[Little Ray]

Defund PBS and the National Endowment for the Arts. If they can’t pay for themselves, we don’t need them.

[Clintonfatigued]

That’s a good idea. There are plenty of wealthy patrons who can subsidize such things with their own private money.

[free_for_now]

You said: Defund PBS and the National Endowment for the Arts. If they can’t pay for themselves, we don’t need them.

I say:

If we didn’t do it when we controlled Congress and the Presidency, with the President much stronger than now, what prayer have we got that this could happen?

Still, if Pelosi pushes this thru both houses, I hope Bush signs it!

[Fiddlstix]

Defund PBS and the National Endowment for the Arts. If they can’t pay for themselves, we don’t need them.

Ditto!
Ditto!
&
Ditto!

[weegee]

Defund PBS and the National Endowment for the Arts. If they can’t pay for themselves, we don’t need them.

Barney, Sesame Street, Ken Burns, et al are wildly popular and commerical tie ins are available in virtually every (non-adult) video store along with all sorts of clothing, games, and toys in the case of PBS' childrens' programming.

There is enough "product" money that could be used to fund PBS. But instead PBS doesn't see much of those receipts.

[Tokra]

Defund PBS and the National Endowment for the Arts. If they can’t pay for themselves, we don’t need them.

Not pay for themselves!!!! Do you have any idea how many millions they rake in for Sesame Street merchandise licensing? You'd be surprised. Walk into any toy store and I guarantee you will see dozens of Sesame Street toys.

They make plenty enough from licensing Tickle Me Elmos and private donations to pay for the entire PBS budget. They should not be receiving any tax money at all. (actually only 10% of their budget comes from the govenment - 90% comes from donations & merchandising fees)

[Dead Dog]

Exactly, Ken Burns will not be hurting for production funding.