Fox News Op-Ed: Atheists Are ‘Bullies’ Who Try To Force Their Beliefs On Others - The ...

RichCC comments on Jan 26, 2019:

Ha,ha,ha. I guess I'll have to give up my 'arrogant, ignorant and dangerous ' world domination plan. They found me out.

My video Making pizza in my wood burning bread oven. [youtu.be]

RichCC comments on Jan 26, 2019:

Thanks. All I have is a little Unni wood pellet oven but I enjoy playing with it. And I like seeing video of someone much more serious. Wood fired pizza is excellent. BTW.. I haven't tried bread that way yet. So far I've only done it a loaf at a time in a bread maker. Ha, ha.?

McDonald’s Debuts McFalafel Vegan Happy Meal | VegNews

RichCC comments on Jan 26, 2019:

There's been way too much water under the bridge to (likely ever) lure me to try clown food again. But even a tiny step in the right direction is better than moving the other way. ?

Has it occurred to you that the Trump saga is a modern version of "The Manchurian Candidate" from ...

RichCC comments on Jan 25, 2019:

In general I agree with your idea but I'm not sure tRump has enough brain to wash. I'm not being sarcastic. My thought is more along the direction of simple opportunism. They came across a dim, arrogant, obsessive, self-promoting, wannabe showman with racist hooks. And they decided to see how far they could use him. I bet they (like he and we) were shocked when we were stupid enough to elect him. I've read that a lot of people in the West don't grasp Russian attitudes towards politics. I've heard they just automatically think of political ramifications of every action they take. tRump is not necessarily the result of a long plan. He could be just a happy (for them) chance that they would automatically pursue because of their worldview.

Both parties are equally to blame for all of the problems in this country

RichCC comments on Jan 25, 2019:

Both sides are *not* equally to blame. The newly Democratic House has passed at least 10 bills aimed at reopening government. The Republican Senate finally voted on two and both failed. Republicans have tied themselves to Trump and his deeply unpopular wall fantasy. Democrats want a clean bill without. And BTW... Breaking news... Hillary still has not been indicted.

What Are 2 Movies You've Never Watched That Everyone Else Has?

RichCC comments on Jan 24, 2019:

Excuse me if I get the names wrong. 'E.T. The Extraterrestrial' and 'Avatar'. -- I watch a few movies but I've never been interested.in these.

44 GOP senators vote to keep government shut to make Trump happy

RichCC comments on Jan 24, 2019:

At least the clean bill got more votes than the "virulently anti-immigrant proposal cooked up by the White House" border wall bill. Trump and Congress aren't scared enough yet to stop their posturing and fix the problem but what little movement there's been has been In the correct direction.

Is there such a thing as universal justice?

RichCC comments on Jan 24, 2019:

Sure. It's whatever I decide. I just don't know why you all haven't accepted it yet. I guess I'll have to cry louder.

If possible what would you say to Donald Trump...

RichCC comments on Jan 24, 2019:

Not many people can wear that orange jumpsuit correctly. But somehow it suits you. ?

Strange Things That Happen to Your Body When You Eat People

RichCC comments on Jan 23, 2019:

I had always heard that a lot of pathogens were species specific (Rabies for instance not withstanding). So if you aren't allergic, it would be unlikely that associating with your pet would make you sick. I'd never seen it from the other direction though. I guess it makes sense that enhanced exposure to human characteristics including pathogens would enhance your risk. I hope you'll excuse me if I don't test it. Lol.

I will be wild and wary after my nap.

RichCC comments on Jan 23, 2019:

We noticed it's warmer and safer inside the house at night too. ??

Bob is a Theist.

RichCC comments on Jan 23, 2019:

Ghosts are perpetual motion machines in action. They don't eat but somewhere they get the energy to do all the stuff they do -- even being seen needs energy. If they were solar powered, why would they always seem to hang out in the shadows. Lol. ??

I am handicapped and I appreciate the aid people extend to me but i am also appalled at the number ...

RichCC comments on Jan 23, 2019:

I know what you mean. I am also weak -- a 30 yard walk is a trek for me and my cane. I have one of those blue placards but even I will avoid the handicap spots given the choice. You never know when someone might come along who needs it more than you. A few years ago my wife and I spent a couple of weeks in Ireland. The people were great but I don't remember any handicap spots at all. I spent a lot of time using my travel wheelchair as a walker. Lol. Below is me changing a rental car tire In rural Ireland. Shortly after I finished a man stopped, checked my work and told us where we could get a repair In the next town. Lol.

