It's Ok to be in awe of a Princess.

Today's Tids Issue #2,354
Opening Stuff:

It is really tough to analyze the Red Sox box score when they are playing God Save the Queen in the background.

That was a hell of an uplifting piece of wonderful tradition this morning. The wedding was well done as you would expect. Of course I love that music. And the bride and groom, they were perfect. Hey...I think they like each other. But, do you know what tickled my heart? It's the happiness and pride in the faces of the British waving their flags and loving their Royal newly weds. And, when the choir started singing Oh Jerusalem, the people on streets over London joined in. And I just stood there with a big stupid smile on my face.

Uh Oh! I've jumped into a box of Cheez-its and I can't get out.

I often get the feeling that some sportswriters are a frustrated lot thinking that they were meant be more than they are. They seem to view the NFL players plight as a social issue that could legitimize their profession., Their chance to become part of the gang that points the accusing finger at rich management. Get over it. You're sports writers.

The Question:
Name ten living descendants of Queen Elizabeth.

The Headlines:

--Wedding Over; The Kiss Ignites Cheers.
--Southern US Morns Victims Of Widespread Disasters.
--Killing Continues In Syria.
--Daffy Forces Chase rebels Into Tunisia.
--Continued Strong Earnings Expected To Push Dow, Nasdaq To new Highs; Caterpillar, Merck Latest Winners.
--Trump Laces LV Speech With "F" Word; Dummy.
--New VolksWagon Unveils New Microbus; Aging Hippies Break Out Pot.

Back to More Stuff:
Today's news really makes you think. A kiss on a balcony contrasted with hopelessness in southern USA and unrelenting killing in the Middle East. Fairy tale and reality.

I never pay attention to those the chip on the shoulder naysayers who are always ready to snipe and belittle the monarchy. This monarchy and what it has become in England today is a magnificent unifier of people.

Have you ever noticed that accountants type their letters in excel?

Every once in a while I put in a little extra effort and try to get interested in New Yorker stories. But, I always come back to the cartoons.

American Idol: I shouted "Yes!" When Haley was declared safe right at the opening. I think a lot of voters probably just don't get Casey, but he is talented and will do well. They tried to make Scotty look like a bottom three person But remember they said all of the people were in random order. He probably got the most votes. I rank them #1 James and then Haley, Lauren, Scotty and Jacob. But, that's not how they will be voted off.

My Mom kinda looked like the Queen Department:
One part of my retirement plan hasn't been working out too well -- winning the lottery. I've decided to concentrate on part two of my plan, finding a missing family member related to the Queen. I have posted a pic of me Mum on FaceBook and requested Queen Elizabeth to be my Friend.

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--Prom is a movie about kids in high school who are actually pretty good kids even when they are supposed to be bad. It's a nice movie about a nice girl and a rebel guy. It's HS prom movie that isn't about sneaking in booze or getting something in the back seat. It's about a Prom and all of the pleasant things about what proms are supposed to be. Special moments that provide beautiful memories. It's about differential kinds people getting to the prom. And some obstacles along the way. It isn't about the ugly side of HS but the hopeful, fulfilling side. The critics will hate it because it is too nice. you will like it.
--The opposite end of the spectrum is Fast Five, which stresses violence and sexual innuendos and is laced with the kind of over the top action you would expect aroma Vin Diesel movie. A bunch of tough guys on the lam after breaking out of custody must pull off a big job in Rio de Janiero to gain their freedom. As usual for H-Wood the business men are corrupt and the downtrodden criminals are heroes. It will be a box office winner, but I won't be there.
--Hoodwinked Too! Good vs. Evil is the weekly animated film. This one is about a teen age Red Riding Hood who is called on to investigate the disappearance of Hanzel and Gretel. The critics give it a D and the folks sort of like it.

I thought the processional music for the entry of the bride was about as perfect as it could be.

In case you are interested, the most hated baby names are: Girls: Nevaeh (Heaven spelled backwards), Detiny, Madison, Mackensie, McKenna, Addison, Gertrude, Kaitlyn, Makayla, Bertha and Hope. Boys--Jaydon, Braydon, Aiden, Kaden, Hunter, Hayden, Bentley, Tristan, Michael and Jackson. This is based on an unscientific study that is based on the strongest chat room opinions on names.

You have to love the name of the latest basketball recruit signed by St. Johns University. In fact, it is a name that I have to believe most NBA players would pay millions to get for them selves -- "God's Gift"! How great is that. If he accepts money for his name, does he lose his amateur status?

Exxon like all companies is supposed to make a profit. That's the way capitalism works in case you forgot here you live.

Almost Near: Chapter 18 continues. --Samantha stayed sitting, transfixed, staring at the soulless walls of a superficial room. Her mind was blank because there was so little of substance in it. She felt her eyes closing as another day of faking a life wore her down. She was a beautiful centerpiece of a pitiful scene. A woman nowhere fearful of finding out more everything she didn't know.
"Samantha. Samantha!" Her head snapped up as the banging on the door gave tempo to the repeated call. "Samantha."
She shook her head as if to dust out the corners of her brain. Her hand went reflexively towards her hair, and she stood, "Who is it?" Of course she knew who it was. She only knew three people now. "Dante? Is that you?"
"Yes. Who were you expecting? He laughed. I've been knocking for a minute and got worried."
She pulled back the secure latch, "I must have dozed off." But of course she hadn't. She just went into a world where she goes.
"Samantha!" Dante looked excited to see her, or maybe just relieved to see that she was Ok. He moved to her as if he would hug her, but then stopped as she stepped back. "Oh sorry. I just got carried away." He shook her hand. Did you find a good place to eat?"
"Eat?" she thought. "Oh, I totally forgot. There is so much on my mind."
"That's ok." He was very soft now. As if he knew she needed care in handling. This side up. Fragile contents inside. "I know that the front desk will have a couple of good ideas."

The Answer:
The Queen had sons Charles, Andrew and Edward and Daughter Anne. Charles had William and Harry. Andrew Had daughters Beatrice and Eugenie. Edward had James and Louise. Anne Phillips has daughters Savannah and Zara and son Peter. Princess Margaret is dead but has heirs David Armstrong-Jones and Lady Sara Chatto. And then there are many great grandchildren. Stand in line.

The Beginning for K&W.
There's nothing like a good old fashioned Royal wedding to start the day. Well...gotta go and put on my "God Save the Queen" CD. Da da, da-da dada, da da da dahhhh...

Mad, ugly winds.

Today's Tids Issue #2,352
Opening Stuff:

My stomach rolls over as I watch the devastation and the heartbreak of our Southeastern neighbors. People just like us all, who in the morning were changing diapers and in the afternoon changing lives. One day taking out the garbage and the next day looking at their home as trash. One woman interviewed said it all, "It makes you realize just how temporary life really is."

The NFL Player's Union (Even though it temporarily isn't, it is) is crowing again about their latest triumph in the courts. But, reading the opinions of the players and their lawyers it becomes obvious that this negotiation for them is more about free agency than anything else. That, in my mind could ruin the great "On Any Given Sunday" league. Free agency has ruined competitiveness in baseball and if not controlled or restricted as it it is currently is in the NFL, could alter the balance of a good show. I personally feel that the Anti-Trust issues are way off base here. There are no restrictions to any enterprise starting a competitive league. But each league should be like a gigantic Broadway play that are much stronger if all members of the cast are great. The owners are negotiating for sensible "untried rookie" salaries and some extra games (Which I disagree with) plus a bigger take on the income the league produces.

The Question: 
Kathleen Turner faded fast after a succession of notable rolls on the big screen. Name five of her best movies.

The Headlines:

--Death Toll From Southern Tornadoes Rises To 1954 In Five States; Lingering La Nina Contributor To record Rage.
--US Economic Growth Braked Sharply In First Q As Higher Gas/Food Prices Dampen Spending; GDP Growth Slowed To Disappointing 1.8% Annual Rate.
--Unemployment Claims Jump Back Up To 429K.
--Stocks Falter On Bad News.
--12 Year Old Padmanabh Singh Crowned Maharaja Of Jaipur Keeping Irrelevant Indian Royal Succession Alive; Was Not Invited To Former Empire's The Wedding.
--RI State Legislature Annuls Gay Marriage Bill.
--Exxon Has Best First Q Since '08.
--Marines Undergoing Training On How To Accept Open Gays.
--Syria Killing Continue; Britain Revokes Wedding Invite For Syria Envoy.
--Suspicious Explosion Kills 14 At Popular Moroccan Tourist Cafe.

Back to More Stuff:
There certainly was a lot of surprisingly bad economic data hitting the headlines today. And yet Bernanke was there yesterday at an open press meeting for the first time in history for a Fed Head minimizing and hedging answers to questions . Why?

American Idol: Last night was a good night of entertainment. It's what I like about this year, where all of the people are pretty versatile and full of positive surprises. Unfortunately, what I view as best and the various voting blocs are at odds. The most polished and energetic are to me Haley and James. Haley gets better and better, but is probably in jeopardy to go mainly because she doesn't appear to be breaking through to the big voter groups. On the other hand, Scotty (Who was very good last night) can do just about anything and be #1 or 2 each week. Likewise Lauren (Who I actually like a lot). Casey is a entertainer. I think Jacob has hit the ceiling, and I would predict him to go from a bottom three that also includes Haley and Casey. Anytime you think AI doesn't make sense just remember two names -- Chris Daughtry and Taylor Hicks.

Lies beget Lies Department:
The Supermarket Tabloid "Star" said in a statement regarding the settlement of a suit by Holmes: "...it did not mean to suggest that Ms. Holmes was a drug addict or was undergoing treatment for drug addiction." They continued to say "Star apologizes to Ms. Holmes for any misperception...". "Any misperception! How funny is that. Everything about these tabloids is misperceptional, preposterous inuendo. They only mean to create false impressions about innocent people. That's what they do. That's there business model.

