Today's Tids Issue 2,186
Opening Stuff:
What did the zero say to the eight? “Nice belt!”
The opening day of NFL training is for sports nuts what Christmas Eve is for kids. It’s all about hope and nothing about reality.
When the Tids Editorial board decided to dub the new President “Prime Time”, little did they know that he could also be known as “Daytime”, “Night Time” and “Good Time”. And of course now, many say it should be “Time to go”.
We need some kind of a new economic engine. The great depression ended with the start of the war effort. We had home building for the post war baby Boom. We've had dot coms. And of course we had the misguided attempt to make homes available for all, even if they couldn't afford it. Hey... how about government subsidized up-to-a-million-dollar weddings for all.
The Question:
Groups of animals are not just all called herds. In fact they have some pretty strange designations. Give me the group names for the following animals: Cats, Coyote, Rabbits, Clams, Crows, Crocodiles, Elephants, Foxes, Gnus, Giraffes, Hummingbirds and Rhinos. Friday Bonus Q: Today marks the 50th anniversary fo the first exhibition football game of the American Football League (AFL now AFC) Name the two participants.
The Headlines:
--GDP Reports Out Today Likely To Show Economic Slowdown In July.
--Government Admits recession Deeper Than Previously Thought; 2.6% Economic Shrinkage Said To Be Worst declein Since 1946.
--China Overtakes Japan As World's Second Largest Economy; Is US Next?
--Ellen Rumored To be Out At American Idol; Jennifer Lopez Top Candidate.
--Gates Calls Release Of Secret War Docs Potentially Treasonous Acts.
--July Deadliest Month For US Troops In Afghanistan After Nine Years Of War.
--Head Of Mexico’s Largest Drug Cartel Killed.
--Rangel Charged; Congressional Trial Likely To be Campaign Season Sideshow The Dems Don’t Want.
--Wild Fires Explode North Of LA; Thousands Flee Homes.
--Calcium Supplements Linked To heart Attacks In Elderly Women.
Back to More Stuff:
You hear a lot of groaning about the weakness of TV lineups this summer. (Including my own) But within the cable network schedules are some real winners. Of course Mad Men is a favorite of many. As is Closer and HBO standards Entourage and True Blood. And there are plenty more. USA’s Burn Notice, Hot in Cleveland (Betty White Show), The Gates (Another attempt at scary – See 2009 Harper’s Island), Scoundrals (Family of small time crooks), Memphis Beat and Boston Med. Boston Med has become a fast favorite of many. (One new show Good Guys with Tom Hanks kid may be the worst show eve brought to TV.) But…Rubicon (On AMC) is the show I may have been waiting for all summer. Mainly because the program promotion relies heavily on the word “Conspiracy”. I’m ready for Sunday at 8:00PM!
Henny Youngman upon finishing golf said, “I hit two good balls today.” I stepped on a rake.” Ouch.
I see no reason why Kerry should pay up to Massachusetts. He was perfectly legal keeping his boat in Newport, Rhode Island. And besides…as any sailor worth their salt knows…the best sailing in the world is off the coast of Newport.
An observant reader writes to ask why I didn’t combine this question: "What will the people do when they get bored with YouTube?" with the Tids from the other day featuring "Stupid is as stupid does". It would have reminded me, he says, that the answer to the question would be: The stupid people will never get bored with YouTube.
Another respected reader wrote to inform me that immigrants sneaking into the US isn’t technically a crime, because sneaking into the US to suck money out of the Treasury isn’t a prosecutable action. It is only a deportable action. But is just plain wrong and if allowed to continue will lead to chaos. So, we can’t prosecute them. They doesn’t explain why we aren’t rounding them up and deporting them.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 86 continues. –I just sat there a moment and looked at him. The fast fading, false sense of bravado was leaving me flat. My resolve to return to my life of six months ago was dissolving with each beat of my loving heart. I tried to think of my children, but I only saw Kent’s imploring eyes. I tried recapture last night in bed with Paul, but I was overcome with my yearning for Kent. What do you want me to do Kent I said silently to myself? Do you want me to abet in whatever you are involved?
Kent looked over towards Marie and then reached across the table and caressed my hand. Which opened warmly to receive him. He smiled incredibly lovingly. “I want to take you home right now. I want to fly away with you to a place where we will never be found.” He was imploring me to understand something I couldn’t see. Something untold. He didn’t have to worry, I would. “I should have not asked you here tonight. I thought I could just talk and then leave quietly.” He looked sad. Not in control. Like he always was. Like I always am.
“You’re leaving,” I said plaintively. Weakly.
“But, Sarah/Maggie, this very moment has made me know that I am totally in love with you. You deserve to have your own beautiful life back. And I could let you do that because my love is so great that I want you to be happy most of all. Wherever you go you would always have my heart with you. But my happiest life would only be one where you are always by my side.”
I felt stunned. Yet entirely rapturous. I couldn’t speak. I could only look into those eyes that saw the world and loved the world the way I do.
“I have to leave. Believe me Sarah/Maggie, I want to be with you forever.”
He squeezed my hand. I felt his love to the core of my body. I couldn’t say a word. My eyes must have said it, because his smile was the perfect response to my state of exotic luxury. He got up and left. He didn’t finish his pie. He always finished his pie.
Hey, the Clintons can spend their money any way they want. After all, this couple who never had the chance to participate in the American dream of owning their own home until 2000, deserve to spend wildly like any good American. And, if they can manage to put it on their credit card, good for them. Keep the irresponsible spirit alive in well in the world’s greatest economy.
The Clintons didn’t invite the Prez and wife Sleeveless because they wanted the wedding to personal for their daughter. Now in my lifetime I have seen the marriage of many Presidential daughters and I have never seen $2-3 Million dollar affairs, closing of NY Hudson River area airways for about 16 hours or a steady stream of major publicity about private and personal wedding. I wonder how much money the Clintons will make on their book about the wedding.
Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--Charlie St. Cloud is really a vehicle for the career path growth of teen fave Zac Efron. He actually doesn’t do so well in this film that often struggles. But, it may be interesting. Zac plays a super high school sailor who gets a scholarship to Stanford. And then, something goes terribly wrong. He becomes a recluse living in an out of the way cottage as a caretaker of a cemetery. But, he is eventually saved from is own torments. What happened and who will save him. That is the question.
--Dinner for Schmucks sounds terrible but could be very entertaining. The latest Steve Carell vehicle also stars Paul Rudd. (So many of the Carell movies have been mediocre it is hard to start believing again). This one is good and quite funny. The essence of the plot is about Rudd a career hungry young exec and a bumbler Carell. The big event is where young execs look for losers to bring to a big corporate dinner so the rest of the high powered crowd can laugh at them. But something happens along the way.
--Cats & Dogs is a not so funny sequel. It tries to be a “Roadrunner” style cartoon but the antics just doesn’t measure up. It is a hodgepodge that amay amuse those with half a brain or under the age of three.
--The opening line of the review for The Kids Are Alright says it is a perceptive, funny, tearful, dramatic, offbeat look at the American family today. Offbeat is the operative word as the family is headed by two lesbian parents each with an artificially inseminated child. The oldest child at 18 decided to find dad, and that’s where the gnashing of teeth begins. Dad turns out to be a free-spirited, marginally irresponsible, motor cycle riding owner of a restaurant called Local Food. Obviously the kid gravitates to dad, much to the dismay of mom and mom II. But I guess what really bothers me about this movie is that dad raises organic vegetables for his restaurant. God, how clichéd can a movie be?
The Answer:
Cats – Clowder or Pounce; Coyote – Pack or Train; Rabbits – Warren; Clams – Bed; Crows – Murder; Crocodiles – Congregation or Float; Elephants – Parade; Foxes – Skulk; Gnus – Implausibility; Hummingbirds – Charm; Giraffes – Kaleidoscope, Journey or Troop; Rhinos – Crash.
Check em’ all out at http://www.hintsandthings.co.uk/kennel/collectives.htm (That is if you have npo life); Bonus: The 1st two teams from the old AFL to have a go at it were the Boston Patriots and Buffalo Bills. The Pats won.
The Beginning of the Weekend:
Maybe the newest reality show for next summer will be about a wedding and will be called Chelsea. Sounds like a distinct possibility to me.
It's going to be perfect weather in the east. It will be perfect down here if all of the tourists and day trippers to enjoy the weather in there back yards.
Love your day!
Layng quietly in fields
Glstening lights
Friday, July 30, 2010
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Illegal immigration is a crime.
Today's Tids Issue 2,185
Opening Stuff:
This Arizona thing just has to get to the Supreme Court. The feds have been giving lip service to those concerned about law breaking immigrants. Allowing groups of enablers to paint the concerned as racists. The media has allowed the agendized to demagogue the issue without a mere shrug of disbelief. Will the country ever return to reality?
If I were the ABA, I’d start looking seriously at some of the creative defenses being used by the brethren in the courtrooms. For instance, the Blago team used the “Stupid” defense – Our client was not smart enough to know what he was doing. Yikes. And then down in Louisville at the Pitino Sex/Extortion show, the prosecution is using a combo of “The devil made me do it” and the famous Clinton “I didn’t inhale” maneuver. The “:Coach” said yeah, I had sex but “very briefly”! (But, did you have fun Rick!) Of course down on the US border states slews of lawyers have convinced themselves that criminal acts are good. And so it goes. Law has become a way to get around good ole’ common sense…and for that matter…law.
The Question:
What are ten common phrases coming from the mouth of your broker/financial advisor of which you should be Skeptical?
The Headlines:
--Jan Brewer Will Take Fight To Secure Borders To Supreme Court.
--Pipeline Break Spills Thousands Of Gallons Of Oil Into Michigan’s Kalamazoo River.
--Current Foreclosure Rate Will Keep Home Prices Lower Until 2013.
--New AP Poll Reports Bleak US Economy For 2011.
--New Gulf Report Says Large Oil Blotches Seem To Be Disappearing.
--Medvedev Widens Power Of KGB Successor Agency; Move Said To be Designed To Stifle Protests And Intimidate Government Opponents.
Back to More Stuff:
What will the people do when they get bored with YouTube?
Why should we in The US be happy that the President Of Mexico is applauding the legal decision on the Arizona law. It just shows how much he wants to get rid of his people.
I guess “Prime Time” doesn’t buy into “On my honor to do the best / To do my duty to God and country and to obey scout law / To help pother people at all times; / To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.” That’s the Scout motto the President missed by skipping off to The View and a NYC fundraiser. It isn’t that other Presidents have not shown to talk to the kids, but this was the 100th Anniversary of a great American organization. The View! Whoopie-to-do.
Let’s get the “Inherited” deficit right Department:
(Note: If the accompanying chart doiesn't show here, write and I'll send it along.)
Just to put all of this “Inherited” deficit talk into perspective, the Democrat Congress of Pelosi and Reid (Obama was a member and a voter for the big upward ticks in spending) started the shoppaholic spree in 2008. Check out the chart above. (Interesting how the deficit appears to be descending right around the time of 0’s 2012 election! That’s due to the Health Care monster slight of hand as designed by the, yes, Democrat Congress)
One of our brilliant readers tells us that: “There is only one job more dangerous than lighting the fuse. Going back to relight it…”
Thought the Same Eyes: Chapter 86. –I have never done a better job of acting than those 10 steps towards Kent. My kiss on the cheek was practically biblical. But, then when I felt his cheek against my lips I felt what I always have felt. I steeled myself against emotion and moved to the seat opposite him. Though I knew that in a moment I would feel his foot against my leg. I sat there in erotic anticipation. I always do when I’m with him. Even now when I am supposed to be skeptical. Even now when he seems to be having concerns about me. He has always thought like me and I him. My heart was beating faster.
“It is so nice to see you Kent. It seems like months. So much has happened in the past several days.” He just sat there and looked at me like he was in love. He didn’t have to touch me. I could feel him from my memories. I shuddered.
“I agree.” Marie arrived with the pie that Kent had ordered and my coffee which he must have ordered for me. I looked at him in feigned surprise…and appreciation. But, that’s all he said.
We decided that it would not be good to hide my visits to Henry. Kent liked Henry. “The police are still concerned about the disappearance of your house cleaner, Laura.” His expression changed slightly.
“ I haven’t seen her since two days before she went missing.” He said mechanically. “I’d rather talk about you. Us.” He smiled, boyishly. “Maybe I should give up my work and run a way with you.”
An Internet feature yesterday listed America’s Ten Top Secluded beaches. They won’t be secluded any more.
The Answer:
1. “This is a good time to invest in the stock market.” 2. “Stocks on average make you about 10%.” 3. “Our economists are forecasting…” 4. “Investing in the stock market allows you to participate in the growth of the economy.” 5. “If you want higher returns, you have to take more risk.” 6. “The market’s really cheaper now; The P/E is about 13.” 7. “You can’t time the market.” 8. “We recommend a diversified portfolio of Mutual Funds.” 9. “This is a stock picker’s market.” And 10. “Stocks outperform over the long term.”
Eliminate risk. Vote out incumbents in 2010.
Jan Brewer for President.
Opening Stuff:
This Arizona thing just has to get to the Supreme Court. The feds have been giving lip service to those concerned about law breaking immigrants. Allowing groups of enablers to paint the concerned as racists. The media has allowed the agendized to demagogue the issue without a mere shrug of disbelief. Will the country ever return to reality?
If I were the ABA, I’d start looking seriously at some of the creative defenses being used by the brethren in the courtrooms. For instance, the Blago team used the “Stupid” defense – Our client was not smart enough to know what he was doing. Yikes. And then down in Louisville at the Pitino Sex/Extortion show, the prosecution is using a combo of “The devil made me do it” and the famous Clinton “I didn’t inhale” maneuver. The “:Coach” said yeah, I had sex but “very briefly”! (But, did you have fun Rick!) Of course down on the US border states slews of lawyers have convinced themselves that criminal acts are good. And so it goes. Law has become a way to get around good ole’ common sense…and for that matter…law.
The Question:
What are ten common phrases coming from the mouth of your broker/financial advisor of which you should be Skeptical?
The Headlines:
--Jan Brewer Will Take Fight To Secure Borders To Supreme Court.
--Pipeline Break Spills Thousands Of Gallons Of Oil Into Michigan’s Kalamazoo River.
--Current Foreclosure Rate Will Keep Home Prices Lower Until 2013.
--New AP Poll Reports Bleak US Economy For 2011.
--New Gulf Report Says Large Oil Blotches Seem To Be Disappearing.
--Medvedev Widens Power Of KGB Successor Agency; Move Said To be Designed To Stifle Protests And Intimidate Government Opponents.
Back to More Stuff:
What will the people do when they get bored with YouTube?
Why should we in The US be happy that the President Of Mexico is applauding the legal decision on the Arizona law. It just shows how much he wants to get rid of his people.
I guess “Prime Time” doesn’t buy into “On my honor to do the best / To do my duty to God and country and to obey scout law / To help pother people at all times; / To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.” That’s the Scout motto the President missed by skipping off to The View and a NYC fundraiser. It isn’t that other Presidents have not shown to talk to the kids, but this was the 100th Anniversary of a great American organization. The View! Whoopie-to-do.
Let’s get the “Inherited” deficit right Department:
(Note: If the accompanying chart doiesn't show here, write and I'll send it along.)
Just to put all of this “Inherited” deficit talk into perspective, the Democrat Congress of Pelosi and Reid (Obama was a member and a voter for the big upward ticks in spending) started the shoppaholic spree in 2008. Check out the chart above. (Interesting how the deficit appears to be descending right around the time of 0’s 2012 election! That’s due to the Health Care monster slight of hand as designed by the, yes, Democrat Congress)
One of our brilliant readers tells us that: “There is only one job more dangerous than lighting the fuse. Going back to relight it…”
Thought the Same Eyes: Chapter 86. –I have never done a better job of acting than those 10 steps towards Kent. My kiss on the cheek was practically biblical. But, then when I felt his cheek against my lips I felt what I always have felt. I steeled myself against emotion and moved to the seat opposite him. Though I knew that in a moment I would feel his foot against my leg. I sat there in erotic anticipation. I always do when I’m with him. Even now when I am supposed to be skeptical. Even now when he seems to be having concerns about me. He has always thought like me and I him. My heart was beating faster.
“It is so nice to see you Kent. It seems like months. So much has happened in the past several days.” He just sat there and looked at me like he was in love. He didn’t have to touch me. I could feel him from my memories. I shuddered.
“I agree.” Marie arrived with the pie that Kent had ordered and my coffee which he must have ordered for me. I looked at him in feigned surprise…and appreciation. But, that’s all he said.
We decided that it would not be good to hide my visits to Henry. Kent liked Henry. “The police are still concerned about the disappearance of your house cleaner, Laura.” His expression changed slightly.
“ I haven’t seen her since two days before she went missing.” He said mechanically. “I’d rather talk about you. Us.” He smiled, boyishly. “Maybe I should give up my work and run a way with you.”
An Internet feature yesterday listed America’s Ten Top Secluded beaches. They won’t be secluded any more.
The Answer:
1. “This is a good time to invest in the stock market.” 2. “Stocks on average make you about 10%.” 3. “Our economists are forecasting…” 4. “Investing in the stock market allows you to participate in the growth of the economy.” 5. “If you want higher returns, you have to take more risk.” 6. “The market’s really cheaper now; The P/E is about 13.” 7. “You can’t time the market.” 8. “We recommend a diversified portfolio of Mutual Funds.” 9. “This is a stock picker’s market.” And 10. “Stocks outperform over the long term.”
Eliminate risk. Vote out incumbents in 2010.
Jan Brewer for President.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Stupid is as stupid does.
Today's Tids Issue 2,184
Opening Stuff:
One of the ongoing problems contributing to the continued collapse of what was once the greatness of the US of A is American’s addiction to stupidity! In fact, one of the fastest growing industries in America has as its basis Americans doing stupid things and other Americans paying to watch it. And of course, the hottest industry of all requires people to put all of their most personal thoughts and data on the world wide web for all to see. I mean God just has to love all of this creativity from his beloved humans.
