We're an open book.

Today's Tids Issue 2,373
Opening Stuff:

Did you see where the Vancouver Police located and arrested most of the post NHL Championship rioters after going into FaceBook and finding people boasting of their participation in destructive vandalism. Why do people have this insane desire to give away their privacy? I really, really don't get it. And I hope I never do.

A reader through exhaustive research has confirmed it. It was the moon. And especially the full eclipse of the moon that lit the path for the Bruins Stanley Cup victory. The last time there was a full eclipse of the moon was in October 2004...when the Red Sox won the World Series for the first time in 86 years. Ooooo-weeee-oooo.


To all of those people who increasingly think their dogs are equal to or better than most humans, remember that rover still drinks out of toilet bowls and licks his...Oh, wait a minute, this is a family column.

The Question: 
Double Bonus. 1. name five oif Barry Manilow's greatest hits. 2. And, here is one for the West Coast readers. There is a group of islands off the Cal coast known as the Channel Islands. How many? Name them.

The Headlines:

--IMF Cuts US Growth Forcast; Warns Washington, Europe To Get Serious About Debt.
--Greek Crisis eases After Gov. Reshuffle.
--Wall Street Rising On Better Greek News.
--Rory McElroy Tearing Up Open; Young Golfer has 8 Stroke Lead.
--NATO Targets Tripoli; Shells Misrata Area.
--Antony's Lawyers Continue To Work Mirrors.
--New Public Policy Pol Following Debate Has Romney, Bachman 1,2; Rasmussen Pol Has Romney With Wider Lead At 33%.

Back to More Stuff:
That Weiner press conference was an ethereal moment. But maybe the entire Weiner affair is just representative of a new retarded culture in America. Perhaps you read the little news story about the white woman who surprised her soldier husband returning from Afghanistan with a little black baby girl. She told her loving man that "She became pregnant after seeing a very realistic 3D porn movie with a bunch of her girl friends, And, that the baby looked just like the actor in the film". The husband immediately said he understood, adding that they really make those 3D movies realistic! Maybe we should sue the theater", he said. The wife would make a great politician.

Maybe you've seen in your newspaper the PolitiFact Truth-O-Meter. This is a service that tries to determine the truth of (mainly) politician statements. One examination of a Political person's statement about The Government banning incandescent light bulbs determined that the Pol lied. PF said that the Government has not banned incandescent bulbs. So, the politician was a "Liar liar pants on fire" dissembler. Of course they said that a law has been passed that ceases the manufacturer of incandescents on a step down program from 2013 to 2016. In other words, we ain't banning them but try to buy one! And the hypocrisy continues.

Of course, nobody is talking about the immense pressures on the production of rare earth metals, which are not only integral to smart phones, hard drives, TV Screens and aircraft parts, but which will also be incorporated into every Light Bulb produced as the non-banned incandescent ceases to be available. China currently produces 97% of the rare earths, but the US is trying to catch up fast. The real problem is that the costs of these rare earths is expected to skyrocket ,and so will the price of your light bulb and favorite electronic device. Just when you think it is safe to buy corn again, rare earths bring new pressure to daily life.

Actually, I love dogs. I just worry about their owners who seem to have lost their grasp on reality. Did you hear that NYC has to pass a law forbidding humans from depositing their ashes in pet cemeteries?

Weiner was a little worm way before he proved it. I think, though, that I now know why he became what he became both as a pervert and an annoying congressman. His roll model was Charles Schumer! He didn't stand a chance.

Does anybody in the US really care about Libya? Except Libyan immigrants.

Reading between the Lines Movie reviews:
--This exciting Sci-fi tale follows Hal Jordan, a member of the elite Protection force known as the Green Lanterns, as he discovers the true value of his power and more importantly the meaning of them.It is about a threat froma powerful foe and the balance of power in the universe.
--If Jim Carey doesn't over-emote, Mr. Popper's Penguins could be a great family movies. A hard drivign real estate salesman gets an inheritance of 6 penguins which consume his life and change his veiw of the world.

1The Answer: 1. For all of you elevator riders, the big five for Manilow are Mandy, Copacabana, Somewhere Down the road, Can't Smile Without You, Could it be Magic and Looks Like We Made It. You probably know that Barry started as an Ad Jingle Writer and early efforts includes the Band-Aid song and the State Farm theme "Like a Good Neighbor". 2. There are 8 Channel Islands off eh coast from Santa Barbara to San Diego. They are Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, San Miquel, Anacapa, Santa Cat5alina, Santa Nikolas, Santa Clemente and Santa Rosa. Enjoy the sun.

The (Weak)End:
In case you missed it, Weiner's apology was the first campaign speech of his comeback. Snake.

A very sincere apology to the people hwo actually read and love Almost Near. It will return next week, as will my mind for the rest fo you.

Have a great weekend.

And a Happy Father's day! Everybody is a kid.

Hypocrisy Rising.

Today's Tids 6/16 Issue 2,372

Opening Stuff.

How 'bout them Bruins! This has always been a Hockey First area, and now we have a our champions back. Personally, I think it was last nights beautiful moon that got them over the hump.

The US Open teeing off today looks like a good one! They have put together some great threesomes which will excite with mini battels within the big picture: Donald, Westwood, Kaymer; McElroy, Dustin Johnson, Mickelson; Watney, Ogiivy, Glover; Watson, Scott, Karlsson; Els, Furyk, Love; McDowell, Oosthuizen, Ulhein (Amateur Champ); Kutcher, Choi, Casey; Rose, Clark, Day; Stricker, Goosen, Toms. Just to name a few. You are going to love this one. i personally am stocking up on Cheetos for a tense final four hours Sunday. I can hardly wait.

Reason #237 Why it is tough to Believe anything the President Says Department:
When the Prez was running in 2008, he made a big part of his pitch decrying the appointments of big campaign donors to Government posts. In denouncing this practice, he took dead aim at Bush. It turns out that in just two years (According to independent analysis -- Center for Public Integrity -- of big donor. "Bundler" appointments), he has made more of these appointments than Bush did in four years. As a candidate 0-Man said, "The Cynics the lobbyists, the special interests who've turned our government into a game only they can afford to play. They get the access while you get to write a letter. It's time for that kind of politics to stop."

The Question:
What are the top ten Audrey Hepburn movies/

The Headlines:

--DOW up.
--Wiener Out; Titillating Twitterer Resigns At raucous Press Conference.
--Al-Zawahri named Bin Ladin Successor.
--Hacker Group Says It brought Down CIA Public Website.
--Boehner Not Buying White House Explanation Of Skirting Congress On Libyan Question.

Nostalgia Department
If there was ever a 1999 moment it was yesterday with the Pandora IPO. How similar to the "irrational exuberance" days of the end of the 20th Century. This company lost $93 Million last year. But, the big traders make lots of dough at the offerings, regardless of value. And then later, the principles cash out and the stock prices drift downward. The initial issue yesterday was 15 Million shares. It's trading volume yesterday was 45 million share. That means the first and biggest insiders bought the 15 Million and then sprinkled them around. They were gobbled up at higher prices and the process was repeated again. The price zoomed up because people wanted a piece of the action. And because big traders can makes tons of dough quickly. But, the company accomplished nothing. And who knows if it ever will. The moral of the story...regular investors should not get on board now, unless they just like to give their money away.

Grilling lobsters might be the best taste treat. Even though I am one of those purists who believes that everything about lobster cooking and eating should be simple. Par boil a couple of lobsters for about 7-8 minutes. Remove from water and cut in half. Expose meat in claw. Place on medium heat grill shell side down. Baste meat with butter and salt and pepper. Cover with aluminum baking dish. Remove several times for basting. Cook about ten minutes. There are other ways of killing and cooking, but this is simpler, and maybe less emotional!

In the latest "Direction America Is Going" polls, CBS Poll says 60% don't like direction, ABC/Wash Post 66% and Rasmussen 64%. This is not giving me a lot of confidence.


How hard is it to figure out that if the Housebuilding Industry a few years ago over built for a market that never really existed, and all of those homes are sitting there with nobody in them, then the chance of the industry bouncing back could be several years away?

The new report says that woman are catching up to men in the lifespan department. Maybe I should say catching down. They say female lifespan averages are declining because women are smoking more. (?) Personally I feel it is becasue the cycle that began with women entering en masse into the business world is entering phase two -- Older age and retirement. The woman lifestyle changed significant beginning in the seventies. Well, that's my story and I'm sticking with it.

One of the great myths is that bigger lobsters aren't as tender as the smaller lobsters.

Of course, hypocrisy in American is primarily the game of the media. The politicians don't understand what the word means.

The Answer:
Surprisingly, Breakfast at Tiffany is number 10. 9 is Sabrina followed by The Nun's Story, Unforgiven, The Charade, My Fair Lady, Funny Face, The Children's Hour, Two for the Road and Wait Until Dark.

I promised a better day for Tids, but I'm thinking I was actually meaning tomorrow.

Americans create jobs!

Today's Tids Issue 2,371

Opening Stuff:

Even when the clouds are gray and the Ocean is a murky, forbidding black, the seaside never loses the exhilaration of the cleansing salt air.

It was nice to read that the two sides in the NFL talks are making progress. That an un-named source says it could be resolved by July 4th! And then I read that first time since these secret negotiations began several weeks ago, they have let the lawyers back in the room. Can you say train wreck.

Deep down in my gut I know the short sellers are coming. I wonder if Paul Revere had a message for them too.

The Question: 
John Beluschi and Dan Ackroid were a great team. Give me some of your favorite Beluschi/Ackroid chaacters as a team and as individuals.

The Headlines:

--Greek Debt Worries Critical; Stocks Drop.
--Syrian Army Moves To take Second Rebel Town.
--China Joins Russia As Ally Against US Missile Shield.
--Ancient Playboy Hefner Dumped At Altar By Hesitant Bunny.
--Pakistan Arrests 5 CIA Informants; Group Provided Info On Bin Laden Hideout.
--Prosecution Ends Case In Anthony trial.

