SHOE IN

A story whose serious implications were first overshadowed by its comedic overtones received the most votes this week: "Man Throws Two Shoes at Bush in Iraq." The post racked up 136 props and 447 comments, including this assessment from mntnman444: "I have to give credit to Bush for his quick reflexes. On the other hand, the Red Sox should be slobbering all over that journalist. The second pitch was right down the pike." Replied BronxBomber: "Well, that's shoe biz!!!" On a more serious note, dissent chimed in: "The journalist clearly couldn't contain his loathing for the man. Bush, believing that this incident was beyond the comprehension of all others in the room and across the world, not only ducked the shoe but ducked the point and proceeded to crap on about how the journalist was trying to draw attention to himself." Added mesodude: "I think among my top 10 objects to throw at him would be golf balls, a can of Exxon Mobil oil, and a hardbound copy of My Pet Goat." Still, the president did have his defenders--sort of. Said wtagg: "One thing I will say is Bush is pretty agile. I would agree that the Secret Service needs to review how they would protect the president. There should have been some type of reaction prior to the second shoe." And slate objected to the way other Propeller members were minimizing the assault: "It could cause harm, could it not? Maybe even kill him, if it hit in the right place, [or] put out an eye. How would you have reacted if Obama was the one standing there in Bush's place?" A related story, "Did the Shoe Thrower Hate America for Its Freedom and Values?," generated 59 props and 95 comments. Dionys answered the question with another question: "Maybe he hates America for its freedom in shoe choices and values found at Shoe Rack?" (The shoe thrower, whose name is Muntadhar al-Zaidi, is seen in the photo above.)

RUSH AND COLIN'S EXCELLENT ADVENTURE

An exchange of verbal projectiles between Colin Powell and Rush Limbaugh got the community's attention in a big way. "Powell: GOP 'Polarization' Backfired In Election, Says Rush Limbaugh Is Part Of Problem" rang up 110 props and 255 comments. TimALoftis endorsed Powell's critique: "Powell hits it on the head again. Hopefully the age of Karl Rove-type politics is over." Locky12 was less enthusiastic about the former general and GOP icon: "Colin Powell is a phony. He waited to endorse Barry until his endorsement would have the greatest effect. And then when he did, he described Barry with empty and lofty platitudes and nothing more." But gamahuche leaped to the Powell's defense: "Do you by any chance have the teeniest-weeniest idea that Gen, Powell--who would have had a MUCH better chance as a candidate than that mutton-headed angry man that your friends accepted by default, when the only OTHER potential Republican candidates were Larry Craig or Joe the Plumber--very carefully and cleverly chose the PERFECT moment to make his play?" Meanwhile, memestryker argued that the divide-and-conquer strategy will never go out of style, regardless of which party holds the reins: "'Karl Rove type politics' will always be out there--it's a way to whip up the base while also using bait-and-switch that's as old as recorded history. It has nothing to do with party and is used by both the Republicans and the Democrats." A related story, "Rush Limbaugh Fires Back At Colin Powell," rang up 78 props and 218 comments. As jovial saw it, the commentator was marginalizing himself further with each word: "Now that Limbaugh has staked [out] his position on the far-right neoconservative lunatic fringe, I hope he continues to lose support with commonsense Americans in this country." Replied Endoscopy: "What you fail to realize is that Limbaugh is not the far right. That position is held by [Michael] Savage. He considers Limbaugh and Hannity to be liberal."

AND DON'T OVERLOOK....

"Rahm Emanuel Captured on Blago Federal Wiretap Tapes" rang up an impressive 59 props, 317 comments, and 10,359 page views. For libsRfunny, Emanuel's appearance on the tapes was the smoking gun the GOP had been anticipating: "You have to be an idiot to not recognize the sleaze that is Illinois politics and that Obama up to his Dumbo ears in it." Codi6934 seemed to agree: "If you think Bill Clinton was Teflon coated, you wait for this guy. Obama will be Teflon coated, bulletproof with a bag of chips!" But Tango57 argued otherwise: "Obama provided a list of possible suitors to take his senate seat, which is expected and appropriate. It DOES NOT mean they discussed payments, which DID NOT happen. That was Blago's doing. That was already discussed yesterday." (Added Beeboppin71: "And the day before, and the day before, and the day before.") Which story got the most page views last week? That would be "Nude Virgin Mary cover prompts Playboy apology," with 9 props, 67 comments, and 55,351 page views. For sabinne73, the cover in question was no big deal: "I don't think God really cares if folks liked pretty women--in fact, I think he encourages us to have sex. It's called procreation." But gtrwizrd felt otherwise: "This is about using the likeness of someone many revere as much as Jesus Christ in a sexually provocative pose. No one is disputing the value of procreation. One too many, perhaps?" On that note, we'll wish all Propeller members a happy holiday. Stay warm, folks, and we'll return with the WIR after the New Year!

HERE COMES THE CHIEF

This week, the incoming POTUS was squarely in the spotlight at Propeller. "Supreme Court Won't Review Obama's POTUS Eligibility, Birth Certificate" bagged 135 votes, 356 comments, and 8,109 page views. For jovial, who posted the story, the court's decision was a victory for common sense: "Every [such] case seems to be falling on its face. Any more tricks?" Another member, slate, suggested that the Democrats were equally guilty of taking the low road, particularly when they latched onto the underage pregnancy of Bristol Palin: "It's too late to excuse your actions and then claim that we on the right will attack Obama's innocent children." But the cryptically named _-m-_ begged to differ: "Criticizing the vast hypocrisy of Palin and her ridiculously myopic position on sexual education does not inherently constitute an attack on her daughter. It's a legitimate indictment of a position supporting abstinence-only sex ed, showing that, quite clearly, it doesn't work very well." Added drpolyphemus: "A black man is president. Get over it, people. There is no going back to the old days. Evolve." A related story, "Obama's 'New' New Deal," generated 128 props, 133 comments, and 4,218 page views. There was some disagreement about Obama's support for a New Deal-style infrastructure program. Said b-happy: "Funny how we got into this mess by spending trillions with money that we [didn't] have, with no industry to support our spending. And now Obama wants to continue Bush politics by spending more money.... Where does that leave us? It leaves us in an even bigger hole than before, because we don't create anything anymore." Replied beavith1: "That's not a solution, unless you want to live in a cave." Added blackacereturn: "God forbid that Obama would try and spend some money on the people whose money [the previous administration] pilfered."

THE PRICE IS RIGHT

"Illinois Governor Arrested on Corruption Charges" racked up 111 props, 322 comments, and 3,685 page views. Blago's brazen behavior sparked off a piquant conversation, beginning with HOUSEMD: "Chicago Machine alive and well. Everybody lies, even the Governor of Illinois." One member, nostalgia, tried to pin some of the blame on the incoming president: "What a wonderful group of 'associates' Obama has!" Replied Dionys: "Yawn. More guilt by association. I guess Obama in 2012 isn't going to be that tough." At least one member, 4thchance, breathed a sigh of relief at Blago's party affiliation: "We've seen some really down-and-dirty crap coming from our leaders, both Republicans and Democrats. But I have to say, this one takes the cake, hands down, no contest. This is the scum of the scum, and I'm proud to say, it was done by a DEMOCRAT!" For hyperbola, though, the folly crossed party lines: "Keep in mind that GW Bush received more from Rezko than Obama did. Also keep in mind that those indicted with Rezko contributed freely to GOP politicians. Time to clean out the corruption in BOTH parties." Asked Wolfie2007: "Geez, are all the politicians in Illinois criminals?" Replied JohnGault: "Living in Massachusetts, I'm offended by that comment. I thought we were the most corrupt." (Nothing like regional pride!) A related story, "Obama Haters Activated by Governor's Indictment," generated more votes than any other: 143. It also inspired 508 comments, including a mini-dispute over the propriety of calling the new president "Barry." Said automan909: "Barry is Obama's given name. He changed it to a Muslim name because he is a Muslim." Replied cushi: "Stop into the nearest robot repair shop and get your tape changed. It's old, worn out, and inaccurate." BigBadJohn666 fired back with a comment that summed up much of the GOP assault on Obama's candidacy: "Everything that comes out of this gun-grabbing, Constitution-busting Muslim's mouth is a lie." But dissent reached into his bag of rhetorical tricks and returned fire: "Good for you! It's personal confessions like this that will lead to your redemption." Let's leave the last word to alakazam: "Bush squandered all my good will towards him by acting like a damn fool. If Obama really screws up, I will raise hell just as readily as I do today. I love America... not a party or a president."