9 Signs Cats Are Plotting World Domination! - YouTube

RichCC comments on Jan 23, 2019:

Are plotting? How about have accomp!ished? But don't fret, my dogs are working on a counter coup.

In my 59 year life, I have offered to "give my soul for eternity" to ANY entity that would ...

RichCC comments on Jan 23, 2019:

In his *Religion Is Bullshit* routine, Carlin says that's a reason he became a sun worshipper. If he can actually see something... I don't know... kind of helps the credibility along. Ha, ha. https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=8r-e2NDSTuE

On a dating site, this woman said she was looking for someone "genuine, who is not fake".

RichCC comments on Jan 22, 2019:

I've seen it attributed to Jean Giraudeux (1882-1944): Lol. "The secret of success is sincerity. Once you can fake that you've got it made."

The Canada Food Guide looks great for healthy eating. [food-guide.canada.ca]

RichCC comments on Jan 22, 2019:

Thanks. My wife and I are long-time foodie vegetarians and we're always looking for good recipes. I think we'll pass on the moose stew though. Lol. ?

I'm seriously wanting to plan my trip to Hawaii but I really don't want to go alone.

RichCC comments on Jan 22, 2019:

A few years ago my wife and a close friend went to Bangkok. There they happened to meet a woman whose husband had taken sick back in Turkey so she was alone on her trip. They all had an outstanding time together. Being knowledgeable enough to explore safely and being able to spend time with people you trust can lead to amazing experiences.

Sleeping Sperm Whales I saw this on David Attenborough's newest documentary "Blue Planet II" last ...

RichCC comments on Jan 22, 2019:

I'm a big David Attenborough fan and Blue Planet II is excellent. I'm still fascinated by the sequence In the Coasts show where sea lions cooperate to herd tuna into dead end coves and catch agile 60kg fish that would be unattainable to them otherwise. That sequence is also described In a how-it's-made show. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/4c3Qs1lTB7M6BlGG9bQqS9p/filming-galapagos-sea-lions-hunting-tuna

Do you trust the police?

RichCC comments on Jan 21, 2019:

I do trust them to be well-meaning and sincere. But having had four career officers In my immediate family has given me a certain amount of anecdotal experience that they are human too. They can be as ignorant and racist as anyone. Often more so because they face those questions constantly every day. I treat them like I treat anyone else who has power over me -- 'trust but verify'.

I know some folks will be triggered, so here I go.

RichCC comments on Jan 21, 2019:

Not to mention the ~$1.5 Trillion tax bill we all get to spend the rest of our lives working on. ?

Does "Uht oh" come to mind?

RichCC comments on Jan 19, 2019:

Apparently he wants to make an 'offer' to the Democrats in Congress. If it were a serious offer he'd make it to them rather than trying to make a TV event -- complete with suspense building trailers. I'm curious what inanity he will throw out to try and manipulate them (and us) into a loss so he can 'win'. I'm preparing for another typical disappointment.

Do you know people who always think they are right? [vox.com]

RichCC comments on Jan 19, 2019:

I thought I was wrong once but later it turned out I was mistaken. ?

One potato, two potato and go!

RichCC comments on Jan 16, 2019:

Potato, Book and Candle Potato Goose or Mother Potato Roman Potato or Potato Holiday

And I thought he was rich...guess not.

RichCC comments on Jan 16, 2019:

How can you criticise? Hamberders are not easy to come by. Every time I think he's gone as low as possible he finds a way to be more disgusting. Now his only competition is the GOP who enable him.

Do you believe in destiny?

RichCC comments on Jan 15, 2019:

How would you tell? What would the test be for the destiny idea? If 'A' happens then it was destined, else 'B' happens and it definitely wasn't. As far as I have seen, the real world is the same for matters of the heart as for pretty much everything else. Everybody has to make their own choices and everyone gets their own results (whether the results were all under their control or not). So far as I can tell, everyone should make their own decisions and accept whatever consequences (and credit) come. Do what you can but if the results fall outside your control, don't let them stop you next time.

Negotiations with my son.