Almost Near: Chapter 18. --Samantha sat alone in her room. It was something she had been dong lot lately. Sitting on a lonely bed, looking at a wall with mass produced art wondering who she was. Why she was here. What happened to her life. Did she ever have a life? Was it ever good? Was it ever like Lobster Cove?
The phone rang. She turned and looked at the clock. It showed that it was only 6:00 and it yet it felt like midnight to her. It couldn't be Dante. She picked up the receiver, "Hello."
"Hi Samantha!"
"Dante? Is that you. You're here already" She thought she sounded lost, confused.
"No, no, I just landed in Lancaster and am about to rent a car. I should be there in 45 minutes or so. You sound like you need a little excitement. Find a restaurant and make reservations, and I'll treat you to a happy feast!" Samantha smiled at that.
"That sounds exactly like what I need." And then she added, "I can hardly wait."
"Good," he now said pleasantly. "I like that."
A wave of concern overwhelmed Samantha.


The political climate has gotten so weird that even opposite ends of the spectrum have found something to agree upon...the silliness of the counter accusations.

In the latest sign of Spring, I see the henchmen for the Meter Maid KGB getting ready for another season of raping tourists.

Dorothy being carried away from Auntie Em by a tornado doesn't seem quite so charming these days, does it?

Trump is the classic candidate with a shoddy, confused platform and a lotta Home Shopping Network glitz.

Quote of the Week Department:
From White House Spokesman: "The release of the birth certificate had nothing to do with politics."

Many of the most overbearing, annoying laws on the books exist because people are rude, discourteous, irresponsible and generally inconsiderate of others around them and devoid of good all around common sense.

The Answer:
Who doesn't remember Katleen Turner as Matty Walker, the temptress supremo in "Body Heat". But she was also great, to me, in Romancing the Stone. Other notables were Peggy Sue got Married, War of the Roses, Prizzis Honor and as Jesica Rabbit in "Who Framed Jessica Rabbit." Excruciating arthritic pain and considerable alcohol intake stopped her career short.

The End:
All Bar exams should be testing all potential lawyers for innate propensities towards hysteria.

Baaaahrrooooooo.

Today's Tids Issue #2,351
Opening Stuff:

What a great morning! The night quiet broken by the basso profundo tones of a tour de force foghorn performance across the mirror-like waters of our morning harbor to announce the arrival of the year's first cruise ship. Bahrrooooooooo.

Let's see, the nations Chief Politician has finally been backed into a campaign crimping hole where he actually has to take a stand on the rising gas prices. So what does this guy propose...Eliminate the tax breaks for oil companies. Good thinking! Add to the oil companies costs and expect prices to go down. Brilliant. Just brilliant. Government strategy at its best.

Talk about not knowing who your friends are in the Middle East. It looks like our buds in Pakistan have been talking to Karsai the past couple of weeks suggesting that he dump the US and join them and China for their future growth and security. Or else, this is a floated news item for use by Karsai extorting a couple of extra billion form our treasury..

The Question: 
Double Q Day -- 1. Which European Monarch has been to three British Royal Weddings? 2. All of the roadway critics are hailing Nina Arainda, who just opened in a funny revival of Born Yesterday, as the hot new star on the great white way. Who was the first hot new star in the original BY?

The Headlines:
--Markets Awaiting Bernanke.
--Afghan Officer Opens Fire Killing 9 US In Kabul Airport Meeting; Taliban says Officer Was One Of Theirs.
--Defense, Intelligence Shakeup: Panetta To Sec Defense; Petraeus To CIA Chief; Lt. Gen Allen Afghan Commander; Ryan Crocker US Ambassador To Afghan.
--New Durable Goods Factory Orders Better Than expected.
--BP, Conoco Report Disappointing Earnings.
--"O" Releases Birth Certificate. Trump Takes Credit; Birthers Say It's A forgery.
--Trump Changes Tactics Now Questioning "O's" Qualifications For College.
--RI's Repub Leader Watson Comes Across As Just Another Politician Who Got Caught.

Back to More Stuff:
The news about the Sony XBox hacking and the potential for massive identity loss is just the latest example of what in essence the Net is really all about for marketers...getting info about customer blocs and buying actions. Facebook, that happy place for people who love to lose their privacy is another marketers gold mine and in reality what Iternet marketers have been waiting for since the beginning of cyber sales management. The marketers want you to visit them at their Facebook page, not necessarily because it is easier for consumers, but because they can track more of how the folks buy and react. It has the potential to be everything that web sites cold never be. Marketers hated anonymity.

Doesn't Trumps tilting at the Obama windmill smack of Nero Fiddling While Rome Burned?

Let's see, the environmentalists have been halting oil drilling in the US for 15 or so years now, but I hear nary a word from these protectors of the earth when 0-Man give Brazil of "Rain Forest" fame $2 Billion to begin drilling in that country. With another $2 Billion for refining in another RF abutter, Colombia.

This department of Health and Human Services attempt to oust the CEO of Drug company Forest Laboratories Howard Solomon. is a little scary. Scary not becasue all drug Execs are angels and shouldn't be touched, but because there is a law within the Social Security Act that allows the governmental this kind of power of ever private enterprise. And someday somebody is going to abuse it really bad. You can count on it.

Almost Near: Chapter 17 continues. -- Audrey started to move towards the dazed Tucker, but Bounty Quimpieree tightened his grasp and stuck his angry face in hers. She saw hate in this mans eyes. They stared at each other. Audrey now trying not to back down. Then Bounty turned quickly and punched his sister in the chest, "Shut up." You're driving me crazy."
"What kind of guy are you," Audrey started to show some bravery. But immediately felt the power from this animal's arms.
"The kind of a guy who a minute would have you bent over that table with your dress up around your waist. The kind of a guy who can do anything to you he wants. And there is nothing you could do about it. That kind of guy." Audrey turned her head away from the sour boozy breath. He nodded towards Tucker, "Is that sissy down there the guy who's been asking around town about Rudy and says he knows Rudy's missing wife?"
"Yes," Audrey now decided to answer questions so the twosome would leave.
"Well, I want to find that woman too. Cause somethin strange happened here a year ago, and my family is real angry."
"He doesn't know much," Audrey couldn't help herself. He glared. "I think he knows more than the cops." All of a sudden he pushed Audrey down into a chair, knocking the beer on the floor. Bounty picked up the other beer, drank it down, and then went and yanked a woozy Tucker up by what turned out to be a very painful arm.
"You and I are gonna become friends." He pulled Tucker by the arm out of the cafe. "Common Fuzzy." The cackler followed.

The Answer:  
1. Michael I of Romania first traveled to London on 1947 for the marriage of Princess Elizabeth (Now QEII) to his cousin Prince Phillip. He also attended Charles and Diane's wedding before this. he was the Great, Great Grandson of Queen Victoria and first became King of Romania in 1927...when he was 6 years old. 2. The very funny Judy Holiday palyed the very smart dumb blond Billie Dawn in the first "BY".

The End:
I think that one of the things that bothers me most about our current era is the inconsistencies of protesters. Selective character assassination. Just think, if all of the groups were honest and felt an inner compulsion to slime a friendly group equally for each enemy dumping, castigation, ridicule, maybe the discourse would into constructive education.

I need to go out and find some funny stuff for tomorrow. Wait a minute, Trump is funny.

The world getting you down? Just relax. Baaahrroooo!
nov

Politics muddy clear waters.

Today's Tids Issue #2,349
Opening Stuff:

The central question guiding the US going forward is: Is caring just giving, or is caring opening the opportunities for achievement? It sounds simple, but it is basically the issue: Who is in control.

The country's, maybe the world's largest Life Insurance company is proposing a change that feels to me like a large kidney stone passing through a small tube of society. Apparently not many of the 233,000 agent prospects they hire can pass the State Insurance Agent Licensing tests across the many states. Which is actually quite peculiar in the first place. What are their hiring requirements? Then there is their solution: They want to lower the standards of the test. And, they are charging racial discrimination in the testing. Of course anybody who wants to get sympathy for something basically stupid shouts racial something or other. Doesn't it bother you that the only solution people see sometimes these days is getting worse? Shoot me.

In the Obits today there was a guy who called himself: "#1 in the #2 business." He was a septic system engineer and founder and owner of a company named "Septic Snooper."

The Question:
What is the only fruit or vegetable that is never sold canned, frozen or processed but always natural? Bonus Q: Name the gregarious politician who could be plain.

The Headlines:
--Solid Earnings From Ford, 3M, UPS And More Lift Stocks.
--Hedgefunders Who Supposed "O" in 2008 Are Giving big to Repubs Today.
--Syria Crackdown Continues; Bahrain Mess Deepens..
--Russia Ups Nuke Energy Safety Standards.
--New Storms Wrack Southwest.
--Missouri Levees Hold As Floodwaters Rise.
--New Mexico Woman Mauled By Pet Pit Bulls.
--Home Prices Continue To Fall Across Country.

Back to More Stuff:
It's in the Heart Department:
Central Falls RI is a depressed city that has been the heart of the Colombian Drug Trade, in the National news for having all if the teachers fired, and where the only new industry was a Federal prison built in the center of town. It's a bad place for kids growing up. But, it is also a classically great example of what is inside a person heart is what matters. These kids who have fight every day it seems, are the number one Chess Playing HS in the State and just went off to the Nationals where they expect to win. These kids have what matters.

