Happy Holidays:

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Happy Holidays:

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Happy Holidays: Slide Show For Laughs

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HAPPY EVERYTHING

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Senate voting this week to cut Medicare

Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security Issues:

• House Health Care Vote Appalls Retirees and Older Americans

• INDEX/ SUBJECT: From other sources, Retirement/SSA  SATURDAY, MAY 6, 2017

• The Washington Post is aiding and abetting Donald Trump’s stealth attack on Social Security.
  INDEX/ SUBJECT: From other sources, Retirement/SSA  MONDAY, APRIL 17, 2017

• The American people are buying into their phony Social Security crisis…
  INDEX/ SUBJECT tag: FB, Retirement/SSA  SUNDAY, AUGUST 16, 2015

• Leave Medicare Alone:
  INDEX/ SUBJECT tag: Capitalism/Economy, From other sources, Retirement/SSA
  TUESDAY, MAY 24, 2011

Ban Dangerous Nerve Agent Being Sprayed On Our Food!

Related:

Federal judges finally just order the EPA to ban a dangerous pesticide

The agency concluded it might be unsafe back in 2016.

Read past the headlines… you are being duped!

While I am naturally suspicious of the validity of such a document, let's assume that it is accurate and authentic, because fact checking an unsourced graphic is difficult and time consuming, and in this case not necessary.

So, without fact checking, let's just try reading it to see what it shows and what does the author "MikeM-------" say it shows:

"THIS IS WHAT 1 ILLEGAL REFUGEE GETS WITH THE FEDERAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM $3874 PER MONTH !!!"

Really? Obviously Mike didn't read it or didn't do the math or more likely, he doesn't think you will.
There are three types of expenses included in this voucher/document: Start-up assistance, monthly expenses, and a loan.

• The monthly expenses Mike refers to is $1399 NOT $3874
• The 1 person Mike refers to is actually a family of 5
• The illegal refugee Mike refers to is a LEGAL REFUGEE family!
  

It’s all right there in the document, read it.

The $1399 TEMPORARY aid is not permanent. It is an allowance to help a family arriving in this country to transition from nothing to a self-sustaining status. A family, most likely with nothing after much time in refugee camps, following a vetting process (yes, there is one, always has been) and fleeing violence and/or extreme poverty… is receiving a monthly allowance that in most states is near the poverty level, and in some states falls below the poverty level.
As for the start-up expenses are they really that high? Clothing, furniture, transportation assistance for relocation, and job hunting?

If there is an objection to resettling and helping all and any refugees or if someone chooses to believe Mike’s headline and not the actual contents of the voucher, which HE SUBMITS, then go ahead you're free to. I’m sure that in the face of that I can’t change your mind, but if, as a nation, we insist on disregarding our moral obligations of charity, compassion and serving as a beacon of light to the world, then I can only hope and pray we realize we can do better.

by GlennDL

---

While we’re on the subject:

…unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me…

Hateful Rhetoric For The Enemy, Our Friends, And Our Fallen,

Stephen Willefred is the hero, not his AR-15.

2017 Veterans Day DISCOUNTS!!!

Tips Before Heading Out

• Review the official site information and rules before heading out.  Many websites are listing previous years promotions that are no longer valid. 
• Be sure to bring proof of military service, uniform photo or be in uniform.  Proof of military service varies by company.  See the list of states now offering a Veterans designation on a driver’s license.
• Pay attention to the dates on the Veterans Day offer as some offers are for days to other than Veterans Day or extended over several days.
• Most of the restaurant free meals are for dine in only.
• Verify that you’re eligible for the offer.
• You should tip your server.  They’re working hard to serve you and depend on the income. We recommend tipping on the actual cost of the meal.
• Many of these promotions include small print that says participating locations only.  Unfortunately individual franchisees may choose not to participate.  Fortunately, some franchisee’s participate even if the corporate company does not.
• Call ahead if you’re unsure about anything.
• Thank you for your service!

Keep an eye out for other offers (do a GOOGLE search). I find what I can, but I’m sure I miss many. Some places don’t announce until the last minute and I can’t find local offers for the various locations of those who follow this site.

NOTE: Some offer’s are for a day, some for days, and some for the month or more. Some occur before Veterans Day, some on Veterans day, and some after Veterans Day. The list groups them  beginning with November 10th and ends with the listings for November and after. Any offers that start before November 10th are not listed unless they continue past Veterans Day. So scan the whole list. Its long!      GlennDL 2017

NOVEMBER 10

Denny’s All You Can Eat Pancakes
All active, inactive, and retired military personnel at all participating Denny’s restaurants nationwide will receive a free Build Your Own Grand Slam breakfast on Friday, Nov. 10, from 5 a.m. to noon. Diners must show ID to receive this offer.

IHOP
All active duty and retired Veterans are invited to come in and enjoy Free Red, White, & Blue Pancakes Friday, November 10.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
Dine with a veteran or active duty service member on Friday and their lunch or dinner is free (free entree equal to or less than your purchase).

Friday AND Saturday November 10-11, 2017

Aspen Creek Grill
Free meal for Active Duty Military and Veterans on Nov. 10th & 11th from 11am-3pm both days. Offer Valid at all Aspen Creek Grill Locations.

BJ’s Restaurant
All veterans and active military can enjoy a complimentary entree under $12.95 on Friday and Saturday November 10-11/2017. Guests over age 21 will can also receive an alcoholic beverage for $6. Please present your military ID to receive this offer.

Bricktown Brewery
Active and retired military can receive a free Bricktown Burger or Chicken Sandwich with Spicy Mayo (with valid ID) on Friday and Saturday.

Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurants
Participating locations will offer active and retired military a complimentary free entrée from a Veterans Day menu, on November 10th and 11th, 2017.

Friday/Saturday/Sunday November 10, 11, 12, 2017

Fazoli’s
November 10^th through Sunday, November 12^th all active, inactive and retired military personnel receive a free spaghetti with marinara or meat sauce.

Spaghetti Warehouse Buy 1 Get 1 Free Meal
Receive a special “buy one entree, get one free” coupon offer and they are encouraging its guests to “invite a veteran to lunch or dinner.” Coupon can be redeemed from Friday, November 10 through Sunday, November 12. The coupon will be available on the Spaghetti Warehouse website on Nov. 3rd, and can be printed or presented by mobile phone.