AND DON'T OVERLOOK....

Which stories rang up the most page views over the past week? "Oh Deer! Pizzeria Butchers Bambi in Kitchen" topped the list, with 47, 419. BronxBomber sounded pretty enamored of the situation, and put in his order: "A 'Bambi' pie with extra cheese, and a 'road kill' burger to go, please." But PsychoHosebeast saw nothing amiss about the impromptu shambles: "Imagine. Cutting meat in a restaurant kitchen. Who's ever heard of such a thing?" And cashman7325-10 suggested that Bambi was probably the healthiest ingredient in the kitchen: "That deer, who lived its life eating natural foods in the PA woods, did not have an opportunity to be tainted in a slaughterhouse and stamped with a little blue USDA stamp by a drunk, corrupt food inspector, so clearly it is a hazard." Another top scorer was "You Really Can Rent A Celeb," with 67 props, 18 comments, and 29,097 page views. (The thread included this week's most plaintive comment, from srivers123: "Does anyone use spell check anymore?") Finally, there was "South Park No Lark at Brooklyn College," with 34 props, 44 comments, and 25,223 page views. One member, hcedeee, was highly suspicious of teaching South Park at the college level: "It is no surprise what the far left will do to influence young minds that want to learn and expand." Replied tadair919: "I'm conservative and I support this." But let's exit with a nugget wisdom from CosmicCowboy: "Humor has often been used as a tool for letting the air out of over-inflated egos and for taking the 'mighty' down a notch or two. There is a danger in taking anything in this mortal life too seriously. Even Shakespeare wrote comedies. If a lesson can be learned from the South Park gang, or the Muppets for that matter, then let the lessons begin." Class dismissed!

CRAWFORD OR BUST

As George W. Bush prepared for his exit from the White House, he regained the spotlight for one more week at Propeller. "President George W. Bush Says He Will Leave Office With 'Head Held High'" generated 128 props (the most of any story) and 358 comments. In the ABC interview, the outgoing president did seem to hedge his bets about the wisdom of the Iraq war. But for DarkWizard, it was too little, too late: "Most of us already knew that Bush was incompetent and as sharp as a marble. But to have him admit it didn't give me any satisfaction, because he purposefully and willfully disregarded the Constitution in the performance of his duties." Added SFCGuyW: "I was an Intelligence Analyst during my entire military career and have seen (several times) firsthand higher officials having made up their minds before all the intelligence had been gathered and analyzed.... As can be seen from the Iraq war and in studying history, such a practice is a formula for disaster." Said rimbaud: "The military machine has its own momentum." To which dissent replied: "Momentum is the final decider? Then we have a very serious problem. Cars without brakes have the same serious problem." But BBcamaro warned Democrats against taking the moral high ground too stridently: "You don't want to go down that road. The Dems had a president who solicited sex in the Oval Office and then lied straight to your face about it, just to start. [The hypocrisy] runs rampant through both parties." A related story, "Bush Aides Rush to Enact a Safety Rule Obama Opposes," rang up 63 props and 66 comments. There wasn't much enthusiasm for the proposed dismantling of workplace safety regulations. Said jordan11: "What a bunch of freaking slobs. Congress needs to squash their nonsense with new laws governing environmental impact."

BORN IN THE U.S.A.?

The election is over, but the fuss over Obama's birth certificate continues to simmer, at least for a few more days (the Supreme Court is considering whether to hear the case this very afternoon). "Supreme Court Will Review Obama's Birth Certificate Case on Friday" generated 93 props, 551 comments (the most of any story), and 13,098 page views. For pc25, who posted the article, the mainstream media's indifference to the controversy only proved that "the MSM has become the state-sponsored propaganda machine of the DNC." (Presumably that means that in 2000, when the MSM treated Al Gore like a clay pigeon, it was a propaganda machine of the RNC.) Jeboba urged Republicans to keep their power dry until the Friday verdict came out: "Don't count your chickens regarding this verdict!" Replied ChefEOD: "Doesn't that advice go both ways?" To which mesodude responded: "Not when it's been debunked already." But Endoscopy still had his doubts: "All that had to be done to kill this quest was to request Hawaii to issue another birth certificate to the media. That would have stopped everything in its tracks. Why was that not done?" Said hamy: "It is a non-issue. It is being pushed to the Supreme Court because the other courts have thrown it out."

AND DON'T OVERLOOK....

From time to time, the Propeller community immerses itself in a bout of self-examination, and this was one of those weeks. "The Catchphrases of Anti-Semitism and Islamophobia on Propeller" generated 107 props and 287 comments. For earthlingerer, the very terms of the post were hard to pin down: "It's so much easier to say that Zionism and Islamic fundamentalism are like long-lost twin brothers. Neither are based in any rational reality, and the world would be better off without either of them." Spadecaller, who posted the original article, disagreed: "Words did not create hatred of Jews or hatred of Muslims; these are reflections of a phenomenon that long preceded their arrival." Newperson continued with a more general comment: "Terrorism is an awful force. Cowards strike without regard [for] life or property." Replied Natureboy: "Terrorism is what the other guy does. We don't call the firebombing of Dresden or the nuking of Hiroshima or Nagasaki terrorism, but they were acts far more viciously insane than that of a suicide bomber detonating himself on a bus." Elsewhere, the community sounded off about recession, cluster bombs, and T. Boone Pickens. And for a welcome dose of awe, there was "Look to Sky for Spectacular Sight Monday," with 65 props and 27 comments. Take a look at the video below for an explanation of this celestial ménage a trios, which was visible throughout much of the world but not, alas, from the roof of my building.

BROTHER, CAN YOU SPARE A DIME?

As the financial markets continued to crater, the crisis remained a hot topic of conversation at Propeller. "Citigroup Has Announced Its Plan to Rework Mortgages and Stop Foreclosures" bagged 118 props and 81 comments, including a pointed critique of Citigroup's lending policies from mark-stevens: "They gave my mom a $40,000 line of credit five years ago. She's 92." He was echoed by stalemate: "All the banks should have reorganized their mortgages long age. Then a bailout would not been necessary. Every time the government sticks its nose into businesses, we get screwed." There was some argumentation about who to ultimately finger for the subprime mortgage mess. As nostalgia saw it, though, there was no single culprit: "There is plenty of blame to go around, including the Feds and community groups who pushed banks to make these loans. Once the ball started rolling, avarice kicked in." A related story, "President-Elect Obama Proposes Moratorium on Foreclosures," clocked 101 props and 174 comments. "This is important," said engineer. "After all, the banks, which were the major cause of this problem, were bailed out." Replied alakazam: "Maybe, maybe not. Paulson won't tell exactly where the money is going." As for Obama's proposed freeze on foreclosures, jordan11 was all for it: "The loans will be rewritten without adjustable rates or balloon payments, and [the borrowers] will pay for their own houses... It will save thousands of people from losing their homes." Replied capecoralM: "These people do not own these homes. The people that own the loan own the asset." To which Eagle_Eye replied in turn: "The people jointly own the home with the lender, they have a vested interest in keeping the home and want to pay it off." Meanwhile, in another troubled sector of the economy, there was "Ford, GM and Chrysler Bailed Out?" The story racked up 94 props and 197 comments, among them a thumbs down from UnusualSuspect: "I say let's not bail out the Big 3, and see what happens. If they get worse, and they really do look like they're running on empty, then we can try pumping some money into their tanks and see if they run." There was a similar response from 4thchance: "The USA car industry is basically being ruled by big oil, so let big oil bail their asses out. I think that's the best idea yet." Added buckncindykill: "If they want a bailout, let the Gov't buy $25 billion worth of cars and then auction them to the public." Not so fast, said cowboygrandpa: "Wait a minute. The government will only get 100 cars at that price. Then they'd auction them off at $15,000.00 to their girlfriends, family, special-interest friends...." Sad but true.

