane of the cut to slice the paper to one atom thick and you could get a literal atomic chain that would easily encircle the sun.

--David Chandler
(See my YouTube channel: DavidSChandler for my more political applications of science.)

How cool is that? Although, I have to argue that changing the paper thickness and using the thickness to make the paper loop longer is...well, cheating. The way the paper is cut to make the loop, there would be no way to move the extra atoms creating the thickness to the ends in order to make the loop bigger. There could be a way to cut the paper (with super-nano-scissors of course) in order to add the thickness to the loop, but I can't figure out a way for that to work off the top of my head. If anyone has more patience for geometry than me and wants to take a stab at it, that would make you my new hero.

By the way, I originally made this video as part of a Skepchick contest. I lost, but Rebecca Watson said I was still going to get a cool science necklace as a prize (just for being cool I guess). I thought that was awesome, then completely forgot about it until right about now. Needless to say, I never did get one of those rockin' science necklaces. Where's my prize, Rebecca?

Blech

2008-06-18T17:42:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, I appologize for disappearing. Things have been completely crazy over here to the point where I've been out of town almost every weekend and therefore have a million things to do during the week. Not to mention the 110 degree weather has been just killing me.

Anyways, I'm going to be on vacation the next 2 weeks and have little to no internet access, so don't expect anything any time soon. However, I will leave you with this cool video I found via Very Short List. I just thought it was awesome.

Blantant Agism

2008-05-17T21:02:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't posted in awhile, but I just have to share this. I've been laughing like crazy the last 10 minutes reading this. It shouldn't even be this funny, but it so is.

Things Younger Than John McCain

Wrong! Wrong! Wrong!

2008-04-27T16:41:00.000-07:00

The only three words that could possibly describe McCain, Clinton, and Obama's statements regarding a possible link between rising autism rates (which is actually just better diagnoses) and vaccines. There is scientific consensus that vaccines do not cause autism. Spreading misinformation such as this can have a dangerous effect on the health decisions made by parents in this country.

I encourage you to go read the articles showing the alleged statements from the reporting sources (McCain, Clinton, Obama).

Also, here are some links to sites with more information on why vaccines are not a cause of autism. Unfortunately, I realized when I went to post this that all the articles I have read on the matter came from hard copy sources like magazines that I cannot link to. So, I did a quick search and came up with these few. If any of you know of some better websites with information on the matter or online articles, please email me at jamiebb-at-azalumni-dot-com and I'll be sure to add them:

Skeptical Inquirer Magazine article by Steven Novella

WebMD Article

ABC News Article

CBS News Article

If anyone has some better online resources, please let me know and I'll add the link. I also highly suggest the articles in the Vol. 13 2007 of Skeptic Magazine.

I'm not going to mention where I was informed about the topic of the presidential candidate's statements on autism because frankly I think pretty much every blog I read and podcast I listen to mentioned it. That's just way to many to list, but thanks to all of you.

***Edit***
I forgot to link to the Obama video of him making his statement. I saw the whole thing on youtube earlier, but now I can't find it. I did find this bit from the Washington Post:

Earth Day Crazies

2008-04-13T17:03:00.000-07:00

In 2007 I went to the San Diego Earth Day fair where I took pictures of all the crazy people. This video is a culmination of that day.

This was originally going to be all graphics and music. I had even made powerpoint slides for it. Then, at the last second I decided I didn't like it like that and I went ahead and filmed the previously text based portions.

Music is the song "Bigger Than Me" by the all amazing Bell X1 and was used without permission (please, please don't sue me). But really, you should all go to your itunes and buy their album. I promise it won't disappoint.

McCain and Carbon Taxes

2008-04-07T20:25:00.000-07:00

Two different topics, but I did want to mention both. The first is that I've never been a fan of McCain's speeches, but he gave a great one about a week ago on the meaning of "citizenship." This is my favourite part:

I'm a conservative, and I believe it is a very healthy thing for Americans to be skeptical about the purposes and practices of public officials. We shouldn't expect too much from government -- nor should it expect too much from us. Self-reliance -- not foisting our responsibilities off on others -- is the ethic that made America great.

But when healthy skepticism sours into corrosive cynicism our expectations of our government become reduced to the delivery of services. And to some people the expectations of liberty are reduced to the right to choose among competing brands of designer coffee.

What is lost is, in a word, citizenship. For too many Americans, the idea of good citizenship does not extend beyond walking into a voting booth every two or four years and pulling a lever. And too few Americans demand of themselves even that first obligation of self-government.

But citizenship properly understood is what Ronald Reagan was talking about when he said that Americans "are a nation that has a government -- not the other way around." Citizenship is not just the imposition of the mundane duties of democracy. Nor is it the unqualified entitlement to the protections and services of the state.

Citizenship thrives in the communal spaces where government is absent. Anywhere Americans come together to govern their lives and their communities -- in families, churches, synagogues, museums, symphonies, the Little League, the Boy Scouts, the Girl Scouts, the Salvation Army or the VFW -- they are exercising their citizenship.