Back to More Stuff:

The good news for Clevelanders is that if Lebron had stayed, he would have probably blown their championship hopes too.

Whoops! The AP reports that the CIA is building a "Secret" base in Yemen. As Doris Day would have sung, "Your secret is no secret any more." There is too much media.

The more the government gets out of the way, the better the chance that bright entrepreneurial Americans will create businesses and bring new jobs to the economy. That is the way it works...Period!

One of the things I have noticed as I recover from my Hospital stint, is that as I attempt to reacquire the golf segment of my life, my weakened swing slows me down and the ball goes farther and straighter.

There are reports out their that the so-called Elite branch of our society is looking for a candidate, and Huntsman is moving to the top of their favorites list.

I've been paying attention to the Casey Anthony trial. And, I have to agree with many experts that the substance of the physical evidence is suspect. But, her outrageous lies tell me she is guilty of something. And I think it is the murder of her child.

The Answer: John Belushi was Captain Ned, Frank Leary, Jake Blues, Jeff Widette, Kevin, Kuldroth, Larry Farber, Lowel Brock, Matt Cooper, Pete, Samarai Futaba and Steve Bushakis. Of course Ackroid joined Belushi as Elwood Blues. He was also Arthur, Beldar Conehead, Bob Widette, Dave Mabel, E.Buzz Miller, George, Irwin Mainway, Jack Neehauser, Jason, Jimmy Joe Red Sky, Leonard Plinth Garnell, Mel, Mike Medoza, Ray, Sheriff Brady, Floyd Hunger, Joe, Joseph Franklin and Yortek Festrunk. I always paid attention when Jake and Elwood started dancin. Loved them.

This... has been one of those days.

The GOP takes Shape?

Today's Tids Issue 2,370

Opening Stuff:

Creativity is generally laudable, but not always acceptable.

I believe that most musical performance concerts are greatly overpriced. But, I might reach deep down into my pockets for a ticket to Lady Antebellum.

In case you didn't notice, the last three American League "Players of the Week" were all Red Sox -- Carl Crawford, David Ortez and Jacoby Elsbury. Eee-Hah

The Question:
Yesterday we focused on the big bands of the 30's/40's. To me the next big era for music in America was the late 60's/early 70's. Name five bands or performers who led the way in the 70's.

The Headlines:
--Bachman, Romney Shine In First Debate; Pretzel Sparkles, Mitt-ster Undaunted; Also, Newt Gets High Marks; Sanctimonious Stumbles Most.
--May Retail Sales Down; First negative Month In 11 Due Mainly To Weak Auto Sales After Japan Quake.
--More Positive Eco-Data Have Stock Futures Up.
--$6 Billion In Iraq Reconstruction Funds Not Accounted For.
--UK Navy Chief Says That If Libya Continues To Drag, Cutback Will be Necessary.
--Outlook For Economic Growth Waning In Europe And Developing Countries; US Remains Strongest.
--Missouri Flood Waters Starting to Overwhelm Levee And Reservoir Systems.
--Dem Leadership Don't Relish Wiener Sticking It Out In Face Of Criticism.

Back to More Stuff:
I think it is kind of funny that 0-Man announced yesterday that Joe Biden will become the face of the committee on Government Waste!

The World I Don't Know Department:
A small police blotter item reported that a man held a machete to a woman's throat urging her to call the police and have the "No Contact" order against him rescinded. Am I missing something about the intelligence of man?

So...is everybody going to rush down to their local newsstand and get a set of Pentagon Papers? Not me.

I see where the airlines made $3.4 billing from Baggage fees. See how leverage works. If i could charge every man woman and child a one time fee of a $1.00/year for the Tids, after one year I would have over $300 Million in the bank. How easy is that. Oh, some of the income may be in the form of Food Stamps, but hey, I like to eat.

The people of Ohio have voted to make next Wednesday National Lebron James Day. All employees in Ohio will be able to leave work 12 minutes early!

The NHL took precedent over the early GOP debate last night. First things first, ya know. But, I did click in a couple of times and each time it was Romney talking...confidently. He seems to be taking head on his negative issues. Some are saying that Michelle Bachman came across as the Happiest Warrier since HHH. Some thought Newt sounded pretty good, but I thought it was just more of the same old Newt. A few analysts are saying that if Mitt continues the way he did last night, the calls for Christie and Perry may subside quickly.

Almost Near: Chapter 25 continues. --Samantha was so happy as she led Tucker into the house. Through the kitchen. She alternated from giggling, carefree, romantic silliness to a woman driven by sexual starvation. Tucker looked tentative. He did feel for Samantha. he as loveed her for years. But this was somebody else. Somebody he was trying to nurture. he felt aroused, but always cautious. He came up to her and began to kiss, but she briskly brushed away his lips, let go of his hand and ran into the living room. She flopped into the big chair, legs splayed, eye's sparkling with adoring love.
"Let's go upstairs," Tucker said warmly.
"Oooh," you're getting much too anxious. She sprang up and wrapped her legs and arms around him and kissed him hard on the lips." He held her, but she wrestled free. Her face frowned, and then lit up just as fast. "Why don't you go into the be room. I'll be there shortly. Do you think you can wait?" She turned and ran off.
Tucker decided to play the game and went upstairs to his room. taking off his shirt as he went. He lay on his bed and waited. Who would come in the door he wondered.
He heard footsteps in the hall. She stood in the door way and looked at him. "Oh, you're home. You should put on a shirt. You'll get cold. I wouldn't want to lose you." She turned. "What do you want for dinner."

I was encouraged by the Dallas NBA win. The ages of their "Big Three" old guys, Nowitzki, Kidd and Terry, add up to 105 years. The Boston Celtics agiing trio of Allen, Pierce and Garnett add up to 102. That means next year they will be 105 and a title not out of the question.

Fodder for your Netflix Queue Department:
In case you are interested, the Top 10 best Romantic Comedy movies for the year are number one Bridesmaids, and then Something Borrowed, Friends with Benefits, Gnomeo and Juliet, Just Go With It, One Day, New Years Eve, Wonderlust, Bad Teacher and Midnight in Paris.

The Answer:
I particularly liked The Who, Cream, Peter Frampton and the Rolling Stones. Other good bands were U2, Aerosmith, Pink Floyd, Three Dog Night, Jefferson Starship, Moody Blues, Led Zeppolin and Janis Joplin. There are over 200 bands and performers who can attach themselves to the heyday of the 70's. You all have your favorites.

Go Bruins.

Maybe I'll get serious about the Republicans after Wednesday night's Stanly Cup win by the Bru-skis. Or, maybe after the All-Star break. Of curse, the there is the potential for an NFL season. Yeah, let's wait til the football season starts.

It's the Global Market stupid!

Today's Tids Issue #2,369
Opening Stuff:


Thoughts about the economy:
--The politicians in Congress and the White House, Dems and Repubs alike, are stumbling over each other trying to come up for a quick fix for an economy that has been ailing since the Clinton economy went down with the bursting of the Internet Bubble. They don't have a clue. --The fact is that the economy has had sluggish, or maybe I should say confusing growth for 11 years as it continues to undergo the paradigm transition from dominant manufacturing to who knows what. It can't be repaired in two months! --To those who promise to bring back manufacturing...it ain't gonna happen. --The truth is that there are lots of US companies doing extremely well. They are doing extremely well though with fewer employees as technology adds layers of efficiency. The most constant growth statistic being productivity improvement. (More value from less people) --GM came back to profitability because of union concessions that lowered wages, benefits and numbers of people. --Some pols who don't know anything are still floating around stimulus packages that would increase government payrolls. That will have no effect on the growth of the economy. It's an economic system that creates no wealth, based on a revenue stream from taxes on future generations.--A historical solution may be a "Peaceful War" harking back to the theory that it was only WWII Gov. spending for defense that got us out of the 30's. Alternative energy is one of those, although in their misguided zeal the ideologues want to forsake current energy capability. --If you go by the "Big Pot Of Money" economic theory, then medical is the biggest potential of all. Everybody gets sick, and consumers don't have to make economic decisions to spend there. --The most dismal of likely prospects is a decline is average wages/salaries and an overall need of fewer people working. --The economic action that has the best chance to work ... spending cuts, spending cuts, spending cuts.

In other words...if some Pol stands up and says he promises to add jobs, gaze into space in puzzlement.

Line of the Week Department:
In his 90th Birthday press conference England's Prince Phillip, always a good wit, told reporters he was reaching his "Sell-By Date."

Like Tiger Department:
When the Wiener gets out of sex treatment, will he lose his drive too? When the Wiener gets out of sex therapy will he change the way he swings?
The Question:
Who was the 1930's "King of Swing". Name four other big tome 30's/40's bands. Name five of the King of Swing's classics.

The Headlines:

--Larry Summers Calls For Tax Cuts On Wages To help Jump-Start Stagnating Economy.
--Markets Open Up.
--Dallas beats Miami And Holy Trinity For NBA Championship.
--GOP Debate Tonight; New Hampshire Faceoff Features, Mitt-ster, Pizzaman, The Pretzel, Sanctimonious, SilentTim And PaulBearer.
--Bruins Face Off For Real; Luongo To Eat Words.
--Book of Norman, War Horse Dominate Tony Awards Last Night; Frances McDormand Beats Our Wonderful Newcomer Nina Arianda For Best Actress In Drama.
--Congress Returns To "Work".
--Syrian Special Troops Retake Rebellious Towns; Yemen Still Confused; Daffy Air Attack Fails To Halt Rebel Movement In Miserate.
--Global Finanical Worries: China Running Towards Hard Landing; EuroZone Storing Up Problems By Not Tackling Debt.
--Powerful Quakes Hit NZ's Christ Church Again.

Back to More Stuff:
I guess (Gha)Daffy has taught us one thing. If you have a bad personality, NATO is going to put you atop their attack list.