THE AMERICAN DILEMMA

While the election of Barack Obama was greeted rapturously in many quarters, there was also some ugly dissent, as noted in "Obama election spurs race crimes around country." The story rang up 330 comments (the most of any post this week), beginning with this expression of disgust from BronxBomber: "That is so sadly pathetic! Were these miscreants dropped on their heads when they were born?" A suggestion quickly surfaced that all the miscreants were Republicans, and slate argued that this was a dangerous simplification: "None of the Republicans I know voted against [Obama's] skin color.... Now, I have heard some here in Houston say bad things about having a 'black' president, I'd be untruthful to say otherwise, but not any of those people participated in the process." Meanwhile, Leemck02 replied to BronxBomber's original comment, and argued that something more sinister than a delivery-room fumble was behind the phenomenon: "An honest assessment shows racism is economically based. It is cold, calculated and extreme, willing to do whatever is necessary to keep a reality (false as it may be) intact." Added DarkWizard: "The ugly undercurrent of America's subculture is raising its supremacist head.... And as I've stated before, being a backward-ass redneck isn't a geographical location, it's a state of mind. This is not a problem that will 'just go away,' but will have to be addressed head on." A related story, "Threats Against Obama on the Rise," generated 105 props and 221 comments. "It is strange, but probably true," noted Candida, "that Obama would be safer almost anywhere outside the US than within his own country. It's really sad that people can hate that much, and without reason on top of it." Added Sandmonster: "Yes, Obama should watch his six while out and about. Too many nuts roaming around."

BUSH LEAGUE

Lame duck or not, George W. Bush is still the occupant of the White House, and he has yet to vanish completely from the Propeller radar. The satirical "Bush Places Sixth Among All U.S. Presidents" got 119 props. Said ind06: "I rate my presidents by height. Abraham Lincoln, best president ever!" Responded gsmittle: "I rate mine by width--Taft, greatest president ever!" (Added guppythefish: "Yes, even his cereal bowl came with a lifeguard.") As always, Tangent001 had a different, well, tangent: "I rate mine by sideburns. Martin Ban Buren!" Some members, like Nobama_2012, chose to ignore the whimsical nature of the underlying post and fire away at the alphabetically advantaged president: "The guy was never fit for office. No experience, no talent. I don't particularly like Obama's political positions on most things, but at least he seems to be choosing assistants with brains, not internationalist agendas." Said Shana4Liberty: "How is it possible that he makes the top 10 list?" Replied uncle-dave: "Because of the politicization of the alphabet!" A similarly jocular post, "Bush In Race Against Time To Wreck Country," got 134 props and 273 comments. This time around, it was Charlson who had the last word: "It is sad when the best thing you've done in life is fail at whatever you do except succeeding at failure. Ignorance is bliss, and Bush is the most blissful president we've ever had."

AND DON'T OVERLOOK....

Which story got the most traffic over the last week? That would be "Cops find drunk German with record alcohol level," with 54 props, 86 comments, and 34,290 page views. Said texrogers1: "The bright side is he won't have to be embalmed, because he's already pickled." Added nancycmando: "His hangover has got to be painful." (There was also a medical sidebar from drdeweyjnk: "And you wonder why there aren't enough livers for transplants.") Propeller members sounded off about Google, China, and Chuck Hagel. "Russian Village Church 'Vanishes'" rang up 11 props, 66 comments, and 26,856 page views, and a couple of theological wrangles. "Did this Church disappear brick by brick, or did it disappear through mankind's great stupidity?" asked dianeasdf. Replied merlinstabbycat: "The article clearly states that the church was taken away brick by brick.... That deserted, unused church was probably disassembled by some poor people, who used the bricks to build some shack to live in, and that sounds like something Jesus would approve of." And finally, there was "Mayor To Town Folk, Council: You're Too Stupid To Work With," which earned 35 props and 22 comments. Was the mayor of Saint Anthony truly justified in calling his constituents stupid? "It's Idaho," said ameliog. "He may actually have a point." Another member, sobeitangel, had some harsh words for the mayor: "I think any job you get from here on in the United States will start with the mail room." But whether you're siding with the mayor or his former constituents, the town itself got a quasi-endorsement from WillieMojoRisin: "My aunt, uncle, and their three sons lived in Saint Anthony in the Seventies. I remember it had a 7-lane bowling alley." And just think, it takes only one for a gutter ball.

VICTORY FOR OBAMA

After an interminable campaign, whose multiple twists and turns made the conclusion impossible to predict with any certainty, Barack Obama was elected president of the United States. Not surprisingly, "Obama Beats McCain to Become First Black President" had pride of place in our Top Twenty, nabbing the most props (212) and the most comments (632). "The times truly are changing!" said uncle-dave. "I'm not a very emotional guy," confessed salir, "but Obama's acceptance speech made the hair stand up on the back of my neck and [brought] tears of joy to my eyes! We are headed for much better times because of this outstanding man." There was some party skirmishing in the thread, but also the odd note of conciliation. GregD saluted the GOP nominee's grace in defeat: "I will give McCain this, his concession speech was a work to behold. I just about lost it when he called Obama his president." Said cowboygrandpa: "That was the McCain of old, who would have told Bush to stuff it in his diddy bag when it came to backing him on torture." There was also a somewhat reluctant second from not2needy: "Not like him, but very gracious, I have to give him his props!" But PsychoHosebeast argued that McCain would require some rehabilitation: "Well, if he wants to hang onto his seat in AZ, he better get back to the same person they elected." Added nightschase: "We must be gracious in victory and extend our hand out to those right-wingers. We have to let them know even though we may differ on opinions and policy, we are all Americans and we should work together for a better future." Other related stories included a Spadecaller video, "Election Day," with 109 votes and 48 comments, and "Oprah Sees Own Presidential Vote Dropped by Touch-Screen Voting Machine," with 98 props and 244 comments. (Said Sabretooth: "Seriously, they really need UN observers watching these elections, this kind of crap could start a civil war.") And finally, on a more humorous note, there was "Nostradamus Writings Predict McCain Victory," which won the page-view derby with a shocking number: 221,041. At least one member, sweetguitar, greeted the prophecy with an old-fashioned Bronx cheer: "And I'm having lunch with Santa and the Easter Bunny. Get real, people. Nostradamus musta been smokin' some good stuff!"

WAILIN' ON PALIN

On her way out the door, the GOP vice-presidential nominee got her share of knocks from the Propeller community. "5 Reasons to Put Down 'Pitbull' Palin," for example, rang up 88 props and 50 comments. "Winky Palin has a core constituency that includes all the nuts on the right, the far, far right," said Charlson. "We simply cannot have this type of person anywhere near the national reins of power," agreed vor. "GW was bad enough, but this is a whole different dimension of ignorance." Endoscopy, meanwhile, defended the Alaskan governor, whose statements "make the atheist super left see red. Therefore they have to start rants twisting anything she says and does." A related story, "Alaskan Personnel Board Clears Sarah Palin of Troopergate Ethics Violations," generated 51 props and 173 comments. "An innocent ditz is still a ditz," said Tangent001. Agreed Tcaros: "She's not innocent. That's a bunch of well-timed baloney." But DeauxNut dug in his heels on the governor's behalf: "She's the one that filed the complaint on herself with the personnel board so that the truth would come to light. Smart move, she knew she was innocent and just proved it." Related (and less complimentary) stories included "It's Official: Palin Is A Moron. Says Press Criticism Of Her Threatens Free Speech," with 71 props and 252 comments. Said whitross: "I'm not sure whether to laugh or cry." Replied mickdavidsons: "You don't need to cry unless she and McCain win on Tuesday." There was, however, a parting shot fired by DamnLiberals: "if you think Sarah Palin is dumb, the Obama camp has actually muzzled Joe Biden because the idiot can't keep his mouth shut."

