Another day in the Padded Cell.

Today's Tids Issue 2,759

Opening Stuff:

 

The Center for Science in the Public Interest has managed to coerce Taco Bell into stopping a commercial that the group says was unfair to vegetables. I'm not making this up. First, any group that includes in its name the words "For the Public Interest", is probably as dangerous to common sense as the ACLU. Second, what kind of wusses run Taco Bell. Third, I thought it was Funny. Fourth, vegetarians have no sense of humor. Just watch them someday examine a carrot, or bunch of broccoli.

For the past couple of days people I meet have been gleefully asking me if I'm looking forward to the warm, near 60 degree day, today. I say sure, if you like warm, muggy, rainy weather in January. If you like watching your potato chips go limp and the soda in your garage get hot. Yeah, I tell them, I'm going to have a great day sitting around looking at snacks getting soggy while drinking warm diet coke, while the rain falls on what would be a better than average golf day.

The Question:
Who do you think are the Top Ten Best Young (Under 29) Actors and Actresses. I usually look for several lists and combine them logically, when I think of these "Q's". And I always get disagreements with the answers.

The Headlines:
--US Economy Shrinks In Fourth Quarter; Consumer Spending Up Over Fourth; Business Spending Up Over Summer Tail-off.
--Consumer Confidence Index Falls To Lowest level In 15 Months; Peole Concerned Over Effect Of Increased FICA.
--Israel Hits Convoy On Syria-Lebanon Border; Defensive Action Over Concerns Over Chemical Weapons.
--Merkel Asks Mursi To Open Dialogue With Critics.
--New Blackberry Intro Has RIM Stock Up 4%.
--Obama Echoes Long Time Sentiment Of Republicans On Immigration Reform; Looks To Take Personal Credit For Bipartisan Work Of Senate.
--Retailers In 40 States Can Now Add 4% Extra When Consumers Pay By Credit Card; Does Not Apply To Debit Card Purchases.
--Texas Gov. Perry To Give Excess Funds Back To Taxpayers.

How come so many criminals actually look like the images I have in my mind of what criminals are supposed to look like.

There is this gigantic world of "Sports Medicine" out there that is as far away from my comprehension as Uranus.

Some readers probably think I'm losing my mind. But I'm just losing my patience. Often extreme anxiousness over the irrationality of government actions manifests itself in the appearance of general insanity.

While Hilary begins her 2016 Presidential campaign taking bows for Secretary of Sate accomplishments at a series of softball interviews, Russia announced that it was scrapping a law enforcement deal with US. Putin in a Twitter said, "We are saying farewell to our dependence on 'Power No. 1'." Did the Hill forget to tell Putin what 0-Man was going to do after he was elected. Has Hilary made the world safer.

Is their anything more disheartening than a large round black spot on the garage floor under your car ?

I have the new FX TV cold war drama series, The American's, marked clearly in my calendar. It starts tonight. Just so long as they don't make it a kumbaya spy tale, taking the evil out of the spies.

Before drafting college players, the NFL has all prospects take the Wunderlic Cognitive Ability Test. This is a test many other companies employ before hiring. I suggest that all potential local, state and national office seekers take this test so that their employers, us the people of the USA, know what they are getting. Makes sense to me.

You have to love these HS  kids who are protesting having to take a test before being permitted to graduate; A test that might indicate if they actually learned anything. National educators want a pipeline from the US Treasury to the NEA, but too many don't want know if the money is working. Including some kids who feel entitled.

The Conscience: Chapter 14.
   Angelica and I had a productive talk after we got past the mutual accusations. I shook the ice drink in my hand, and took a comforting swig. I earned this one, and it felt better than ever. I think Angelica was as concerned as I over the deal. Maybe more-so, since I am but a mere interloper for cold hard cash, and she  and her family have personal stake in everything going smoothly for both sides. 
   Let's see, I have lots of money. Should I empty the liquor bar or start using it to find answers. I'll start out being morally responsible. That should be a unique journey. I picked up the phone and called Jason. His beautiful gate minder answered, and my mind entered into fantasyland. "Hello, hello..." I heard. I came back.
    "Oh, sorry...what's your name?" She didn't answer probably thinking it was probably some weirdo who followed her to the gatehouse from the bus stop. I got serious "This is Jeff Morgan, remember me?".
   "Oh sorry, Mr. Morgan," she brightened up considerably. That's a good sign. "You can't be too careful after the explosion, you know. My name is Ginny. I suppose you want Jason, I mean Mr. Stevenson."
   "You read my my mind well, Ginny."
   "I'm not sure I want to," She answered with that smile you can sense over a the phone. and then clicked off.
   "Hi, Jeff. What did you discover after our last talk?"
   "Not much, other than I think she was not happy with a explosion that would sidetrack our talks."
   "You could be right." I heard a lot of dead air. "It's very depressing here, so I appreciate the interruption. What do you need."
   "I need more information. What's with this simmering hatred? What do you now about the company? Basically I need to talk before I start wandering around this city."

:The Answer
#10 is Kirsten Dunst. The rest in order down to #1 are Jonah Hill, Scarlett Johanssen, Anne Hathaway, Shia LeBouff, Michael Cera, Seth Rogan, Ellen Page, Jesse Eisenberg and Keira Knightly. Honorable Mentiosn go to Emma Watson, Jamie Bell, Emily Blunt, Paul Dano, Emile Hirsch, Anna Kendrick and Daniel Radcliff. Others may include, Dakota Fanning And Abigail Breslin emerging from youth roles. Also Emma Stone and just over thirty stars Hayden Christianson, Chris Evans, Ben Foster, Ryan Gosling, Jake Gyllenhaal, Brice Howard, Michael Pitt, Natalie Portman, and Elijah Wood. So, after reading all of these lists, I'm asking myself where is Jennifer Lawrence who at 22 has won at least as many acting awards as any listed above? Weird, huh? And, she's funny, too.

Usually, The Tids doesn't award its "Chortler of the Year" trophy to women. But after watching SoS Clinton in action at her campaign trail appearances, our board of cynics have decided that she wins it hands down.

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

Send

Hay growing out of my ears.

Today's Tids Issue 2,758

Opening Stuff:

 

To make a little sunshine for today, / I feel a poem coming my way./ Words that rhyme, a simple verse. / Words that shine, what could be worse? / Sitting in gray with a heavy heart? /  Doing nothing til the clouds do part? / No it's best to feel the warmth. / To take the day, this ugly morn / To remember friends who are the sun. / That light each day, and darken none.

I like small, quiet English movies. Does that make unpatriotic or just a liberal globalist?

President Obama continually removes the compromise place from the process -- Takes away a point where Dems and Repubs might have a chance to meet.

