“What the heck is going on”? 

This is my daily round up of all of the stories that are sent to me through FaceBook, Twitter and e-mails. These stories will be the ones that I find interesting or informative.

Warning: The sarcasm meter is off the charts!

The world is going crazy and while it is in the process of so doing, and before it reaches its final destination, of “CrazyLand,” I am going to continue to be informed.  Feel free to join me, but be warned, as Margo Channing memorably declared in “All About Eve” – “Fasten your seat belts. It is going to be a bumpy night” – or day!

Variations of verbiage for today:

Today is the anniversary of the murder of President John F. Kennedy. R.I.P.

It is video time today – version of “mouth opened (or finger performed), and story jumped out!” Russian reporter flips off Obama during newscast? I think that everyone is misunderstanding the gesture. It is true that the particular gesture is kind of the universal sign for “disdain.” But, maybe in Russia, that gesture means something else? Maybe she really wanted to direct the gesture towards the Russian leader, but mistook President Obama for the Russian leader, since they look so much alike? Whatever the real reason, she is very skilled in the use of that finger! J

This video does not have in the same kind of gesture, but maybe the same meaning is directed towards the rest of us, who are non 6th Caliphate types? This “Arab spring” is having some really interesting variations in political weather patterns. Good luck to all of them, and hopefully “liberty” is given half a seat in government. I doubt that though.

In the meantime, in Lebanon, “in a significant failure for the United States in the Mideast, more than a dozen spies working for the CIA in Iran and Lebanon have been caught and the U.S. government fears they will be or have been executed..”  They probably have already been executed, as they are in the hands of folks who are “very, very vicious and unforgiving.”

What a contrast between there and here! Here, they would have lawyered up, would have been innocent, even if found with the evidence in their hands, would have had the appropriate accommodations made for their religious beliefs, maybe even have some strippers ordered in, if that happened to be part of their “religious” proclivities. I pray for the sake of the families of those CIA agents, that somehow, a variation on established behavior could miraculously occur, and the agents are freed.

Palestinians trying to wipe out Jewish history? I won’t even go into the history of Palestine and Hadrian. There is no race/ethnic group/whatever identified as “Palestine/Palestinian,” except for the newest revision of the history books.

More “sex, lies and videotape”? Well, maybe not the “sex, lies.” I am going to turn into doubting Thomasina and not believe that Chris Matthews turns on Obama. No! No! The thrill/tingle is gone? I was convinced that even if Mrs. Obama lost her thrill/tingle, Mr. Matthews would retain his forever! Oh well, it is politics. Today’s tingle could be tomorrow’s puke – or tinkle!

This turnabout by Mr. Matthews is not going unchallenged!  Frank Rich blasts Chris Matthews' man crush biography of JFK? What does President Kennedy have to do with Chris Matthews losing his Obama tingle? Let us stick to the here and now. By the way, could we stop with the “man crush”? One more thing – Mr. Matthews, President Kennedy did not keep “the smile from being stricken from the planet.”

The TSA's airport screening is definitely not providing any thrills for passengers, travel agents, airlines, or anyone associated with airports. I used to love to fly. Now I treat flying the same as getting a vaccination, or as is the case with some passengers, a quasi gynecological exam.

There is no videotape involved here, I think. But it involves yet another politician. It is the story of Madame Pelosi and her fellow Catholics with their "conscience thing." Many are bashing Madame Pelosi for the “conscience thing” remark. I hail her. She left that “conscience thing” behind a long time ago, especially when she hit the floors of Congress, and has accordingly prospered? How many of her fellow Catholics have done as well as she has, unfettered by conscience?

Now, she may have a problem when The Almighty wants to have a chat with her about that “conscience thing.” But hey, that is later and she is a “devout Catholic” so Saint Peter will open wide the gates, right? I think that I am wrong in assuming those wide open gates. If my understanding of the Bible is correct, God is not impressed by earthly titles, denominations or affiliations.

Here is one last bit of information for those who actually have money to shop Black Friday sales. Per Mitch Lipka, "Black Friday sales aren't all great deals." Especially in this the beginning of “peace on earth, good will to men,” there are still some men, and I guess some women, with black hearts.

One last, last thing. I am trying to put together an Occupy LA (Los Angeles) group, so that we can get in on Los Angeles officials' real estate deals. We can get office space to rent and farmland? I like what I am hearing! I hope that we do not have to prove residency.  Have your people call my people. J

“What the heck is going on”? 

This is my daily round up of all of the stories that are sent to me through FaceBook, Twitter and e-mails. These stories will be the ones that I find interesting or informative.

Warning: The sarcasm meter is off the charts!

The world is going crazy and while it is in the process of so doing, and before it reaches its final destination, of “CrazyLand,” I am going to continue to be informed.  Feel free to join me, but be warned, as Margo Channing memorably declared in “All About Eve” – “Fasten your seat belts. It is going to be a bumpy night” – or day!

Variations of verbiage for today:

My thoughts and prayers go out to all of those who lost their homes in the Reno fire.

Salvation Army kettle stolen at knifepoint. I am sorry for those thieves. One day they are going to have a nice “talk” with the Ultimate Judge. In the meantime, the Salvation Army does good work to help those in need, and I am sure that there will be an outpouring of help for it. I am going to have a talk with my budget director (also known as my wallet), to see if we can spare a few bucks.

I read this article about the Spanish elections and found what I consider a nugget of wisdom:

"We can choose the sauce they will cook us in, but we're still going to be cooked," said Jose Vasquez, a 45-year old civil servant as he cast his vote in a Madrid suburb.

Mr. Vasquez’ statement can be applied worldwide. Come November 2012, instead of seeing myself as a voter, I am afraid that I am going to have a visual of a cooked goose, ready to be doused with sauce, probably as early as February 2013. Translation: We will vote, and unless we are more fortunate than the last go round, prepare to be cooked and sauced! J

Reason #88 why I am never going to buy a house in the US again? Upscale Fla. town in fight over immigrant prison. Here you are – paid good money to live in an “upscale town” and then, apparently behind your back, your political leaders are bringing a prison to town? Is this another case of “cooked and sauced”?

At least those folks in that “upscale Fla. town,” still own their own homes. This account of "rich neighborhoods riddled with foreclosures" is not good news. If foreclosures are reaching into those neighborhoods, the rest of us may soon be living in homes made of cardboard. Wait a minute. There is a strategy involved in this rich homeowners foreclosures – “strategic default.” You go, guys! I like your strategy. This entire country is riddled with corruption and games!

My new heroes! Occupy Wall Street leader reportedly pitches golden tent at 5 star hotel? I like it. That Occupy movement will survive because its leaders are learning how this leadership thing works. Let the lesser lights occupy streets and parks, while the “brain” does the heavy lifting – of the money. As for that other 5 star hotel occupant, I hope that he is not the male version of Mata Hari. J

I learned something from this Camp Pendleton cross flap:

The military atheist association claims a membership of about 2,000 and says it works on behalf of the interests of what the Pentagon estimates are about 40,000 atheists in the U.S. military.

I did not know that there are that many atheists in the US Military. I have heard the usual stories about even atheists calling on God, when things get “interesting” in battle. I wonder if that is true.