When creators of teen comic strips have writer's block they always go for the "messy room" bit. The humor is always there and anybody who has become a parent understands it...if they have outgrown it themselves.

Public employee unions here are starting to behave like criminal enterprises. These union's good membership should be picketing their leadership.

The Red Sox are wearing their hittin' shoes. And they fit real well.

Somebody has to be fair to Sarah Palin. I guess it's going to be me. You probably saw that a massive amount of her emails dating back to 2006 were released for public consumption. Of course MSNBC and the NY Times ran in looking for little items that would support their ridicule Sarah campaigns. But, most honest observers say the emails show the Governor/VP Candidate/Celebrity as a diligent, hard working, concerned leader of Alaska even as she was thrust into the cacophony of the national spotlight. As a concerned and caring Mom even as she had to solve the problems of state while fending off many false claims about who she was and how she thought. Maybe it was her athletic prowess that helped her keep her eye on the ball.

If you keep your eyes open, you can find fodder for a novel or short story just about anywhere. This morning while walking over to get a paper, I noticed green recycle container on the sidewalk filled with nothing but cat food tins and wine bottles. Already I have a character. Is she tragic or sinister? What kind of life can I make for her. Or, on Sunday mornings there are generally about 3-4 cars in the parking lot behind a popular restaurant/bar. These is generally the cars of people who went home with somebody else. Was one the start of a beautiful romantic tale? Another a violent encounter? And the third a tragic story of a lonely soul? Open your mind to the possibilities around you. Save money on downloading books from Amazon.

The new concept with the potential to weaken the character of our government even more than it has already been diluted is this idea called Celebvocates". It is about the use of celebrities as on site lobbyists to espouse a cause or agenda. These cultural icons are then marched through the people's halls of Congress while, drooling, doting reps and senators wait for autographs and photo-ops. All the time while their minds are clouding over and their good sense blinded by starlight. That is, if there were ever minds in the first place.

The way Michelle twists things into a pretzels, she could have no better name than Bachman.

Almost Near: Chapter 25: --I feel your charms across the skies. Though the distances of ourselves may be far, the warmth in your heart caresses mine as if you are near. Lying beside me as I await the fulfillment you bring to my body. I am never alone because you have become one with my soul.
  The door flew open and Samantha came running full speed ahead down the path into the arms of Tucker; She landed with a thud that lmost knocked a smiling Tucker on his ass. Samantha just continued to squeeze harder and harder while he wobbled on legs weakened by her sudden thrust into his arms. "Thank God you are here, she almost screamed to the birds in the trees. I think was going a little crazy."
  "Well, I'm here now." He gave her a little squeeze back. Then he leaned back his head and looked into her eyes which were gleaming like the sun reflecting upon the mirrored harbor waters.
  "Let's go in and make love," she now whispered breathlessly. Urgently. I have been thinking of this moment for days now.
  Tucker stood back slightly. They had never even kissed, much less made love. They had only touched hands. Smiled like lovers. Enjoyed each others eyes like lovers do. He thinking of the woman he once knew as a young man. Not knowing who she was now. He looked at her and saw her desire. A lust he had never seen in her. "You must have been lonely," He whispered.
  "I have done nothing but think of you since I found you had gone. I remembered all of those beautiful times here in Lobster Cove. Up on the hill beneath our tree. In your sailboat as it rocked gently to little breezes. Even that time up in Aunt Ginny's guest bedroom, while she was out hoeing her garden." Samantha laughed wildly at that. "Remember that. How we had to keep our faces straight when she came in for lunch." He nodded.
  Of course I do," he said kindly, softly. He stood there and looked at her. She was so beautiful. So tragic. He wanted to cry. He felt his eyes welling.
  She reached over and toughed his hand with her fingers. She let her fingers slide up until she was holding and leading him to the door. "I'm sure you are tired from your trip. I'll take care of you. She was walking backwards towards the screen door. He was worried.


How do they know Department:
One of the country's leading carp fisherman, a Rhode Islander Dave PIckering, says that the big fish are now taking Wild Whiskey Maize bait in stead of Pineapple flavored Skye Vodka bait. Now tell me, who has he been talking to to get this inside information. Himself over a bottle of Maker's Mark?

The Answer:
Of course the King of Swing is Benny Goodman,. and one of his best known and enduring musical events was "Sing, Sing, Sing". Another in the driving style of SSS is the great jam session version of Honeysuckle Rose. Check it out. This classically trained Chicago clarinetist also had hits like The King Porter Stomp, Stompin' At the Savoy, Don't be that Way, One O'Clock Jump, Sometimes I'm Happy
Benny started with the Ben Pollack band playing along side of Tommy Dorsey and Glenn Miller, two of the other big band dynamos of the era. Other well known bands were Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Harry James, Woody Herman, Charlie Spivak and Artie Shaw. Lots of supe stars in the music world started with Goodman -- Dizzy Gillespie, Ziggy Elman, Zoot Sims, Harry James, Gene Krupa, Teddy Wilson, Lionel Hampton, Charlies Christian, Helen Forrest, Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, and the Liltin' Martha Tilton.

The End:
The Tony Award winning Musical "Spelling Bee" seems like "Chorus Line" for nerds. It almost appears that the wirters of SB were determined to disguise the popular and proven winner CL for a new play. The point here is, that so much of what is new isn't and how well you succeed in the future maybe how well somethat that has succeeded in the past is repackaged. Like, maybe our economy.

Musical Chairs.

Today's Tids Issue #2,368
Opening Stuff:

When the sun bakes down from up on high. When waves of steam blank out the sky. I look for restless leaves in trees. Moved by the Ocean's soothing breeze.

I wasn't shocked hearing that Newt's staff quit the old warhorse. He''s smart guy, but has looked mindless in his opening parries. But, here's what I think is really happening. There is a rising undercurrent to get Texas Governor Perry into the 2012 race. It seems that several of Newt's guys have strong ties to Perry. Newt's foolishness in the early going gave the staffers a ready made excuse to move to the popular Texan with the best state education system in the country.

I think Bill O'Reilly's Ego is sucking out his brains.

The Question:  
Double Bonus day! 1. The PGA St. Jude Hospital Memphis Open is being held this week. What big TV star first lent his name to the tournament and the fund raising efforts of the Hospital. Name four other super stars who had golf tournaments named after them. 2. Leonard Stern was a prolific writer who gave us classic shows like The Honeymooners, Get Smart and McMillan & Wife. He also invented a quirky little word game that families often play during car trips. Name it.

The Headlines:

--Wall Street Crushing Hope As Week Winds Down.
--Alabama Puts into Effect A Tougher than Arizona Illegal Immigration Law; Illegals' Lovers Expected To Challenge.
--Robert Gates Blasts NATO; Says Underfunding Combined With Lack Of Resolve Among Member Nations Bodes Dismal Future For Once Proud Defense Group.
--OPEC Move Towards Increased Production Blacked By Iran And Venezuela; Predict Supply Gap Later In Year.
--Arizona Fires Continue To Grow Unabated.
--Syrian Army Moves Into Northern Villages.
--US Concerned Over Instability In Yemen.
--Sprouts Now Back As Culprit In German e.Coli Epidemic.
--Dallas Upends Miami All Stars; King James Fades In the End.

Back to More Stuff:
I think the governor of Hawaii has a great point wondering why the state has to pay the NFL $4 million to hold the useless "Pro Bowl" on their islands. As states and municipalities go on a financial diet, maybe the gravy for Pro teams will be the first to go. Too many pro teams have been extorting town fathers for too long. The teams are making millions but the folks in the towns are only getting high ticket prices in return. And, now bigger tax bills.

For fun, I'll enjoy watching Ford's redo of the Lincoln brand. The most successful US Auto companies has seen it's one time luxury brand leader get smothered by Audi, BMW, Lexus, Volvo, Infinite, Acura, Cadillac and Mercedes. During the next three years the automaker expects to roll out 7 new models, all aimed at the quality conscious 50 year old and up set. They say this will be a no-Bling, no nonsense line of solid cars with superb driving features. It will be tough, but I always enjoy watching a good ball game.

"New York System Wiener"* department.
A poll in The Apple says that the constituents don't want the abortion loving, big spending titillating twitterer to go. But then, New Yorkers have always been a little shallow.

When you read about the giants of colonial America, there was none bigger than the caring, understanding, resourceful Roger Williams.

Bumper Sticker: "If you voted for Obama in '08 to prove your not a racist, vote for someone else in 2012 to prove you're not an idiot." It's going to be a mean spirited two years!

Reading between the Lines Movie reviews:
--Super 8 is a title that left me cold. But, the movie is much more than that, and the title becomes significant as you are drawn into the intrigue. This is an often chilling thriller that will keep you on edge. The film opens with a massive train wreck. A bunch of kids walk away with a little box of white blocks. Strange things start happening around the town, and the blocks seem to have something to do with it. You'll love the way the movie moves along. But, you'll have to suck it up to get by the less than satisfying ending.
--Incendies is a French film based on a long, sometimes tedious US play called the Scorchers. The film works beautifully. It is an Oedipus story of two siblings asked to deliver letters after their mother dies -- one to a dad who they thought was dead and the other to another sibling they never knew existed. As the two gets into the Mom's birthplace town they discover a life of a mother they never knew. This is a good one.

