What's in/out for 2012

What's in/out for 2012 Originally published December 30, 2011 The Frederick News-Post By Steven R. Berryman

It's been a year for the books; we're about to close it tomorrow, and I for one am ready for that and a fresh start! After much research and consultation with oracles, I have composed my anticipatory "What's in/out for 2012" for your reading indulgence: In is hoped that Election Day 2012 will begin to consolidate a plan that matches up with stated goals for our great nation. Out will be an American electorate that accepts empty words as opposed to economic improvements. In will be even more creative manipulation of statistics that prove we have lower unemployment, more jobs and a general expansion of a positive business climate. Out (of a job) will be many U.S. citizens who had believed their government was actually protecting their American dream. In will be one GOP candidate who prevails in the protracted primary dogfight, facilitated by a gladiatorial media concept of "debate." Out (of office) will remain said Republicans if they choose the man who looks like a president, talks like a president, but represents an insider continuation of the ruination of America. Out (of their tents) will be the Occupy Wall Street gang, when they discover that winter is cold. Out will also be tea party influence as they give up on a third party and/or constitutional convention. Out will be what had been the occupation of Iraq. In (to Afghanistan) will go many of these troops. Maintaining a military posture for the coming cold war with Iran will be the convenience. In will be browsing online for Cyber Monday. In will be making the actual purchase at your local brick-and-mortar storefront, as examination of the merchandise will remain paramount to a shopping experience. Out (I hope) will be the distracted "texting while driving." Out will be legal loopholes allowing exceptions to this abused and dangerous practice. In should be hands-free technology. In will be transcontinental pipelines, which add to national energy stability. Out will be 10-year waits for nuclear power plants, as available power dominates the world jobs contest. Out will also be pretending that "green energy" is cost-effective and creates jobs (unless subsidized with your tax dollars). Bonus clue: Wind farms don't pay for themselves either, as measured over time. In will be the farmers of Maryland, as they find their political voice against an oppressive land-use plan by Gov. Martin O'Malley. Out (of office) will be anyone who underestimates the value of our rural heritage, culture and investment. In is local activism and pride in our fair community of Frederick County. Out (of office) are those who don't understand that compromise in growth regulation will be essential to maintaining our posture of recovering from the Great Recession, and remaining on top as a "destination" community. Out will be single-source information gathering and reporting; in will be a more diversified information highway, as it becomes the high ground for the battles for hearts, minds and souls in this age. --Steven R. Berryman writes from Frederick. (srbmgr@comcast.net)

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