Citizenship is defined by countless acts of love, kindness and courage that have no witness or heraldry and are especially commendable because they are unrecorded.

Although it exists apart from government, citizenship is the habits and institutions that preserve democracy. It is the ways, small and large, we come together to govern ourselves. Citizenship is the responsible exercise of freedom, and is indispensable to the proper functioning of a democracy.

If this is true then why does he dislike YouTube so much?

And on another topic, I wanted to repost my favourite of all the videos I have ever made. I don't think anyone was watching any of my videos then, so it really deserves to be reposts.

It's basically just a carbon tax, although I narrow it down to just on gasoline at the pumps rather than all carbon, although really it should be on all carbon. The thing is that the same people that get all annoyed about the high gas prices are the same ones that talk about how we are emitting too much carbon and should all be driving hybrids, etc. Of course, those two things are incongruent. Lower gas prices mean more people are going to use more gas. It can really only be one or the other.

In general I tend to lean towards solving problems in ways that involve less taxes, rather than more, but in this case I believe it is justified. When we pay at the pump, we are paying the cost for the gas plus state taxes, etc. Of course there are other costs associated with burning gasoline, least of which are environmental costs and nation dependency costs, which are not currently included when we fill up our car. Because we pay less than the costs we incur, as a nation we end up in the negative every time we buy a gallon of gasoline. In order to fix this inconsistency we would need to raise the price of a gallon of gas by the external costs associated with burning the gas. By doing this we would essentially even everything out and theoretically only use the efficient amount of gasoline, solving most of our energy problems.

The $1 I mention is really an arbitrary amount. I just chose it because it's enough to make a difference but not enough to make driving completely unaffordable. Because the costs are theoretical, it would take far more calculations than I am willing to do to figure out, and even then it would be a guess at best. However, an arbitrary amount is better than nothing.

Oh, the corrections

2008-03-29T10:57:00.001-07:00

So, besides from being outdated, I also made a mistake in my recent video. Driubi pointed out in the comments section that Gravel didn't drop out of the primary race until very recently. I could of sworn he had dropped out at the same time as Dodd and Biden, but I must have been mistaken. I just did a quick Google search and couldn't find anything on him dropping out that early, so Driubi is probably correct. I was probably just confused by CNN's Gravel page which only shows him running in three states (and a very angry looking picture of him...but, are there any non-angry looking pictures of Gravel?). Also, his recent drop out, wasn't even really a drop out, just a shift. He's now running under the libertarian ticket. The top center of his campaign website has this message.

I wanted to update you on my latest plans before news gets out. Today, I am announcing my plan to join the Libertarian Party, because the Democratic Party no longer represents my vision for our great country. I wanted my supporters to get this news first, because you have been the ones who have kept my campaign alive since I first declared my candidacy on April 17, 2006.

So, there you have it. Gravel should have been one of the names in light blue, not in umm...was it green I used for drop outs? Whatever, you know what I mean.

Best Looking Candidate Recap

2008-03-28T10:35:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the horrible delays with this video. The truth is it was filmed over a month ago, but it was the editing that I didn't have time for. First I went to Vegas, then I had the expected recovery period post-Vegas. Then I had lots of work and friend and family commitments. Not to mention, that I just had better things to do. I mean, if I'm about to work on the video and a friend calls to invite me to a movie, of course I'm going to go with the friend. As much as I enjoy making videos, they are low on the priority list. Oh, and as to my "promise" last weekend. The video was done but just needed uploading. Then I went to visit family for the weekend and only had access to dial-up, so that wasn't really conducive to posting videos. Then, when I got back, I just plain forgot. Sorry about that.

I think this 1 month lapse really emphasizes my post from a few weeks ago about more text based posts. I'm going to try taking this blog a new direction and branching out into more posts on random things like books and music, or just thoughts on the election that aren't really structured enough for a full video. If there are things you don't like, especially when I get off political topics, please let me know. Think of it like a "test" to determine how the future of the blog is going to work.

In other words, expect more "random" posts like the bracket one below. By the way, I thought I was going to completely suck again this year, but with all the upsets, I'm doing surprisingly well. In fact, I'm 3rd in our pool of 10 people, but even better, on facebook where I have over 50 friends who posted brackets, I'm tied with two others for 3rd place. Considering my bracket was half joke, I'm completely blown away that I'm even considered a competitor in the pools (Go MSU).

As to this video, again I want to mention that it was filmed over month ago. So, please don't get pissy when I have Huckabee still a competiter in the Republican primary. He was at the time of filming. Also, I really dislike this video. It's long and doesn't really have a point. It was actually longer but I cut 3 minutes of random stories because I just didn't see the purpose. I think that's why it took me so long to post as well, I just disliked the video in general. So, sorry if it's boring. As much fun as the best looking candidate thing was, it took too much time and was too difficult. I'm going to try to get back to my old style.