Almost Near: Chapter 24 continues. --"High School! You must be great old friends. Are you married?"
"I was." Sparrow was now watching him closely. It was time to start getting more than one word answers."
"Did Wilcox have anything to do with the breakup?"
"No."
"Was she the violent type in High School?"
"Samantha is a kind, gentle person."
"How did you get the gash on the back of your head?"
"I told you. It was from the accident."
"I don't think so. That gash had nothing to do with your accident. Wasn't Samantha in the car when you drove off the road? Now Dante took in a big breath.
"I'm confused."
"Tell me what you know. I'll give you a hint. Samantha called you after she met with me. She didn't feel her little talk with me was going well. She's not your girl friend. She's not your sister or your mother. Yet you jumped on a plane to fly to this Little Podunk because why...she's a client? What did you think she had done wrong?" The detective let that sit. "You're here in the hospital. She has been missing for 4 days. I think she's in trouble."
"Ok"...he started slowly, thoughtful like a lawyer who didn't want to get trapped further ..."I like her. She is a very nice person. And I worry about her. Maybe I saw discrepancies in her like you, But maybe I'm more involved emotionally. I don't know."
"Go on."
"I knew who she was in high school, but I never knew her at all til two weeks ago. She came to me because I was a lawyer involved in the sale of her parents house. She was trying to find out something about her father. As I said, she grew on me and I enjoyed being with her. When she called form here, she sounded scared. It bothered me that she was scared. I flew out."
"Noble." Dante glared at Sparrow.
"We had drinks and the dinner. It was actually a nice evening. She didn't talk at all about you or the meeting with you. We just had fun. But, I noticed that when I would try to get close to her, even innocently, she recoiled. She's afraid of something. Then, as we were driving back to the Hotel over that ridge, she said something that made me laugh and I reflexively put my hand on her thigh. Out of nowhere I felt this blow to the back of my head. Here I am."
"What do you know about her parents?"

The Answer:
1. Marlo's dad, the insufferable Phil Donahue's father-in-law Danny Thomas got the huge charity going with the Danny Thomas Open. Other big stars with tournaments were Bing Crosby, Bob Hope Andy Williams and Dinah Shore. 2. How many of you have had a good laugh with the kids playing "Mad Lib"? Stern died last night, and he was a great one.

*The New York System Wiener is the name of small chain of RI hot dog/wiener restaurants dating back to the early 1900's. It is a time honored RI taste treat, and we regret that the tastelessness of another New York Wiener has disparaged the name of a great institution built upon integrity and a outstanding chili meat sauce.

May you week end be incredibly spectacular.

Do people still have minds?

Today's Tids Issue #2,367
Opening Stuff


The Delta Airlines affair is a classic example of how little service industry employees and their employers understand about the word "Service". It's hard for me to fathom that somebody, at least one person, at Delta observing heroes returning from from the killing fields of the Middle East wouldn't have paused to think that there is something wrong about charging for an extra bag. That maybe they should check with the boss first. It's like these poeple were RI DMV retirees in their new careers.

No matter where you live, or what you do or what you own, everything important really always boils down to the people around you.

The Question:
The "Monkee's" were originally a manufactured musical group to take advantage of the Beetle's popularity. It turned out that they actually became quite popular in their own right. Name the four Monkeys and four of their top songs. Which one does not regularly tour with the revival Monkees?

The Headlines:
--Arizona Wildfires Now Cover 650 Square Miles; Could Affect Power In Texas; Smoke Seen In Iowa.
--Market rebounds Early.
--New Jobless Claims Crep Back Up To 427,000.
--CitiBank Says Hackers Accessed Credit Card Data.
--Syria's Assad Begins Major Offensive To Take Back Northern Provinces.
--In Yemen, Factions Maneuvering To Take Advantage Of Prez Absence.
--Temps Expected To Hit Unseasonably High 90's Today; Point Judith Will Stay Cool.

Hillary and her most valued adviser, the pregnant Mrs. Wiener, are off traveling on official State department business. You just gotta imagine that the hotel room conversations between the two about husband antics is priceless. "Now, I always place my pointer finger behind the ashtray edge before I throw it!"

Some insiders are saying that the Wiener affair is more disturbing to the Clinton's than simply Hill's friendship with Huma Abedin (Wiener). Supposedly Bill was quietly pushing for the Tittilating Twitterer to get that NYC Mayor job. It was part of a plan, so some say, to get another important power base for a Hillary Presidential bid.

You can always tell you're into a "B" movie if they show as car driving slowly down a street for 10 seconds or so before it stops.

The weathermen this morning said it's going to be a hot nasty day, a good one to head to the beach. And, I'm thinking, don't people work? Hey, wait a minute...this is the Public Employee Union State. It must be in the contract.

Bon Appetit magazine picks as their favorite peanut butters Santa Cruz Organic Creamery Dark Roasted (Sounds Expensive), Skippy Creamy, Peanut Butter & Company Smooth Operator, Smucker's Natural Creamy and Arrowhead Mills Creamy Organic. Get the picture -- "Organic", "Natural" are the adjectives that count. They say that younger tasters picked organic, naturals while the older went for the the traditional Skippy and Jifs. Which means that great taste is always based more on what you are used to rather than somebody else's perceived "Great taste." Remember that the next time some expert tells you "Here's what you are supposed to like".

I have a problem with this Libya thing. Why is the world community attacking a country that has not attacked another country. Isn't this the ultimate of budinski politicking? Why, just imagine if some leader in the US imposed stifling Health care mandates on it's citizens. Some NATO like group could start bombing DC on the pretense that it was unfair to the people to be coerced into something so painful..

In response to my comments yesterday about the growing threat to the economy because of "Underemployment:, a reader suggests that a bigger problem might be the "Unemployable". There are a growing millions now who have no useful skills.

I haven't been too interested in the NBA playoffs. Other than Jason Kidd who I have always admired for his cool and ball handling skills, I have no innate feelings for the rest. (Even though Wade is a brilliant player.) But the facts belie my opinions about the intensity of the series. Check this out these averages per game stats. Points: Miami 89, Dallas 87.8; Rebounds: M - 40, D - 39; Field Goal %: M - 42.8, D - 41.4; 3 Pt %: M - 34.5, D - 34.2. Maybe something is going on there after all!

The basketball game between the Penquins and the Geese was becoming tedious. Too many fowls.

Drug use excuses Department:
The little state of Rhode Island has the highest incidence of illicit drug use among all people over 12 years old (Oregon is number 2). The so-called social engineering experts say it is probably becasue RI is in between NYC and Boston. Huh? Are they implying that dealers traveling betwen the two big cities in rusted out 12 year old Nissan Sentras are dropping bags of stuff along side the road? In reality, RI has the most advantageous bennies for the homeless and other hanger's-ons in the country. The real problem is that if you are giving it away, they will come and abuse it.

Almost Near: Chapter 24 continues. --"How's the patient doing, Nina?" It turns out that the nurse on Dante's floor is Sparrow's sister-in-law.
"He's lookin' pretty good, but he''s not much of a talker. Seems intent on not saying much and getting out of here."
"Thanks, see ya at the cook-out Saturday." Sparrow tapped her on the shoulder and motioned Skip to join him. "Well, Mr. Wallowaski, how are you feeling. This is Skip, the patrolman who found you. I think you're lucky that he has those eagle eyes." Sparrow laughed a bit. Dante sat there and looked at him deadpanned.
"Thanks."
"They're going to let me ask you a few questions before they kick me out. It isn't every day out here that we find a Lawyer form New Hampshire in fancy suit in a rental car in a local ravine." Dante just stared at him. "My guess is that this woman, Samantha Wilcox -- she came to see me four days ago -- called you for something and you came out here." Dante's lips tightened a bit. "Do you know Samantha Wilcox?"
"Yes."
"So, did she call you to come out here?"
Dante looked up at the ceiling as if mapping out his legal strategy. "She called me. But, she didn't ask me to come out."
"But, you came anyhow. Is she your girl friend? Relative? Client?"
"She's my client."
"Wow! You must be a well liked lawyer back home to run out to a client that quickly." Before could reply, Sparrow continued. "How'd you get that gash on the back of your head?"
Dante reached around with hand reflexivity and felt the area. "I don't know. Must have been form the accident."
"So, what kind of person is Samantha Wilcox?" Dante's eyes looked out into space as if he was trying to figure that out himself. "Ok, I'll give you an easy question. How long have you known her."
"I knew her from High School."

The Answer:
The four now in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame are Micky Dolenz, Davy Jones, Peter Tork and Michael Nesmith who rarely joins in at reunion concerts. Some of their big hits were I'm a Believer, Daydream Believer, Last Train to Clarksville, Pleasant Valley Sunday and (I'm not your) Steppin' Stone. the Monkees agree that it was the voice of Micky Dolenz who gave the group a distinctive sound. I case you're interested.

From Abraham Lincoln:
You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong.
You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift.
You cannot lift the wage earner up by pulling the wage payer down.
You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred.
You cannot build character and courage by taking away people's initiative and independence.
You cannot help people permanently by doing for them, what they could and should do for themselves.
.
Reply to RICHARD W HUNT
Send

Writer's Block. It happens, shoot me.

Today 's Tids Issue 2,366
Opening Stuff:

As I sit in this morn that's hot and dank. / I'm seeing a page that is quite blank. / And also empty is my mind. / Alas, alas. A Tid I fear I'll never find.

Hey, when there's nothing there you have to start somewhere. It happens every time Congress takes a break. Lying, stupidity and general all-around irresponsibility tend to vacate too. What's aTid's guy to do?

The ABC/Washington Post Poll among registered voters yesterday revealed some very interesting stuff. It was one of those, "If-the-elections-were-held-today" fantasy polls. Yet, still a good indicator of embryonic voter thinking. 47% said they would never vote for Obama. But, he's in good shape when compared to Sarah who sits there today with 64% saying they would never vote for her. In fact, in a match up between Palin and Bachman, Bachman wins 60% to 40%! Put some air in those bus tires Sarah. Without question, registered voters like the Mitt-ster above all others. The poll has Romney beating 0-Man 49% - 46%. All other Repubs are seen losing to the Great Mocker by 7 to 15 points. What does this all mean? Nothing! A big fat zero. It's 17 months away for crissake! The media would love nothng better than to dictate the republican race. Stay calm. Stay cool. And, keep the pressure on the Pols.

The Question:
Shaquille O'Neal retired with 28,596 points as fifth all time leading NBA scorer. Who are the top four?