No Free Lunch Department:
Part of the preferred ride for hybrids is diminishing as law makers wake up to realize that these quiet cars make as much tire noise on the roads as their gas slurping cousins. But the low gas hybrids play much less in gas taxes while producing the same road damage. Legislatures are looking at annual fees (Like Min a $100) for road maintenance for these silent but deadly stalkers.

With all of the new revelations about the tracking capabilities of IPhones, IPads, Droids et. al., I would suggest you might call them Smart-ass phones.

Solution to the gas crisis: Sailboats.

People seem to be lining up in droves to overpay for gas. This leads me to think that credit card debt will be rising out of control again.

Didn't you love the weekend columns from condescending food Nazis who said they would "allow" people to eat sugary things that wasn't fruit. Slugs.

By the way, when reading these incessant nutrition columns I wonder how many ways they can say "Eat leafy greens" and still pretend they're giving you new information.

Almost Near: Chapter 17 continues. --Tucker was sipping his beer, just enjoying listening to the logical presentation of the Quimpierre saga from Audrey. This felony family appeared to be on the edge of just about anything that could land any one of them in jail. The sisters were con artists and the big brother was a well known muscle man around town. The more he heard the more Tcuker realized that there were any number of reasons for the disappearance of Rudy. But, why would that traumatize Samantha to the point it apparently had. it didn't mke sense. What did make sense was that the Quimpieres could be a source of useful information. Tucker brought his hands together in mock applause as Audrey finished, "Well do...." A commotion arose in the lobby of the restaurant.
Tucker spun and Audrey looked up. Her expression reacted to menacing looking man and a ground up looking blond pushing there way through the tables and chairs. She glanced at Tuckers and whispered, "Quimpierres". Tcucker stood and tries to look relaxed and confident. It wasn't easy. Logic and reasoning didn't look like their middle initials. The big guy in a tank top, black haired upper arms and covered with witchcraft tattoos pushed right to Tucker and leaned his chest into Tuckers. He turned and looked at Audrey and grabbed her upper arm. Tucker reached to pull it away and a powerful forearm knocked him back into a table of four and onto the ground. People scattered as this obscene cackling arose from the blond.

There is a world wide united bunch of active gadflies and bloggers whose only mission in life is to destroy Sarah Palin's credibility. She has been described by them as "...a promiscuous, petty and unintelligent, yet deviously cunning war monger intent on capturing the oval office and, from there, the world." Most of the embarrassing revelations and statements about she and her family have been thoroughly discredited. Yet that doesn't stop this angry crowd. She must be awfully good to be hated so bitterly.

Yesterday the Supreme Court said nay to fast tracking Health Care court appeals. It is not whether or not it is a wrong decision, it is whether or not this august bunch is thinking at all. The spending of this mammoth political boondoggle is speeding along and it may be that none of this spending is legitimate under the constitution. More money lost by taxpayers who barely have any money left. But, isn't that typical of Government. Spend it, we'll figure out if it was worth it after it was spent.

The Answer: 
Lettuce is the product that is always fresh! If you could freeze lettuce, you probably wouldn't need so many illegal aliens. Bonus "Q": Palin could be P-l-a-i-n.

Did you ever hear about a "Summer Blend" until now when nobody can explain the high gas prices?

Daffodils and Stone Fences.

Today's Tids Issue # 2,349
Opening Stuff:

Has there ever been a more infectious tyke than Shirley Temple. No person with half a heart could resist breaking into a ginormous smile when that dimple faced, bright eyed bundle of talent broke into a song and dance. And how great is it that she survived the juvenile star jungle and made it through her teens to adulthood unmarred. Why she even became a successful politician. Oops!

So...the pillow walks onto the elevator. The elevator operator looks at him, "Down?", "No, synthetic", answers the pillow.

There is no better home design than the pure, authentic colonial.

World in Decline Department:
A school in Seattle (A town where there's a psychoanalyst on every corner) has told the kids they must call Easter Eggs "Spring Spheres".

The Question:
Give me the top five movies for each of today's Happy Birthday stars -- Al Pacino (71) and Rene Zellweger (42).

The Headlines:

--Nearly 500 Taliban Flee In daring breakout At Afghan Prison; Escapees Include Key Leaders.
--Good Earnings Reports Expected To Push Makrets Upward.
--NATO Strikes At Heart Of Daffy's Power; Many Government Buildings Damaged In Raid.
--Japanese Initiate Massive Search for 12,000 Tsunami Victims Still Missing.
--Tsunami Aftermath Has Toyota Production Plummeting.
--Docs Say Giffords Ok To View Launch.
--Short Term Investment Opportunities in US Could mask Depth Of Debt Problem.
--Massive Blazes Continue To Destroy Texas Countryside.
--St. Louis Continues Tornado Cleanup.

Back to More Stuff:
A president who is always under the influence of his political advisers and not his policy advisers is not taking care of the country. The Prez has become more condescending than ever. He thinks he is being cute and funny, but he is becoming unwatchable. This at a time when people are newly depressed over gas prices, wondering how far into these Middle East skirmishes we will be drawn and concerned that the deficit could knock us out for the count. He'd gain many more political points if he got out of his increasingly nasty campaign mode and started talking like a leader who is concerned about all people.

"I'm that old?" Department:
I remember a good friend who lived in Holliston Mass telling me how his dad and bunch of guys from Worcester were the builders of the brand new Golf Club receiving rave reviews, Pleasant Valley of Sutton Mass. This week the course, played so often on the PGA tour, was sold out of Bankruptcy for $5 Mil. It's tough when you start outliving golf courses.

American Idol: The annual Tids Good Friday/Easter message preempted last week's results night report. I have to be honest. I was happy to see Stephano go, but I also have to admit that his final song was great. He'll do well in LV. I look for variety on the show, and Stephano was too much of the same ole', same ole'. Jacob is weak at times but he brings a different element which is good for me and my entertainment. Scotty is talented but, he is becoming boring. He needs to break out into something this week. Can he do it? I was waiting for Lauren to explode into all of that magnificent voice of hers. Haley gets better every week and is easily one of the more entertaining. James is great, and Casey has the ability to mesmerize when he is on. But the program is all about fan groups, and so far it appears that Haley doesn't have a big block and Scotty and Lauren do. Not even James who always thrills whether loud or soft, fails to get the big vote. I want to see James, Haley and Casey at the end, but it's not going to happen.

I had mixed emotions about the Cop Coldcocking the Cuffed Criminal Caper. (A local police roughness trial) Unfortunately the cop was caught on tape and looked like a jerk. But the fact remains that these so-called victims can be pretty mean, and every day cops lose there lives or are injured because they relaxed in their apprehension. Hell, even National Honor Students with two much booze in an immature bio-system degrade into extreme stupidity and become a danger to law officers and other citizens. When you live in a city you see it every night.

If grapefruit juice is so powerful that it can affect important medicines negatively, than I figure that there must be also something powerful in there that could do something really positive too.

Most observers will agree that the biggest identifiable drain on State budgets is Medicaid. ObamaCare basically just renames it as insurance for all..

Almost Near: Chapter 17. --"Thanks for getting away for lunch." Tucker was in a particualrly chipper mood as he stood for Audrey.
"I wouldn't have missed it." Tucker smiled as Audrey dropped her gigantic, chock full bag on the floor by her feet. She shoved the bag strap under the chair leg and pulled out a roll of papers.
"Did you ever think of a safety deposit box?" Her eyes flared brightly at Tucker's little joke. "Would you like a glass of wine, or do you have deadlines?"
She paused as though thinking deeply about it. "Unlike like you liesurely novelists, I live on deadlines. But, a good beer always fits into my day."
"Sounds good!" Tucker signaled the waiter and ordered a couple local beers on tap while Audrey sorted through papers.
"The Quimpierres are an ugly kind of a family." she finally started without a preamble. "It wasn't just Rudy, but the whole crowd including Mom, dad, a couple of sisters and a really bad news brother. I would say that this situation she married into was exactly the opposite of you and how you described her home town and family." Tucker listened quietly. His mind trying to piece together her teen life with this. "People who knew her, she worked at the local radio station, said she had been here about a year before they married and could not have been surprised by the Quimpierre's."
Tucker thought about that woman who he expected to marry and who even after she left, vanished, he thought he loved all of these years. Maybe he never knew her.

Like the great Paine Stewart, Ricky Fowler wears distinctive golf outfits each week. But while Stewart was "Throwback", Fowler's are "Throwup."

One of the biggest drains on Medicare is the overuse of Therapists.

I guess 0-Man is looking so bad because he is trying to re-ingratiate himself to his liberal base.

In case you're interested, Princess Zara Phillips is the best looking of the Royal babes.

Call me a cynic if you wish, but I see the Prez loving the high cost of gas to make his alternative energy options appear affordable...and The 1st L loving the escalating food prices to keep people from eating.

The Answer: 
Pacino made some greats. And he can move you. 3 of his top four are the Godfather with II considered his best. Then comes Devils Advocate followed by I and III. #5 is Scent of a Woman, and then we have Dog Day Afternoon, Any Given Sunday, Scarface, Sea of Love and Donnie Brasco. Actually, my favorite was "And Justice for All" which appears on no critics fave list. Renee hasn't the list of Al, but some good ones including Jerry Maguire, Bridget Jones Diary, Chicago, Cinderella Man, Cold Mountain and Down with Love.

The End:
Money isn't the answer Department:
The Rhode Island high school with the most state championships over the past decade doesn't have one of those to-die-for, must have, state of the art overly expensive athletic complexes that if they don't get will harm the student's self esteem. Nope, the athletes at South Kingstown HS practice where they can in town on fields where they may be. Well, maybe the lack of glitz is hurting their self-esteem, but it sure isn't detracting from their character.

It's about all of these tornadoes. What's going on?

