Christmas makes me Whacky.

Today's Tids Issue 2,493
Opening Stuff:

One of the great things about a cold Winter is jumping into a warm bed at night.

I figure if you still believe in Santa Clause, then you have a certain confidence in knowing that anything is possible.

There is a lot of talk floating around beneath the surface, under the Republican blanket that a late Spring surprise in the form of a Jeb Bush or Chris Christie announcement is still very much a possibility.

I am still utterly and totally awed by the voice of Jackie Evancho.

The Question:
I never considered Dallas Cowboys "Americas Team". In fact, I never ever got the idea that we needed something called America's Team. Anyhow, Dallas isn't it any more. The folks have spoken and they say Green Bay is their team now. Name the other NFL teams in the top 5. In the same poll, the favorite QB's were listed. Name them.

The Headlines:
--Deadly Blasts Rip Through Baghdad Neighborhoods In Coordinated Attacks That Killed 57.
--Unemployment Bennies Apps Fall To 364,000; Number Is Lowest Since 2008.
--Stocks Could Hiccup Up Today.
--Despite Repub Confusion, RNC Outpacing DNC In Money Race.
--Austerity Protests In Europe Bring Holiday Traffic To A lat.

Rhode Islanders, citizens of a state with an absolutely brilliant past, would be better served for the present and most certainly for the future, if their leaders were not Chafee, Reed and Whitehouse, but Gina Raimondo and Dorothy Gist.

The way teams were being upset last week, I thought the Tids Sport Department was going down 5-11. Yet the final 9-7 only appears decent because the reality was so bad. This is the time of year when you feel you have a handle on all the teams. But, nothing is ordinary this year. We're a discouraging 148-76 (66%). Onward! And, it does not get easier this week. Too many teams need to win badly, and several are playing each other. The tough games are Oak-KC, Jints-Jets, Ariz-Cinn, SD-Det, SF-Seattle, Dal-Phil and Atlanta-NO. I'm going KC, Giants, Arizona, Detroit city, San Fran, Philadelphia and New Orleans. The rest are NE, Houston (if they wake up after last weeks post championship hangover game), Tenn, Pitt, Denver, Balt, Carolina, Washington and GB.

As a followup to yesterday's Tid about the Lay-away Angels, I give you the woman crying over the generosity of an unknown person who paid for her children's gifts which would never have materialized because, as she said, she had no money -- this, as she pulled out her $250 smartphone with the $100+ monthly carrying charges. I wish I could afford a smartphone.

Dumbest research question I have read this Year, Department:
"Should Illegal aliens be allowed to vote?" Am I still on the same planet?

Well he did it. Eric Holder played the race card. He says people are out to get him and 0-Man because they are black! here we go again. How come Bush's AG Alberto Gonzales didn't play the race card when he was being persecuted by small minded Dems? Huh. Huh. Answer that!

Yup, it's Christmas alright. "Clapper" commercials are everywhere...like reindeer droppings.

The regulation mania in the 0-Man admin continues to hogtie business. Yesterday the egalitarian EPA came out with a set of regs so draconian that Utilities will be forced to spend $10 Billion per year to comply. I'm thinking, that this isn't really about clean air as they say, but a dastardly ploy to increase the costs of cheap electricity so the overly expensive "Green" alternatives are competitive.

One of the problems with corporate earnings improvement going forward is that many companies have already cut costs to the bone.

A Goldman exec and financial Prognosticator who first defined the economic power of BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India China) says these four countries are still the world's growth engine. Jim O'Neill now adds that we should keep and eye on MIST -- Mexico, Indonesia, South Korea, Turkey. These formerly developing countries are on the rise to economic powerhouse status. No longer emerging but here and now as "Growth" countries. This emergence is mainly because China realizes that they need a more diverse marketplace beyond the USA for their goods. This is why China will drive the world or the next decade. They consume buyers like I do Cheetos.

The Answer:
The Cowboys still come in high at #2. They are followed by da Bears, Giants and Steelers. Surprise -- Tim Tebow was voted favorite Quarterback. 2 and 3 were the Manning Bros, Eli and Peyton. The next three were tied -- Tom Brady, Drew Brees and Aaron Rogers. At the bottom of the QB list were Dog Fighting man Michael Vick and Woman abuser Ben Rothlisberger. "America's Team"? I still don't get it.

No question though..."America's Audience" are the Tids readers.

Women in charge.

Today's Tids Issue 2,487
Opening Stuff:


Well...nothing happening in the world, I'm outta here! Just k-i-d-d-i-n-g.