My Bracket Can Kick Your Bracket's Ass

2008-03-19T20:20:00.000-07:00

Screw the Candidates and the election and all that; it's that time of the year again! NCAA Basketball time. Check out my bracket. It's a mixture of hopeful naivity and random guessing. I just can't NOT have my teams win, even if it goes against all the odds (Go Wildcats!). Sure I'll lose another $10 this year, but with the $600 I'm getting from the government, I'm sure I can spare $10 to show faith in my teams. My goal is to not get last place in our pool...again. Anything but last and I'll be happy. Oh, and AZ winning it all would make me quite happy as well. Anyways, cheat off me if you like, but it probably won't help much. I know the scan is hard to see (I wrote in pencil) but click on it for a full size view. Oh, and new video tomorrow...Promise!

Some Opinions, Please

2008-02-17T15:28:00.000-08:00

I did film a new video yesterday, but I'm currently unhappy with how it went and it's very long. I'm going to rework it a bit before posting, but I did want to give a heads up that it's on its way.

Oh, and as to anyone who has sent me a YouTube message in the past month. I've been answering them and am now down to 115 left. Of course this has been made especially difficult with YouTube's spam filter, which gets suspicious when I send a bunch of messages in a row and will block me for a bit. I guess it's better than getting a bunch of spam, but it's still annoying when I am sending legitimate messages.

Anyways, I'm thinking about adding more text based posts (rather than video) to my blog now that people are reading. For example, I was thinking about doing things like book reviews (of books I read that are vaguely related to world events, politics, history, etc), maybe just short posts on thoughts on whatever happens to be the big news thing, etc. Also maybe just links to the cool new thing I've found on YouTube or a neat new relevant scientific study or I was thinking about starting discussions on different topics, but that would require an amount of participation that I'm not sure I can get. Of course, I'm just getting use to having an audience, so I was curious as to what types of things you'd be interested in? What topics do you most enjoy that I talk about? What types of things would you like to see? What kinds of formats? I'd really like to hear some input.

Also, if you comment as anonymous, please sign your post so I/anyone can respond to it. Thank you!

Go Vote, Damnit

2008-02-16T13:33:00.000-08:00

No, not in the elections, but in the Golden Dots Politics Online Voting thing. A YouTube friend of mine, David Colarusso, and some of his buddies are up for an award in the Poli-Tech Innovator of the Year category for their 10 Questions website. For those of you who haven't been following YouTube politics, David Colarusso started the Community Counts project to convince candidates to answer the questions that the public most wants to hear answers to, rather than the ones they most feel like answering. Later he expanded on this idea starting 10Questions, a website where you could create a question for the candidates via YouTube and then go on and vote for the questions you most want the candidates to answer. Many candidates, such as Barak Obama and Huckabee got on board and agreed to answer the top questions, regardless of what those questions may be. His project brought politics down to the people, where it belongs, letting us choose what issues are most important rather than the politicians themselves or the media. Here's a description of 10Questions in David's own words:

Ending days before the Iowa caucuses and garnering participation from then leading candidates, including Barack Obama and Mike Huckabee, 10questions.com was the first truly people-powered forum for the 2008 presidential candidates. We allowed the public to post and vote on questions for the candidates. Candidates answered the top ten, and the public then voted on whether or not these replies actually addressed the questions.

10questions proved a valuable proof of principle, establishing viewer-chosen questions, not just viewer-produced questions, as a legitimate means of candidate interaction, and produced a good amount of earned media including coverage in Wired and the San Francisco Chronicle among many other print and digital outlets such as the political blogs of both the Washington Post and New York Times. Furthermore the participation of first-tier candidates in this format helped demonstrate such a structure's ability to compel meaningful answers from such candidates.

If you've never visited his website, I highly suggest listening to some of the winning questions and the responses from the candidates. There are some very, very good ones in there and many cover topics hardly mentioned in the real debates. So, if you like 10Questions, support David and the other 10Question's guys and go vote for them. If you don't like 10Questions and don't want to vote for them, the second best in that category is probably Steve Grove, the brains behind the organization of YouTube Politics. For good measure, here's a picture of a few of us YouTubers hanging out with Steve at the after-party for the CNN/YouTube Democratic Debates. Although I am rather short, I have to mention that the other people I'm with aren't particularly short, but Steve is real-life genuine giant.

Update: I forgot to mention that voting ends at 5pm (no idea which time zone, but probably EST) on 2/19. That's only 3 days away so get voting!

The Best Looking Candidate Finale

2008-02-03T18:34:00.000-08:00

I'm so glad these are done with. They were way more trouble than they were worth.

On another note, I recieved an email recently from Marc Siegle of the Democratic Part of Oregon asking if I'd spread the word about a YouTube thing they are doing. They are collecting videos by YouTube users on Why you are a Democrat. Marc writes:

It’s been featured on some Oregon blogs and radio talk shows and posted to AirAmerica.com and SamSederShow.com.

So, there you have it. If you are a democrat, you should think about getting involved and post a video about your decision. I won't be posting one because...well, I'm not a Democrat (though I'm not a Republican either for those out there wondering). If anyone wants to balance this with a similar type thing for Republicans, feel free to email me and I'll make sure to post it.

