Civics 101 Civics Trivia: Taxes, terrifying birds, and The West Wing
Sep 2, 2025
Dive into a playful trivia showdown covering quirky tax policies and the absurdities of chocolate-covered snacks. Enjoy anecdotes about the influence of government in Hollywood, showcasing iconic films and hilarious debates. Revel in sentimental farewells as hosts reminisce about their shared journey, spiced with nostalgia for 'The West Wing.' Plus, explore whimsical comparisons between 'Lord of the Rings' and everyday life, all while blending humor with interesting historical insights. It's a delightful mix of trivia, camaraderie, and heartfelt moments!
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Episode notes
Producer's Farewell Announcement
- Christina Phillips announced this episode is her final one as Civics 101 producer and host contributor.
- The team celebrated her promotion to the NHPR newsroom with bittersweet humor and fond remarks.
IRS Uses Trivia For Public Outreach
- The IRS publishes its own tax trivia quiz online, revealing public outreach efforts by tax agencies.
- Christina mentioned she took and aced the quiz, illustrating accessible civic education tools.
Rent‑A‑Cow Tax Loophole
- Christina described Florida's 1959 Greenbelt Law being exploited via the "rent-a-cow" loophole by developers leasing land cheaply to farmers.
- She noted the loophole was adjusted in a 2025 tax bill but warned closing tax loopholes often leads to new ones.