The Question:
In what movie did Katherine Ross first gain fame. Name three other of her films.

The Headlines:
--Dow Up 75; Cash Moving Back Into Market; Defensive Stocks Getting Bulk Of New Money.
--Economist Paul Krugman Says In Advance Of Fed Meeting: US Still Suffering Depression Conditions.
--Egypt Army Chief Warns Of Collapse Of State.
--Wall Street Tells Government To Cut Spending, Deficit Now.
--Prez, Senate Not exactly On Same Page With Immigration Discussion; Hispanics Fear Introduction Of O-Plan.
--700,000 Syrian Refugees Crowding Border Countries.
--US Beefing Up Presence In Africa; Niger Will Be Launch Site For Drones.
--Islamists Trash Significant Timbuktu Historic Sites As They Flee.

Ok, I give up. For over a hundred years the immigration laws of the country have functioned really well with all of those streaming to our shores. But now, to accommodate law breakers, those who sneaked in, jumped to the head of the line, grabbed freebies meant for American's who struggle, we need reform. The problem isn't with our immigration laws, it's with the Mexican government. Just as the problem isn't with the Gun, but the shooter. But, Politicians more and more don't go after the truth, do they?

Actually, the Immigration reform activity is mainly for US business owners looking for cheap labor. It appears many Americans are content living off of high paying government give-away programs, pretty good wages for doing nothing, which would decimate company bottom lines. Of course, once the path to legality is established, and the law breaking immigrants are working in the open, it won't be long before they become unaffordable too.

It was quite a surprise when I read the headline this morning leading into a column by the paper's main Political observer: "...Master Level Needs To Go". I thought thank God, someone finally recognizes that the Upper Echelon of the General Assembly is guiding this state into the depths of the ocean that surrounds us. I was elated that somebody finally had the guts to say what has been needed to be said for decades. But, after a few words I realized he was writing about single party "Lever" in voting booths! And, I know typos.

Well, I'll never again call my Spell-Check an alcoholic reprobate, A sot who's brain is rotting from the devil's evil gin. Yet a brain yesterday that fought through its morning-after haziness to find the resolve to get revenge. Without my knowledge, the little bastard changed the word Harbaugh, which I clearly typed correctly, into Harbinger just prior to my hitting the send button for yesterday's Tids. Unsettling. Is the SiFi channel listening?

Let's hope the Dem leadership doesn't trash Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND), the brand new Senator who is not marching in lockstep with her fellow Lawmaker's spending addiction. She understands the need to get spending under control, or the aspirations of the President in his speech will be meaningless. I mean, she's still a Democrat and thinks mainly like a democrat, but for a change her brain is still capable of understanding common sense.

A certain loud and boisterous Wall Street pitchman says the best IPO's so far this year are Bright Horizons, LipoScience, CyrusOne and Norwegian Cruise Lines. The next solid IPO should be Zoetis, a spin off of Pfizer's  animal health division. Check it out. Animals are king right now, and animal owners are manic buyers of expensive stuff.

Speaking of animal lovers, here in Newport we have an animal rescue group called the Potter league. It seems that nearly forty percent or more of all Obits have donations going to this influential group of pet lovers. Instead of, say, diabetes, cancer or Parkinson disease, to name a few. But, now I see an even greater natural tragedy in this world famous city of "Trees". Yes, trees, historic, mammoth, beautiful trees are failing, and falling without notice.. Most of these beauties were planted over a hundred years ago. They're tired. They need help or replanting, propagating relatives so to speak. I mean, an aging oak can't go out and hump a nearby beech! Let's have a Legion Of Tree Lovers. If Potter league can gather millions, I think the Tree Legions should do equally as well. The homeless sleep under them, and all God's unfortunates need our help. LTL forever..

Hispanics are asking the Prez not to disrupt the progress made on Immigration Reform with a speech planned for today introducing his own IR proposal. The White House said yesterday said that parties in the ongoing IR process should step back, to pause a little, and to remember that Obama gets the credit for making this happen. On top of that "Luanacy as usual" Washington report, I have heard word that Obama really wants to use IR to divide Repubs, pure and simple. And to that point, in his proposal, he is will to sacrifice IR by adding a poison pill like gay marriage which would stall or obliterate the bill immigrants, legal and illegal, are hoping for.

I was trying like hell to get this Tids out early, but had to go to the dentist, and get a haircut. So basically I'm smiling and looking a little better than usual while I type. can you feel it?

Why some states don't have a chance, Department:
I'm sure most of you have thrown the newspaper across the room after reading insane proposals by your State lawmakers. I felt that impulse not once but twice this morn. It woke me up before the first sip of coffee. 1. There is a movement afoot to pass a bill that would have Companies pay for product and food packaging picked up along the ocean. They want big business to pay for the irresponsibility of lunkhead litterers. I prefer the electric chair for litterers. Maybe we can meet in the middle somewhere. 2. A group whose name escapes me wants to pass a new tax, a new soak the rich law that moves the $250K crowd rate up two percentage points, which in reality is a 35% increase in taxes. A spokes person screams, "...end tax breaks for the wealthy that got us into this mess." Excuse me? You mean the wealthy who create and nurture businesses and jobs who left and are are leaving the state because of high taxes and high costs of doing business. Forced to move, to decide against the urging of the RI soul in their hearts, because the Legislature refuses to hear the real truth. Of course with even a larger tax burden they will move again, this time in larger and larger groups, until, until the entrepreneurial spirit is dead, completely. Who will create the jobs, contribute to groups and charities? The bloated Federal government? Now even weaker because of dependency states across the fruited plain? I mean... I just don't get it anymore.

The Novel will return tomorrow! Zowie!

The Answer:
Personally, I liked Katherine Ross, and how could you not in The Graduate, where she a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination. She was also in Butch Cassidy...et.al., one of my favorites -- Stepford Wives, and she won another GG for Village of the Damned. Her first major role was in "Games" just before TG and BC&SK. She is a great horseback rider. But in Hollywood, she always rode under the radar. Right, Lindsey?

Give me my provincialism. My Regional pride. Give me the comfort of my traditional New England womb. Let me be nurtured, and let me nurture the community around me. I don't want to be global. I don't even want to be national. For local is where America starts. Neighborhoods, villages, towns and cities are the roots that bind. The greatness of any entity is the sum of strong parts. Undiluted by the urine from a bloated, hovering, distant and often ignorant Federal monster.

And in closing, These from a Washington DC Tarvel agent:
1. An Illinois Congresswoman (Jan Schakowsky) called last week. She needed to know how it was possible that her flight from Detroit left at 8:30 A.M. and got to Chicago at 8:33 A.M.

