If Trump and Vance Were in a Christmas Story

Just like many of you, I was enraged by what I saw in the Oval Office last week. Trump is a bully and Vance his toady. So, I wondered what it would be like if they were in a Christmas Story and whipped this up this morning. Thanks for reading HackenKracks by Jeff Gabbard! SubscribeContinue reading “If Trump and Vance Were in a Christmas Story”

Gazing into the 2025 Abyss

It’s New Year’s Eve, and people are sharing their predictions for 2025. I thought I’d join in and write something silly about Trump, AI, or “Ozempic face” becoming the 2025 heroin chic look. But the more I thought about it, the more pointless it felt. You know how people say, “Man, 2024 sucked! Here’s hopingContinue reading “Gazing into the 2025 Abyss”

This Festivus, I'm Trading In Grievances for Gratitude

Today is Festivus. My family and I have had a lot of fun celebrating this made-up holiday over the years. There’s something freeing about gathering around an aluminum pole, airing grievances, and acknowledging the absurdity of the world. Do I have grievances in 2024? Does Elon Musk make ugly-ass trucks? Thanks for reading HackenKracks byContinue reading “This Festivus, I'm Trading In Grievances for Gratitude”

5 Ways the 4th of July Will Be Different Thanks to the Supreme Court.

It’s that time of year when we celebrate our nation’s independence from monarchical rule. Parades, Cookouts, and trips to the emergency room are what this country is all about. But after recent Supreme Court decisions, it looks like democracy is out and kings are back in. So, here are some 4th of July traditions thatContinue reading “5 Ways the 4th of July Will Be Different Thanks to the Supreme Court.”

Companies Are Only as Faithful as Their Options

When I signed that job confirmation letter twenty years ago and promised not to cheat on my new employer by working for any other companies, I just assumed that loyalty went both ways. But as comedian Chris Rock once said, “a man is only as faithful as his options.” And sometimes you realize companies areContinue reading “Companies Are Only as Faithful as Their Options”

Black Jack Turner and the Ghost of Kale Holler

Originally posted October 2011. “I am a poor pilgrim of sorrow. Cast out in this world to roam…” Granny Jo Whitaker sang as she lifted a washcloth from Ned Bishop’s cold face. The right side was still dark where blood had settled after he had died lying on his right side in bed. The bakingContinue reading “Black Jack Turner and the Ghost of Kale Holler”

Griffy Lake and Nature Preserve – Bloomington Parks and Rec.

Originally posted April 2007. Many students probably graduate from Indiana University never realizing that this jewel is just a stone’s throw from campus. Located just a few miles north-east of the football stadium, Griffy Lake and Nature Preserve is a special place.To me it exudes Bloomington. It has rolling hills, placid water and the scentContinue reading “Griffy Lake and Nature Preserve – Bloomington Parks and Rec.”

Pokagon State Park (Indiana DNR)

Originally posted April 2009. Pokagon State Park is a great example of what the Indiana State Park system has to offer.  At just over 1200 acres, this park has something for everyone. There are a wide variety of activities to choose from.  Bicycle rental, snow-ski rental, horseback riding, boat rental, hiking, fishing and a publicContinue reading “Pokagon State Park (Indiana DNR)”