In case you were wondering when I was going to get to the title of Today's mess -- Daffodils and Stone Fences -- and what it meant in the grand scheme of things, this is it. I just happen to think that daffodils in the spring growing up against a sturdy stone wall is a beautiful thing. One of the best visions of the year, any year. That's about it.

Happy Easter!

Today's Tids Issue #2,347
Easter Thought.


Today, this weekend is not about whether or not Xoom flash is better than iPad; What stupidity will come from Charlie Sheen; How Snooki lost weight; What kind of underwear the Princess to be will be wearing on her wedding day; The lack of leadership when campaigns take over; The next segment of the Tid's novel. That Easter Bunnies don't lay colored eggs.

This weekend is about a man. A man named Jesus. The son of God. Who was betrayed, beaten, ridiculed, spat upon, crowned with thorns and nailed to a cross. And with all of that, who's greatest torment and suffering of all was at seeing the sins of people.

Who said at last as he hung dying: "Father forgive them, they know not what they do." This day thou shalt be with me in paradise." "Woman, behold thy son." "My God, My God, why has thou forsaken me." "I thirst." "It is finished." "Into thine hands O Lord I commend my spirit."

Who died at that moment to forgive the sins of man.

And two days later on Sunday the skies were ablaze with the sunshine of new life, new hope, new striving for man. A purpose for better living that each individual is entrusted to carry forth.

So maybe the glee in smiling children over bright Easter eggs -- These innocent children before hard choices -- is the reflection of new hope that each succeeding generation can better carry out the promise of the resurrection.

Happy Easter Everybody.

The sun comes out this weekend.

Today's Tids Issue #2,346
Opening Stuff:

I see where VP Biden's wife Jill will be the commencement speaker at our local university. Does that mean the students can fall asleep?

Obama just reversed policy on his centerpiece, big money-saving segment of the Lolla-Pelosi Health Care plan -- Medicare Advantage. Hmmmmm. If we we can sit back long enough, he may dismantle the entire in exchange for votes.

Of course everything about Obamacare was designed not to interfere with his potential re-election.

"A man doesn't live by bread alone. He needs a little butterin' every once in a while." --Ketchum.

The Question:
1. Which 5 world wide sports teams have the highest average player salary. 2. Who was Manfried Albrecht Freiheir von Richthofen

The Headlines:
--Putin Signaling Challenge To Medvedev.
--BP Suing Rig Owners.
--China VP (Future Head Man) Praises Outgoing Ambassador Huntsman; Huntsman Dark Horse Hot Candidate For Repubs.
--Ivory Coast rebels Turn Guns On Each Other; Africa Remains Hopeless.
--New RI Congressman Cicilini Under Gun For Mayoral Fiscal Shenanigans.
--CEO Pay Rising As Rest Wallow.

Back to More Stuff:
American Idol: To me, James and Haley were tops, most prfessional -- James with some ingenious versitility and Haley with very endearing animation and all around good singing. Casey for what it was was, was energetic and unique. It was Scotty's worst night (He has to branch out. He is becoming too much of a country singer caricature.) and the promise of Jacob's emotional sensation ddin't materialize. Stephano was exactly the same even amongst the bubbles. I wish Lauren would start the way she finishes. She has a big voice. The phone gage site (Reported last week) has as safe in this order Scotty, Jacob, James and Lauren.Next is Haley followed by Casey and Stefano. I would not be unhappy if Stefano went. Scotty has the teens and he used to have me. Personally, I like as my final two, James and Haley. It will never happen.

Jill Biden actually said a couple of years ago "I don't know how Bush got elected. None of my friends voted for him."

Mental acuity doesn't come with power. That's for sure. Bud Selig, President of MLB, said this week that the reason he likes later starting games at night because the ratings always go up towards the end of the game. Duh! Maybe he should pass his secret along to the NBA, NFL and NHL presidents. They'd probably find the same thing about their games. Maybe they should all start their games at midnight and have healthy post game breakfasts for all the kids going to school.

Almost Near: Chapter 16 Continues. --Somehow dreamers think that everybody else is interested in their dreams. That everybody is sitting eagerly waiting for the magic carpet to fly--
"Dante, I need to talk. Call me." The more Samantha sat with the detective the more the false confidence she had built the past week waned. Her life was so thin. Devoid of substance. The only substance she knows had been fed into her mind by a man she didn't know. Her courage came from the dreams she had of his perfect world with the perfect people; The world with the perfect simple memories.
She felt the vibration of her phone before the ring. She opened it quickly. "Dante?" It had to be Dante she thought. Who else needs me.
"Hi Sam, you sounded worried." She related her interview with the detective and how she felt so insecure talking about something she didn't know anything about. Yet, she couldn't tell this knight in shining armor that she was faking everything and knew nothin, Especially about him.
"I need more than a dream," she blurted.
"Are you alright?" she heard him say kindly. "I'll fly out there tonight."
I need a dream, Dante.

How about that great Taco-Bell ad saying. "It won't kill you to say your sorry." It is aimed at one of those class action lawsuit firms who generally play the guilty before proving innocent game, tearing down good reputations along the way. Maybe saying sorry should be paying back legal expenses with damages for discoloring reputations.

There is always someone out there willing too stand in line for an average movie, an electronic gadget or to help law firms reap millions for themselves.

Hey! There's something I really like about that AT&T ad with the two guys on the ski lift and the girlfriend's switched allegiance.

Nothing says wealth diversion more than this week with continuing reports of enormous CEO wealth and the big news for workers -- 50,000 $7.50 jobs at McDonald's.

The Answer:
1. All the money isn't in US sports anymore., In fact the first two are in nearly bankrupt Spain -- Soccer teams Barcelona and Real Madrid. Next ate the Ya-Ya's followed by the LA Lakers and Orlando Magic. Just another example for those who think everything still happens only in the US. 2. This guy wiht the long name was better known during WW! as the Red Baron. Snoopy cares, if you don't.

The End:
Too many people look at companies producing good earnings as evil, conspiratorial, faceless forces against the masses. And Hollywood and the media in general love to propagate the myth.

Eeyore.

Today's Tids Isssue #2,345
Opening Stuff:

It is not hard to imagine our favorite gloomy gray old donkey standing by himself in a thirsty little corner of America, looking out, his front feet well apart, his head to one side listening to the nightly news. He would think to himself, "Why?" And sometimes, "Wherefore?" And most other times "Inasmuch as which?" And then sometimes he wouldn't quite know what he was thinking about. Paraphrase W the P.

I think that Jan Brewer, Arizona Gov, made the right call in vetoing the birther and guns for college kids bills. If you want to make progress on the big important stuff, and I believe outlaw crossings at the boarder is big stuff, then you have be really, really intelligent when dealing with the small stuff to build credibility. There's a tendency on both sides of the political spectrum to over wield assumed power. It is neither good overall for the people nor the aims of an ideology.

Lost in the hodge-podge of fairly irrelevant news this week is the fact that today Is Holy or "Spy" Wednesday. This is the day that Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of gold. Since the main stream media is focusing a lot of energy on nothing, I thought I'd report it.

Gold hit $1,503.30 this morning.

Eeyore would have been a perfect Red Sox fan.

There's only 248 shopping days left til Christmas.

The Question:
What are America's five most stressful jobs in 2011?

The Headlines:

--Markets Expected To Rebound.
--Italy Sending Instructors To Libya; Other NATO Trying To Fidn Ways To Get Around Humanitarian Limitation Clause.
--Blago Chicago Redo A Go.
--New HC Plans Say No Cuts In Medicare Advantage; Coming Election Moderates Stupidity.
--AT&T Subscriber Growth Slows As IPhone Becomes Available At Other Phone Companies.
--3 Days Of Court Ordered NFL Talks Shows Little Progress; 2011 Sched released -- Pats Have Mostly 4:15 and Night Games.

Back to More Stuff:
Repubs vs. 0-Man Department:
The people of America aren't confused because of a lack of an ability to think, they are generally confused because of an irresponsible, overwrought media. Nothing is plainer than their current rabid fascination with Trump and Trumpisms. But once again our guardians of the truth are reporting far beyond reality. The newest Washington Post/ABC News Poll (April17) indicates trouble for "Prime Time" on several fronts. In a match-up against Romney for instance, the incumbent would win 49% to 46%. Not much considering that Mitt has yet to start campaigning., "O" would only beat the Huckster 50-44 and Trump 52-40.

Oh, the media keeps touting the poll that shows Trump leading all Repubs with 26% of the vote versus Huck 17% and Romney 15%. This is a "PPP" Poll which has been known to be biased in favor of Democrats. The Repubs are confused enough without prejudicial polling. Stay calm.

When you pour steaming water down a rabbit hole you get a hot cross bunny.

Frankly, you can't find better cakes than the one's you can get at BJ's. And for great money too. Next time check out the "Caramel Dark Chocolate." Call ambulance service before eating.

Almost Near: Chapter 16 continues. --"You don't seem to know much about your parents, do you?" Samantha didn't speak. "What kind of man was your father?"
Samantha remained silent. What lie can I tell now. "Why do you ask?"
"When a man just disappears from view, it raises questions." Samantha smiled in agreement. "Have you ever been in Dalesford before?" Samantha tensed. Where was he going? Of course not, she thought to herself. Why is he asking?
"Have you ever seen me here?"
"I thought you looked familiar when I met you."
"Wasn't there a picture of me in the house?"
He put his hand to his chin and stroked it. "Perhaps." Then he leaned forward, his first show of emotion. "I thought maybe you could help me out with what I knew, but now you're triggering some new questions."
Samantha felt a small clutch of fear in her chest. Coming here was a mistake. She started to rise, put out her hand to say thanks for your time. He didn't budge. Didn't react.
"Where in town are you stayin'?
"I was going to start back East after this," she said firmly.
"Maybe you could stay another day. I'll find a room for you at the Shoo-Fly Inn. Good food."
"I really had to get going, but I guess another few hours tomorrow wouldn't hurt." With that a more animated Sparrow rose and shook her hand.
"Thanks". Samantha decided to call Dante.