Veterans Day 2017 discounts

Gift and Hobby Show (Indianapolis, IN)
http://christmasgiftandhobbyshow.com/show-features
Sat. November 11th is Veterans Day! All veterans and active duty military get FREE admission and free parking with ID!

Indiana State Parks
http://www.in.gov/activecalendar_dnr/EventList.aspx?view=EventDetails&eventidn=16499&information_id=37656&type=&syndicate=syndicate 
All veterans and active-duty military personnel, and everyone in their vehicle, will be admitted free to DNR state parks, reservoir properties and state forests on Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov. 11.

Tractor Supply Co.
http://www.tractorsupply.com/
This Veterans Day, customers with a valid military ID or proof of service will receive 15 percent off their entire purchase at Tractor Supply.

Target
https://corporate.target.com
Target is proud to offer a Veterans Day military discount from Nov. 7-11, 2017. All active duty military, veterans and their spouse and/or dependent children are eligible to receive a 10 percent discount on purchases in store and on Target.com (some exclusions apply; discount via single-use coupon).

54th Street Grill & Bar
Honor your veteran and bring them into any Five-Four for a free meal. Up to $12.00, proof of service required.

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza
A complimentary small order of meatballs with ricotta cheese is offered to active or former United States Armed Forces personnel, on Veterans Day Saturday, Nov. 11. Free meatballs are available for Dine-In and Take Out.

Applebee’s
Veterans and Active Duty Military can select a free meal from a limited menu on Veteran’s Day. Provide proof of service required.

Arooga’s Grille House & Sports Bar
This Veterans Day, Saturday November 11, 2017 get a free soft, buffalo or crab pretzel.

Back Yard Burgers
Military veterans with valid ID, and active duty service members in uniform, can enjoy a free ‘Classic Burger’ on Veterans Day 2017.

Baker’s Square Free Breakfast
Veterans and active duty get a complimentary breakfast on Veterans Day at participating locations. Choose between Buttermilk Pancakes, three slices of French Toast or a Belgian Waffle.

Bandana’s Bar-B-Q
Veterans and active duty eat free on Saturday, 11/11/17 (up to a $10 value).

Bar Louie
Vets and active military receive a free flatbread or burger on Saturday, November 11^th.

Billy Sims Barbecue
This year on Saturday, November 11, veterans and active military men and women receive a free Veterans Day meal and special collectors cup.

Black Angus Steakhouse
11/11/17 from open to 3 pm, participating restaurants will offer veterans and active military professionals a special $9.99 Certified Angus Beef® Top Sirloin Steak, mashed potatoes, broccoli and a beverage.

Bob Evans
Bob Evans Restaurants are offering free select menu items to Veterans and Active Duty Military on Veterans Day, Sat., Nov. 11.

Bonanza Steakhouse
On Veterans Day, all former and current military service men and women enjoy a free buffet (beverage not included), at all participating Bonanza Steakhouses. Contact your local Bonanza for more details.

Boston Market
BOGO, buy 1 get 1 free individual meal and drink with Coupon on Veterans Day.

Bruegger’s Bagels
U.S. Military Veterans and active military members who show ID and proof of service can receive a Free Small Drip Coffee. No purchase necessary.

Buffalo Wild Wings Free Wings
All day long on Saturday, November 11, veterans and active duty military who dine-in at their local B-Dubs can receive a free one small order of traditional or boneless wings and a side of fries. At participating U.S. locations only.

Burntwood Tavern
Burntwood Tavern invites vets and active duty military on Veteran’s Day Saturday, November 11, 2017 to stop in and receive a free lunch or dinner.

Calhoun’s
Enjoy a free meal from a special menu on Veterans Day. Proof of Service required.

California Pizza Kitchen
On Veterans Day, all veterans or active duty military personnel will be able to select a free entree from a special Veterans Day menu including pizza, salads and pasta. Please come in uniform or bring your military ID or other proof of service.

Cantina Laredo
Veterans and active duty military can receive a complimentary meal on Veterans Day.

Cattlemens Steakhouse
On Veterans Day, Nov. 11th, Cattlemens Steakhouse is inviting all active, inactive, and retired military personal to enjoy a complimentary 8 oz. Sirloin Steak dinner.

Chevys Fresh Mex
On Veterans Day from 11am to 10pm, Chevys Fresh Mex will offer a complimentary Fresh Mex 3-Item combo to all active and veteran military personnel.

Chuck E. Cheese
To thank service members past and present, on Veteran’s Day on Nov. 11, Chuck E. Cheese’s will be offering one free personal pizza to all active and retired military members at participating stores nationwide. Promo code #5500.

Cicis Pizza
Free pizza buffet if you show a valid Military ID.

Circle K
November 11, 2017, participating Circle K convenience stores will offer a free Polar Pop to military Veterans.

City Barbeque
All day on Saturday, November 11, veterans and military men & women get a free sandwich, two sides and a regular beverage, applicable on either dine-in or carryout orders.

Cotton Patch Cafe
Veterans and active duty may enjoy a free Chicken Fried Steak or Chicken Fried Chicken on Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11, 2017.

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
Veterans receive a complimentary Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola® Cake dessert to veterans and an opportunity for guests to make purchases that support Operation Homefront.  Veterans Day only.

CraftWorks Restaurants
In honor of Veterans Day, participating locations will offer a free entrée at any Rock Bottom and Gordon Biersch location in the U.S. CraftWorks, operates the Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurants, Rock Bottom Restaurants & Breweries, Old Chicago Pizza & Taproom and ChopHouse & Brewery, as well as other regional restaurant brands including Big River Grille, Bluewater Grille, A1A Ale Works, Ragtime Tavern Seafood & Grill and Seven Bridge Grille & Brewery.

Dunkin’ Donuts
On November 11, Veterans and active duty military can enjoy a free donut at Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants nationwide, no purchase necessary.

El Chico Cafe
Veterans and active military eat free on Veterans Day (Limit $15).

