Tidlets after Giblets:

Today's Tids Issue 2,243

Opening Stuff:

I'm thinking it's time to stop the Afghan action. Just keep the al-Qaida camps on satellite and bomb them as needed.

I don't like the way that Kim Il Jong's son is flying into power upon a sword

Hey Kanye...your fifteen minutes of fame is up.

The Question:
Thinking of eating again this soon after yesterday's gargantuan feast is probably not high priority. But Michelin has just announced its list of Top Gourmet cities. Name the top two.

The Headlines:

--NK Warns That Region I On Brink Of War.
--Portugal Adopts Austerity Over Bailout.
--Shoppers Start Christmas Rush In Wee Hours Of The Morning.
--Stocks Fall As Investors Run From Risks Associated With EU Debt Problems.
--Russia Opens Plant Designed To Destroy Chemical Weapons.
--Teenage Boys Adrift In South Pacific For 50 Days Found.

Back to a Little Stuff:
I see that the people of Warsaw Poland have just proudly unveiled in the center of the city the largest statue of Jesus Christ in the world. What are the chances of that happening here?

Why do they make music CD's so hard to open?

The NCAA has formed anew committee to attack "Gender Violence". What kind of name is that.? Why don't they call it what it is -- Thug like athletes pummeling and raping coeds.

Reading between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--Burlesque is getting all the hype, and may even be very entertaining, that is if you disregard a very predictable plot. Christina Aquilera plays your basic Midwestern small town looking for fame. Cher owns a Burlesque house on the verge of bankruptcy. Small town Tess is cocktail waitress who finds her way to the stage where her big voice draws big crowds thus saving the club. It is what it is. It can't bebabd.
--Faster is stereotypical revenge pick with little heart. Guy gets out of Prison and goes after those who killed his Bro. Everything about this picture seems small.
--Love & Other Drugs is a very sexy comedy about a free spirit, resolute girl who who lets nothing stop her until she meets relentless and nearly infallible charming guy. These two Prescription drug salespeople get addicted to love.

Yup...Thanksgiving is the best holiday alright.

I think I'll take a nap. Full Tids back on Monday.

The Answer: 
 The two big Gastronomic cities are number 1 Tokyo and then the traditional #1 Paris.

Tokyo, huh? the only reason I never made it to the top CEO job because I would refuse to travel to Japan where I might be forced as a courtesy to eat Japanese food with customers.

The Loving Eyes of Family.

Today's Tids Issue 2,241

Opening Stuff:

On this Eve of the Greatest Holiday of them all, I can only say to the extended Tids family, thanks for reading a word or two every once in a while. If you are in a big family gathering, enjoy every second of every person's presence. Even if mates or aunts or uncles or parents or kids or cousins or in-laws don't do things exactly the way you would like. And if for some reason you can't get to the big family feast this year, remember that you are always in the hearts of of your family and friends no matter where they go; no matter where you are.

Marie Antoinette Department:
My inkling says that most of these hot good-for-your-health food stories are generated by companies who can make big bucks when you change your life style. U Cal Berkley "Wellness Letter" issued this list of food myths: Myth 1: Carbs, mainly sugars are leading cause of obesity. (Eating more calories than you burn cause weight gain.) Myth 2: Sugar makes children more hyperactive. ("0", Nada, No evidence of this.) Myth 3. Sugar in fruit is good; Sugar in Candy is bad. (Fructose over Sucrose? It doesn't matter) Myth 4. Brown sugar and honey more healthful than table sugar. (There is no advantage.) I guess this makes most of that parental anguish and hysterical lawmaking fruitless.

Sign over the entrance to a Chiropractics School: "Welcome Back Students."

Let's hear it for all of the voters who got it right in the end and named Jennifer Gray the dancin' Champ! Sometimes we get it right.. 

The Question: 
A good reader writes to tell me to be thankful for what we have, because a lot of it won't be around in the not so distant future. Name five common, every day conveniences or institutions that will probably disappear fairly quickly.

The Headlines:

--Investors Selling Off Spain, Portugal Bonds As Ireland Infection Spreads.
--World Looks To China For Direction On North Korea.
--New Unemployment Claims Fall Sharply To 407K.
--Second Blast At NZ Mine Kills All 47 Miners.
--RI's Puppet Senator Jack Reed Calls For 60 MPH Limit By 2025; Senator Not Expected To Win Kennedy "Profile In Courage" Award.
--Madoff Trustee Sues UBS For $2Bil.
--Jury Says Germany's SAP Owes Oracle $1.3 Billion.

Back to More Stuff:
I'm a day early on the picks as tomorrow has three games starting a12:30. Interestingly, tomorrow's picks may be the easiest of the bunch, Unless New England doesn't show up against supposed weaker opponent. So, without further ado and before some serious head scratching, I'm picking NE over the pesky Lions, New Orleans which is reganing last years form over Dallas on a mini-roll and the easiest of the day, the resourceful Jets over a deflated Bengals. Some other relatively easy picks should be Pitt, Philly, Wash and Cleveland. that leaves The Disappointment Bowl: Tenn-Houst; Possible NFC champs, Atlanta-GB; The QB Bowl: SD-Indy. Then we have the consolation bracket with losers. SF-Ariz, and St.L-Denver. The other tough picks are Jax-NYG, TB-Balt, Miami-Oak and KC-Seattle. Your guess is as good as mine. OK...Houston, Atlanta, San Diego, SF, SL, NYG, Oak, Balt and KC. Last week's 13-3 brought the TSD to 105-54 (66%).

Strangest Headline of the Day Department:
"District in India bans cell phones for unmarried women." The question: How will they ever get married now?

Scariest Story of the Day Department:
A San Antonio priest hired a hit-man to kill a boy who was about to spill the beans to the authorities about sex abuse he suffered at the hands of the priest. I don't think there are too many people in this world more evil than that priest.

Excessive twittering could have the Supreme Court excluding "Stupid Speech" from the First Amendment protections.

The new slogan for TSA is, "Don't worry, my hands are still warm from the last guy."

Reading Between the Lines Mid Week Special Movie Review:
--Tangled, a new Disney flick based on the fairy tale Rapunzel is an out and out winner. And, not just by a hair. It is loaded with laughs and excitement, all beautifully energized with the best of Disney art. Adults will be first in line to take their kids to this one.

It's going to take a lot of T-Day hope get over this raft of headlines I saw this morning: "Pentagon says Afghan insurgency growing and The Taliban dominate more territory"; "NK attack dramatically escalating differences between countries"; "Fed Trading inquiry widens to largest Hedge and investment firms"; "Western Officials learn that insurgent leader partner in Afghan peace talks was an impostor"; "Euro down to $1.34 as Irish debt contageon increases". But, then I got to thinking...you can cancel out the bad taste of just about anything with the proper application of lots rich, creamy gravy. Even squash.

In case you haven't been following her, North Kingstown RI's super swimmer phenom Elizabeth Beisel now a freshman at U. Florida is tearing up the South East Conference. She was just named "Swimmer of the Week" there for the third consecutive week. It has never happened before. And on top of it all, she is a great person.

I'm wondering if RI Governor Elect Chaafee's inseistance on rescinding a logical E-Verify Executive Order is because he has lots of his own illegals running his stables.

A good Professional bronco rider will always get a few bucks.

A story today reported that a Massachusetts man killed 3: "His 6 months pregnant wife, his sister-in-law and then shot himself." As an after thought the last line reads, "...the fetus also died". I would have written the Headline: Man kills Four -- Wife, Wife's Sister, Unborn Child and Self.

The Answer:
Get ready to say Bye-Bye to The Post Office, Checks, The Newspaper, The Book, Landline Telephone, Network Television, Music and Privacy. Also your world may become so virtual that you may not own lots of stuff that you can feel and use, like photos or CD's or Books. Even if you download them, they will not reside on your computer hard drive to use at your descreiton, but they will reside in a "Cloud" for which you will have to pay a monthly rental storage charge. You will not own you photos! But, it is the loss of privacy that bothers me the most.

Enjoy!
One of my favorite little taste treats at Thanksgiving Day Dinner is cauliflower with cheese sauce. Hope you all enjoy your special treat too!

The "Dancin'..." Scam.

Today's Tids Issue 2,240
Opening Stuff:

All of a sudden (Probably because of a fairly self-serving, highly publicised letter from Warren Buffett) there a lot of kudosbeing sent around to various government officials for their actions following the initial days of the doomsday prognosis for Wall Street and US corporations. The fact remains that the Gov action rewarded financial barons for incompetency, negligence and even criminality. The Government gave away a lot of money and negotiated little from the recipients in exchange. And of course, the government in many ways created an environment that led to the entire mess, particualrly with the 1997 repeal of the Glass-Stiegal Act. So while some are saying Huzzahs to gov for stepping in, the way they stepped in has just opened the door for for bad risk taking again in the future. The only people who felt real pain were the people who had nothing what-so-ever to do with the mess.

My local golf course on Jamestown Island closes for the season on Sunday. I think this morn was my last there. And it wasn't bad. I think that the incessant talking by a guy who hooked up with us made me concentrate more. Usually my mind wanders into fantasy land.

I'm one of those people who could buy just about anything made by LL Bean or Woolrich.

The Question:
Multi Q day! 1. How many days can a cockroach live without a head? 2. What % of MacDonald's sales come from "Happy meals"? 3. What was the original name for a Butterfly? 4. What % of Americans consider Blue their favorite? 5. What is the only word in the English language with three consecutive double letters?