Bugs Bunny is a rabbit with fleas.

FaceBook is now an official American company. This week they began an aggressive push to develop a string of Washington lobbyists. Watch out for your privacy.

The Answer:
I think this is an odd mix. Let's just say that it doesn't include Public Union employees. #1 is Commercial Airline Pilots. Next are Public Relations Executives, Senior Corporate Execs, Photo Journalists and Newscasters. Pervasive technology is one reason why stress is increasing in areas like news casting -- they have to be plugged in 24/7 or a YouTuber gets the scoop. Same for Photo Journalists. It is tough to hide in the new world

The End:
Sarah Palin has been very silent lately. The calm before the Presidential storm?

"It's snowing still," said Eeyore gloomily. "And it is awfully cold for April." However," Eeyore brightened, "The country didn't go bankrupt today."

Gourmand gulag?

Today's Tids Issue #2,344
Opening Stuff:

In response to the lowering of the USA rating by Standard & Poors, the official White House response was "No problem.". Some are saying, "Yeah but, S&P is the gang that said risky housing bonds were ok." But other experts who agree with that characterization say, "Right and S&P missed it again...they should have made this correction months ago." That this problem is quite out of control and a bigger spotlight must be shown upon it. That a notification by S&P, regardless of how they may have behaved during the national housing fraud, is necessary to separate a serious issue from politics. To take it away from the spinners.

Yo Michelle! I ate at IHop today, and it was delicious.

Families who birth goats together stay together.

The Question:
573,484 Fords have been sold in 2011. How many Rolls-Royce, Bentley's and Maserati's have been sold? What are the four biggest sellers after Ford?

The Headlines:

--NC Cleanup Massive And Expensive.
--Stocks Edging Higher.
--New Syrian Protests Demand Assad Ouster; Observers See Protests As Conservative Muslims Seeing Opportunity To Take Over Another Middle East Country.
--Looking For Excitement, GOP Insiders May be Succumbing To Outrageous Trump; Sarah Buzz Down To Whisper; Mainstreamers Can't Get Heard.
--Japan Begins Pumping Radioactive Water Into Storage Tanks.
--Libya Bars Entry Of Foreign Troops With Humanitarian Aid.
--Market futures Up On Goldman Earnings Report; Goldman Down 72% From Year Ago; Go Figure.

Back to More Stuff:
After watching these awful storms in the South, I'm wondering if weather forecasters will top actuaries as the Insurance company go-to guys? Or will the actuary have to go to Weather Channel School?

I remember a year or so ago standing by a small ocean inlet watching a guy paddle back and forth over icy waters standing upright on a board. I thought it looked deadly dull and uninspiring. That was then and now I realize I was watching the germination of a hot new trend -- "Paddle Boarding". Which just continues to prove that you can sell Americans just about anything. (Note: these boards go for $700-$1300. And that doens't include a very expensive paddle. I don't understand.)

We used to have debtor's prisons. Is the next trend rounding up over-eaters and fencing them in with broccoli patches?

Almost Near: Chapter 16 continues. --"I can't tell you much about this case because there is very little to tell" Sparrow paused and his eyes lowered, "Your Mom's unfortunate death appeared to be a legitimate suicide. Neighbors confirmed that she always looked distressed. They weren't surprised."
Samantha wondered if her mother was distressed when they all lived in New Castle. It was hard to talk to Sparrow not knowing anything, she thought. He didn't appear to be the type of guy who was going to volunteer much either. She wondered if there was a mystery here where Sparrow knew more than he was saying and was looking at her as a player.
"Of course," he continued, "You would know your mother best."
"I had a good childhood. She must have become distressed after I left."
"Maybe she became distressed because you left." he paused now and his eyes glanced up. "You said you talked and wrote often after you left and then married. You must have sensed something. Why didn't you come back?"
"That's why I'm here. I don't know anything." Detective Sparrow squinted.
Samantha knew one thing, everything she was saying was a lie.

Weirdness When Wisened Wage War Department:
It seems as thought the Libyan forces are getting stronger and the rebels are suffering. As long as the Daffy's boys don't kill civilians, then the UN has tied it's hands.

Everybody is applauding USA Wizardry as Apple leads the world into the fast growing Tablet computing. Only one problem, the chip for tablet computing was developed and is produced by ARM Holdings in Europe. Intel is making a mad dash to catch up to the new consumer trend as PC sales seem destined to become primarily a business market. As consumers gravitate tablet-ward I expect a steady decline in the traditional PC's. Tablets will have to, over time, offer the power and flexibility of PC's, but I believe more and more of that will be accomplished on-line instead of within the guts of the box. It's fun to watch.

I always said "Builders gotta build and developers gotta develop" and that's why we have so much crap marring once beautiful landscapes. This too should trend towards decline -- and I say thank God. Internet sales are rapidly gaining favor even among the oldsters. There is still a need for retail outlets, but duplication which has driven overbuilding will disappear. People still enjoy going into stores, but there has to be more need to sustain the past land corruption. Small malls will cater to services that aren't available on line, but how many tanning parlors, nail polishers or tattoo artists do you need?

Of course, the big question is, Where will people shoplift?

The Answer:
106 Rolls, 385 Bentley's and 567 Maserati's have been sold. i don't have one. The other of the big 5 sales brands are Chevy, Toyota, Honda and Nissan. An interesting point is the decline of the Swedish brands. The Volvo is down to 18,632 while the Saab is 2,937. Personally, I'd buy a Volvo tomorrow.

The End:
You have to figure that anything with white sausage gravy on it is probably going to make you a but sluggish. But I think smiles broaden in direct proportion to muscle slowdown.

BTW, have you ever walked through one of those cute organic veggie markets and seen anybody who looked happy or even healthy. Is gaunt, pasty and dour the new look?

Send me to the gulag.

If the Patriots only knew.

Today's Tids Issue # 2,343

Opening Stuff:

Happy Patriots Day everybody. It is a Massachusetts and Maine holiday of which RI'ers always take advantage. (Wisconsin school kids get the day off) It's the day we remember the route of Paul Revere and the "Shots heard round the world" with the Boston Marathon and a special morning Boston Red Sox game. You know, the day the patriots started laying down their lives to give us the America we used to have.

And...also a very Happy Passover And Beginning of Holy Week.

Irony Department:
I had to laugh when I read the story about the creation of the new Statue of Liberty stamp. If you haven't heard, the artist used as a model a statue in Las Vegas instead of the Grand Lady in NY Harbor. Now instead of "Give me your tired, give me your poor, give me...", it's "Give me your money". How appropriate for our new socialism.

I went to an M&M sale yesterday. It was a blast. The dark chocolates were going like hotcakes.

I'm not sayin' that Chicago Pizza is heavy, but where in New York the mob puts you in cement shoes before dropping you into the east River, in Chi they feed you a pizza and push you off the Michigan Avenue Bridge. "Hey Jimmy, thanks for da piiiiiiii-zzaaaaaaaaaaa." SPLASH!

The Question:
1. Let's play some word games today. What common phrases are represented by the following: 1. TAESDRIVER 2. FLUUE 3. HJOUOMPPS 4. :OSCOPY Bonus: What is Milk's favorite cookie? Double Bonus Super Q Day: The Great Phildelphia Orchestra is featured in the news below. What are the other four of the US Big Five Orchestras?

The Headlines:

--Philadelphia Orchestra Votes To File For Bankruptcy; Action needed To Protect $114 Million Endowment.
--Finland Voters Elect Not To Support Bailouts; "Why Should Finland Bailout European Squanderers?" Voters Ask.
--Southern States Leaning Up After 241 Twisters Ravage Area From Oklahoma To Virginia; 44 Dead.
--Robot Sent Into Japan Reactor Reports High Radiation; Files Complain With Robot Union.
--China Bank Makes Another Anti-Inflation Move Forcing World Markets Down; New Fears InEuropean Debt Crisis Has Euro-Markets Sinking..
--UN/Libya Reach Agreement On Humanitarian Aid.

Back to More Stuff:
The US Customs security has no problem manhandling little girls, but when the question comes up about stopping illegal aliens who they see crossing the boarder, the US Immigration authorities cower like a 5 year old girl being manhandled in an airport.

This just in. In an effort to reduce the cost of insuring the current un/under-insured as part of the debt reduction plan, the White House has issued this new wellness option. For those who can't afford a doctor they will be asked to go to any airport where they well receive a free X-Ray and Breast Exam...and if they mention al-Qaida, a free colonoscopy." I like good thinking.

Speaking of crazy left, I think that "Tingle" did something to Chris Matthews Brain. This former almost reasonable commentator now has gone into that mode of saying anything to change the subject form the facts in the name of opposing the enemy. Foor instance, in a superficial outrage at the Congress investigation into the Muslim community to get better handle on radical Islam, he counters with, "Why aren't they investigating Arab Christians?" Because Chris, Christians are not attacking the USA. It's like asking Honda to recall cars to make it fair for Toyota having to recall cars. If you can't argue the facts make something stupid up.

I never get tired of "Achy Breaky Heart".

The key to beating the system in the US is -- irresponsibility -- plain and simple.. There are probably 100 or so ways to become perfectly irresponsible and find people stumbling over each other to give you money. For some it is a lucrative career with no work or pressure.

