By Laurie Baron
SAN DIEGO―Embarrassed over leaks that the NSA monitored German Chancellor Angela Merkel’s cell phone, President Obama called her on a secure line to apologize. The next day he received a briefing from the NSA citing his conversation with Merkel verbatim and reminding him, “Espionage means you never have to say you’re sorry.”
Glitches continue to plague the HealthCare.gov website. To make sure those trying to register for a policy get immediate gratification, the government has hired a team of technicians who design pornography websites. To atone for her mistakes, Kathleen Sibelius has agreed to model for the section on gynecological coverage.
Hurricane force winds buffeted the countries of Northern Europe earlier this week. Overcome by the extent of devastation, the countries affected by the storms have extended an invitation to President Obama and Chris Christie to survey the damage.
Once again Israel has accompanied the release of Palestinian prisoners with an announcement to build new settlements in the West Bank and Gaza. Although many Israelis protested the release, Netanyahu assured them that he plans to enable Mossad agents to reside in communities where they can spy on the released Palestinians.
Russia has developed an underwater assault rifle that can fire 800 rounds in one minute. The NRA welcomed the news as a victory for the First Amendment rights of scuba divers.
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Baron is professor emeritus of history at San Diego State University. He may be contacted at Lawrence.baron@sdjewishworld.com