The Comment Remove Button

2008-01-24T18:39:00.000-08:00

It's come in handy today.

Also, judging from the responses on my most recent video, it seems like the majority of YouTubers (or at least of the "vocal" YouTubers) have issues understanding satire. Oh well.

Anyways, I've got over 100 messages on YouTube and probably 30 emails. Some are spam so I'll just delete those, but most of them are very thoughtful responses. I definitely want to answer as many as I can. I'll start with the oldest and work my way to the newer ones. Some of my responses may be succinct, but it's only because I've got so darn many so I can't exactly spend a lot of time researching and debating with one individual. So, if you haven't yet gotten a response, just be patient. Thanks.

Best Looking Candidate: The Republicans

2008-01-21T12:37:00.001-08:00

Doing an NCAA Basketball style chart to find the ultimate best looking candidate was funny at first but, honestly, at this point the idea has been pretty beaten into the ground. Of course, I have got to finish what I started and there is only one video left. Then, back to my usual format...well, at least until after the primaries are over.

After the primaries I will continue to make videos for the two remaining candidates, but with far less material to pull from, I'm also going to move into general videos on the political system, policy making, and anything else I happen to think up. I'd also like to make more use of the blog and post some "blog only" entries. That way I can post quicker and on more topics. There are a few other things I am considering, but those aren't for this entry. I'll explain more after the primaries.

Anyways, the moment you've all been waiting for: And the best looking republican candidates are:

Spammed

2008-01-20T11:08:00.000-08:00

So YouTube decided to post my Davos video on the front page. That's right, www.youtube.com and you see my face. Unfortunately, this means I'm getting inundated by spam, and not just on that video, but on ALL my videos. Not to mention that the davos video is getting hundreds of comments an hour and my other videos, even a lot of much older ones, are also getting hits and comments. And then of course there are emails, messages, video responses, etc to deal with. Anyways, I do like to reply personally to messages and such, but at this rate it may be difficult. Also, please just ignore all the spam comments on all the videos. I'm usually pretty good at catching and deleting them, but unless I want to spend all day tracking down spam many are probably going to stay up for awhile.

Also, welcome to anyone coming here the first time after watching my Davos answer. That video is only one of many, so if you like what I have to say, you'll probably like the others as well.

Oh, and as an update, I filmed yesterday for the Republican Best Looking Candidate video, but I still need to create the graphics and edit it and all that. I'm hoping to get to a coffee house today to get it polished up. It should be up today or tomorrow assuming all goes according to plan.

(Also, doesn't have to do with anything important, but Carl Sagan's Cosmos have be rerunning on the Discovery Science channel. For anyone as young as me that didn't see it back in its heyday and doesn't have the $100 to spend on buying it, it's exciting that it's being replayed on television. So, make sure to set your Tivo!)

A Response to my Response

2008-01-09T16:49:00.000-08:00

YMeagle made a video response to my response to Mike Huckabee's video on the Fair Tax. I made that video months ago and am since far more knowledgeable on the issue. However, I still feel that my questions were valid. Anyways, here's YMeagle's video:

YMeagle,

As to state income taxes, your confusion is a direct result of the fact that my video was a response to Huckabee's video. In his video he claimed that the Fair Tax would make it so no one would ever have to pay income tax again or worry about tax day. I felt this was an overstatement as most states would still have a State income tax and most Americans will still be filling out tax forms and claiming income (though the process would be far smaller and easier).

The rest of your video was pretty much just an Economics 101 lesson. It's useful for someone who doesn't have a good grasp of Economics, but since none of your comments provided anything new, I don't really have a response. Though, I have to say that you do explain things very clearly and with fun examples! You could turn your response into a great "educational" type video about the Fair Tax and it's benefits.

My video only asked one question, which you didn't answer (nor has any politician or any book or website on the FairTax). It's actually more of a statement that no one seems to be considering. That is that the Fair Tax puts the largest tax burden on the middle class. The lower middle class and poor would be gaining some or all of their taxes back. That leaves the middle and upperclass paying taxes. Under the current income tax, the upperclass pays the largest percent of their total income in taxes. Under the Fair Tax, the middle class would be paying the largest amount (as they spend a larger percentage of their money on goods and services).

I want to make clear that this is not a bad thing. In fact, I think it makes sense since the middle class will also be consuming more public goods than the upper class (not to mention all the other benefits the Fair Tax offers). I only mention it because no one else is, and if we are truly going to consider moving to a new federal tax system, we need to consider all the outcomes of it (not just the ones that are the most beneficial).

Hope that helps. Thanks again for the response!

The Davos Question

2008-01-05T17:11:00.001-08:00

The World Economics Forum is taking place this month with some of the world's most influential minds in attendance (even Bill Clinton...Wooo!). The Davos Question asks YouTubers to answer the question "What one thing do you think that countries, companies or individuals must do to make the world a better place in 2008?" The top responses are actually going to be shown at the conference and many people there will have a chance to respond.

