Save these men a Nobel prize, please

Our theory is that a simple brita water filter can be used to make bad vodka, into good. In our case this meant turning a Vladimir™, into a Ketel One™. At $11.09 for 1.75 liter (Ketel is 11.99 for the 350 ml), Vladimir is a steal. It is, however, painful to drink, has a repugnant aftertaste, posesses a bouquet reminiscent of rubbing alcohol. Our working theory was that these terrible qualities were caused by a lack of proper filtration, and that running our Vlad through a charcoal filter would remove some of the impurities causing these odors and flavors.

Red state of the union

Don't miss daethkow's open letter from the middle of the country -- a thoughtful look from a native Kansan. I still consider myself on permanent loan to the state, just for an embarrassing number of years. He's more capable of speaking as a true member of the community than I could ever be:

We don't have bad people, we just have unfamiliar people. People that need to be eased into the social changes that are coming. It's not their fault that they're insulated. It's not their fault that they're reactionary. Like I said, EVERYBODY fears change, even innocuous change. There will always be isolated, unfortunate cases, but by and large if you give people the chance to adapt they will adapt. And they will be grateful for your patience afterwards. I know. I was.

Refreshing perspective from the heartland.