The Headlines:

--OPEC Almost Hammers Out deal To Raise Oil Supplies; Move Would Have Strengthen Flagging World Economy; But Deal Nixed At Last Moment.
--Stock Market Could Be Headed Towards Sixth Down Day; Up By A Hair At 11:00.
--President Of al-Qaida Stronghold Yemen More Seriously Injured Than Originally Thought; Leadership Vacuum Concerns Peace Loving Groups.
--Syrian Troops Show Mutinous Signs; Daffy Says I will Fight To End; Egypt Approves Muslim Brotherhood As Official State Party.
--Admin To Appeal HC Rulings.
--China Central Bank Says Repubs Debt Default Idea Is Playing With Fire.
--Scientists say Latest Solar Flare Will Not Have Impact On Earth.
--Two NJ Gamblers Win $11 Million Form Atlantic City's Tropicana; One Man, Don Johnson, Has Won $5.8 Mil, $4.2 M and $5 M From Tropicana, Caesars AC and Borgata In Recent Visits.

Back to More Stuff:
Put Bernanke back to sleep. Please!

While the unemployment numbers get all of the ink,. I believe that the major systemic problem going forward is underemployment. The leveling waters of a world economy is slowly washing away an overpriced American job market that is based more on recent history rather than value reality.

Flabbergasted is being appalled at how much weight you have gained.

The continuing staggering of a sluggish economy, is possibly a result of the many still unanswered questions about LollaPelosi Health care. It is an ominous bill with so many clouds surrounding it that even actuaries can't figure where to go. Congress barely knew what they were writing at the time. Maybe even today they still don't know what they wrote.

The grand old factory in Woonsocket RI where they made the beloved "Keds" sneakers of yore burned down last night. Now, that should bring a tear to your eyes.

People were hoping that Tiger would return for the Open, but I'm enjoying the tournaments more without the the focus on one person. Lots of shots. Lots of players to get to know. I'm enjoying Luke Donald as a person and loving his swing as something to emulate.

SNL fans probably all have their favorite sketches and performers. Hey, laughter is a personal thing. But, in an effort to start an argument here is one man's Top 10 list of SNL's all time Hosts. Number 10 is Buck Henry. Counting down to one we have Drew Barrymore, Paul Simon, Christopher Walkin, Alec Baldwin, John Goodman, Justin Timberlake, Jack Hamm, Tom Hanks...and...and as number 1 all time best host -- Steve Martin.

Almost Near: Chapter 24. --Sparrow hung up the phone after talking to the hotel. The woman Samantha didn't show this morning as she had promised. The clerk said that she hadn't checked out yet. But, added, "She's the kind of good lookin' woman you remember when sittin' around a desk in a lobby waitn's for the next customer to complain." And he assured sparrow he hadn't seen her since the three days ago now when she left with a "cool lookin' guy in a fancy suit."
I knew there was something strange about that woman. I can tell when woman are strange, he laughed to himself. She was a beautiful woman in a clean scrubbed pleasant sort of a way. But, she looked like she didn't know something. Was searching for something. The phone rang. "Hi, Sparrow. Oh. Good. I'll be right there." He pulled himself up, put on his coat and yelled into the next room. "Skip, our vic is awakened. Let's go to the hospital." The young patrolman came running. He was alittle too excited for Sparrow, but he always liekd having another pair of ears.
"So, what da ya think. Thing the fancy guy is a hitman?" Sparrow glared. Skip turned his head.
"Drive".
"I'll tell you this, Skip. The Hotel clerk said he thought she really was happy to see Mr's Cool. And, he thought that Mr. Cool looked at her like a he was more than a friend or a business associate. But, we know he was her lawyer...or at least a lawyer. So maybe she was hiding something when we talked. Maybe she called him after I started asking questions. Maybe she isn't so dumb after all. What do you remember about the death of the Wilcoxes?"

The Answer:
Kareem Abdul Jabar leads the way with 38,387 points, Next is Karl Malone (36.93K), Mcahel Jordan (32.29K) and Wilt with (31.42K). Next are Kobe Bryant, Moses malone, Elvin Hayes, hakeem Olajuwan, Oscar Robertson, Dominique Wilkins and John Havlicek. Jerry West Is fifteenth and my man ray Allen is 24th. Just outside the top 25 are active players Paul Pierce and Tim Duncan.

Thank go it's over.

How can you tell when a Politician is lying?

Today's Tids Issue 2,365
Opening Stuff

There' no truth it the rumor that Anthony Wiener was twitting pics to Eliot Spitzer dressed in drag. Or, was that Spitzer to Wiener.

Is a "Bump in the road" anything like a "Tingle up the leg"?

Actually, Sarah Palin isn't any dumber than any other politician. The others just know how and when to keep their mouths shut. Except of course Harry Reid who makes Sarah look like a Mensa candidate. Actually everything in politics is relative. For example, Obama and Pelosi make Wiener look like Abe Lincoln.

The Question:
How many users of illicit drugs are there in the world? What percentage are dependent. Which country is the biggest market for illegal drugs?

The Headlines:

--Stocks Look To Rebound As Futures Brighten.
--Investment Community Awaits Bernanke; Is That Like "Waiting For Godot"?
--Arizona Fires Continue To Grow Uncontrolled; 350 Square Miles Now Ablaze.
--Wisconsin Supreme Court hearing Arguments On New Union Law.
--Levee Break Has Missouri River Residents Fleeing.
--Syrian Tensions Rise Dramatically After Rebel Attack On Army.
--New Clashes Kill 19 In Yemen.
--NATO Air Strikes Hit Libyan Capital.
--Scientists Trap Ephemeral Antimatter For Full16 Minutes; Breakthrough Could Lead To Breaking "Big Bank" Mystery.
--Ann Curry Takes Over Today Show.

Back to More Stuff:
I would have liked the Bruins to have saved a few of last night's 8 goals for tomorrow night. I liked their agressiveness, and really loved Tim Thomas's block on Sedin. Maybe Thomas could step in for Logan Mankins. I'm not going to say anything more, cause I don't want to jinx them.

Actually Wiener has done Americans a huge favor. We have always known that most of these lawmakers are lying to us. Now we know how good they are at doing it.

I see where Katie Couric has just announced a new program for her 3rd network. Now all she needs to complete the cycle is a gig at Fox. How about replacing J-Lo on American Idol? Check that ABC Contract for loopholes.

Did you know that the Original Pilgrim Charter for land in America was on the New Jersey side of NY Harbor. Snooki could have been a Puritan. There's no truth to the rumor that if the Pilgrims had indeed landed in they would have used an early version of the car horn to frighten away Indians.

An esteemed panel of important ex-international luminaries -- including Former Presidents of Mexico, Brazil, Switzerland and Columbia plus stars like Kofi Annan, Paul Volker and Richard Branson -- looking for something to do in their old age have decreed that we can't win the drug wars and that we should decriminalize drugs, at least marijuana. If some drugs were decriminalized, my first question would be...would businesses be forced to hire people they don't want because of some lame discrimination law?

Why do I feel that an investment in a FaceBook IPO would be like underwriting a Fad?

To borrow a phrase form GPS systems, rapturist Harold Clamping is recalculating. The End isn't quite near.

I have this image of Greece in my head that depicts this former cultural, political and military icon as a foreclosed home, with out of control grasses and weeds consuming the grandeur of the past. While the pampered government workers tell their leaders to walk away from the mortgage.

Santorum gets rapped by the left on a consistent basis because he is so firmly right. But many conservatives really like his conviction to the ideals they espouse. This is why the GOP race at this stage before the shakeout begins is so difficult to sort out. The Repubs have a candidate for just about any little cluster, and that includes clusters among the important independents and even Democrats.

Almost Near: Adapter 23 Continues. --"Did you get the gist of what we were talking about?" Audrey nodded. "It appears that Samantha is back..." He paused and looked out the window... "exactly as she had been when I first saw her arrive at Lobster Cove.
"There is something severely wrong with you friend. You created her world and she keeps returning to it. Where do you think she has been since she flew out of your house? And what happened to her while she was gone?"
Tucker punched in some more numbers. Both were silent. "I'm calling my home." Audrey glanced at him unemotionally, quizzically. She was now thinking like a real reporter. He could almost hear the gears in her mind. "Oh...Hi...Samantha? Yeah, Tucker." He switched it to speaker so Audrey could hear.
"Where did you go Tuck. One minute you're out for a walk, and the next I hear you had to leave town."
"Oh I was called away for an emergency meeting with my publisher. I'm sorry I didn't call earlier."
"No matter, it's only been a night. The house looks great. I've been cleaning all day."
"You sound terrific."
"That's because you are talking to me." He heard only silence as if she was sensing an image of him in her mind. "You do that to me you know. When will you be back?"
"In a day or two. Are you alright? You know I miss you too."
"I have never been better. It's so nice when your world is perfect, and having you in it makes it extra special. I'll be fine. Take your time and get your work done." Silence. "Bye Tuck. Love you."
"Love you too."
"I think you should get back to your place. She sounds very, almosrt eerily fragile. I'll go to New Orleans. And, then you can catch up. You can trust me."
"I know I can. he turned and smiled, but it was a vacant smile. Not the kind of smile he wanted to give her. "i know I can." She reached over and patted is thigh.

The Answer:
250 Million worldwide use illicit drugs. They estimate that about10% are dependent. The US of A is the biggest market for illegal drugs.

The Big Ending:
Their lips are moving! Bada Bing!

Roses and deficits.

Today's Tids Issue 2,364

Opening Stuff:

The calming mist shrouded the bare, pristine beaches while surf crushed the shore. The hum of engines arose like an echo of the surf and grew to a terrifying roar as the horizons were filled with 5,000 ships carrying 30,000 vehicles and 150,000 men. And boys. Young men, old men looking ahead with fear in their eyes at the open beaches. No place to hide. At swirling, monstrous ocean currents that would prove more violent than bullets that would tear through tender flesh and brave hearts. And yet they came, wave after wave of young men, innocent men against pure satanic evil. The white sands turned red, and still they came. Aiding fallen friends and strangers. But never retreating. Always moving forward. Taking a barren beach that would change the world. 10,000 that fateful yet honorable day in 1944 were severely wounded or killed. Today is the day we remember.