Republicans may want to do a little serious reading before getting too excited with the Donald's bashing of Obama and some of his other supposedly harmless populist statements. The real Trump who might be in office says "I 'really' hate abortion but I'm 'really' for pro choice". He wants a single payer national health-care program that is more liberal than ObamaCare. He would put a tarriff on Chinese goods which would increase US consumer prices by 25%. He has talked about confiscating fifteen percent of the wealth of millionaires (The top 250,000 American families.) for one year to pay down the debt. Hey, he may be the kind of new blood guy we need for President. Who really knows? But, the libs will ridicule him on birthing and the Conservatives will kill him on the above. So basically we have a nother Repub candidate with attack-able liabilities. besides, I hate his TV show.

Every Repub candidate has something that the opposition can morph into a monster. But no candidate, when you think about it, had more hanging off him than 0-Man, and he came in like the Messiah. Of course the difference is that the media will overlook O's stuff but will focus on the most minuscule defect in a GOP candidate. Personally, I think Romney is the kind of President we need. At least, that's the way I think this morning, 8:10, 4/17/2011.

Separated At Birth:
Princess to be Kate Middleton and Demi Moore? Jennifer Lopez? Julianna Margulies? Jessica Russell? Actually, there are so many available pictures of her in so many moods and makeovers that at any given times she could be the twin of just about anybody.

Almost Near: Chapter 16 Continues: --Samantha told her tale of having not seen her parents in over 15 years, and that when she finally did track them down, she learned that her Dad had disappeared and that her mother tragically ended her life. Samantha told this knowing that she didn't know anything about her parents even what they looked like. Could she be saying more to this Detective than she should?
Detective Sparrow was emotionless, considering very word that Samantha spoke. Never interrupting. He smiled when she had finished. "So, Samantha, that is a sad story. Why did you run away in the first place?"
She sat stunned. This was the obvious key question she thought. She didn't expect it so quickly. And for which she had no answer. She thought she might get more hints to help guide her with her questions. "It was a boyfriend thing."
"You haven't seen your parents for 17 years because of a boy friend?" His tone was obvious.
"I wrote my mom a lot and we talked on the phone." Did we, I, she thought. "It was very tough on me."
"I'm sure." He didn't sound convinced.
"I read about my Mom, and I'm here now to find my dad. You must have some opinions?" Judging from what she had heard about his questioning, she was sure that he did.

Is Miley Cyrus turning into just one more spoiled former child sensation. She is skipping the US in her new tour because she just "Doesn't feel the love." Skipping will help. Sure.

I know I have said this before, but I have yet to see anybody with one of these sensational TV make overs look better than they did in the "Before" photo. As I always say, be who you are because the beauty is in the heart and comes out through the eyes.

"The Children are Alright" is an over the top poorly done promo for gay marriage. And that's about it.

And, it has been announced that the only way to save the DMV is to turn it over to Netflix, a company that knows how to get things done and keep customers very happy.

The Answer:
1. How much fun was that! In case you missed them the answers are: 1. Back Seat Driver 2. Bad Spell of Flu 3. Jump Through Hoops 4. Colonoscopy. Bonus: Why, it's the wonderful Oreo. What else could it be? Super Bonus 2: The rest are the Chicago, Boston, New York and Cleveland.

The End:
The loonies up at that the California State House are about to pass a law that mandates teaching Gay History in schools! Gay history? How about religious history, which in fact happens to be the history of the formation the United States and the genesis for all of the ideas that are the underpinnings of the greatest society perhaps in all of history. That is, until California.

Now we seeum.

Today's Tids Issue #2,342
Opening Stuff:

That horrendous video of a TSA Agent pawing the 6 year old is just more proof that our wonderful, sane, free society is disappearing right before our eyes.

Feeling Spring Department:
Let me not to the marriage of true minds / Admit impediments. Love is not love / Which alters when alteration finds, / Or bends with the remover to remover: / O not it is an ever fixed mark / That looks on tempests and is never shaken; / It is the star to every wandering bark, / Whose worth's unknown, although his height be taken. / Love's not Times fool, though rosy lips and cheeks / Within his bending sickle's compass come: / Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks, / But bears it out even to the edge of doom. / If this be error upon me proved, / I never writ, not no man ever loved. --Sonnet 116
Shakespeare -- "Of Love."

If you don't understand the above, remember it is by Shakespeare. But it is about the enduring beauty of true love and what true love means. If you want an analysis and paraphrase, check out:
http://www.shakespeare-online.com/sonnets/116.html"

Well, enough of this intellectual stuff, let's get back to the real Tids.

Snacks can be dangerous to your health. Why just yesterday I was carrying a pile of Cheetos bags of the stairs to my house, one fell, I tripped and nearly broke my leg. In case you are interested, I'm resting comfortably with a bag of Cheetos in my lap. All is well except my bandages are turning orange.

This UN involvement in Libya is turning into what many thought it might become. Confusion. Every day the rebels ask the UN or US to step it up. The rebs think that these avowed neutralists in the name of humanity are their proactive allies. Is it possible to be half way in a war? Viet Nam escalated from a couple of military advisers.

The Question:
Give me five funny quotes from Yogi Berra.

The Headlines:

--New Congress Picks Up Pieces Left By Old Congress And Passes At Last 2011 Budget.
--Daffy's Daughter Stands Before Cheering Crowds Saying The Bombs Didn't Get Us In 1986, And They Won't Get Us Now.
--Severe Storms Attack Oklahoma; 6 Killed.
--Democrat Liberals Mounting A Primary Challenge To Obama.
Google Miss Has Tech Stocks Faltering; S&P Ok.
--Boston Bruins Clawless In Opener.

Back to More Stuff:

How many times have you seen some big time pol or cabinet member stand before a microphone saying. "We are going to work 24/7 until this problem is solved." And then you never see what happened, if anything.

Let's face it folks, for the short term of maybe 30 or more years or so, we are not going to get off the need for oil. Ideology screws with the facts.

I'm not a "Reply to All" kind of guy.

A good old friend of mine particularly adept at reciting the Shakespeare Sonnet on love has told me that for a $100 donation to his favorite charity he would be available to recite at your home over a candlelit dinner for two. The good news is that he is mainly deaf and wouldn't hear those romantic whisperings. He would just stand there pleasantly with a big grin on his face as honey laced words dripped from his lips.

There have always been creeps, assholes and truly evil people in this world, but now with Internet technology we seeum...over and over and over and over again.

The way I see it, Hersey's is beginning to kick some butt. They know how to make chocolate as well as anybody in the world and I get the feeling they have had it with the precious, culturally smug foreign and US brands which have been getting all of the warmth from the foodie critics. Their new dark chocolate pieces are amazing and they continue to do wonderful things with their Reese's franchise.

Can you say Renteria, Drew? Department:
The Red Sox' Theo Epstein got sucked in once again to another career year player. This time it is Marco Scutero. a nice guy, a whiz-bang in 2009 but it was over at the signing. Lot's of people aren't surprised. Jed Lowery should be playing -- Better hitter. Better fielder. Better future.

American Idol: Hooray! Finally a man gets the boot. Paul had talent, for sure (I think they all are entertaining this year). But I did get a bit dizzy watching him hop around. Was that Casey-Haley duet last night great! Or what! As good as James has been, I believe the steadiest, strongest votes are going to Scotty. Just a hunch. A good reader and huge AI fan sent along this handy site that let's you get a good feel about how the phone votes are going. http://www.dialidol.com/asp/predictions/predictions.asp I have a feeling, the teenies are texting like crazy and is a reason we are losing so many women.

Almost Near Chapter 16. --Samantha looked down at the card and the name Detective John Sparrow as she sat in the parking lot next to the a small police station, but was thinking about Dante. Dante sounded nice on the phone she thought. Maybe I'll go back up there when I'm finished here.
She hopped out of the car and into the station. She didn't smile or act coy as she approached the desk. "Is Detcetive Sparrow In?"
"Who may I say is callin' on the detective.?"
"Tell him it is the daughter of Jeremy and Lois Wilcox." The sargeant looked up sharply.
"Hang on." he got up and ran down a short hall and turned into an office at the end. Within seconds a burly looking guy was trailing the Sargent back out front.
"Miss, Mrs. Wilcox, I'm Detective Sparrow. Why don't we go back to my office."
"It's Miss, Miss Samantha Wilcox." How should I know, thought Samantha.

Yesterday I asked the Q "Name Sidney Lumet's Wives" but forgot to give you the answer. Here they are -- First was the intriguing Rita Gam heartthrob of fifties teen boys. Next came The Gloria Vanderbilt (Anderson Cooper's step dad?), Lena Horn's daughter Gail Jones and finally til his death Mary Gimbel.

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--One potentially great movie snuck into the theaters this Friday. And sneak in it did... because I'm thinking Liberal Hollywood shrugged with the thought of putting its weight behind Conservative/Libertarian favorite "Atlas Shrugged". This Ayn Rand classic - Over 7 million books sold -- is a low budget effort from a man who has been fighting to tell this story on film for years. This first in a trilogy adheres faithfully to the first third of the book. I'll be putting it on my list.
--Scream 4 is just what you think it is. This one is so cliched that looks more like a comedy than a slasher horror film. Don't open this door.
--Rio is the big promo, big budget animated film of the week. It's really all about the rain forest and those horrible people who disturb the animals and in this case parrots et. al. The story centers around the love tale of a domesticated man macaw and a female Macaw in the wild. And for visual, musical thrills, the big Rio carnival is a centerpiece.
--the Conspirator is a Robert Redford film about the assassination of Abe and the woman Mary Surratt the boarding house owner who's son was accused of aiding Booth. It's about Mary and her lawyer who become the twosome for Americans to hate in the aftermath of the assassination. "Someone must pay", said Secretary of War Edwin Stanton, and Mary becomes that person. It should be moving, but it falls flat with too much understated photography and a poorly written script. Civil War buffs may want to see it.