The Headlines:

--Jennifer Grey Top Dancer In finale; But Q Remains, Will She Win?
--North A nd South Korea Exchange Artillery Fire Over Island Near Disputed Sea Border.
--New Poet election Poll: 81% Expect Gridlock By 2012 Elections; 40% Of Americans Say Nothing Will Change; 34% say Country Will Move In Right Direction; 21% Say US Going Wrong Way.
--Political Chaos Erupts In Ireland; Could Dela Bailout.
--Feds Step Up Insider Trading heat; rais Three Hedge Funds.
--Existing Home Sales Fall More Than expected.
--Lehigh U MBA Program Moving Up In rankings.

Back to More Stuff:
I find it really hard to believe anything from the mouth of Charlie Sheehan or is mouthpiece.

You may not have noticed, but when the Catholic Bishops chose NYC's Cardinal Dolan as their new leader and by passed up the recommended succession selection, they moved the Catholic Bishops the the conservative side of the agenda. Something to keep an eye on, as it probably will affect the political landscape over time.

The more I think about it, the more I feel that this ideological support for a relatively talentless Bristol Palin on "Dancin' " is reason why America will be hogtied for years to come. It 's not much deifferent than Democrats in RI continuing to vote for losers and thieves for the State Assembly.

I only remember one thing form the bible. It is the parable where God punishes those who don't use their talents.

Did GM sell all of their leftover Pontiac grills to Ford's Lincoln Division?

Oh, and about that Jane Seymore designed so called "Open heart" pendant. Is there anything uglier than that? I don't think so. But that leads to the bigger question: How would a woman feel if her husband or lover just took the easy way out and bought this highly advertised product that any vacuous dolt could buy. Where;s the imagination? Where''s the thoughtfulness? Where's the personality?

After I wrote yesterday: " If you lose something, just remember that it is always going to be somewhere", I got this rather irate response fromm a reader: "Is this supposed to be comforting? Like if you drop your diamond ring of of an ocean liner. You know it is at the bottom of the ocean but, that just makes it more frustrating that you also know it's totally out of your reach. And what about losing your lunch? Or your mind?" Of course if you drop your ring into the ocean you really didn't lose it. And if you lose your mind you'll never know it.

The Answer:
If you see a cockroach without a head it could be a long as 10 days before he dies. Mac gets 40% of its sales from Happy Meals. Before it was Butterfly, it was a "Flutterby", which is kinda nice. 80% of Americans consider Blue their favorite. And..."Bookkeeper is the only word in the English language with 3 consecutive double letters.

The End (Or was it the beginning?):
Oh, and case you are interested, Genesis 1:20-22 says that the chicken came before the egg.

Bibbity-Bobbity-Boo.

Today's Tids Issue 2,239

Opening Stuff:

Who woulda thunk it! It's T-Day week. Jeez, I still think it's September. Time flies for romantic fools with their heads in the clouds.

If you like entering the day triumphantly, trying waking up to Ottorini Respighi's 4th Movement of his 2nd Suite of Ancient Airs & Dances. The 3rd movement, BTW, is a pleasant entry into the 4th, just in case you don't like abrupt awakenings! Frankly, you can't go wrong with music touched by Respighi.

If you lose something, just remember that it is always going to be somewhere.

The Question:
I was thinking as I read that Stan "The Man" Musial had turned 90 that truly great players get lost in the over exposure of modern day athletes. How do you think Musial ranks all time against other super stars.

The Headlines:

--Irish Banking Industry To Shrink As Part Of EU Bailout deal; Irish banks Will be Pruned, Sold Or Merged.
--World Stocks Flat As Worries Of Ireland Financial Consequences Remain.
--US Economic Growth To remain Steady But Slow For 2011; High Unemployment And Debt Block Soaring turn-Around.
==Gates And Military Chiefs Concerned Over New Evidence Of Nuke Developement In North Korea.
--Gas Preventing rescue At NZ Mine Collapse; Hopes Wane.
--Israel Parliament Expected To Approve Bill That Would Dispel Hopes For Future Palestine, Syria Peace Deals.

Back to  More Stuff:
Anything for Dollars Department:
The big new trend in NCAA football is games in baseball stadiums. The Ya-Ya-Ya... (WYKWIM) ... Stadium extravaganza of the past weekend pitted a 5-5 team against a 6-4 team (Against so-so competition) with the promotional theme being "They had a great game in 1946". Of course Army and Notre Dame are storied in football lore, but so are Yale and Dartmouth. And even Lehigh and Lafayette. Which just goes to show you, You can sell New Yorkers just about anything if you promote it right. It's even nuttier in Chicago for the first time "Wrigleyville Classic", Because running into brick walls with your head is a bad idea, the officials have come up with an even worse idea. All offensive plays will go the same way! Yikes. That's offensive alright!

American car designers seem to have lost touch with the word "Distinctive".

One of the best sandwiches I have had in a long time was at, believe it or not, Friendly's Ice Cream store. It was a Pesto chicken on focacia bread with several cheeses including Romano. Of course, I have never forgiven them for eliminating their very delicious original "Big Beef" Sandwich.

And then we have this from my favorite Junk Food protege: "Those new Dunkin Donut sausage wrapped in pancakes suck."...as in inedible.

Somehow the name "Bank of America" Skating Rink in downtown Providence loses its local charm.

0-Man is just using a page out of the Clinton playbook: Heavy up on the global scheduling the months after the first term midterm elections. I thought the Messiah just got back from Asia, and this morn I look upon to see him on the Portugal stage.

A friend came to the house last night. He first asked "Where is your Rest room?" Hell, when you get older, you tend to rest in any room.

A biz analyst in TV said yesterday that a country like the US of A can't grow without inflation. Think about that for a minute. What he is basically saying is that Americans are so saturated with stuff, that they don't really need anything more. So you just have to continually have to mark-up prices on essentials to move numbers upward. Obviously it all reverts back to the need for companies show new revenues to increase stock prices. That's how you build houses of cards. That's why booms turn so quickly to bust. So, once the "Boom" word is attached to the economy it may be a good time to go conservative.

The Hollywood/Beverly Hills shooting of Publicist Chasen is still a mystery...and a great one at that.

The Congressional Newbie School has a ratio of 9 Republicans for each new Democrat. Local newbie Cicilini now knows how his RI GOP brethren feel in the RI Assembly. Don't count on him becoming empathetic real soon, though.

While we are in RI, how about that new Governor Elect Chafee. His promise to retract or cancel the Exec Order for e-Verify is all tied to his huge debt owed for the Education Union endorsement. By eliminating the order, Chafee sends out a gold plated invitation, or should I say credit card, to all lawbreaking sneaks who came to the country illegally. (Unlike millions upon millions of good immigrants who did it the right way). The first stop upon arrival in RI will be the Social Services office where they all receive health and assorted benefits at taxpayer expense. Of course they bring children and RI Law says for every 15 new kids you need a new teacher. And then of course a huge percentage can't speak English so these kids are automatically classified as "Special need" children requiring more expensive Special Need teachers. And the beat goes on. And, believe me, this is just step one.

Actually, during the decline of GM, American car designers idea of "Distinctive" was stand-out ugly. Or was that when the accountants were designing the cars?

This is that time of year when newspapers write daily about holiday "stress". I seriously doubt if there would be that much stress if not reminded of it by insecure journalists.

And then they add to created stress when the food editors try to make Thanksgiving Dinners with all the trimmings and gravy and pecan pie...Calorie Free. Nothing like adding a little guilt to increase stress.

The Answer: 
No matter what my team loyalties were, I followed Ted Williams and Stan Musial as a true fan with stars in my eyes. I love the way left handed Stan turned on a ball. Among Hall Of Fame outfielders on the Sabermetrics Chart, it is Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, Ty Cobb, Willie Mays, Tris Speaker, Hank Aaron and Stan Musial. Among all players in the Hall, the only others who rank higher are Walter "Big Train" Johnson, Cy Young, Nap Lajoie, Rogers Hornsby, Honus Wagner and Mike Schmidt rank higher.

The End:
Wouldn't be nice if Cinderella's Fairy Godmother hovered over the RI General Assembly and turned those pumpkins into honest realists.

Step beyond yourself.

Today's Tids Issue 2,238
Opening Stuff:

If you live in a fantasy world like I do, then every day is just about perfect.

Somebody should think of an easier way to spell Burrillville. Like maybe Brrrrrvill!

Sarah had better keep an eye on the Palin daughters FaceBook activity or her next reality show will be "Dysfunctional Family" hosted by Jerry Springer and the Octomom. And, probably a ratings winner.

The Question:
Friday is movie day in Tidsland, so here is a movie Q: Name the Ten Top "Revenge" Movies. Bonus Q: Alan Young is 91 today. Who was his well known best friend?

The Headlines:

--Missing Members Of Ohio Family Found Murdered Mt. Vernon Near Columbus; Mother, Son And Family Friend Found Stuffed In Garbage Bags Hidden In Hollow Tree.
--Satellite Photos Suggest Nuke Activity In North Korea.
--Jobless Benefits For 2 Million Set To Expire During Holidays; GOP May Use Issue As Trd-ade-Off For Extending Bush tax Cuts.
--China Move To Combat Inflation Has Market Futures Lower.
--Obama, Senate At Odds Over Smart2; 0-Man Says It Is Imperative; GOP Says It Can Be Better.
--Rangle To Be Censured.
--Obama Admin "Auto Czar", Steven Rattner, Agrees To Pay $6.2 Million To Settle Civil Suit In Influence Peddling Charges Scandal.
--Scientists Discover Previously Unknown And Active Seismic Fault In rocky Mountains; Could Produce Serious Earthquakes In Future.

Back to More Stuff:
Two silkworms had a race. They ended up in a tie.

There is all this Government assurance about the dire need for "Pat Downs" and X-rays at airport, but why are they so silent on E-Verify?

And by the way, profiling is till one of the more efficient means of sorting possible bad guys.

We have often seen on programs like the American Idol and America's Got Talent that the best talent does not always win. This is mainly due to the power of the most unified voting blocks i.e. -- Teen girls for cute guy singers. The Bristol Palin fiasco on "Dancin' " proves this in spades.