I explained that Michigan was an hour ahead of Illinois but she couldn't understand the concept of time zones. Finally, I told her the plane went really fast and she bought that.
2. A senior Vermont Congressman (Bernie Sanders) called, furious about a Florida package we did. I asked what was wrong with the vacation in Orlando . He said he was expecting an ocean-view room. I tried to explain that's not possible, since Orlando is in the middle of the state.

He replied, 'Don't lie to me!  I looked on the map and Florida is a very thin state!.

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

Send

A "gray" Congress.

Today's Tids Issue 2,757

Opening Stuff:

 

There seems to be a rash of "Old People" movies these days. Many of them are cliched with all of the usual old people jokes, but all of them with a smiling army of quirky elderly in walkers and hobbling on canes rallying together to save the day. So, I'm thinking we should only elect to congress, people over 70. These are people who for the most part over the years, began to understand that perhaps their opinion wasn't the only one, or that maybe they had indeed been insulated from a big part of society. That they realized that when looking back the world may have been bigger than the one they knew. Yes it would be fun working on the floor of the house and senate with these open minded, experienced people. I think they'd come to realize that I was right all along! I love cooperation and understanding.

It seems that the aggressiveness on both sides of the political, cultural, business and social spectum has created a sense of defensiveness that has obliterated or at least confused the acceptance of rational thinking. Humans should be incapable of being 180 degrees apart all of the time. Innately, their minds should see, comprehend, differences; While not fully understanding them, they should be discussable. But unfortunately, it appears that advancing civilization has only created irrational forces blocking vision and closing hearts. Creating illusions of the truth.

If Bill Clinton's admin had done what Obama's admin is now doing with drones -- taken out al-Qaida training camp centers -- Americans would have been up in arms. They would have been skeptical of White Hosue reasoning. And, Americans would never have known that the action would have prevented the murder of 3,000 innocents in lower Manhattan.

You have to wonder if the Harbinger brothers who look so much alike and seem to have the same mannerisms, also think exactly the same; Know what each other is thinking all of the time. This could be the first 0-0 Superbowl.

The Question:
Undoubtedly everybody reading this morning mess could easily list the last six US Presidents. Piece of cake. But, fast now, who were the last 6 Chief Justices of the Supreme Court.

The Headlines:
--Kissinger Warns Of All-Out Nuke War With Iran.
--Obama Calls For Softer game Of Football; Admin Orders All High School Sports teams To Include The handicapped.
--287 Die In Santa Maria, Brazil Nightclub Fire.
--Senate Near Plan That Would Solve Illegal's Problem; They Would Get No Favorable Satus, But Would Be On Path; Borders Must be Tightened Before Any Act Will be Passed.
--France Urges Assistance To Syrian Rebels To Assure Islamist Rule Does Not Emerge After the Take Over.
--Pending Home sales Fall In December, Inventory Stocks Fall; Toyota Puish Back Past GM To Regain World Leadership.
--Egypt Prez Declares Sate Of Emergency.
--Jon-Benet Ramsey Grand Jury Had Enough Evidence To Indict Parest For Death By Child Abuse Out Of Control; DA Said Not enough To Convict.

How hard is it to understand that fireworks inside a room is a bad idea.

The second movement of Chopin's first piano concerto, invokes love and pure romance like no other piece of music. I was reminded of that last night while watching a nice little English movie, Ladies in Lavender starring Maggie Smith and Judy Dench...and Natasha McElhome. Except it wasn't the music this time, it was Natasha. The only other time I had seen this love-in-her-eyes actress was in the Truman Show where she played the woman who helped Jim Carey find unscripted love, who electrified his heart. Then, to that melody of Chopin playing in the background. I loved the feeling that Chopin created. But maybe, I was too fast to attribute the perfect mood to the romantic composer. That perhaps it was the captivating face of Natasha McElhome who created the beauty of the moment in Truman. Becasue she played the the same role in "...Lavender"; Capturing the heart of a young man with her presence. And new music in the Background.

Reality is not always what is real.
 
Uber-Wealth has become so commonplace now-a-days, that it seems if you seen one mansion, you have seen them all. In fact all of these fortunes floating around prove one thing, lots of money doesn't improve taste or creativity. Most of these billionaires/multi-millionaires live in copy cat homes in copycat neighborhoods. With in-home theaters, infinity pools and koy ponds. Decorated by designers recommended by the neighbors next door. In other words vast wealth may separate the masses, but it doesn't separate the commonality of humans.

The new Kevin Bacon TV effort, The Following, is tense and well done -- with a plot line that at the moment is very intriguing and satisfying even while shocking. But, if you don't like blood and gore and amorality, stay away.

If you haven't seen Dustin Hoffman's first directorial effort, "Quartet", put it on your must be see list! Excellent.

In his first term, the Prez announced at his inauguration a new era of bi-partisanship, and then immediately told the Congress that bi-partisanship would work if they did exactly what he wanted. This year he told Congress right from the beginning that he had his own agenda which was exactly opposite to what the people saw as the most pressing issues facing the country. In other words, there's not a hint of the possibility that bi-partisanship might occur; Congress must take their own path oblivious to the President's wish list; do what is best for all of the people, and the generations to come.

At the Davos forum, President of the IMF, Christine Legarde, urged the leading countries not to relax on job creating, economic missions. She noted that "China, Africa and other emerging* nations could see significant growth, but Japan, Eurozone nations and the USA are likely to struggle with negative or low growth. She added that the WorldCat is in a fragile recovering and she sees signs of EuroLeaders and the US easing up in a battle that still should be fierce. (*Duh moment -- Nations and regions that have little or no economy today will always show significant growth far surpassing established, mature economies. Like the improvement of the Arkansas Education system that started at  "0" under the Clintons**)

Getting out of town before the Sheriff, Department:
I see where Tom Harkin has announced his retirment. You have to wonder if he sees in with the wisdom of aging, his "Baby" -- ObamaCare" -- becoming the biggest disaster in American history.

Beethoven became pretty good when he got past the Mozart style of composing.

Maybe families of yore were indeed happier, generally more relaxed, less dysfunctional, because they weren't bombarded by 24 hours a day of news, reality shows or psychological experts. Maybe they felt better about themselves because they didn't hear so many "experts" telling them what was wrong with their lives and what thy were missing. Maybe living in the new world of technology has heightened envy and jealousy. Envy and jealousy, attributes that can distroiy a society even without the interference of politicians.

Remember when you used to be able to write "(Fill in blank -- sins, joys, creativity et.al.) of man" and people understood it was the collective for all beings.

If you are driving under the influence, you would think that part of a get home safely plan would be avoiding crashing into a police car.

