"Debacle." What a terribly sad and ignorant comment.  The  tyrannical regime in Iran has gunned down more than 35,000 of its own people since the protests began .  Bringing people their freedom is one of the most noble things the United States will ever do. I'd argue this should have been done decades ago before Iran could strengthen its terror network and sell military hardware to China and Russia.  In addition to freeing the people of Iran, China gets almost all of its oil from Iran. I suspect the people of Taiwan are breathing slightly easier. Empty bridge intended to carry California's high speed rail tracks Yes, I realize that we are spending money that might have purchased a couple of miles of California high speed rail (given zero track has been laid and more than $14 billion spent to-date after more than 11 years of "construction").  Or, it might be just enough to purchase a week of Minneapolis "day care." I realize these spending prioritie...

Photos by Kathleen Smith Undulatus clouds, which are a cloud type like cumulus or cirrus, appeared over the southwest part of the Kansas City Metro this afternoon. When they occur, they are spectacular. In this case, they were on the leading edge of a cluster of thunderstorms.  So far, those thunderstorms have brought limited moisture (mix of rain, sleet, freezing rain). More in needed but these are the amounts to 4pm. 

Yes, it is possible that Trump v Obama could occur in 2044: Barron Trump and Sasha Obama. My friend Andy Revkin has taken this premise and put together an enjoyable piece. Take a look and listen here . 

The entire email and related information are here . For an interesting analysis, see this .  As Iran is known for cyberattacks. If the U.S. attacks Iran, don't be surprised if they respond which means there is the possibility for the types of supply interruptions we had during COVID.  If you are low on gas for your car, prescription medicines, etc., you might want to go ahead and purchase them now. 

It is a Friday during Lent and Catholics cannot eat meat. So, Kathleen and I go to McDonald's once or twice for fast food fasting. This year, it seems they are smaller to both of us but McD's official info says no. From Grok: According to McDonald's official nutrition data and statements, the Filet-O-Fish sandwich has not changed in size, ingredients, or build since at least the early 2000s, including between 2020 and 2026. The company has explicitly denied shrinkflation claims, attributing perceived differences to variations in preparation, bun steaming, or individual assembly at restaurants.   Nutrition profiles (a reliable proxy for portion consistency) remain virtually identical, with no adjustments to calories, macros, or serving details that would indicate a reduction. However, consumer complaints and independent weigh-ins suggest otherwise, with many reporting the sandwich feels noticeably smaller in recent years (2023–2026), often described as "slider-sized...