Did you hear about the guy who thought he qualified for the funeral parlor job because he came from a long line of deceased people?

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows will be a box office smash. Harry, Ron and Hermione set out on their own on a perilous mission to destroy the secret of Voldemort's immortality and destruction -- The Horcruxes. They must rely solely on each other as they race to their destiny before Voldemart's Death Eaters find them. And the n it is the ultimate battle between harry Voldemort. worth the lines.
--However my favorite this week is The next Three days, an exciting flick that lives up to the description "Thriller". The ordered life of college professor John Brennan (Russell Crowe) lurches into the path of an out of control freight train when loving wife Lara (Elizabeth Banks) is sent to prison for life after being convicted of a gruesome murder. She says she is innocent. After exhausting appeals, John enters a new and very unfamiliar world as he springs his suicidal wife from jail and finds the world against him. It never slows.

An executive shakeup at a corporation is called a Title wave.

Somebody once pointed out that Nancy Pelosi had great clothes. And I was immediately reminded of the Empty Suit syndrome. But we should worry about the ex leader with the pasted on facial expressions, becasue she has lots of unwavering support from a very powerful and well organized left with deep pockets. After death and taxes there two other things that are certain in life -- The Left and Islamic Jihadists never give up.

The Answer: 
I'm going to give you two lists on this one as there are many opinions. But there is some common agreement as you will see.. List One: Commando, Gladiator, Friday the 13th, Ben Hur, Straw Dogs, Kill Bill 1&2, Once Upon a Time In the West, Virgin Spring, Godfather and the classic Death Wish. List Two: Straw Dogs, Man on Fire, Virgin Spring, Get Carter, Mad Max, Carrie, Death Wish, Old Boy, Kill Bill and Once Upon a Time in the West. Of course you knew that Alan Young's best friend was "Mr. Ed". Who of course is just a horse.

The Week-End:
Fear to achieve has deprived the world of great talents over the years. One way to overcome fears is to insert yourself into foreign arenas and listen. You'll be amazed at how what you hear will inspire you to break away from a self imposed shackle.

Or, you could just resort to punning. So remember, no matter how much you push the envelope, it will still be stationary.

The murder of the Ohio family really bothers me. I think I'll say a little prayer.

Nowhere'sville, Tidsland.

Today's Tids Issue 2,237
Opening Stuff:

Do you want to know why the Tids is late today? It's because my mind isn't working. It's as simple as that.

If regular old Citizens did what Charlies Rangle did, they'd be in jail. He'll probably lose privileges on on the Congressional underground railroad.

The Question:
Give me the percentages of people with business experience in Presidential administrations from Teddy Roosevelt to "House Mom".

The Headlines:

--GM IPO Hit Street up $3.00 In early Trading.
--Markets Surge As Irish Woes Ease.
--First Gitmo Trial Ends With Ahmed Ghailani convicted On 1 Of 280 Charges; Defense Lawyer Hails US Justice System; Expectations For Closing Of Gitmo Vanish.
--Scientists Find Clue In Case Of Missing "Anti-Matter".
--High School Seniors making Little Progress In Test Scores According To New Government Report.
--Murkowski Says She Is Looking Forward To Rejoining republican Ranks As An Independent!
--New Survey Shows That 4 In 10 Say marriage Becoming Obsolete; Most Of Marriage naysayers In Lower Income Groups.

Back to More Stuff:
How about that government of ours! They canceled the SS cost of living increase this year because there is no inflation. But, the US Gov. inflationary mesurement doesn't include a couple Senior basics -- Food which keeps them alive and energy which keeps them from turning into Popsicles. Basic food and energy costs are up significantly. They may not have Death panels because they may not need them.

I walk in humbly as my trusty Sports department really sucked last week. 6and 8 brings us to 92-51 and lowers our winning rate from 67% to 64%. Ugh. There are two huge games this week -- Indy-Pats and Giants-Eagles. I got to go with the Pats, cause when they play well they are Ok. And Indy is hurting. I think the toughest pick of the week is E-G. The Giants are mad and the Eagles are hot...and they are home. Eagles! Actually some of the rest look easy but I doubt if it will turn out that way this year. Here goes -- Miami, Dallas, Pitt, Tenn, Jets, Cinn, KC, Jax, Balt, GB, Atlanta and a couple of Sans -- Fran and Diego.

So why all of a sudden is an unwed mother of 20 who just happens to be a daughter of a woman who lost the race for VP of the US an authority on how people should lead their lives? Give me a little celebrity and I'll give you new authority. It's the American way.

Oh yeah... and Donald trump Just announced that he will run for President. Who's next...Snooky? He'd probably win.

Fox News headlined their story about Obama's new kids book: "Obama book Praises Indian who killed US general ( Sitting Bull, Chief of tribe who beat Custer). The Libs who constantly revise history, hate it.

I think I made the wrong career choice Department:
There are over 1,200 public employees in nearly bankrupt RI making over $100K. The number making over $150k in the federal offices of the country on-the-path-to-bankruptcy is 177,599! Yikes! Choosing a government job used to mean picking job security over income. No more. The average salary + benefits (2009) for Feds public sector is $123,049 versus State Public sector $69,913 versus the economic engine Private sector $61,051 Oh, and to finish where I saarted, the four highest paid public employees in RI are the basketball coach at URI, the President of URI...and two psychiatric registered nurses, each who made over $275,000.

And the reason I'm not supposed to eat gluten is...?

Frankly I never buy anything advertised as "Green" because I know they are just trying to get more of my money for little extra value.

The Answer:
The presidents with the highest (Over 40%) are Taft - 40, Wilson - 52, Harding - 49, Coolidge - 48, Hoover - 42, FDR - 50, Truman, 50, Ike - 57, Johnson - 47, Nixon - 53, Ford - 42, Reagan - 56, GHWB - 57 and GWB - 55. The lowest were Teddy - 38, Clinton - 37, Carter - 32, JFK - 30 and 0-Man - 8! Makes you think a bit, doesn't it.

The End (Thank God!):
I think my head is in the clouds. Stay tuned.. It will be better tomorrow.

Having fun can be cheap.

Today's Tids Issue 2,236

Opening Stuff:

What am I going to do when email becomes obsolete?

You have to appreciate the anguish from stress being brought upon the hearts and minds of normally industrious, contented Chicago area residents who now night after night must watch commercials of Blago hawking nuts and Rahm Emanuel hawking lies in his run fro Mayor.

I remember the last Leonid Meteor Shower and it was spectacular. Any time between "Moonset and 5:15 AM tomorrow you can see thousands of meteors darting across the sky. The last time I did it was a couple of years ago, when at around 4:30 in the morning i stood, neck craned, on one of our beaches. I was joined by hundreds of groggy eyed, coffee drinking, early risers who stood in awe of mother nature sprinkling us all with stardust. Try it. Check your local papers. I'd like to have a Starbucks coffee concession there.

Yesterday's little "24" mention brought some serious response. One particularly vehement "24" lover (like me) suggested we form a group that would storm Fox Network Headquarters to apply a little Bauer like pressure to network execs...if you get my drift. KThunk. KThunk. Kthunk. Splash.

The Question:
If you want to become a writer, it is advisable to write about things associated with your life. Realism sells. Marftin Scorsese rose to success with several films that were probably based upon scenes of his childhood. Name five great Scorsese flicks. Bonus Q: How many wives did he have?

The Headlines:

--Irish Debt Mess Has Markets Pausing And Bouncing.
--Housing Starts Tumble; Inflation Concerns Rise.
--Powerful Republican Senator Jon Kyl Puts Kybosh On "New Start treaty" Vote This Year; White House Apoplectic.
--Germany Raises Internal Security Alert On News Of Pending Islamic Attacks.
--Warren Buffet Praises George Bush For Leading Effort To Buy Up Toxic Assets; Without Bernanke Designed Plan, Corporate US Could have Toppled, Says Oracle.
--EU Continues To Wrestle With Irish Banking Woes.
--Pelosi Expected To Remain Democrat Leader.
--Senate Dems Trying To Resuscitate "Earmarks" System They see Collapsing Around Them.
--Merck Successfully Experimenting With New Cholesterol Optimizing Drug That Could Dramatically Lower Heart Risks.
--China Increasing US Debt Holdings Even As Many Other Countries Slash Theirs.

The Ends:
Thanksgiving Recipe Department:
I was reminded yesterday that Thanksgiving is just around the corner and that one week from today is Turkey prep day. Gadzooks! Here's a champagne basted turkey cooking recipe from Wisconsin that sounds good to me. In a bowl combine 1/4 cup butter, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp celery salt and 1/4 tsp pepper.Rub over outsiude and inside of Turkey (Optional - Place sprigs of sage and parsley in cavities). Place in roasting pan and bake at 325 for 1/2 hour. While baking mix another bowl 2 cups champagne, 2 medium onions chopped, 1 1/2 cups minced fresh parsley, 1 cup condensed (Undiluted) beef consomme', 1/2 tsp thyme and 1/2 tsp dried marjoram. Pour in pan and bake an additional 3-3 1/2 hours (Til thermometer reads 180 degrees.) Baste often. Cover with alum foil if beast browns too fast. Let stand 20 minutes.

Now the Gravy Department:
Strain drippings in small bowl. In saucepan melt 1 tbs butter and stir in 1 tbs flour til smooth. Gradually stir in drippings and bring to boil, then cook for about 2 mins. Dive in.

Plagiarism Department?:
During his book tour, President George W. Bush said often that his greatest joy as president was being Commander In Chief of the armed forces. At the medal of Honor ceremonies yesterday, 0-Man said "Of all the privilges that come with serving as President of the United States,I have none greater than serving as Commander-in-Chief of the finest military the world has ever known."

