u/anonymity-please

I love the UK dramas and comedies. And I'm fortunate to have a British-themed PBS channel (WETA UK in Washington, DC) for my local PBS Passport. But I've seen almost everything they provide.

So, is AcornTV worth it? Curious to know if the network provides new shows so that you're watching the episodes within 3-6 months of the original air date? And why choose Acorn instead of BritBox?

Thanks for any insights offered.

EDIT: Lots of good advice here--thank you! I'll definitely subscribe. And if you live in the not-so-great-right-now-USA, and in the Washington, DC area, please consider supporting PBS. The local station, WETA/WETA UK is delivering a lot of the faves referenced here. But it's the reason why I know there's so much more out there! Also, Senora Volpe is brilliant.

For anyone whose served in the PC, any advice for unexpected gifts to accompany my young family member to SE Asia for two years? She'll probably get some cash as a means to travel as time permits. But are there gifts/necessities unique to the US that can't be found on remote assignment?

Also, please confirm that the PC is still functioning smoothly (despite the idiots in charge)? This ebola outbreak feels like it's got big potential in all the worst ways. Corp Members are pulled out of dangerous situations, yes? Thank you in advance for any and all insights.

I am the original owner of a 2016 Nissan Versa Note automatic that has 95k miles. I've driven it on a few weekend road trips, but typically it gets less than 200 miles per week. I get oil changes regularly, have replaced the serpentine belt and the tires twice, and complete whatever service is needed for state and emissions inspections.

Last month, when having a busted tire serviced, resulting in all 4 tires replaced, the mechanic started listing the 90,000 service needs. Spark plugs were put on hold because the quote was high ($750) and the tires ($1,100) were hurting my limited budget enough. But I do think I need the plugs and soon.

Advice requested, please:
Should spark plugs cost this much for a Nissan sedan?
The engine does pause when I hit the highway and give it gas. Started about 4 months ago. How bad is this and what's the time frame for pause to major problem?

Thank you in advance!

There's an animal agriculture bill, the Farm Bill, going to vote today that has some good pieces (SAFE Act for Horses) but some horrific policies (pigs wont be able to turn around, more horses shipping overseas for slaughter, etc) that set back policies to create even the most basic protections. And of course, the GOP has the clever Save Our Bacon Act (H.R. 4673), introduced in July 2025 by Rep. Ashley Hinson (Iowa). This is a legislative proposal aimed at prohibiting states from enforcing animal welfare regulations on agricultural products—such as pork, eggs, or beef—imported from other states. It is specifically designed to negate state laws like California’s Proposition 12, which bans the sale of pork from pigs confined in ways that do not meet California's space standards. 

If you live in the United States, please call your congressman and ask them to vote no.

It’s now or never for the House of Representatives to decide the future of farmed animals.

Phone Number for House Switchboard: 202-225-3121

What to say:
My name is (your name). I live in ( zip code). Vote no on the Farm Bill as it stands because it includes the dangerous Save Our Bacon language that would override state rights to protect farmed animals and decide what goes in our grocery stores. Thank you.