Animal headline of the day

Eight years on the lam, escaped zoo flamingo living large in Texas

Today's news round-up

Good News

• U.S. Senate confirmation marathon approves two more Obama nominees
• Belgian Senate votes to extend euthanasia to children
• Guard Acts to Issue IDs to Members’ Gay Spouses
• Medicare to examine ban on gender reassignment surgery

Bad News

• Gay rights rewind: India criminalizes homosexuality again
• U.S. judge approves retail credit card fee settlement I'm suspicious of the litigation release.

Animal headline of the day

After Chicken Is Spotted in Central Park, an Odyssey Begins

A military Christmas flash mob

Today's news round-up

Good News

• Filibuster Threat Gone, Senate Confirms 2 Presidential Nominees
• Regulators seek to curb Wall St. trades with Volcker rule
• Reporter can keep sources secret in Colorado theater shooting: court
• Canada G20 policeman sentenced to 45 days
• Georgia Nat’l Guard to process same-sex benefits
• Taiwan to allow legal gender changes without [physically] transitioning
• Democrat Clark wins Mass. congressional race

Bad News

• Man’s Best Impostor? Fake Service Dogs A Growing Problem
• Lawmaker: Domino’s Employees Were Fired After Complaining About Conditions

Animal headline of the day

Dog robs store

A friend of mine had a dog which was also a shoplifter. She took him with her to the pet supply store, and after the cashier rang up her purchases he said, "And are you going to pay for that, too?" He pointed to her dog who had a new toy firmly clenched in his teeth.

Today's news round-up

Good News

• Satanists seek spot on Oklahoma Statehouse steps
• Officer Who Fired on Runaway Family's Minivan Fired
• Judge Orders Colorado Bakery to Cater for Same-Sex Weddings
• Three members of 'Muslim patrol' jailed in London
• Louisiana to process military benefits for same-sex spouses despite state ban
• Hyattsville, MD City Council passes trans-inclusive non-discrimination ordinance
• Rhode Island Home to 1st Transgender High School Coach

Bad News

• Ohio Amish girl won't be forced to renew chemo
• Lebanon military court sentences reporter to jail