You have to start worrying about the future of RI when Governor Elect Chafee starts getting rabid support from ultra left Providence Journal columnist Bob Kerr.

Here's something I don't get. Why are politicians so vociferous in their support of people who break laws...as in "illegal" immigrants. Is it because they need the company of fellow felons to assuage their guilt?

And.. Charlie Rangle is the new poster child for congress people who gain too much power for too long of a time. They have always been adept at lying to the people under the umbrella of "Good Politics". But, then they begin lying to themselves and start believing it.

I just read a pretty good, informed debate about whether or not Palin would be a good candidate for President in 2012. While there were several solid pros and cons, one thing they all agreed upon, -- she is incredibly effective at driving the left nuts!

One of the more intriguing mysteries of the day is the murder of big time Hollywood publicist Ronni Chasen. The 64 year old glitterati glitterer was shot 5 times in the chest while she was driving her Mercedes around 1:00AM. Details are sketchy, but it has been said that police have gone to her office and seized her computers. Stay tuned on this one.

The Answer: 
Bronx born and bred, son of garment district workers Martin Scorsese hit it out of Ya-Ya-Ya-...(WYKWIM)...Stadium first with Taxi and then with Mean Streets, Raging Bull, Good Fellas, Cape Fear, The Color of Money, The Last Temptation Of Christ, Casino, Gangs of New York, The Departed and Shutter Island,,,among others. He was married five times, first to Laraine Marie Brennan (Daughter), writer Julia Cameron (Daughter), Isabella Rossellini, producer Barbara De Fina and Helen Morris (Daughter).

The End:
It is amazing how many things there are to do that cost next to nothing. Anything form standing on a sea wall on a stormy day to attending a lecture at a local institutions can be quite exhilarating. As is getting an email every once in a while from a good friend.

I look at a town with no people as beautiful and serene. Another my see the same thing and think dull and unexciting. But, that's life.

Let your heart soar!

Today's Tids Issue2,235

Opening Stuff:

There are music lovers. There is music for lovers. There is loverly music. There's music about love. There's music that inspires love. There is music that helps you make love. In fact, most music is about love. Is created out of love. Is created for love. maybe that's why it generally makes you feel so good.

I don't know about you, but I miss "24". Kthunk. KThunk. KThu...

Drug Cartels in South/Central America are becoming so large (Like small independent) countries and so economically essential to average people in a region, that they may be almost inpossible to get rid of, no matter how bad they become. Actually it's a little like getting rid of Public Employees, a force that just keeps on growing because they will always uniformly vote for expansion of Government.

The Question: Some say Diana Krall is one of the great singers of our time. Name five of her top hits.

The Headlines:

--Interest rates In china And debt Woes In Ireland Push Dow Down 1% In Morning Trading.
--Murco...Merco...Murkowsky's Lead is Holding At 1706 Votes.
--Wholesale Prices Rise On Higher Gas Costs.
--Palin's Reality Show "Sarah Palin's Alaska" Premiere Broke Cable TLC Records with Huge Audience Of 4.96 Mil.
--Presidential Deficit Panel Member Says US Needs European Style Consumption Tax.

Back to More Stuff:
Have you noticed that most in most cases where a perpetrator leaves the scene of an accident, we eventually learn that the person is either an illegal alien or a politician.

This full body scan or intimate pat down thing looks like a boon for high speed rail service funding if you ask me.

There is no chance that I would use the just announced FaceBook communications services. Among other things, the company will monitor your emails and other messaging and list your favorite email recipients.

Is the new American destined to be somebody on a smart phone into FaceBook while getting a body scan at an airport? Where's my cave?

Actually, there are two things I am having trouble getting past: The end of "24". The Pats loss to the Giants in the Superbowl. I guess, that kind of means I have a pretty good life.

If you think that conning Americans into buying things they don't need is a new trend, then you haven't been paying attention to history. For instance back in the 1850's or so, glass manufacturers made a small fortune selling "Witch Balls". Yup, you guessed it...a device to keep Witches out of homes. These hand blown, rather elaborate multi-colored 5" balls were hung in windows to keep homes safe, especially from witches. Theory being that the vivid colors would confuse the witch and send her a running. Sounds like the scare tactics of Politicians, doesn't it?

Anything Goes Department:
The New Oxford American Dictionary says that Sarah Palin's Twitter blunder where she used the word "Refudiate" as a naive combo replacement for "Refute" and Repudiate" may have been a step towards a more colorful language. They named it "Top Word in 2010". Lest you think that was tongue in cheek sarcasm, "Refudiate" was named along with "Splitcam" and Vuvuzela" as top coined words and aided ot the honor roll of the Global Language Monitor project! Being correct just doesn't seem to mean much any more.

I starting to think that the only thing RI Governor elect Chafee meant when he said he was honest was that he was honest to his own ideals. So far it is apparent that he owes the unions big time and he is making moves that may aid the abortion industry.

Did you see the recent law suit that has an habitual lawbreaking driver in jail for killing a 14 year old boy on a bicycle suing the parents of the boy for not making their son where a helmet! the world is getting weirder.

The Answer: 

Singer/Jazz Pianist Diana Krall is so good that she doesn't have hits. She just sings great stuff and always does a top job. With Krall, you don't buy hits, you buy Krall. She has over 50 albums, and some of her best are the standards, The Look Of Love, Let's Fall in Love, S'Wonderful, I've Got You Under My Skin, Where or When, I've Grown Accustomed To Your Face and How Can You Mend A Broken Heart. But Krall is the kind of performer where the favorite are in the eyes of the Krall lover.

Personally I like "I've Grown accustomed to your Face". It is just such a meaningful song in its original context. DaDa DaDa Da-da-da-da... It always brings a tear to my eye.

So far and yet so close.

Today's Tids Issue 2,234
Opening Stuff:

Driving down Broadway last evening, we came upon a traffic slowdown. Unusual for that time on a Sunday night. As we neared the end of the traffic line we looked towards our left a noted we were in front the Memorial Funeral home. And standing shoulder to shoulder along the walk in front were forty plain ole American citizens...with large flags in their hands. And, around the corner was a line of thousands waiting to get in to pay their respects. (A line I understand that had been like that through the day) Tears came to our eyes. It was for 22 year old Sergeant Michael J. Paranzino who was killed in Afghanistan by an IED last week. A likable young man with a wonderful wife and two children. He loved his Army. And people from throughout the Island showed their love for him and appreciation for his ultimate sacrifice.

My guess is that if US companies increase sales throughout Asia as 0-Man promised in his speeches, the products will be made in factories in Asia. Just as Germany, Switzerland, Japan and Korea do here. The nature of Globalism that so enchants our Emperor of the World fearless leader and his supporters is that jobs go where companies operate most efficiently. Pols who say they can bring home jobs can only do it if they get their union pals to cut salaries and benefits by half.

An Age Discrimination court case is a "Birthday Suit"!

Derek Jeter getting the Gold Glove for shortstops this year is like Obama getting the Nobel or kids in High School getting "A's" and "B's" and then having to take remedial English when reaching college. Is there any value left, or is everything just hype and celebrity?

The Question:
Which four countries hold the most dollars in the US Treasuries and how much? Bonus Question: Who was the women who in 1889 attempted to go around the world by train and ship in a challenge to Jules Vernes classic book "Around the World in 80 Days". How did she do?

The Headlines:

--Patriots Look Like Champions Against Pitt; Beloveds Regain Form Missing In Browns Game Disaster.
--Sarkozy Loads Up French Government With Conservatives In Weekend Confab; Entitlement Burdened Greece Re-Elects Socialist Leadership; Papendreou Says We Want To Be Like Rhode Island.
--Major Credit Card Delinquencies Falling As Outlook Improves.
--Lame duck Session Features Hobbled Dems and Energized Reps.
--Irish Crisis Worsens; Greek Budget Shortfall Higher Than Originally Reported.
--Karsei Asks US To End Night Raids.
--Ohio Authorities Seek Three Still Missing After Finding 13 Year Old Daughter Bound And Gagged In Man's Home.

Back to More Stuff:
Before I go an inch further, I have to pay my respects to Frederick Alvin "Allie" Briggs who died at 84 over the weekend. "Allie" was descendant of East Greenwich RI farmers who loved horses. He was a lover of baseball and most important the inventor and owner of "Allies" Donuts, easily the best in the East and perhaps the entire United States of America. Talk about contributions to American society!

If I were a betting man, I'd put all my money in France over Greece.

Frankly I just don't read anything about "Don't ask, don't tell." But I guess what they are basically saying is...if your unit marches in a Memorial Day Parade, don't wear pink.

A house trailer is a wheel estate.

As far as I can see, Obama has just become a big bunch of words. Where anything he says is subject to dramatic change at any given moment.

Let's hope that America isn't becoming as bad as "America's Team". (I actually wrote this before the surprise win by the cowboys yesterday. I thought the simple fact of a upbeat appearing roaming the sidelines as opposed to the dour, bewildered looking Phillips was a major improvement.)

There is a theory floating around that says that the Dem defeat at the polls may be good for the Mid East peace process. The idea being that 0-Man may have more empathy for the fragility of the political environment in which Netanyahu has to operate. Where before, "House Mom" couldn't understand why the leader of Israel couldn't do anything he wanted, now he may consider maybe there is something to this "Political Pressure" thing..

Every time I see a little increase in a bill form necessary services like the Gas, Phone or Television Company,...et.al., I wonder if it a small tax to raise money for the Lala-Pelosi Health Care Bonanza. Or when walking or driving wondering where the camera is that is watching me. Welcome to the paranoia era.

It's gotten so bad that yesterday when I received a phone call from Florida from out Electric Company, I told the guy, who appeared being helpful, that I wouldn't talk to him because there were too many scams coming out of Florida.