It’s a good thing I’m perfect!
Uh-Oh! Lincoln Chafee just lost my vote. And I expect many others. How inept can a politician be? In case you missed it, the former Senator now Independent front runner for the RI Governor’s office said Monday that Curt Shilling’s famous “Bloody Sock” was a fake. It’s one thing to make a false claim about one of the most memorable events in Red Sox history, but to say it in a stronghold for Red Sox Nation -- insanity. His claim was 100% wrong. And more than that, stupid. It appears that his wife may be retracting some of her campaign funding.
Remember that one of the big contributors to the Scott Brown upset was his opponent Martha Coakley’s dissing of the Red Sox fans.
The Question:
People also pay enormous sums of money for art. The prices equal sums that could be used to start five or six good industries. Name the five most expensive paintings ever sold.
The Headlines:
--152 Die In Fiery Pakistan Air Plane Crash; 2 Americans Among Dead.
--Judge Expected To Rule On Arizona Law Today.
--Surprise: Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Comes Out In Support Of Tax Cheat Rangel; Pelosi Agrees; Ethics Panel, Rangel Lawyers Talking Settlement.
--Jury Mulling Blago Case.
--30 Homes Near Majave Destroyed In California Wildfire.
--Factory Orders For Big Ticket Items Down 1% In June; Market Down Slightly On Durables Report.
--French First Lady Carla Bruni-Sarcozy To Make Acting Debut In Next Woody Allen Movie Midnight In Paris.
Back to More Stuff:
After listening to comments from the CBC about their view of the lyin’ and cheatin’ by Charles Rangle, it appears that race is destined to become a big and growing part of the equation, It is now likely that the Billy Daniel’s effect is going to get him off -- That old Black Magic!
The American Civil Liberties Union has to be one of the most dishonest organizations in the country. But, that’s what happens when you get a bunch of lawyers defining honesty.
In case we have forgotten, the nation got this current Democrat Congress mess because the Republicans failed miserably.
So maybe we should be looking for only independents and mavericks to vote for in the next election. It can’t be any worse than it is now. And besides it would take them at least a few years before they became professional liars and cheaters.
NFL camps open today. So at least something is going right in the country. I think the Jets are going to be a bust. And, I am going to love watching them go down.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 85 continues. --Now what am I going to do for a half an hour. I called Cotter and he confirmed what I already knew, Sarah was at the police station. Then I asked him about Laura, and he suggested that she was a pain in the ass and that I should tale to her. He gave me the number of their so-called safe house. Calling her was a bad mistake. She reamed me out for ten full minutes. I didn’t say anything. When she was finished I said, So? She paused for about fifteen seconds, probably to catch her breath and slow down her pulse. Finally she asked me to spend the night with her at the rat trap. I told her I’d try. She said wrong answer. So, I decided it would be a good idea to spend some time with her. And it wouldn’t be so bad anyhow. But, I’d have to alter my plans for Sarah.
Laura’s angry voice was still playing with my serenity when I drove into Marie‘s parking lot. No Sarah. I walked in, smiled at Marie, Again, she looked at me strangely. “I think I’ll have blueberry pie with vanilla ice cream.” I was actually moderately ebullient.
“And a Diet Coke” she added. Her eyes sparkled a little.
Just as the DC arrived, my beautiful Sarah/Maggie breezed in. She had that look that I love, and her eyes penetrated mine to the back of my brain all the while she moved confidently to me. She didn’t sit opposite, but came and kissed me on the cheek, while firmly grabbing my upper thigh. The glow in her eyes was amazing.
She sat. “You look beautiful, Kent.” She had me.
If you sit on a beach for a long time you begin to realize that most people, including myself, look far better in clothes.
Do you know what’s making me happy today? Mike Lowell hit three home runs for the PawSox last night. I really want good things to happen for Lowell.
The Answer. The most expensive painting eve sold cost $140 Million – Jackson Pollack’s #5. next ios William De Kooning – Woman III ($137Mil); Gustav Klimt – Adele Block-Bauer I ($135); Pablo Picasso – Nude, Green Leaves and Bust ($106); Pablo Picasso - Gargon a la Pipe ($104); Andy Warhol – Eight Elvises ($199); Pablo again – Dora Maar au chat #95.2); Titian – Dina and Actaeon (#91); Klimt = Adle Block-Bauer II ($87.9); Francis bacon – Tryptich ($86.3). Want to see the rest of the sales over $50 Mill? Check out http://www.theartwolf.com/10_expensive.htm
The End:
So, I guess having a lot of money just means you can pay a lot for things that probably should cost a lot less.
And, so what does Forest Gump's "Stupid is as stupid does" mean. It means you are defined by your actions no matter how smart you are. Even if you read the NY Times.
Opening Stuff:
One of the ongoing problems contributing to the continued collapse of what was once the greatness of the US of A is American’s addiction to stupidity! In fact, one of the fastest growing industries in America has as its basis Americans doing stupid things and other Americans paying to watch it. And of course, the hottest industry of all requires people to put all of their most personal thoughts and data on the world wide web for all to see. I mean God just has to love all of this creativity from his beloved humans.
It’s a good thing I’m perfect!
Uh-Oh! Lincoln Chafee just lost my vote. And I expect many others. How inept can a politician be? In case you missed it, the former Senator now Independent front runner for the RI Governor’s office said Monday that Curt Shilling’s famous “Bloody Sock” was a fake. It’s one thing to make a false claim about one of the most memorable events in Red Sox history, but to say it in a stronghold for Red Sox Nation -- insanity. His claim was 100% wrong. And more than that, stupid. It appears that his wife may be retracting some of her campaign funding.
Remember that one of the big contributors to the Scott Brown upset was his opponent Martha Coakley’s dissing of the Red Sox fans.
The Question:
People also pay enormous sums of money for art. The prices equal sums that could be used to start five or six good industries. Name the five most expensive paintings ever sold.
The Headlines:
--152 Die In Fiery Pakistan Air Plane Crash; 2 Americans Among Dead.
--Judge Expected To Rule On Arizona Law Today.
--Surprise: Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Comes Out In Support Of Tax Cheat Rangel; Pelosi Agrees; Ethics Panel, Rangel Lawyers Talking Settlement.
--Jury Mulling Blago Case.
--30 Homes Near Majave Destroyed In California Wildfire.
--Factory Orders For Big Ticket Items Down 1% In June; Market Down Slightly On Durables Report.
--French First Lady Carla Bruni-Sarcozy To Make Acting Debut In Next Woody Allen Movie Midnight In Paris.
Back to More Stuff:
After listening to comments from the CBC about their view of the lyin’ and cheatin’ by Charles Rangle, it appears that race is destined to become a big and growing part of the equation, It is now likely that the Billy Daniel’s effect is going to get him off -- That old Black Magic!
The American Civil Liberties Union has to be one of the most dishonest organizations in the country. But, that’s what happens when you get a bunch of lawyers defining honesty.
In case we have forgotten, the nation got this current Democrat Congress mess because the Republicans failed miserably.
So maybe we should be looking for only independents and mavericks to vote for in the next election. It can’t be any worse than it is now. And besides it would take them at least a few years before they became professional liars and cheaters.
NFL camps open today. So at least something is going right in the country. I think the Jets are going to be a bust. And, I am going to love watching them go down.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 85 continues. --Now what am I going to do for a half an hour. I called Cotter and he confirmed what I already knew, Sarah was at the police station. Then I asked him about Laura, and he suggested that she was a pain in the ass and that I should tale to her. He gave me the number of their so-called safe house. Calling her was a bad mistake. She reamed me out for ten full minutes. I didn’t say anything. When she was finished I said, So? She paused for about fifteen seconds, probably to catch her breath and slow down her pulse. Finally she asked me to spend the night with her at the rat trap. I told her I’d try. She said wrong answer. So, I decided it would be a good idea to spend some time with her. And it wouldn’t be so bad anyhow. But, I’d have to alter my plans for Sarah.
Laura’s angry voice was still playing with my serenity when I drove into Marie‘s parking lot. No Sarah. I walked in, smiled at Marie, Again, she looked at me strangely. “I think I’ll have blueberry pie with vanilla ice cream.” I was actually moderately ebullient.
“And a Diet Coke” she added. Her eyes sparkled a little.
Just as the DC arrived, my beautiful Sarah/Maggie breezed in. She had that look that I love, and her eyes penetrated mine to the back of my brain all the while she moved confidently to me. She didn’t sit opposite, but came and kissed me on the cheek, while firmly grabbing my upper thigh. The glow in her eyes was amazing.
She sat. “You look beautiful, Kent.” She had me.
If you sit on a beach for a long time you begin to realize that most people, including myself, look far better in clothes.
Do you know what’s making me happy today? Mike Lowell hit three home runs for the PawSox last night. I really want good things to happen for Lowell.
The Answer. The most expensive painting eve sold cost $140 Million – Jackson Pollack’s #5. next ios William De Kooning – Woman III ($137Mil); Gustav Klimt – Adele Block-Bauer I ($135); Pablo Picasso – Nude, Green Leaves and Bust ($106); Pablo Picasso - Gargon a la Pipe ($104); Andy Warhol – Eight Elvises ($199); Pablo again – Dora Maar au chat #95.2); Titian – Dina and Actaeon (#91); Klimt = Adle Block-Bauer II ($87.9); Francis bacon – Tryptich ($86.3). Want to see the rest of the sales over $50 Mill? Check out http://www.theartwolf.com/10_expensive.htm
The End:
So, I guess having a lot of money just means you can pay a lot for things that probably should cost a lot less.
And, so what does Forest Gump's "Stupid is as stupid does" mean. It means you are defined by your actions no matter how smart you are. Even if you read the NY Times.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Plant well!
Today's Tids Issue 2,183
Opening Stuff:
I watch the grasses, the long stemmed flowers wavering in the breezes. The playthings of fickle winds willing to be drawn to the whims of shifting wafts; Or violent gusts. Yet the roots are strong. They flirt but never leave. I watch the wind driven grasses hoping that we can build strong roots for generations of those to come. That they may resist the winds of temptation. The breezes of appealing lures. I wonder. Are we loosening too much of the soil around the bases of our children?
Frankly, I kinda liked Tony Hayward.
A new Gallop Poll reports a high degree of uncertainty looming for the 2012 elections…at this point. Overall it has the 0-Man leading Republican candidates in general 44% to 42%. In other words, it’s any body’s game. The big new difference is that 45% of Independents prefer a Republican candidate to 31% for “Prime Time”. The survey names Romney and Palin as the two leading candidates. Specifically, a Rasmussan poll has Romney and 0-Man in a dead heat and 0-Man leading Palin 48-42. A “real Clear Politics” Public Policy Poll shows that Huckabee will be Obama’s toughest foe come 2012 with 0-Man a scant 46-45 leader. This same poll shows 0-Palin – 50/44, 0-Romney – 47/42 and 0-Pawlenty – 48/35. A little hypothetical idea stimulation for you. How will the November elections affect what 0-Man will become for the remainder of his term?
The Question: Today marks the 70th birthday of one of the famed Warner Brother’s cartoon characters (Hint: His antagonist had a lot of twouble with “R’s”.) Name five WB cartoon favorites. Bonus Question: Bobby Gentry is 66 today. Who is she and what did she do?
The Headlines:
--White House Circling The Wagons Around War Leaks.
--New Nielson Poll Shows That Hispanic Support Of El Presidente Is Cracking.
--Strong June Existing Home Sales Keep Market Flying; Good Earnings Reports Also Support More Positive Outlook For Economy.
--Balgojevich Trial Nearing End; Blago Lawyer Risks Contempt Charge As Dispute With Judge over Mandated Exclusions From Closing Gets Heated.
--Russian Spies Receive Celebrity Treatment On Their Return To the Mother Land.
--Huge Natural Gas Reserves Found In Mediterranean Waters Bordered By Israel And Lebanon; Ownership Dispute Could Rise To Conflict Between Two resource Poor Nations.
--World Profits Picture Has US Futures Market Soaring This Morning.
Back to More Stuff:
One of the major leaks about the current wars in the Middle East and central Asia is that allies like Pakistan aren’t as strong as they are portrayed by admin officials. Duh.
With the stock market looking quite strong and news supporting continued steady economic recovery you can count on one thing for sure. We are going to have a scary retraction in stocks sometime in the next five weeks.
Somehow, I think Blago will go free.
Has the arrogance of politicians ever been more apparent than there in little Bell California. Is there a grimier demonstration of leadership corruption or sadder example of the lack of voter intelligence?
I think the greatest example of “Change” is the President’s willingness to appear on any TV show with a few points in ratings. Of course, his latest kicking and screaming adventure in Boob Tube land is on the equally annoying “View”. Gag. And then there is “Hope”. Hope that this President would just lock himself in the Oval Office and read the constitution.
On a similar note…will there be a more overwrought, smarmy news period than that day or two when Babwa Walters returns to the public from heart surgery.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 85 continues. –“Hello Kent.” Somehow, her voice always makes me feel like something I have never been. Even as I become leery of her subtly changing persona, I am always drawn back to her. I find it hard to escape her.
“Hello Sarah/Maggie,” I replied. “It is unusually good to hear your voice today. You put Isabelle in a bad mood.” I laughed a little.
“Oh really,” she said almost triumphantly.
If you have a minute or two, I could really enjoy a Diet Coke at Marie’s. If you have the time.” I added. Are you at Henry’s I thought? And then without a moment’s hesitation she said she would love to see me. She would love to see me, I thought. I would love to see her I knew. Something has happened since she last left my place. Yet, she still looks into my eyes the same way. She still makes feel like somebody I have never been.
“I’m in the parking lot at Bi-Em. I just had to get out of there. How about fifteen minutes?”
“How about a half hour, she replied.” That’s odd I thought. Why do I feel what I feel so rapturously, but examine every word she says. Because I know she isn’t telling me the truth. At least some of the time. I’ll take a drive trough town, I thought. “That would be fine,” I answered.
And Sarah/Maggie replied softly, almost in a whisper, “I’m looking forward to it.”
Well, tonight’s the night. Yup, it is the night when America decides if its most talented people climb walls, perform fiery magic, sing yet another soulful song and or belt out with vigor just about any song ever written.. I personally like the rock climbers, but it will be between Alice and Antonio. It’s totally a guess. For the encore, It would be helpful if they voted the host Nick Cannon off the program.
The Answer:
Everybody has to love Bugs who is 70 years old today. Also from WB Loony Toons is the frustrated wabbit chaser Elmer Fudd, Porky Pig, Tweety Pie, Sylvester, Daffy Duck, Pepe LePew, Road Runner, and a host of some of the most lovable characters in American entertainment history. Bonus: Singer, songwriter Bobby Gentry had a meteoric rise with her huge hit song “Ode to Billy Joe.” This was the biggest hit of the year knocking the Beetle’s Sgt. Pepper’s album out o top place she won Best Female Artist and Best New Performer Grammies. And then just as if she jumped off a bridge into darkened waters she faded from the public view. She lives quietly and presumably happily ion LA.
The End:
I have been moved by breezes, shaken by powerful winds. Yet I have felt the tug of strong roots bringing me back.
Opening Stuff:
I watch the grasses, the long stemmed flowers wavering in the breezes. The playthings of fickle winds willing to be drawn to the whims of shifting wafts; Or violent gusts. Yet the roots are strong. They flirt but never leave. I watch the wind driven grasses hoping that we can build strong roots for generations of those to come. That they may resist the winds of temptation. The breezes of appealing lures. I wonder. Are we loosening too much of the soil around the bases of our children?
Frankly, I kinda liked Tony Hayward.
A new Gallop Poll reports a high degree of uncertainty looming for the 2012 elections…at this point. Overall it has the 0-Man leading Republican candidates in general 44% to 42%. In other words, it’s any body’s game. The big new difference is that 45% of Independents prefer a Republican candidate to 31% for “Prime Time”. The survey names Romney and Palin as the two leading candidates. Specifically, a Rasmussan poll has Romney and 0-Man in a dead heat and 0-Man leading Palin 48-42. A “real Clear Politics” Public Policy Poll shows that Huckabee will be Obama’s toughest foe come 2012 with 0-Man a scant 46-45 leader. This same poll shows 0-Palin – 50/44, 0-Romney – 47/42 and 0-Pawlenty – 48/35. A little hypothetical idea stimulation for you. How will the November elections affect what 0-Man will become for the remainder of his term?
The Question: Today marks the 70th birthday of one of the famed Warner Brother’s cartoon characters (Hint: His antagonist had a lot of twouble with “R’s”.) Name five WB cartoon favorites. Bonus Question: Bobby Gentry is 66 today. Who is she and what did she do?
The Headlines:
--White House Circling The Wagons Around War Leaks.
--New Nielson Poll Shows That Hispanic Support Of El Presidente Is Cracking.
--Strong June Existing Home Sales Keep Market Flying; Good Earnings Reports Also Support More Positive Outlook For Economy.
--Balgojevich Trial Nearing End; Blago Lawyer Risks Contempt Charge As Dispute With Judge over Mandated Exclusions From Closing Gets Heated.
--Russian Spies Receive Celebrity Treatment On Their Return To the Mother Land.
--Huge Natural Gas Reserves Found In Mediterranean Waters Bordered By Israel And Lebanon; Ownership Dispute Could Rise To Conflict Between Two resource Poor Nations.
--World Profits Picture Has US Futures Market Soaring This Morning.
Back to More Stuff:
One of the major leaks about the current wars in the Middle East and central Asia is that allies like Pakistan aren’t as strong as they are portrayed by admin officials. Duh.
With the stock market looking quite strong and news supporting continued steady economic recovery you can count on one thing for sure. We are going to have a scary retraction in stocks sometime in the next five weeks.
Somehow, I think Blago will go free.
Has the arrogance of politicians ever been more apparent than there in little Bell California. Is there a grimier demonstration of leadership corruption or sadder example of the lack of voter intelligence?
I think the greatest example of “Change” is the President’s willingness to appear on any TV show with a few points in ratings. Of course, his latest kicking and screaming adventure in Boob Tube land is on the equally annoying “View”. Gag. And then there is “Hope”. Hope that this President would just lock himself in the Oval Office and read the constitution.
