I am writing today to announce the closure of the New Mexico Independent. After three and a half years of operation in New Mexico, the board of the American Independent News Network, has decided to shift publication of its news…
While environmental activists played their part yesterday during demonstrations at the capitol building, going so far as to dress up as solar panels and to sing the tune of “You Are My Sunshine,” their counterparts, the anti-cap-and-trade contingency who has…
Roughly one quarter of University of New Mexico students are unimpressed with the state’s flagship public school, according to a survey that questioned college students about their higher education experiences.
During his victory speech Tuesday night, President-elect Barack Obama promised his daughters, Malia, 10, and Sasha, 7, that their reward for putting up with the campaign would be a new puppy.
Presidential pets — especially dogs — have a long and storied history (anyone remember Checkers?), and have included Eisenhower’s Weimaraner, Kennedy’s Welsh terrier (and Caroline’s pony), LBJ’s put-upon beagles, Ford’s golden retriever (and its litter), Amy Carter’s cat, Reagan’s King Charles spaniel, Bush the First’s springer spaniel, Clinton’s cat Socks and dog Buddy, and Bush the Second’s Scottish terriers.
With his promise, Obama now obligates himself to the same kind of calculating decision-making that won him the White House. The big question: What breed should he pick?
Whaddaya say we all agree to knock pit bulls off the list right now? I know, treated right they’re sweet dogs and excellent watchdogs. But once you put lipstick on them …
A chihuahua could help clinch the support of Hispanics who helped elect Obama, but could the White House staff stand the constant yapping? German shepherds are known for intelligence and loyalty — great traits in anything that walks the White House halls. But would it draw the cynicism of Republicans still smarting over Obama’s Berlin speech?
Practical concerns should play a part. The taxpayers don’t want a dog shedding on their furniture and chewing up their rugs. Also, Obamaites eager to emulate their new leader may go out and start a buying spree on whatever breed he chooses. Make a dog too popular and breeding qualities can suffer.
Maybe Obama should simply take a cue from Albuquerque Mayor Martin Chavez and Bernalillo County Sheriff Darren White and rescue an abused dog or a grateful mutt from the pound. What a lovely national craze that could set off.