ESquared Hospitality Restaurants – BLTs (All nationwide), Casa Nonna, Tavern62 by David Burke, The Florentine, and The Wayfarer, and Horchata
Saturday, November 11th, veterans with valid proof of military ID. 50% off parties of 2 or less, 25% off parties of 3 or more. Enjoy 35% off regardless of party size at BLT Market and BLT Steak Waikiki.

Famous Dave’s
On Nov. 11, in honor of Veteran’s Day all former and current military personnel will receive a free two meat Combo.

FATZ Cafe
On Saturday, November 11, 9am-3pm, all Veterans and Active Military members are invited
to enjoy one of three free entrees.

Friendly’s Free Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner
Friendly’s is treating veterans and active military, with a valid military ID or honorable discharge card, to a free dine-in breakfast, lunch or dinner from select menus on Veteran’s Day 11-11-2017.

Gatti’s Pizza
Veterans and active military members with ID will receive a free buffet, or a free medium 1-topping pizza for carryout.

Glory Days Grill
Free appetizer or a regular order of boneless or grilled boneless wings for veterans on Nov. 11.

Gold Star Chili
Enjoy a free 3-way and drink on Veterans Day. For all who served.

Granite City Food & Brewery
Veterans and active military can stop in for a complimentary lunch on Veterans Day from 11am – 3pm.

Green Mill Restaurant and Bar
Veterans and Active Duty Military will receive a free lunch or dinner dine-in meal at participating locations on Veterans Day. Must show proof of service, and beverages and gratuity are not included in free meal.

The Green Turtle
Veterans and Active Duty military enjoy a free meal on Veterans Day. Offer valid for any item up to $12 or $12 on a more expensive item.

Hamburger Stand
All Veterans and active duty military receive a free hamburger, regular fries and a small Pepsi. 11.11.17.

Hickory Tavern
50% off of a special Veterans Day menu for  Veterans and Active Duty Military on Veterans day 11/11/17.

Houlihan’s
Receive a free entree from a select menu on Veteran’s Day 11/11 with proof of veteran status or active service in the military.

Huddle House
Free order of Sweet Cakes to all active military members and veterans with proper I.D. on Veterans Day (Saturday, November 11).

Hy-Vee Free Breakfast
Hy-Vee is providing a free breakfast buffet for veterans during regular breakfast hours on Veterans Day.

IKEA Free Entree
Veterans can enjoy a free entree at IKEA on 11/11/17. Please show some form of military ID.

K&W Cafeteria
Free meal that includes choice of entrée, two vegetables, bread and beverage, with the presentation of your military ID on Veterans Day. Offer valid from 11a.m. to closing.

Krispy Kreme Free Doughnut & Coffee
On Veterans Day, a free doughnut and small coffee will be given to anyone who identifies themselves as a veteran or active military personnel (no ID required).

Krystal
On Veterans Day, all active and retired military can receive a complimentary sausage biscuit during breakfast hours (6am – 11am).

Lamar’s Donuts
Free donut and a 12oz coffee for all veterans and active military on Veterans Day.

Logan’s Roadhouse
This Veterans Day, veterans and active duty drop on in for an American Roadhouse Meal on the house. Not valid in CA, NC, SC or Augusta, GA, locations. Veterans year round receive a 10% discount to guests who present a military or veterans’ ID.

Little Caesars Pizza
On Saturday, November 11, from 11am to 2pm, veterans and active military members can receive a free $5 HOT-N-READY® Lunch Combo.

Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que
On Veterans Day, active and former military can enjoy a complimentary dessert, and a 20% discount with proof of service. Veterans receive 20% off the entire month of November for ‘Military Family Month.’

Macaroni Grill
Free Mom’s Ricotta Meatballs & Spaghetti entrée this Veteran’s Day, Saturday, November 11th to all veterans and active military.

Main Event Bowling
Veterans and active duty military members can enjoy a free entrée plus a $10 FUN card from open to 5 pm on Saturday, November 11th. Offer also includes free shoe rental for veteran and four guests.

Margaritas Mexican Restaurant
Margaritas is offering complimentary entrees to all veterans and active members of the military, as well as their significant others this Veterans Day.

Max & Erma’s Free Cheeseburger Combo Meal with Dessert
On Veterans Day, participating Max & Erma’s locations are celebrating veterans and active military personnel with a free cheeseburger, endless fries and a fountain drink.

Menchie’s Free Frozen Yogurt
On Veterans Day, all Veterans and military personnel with a military ID or dressed in uniform will receive a free six ounce frozen yogurt any time of day on Veterans Day 11.11.  Show a valid ID or be in uniform to receive.

Mimi’s Cafe
U.S. Veterans or active duty military personnel can select food items from a special menu on Veteran’s Day 2017 for free. Drink purchase is required. Please show proof of military service.

Mission BBQ
Veterans and active duty will receive a free sandwich and slice of cake (while supplies lasts) on Veterans Day, 11/11/17.

Native Grill & Wings
On November 11th, Veterans will receive one free menu item (up to $11.99 in value).

Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub
On 11/11 from 11am – 4pm,  Veterans and active military can receive a free lunch from our 9 Real Size Entrées for $9.99 Menu with the purchase of any entrée.

O’Charley’s
O’Charley’s will honor our military on Veterans Day by offering veterans and active duty service members a free $9.99er entree at any location on November 11th. Additionally, O’Charley’s offers a 10 percent military discount all year long.

Olive Garden Free Meal
On Veterans Day, Olive Garden restaurants will offer a free entrée from a special menu to active-duty military and veterans. The special menu features six of Olive Garden’s most popular items. Entrées are served with unlimited soup, salad and garlic bread sticks.

On The Border Free Entree
This Veterans Day, all veterans and active duty military will receive a free combo meal at OTB’s. The meal is from the”Create Your Own Combo menu,” which is a “choose 2” or “choose 3” menu.

Outback Steakhouse Free Bloomin’ Onion® and a beverage
All active, retired military and veterans get a free Bloomin’ Onion® and a beverage on Veterans Day. Must have valid identification. Additionally, November 12 through November 16, military members will receive 20% off their check and, beginning November 17, Military, Fire and Police heroes will receive 10% off their check.