I have finally found a demographic into which I fit! I am in the "near poverty" group, furiously trying to walk that ledge between having enough to eat and not having enough to eat? I sure fit the description of “they drive cars, but seldom new ones.” One change I need to make. “Seldom” is going to become “never again” in my case. I am afraid to enter into any transaction with any institution in the current version of this country.

Huh? Booklet with details on Obama's Australian visit found in the street? Thank God presumably he was already gone, and thank God that this apparent breach happened in Australia, and not in certain other countries that will not be named, in order to protect the potentially guilty.

Meanwhile back on the home front, former Democratic pollsters are “suggesting” that “Obama should abandon run for second term”? I am developing an almost automatic reaction, that of uncontrollable laughter over some of the stuff I read. Case in point:

“He should abandon his candidacy for re-election in favor of a clear alternative, one capable not only of saving the Democratic Party, but more important, of governing effectively and in a way that preserves the most important of the president's accomplishments. He should step aside for the one candidate who would become, by acclamation, the nominee of the Democratic Party: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton,”Caddell and Schoen wrote.

I know that these are learned men and I am a simple nobody, but “clear alternative, one capable…,” and “most important of the president’s accomplishments”? I am all right now. I slapped myself a few times to stop the laughter. It worked. I think.

Cyber attacks have found their way to U.S water plants? Anytime I hear about a crime against kids, the word “castration” comes to mind. Is there a cyber version of castration that could be applicable here? Just musing….. I would have made a really good judge. J

This just in! The Super Deficit Reduction Committee is dropping "super" from the name. As happened with Superman, they came in touch with (the political version of) kryptonite! More on that tomorrow! J

Well, off I run! I have to go camp outside of a store in time for Black Friday – not! J

“What the heck is going on”? 

This is my daily round up of all of the stories that are sent to me through FaceBook, Twitter and e-mails. These stories will be the ones that I find interesting or informative.

Warning: The sarcasm meter is off the charts!

The world is going crazy and while it is in the process of so doing, and before it reaches its final destination, of “CrazyLand,” I am going to continue to be informed.  Feel free to join me, but be warned, as Margo Channing memorably declared in “All About Eve” – “Fasten your seat belts. It is going to be a bumpy night” – or day!

Variations of verbiage for today:

The “day of action” of the Wall Street Occupiers, came and went, and New York City is still standing. It was not burned to the ground as one occupier promised. However “OWS protesters cause mayhem across the city, 177 arrested.” The occupiers may have thought better of burning New York City and lobbing a Molotov cocktail at Macy’s, but some of them took on a “worthier” adversary, elementary school children on their way to school. The brave occupiers chanted and yelled “follow those kids!” Ironically, if any parent had decided to “persuade” the occupiers from terrorizing the kids, that parent would have become the aggressor and the occupier/s, the victim/s. I wonder if these “brave” occupiers would have tried that in a state say, let me think, Texas.

This story about a casino con man who “won big until he lost,” is fascinating. It is fascinating because it is a look into the human mind, and makes me wonder “what the heck was he thinking”? I would have been acting so guilty that I would have been found out on the first job!

Disclaimer: This upcoming story has nothing to do with the above casino con man story, except that both stories involve large sums of money. GE paid no taxes on 14 billion in profits.  The following sums up the how to of the GE situation:

"GE was able to utilize all of these various loopholes, all of these various deductions--it's legal," Ryan said. Nine billion dollars of GE's profits came overseas, outside the jurisdiction of U.S. tax law. GE wasn't taxed on $5 billion in U.S. profits because it utilized numerous deductions and tax credits, including tax breaks for investments in low-income housing, green energy, research and development, as well as depreciation of property.

Go, GE! As long as you have a “retarded” government that allows you to do this, take advantage.  I did not know about the practice of “foreign companies buying U.S. companies and taking headquarters overseas." I wonder what percentage of the ruling class really believes in this country, from which they leech so much. I pray to God that those who can be bought in US or foreign currency do not number anywhere past 1%. If it is even 5%, we are completely screwed.

What have we here? Obama Administration in dealings with contractors, pressed  those contractors, “to soften job loss estimates”? I like this doublespeak. The contractors were pressured to “revisit” the study. American citizens, you are being outmaneuvered at every turn. Your Constitution has become optional, your Congress impotent (its virility, if it ever had any, gored by those famous Executive Orders), and your wallets raped. But don’t worry your pretty little heads. Keep watching your favorite shows, working what jobs you can find, and “we” will handle things.

Here is a story that is good news for cell phone makers. Smugglers use cell phones to guide immigrants to US. I see a flaw in this story. If those being guided are “immigrants,” why are their “guide dogs” being prosecuted? Now if those being guided are “illegal aliens,” then the story would make sense. I do not think that there is a country on this earth, other than the US, where those who break the law, are treated with such respect – to the detriment of the citizens of the country. “Immigrants” are guided to the US. They are instructed in how to get free stuff. They are instructed to sue for their “rights.” And – in all of this, the citizens pick up the tab. Increible (incredible)!

It looks as if any of us who get tired with the craziness on earth, maybe can move to Europa? No, not Europe. On Europa, “Any liquid water could represent a potential habitat for life.” I am keeping my options open. I figure that it would take at least a few decades before political corruption hits any colonies in Europa. Then again, I could be underestimating the human capacity to be corrupt.  

Continuing in the world of science, it appears that this new way to treat cancer, could be really promising. It is truly amazing the advances made in all forms of science. It is also amazing how resilient those cancer cells are.

More good news – showing the capacity of the American for generosity! American bikers run to the wall for Israel.  “Patriots, and a few veterans…rode to the Western Wall in Jerusalem in support of the Israel Defense Forces.”  I am with you ladies and gentlemen – just not on a motorcycle!

For the sports fan among us, Dodgers Clayton Kershaw wins NL Cy Young Award! Considering the turmoil with the team ownership, to me his achievement is all the more amazing. Tim Tebow is proving to be an “enigma within a riddle” to the world of football. No one told Tim that in order to be loved and respected, he should have been making the “acquaintance” of every female within his orbit, brag about his conquests, have at least a passing knowledge of “pharmaceuticals,” and other “bona fides.”  Tim, continue to "prove (your) critics wrong."  I am not a cornerback, but I am in your corner, along with your real fans.  Continue to have your opponents and critics “bewitched, bothered and bewildered!” J

Bye folks – have a great weekend! Keep at least one eye on those who want to destroy this country. Let’s Tim Tebow them! J

“What the heck is going on”? 

This is my daily round up of all of the stories that are sent to me through FaceBook, Twitter and e-mails. These stories will be the ones that I find interesting or informative.

Warning: The sarcasm meter is off the charts!

The world is going crazy and while it is in the process of so doing, and before it reaches its final destination, of “CrazyLand,” I am going to continue to be informed.  Feel free to join me, but be warned, as Margo Channing memorably declared in “All About Eve” – “Fasten your seat belts. It is going to be a bumpy night” – or day!

Variations of verbiage for today:

My prayers go out to those who have been affected by storms that hit the Southeast, especially to the families of those who lost their lives.