Everybody loves Pachelbel's Canon...even if they don't know what it is.

To the uninitiated like I was 20 or so years ago when I started my Dorothy Perkin's roses, those first fast growing shoots with the red end leaves looked like lush growth. Of course, they were suckers that would drain the strength from the heart of the plants. This is not unlike "stimulus" spending that piles up government jobs, pays people not to work and sidetracks pure economic factors necessary in a free productive economy. It looks like something is happening, but it sucks the life out of true unfettered competitiveness. In a real economy, governemnt hiring comes after the private sectors expand.

It looks like The Portuguese have voted out the Socialist suckers and in a center right government that promises austerity and the first steps back to a true economy.

Although, in Greece the protestors waved signs that actually said, "Don't pay back our creditors!" This is true. How red are the tips of their leaves? Sorry Alexander, there is no hope.

And, maybe we aren't so far behind. In the just released stats showing the richest counties in America, 4 0f the top 5 are in Virginia and Maryland surrounding, guess, our own Washington DC. The greatest concentrations of wealth in the USA are in the areas where the biggest industry is Big Government.

The Question:
Three of the great world wide service and caring organizations are the Red Cross, Salvation Army and YMCA. Where were they started and by whom?

The Headlines:

--5 US Soldiers Killed In Baghdad Rocket Attack.
--Supreme Court Orders PA Appeals Court To Re-Examine Ruling On Hazleton Pa's Crackdown On Illegal Aliens; SC Recently Upheld Arizona's Employer Sanction Law; Other States Looking To Move Against Illegal Misdoings.
--International Data Corp. Revises 011 PC Sales Growth Downward from 7.1% To 4.2%.
--E.Coli Isolated To German Sprout Farm.
--Israeli Troops Fire On Syrian Protestors On Golan Heights.
--Santorum Announces For GOP; Conservatives Welcome Him.
--Obama Federal Reserve Governor Pick, Noble Winner Peter Diamond; Diamond Says GOP Mean To Him.
--Truck Sized Asteroids Barrel Through Earth Atmosphere At 86,000 Mph.

Back to More Stuff:
Not to beat dead horse-meat to death, but that $2,000,000 they spent on the circles of nutrition is just one of probably thousands of what I call federal "HH" spending. That's Happy HorseS--t if you don't no the code. You know a bunch of bureaucrats sitting around having hallucinogenic orgasms over things that are only interesting to them. It happens every day. It's called too many people with nothing to do.

Put a warm and cuddly grey haired wig on Totalitarianism and you've got the USA Nanny State. Sound farfetched? Totalitarianism is "a political system where the state under the power of a single person, faction or class recognizes no limits over its authority and strives to regulate every aspect of public and private life wherever feasible." Bans on smoking in parks, cameras watching and measuring what kids eat in schools, executive branch commissions beyond the reach of "Checks and Balances" telling companies where they can build factories or how much the can pay execs, states recording the mileage on your car, elimination of sugary drinks. Encroachments are always incremental, sometimes barely noticed. And then one day, they don't need wigs any longer, and you sit wondering, "Grandma, what big teeth you have."

A lot of friends I know took years after retiring to work off all of those "Air Miles" they acquired on biz trips. I'm finding that I'm down to a small handful of souvenir pens I received at press conferences. So I can't travel. I can write about it.

In 2008 Obama said: "Navy Seal Team 6 is Cheney's private assassination team." In 2011 he says: "I put together Seal team 6 to take out Bin Laden."

When Federer stopped new phenom Djokovich in the French Open this weekend, he told the world that he still has it. The French Open men's Final Four was one of the most intriguing in years, but it still came down to the duo Roger and Rafael. And once again Nadal won it. International tennis is strong.

Tell me, why are "Hackers" continually romanticized instead of harshly denounced and criminalized. Is it some kind of Robin Hood thing? These slugs are home invaders of the worst sort.

I forgot to mention the passing of NFL great Andy Robustelli. He was a stalwart of the great NY Giant teams before the Mighty Pats were twinkle in Billy Sullivan's Eye. I met Andy once when I was making a series of TV commercials about successful local businessmen. While ferocious and unyielding coming from his defensive end position, this everyman was one of great character, kindness and simple human understanding. You'll never meet a better guy and few better football players. Thanks for the memories.

Remember when wristwatches were considered a marvel replacing those old cumbersome pocket-watches which required you to remove it from your pocket and flip open a top to see the time? Sound familiar. Maybe wrist cellphones are the next big trend? But, no texting allowed.

Almost Near: Chapter 23 continues. --After leaving the police station, Tucker tossed his rental car keys to Audrey. "You drive while I make some phone calls.'
"Getting a little cocky, aren't you?" Tucker reddened. But then he noticed her playful glance, and he smiled to himself and relaxed. He pulled out his phone and started tapping out a number. He looked over and saw that Audrey was in deep thought. Probably has her reporter mind whirring, he thought, so that when he was finished she would have two or three good ideas. He was beginning to rely on her. A lot.
"Josh Simpson please." A few seconds later. "Josh. Tucker. What's going on there. Same ole's crap, eh.?" He smiled a couple of times. He always enjoyed the ramblings of the editor. "That's a good one Josh. I've got something going here that could turn into a book. Actually, I'm working with a reporter." he paused, "A real one," he held the phone away from his ear, as the swearing burst out. Then they both laughed. "I got to talk to Lolly there. Yeah, I need her husband to go up and check my house." Then, Tucker's face went blank. "She's back? She's living up at my house?" What'd she look like. Was she angry? Nervous?" He sat there and listened. "She is as pretty as she always was and hoping I'd be back soon?"
Audrey glanced over with a new expression he hadn't seen before. He was silent.

Governor Chafee-Lite is hovering again. Last week he represented his tax plan that nobody likes at a town meeting where nobody came...and he said that's "a good thing because that means they like it". What a good boy am I he was heard exclaiming as he as he sprinkled himself with fairy dust and floated back to the state house. Of course, the people who are against his measures probably weren't there in droves for two reasons. First they are small business owners for the most part and they actually work. Second, most believe that the tax idea is so loony that not even RI legislator wouldn't vote for it.

The Answer:
The YMCA was founded in 1844 in London by Sir George Williams. His goal was to put Christian principles in practice achieved by developing "a healthy spirit, mind and body." I guess that everybody knows that Clarissa Harlowe Barton (Clara) founded in 1881 at the age of 60 the Red Cross. The Red Cross was the result of her heroic work during the Civil War bringing supplies to the stricken on the battlefield. In 1865 in England William and Catherine Booth founded the East London Christian Mission. It was ordered after a quasi-military structure. The husband and wife team was perfect as William preached to the poor and Catherine spoke to the rich gaining financial support for their efforts.

The End:
Like cigarette smokers before them, cell phone users are ignoring the warnings of cancer. The consensus among cell users after the latest theorizing about brain cancer and cell phones was "I don't care, I want my cell phone." Personally, I don't believe the surmising. It sounds to me like another of those "HH" spending sprees.

A little windy today. And I don't mean the weather.

Irrational Exuberance, again?

Today's Tids Issue 2,363
Opening Stuff:

With the announcement of the Groupon IPO, and the Social NetWork Industry Group's gathering momentum in the rush for big $$$, I am reminded of the eerie big casino days of the late 1999/2000 Internet bubble where the uninitiated would overpay for often fictional values. Believe me, I was there and I know how superficial some of the stuff was. Many of the companies had as much substance as a campaign promise. And no financial achievements. Except for the business creators who sold out early.

Paul Ryan might just be the best GOP candidate for President. Facts based crisis managers like he and the proven Mitt-ster might be the best choice for the country over the shallow rhetoric mongers. This is, of course, if the good of the country as a whole is still what matters.

Gene Roddenberry fought hard against Hollywood's TV titans to get his Star Trek on the air because he was an enterprising kind of a guy.

The new annoying expression feeble DC Politicians are latching onto is "We have to sit down and talk like adults." Excuse me.

The Question: 

A special Saints and Sinners Duo: 1. How many Popes have there been since 1950? Bonus Q: Name the three best known men who beginning in the fifties engineered gigantic sex empires?

The Headlines:--Unemployment Ticks Up To 9.1% As Employers Add But 54,000 Jobs In May; Oops -- Stock Futures Plunge.
--Geithner Predicts Congress And WH Will Avert Debt Crisis; Moody's Warns US About Credit Rating.
--Explosion In Sunni Mosque Kills 16 Iraqis.
--South Korea Says It used Pictures Of NK's Ruling Family For Target Practice; NK Vows Military Action! Is This A Joke?
--China Says US Is Real Culprit In Global Hacking Wars; Accused G-Mail Hacker Says US Attempting To Bring Down Arab And Other Governments.
--Criminal Indictment Against John Edwards On Books.
--Microsoft Unveils Some Features Of Soon To Be Released Window's 8.

Back to More Stuff:
Most disgusting news item of the week:
A man apparently intent on committing suicide walked into the San Francisco bay area ocean...while local fire and police people stood on the shore and watched him flail and die. They said the budget cuts had stopped their water rescue training classes and the availability of survival equipment! They must be kidding. How about their hearts? Did reduced budgets cut out their hearts too? Let's hope this isn't a new low in Union negotiating tactics.

National Donut Day Department:
The day after much too much news about the healthy eating Pyramid being replaced by some circle gimmick, I'm happy to report that the nation has not lost its senses. Today is "Krispie Kreme Free Donut Day" in honor of the waddler's holiday. Suck em' up America!