On a similar note…will there be a more overwrought, smarmy news period than that day or two when Babwa Walters returns to the public from heart surgery.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 85 continues. –“Hello Kent.” Somehow, her voice always makes me feel like something I have never been. Even as I become leery of her subtly changing persona, I am always drawn back to her. I find it hard to escape her.
“Hello Sarah/Maggie,” I replied. “It is unusually good to hear your voice today. You put Isabelle in a bad mood.” I laughed a little.
“Oh really,” she said almost triumphantly.
If you have a minute or two, I could really enjoy a Diet Coke at Marie’s. If you have the time.” I added. Are you at Henry’s I thought? And then without a moment’s hesitation she said she would love to see me. She would love to see me, I thought. I would love to see her I knew. Something has happened since she last left my place. Yet, she still looks into my eyes the same way. She still makes feel like somebody I have never been.
“I’m in the parking lot at Bi-Em. I just had to get out of there. How about fifteen minutes?”
“How about a half hour, she replied.” That’s odd I thought. Why do I feel what I feel so rapturously, but examine every word she says. Because I know she isn’t telling me the truth. At least some of the time. I’ll take a drive trough town, I thought. “That would be fine,” I answered.
And Sarah/Maggie replied softly, almost in a whisper, “I’m looking forward to it.”
Well, tonight’s the night. Yup, it is the night when America decides if its most talented people climb walls, perform fiery magic, sing yet another soulful song and or belt out with vigor just about any song ever written.. I personally like the rock climbers, but it will be between Alice and Antonio. It’s totally a guess. For the encore, It would be helpful if they voted the host Nick Cannon off the program.
The Answer:
Everybody has to love Bugs who is 70 years old today. Also from WB Loony Toons is the frustrated wabbit chaser Elmer Fudd, Porky Pig, Tweety Pie, Sylvester, Daffy Duck, Pepe LePew, Road Runner, and a host of some of the most lovable characters in American entertainment history. Bonus: Singer, songwriter Bobby Gentry had a meteoric rise with her huge hit song “Ode to Billy Joe.” This was the biggest hit of the year knocking the Beetle’s Sgt. Pepper’s album out o top place she won Best Female Artist and Best New Performer Grammies. And then just as if she jumped off a bridge into darkened waters she faded from the public view. She lives quietly and presumably happily ion LA.
The End:
I have been moved by breezes, shaken by powerful winds. Yet I have felt the tug of strong roots bringing me back.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Celebrity is a big cover-up.
Today's Tids !ssue 2,182
Opening Stuff
The brilliant red Sky; The brisk cool air; The soft, small waves below my feet breaking quietly on the shore; As if not to disturb a world still sleeping soundly. It’s too peaceful, I thought. It’s too perfect, I knew. Why ruin this serenity of nature with the anger of Tids? Nah!
Highly regarded Italian filmmaker Michelangelo Antonioni once said “Scientific man is already on the moon, and yet we are still living with the moral concepts of Homer.” So? Mich seemed to have a problem with rigid morality in general. Many of his quotes express similar abhorrence of moral people. So here’s the issue: This guy is in a position, as are many of the Hollywood elite, to get inside the minds of people. And one of his basic ideas is that morals should be relaxed. But then, what would you expect from Hollywood.
English Patient is still the most boring highly acclaimed picture of all time. Where did that come from?
The Question:
Aaaah Pucini! He made the music upon which lover’s hearts fly. Arias that electrify the soul. Name five of his operas. Expert bonus points: Name three of his most beloved arias.
The Headlines:
--Hugo Warns US: Get Out Of Columbia Or Cut Off Oil.
--White House Irate Over Leaked War Documents.
--0-Man Takes To Campaign Trail With New “Blame It On Bush” Rhetoric.
--US And South Korea Show Off Power IN Waters Off North Korea; NK Warns Nuke Retaliation For Games.
--European Banks Endure New Stress Tests Better than Expected; Euro Economic Recovery Now Looks Stringer Than US.
--Former CIA Chief Says Attack On Iran More Likely Now.
Back to More Stuff:
Lessons Learned Department:
Many years ago we lived in a two family home in the blue collar neighborhoods of Turtle Creek and Wilkins Township outside industrial Pittsburgh. The owner of our place lived next door and worked at a huge Westinghouse Electric Factory. He was a quiet, gentle man with a pleasant wife and teen daughter. One day he arrived home with a twinkle in his eye, and immediately came up to me, which was unusual in itself. “Look what I bought” he said proudly.” I looked at what he held and saw a 33 Album of Puccini’s Madam Butterfly. “Want to hear It,” he asked before I could even utter a comment, or at least a grunt of approval. Moments later the beautiful Un Bel Di filled the air. He stood silently. His eyes glistened as he looked to the sky. His chest swelled. You never know what kind of beauty resides in the heart of humans.
Doncha get the feelin’ that the media is looking forward to a war between the professional protestors and their gimme’ crowd and the good citizens of Arizona. They are looking for blood on the streets of Phoenix and they are sending many cameras down there to help incite it.
I had to love the cartoon Sunday morning that showed two battle warn US soldiers behind a sandbag wall in a desolate Mid East dessert and a newspaper on the ground with headlines that read: “Lindsay Lohan”, “Mel Gibson Rant” and “Kate Gosslin Going Camping With Sarah Palin.”
The US economy has become based upon adding expense to the cost of living of everyday people. The next big intrusion on people’s sensible budgeting will be anything related to carbon footprint credits and trading them on some phony exchange. It isn’t just overtaxing by the Government that is becoming a burden, but what the Government mandates to add to the cost of staying alive. Oh yeah, and after that, “Licenses to own homes.”
I have been remiss on commenting about the US Government funding of the Compact Power company, a US battery for electric car manufacturer, part owned by Korean giant LG. It’s not the Korean ownership that bothers me most. It is the fact that the Big Brother is usurping the Wall Street connection. If there is value in Compact Power, should the Clueless Lane folks be jumping aboard? Or are they too busy creating convoluted international investment scams to pay attention to it? Somehow the system is broken and the more the Gov jumps in, the longer it will stay broken.
Not only has India introduced a $35 competitor to iPad, but it has successfully started manufacturing the $2,150 Nano car and perfected the $2,000 heart transplant operation. While we mark up the cost of caramel laden coffee. The point is that while the “Skimmers in charge” will always make barrels of dough, the economies from now disparate countries will tend to equalize…raising pay in currently undernourished countries and decrease average pay in former leadership nations. So the global economy is good for those in charge, but will tend to diminish or even eliminate the great US middle class. It’s just the way economics works over time. And it is very sad.
Correction: In a piece about RC priest pedophilia I reported a mistakenly quoted sentence in the newspaper that said the Vatican equated the sin of pedophilia as equal to the sin of woman becoming ordained priests. The actual report is that on a new list of major sins the two were both included. The main point that still remains is that the Vatican continues to botch its announced anger at pedophile priests.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 85. –I sat there stunned as Isabelle coolly lopped my friend Sally off of my program. When she told Sally, two heads glared my way; Sally with a “help me” plea; Izzy with a “I’ll talk to you later” stare. I acquiesced quickly to Izzy, but did offer a comforting hand to Sally. Who looked totally befuddled. A brilliant mind, a good person; axed for no apparent reason other than a few pennies. But, I know that it is about her recent talks with Sarah. Pure and simple. Isabelle is going into defensive mode. She’s panicked. That’s dangerous.
When, after a few cold moments of silence, Isabelle uttered “That’s it” and looked down at her desk, I stood, walked calmly to Sally. “Let’s go”. I helped her up and found her unsure on shaky legs as I walked her back to her desk. Her mind was obviously racing as she didn’t make a sound. It wasn’t moments after Sally sat to laconically go through her desk, when a couple of security guards strode in. I told them we didn’t need them. They started to respond, “Mrs. ….’ I put on my anger mask and said in a voice that I have used often to make men cry. “I’ll take care of this.” They left. But they lingered, now sheepishly, in view of the door.
After another hour, Sally was ready to go. I waved off the goons and walked her down the hall, past the receptionist where the two had their last smiles together. I didn’t say much. I let Sally fume. Fuming is often the best medicine. I was more concerned by the crack in Izzy’s wall. I had to begin mending.
Sally started up her little VW, and drove slowly away. At the gate she accelerated in obvious anger.
I smiled at that. I opened my cell phone and dialed Sarah.
Compensation/Pay Czar Feinberg says he will not try to recoup from companies given bailout money the $1.6 Billion paid in bonuses to executives. His reasoning: “Shaming them is punishment enough.” Hey Feinberg! These people have no shame. Haven’t you noticed? God, what a disingenuous world we live in.
And why does the United States of America have something called a “Pay Czar” any how?
I have always considered the US Free Enterprise sacrosanct. But, I have also firmly believed that the owners of business have a responsibility to operate their businesses in a way that provides for the population of US people who endorse their freedoms. A nation of freedom is based on trust, and too many people are seeing too much evidence of business people abusing that trust. The US works when everything is a two way street. And that includes the Government too.
Where have you gone “Caveat emptor”?
The Answer: Puccini operas are among the most performed, cherished everywhere. Tosca, Turandot, Madam Butterfly, La Boheme and Menon Lescout. There are so many fantastic arias. But here are three: Nesson Dormal (Turandot), Recondita Armonia (Tosca) and O Soave Fanciutta (La Boheme). Oh yeah – UnBel Di (Madam Butterfly).
The End:
The front page feature for the Sunday New York Times was heralded by the headlines “Supreme Court Most Conservative in Decades.” How great is that? Especially considering that we have people who espouse to the philosophies of the likes of Michelangelo with the power to influence the numb.
Turn off the noise. Turn on an aria.
Opening Stuff
The brilliant red Sky; The brisk cool air; The soft, small waves below my feet breaking quietly on the shore; As if not to disturb a world still sleeping soundly. It’s too peaceful, I thought. It’s too perfect, I knew. Why ruin this serenity of nature with the anger of Tids? Nah!
Highly regarded Italian filmmaker Michelangelo Antonioni once said “Scientific man is already on the moon, and yet we are still living with the moral concepts of Homer.” So? Mich seemed to have a problem with rigid morality in general. Many of his quotes express similar abhorrence of moral people. So here’s the issue: This guy is in a position, as are many of the Hollywood elite, to get inside the minds of people. And one of his basic ideas is that morals should be relaxed. But then, what would you expect from Hollywood.
English Patient is still the most boring highly acclaimed picture of all time. Where did that come from?
The Question:
Aaaah Pucini! He made the music upon which lover’s hearts fly. Arias that electrify the soul. Name five of his operas. Expert bonus points: Name three of his most beloved arias.
The Headlines:
--Hugo Warns US: Get Out Of Columbia Or Cut Off Oil.
--White House Irate Over Leaked War Documents.
--0-Man Takes To Campaign Trail With New “Blame It On Bush” Rhetoric.
--US And South Korea Show Off Power IN Waters Off North Korea; NK Warns Nuke Retaliation For Games.
--European Banks Endure New Stress Tests Better than Expected; Euro Economic Recovery Now Looks Stringer Than US.
--Former CIA Chief Says Attack On Iran More Likely Now.
Back to More Stuff:
Lessons Learned Department:
Many years ago we lived in a two family home in the blue collar neighborhoods of Turtle Creek and Wilkins Township outside industrial Pittsburgh. The owner of our place lived next door and worked at a huge Westinghouse Electric Factory. He was a quiet, gentle man with a pleasant wife and teen daughter. One day he arrived home with a twinkle in his eye, and immediately came up to me, which was unusual in itself. “Look what I bought” he said proudly.” I looked at what he held and saw a 33 Album of Puccini’s Madam Butterfly. “Want to hear It,” he asked before I could even utter a comment, or at least a grunt of approval. Moments later the beautiful Un Bel Di filled the air. He stood silently. His eyes glistened as he looked to the sky. His chest swelled. You never know what kind of beauty resides in the heart of humans.
Doncha get the feelin’ that the media is looking forward to a war between the professional protestors and their gimme’ crowd and the good citizens of Arizona. They are looking for blood on the streets of Phoenix and they are sending many cameras down there to help incite it.
I had to love the cartoon Sunday morning that showed two battle warn US soldiers behind a sandbag wall in a desolate Mid East dessert and a newspaper on the ground with headlines that read: “Lindsay Lohan”, “Mel Gibson Rant” and “Kate Gosslin Going Camping With Sarah Palin.”
The US economy has become based upon adding expense to the cost of living of everyday people. The next big intrusion on people’s sensible budgeting will be anything related to carbon footprint credits and trading them on some phony exchange. It isn’t just overtaxing by the Government that is becoming a burden, but what the Government mandates to add to the cost of staying alive. Oh yeah, and after that, “Licenses to own homes.”
I have been remiss on commenting about the US Government funding of the Compact Power company, a US battery for electric car manufacturer, part owned by Korean giant LG. It’s not the Korean ownership that bothers me most. It is the fact that the Big Brother is usurping the Wall Street connection. If there is value in Compact Power, should the Clueless Lane folks be jumping aboard? Or are they too busy creating convoluted international investment scams to pay attention to it? Somehow the system is broken and the more the Gov jumps in, the longer it will stay broken.
Not only has India introduced a $35 competitor to iPad, but it has successfully started manufacturing the $2,150 Nano car and perfected the $2,000 heart transplant operation. While we mark up the cost of caramel laden coffee. The point is that while the “Skimmers in charge” will always make barrels of dough, the economies from now disparate countries will tend to equalize…raising pay in currently undernourished countries and decrease average pay in former leadership nations. So the global economy is good for those in charge, but will tend to diminish or even eliminate the great US middle class. It’s just the way economics works over time. And it is very sad.
Correction: In a piece about RC priest pedophilia I reported a mistakenly quoted sentence in the newspaper that said the Vatican equated the sin of pedophilia as equal to the sin of woman becoming ordained priests. The actual report is that on a new list of major sins the two were both included. The main point that still remains is that the Vatican continues to botch its announced anger at pedophile priests.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 85. –I sat there stunned as Isabelle coolly lopped my friend Sally off of my program. When she told Sally, two heads glared my way; Sally with a “help me” plea; Izzy with a “I’ll talk to you later” stare. I acquiesced quickly to Izzy, but did offer a comforting hand to Sally. Who looked totally befuddled. A brilliant mind, a good person; axed for no apparent reason other than a few pennies. But, I know that it is about her recent talks with Sarah. Pure and simple. Isabelle is going into defensive mode. She’s panicked. That’s dangerous.
When, after a few cold moments of silence, Isabelle uttered “That’s it” and looked down at her desk, I stood, walked calmly to Sally. “Let’s go”. I helped her up and found her unsure on shaky legs as I walked her back to her desk. Her mind was obviously racing as she didn’t make a sound. It wasn’t moments after Sally sat to laconically go through her desk, when a couple of security guards strode in. I told them we didn’t need them. They started to respond, “Mrs. ….’ I put on my anger mask and said in a voice that I have used often to make men cry. “I’ll take care of this.” They left. But they lingered, now sheepishly, in view of the door.
After another hour, Sally was ready to go. I waved off the goons and walked her down the hall, past the receptionist where the two had their last smiles together. I didn’t say much. I let Sally fume. Fuming is often the best medicine. I was more concerned by the crack in Izzy’s wall. I had to begin mending.
Sally started up her little VW, and drove slowly away. At the gate she accelerated in obvious anger.
I smiled at that. I opened my cell phone and dialed Sarah.
Compensation/Pay Czar Feinberg says he will not try to recoup from companies given bailout money the $1.6 Billion paid in bonuses to executives. His reasoning: “Shaming them is punishment enough.” Hey Feinberg! These people have no shame. Haven’t you noticed? God, what a disingenuous world we live in.
And why does the United States of America have something called a “Pay Czar” any how?
I have always considered the US Free Enterprise sacrosanct. But, I have also firmly believed that the owners of business have a responsibility to operate their businesses in a way that provides for the population of US people who endorse their freedoms. A nation of freedom is based on trust, and too many people are seeing too much evidence of business people abusing that trust. The US works when everything is a two way street. And that includes the Government too.
Where have you gone “Caveat emptor”?
The Answer: Puccini operas are among the most performed, cherished everywhere. Tosca, Turandot, Madam Butterfly, La Boheme and Menon Lescout. There are so many fantastic arias. But here are three: Nesson Dormal (Turandot), Recondita Armonia (Tosca) and O Soave Fanciutta (La Boheme). Oh yeah – UnBel Di (Madam Butterfly).
The End:
The front page feature for the Sunday New York Times was heralded by the headlines “Supreme Court Most Conservative in Decades.” How great is that? Especially considering that we have people who espouse to the philosophies of the likes of Michelangelo with the power to influence the numb.
Turn off the noise. Turn on an aria.
Friday, July 23, 2010
The subversion of common sense.
Today's Tids Issue 2,181
Opening Stuff:
The good thing about the upcoming elections is that Congress will probably start passing less costly bills. The bad thing is that we know they do it grudgingly and don’t believe a word of what they are saying and can hardly wait for November 3 after they are re-elected and can start spending again. This is not a time to be lulled.
Unfortunately, retirement today means that it is your investments that stopped working.
Meanwhile down in Arizona, Clinton appointee US District Judge Susan Bolton asked the Obama Justice Department lawyer Edwin Kneedler, “Why can’t Arizona be as inhospitable as they wish to people who have entered the US illegally?” That sums it up nicely for me.
And…How about the name “Kneedler” for an annoying federal prosecutor.
The Question: In a short Period of time Phillip Seymour Hoffman established himself as one of the better actors for a variety of complex roles. Name five of his best movies.
The Headlines:
--Congress Extends Jobless Benefits.
--“Bonnie” Halts Work On Oil Spill.
--Ford Continues To Post Strong Profits; Pays Down More Debt Without Government Assistance.
--Rangle To Face Congressional Trial On Ethics Charges.
--India Company Introduces $35 Version Of iPad; Device Expected To be Available In 2011.