My heart sang a little Sunday while reading the editorial of the often very pro-democrat, pro-union, pro-left Providence Journal. In comments about the Hillary tears in her eyes, hands awaving, acting job before the House and Senate and her specific rant "...What difference at this point does it make," the editors went on to talk about "Trust in the government", as the answer to her question. Maybe I've been too hard on the Editors over the years. Maybe they are right most of the time. Maybe David Cicilini isn't a sleazy liar.

The Answer:
There have been only 17 Chief Justices since the beginning of America, so it wouldn't be surprising not to know that last six. John Roberts is now and John Jay was the first. In between we had William Rehnquist, Warren Burger, Earl Warren, Fred Vinson and the sixth Charles Evans Hughs. Before Hughs was Harlan Stone, William Howard Taft, Edward Douglas White, Melville Fuller, Morrison Waite, Salmon Chase, Roger Tanny, John Marshall, Oliver Ellsworth. John Rutledge and Now we are back to Jay! 17 CJ's who may have had a bigger influence on America than almost any president. Oh yeah, Jay wasn't the first SC Justice. He was number 2, and #1 was James Wilson, Only two states had more than three judegs -- Ohio and New York. Virginia may whine trying to lay claim to Rehnquist as their third, but he was an Arizonan.

I had titled this issue, "What you see is necessarily there." It was to be my Zen issue. But then I got onto the Gray thing.

** With Hilary beginning her campaign at the hearings and last night on 60 minutes, it's never too early to define the truth about the Clinton's, before they do, to the un-knowledgeable voter.

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

Send

The constant drumbeat is hurting my ears.

Today's Tids Issue 2,760

Opening Stuff:

 

After using profanity, Helen Keller's mother made her daughter wash her hands with soap.

I was walking around town yesterday. I noticed on the sidewalks in some of the old neighborhoods of rejuvenated Victorians several of the impressive WPA ( The FDR anti-Depression Work Progress Administration) plaques nestled in the concrete. I wondered if the new Government make work programs might have brass plaques like the Stars 0n Hollywood and Vine, with that face of You-Know-Who smiling up. But then I remembered, he would not like to be trod upon.

People were quite aghast yesterday on Wall Street and the nightly news programs after it was learned that the WH econ folks released news of that horrific 4th Quarter GNP slippage. After learning that consumer and business spending were quite healthy, and the drop could be attributed to a large drop military/defense spending, I'm thinking that the ever plotting Admin released it purposely. All to prove a point that messing with spending as part of the Debt Ceiling redux, will send the economy aspiraling downward. Remember that none other than 0-man himself said, business only succeeds because of Big government. And, believe me, that maxim is part of his heart and soul.

The Question:
Double "Q" Day -- 1. "Market Watch" Who are the Ten Most valuable Actors of All Time?   2. Who is the only woman buried in the SF (Special Forces Cemetery at Fort Bragg?

The Headlines:
--Hagel Says, "Don't Judge Me By My Jewish Quote".
--Syria Warns Of "Surprise" Response To Israel Attack; Russia Condemns Jewish State.
--Charitable Giving Down.
--Cod Quotas Slashed For New England Fishermen.
--Italy's Enigmatic Berlusconi Taking Revenge On Current PM Monti; Monti Had Hounded Berlusconi Out Of Office Two Years Ago.
--FaceBook Stock Retreats After Company Earnings beat Analysts Numbers; Recent Run-up Of FB Stock Maxed Out Potential, According To Analysts.

During my heyday at that time when Superbowl parties were coming into vogue, I later found, as time went by. that I was left off of invitation lists.  It's probably because I came to watch the game and didn't mingle. Or, maybe it was because I ate all of the Doritos chips meant for the guacamole dip?

Ok -- all Fall, Thursday has been Pickin' Day. So without the Pats being part of celebration, it kinda snuck up on me. I think it has the possibility of being a great one. Flaco is much better than the "Experts" (Especially local New England Yahoo's) give him credit for. And Kapernack has proven that he has the maturity and mental toughness of QB's twice his age and NFL experience. So, I think the QB's balance out. The Coaches too. We just know which one was more irritable to the other in their growing-up days. Ray Rice and Frank Gore are different types of running backs but both are very good and big threats. The Raven Offensive line is very good, but so is the Niner seven. Believe it or not, beyond the bravado of ray Lewis, I think on balance SF has the better line backing corps and outside rush capability. Baltimore has contirved emotion on its side, but the Niners want to win as much. Both teams hit hard. The NFC was tougher than the AFC this year. I'm going with the San Francisco Forty Niners. And I wouldn't be surprised at all if the Baltimore Ravens won. It will be that close -- 23-21.

A new report about obesity from the New England Journal of Medicine essentially says that sex for adults and gym classes for kids, on average, have little or no effect on weight loss; And, you can eat all of the snacks you want.

The noise about Ray Lewis and other super star athletes taking injury heeling and performance drugs and supplements, has buried a rumor coming out of the PGA's Senior Championship league where the Commissioner Tim Finchem will announce a list of several well known players on the dietary supplement Metamucil. Say isn't so, Shoeless Joe.

The worst thing about these little warm spots in the weather is maintaining my Winter blubber.

Also, the tremor you hear when warmth overtakes Winter cold for a few days is the collective beating of the excitable environmentalist's pro warming hearts.

Sometimes during the morning when I begin to get tired from typing this mess, I look for shorter words and abbreviations. How lazy is that!

The government is always releasing unclaimed money reports. TV reports show piles of paper money just sitting there ready for the taking. After a momentary spike in blood pressure and heart rate, I remember that I have spent everything I have seen.

I loved watching the Boston Celtics last night.

I also liked the premiere of "The Americans". Has a nice reality to it, contradicts little, all leading to a very plausible story line. In vase you aren't familiar with it, It's about a regular ole' family in Washington DC where mom and dad are Russian spies during the Reagan Admin Cold War Years. Dad is weakening thinking it's time to cash in and become a defector. The wife is a tough no nonsense Russian Patriot.

The Conscience: Chapter 14 Continues.
   After giving me a quickie course on the Upscale Yacht building industry, the players and the problems, Jason was  now telling me that he was confused about this feud. He always liked the Bagliettos, and admired their company even though a competitor to the mighty Bernard Yachts. He told me that a coldness had crept into their relationship, that had at one time been quite cooperative. He and Wu both sensed the changed and figured, that maybe they had pushed too far without knowing it. "Italians are little more emotional than Southern Wasps, and resolute Asians" he said. He laughed. He enjoyed racial ethnic epithets. They were part of his soul, he once told me "I always felt when we walked out of meetings we would have with them about sharing technology or for some work on the industry in general, that everything was copacetic. That's why I told you earlier not to get to complacent about Angelica."
  "I have taken that to heart," I replied under his monologue, knowing he probably didn't hear it. 
   "Don't let her good looks and youthful age fool you. She's as smart as they come. Maybe sharper than all of us" Smarter than this old sot? I doubt it, I laughed to myself. After some more conversation, we hung up. It was good though. I felt more comfortable being a part of whatever is going on. I headed over to the booze bar to see what more I could drink tonight. I deserve a little celebration. If I survive the night, I may walk down to the docks tomorrow and see what I can learn about Bagleitto Panfilos Building #2.