I was looking at that nutritional healthy eating circle/plates design, and as far as I can determine all of the stuff I want to eat is on the back of the plates.

The USA has morphed into a collection of federal dollar supported fifedoms. Meaning, that too many many people are fighting too many people when they all should be working together for a better whole. Everybody wins when the entity is healthy and not splintered.

This just in from the high end fashion world: Tiffany's, the legendary jewelry company, has just announced a new, expensive line of diamond and emerald clustered electronic monitoring bracelets. Law authorities are concerned that the Hollywood loonies will be zanier that usual looking for home confinement. On a related note, local caterers are producing home confinement quick meals, which even celebs can cook! The world is a wonderful place. Obama says, "The US is constantly innovating, and this is good news for for job growth."

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--This week, it's the X-Men First Class, the ultimate series of "Diversity", it's-not-how-you-look-but-who-you-are, movies. Actually, acerbic tongue in cheek aside, this is a pretty good, entertaining movie as the mutants discover things about their abilities and powers. This prequel gives a better understanding of what has come before. There are surprises, humor and generally good all around watching. In fact, I will dsownload it with vigor from Netflix some day. If you can afford the theater, it would be worth the dough. But...be sure to bring along your nutritional circles when approaching the refreshment stand.
--Beautiful Boy is a grabber. Parents hopelessly grapple for an explanation why their only son committed a mass shooting at his university before taking his own life. Their already strained marriage is tested as they learn they only have each other. People like it.

When the stimulus money disappears in the next month or so, the States are expected to be facing daunting increased Medicaid spending demands of up to 20%. And then problems of today will seem like a gnat on an elephants rump.

Changing Times Department:
The worldwide admired "Steel City", Pittsburgh; The darling of productive manufacturing; Once after NYC the city with the most Frotune 500 corporate world headquarters -- US Steel, J&L Steel, Alcoa, Westinghouse, Gulf Oil, Heinz, Clark Candy to name a handful. Yes this city, the paragon of industrial might now boasts as its largest employer -- Pittsburgh Medical Center. Yikes!.

While we are on the subject of things that people tell us we shouldn't or should do about our health, I bring you news of two turn-around's on health advice. Did you ever see those people in rigorous almost etherial stretching exercises before and after athletic activity? Well, the US Track & Field association after a two year study of stretchers and non-stretchers have proven conclusively that both groups performed equally with no adverse effects! And then there those energy drinks -- which docs are now saying could be too much for most people especially gulping teens. And it appears nobody can pinpoint the effects of the so-called vitamins in them. They say, "A couple of cups of coffee will do the trick.". In other words, don't panic over medical news hysteria. It will change.

Almost Near: Chapter 24. --"Well, Audrey, that was better than I expected."
She looked up at him with fluttering eyes, "That's because you are so strong." And then she punched him firmly in the stomach, and he responded with an over acted Oof! They laughed.
"Right now everything possible is racing through my head. From how fast can I find those children to did Sam kill Rudy out of fear for her life. It is obvious that Rudy was the real monster in this insane family. Bounty is all roar, the sister Agnes crazy and the mother pitiful." He paused. "I feel for the mother."
"For starters, I like the New Orleans connection. Florence Quimpierre, if she can be found almost sounded rational compared to her sister Myra. In fact, I need a short vacation, and I love this story. I think you need me" Tucker looked down at her and grinned pleasantly. "Forget it Tuck!" and she tapped him again in the belly.
"I don't know if I could survive a couple of days with you!" And then they both laughed, again. And this time Audrey looked over and grinned pleasantly.
The grin was fleeting as she went Billy business. "Let's first check in with Detective Jackson. I think is is a good idea to sty in touch there. He 's a good guy, he's interested, he trusts me, and we might need his help along the way." Audrey reared back her fist, Tucker flinched and they both laughed. There heads turned towards each other with pleasant grins on their lips.

The Answer:
1. In 1950 the reigning Pope of 11 years was Pope Pius XII. John XXIII took over in 1958. Then we had Paul VI (1963), the one month term of John Paul I (1978), the beloved John-Paul II (1978) and Benedict XVI. 2. The big three who took advanatage of more liberalized view of communication are of course, Hugh heffner (Playboy), Larry Flynt (Hustler) and Bob Guccione (Penthouse.) In many ways this changed the USA forever.

The WeakEnd:
North and South Korea are going to war because the SK's were taking target practice at photos of the NK Royal Family? Gadzooks. The world has lost its mind.

All I can think of when I see the hoards hunched over tapping on little boxes in restaurants, buses, ballparks, churches or even atop Mount Everest, is that perhaps Samuel Morse had it right in the first place!

Love your weekend, and make your gardens grow.

Get the Politicians hand out of the Cheetos bag.

Today's Tids Issue # 2,362

Opening Stuff:

Well, when I wrote that little piece about financial concerns yesterday, I didn't expect the crumbling quite that fast. But, I have felt for a while that the progress of the market was based more upon looking for good news rather than it really being there and poking us the eye. However, after yesterday, some are touting a "Depression" of all things. My sense is that the manufacturing number shortfall was based a lot on a weakened auto production output after the japan earthquake. And the awful jobs growth could be related there too. But, more deeply, the jobs failure is also a result of a grand, now failed stimulus plan that mainly created non- economic growth style national, state and local government employees jobs. And housing still sucks. Or...is it right where it is supposed to be now that the market is not based the hallucinations of homes for all.

One lesson I learned during my confinement of the past week or so is that it is really tough when wearing an IV to get your hand into the Cheetos bag. And, it is even tougher to get it out when you hear the approaching footsteps of the nutritionist.

Hey government, the nutritionist is approaching.

The Repubs did what they should yesterday. they went to the "Let's get rid of the nasty rhetoric President" and said this debt is serious and you have to stop the scare anecdotes and come up with a real plan. Carney says, "The President doesn't want to end Medicare as we know it." The Repubs say, "We want to save Medicare." The WH statement is a scare technique. The GOP's is about the problem.

The Question:
Name five great achievements of Marvin Hamlisch.

The Headlines:

--Romney Enters: "Barack Obama Has Failed America".
--World Health Org Says E.coli Outbreak New Strain; Europe Bans Veggies.
--Four Dead In Mass. Tornadoes.
--OPEC Gathering To Plan On Easing Gas Prices.
--Moody's Downgrades RI Bonds Over Murky Future Because Of Growing Unfunded Pension Liability.
--US/Pakistan Medicating relationship; Countries Form Joint Anti-terrorist Intelligence Squad.
--Woman Loses $300K Inheritance To "Rapture".
--Syrian Troops Renew Attacks On Town Killing 15 Citizens.

Back to More Stuff:
In the Comic Strip "Shoe" this morning, the press corps asks the Senator, "What are you going to do about the debt ceiling?" The answer, "Paint it." A little too close to the truth, isn't it. It's like when the the "Check Engine" light shines in my car and I tape it over with black electrical tape. Problem solved.

Warren Buffet: "When the tide goes out you see who has been swimming naked."

The so-called "Hottest Wine in America Is a California combo of Merlot, Syrah and Zinfandel called "Apothic Red". ($9.99)

Here's couple of reader remembrances to yesterday's question about celebs killed in air disasters -- Ricky Nelson, Otis Redding and Leonard Skynyrd (Ronnie Van Zandt, Steve and Cassie Gaines). BTW, The name Leonard Skynyrd was a mocking tribute to their HS Phys Ed Teacher notorious for strictly enforcing policy against boys with long hair. Just in case you are interested.

After a good ball game, the catcher usually goes out for a pitcher!

Nothing is Forever Department:
Just look at RI. Yesterday began the start of the celebration of the June founding of the break-through colonial idealeading state, Rhode Island, 375 years ago! Today, Moody's downgraded the bonds over a murky financial future. You just can't go around saying we have a great contributing history, unimaginably beautiful vistas and say everything is lovely and ok, while giving away the store. Economics work. Part of the landscape. Oh, and RI was once the economic giant of the USA.

More kudos to RI water oriented sports teams. Roger Williams University on beautiful Mount Hope Bay just won the APS/iCSA national sailing championships out in Oregon ON THE Columbia River. They beat out Georgetown, Boston College and St. Mary's of Maryland. RI may be in deep water, but some here know how to make the most of it.

The US Gov. announces with pride that they are going to replace the "Food Pyramid" Graphic with a new easier to understand "Circles" presentation. Two questions: How many people are working on this and does anybody but them and a few nutritionists really care? The healthy scheme is all about fruits and vegetables, so I'm wondering if there is a legal disclaimer about E.coli?

While on stupid Government non-essential spending, how about all of the states who are forced to redistrict every 10 years. In this little state for instance, it cost $1.5 Mil too redistrict a state owned by the Unions. Guess what?

The Answer:
Hamlisch, originally a song writer for film first hit big with his adaptation of Scott Joplin for The Sting. He is one of a handful who has won n Oscar, Emmy, Tony and Grammy. Oh yeah, and a Pulitzer Prize. He wrote alll the scores for Chorus Line including "What I did for love" and "One". Then there is "The Way we Were", "Through the Eyes of Love" and "Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows". There are the James Bond songs "Nobody does it better" and "The Spy who Loves me." This is another of those prolific contributors to our musical enjoyment.

The End:
A Micro historical note from Pilgrim writings reminds why capitalism works. That the purer the economic forces the better the chance for sustained growth not only economically, but humanitarianly. In the early dire days of their fight for survival, The Pilgrims found that food production from communal farms was dismal. In fact in 1621 the system almost wiped out the community.The leaders passed a law saying that all food would be produced on family farms. The turn-around was enormous as those who during the communal activity let other do more of the sweat now responded with a vigor that raised up the production of all food. If you pay people not to do anything, that's what they will do.

True economic forces is why OPEC is scurrying this week to do something about high gas prices. They realize that making oil the most palpable energy source for Americans is a critical element of their entire economic future. And maybe they see the Admin's desire for higher gas and energy prices as a way to force over-priced alternative energy on the US.