The Answer:
Yogi had em'! "It's Deja vu all over again." Nobody goes there anymore because it's too crowded." "You can observe a lot just by watching." "If you don't know where you are going, you might end up some place else." And of course one so fitting for today -- "The future ain't what it usd to be." And of course, "When you come to a fork in the road, take it." Want some more...go to http://listverse.com/2011/04/13/25-funny-quotes-of-yogi-berra/

The (Week) End:
The rest of you should be pleased with what happened in Rhode Island two days ago. The citizens of the state from every possible discipline marched to the state house where they got the Legislature to flush down the toilet the Governors rampant tax proposal. A total victory for the folks. All folks! And in response, Governor 37% Chafee-Lite said, "I understand that I will have to work with the legislature to revised my plan. It will only take a couple of comma and/or colon changes and we'll be on the same page."! It's dead and buried Gov. God help us.

This situation is exactly what happens when the Governor is elected primarily because of the support of the Public Employee Unions. These puppets look to raising taxes as the solution to the overspending of the past, instead of making the corrections to spending habits.

I think I'd rather try to wade through a couple of more Shakespeare sonnets than churn my stomach with politics. I can't take it any more!

Have a headache free weekend everybody!

From A Hodge-Podge Mind.

Today's Tids Issue #2,340
Opening Stuff:


If MLB comes to me and asks me to start a new team, I'm starting with Dustin Pedroia.

A new report shows that support for Obamacare (Or Lolla-Pelosi as I call it) has fallen to an all time low of 35%. No wonder. The public is finally getting the real facts about this monster passed in rather surreptitious fashion. It made me laugh during the recent budget debate when The jetsetting Nancy herself (Who had said "We have to pass the Health care Bill so you can find out what's in it") commented pompously, "We have to start acting like adults." What a crock.

A reader observed: "If it were not for all of the realities of today, we would have no humor."

Saving your pennies is centsible.

The Question:
Hollywood/NYC Director Sidney Lumet just died. Name his five top movies.

The Headlines:

--Stocks Edge Up.
--March Retail Sales Up Modestly; Auto Sales Plunge; Higher Gas Prices Stretching Consumer Budgets.
--Mubarek And Sons Detained For Investigation.
--0-Man To Unveil Budget Plan; Prez May Be Boxed In By Growing Appreciation Of GOP Spending Cut Initiatives.
--Oil Prices Rebound Slightly After Two Day Drop Of Over $6.00; There Are Signs Of Reduced Gas Purchases.
--Trinidad Scorpion Butch T Passes Naga Viper To Become Worlds Hottest Chili Pepper.
--Outside Consultant Report Issues Stark Warning About State Pension Gap; Legislature Orders More Sand To Cover Heads.
--Libyan Rebels Want More From The US.
--US Fast Food Companies Counting On India For Growth.
--$200 Million+ Payroll 2-9 Red Sox Now Officially Worst Team In Baseball.

Back to More Stuff:
I just received a phone call from a woman who said she loved my ketchup. That's always good to hear.

Here's a potentially disastrous use of a word that seems correct. You could say your "Wizened elder" or you could say your "wisened elder". Wizened elder would mean withered, wrinkled, shrunken old man. While wisened would mean probably nothing because it isn't a real word. But I would take poetic license and use it anyway to describe a sensible, learned man with experience.

You have to wonder why the President would embrace, as he did last week, a congenital liar and race-baiter like Al Sharpton? Any clues?

Actually, I was watching that clip from yesterday where an arrogant, insufferable appearing Obama dissed a man in the audience first because he complained about high gas prices and needed a van for his ten kids. And then he belittled his having ten kids. 0-Man came across as a typical liberal who knows what's good for you more than you do. As a condescending elitist who abides the masses for political purposes, and not much more.

Personally I love Royal Weddings, but this interminable countdown is starting to annoy me.

There has been a new report saying that sand is eroding at an increasing rate from RI beaches. However a new investigation hints that the culprit is a State Legislature that has been important truckloads of sand to the Statehouse in which to bury their heads. "It will go away if we close our eyes and click our heels three times." says one worried lawmaker.

Feeling Older Department:
Leave it to Beaver's Tony Dow turned 65 today.

Almost Near: Chapter 15 continues. --"That was pretty startling to me," Detective Jackson commented. "But because he was a juvie, there is a lot more hearsay than details and facts."
Tucker nodded in a musing sort of way and changed the subject. "I have located some Quimpierres in Louisiana, but I'm finding it hard to make contact with one called Florence who may be significant." Tucker paused as if he was trying to put Monty's new pieces into his puzzle. "But, I have found that the woman discontinued her phone about the time of the disappearances."
Monty interrupted Tucker's random thoughts as each of the men tried to steer the conversation towards their own views. "Did this Samantha person you say is Rudy Quimpierre's wife look like she was running away from something. That someone was hunting her?"
"Not at all. Infact she was very contented in her new self...until she began to discover that this past she loved so much started to fall apart. In this case, I know why she disappeared. And I don't blame her. But, I would guess that she probably now feels she doesn't know who she is, and may be starting to look for that real person. Inside, she is still that person I loved 18 years ago. And that was a very strong person."
"A person who for no apparent reason also ran away from you 18 years ago." Monty peered at Tucker and waited for an answer he knew wasn't there.

The Answer:
Lumet, a Philadelphian, chose to live in NYC as opposed to LA. His first big movie was 12 Angry Men. 18 years later he became a legend with Dog day Afternoon. And the Network. Other bigs were Serpico, the Pawnbroker, Murder on the Orient Express, Long Day's Journey Into Night, The Prince of the City, The Morning After, The Fugitive Kind, Fail-Safe, The Hill, The Anderson Tapes and many others.

The End:
I'm beginning to think that these days you can make up any word you want or redefine existing words to you needs and eventually some almighty being at a dictionary company will deem them acceptable under common usage laws.

So, does that mean that all of those typos of mine...aren't?

Children would do better than the kind of adults we have in Congress.

Stan Modic: A perfect Friend.

Today's Tids Issue 2,339
Opening Stuff:

One of the great contributors to the Business Press and US Manufacturing in general passed away yesterday morning at 9:27 AM. His name was Stan Modic. Most Americans have surely never heard of him and the nightly news media probably won't do a piece about him. But they should. He was all about America's greatness, and the leading people in American manufacturing industries, from Ford to Fred's Machine Shop, read him religiously. He didn't take kindly to the stupid, the lazy and the self satisfied. Inefficiency, complacency and waste. He warned of China years before warning about China became chic. He urged technical and cultural change within companies so they could meet a changing future. He was a no nonsense editor who gained the profound trust of all his readers. He was a tough Editor-in-Chief, but those demands, high standards and inspiration drove each editor who worked for him to achieve their own greatness. And best of all, Stan was a good guy. A true friend. Even when he was scowling.

The government keeps on telling us there is no inflation. Yet people are throwing up at the checkout when seeing grocery bills, and many are getting to a point where they can't afford the gas to get to work. And to make matters worse, Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary in her White House garden is promoting organic veggies which are several times more expensive than regular produce. You can't have as a national domestic policy "Wish Upon a Star" and you certainly can't have a KumBaya foreign policy.

The Questions:
While the vast majority of Americans drive Fords, Chevy's, Carollas and F-150 pick-ups, they all have aspirations of someday owning the very best. In a new JD Powers survey, Americans picked what they view as the best. Name the top five.

The Headlines:

--Stan Modic, 74, Dies Peacefully With Family At Home.
--No Surprise: San Frans 9th Circuit Court Of Appeals Says Nay To The Arizona Law That Would Make It Easier To Catch Lawbreakers Sneakiing Into US; Next Step Supreme Court.--Lower Than Expected Alcoa Revenues Have Stock Futures Lower.
--White House Warns Of Debt Armageddon If US Debt Limit Isn't Raised; Prez Says His Senate Vote Against Similar Bush Request Was Ideological.
--Japan Ups Nuke Crisis Severity To Match Chernobyl.
--Obama Budget Proposal Favors Tax Increases Over Getting To Crux Of Problem With Spending Cuts.
--FBI Releases Lgendary Hottel Memo That Says Aliens Landed In New Mexico,

Back To More Stuff:
In truth, everybody somewhere in their inner self understands the importance and value of advertising. Yet few dare to admit it.

One of the good readers of this daily hodge-podge had in his youth been a speech writer for the Senator and Presidential candidate Hubert Humphrey. He tells me that the Veep was a great guy, and probably would have been considered a moderate today even though he was described in the 40's and 50's as an "Anti-communist Liberal" and a "Leading Progressive.". In fact, when he became VP, his liberal followers felt let down by their trusty Happy Warrior who among other things had paved the way for Civil Rights more than any other man. In fact, humorist Tom Leher wrote a ditty, "Whatever happened to Hubert? Has anyone heard a thing? Once he shone on his own and now he sits at home and waits for the phone to ring. Once a fiery Liberal spirit, but now when he speaks he must clear it..." It was more a derision of the vacuum of the office rather than the character of the man.

Actually, when you think about the vacuous VP Office is perfect for Joe Biden.


I got several good tips from my mention of the "i before e" rule yesterday. One great reader gave us this list of exceptions to "i before e" which don't necessarily conform to "as in neighbor or weigh" addendum: Beige, Feint, Feisty, Foreign, Forfeit, Heifer, Height, Heir, Heist, Reign, Rein, Seismometer, Their, Vein.

No matter what you achieve in your lifetime, there comes that time when you will accomplish the most that a human can accomplish, a void in someone's lives.

The big scary statistic for the week seems to be a new discovery that says people who sit at there desk all day at work are more apt to have heart attacks. I can see it now. People suing not to sit at desks.

