Did anybody else try to get to the website today?

Nada:
http://www.usda.gov/fundinglapse.htm

:(


Due to the lapse in federal government funding, this website is not available.

After funding has been restored, please allow some time for this website to

become available again.

For information about available government services, visit usa.gov

To view U.S. Department of Agriculture Agency Contingency plans, visit: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/contingency-plans

Message from the President to U.S. Government Employees

So they cant fund their website but they can still drive around and collect dead cuttings from people? 

Why would they shutdown the website, that actually took a work effort by someone. If they would have just left it alone unless the were issues the site would be up. It's not like it's updated on a frequent basis. Personally I feel actions like that are just another bureaucrat trying to make a statement.

they are over dramatic

I thought Australian politics was a joke of late but the USA gets first prize...no offence meant but gee it's sad when this happens in the world's 'greatest' democracy.

My daughter just found out that to get her USDA paperwork out of limbo, the USDA will be open for 2 hours next Thursday..   I think that translates into, whatever they do that's necessary can be done in 2 hours, one day per week.  lol.  A good indication that department should be cut back..

OH!
This abomination nightmare...
Just get rid of ALL existing insurance(s), (both heath/auto) AND them (hungry/chasing) lawyers.
The free American-market will always set things RIGHT (for all of us).

We need more good innovative-professional-engineers (not them self-serving-politicians).
How come they exempted themselves from the same law they passed - what happened to "we the people" ?!]...
Some government is good; but not a BIG/HUGE one.

Alan.........You support our veterans not being taken care of?  Those that put it on the line............so that you can have your opinions and do it in a free nation.

Let's see Pres. Obama ran on a platform.......the American people said.......YES...........He then ran again..........The people said Yes.......Once again to the tune of nearly 5 millions votes.  Yet.....the republicans attach stipulations in regards to a law, that was found constitutional and is the law of the land!  The point is that it takes money to run this country!  We do it together!  Myself and my Siblings have served and is still serving this country for over 40 years in the military .  We were not asked to serve, we believed in the country, we don't talk..... we do!  Congress.....should do the will of the People!  The Tea-Party is still upset that the American People Chose Barack Hussein Obama as their president and their Voice!  Get over it!

HOW BOUT THOSE FIGS!!!!!!!!!!

I'm sorry everyone.  I did not mean for this to turn into a political discussion/debate.  Rather, just pointing out the website was down and the potential for a prolonged stalemate to effect the distribution of cuttings next year.

No need to apologize, James.  People are edgy and stressed with the current state of affairs and just get carried away when the topic comes up.  It happens.  No harm done.  =)

I think an important take away from all of this is that it is truly up to people like Jon and the members of this community to ensure fig distribution and diversity will continue. Although I have only recently started to pursue an interest in figs it would be extremely difficult with out this vast knowledge base and community. So thank you For organizing such a wonderful place and thank you to those who have been so kind welcoming me in and sharing their love for figs!