--US Confronts North Korea Over Ship Sinking.
--Senate Forces House To Pass Afghan Funding Bill Minus $20 Billion In Domestic Spending!
Back to More Stuff:
To that person who asked me the name of the architect for the historic Trinity Church in Newport: It was Richard Munday (1685-1739), who was influenced by England’s great Christopher Wren. In fact Trinity is akin to Wren’s St. James at Piccadilly in London. He also did the Old Colony House and many fine Georgian homes still standing in the City.
I’ve been watching America’s Got Talent” and I have just one question – When do they start bringing out the talent?
The big local news is that Government regulators have stepped back from their plan to ban lobsterin’! It’s a huge relief for the local fishing industry, which steadfastly maintained that the Government reports of the death of the lobster population were greatly exaggerated. So, for the time being, a reprieve. I say time being because the power hungry little people in the environmental regulation business don’t like to be called wrong. And they are probably working already to get even. Hard working fisherman be damned. For one thing in life is for certain – Builders got to build; developers got to develop; regulators go to regulate. And iron clad facts and logic never stops them.
This an important day for sports fans and NFL fans in particular. You may not have known that up until this morning no first round draft pick had been signed. It all had to do with uncertainties about a new NFL contract and possible lockouts and strikes. But last night the Dallas 1st rounder Dez Bryant signed. This will signal other agents to release the apron strings and get their guys under contract for a good training season. Let’s hope.
Isn’t it interesting that “u” is the difference between a guy and a gay
Two women were out for a Saturday stroll.. One had a Doberman and the other, a Chihuahua. As they walked down the street, the one with the Doberman Said to her friend, "Let's go over to that bar for a drink." The lady with the Chihuahua said, "We can't go in there. we've got dogs with us." The one with the Doberman said, "Just watch, and do as I do." They walked over to the bar and the one with the Doberman put On a pair of dark glasses and started to walk in. The bouncer at the door said, "Sorry, lady, no pets allowed." The woman with the Doberman said, "You don't understand. This is my seeing-eye dog." The bouncer said, "A Doberman?" The woman said, "Yes, they're using them now. They're very good." The bouncer said, "OK, come on in." The lady with the Chihuahua thought that convincing him that a Chihuahua was a seeing-eye dog may be a bit more difficult, but thought, "What the heck," so she put on her dark glasses and started to walk in. Once again the bouncer said, "Sorry, lady, no pets allowed." The woman said, "You don't understand. This is my seeing-eye dog." The bouncer said, "A Chihuahua?" The woman with the Chihuahua said, "A Chihuahua? They gave me a freaking Chihuahua?!"
I could never make it as a screen writer. I just couldn’t bring myself to a continuous cacophony of “F” words.
Reading between the Lines Movies Reviews:
--Salt is a Angelina Jolie spy thriller, and typically right up my alley. It’s the type of film I go to despite the favorability of reviews. This one has everything I like – intelligence, hopelessness and tension. Jolie a loyal CIA agent is accused of being a Russian sleeper spy. She goes on the run using her covert operative skills to protect her husband and stay one jump ahead of her “friends” at the agency. I’m hooked. It may not be great for people who like excellent movies.
--The critics love Ramona and Beezus, film about the humorous exploits of two children, sisters caught up in the family madness of today’s times – Family layoffs, foreclosures and small family tragedies. They say it is funny and heartwarming. What kind of name is Beezus?
47% of all movie ticket buyers earn over $75K. 12% earn less than $25K. 19% earn between $50 and $74 and 22% between $25 and $49. The way prices are going up, it may take a 100K to enjoy a movie.
Through the same Eyes: Chapter 84 continues. –Isabelle hung up from her necessary evil security expert and immediately dialed the extension for Sally Orstein. “Hi Sally, Izzy, here,” she said comfortably. Before Sally could answer, she added, “Please come up to my office.” Sally was mumbling something when the CEO placed the phone back in the cradle. She stood up, walked to her door and signaled Kent to join her in the office.
Within moments after Kent had seated himself to her left and before Isabelle could tell him what she was doing, Sally Orstein walked in. “You look nice this morning,” Izzy said pleasantly.
“Thanks,” came the immediate reply as Sally eased into one of her gigantic smiles. Kent said nothing which was not unusual. But it was obvious that he was wondering why he was there and what was going on.
Isabelle didn’t waste time. “It’s crunch time around here, Sally. With the merger of the Bromsky/Middleton groups we have to think about efficiencies.”
Sally was quick to interrupt. “I have been thinking of ways to use all of the people in our,” she nodded towards Kent, “Program. There are many great people coming over from the Bromsky crew. And…” Isabelle raised a halting hand and Sally stopped in mid sentence.”
“I know there are many good people from the Bromsky group. I’m sad to say that one is going to replace you, Sally.” Kent Middleton’s jaw tightened.
Sally’s head turned quickly towards her boss, “Kent?”
The Answer:
Hoffman was first noticed in film in Scent of a Woman and became a major factor after The Talented Mr. Ripley. Of course he received critical acclaim as the annoying Truman. He Also is recognized for great work in Doubt, Charlie Wilson’s War and Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead. He also was in The Savages, Synecdoche, Boogie Nights, The Big Labowski, Magnolia, Almost Famous, 15th Hour, Punch Drunk Love, Cold Mountain and Pirate Radio. You probably have other favorites. His mother was a liberal activist and his father was a corporate executive. They divorced. How odd.
The Weekend Begins:
I seemed to have used the word “annoying” a few times today. But, it doesn't mean I'm in a bad mood. I'm just being accurate. Besides, I would never end the Friday Tids in a bad mood. So instead, I leave you with ,the "Bumper Sticker" of the Week: "If Obama's the Answer, How stupid was the Question."
Opening Stuff:
The good thing about the upcoming elections is that Congress will probably start passing less costly bills. The bad thing is that we know they do it grudgingly and don’t believe a word of what they are saying and can hardly wait for November 3 after they are re-elected and can start spending again. This is not a time to be lulled.
Unfortunately, retirement today means that it is your investments that stopped working.
Meanwhile down in Arizona, Clinton appointee US District Judge Susan Bolton asked the Obama Justice Department lawyer Edwin Kneedler, “Why can’t Arizona be as inhospitable as they wish to people who have entered the US illegally?” That sums it up nicely for me.
And…How about the name “Kneedler” for an annoying federal prosecutor.
The Question: In a short Period of time Phillip Seymour Hoffman established himself as one of the better actors for a variety of complex roles. Name five of his best movies.
The Headlines:
--Congress Extends Jobless Benefits.
--“Bonnie” Halts Work On Oil Spill.
--Ford Continues To Post Strong Profits; Pays Down More Debt Without Government Assistance.
--Rangle To Face Congressional Trial On Ethics Charges.
--India Company Introduces $35 Version Of iPad; Device Expected To be Available In 2011.
--US Confronts North Korea Over Ship Sinking.
--Senate Forces House To Pass Afghan Funding Bill Minus $20 Billion In Domestic Spending!
Back to More Stuff:
To that person who asked me the name of the architect for the historic Trinity Church in Newport: It was Richard Munday (1685-1739), who was influenced by England’s great Christopher Wren. In fact Trinity is akin to Wren’s St. James at Piccadilly in London. He also did the Old Colony House and many fine Georgian homes still standing in the City.
I’ve been watching America’s Got Talent” and I have just one question – When do they start bringing out the talent?
The big local news is that Government regulators have stepped back from their plan to ban lobsterin’! It’s a huge relief for the local fishing industry, which steadfastly maintained that the Government reports of the death of the lobster population were greatly exaggerated. So, for the time being, a reprieve. I say time being because the power hungry little people in the environmental regulation business don’t like to be called wrong. And they are probably working already to get even. Hard working fisherman be damned. For one thing in life is for certain – Builders got to build; developers got to develop; regulators go to regulate. And iron clad facts and logic never stops them.
This an important day for sports fans and NFL fans in particular. You may not have known that up until this morning no first round draft pick had been signed. It all had to do with uncertainties about a new NFL contract and possible lockouts and strikes. But last night the Dallas 1st rounder Dez Bryant signed. This will signal other agents to release the apron strings and get their guys under contract for a good training season. Let’s hope.
Isn’t it interesting that “u” is the difference between a guy and a gay
Two women were out for a Saturday stroll.. One had a Doberman and the other, a Chihuahua. As they walked down the street, the one with the Doberman Said to her friend, "Let's go over to that bar for a drink." The lady with the Chihuahua said, "We can't go in there. we've got dogs with us." The one with the Doberman said, "Just watch, and do as I do." They walked over to the bar and the one with the Doberman put On a pair of dark glasses and started to walk in. The bouncer at the door said, "Sorry, lady, no pets allowed." The woman with the Doberman said, "You don't understand. This is my seeing-eye dog." The bouncer said, "A Doberman?" The woman said, "Yes, they're using them now. They're very good." The bouncer said, "OK, come on in." The lady with the Chihuahua thought that convincing him that a Chihuahua was a seeing-eye dog may be a bit more difficult, but thought, "What the heck," so she put on her dark glasses and started to walk in. Once again the bouncer said, "Sorry, lady, no pets allowed." The woman said, "You don't understand. This is my seeing-eye dog." The bouncer said, "A Chihuahua?" The woman with the Chihuahua said, "A Chihuahua? They gave me a freaking Chihuahua?!"
I could never make it as a screen writer. I just couldn’t bring myself to a continuous cacophony of “F” words.
Reading between the Lines Movies Reviews:
--Salt is a Angelina Jolie spy thriller, and typically right up my alley. It’s the type of film I go to despite the favorability of reviews. This one has everything I like – intelligence, hopelessness and tension. Jolie a loyal CIA agent is accused of being a Russian sleeper spy. She goes on the run using her covert operative skills to protect her husband and stay one jump ahead of her “friends” at the agency. I’m hooked. It may not be great for people who like excellent movies.
--The critics love Ramona and Beezus, film about the humorous exploits of two children, sisters caught up in the family madness of today’s times – Family layoffs, foreclosures and small family tragedies. They say it is funny and heartwarming. What kind of name is Beezus?
47% of all movie ticket buyers earn over $75K. 12% earn less than $25K. 19% earn between $50 and $74 and 22% between $25 and $49. The way prices are going up, it may take a 100K to enjoy a movie.
Through the same Eyes: Chapter 84 continues. –Isabelle hung up from her necessary evil security expert and immediately dialed the extension for Sally Orstein. “Hi Sally, Izzy, here,” she said comfortably. Before Sally could answer, she added, “Please come up to my office.” Sally was mumbling something when the CEO placed the phone back in the cradle. She stood up, walked to her door and signaled Kent to join her in the office.
Within moments after Kent had seated himself to her left and before Isabelle could tell him what she was doing, Sally Orstein walked in. “You look nice this morning,” Izzy said pleasantly.
“Thanks,” came the immediate reply as Sally eased into one of her gigantic smiles. Kent said nothing which was not unusual. But it was obvious that he was wondering why he was there and what was going on.
Isabelle didn’t waste time. “It’s crunch time around here, Sally. With the merger of the Bromsky/Middleton groups we have to think about efficiencies.”
Sally was quick to interrupt. “I have been thinking of ways to use all of the people in our,” she nodded towards Kent, “Program. There are many great people coming over from the Bromsky crew. And…” Isabelle raised a halting hand and Sally stopped in mid sentence.”
“I know there are many good people from the Bromsky group. I’m sad to say that one is going to replace you, Sally.” Kent Middleton’s jaw tightened.
Sally’s head turned quickly towards her boss, “Kent?”
The Answer:
Hoffman was first noticed in film in Scent of a Woman and became a major factor after The Talented Mr. Ripley. Of course he received critical acclaim as the annoying Truman. He Also is recognized for great work in Doubt, Charlie Wilson’s War and Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead. He also was in The Savages, Synecdoche, Boogie Nights, The Big Labowski, Magnolia, Almost Famous, 15th Hour, Punch Drunk Love, Cold Mountain and Pirate Radio. You probably have other favorites. His mother was a liberal activist and his father was a corporate executive. They divorced. How odd.
The Weekend Begins:
I seemed to have used the word “annoying” a few times today. But, it doesn't mean I'm in a bad mood. I'm just being accurate. Besides, I would never end the Friday Tids in a bad mood. So instead, I leave you with ,the "Bumper Sticker" of the Week: "If Obama's the Answer, How stupid was the Question."
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Simple pleasure in the air.
Today's Tids Issue 2,180
Opening Stuff
The breezes are strong off the harbor. Sailors are busy readying their craft for journeys across combative waters. Waves lap at pilings as people on piers contemplate the soothing aura of the watery haven. And they shiver in the comforting air. As beautiful thoughts waken their minds.
Amoral people can always appear incredibly honest without batting an eye. Even if they are caught with a bloody axe in their hand; or on tape accepting a political bribe; Or accepting a Nobel prize for work on Global Warming.
Conspiracy Theory of the Week Department:
James Carville at his most devious is secretly the force behind “Birthers”. It is all part of his plan to discredit the President and enable his Democrat, Hillary, to be the party’s candidate in 2012. You read it first in the Tids.
The Question:
This is a question that is near and dear to my irresponsible heart. Name 10 typos that your computer spell check won’t catch.
The Headlines:
--North Korea Threatens US Over Military Exercises.
--Prez To Sign Bill That Allow Gov. To recover “Wasteful” Spending Payments.
--Archeologists Discover Second “Henge” Style Structure Near Stonehenge; Like The Original, They Have No Clue As To What It Means Or Why It Is there.
--Major teacher’s Union Supports Chaffee For RI Governor.
--Ebey, Qualcom Among New Very Positive Earnings Reports Boosting Stock Futures This Morn; 3M, AT&T and Cat Also Very Strong.
--Former Federal Reserve Board Member Lawrence Lindsey Predicts US Entering “Deflationary Trap” By End Of Year.
Back to More Stuff:
Did you happen to see that series of photos showing a 40 ton whale breaching and then slamming across the bow of a fairly large sailboat off South Africa? The boat was destroyed and the big mammal swam happily away with but a few nicks. Kind of makes you want to re-evaluate your feelings about Captain Ahab.
If I could afford to collect art, I’d concentrate of great sailing ships and deep blues seas.
China seems to be intent in not letting the USA lead the way on anything this century. The giant country now has its own oil spill covering 165 square miles in the Yellow Sea …and growing. Everything is about competition.
How come living in a modern world has become mostly about spending money? It’s probably because economies can only grow if populations buy lots of stuff they don’t need. It’s Goldman-Sach’s fault.
If you’re wondering about the recovery, Citi-group economists have just lowered the annual US GDP growth rate estimate from 3.4 to 2.6. In other words be conservative.
Politicians probably think that amorality is a gift from God.
A discovery yesterday in the shifting sands of South County RI of the hull of an old wooden sailing ships brings me back to my youth in the forties, walking the outer sand spits off Chatham where timbers of olden ships abound. When standing upon them it always brought thoughts of whales breaching or British gunships shooting. Ah the unfettered imagination of youth at a time when all of the video games were in the mind.
If an alien from outer space were to arrive and examine the balance sheets of America, they would see an emerging third world country, and decide to invest in Indonesia.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 84. –As soon as Kent left the room, Isabelle swiveled around in her big leather chair to face the rear credenza; picked up her phone and dialed
“Jason Cotter here,” came the reply as Isabelle tightened the phone against her ear as if to ward off eavesdroppers. “So what can I do for the Goddess of Genetics.” He laughed. Isabelle never liked Cotter, but he headed the best security firm in the state. And one that was perfect for her complicated business mission.
“Bring me up to date on the wanderings of Sarah and the status of Laura.”
“Doesn’t your boy Kent tell you anything?”
Isabelle didn’t play the game and just answered, “I like to hear it from you”. Isabelle always wanted first hand information. She always though there were far too many filterers in this world.
“Well, I just hung up from a call from my man tailing the Durham woman. She left your building and went immediately to the Sheriff’s office.”
Isabelle jumped in. “We may have to neutralize her. What is the status of the Laura problem?”
“The girl/woman Laura is an interesting package. I don’t think she has an ethical bone in her body. Completely amoral. Like a politician who can be bought and sold.”
“So, is she a problem of not,” interrupted Isabelle.
“First, she seems to be living with Kent Middleton.”
“That bastard” interjected Isabelle. And then silence.
“I believe after talking to her personally that she is the main source of new information for the police, and perhaps the FBI investigators. I think she can be easily bought and serve a better purpose being a disseminator for our purposes. And it would be a much better strategy than trying to explain her disappearance.”
“”Go on,” interjected Isabelle.
“Frankly, I think she would totally love being paid to play games with the authorities. And she could pull it off,” added the sleazy Cotter.
The Rhode Island race for Governor certainly didn’t end when Lynch gave the Dem nod to foe Caprio. Indy Chafee is mighty formidable with his name recognition, moderate bent and non-threatening political past. Let’s face it, despite his protestations Caprio is still a product of the despicable RI State Legislature. RI voters have proven in the past that they don’t like an all Democrat leadership. While they often insist on reelecting their own rascals they ease their conscience by voting for a second party Governor. And, I haven’t even mentioned two decent Republican candidates Robitaille and Moffitt and a Moderate Party candidate Block who could be the beneficiary of Chafee and Caprio neutralizing each other. As I said the race is just beginning.
A picture of Blagojevich sitting quietly in a courtroom is the portrait of amorality.
The Answer: Most common are apostrophe words – Its vs. it’s, your vs. you’re. For business people it’s sails versus sales (Implies sales are down because your mind is on sails.). How about effect vs. affect. And then there’s properly “would have” vs. the not so good “would of”. And through and threw. Finally we have “Then vs. Than”, Supposed to NOT suppose to, Wonder vs. wander, Their vs. there vs. they’re and farther versus further. FYI – Farther is typically a physical distance while further is a metaphorical distance. What this all means is that you actually have to know something when writing and you have re-check it all yourself. Aw shucks.
The End:
Fortunately there are many more people in this world of ours who proudly wear their hearts on their sleeve. For all of the loving, caring people to see.
