As for the Topic of the Day...
In regards to President Obama's speech tomorrow: If some parents are so concerned that their children will be "brain-washed" and "indoctrinated" by listening to the President's speech, then, instead of granting their children a "sick day", they should go to school with their children and listen and watch the speech with their children. And, then, hopefully, talk about the speech with their children afterwards. Sadly, I believe some parents would end up covering the ears - and eyes - of their children during the speech.