RichCC comments on Jan 15, 2019:

*Updated* Duck Season! Wabbit Season! Duck Season! Wabbit Season! ...Wabbit Season! Duck Season! Fire! Bam! ...You're desthpicable.

Is the US about to become a dictatorship, euphemistically called a "unitary government?

RichCC comments on Jan 13, 2019:

Too many Americans are selfish and shortsighted -- emphasis on the selfish. Here is an article this morning from Raw Story -- https://www.rawstory.com https://www.rawstory.com/2019/01/trump-voters-selfish-love-identify/ We live in an extraction economy society where the only rule is gimme and the most aggressive, ruthless monsters win -- Greeks called it a Kakistocracy (government by the worst). I wish a could read the research data behind the reporter's story but the paper is behind a paywall.

If it bleeds, it leads.

RichCC comments on Jan 13, 2019:

Thanks for this post. ?

Knock Knock

RichCC comments on Jan 13, 2019:

I find it interesting how quickly Agnostic gets conflated with Atheist (it's not 'Athiest' BTW). It's like religion cannot withstand honest scrutiny. Lol. What's that old saying? 'No one can sincerely attend seminary school and come out believing in god.' When a person learns the contradictions and questionable origins of all the nonsense being peddled, they get stuck with one of two choices -- give up that sincerity or start closing their eyes a lot (which of course is the same thing). Lol, again.

The Simplest Explanation Of Global Warming Ever

RichCC comments on Jan 12, 2019:

I'm pretty convinced of the human cause but whatever the cause the effects and the associated consequences are real. Arguing blame is a time waste we can't afford.

I love pizza.

RichCC comments on Jan 11, 2019:

We tend to order take-n-bake and simple then Dr. it up ourselves. My favorite topping base is habanero sauce. My wife varies with her mood. We treat it as American comfort food -- it's a good way to relax and be lazy.

Do you still believe in marriage?

RichCC comments on Jan 11, 2019:

It's a matter of personal expectations and decisions. My wife and I have been happy together for 32 yrs. My parents were together (as far as i could tell happily) for over 50 yrs. 'til she passed. And all my siblings are still In their 1st tries in their mid 30 yrs. I don't know. Maybe we're (and our wives) all just boring.

Documents Show NRA and Republican Candidates Coordinated Ads in Key Senate Races – Mother Jones

RichCC comments on Jan 11, 2019:

Just think. If tRump gets away with declaring a national emergency, maybe a future liberal president will use the precedent to justify a national emergency and confiscate all guns. /snark (I'm anti-gun myself)

Biological genetic evolution can only react and never foresee.

RichCC comments on Jan 11, 2019:

I haven't thoroughly studied the data but I've read that of all species that have existed on Earth, 99.9 percent are now extinct. Biological evolution tries a lot of things and the vast majority them don't end successfully. I'm starting to think our 'intelligence' trick may be headed that way. Sorry for the nihilistic comment but to me recently it's appeared a discouraging time for our species. Update: That comment is too negative. We need to redouble our efforts (they are there) to take better control of our destiny while we can.

Stolen from a friend: Something that needs some thought.

RichCC comments on Jan 11, 2019:

I very much agree with your analysis. The only thing I would add is that the executive branch doesn't seem to be led by rational actors. They seem to be motivated by a winner/loser perception. I don't think Trump or the GOP really care who benefits or is damaged by their actions as long as they see themselves as 'winners' (which in their minds means others are 'losers' ). I just hope the rest of us aren't hurt too bad in the process.

Impeach or no?

RichCC comments on Jan 10, 2019:

I tried to select all of the first three but I'm not sure it took it. Fundagelical Pence scares me every bit as much as tRump but as a country we have to do something to get out of this situation. The Greek term I saw recently was 'Kakistocracy' (if I spelled it right). That means government by the worst -- just because they were the most aggressive and the most ruthless. The only reason our current rulers aren't successful mob bosses is that they aren't competent enough to follow through with that path.

@MrLizard and I are looking for a good home for Sonja.

RichCC comments on Jan 10, 2019:

Have you looked at local animal rescue groups? One I've been impressed with here in rural AZ is *United Animal Friends* although they specifically were focused on dogs . They put on adoption events, vet prospective recipients and help with advertising. They are volunteer and do good work.

