What I’m Surfing: Grab Bag o’ Stuff

National News:

Dr. Laura wonders why Americans wish to pay kids to earn better grades: “Why would MONEY make the difference, and not the appreciation of their parents, the respect of their peers, the approval from their teachers, or the mere burst of pride in doing well? The answer is simple: kids these days are not raised to care about appreciation, respect, approval and pride…period!”  While I’m annoyed with the “kids these days” line, I think she might be onto something.

Iowahawk writes the best satire about the recent Iranian elections.  Obama’s address to the Iranian people concludes thusly: “In the final tally, the only thing that matters in the diplomatic arena is sportsmanship. As we say here, “it’s not whether you win or lose, it’s how you play the game.” I am certain that the best team will prevail, because as we also say, “winners never cheat and cheaters never win.” And in the words of Raiders legend Al Davis, “just win, baby.” The most important thing is that you get this distracting sudden death shootout over with, because it’s really screwing with my legislative agenda. Not to mention my sleep schedule.”

Michelle Malkin wonders if John Stossel will make the cut for the up-coming Obama infomercial?

Byron York interviews Gerald Walpin about his recenting (unfair? illegal?) firing by Pres. Obama: “The White House’s decision to fire AmeriCorps inspector general Gerald Walpin came amid politically-charged tensions inside the Corporation for National and Community Service, the organization that runs AmeriCorps. Top executives at the Corporation, Walpin explained in an hour-long interview Saturday, were unhappy with his investigation into the misuse of AmeriCorps funds by Kevin Johnson, the former NBA star who is now mayor of Sacramento, California and a prominent supporter of President Obama.”  It might not be the firing of Walpin that is the scandal, it might be what Walpin was investigating.

The LA Times highlights Western states lawmakers attempts to reign in federal power: “While many measures are symbolic ones declaring the sovereignty of states, some Westerners are taking more dramatic steps. One Utah lawmaker wants to limit federal law enforcement in his state. In Montana, legislators enacted a bill that flagrantly ignores federal firearm restrictions, hoping to force a constitutional showdown.”  And people back in Kansas ask me why I like living in the boonies like SoDak so much… ‘

Michigan NPR investigates the rise in woman and guns: “Robin Boruta is a saleswoman and instructor. Tonight, she’s teaching our ladies-only gun class. ‘We’re seeing a lot more women take that next step, and kind of be brave about it,’ she says. ‘They’re still a little unsure. They’re still a little intimidated. But they want to be able to carry those guns.’”

South Dakota News of Note:

Horse slaugter advocates raises some cash. [via Rapid City Journal]

15 year-old boy saves an eight year-old boy from Big Sioux. [via Argus Leader]

Ellsworth Air Force Base plays a role in the development of the next generation bomber [via KELO Land]