Petro Stopping Centers
All active duty military, veterans and reservists with proof of service can enjoy a complimentary meal from a select menu that includes a beverage on Veterans Day, Sat., Nov. 11, 2017, at any participating Country Pride or Iron Skillet restaurant nationwide.

Ponderosa Steakhouses
From 4pm-close on Veterans Day, all former and current military service men and women enjoy a free buffet (beverage not included) from participating Ponderosa locations. Contact your local Ponderosa for more details.

Price Chopper Supermarkets
Active Duty & Veterans enjoy a free coffee & donut Saturday, November 11 • 7am–7pm.

Primanti Bros.
Veterans and active duty military get a free classic sandwich any time, all day.

Quaker Steak & Lube
On Saturday, November 11, veterans and those currently serving in the armed forces can receive a complimentary or discounted meal of their choice. Show proof of service to your server to receive this offer.

Recovery Sports Grill
All veterans and active duty military are invited to enjoy a free meal on Veterans Day, Saturday, 11/11.

Red Hot & Blue Restaurants
On Veterans Day Active Duty, Retirees and Reservists receive a free entrée with the purchase of a second entrée of equal or greater value (up to$10). Proof of military service required. Dine-in only. Print and present the coupon before ordering.

Red Lobster
To thank Veterans, active duty military and reservists, Red Lobster will offer a free appetizer or dessert from their select Veterans Day menu. To receive offer, show a valid military ID on Saturday, November 11th.

Red Robin
All Veterans and Active Duty Military get a free dine-in Red’s Tavern Double Burger and Bottomless Steak Fries on Veterans Day 11/11.

Rib Crib
Veterans and active military service members can choose a free meal from RibCrib’s Menu of Honor that includes a choice of two meats and two sides, including their slow-smoked meats and award-winning St. Louis spare ribs.

Rock & Brews
Rock & Brews is offering all active duty military, veterans, and first responders a complimentary meal on Veteran’s Day at any Rock & Brews location nationwide.

Rock Bottom Restaurants & Breweries
Participating locations will offer a free entrée on Veterans Day, November 11th, to active and retired military service members. Vets can select from any entrée on the menu including Rock Bottom Signature Items.

Ruby’s Diner
Saturday, November 11, 2017, all veterans and active duty members of the military are invited to enjoy a Ruby’s adult entrée on the house.

Ruby Tuesday
This Veterans Day, all former and active duty service members of the military can enjoy a free appetizer.

Sagebrush Steakhouse
All veteran and active duty personnel receive a complimentary meal from a select menu on Saturday, Nov. 11th. Offer valid from 11am-11pm.

Shari’s Café
Free pancake breakfast for all current and former military on Veterans Day, November 11th.

Shoney’s Offers Free All You Care to Eat Breakfast
Shoney’s says ‘Thank You’ to America’s heroes by offering a free All You Care To Eat breakfast,  to all Veterans and Active Duty Military members on Veterans Day from 6am – 11 am.

Sizzler Free Lunch
Sizzler is proud to honor and celebrate United States veterans and active-duty military personnel with a free lunch and beverage before 4 p.m. on Veterans Day, Saturday, November 11, 2017.

Starbucks
On Veterans Day, active duty service members, reservists, veterans and military spouses are invited to enjoy a free Tall Brewed Coffee. In addition, now through November 11, for every Veterans Day Starbucks Card or eGift purchased, Starbucks will contribute $5 to help support programs assisting service members, military spouses and veterans.

Sticky Fingers Ribhouse
On Saturday, November 11, enjoy a free pulled pork sandwich with baked beans & cole slaw during lunch.

TA Stopping Centers
All active duty military, veterans and reservists with proof of service can enjoy a complimentary meal from a select menu that includes a beverage on Veterans Day, Sat., Nov. 11, 2017, at any participating Country Pride or Iron Skillet restaurant nationwide.

Tap House Grill
On Veterans Day, all active, inactive and retired military personnel can get a complimentary meal (dine in only).

Texas de Brazil
50% off for up to 2 veterans and 20% off for up to 6 additional guests at the table during dinner this Veterans Day.

Texas Roadhouse
On Saturday November 11th, select from a free special veterans lunch menu including a beverage and sides.

Texas Steakhouse & Saloon
All veteran and active duty military personnel receive a complimentary meal from a select menu on Sat., November 11th.

TGI Fridays Free Lunch
Guests who show valid military ID can enjoy a free lunch menu item up to $12. This offer is valid on Saturday, November 11th, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time.

Tijuana Flats
A free entree is offered to military veterans and active duty on Saturday, 11-11-17.

Village Inn Free Breakfast
All who have served get a free Inn-Credible V.I.B. breakfast on Veterans Day.

White Castle
Military veterans and active duty military who show proof of service can visit a participating White Castle location on Nov 11th, and receive a free breakfast combo or castle combo meal #1-6.

Wienerschnitzel
On Veterans Day, 11/11, Wienerschnitzel offers a free Chili Dog with a small fry and a small pepsi to Veterans and Active Duty Servicemembers. Bring your military ID or dress in a uniform.

Wild Wing Cafe
Military veterans, retirees, and active duty are offered a complimentary meal. Veteran may choose from any Awesome Salad, Wild Wrap, Beefy Burger or Chicken Sandwich. Please show proof of military service. Valid all day on 11.11 at participating locations.

World of Beer
On November 11th, all veterans and current servicemen and servicewomen may enjoy a free select draught beer (where legal) or $5 off their check.

Yard House
Veterans and active duty military will receive a complimentary appetizer on November 11 with valid military ID. Offer is valid for dine in only.

Sunday, November 12, 2017

Centraarchy Restaurants
On Sunday, November 12 CentraArchy Restaurants are showing their gratitude by honoring veterans and active duty military service members with a free entrée. Includes California Dreaming, New York Prime, Chophouse ’47, The Tavern at Phipps, Carolina Roadhouse, Joey D’s Oak Room, Burro Loco, Gulfstream Cafe, Chophouse New Orleans.

Monday, November 13, 2017

Claim Jumper
On Monday, November 13, veterans who show valid ID may receive a free entree from a special menu. This offer is valid for dine-in only, and will not be available at Golden Nugget Lake Charles and Golden Nugget Las Vegas locations.