AND DON'T OVERLOOK....

"Simpsons hit for not-so-gay crack" racked up 60 props, 873 comments, and a hefty 122,661 page views. (Unfortunately it also brought a legion of homophobes out of the woodwork.) The Propeller community sounded off about space junk, the Rolling Stones, and California real estate. And last but not least, there was "Nudists won't get own polling site," with 22 props and 78 comments. There didn't seem to be much sympathy for the aspiring nudies. "Nude people of the world, get a life," insisted rdeussen. "With multi-hour long waits at polls, suggest throwing a sheet over your nudity for the duration of the vote will do nicely. I bet your local grocery store insists on shoes, shirt and pants!" Said paint954: "Their right to be naked stops where my right not to see naked people if I don't want to starts!" And there was a more partisan assessment from swv7865: "If the likes of Obama become president, then we'll have nude voting soon enough." Keep an eye out for the new president's very first piece of legislation: the Buck Naked Franchise Act of 2009, which won't get out of committee until the addition of the fiercely contested Speedo amendment.

LIAR, LIAR, PANTS ON FIRE

The phony assault on a young (and undoubtedly disturbed) McCain campaign worker generated lots of conversation on Propeller over the last week. Indeed, "McCain Campaign Worker Admits To Making Up Attack Story" got more props than any other story: 151. For vor, an Obama victory on Tuesday would be a deliverance of almost Biblical proportions: "If it does [happen], I will kneel down and kiss the ground and know we finally have America back." Replied Harbeas: "I think it will be a sad day if either one wins. Neither one has a clue how to solve our problems." Returning to the topic at hand, Simplicitas added: "When Todd said that she did not remember how the cut in the shape of a backwards B got onto her face and that she may have done it herself, it immediately made me think that she may suffer from a mental illness." Said jordan11: "That silly young woman has just trashed her credibility for the rest of her life, because that false police report will follow her around the rest of her life." Relied not2needy: "Hey, she probably thinks that gives her celebrity status.... Never know how those nutcases think." The initial report of the bogus incident (with the first word subsequently added to the post), "FAKED: McCain Volunteer Attacked, Letter Scratched Into Her Face," rang up 88 props and 545 comments. As a repository of gullibility and vitriol, the comment thread makes for depressing reading indeed. So I'll leave the last word on that to DeadXXXManXXXTalkin: "Guilt by association is so lame. I understand desperate times call for desperate measures, but have a little dignity, please."

CALLING UNCLE KARL

Meanwhile, another lively discussion revolved around Obama's status as a wild-eyed Marxist. "Three reasons to be appalled by the Obama tape, each more disgusting than the last," a story about the candidate's 2001 interview on WBEZ radio in Chicago, generated 76 props and 399 comments. To read the thread, one might conclude that Propeller itself has become infested with fifth columnists. "There are a lot of socialists on here who pretend to be Democrat liberals," said Klarissa. "They have infiltrated the Democrat party." Replied alakazam: "There are a lot of fascists here who pretend to be Republican conservatives. They have infiltrated the Republican Party." But jaern did put a novel twist on the finger-pointing round-robin: "There are a lot of socialists hiding within the Republican party. GWB is a wolf is sheep's clothing. Why else would he ask the government to bail out Wall St?" Meanwhile, ETproductions listened to the actual WBEZ tape, and offered this summary: "What Obama was saying is that he thinks the Civil Rights Movement in the 60s made a mistake by relying too much on court action while ignoring community organizing to help the poor minorities learn how to pull themselves up by their bootstraps--to be self-sufficient instead of relying on government. That is the kind of redistribution he was talking about, and I fully agree with him." Yet one member, liquidkaos, was still wary of the candidate's twitching, redistributive fingers: "If Obama's agenda is to redistribute wealth, he is making a grave mistake."

AND DON'T OVERLOOK....

Which story was most widely read over the last week? That would be "99 And Looking For Love. Is It Too Late?," with 82,547 page views. "Power to her!" said lauravail1, referring to a 99-year-old Australian woman who has so far managed to avoid any hint of erotic entanglement. Replied mdual: "Power to her? This woman is nuts. Why would anyone be 'proud' of this? She had missed out on a wonderful dimension in her very long life." Not so, said tcowgar1: "Sex is overrated." Another biggie on the basis of pure eyeballs was "Black and white TV generation have monochrome dreams," with 5 props, 23 comments, and 30,768 page views. (The scattered comments were, well, skeptical, including this one from Hidalgo: "I watched the radio as a child, but my dreams are in color. What does that mean?") Elsewhere, Propeller members sounded off about Ted Stevens, eBay, and gay rights. And finally, there was "Romanian man puts wife up for sale," with 41 props and 12 comments. This novel approach to marital discord got mixed reviews from the community. Said StevieGee: "Getting six grand for a wife you don't want?.... Priceless!" Added bonaroo: "Do these pants make my boot look big?" But FairNBalanced wasn't laughing: "Men are fleeing from their responsibility and men are making jokes and posting comedic stories about other men's failures." Meanwhile, decibelintent had a more pragmatic solution: "He could have just filed for a divorce." Couples with intractable problems shouldn't, in fact, take the so-called Romanian route. Let them study the video below (which was actually attached to the black-and-white dreaming story) for Venus-and-Mars communication tips. (PS: Don't forget to vote, folks!)

AOL NEWS INTEGRATION

As of today, visitors to AOL News will be able to add and prop news on Propeller easier than ever. I am happy to announce the release of what we on the Propeller team call the "Smart Submit widget." Designed to work seamlessly with sites in the AOL Network, our first integration partner is the AOL News site -- a great fit for us, and a site we have been working closely with for some time now.

Visitors to select AOL News article pages will see one of the following badges at the bottom of the article. For those stories not yet submitted to Propeller, the first badge will show. For stories already submitted, the second.

I am happy to announce the availability of comment detail pages, complete with information on which members rated a comment up and which rated it down. This was a feature of Propeller 1.0 that until now was absent from Propeller 2.0. We received many pieces of feedback from Propeller members regarding being able to see who rated a comment, and for a while the feedback was evenly distributed between those who voted for the feature, and those who voted against.

Those that argued for bringing the transparency back told us that knowing who rated a comment up could help to create new friendships between like minded people. Those that argued against said that having the ratings would cause comment threads to veer off on tangents as members react to the ratings vs. the story itself. As time has passed, it has become increasingly obvious to the Propeller team that having the transparency would be most beneficial to the Propeller community.

A comment detail page can be reached by clicking the time stamp of the comment. Seen here, the time stamp is the "4 days, 8 hours ago" link:


Clicking the link sends you to that comment's detail page, which contains the comment, any replies to that comment and the ability to reply to the comment. It also shows, under the "Post Reply" comment box, 2 headers: People Who Liked This Comment (rated it up), and People Who Didn't Like This Comment (rated it down):


We are excited to bring this feature back to Propeller. This feature is truly one that YOU, the Propeller community, brought back. Thanks to all for writing in.

If you have comments on the comment detail page, or anything else Propeller, please don't hesitate to ask: http://www.propeller.com/feedback

Happy Rating,
Tom Drapeau (tdrapeau)

Fellow Fans of Propeller--

I would like to call your attention to a group of new RSS feeds recently made available on Propeller. RSS, or Really Simple Syndication, is a well established technology that allows for savvy web surfers to be kept up to date when changes occur on their favorite websites. A stream of updates as such is known as an RSS feed. Many popular websites employ RSS feeds to communicate updates to those that keep track of updates for many sites at a central location (such as an RSS reader).

