Monday, December 18, 2006

Random Roundup

Today Mr. Gates was sworn in as the new Secretary of Defense. This is important to anyone who has a friend or loved one involved in the war on terror.

It doesn't really matter what we think of the war, that is for the politics section. What we need to be aware of is that it is not "Vietnam Lite", it is a deadly business and it's only getting deadlier. But, lest we think that all the news in Iraq is bad (media conspiracy anyone?)there is good news. You really have to look for it, but it's there. For the media, "if it bleeds, it leads" isn't only limited to politics or war.

Today, "Animator Joseph Barbera, half of the legendary duo of Hanna-Barbera has died. Barbera, 95, created a host of cartoon characters, from the Flintstones to the Jetsons and Tom and Jerry." -- Source

I included that because for most folks of my generation this guy was half of a team that created the shows we lived for on Saturday morning. He's right up there with Charles Shultz of Charlie Brown fame. I am really going to miss the guy.

Speaking of good news, there is a story out about how breast cancer is being fought one woman at a time. And for even more good news, Senator Tim Johnson is recovering from surgery. Politics can wait another day and we should all be pulling for his recovery.

Locally, the Marines are sprinting to the finish in thier annual "Toys for Tots" drive. For those who don't know, every year since 1949 the local Marine Reserve Unit collects donations of new, unwrapped toys to give to underprivileged kids. This has got to be the most non-judgmental charity work I ever did. Now as a retiree I am happy to donate a fair amount of toys myself even if I don't get to work the program in uniform any longer.

The year is almost done. Sprint to the finish.

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