Golden Corral
On Monday, November 13th, 2017 from 5 PM to 9 PM, Golden Corral offers a free sit-in “thank you” dinner for Military veterans, retirees, and active duty members.

Twin Peaks
In honor of Veteran’s Day, all Veterans. active duty military and reservists will eat for free from a select menu on Military Monday, November 13th.

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

Country Cookin
Active, reserve, and retired military personnel receive a free meal on Tuesday, November 14 from 2 PM – 8 PM.

November Discounts

Dell
​www.Dell.com/military
Nov. 5 – 16 – In honor of Veterans Day, Dell will offer the military community 15% off Dell and Alienware PCs.

Meineke
https://www.meineke.com/
Meineke thanks our military for their service! Oct. 14 - Nov. 24 up to 45% off Select Total Car Care Services.

Red Roof
Red Roof is offering any active duty or retired military members 40 percent off their room rate when they book on RedRoof.com between November 1 and November 22 with its Home for the Holidays Discount—and that discount is good for stays through the end of February 2018. The brand is also offering 1,000 free nights to military members and their families through the Military Ticket Program.

Sleep Number
https://www.sleepnumber.com/military
SAVE on selected Sleep Number® mattresses. Offer valid 10/29/17 through 11/19/17. Redeemable in store, via live chat, or by calling 1-888-411-2188. Offer valid to current and past military personnel.
Customers with a valid military identification card will receive 15% off in-store purchases* from Saturday, November 4 through Saturday, November 11.

Army and Air Force Exchange Services (AAFES)
www.shopmyexchange.com 
Exciting news! Beginning Veterans Day, November 11, 2017, online military exchange shopping privileges will be extended to all honorably discharged veterans of the military.

Other resources:

https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/vetday_faq.asp

https://www.vfw.org/community/flag-etiquette

https://www.gettysburgflag.com/origins-of-veterans-day

https://www.vetfriends.com/parades/directory.cfm?state=TN

https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/

http://www.operationwearehere.com/VeteransDayPromotions.html#top

https://militarybenefits.info/veterans-day-discounts-sales-deals-free-meals/#ixzz3qoZCvwwJ

The 'again' in Make America Great Again comes later, but don't worry "best ever".

by Glenn Littrell

It's interesting that the mantra (conspiracy theory) from the right has been that all the criticism of Trump is because the Left can't get over Hillary losing, yet, the Right's most common defense against criticism is "look at Hillary" (roll the list of conspiracy theory talking points).

It looks more and more like it's the Right that can't get over Hillary losing. Their so much better at attacking than they are defending. Call it deflection, confirmation bias, whatever you want, but it is hypocrisy.

You should know that everyone who criticizes Trump didn't automatically support Hillary. The truth is that it is possible to condemn many of the actions of both of them, but when your knee jerk reaction to any criticism is to fling criticism of others around the room it becomes a waste of breath. It childish, like an 8 year old tattle-telling on his brother in an attempt to get out of trouble.

The Right had 8 years to bring Hillary down, endless congressional committees and hearings, several investigations. They spent millions of dollars on attacking her (not GOP money but taxpayer money), and they proved nothing illegal. No charges, no independent council, nothing illegal. She also withstood 9 hours of televised grilling before one of many congressional committees (republican run). Walked out without a scratch. It's time that Trump and his supporters put on their 'big boy' pants and quit whining about a few months of criticism. Defend your man if you must, start a discussion about Hillary on your timeline, but move on and get off of Hillary when the discussion is about Trump.

Like a bully, Trump and many of his supporters cry when people push back, when he thinks he's losing he cry's foul, he deflects and name calls to avoid giving answers (he doesn't even deflect with an issue statement. He does so by insults and innuendo). But it's not just Trumps supporters who can't get over Hillary losing, it's also Donald Trump himself. The most mentioned names that come out of his mouth, second and third after his own name, is Obama and Hillary. His kneejerk reaction to criticism is to raise the ghost of past politicians. Showing an inability to explain his words, action, or decisions in the face of criticism.

The most active agenda item of his is to undo everything that Obama accomplished, even though it may hurt millions of Americans, damage our security, or delay his other agenda items. His entire campaign was built around criticism of Obama, Democrats, and Hillary. Any effort to advocate for an issue was expressed with a political slogan (Make America great again) and the promise of "don't worry, I'll tell you later, best ever." Still missing signifigant and detailed plans for agenda items he continually relies on the endless attacks on past politicians, childish tweets, bully tactics, and executive actions. The 'again' in Make America Great Again comes later, but don't worry "best ever".

His use of executive directives as a preemptive alternative to working with Congress doesn't even give the questionable pretense of reacting to a 'do nothing Congress'. Obama's use of executive actions prompted rabid accusations of tyranny, but Trumps use of them as a preemptive undercutting of the Congressional branch, as a tool of deflection from scandals and pixies, as an attention getting failsafe, garners no criticism from his supporters or any of the anti-executive actions crowd.

Executive actions for Trump is just a political tool, a license, to distract, deviate, and assault. What Trump is showing us is that he is just a bad politician, but still a politician. His flaws and boorish behavior have been exposed because he left the closed world of business where money could hide his flaws and transgressions. Where 'yes' men and paid experts could confirm his ego and discreetly correct his failings. He entered the more transparent world of politics and has shown his incompetence, egotism, less than stellar character, and less than advertised intelligence,

He won the election and is President of the United States, so let's stop claiming the system is rigged, if it was rigged he never would have gotten this far, if it was rigged Hillary would have been the party's candidate in 2008 instead of Obama, and Jeb would've been the Republican candidate, and Hillary would be President now*. So let's stop blaming Hillary for Trump. The blame can be spread out across party lines, so for the many of us who claim to be independent voters please stop rehashing an election that is irreversible.

Like a bully he cries when people push back, when he thinks he's losing he cry's foul, he deflects and name calls to avoid giving answers (he doesn't even deflect with an issue statement, he does so with insults and innuendo).

It's politics, not a beauty pageant. Stop whining and lead.