An RSS feed is available for data on any page that shows this icon:

For those who are already enthusiasts of RSS, and for those who are interested in trying it out, here is a list of RSS feeds (and their locations) on Propeller:

Top Stories: http://www.propeller.com/feeds/top/
The Propeller Blog: http://blog.propeller.com/rss.xml
Story Comments -- there is a feed per story posted to Propeller, this is the feed location for the 10/23 edition of the Propeller Week In Review:
http://www.propeller.com/feeds/story/2008/10/23/propeller-week-in-review-october-23-2008/

Propeller's Most Active Members: http://www.propeller.com/feeds/active_members/ (NEW)
Propeller's Newest Members: http://www.propeller.com/feeds/new_members/ (NEW)
Propeller's Top Submitters: http://www.propeller.com/feeds/top_submitters/ (NEW)
Propeller's Top Commenters: http://www.propeller.com/feeds/top_commenters/ (NEW)
Propeller's Most Popular Groups: http://www.propeller.com/feeds/popular_groups/ (NEW)

Group Watched Articles -- there is a feed per group -- this is a list of the articles a group is watching. Here is the feed location for the "Politics" group:
http://www.propeller.com/feeds/group_watched/politics/

The following member feeds are all specific to the member, and many are dependent on the member's privacy settings. For these, I am using JamesMarcus as the example account. The member feeds are:

Submissions: http://www.propeller.com/feeds/user_submitted/JamesMarcus/ (NEW)
Articles Propped: http://www.propeller.com/feeds/user_voted/JamesMarcus/ (NEW)
Friends: http://www.propeller.com/feeds/user_friends/JamesMarcus/ (NEW)
Fans: http://www.propeller.com/feeds/user_fans/JamesMarcus/ (NEW)
Idols: http://www.propeller.com/feeds/user_idols/JamesMarcus/ (NEW)
Similar Members: http://www.propeller.com/feeds/user_related/JamesMarcus/ (NEW)

We are excited to bring this additional flexibility to Propeller, and hope that you will enjoy the feeds. We will be releasing more RSS feeds soon, but if we missed the feed you were hoping for, please drop us a line and let us know: http://www.propeller.com/feedback/

Tom Drapeau (tdrapeau)

SAY IT AIN'T SO, JOE

Like most of America, the Propeller community spent much of last week wrangling over Joe the Plumber. This symbolic figure (and actual guy), invoked repeatedly by John McCain during the final presidential debate, became a lightning rod for partisans from both camps. "Joe the Plumber: Obama Tax Plan 'Infuriates me,'" for example, rang up 106 props and 536 comments. Klarissa, who posted the story, summed up the argument in this way: "Obama is saying that he will repeat the acts of Herbert Hoover, raising taxes and trade restrictions, that led America into the Great Depression." But GWHayduke was suspicious of Joe's bonafides: "He doesn't even have a plumber's license, or a clue [as] how he would ever buy the company." Replied cloud15: "GW, I don't know why you're trying to attack this guy you know nothing about. He asked Obama a legitimate question and got a response. He didn't go yelling and screaming about it, trying to make some political stunt out of it." To which Candida responded: "You are right; he didn't. McCain did." Another story, "'Joe the plumber' isn't licensed," with 127 props and 331 comments, prompted a similar conversation. Goppy suggested that Joe had been a GOP plant from the very start: "McCain latched onto Joe the Plumber like a lamprey onto a shark... and proceeded to bring him up twenty-two times! My wife and I thought McCain was going to burst a blood vessel in his brain the way he was huffing, puffing, and being just generally provocative. " RedRiverJ responded by invoking the S word: "Joe the Plumber is the problem here? It's Obama's answer that was troubling. Spread the wealth around--[that's] kind of like socialism, is it not?" Meanwhile, tschrnywolf cast some doubt on Joe's modest lifestyle, at least as depicted on TV: "The house was very large. It does not seem like Joe is poor at all, or even middle class!" To which DeauxNut replied: "If you call that a large house you must live in a tent."

POWELL BREAKS RANKS

Another hot topic was Colin Powell's endorsement of the Democratic candidate. "In Endorsing Obama, Powell Rejects McCain and the GOP" generated 117 props and 189 comments. "I heard Powell speak at [National Submarine Base] Kings Bay around 15 years ago," said alakazam. "The man is a Great American. This says more to me about McCain than anything I have seen or heard." Added salir: "Powell hasn't abandoned his party, his party has abandoned him and all of the rest of us that used to believe in the GOP.... The GOP no longer stands for anything their party was founded on. Abe Lincoln is rolling over in his grave!" Meanwhile, amervtrn, who served with Powell, vouched for his judgment, regardless of party affiliation: "I feel very sorry that anyone could possibly think that the element of race would ever enter into General Powell's decisions. As per the order of the day, Duty Bound." But protoham was reluctant to let the whole conversation turn into a GOP slapdown: "On the same note, the Democrats have gone to total socialism, away from the centralist ideas that they once had. I am not sure if this is how parties evolve, thinking they have to move further towards their extremes. Maybe so." And dandt1612 was also less than enthusiastic about the Powell's choice: "I am surprised that he would choose someone with no (and I repeat NO) executive experience. It makes one wonder for sure." A related story, "Powell move a bitter blow to McCain," rang up 114 props and 141 comments. Said Engnr: "Looks to me he put the color of his skin ahead of his loyalty to his fellow soldier." Replied greenmac: "No, I don't think so. He put his country ahead of his loyalty to a fellow soldier." Meanwhile, leftylemn brought up an apparent fly in the ointment: "Didn't Powell start the Iraq war along with Bush? How is this helpful to Mr. Anti-War Obama?" Answered tchef: "Powell didn't want to go to war. He favored diplomacy. Bush and Cheney pushed him into it."

THE DOCTOR IS OUT

There's often one story that kindles a special outrage the collective bosom of the community. This week, it was "Hospital Bills Woman After 19-Hour Wait, Never Saw Doctor," with 53 props, 137 comments, and 34,792 page views. "Welcome to the world of socialized medicine," said wymswyfe. If Obama gets elected, these kinds of stories will be the norm. You will also wait months for heart surgery... if you live long enough to get it." To which ccimbob replied: "Wake up, our government officials have 'socialized medicine.' They are all covered under the same great policy paid for by guess who, YOU, the person who cannot afford coverage for your family." Added Marock, speaking from painful experience: "As of this morning, my daughter-in-law has been in ER for 40 hours, mostly spent in the waiting room. She went because her doctor told her to check in through the ER for gallbladder surgery." Another horror story came from mspski: "We pulled off the road into Richmond, VA to a downtown emergency room on a Sunday night. My wife had a terrible infection from a cat bite. It became quickly apparent we would never be seen.... We left the hospital and found another one in the suburbs, where she was immediately seen." But klfdoit put in a powerful pitch for Wataugh Hospital in Boone, NC, which should set off a stampede of southerly migration: her husband, who showed up at the hospital with a broken foot, was "seen by a doctor, x-rayed, fitted for a walking boot and crutches, given a prescription for pain management, and was out in two hours." (Do they accept my insurance, by the way?)

AND DON'T OVERLOOK....

"Voting Machines Flipping Votes From Democrat To Republican" notched 130 props and 331 comments (sorry, folks, no paper trail on these numbers). "Where is Jimmy Carter when we need him?" said Klarissa, surely with her tongue in cheek. Replied Candida: "Do you mean he should serve as an election observer with an international team? Not a bad idea. Even Cuba offered some observers last time." There was also "22 kids a day kicked out of Australian school," with 41 props and 29 comments, including this tough-love endorsement from Teech: "Keep throwing the bums out in the street. When only those who want to learn and are willing to do what is necessary to do so are left, watch that school soar!" Propeller members sounded off about the Supreme Court, computer keyboards, and (as usual) Rush Limbaugh. And finally, which story got the most page views during the last week? That honor goes to "Kinky German couple creates cop chaos on Bavarian highway," with 20 props, 42 comments, and 143,602 page views. There was a surprising level of support for the naughty Teutons (whose frisky behavior on the highway led to the rapid arrival of eleven squad cars and a helicopter). Said 244888: "Naked people running down the highway! Sounds like my hometown on a Saturday night!" Added klah9: "Thank god this happened in Germany and not in the USA. In America, they would each probably weigh 350 pounds." For better or worse, there is no video footage available of the incident. But for some of that classic Autobahn vibe, you can always hit the play button below.