Reluctantly, I turn to Occupy Whatever/Wherever. As promised for their day of “action,” Occupy Wall Street protestors marched on the New York Stock Exchange. So far, a burning New York City is not happening. That is a good thing – for the occupiers. I have a feeling that, should they attempt such an action, their days of being coddled will be over – unless this country is already lost. I am listening to a Congresswoman being interviewed about the occupiers, and I am appalled at her lack of intimacy with logic. I will not name her in order to protect her ignorance. Isn’t there a minimum standard for these “leaders” in applying for jobs in the oligarchy?

Back in Los Angeles, Occupy LA had five folks charged with crimes, including:

Angele Chaidez, 21, faces one count of lewd conduct and one count of indecent exposure for allegedly exposing himself and masturbating in front of several people, including children, Friday on the south steps of City Hall, said prosecutors with the L.A. city attorney’s office.

London is having its share of “occupation,” with a twist. In order to preserve the peace, the London police arrested 170 members of a group that is trying to preserve the English way of life, and left the occupiers to continue to occupy outside St. Paul’s Cathedral? In another twist, the leader of a group that was planning to come to the “colonies”/USA, to preach the virtues of Shariah Law, but canceled his trip, has had his group virtually disbanded. Not to worry though – he is going to “discuss options for a new group with colleagues.”

Is lewd conduct especially involving children on the way to becoming a national pastime? In Chicago a teacher is accused of masturbating in class? Why is it when I read these stories involving usually men and children, that the word “castration” comes to mind? I really lose my usual good nature when it comes to these types of situations!  Mr. “Masturbator” is an ordained minister? Was his degree obtained in the “University of Masturbation”?

Could the passage of this US House vote to carry concealed weapons be an antidote to not only acknowledged violent crimes, but also the violence perpetrated against children? Say an adult carrying a concealed weapon, with a permit of course, happens upon a pervert molesting a kid, and instinctively thinks that it is a robbery, and defends the kid by shooting at the robber’s “weapon of childhood destruction”? Were I on the jury, I would find the defender not guilty of anything.

The teacher in this other article appears to be engaging in another type of “robbery” against his students. Math teacher lets students buy grades? Math and I had such a stormy relationship when I was in high school, that I may have been tempted, except for the fact that I had, and still do, the old fashioned notion that I wanted to earn my grades, by using my noggin. I have never heard such a thing as a teacher selling grades.

He is essentially robbing those students twice – once, because he is taking their money, and twice, because he is letting them loose on society without the required ability to solve problems, as indicated by their supposed grades. They get into college based on those grades, not on their ability. They lose and society loses. I hope no future doctors were in the group. The other troubling issue is that this man was teaching with “arrests and jail time”? The following paragraph is priceless:

School officials reported that Spires did, however, turn down an offer of $200 from a senior to change her quarter grade from a B to an A, because of the fact that grades had already been recorded

He was not as enterprising as he could have been. He should have found a way to get to those grades and change that B to an A and collect that $200. L

I did not know about this new wave of Russian emigration. That is not a good sign for Russia, is it? The following makes these new émigrés appear as if they are taking a hiatus:

They don't leave like their predecessors of the Soviet 1970s and '80s, with no intention to return. They don't sell their apartments, dachas and cars. They simply lock the door, go to the airport and quietly leave.

I know where those Russian émigrés can hang out for a spell. They can come to the US, get residency, then citizenship and join the top ten wealthiest members of Congress! They will have to make the right financial decision in choosing their political party. J

What the heck? Australia employing "carbon cops" to intimidate businesses into not telling the truth about its new carbon tax? I would never have believed this could happen in Australia. I heard the US president calling the leader of Australia by her first name. I hope that they have not become carbon buddies. Do we already have carbon cops here, and just do not know it? Ok, I can relax. The answer is provided here:

Since he's dropped in for 26 hours, US President Barack Obama could explain to his new best friend Julia Gillard why he decided not to impose a carbon tax on his ailing economy. Or why Canada has prudently ruled out a carbon scheme, and New Zealand is scaling its back and China and India continue to sit on their hands. Durban will be fun.

This article discusses Hollywood and its machinations, but it may as well be about DC. I love the following “confession”:

When I was manipulating the media for profit I was blatantly obvious about my attention-seeking antics, with the goal of making money off stories and photos. I never thought I was putting one over on the audience/viewer/reader. That is why I love Celebrity Inc. because where Speidi was the obvious fame loving duo, this book exposes that everyone making significant money in Hollywood is doing everything Speidi did in the past -- only they do it in secret. We made our money the same way everyone in Hollywood makes money, we just never tried to cover it up.

Folks, that is enough about “reality” for one day. I don’t want you to get to the stage where you feel you need to bathe in Clorox just to get the stench from reading about the “newsmakers,” living “large and in charge” at your expense. I have to run now and come up with an idea to “manipulate the media for profit.” Maybe I can file for papers for political office? J

“What the heck is going on”? 

This is my daily round up of all of the stories that are sent to me through FaceBook, Twitter and e-mails. These stories will be the ones that I find interesting or informative.

Warning: The sarcasm meter is off the charts!

The world is going crazy and while it is in the process of so doing, and before it reaches its final destination, of “CrazyLand,” I am going to continue to be informed.  Feel free to join me, but be warned, as Margo Channing memorably declared in “All About Eve” – “Fasten your seat belts. It is going to be a bumpy night” – or day!

Variations of verbiage for today:

Great to begin with some good news about one of “my” Marines! "New York's newest hero" Kevin Hiltunen, former NYPD officer and former Marine, demonstrated to an occupier, the art of “sorting,” as “his jacket and tie barely mussed after dragging the scruffy protestor out on his rear end.” “Scruffy protestor,” meet a real man. Mr. Hiltunen practically used just one hand. The protestor/occupier is very fortunate. He was not treated as if in a combat situation. Go and sin no more, occupier. Better yet, occupy a cubicle with a job where you will be paid to “occupy.” Don’t forget that you will also be expected to work.

I might as well continue with the exploits of the occupiers. Matt Kibbe gives us his take on the “violence, destruction and disrespect at Occupy Wall Street.” He might be onto something. The occupiers are now calling for a day of action. Haven’t they had enough “action” with all of the raping, pillaging, defecating, and assaulting? I guess the words of one demonstrator that “on the 17^th, we’re going to burn New York City to the ground,” foretells the “action” planned?  Let us see if the mayor elected to run the city of New York is going to stand by while the city burns.

