SHORT TAKES ON THE DRIFTING WRECKAGE – AT 11:30 P.M. ET: 

THE TRUE HOLIDAY SPIRIT – FROM FOX:   A Florida boy penned a touching letter of condolence this week to the deputy who lost his K9 during a Christmas Eve shootout when the heroic dog died while saving two deputies' lives -- and officials have shared the note online.  The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office posted the letter from the boy, identified only as "Cooper." It was addressed to "Deputy Ryan," handler of the 3-year-old K9, named Cigo, and included a story from the boy's mother.  She sent the letter to the sheriff's office, saying her son cried upon learning that Cigo had died during Monday's disturbance at the Mall at Wellington Green, in which two suspects were arrested, the Orlando Sentinel reported.  Cooper told his mom that losing Cigo was like the deputy losing his "buddy" and "now he doesn't have his 'buddy' anymore," the mother said, according to the post. The next morning, Cooper decided to write the letter.  "Dear Deputy Ryan I am sorry that your dog got shot thank you for keeping me safe thank you for your service," the letter read. "Your dog did a lote (sic) for the world."  Why do I think this kid has a good upbringing?

IS ANY LIBERAL INTERESTED – FROM THE WASHINGTON TIMES:  Border authorities are referring 50 people a day for urgent medical care, including tuberculosis, flu and even pregnant women about to give birth, a top official said Monday, saying it’s unlike anything they’ve ever seen before.  Most of those in need of care are children, and a staggering 28 percent are under age 5, having been dragged along for the trip by parents who in many cases are hoping to use the children as a shield against speedy deportation from the U.S.  The numbers were released after a full review was done of all children in the custody of Customs and Border Protection in the wake of two illegal-immigrant children who died in U.S. hospitals in December.  CBP Commissioner Kevin McAleenan said most of those needing help were ill when they arrived at the border, and some appear to have made the initial decision to leave even while ailing.  “Many were ill before they departed their homes,” the commissioner said. “We’re talking about cases of pneumonia, tuberculosis, parasites. These are not things that developed urgently in a matter of days.”   Anyone interested in these children?  Anyone questioning why Mexican and Central American authorities are permitting sick children to travel those distances?  I guess the liberals are only interested if they can blame President Trump.  The children are simply political tools.

December 31,  2018