Lake Superior State University released its 34th version of their annual List of Words to Be Banished from the Queen’s English for Mis-use, Over-use and General Uselessness earlier this week. Inspired by interest in the environment, frenzy over politics, and the economic downturn, the 15 entries selected from over 5,000 nominations include:

1. GREEN
“If something is good for the environment, just say so. As Kermit would say, ‘It isn’t easy being green.’” Kevin Sherlock, Hiawatha, Iowa.

2. CARBON FOOTPRINT or CARBON OFFSETTING
“It is now considered fashionable for everyone, tree hugger or lumberjack alike, to pay money to questionable companies to ‘offset’ their own ‘carbon footprint.’ What a scam! Get rid of it immediately!” Ginger Hunt, London, England.

3. MAVERICK
“The constant repetition of this word for months before the US election diluted whatever meaning it previously had. Even the comic offshoot ‘mavericky’ was terribly overused. A minimum five-year banishment of both words is suggested so they will not be available during the next federal election.” Matthew Mattila, Green Bay, Wisc.

We’ve all had something that we’re really excited about initially, but then it lets us down. At that point, we have to reassess our “loves it” list and move on to the next thing. These 10 items were overdone in 2008, so in 2009 we’re ending our love affair.

This year has been sort of a Debbie Downer.  From the stock market slump, to the shocking death of Heath Ledger, to the lame duck President’s reversal of medical rights last week, things have been looking pretty glum.  But I’m ready for a clean slate! So, for those of you who are with me and SO over ye ole ’08, here are 10 things to look forward to in 2009:

1. Going To Bed With Jimmy Fallon: The former “Saturday Night Live” star will get his own late night show in Spring ’09.  He’s taking over Conan’s slot and the giant ginger is moving on down into Jay Leno’s time.