Promise: No more RI tomorrow. But, if it is happening here, it is probably happening where you are too. Except, of course, for the Sailing Championships!

Moon, Swoon, June. Brides. Dads. And No debt Ceiling Increase.

Today's Tids Issue #2,361

Opening Stuff:


It is that month again. I'm always rapturous about June. I love June. The world seems to come back together in June. The flowers and the greenery settle in before the summer's disquieting heat. It is a month for good old dad, and happy Geminis. It has more sunlight than any other month leading up to the longest day, June 20-21. Oh, it has another "Longest Day". D-Day, June 6. The day that so many wonderful young people gave their lives so that the sunlight of freedom will always be shown upon our gracious land and in the hearts of giving Americans. Enjoy June. Appreciate June.

"Connectivity" is a double edged sword. The freedom to soar, explore, communicate. The constant threat of submitting yourself to criminals and the potential of a shackling nanny state.

This stock market is bothering me. Too many underlying negatives. In fact this past two year spurt was possible mostly a bounce from super depressed lows bolstered by tons of dough that needed to work. On this first day of June, I always tend to look at what I have called the Ides of Wall Street -- July 17. I'm certainly not a financial or business guru ( Or else I wouldn't be writing the Tids for free!), but my vibes coupled with historical mid July woes suggests caution.

The Question:
Name five notables/celebrities who have been killed in air disasters?

The Headlines:

--Private Sector Adds But 38,000 Jobs In May; Way below Needs And Estimates.
--Poor Manufacturing Reports Fertilize Plummeting Stocks This Moirning.
--House Leaders To Meet 0-man On Borrowing.
--NATO Extends Libya Ops 90 days.
--Syrian Activists Coalescing; Dead Syrian Boy Emerging As Symbol Of Unity.
--Street Battles Rage In Yemen.
--Endeavor Returns From Last Mission.
--Euro Factory Growth Posts Deepest Fall Since 2008.
--Snooki Loses International Drivers License After Hitting Italian Police Car In Rome; She Says Back Home In jersey When I Honk My Horn They just Raise Their Finger.

Back to More Stuff:
If the Repubs intend to beat 0-Man they have to do more than wear Red, White and Blue hats.

Sign seen on meeting room door: "Psychic Meeting cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances."

Oops Department: For years now, every time I write Bachman I have this urge to right Christine before it instead of Michelle. It's that tune I can't get out of my head. Sorry folks.

I'm not surprised to see that the one time Atlantic City casino boom is fading fast. I thought the place was disgusting. Glittering golden idols built amidst extreme poverty and destitution. I took a shower when I got home.

This is baddish news for Repubs. The just completed CNN poll said that Rudy Giuliani is the favorite candidate among all Republicans. Basically they are saying that they aren't really happy with anyone.

Honest. How many of you clean house before the cleaning lady gets there? I wonder if the French IMF Creep cleaned his hotel room before the maid arrived?

Almost Near: Chapter 23 continues. --Detective Sparrow walked into the hospital ER just as the patrol car and ambulance arrived. The lumbering, alert Sparrow moved towards the running patrolman, who had a glint of excitement in his eyes. They didn't get situations like this Dalesford -- Well dressed strangers in cars in a ditch with an obvious blow to his head. The patrolman slowed as he saw the cautious look on sparrow's face. "I thought this looked a little unusual. That's why I called you."
"It is, Skip. It is." You never know where this might lead, he thought. Yesterday out of the blue he meets an Eastern girl with a Midwestern accent that was more like New England, and a story that makes absolutely no sense. Or at least low on logic. And two days later a guy from a New England town shows up. "I called up to the New Castle, and apparently our injured man -- O, how do the EMTs think he is doing?" He continued without waiting for an answer. "Where was I. Oh yeah. This guy is a lawyer up in that town. I called around and finally found somebody at his office. He left his office last night they say, and nobody knew where he went. He has no clients down here they said. That's for sure they said."
"He's going to be all right. Tough little guy they said."
"Well Skip, my man, I think we got our selves a mystery."

Food Department:
The Gourmet innovators of the Tid's Kitchens never stop dreaming of tasty healthy treats even within the most confining environments. Here's a simple way to get your fiber tastefully and add to your coffee enjoyment. While sipping, open a small package of Mini Shredded Wheats. On your plate pour a small puddle of Schmucker's Sugar Free Maple Syrup. Dip and sip. Your system and taste buds will love you.

I was at a nice 80th birthday party for friend of mine put on at nice restaurant for a few couples by his younger life. A socialist. As we were reading the menus she tapped her water glass rose to announce that she was allergic to sea food ( not fish) and would appreciate that we don't order lobsters or shrimp as even the aroma can make her deathly ill. Obviously, everybody agreed readily in a kumbaya sort of way. Within 2 1/2 feet of our table for 8 was another of straight women... four of whom ordered large steaming lobsters. She didn't die. Makes you wonder about second hand smoke, doesn't it.

The Answer:
In 1943 famed star of Gone With the Wind, Leslie Howard, was in a plane shot down by the Germans. Of course there is Carol Lombard and the maestro Glenn Miller. There is none more celebrated athn Buddy Holly, Big Bopper and Ritchie Valens. There were teams like Marshall college, the US Ice Skating Team and Manchester United Soccer team. the sad news about legend Patsy Cline. Crazy.This is an enormous list. Bigger than you may think. Let's conclude with Mike Todd, John Heintz and the man who dazzled the football world -- Knute Rockne.

The End:
The Dem response to the Ryan Plan is exactly the reason why the country now needs a plan as tough as something like the Ryan plan. Political demagogueing as usual does zero to cure a financial disaster. And, frankly the hard nose iteration of the financial truth challenge to the public is the knid of no-nonsense campaign any GOPer must run against the Glib One in the White House to succeed. I believe from observing people in many layers of our society that more than some observers believe and understand the reality of the problem, even though they can't express it in academic terms. They know it is there. They feel it. The time in America for laughing with Letterman is over.

Living by the slowly warming winter seas helps us ease into premature summer days. Except this year. It's too damn hot for June!

Eeee-Hah! I'm going home.

I hear a melody.

Today's Tids Issue #2,360

Opening Stuff:

I feel a bit like the instruments of an orchestra coming together quietly in the beginning of Thus Spake Zarathustra. First my dormant mind sputters. Filtering through the fog. The music begins to drive -- da da dada. The beat of the heart starts softly. Then gathers, gathers, gathers --the tippany underscores the rousing brass now beginning to soar -- Tum ti-di tum tum tum. The blood flows merging the emotions of the heart and the logic of the mind. The orchestra now is one with itself pulling the scores together. Pushing, pushing, pushing the magic to the fleeting fingers. The crescendo rises to the heartstopping climax. Da Dah dah Da DAAAAAAAH! The Tids are back.

"A world full of ignorant people is too dangerous to live in." A line from the 1940's play Bron yesterday.

They keep on bringing me all of this great food here in the hospital. And it's all free! What a country. Wait a minute...maybe my brain is addled.

The Question:
What are Stevie Nicks, (Fleetwood Mack era) greatest hits.

The Afternoon Headlines:

--Stocks Jump On Positive News On Greek Austerity Deal.
--Karzai Vows Action If civilian Casualties Continue.
--House To Reject Debt Limit raise If No Big Cuts.
--Whispers Out Of Midle East Have Saudi Prince Asking For Lower Gas Prices To Keep US Dependent.
--Falling House Prices Could Hurt Big heavy Mortgage Banks.

Another indication of a changing America: The most photographed attraction in NYC is the Times Square "Apple "Computer Store".

I've been using an Ipad for getting email here until today, and I have to say that a big advantage over the laptop is that the Cheetos crumbs don't get in-between the keys. Of course it's hard to hide the Cheetos from the nurses. The nutritionist is coming, the nutritionist is coming!

To cheer me up, a good fired sent me this little story about his granddaughter. Apparently over the weekend while his daughter and son-in-law, the girls parents, were out in the garden working the phone started ringing. And it rang. And it rang! His daughter ran in and yelled at the granddaughter, "Why didn't you answer the phone?" "Mom, she said, "You wouldn't have wanted me to. It was from a liberal. The caller ID said Ocean State Lib!" The mother broke out into a giant grin. It was the library calling for an overdue book.

They give Heparin to patients to keep the blood moving while they're immobile. But, I have seen patients more active than computer geeks and couch potatoes. Maybe a new market idea.

If more people understood semantics, or even words, maybe the pols would get a way with what they do. Or even get elected. Or maybe every time a Pol makes a promise ina campaign speech, people in the audience should stand and shout in unison, "What's it going to cost."

Local Corner:
While we weren't looking, Rhode Island schoolboy Lacrosse is getting stronger and stronger. There was a healthy handful of RI'ers in the NCAA Final Four including Virginia Player and MVP Colin Briggs. Congrats.

And also to the the Valiant Woman of the Mighty Seekonk River, The Brown Woman Crew Team who this weekend won the NCAA Championship.

Michelle Bachman is going to spend a lot of her time convincing people that she is not Sarah Palin. It is a political necessity for her. And the fact is that they are not at all alike. A Boston University Communications Professor, Ted Berkovitz, says that their commonality is that both "Are a threat to the Liberal orthodoxy as to what constitutes an acceptable, powerful female politician. Both are strong personalities with a successful media personna."

The Answer:
Her first with Buckingham and Mac, Dreams, was the only number 1 chart topper. but the rest are as memorable. Go Your Own Way, Angel, Beautiful Child, The Chain, Gypsy and Rhiannon. Nicks is such a prolific song writers that you all probably ave many other favorites...that is if you ever liked her.


Well maybe this first mystical, musical piece of magic was a little short a notes and drama, but it's a start.

Who woulda thunk it! Hospital food is loaded with gravy! I'm in heaven. I might stay.

See you tomorrow. "Almost Near" and all. I hope.