*failed attempts by Russians, voter suppression legislation and questionable actions by the parties notwithstanding, the election was not rigged. People fail to realize that the party nomination process is not the election. It is the business of the separate parties. Run and governed by the parties. Bernie was never a party member so the party was stacked against him, but he made a choice to not run as an independent. That was his mistake. I could care less about party rules and processes, because like many Independents I don't support a party, vote for a party, or belong to a party (or vote in primaries). I vote issues and candidates. Like many independents and moderates I long for more parties offering more choices, but we are too often left with lesser choices.

See also: http://www.glennlittrell.org/2015/10/politics.html

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I welcome relevant civil discussion and debate on any Facebook post that I create or share.
Agree or disagree, criticize or phrase, take or question a position.
Inquire.
Do all of the above.
It's your choice and I will not block or remove your entry no matter how much I disagree.
Or do none of the above, but I reserve the right to remove any entry or comment that attempts to

• be obscene, or graphic
• engage in name calling, derogatory or personal attacks,
• promote bigotry, hate, anger or violence,
• or attempts to interrupt or suppress free discussion with appeals towards non-positions.

Apathy and ambiguity are the tools of the uninformed, the indecisive, and the Troll.

Learning to spot fake news: Start with a gut check

Fact Checking

Littrell Family News

Is America less patriotic than in the past?

by Glenn Littrell (GlennDL)

This question keeps recurring and seems to be appear more and more recently. Most of it seems to be in light of what some people perceive as an unpatriotic action by others, even though others see the process in question as a patriotic duty. Too often some raise the question when they witness criticism of their political idols.

The question seems to be offered up is a rhetorical statement that implies we are not as patriotic as we used to be.

Whether or not this rhetorical question is the result of seeing protest on TV or listening to constant criticisms of the country or the president I don't know, but that is my guess.

So let me try to answer the question with a rebuke that no, as a country we are more patriotic now than in the past.

For example:

Patriotism today and in the past:

• Today, as a Veteran I get thanked for my service, but didn't get thanked back then.
• Today it is not unusual for police officers, soldiers, and firefighters to be applauded when they walk through airport terminals. In the past they were openly and often called pigs or spit upon.
• Today we have an army that does not contain one drafted soldier. We have a volunteer army of young men from past and most recent generations who became soldiers not because they were forced to against their will. We have a true citizen army.
• I would venture to speculate that during Afghanistan and both Iraq wars desertions were at an all time low.
• Today we have peaceful protest concerning social injustices. Yes occasionally some protest cross the line but these are in the vast minority of all protest today. In the past most demonstration were confrontational and regularly turned violent.
• Today the families of Fallen Soldiers are routinely looked after and provided for by multitude of efforts. In the past such programs were largely symbolic.
• Today we have programs and charities such as the Wounded Warriors Project to raise awareness towards our wounded veterans. In the past these programs barely existed. Those that did exist and survived to the present have grown in scope and services.
• In the past when disagreements over are foreign involvements, resentment and blame was directed at the dutiful soldiers. An entire generation of soldiers were spit on, called pigs, drug addicts and losers, even by fellow veterans that went before them. Today such disagreements and protest are respectful of the veterans and seek only to blame those that send them into harm's way.

So no, in spite of the fact that you may not approve of Civil Disobedience and peaceful protest or even if you believe these are unpatriotic acts they in no way reach numbers or exceed the protests and riots of the sixties, let alone any previous time in the past.

If you feel this is not true you need to pick up a history book. You need to understand the Constitution that grants us those rights. You need to read the oath that in enlistee takes to protect the Constitution, not just his interpretation of the Constitution, or not just the rights of his friends, but to defend everybody's rights. Those rights include the right to assemble, the right to dissent, the right to protest, the right to criticize. The right to your political View.

Just like the right to vote is not just a right but also a duty and an obligation, so too is the right to dissent and criticize a duty when we feel a moral obligation to do it.

Protests have always been a part of American life. Historically and as written in the Constitution. Criticism of the country is in not in itself unpatriotic. We have to apply critical thinking in raising our children and pointing out to them when they do wrong so they will be able to rectify the wrong and not repeat their mistakes. It doesn't mean we don't love them. So too can we love our country and legitimately criticize it at the same time. It is without a doubt possible to love your country and be critical of it. It is possible that this criticism comes from a desire to move the country forward and to a better place.

As far as criticism of the president, the entire election process nominations, debates, and campaigning themselves are an engagement of critique and criticism. Additionally complaints about who criticized the president tend to come from those who support the person who was elected to the presidency. Happens all the time, then and now. The process of holding their feet to the fire is one that we need and is in itself a national tradition.

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• Armed Services Blood Program
• Compensation
• Education & Training
• Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve
• Indiana Military Support Corporation
• National Cemetery Administration
• The American Legion Online
• U.S. Department of V.A.
• Union Veterans
• VA Forms
• https://snafu-indy462.blogspot.com/

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In the past when man’s curiosity was peaked he sought out more information, but today…

We seem to live in a society where in spite of an ever increasing abundance of resources to obtain accurate information on virtually any subject we are overwhelmed by a cacophony of inaccurate and dishonest dissemination of falsehoods and misinformation.

…unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me…

by Glenn Littrell
re-posted from 2015
(UPDATE: Fact Check Video added)

About 2000 years ago a young, middle eastern mother to be, along with her husband (who was not the father of her child) sought refuge from the elements in a small town. The only available shelter was a manger, where her baby was born.

Later, the mother, her baby, and her husband, fled oppression and death, seeking compassion, justice and refuge in another country where they lived for many years.

When the family returned to their homeland many years later the baby, now a young man, preached forgiveness, compassion, and said: “…Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”

As we struggle with the desire to call ourselves a ‘Christian Nation’ we continually avoid behavior that would demonstrate a Christian spirit. Where other countries are being flooded with millions of refugees we are excoriating our principles and beliefs in the face of tyranny and oppression, fighting over not whether to offer 10,000 refugees safe haven, but over whether to allow safe haven for any of the 4 million refugees. Families, men, women, or children.

While choosing to ignore actions that would be considered of a Christian nature, we are also ignoring and advocating actions that totally ignore our own constitution and its processes.

Governors are threatening to close state borders, demanding tracking, restrictions, and identification of Syrian/Muslim refugees. Politicians are demanding the same, additionally calling for a new ‘Iron Curtain’ on our southern border and a new ‘Berlin Wall’ between us and free Europe. Ignoring our constitution and Judeo/Christian ethics in the name of fear mongering to obtain better poll numbers and eventual political victories.