The Answer:
1. All of the actors are listed becasue of their inflation adjusted gross take in career efforts. #10 is John Travolta. 9. Clint Eastwood 8. Morgan Freeman 7. Sean Connery 6. Dustin Hoffman 5. Tom Cruise 4. Robin Williams 3. Eddie Murphy 2. Harrison Ford. And, Number one is Tom Hanks! Surprising list isn't it. Rememebr this list isn't based on opinions, just raw numbers.  2. Martha Raye the great funny lady of the 30's 40's and 50's is in that Hallowed ground because of her enormous, and often brave efforts going into the most dangerous battle situations to keep troops spirits hopes high in wars from WWII to Nam. Once while in a Nam war zone where bodies were piling up hse ran to tend to the wounded and carry the dead away. One time aCaprain said to her somehwhat snidely, Miss Raye, with all of the dead mounting and battle under way, there would be no time for the show. She flipped the collor of her fatigues saying, "This means I'm a full bird colonel and surgical nurse. Now take me to your wounded." Her story is remarkable. A shiver down the spine story. Are you listening Lindsey, Brittany?

It's tough to write anything more when you read about some one who is so truly unselfish, so thoroughly giving, while critics only see the bad jokes. Martha Raye made us all laugh on TV, with her close friend Bob Hope, and we never knew what was in her heart. That amazing, gigantic heart.

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

Send

Not smart enough to come in from the cold.

Today's Tids Issue 2,746

Opening Stuff:

 

If 0-Man can't get Congress to really tax the successful like he would want to, he's signaled with the appointment of Mary Jo White as new SEC chief that he intends to make the lives of the wealthy on Wall Street very uncomfortable. By all accounts, MJ is a bulldog. A fierce woman, former US Attorney in New York who will change the SEC from a toll-taker to a punisher. Not just fines any longer, fines and jail time. She's taken on John Gotti and al-Qaida, so how's a guy in a nice suit and shiny tie going to scare her?

I love the cold outside. It's the inside cold that gets me. Like putting a bottle of soda in the refrigerator only to see it get warmer. Or watching ice cubes grow in the glass while drinking something. And now it's so cold inside my Temperpedic pillow doesn't smoooosh. I really got worried though, when I saw my gold fish growing blubber. And little Eskimos in little kayaks chasing it around the bowl.

The Question:

What are considered the Top ten "Cutest Dogs". This cannot be done for cats because they all look the same in different colors..

The Headlines:

--US Homeland Security Chief Warns Of Looming Major Cyber Attack; Would Be More Devastating To Power Than Sandy.

--North Korea Threatens War With SK If Joins UN In New Round Of Tightened Sanctions

--Obama Picks, Former Deputy NSA, Insider Pal Denis McDonough As Chief Of Staff.

--Japan, China Cool Tensions Over Territorial Dispute.

--Biden Says Shotguns More Effective Against Looters Than AK-47's.

--Mali Jihadists Have Back To Wall As French Supported Troops Press Forward.

--Short Sellers Push Apple Downward; G-S Lowers Twelve Month Target By $100 To $660; Technical Charts Shpw Apple Going To $340..

--Questions Arise About Chief Witness In Trial Of Alleged Murderer Of Chandra Levy.

You may see a few more typos than usual. Typing in gloves is difficult.

"Tune in at 11:00 as we continue our reports on The Cold Snap!" Ok, I can see them standing in hurricanes and snow storms pointing out what we can see through our windows, but a cold snap! Inanity at its weirdest! Maybe the reporters could blow ice sculptures with their breath. Or do close-ups of frostbite forming on extremities. I really don't think tragedies are any worse now than in history, we just have too much reporting.

You have to wonder how much it cost that taxpayer to pay for all of those "Real" people props Congress People and The President seem to be using more and more as heart moving backdrops while delivering a message. Groups of kids or a diversity of adults or people in uniforms all gathered to help a hapless politician sell some new law to the American public, a law which is probably somewhere already on the books but not being enforced properly. Just another gimmick to raise the emotions with the hope of clouding the brain. The trick of scam artists since the beginning of time. Don't pay attention to that man behind the curtain. Watch the pea at all times.

Joe Biden for President. God help us.

The only difference between snail-mail junk mail and email junk mail is that promoters can determine the real open rate for email junk mail. Not that this means anything to the average citizen. It's just one of those things that flew by my brain.

So, here's the kind of convoluted thinking so prevalent in the new America that inspires the emotions but does absolutely nothing to solve a big problem. In Chicago -- yes that Chicago which gave us several governors in jail, a misleading President in the White House -- the public employees pension fund has voted to divest gun maker holdings. Oh good, that's sure to stop the over 500 murders per year of kids on the city streets. It's like when the engine warning light comes on in my car, and I cover it with electrical tape. Enough with symbolic gestures and procrastination. Let's do away with Political correctness. Let's hurt some tender feelings. Let's solve the problems. 

One of the biggest disservices to US citizenry that consistently marks Hollywood pictures, is their zealous overreaching to make all business men appear dishonest, sleazy, weak or self serving.

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:

--Parker seems to be the best of the bunch on this weak weekend's offerings. It's a slickly directed crime film a bout a professional thief with a set of morals that assuage his guilt while filling his pockets, That is until he is double crossed by his crew. 

--Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters is a weird looking movie about witch hunters, Very magical and fantasmical. It is fairy tail super heroes meet Hollywood special effects. It is taking out lots of small time witches along the way to get the main evil witch. I doubt if I will see it, unless I find myself following a mysterious trail of pop corn.

The Answer:

Ok, bring it on Cat lovers. I'm ready for you. So here is one pet organizations list of cutest dogs: Number one is Pugs followed by Shar Peis. In order the rest are Chihuahuas, Pekinese, French Bulldogs, Dalmations, Welsh Corgis, Siberian Huskies, Maltese, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, Chow Chows, King Charles Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Bassets, Beagles, Lhasa Apsos, Labradors and Poodles. Of thise I'll take as "Cute" the Dachshund, the two Retrievers, Basset, Beagle, Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, Miniature Schnauzer and maybe the weird looking Shar.

