As you know, the year of 2008 is coming to a close, but for most of you (since most of you live in what I call US Eastern Time) has already ended.
This year, well, what can I say? It's been full. The Americans have elected a new president, one who some say has already broken many milestones in American culture. The Chinese have opened their borders this Summer to the entire world to see and did not disappoint, as those who saw the opening cermonies for the Olympics very well know. Gas in America has dipped back down to nearly a buck-80 in some areas, thanks mainly to OPEC and off-shore drilling.
It wasn't all good, though. Hurricane Ike had attempted, and failed, to flatten my hometown of Houston, Texas. Although low at the moment, globally, gas prices are higher than ever and because of the intertwined global economy, the international market has dropped. America's economy is in the pits and with it, many other country's.
Closer to home, here on Gaia, we have seen the birth of zOMG, or at least its beta, and although the game itself isn't as... Well, it wasn't what we really expected, the intro's pretty damn kickass. In regards to this Army, a tight-knit fighting force containing some of the most competent damn sons-of-bitches I have ever met in my life with whom I'd be proud to stand beside and fight anyday (well, not really, I have a feeling that one of y'all is bound to catch me in your sights by accident), we have gained some great members who I will not mention in this address as they, as well as anyone else reading this, know who they are.
I will mention one person in particular though. The person known as Teddybear of Death, known endearingly as T-Bod by those close to her, is one person who I will waiver the requirements for Barton's two greatest medals and grant them to her, the Star of Barton and the Barton Exemplary Service Medal. T-Bod is the best example I can think of when I think Barton Army Strong. Intelligent. Resourceful. And of course, in the face of daunting real life challenges that keep her from the computer, an unprecedented sense of loyalty, honor, diligence, and companionship with her fellow Barton Army soldiers, shown in the forms of donations to the Army's mule and occasional PMs to myself and Colonel Rachel 'Doc' Martin.
In addition to this, the Barton Army has gone under a regime change during this year. At the request of General Ember Anderson, I will not go into this further. All I will say is that now, we have a general who is capable, who is active, who is wise, and who has my full support, as the rest of you should as well.
In closing, I, Colonel Chang Wang of the Barton Army, hereby declare 2008 as a year of growth and a year of change for all of us here in the Barton Army, on Gaia and in real life. Happy New Years to all members of the Army. Now get back to work, ya slackers. Its 2009 already and nothing's been done yet!
Colonel Chang Wang
Barton Army
