Good morning! It’s Saturday, December 21st, and it’s four days until Christmas. Yep. Four.

Alright. Alright. It’s not quite like that for me. DJ. Play that music. It seems like a good morning for some Dido-White Flag.

Government Shutdown

In a last-minute effort to avert a government shutdown, Congress successfully passed a short-term funding bill just hours before the midnight deadline on December 20, 2024. The bill, known as the “American Relief Act, 2025,” was approved by both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
The path to this resolution was not without its challenges. Earlier in the week, a bipartisan agreement had been reached, but it faced opposition from President-elect Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, who urged Republicans to reject it. This led to the collapse of the initial deal and sparked a series of negotiations and failed attempts to pass alternative proposals.

I get tired of hearing the words ‘un-American’ or people saying ‘This is American.’ It’s crucial to understand the implications of such statements, especially when they can influence our national discourse. Be careful what people are doing in the name of nationalism; it often obscures the principles of inclusivity and unity that are foundational to our great nation. I’ll tell you what’s truly un-American, though: shutting down the government four days before Christmas, a time meant for joy and gathering, and having families forced to do without paychecks during the holiday season, leaving many to struggle and worry about making ends meet. This kind of action undermines the very essence of what America stands for — compassion, support for one another, and the shared belief that we should uplift our fellow citizens in times of need.

Many Republicans weren’t happy about the lack of financial responsibility in the bill. Bills and spending that should have been done separately and deliberated in Congress, get jammed into the CR bill last minute.

Golf News

Tiger is back at the PNC Championship. It’s mostly a parent playing with their kids/grandkids. It’s nice to see these professionals tee it up with their kids.

It’s even nice to see my high school golf hero Fred Couples get into the mix with his step-son.

On a related golf note. I’m playing in the end of the year better ball event in our Men’s Club with my buddy Jimmy. I’m looking forward to seeing how we do. But, no matter what we’ll have some fun out there.

Have an excellent Saturday everyone! Take some time and enjoy the people around you.