In a way, the US economy could “burn down” if the deficit super committee does not come to some kind of agreement? The super committee is now deadlocked and the two heads of the Congress are meeting. I have an idea. Why have just one super committee? Have a super committee of different ideologies. For example, have a super committee of those politicians just along for the ride, and really don’t care about the outcome, as long as they get a paycheck and pension. Have another super committee of those who can be expected to be for a plan – before they were not for it. Have another one for those who know that they are only in Congress until that lobbyist job becomes available. Scratch my idea. There are already those committees in place. They just do not have a name tag identifying them as such, as they are made up of individuals and caucuses. J

A funny thing happened on the way to the government foray into car manufacturing. A bailout was put in place, with high expectations that with more money, something like putting lipstick on a pig, the bailed out automakers would make obscene profits. It is not quite working out like that. US boosts estimate of auto bailout losses to $23.6B. This is $9 billion more than the original estimate. It appears that GM is making those autos but the public is seeing “pig in poke”? That is a shame. The government went beyond putting lipstick on the pig. It added heavy mascara and eye shadow. Maybe some heavy eyeliner, next time? L

What? The Oracle of Omaha helped shape bailout rules then made massive profits from them? Is the Oracle taking on students? I am willing to learn. The only problem is that we have so many laws already, that maybe there isn’t room for any more. Who am I kidding? With that combination of lawyers, lawyers/politicians, lobbyists, lobbyists/politicians, just in DC alone – there will never be sufficient laws. Let us enjoy our God-given freedom to breathe – while we can.

I hope that this is not another Solyndra in the making. Robert Kennedy Jr.'s green company scored 1.4 billion in taxpayer bailout? Darn! Why do I not have those types of connections? I can set up a green company. I do not have the foggiest notion about all of this green stuff, except familiarity with the US dollar that used to be green. But, that should not preclude me from setting up a company and getting a bailout, if Solyndra and the other less than successful companies that received bailouts, provide the standard for receiving loans. Should it? J

Good news! The suspected White House shooter is in custody.  Notice how many names these suspected criminals usually have? This one has four. Maybe there is a connection between the mental state of these folks and being saddled with so many names? Thank God that protective glass is in place. I think that President Obama is the worst president in the history of the world, but I do not want anything happening to him and/or his family. God gave life to them, we cannot let evil take those lives.

More good news! Gibson Guitars is reporting that Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin is being proposed for knighthood. I am all for that.  Although I claim to be 23, I still love the oldies such as Stairway to Heaven. Ah, the good old days, when men had hair longer than women, and were slim enough to show their pecs plus!

I better clarify that last statement before my friends organize an intervention. I am not advocating that men should go around parading their assets, and leave nothing to the imagination. We are seeing too much these days as it is, from both sexes. That “too much” is having the opposite effect on me. Instead of an attractive man, I see a side of beef as in a slaughter house on television, when a television show has an almost "take it all off" scene. I avert my eyes.

But, enough of my dislikes – your break is over. Return to keeping “eternal vigilance” on the “corruptocrats” who want to destroy this country. That is an order! I almost forgot. If you are in the vicinity of any occupiers for tomorrow’s day of “action,” I would carry an umbrella and galoshes. J

“What the heck is going on”? 

This is my daily round up of all of the stories that are sent to me through FaceBook, Twitter and e-mails. These stories will be the ones that I find interesting or informative.

Warning: The sarcasm meter is off the charts!

The world is going crazy and while it is in the process of so doing, and before it reaches its final destination, of “CrazyLand,” I am going to continue to be informed.  Feel free to join me, but be warned, as Margo Channing memorably declared in “All About Eve” – “Fasten your seat belts. It is going to be a bumpy night” – or day!

Variations of verbiage for today:

May as well get the filth out of the way, with the story of the power washing of the park where the Wall Street Occupiers were holed up. In other news, one protestor is on video defecating on a public street. I see a new reality show. Although there appears to be a reality show for every unreal situation, (unreal is not a misprint), there is not yet one about variations of defecation. The show could be named “Variations of (use the shorter word, beginning with letter “S,” for defecation). L

I made a big mistake when I first came to this country. I did not realize the money and power in unionization. I declined applying for jobs that were union. I am paying the price. The Nurses Union is on the case! It paid for nurses from Maine to Miami, to bolster the case of the occupiers. I wonder of these folks realize that if the US is “fundamentally transformed” from a constitutional republic, to anarchy, socialism, or any of the other failed ideologies, the days of unlimited money (in their coffers), will be over.

On the subject of unlimited money, the US government sure has plenty of it. It is subsidizing millionaires and billionaires? I am not blaming those millionaires and billionaires, by any means. I would have taken advantage of Santa US government, if I had any financial smarts. I failed “financial smarts” by my stubborn insistence on “making my own way.” Look where that got me – certainly not having a subsidized farm. I did have vague dreams of having a ranch where dogs that were about to be put in a gas chamber, could find refuge. Alas, it was not to be. Scottie, Ted and Jon, take my share and yours! J

Some billionaires and millionaires are going to be on a long vacation if this NBA situation is not resolved. Quite frankly, I do not care one way or another. I believe that employers and employees should be free to agree on whatever salary they care to. Both sides know that they have a “captive” audience, ready to work however many jobs to be able to take in a game or two, and even splurge to buy the overpriced snacks. As long as there are those faithful fans, willing to shell out the bucks to enable the lifestyles of the “rich and talented,” why not? It is a lot like the “captive taxpayer” of the municipal, state and federal government. We are so well trained, we make seals look outright rebellious. Good luck all. Those faithful fans will be waiting, ready to clean out their wallets, whenever you return.

I wonder what would happen if those fans lost their faithfulness for about half a season. What would happen to the bottom line of that enterprise? J

When I first began reading this story about the Massachusetts law professor, who described care packages for US troops as shameful, my first instinct was to be angry. I was upset that Professor Avery, safely ensconced in his nice office, could bloviate as follows:

"I think it is shameful that it is perceived as legitimate to solicit in an academic institution for support for men and women who have gone overseas to kill other human beings," Avery wrote.

I calmed down. It is his right, absolutely. The professor looks well fed. It helps to not have to live on MREs. I wonder what would be the reaction of the good professor, if US troops were not sent overseas to “kill other human beings,” and were kept here, with strict orders not to retaliate if those human beings who have warned us that they mean to kill us, come here to carry out their promise. What if they begin their “mission” at his university, at his office?  No. I am not wishing any harm on the professor. I am glad for him, as I am for all of us, that he lives in a land where he can denigrate the same troops who are providing his means to live his lifestyle. Prof, “freedom is not free.” You have mooched off of these troops a long time. The least you can do is shut the heck up! Oops. I lost my sanguinity for a moment. Keep speaking, Prof.  The rest of us will pick up the slack with those care packages.

This is not good. Instead of “outrage,” my first reaction at reading this story was to chuckle.Does my reaction mean that I have finally lost the last shred of respect for certain government/political institutions and folks?  Supreme Court Justine Elena Kagan thought that the passage of Obamacare was “simply amazing”? Then, she gets anointed (not a misprint), to the highest court in the land, where she gets to rule on the same Obamacare, and has refused to recuse herself? The important question for me is: Was she waving pompoms when she celebrated the passage of said care?J

Oh, oh, this is not good. There he goes again! The US president is making comments about the Chinese Yuan, the surrogate currency of the US, and China state media slams him over yuan remarks? I would take this advice to heart:

"For the United States, it should put its house in order before chiding others," Xinhua added, accusing US politicians of putting the race for votes before the "serious domestic problems" of excessive spending and rising unemployment.

In light of the Chinese “investment” in America, Mr. President, please walk softly and carry a carrot – or title to the property in which you live!