ACORNS AND ECONOMISTS

With the election less than three weeks away, stories about Barack Obama and Sarah Palin (but, oddly, not John McCain) had a near monopoly on our Top Twenty. For example, "Barack 'ACORN' Obama: Too Risky For America," posted directly from John McCain's website, ran up the biggest number of comments: 517. The conversation lurched almost immediately into Obama's alleged plans to invade Pakistan. Not so, said mntmn444: "Obama never said he would invade Pakistan. He did say that if we had a hard target and Pakistan wouldn't help, he would do it anyway." There was agreement from doggammit: "Obama plays chess while McCain is into craps and Monopoly. Only a gambling fool would bank on more Bush Co military strategy." Drawing upon his own experience as a military man, BBcamaro dismissed the Illinois senator's ideas as foolhardy: "I am currently serving my 22nd year in the armed services. So I ask you: invasion or tactical strike [directed] toward a country that has nukes will accomplish what?" PinkyPie concurred: "My son is also active duty Army and says Obama is a joke among everyone voting military." To which mesodude replied: "I'm sure your son's personal anecdotes are very compelling, but he doesn't know everyone voting military so he can't know how they're voting." But as the conversation veered back toward the topic at hand, BB64 offered one of the more novel rationales for a GOP victory: "As to my reasons for supporting McCain, that's easy. Of the two running, he's the more conservative Democrat in the race today." Meanwhile, "Economists for Obama" got the most props of any story: 118. "Voters need to know the facts," argued Spadecaller. "Do you want to elect someone who will deceive you and cater to the richest in our society?" Replied Wolfie2007: "Economists for Obama is an oxymoron." Added slate: "Economists for Obama is akin to saying chickens voting for Colonel Sanders." But amervtrn, alluding to the current fiscal bailout, had an even more dire response: "My fellow Americans, you have just witnessed the end of the USA and the Constitution if this is allowed to go unchallenged. Our so-called representatives have, against expressed desires of those they swore to represent, blatantly sold us and our children into slavery." Other related posts (and there were plenty) included "Barack Obama's Muslim Childhood," with 45 props and 302 comments, and "Racist Obama billboard causes outrage," with 96 props and 193 comments. Said Aidenag, who posted the article: "As disturbing as this is, I found it pretty funny that the racist redneck who did this used a 'Dastar,' which is what Sikhs wear. It has nothing to do with Arabs or Muslims." Added Shadowolf: "Harry S. Truman, were he around today, would probably tear [the billboard] down, then cuss out both parties for letting things get this bad."

SARAH, SMILE

"Goodbye Sarah, Troopergate Report Finds She Abused Her Authority" generated 126 props and 435 comments. Said smithichie: "I wouldn't say goodbye too quickly, her fans are probably going to love her even more." There was a similar response from jordan11: "They'll say she's being picked on for partisan motives, completely ignore that the ruling was unanimous and people from both parties agreed. Then they'll say the panel wasn't legitimate, morons will believe all of that, and nothing will change with diehard right-wing kooks." Still, the governor was not without her defenders. GehlLady approved of Palin's efforts to have Trooper Wooten cashiered, even if she had to cut some ethical corners to get the job done: "[Wooten] did admit to the tasering, and if he had tasered my child, I'd have done way more than the Palins did to him." Added capecoralM: "Bipartisan or not, the fact of the matter [is that] the findings have been misrepresented by the Democratic faithful. The headline of this thread (and in one case, a poster) said to throw her in jail! This despite the actual findings in the report." Then there was "Poll: Palin is in Free Fall as Obama Leads in CO, MI, MN, and WI," with 123 props and 224 comments. Was the increasingly pressured McCain campaign playing the race card? "Honestly, I don't think there's anything overtly racist going on," insisted Tangent001. "The McCain campaign is attempting to cast Obama as the 'other,' certainly. That may cast a net that snares racists, yes, but I don't think that is the intent." Responded ADAGUY: "The only racism I see is in the voters, not the candidates." Meanwhile, "Palin Rally: Lib media transforms a single bigot into a racist mob" rang up 55 props and 263 comments, including this one from redtomato: "Two shouting extremists in a crowd of 4,500 are two too many, of course. The question is whether these outliers offer sufficient evidence for a clearly hostile reporter to demonstrate that Palin's rallies have gotten ugly. Florida reporters did not see the event that way." Replied NoWayMan: "If these two shouters didn't speak for the whole, does that mean the rest of the crowd was so weak that they were frightened to put a stop to the hate when they should have? Palin had her chance to be a leader and stand up to the hate. But she didn't." And finally, there was "Chicago dive bar scores hit with nude Sarah Palin portrait." The propriety of depicting the GOP vice-presidential candidate in her birthday suit, however playfully, is open to debate. What is undeniable is the sheer popularity of the post, which generated 89 props, 218 comments, and a jaw-dropping 291,329 page views. Said massto: "The idiots that go into this bar have to have their heads examined. It shows the mentality of the people of Chicago." Replied Teech: "I'm heading to the airport right now. Chicago, here I come!" (Apparently this was Teech's lucky day, at least to judge from blackwidowjack's answer: "I'm a Chicago girl, I'll be waiting for you with open arms, baby!")

WIN, LOSE, OR DRAW

The battle royale between Joe Biden and Sarah Palin was one of the most hotly anticipated events of the campaign--and the shocking news is that both sides claimed a measure of victory. "Who Won Biden-Palin Debate?," with 43 props, 380 comments, and 8,841 page views, saw victory dances on both sides of the aisle. But for starters: had the pre-debate attacks on moderator Gwen Ifill's objectivity been justified? Said earthlingerer: "Sure, the moderator is pro-Obama, but she gave a fair shake to both parties, and was completely neutral." Added ratskii: "The whole point of the Republicans' attack on the moderator prior to the debate was to make her too nervous to call Palin on her refusal to answer the questions." Klarissa disagreed: "The moderator is one of the least nervous journalists in the business. You insult her." And how about the performance of the candidates themselves? Bucotch was squarely in Palin's corner: "All Biden did was to spew out untrue crap about McCain." Added eagle27: "Palin did a remarkable job against this Beltway Insider." Not so, said Noiknow: "As an educated professional woman, I really wanted Sarah Palin to redeem herself from her earlier interviews, but I was very appalled at her behavior.... It left a bad taste in my mouth." Another member, most_reasonable, delivered a similar verdict: "Sarah was just Bush in a skirt. From 'nukular' to the folksy winks and mispronunciations, she was saying to her base: if you like what GWB did for the country, I'm more of the same." Still, many GOP stalwarts, such as DaneL, refused to fly the white flag of surrender: "Palin won BIG TIME and it just drives the left nuts. Get used to it." Other related stories included "Biden: 14 Lies During the Vice Presidential Debate," with 69 props, 291 comments, and 13,808 page views. Blackacereturn took issue with the entire post: "Biden was a terrible selection? Are you playing with a full deck? They are beating the crap out of your guys in almost every state." But RedRiverJ summoned a former GOP contender to the witness stand: "Fred Thompson was on after the debate, said he was there during those votes, said Joe was exaggerating a whole bunch."

DEVIL'S ADVOCATE?

In troubled times like these, it's natural to look for a fall guy--even a diabolical one. That must explain the appeal of "Bill Gates: Satanist in Sheep's Clothes?" The story racked up 117 props, 35 comments, many of them amusing. CRYMPTYPHON wondered if the author playing with a remotely full deck: "A minor amount of insanity can add a dash of 'interesting' to a person's world view. Then, of course, there is just plain smack-dab-in-the-middle of Crazy Town. This article is from the main town square of Crazy Town, written by someone very close to the mayor." Asked simonsez: "Why is this story on Prop?" Answered memestryker: "Freedom of speech? And comic relief!" Natureboy, meanwhile, found additional evidence of Gates's diabolical nature: "Bill Gates is Satan. Those who worship him are Satanists. OTOH, those who use his OS are merely an unfortunate bunch of tools." Added jonmaverick: "I knew Bill Gates was the devil the very first time I tried to network two computers running Windows 95." But it was HomerJS49 who wondered why all the great historical conspiracies never seemed to pay off--the Illuminati never ended up running the world, after all. "Why can't they ever seem to accomplish their goals?" he asked. "Here we are, hundreds of years [after] the Knights Templar, yet no New World Order." Perhaps he spoke too soon. At least according to Mdiar: "All the other Grandmasters were incompetent. I'm not. I will rule as the head of the New World Order! Only tin foil can stop me now!"

