Did You Know...

**Written by Doug Powers

A little while ago I received an email request for an afternoon open thread, and because I’m almost always responsive (possible exceptions: New Years Eve and after about 3 p.m. on St. Patrick’s Day), here you go. I spent the morning and early afternoon at a dance recital (not mine), and I’ve got more family stuff to do this evening, but here’s what’s been going on…

Earlier today Michelle offered a prayer for the victims and their families in Newtown, Connecticut. Feel free to weigh in with your thoughts.

Other items in the news:

–Hillary Clinton is home recovering from a concussion after fainting and hitting her head. This means she won’t be testifying next Thursday before the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

–The Hillary story leads us to this: The Chicago Sun-Times reports that President Obama will choose John Kerry to replace Clinton as Secretary of State, as expected. Naturally, the Massachusetts governor is considering appointing Ted Kennedy’s widow to fill the vacancy that would be created if Kerry does indeed become SoS.

–The family of slain Border Patrol agent Brian Terry has filed suit against the US Government over the botched Fast & Furious operation.

–Hasbro will meet with a 13 year old girl about creating gender-neutral Easy Bake ovens. It’s been noted that this meeting was not requested by a boy.

–Proposal: “To solve our debt problems, let’s sell Alaska.” Nobody would purchase it because potential buyers know if they wait long enough the whole country will be available in a foreclosure auction if spending isn’t reeled in very soon.

–The Obama administration’s aid package for Sandy victims includes $2 million to repair Smithsonian buildings with roof damage that pre-dates the storm.

–White House: There are still “approximately 166 detainees at Guantanamo Bay.” Wait, Gitmo’s still open?

–Second look at Ravi Shankar?

–Last but least, it’s a shame this NBA referee doesn’t play for the Pistons — he’s a natural born shot blocker:

**Written by Doug Powers

Twitter @ThePowersThatBe