Carrots, arugula, and other healthy foods – the province of the first lady! Mrs. Obama is advising poor folks to eat steak and arugula? Does she know the cost of these items? I know from experience that when the cupboard is bare and the wallet is even leaner, neither steak nor arugula will be on the menu. Those dreaded carbs go a lot longer until wallet has a meeting of the minds and month, with a paycheck. If Mrs. Obama is going to give out free steak and arugula, I will be willing to travel to DC, although I would prefer to have a healthy pizza, with tons of pepperoni! J

There are the Chinese getting all puffed up over the president’s remarks. We Americans should be downright apoplectic at the latest “terms of endearment.” Per President Obama:

We’ve been a little bit lazy over the last couple of decades. We’ve kind of taken for granted — ‘Well, people would want to come here’ — and we aren’t out there hungry, selling America and trying to attract new businesses into America."

I agree with the president, except for time frame and degree of laziness. We were a lot lazy  about three years ago when, instead of doing proper research, we got drunk on “hope and change” – and elected him! We have been picking up the tab ever since, and not even getting a smoke, or steak and arugula! L

Ok folks, stop reading now and go out there and get a fourth job, if you can find one. You have lifestyles (political, entertainment, judicial, the bureaucracy), of the rich and famous, to support! J

“What the heck is going on"?

This is my daily round up of all of the stories that are sent to me through FaceBook, Twitter and e-mails. These stories will be the ones that I find interesting or informative.

Warning: The sarcasm meter is off the charts!

The world is going crazy and while it is in the process of so doing, and before it reaches its final destination, of “CrazyLand,” I am going to continue to be informed.  Feel free to join me, but be warned, as Margo Channing memorably declared in “All About Eve” – “Fasten your seat belts. It is going to be a bumpy night” – or day!

Variations of verbiage for today:

I was being slightly facetious in mentioning that the world is going crazy. Maybe I used the wrong tense, and the journey is complete. Who can explain the absolutely incomprehensible things going on?

Beginning with the political scene in the US, who would have thought that corruption, actual and alleged, could have been so woven into the fabric of political life? Former Washington lobbyist Jack Abramoff has done his time, and although he is not quite naming names and all numbers, he too has written a book. It is ironic that Mr. Abramoff did not play the stock market. Aren’t members of Congress exempt from insider trading laws, as they are exempt from all of the other innumerable laws that they pass for the serfs to live by?

Speaking of laws, I may have to return to kerosene lamp for lighting, if those rip off light bulbs become the only choice. I was in a store looking for one 60 watt bulb. I would have settled for a pack of two, for about two bucks for the pack. It was not to be – almost. I saw a display of light bulbs with all kinds of fancy descriptions, and even fancier prices. I am not paying almost twenty five dollars for a few light bulbs. I managed to snag a pack of four light bulbs for under three dollars. These were on the opposite side of the aisle, away from the fancy priced ones. Maybe I should stop writing this article and run back out and gather up the rest of that collection! J

Still on the subject of Abramoff, insider trading and members of Congress, there appears to be some “fudging” by a Democratic senator? He returned the cash but maybe he did not return it? I think instead of playing the stock market, some enterprising bookie should set up a business betting on how and when political corruption, especially in DC, will rear its ugly head in a given time frame?

Obama Administration “has aggressively pushed a $433-million plan to buy an experimental small pox drug, despite uncertainty over whether it is needed or will work.” Could the pox that this deal involves be “spending (out of control) pox”? Once again the United Suckers (taxpayers) of America could be picking up the tab for the US version of Caligula? When the “party” comes to an end, we may have to issue an apology to Caligula, Nero, Sodom and Gomorrah. Again I repeat, if I see a politician and a dog drowning, I will attempt to rescue the dog, although I cannot swim, and the dog probably can.

Folks of this generation, you will have some ‘splaining to do to your progeny about how you jumped in that hope and change conga line and led the country that they should be inheriting, almost over a financial cliff. You were driving the bus. You just did not realize that your GPS was deliberately incorrectly programmed? To quote one of the players in this small pox saga, “"I trust this will be satisfactory to you.”

Some are having quite a bit of fun at the expense of VP Biden as the video circulates that “he called Jon Corzine for advice.” I am coming to the defense of the VP. He is not psychic. How could he have known back then what we now know? Hindsight is indeed 20/20. L

Do we need a deficit super committee? This is sounding/resembling Soviet super committees b the minute. This super committee was set up with a lot of fan fair, now it is going to kick the proverbial can down the road? Is anyone really in charge?

I have to come out in support of Madame Pelosi in her battle with 60 Minutes! A person of the skills of Mrs. Pelosi, would not engage in “soft corruption,” or pimp her position. She is such a fierce warrior, that had she engaged in any corruption, it would be “hardcore!” I am seeing a conspiracy here. Is Madame outliving her usefulness? Moreover, even if she did engage in any type of corruption, wasn’t she within the laws that Congress set up for the rest of us to follow, while making itself exempt? You go, Congress! If you have a situation where the "sheeple" have to follow the rules while you guard the hen house, why not? J

Back in the real world – here is a cautionary tale for all of us who still have visions of trying to live the American dream of home ownership. This man should know. He is a financial pro who lost his own home. It is good to know that he, his wife, and the business are doing much better.

I am pretty much done with Occupy Whatever, but this Frank Miller perspective was just too interesting to pass up. Three different sources sent it. That is proof that it is making an impact and making the rounds! No one can accuse Mr. Miller of being “polite.”

Was about to move on, but this just in! Occupy Portland was going to be in for a hot time? This incident provides even more evidence for Mr. Miller’s summation. Go home folks. The members of the 1% whom you are deriding are still the ones providing many jobs. Many of us in your 99% designation, want nothing to do with you. We have our disagreement with the way the country is being run, but we do not want to see it destroyed. We want it to be returned to its roots of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” You are negatively affecting the lives of many in the 99%, including those who have been raped, killed, or assaulted in your conclaves. If I were an employer, I would not hire you.

I am probably done with the Penn State imbroglio except to say that I cannot get thoughts of castration from  my list of one suggestion for the punishment of perverts and abusers who prey on the defenseless – children and the elderly. This nation must do a better job of protecting these two groups, from the cowards who take out their sense of inferiority on them.

I hope that from this, the lesson that is learned, is to put the safety of kids first before other considerations. This was not done, or done quickly enough, and now an institution that used to have a great reputation, is in shambles. A coach with the most wins in college football, is probably going to spend what should be his golden years, pondering how this all went so wrong.  In a sense, this could be a microcosm of US society. We have strayed so far from the ideals, tenets and structure of what made this country great, that its demise seems almost inevitable or preordained.

Maybe this next situation is yet another example of what I previously stated about the demise of the country. Let me see if I can make sense of it. A judge rules that a school can ban American Flag shirts, in an American school, on a Mexican holiday? This is not a Mexican school in Mexico? If I were a student of Mexican origin or loyalty, I would take offense, at this apparent slur. Is the judge stating that students with Mexican affiliations are so rabid that the sight of an American Flag will cause them to foam at the mouth – and bite? I am witnessing this country destroy itself and cannot believe what is unfolding.