Opening Stuff
The breezes are strong off the harbor. Sailors are busy readying their craft for journeys across combative waters. Waves lap at pilings as people on piers contemplate the soothing aura of the watery haven. And they shiver in the comforting air. As beautiful thoughts waken their minds.
Amoral people can always appear incredibly honest without batting an eye. Even if they are caught with a bloody axe in their hand; or on tape accepting a political bribe; Or accepting a Nobel prize for work on Global Warming.
Conspiracy Theory of the Week Department:
James Carville at his most devious is secretly the force behind “Birthers”. It is all part of his plan to discredit the President and enable his Democrat, Hillary, to be the party’s candidate in 2012. You read it first in the Tids.
The Question:
This is a question that is near and dear to my irresponsible heart. Name 10 typos that your computer spell check won’t catch.
The Headlines:
--North Korea Threatens US Over Military Exercises.
--Prez To Sign Bill That Allow Gov. To recover “Wasteful” Spending Payments.
--Archeologists Discover Second “Henge” Style Structure Near Stonehenge; Like The Original, They Have No Clue As To What It Means Or Why It Is there.
--Major teacher’s Union Supports Chaffee For RI Governor.
--Ebey, Qualcom Among New Very Positive Earnings Reports Boosting Stock Futures This Morn; 3M, AT&T and Cat Also Very Strong.
--Former Federal Reserve Board Member Lawrence Lindsey Predicts US Entering “Deflationary Trap” By End Of Year.
Back to More Stuff:
Did you happen to see that series of photos showing a 40 ton whale breaching and then slamming across the bow of a fairly large sailboat off South Africa? The boat was destroyed and the big mammal swam happily away with but a few nicks. Kind of makes you want to re-evaluate your feelings about Captain Ahab.
If I could afford to collect art, I’d concentrate of great sailing ships and deep blues seas.
China seems to be intent in not letting the USA lead the way on anything this century. The giant country now has its own oil spill covering 165 square miles in the Yellow Sea …and growing. Everything is about competition.
How come living in a modern world has become mostly about spending money? It’s probably because economies can only grow if populations buy lots of stuff they don’t need. It’s Goldman-Sach’s fault.
If you’re wondering about the recovery, Citi-group economists have just lowered the annual US GDP growth rate estimate from 3.4 to 2.6. In other words be conservative.
Politicians probably think that amorality is a gift from God.
A discovery yesterday in the shifting sands of South County RI of the hull of an old wooden sailing ships brings me back to my youth in the forties, walking the outer sand spits off Chatham where timbers of olden ships abound. When standing upon them it always brought thoughts of whales breaching or British gunships shooting. Ah the unfettered imagination of youth at a time when all of the video games were in the mind.
If an alien from outer space were to arrive and examine the balance sheets of America, they would see an emerging third world country, and decide to invest in Indonesia.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 84. –As soon as Kent left the room, Isabelle swiveled around in her big leather chair to face the rear credenza; picked up her phone and dialed
“Jason Cotter here,” came the reply as Isabelle tightened the phone against her ear as if to ward off eavesdroppers. “So what can I do for the Goddess of Genetics.” He laughed. Isabelle never liked Cotter, but he headed the best security firm in the state. And one that was perfect for her complicated business mission.
“Bring me up to date on the wanderings of Sarah and the status of Laura.”
“Doesn’t your boy Kent tell you anything?”
Isabelle didn’t play the game and just answered, “I like to hear it from you”. Isabelle always wanted first hand information. She always though there were far too many filterers in this world.
“Well, I just hung up from a call from my man tailing the Durham woman. She left your building and went immediately to the Sheriff’s office.”
Isabelle jumped in. “We may have to neutralize her. What is the status of the Laura problem?”
“The girl/woman Laura is an interesting package. I don’t think she has an ethical bone in her body. Completely amoral. Like a politician who can be bought and sold.”
“So, is she a problem of not,” interrupted Isabelle.
“First, she seems to be living with Kent Middleton.”
“That bastard” interjected Isabelle. And then silence.
“I believe after talking to her personally that she is the main source of new information for the police, and perhaps the FBI investigators. I think she can be easily bought and serve a better purpose being a disseminator for our purposes. And it would be a much better strategy than trying to explain her disappearance.”
“”Go on,” interjected Isabelle.
“Frankly, I think she would totally love being paid to play games with the authorities. And she could pull it off,” added the sleazy Cotter.
The Rhode Island race for Governor certainly didn’t end when Lynch gave the Dem nod to foe Caprio. Indy Chafee is mighty formidable with his name recognition, moderate bent and non-threatening political past. Let’s face it, despite his protestations Caprio is still a product of the despicable RI State Legislature. RI voters have proven in the past that they don’t like an all Democrat leadership. While they often insist on reelecting their own rascals they ease their conscience by voting for a second party Governor. And, I haven’t even mentioned two decent Republican candidates Robitaille and Moffitt and a Moderate Party candidate Block who could be the beneficiary of Chafee and Caprio neutralizing each other. As I said the race is just beginning.
A picture of Blagojevich sitting quietly in a courtroom is the portrait of amorality.
The Answer: Most common are apostrophe words – Its vs. it’s, your vs. you’re. For business people it’s sails versus sales (Implies sales are down because your mind is on sails.). How about effect vs. affect. And then there’s properly “would have” vs. the not so good “would of”. And through and threw. Finally we have “Then vs. Than”, Supposed to NOT suppose to, Wonder vs. wander, Their vs. there vs. they’re and farther versus further. FYI – Farther is typically a physical distance while further is a metaphorical distance. What this all means is that you actually have to know something when writing and you have re-check it all yourself. Aw shucks.
The End:
Fortunately there are many more people in this world of ours who proudly wear their hearts on their sleeve. For all of the loving, caring people to see.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
The sponge economy.
Today's Tids Issue 2,179
Opening Stuff:
Washington these days is all about the Democrats forcing the Republicans into “When did you stop beating your wife” dilemmas. It’s a savvy political strategy that will result in a lot of bad and very expensive laws
A reader after reading the Comedian list and the “…Standing in the rain.” line, sent along this poignant message from Comedian/cancer survivor: "The secret of happiness is not to curse the storm, but to learn how to dance in the rain."
The Question:
Business people find it hard to be without their smart phones. It has become a necessary appendage. What do Business travelers use their phones for most?
The Headlines:
--Relief Well Should Reach Broken Well This Weekend.
--Government Watchdogs Tell Congress That 0-Man’s Mortgage Salvation Program Is Not Working; That US treasury Has Failed To Fix The Program.
--Pedophile Hedge Fund Billionaire Jeffery Epstein Set free After Five years Of Legal Wrangling.
--Scientists Discover Star In Galaxy 100 Times More Massive Than Sun.
--Obama Gang Outlines New Sanctions Against North Korea.
--Wall Street Flat Awaiting Bernanke.
--0-man Signs Finance Overhaul Bill.
Back to More Stuff:
As of yesterday, the national debt was $13.1 Trillion and growing at a rate of $1.5 Trillion per year. To be able to start paying down the debt, the Government budget must generate surpluses of $500 Billion to $800 Bil per year. That ain’t gonna happen because nowhere in the White House or Congress do I see people jumping up saying they can’t afford this or that mammoth bill.
What are we starting to notice as earnings report are delivered? Lower than anticipated revenue (Top Line) but healthy bottom lines. This is typical of a recovery in normal times. I don’t think these are normal times. These are times when average wages are forced to decline meaning that real growth rates will decline too. And revenue will fail to return even over time.
You can never have enough khacki shorts for Summer.
Through the Same Eyes: I have entered the severe writer's block phase of this novel. Be patient.
Cute little Lindsey Lohan is looking about 45 years old these days. Jeez, acting must be tough on the body.
Supermarket prepared “Home cooked” meals are never as good as what I remember as home cooked meals. But a lot of people must be buying a lot of them because they are ubiquitous.
Isn’t a ubiquitous a South American dish using the bark of the Cockspur Coral Tree?
I’m still slaving away poring out the Tids, but my mind is on a vacation in a secluded get-away. I fact, it is so secluded that I haven’t been able to find it for weeks.
Somehow, to me, a summer landscape doesn’t inspire a lot of poetry.
The Answer:
56% use it to adjust travel plans. 49% use it to make dinner reservations; 43% -- Get sports scores; 41% -- Check into hotel, But, surprisingly a full 39% use smart phone apps to find a coffee shop.
So, are they telling me I should by a $400 smart phone so I can find a coffee shop? Don’t you think that there is something really sad about an economy that relies on coffee shops and coffee shop locators?
Opening Stuff:
Washington these days is all about the Democrats forcing the Republicans into “When did you stop beating your wife” dilemmas. It’s a savvy political strategy that will result in a lot of bad and very expensive laws
A reader after reading the Comedian list and the “…Standing in the rain.” line, sent along this poignant message from Comedian/cancer survivor: "The secret of happiness is not to curse the storm, but to learn how to dance in the rain."
The Question:
Business people find it hard to be without their smart phones. It has become a necessary appendage. What do Business travelers use their phones for most?
The Headlines:
--Relief Well Should Reach Broken Well This Weekend.
--Government Watchdogs Tell Congress That 0-Man’s Mortgage Salvation Program Is Not Working; That US treasury Has Failed To Fix The Program.
--Pedophile Hedge Fund Billionaire Jeffery Epstein Set free After Five years Of Legal Wrangling.
--Scientists Discover Star In Galaxy 100 Times More Massive Than Sun.
--Obama Gang Outlines New Sanctions Against North Korea.
--Wall Street Flat Awaiting Bernanke.
--0-man Signs Finance Overhaul Bill.
Back to More Stuff:
As of yesterday, the national debt was $13.1 Trillion and growing at a rate of $1.5 Trillion per year. To be able to start paying down the debt, the Government budget must generate surpluses of $500 Billion to $800 Bil per year. That ain’t gonna happen because nowhere in the White House or Congress do I see people jumping up saying they can’t afford this or that mammoth bill.
What are we starting to notice as earnings report are delivered? Lower than anticipated revenue (Top Line) but healthy bottom lines. This is typical of a recovery in normal times. I don’t think these are normal times. These are times when average wages are forced to decline meaning that real growth rates will decline too. And revenue will fail to return even over time.
You can never have enough khacki shorts for Summer.
Through the Same Eyes: I have entered the severe writer's block phase of this novel. Be patient.
Cute little Lindsey Lohan is looking about 45 years old these days. Jeez, acting must be tough on the body.
Supermarket prepared “Home cooked” meals are never as good as what I remember as home cooked meals. But a lot of people must be buying a lot of them because they are ubiquitous.
Isn’t a ubiquitous a South American dish using the bark of the Cockspur Coral Tree?
I’m still slaving away poring out the Tids, but my mind is on a vacation in a secluded get-away. I fact, it is so secluded that I haven’t been able to find it for weeks.
Somehow, to me, a summer landscape doesn’t inspire a lot of poetry.
The Answer:
56% use it to adjust travel plans. 49% use it to make dinner reservations; 43% -- Get sports scores; 41% -- Check into hotel, But, surprisingly a full 39% use smart phone apps to find a coffee shop.
So, are they telling me I should by a $400 smart phone so I can find a coffee shop? Don’t you think that there is something really sad about an economy that relies on coffee shops and coffee shop locators?
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
It's a pooper scooper world.
Today's Tids Issue 2,178
Opening Stuff:
I think this is going to be one of those days where little things just keep on going wrong.
But then, I’ll just jump into one of my fantasies and ride it out until tomorrow. A fertile mind alleviates a lot of manufactured suffering.
I was thinking after I wrote that little item about how parents now-a-days in addition to teaching all of life’s lessons, must educate kids the fine art of pooper scooping! Which isn’t going to be that different from all of the crap the children are going to have to pay for after the current Congress and Admin gets finished spending.
The Question: Name ten Jewish comedians who gained fame in the hey day of the New York’s Catskills.
The Headlines:
--Small Oil Leakage Deemed Insignificant.
--Vatican Says Ordaining Woman Priests A Sin On A Par With Pedophilia.
--Dems To Vote Again On Jobless Benefits.
--Judiciary Committee To Vote On Kagan; Lead GOP Member Against.
--7 Midwest States Sue Feds Over Handling Of Asian Carp Infestation Of Great Lakes.
--Goldman Sachs Profit Down On Lower Revenue And SEC Fines.
--Unemployment Lower In 39 States.
--Home Construction Levels Sink Further.
Back to More Stuff:
I commented the other day about including a ban on woman priests in the same pronouncement condemning sexual abuse by priests. Well, those wizened wizards of the Vatican have cleared it up with a new memo that says “Ordaining woman priests is a sin equal to pedophilia! Are th ey nuts? I am one to give the Vatican the benefit of the doubt, but this is way beyond my understanding.
I have always had a problem with this Indian sovereignty thing. Maybe it’s because I live in such a small place where Indian lands are not some remote reservation. My problem is basically about separate sets of rules for peoples essentially living in the same country. Maybe it’s the word sovereignty. Self government is fine. But it must be subject to “inter- jurisdictional” rules. I was frankly amazed at the Iroquois passport issue. I sheds a lot of light on how this idea of sovereignty may be racing out of control. Being independent doesn’t mean you can work outside sensible laws.
One of the first clues that this day was not progressing well, was that I awoke with nary an idea for Tids in my head. Can’t you tell.
Some of the funny stuff from the Catskill crowd: “Someone stole all of my credit cards but I won’t report it. The thief spends less than my wife.”; “the doctor gave a man six months to live. The ma couldn’t pay his bill so the doctor gave hi another six months.”; The Harvard School of Medicine did a study of why Jewish women like Chinese food so much. The study revealed that this is due to the fact that Won Ton spelled backwards is not now!”
To learn how Obama may be affected by criticism, you have to watch his henchmen. He rarely flinches. Some may call it cool under pressure. I call it aloof.
The difference between the Vatican and Congress is that you can’t vote out the Vatican.
A lot of authors are really nice guys until their agents find ways to make money off them. Actually, most authors would like to continue to be nice guys, but their agents won’t let them.
Almost everybody would be a lot happier if they never tried to be something they’re not.
I’m envisioning an entire generation in 30 years walking behind Congress with giant plastic bags!
The Answer:
There were plenty…Shecky Greene, Red Buttons, Totie Fields, Joey Bishop, Milton Berle, Jan Murray, Danny Kaye, Henny Youngman, Buddy Hackett, Sid Caeser, Groucho Marx, Jackie Mason, Victor Borge, Woody Allen, Joan Rivers, Lenny Bruce, Peter Sellers, Carl Reiner, Shelly Berman, Gene Wilder, George Burns, Allan Sherman, Jerry Lewis, George Jessel, Alan King, Mel Brooks, Phil Silvers, Jack Carter, Rodney Dangerfield, Don Rickles and the incomparable Jack Benny. And those are just the big names.
Is it the End:
A book on 0-Man's summer reading list is "The Post-American World", written by Fareed Zakaria,
I think I’ll go outside and stand in the summer rain.
Opening Stuff:
I think this is going to be one of those days where little things just keep on going wrong.
But then, I’ll just jump into one of my fantasies and ride it out until tomorrow. A fertile mind alleviates a lot of manufactured suffering.
I was thinking after I wrote that little item about how parents now-a-days in addition to teaching all of life’s lessons, must educate kids the fine art of pooper scooping! Which isn’t going to be that different from all of the crap the children are going to have to pay for after the current Congress and Admin gets finished spending.
The Question: Name ten Jewish comedians who gained fame in the hey day of the New York’s Catskills.
The Headlines:
--Small Oil Leakage Deemed Insignificant.
--Vatican Says Ordaining Woman Priests A Sin On A Par With Pedophilia.
--Dems To Vote Again On Jobless Benefits.
--Judiciary Committee To Vote On Kagan; Lead GOP Member Against.
--7 Midwest States Sue Feds Over Handling Of Asian Carp Infestation Of Great Lakes.
--Goldman Sachs Profit Down On Lower Revenue And SEC Fines.
--Unemployment Lower In 39 States.
--Home Construction Levels Sink Further.
Back to More Stuff:
I commented the other day about including a ban on woman priests in the same pronouncement condemning sexual abuse by priests. Well, those wizened wizards of the Vatican have cleared it up with a new memo that says “Ordaining woman priests is a sin equal to pedophilia! Are th ey nuts? I am one to give the Vatican the benefit of the doubt, but this is way beyond my understanding.
I have always had a problem with this Indian sovereignty thing. Maybe it’s because I live in such a small place where Indian lands are not some remote reservation. My problem is basically about separate sets of rules for peoples essentially living in the same country. Maybe it’s the word sovereignty. Self government is fine. But it must be subject to “inter- jurisdictional” rules. I was frankly amazed at the Iroquois passport issue. I sheds a lot of light on how this idea of sovereignty may be racing out of control. Being independent doesn’t mean you can work outside sensible laws.
One of the first clues that this day was not progressing well, was that I awoke with nary an idea for Tids in my head. Can’t you tell.
Some of the funny stuff from the Catskill crowd: “Someone stole all of my credit cards but I won’t report it. The thief spends less than my wife.”; “the doctor gave a man six months to live. The ma couldn’t pay his bill so the doctor gave hi another six months.”; The Harvard School of Medicine did a study of why Jewish women like Chinese food so much. The study revealed that this is due to the fact that Won Ton spelled backwards is not now!”
To learn how Obama may be affected by criticism, you have to watch his henchmen. He rarely flinches. Some may call it cool under pressure. I call it aloof.
The difference between the Vatican and Congress is that you can’t vote out the Vatican.
A lot of authors are really nice guys until their agents find ways to make money off them. Actually, most authors would like to continue to be nice guys, but their agents won’t let them.
Almost everybody would be a lot happier if they never tried to be something they’re not.
I’m envisioning an entire generation in 30 years walking behind Congress with giant plastic bags!