We are now getting a clear picture of Trump's real deal-making: Never think of what is fair or ...

RichCC comments on Jan 10, 2019:

tRump is an American extraction economy 'conservative'. They believe In 'competiton' where it's not enough to win -- the other side must lose. At this point he doesn't care if the wall gets built or not. He just wants his opponents to lose. (And if he can gratify his racist tendencies, so much the better as he sees it.)

It is now a proven fact that our galaxy is but a single cell in a massive brain.

RichCC comments on Jan 10, 2019:

Yeah! That's the ticket! I think I remember Donald Sutherland *proving* that to Karen Allen as he hit on her in the Animal House movie. Or was he going small rather than big? It's so hard to keep track. ?

I'm getting cabin fever.

RichCC comments on Jan 10, 2019:

My wife and I lived in various spots near Seattle for 10 years. In all that time I don't ever remember it raining (by Arizona standards) but it was gray and drizzled almost every day. I think it got to up to 100°F once and it never got down to 0°F. We ended up back in the desert to see the sun and to experience four seasons again. Washington was fall all year round. We miss a lot of the culture and lifestyle but the constant gray was too much for for us.

With the way we behave, the human race deserves to go extinct. [smithsonianmag.com]

RichCC comments on Jan 9, 2019:

I read a paleontology book years ago called *3 Billion Years Of Life*. It was written in the 60s so the science is somewhat out of date but the premise still rings true. The author tried to do an analysis of species' existence time through what we know of geological history. He decided that species typically last 5-10 million years before they disappear. By that standard we aren't even being particularly successful. We are still far short of that and we're already threatening our own existence. (I did hope our kind would outlast my life though -- fingers crossed.)

Here's looking at you!

RichCC comments on Jan 2, 2019:

Bill's one of my favorite characters! Wasn't he the one who got thinking about the wonder of the universe and was so stunned that he fell into a numb stupor. I think I could follow that lead.

Why not? It worked for Mary! [amredeemed.com]

RichCC comments on Dec 27, 2018:

What a great opportunity! With a bit of paternity DNA testing they'll be able to point out god! She'd better not be foolin'. I'll be so disappointed.

Too funny but true!

RichCC comments on Dec 26, 2018:

I bet if you stacked all the different Spiderman comics -- even without the covers and ads - it'd be a lot thicker than JC's pages In the wholly babble. I wonder how a word count comparison would go. Lol.

How do you trap someone into committing perjury?

RichCC comments on Dec 17, 2018:

Like Bill Clinton was. He was stupid enough do do something morally humiliating even to himself. Then under oath he was asked if he did it. He was 'trapped'. Even though what they were asking about wasn't a crime, he was humiliated into perjury. That is a perjury trap.

Comedians have figured out the trick to covering Trump - YouTube

RichCC comments on Dec 14, 2018:

Good video and true. And it's yet another example of 'I can't believe people are spending time on this'. But somebody has to.

The limits to freedom of speech

RichCC comments on Dec 12, 2018:

Everything in our sphere is a human decision. I personally am a fan of the last few words of what I've been shown as the Wiccan Rede: 'an it does no harm, do what you will'. And the Platinum Rule: 'Treat people the way they want to be treated'. Again, the details become human decisions. I can't think of a better approach than to take our best humanist shot and see where the chips fall. The Greek Stoics had a reasonable point of view. 'Do what you can but if it's outside your influence, don't let it bother you'.

The Year of the Woman just roared in Trump's Oval Office - CNNPolitics

RichCC comments on Dec 12, 2018:

Good article. Thank you.

FOX News Pastor: Democrats Are “Increasingly Becoming a Godless Party” | Hemant Mehta | Friendly...

RichCC comments on Dec 12, 2018:

They have my thoughts and prayers. ?

Y’all! An earthquake just shook me awake in my bed! So excited! Never experienced that before!

RichCC comments on Dec 12, 2018:

In Seattle years ago a tremor woke my wife (I was out of town of course). She called 911 and told the operator 'I think someone just drove into the side of my house'. The operator said 'We just had an earthquake. Could that be it?'. My wife's response was 'Thank god'. The operator said she'd never gotten quite that reaction during an earthquake 911 call before. ?

Anyone know how to get excommunicated from a mormon church, would be really helpful right now.

