Why the fuss, Max? I’ll tell you why. This just doesn’t add up. Nielsen estimates around 6.5 million viewers would be without TV if the switch happened on the original schedule. Our current administration thinks there will be a disparate impact upon those who haven’t had a chance to get the converter box coupon. There may be such fallout but if the government thinks delaying the program will change that number proportionally, then they are grossly mistaken.

Beyond the impact to a small demographic, TV stations are now painted into a corner. After spending millions of dollars to ensure they can broadcast on the digital spectrum come February 17th, stations are now given a choice of sorts. To continue broadcasting on the analog frequencies, thus changing their intended plans, stations will be required to pay thousands per day to hold out until June. On the other hand, they can switch now, save themselves some money but look like they don’t care about those who aren’t prepared. In other words, the government has suddenly pulled the ultimate switch, dodging the pressure of forcing the change, and laying the blame squarely upon the local affiliates. What a ridiculous set of circumstances.

I think this fix is pretty simple. We should change over in February. We should continue to fund the coupon program and get that back into shape as quickly as possible. Part of fixing that program requires a recall of sorts, bringing back all the unused and expired coupons. Oh, and just so you know, owners of coupons are not allowed to profiteer from selling those coupons. I’m not sure what agency will be responsible for monitoring those transactions on eBay and Craigs List but perhaps the IRS have some spare time this April? Maybe not. Once the coupon program is re-funded, the transition continues. Do you really think all 6.5 million people will take significant steps towards fixing their circumstances? I’m guessing, come June, the numbers will look similar so what will be the excuse then?

As I mentioned before, The hosts (pictured left to right) Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond create a wonderful combination of chemistry I seen few rival on US TV, let alone globally. They are down to earth, died in the wool, gear heads who genuinely laugh at each others jokes. What’s more, I recently found a way to see more of their shows. A lot more.

I was currently restricted by the BBC America but recently discovered a friend who has season 4 onward and is letting me watch them at my leisure. I’m just a nutter for this show now. I cannot get enough… I’m watching about two episodes a day and I just don’t have time to do that with school, and other responsibilities. But I don’t care. The wit, the passion, the cars. It all combines into one helluva viewing experience. I think, most of all, having this decent and witty look at my homeland is also warming to the soul. I’m hooked. You should be too. If you want more information on the show, check out their website.

Basic premise of the show, regular housewife is forced into a tough situation and starts dealing weed in the suburbs. It is a dark comedy, full of moments where you think, “oh, that is just so wrong!” but you keep watching. The casting is perfect. The character development on-point, and the dialog is what keeps you coming back, week after week. But the joy of watching is the series right now is because you can rent the entire season, one shot, one viewing, move on. No enduring the weekly wait between episodes. You just get it, like a hose-pipe in the face. But well worth the ride. (Rental fees are quite low as well.)

I strongly recommend you start with season one and work forward from there. Quite hilarious. Quite disturbing, well worth the price of admission. No voilence, mostly perfectly timed comedy. Don’t miss this one. Seriously. Oh, and let me know (via commenting in this thread) about your opinion of the show. I’m curious.