No wonder the celebs are so eager to support liberal causes giving away government money. So many of them "forget" to pay taxes. The latest are the Osbournes are the latest owing $1.7 Million in back taxes. No steak, no sweat.

There is no truth to the rumor that in order to increase the take on income taxes, Harry Reid is proposing a law that would ban tax accountants. Not true...although you have to believe that somebody like Maxine Waters may have thought of it.

Have you noticed how state legislatures are rushing to make laws that would enable easier access to marijuana. And that at the same time are creating intimidating dictates that would basically criminalize drinking a can of soda pop.

Almost Near: Chapter 15 continues.  --"Here's what I know." Monty then proceeded to tell Tucker about his interveiws with neighbors who said for the most part the Quimpierres seemed quite normal, like other families on the block. "But, many neighbors said that the children didn't look happy. In fact some of them said the kids at times appeared scared. And Martha, or whatever her name is, lost some of that upbeat enthusiasm she always had at the beginning of the marriage."
Tucker stopped writing and looked up. "Tell me about Rudy."
"Ah, now Rudy is an interesting player in this drama. If there is a drama?" He smiled a Tucker. "Rudy was a loner for the most part. He had a decent job in his father's salvage business. His father was a well known bastard, the kind of crusty geezer who scared kids and pit bulls equally. And I have the feeling he was hard on Rudy. But, it is Rudy's early teen years that are most revealing. While there aren't any records for that underage kid, I personally remember that he was the subject of school investigations into alleged sexual advances towards young girls in his class. More than one," Monty added as he clenched his teeth.
Tucker dropped the pencil on the desk front.

Probably the toughest little springtime chore is trying to scrape off the old Newport parking sticker to replace with new one.

For those who frequently eat out, keeping one's waistline and clogged arteries under control is a considerable challenge. But there are a few simple tips that may help. Most have to do with igredients and preparation. A Cobbs salad with mayonnaise dressing will kill, while a switch to a balsamic based dressing dramatically reduces bad stuff. Always looked for grilled meats and avoid fried. Go for a bowl of fruit instead of tiramisu. And then there's gravy. Hmmmm. Hey, eating out should be fun. Forget what I said.

The Answer: 
Volkswagon topped the list of cars that Americans thing are the best! next was Audi followed Acura, BMW and Lexus. For your information, last year Porsche was the dream car.

The End:
Today, I'm going out to take some new pictures for my todaystids.blogspot.com site. The pictures up there now are of what maybe some of the most historic places in the US. And, they are all in Newport RI -- The first Quaker Meeting House, the home where the Great French General Rochambeau lived for two years prior to the successful surrender at Yorktown, the church the man himself George Washington worshiped on trips here and where Queen Elizabeth came to proclaim one of her Episcople favorites, the sun over the Newport Harbor that grew rich from the "Triangular Trade".

Stan Modic may have been the Godfather of this Tid's daily view of the world and the people in it. He was the ultimate curmudgeon, and I try to emulate him every day.

(Ed Note: The continuation of the premiere Internet serial novel wll be published in later additions of the Tids)

The Easy Way Out Country.

Today's Tids 4/11 (#2,338)
Opening Stuff

Saturday and, in particular, Sunday was the kind of TV days that keeps you thin. With no comercials and with more great shot making every five or so seconds, you dare not run to the kitchen for Cheetos. What a great Masters. With five or six good guys you could root for all showing superb guts under pressuring, really pressuring, circumstances. And maybe most revealing was Tiger making a charge and the others not folding as they may have in the past. McElroy looked cool until... But he will be back. The Masters is always great to me, but this one was one of the very best in many years.

Raising taxes is no more the solution to a governmental economic disaster than raising prices by an embattled sales manager is a solution to flagging sales. Few really attack problems any more. They just mask them.

When I feel the need for lilting travel within my imagination to wonderful places where nobody has ever been, I put on R. Strauss's Eine Alpensifone, close my eyes and drift into surreal serenity. Have I told you that before? Well...if I did, it must be true.

Anybody out there who momentarily thinks that the U.S. of A. has any chance of regrasping its former world stature and inspiring greatness, I have one word for you -- Snooki!

There are few certainties in life, but here's one you can take to the bank. I will never visit, or even be tempted to visit, the just dedicated "Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate".

The Question: 
 What do Hugh Hefner, Dennis Quaid, Sevie Ballestaros, Cynthia Nixon and Keshia Knight Pulliam have in common? Q2: Who said, "You can't produce a baby in nine months by getting 9 women poignant."?

The Headlines:
--New 7+ Quake rattles The Spirits Of A Fighting Japan.
--Steady Earnings Should Raise Stocks.
--Libyan Rebels Protest The Arrival Of African Leaders to Broker Cease Fire; Rebels Say Daffy Out Or Nothing.
--Tablet Sales Expected To Rise from 17.6 Mil in 2010 To 70 Mil In 2011 And 108 Mil In 2012; Apple's 69% Share Should Decline To 47% In 2015 While Google's Droid Will Increase To 39% From A Current 20%
--France Bans Face Covering Islamic Veil.
--Over heated Texas battling Wildfires.
--San Franciscans Worried About Tech Bubble 2.0.

Back to More Stuff:
Providence Mayor Angel Taveras seems to fully understand the importance of, and has an uncanny ability to implement, balance in government. He has the feel of the first Hispanic President.

Some Wall Street analysts say that after a review of the all the facts, that AIG Execs only guilty of stupidity. Say what? If a mechanic did something stupid to a car resulting in death, it would be called gross negligence and he would be in jail. Aren't these guys paid like geniuses? Do too many of them use their genius to manipulate ethics, morality and legality? How about if financial execs who are determined to be "guilty of stupidity" giving back their bonuses for the past four years. Main Street investors should get more than stupidity. What has the Tids always said -- "Clueless Lane".

I don't know about you, but I'd much rather have corn in my food than in my gas.

Oops! The old movie critic department forgot a good movie Friday. Soul Surfer. This is the true story movie starring Helen Hunt, Dennis Quaid, Carrie Underwood and Anna Sophia Robb as Bethany Hamilton. It is about the 15 year old, very religious super Hawaiian surfer who had her arm ripped off by a shark. Through courage and faith Bethany overcomes the loss and becomes a champion again. It is a wonderfully entertaining and inspiring movie that, according to our favorite San Diego observer, is perfect for the entire family.

Serious non-politicized economic analysts viewed Paul Ryan's budget proposal as exactly the kind of measure needed as a "first" step to get the embattled country back out of the jaws of the menacing deficit monsters. And at that, a measure that may seem harsh would still take thirty years to right the ship. before anything can be accomplished however, American must try to figure out once again what it really is and what it wants to be. Is the second coming of America about redistributed wealth to the point that the government becomes the America, or will it be the America of hope, freedom and unlimited opportunity with out the festering shackles of growing socialism. America has become a whining child and the citizens have to become parents who say no.

Almost near: Chapter 15 continues: --Tucker was surprised to meet Monty Jackson. he had expected a Jumbo Jim, but got a Monty Jackson in a crisp tweed sport jacket and very contemporary tie. With, an educated voice. "Nice to meet you Mr. Louttite" he said with a firm handshake.
"My pleasure too, detective." Tucker pulled a chair closer to the desk.
"So, the desk sergeant says you are here about the Quimpierre case. not much of a case, except that it's odd. Maye you have something that can inject substance into it." he sat back figuring that Tucker must have something to offer, or why wold he be here."
"I don't have much, or else I wouldn't be here." Monty smiled. "Let me start at the beginning. I was going to be married to Mrs, Quimpierre about 17 years ago." He went into the story starting with how he had seen her two weeks ago and that it was obvious she had been traumatized and that something grave must have induced it. "I'm no psychologist, but it was easy to see she was not who she was. That something very serious must have occurred to block her memory so thoroughly. In fact, she didn't know who she was. She though she was somebody I had made up. She wasn;t depressed, but actually quite happy witrh herself. Until, I fear that she discovered my writings."
Now that is an odd story. Sounds like a writer made it up". He laughed and Tucker joined him. But this is very interesting, because I too believe something serious happened even though there absolutely no evidence that anything at all happened. The only thing we know is that a family is missing. Your story tells me a lot."

Tom Brady and Albert Poulhos seem to rely on the same driving force to spur on their greatness. Both snubbed in the drafts, they seem to wake up every game day with one goal in mind: Showing the snubbers where to stuff it. But these two "Look at me now" guys seem to be divergent in how they spend their money. Poulhos and his Family Foundation are intensely involved in helping the have-nots like handicapped children and the extreme poor in depressed third world countries. As far as I can see, Brady seems to living in the make believe world of Hollywood Let's hope he is doing something else.

0-Man, the ultimate politician, has already announced the start of his new campaign. So I have to feel that anything he says from now till voting day will be designed to contribute to a victory and not necessarily to the betterment of the country. He is already entering the gutless phase of his presidency just as Congress did last September when they punted on the budget vote.

The Answer:
The celebs Hefner, Nixon, Pullium, Quaid and Ballestaros all have the same birthday. I know, dumb Q. Q2: These word were uttered by Warren Buffet when trying to emphasize that there few shortcuts to financial success. At least honest ones.

The End:
If Congress only had the guts of Schwartzel, Scott, Day, Ogilvy or Donald think about how easy it might be to get out from under the cloud that is smothering America.

I see a lot of publicity lately about academics re-investigating slavery. What they should be spending time with is a system of welfare that further binds many descendents of slaves to the new plantation owners -- Congress and their supporters.

A country of hope and freedom and unfettered opportunity must rely on the successful to voluntarily contribute to the needs of the struggling. Or else, socialism will always have an avenue for growth.

And in closing, where does veil fit in to the "i before e, except after c" thing?