RichCC comments on Dec 11, 2018:

I think the term is 'disfellowshipped'. But the only people I ever knew who achieved it were youngsters who were outed as liking sex too much. Their church believes in Growth at all costs too much to encourage people to escape. It might be funny if it weren't so sad.

I thought I was finished posting for the day, but I found one more that I just have to share.

RichCC comments on Dec 11, 2018:

Sorry. I guess some Facebook users would laugh though. *No, That Sansabelt “Action Pants” Ad You Saw On Facebook Is Not Real* https://consumerist.com/2014/01/23/no-that-sansabelt-action-pants-ad-you-saw-on-facebook-is-not-real/

What's the best breed of dog for a pet?

RichCC comments on Dec 7, 2018:

Is 'Mishka' Serbian for mouse? That's an intriguing name. Update: Thinking about it, I should have said 'bear' rather than mouse. Sorry. I'm another vote for a rescue dog that matches your energy level.

What do atheists put on the top of their christmas tree?

RichCC comments on Dec 7, 2018:

My what? We don't support either killing trees (even ones grown for the purpose) or plastic house sculptures in our living space. There are more productive ways to celebrate the season.

MIND OVER MATTER - I'm just going to believe I have a full head of hair and the world will ...

RichCC comments on Dec 6, 2018:

I've also been graying and extensively thinning since my mid 20s. It's never bothered me much. A coworker once told me that folks with big brains get their hair pushed out from the inside. From what I could see he might have had the experience to know what he was talking about. For me, that's what hats are for. They keep the glare from blinding people. Lol.

It's that time of year again when Christians claim there is a war on Christmas. [youtu.be]

RichCC comments on Dec 4, 2018:

I read a news article recently that said the war on Christmas is winding down -- Jesus lost. I'm not entirely as optimistic as they were but I'd love for it to be true. Merry Xmas everyone! ???

Climate changes in your area.

RichCC comments on Dec 4, 2018:

Fun is definitely the wrong word. In a dry part of the world (AZ, USA) we're in a long drought that apparently has become a trend as opposed to a cycle stage. With the population growth the way it's been I don't think anyone knows where it might end. All the serious projections I've seen are grim.

It's still "religious", but it's encouraging.

RichCC comments on Nov 18, 2018:

8,000 to 340,000 in 18 years? Wow. A 40:1 increase. I'm not sure whether to accept that on its face or quite what to do with it. Wow, again.

Hey math friends! Can you help me understand this?

RichCC comments on Nov 18, 2018:

I don't see the problem. It's not actually contradictory: $0 - ($0 * 20%) = $0 It admit it's a waste of time. But they can do it if they want. Lol, I guess.

Is it always about the fight?

RichCC comments on Nov 17, 2018:

Fight (competition) is essential but the definitions have to be correct. Too many people these days include the opposition In their worldview. 'It's not enough to win, the other side must lose.' Destruction should never be a goal.

Are you a brain game or puzzle aficionado?

RichCC comments on Nov 17, 2018:

Chess and Crosswords.

Some charities that don't think you need a bible to help people.

RichCC comments on Nov 17, 2018:

I'd like to add *Big Brothers / Big Sisters* to the list. They're not an emergency relief organization per se but they help people do a huge amount of good and they are completely secular. Thank you your list. Separation from religion is a very good thing.

Missing page of the Bible found [youtube.com]

RichCC comments on Nov 16, 2018:

I'm a Red Dwarf fan too!

Survey, men or women: A-1.

RichCC comments on Nov 14, 2018:

Wilma Flintstone -- no question. (Except of course there's no way I'd ever get her away from Fred) -- hat tip to Red Dwarf

Trump's mood takes a foul turn: 'He's pissed -- at damn near everyone' - CNNPolitics

RichCC comments on Nov 14, 2018:

As screwed up as the last two years have been, I am deeply afraid it's going to get worse. As the comic *Calvin and Hobbes* said: 'That's the amazing thing about life. It's never so bad that it can't get worse '. I saw a comment on DailyKos that bothers me. They speculated that someone might suggest a deal to the 'great dealmaker' -- that he resign in exchange for immunity from investigation and prosecution. And of course Pence would pardon him. I'm afraid that the congressional powers could get so excited about the prospect of getting him off the seat before he drops another one that they might take that sort of deal. Not only would that make my sense of justice go a few paces past outrage but that would also leave us with president Pence. No matter how it goes, it's going to be a rough few years.