Please view my response, and if you like what I have to say, go vote for it at http://www.youtube.com/thedavosquestion

I have to admit I can't find it there. I think it may take awhile to turn up or something, but if anyone knows what I have done wrong please tell me. I should be able to find it using the search, but it doesn't show up. I followed all the directions and confirmed with the automatic email, so I'm not sure why it isn't there, but I'm hoping it'll turn up by tomorrow. After that I'll get worried. Anyways, keep checking back to see if it is there yet (search "razela") and if you know what I've done wrong, please email me (jamiebb-at-email.arizona-dot-edu). Also, if anyone does find it, email me and let me know, because I'm just very confused.

Update: Never mind, it's working now. Just go to The Davos Question channel and click the vote tab, then type "razela" in the search box. I know it's not counting the thumbs up, I don't know what's up with that, but I'm assuming that they can see the number of votes somewhere even though we can't.

Again, please go vote for it at http://www.youtube.com/thedavosquestion

Thank You!!

Best Looking Candidate: The Democrats

2008-01-04T22:51:00.001-08:00

Part 2 in my (now 4 part) series.

Yah, it's already outdated from candidates leaving the race after Iowa. Oh Well. It just doesn't work without 8 candidates on each side.

(I don't think you guys realize how long this video took to make. Seriously.)

Party Time!

2007-12-27T17:16:00.000-08:00

Ok, well not for you guys. Just wanted to check in and say that my filming plans got pushed back a day because my hot water went out Monday. That meant I couldn't take a shower and I was not getting in front of the camera. I did get the filming done Tuesday, but haven't had time to edit and put the the graphics and everything.

This is where the Party bit comes in. My Birthday is tomorrow (yay 24!) and I'll be having a party and then going camping with some friends. That means definitely no time for editing. When I get back I suppose. Sorry.

Anyways, Happy New Years! Cheers.

Oh, by the way, check out this picture I took the other day. The big bright thing is the moon, but see that little red speck. That tiny speck thing happens to be an entire planet. Mars, actually. Cool eh?

**Edit** Guess what guys? Steve Grove included me in the YouTube Politics 2007: Year in Review video. Plus he included my clip of Gravel at the debates. Very Cool, thanks Steve!

Happy Holidays (and bad news)

2007-12-22T15:21:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone. A week ago I filmed the second part to my Best Looking Candidate series. It was my most ambitious video to date, using video, sound, and graphics. Today I sat down to do the final editing and post it, and what do you know, I can't find it. It's no where on my hard drive, and it didn't even automatically save in iMovie. I know I saved it because I had gone back into it, but I did clean off my desktop the other day and may have deleted the file. I'm very, very annoyed with myself and the whole thing is going to have to be re-done. I guess what I'm saying is that you're going to have a be a bit more patient.

I'll try to work on recreating the entire thing over the next few days. However, my Birthday is coming up (24 on the 28th!) and I will be camping without internet access next week, so there's a possibility I may not be able to put the finishing touches on it until a week or so after New Years. Sorry everyone, I really wanted to get this out before the Holidays.

Speaking of the Holidays, I don't celebrate Christmas, but that doesn't mean that none of you do. Happy Holidays (for whatever you happen to celebrate)!

Hiatus

2007-12-01T13:41:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys,

I know I tempted all of you with that Intro video, but I'm going to have to take a short hiatus (maybe 1-2 weeks). I just moved and I definitely underestimated the time and work it would be. I just need to get myself focused on making my apartment look like an apartment rather than a storage unit.

Thanks,

Jamie

Intro to my New Made-For-YouTube MiniSeries

2007-11-15T18:16:00.001-08:00

Who is the Best Looking Candidate?

Stay Tuned to find out...

(I totally made this whole video just so I can say the words "Kucinich Ferry")

An Atheist in the Supreme Court?

2007-10-28T15:14:00.000-07:00

Would a presidential candidate even consider it? That's the basis of my question.

I'm not too sure. I have a feeling a lot of candidates would say "no." I think this question could really show which candidates truly believe in the first amendment.

If you like the question, please please please go to www.10questions.com and vote for it. Many candidates have already vowed to answer the top questions, but I'm already over 1000 votes behind. I could use the help.

Since I've already gotten a bunch of comments on it, for those of you who like the shirt, you can go by it yourself at Questionable Content.

The Mythbusters answer my questions

2007-10-26T17:51:00.000-07:00

I recently submitted three questions for the Mythbusters, Jamie and Adam, to answer on the recent Freakonomics Q&A. What do you know, they answered all three! Here's my questions and their answers.

Q: Is there something that you really want to test/investigate on the show and can’t?

ADAM: We’ve said it before: If time and money were no obstacle, I’d love to go to the moon and bring back a piece of Apollo hardware, to prove that the moon landing wasn’t a hoax. We will be attacking that myth next season, but sadly, a lunar landing isn’t in the cards.

I’d like to do an entire episode on audiophile myths: are super-expensive cables any better than cheap ones? Is a twenty thousand dollar turntable better than a CD, and does drawing a green line around the edge of the CD make it sound better? Unfortunately, I keep getting shot down on that one. I’ll keep at it though.