Ireland which has socialized itself into a financial quagmire is seeking $83-$110 Billion from the EU for something called "Sovereign Debt" reduction That sounds like California.

And then there is the Auto dealer in Central Florida who is offering a free AK-47 with the purchase of a pick-up truck! What a country.

The Answer:
Everybody has heard of China's holdings of $868 Billion of our Treasuries. But japan isn't far behind with $836B, Next is United Kingdom with $448B and then Brazil with $165B. Bonus Q: "Nelliey Bly" was one of the pen names for Elizabeth Cochrane who at the age pf 25 not only made it around the world, alone, In 76 days 6 hours, 11 minutes and 14 seconds, but had also achieved acclaim as one of the first great Investigative reporters. She was a courageous reporter who who would often insert her self into horrendous conditions (Like an "Insane Asylum") to bring the world the truth about institutions and politicians.

The End:
And then you notice that four Chinese banks will be the lead underwriters of the much ballyhooed GM IPO. And then I have this Nigerian Bank continuously writing to tell me they are holding my family fortune! The world is getting weirder.

The more you talk, the more you tend to disagree with yourself.

Today's Tids Issue 2,233
Opening Stuff:

Is there anything more green appearing than a plant that is still thriving mightily in late Fall. Frankly, I just stand there in awe as it survives gloriously among deathly brown foliage.

I see where Dino DeLaurentis died. Is there anybody left who can explain to me exactly what was going on in "Blue Velvet"?

I was happy to see that the major AP report on the return of the stricken cruise liner dwelt on all of the positive things people did to help and keep their spirits up. Instead of reporting a long list of whines. Maybe the Chilean minor story had something to do with that.

The Question:
Surprise...Nadia Comaneci is 49 years old today. Yes that adorable little acrobatic imp of Olympic Gymnastics is just a couple of cartwheels away from menopause. In which Olympics ddi she first excel and who was the adorable little acrobatic imp that preceded her, and first mesmerized gymnastics viewers?

The Headlines:

--G-20 members Refuse To back US Push On China Currency.
--Bernanke Trying To Justify Value Of His Inflationary Move As Seniors See Stagnant SS Payments.
--0-Man Lauds Iraq Inclusive Government; Sunni Minority Applauds Exodus Of Their Iraqiya Member Reps Including Leader Allawi; Say New Government Lied To Them.
--William And Kate Expected o be next Royal Wedding.
--0-Man Continues In Denial On World Stage.
--White House Looks Confused Over Extending Bush Tax Breaks

Back to More Stuff:
A reader sends along this little analysis which probably says it all about the definition of the phrase "Bloated Bureaucracy": "The Lord's Prayer - 66 words; Archimedes Principle - 67 words; 10 Commandments - 179 words; Gettysburg Address - 286 words; Declaration of Independence - 1,300 words; US Government Regulations governing the Sale of Cabbage - 26,931 words.

In Russia the Government sends assassins after treasonous citizens. In the US they get book deals.

You may have noticed that Intel is on a track to have its best year in the glorious history of an incredibly innovative company. Yet, the stock doesn't move, floating around within a 17.60-24.37 52 week trading range.. maybe Wall Street will get the message if their CEO has an affair. You never know what it takes. Oh, Intel announced a 15% increase in its dividend.

Royal Weddings always make for great TV for me. Maybe it's becasue I like the way they sing "God Save the Queen".

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--Morning Glory is the big one this week that has all of the critics agog! It's probably predictable, but it works and entertains. A beleaguered TV show producer, Rachel Adams, battles an unraveling love life, Jeff Goldbloom, as she tries to resurrect the last place Morning Show starring a fading anchor, Diane Keaton. She Hire's an experienced newsman, harrison Ford, who will have none of the gossip, weather and other morning shit chat. the battles rage off and on screen.
--I suspect you have seen Unstoppable many times before. Lots of special effects as an out-of-control train roars to deadman-s curve just above a city. I'm not going .Lots of action, but nothing new.
--What's New is a pretty good Aliens-Destroying-the Earth-as-helpless-humans-flee. Even it resembles something you have seen, there is always that "Unknown" factor to keep you watching.

As far as I'm concerned, "Intent" should rule in the Alaska elections. This coming from Mr. Typo!

There have many instances of people doing or saying outrageous things hiding behind the First Amendment. But, Amazon with their latest offering on Kindle may have gone far beyond good sense: "The Pedophile's Guide To Love and Pleasure." It is available and Amazon is using the First to justify it. The Founding Fathers deplored Censorship for a number of reasons, but I doubt if they ever envisioned that people to stop using their brains.

The phone companies are justifying the elimination White Pages for all by saying that everything is on the internet, and the majority of those still Internet-less, probably can't read the small white pages print anyhow.

The Answer:
Nadia captivated people at the 1976 Olympics, But, before that in 1972 Russian mini teen Olga Korbit became a world sensation. And, I have to say they were both two of the more refreshing sports heroes of that century.

The End:
I have to tell you that Obama for all of his so-called brain power says some of the dumbest things. Think that is a natural occurence for people who just can't stop talking.

Valor reflected in Dramatic Seas.

Today's Tids Issue 2,232
Opening Stuff:

The fall sky transformed the the wind driven seas of Narragansett Bay into a srtiking painting of shades of grays highlighted by glistening silver. It was a solemn, yet imposing body of water that gave welcome this day to bands of splashing seals down from Maine for winters feast. An imposing body of water that had a special look for the day. A look that seemed to honor heroes in a way that paid to tribute their selfless service to America. Nature came to celebrate the veterans of US Wars. It was the perfect backdrop for honor, accomplishment, giving of life. And often the soul. Let's pause for a minute.

How come when you play a hole on a windy day, the wind blows 25 knots when you going towards the hole but just about stops when going the other way?

The Question:
I thought that Jonathon Winters was one of the funniest comedians ever. Name three of his characters.

The Headlines:

--Americans Salute Brave Soldiers.
--Pessimism Dominates Opening Of G-20 Meetings; Intense Split Over Currency And Trade Policies; Many Irate Over Fed's Plan To Pump In $600 Billion Which Would Devalue The Dollar.
--Poor Cisco Performance has Markets On Tech Slide.
--Fixed Mortgage rates At New Lows.
--Foreclosures Down; Downturn Mainly the Result Of Paperwork Snafus.
--Powerful Bomb Rocks Central Karachi Pakistan

Back to More Stuff:
C-Span should be going to South Korea to cover the G-20. Now that will be entertainment. Of course one of the great confrontations may be Obama meeting with Chinese leaders after extolling the for three days the virtues of their chief competitor India, and then trying to explain why it is good for the Chinese to have there loans paid back in devalued dollars.

The world is getting so weird that it is making Jonathan Winters look sane!

Things are looking up for the beleaguered Tids sports department as they came through with another reasonable week. And it could have been better if Detroit Buffalo had held on for cool upsets. Last week's 10-3 brings us to 86-43 (67%). This week is loaded with tough picks including Balt-Atlanta (Tonight), Pitt-NE, Minn-Chi, Tenn-Miami, Buff-Det, Jets-Cleve, KC-Den, St. Louis-SF,and Phil-Wash. I'm going Pitt (And that hurts big time), Balt, Minn, Tenn, Buff, Cleveland, KC, SF and Philly. The rest of the winners will be the Giants, Jax, Indy,TB and Arizona. Help!

I see where Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, (D) Kent Conrad, is saying that "the nation faces the real possibility of becoming a second teir economic power if it fails to address the multi-trillion deficit." Where was he when the Dems were spending the money, pressuring banks to ease mortgage requirements, watching an economy where the only available new jobs were government jobs?

I don't mind the World Health Organization (WHO) working to bring nutrition to third world countries, but stop sending menu suggestions to my local paper. And meat producing countries like Brazil say that inducing people to eat fruit and nuts could be an economic disaster for their economy. Leave me alone!

There were only 41 Pilgrims on the Mayflower. It is hard to belive how many millions of Americans now say they are the progeny of that brave band of separatists. In case you are interested, Presidents John Admas, John Q. Adams, Zachery Taylor, U.S. Grant, James Garfield, FDR and GHW and GW Bush are all descendants of that Plymouth group. Also, Sarah Palin is a descendant. I wonder what that means?

Generations Department:
This morning on the radio I heard two men reminissing good naturedly about where they fell on the draft lottery. A third member of the team, a younger man, was in awe saying things like "You had to do that?". I, listening, was remembering the fear of being taken at any time because there was no lottery and everybody was eligible.

And, how about the states which are saying to the telephone companies, you are not obligated to mass print phone books any more? This ain's your grandpa's America.

The Answer: When he was in an asylum somewhere, Jonathan Winters was keeping everybody laughing. He could become any character at any time, but is best know for Maudie Frickert. Elwood P. Sluggins and Dr. Bellenhoffer, He was one of the all time great improvisational inspirations I would start laughing before he spoke.

The End:
Jonathan Winters once said, "If your ship doesn't come in, swim out to it." I wonder how that wouold play in a socialist America?

Winter's must have slo time traveled into Today's world of reality TV when he said "Now the freaks are on television, the freaks are in the movies. And it's no longer a sideshow, it's the whole show.The colorful circus and the clowns and the elephants , for all intents and purposes, are gone. And, we are only dealing with the freaks.

Time for Up.

Today's Tids Issue 2,231

Opening Stuff:

What could be worse than eating Spam while cramped on a boat in the middle of the ocean with no power while counting the hours as a tug boat shoves you slowly back to a save harbor. I mean...Spam? You can't make gravy from Spam.

These days, and I expect for a while during the next few months, a lot of info about the state of HC in America is and will be coming from The Admin in dribs and drabs. I wouldn't believe a word of it.