There is no progress fairy anymore than there is a savior god.

RichCC comments on Nov 13, 2018:

This has been one of the most annoying trends of my engineering career. I have always been shocked at how many otherwise intelligent people compartmentalize themselves so they don't have to think about subjects they're uncomfortable with. The *Progress Fairy* is a big seller as also is *Religion*. There are too many ultra-conservative people of all ages who would exist with their brains turned off rather than face being aware of their lives.

Capital punishment?

RichCC comments on Nov 13, 2018:

Life is an incredibly rare and irreplaceable thing. We must do all we can to protect the innocent. But once any life is taken it is gone forever -- it can never be brought back. I look at it as a variation of the last part of the Wiccan Rede: "does no harm, do what you will". Even when you are doing unpleasant things like dispensing justice, the rule must be to minimize harm -- especially harm that cannot be undone.

How many of you also visit churches when traveling?

RichCC comments on Nov 12, 2018:

I never have been and likely never will be a fan of religion. But I very much enjoy the culture wherever we visit.

Sinema is up around 32,000 vote in Az. Great news.

RichCC comments on Nov 12, 2018:

I just saw a reference to this comment from someone named Jennifer Bendery on a net news source. As a lifelong AZ native, I'm thrilled. Kyrsten Sinema marks a lot of firsts... First Democratic U.S. senator from Arizona since 1976 First female U.S. senator from Arizona First openly bisexual U.S. senator in the country

Given (hypothetically or literally) that there is no afterlife, does life have meaning?

RichCC comments on Nov 8, 2018:

It's up to you. If you decide you don't have or want any meaning then that's your life. The rest of us get to make our own calls. I'll do what I can when I can. I won't let anyone else take my choices.

[investigationdiscovery.com] Why Are So any Serial Killers Born in November?

RichCC comments on Nov 7, 2018:

It's obviously astrology dontchaknow. From Wiki: Scorpio-born are passionate and assertive people. ... Scorpios are known by their calm and cool behavior, and by their mysterious appearance. People often say that Scorpio-born are fierce, probably because they understand very well the rules of the universe.

I often wonder how people can justificed unfair treatment of another group.

RichCC comments on Nov 7, 2018:

I've heard it said... There are three levels of realization you come to with people. 1. When people are seen someone acting badly -- hurting others -- most people tend to give the benefit of the doubt. They assume the people don't know they are hurting others. 2. If people are still seen acting badly they are often still given the benefit. They are assumed to not understand they are hurting others. 3. Finally it becomes known that people know and understand what they are doing and do it anyway. More succinctly, the levels are: 1. Ignorance. 2. Stupidity. 3. Evil. No offense to you intended, but I think what you're describing tends towards number 3.

What I would like to see.

RichCC comments on Nov 3, 2018:

He tries... you just have to believe him... cough, cough. "Well, I try. I do try ... When I can, I tell the truth. And sometimes it turns out to be where something happens that’s different or there’s a change, but I always like to be truthful." — President Trump to ABC News Seriously. Trump isn't the disease. He's just the biggest symptom. Tuesday I hope we start removing all the conservative trash infesting our country -- starting with the current government.

If you could make a rule that everyone had to follow, what would it be?

RichCC comments on Oct 31, 2018:

Joking... See below for my real Platinum Rule comment. The key to success is sincerity. Once you can fake that, you've got it made. -- Jean Giraudoux

When you're the only atheist at work

RichCC comments on Oct 23, 2018:

I don't keep it a secret but I don't advertise it. I have been an engineer all my career and even though I've pretty much from the beginning been shocked and disappointed how many theists there have been, we have almost all been professional enough to keep it separate from our work.

What is a childhood movie that still haunts you until this day as an adult?

RichCC comments on Oct 23, 2018:

For some reason 'The Power' really resonated with me. It scared me back then and I still enjoy it occasionally today.

Does evil exist? As non-believers do we still accept the concept of evil in its pure form?

RichCC comments on Oct 7, 2018:

Nobody sees themselves as evil. Everybody thinks they are doing what is necessary when they act against others. Save the country from sh~hole migrants, behave as a compassionate conservative, round up those minorities, whatever.