BLAME GAME

As the fiscal crisis deepens, an orgy of finger-pointing has gotten underway. "Democrat Fingerprints are all over the financial crisis" generated 68 props and 276 comments. Said 4thchance: "This is a Democrat-led conspiracy to destroy our economy under the Bush administration." ProudBlueTexan responded at once to this shot across the bow: "Abolish the GOP!" Wolfie2007 argued for the appointment of a special prosecutor to dig through the whole mess: "If it's George Bush's fault, then he should be frogmarched out of the White House. But the same goes for any guilty party. Hey, liberal Democrats, do you want to get on board the Special Prosecutor Express?" Added flyonthewallzz: "I have no wish to defend either political party. My finger is pointed at the industry. I do not think the tools of justice that we have are strong enough to prosecute the limited-liability folks." There was a similar expression of bipartisan disgust from cowboygrandpa: "No amount of spin will pin this upon the Democrats or Republicans. It is individuals within both parties who have a special place in their hearts for the greedy, uncaring, financially imprudent, dyed-in-the-wool loan sharks." Meanwhile, another post exhumed a considerably older financial meltdown: "Keating Economics: John McCain and the Making of a Financial Crisis," with 124 props and 226 comments. Georgia50 argued that the senator from Arizona had been no more than a convenient whipping boy when the Keating scandal erupted: "The Democrat investigating the Keating 5 found absolutely no wrongdoing by McCain. He went to his [Democratic] taskmasters and told them McCain should not be part of the investigation." But ETproductions criticized McCain's zeal for deregulation throughout his career: "[McCain] now claims he's going to 'Clean up the greed and corruption on Wall Street and K Street.'.... That's what the regulators you hate actually are for, Senator." Meanwhile, BB64 claimed some insider knowledge of the whole Keating fiasco: "I know Bob Bennett, and in an open discussion with a few cigars and brandy, he was very clear [that] the attacks on McCain were prosecutorial misconduct and done as a political cheap shot." (Oh, there was also a more tongue-in-cheek take on the current disaster: "Investment Banks Switch Status To 'Casinos,'" with 90 props and 62 comments.)

AND DON'T OVERLOOK

Which story generated the longest conversation this week? That would be "Teacher Suspended For Racial Slur Directed At Obama," with 71 votes, 868 comments, and 111,488 page views. The thread included some pathetic defenses of bigotry. A handful of Propeller members denied that racial prejudice even existed, but at age 60, cushi declared herself a longtime veteran of its effects: "I have [had] firsthand experiences with racism from the time I could walk and talk to the present." Elsewhere, the community sounded off on the national debt clock, military voters, and Obama's relationship with William Ayers. And while glimmers of humor were far and few between, at least one extra slice of silliness crept into our Top Twenty: "Eighth-Grade Scientist Successfully Isolates Self From Classmates," with 105 props and 24 comments. Beau7890 suggested that the young scientist's experimentation was only beginning: "He hopes this [additional] research, done solely with his broadband Internet connection, his ergonomic chair, and himself as the subject (naturally), can be used to help him and others like him tolerate the disregard of females. I just hope he doesn't go blind." Added Charlson: "The boy later grew up to become the Unabomber, Theodore Kaczynski." Which gave BronxBomber a perfect opening: "Things just blew outta proportion with Ted." Bombs away, folks, and we'll be back next week.

FAIL OR BAIL?

Not surprisingly, the much debated $700 billion bailout of the U.S. financial system was at storm center this week at Propeller. In "Burning Down The House: What Caused Our Economic Crisis?," with 756 props and 304 comments, the membership argued over who was to blame in the first place. FSU92grad fingered the Democrats: "Dodd, Raines, Paulson, Obama and all the other [Democrat] crooks need to be held accountable." Said RedRiverJ: "G-R-E-E-D." Replied tchef: "It's the Republican mantra." Added Will1313: "Fear and greed are the two driving forces of the marketplace... and it is bipartisan. Both sides are equally guilty." Regardless of who was to blame, ADAGUY balked at the proposed fix: "Why the bailout?" Replied Endoscopy: "You want a financial collapse, right? It has more to do with self-preservation than feel-good [tactics] and compassion." Then there was "House rejects $700B bailout," with 92 props and 141 votes. One member, cliff88007, argued that the terminology wasn't helping: "A better sales approach for this plan is needed. It should not be referred to as a bailout program. Instead, it is a government investment in America." There was also a discussion about whether those American who have maintained a balanced budged in their own households should shoulder the burden for those who have not. "Excuse me," said Eagle Eye, "but my husband and I sold our place, paid off our mortgage and all debt.... It is not right to penalize those of us that are responsible with those that are irresponsible." Replied indo06: "Unfortunately this penalizes you as well, no matter that you have paid your bills on time.... We're all in the same boat, responsible and irresponsible alike." Meanwhile, at least one member, bigurn, snorted at the idea of an impending credit crunch: "Just so you know, I put my money where my mouth is: I bought a house today. I financed the 20% down payment at 7% interest, and financed the 80% value at 5.69% interest. It's DOOMSDAY out there, kiddies." Other related stories included "Messages to Congress as High as 300 to 1 Against Bailout," with 108 props and 258 comments," and "McCain Campaign Blames Obama for the Bailout Bill Failure," with 107 props, 457 comments, and 8,317 page views. The latter turned into a predictable exchange of brickbats. Said amervtrn: "This is supposed to be an election for president, not PR rock star. You are hiring the CEO of Firm USA. Who do you want to run the firm, a manager with over 25 years experience or the newly hired stock boy?" Replied obiefrommuskogee: "[McCain] is a doddering old fool. I'll take the stock boy."

BAD MEDICINE

"Medical Costs End 48-Year Marriage" racked up an impressive 71 props, 431 comments, and (hold on to your hats, folks) 179,806 page views. The comment thread turned into a long referendum on nationalized health care, deregulation, and personal responsibility. DCFRaulein was skeptical about the Democratic nominee's plans for universal healthcare: "As a nurse practitioner, I will not be voting for Obama, simply because of his healthcare 'reform.' The reformation will result in the medical field being transformed into a DMV." Replied Tangent001: "It's too bad you have such a skewed impression of universal healthcare. I would think [that] as a healthcare provider, you would welcome removing a profit-minded middleman, who is constantly standing between a patient and decent care for the sake of a profit." Not so, said NeonKelly03: "I work in the cancer field. I can tell you one of the biggest problems with nationalized healthcare: you would have to wait 6 months or more to receive basic diagnostic tests such as a CT or MRI to diagnose any number of different cancers." Meanwhile, jos scoffed at the idea that nationalized healthcare was necessarily inferior: "What do you think Medicare is? It is government-run healthcare, and it is the best-run medical program in the US. It is run for an overhead of 3%, not 18% like the for-profits. Medicare accepts everyone instead of cherry-picking the healthy, and you can't find anyone who has it that wants to give it up." Added MABARKER5678: "Those with insurance don't get it. We're a middle-class family with excellent credit... and we can't afford insurance!" Some members, such as alakazam, still fretted over handing the federal government the keys to the medicine chest: "I agree that there should be a better system for health care, but putting it in the hands of the same people who brought yet another banking bailout, the No Child Left Behind program, and the reprehensible condition of the nation's infrastructure, may not be our best option." On the other hand, there are few more compelling arguments than physical pain, as mgoose811 made clear: "With nationalized health care, I would have had preventative dental care. Instead here I sit with an impacted wisdom tooth, doped up on Vicodin which is barely hitting the pain, waiting for my $1,500 appointment Monday with the oral surgeon." Ouch.

