Mark’s Musings – January 9, 2013

Mark Fortune

So much to write about, so little space. Of course, that was not the case a couple of weeks ago. As the calendar turns to a New Year, there is typically more happening in our world. There are discussions about trillion dollar coins that would somehow erase the deficit. Here is our idea. With Valentine’s Day coming up in a few weeks, let’s “coin” some chocolate coins, that, when eaten, will reduce the deficit by the face amount of the chocolate coin. There, “poof”, it’s gone just like Valentine’s Day chocolates and flowers. Speaking of flowers, support your local florists this year.

What’s this about the newspaper in New York that published a map with the names and addresses of registered handgun owners? The Journal News published the names and addresses of registered handgun owners in Westchester County and Rockland counties. Putnam County has not released the information yet. The paper covers the suburban counties outside New York City. It seems that the paper feels it has a right to get, and publish, this information under the Freedom of Information Act. Not surprisingly, the publishing of this data has led to a lot of backlash. Is this really news? Or is it more sensationalism journalism designed with one goal in mind – perhaps two – increase readership and stir up controversy. One thing is for certain, people are talking. The newspaper defended their publishing of the data due to the feedback on their website following the Newtown, Connecticut school shootings.

Now, that is not the entire story. The paper wanted more. They wanted the number and type of guns owned by those who have licenses. That request was denied.

Football playoffs? Bengals out. Browns were never in. Steelers a no show. Pick your favorite team among those who remain and let us know your Super Bowl pick. Baltimore and New England move on. Green Bay and Atlanta keep going.

The college football bowl season has wrapped up – and with this article being written on Monday before the big game – we’re picking Notre Dame. There is just something special about the Irish. My brain tells me to go with the Crimson Tide, but my heart says the “fighting’ Irish’. Must be all those times I watched Rudy.

The weather is expected to change in a big way – so be prepared for puddles and rivers of water flowing across streets, alleyways and yards.

Gas prices are down, taxes, milk, taxes, cheese, taxes, eggs, health care, taxes are going up in 2013. So the pundits say. Of course, if you are an employee, you already know that your social security deduction increased by 2% effective January 1. This is NOT an increase – it is simply the elimination of the reduction.

One thing is certain – just like in all years – 2013 will bring a host of surprises and jolts. Hang on for the ride. It could get bumpy.

Thanks for your continued support of The Beacon, Coshocton County’s most requested newspaper.

Category: Mark's Musings