JAMIE: Besides the moon landing that Adam mentioned, not really. We always find a way. The closest we would come is that we can’t target a specific company or product, because if they did not like our results, we wouldn’t change them, and would then have potential legal problems.

Q: When filming the show, how much do you feel you are being yourself, and how much do you feel you are acting for the cameras?

ADAM: Good question! You may not believe this, but the way we are on camera is the way we are in real life. Just a bit more succinct (that’s the editors) and funnier (that’s the editors too). Ask anyone on the crew. When I’m trying to do a piece to the camera, I imagine that the camera is my wife, and it’s the end of the day and I’m telling her what I did today. That’s often the best conversation of my day, and it helps me keep the material fresh. Enthusiasm is contagious.

JAMIE: We are who we seem to be, full stop. On occasion, we will have to repeat something we said for the camera if they missed it or need a different angle. In my case, there is an exception to this from time to time; the world is not black and white, and yet production does not let me say “kinda sorta,” or “might be,” or any other long-winded and detailed variation of these. I have to say “myth busted,” or “confirmed,” or whatever. They usually get by this by allowing me to say “based on what this test shows, we have to call it this,” thereby circumventing my resistance to reducing everything to sound bites.

Q: You mention often on the show that many viewers point out flaws in your methodologies. Which myth has created the most controversy?

ADAM: If you want to go by fan response, then I have to say the most controversial thing we’ve done is the episode on “Free Energy” — perpetual motion machines, water-driven cars, and the like. People need to believe in this stuff, and not a week goes by without someone emailing me that they know it works, and I should check out this or that Web site. It’s all the same line of malarkey. It really makes me mad — fuming, even.

JAMIE: Heck, they are all different, and there is something for everybody to complain about. If we find the issue interesting and fundamental, then we have a go at it again.

Seriously, debunking perpetual motion machines created the most controversy? What does that say about our society? And our high school physics classes for that matter.

Oh, and by the way. Adam said I had a great question. Wooo! (Adam is so cool!)

Credentials Please.

2007-10-09T20:24:00.000-07:00

Back during the CNN/YouTube Democratic Debates I got to meet Steve Peterson (http://www.youtube.com/anhhung18901) in Charleston and filmed some videos with him. His debate question, which didn't make it into the debates only because it was dropped the morning of for a question that had come in the night before, asked the candidates where they get their information. That is a great question, and since many of you are accepting my opinion on a variety of topics, it is only fair that I answer that as well so you know where my information is coming from.

Podcasts:
- NPR 5 Minute News Summary (I listen to this every morning after I wake up to catch up on any news I may have missed the day before)
- NPR Story of the Day (I listen every morning after the news)
- The Skeptic's Guide to the Universe (Honestly, coolest podcast ever. It's got a great mix of science and hilarious banter and great personalities)
- The Onion (does this count?)

T.V.:
- The Daily Show (brilliant)
- The Colbert Report (Again, I'm not even sure if these count)
- Small amounts of T.V. news (I don't watch much because it is so "sentational." Sometimes I will watch some Anderson Cooper only because he's...well, he's hot. Also I'll sometimes watch Wolf Blitzer only because he's funny looking. Neither of them are particularly great with the news though.
- Nova (possibly the only good science show on t.v.)
- Digging for the Truth (At least I did until they replaced Josh Bernstein...sigh)
- Mythbusters (Need I say more?)

Newspapers:
- None. I prefer magazines because they are more thought out.

Magazines:
- Economist (Best magazine ever.)
- Scientific American (Go Science!!)

Blogs:
- Democracy in America (Written by the Economist. I highly recommend this as a place to read some smart observations on any current news story, especially dealing with politics)
- Freakonomics (By Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner of the book by the same name. The two of them have just the most brilliant observations and usually great guests for guest articles or question/answer forums)
- Bad Astronomy (Science = Awesome)
- Memoirs of a Skepchick (I've just started reading this one by Rebecca Watson from the Skeptic's Guide podcast. Still not quite sure how I feel about it, though Rebecca usually has funny/cute things to say on every topic -- and now might be getting her own NPR show!)

Also lots of books, too many to name. Although, usually if I'm reading a non-fiction it has to do with either science, economics or history. I hardly ever read about politics. I like the information more than opinions on interpretation.

That's all. If you have other suggestions you think I may like in any of these mediums, let me know. I'm always looking for new sources of information. Also, not politics related but does anyone know of a good blog on music?

The Ron Paul Army: A Theory on a Percieved Discrepency

2007-10-09T18:32:00.000-07:00

My theory is that Ron Paul's poll numbers are lower than the true number of fans he has. This is due to my own observations that college students are making up a large portion of Ron Paul's "Army" and are not being counted in the polls because they do not own land line phone. What do you think??

Also, I'd like to point out that this video is not meant to show my support for Ron Paul, just as my crush on John Edwards' hair doesn't mean I support him either. Although I've got many opinions for and against many of the candidates, I'd like to remain partial to all until I'm ready to vote. That way I can keep and open mind and change my opinion as I learn more about each one of them. If you are curious on where I stand now I would love to chat, just send me a private YouTube message or an email.