The Answer:
There were plenty…Shecky Greene, Red Buttons, Totie Fields, Joey Bishop, Milton Berle, Jan Murray, Danny Kaye, Henny Youngman, Buddy Hackett, Sid Caeser, Groucho Marx, Jackie Mason, Victor Borge, Woody Allen, Joan Rivers, Lenny Bruce, Peter Sellers, Carl Reiner, Shelly Berman, Gene Wilder, George Burns, Allan Sherman, Jerry Lewis, George Jessel, Alan King, Mel Brooks, Phil Silvers, Jack Carter, Rodney Dangerfield, Don Rickles and the incomparable Jack Benny. And those are just the big names.
Is it the End:
A book on 0-Man's summer reading list is "The Post-American World", written by Fareed Zakaria,
I think I’ll go outside and stand in the summer rain.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Just do it...right.
Today's Tids Issue 2,177
Opening Stuff:
I was gong to start this Tids with an imaginary fantasy -- calling up icy winds from Canada North to cut though the suffocating Summer heat. I wanted to herald the joy of a sensible Fall that begot an early Winter. A time for the rejuvenation of sagging bodies and new stimulation for sluggish brain cells depressed by unyielding heat and humidity. But then I thought, this wouldn’t be fare to vacationers and all of those businesses that rely on oppressive heat and burning sun for economic survival. Wait one minute, do we want an economy based on weather?
If the US government was run by Netflix, everybody would probably be pretty happy. The company is efficient, understanding, flexible, creative and tough where it has to be. In fact if the phone companies, cable networks and Wall Street were also as good as Netflix, the entire country would be in pretty good shape.
Year after year, The British Open is one of the best sporting events. It savors tradition while maximizing competition with an undercurrent of civility. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could capture the same levels of honesty, responsibility, ambition, perfection, determination and understanding in the general society?
Conspiracy Theory Department:
It was pretty obvious that 0-Man, The Great Mocker, delighted in using Goldman Sachs as his punching bag as he made a case for the Financial Reform bill. The day that the Bill passed and became ready for his signature, the Justice Department came down with a slap on the wrist fine for the financial giant – a fine that would easily be paid with the funds from two days trading. No fraud charges. No jail time for scammers. No new restrictions on bad behavior. Yes Goldman, the second largest contributor to 0-Man, came out of a mess that left average people struggling, stronger and richer than ever. And the new law…a big joke. It doesn’t even mention the thieves at Freddie and Fannie. There is nothing in it that the “Too Big’s” won’t be able to circumvent after a few hours, or at least days of studying. Meanwhile the average American will find it tougher to get credit while facing increased bank fees. Yup, it pays to contribute to this administration…this congress.
The Question:
In 1960, 50 years ago, Good jobs across the demographic spectrum were plentiful and well paying. Name the Fortune 500 top 10 then.
The Headlines:
--Economist Says Slow Recovery Continues.
--Abortion Foes Win Big One In Health care Overhaul; 0-Admin Grumbling Over Loss Of Funding For Murder In Insurance Pools for Needy.
--BP Says $ Billion Spent To Date.
--Overseas Stocks Down After Friday Debacle In US Markets.
--Tid’s Corporate Pension Plan Strategy fails For 457th Consecutive Week As Powerball Selection Falls Flat.
Back to More Stuff:
Hank Cochran, one of the great songwriters of America, died Friday night after The Tids went to press. He wrote #1 hits for Eddie Arnold, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, George Straight…well…all of the greats of Country Music. He never used the “F” word, advocated shooting cops or beating up yo woman. He wrote about the heartbreaks of love and the joy of living. He made you cry. He made you smile. He kept you humming. It was music that all of the family could enjoy.
It Has been 41 years since a young woman named Mary Jo Kopechne died tragically in an unfortunate act of gross negligence where nobody was ever brought to justice for her death.
I see where 0-Man is loving his cocoanut ice cream up on the Maine coast during his vacation. It must be an Indonesia thing. It’s tough to rid your self of things learned as a child.
BTW, the media types are lauding the Prez for the relatively small amount of vacation days he has taken since being in office. I think it is because he can’t stand to be away from potential face time on TV.
I have no trouble blaming the entire Gulf oil spill on a Government that forced oil companies to operate in areas a mile or more below the surface of the ocean.
I wasn’t surprised at all with the 250+ drop in the Dow Friday, July 16. It happens just about every July 17th when there is uncertainty or instability in the Market. And always after things are looking positive in recent weeks. Check it out.
Pelosi (For about 30 minutes) was the main attraction at a $1,000/plate dinner at the Jamestown RI seaside home of the CEO of the Princeton review. A crowd gathered with many signs like “Wait Til November”, “Poster Child for Out of Control Government” and “Next year you’ll be Flying Commercial.” But, it was a guy with a megaphone in a boat that said it best : “Was a half an hour worth $1,000? (She apparently didn’t hang.) If that doesn’t describe the overspending government, I don’t know what does. Of course many of us would have spent $2,000 to have her not show.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 83 continues. –“What’s the word of the day. Henry” I said cheerfully as I walked in. I looked in the back room facing the from door as I passed by and saw that Murph sitting there, not looking very brave at all. Not the fearsome Murphy I heard about from Richie Holden and his friends.
In answer to my owning query. Henry’s eyes flicked towards the sad looking Sam Murphy. “I’m about to let him go. I brought him in to talk more about Laura.” He smiled a knowing smile. “It seems he didn’t know this Laura well. She had never gone to school with him or any of the kids. She just showed up one day at their local hangout and went for him. He told me, “She sure knew a lot more about sex than the girls in school. Like she was older or something.” He smiled a lot when he said that.
“Henry, you do a bad imitation of a teen.” I laughed and he turned a little red. Any how, this kid has a lot more information now that he is out from under the spell of Laura. He remembers seeing her a couple of times with an older, “A smart looking guy” he said.
“Well, we know that was her uncle Bromski.”
“No it wasn’t, Henry continued. “He said he knew her Uncle and this guy wasn’t him. He said he looked like a guy who might be working at the same place as her uncle.”
Kent? I thought. No, it wouldn’t be Kent.
Remind me to cancel my subscription to the Princeton Review.
Criminal charges against BP would be a travesty, especially in light of the Gov allowing G-S to get off scott-free (Believe me $550 Mil is scott-free to that money machine) with no hint of criminal fraud charges.
The Vatican is looking dumber than Congress these days as they tie a new doctrine against child predator priests with a ban on women in the priesthood. Why can’t “august governing bodies just do things right. What bothers me most here is that the "V" apparently didn't have enough support to vote for a regualtrion that would ban monster priests. They had to compromise.
Don’t you just love the modern America, watching dads walking the dog with their young daughters and sons…teaching them how to pick up poop with plastic bags! What a great future!
The Answer:
Today, Wal-Mart is number one. In 1960 it was GM, Standard Oil, Ford, GE, US Steel, Mobil, Gulf Oil, Texaco, Chrysler, Swift & Company, AT&T, Dupont, Bethlehem Steel, Amoco, Westinghouse Electric, Armour, General Dynamics, Shell, Boeing and General Foods.
It was a pleasure watching the calm and cool of British Open Champ Wusthazen… Orsthizen… Ousthuzer… Usthosen… Oosthuizen – Louis Oosthuizen. Congratulaions champ.
Opening Stuff:
I was gong to start this Tids with an imaginary fantasy -- calling up icy winds from Canada North to cut though the suffocating Summer heat. I wanted to herald the joy of a sensible Fall that begot an early Winter. A time for the rejuvenation of sagging bodies and new stimulation for sluggish brain cells depressed by unyielding heat and humidity. But then I thought, this wouldn’t be fare to vacationers and all of those businesses that rely on oppressive heat and burning sun for economic survival. Wait one minute, do we want an economy based on weather?
If the US government was run by Netflix, everybody would probably be pretty happy. The company is efficient, understanding, flexible, creative and tough where it has to be. In fact if the phone companies, cable networks and Wall Street were also as good as Netflix, the entire country would be in pretty good shape.
Year after year, The British Open is one of the best sporting events. It savors tradition while maximizing competition with an undercurrent of civility. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could capture the same levels of honesty, responsibility, ambition, perfection, determination and understanding in the general society?
Conspiracy Theory Department:
It was pretty obvious that 0-Man, The Great Mocker, delighted in using Goldman Sachs as his punching bag as he made a case for the Financial Reform bill. The day that the Bill passed and became ready for his signature, the Justice Department came down with a slap on the wrist fine for the financial giant – a fine that would easily be paid with the funds from two days trading. No fraud charges. No jail time for scammers. No new restrictions on bad behavior. Yes Goldman, the second largest contributor to 0-Man, came out of a mess that left average people struggling, stronger and richer than ever. And the new law…a big joke. It doesn’t even mention the thieves at Freddie and Fannie. There is nothing in it that the “Too Big’s” won’t be able to circumvent after a few hours, or at least days of studying. Meanwhile the average American will find it tougher to get credit while facing increased bank fees. Yup, it pays to contribute to this administration…this congress.
The Question:
In 1960, 50 years ago, Good jobs across the demographic spectrum were plentiful and well paying. Name the Fortune 500 top 10 then.
The Headlines:
--Economist Says Slow Recovery Continues.
--Abortion Foes Win Big One In Health care Overhaul; 0-Admin Grumbling Over Loss Of Funding For Murder In Insurance Pools for Needy.
--BP Says $ Billion Spent To Date.
--Overseas Stocks Down After Friday Debacle In US Markets.
--Tid’s Corporate Pension Plan Strategy fails For 457th Consecutive Week As Powerball Selection Falls Flat.
Back to More Stuff:
Hank Cochran, one of the great songwriters of America, died Friday night after The Tids went to press. He wrote #1 hits for Eddie Arnold, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, George Straight…well…all of the greats of Country Music. He never used the “F” word, advocated shooting cops or beating up yo woman. He wrote about the heartbreaks of love and the joy of living. He made you cry. He made you smile. He kept you humming. It was music that all of the family could enjoy.
It Has been 41 years since a young woman named Mary Jo Kopechne died tragically in an unfortunate act of gross negligence where nobody was ever brought to justice for her death.
I see where 0-Man is loving his cocoanut ice cream up on the Maine coast during his vacation. It must be an Indonesia thing. It’s tough to rid your self of things learned as a child.
BTW, the media types are lauding the Prez for the relatively small amount of vacation days he has taken since being in office. I think it is because he can’t stand to be away from potential face time on TV.
I have no trouble blaming the entire Gulf oil spill on a Government that forced oil companies to operate in areas a mile or more below the surface of the ocean.
I wasn’t surprised at all with the 250+ drop in the Dow Friday, July 16. It happens just about every July 17th when there is uncertainty or instability in the Market. And always after things are looking positive in recent weeks. Check it out.
Pelosi (For about 30 minutes) was the main attraction at a $1,000/plate dinner at the Jamestown RI seaside home of the CEO of the Princeton review. A crowd gathered with many signs like “Wait Til November”, “Poster Child for Out of Control Government” and “Next year you’ll be Flying Commercial.” But, it was a guy with a megaphone in a boat that said it best : “Was a half an hour worth $1,000? (She apparently didn’t hang.) If that doesn’t describe the overspending government, I don’t know what does. Of course many of us would have spent $2,000 to have her not show.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 83 continues. –“What’s the word of the day. Henry” I said cheerfully as I walked in. I looked in the back room facing the from door as I passed by and saw that Murph sitting there, not looking very brave at all. Not the fearsome Murphy I heard about from Richie Holden and his friends.
In answer to my owning query. Henry’s eyes flicked towards the sad looking Sam Murphy. “I’m about to let him go. I brought him in to talk more about Laura.” He smiled a knowing smile. “It seems he didn’t know this Laura well. She had never gone to school with him or any of the kids. She just showed up one day at their local hangout and went for him. He told me, “She sure knew a lot more about sex than the girls in school. Like she was older or something.” He smiled a lot when he said that.
“Henry, you do a bad imitation of a teen.” I laughed and he turned a little red. Any how, this kid has a lot more information now that he is out from under the spell of Laura. He remembers seeing her a couple of times with an older, “A smart looking guy” he said.
“Well, we know that was her uncle Bromski.”
“No it wasn’t, Henry continued. “He said he knew her Uncle and this guy wasn’t him. He said he looked like a guy who might be working at the same place as her uncle.”
Kent? I thought. No, it wouldn’t be Kent.
Remind me to cancel my subscription to the Princeton Review.
Criminal charges against BP would be a travesty, especially in light of the Gov allowing G-S to get off scott-free (Believe me $550 Mil is scott-free to that money machine) with no hint of criminal fraud charges.
The Vatican is looking dumber than Congress these days as they tie a new doctrine against child predator priests with a ban on women in the priesthood. Why can’t “august governing bodies just do things right. What bothers me most here is that the "V" apparently didn't have enough support to vote for a regualtrion that would ban monster priests. They had to compromise.
Don’t you just love the modern America, watching dads walking the dog with their young daughters and sons…teaching them how to pick up poop with plastic bags! What a great future!
The Answer:
Today, Wal-Mart is number one. In 1960 it was GM, Standard Oil, Ford, GE, US Steel, Mobil, Gulf Oil, Texaco, Chrysler, Swift & Company, AT&T, Dupont, Bethlehem Steel, Amoco, Westinghouse Electric, Armour, General Dynamics, Shell, Boeing and General Foods.
It was a pleasure watching the calm and cool of British Open Champ Wusthazen… Orsthizen… Ousthuzer… Usthosen… Oosthuizen – Louis Oosthuizen. Congratulaions champ.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Credibility, Confusion, Courtesy.
Today's Tids Issue 2,176
Opening Stuff:
This foggy dawn is one of your basic limp waffle mornings.
Speaking of limp, I think I’m getting a little soft on the politicians. At times in order to maintain credibility and avoid unfounded, factually incorrect rants, I find my self trying to understand the opposition. But, the more I research current events the more I find evidence that we are under assault by the “Nanny State” advocates and others who would take away freedom after freedom over time. Unctuous little people who hide behind contrived theories based on exploiting the emotions of loving people. People who advocate replacing personal responsibility with government controls and mandates. Yesterday we get Financial Reform law where the biggest benefit is to those people advocating bigger Government and more big government intrusion. A law that even supporters deem “Imperfect” but “a necessary compromise”. Everything these days that comes out of DC is imperfect. This is not a time to be lulled. This is a time to start looking to November. To begin ending the madness.
A reader reminds me that “Both politicians and diapers need to be changed often; And for the same reason.”
The Question:
Today is Friday, so it must be a double bonus Q! How great is that? 1. The British Open is underway (You can watch it on ESPN starting at 4:00AM – That’s AM) so lets ask a little historical BO Golf question. Name five golfers who have had the most rounds under 70. 2. A survey group was given 4 choices and they had to pick one – Save $50/ week; Have more sex; Gain an hour a day; Drop a clothing size. Which one do you think came out on top?
The Headlines:
--All Eyes On Well Tests.
--0-Man Continues To Campaign Against Bush.
--Minor Earthquake Rattles DC Residents; Resident Says, “Tremors Nothing Compared To What Congress Does To Us Every Day.”
--Habitual High Heel Wearers Could be Finding A Lot Of Leg Pain In Older Years.
--Authorities Trying To Unravel Mystery Of July 7 UFO Sighting Over China Airport.
--CitiGroup reports 10% Profit Drop; GE Reports Higher Earnings On Cost Cutting, Down Revenues.
Back to More Stuff:
Yesterday in our continuing effort to report the truth, I wrote the words of the Prez in his speech to the Muslim world. As I read the speech before I write the paragraph, I became aware of the conciliatory, apologetic tone inferring once more from President Wimpy a condemnation of the US past. A reader wrote to inform me that, Yes, while he may have been a Christian, his Christian mentor was the intolerable, white hating Reverend Wright. That the intellectual, enlightened Muslims were devoured 1,000 years ago by the religious zealot factions thus ending Islam’s contributions to science.
On the other hand, I condemned ABC news yesterday for selective reporting of anecdotes from a bitter few to emphasize the inadequacies of BP. A day later, the news org reached out further and actually showed the BP efforts to compensate as very effective. Many LA residents said that compared to the Government’s handling of Katrina payouts, BP was amazingly efficient and their hope was that the Government would stay away and out of the way. Other parts of the report told us that seaside restaurants were have a great year, maybe one of their best in a decade as clean-up workers filled the seats. There is always more to the stories as reported, and occasionally we get it. But not often enough.
Apparently, a lot of the uglier scenes of tar balls flying around the internet are photographically altered or from older oil spills around d the country.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 83. –Paul answered my call quickly. He said he was still in a meeting and it may take an hour or so. But he was in an up beat mood and told me that it must have been because he saw me earlier. I responded that I felt the same way too. But, I didn’t know how I felt.
Paul went on to tell me more than I wanted to know at the moment about how critical his equipment had become to everything that was being accomplished at BIEm research. Then he said, “Maybe it isn’t you at all, but just that I am needed by these poor scientists.” He laughed at his little jest.
I laughed along with him. I always laughed along with him. It was part of what we have always done. From the first time I saw him. The connection. Our connection. “Maybe you don’t need me at all, now that you are so successful.” But, this time he didn’t respond with one of his quips.” It was just silent. Did I hit a nerve that I was unaware of? Have I been feeling all along that he didn’t really need me?
“Sarah,” he started slowly, softly, “You are everything to me. You are my life. I would sell my company and become your house mom in Fosterville if you asked. All I want is you and your happiness.” I listened silently. He was crying. I could tell.
“You will always have me,” I answered sincerely. Then I wondered about who I really was. This person who actually has everything. Was becoming…what? My hand started to shake. Then I added. “Thank you Paul.” He didn’t say anything. Maybe he couldn’t.
“Call me when you are finished. I’ll be at Henry’s” Am I that cold? “Love you,” I added. I hung up.
I think a good name for a restaurant would be “No Trendiness Here”. A lot of perfectly good menus are spoiled by some misinformed restaurant owner jumping upon trend bandwagons.
Of course there are exceptions. The current “Lobster Mac n’ Cheese trend at restaurants around here has definite merits.