Where we once claimed to be a great country because of the opportunity we offered, the morals we aspired to, and the equality we preached, we now demonstrate the darker nature of our past. A past that we deny. A past of greatness that also included atrocities that we seek to hide and to minimalize.

A part of that past that we are repeating now is easy to discover and identify, a past that is directly related to events that have stained our international image and produced hostilities that still haunt us. People of other country’s don’t hate us because they envy us. Jealousy does not inspire people to become suicide bombers, nor is violent attacks a normal response to envy. Envy might lead people to want to take what we have, but these jihadist are not after what we’ve got… they want to destroy what we have. Their hatred is born out of fear, vengeance and real or perceived wrongs committed in the past.

This is not to say they are justified, but it is to say there is a history to their fear and hatred. It is not something that just appeared. We can not right all past wrongs, we cannot dispel all misconceptions, and we are probably beyond sitting down with terrorist for a mutually beneficial discussion until one-side has been beaten the other into submission.

With our enemies we are forced into a military option. Unfortunately our allies, especially our Muslim allies, in the region prefer that our soldiers lead the charge to protect them. Saudi Arabia, a country with a quarter-of-a-million man standing Army, has not taken a military lead in the region or taken in one Syrian refugee.

Whatever the military option becomes without the participation of the Gulf States we will just be digging into another quagmire… like was pointed out by the naysayers in 2003.

But even with a successful Military solution we will continue to be the target of scorn from marginalized middle eastern Muslims and their sympathizers. Even if a military solution beats down all jihadist and we pull completely out of the region, avoiding the ‘quagmire’, we will forever be linked to the atrocities of this war and past transgressions. Unless we seek and obtain a political solution, whatever that may be, we will continue to be the target of militant jihadist for generations… just like now and in the past.

Whatever the military solution, and the political solution, the key to any success short or long term, is winning the hearts and minds of moderate Muslims, especially young Muslims. But how are we ever going to do that if we can’t even do it with the Muslims in our country. We seem intent on doing everything we can to enrage, denigrate, alienate and discriminate against Muslims, all Muslims from all nations and ethnicities, here and abroad, immigrant and American born.

Even before the current anti-Syrian sentiments we continually made Muslims (even non-Muslims who by appearance we see as Muslims) the victims of discrimination, physical and religious attacks, and marginalization.

Our need for political hatefulness, designated enemies and scapegoats has turned us into a nation of ‘ugly Americans’. A designation that use to be used solely by other nations to describe our international behavior. More and more the ‘ugly American’ label being used to describe our internal behavior.

This is not our first bout with xenophobia, racism, religious intolerance, ethnic condemnation, and the accompanying oppressive hate and fear. There are many examples, but one particularly relevant to this current controversy is the story of the MS St. Louis. While today we claim a national love and affection for the Jewish state of Israel, in 1939 we were less than hospitable to a mere 908 Jewish refugees. The result was that many ended back in Germany during the Holocaust and the Germans had another example of international hatred for the Jews:

“The MS St. Louis was a German ocean liner most notable for a single voyage in 1939, in which her captain, Gustav Schröder (a German), tried to find homes for 908 Jewish refugees from Germany. After they were denied entry to Cuba, the United States and Canada, they were finally accepted in various European countries, which were later engulfed in World War II. Historians have estimated that, after their return to Europe, approximately a quarter of the ship's passengers died in death camps.”              Wikipedia

Just like the Germans tried to use our apathy to justify their genocide, the Jihadist will use the frightened, anti-refugee behavior to influence discouraged moderate Muslims, both here and abroad, as a strong recruitment tool.

It seems that as time passes the phrases such as “…give me your tired…”,  “…that all Men are created equal…”, and “…So in everything, do unto others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets…” are less grand and meaningful than in the past. Lady Liberty now gives the ‘stiff-arm’ to the huddled masses of the world and our ‘so-called’ Christian ethics take a back seat to political expedience, fear and hate.

“Paris, 1948: A couple and their toddler arrive in Paris from Budapest. The toddler is me. My parents have survived the horrors of the Holocaust - the camps; the pitiless deaths of their parents, spouses, children, siblings; the loss of their property and livelihoods. The Communist Iron Curtain drops and my mother has again been imprisoned. After she is released, my family takes one suitcase and flees to France. Paris becomes our place for healing. My parents and I wait in France - for years - for the precious papers that allow us to emigrate to the U.S. The passenger manifest on the ship that brings us across the Atlantic lists our nationality as "Stateless." We are refugees.”

“…The Paris tragedy has become politicized [in America] - and I'm ashamed. I'm ashamed that the country that laid out a welcome mat for my family has elected officials who so readily want to slam the door shut on the victims of the worst humanitarian crisis since the Holocaust. Some even want to impose a religious test on resettlement, all in the name of "national security." What they're really doing, whether by intent or ignorance, is fanning the flames of xenophobia and Islamophobia. It reminds me of some of the most shameful episodes of U.S. history: the mass internment of Japanese Americans during World War II; and the refusal to allow the passengers of the St. Louis to disembark in an American port, sending them back to Europe - many to their deaths.”