Speaking of “destruction,” here is an interesting article about Gibson Guitar, hanging in there, despite government attempts to “destroy” it.  I am not a guitar player, but I enjoy the music of guitar greats of all genres of music. Bureaucrats, lay off Gibson, unless it is a personal vendetta on your part, because you realize, that even with a Gibson, ya’ll will never measure up! J

That's it folks. Those of you who believe in the power of prayer, continue to pray for this country. Maybe, despite our best attempts to denigrate Him, God is still willing to listen to our pleas.
 

Yes, how did the US get so lucky – to enjoy the gift of the caliber of troops who protect this country? “Lucky” is probably not the correct word to be used. “Blessed” is more appropriate.  The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob divinely assisted this country in being formed. Yes, I know the old mantra about “separation of church and state.” That does not mean separation of God from state. He allowed the caliber of men of the will and wisdom of the Founding Fathers to put this all together.  

He continues to allow the US to be blessed with the caliber of men such as Louie Zamperini, World War II Veteran. I read this account of the achievements and service of Mr. Zamperini, on Christmas Day 2010. Ironically, I was reading this article as the CD player was playing Christmas carols, including “Rose of Bethlehem,” exquisitely performed by Selah.  I was reading about the brutality of the Japanese soldiers, juxtaposed with the beautiful music and lyrics of those Christmas carols, with my eyes misting over, and quite frankly revenge on my mind.

I wanted to metaphorically, take whatever was handy, and whack chief torturer Watanable across the midsection. But, I quickly replaced those thoughts with thoughts of gratitude for the blessings since enjoyed by Mr. Zamperini.  Watanabe was simply acting out his own inner sense of inferiority by torturing defenseless prisoners. Watanabe has long gone on to his just reward. Zamperini is living his just rewards with more to come when he departs this life. Zamperini was “born for this.”  Just when I thought that I was running out of heroes, on that Christmas Day, I found another.

During Mr. Zamperini’s time in service, enlisted men were considered “cannon fodder.” Maybe they are no longer fodder for cannons, but could be fodder for politicians and bureaucrats who continue to use and abuse them. That will never change. What have we here? I think that I have the first supporting argument for my “thesis.”  When I first saw this Diane West article about the “geographical trajectory” of spit and pee by Marines, I thought that it had to be a spoof. Has this “spit and pee” procedure replaced “spit and polish”?

I wonder what is the cost per “insurgent” killed in Afghanistan when divided by the billions poured into that country, and the human cost of US and Coalition troops. Marines, make sure that you get your piss and spit in the right direction. That could be more important than the trajectory of a bullet used to kill an “insurgent.”

 I think that I may be incorrect about the unimportance of the trajectory of a bullet. Michael Behenna , Army Ranger, is on the wrong side of the trajectory – of a court decision, precisely because expert witness on the trajectory of the bullet that killed the enemy, is not considered important enough, to be allowed into the trial testimony.  In my humble opinion, Mr. Behenna and his family are an inspiring example of an American family. They have endured what many of us would not have. Had I any artistic ability, I would have done a Norman Rockwell type painting of that family. All I can do is simply say “thank you” – for showing the rest of us how “grace under pressure” looks.

How was your day today? This article was on my Twitter page on Thursday 1/27/11. I saved it to remind me, as I have previously asked – how did we get so lucky, or blessed? I will remember the following, next time I think that I am having a bad day:

What you should consider the most when you look into the shaken eyes and the thousand yard stare of this combat veteran, is that HE volunteered to have all those “bad days”, so that YOUR bad days would look nothing at all like his.

"One Simple War Story" gives us a look into the Vietnam War. I did not know that this war had its own version of the IED. I held my head in my hand and had to take a break from reading each account of death of soldiers after soldiers. We back in “Civilian Land” take pains to try not to age in years. Here was this young soldier, aging in seconds, prior to his near death experience:

I felt myself aging. I recall with vivid clarity, thinking, “When the guys see me later, they’ll know that I’m older.” Believe me, when years seem to pass in seconds, the individual feels it.

How did some of their fellow citizens welcome home W. Paul Hughes and other troops? I know the ticker tape parades were “missing in (in)action.” The spit, without the polish, was in full supply.  Those fellow citizens spit on those troops. Some of those fellow citizens even openly supported the enemy, and still continue to be lauded and worshipped.

In case any of us are mistaken about who is really holding this country afloat, let me mix metaphors and burst your bubble. It is not the “decision-makers.” Without those troops to lend force to the decisions, how long would the decision makers last in their well-appointed offices, absent the cannon fodder?  I wonder if those who make the “executive” decisions to send these men and women to war, have even one clue of what is involved in actual combat. Maybe we need to have each member of Congress and the president, spend at least one week on the frontlines, sans all of the usual Secret Service protection, expected to carry his or her weight in weapons and other gear, and expected to fight for survival.

It appears that even when our troops do their jobs, those who profit the most from the “borrowed” glory, tend to not quite get the story right? Chuck Pfarrer, a former SEAL is putting forth his version of events of when bin Laden got dispatched to the mythical 72 virgins, in his book “ Seal Target Geronimo: The Inside Story of the Mission to Kill Osama Bin Laden.” In this Yahoo.com report, the official version is described as a "fairy tale."

So, who are we civilians to believe? A presumably battle scarred Vet, or those who lead from their offices? Officialdom and “political-dom” have so eroded my confidence in their kingdom, that unless, they come up with irrefutable proof, from sources I consider untainted, I am going with the Vet.  The following paragraphs sum up the “credit taking,” “leaking orifices, and “operational ignorance”:

But Obama’s announcement, he said, “rendered moot all of the intelligence that was gathered from the nexus of al-Qaida. The computer drives, the hard drives, the videocasettes, the CDs, the thumb drives, everything. Before that could even be looked through, the political decision was made to take credit for the operation.”

And in the days that followed, as politicians sought to thrust their identities into the details of the bin Laden kill, the tale began to grow out of control, said Pfarrer.

“The president made a statement, and as far as that goes, that was fine, that was the mission statement,” he explained. “But, soon after … politicians began leaking information from every orifice. And it was like a game of Chinese telephone. These guys didn’t know what they were talking about. Very few of them had even seen the video feed.”

Pfarrer suggests that much of the misinformation was likely born out of operational ignorance, even among those sitting in the White House.

This sounds like a textbook description of “political-dom,” especially the information leaking from every orifice! I am still searching for answers how, so conveniently, about two months or so, after bin Laden was dumped into the sea, that some members of the SEAL Team, who helped him to that destination, were killed by the enemy.

What have we here? "Panetta weighs military cuts once thought out of bounds”? It appears that medical and retirement benefits, “once thought sacrosanct,” are on the chopping block, as well as shrinkage of troops, and reduction of the purchasing of new weapons. I hope that the enemy is also undertaking a similar “reduction.”  Already, according to this Reuter’s article, “more than 15 percent of Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans were unemployed in January.” This stat is “far higher than the national jobless rate.”