HIGHLY DEBATABLE

The first of three presidential debates also stirred up its share of conversation. "Why McCain Won the Debate," with 88 props and 324 comments, got the ball rolling. For leftylemn, the title of the story was strictly factual: "I am jumping ship. The Republicans are the winning ticket this time. Democrats are too liberal and socialistic this go-round." Engnr agreed: "The debate came down to this. On the stage I saw a little boy and an experienced statesman. There is no question who is ready to lead." Replied PapaWolf: "I bet it's been a LONG time since McCain's been called a little boy. He'd probably appreciate it, too." This sardonic shaft was echoed by somecommonsense, who described the senator from Arizona as "angry, stubborn, mad that he couldn't call a timeout and postpone the debate, unable to be a real man and statesman and face his opponent and stare him down." There was also the flip side of the coin, "Obama Looked Presidential, While McCain Was Angry," with 78 votes and 296 comments. This time, protoham argued with the title of the post: "BO looked like a 10-year-old kid and was lying through his teeth. I can understand why McCain would get upset. He did a great job restraining himself." Goppy shot back: "Obama validated my assessment of him that has been crystallizing since he became the nominee. He is a serious, straight talker, not prone to typical 'old school' ad hominem attacks, and very, very prepared." UnDumbed replied with one of the stranger attacks we've seen on the Democratic candidate (and we've seen plenty at Propeller): "I don't like that purple lipstick that Obama wears. Is the color purple sending a coded message to his friends in Hollywood?" (Replied ISITJUSTME: "Well, tell us what kind of lipstick do you like.") But DeadXXXManXXXTalkin addressed a complaint to both candidates: "I wish those 'bracelet-type' anecdotes would be outlawed. [It's] irrelevant and a cheap attempt at personalization and emotionalism. Transparent and smarmy as all get out."

AND DON'T OVERLOOK....

"New Bible to Be Handwritten by 31,000 Americans" bagged 30 props, 439 comments, and 45,450 page views. The thread occasioned a certain amount of theological pugilistics. Said antibrainwasher: "There is no end to what you blithering religious idiots will believe in." To which sweetone2 replied: "You seem quite angry and in need of some love. So in that spirit, I will pray for you, your soul, your family, and that you may find peace!" (That didn't end the exchange, by the way. Inoit said: "Amen, antibrainwasher!! I couldn't have said it better myself." Answered MadeInMississippi: "You are an idiot, but it's OK.... God still loves you!" And so on and so forth.) The Propeller community sounded off about child abandonment, David Letterman, and a bad word John McCain may or may not have uttered during the fracas in Ole Miss. And finally, there was widespread sadness at the death of actor and philanthropist Paul Newman. Said GregD: "R.I.P. Paul. I'll have some Newman-O's in your honor today." Added chevydog: "A very good actor and not an oversized ego to go with it." But epiphannyy had perhaps the most personal tale to tell in the thread, and it was a testimony to Newman's fundamental decency: "I met him when I was very little, with my dad at the races.... My dad, a former midget sprint driver, had a bum leg and hip. After walking around for hours, we stopped to rest by taking a seat on the back of a parked golf cart. I was only about seven years old, but I knew Paul Newman when he walked up and started talking to my dad and me. Instead of making us get off of his cart, he invited us to take a ride with him around the infield. We spent much of the day with him, and I remember him just being so nice." Perhaps ind06 put it best: "Miss you? You bet I will, old man." But at least we've got some amazing moments to remember him by:

Friends--

I am pleased to announce the release of several enhancements to the Propeller.com experience. These enhancements were widely requested over the past month by you, the Propeller community. We hope that you will enjoy these changes as much as we enjoyed making them.

Firstly, changes to the layout of the home and article pages provide a much cleaner experience. The mascot has been removed from the top of the page and moved to the right side, making way for more story content. The story capsule itself has been reorganized and improved, as the channel name (News, Politics, etc) and the source domain of the story have been added to help those scanning for news to optimize their browsing time. Story images, when they are available, are now visible in the capsule as well. Here is an example story capsule to illustrate:


The Top and Featured members and groups that were featured in a middle column have been moved down the page a bit, and are now laid out horizontally. There is also a new "Meet the Community" module on the right hand side that allows for cycling through featured, top and new members and groups on Propeller. We realize that Propeller is powered by its community, and think this is a great way to highlight the great contributions being made every day on the site. Take a look:


Categories, categories, categories -- we have added a list of categories on the right hand side of both the home and article pages. Thanks to all for helping us fill out our new categories added in September. You may have noticed that the Politics-Left, Politics-Right, and Politics-Neither categories have been rolled into a single Politics category -- you told us that this wasn't the right way to promote diversity of political opinion on Propeller, so we listened. We kept Politics around as a category, as well as Religion and Health & Fitness, and they have been thriving.

We have also upgraded the home page story rank algorithm to have limits on the number of stories allowed per category. We tested this on a beta home page, and it has performed quite well. As part of this initial launch, we'll have the following distribution (subject to change without notice as we tune things): Politics (6 stories), News (4 stories), Health & Fitness, Religion, Arts & Entertainment, Business & Finance, Style, Science & Technology (3 stories each), Family, Sports and Humor (2 stories each).

The Propeller article page has undergone a facelift as well, also moving to a 2 column format. Not only is the space optimized around the story summary itself, but the submitter details and related articles are highlighted better. The "Also Propping This Article" and "Groups Watching This" lists are now found in the right column, as well as the new category list. Here is a look at the improved article area:



And for our friends on the AOL network who come and visit now and then due to great Propeller stories being featured on AOL.com, we have made it easier for you to come by and comment. The "Add a Comment" box on the article page will allow visitors to sign up for a new account while commenting, sign into an existing Propeller account while commenting, or sign in using your AOL Screen Name while commenting. We're hoping that this upgraded comment box will make discussions on Propeller easier to partake in. Here is a closer look:


Over the next few months we will be working on some big integration projects to help spread the word about Propeller and bring in some fresh blood, and we'll be sure to tell you about them when they are ready. We will also continue to improve the Propeller experience -- we are committed to making Propeller the best social news site on the web. You expect that of us, and we expect to reach that goal.

As always, let us know how we're driving -- You can reach our feedback page here.

Tom (tdrapeau)

ECONOMIC APOCALYPSE NOW?

With the U.S. economy in free fall, the Propeller community was quick to pipe up with suggestions, complaints, and prophecies of fiscal doom. "E Pluribus Hokum, or When the Gamblers Bail Out the Casino" generated 109 props and 115 comments, and this sardonic assessment from jovial: "Socialism for the rich. A surprising, factual take on Paulson/McCain sound fundamentals." Not so, said tanglang: "McCain is against Paulson's bailouts. As am I. Obama seems to like them, though." But not2needy wasn't buying: "The thing I will never understand is how Republicans whine and cry ad nauseam about welfare, but have no qualms at all when it comes to bailing out big business to the tune of billions." A similar note of suspicion was sounded by gamahuche: "It strikes me that that a lot of preparation has gone into this. There's no one jumping out of windows 'cos all of those with rooms at the top are prepared to parachute out of trouble." But capecoralM defended the bailout as an absolute necessity: "Call it what you will, but the housing bubble created by long-term Washington policy at Fannie Mae and Freddie has caused this problem. I don't give a s**t who you want to blame, it is what it is. And if this Congress does nothing, there will be repercussions." Another story speculated about what effect the crisis might have on the election: "Economic Fears Give Obama Clear Lead Over McCain in Poll." The post rang up 91 props and 142 comments. In one, buckncindykill blamed the Democrats for the whole mess: "Who has been pushing lenders to make loans to unqualified borrowers for two decades? Democrats again. Still, the message doesn't get out. Could that possibly be because of the media love affair with The Chosen One?"