Interesting how a little chat yesterday with an Irish woman becomes this morning a precursor to a a news item about a horrific business report on the crumbling state of Green country's economy. (See Headlines)

The Question:
One of the most prolific composers of film scores ( Untouchables, The Thing, The Good, the Bad and the Ugly) was 82 today. Name him and 5 other famous film music composers.

The Headlines:

--Investors Fearing Ireland On the Brink Of Drastic Financial Tumble Dump Bonds Forcing Interest rates To record Levels. Debt to Rise To Highest In Post-War Europe At 32% Of GDP.
--Stricken Cruise Liner Moving Slowly To Port.
--0-man Making Major Muslim Support Talk To Childhood Nation.
--Baghdad Christian neighborhoods Attacked Again
--GM Reports 2 Billion 3Q Profit;

Back to More Stuff:
As far as I was concerned, the just past elections in RI should have been about reversing the disastrous General Assembly trend that has put the Ocean State 20,000 leagues beneath the sea. And Governor elect Chafee's "Honesty" campaign seemed to reassure voters that things would be different because he could not tell a lie. Except for one little thing,. He was elected it appears through the overwhelming support of the very same Unions that that have created an economic environment destined to rob good people of a reasonable future. Ironically, the only way Lincoln Chafee can turn this state around is to walk up on stage before a combined meeting of the Public Employees unions, and say, "Thanks for your support, but guess what? I lied."

At least when there is a fire in the engines of a ocean liner, the liner doesn't drop out of the sky. So you eat badly for a couple of days. you're alive...to sue.

When You Wish Upon A Star Department:
Ever wonder why a cricket chirps all night long? A new science report says that the Tuberous bushcricket's testicles are the largest of any species in proportion to the entire body. In fact this little happy chirper's package is a whopping 10.6% of total body weight. These cricket's are not great hoppers.

If "W" could have been as glib and relaxed and just plain funny as he was on Oprah yesterday, he may have soften much of the manufactured hatred surrounding his presidency. Oh, wait a minute...liberals don't have a sense of humor unless it is assaulting the personality of someone they oppose.

What do you think are the chances of RI Gov. Chafee becoming Sarcozy?

In an actual court case an Attorney asked a witness: "Is your appearance here this morning pursuant to a disposition notice I sent to your attorney?" The witness replied quickly, "No this is how I dress when I go to work in the morning."

To all of you fans of the world famous "Tids Installment Novels", I have another in the deep reaches of my cluttered mind. Stay tuned for drama, romance and excitement.

It will be done when I de-clutter all of the political hypocrisy.

I get drawn into all of this political rhetoric and combative opinions. And I kick myself for allowing myself to become over wrought. My entire political credo is very simple: "Keep it small and leave me alone."

The Answer: 
The oldster is Ennio Morricone and the rest are Henry Mancini (Moon river - Breakfast at Tiffany's), Jerry Goldsmith (Chinatown), Elmer Bernstein (Man with golden Arm), Bernard Herrman (Psycho), Alex North, Howard Shore, Danny Elfman, Max Steiner and John Willliams. Want to see em all: http//:www.digitaldreamdoor.com/pages/movie

The End:
Some are saying that the recent move by the Fed's Bernanke is the kind of move that is generally made to ward off recession...as in "Double Dip." Is it the news, or does everything feel as though it is on the verge of collapse.

Tommorrow will be a return to Happy Tidsville, where gravy and butterscotch flow and romantic fools dance upon the Oreo cookie avenues.

There is no green in Ireland

Today's Tids Issue 2,230

Opening Stuff:

One of the reasons I like reading a newspaper on a cold winter's evening is that the lamp keeps my head warm.

For some reason the voters of Newport decided that a giant monolithic elementary school which will eventually homogenize children was a better idea that smaller neighborhood schools. It's all about big Government getting its arms around towns and the people in them. It's all about sucking the life out of individualism and the inventive thinking that goes with it. Frankly, if I had children, I'd move.

Have you noticed all of the hype around the fifty year anniversary of the election of JFK? I don't seem to remember fifty years for Ike or Harry. Media people are such suckers.

The Question:
With thanksgiving coming up, here's a question to consider. You have just finished dinner and you are full. There are two lukewarm spoonfuls left in a casserole Do you eat it or throw it out?

The Headlines:

--0-Man May Cut Short Visit To Country Of His Childhood; Mt. Merapi Rumbles.
--Good M&A Earnings News Has WS Opening Higher.
--Stress from Economic Woes Dipping.
--Charitable Giving Off A Third.
--Engine Room Fire Cuts Power Stranding 4,500 On Cruise Liner Off Mexico.

Back to More Stuff:
I had just finished golf on this blustery Nor'easter kind of day, when my partner and I found ourselves chating over hot coffee and sweetroll with a nice woman from Ireland (Here 20 years) who runs the pro-shop, cash register and lunch counter. She had plenty of time to talk. We were the only fools on the course. She quickly read us as conservative cretins and began railing about the potential of an America under Obama beginning to look like the dreadful Ireland. There is so much Government money available for even able bodied people that people have just given up working and that they teach their children to look forward to a life on the government dole.That skilled tradesmen have all but disappeared, because not working is so rewarding. It has become a society that pays for babies and gives free housing. Free housing inhabited by irresponsible homeowners is plunked down in the middle of homes owned by hard working people sucking the value out of their homes. Industrious Europeans who came to woirk when Ireland was booming have left to return to Poland which is now the preferred spot for manufacturers. She says that Ireland is ready to go under. Don't be fooled by the green valleys, stone walls and golf courses.
Today's headlines:

I see where Novartis is in the last stages of a research project which would produce a marketable embedded microchip to monitor your body. So what is this idea of Smart Pill technology anyhow. "Warning: Cheetos alert" Send food Nazies to..."

What ever happened to good old fashioned "Stigmas". Like the stigma of not working. Or having children out of wedlock A society that doesn't feel pain will eventually deteriorate.

There is no reason on earth why it should take well over three years to bring to trial two men caught red handed after the brutal torture, rape and murder of three innocent woman in Cheshire, Ct. And, how many years now will appeals go on over the death penalty?

Every kid and juvenile thinking adult will be whining for a "Kinect" this Christmas. And the usual black-market deals will be available as lemmings walk off cliffs for entertainment that will be passe in a year or two, And, most amazing about this marketing effort are the mass of comprehensive cross. promotions.

I don't read stories headlined, "What Women Want.".

Have you noticed how the Government is starting to squeeze seniors? The new Medicare year comes with a premium increase while the SS checks stay the same. Eventually this will force blocks of seniors into Medicaid and the the bloated bureaucracies will be happy. It's called maintaining job security.

The Answer:
Interestingly, if you were born in the thirties or forties, you would probably eat it. In the fifties or later you would probably throw it out. In the depression and WWII years, food was precious. It is probably the reason why the earlier born keep things like TV's that just work fine.

The End:
Erin's Gone Blah!

Cleveland Rocks.

Today's Tids Issue 2,229
Opening Stuff

The Cleveland Browns was the latest NFL team to prove the "On any given Sunday" theory. They were magnificent in every department. Blocking, tackling, QB-ing, receiving and most of all running. What kind of an unstoppable force is that guy Hillis. Their coaches had the Patriots off balance all afternoon. Is this the beginning of a Superbowl run for the wonderful people of Cleveland. Or just a tease ...driven by several coaches wanting to get even with Belicheck.

Well, they ruined my week.

Of course the Tids goes on even under the cloud of deep depression. This just in: "A fly with a broken wing is a walk."

The press loves to point out how Meg Whitman spent !40 Milllion in her Cal race for Gov. What they don't say is that the Public Employee Unions have spent over $300 Million the past several years to keep their bankruptcy inducing gravy train going.

The Question:
With our Muslim raised Prez touring Hindu India, I thought you might like a little poser on that religion. Just so you know what's what. What are the four main dieties of Hindu? What are the essential duties of a good Hindu.

The Headlines:

--One Beast In Conn Uncivilized Family Murder Gets Death Penalty; Father Speaks; I Cried.
--Dems In House Telling Nancy To get Out.
--Yemen U.S. Born Cleric Issues New Calls For Deaths Of Americans.
--RI Wakes To Snow This Morn.
--Dollar Stronger; Markets Down.
--Karsai And Iran Making Goo-Goo Eyes.
--Pentagon Says Afghans Can Protect Themselves In 2014
--Israel Moves Ahead On East Jerusalem Housing.
--Popularity Of New Jeep Grand Cherokee Has Chrysler Looking Up At Brighter Future.

Back to More Stuff:
The media continues to reinforce the idea of the "Bush recession", with inferences to the Tax Cuts and the runaway Wall Street Fat Cats as being the main culprits.. Wall Street's irresponsible packaging of bad loans was certainly a major contributor. But so were the millions of people who took loans which they no ability to pay. And, that is the underlying issue which enabled the greedy on Wall Street to shoot themselves in the head. What is continulaly overlooked is the pressure that was brought to bare upon banks to move to bad loans in the first place. Like Obama the Community Organizer lawyer for Acorn who was involved in suing CitiBank, pressuring them into bad loans. And of course similar action by Andrew Cuomo and the loveable little Teddy Bear - Barney.

My knew favorite singer is the Swedish performer Robyn. Well...I like one of her songs -- something to do with Heart!

Here's a good idea. Keep in your phone people's names you would never call just so you don't mistakenly answer when they do call.

How Newspapers get it wrong department:
A woman who won the RI Treasurer job in the past election got by far the most votes of all candidates for all offices. Of course the democrat driven media immediately declared her the new political phenom and a Pol to be reckoned with in the future. I voted for this dull as dishwater candidate because her Republican opposition was a sleaze-bag, and quite possibly a crook.