A Small Favor to Ask AZ Governor Janet Napolitano

2007-09-19T19:35:00.000-07:00

Dear Governor Napolitano, please give me a vote. Many other states in the US have open elections and there is no reason that Arizona can't do the same. Every Arizonan should be given a vote in the presidential primaries.

Yah, this was originally going to be a rant as part of my 3 part series on things I hate about voting, but I thought it would have more impact in this form.

A Science Question for the Republicans

2007-09-07T18:02:00.000-07:00

My question for the CNN/Youtube Republican Debates. I don't think you guys realize how long it took me to get this under 30 sec (1 hr 20 min).

By the way, it's loaded and playing but still won't show up on my youtube profile page. What is wrong??? --Edit-- Never mind, there it is. It just took a second.

The Best and the Worst

2007-08-27T18:26:00.000-07:00

I don't mean to make fun of some of the people who watch my videos, but I have to say that this is the absolute stupidest comment I have ever gotten on a video, though I'm not telling you who it is or what video because...well, that would just be mean.:

The Federal Government is not the largest employer in the U.S. Wallmart is the largest private employer. You should do some research and find out how many federal employees file with the IRS and find out how much money they pay as compared to private income.

Both sentences are contradictory of themselves. The first one because...well, just read it. And the second because federal employees do get a private income. I mean, if you work for the gov't you get money that's your own money. It's not like your whole income goes back into the system. To be fair he probably meant public employees verse private employees, but if he means it he should write that. Honestly, is this guy really serious or did he just not actually read what he wrote.

And on another note, I got possibly the best comment I've ever received today as well from RocCBrand:

Ha! I'm on to you Jamie, if that's your real name! By using clever video editing techniques you've been able to hide the fact that you're actually an 80 year old Japanese man, out to influence the American elections in a way that will boost the value of the Yen! I shall expose your nefarious plot!
: )

I have only one question for him. How'd you know?

In Memory of Perry DeAngelis

2007-08-26T18:44:00.000-07:00

I made a video on the ridiculousness of spoonbending claims as a tribute to one of my favorite skeptics, Perry DeAngelis, who died this week at the young age of 44. Perry was one of the "skeptical rogues" on the Skeptic's Guide to the Universe podcast ( http://www.theskepticsguide.org ), which I listen to every week. I may not have known Perry, but as a regular listener I feel like I did know him on some level. The podcasts just aren't going to be the same without Perry's silly/odd remarks and besides, who will now pick on Rebecca?

By the way, monkeys will always kick bird ass.

By the way, thanks to Brandon who taught me the spoon thing. You are awesome.

Things I Hate About Voting: Part 1, Changing Your Address

2007-08-24T18:20:00.000-07:00

Sorry for taking so long between videos. I really needed the break, but now I should be back on track.

For Your Entertainment Only

2007-08-11T19:09:00.000-07:00

I've barely been home the last few days and today am too tired to make a video, but I haven't posted in a few days so I wanted to post something...anything.

So, to keep you entertained till my next video, here's a video my parent's posted of me last year playing cymbals. I'm the one of the far right. The sound is a few seconds off, I apologize.

Actual political stuff coming tomorrow, promise.

Some Catching Up

2007-08-07T18:36:00.000-07:00

I meant to post these awhile ago, but I've been trying to stay down to one post a day.

A video by my producer slash filmographer Jennifer. She is amazing with the camera and I don't know what I would have done at the debates without her (I don't even own a video camera).

Anyways, she finally stepped in front of the camera but uhh...well I was in charge of filming and...well just watch. Let's just say there's a reason I needed her to come to Charleston with me.

Anyways, she's promised to make a bunch more videos and she's awesome so you should subscribe to her (and go write nice encouraging comments so she actually starts making youtube a habit).

And now, by popular request (ok, one request) some pictures from the debates.

Jenny, David McMillan (http://www.youtube.com/newsincolor) and I with the Anderson Cooper.

Kucinich was the only candidate to come over to the youtube vlogging area when the spin room started to die down. Hence how I got this awesome picture with him and Elizabeth.

Go check the album to see the rest of my Charleston pictures.

Cheers!

Challenge to the GOP Presidential Candidates

2007-08-06T17:46:00.000-07:00

Collaboration fun!!

Visit http://www.communitycounts.us and let the candidates know what questions you want answered.

The republican presidential candidates aren't committing to a YouTube debate. We think they should. We understand their concerns, and we feel they can all be addressed. This is our call to action.

Here are this video's contributors in order of appearance:

Melissa (MelissaJenna)
http://www.youtube.com/user/MelissaJenna

James Kotecki (EmergencyCheese)
http://www.youtube.com/user/Emergency...

Tony (thewinekone)
http://www.youtube.com/user/thewinekone

Shelby Highsmith (shelbinatorTV)
http://www.youtube.com/user/shelbinat...

Esther B. (faintstarlite)
http://www.youtube.com/user/faintstar...