When I first read this article, back in February of this year, I was incensed, and decided to save it for inclusion in this article. Former Army Staff Sergeant Anthony Maschek, wounded Iraq Vet, and now Columbia University freshman, was jeered by some of his fellow students, fellow students who were enjoying the Ivy League atmosphere of Columbia, while he was in Iraq getting shot up. I would be honored to be in the same room as Mr. Maschek, unworthy though I am. As for those who booed and jeered, I wish them wisdom, that one day, they may awake from their stupor and realize that, as he tried to warn them: . "There are bad men out there plotting to kill you."

Kudos to his fiancée Angela O’Neill for standing by her man!

I have been hearing about these drone attacks, a good way to kill the enemy, minimizing the involvement of US troops. I did not realize the seemingly scattered areas of operation involved in the use of the drone, until I read this Los Angeles Times article about a drone attack on US troops, who were mistaken for the enemy. From California, to Nevada, to Indiana, to Afghanistan, coordination was needed in order to ensure that the intended targets were hit. The coordination broke down and two Americans lost their lives. I know about “friendly fire” and that mistakes will happen. Did this have to happen?

Remains of war dead dumped in landfill did not brighten my mood. Bin Laden at least got his body dumped at sea, and our troops get dumped in a landfill? The good news is that “officials have since abandoned (landfill dumping) in favor of burial at sea.”

Once upon a time, there was apparently a politically incorrect US general who did not get the memo to replace the fatigue glasses with some nice rose colored glasses, and lie. US general fired for verbal attack on Karzai , was the result of that failure to receive the non-existent memo? I know. Persons in positions of authority, especially when representing the US government, should be circumspect in speech and behavior, if nothing else. But, I cannot help applauding that general for at least having the courage to speak his mind, knowing that his words would be published, instead of having his true feelings exposed by an open microphone.
 
I seem to recall his C-I-C having an open microphone about that commander’s true feelings about the leader of Israel. The C-I-C did not get fired. Why the double standard. Moreover, didn’t Karzai make it absolutely clear which side he would be on in a US versus Pakistan conflict? It was not the side of the US. General Fuller, if I had the money, I would place you on retainer to poke a few eyes with a needle!

These two articles left me with a warm feeling in my heart, and almost succeeded in tamping down my ire, at the treatment of some of our troops.   Eli, the bomb-sniffing dog, of Pfc. Colton Rusk, is being adopted by Eli’s “grandparents,” Darrell and Kathy Rusk. Although I am happy for Eli, I have to be honest and confess that I felt a bolt of anger at the death of a troop, barely into his twenties, at the hands of the cowards, who are going to be taking over Afghanistan. Technically, the Karzai government is taking over. In reality?

Cena and Drake, dogs of servicewoman Britney Monroe, with the Army National Guard, have found a foster home, where they will be cared for by 12-year old Raphael Pennell and two of his sisters. I had never heard of the organization Guardian Angels for Soldier’s Pets, until I read this article. Awesome!

Also awesome is Applebee's  “Thank You Movement to show Veterans and Troops the appreciation they deserve!” Country music star Rodney Atkins, singer of one of my favorite country music songs Going Through Hell,  is spearheading the efforts! I pray to God that our troops who are “going through hell,” may get out before “the devil even knows” that they are there.

What would be a Veterans Day without The Warrior Song?

Here are just a few of the organizations that help our troops:

USO

Semper Fi Fund

Move America Forward

Soldiers Angels

Wish Upon A Hero

God bless our troops! God bless America!

“What the heck is going on”? 

This is my daily round up of all of the stories that are sent to me through FaceBook, Twitter and e-mails. These stories will be the ones that I find interesting or informative.

Warning: The sarcasm meter is off the charts!

The world is going crazy and while it is in the process of so doing, and before it reaches its final destination, of “CrazyLand,” I am going to continue to be informed.  Feel free to join me, but be warned, as Margo Channing memorably declared in “All About Eve” – “Fasten your seat belts. It is going to be a bumpy night” – or day!

Variations of verbiage for today:

Beginning with the good stuff – Happy 236^th  Birthday “My” Marines! For those unfamiliar with my claim to the Marines, here is a synopsis. One day, in a mood of retrospection, I took a look at myself and realized that I was/am an undisciplined coward. The saying that “opposites attract” is somewhat correct in this scenario, except that I am the only one with the attraction, and  I am definitely opposite. Although I totally admire the Marines for their bravery, physical fitness, exquisite dress blues, and I could keep going, I am not fit to carry their boots. J

Poor Turkey. At least this earthquake was far less destructive then the recent one. Still,  any loss of life is tragic.

An earthquake of a different configuration, hit Penn State. This too will have aftershocks and damage long after the initial eruption. Students are rioting because of the abrupt firing of Coach Joe Paterno. I am wavering between starting a petition to have castration become the punishment for molestation of children,  leaving vengeance in God’s hands, and justice in the hands of the justice system.  The following sums up what many of us are probably feeling:

"I'm shocked that in the name of saving the prestige of a football program, young children were raped and it was covered up," she said. "I got teary-eyed just saying that."

At TheStir.CafeMom, one question that is being asked is what did the wife know. When I heard about the story, for whatever reason, I automatically assumed that this man was not married. I guess I was looking through the narrow lenses of my thinking that no spouse could be allegedly feasting on boys with a wife waiting at home. Then I found out that he has six adopted children? I wonder of what gender and what is their status.

This story is going to be one of how one man not only allegedly raped young boys, but ultimately raped the reputation of an institution and an icon. Maybe something can be learned from this. When an underling walks in on an “unusual” scene, call the police/911. Actually, take whatever deterrent is close at hand, and stop the act, something like taking a fire extinguisher and trying to put out a fire. No jury would convict a person trying to put out the fire of rape, I would think.

I almost wanted to label this article “sex, lies and videotape,” except that description does not fit. There is no sex in the tale of the e-mails about Solyndra. There is no videotape. But, could there be lies? Who does one believe anymore? These hotshots meet and greet, wheel and deal, and we get screwed?  I like this exchange:

"BTW, a couple of weeks ago, when Ken and I were visiting with a group of Administration folks in DC who are in charge of the stimulus process (White House, not DOE) and Solyndra came up, every one of them responded simultaneously about their thorough knowledge of the Solyndra story, suggesting it was one of their prime poster children

Mr. BTW should have been a psychic. Solyndra has indeed become a “prime poster” child! But, of course, many who should be informing “we the people” will try their best to ensure that it does not continue to be.

Forgive me ahead of time, but I have to use this cliché. This situation could be a recipe for disaster for Chef Mario Batali. Occupy Wall Street is working the bankers, and the bankers are working Chef Mario. This could be a classic case of “mouth opened (of its own volition), and story jumped out.” I have a suggestion for Chef Mario. If those bankers in the 1%, succeed in driving away a lot of business, he may want to consider trucking in free food to the 5% in the 99%. He should be careful though. There could be repercussions if the free food is stopped.

This is definitely a feel good story: Immigrant entrepreneurs succeed without English. Here we have English-speaking immigrants working to immerse themselves in Americana, when all they had to do was to move here, make sure that they do not speak English, and amass a fortune? I missed the boat on that one. I came here speaking flawless English, and writing it, if I say so myself, and I have not amassed a fortune? May I have a redo? I am glad for anyone, English-speaking or not, who succeeds in this life.