Every day I seem to see or hear about another example of inconsideration. There are just too many people, it seems to me, who don’t understand the simple facts about commons courtesy. It can be simple littering, or parking cars on somebody’s lawn because a party had grown too big. The over crowding of animals in neighborhoods. There is just a little too much “I’m for me” going on around towns and villages these days.
Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews –Confusion Friday:
--Remembering that Leonard’s last big film Shutter Island was totally not what it appeared, it is easy to understand why The DeCap would venture into the confusing Inception. Which is totally not what it appears to be “squared”. The big difference here is that the audience will be confused from the beginning in Inception while it was only confused at the end in Shutter. DeCaprio heads a Mission Impossible style team that invades minds, reads dreams and plants seeds. The particular target is a business rival who has plans in his mind that would grievously injure the operations of the business man who hired DeCap. The promos say you may want to see it twice to figure it out. This is the same Director who gave us the mindboggling “Momento”. Personally, I like to boggle my mind. And this sounds like a winner to me.
--The Sorcerers Apprentice is about a man Balthazar Blake in current times seeking to be come the long sought after replacement for the magical Merlin. He and his young associate find magic in an old antique shop. The young boy associate (The sorcerer’s apprentice) takes a nesting doll that has imprisoned the nasty Morgana for ten centuries. If released, Morgana would destroy the world. Ten years later Balthazar seeks to find the apprentice before his evil rival Horvath does. Horvath wants to release Morgana to do her evil deeds. Lots of special magical effects. Would be fun if you could figure it out. It’s a giant “Who cares?” movie.
--The Girl who Played with Fire could be confusing too, if you hadn’t seen the first in the series…The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Lisbeth finds her self a suspect in a case revolving around a sex trafficking ring and three murders. She goes on the run. It’s a pretty good yarn but it hasn’t the same depth of character as Dragon tattoo. It plays like a standard TV cop show. But it serves a purpose as a reasonable interim between Dragon and the next in the series The Girl who Kicked the Hornet’s nest. If you liked Dragon, you may be a little disappointed, but it will still be enjoyable.
The Answer:
1. The golfers with the most under 70 rounds in the British Open history are jack Nicklaus (35), Nick Faldo (35), Tom Watson(27), Greg Norman(23), Lee Trevino(21), Seve Ballesteros(20) and Nick Price(20). They are remembering Seve at this years event as he had to stay home in Spain because of his illness. 2. 57% chose to save $50/week. Figures factored into the #2 answer with 31% going for a drop in clothing size. 6% said they’d like an extra hour while only 6% are sex starved. Personally, I can’t understand why anyone would want an extra hour. And also. Maybe those who voted fro a drop in size figured they’d get a little more sex after that.
The biggest danger to the effectiveness of the loyal opposition is destroying credibility by stretching the truth beyond belief.
Opening Stuff:
This foggy dawn is one of your basic limp waffle mornings.
Speaking of limp, I think I’m getting a little soft on the politicians. At times in order to maintain credibility and avoid unfounded, factually incorrect rants, I find my self trying to understand the opposition. But, the more I research current events the more I find evidence that we are under assault by the “Nanny State” advocates and others who would take away freedom after freedom over time. Unctuous little people who hide behind contrived theories based on exploiting the emotions of loving people. People who advocate replacing personal responsibility with government controls and mandates. Yesterday we get Financial Reform law where the biggest benefit is to those people advocating bigger Government and more big government intrusion. A law that even supporters deem “Imperfect” but “a necessary compromise”. Everything these days that comes out of DC is imperfect. This is not a time to be lulled. This is a time to start looking to November. To begin ending the madness.
A reader reminds me that “Both politicians and diapers need to be changed often; And for the same reason.”
The Question:
Today is Friday, so it must be a double bonus Q! How great is that? 1. The British Open is underway (You can watch it on ESPN starting at 4:00AM – That’s AM) so lets ask a little historical BO Golf question. Name five golfers who have had the most rounds under 70. 2. A survey group was given 4 choices and they had to pick one – Save $50/ week; Have more sex; Gain an hour a day; Drop a clothing size. Which one do you think came out on top?
The Headlines:
--All Eyes On Well Tests.
--0-Man Continues To Campaign Against Bush.
--Minor Earthquake Rattles DC Residents; Resident Says, “Tremors Nothing Compared To What Congress Does To Us Every Day.”
--Habitual High Heel Wearers Could be Finding A Lot Of Leg Pain In Older Years.
--Authorities Trying To Unravel Mystery Of July 7 UFO Sighting Over China Airport.
--CitiGroup reports 10% Profit Drop; GE Reports Higher Earnings On Cost Cutting, Down Revenues.
Back to More Stuff:
Yesterday in our continuing effort to report the truth, I wrote the words of the Prez in his speech to the Muslim world. As I read the speech before I write the paragraph, I became aware of the conciliatory, apologetic tone inferring once more from President Wimpy a condemnation of the US past. A reader wrote to inform me that, Yes, while he may have been a Christian, his Christian mentor was the intolerable, white hating Reverend Wright. That the intellectual, enlightened Muslims were devoured 1,000 years ago by the religious zealot factions thus ending Islam’s contributions to science.
On the other hand, I condemned ABC news yesterday for selective reporting of anecdotes from a bitter few to emphasize the inadequacies of BP. A day later, the news org reached out further and actually showed the BP efforts to compensate as very effective. Many LA residents said that compared to the Government’s handling of Katrina payouts, BP was amazingly efficient and their hope was that the Government would stay away and out of the way. Other parts of the report told us that seaside restaurants were have a great year, maybe one of their best in a decade as clean-up workers filled the seats. There is always more to the stories as reported, and occasionally we get it. But not often enough.
Apparently, a lot of the uglier scenes of tar balls flying around the internet are photographically altered or from older oil spills around d the country.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 83. –Paul answered my call quickly. He said he was still in a meeting and it may take an hour or so. But he was in an up beat mood and told me that it must have been because he saw me earlier. I responded that I felt the same way too. But, I didn’t know how I felt.
Paul went on to tell me more than I wanted to know at the moment about how critical his equipment had become to everything that was being accomplished at BIEm research. Then he said, “Maybe it isn’t you at all, but just that I am needed by these poor scientists.” He laughed at his little jest.
I laughed along with him. I always laughed along with him. It was part of what we have always done. From the first time I saw him. The connection. Our connection. “Maybe you don’t need me at all, now that you are so successful.” But, this time he didn’t respond with one of his quips.” It was just silent. Did I hit a nerve that I was unaware of? Have I been feeling all along that he didn’t really need me?
“Sarah,” he started slowly, softly, “You are everything to me. You are my life. I would sell my company and become your house mom in Fosterville if you asked. All I want is you and your happiness.” I listened silently. He was crying. I could tell.
“You will always have me,” I answered sincerely. Then I wondered about who I really was. This person who actually has everything. Was becoming…what? My hand started to shake. Then I added. “Thank you Paul.” He didn’t say anything. Maybe he couldn’t.
“Call me when you are finished. I’ll be at Henry’s” Am I that cold? “Love you,” I added. I hung up.
I think a good name for a restaurant would be “No Trendiness Here”. A lot of perfectly good menus are spoiled by some misinformed restaurant owner jumping upon trend bandwagons.
Of course there are exceptions. The current “Lobster Mac n’ Cheese trend at restaurants around here has definite merits.
Every day I seem to see or hear about another example of inconsideration. There are just too many people, it seems to me, who don’t understand the simple facts about commons courtesy. It can be simple littering, or parking cars on somebody’s lawn because a party had grown too big. The over crowding of animals in neighborhoods. There is just a little too much “I’m for me” going on around towns and villages these days.
Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews –Confusion Friday:
--Remembering that Leonard’s last big film Shutter Island was totally not what it appeared, it is easy to understand why The DeCap would venture into the confusing Inception. Which is totally not what it appears to be “squared”. The big difference here is that the audience will be confused from the beginning in Inception while it was only confused at the end in Shutter. DeCaprio heads a Mission Impossible style team that invades minds, reads dreams and plants seeds. The particular target is a business rival who has plans in his mind that would grievously injure the operations of the business man who hired DeCap. The promos say you may want to see it twice to figure it out. This is the same Director who gave us the mindboggling “Momento”. Personally, I like to boggle my mind. And this sounds like a winner to me.
--The Sorcerers Apprentice is about a man Balthazar Blake in current times seeking to be come the long sought after replacement for the magical Merlin. He and his young associate find magic in an old antique shop. The young boy associate (The sorcerer’s apprentice) takes a nesting doll that has imprisoned the nasty Morgana for ten centuries. If released, Morgana would destroy the world. Ten years later Balthazar seeks to find the apprentice before his evil rival Horvath does. Horvath wants to release Morgana to do her evil deeds. Lots of special magical effects. Would be fun if you could figure it out. It’s a giant “Who cares?” movie.
--The Girl who Played with Fire could be confusing too, if you hadn’t seen the first in the series…The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. Lisbeth finds her self a suspect in a case revolving around a sex trafficking ring and three murders. She goes on the run. It’s a pretty good yarn but it hasn’t the same depth of character as Dragon tattoo. It plays like a standard TV cop show. But it serves a purpose as a reasonable interim between Dragon and the next in the series The Girl who Kicked the Hornet’s nest. If you liked Dragon, you may be a little disappointed, but it will still be enjoyable.
The Answer:
1. The golfers with the most under 70 rounds in the British Open history are jack Nicklaus (35), Nick Faldo (35), Tom Watson(27), Greg Norman(23), Lee Trevino(21), Seve Ballesteros(20) and Nick Price(20). They are remembering Seve at this years event as he had to stay home in Spain because of his illness. 2. 57% chose to save $50/week. Figures factored into the #2 answer with 31% going for a drop in clothing size. 6% said they’d like an extra hour while only 6% are sex starved. Personally, I can’t understand why anyone would want an extra hour. And also. Maybe those who voted fro a drop in size figured they’d get a little more sex after that.
The biggest danger to the effectiveness of the loyal opposition is destroying credibility by stretching the truth beyond belief.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Tree in the forest syndrone.
Today's Tids Issue 2,175
Opening Stuff:
A test tube baby is a “womb with a view.”
Dennis the Menace got it right when this morning he said to his Mom, “Why do they call it news when it’s just the same old thing.” Not only do they dwell on old stuff but they try to refresh the old stuff by stretching the truth about it. For instance…The news about the oil spill is the prospects of the recapping and valve adjustment. But, for a more sensational story they seek out a couple of those who’s pay-out requests may have been turned-down by BP. Obviously these selective few are going to appear bitter and cast a pall of uncertainty over a process that actually may be working quite well (We will never know from the limited report). But, are these naysayers representative of the thousands who properly filed requests and were quickly funded? They never tell you the whole story, but only the story they want out.
Maybe Dennis should ask, If an event happens and nobody reports it, did the event really happen. It's a summer thing.
The Question:
Linda Ronstadt is 64 today. Give me 5 of her best songs. I think liked her best when early in her career she was part of a group. Name the group.
The Headlines:
--Oil Spill Admiral Says Ok To Test New Well Cap.
--Banks Expected To Foreclose On 1 Million Homes IN 2010.
--Argentina Votes for gay marriage.
--New Time Mag Poll Says People Like 0-Man Better Than Policies.
--Weak Manufacturing Reports Have Stocks Falling.
--New Jobless Claims Drop Significantly.
Back to More Stuff:
I mistakenly implied yesterday that our chief executive was Muslim. A reader brought it to my attention that I was wrong. I had justified my conclusion by an obviously shady memory of his Cairo, Egypt Address to the Muslim World. Here’s what he actually said: “I am a Christian, but my father came from a Kenyan family that includes generations of Muslims. As a boy, I spent several years in Indonesia and heard the call of the azaan at the break of dawn and the fall of dusk. As a young man, I worked in Chicago communities where many found dignity and peace in their Muslim faith. As a student of history, I also know civilization's debt to Islam. It was Islam - at places like Al-Azhar University - that carried the light of learning through so many centuries, paving the way for Europe's Renaissance and Enlightenment…”
Michigan has joined Alabama, Florida, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas and Virginia as a growing list of states in defense of Arizona’s right to enforce the restriction of criminals sneaking unlawfully into their state. Actually, I see this as a pretty good common sense issue. The feds aren’t doing the job they are being overpaid to do. The people who are paying are saying enough…we don’t need you. We can expect more states to join as the feds drag their feet.
The group of men watching the perfumed woman walk by were smellbound.
You have to think that Apple execs got a little full of themselves when they decided to bring out the iPhone. Is it possible that arrogance outweighed sensible business judgment? There is something seriously wrong with a state of the art technology company’s new product when a user needs to apply “Duct tape” to gain proper signal strength. .It sounds like a Mad Comic look at the technology industry. It’s always good for a successful company to experience a little humble pie from time to time.
Maybe the current White House would work better if we wrapped it in duct tape!
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 82 continues. My winning personality seems to be abandoning me lately, I thought. Then I chuckled a little to myself. Sarah is dismissing me. Laura is missing and Izzy is catatonic. And I have always been such a ladies man. I got up and walked behind Izzy’s desk and grazed her bare shoulder with my fingers. “Relax. Everything is going to be just fine. I hate it when you look evil. I will control Sarah.”
Izzy turned her head upward; reached up and touched my hand briefly. These new corporate open door policies are not very good for intimacy. “Do you really think you can handle her?”
“I’ll try”, I said with a perfectly straight face. “I just don’t want you doing anything rash. My team says we are on the verge of that breakthrough we need. At that point we can relinquish any need to own that Bromsky data. RL&H will see dollar signs in their eyes. And their thoughts about illegal activities will disappear. Guaranteed.” Izzy then smiled a little.
“That’s why I love you Kent.” She looked deeply inside me for a moment. “I’ve got to get back to work.”
“I hope you didn’t raise too many alarms with Sarah. She is not the helpless flower she may appear to be.” I will call her and see if she would like to meet tomorrow.” I turned and left. There was something about Sarah’s distant look this morning that was making me doubt my self.
When people say the word “veggies” I get the impression they are talking about friends.
With Congress and the President being so quiet these days, don’t you get the eerie feeling that somebody is plotting against you.
You’ll get a more positive feeling about America if you watch the actions of responsible citizens as opposed to those of the elected megalomaniacs.
The Answer:
It’s tough to boil down Ronstadt’s enormous output to five. But the best known may be Blue Bayou (never did much for me), Different Drum, Hurt so Bad, You’re no Good and All my Life. She sang with the group “Stone Ponies”. Frankly, after reading through her life’s work, I guess I just wasn’t much of a fan of her. Sometimes when a person gets so much publicity, you think that you probably knew everything about her.
Is it the End if Nobody reads the Beginning?
Dennis the Menace should add that their seems to be an absence of good Tids out their too. The world is feeling kind of inert to me. A calm before a storm. Maybe it’s just because people are so hot they are staying inside in air conditioned bliss and not outside doing stupid things.
Opening Stuff:
A test tube baby is a “womb with a view.”
Dennis the Menace got it right when this morning he said to his Mom, “Why do they call it news when it’s just the same old thing.” Not only do they dwell on old stuff but they try to refresh the old stuff by stretching the truth about it. For instance…The news about the oil spill is the prospects of the recapping and valve adjustment. But, for a more sensational story they seek out a couple of those who’s pay-out requests may have been turned-down by BP. Obviously these selective few are going to appear bitter and cast a pall of uncertainty over a process that actually may be working quite well (We will never know from the limited report). But, are these naysayers representative of the thousands who properly filed requests and were quickly funded? They never tell you the whole story, but only the story they want out.
Maybe Dennis should ask, If an event happens and nobody reports it, did the event really happen. It's a summer thing.
The Question:
Linda Ronstadt is 64 today. Give me 5 of her best songs. I think liked her best when early in her career she was part of a group. Name the group.
The Headlines:
--Oil Spill Admiral Says Ok To Test New Well Cap.
--Banks Expected To Foreclose On 1 Million Homes IN 2010.
--Argentina Votes for gay marriage.
--New Time Mag Poll Says People Like 0-Man Better Than Policies.
--Weak Manufacturing Reports Have Stocks Falling.
--New Jobless Claims Drop Significantly.
Back to More Stuff:
I mistakenly implied yesterday that our chief executive was Muslim. A reader brought it to my attention that I was wrong. I had justified my conclusion by an obviously shady memory of his Cairo, Egypt Address to the Muslim World. Here’s what he actually said: “I am a Christian, but my father came from a Kenyan family that includes generations of Muslims. As a boy, I spent several years in Indonesia and heard the call of the azaan at the break of dawn and the fall of dusk. As a young man, I worked in Chicago communities where many found dignity and peace in their Muslim faith. As a student of history, I also know civilization's debt to Islam. It was Islam - at places like Al-Azhar University - that carried the light of learning through so many centuries, paving the way for Europe's Renaissance and Enlightenment…”
Michigan has joined Alabama, Florida, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas and Virginia as a growing list of states in defense of Arizona’s right to enforce the restriction of criminals sneaking unlawfully into their state. Actually, I see this as a pretty good common sense issue. The feds aren’t doing the job they are being overpaid to do. The people who are paying are saying enough…we don’t need you. We can expect more states to join as the feds drag their feet.
The group of men watching the perfumed woman walk by were smellbound.
You have to think that Apple execs got a little full of themselves when they decided to bring out the iPhone. Is it possible that arrogance outweighed sensible business judgment? There is something seriously wrong with a state of the art technology company’s new product when a user needs to apply “Duct tape” to gain proper signal strength. .It sounds like a Mad Comic look at the technology industry. It’s always good for a successful company to experience a little humble pie from time to time.
Maybe the current White House would work better if we wrapped it in duct tape!
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 82 continues. My winning personality seems to be abandoning me lately, I thought. Then I chuckled a little to myself. Sarah is dismissing me. Laura is missing and Izzy is catatonic. And I have always been such a ladies man. I got up and walked behind Izzy’s desk and grazed her bare shoulder with my fingers. “Relax. Everything is going to be just fine. I hate it when you look evil. I will control Sarah.”
Izzy turned her head upward; reached up and touched my hand briefly. These new corporate open door policies are not very good for intimacy. “Do you really think you can handle her?”