We still have 500 children without their parents.

RichCC comments on Sep 25, 2018:

I have a serious question. Could anyone tell me what consequences there are for defying court decisions? I keep seeing court statements worded as absolutes -- 'The children will be reunited with their parents by this specified date.' But when the date passes without compliance, no actions are taken. Are the courts simply powerless here? I don't see any punishments being administered at all. From the behavior of this executive branch, they seem to see slaps on the wrists as rewards -- 'We really upset those liberals this time.' I wish I were less discouraged by our situation.

Chess with Interactive chess board. [facebook.com]

RichCC comments on Sep 19, 2018:

That would sure take some getting used to -- pretty distracting. Also I assume they were at a show. There seemed to be at least three people moving pieces and it was hard to keep track of whose turn it was. Ha, ha.

I think it would be cool to join a lodge or the Masons or something, but they all require a belief ...

RichCC comments on Sep 14, 2018:

It's not a church-style group, but one of the things that most sold me on Big Brothers Big Sisters was that they are completely secular. There's lots of community and support and volunteering is a great way to help feel good about yourself. And they don't push religion (or frankly not-religion) at all. My little brother graduated high school this spring after 8 years we've known each other. I strongly recommend BBBS.

Okay, we will try meeting from now on on Sundays @ 12:00 P.

RichCC comments on Sep 9, 2018:

Ok. Thanks. I will miss tomorrow though. Sorry. Have to spend tomorrow driving.

Anyone ever play multiplayer chess?

RichCC comments on Sep 1, 2018:

We used to play like the one on the right with boards laid across each other. More common was side by side with partners having different colors. When I take a piece I pass it to my partner who can then place it on their board as their next move. The game has a name but I can't remember it.

Has anyone here a National Park Ranger or has worked with the National Park Service?

RichCC comments on Aug 28, 2018:

I waited to reply to see if anyone with firsthand experience spoke up. The closest I've been is an uncle who recently retired after ~30 years. My personal input for what it's worth is that I have yet to ever meet a Ranger I didn't immediately like. My uncle worked hard to get on. If I got the story correctly, he worked 6 volunteer seasons before he got on full time. He also had a degree in forestry with a minor in anthropology. Then one of his first tries for a particular position involved finishing 6th out of 1500 applicants and not getting the job. He obviously didn't quit and it turned out extremely well for him (and his wife -- he was enforcement, she was an interpreter). As I said above, I don't have firsthand knowledge but from what I've seen: *Stick with it, the personal rewards make it worth the while*.

As a non theist, what are your top 3 political issues you would like to see addressed in the ...

RichCC comments on Aug 13, 2018:

1. The environment 2. Gun laws 3. Removal of irrational politicians -- anyone who disagrees with me

What inspires you to follow a member's posts on Agnostic.com?

RichCC comments on Aug 13, 2018:

I used to follow several people and groups (I think I followed you briefly). But it takes up too much screen space on the notebook PC and Kindle hardware I use. Now I go without but I worry about missing things that I don't see because they fall outside my expressed profile preferences (which is likely an issue anyway of course).

I thought this a clever presentation on the rationale of atheism; one I'd not heard put precisely ...

RichCC comments on Aug 13, 2018:

That video expresses my point of view very well. It so happens that I've had that exact conversation with a Hospice volunteer in a situation where neither of us was free to fully express ourselves. We were waiting for my father to awake one morning and given the circumstances we weren't going to criticize each other. I do hope I gave him something to think about, though.

How are you using Agnostic.com?

RichCC comments on Aug 12, 2018:

I'm not very outgoing and I these days I don't move well enough to want to look for people to meet in the flesh. That said... I am very much enjoying interacting with the sincere, pleasant, educated, folks I've seen here. I'm embarrassed to admit it, but my biggest use for Agnostic.com is vicarious living. Lol, I guess.

Popcorn, which way is the best?

RichCC comments on Aug 1, 2018:

Candy corn balls made with cream and honey so they don't get hard or go bad. It's hugely fun to make for not too young kids (given some supervision -- it does get cooked it to softball stage) and it's beyond addicting to eat. The holidays are only a few months away.

What is/are your favorite craft beer(s)?