There's no truth to the rumor that in his effort to provide fairness for all, Obama is asking FaceBook to redistribute Friends, from those with a plenty to those lagging behind. He's calling it the Manti Te'o Initiative.

Meanwhile Republicans are looking for happiness in a world that continues to lower standards and dilutes the nectar of human challenge.

Love your weekend. Don't watch the Sunday News Shows.

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

Send

Listen to Dr. Scott Atlas.

Today's Tids Issue 2,754

Opening Stuff:

 

On this brisk, beautiful morning, when ice cubes seem to tumble off of crests of wavelets in the harbor, I am annoyed. And do you know why I'm annoyed. It's the same reason I seem to be annoyed more and more -- ObamaCare. And it's not just the act it self, it's the travesty of how such burden upon happy contented Americans was levied entirely without any sense of rational thinking; Only because of intense ideology. Oh yeah, and it is also the act itself. The act that nary a legislator could begin to understand even as they voted. An act it now becomes evident will provide less, take away a lot and cost more. The real reason I am so annoyed is because America always made sense, until now.

Did you know that on the Chicago streets since 2008, there has been a Sandy Hook school tragedy every month? 553 kids have been shot dead, senselessly. The National media sides steps it every month too. Maybe it's because part of the reason the culture is so deplorable there, perhaps the biggest part, are the liberal programs put in place by and since LBJ. Programs that have crippled the heart of families, eviscerated ambition and self determination.

I've seen and heard a lot of beautiful women who have worn bangs well before the White House "fashion icon", saying emphatically, "I Have had these well before Obama." In other words, "I have always been comfortable with my hair style, so please don't label me a Michelle minion."

The Question:
R&B/Soul, Jazz singer Anita Baker has among other things received 8 Grammies. What are five of her best songs?

The Headlines:
--Hillary Testifying.
--US House Begins Vote On Debt Ceiling; Wall Street Watching Closely.
--Netanyahu Regains Power; Upstart Centrist Party Deduces Netty Win To Scant One Vote Victory; Signals Move Away From Foreign Policy To Domestic Issue; Obama Happy.
--Dems Criticize New GOP Debt Limit Action; Duh.
--Christie Appears Shoo-In For NJ Gov Re-Elections.

Computer hackers seem to be the new breed of arrogant celebrities who are dismayed when they don't receive special considerations form the law.

"I can't recall", Department:
In her testimony this morning, Hillary's hand waving makes her look very nervous justifying her reactions to the Benghazi murders. And, it appears she contradicted her earlier statements about the film hoax as the culprit. She will be analyzed and scrutinized, and probably nothing willl happen. They will all shake hands and chortle. But, you can be sure she is mainly trying to avoid snippets that could be used against her in a 2016 election, just as questioners are trying to create them.

I just love my favorite new national pastime, the battle between smart phone, tablet producers. The Microsoft Phone, well behind, but with pretty good critical reviews, is offering it at Verizon at $99. IPhone is $199. Microsoft is thinking of buying Dell, another move that will get them deeper into the hardware biz. But then, all of their biggest customers are competitors of Dell. Reports due out shortly will probably show big declines in IPhone 5 sales according to Japan newspapers and WSJ monitoring China factories. Droid and Google continue to rise in the race for dominance. I mean, this is the superbowl!

A local medium to low sized school system is proposing spending spending $550,000 to provide every student with IPads. Hmmm. Maybe Apple should give each school system stock in return for taxpayers handing them a competitive advantage over Android.

So, Obama still wants to look back to the sins of the past on slavery, but Hillary doesn't want to look backwards at the sins of the State Department and Admin mismanagement of the Bengahzi Embassy. Is that about how it works?

With all of the great restaurants in this beautiful but flawed state of ours, why does the media become giddy over the arrival of another chain? Becasue the P'R deprtments of the Big Chains overwhelm them and they need ad money more than ever. It's hard to stand tall on the bridge as captain of your ship, 30 foot waves breaking over the decks as you lash your self to the mast shouting, don't give up, don't give up" -- when your ship is sinking.

To be fair, I go to Outback every couple of years.

To be fair again -- I would ordinarily decry the intelligence of a newspaper that would run as a headline "RI (Puppet) Congressional Delegation Unnites in Suppport of Obama on (Fill in blank). So today I have to point out th esame about a headline that reads: "Republicans criticize Obama Inaugural Speech (or fill in the blank)." It would be nice to see the editors dig a little and learn that it should be "Hard working Americans criticize Obama speech".

Every once in a while I'll pick up a section of the Sunday NY Times -- from Books to Politics to Entertainment to Culture-- and read it. And, more often than not, I find a lot of precious drivel. Unfortunately a lot of people take it all as gospel. Especially the parts against religion.

The lesson of Wounded Knee is "Beware of a Government come to confiscate your firearms for your own safety."

I have a friend I truly like. A friend who is the classic definition of liberal. A true intellectual and world known expert on International relationships. But one, with all of her innate intellectual curiosity, is unable to get beyond misconceptions about business, religion and conservatives as perpetrated by the press and Hollywood producers.

Too many fans of teams forget that the other teams have good players too.

I would like to ask Piers Morgan why he came to America. I hope it wasn't for better health care.

The road to the passage of ObamaCare was driven by the myth that socialist country health care was better than the US. If a diligent 4th estate had taken the time and a little energy to investigate, they would have learned that that was far from the truth. Now that we have it, the same negligent journalists could save America from impending financial disaster by reporting on the loss of jobs, the probable decline in care, the true costs of a law that can only be defined now by entitlements and symbolic handouts. It is that classic socialist burden that could squash once and for all the Great American Middle Class for good.

There may only be a declining middle class left in California if Phil Michelson's action becomes a trend. The native San Diego golfer is planning moving to anther state, saying that the taxes there which would take 60% of his income are just becoming to much of a burden.

The Answer:
The 54 year old singer has been singing since she was 12 and has given us "Sweet Love", Giving you the Best I've Got", "Body and Soul", "Angel", You Bring Me Joy", "Same Old Love", "Caught up in the Rapture", "Ain't no need to Worry", "I Apologize", "Just Because" and "Fairy Tales".

That noise you hear intruding upon your calm Wednesday lunch are feminists a cross the nations shouting "Go Hillary, Go.

The horny widow living in a well known Florida retirement conglomerate asked a stranger why he had left the community for a couple of years. He replied that he had murdered his wife. "Oh good," She said,  "That means you're single!"

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

Send

Wading through snow in DC.

Q: What has two humps and lives at the North Pole?
A: A lost camel!

Yes folks, it's going to be one of those days. Some days you just have to step back from bombastic exaggeration and relax within inane solitude.