And in a headline yesterday, RI Democrat pamphlet (Projo) ran the headline: "Obama to GOP: Extend the Middle Class Tax Cuts." Say what? The GOP never had any intention of canceling middle class cuts. This is clear deception by inference. Journalists don't have to lie to distort!

So, did you hear about the day Leif Ericson came upon the little lemming who was about to jump off a cliff into a river? Leif said "Don't jump little Lemming!" He took the lemming and gave it to his assistant who taught it how to wade across instead of jumping off a cliff. If Leif hands you Lemming, Make Lemmings wade!


The Patriot's loss made me do it!

The Answer:
There are many dieties but ten foru most important are Brahma (The Creator), Vishnu (The Perseerver), Shiva (The destroyer) and Kali/Durga/Parvati (The tri-incarnated Goddess - Death and Destruction, maiden, Mother.) A good Hindu Lives Life according to your Place; Practice and Observe religion; Fundamental: remember that the world is an Illusion -- One must master the the worldly flesh (Control over Body, Cravings and Emotions) to escape and attain spiritual; enlightenment. So, remeber that the next time you enter a convenience store.

The End:
A couple of days ago, I was sitting in the Boston Bus station waiting to pick up a daughter and grandchild. Out of the cornner of my eye, I saw appraoching a Mideastern couple. The man took off his coat and headed off to the men's room. The woman sat next to me. I checked her midsection for suspicious lumps. It's the new world.

The "Mistake on the Lake" is the New England Patriots.

In case you're interested, I think very little of people who use the phrase "Mistake on the Lake". Cleveland is a great city.

There must be a plan.

Today's Tids Issue 2,228
Opening Stuff:

Isn't it totally amazing how nature takes care of itself transitioning between the four seasons that can vary so drastically. .

In repeated post election statements and interviews Obama continues to say that his message just didn't get though. Oh, it got through alright. People just didn't like it.

By the time I finished reading the warnings on some new medicine I just started taking for a small infection, I really started to feel sick.

The Question: 
The next Spiderman film will star two aging actors as Peter Parker's beloved Aunt and Uncle. Who do you think they are?

The Headlines:

--34 illegal Immigrants Arrested Attending Flight School In Stowe Massachusetts; Owner Of School Thiago DeJesus Is Illegal Ummigrant from Brazil.
--Unemployment Expected To remain At 9.6%; Private Sector Adds 155,000 Jobs.
--Suicide Bomber Kills 50 In Pakistan Mosque.
--No Survivors In Firy Cuba Plane Crash killing 68.
--Indonesia Volcano deaths Rise to 122.
--Toyota Overcomes Recall Costs As Profits Quadruple To $1.2 Bil.

Back to More Stuff:
A lot of people in RI really liked Ken Block who represented the brand spanking new Moderate Party. But, alas, he came in fourth out four for Governor. Considering that the "Wave" was mainly conservative, maybe 'moderate' was the wrong name.

Pick em' Department is a day late. I guess I was celebrating a little too long over my 10-3 success last week after several mediocre tries. But the Tids Pick-em Gang record of 76-41 (65%) could take big hit this week. Lot's of posers like Miami-Balt, San Diego-Houston, Tampa Bay-Atlanta, KC-Oakland and Indy-Philly. And then there is Jets versus a Detroit team that has shown it is growing up. Likewise Cleveland which is playing tough and will be all out to bring NE down. I'm going NE because they are focused like they haven't been for four years. And, Detroit in an upset over a Jets team with a suspect defense. I'm also holding my breath picking Balt, San Diego, Atlanta, Oakland and Philly. For the rest I have Pitt, NO, Minn, NYG, and Green Bay to continue the Dallas slide. Oops, i almost forgot Buffalo and da Bears! The Buffalo team is due, and I think they can pull the upset. this week could be a disaster.

Maybe "Obama" has become yesterday's news! Spell-Check didn't recognize him this morning. They would have me replace that with Obadiah, Obadias, Bamako and Alabama. I guess the GOP take-over is complete.

I used to think that losing experience in Congress was a bad idea. But, now ican see that experiencing breeds waste. Experience can negate good ideas before they get started. We should be changing Congress like we upgrade software. Keep it fresh and bright eyed. I think it is time to get the term limits express moving again. Let's make the Pols citizens soldiers working only for the people. Hey! Whats' new new about that? Isn't that what the Founding Fathers wanted in the first place.

The Washington Post Quarterly report is saying that their once promising growth business "For Profit Education" has become sluggish because of too much Fed regulation! Obviiously, 0-Man in the pocket of the NEA, doesn't understand what could be really good for teachers...well maybe good teachers. You see Mr. President, in the private sector, if you are integral to the success of your company you get paid well. But, The admin has chosen to over regulate a business most like from pressure of union leaders, who have never really cared much about teachers or students. Teachers cares bout students. Union Leaders care about power.

Who says Hillary doesn't cause havoc wherever she goes. Last night's 7 magnitude quake in ChristChurch NZ that coindided witn The Hill's arrival. But that is not the first time A Hill has moved mountains. Since she began trotting the globe earthquakes have just preceded or coincided with her arrival 7t imes -- NZ, New Guinea, Japan, Honduras, Pakistan, Chili and Haiti. And, it is very possible that the next Quake will occur at the Democrat national  Convention in 2012.

Reading Between then Lines Movie reviews:
--Often when you see bad movie trailers like the one for Due date, it is mostly to reach the lowest common denominator. In this case it is true thoughout. The laughs are minimal and the characters not terribly likable. Go at your own peril to see this cross country road trip which starts out on a bad premise.
--On the other hand, Megamind is funny. Ala Superman, two baby aliens escape from fading imploding planet just in the nick of time. One is a super villain and the other is a much needed super hero to replace the longtime superhero who is retiring. Good film.
--Fair Game is an nati bush conspiracy dram based on the real life exploits of Victoria Plame and hubby Joe Wilson. It is a very good spy flick, but Bush supporters may get a little disturbed by the innuendo. And considering that well known Bush hater Sean Penn is the star, you know it doesn't have chance to be kind. All in all though, it is a well done thriller.

The Answer:
In between visits to his son in rehab, Martin Sheen will play the uncle while Sally field will fly in to play the Aunt. Cute coupl!

It looks like Bi-Partisanship is over before it got started as yesterday a Reid Spokesman came out hard blasting the republicans, leaving no room at all for compromise. The country didn't want to get rid of the Nevadan dunce because he was a Democrat, it was because he and people like him just aren't good for the country.

If the US throws open the doors for Muslim immigration, you just have to wonder how many suicide bombers they will bring along with them.

Hunkerin’ Down to sort it out.

Today's Tids Issue 2,227
Opening Stuff:

Well, the dust is settling with still a few more races to be settled. Should be an interesting few months of posturing as Boehner tries to figure out how he will balance the Dems, Republicans and enthusiastic new TP’ers. Let’s hope the squabbling can be held to a minimum and the lobbyists don’t digest the newbies too fast. Let’s hope they can actually do something to turn around the ship of state.

The line of the night following the electionsm may have come from Michelle Bachman in answer to one of those ad nausium questions from Chris Matthews: “I think people are thrilling tonight, I imagine that thrill is not so tingly on your leg any more…”

The menu in most restaurants today call it a demi-glaze. I call it gravy.

Is a book-on-tape about the 3M company?

The Question: 
What was the name of the site for the first episode of “Survivor”? Name five other sites for this long running show.

The Headlines:

--Applications for Jobless Benefits Jump Sharply; 20K New Claims Brings Weekly Total back Up Over 450K to 457K.
--Obama Has “Get-Me-Outta-Here Look As he Answers Tougher than usual Questions In Post lection Press Conference.
--Yemen Parcel Bomb Ten Minutes From Exploding.
--Solid Retail Gains Fueled By Heavy Discounting.
--Markets Open Higher After fed Action; Most say that Fed Move Will Not Help Restore Econmy faster Than 12 Months.
--Haitians Evacuate Tent cities In Advance Of hurricane.
--Ireland’s Finances Coming Under Intensifying Pressure; Investors Dumping Bonds Before Announcement Of Austerity Budget.

Why do I have this feeling that Pelosi will be a pit bull during this lame duck session? The feathers will fly like geese evading balls on a golf course. And what’s left on the floors of Congress will be the same as what’s left on the fairways. Step gently.

Back to More Stuff:

The post election night ratings has Fox News clobbering the networks and cable rivals CNN and MSNBC. They did it with a maximum of solid news reporters and a minimum of commentators.

I have to say that I like Governor Elect Chafee’s clothes.

Rhode Island…you know Rhode Island – the state that just elected the same guys who over the years have sent the state tumbling down into a black pit – that Rhode Island. Well, a strange duck Robert Healy running for Lt. Governor on the one issue platform that he will abolish the position of LG if elected received more votes (125,902) than Lincoln Chafee (123,388) who won the Governor’s race! Weird, isn’t it?

LaSalle Academy, a catholic school in Providence RI, now has two alums in the 100 person Senate – newly elected Republican Toomey from Pa and the Puppet Jack Reid from Stockholm Syndrome State.

Obama said at the press conference yesterday that he figures people were angry because the admin and Congress wasn’t making enough “progress” on the economy. Oh, it’s about progress all right. The deep seated anger is about a majority not liking what he and Pelosi think is progress.

They say that rabbit tastes like chicken. Does that mean that it also tastes like tuna fish too?

Do restaurants that offer music want to exclude people with hearing aids?

The Answer: 
Local Newporter and nut job Richard Hatch won the first Survivor which took place on Palau Tiga in Borneo. The others were Australian Outback, Africa, Nuku Hiva (French Polynesia), Thailand, Amazon. Pearl Islands, Vanuatu, Palau, Guatemala (Mayan), Panama (Exile Islands,) Cook Islands, Fiji, China, Micronesia, Gabon, Tocantins, Samoa and the current Nicaragua.

