Mullet Over
BY JAMES K. WHITE | JANUARY 5, 2011
The very first income tax
Has your neighborhood seemed crowded as of late? Scientists project that there will be 7 billion people on earth in 2011. There are currently 21 cities with a population of 10,000,000 or more. These statistics seem amazing, perhaps alarming.
The wrasse is a prized fish in many of the world’s restaurants. A 20 pound wrasse may bring $1,000 or more in some regions of China.
Feral hogs have become a big problem in America. Annually, the porcine mammals cause many millions of dollars in damages. They are now in 39 U.S. states and 4 Canadian provinces. Ranchers previously charged fees to hunt hogs on their lands, but now they often pay professional hunters and trappers to remove as many swine as possible. There are numerous reports that the pigs have invaded municipalities and suburbs.
Those first elected (1936) into Baseball’s Hall of Fame were: Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner, Christy Mathewson and Walter Johnson. As of 2010, the institution has 292 inductees.
The oldest man to ever complete Navy Seal training was age 39. Normally, the maximum age permitted to enter is 28, but this trainee was granted a special waiver.
Gheorge Muresan (seven feet seven inches) was the tallest person to ever play in the NBA.
Manute Bol was an NBA player that stood seven feet six inches, but had a measured “wingspan” of eight feet six inches.
Historical records indicate that the very first income tax was levied by Great Britain to fund battle campaigns during the Napoleonic Wars.
In 1088 Odo de Lagery was elected pontiff and chose the name Pope Urban II. In 1095 this church leader gave what has been labeled as “the most effective speech in human history.” He addressed a Church Council and declared that infidels were defiling the Holy Lands. The era of the Holy Crusades was launched and lasted almost 200 years. On July 15, 1099 the crusaders militarily occupied Jerusalem.
The earth’s mightiest river, the Amazon, is in a class all its own. The waterway is fed by more than 1100 smaller rivers, seventeen of which are longer and carry more water than the Rhine River.
In 1705 John Smith was condemned as a robber to be executed at London’s infamous Tyburn Gallows. Approximately 15 minutes after he was hanged, a courier rode up carrying a written reprieve. John was cut down and recuperated sufficiently to enjoy several years of local fame as “Half-Hanged Smith.” Well, do not attempt to leap over the Amazon, but do have a great week.
James White is a retired mathematics teacher who enjoys sharing fascinating trivia. He can be reached at [email protected].
Profound Statements
• Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it.
-- Ronald Reagan (1986)
• I don't make jokes. I just watch the government and report the facts.
-- Will Rogers
• If you think health care is expensive now, wait until you see what it costs when it's free!
-- P.J. O'Rourke
• In general, the art of government consists of taking as much money as possible from one party of the citizens to give to the other.
-- Voltaire (1764)
• Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn't mean politics won't take an interest in you!
-- Pericles (430 B.C.)
• No man's life, liberty, or property is safe while the legislature is in session.
-- Mark Twain (1866)
Your Horoscope by Madame Bournard
ARIES (MAR. 21 - APRIL 19)
There may be a difference of opinion this week either at home or at work. Try not to push it. Sometimes you are too stubborn for your own good.
TAURUS (APR. 20 – MAY 20)
Beware of miscommunication around you. Step back and take a deep breath before jumping into a more stressful environment. Tone down jealousy.
GEMINI (MAY 21 –JUNE 20)
One of your relationships is being tested; you knew this was coming. It seems nothing lately is making you happy. Solace is deep within you.
CANCER (JUN 21 – JULY 22)
If you are trying to achieve peace and tranquility with your partner, good luck! It is best to spend time alone and enjoy doing what you like to do.
LEO (JULY 23- SEPT. 22)
Think about compromising with people this week. There may be strong energy around you that makes you question your confidence. Trust it.
VIRGO (AUG. 23 –AUG 22)
It is not a good time for social plans, so pass up any invitations. Continue your efforts to finish up your obligation at work; it will pay off.
LIBRA (SEPT.23 – OCT 22)
Being optimistic is best for your nature. Getting things done makes your home a happy one. You may have some stress, but don’t take it to heart.
SCORPIO (OCT. 23- NOV. 21)
You may feel very confused about things going on in your life. It is difficult when obstacles aggravate you and prevent you from getting things done. Be ready to think fast.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22- DEC. 21)
A friend who knows you well may be counted on to help you find answers. Watch for erratic behavior at work or home and be prepared to mediate.
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22- JAN 19)
It is a good week to stay out of the line of fire; try to stay neutral. Be careful not to burn bridges. The weekend becomes a peaceful retreat.
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20- FEB. 18)
You will struggle trying to change anyone’s’ mind on anything. People can hunker down as much as you on new challenges. Relationship issues may arise.
PISCES (FEB. 19- MAR. 20)
Things around you are being tested; be careful about your perspective on things. Don’t exaggerate conversations. You may engage in a power struggle.