Well, it's out. 0-Man has finally let us in on what he had hinted to Medvedev and Putin before the election. Yup, yesterday he told the world what we all knew, that he is a left winger through and through. And if anybody had hope this man would attempt to change his ways and actually work with congress, he slammed the door in their faces with his agenda that basically requires nothing more than irresponsible spending.

Is there anything nicer, than on an icy cold morning, waking to discover a blanket of pure white snow hiding the pockmarks of a city's streets.

The Question:
Some days a song just mysteriously enters your head, and it won't go away. What is the name of the song that contains the line "I couldn't sleep at all last night". Who sang it. What are some other songs by same singer?

The Headlines:
--Prez Revels, Proposes Progressive Agenda; Analysts* Across Board Rate Speech Mediocre, Uninspiring; *Except Chris Matthews.
--Syria Rebels Clash With Kurds In Northeast.
--Biden Hints At 2016 Presidential Run; Dems Cringe.
--Palestine Sees Netanyahu Re-Election As Bad For Peace.
--0-Man Says he Likes Wife's Bangs.
--Blasts In Iraq Continue To Kill.
--Italy's Berlusconi, Former PM, Porn Addict, Drops Friends With Ties To Mafia.

Obama's giddy newsman sycophants were orgasmic yesterday reporting that before the inauguration he took time to meet with the leadership of Congress. "What a guy," they slobbered. The only thing this President wants to do with Congress is paralyze the Republican Party so that he has the chance to gain two Democrat majority houses for the final two years. That's the strategy, pure and simple. Can you imagine the horror wrought upon our great country without loyal opposition.

I guess Twittering and FaceBook are the official new measurements of America's heart. Research companies monitor the tone of reactions to events closely, and rely on what they see as accurate estimates of the national mood. For instance, after Oprah the noise was solidly against and decidedly unsympathetic to Armstrong. So, maybe I should tweet out the Tids in 140 character segments.

I just don't understand at all why people bare their souls on FaceBook.

Basically, the evidence says clearly that it is Democrats who shouldn't be allowed to buy guns. Obama and the Liberal side of the dem party must be trying to circumvent the Constitution, because, in fact, guns are dangerous to the image of themselves. It turns out that of all of these horrible mass shooters over the past few years, from Sandy hook to Fort Hood to Columbine to Virginia Tech to Aurora theater were registered democrats, progressive liberals or from homes of liberal activists. None of them were NRA or Right Wing Nuts or Survivalists. (Ironically, Timothy McVeigh, a survivalist and NRA member, didn't use a gun at all.)

Two Muslims in a speed boat crashed in to a barrier on the Thames River. Police said it signaled the start of Ram-a-dam.

In an effort not to become what most people think old people become -- set in their ways -- this morning I decided to read the comics in an entirely different rotation. It worked out fine. Even as I was anxious in the beginning. Take a step down a different street each morning.

The Conscience: Chapter 13 continues.
   By the time Jason settled his tired, six foot four inch frame into his dark tan leather chair, Wu was already talking to Jeff. Jason could hear the conversation in the background, but it was very fuzzy to his disjointed mind. He was angry as hell, but he didn't know where to push that anger. He knew that anger would get him nowhere, As he has done all of life, he knew he could harness that useless energy and transform it positively towards accomplishing this new challenge before him. He has always loved the impossible, and this was certainly that.
  "Hi Jeff," he interrupted Wu and his old college friend. "You sound pretty good for a fraternity sot."
   "Actually, Jeff, I am, and this meeting has been going better than I had expected until your news."
   "So, you told Angelina about our tragedy?'
   "Yes, she could read my expression, and it wouldn't have helped to deny that anything was happening."
   "Where is she now?"
   "We were at lunch when Eliot called, and believe me, it got very tense for a moment. In my eagerness to get her to react me, I went a little too far. Her Italian ire exploded. But, eventually she and I came back to rationality. A few minutes ago she saw a friend or somebody walk in, and went over to talk. So your timing is oddly perfect. Must be the reason you are a leader. So tell me about what happened."
    "First, before she returns, I'm tabling this negotiation. They may want to also, anyhow. Since you are there, I want you to put your ear to the ground. See what you can find out."
    "I don't think Angelina knows anything."
    "Don't fool yourself. Don't get over confident with her. She may not know details of anything, but she probably suspects a lot. She is very smart and plugged in."
    "That I have learned for sure".
    "How are you holding up?" Jason sounded concerned for Jeff. Like a friend.
    "Surprisingly terrific." Maybe this challenge that forces my brain to work again is what have needed for a ling time. I know I will jump into a bottle again while I'm here, but some how I think I 'll be able to swim out, tide or no tide against me."
     "That's good Jeff. That's very good. Since you are staying a little longer, and I want you to take your time, I'm sending a little more expense money. Don't worry about a thing. We'll be gathering information at this end too. " Jason then proceeded to describe the damage. Jeff could sense the pain Jason had in his heart.

A big part of "O" Speech yesterday was about freedom, equality for gays. Which, must mean marriage, because most of the gays in this area have great careers, are well respected and are just plain folks in the community. Friends next door. But then I read that married couples pay higher taxes, and I'm thinking -- Huh? Fight for marriage so you can pay more in taxes? In reality, if you want to use taxes to induce people actions, it should be single people who are taxed higher. That may contribute to a decline in fatherless families.

The Answer:
The line comes from "Tossin' and Turnin' " first recorded by Bobby Lewis in 1961. It seems, not getting sleep at night is a popular subject in songs. The Fifth Dimension had a song hit "Last night I didn't get to sleep at all." Sinatra had "I couldn't sleep a wink last night" and  Joey Ramone had an updated version of the '61 Lewis #1 hit. Lewis also had One Track Mind, Two of the Usual, Ti Something better Comes Along, Hello Mary Lou, Each and Every Part of Me, Simple days and Simple Ways, What a Difference a Day made. Here With You, Its So Nice to be With You, I See Love and For Your Love. Lewis was prolific, having 9 top 100 hits and 39 Top 100 Country Hits.

The Prez also stated his intention of going to war over alternative energy. Now, let's see, the middle class avergae salary is declining at a rapid rate mainly because manufacturing CEO's moved there facilities went to the lower production cost regions of the world. Now, energy has always been a  big cost factor in Manufacturing, and alternative energy us way more expensive than traditional sources. So, this again is the description of a man more interested in the emotions of a small minority in a country rather than  what is good for the people of the country,

It's hard to maintain a comfortable mindless environment, when Politicians continue to talk. 

I think it is amazing how camels over the years morphed into what they became to survive in their environment. Could it be that humans in the future will grow cupholders on their midriff?