All of those candidates who think they can lie up to the promise of bringing jobs back from lower labor cost countries are probably going to be making excuses in a couple of years. Unless of course they get unions to drastically cut demands and benefits.

The Stockholm Syndrome State.

Today's Tids Issue 2,226
Opening Stuff:

Peaceful out there, isn’t it?

I’m depressed. Across America voters rejected the policies of Obama and a Government that doesn’t listen. But RI’ers seemed to have acquired a paradoxical psychological phenomenon, becoming hostages with expressed adulation and positive feelings towards their captors. Captors who have turned a once proud and dynamic state into Greece. A state on the verge of bankruptcy. A state where voters Ok a bond to build a new lab at the University but where the General Assembly chased out all of the businesses with good paying jobs for graduates. A state that chose their first “Independent” governor who was strongly endorsed by the unions that are destroying the state. A governor who has made noise about dismissing the only good thing about education here – Dorothy Gist (A thorn in the side of the teacher’s Union leaders). A state that elected for the most important corruption watchdog position of Attorney General a former majority whip of the Union owned General Assembly. (Talk about the old Fox and chicken coop thing.) A state that returned to the GA 95 of the 103 democrats who have brought this state to its knees. I’m moving. There is just isn’t enough beauty in the magnificent Bays, countryside and in the eyes of the good people of RI to overcome the ugliness in the government and the pain in your bank account.

My coffee probably tastes like mud because it was ground.

The Question:
What are the five freedoms enumerated in the 1st Amendment.

The Headlines:

--Republicans Take House With Record Turnaround; GOP Picks Up 6 Seats With Three Undecided..
--Boehner Vows To Shelve Health Care “Monstrosity”.
--Federal Reserve Expected To Buy More Billions In Government Bonds To Stimulate Economy.
--In California: Dope In; Dope Out.
--Indonesia’s Mount Merape Erupts In Biggest Blast Yet.
--al-Qaida Promising More Attacks On Christians In Iraq.
--Business Spending Up Strongly In September; New Private Sector Jobs Surprise; Stock Market Flat.

Back to More Stuff:
Of all the people who will be bashed between now and November 2012, Sarah Palin may get the most of the mud. Regardless of ho many times the opposition decries her mental capacity, the fact remains that they are afraid of her. And frankly the more the left and the elite insult her and Tea Party like organizations, the more the public in general resents the condescension. Whether or not you or I like the tea Party isn’t the point. The people in it represent the inner hopes and ideals of the majority of Americans.

They should have axed Pontiac 25 years ago.

If I ever got another dog, it would probably be an English Springer Spaniel. But I doubt if I ever will because of the leash laws.

Lobbyists are probably licking their chops at the prospects of all of that fresh new meat coming their way.

O great…now I have to learn how to spell B-o-e-h-n-e-r!

We could be looking at a hysterical lame duck session. The blood could flow freely as some of the holdover Dems will not acceded to the message sent and clutter the dockets’ with their pet projects. They won’t care. They’re not running for anything.

In an effort to bring Hawaii Five-O up to the present, they are ending it with “Kindle em’, Danno.”

With all of the hoopla over the Republican return to power in the house, nothing will change until the Dem and GOP party leadership stop thinking only about their need to retain power. I expect the Tea Party to get much stronger, even here in “The Masochist State”. The people have to keep up the pressure, because I still don’t trust any politician. We have been fooled too many times in the past...by both parties.

There are some who are saying that 0-Man will not move to the center as Clinton did after the ‘94 change, but will reaffirm his own vision of a Cuba like America and use lots of executive orders for the rest of the year.

The Answer:
Rhode Island, “The PT Barnum Sate” was actually the place where in colonial times where many of the freedoms that serve as the basis of the great US Constitution were nurtured by wise leaders and responsible citizens. The First Amendment was framed around many RI pacts and laws. The five freedoms are Religion, Speech, Press, Peaceful Assembly and the right to petition for a government redress of grievances. Thanks RI. I hope you are around for our future.

The End:
I’ve just got to stop thinking about politics.

I’m tired.

I’ve got to quit this racket.

I think I’ll open a U-Haul franchise. There’s going to be lots of RI’ers moving out.

Happy Freedom from Political Ads Day!

Today's Tids Issue 2,225
Opening Stuff:

Today is the day. A day that is important to every American. A day when the couch potatoes can anticipate a return to ignorant apathy without interruption. When all loving people live in harmony with their hands in a potato chip bag without programmed political phone messages. It’s the day the noise stops and muddling leaves the brain. It’s Tranquil Tuesday. Aaaaaaaah!

Regardless of the results from today, of this you can be sure. On November 3rd a plan will be launched to demonize the Republicans and anything associated with Republicans in preparation for the 2012 campaign of “House Mom”.

If Will Rogers were alive today he’d be saying “I only know what I see on YouTube.”.

The greatest thing that a new congress could to would be to interpret and read to the public all of the hastily passed budget clobbering bills of the last session. Like maybe helping the people understand what they are paying for. So that the public fully understands the extent of the inflictions they are to experience. If they can regulate the small print on credit card loans, why not that in House and Senate Bills?

The Question: I have a strange mix of Q’s today. 1. Who coined the word “Axis” as in WWII Germany, Italy, Japan? 2. What was the popular political slogan throughout the 50’s? 3. What were the first two words of Ted Sorenson’s most memorable line of his most important speech? What was the name of the first Hydrogen bomb and where was it detonated?

The Headlines:
--People Out Early to Vote.
--Wall Street Rises Early In Anticipation Of Republican Gains.
--Security Officials Says September Shipment Of Packages Of Books And Papers To Chi May have Been Dry Run For Recent Yemen Chi Shipment Of Bomb Material.
--“Wheel Of Fortune’s” Charlie O’Donnell Dead At 79; he Had been Opening Voice For Decades.
--Greek Mail Bombers Attack Five Embassies.
--BP Profits Sink As Spill Costs Rise.
--Dell Expected o Announce Several New Windows based Smart I-Pad Type Tablets By End Of Year; Company Also To Invest In “Cloud Computing” As Next Big Trend In PC Sector.


Back to More Stuff:
What more appropriate nut to lead the largest state on the edge of bankruptcy and urgently trying to pass a legalization of marijuana law, than Jerry brown. God what a mess. Pray for Californians.

Or how about the former largest state, New York The Empire State, the home of one-time gigantic and prosperous manufacturing base in vibrant cities like Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Schenectady; A countryside filled with productive farm lands from NYC to Canada, from Connecticut and Massachusetts to Ohio. And now we see as the face of this state -- Charles Schumer. Talk about “Decline and Fall…”!

When advocates for weed whine about not having their substance legal like alcohol, aren’t they saying we want to help add to more deaths on highways, more broken homes, more abused women, more lost work hours.

Paranoia is fun, but it takes up too much time.

You have to wonder these days if a single guy with his best pal the dog, looks at a prospective bride and wonders not if she can cook in this Take-out world, but if she is averse to picking up poop in the park.

If as they say Government outsourcing is up, how come the Feds are adding employees at a faster pace than any industry in America? Is it to hire people to read reports from contractors?

The stimulus package may have added jobs, but can an economy grow upon the type of jobs that it created? That is the real question isn’t it? The only net gainer of jobs since the start of the recession was the federal Gov. at 198,000 (Not including Census Jobs). State gov’s were down 0.1%, Local gov’s 0.9% and private sector minus 6.8%.

Which reminds me of a recommendation for a new constitutional amendment. “People whose salary and wages are paid by the governemtn can’t vote.” Makes sense to me.

Three witches in a hot tub is a self cleaning coven.

And, from the land of Cheese Steaks, my favorite Philadelphia area reporter reminds us of why a Republican romp may be in the cards. HR 4646, a nasty little piece of legislation attached to the Debt Free America Act, Harkin and DeFazio sneak in a 1% Fed tax on credit card and bank transactions. It may never happen, but it is the way this gang thinks, and it isn’t pretty.

The evidence is in and it says that fans of Jon Stuart are not nearly as bight as they think they are. “2nd City”, in case you missed it, showed up with a sign that read “Obama is a Keynesian”. This sent Stuart sycophants into apoplexy shouting “He was Born in Hawaii” “It‘s been proven.” And on and on thinking it was a conservative slam about their Man’s birth. I think I saw frothing at the mouth. It was funny and sad at the same time.

The Answer:
This is a set of Q’s that will force some to remember and maybe inspire other’s to learn. 1. Benito Mussolini coined axis as in “The German-Italy alliance is an axis running through Europe:" Bad decision Ben. 2. “I Like Ike” was all it took to keep the popular President firmly entrenched as a  lovable leader. But, Ike was before attack advertising, a time when people tried to look for the good in people. Of course his Veep helped coin the slogan “Dick is Ick”. 3. The first two words of great speech writer Sorenson’s most well know line was “Don’t ask…” found in JFK’s Inaugural speech. That would be treasonous in the Obama admin. Today it’s, “Wanna TV, I’ll give you a TV.”. 4. The H-Bomb was exploded at Eniwetok Atoll and was named “Ivy Mike”. Sounds kind of cuddly, doesn’t it.

The New Beginning?
A local mister writes to the Projo: “The Journal has had commentary by people complaining about such ‘cruelty to animals’ as the pain felt by a fish caught on a hook and the abuse of a dog left in cars in 100 degree weather. I shudder to think of the pain brought on children in the womb who are being aborted. They most certainly feel excessive pain; they fight the agony as their lives are being gruesomely ended. Is this less worthy that the pain felt by fish and dogs?” – Rev. Gerald Bierne.

If the Republican party wins and goes back to its mid 2000’s persona, the Tea Party will just get stronger. As will Sarah Palin who would probably love running against the GOP establishment.

I can hardly wait ‘til this election over so I can stop being angry and get back to my cuddly self again.