Tomorrow is the 106th anniversary of the birth of actor John Wayne, a fitting occasion for me to republish an essay in which I examine his peculiar status as a conservative political icon.

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Note to GOP re Benghazi: Stop calling it Watergate, Iran-contra, bigger than both, etc. First, it might well be, but we don’t know. History will judge. Second, overhyping will only diminish the importance of the scandal if it doesn’t meet presidency-breaking standards. Third, focusing on the political effects simply plays into the hands of Democrats desperately claiming that this is nothing but partisan politics. Let the facts speak for themselves. They are damning enough. Let...

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  1. DIY Embellished Garden Lamp2. DIY Patio Bottle Star3. DIY Junk Mirror4. Planting Doorknobs5. Marbles Embedded in Fencing6. DIY Glowing Garden Gazing Ball7. This is a bowling ball covered in pennies.8. DIY Mirror Mosaic Fence

  Fun fact #1: Cicadas have emerged and swarmed Staten Island, NY. Exterminators have perhaps their biggest project ever. Will the cicada infestation of 2013 be worse for Staten Island residents than the 2011 wild turkey infestation?

In some parts of the country,  every food gets a turn in the deep fryer.  From Oreos to butter.  It all seems more delicious with a batter and a crisp coating. Love it!  Not every day.  But for special occasions.