Maryland’s $1.6 billion deficit is staring Gov. Martin O’Malley and lawmakers right in the eye. What are they considering doing to fix it? Why, raising taxes, of course! Instead of getting rid of the spending fat, O’Malley’s people trimmed a mere $200 million from their proposed $30 billion budget. Governing, to borrow from President Bush, is “hard work” and brings with it hard decisions, such as which spending priorities are really absolutely necessary. Marylanders shouldn’t have to pay more just to get their state government back on the track of fiscal responsibility.
My original idea on this topic was very different from the end product. I’m saving that first one for a future date. I felt the play on words and imagery in the cartoon above made it too good to pass up on today. Also, it gave me an excuse to research turtles, whose diversity of shapes, colors and sizes is quite fascinating. Turtles are some cool-looking creatures.
On a personal note, I found out that I need to get a root canal. I took a high stick to the mouth while playing ice hockey about a month ago, and my dentist told me at my routine appointment earlier this week that one of my teeth is dead. I’ve never had a root canal before, so I’m a little anxious about what it will be like. Next Thursday is my dental date with destiny. I hope it will mark the end of my recent spate of minor ailments!/>