David Colarusso (dcolarusso)
http://www.youtube.com/user/dcolarusso

Jamie B. (Razela)
http://www.youtube.com/user/Razela

Alan (fallofautumndistro)
http://www.youtube.com/user/fallofautumndistro

"The Internet's BFF"

2007-08-04T09:26:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I learned that the one thing to avoid doing on youtube is questioning Ron Paul...on anything, even if you're on his side. I think I angered the entire Ron Paul Army. I didn't even say anything negative in my last video. In fact, I specifically said that I like his ideas and asked a very logistical question about how he plans to accomplish them.

Maybe they think my questioning him implies that he has not yet reached perfection. Either that or they aren't really watching the entire video that closely.

(On another note, why is the middle picture not loaded yet? It's been like 12 hours and I still have a camera picture with the clock. Usually it goes so quickly).

YouChoose Spotlight: Ron Paul

2007-08-03T18:32:00.001-07:00

Yah, I filmed it in a different room than I usually do. I was getting bored of the other background. This one isn't as well lit though. I should probably buy a floor lamp for that room anyways.

Better Late than Never

2007-08-02T18:24:00.000-07:00

When I got home from work today, I was trying to organize and file all the random videos I took from the debates. That's when I came across a final wrap-up video that I made in the Charleston airport. I had completely forgot I had ever filmed it. I even did the editing while on the plane.

A Plethora of YouTube Videos

2007-08-01T21:14:00.000-07:00

I've just got to point out some of these videos by other YouTube users. Ok, they're mostly videos I make an appearance in, but some of them are just plain awesome.

Before the Debates started while at the citadel, a bunch of us vloggers made a video parodying a video of Obama and Hillary trivializing the other candidates. I play Obama. Yah..I can see it, I do look sort of like him.

Steve Grove posted a Short History of YouTube Politics in which yours truly makes an appearance.

Also, Remy made an awesome Debate montage music video. Have I mentioned today how awesome Remy is?

Also, James Kotecki covertly filmed me eating breakfast in Charleston. Watch where you point that thing!

My Favorites from the Democratic Debates

2007-07-31T17:17:00.000-07:00

I posted a ton of videos from my time at the debates. Here's a few of my personal favorites.

Debate Montage Fun! Ok, it's just some scenes from after the debate, but I had so much fun editing this video.

My two interviews, one with Howard Dean and one with Dennis Kucinich must be mentioned.

Also, Gravel who says things like they are, yet presents it oddly similarly to the raving homeless guy who lives near the Circle K by my apartment. No wonder no one is listening to him. I think we'd all be better off if we can get past the presentation of it and hear what he has to say.

And my favorite video, my interview with Edwards's hair.

By the way...it is "Edwards's hair" right? Except it just looks so wrong so I put "Edward's hair" half the time instead, though that bothers me because then "John Edwards" becomes "John Edward" that crazy "psychic" guy who preys off people's grief for his own financial gain. I don't think anyone would actually confuse them, but still. It's not "Edwards' hair" even though that seems most right. Bleh....Edwards's hair. There just has to be an easier way.

Anyways, keep watching this week. I'll be posting a 3 part series on some of my gripes about voting.

Part 1: Changing addresses
Part 2: ID Checks
Part 3: Standardization.

Yah, calling it a "3 part series" does make it sound far more exciting than it probably will be, but I promise to bring up some important issues that have been bothering me for a long time.

Oh, and one more thing, completely not politics related but I just have to mention it. Tonight at 8pm on PBS they are re-running the Nova episode on my favorite moon, Titan. I never saw it the first time around, but it should be really good so if you're into science be sure to watch. (And yes, before I get a question...I have a favorite moon).

Catching up on the YouChoose Spotlights

2007-07-29T18:28:00.001-07:00

I was so busy getting ready for the debates (I had to work a bunch of overtime to even be able to take 2 days off) that I didn't have time to answer Giuliani's Spotlight video. Also, after the debates I was so busy editing and making up for lost time that I didn't really have time for Mike Gravel's Spotlight.

By the way, did anyone else notice that neither of them asked a question? Isn't the whole point of the YouChoose thing to ask questions? Also, Giuliani hasn't approved any video responses or comments for that matter, even though I've seen a lot of the responses for him around. I guess his campaign people decided that instead of only approving "positive" responses and getting accused of picking and choosing, they would just not approve anything. I think that really defies the point of the whole YouChoose Spotlight deal.

So, as I've been playing video catch up all day, here's my responses to Giuliani and Gravel.

Welcome

2007-07-29T18:17:00.001-07:00

Welcome friends to my new blog. It's mostly just going to consist of my YouTube videos, but hopefully now when there are weeks where I'm very busy and not making a video I can tell you guys where I am, rather than all of you posting comments to my profile asking what happened to me. I think that was when I decided that a blog would have been really helpful.

Anyways, hope you guys like it. Let me know if you have any tips or suggestions. I'm kind of new to this whole blog thing. And before there are questions, yes, I straightened my hair. Don't worry, it's just temporary, it'll wash out with my next shower.