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/georgette-bennett-phd/theyre-victims-not-terror_b_8602730.html?ir=Politics&ncid=fcbklnkushpmg00000013&section=politics

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see also:

Paris attacks: 'I will not give you the gift of hating you'

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originally posted 11-20-2015
updated 11-21-2015

Mitch McConnell filed cloture on a drug corporation handout

Friend, “We may have defeated Trumpcare, but that doesn't mean Senate Republicans are done trying to exploit the American people. Sen. Mitch McConnell just filed cloture on the OPEN Act, which is an $11.6 billion handout to prescription drug corporations. We're delivering your signatures to every Senate office this week--we need you behind us! Stand with Social Security Works to oppose another billion dollar giveaway to drug corporations and say no to big pharma monopolies. You can read more abut the OPEN Act in our original email below. Thank you, Alex Lawson Social Security Works Friend, In 1983, Congress passed a law aimed at spurring innovation for drugs that treat rare diseases, offering tax credits and monopolies as incentives. But, as they so often do, pharmaceutical corporations immediately turned the law into yet another way to extract money from the people’s pockets. A year’s treatment can cost people with rare diseases more than a house. Pharmaceutical corporations’ ravenous hunger for profits leads to Social Security benefits that are increasingly eroded by medical co-pays and out of pocket expenses. And Congress has a new handout on the way. Stand with Social Security Works to oppose another billion dollar giveaway to drug corporations and say no to big pharma monopolies. The greed of the drug companies is boundless. Now, their Washington lobbyists are pushing a new bill―the Orphan Product Extensions Now (OPEN) Act―which would grant drug manufacturers six additional months of exclusivity, the monopoly power that allows the companies to charge as much as they like. It’s estimated that this new law would cost patients and taxpayers up to $11.6 billion over 10 years―padding the pockets of the greedy pharmaceutical industry and ensuring that we continue to pay the highest drug prices in the world! Former Congressman Henry Waxman of California, the author of the 1982 Orphan Drug Act, had this to say about how drug companies are manipulating the system: “We’re seeing the Orphan Drug Act used in ways that we never anticipated when the law was adopted. In the way people use the word ‘orphan status,’ it’s almost becoming a synonym for a monopoly price.” Stand with Social Security Works to oppose the OPEN Act, yet another billion dollar giveaway to big pharma corporations. If passed, the bill would allow drug companies to repurpose drugs that are already on the market, giving them “orphan” status. For patients this means competing drugs that might lower prices would be kept off the market, leading to budget busting drug prices for even longer for the people. Instead of padding the insurance company profits, Congress should be focusing on bills that rein in abuses by drug companies, and make sure people can afford the health care they need. Together, we’re fighting the greedy pharmaceutical industry and their powerful Washington lobbyists. “ Thank you, Michael Phelan Social Security Works

How about checking your facts once in awhile

Snopes and Urban Legends are the oldest fact-checking sites, but PolitiFact is probably the most efficient and popular.

Below is a list of sites I use:

• http://www.snopes.com/
• http://urbanlegends.about.com/
• http://www.truthorfiction.com/
• http://www.politifact.com/
• http://www.opensecrets.org/index.php
• http://factcheck.org/
• http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/fact-checker
• http://www.factandmyth.com/    *
• http://www.factmonster.com/     *

* These are new sites that I have not yet completly vetted  

Can a fact-checking site be biased? Of course, but the critical point is to what degree, and even more important is that just because you disagree with the fact check that doesn’t make it biased. Too often, we look for confirmation of our own biased by rejecting any bias by others.

Ask yourself this:

• Does the site have a stated methodology in their evaluation of facts? Do they conform to that methodology?
• Does the site provide names, dates, verifiable quotes, and links to supporting references.
• Are the source and references independent of the fact-checking site? In other-words is the site quoting themselves or sister sites, opinion sites, or sites that are themselves biased.
• Always consider the opposing opinion. You can’t truly understand the complexity of debate if you can’t completely understand and explain the opposing view.
• Too many websites will contain a link to what is supposed to support a fact, but does it? I’ve seen many sites quote an article from SNOPES.COM, and then when I click the link, the SNOPES article doesn’t support the sites claim, sometimes it is unrelated, and sometimes it even disputes the claim. What is happening there is the site assumes that most people will be attracted to their headline and won’t read the article, and they think you are too lazy to click and read the SNOPES article. That’s them calling you stupid and lazy, not me. Always check sources and links; after a while, you learn what sites are honest and not.
• Can you make a critical and fact-based argument to support you view in the face of an unfavorable fact check?

After a while, you will learn what fact-checking websites are the most reliable and honest. Notice I didn’t say unbiased. If you want a fact checker that supports your biased then your not interested in the truth. If you want a website that has absolutely no bias then good luck. If you can accept a website that meets the above criteria with some, but minimal bias, then you are on the right track to getting at deciphering truth from opinion.

Never present opinion as fact, never ignore facts in the face of opinion, and don’t ever be afraid to weigh both fact and opinion equally.

These two sights are not fact-checking sites like the above but:

this one is great for looking up and reading the actual language of proposed laws. You can also look up laws passed in past congresses:

• http://thomas.loc.gov/home/thomas.php

and this one is great for looking up actual labor statistics. You know for those charts that keep appearing comparing on presidents effect on jobs against another, or one party against another.

• http://www.bls.gov/home.htm

When the site provides a link or reference, does it checkout? Usually, when you want to check an email, you can copy the title in the subject line of the email into the 'Search" box on the websites page. If someone has changed the subject line in the chain email, you may have to look for a key phrase or words to put into the search box.

I won't claim that any of these sights are free of bias, but I don't think any site or any of us can make that claim. The question should be how bias, that's why I usually look at more than two sights on any subject and sometimes will look at all of them to see if anyone has a counter-argument.

Over the years, I have responded to chain mails because I think that, just like old-fashion chain letters, they are, for the most part, deceitful and pray on the little old lady types who could be scared into keeping the chain going for fear of bad luck. That may never be the person's intention in forwarding the chain mail, but it is the intention of the person who originated it.

Sadly, it seems many people like forwarding chain emails. I say this because, over the years, as I have responded by correcting the chainmail's, I have received less of them. I suspect that too many people prefer to receive chainmail's that fit into their beliefs more so than they want to hear the truth or facts about someone they would rather hate than know the truth. (??)

I was receiving some chain e-mails so often that at one point, I started cataloging them on one this website to keep from having to re-answer the same chainmail every year. (Click the "Spitting Back" link) There are 20 posts under that topic, and they all won't appear in the same listing, so when you get near the bottom, look for the 'Older Post' link. There is also a link ('Spam and E-Mail Hoaxes') in the 'Information' box for an explanation of how and why people start chainmail's and why they can be putting your mailing list at risk.'

Sadly, it seems many people like forwarding chain e-mails. I say this because, over the years, as I have responded by correcting the chainmail's, I have received less of them. I suspect that too many people prefer to receive chainmail's that fit into their beliefs more so than they want to hear the truth or facts about someone they would rather hate than know the truth. (??)

GlennDL

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