However, the message that I am getting is that immigrants can come here, have no desire to become American, but want to be economically robust. They set up their own private enclaves and succeed beyond belief, even while the rest of the country is falling around them? What happens next, to them and to the fortunes?  I guess that they will keep doing as Mr. Sanchez did:

For Mr. Sanchez, who became an American citizen in 1985, one anxious moment came when he had to pass his naturalization test. The law requires that applicants be able to read, write and speak basic English.

But Mr. Sanchez and other entrepreneurs said that the test, at least at the time they took it, had been rudimentary and that they had muddled through it.

Maybe my pride in becoming a US citizen, passing that “rudimentary” exam, and waving the Flag, was no big deal after all? Now if those tests in college could be made “rudimentary” the graduation rate could quintuple, and those new graduates can go on to amass their own fortunes, and not have to Occupy Wall Street and all over the US?

Los Angeles Times columnist Steve Lopez’ article Librarian's words are binding is a sobering look at the future of libraries, and maybe why we all may no longer need English to amass a fortune. I will be the last person visiting the library, if it comes to that. I am an Internet faithful, but that does not mean that I feel that libraries should go the way of the dinosaurs.

Can we be sure that Christmas trees will not be joining the dinosaurs – or libraries, any time soon? White House sidelines Christmas tree tax could be the best Black Friday news! “Some” in the industry who supported this new board and tax may need historical glasses. Their idea of “promotion” in the hands of government, could have soon turned into coercion. As for me, I am done with the real trees. The fake trees do not need watering. The leaves are not shed. There is even a fake scent to make them smell real. With so much else in life that is becoming fake, why not Christmas trees? “Got milk, Christmas trees”? J

Now, can we also bypass the inevitable attacks on Christmas, when those who are unhappy with their lives, strive to force us to join them in “Unhappiness Lane.” We want to be in Candy Cane Lane and celebrating Christmas. They want us to drop the “C” word. I pass. I am a Christmas kind of gal. Merry Christmas, ya’ll!

“What the heck is going on”? 

This is my daily round up of all of the stories that are sent to me through FaceBook, Twitter and e-mails. These stories will be the ones that I find interesting or informative.

Warning: The sarcasm meter is off the charts!

The world is going crazy and while it is in the process of so doing, and before it reaches its final destination, of “CrazyLand,” I am going to continue to be informed.  Feel free to join me, but be warned, as Margo Channing memorably declared in “All About Eve” – “Fasten your seat belts. It is going to be a bumpy night” – or day!

Variations of verbiage for today:

So, how did the government takeover of the airwaves go? I turned on both television and radio and heard the message being read while the message was scrolling across the television set. YAWN…..Oops, I dozed off there. I am still wondering what is the real “back story.”

While the government was taking over the airwaves, because it can, life was going on, and this news that gasoline prices could soar to "record highs" is alarming. I put gas in my car, drive from the gas station to my first destination post fill up, and I have already used a quarter tank. OK, that was a slight exaggeration.

Here I am worried about the potential increase in the price of gasoline, when this story makes the price of gas look like chump change? What the heck is the Palestinian Investment Fund? It is being debated whether The US Treasury should sanction it?  I guess the following paragraph tells me a lot:

The Palestine News and Information Agency WAFA reported over the weekend that Palestinian Authority president Mahmoud Abbas has tapped the Palestinian Investment Fund (PIF) to build houses for the prisoners released in the October exchange that freed Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, whom Hamas had held for five years. Recipients will include convicted members of Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and the al Aqsa Martyrs Brigades.

Are US taxpayers helping or primarily financing this lifestyle? If the US Treasury is underwriting this, what happens to the millions of Americans who are homeless, without work, without food, the ability to shack up in “the al-Mashtal Hotel, the only five-star accommodations in Gaza—and another PIF property”? In America, charity does not begin at home.

Meanwhile in the general area, a completely different scenario is playing out, and this prisoner is not going to have a home built for him. In Iran, the authorities are “pressuring a jailed Christian pastor to convert to Islam”? In a previous post, I stated that the pastor should not give in. I know that it is easy for me to dispense such advice from the relative safety of where I am. However, my advice is still the same. Pastor, do not give up your eternal salvation for those mythical 72 virgins!

Now, here is a man who is not giving in! So far, Attorney General Holder is not apologizing for “Fast and Furious” or for the death of  Border Patrol Agent Terry, according to this report. Mr. Holder, you refuse to budge. Why should you apologize that the US Government is in the gun-running business, and one of those guns in the “program,” is alleged to have killed a US Border Patrol Agent? You may not have apologized to the family of Agent Terry, but you do “regret” the incident. I am sure that you also regret that Agent Terry and his fellow agents were “armed” with non lethal weapons, right? I am glad that I am not related to Agent Terry.  My sanguinity would have been parked at the door of the hearing.

It appears that it is indeed open season on Border Patrol agents. The latest agent to be imprisoned for doing his job, now has to hear from prison that "government fines jailed Border Patrol agent's family." That ought to get the message out to Border Patrol agents. Do your job, and you could either be killed by a gun from your gun-running government, or jailed, and the coup de grace being, your family fined?

I am getting such an education. The new additions to my vocabulary are the words vishing and smishing, meaning ID thieves are owning and ruining our lives. Is it time to revisit the punishment for such crimes? These are not “white collar” crimes. The perpetrators probably have some very dark collars, from all of the crime and venom pouring out of them! Have a nice talk with God.

Continuing with the theme of crime and criminals, here is a story about cyber criminals (who) hijacked 4 million computers. This one has a happy ending. These criminals were caught.

I hope that teenagers and parents get to read this story about the connection between synthetic marijuana and heart attacks. The natural stuff also affects the heart, but as is the case with the manufactured version of so many items, the risk is upped, by the synthetic version.

Some hearts may skip a beat at this news that the Agriculture Department imposes (a) Christmas tree tax. The tax is supposed to help increase the sales of natural trees? So now we have fifteen cents added to purchases, and “a new board tasked with promoting the Christmas tree industry”?  And how is this tax supposed to do this promotion? It worked! I have now made a vow to support the fake tree industry! I will not be supporting yet another board, agency, department of government. Merry Christmas, President Obama, the Christmas tree Board, and the Dept. of Agriculture, from Ms. Christmas!

Here is a nice story. Plumber turns over stash of cash. The plumber is claiming that he is not a hero:

"I think it's a shame that I should be a big hero for doing the right thing."

Mr. LaLiberte is correct. But, he is still a hero, especially in the context of a society that is losing its grip on morality. Even a few years ago, what he did would have been “the right thing,” and nothing more. Alas, “the times, they are a-changin’” – and not for the better. But, we keep doing what we know is right, even if difficult.

In case anyone is wondering, this post has been deliberately kept free of news of Occupy Whatever, Candidate Cain, and Penn State scandal. My recipe for prevention of all such situations, is returning to doing “the right thing.” We have traded in our moral compass for ephemeral satisfaction from sex and money. That satiety is very short-lived. May God help us – if He is not too disgusted.