Odds ‘n Sods:

Reader C.D.V. sent an article that describes the future of America, as seen in California’s Central Valley. Here is a quote: “Many of the rural trailer-house compounds I saw appear to the naked eye no different from what I have seen in the Third World… …The public hears about all sorts of tough California regulations that stymie business — rigid zoning laws, strict building codes, constant inspections — but apparently none of that applies out here. It is almost as if the more California regulates, the more it does not regulate.”

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Reader F.G. sent this sign of the times, from Mesquite, Texas: Towne East Mall Shoppers Maced at Chaotic Air Jordan Sneaker Sale

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The Full Deployment of the World’s Eighth Largest Army Goes Unnoticed…

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Penny wise an Pound foolish: Bridgewater spends $17,000 to defend $5 fee it charged resident.

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Solar Radio Doubles as USB Charging Multitool for Adventurers. (Thanks to Yishai for the link)