“I’ll try”, I said with a perfectly straight face. “I just don’t want you doing anything rash. My team says we are on the verge of that breakthrough we need. At that point we can relinquish any need to own that Bromsky data. RL&H will see dollar signs in their eyes. And their thoughts about illegal activities will disappear. Guaranteed.” Izzy then smiled a little.
“That’s why I love you Kent.” She looked deeply inside me for a moment. “I’ve got to get back to work.”
“I hope you didn’t raise too many alarms with Sarah. She is not the helpless flower she may appear to be.” I will call her and see if she would like to meet tomorrow.” I turned and left. There was something about Sarah’s distant look this morning that was making me doubt my self.
When people say the word “veggies” I get the impression they are talking about friends.
With Congress and the President being so quiet these days, don’t you get the eerie feeling that somebody is plotting against you.
You’ll get a more positive feeling about America if you watch the actions of responsible citizens as opposed to those of the elected megalomaniacs.
The Answer:
It’s tough to boil down Ronstadt’s enormous output to five. But the best known may be Blue Bayou (never did much for me), Different Drum, Hurt so Bad, You’re no Good and All my Life. She sang with the group “Stone Ponies”. Frankly, after reading through her life’s work, I guess I just wasn’t much of a fan of her. Sometimes when a person gets so much publicity, you think that you probably knew everything about her.
Is it the End if Nobody reads the Beginning?
Dennis the Menace should add that their seems to be an absence of good Tids out their too. The world is feeling kind of inert to me. A calm before a storm. Maybe it’s just because people are so hot they are staying inside in air conditioned bliss and not outside doing stupid things.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Stay awake.
Today's Tids Issue 2,174
Opening Stuff:
The big problem the Republicans face in their effort to take back Congress is that while the folks are dissatisfied with the Democrat controlled Congress, they seem to give the GOP higher “Unfavorable” marks. So, maybe the next Congress will be predominantly independent.
Have you gotten a sense that 0-Man has decided that too much talk isn’t a good thing. Or, is it that the news people have decided that reporting too much of his inane chatter isn’t a good thing for their hero.
The Question:
Name five famous western outlaws.
The Headlines:
--NJ’s Governor Chris Christie Signs Landmark Legislation Which Will Give Citizens Control Over State And Town Spendaholics.
--Gov., BP Halt test For Further Analyzing.
--Bailouts Still haven’t Reached Down To Smaller Banks.
--Billboard Linking Obama To Hitler And Lenin Drawing Complaints.
--Eurozone Industrial Output Up.
--Bristol And Levi Engaged.
Back to More Stuff:
Who woulda thunk it, that the key to understanding race relations was the bellybutton.
Let’s leave well enough alone Department:
The great chefs are ruining the world. They fail to see the greatness of simple purity. We have seen them muck up the basic vanilla ice cream, the perfect cheese pizza and of course the classic martini by adding just about anything available in the kitchen pantry. Or trying to create a lobster roll that doesn’t need to be improved upon. And now, they are going after a great hamburger. Why would they want o improve on perfectly grilled good piece of meat with cheddar cheese melted on top. But they are saying “For a better burger, skip the ‘so-so’ toppings.”
Is habitant for Humanity really an efficient way to help the poor, or is it just a good way for people with a hammer to feel good about themselves?
Dhimmitude is the Muslim system of controlling non-Muslim populations conquered through Jihad (Specifically it is a method of taxing non-Muslims for tolerating their presence). I didn’t know we were conquered, but Muslims sure came out a winner under the new Health Care outrage. Apparently because Muslims believe that insurance is gambling, they will not be forced to sign up for insurance or be fined or worse like all other people. But, Muslims will still receive free health care. Anybody for conversion? And, whatever happened to separation of church and state?
But then, Barack Hussein is a Muslim. And remember the original opposition to the Irish Catholic Kennedy was that he was liable to put the Pope in the cabinet. And he proved to be capable of not bending to his religion.
Another Kennedy, Robert Junior is hitting divorce court.
Jeff Foxworthy says you are Taliban if you think TV is dangerous but routinely carry explosives in your clothing; Or, you refine heroin for a living but have a moral objection to liquor; Or you’ve always had a crush on your neighbor’s goat.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 82. –As soon as I saw Sarah turn the corner I walked quickly to Izzy’s office. It didn’t appear to me that things went well. But then, Izzy probably never had to deal with the real Sarah when she was being Maggie. Izzy is a strong woman, but Sarah/Maggie probably didn’t get to her position by being a pussy cat. Before I could sit down, Izzy started, “Well Kent, she’s your girl and she doesn’t seem to be responding the way you told me she would.” She was on a tear. “We may have to get rid of GenInst as a supplier.”
--“You mean play hardball with her even if it hurts my operation.” I stared at her. I wasn’t going to allow her to let her ego preempt good judgment. “Sarah Durham is tougher than you may think.” I continued. “She’s the kind of person who watches you closely and lets you have your way as long as it is the way she wants you to go. It is the efficient way to do business. She loses little battles but never wars.” I waited a beat or two.” So let’s not over-react. Canning her husband’s company may appear to give you leverage, but it will only make her more resistant to talking logically. You don’t want your main financial benefactor an adversary. Besides, we need Paul Durham’s technology. We cannot be successful without it.” Izzy didn’t react.
“It seems as though Sarah Durham wasn’t playing straight with you. Our contacts tell me she went directly to the Sherriff on her way up here from Boston. And she was there a while. Maybe I should be talking to Jack Wiley. Maybe we don’t need her at all.” Then she smiled at me. It was not a pretty smile..
There is nothing as soothing as a foggy day by the sea. Especially after two weeks of unrelenting sun.
The Answer:
Billy the Kid and Jesse James have to be at the top of the list. Then there is Belle Starr, Butch Cassidy, The Sundance Kid, Kid Curry, Sam bass, William Quantrill, John Wesley Hardin and Charles Bolles (Black Bart)
The End Stuff:
I have this gnawing feeling in my stomach that the Tea Party Movement peaked too early. And the people who want to keep the madness in Washington going are counting on the apathy and short attention spans of Americans. We have to continually keep waking us up.
Newt Gingrich for President.
Opening Stuff:
The big problem the Republicans face in their effort to take back Congress is that while the folks are dissatisfied with the Democrat controlled Congress, they seem to give the GOP higher “Unfavorable” marks. So, maybe the next Congress will be predominantly independent.
Have you gotten a sense that 0-Man has decided that too much talk isn’t a good thing. Or, is it that the news people have decided that reporting too much of his inane chatter isn’t a good thing for their hero.
The Question:
Name five famous western outlaws.
The Headlines:
--NJ’s Governor Chris Christie Signs Landmark Legislation Which Will Give Citizens Control Over State And Town Spendaholics.
--Gov., BP Halt test For Further Analyzing.
--Bailouts Still haven’t Reached Down To Smaller Banks.
--Billboard Linking Obama To Hitler And Lenin Drawing Complaints.
--Eurozone Industrial Output Up.
--Bristol And Levi Engaged.
Back to More Stuff:
Who woulda thunk it, that the key to understanding race relations was the bellybutton.
Let’s leave well enough alone Department:
The great chefs are ruining the world. They fail to see the greatness of simple purity. We have seen them muck up the basic vanilla ice cream, the perfect cheese pizza and of course the classic martini by adding just about anything available in the kitchen pantry. Or trying to create a lobster roll that doesn’t need to be improved upon. And now, they are going after a great hamburger. Why would they want o improve on perfectly grilled good piece of meat with cheddar cheese melted on top. But they are saying “For a better burger, skip the ‘so-so’ toppings.”
Is habitant for Humanity really an efficient way to help the poor, or is it just a good way for people with a hammer to feel good about themselves?
Dhimmitude is the Muslim system of controlling non-Muslim populations conquered through Jihad (Specifically it is a method of taxing non-Muslims for tolerating their presence). I didn’t know we were conquered, but Muslims sure came out a winner under the new Health Care outrage. Apparently because Muslims believe that insurance is gambling, they will not be forced to sign up for insurance or be fined or worse like all other people. But, Muslims will still receive free health care. Anybody for conversion? And, whatever happened to separation of church and state?
But then, Barack Hussein is a Muslim. And remember the original opposition to the Irish Catholic Kennedy was that he was liable to put the Pope in the cabinet. And he proved to be capable of not bending to his religion.
Another Kennedy, Robert Junior is hitting divorce court.
Jeff Foxworthy says you are Taliban if you think TV is dangerous but routinely carry explosives in your clothing; Or, you refine heroin for a living but have a moral objection to liquor; Or you’ve always had a crush on your neighbor’s goat.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 82. –As soon as I saw Sarah turn the corner I walked quickly to Izzy’s office. It didn’t appear to me that things went well. But then, Izzy probably never had to deal with the real Sarah when she was being Maggie. Izzy is a strong woman, but Sarah/Maggie probably didn’t get to her position by being a pussy cat. Before I could sit down, Izzy started, “Well Kent, she’s your girl and she doesn’t seem to be responding the way you told me she would.” She was on a tear. “We may have to get rid of GenInst as a supplier.”
--“You mean play hardball with her even if it hurts my operation.” I stared at her. I wasn’t going to allow her to let her ego preempt good judgment. “Sarah Durham is tougher than you may think.” I continued. “She’s the kind of person who watches you closely and lets you have your way as long as it is the way she wants you to go. It is the efficient way to do business. She loses little battles but never wars.” I waited a beat or two.” So let’s not over-react. Canning her husband’s company may appear to give you leverage, but it will only make her more resistant to talking logically. You don’t want your main financial benefactor an adversary. Besides, we need Paul Durham’s technology. We cannot be successful without it.” Izzy didn’t react.
“It seems as though Sarah Durham wasn’t playing straight with you. Our contacts tell me she went directly to the Sherriff on her way up here from Boston. And she was there a while. Maybe I should be talking to Jack Wiley. Maybe we don’t need her at all.” Then she smiled at me. It was not a pretty smile..
There is nothing as soothing as a foggy day by the sea. Especially after two weeks of unrelenting sun.
The Answer:
Billy the Kid and Jesse James have to be at the top of the list. Then there is Belle Starr, Butch Cassidy, The Sundance Kid, Kid Curry, Sam bass, William Quantrill, John Wesley Hardin and Charles Bolles (Black Bart)
The End Stuff:
I have this gnawing feeling in my stomach that the Tea Party Movement peaked too early. And the people who want to keep the madness in Washington going are counting on the apathy and short attention spans of Americans. We have to continually keep waking us up.
Newt Gingrich for President.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
My bellybutton?
Today's Tids Issue 2,173
Opening Stuff:
New nickname for the U. S. of A.: The sycophant country.
This warming spell is bothering me, mainly because the ocean is getting too hot up here. Warm waters are more likely to induce hurricanes to come up the coast. Last year for instance, when announcements or watches and warnings were issue for the East Coast, cool waters kept me calm.
The Question:
I thinking that the great new battle cry for the US of A should be “Remember Arizona”. Give me three other well known US battle cries.
The Headlines:
--New Poll Shows Americans Unwavering In Support Of Arizona Over The US.
--New Washington Post/ABC Poll Has 0-Man Slipping Again; Approval rating Down To 43%; 58% have No faith In Prez; Less Faith In Republican And Dem Congress.
--Oil Well Cap Secured; Testing Begins.
--Sox’ David Ortiz Wins Home Run Derby.
--Steinbrenner Dead At 80.
--French Overwhelmingly Approve Ban On Burqa Style Islamic Veils.
--US Trade Deficit Widens To $42.3 Billion.
Back to More Stuff:
I always thought that Mel Gibson looked a little nutty in many of his movie parts. You know, wide eyed and unstable. Now we are learning that he wasn’t acting.
Jimmy The Greek Exoneration Department:
Low and behold, it appears that Jimmy the Greek was right after all – Blacks and whites are different. And new research has proven that it is all in the “belly buttons”. This is true folks. Somebody funded a group of PHD’s with little to do to determine why blacks are better at some sports and whites at others. Because the black’s bellybutton is higher, it creates a locomotive effect which powers up running. On the other hand the longer torsos of the white positions the BB lower which gives whites a huge advantage in swimming by creating a wave effect. Don’t tell Jesse.
The Chinese bellybutton is in the crotch area which makes them better ping pong players.
My bellybutton is full of lint which is great for Tids writing.
While the trend lines signaling a decline of pure capitalism and the historic robust economy versus the rise in the popularity of soccer is certainly disheartening, it may not be as culturally significant as another soccer fan characteristic uncovered at the World Cup Games. Soccer Fans don’t like sex. That’s right…the prostitutes are howling. They are claiming the worst sex drought in the history of the town, or maybe even all of South Africa. They can hardly wait til the Soccer fans leave and romance for a price roars again.
There has to be something terribly wrong with the new Financial Reform Bill just because Congress designed it.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 81 continues. -- I looked at Kent. Alone and unshielded in his large, glassed office. Some how he didn’t look quite so confident sitting there open to the world wondering what was happing in the bosses office. With the woman he wanted to see in his bed. I turned and walked down the long haul from the executive suite to the reception area. I didn’t look back, but I could feel Kent’s eyes burning into the back of neck. I started to feel warm. I wanted to turn back, but I clenched my hands and kept moving.
When I rounded the corner that would bring me to the lobby, I took out my cell phone. I stopped. I turned around, but only edged back to the corner. I took a quick glance back and saw Kent rushing into Izzy’s office.
That is definitely not a surprise I thought as I walked back to the lobby doors and out to the car. I waved at “smiley” and punched in a couple of numbers.
Bill picked up as I stepped off the curb towards the parking lot. “Hi Boss” he said immediately There are no secrets in the new technology world.
“Bill, I just left Izzy and she is trying to play hardball on this legal thing. I think she is bluffing. But, I think you should call the treasurer and tell him we’re sending up a few auditors.”
“Right away boss.” He answered somewhat sarcastically. I didn’t say anything more. “Does your silence mean that this conversation is over?” He paused. “I think my Maggie is back in town.”
I just answered, “See you later.” Then I dialed Paul.
The Answer:
Remember Pearl Harbor and Remember the Maine come quickly to mind. Then there was Remember the Alamo. White didn’t we say Remember 911 when we invaded Afghanistan.
People just have to get back to feeling shame and guilt. And stop looking for answers in our belly buttons.
Opening Stuff:
New nickname for the U. S. of A.: The sycophant country.
This warming spell is bothering me, mainly because the ocean is getting too hot up here. Warm waters are more likely to induce hurricanes to come up the coast. Last year for instance, when announcements or watches and warnings were issue for the East Coast, cool waters kept me calm.
The Question:
I thinking that the great new battle cry for the US of A should be “Remember Arizona”. Give me three other well known US battle cries.
The Headlines:
--New Poll Shows Americans Unwavering In Support Of Arizona Over The US.
--New Washington Post/ABC Poll Has 0-Man Slipping Again; Approval rating Down To 43%; 58% have No faith In Prez; Less Faith In Republican And Dem Congress.
--Oil Well Cap Secured; Testing Begins.
--Sox’ David Ortiz Wins Home Run Derby.
--Steinbrenner Dead At 80.
--French Overwhelmingly Approve Ban On Burqa Style Islamic Veils.
--US Trade Deficit Widens To $42.3 Billion.
Back to More Stuff:
I always thought that Mel Gibson looked a little nutty in many of his movie parts. You know, wide eyed and unstable. Now we are learning that he wasn’t acting.
Jimmy The Greek Exoneration Department:
Low and behold, it appears that Jimmy the Greek was right after all – Blacks and whites are different. And new research has proven that it is all in the “belly buttons”. This is true folks. Somebody funded a group of PHD’s with little to do to determine why blacks are better at some sports and whites at others. Because the black’s bellybutton is higher, it creates a locomotive effect which powers up running. On the other hand the longer torsos of the white positions the BB lower which gives whites a huge advantage in swimming by creating a wave effect. Don’t tell Jesse.
The Chinese bellybutton is in the crotch area which makes them better ping pong players.
My bellybutton is full of lint which is great for Tids writing.
While the trend lines signaling a decline of pure capitalism and the historic robust economy versus the rise in the popularity of soccer is certainly disheartening, it may not be as culturally significant as another soccer fan characteristic uncovered at the World Cup Games. Soccer Fans don’t like sex. That’s right…the prostitutes are howling. They are claiming the worst sex drought in the history of the town, or maybe even all of South Africa. They can hardly wait til the Soccer fans leave and romance for a price roars again.
There has to be something terribly wrong with the new Financial Reform Bill just because Congress designed it.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 81 continues. -- I looked at Kent. Alone and unshielded in his large, glassed office. Some how he didn’t look quite so confident sitting there open to the world wondering what was happing in the bosses office. With the woman he wanted to see in his bed. I turned and walked down the long haul from the executive suite to the reception area. I didn’t look back, but I could feel Kent’s eyes burning into the back of neck. I started to feel warm. I wanted to turn back, but I clenched my hands and kept moving.
When I rounded the corner that would bring me to the lobby, I took out my cell phone. I stopped. I turned around, but only edged back to the corner. I took a quick glance back and saw Kent rushing into Izzy’s office.
That is definitely not a surprise I thought as I walked back to the lobby doors and out to the car. I waved at “smiley” and punched in a couple of numbers.
Bill picked up as I stepped off the curb towards the parking lot. “Hi Boss” he said immediately There are no secrets in the new technology world.
“Bill, I just left Izzy and she is trying to play hardball on this legal thing. I think she is bluffing. But, I think you should call the treasurer and tell him we’re sending up a few auditors.”
“Right away boss.” He answered somewhat sarcastically. I didn’t say anything more. “Does your silence mean that this conversation is over?” He paused. “I think my Maggie is back in town.”
I just answered, “See you later.” Then I dialed Paul.
The Answer:
Remember Pearl Harbor and Remember the Maine come quickly to mind. Then there was Remember the Alamo. White didn’t we say Remember 911 when we invaded Afghanistan.
People just have to get back to feeling shame and guilt. And stop looking for answers in our belly buttons.
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