RichCC comments on Aug 1, 2018:

I'm not the dedicated beer fan I used to be. I'm afraid that's what happens when you move away from Seattle. But I used to love Moss Bay Extra from Hale's. It had so much flavor and edge that after a few pints you'd usually start to feel a little queasy. But those first few were heaven.

Do you believe in E.S.P?

RichCC comments on Jul 31, 2018:

If you mean supernatural abilities, I definitely don't believe. If I remember correctly, JREF came across someone who could identify the music on a vinyl record just by looking at it. But it turned out that their knowledge of, I think classical, music was so extensive that they could recognize patterns in the record grooves. From my point of view that would be ESP, but it's not supernatural.

LOYALTY SIGNALING IN POLITICS My impression is that our political behavior is driven largely by ...

RichCC comments on Jul 31, 2018:

And a lot of especially libertarian and conservative Americans have a competition-is-everything driven worldview. Not only that but they have a twisted definition of competition. It's not enough to win, the other side must lose. I think a lot of Americans wouldn't be too unhappy if the world burned to the ground as long as they were in charge of the ashes. We have a very shortsighted, selfish society at the moment -- dangerously so.

What are some good old movie or TV lines?

RichCC comments on Jul 30, 2018:

No matter where you go, there you are. -- Buckaroo Bonsai Laugh while you can monkey boy. -- Emilio Lizardo

Food you abused!

RichCC comments on Jul 5, 2018:

I may be the only person in America that doesn't like watermelon. I don't remember it but my mother told me that at a picnic when I was young I ate so much that I got really sick. Whether the story is true or not, for as long as I remember I've disliked watermelon. Lol I guess. Other melons are ok.

Childhood Favorite Toys

RichCC comments on Jul 5, 2018:

Third post try... My father was a high school coach and athletic director and we had 4 brothers. Pretty much all our toys were sports related -- balls, gloves, track equipment, golf clubs, whatever. Looking back, it was fun but kind of self-limiting. Ha, Ha.

Is everyone tired of talking about the weather?

RichCC comments on Jul 3, 2018:

For us the weather is a sort of a necessary obsession. In middle AZ we are waiting for the monsoon rains. The government designated official start date is June 15th but we've only had one day of rain in the last couple of months. NOAA says 20% rain chance this Fri then 40% Sat and Sun. We have our fingers crossed. We do have the hot part covered though.

Advice for a first time dog owner. Go!

RichCC comments on Jul 3, 2018:

Remember it's a dog not a person. It has its own perceptions and understandings of the world. You will have to always stay patient. It may destroy some things and only realize that is wrong when it finds out what your desires are. A puppy will tend to chew. It only gets the limited vocabulary that you give it. It will learn some words and sounds (a gutteral '*uh, uh, uh*' will be clear to it) but other words are just noises to ignore (except of course for your tone -- it will be very aware of that). It has very few perspiration glands. It could be more temperature sensitive than you might think. Water should always be available. And you will have to help it stay clean -- take to heart the hair comment elsewhere in this comment thread. Remember that it will be a child in a lot of ways for its entire life. For example, it doesn't know some people foods are poisonous (as chocolate). It will rely on you (and devote itself to you).

What nonbelievers do you remember from TV growing up?

RichCC comments on Jul 1, 2018:

There was a very long running local variety/comedy show in AZ called the Wallace and Ladmo show. As far as I remember they never took any stance either for or against religion. They were pretty irreverent. I well remember Pat McMahon dressed in drag as Aunt Maud in one of his many character roles hitting on the local cop doing PSAs for the show. It turned into a running joke with the cop horribly embarrassed every time he came on. Ha, ha. RCC Edit: Since @LiterateHiker mentioned Fractured Fairy Tales. W&L also often featured a lot of cartoons aimed as much at adults as children. Fractured Fairy Tales, Roger Ramjet, Super Chicken, George of the Jungle and others were some of my favorites. Thanks for the reminder.

When is a cult not a religion?

RichCC comments on Jun 30, 2018:

There's an old saying that the difference between a religion and a cult is: At the center of every *cult* there is at least one person with direct experience that the whole thing is bull -- whether they admit it or not. In a *religion* that person is dead.

Take it to the grave?

RichCC comments on Jun 30, 2018:

I have the recipe for the best candied popcorn in the world and I'm not telling anyone. Ha, ha, ha! (twirls mustache)