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

Send

Drape me in black*

Today's Tids Issue 2,752

Opening Stuff:

 

Let's see, today is Martin Luther King day, and I have to make a decision on whether to watch NBA Basketball or The Inauguration. Hmmmm. I think I'll watch the MLK "I Have a Dream Speech", instead. It is a moving speech, to me. It reaches in and grabs my heart every time. Oh, I can argue about some of his phrasing, just as I savor others, like that calling for rational thinking, "Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred." There are those with closed hearts and minds who will fight his words, but they all resonate for truth and understanding. People may hate him because he disrupted the order of their lives, but he only did so to help those struggling to find lives.

Local police looking for the "knitting needle nutcase", who has stabbed six people in 48 hours, believe he is following some kind of pattern.

The world is changing Martin. Last week  I met a woman who was mad because her husband wasn't interested in watching the Pats game with her! Yikes! What has this new world become?

In his fanaticism for gun control, 0-Man failed to mention all of the other problems that must also be fixed in order to really protect children. Nope, he just picks out the villains that liberals like to fight. That's what we'll get for four more years.

New Hampshire's motto "Live Free or Die" has never meant more than it does today as the state with the most automatic weapons per capita.

The Question:
Double "Q" Day. 1. Name four animals which are members of the camel family. Hint: One of them isn't Joe. 2. What are Pork Chitterlings.

The Headlines:
--Country Honors MLK.
--BHO Celebrates Yesterday's Inauguration.
--Condy Rice Becomes CBS Analyst.
--NE Pats Look Inept In Loss; Superbowl: Niners- Ravens.
--Senate Says They will Submit First Budget In Four Years; New Revenue Streams To be Focus.
--Son Kills Five In His Albuquerque Home?
--Algerian Death Toll Up To 80.
--Netanyehu Expects Re-Election.
--Egypt Citizens Renouncing US Leadership And Need For Relationship.

*I'm in mourning for the Pats. What did you think?

Good news, new pics at http://todaystids.blogspot.com

Stan the Man was a favorite of mine. He was one those few guys from the other team who's skills shown so brightly that you couldn't help admire his unique stardom. He and Ted Williams were in my mind the stars that transcended the rest in those glorious years. Some NY'ers want to add Joe D to that short list, but I never gave him a thought. And of course, because of today, a lot of people would throw Jackie R into the group of elite 40's 50's supermen. But to this kid who liked Robinson as a part of the team he loved, it was "The Man" who always mesmerized my youthful eyes. So, Stan you were a great person, on and off the field. And you will be missed.

Uncle Remus could have been talking about the Middle East in his tales about the tar baby.

I had written once a while back that why not put giant fences around Northern and Southern Ireland, The Middle East, and several Countries in Africa. And, just let them fight their senseless wars among themselves without drawing in the rest of the world. Of course, the Irish don't belong in that group any longer. Or do they? There are some new reports of unrest in Northern Ireland. It's true. Maybe it's because Rory McElroy switched to Nike clubs! Now they yell "Fore" instead of "incoming".

So, I am now to believe according to newspaper headlines that Michelle Obama is officially a Fashion Icon. "Icon" no less. What's that all about? The first thing I know for sure is that no self respecting fashion icon would wear bangs. Many a good looking women has coiffured herself into obscurity by clipping hair and brushing it down. But then, so many follow celebs whether good or bad. It would have been so great on this MLK day for Michelle O to come out in a stance that would begin bringing back together 2 parent families for the people the peace-loving minister worked so hard to free.

Where is Andrew Breitbart when you need him?

Manti Te'o has gone from Heisman candidate to National Joke.

Aaron Swartz committed suicide after he learned he was to go to jail for several hacking violations. He was against "Anti-Piracy" laws and thousands of closeted computer mavens have made him a Martyr to their cause. Hey, I like an open and free Internet, but stealing other people's work is not freedom.

Celebrity adulation is a national problem, in this person's eyes. Often the actions of celebs and athletes are taken seriously as condoning bad behavior. And even worse, putting law breakers and moral/ethical degenerates on a pedestal. Many rushed to Armstrongs defense even afte he told the world what the world already knew -- he was a lyin', cheatin' creep. The said, I can't be against a person who through his fame raised a half a billion for cancer. Maybe that will bethe new publist strategy -- have all of their talents open significant charities so that when caught, the sympathetic will sympathy -- "Don't be so hard on Lindsay Lohan - she raised a half a billion for unwed drug addicts.

Oops! Did you see where the CEO of Whole Foods has really disturbed his progressive customer base, by doing exactly what liberals hate most -- Telling the truth. Yes, it is a well known fact that the least tolerant of them all are the liberals of our world, who are now fuming that John Mackey correctly described ObamaCare as looking like Facism. You know, the old "If looks like a duck...". Well there's quacks aplenty screaming and gandering with incredulous eyes. Apparently, Mackey just wrote a book on capitalism and it doesn't include the Obama way.

Collateral damage Department:
Speaking of progressive food shoppers, have you heard about the latest collateral damage report. Some of those precious cities and states Like San Fran Cal have outlawed plastics bags because they are icky for the environment. So, many shoppers there (And followed by rafts of peeps across the country) turned to their own reusable bags. Sounds ingenius except for one thing -- health services are reporting that these bags proudly dropped on check-out counters throughout our land are breeding grounds for e-Coli. Yup, people carry home meat and/or veggies, and then toss them in the car trunk where the hot sun bares down and helps to propagate bad stuff. Feeling ill yet?

Are you ready for Harbaugh mania! God help us all.

I think that RI is over run with pets. But now I learn that RI ranks in the bottom ten in pet ownership. That's good enough reason never to move to Vermont, , New Mex, South Dakota, Oregon, Maine, Washington, Arkansas, West Virginia, Idaho and Wyhoming...the Top Ten.

So, if California has banned plastic bags, how do Cal people pick up their pet's deposits? Let's hope it isn't in those reusable shopping bags.

There have been no relatives sighted trying to freeze Stan Musial's head.

The Answer:
1. Some Camel relatives are Alpacas, Llamas, Vicunas and Guanacos. 2. First, I learned that Chitterlings are common among most dog and pork eating nations. I immediately had the feeling that I was not on the track of something good. Then I learned that pork chitterlings were actually a Southern Dining treat, but must be handled with care, like washing your hands with bleach. Chitterlings are pork intestines. Get me outta here. I wonder if Arabs eat camel chitterlings?

"And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, 'Free at last! free at last! thank God Almighty, we are free at last!'."

Uh, Martin. Things do change. You forgot Muslims.

If you think it's bad in America today, note that the Prez walked to the Inauguration with the ever disingenuous Charles Schumer. Please help us all.