There's a lot happening in the world, it's just that a lot of Americans don't seem to know it. As more evidence of America losing in its collective mind, I give you Yahoo's "Most Searched Items for 2011". Here's what Americans want to know: Starting with #1 we have iPhone. then the inquisitive minds go to Casey Anthony, Kim Kardashian, Katy Perry, Jennifer Lopez, Lindsay Lohan, American Idol, Jennifer Anniston, japan Earthquake and Osama bin Ladem. Ask!'s list had Kardasian, Justin, Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Kate Middleton, Ashton Kuthcher M. Jackson (Dead -oooo-weee-oooo), Selena Gomez, Lohan and Sheen. "So that's the way it is, this Wednesday 2011."

The Question:

Name the the worst Corporate execs for 2011.

The Headlines:

--Euro Fade has Clueless Lane Looking To Declining Market.
--China Imposing Tarriffs -- 2%-21% -- On Car Imports From US;
--Obama Reaches New High In Un-favorability Rating.
--House Passes Payroll Tax Extension; Now In Hands Of Dem Senate.
--Time Mag Man -- Man, Person, Thing of the Year: The Protestor.
--Man Kills 4, Injures 122 In Belgian Shopping center.
--Media On Sideline Ready to Pounce Upon Gingrich Mistakes.
--Sandusky Lawyer Mistakenly Suggests Calling "Gay Sex Site" For Truth About Accusations.

I listen to the TV show "The View" in the background while working away, and come away with one thought: I hope if the country is ready for a woman president, that this is not an example of what we will get. Aspirin anybody?

I really hate that Idea of "American being ready for a woman, black, Hispanic et. al." Or "It's time for a ..." It was brought home as I watched a hokey local program (I watch it every year) that would choose the "Guest Host for A Year" for the "Rhode Show". They had five finalists as always and this year it happened to be all women. In little recaps of their resume's they all looked intelligent, spritely and attractive. Certainly Maria Gonzales was too, equal or better than the others. But, for her closing remark she said "It's time for a Hispanic." I don't think so...it's time for who is best.

Looks like the Cougar abandoned the cub. America's anchor woman Katie C has taken the milk bowl away from her 17 year young beau, Brooks Perlin. She says it was becasue of priority conflicts attributed to ...what?...age difference. For the record she is 54 and he is...what! math problem.

"Feeling Wanted" in the NBA is spelled M-O-N-E-Y!

I've been keeping an eye on those Tebow games. Last Sunday I tuned in with about 3 or 4 minutes left, Denver down by 10. With the ball in the hands of daBears. I thought, no miracle comeback... no way this time. Then I watched and wondered one more time -- who says he can't pass. I've played a lot of sports and watched tons of games and have learned one thing. The player with the big heart always has the chance to come out on top.

I love "Hokey" stuff.

A major difference between China and America is that China is all Chinese. Over here, the "Melting Pot" is looking more like a bowl of succulent creamy gravy or rich cheese sauce that separates upon reheating. It's time for oneness. Again.

I really don't like today's oft repeated phrases like "Man-up" and "Go girl."

Almost Near: Chapter 55 continues. --
"I grew up in the same town as Samantha, so of course I know them They seemed nice. I moved away when I was in my early twenties. Wanted to be a writer! Can't do that in your home town, can you?" Sparrow just looked at him with no reaction. Hi stare seemed to unnerve Tucker. He looked quickly towards Samantha. She was smiling quietly. "That's really about it. I heard they had moved. I think Sam and I heard that together from her friend....um..."
"Martha?" Samantha looked composed to Tucker.
"That's it. So, detective Sparrow, what have you found?"
"I didn't say we had found anything. I just always thought there was something odd about it all."
Tucker felt a vibration in his pocket, reached in picked up his cell phone, mouthed "excuse me" and looked down. He frowned. "I've got to take this." He rose and left the table, walking towards the cash register area.
"Waddaya think."
"I think what he said is probably true, but I don't think he said anything."

The Answer:

Topping the list is Reed Hastings who in twinkling took the smooth sailing Netflix into a chasm where 800,000 customers left in what seemed like seconds. Worse than losing customers, was the loss of the edge the company had enjoyed ahead of the rampaging Google and Amazon. Next were RIM co-CEO's Mike Lazardis and Jim Balsillie who forgot about the competition while trying to buy an NHL Team. And then there was that worldwide service outage atop of executive inattention. RIM joined Netflix in losing "half their market" in one year. Third is Leo Apotheker who couldn't figure out whether HP was keeping or selling its computer biz. He was only there 11 months, and missed every financial target. For is failure he received a $25Mil Chute, $7.5 mil Severance, 580,000 shares of various stock forms and a $2.4 Mil bonus to relocate his family. Maybe OWS has a point.

If you always found a ringing phone at home annoying, why would you want to carry a phone with you when you're away from home?

The US of China.

Today's Tids Issue 2,477

Opening Stuff:

The only things more irritating than calling a Christmas tree a "Holiday" tree, are the convoluted explanations that follow to justify the irrationality. We used to come together as a nation to celebrate a special day -- C-h-r-i-s-t-m-a-s. We celebrated the Birth of Christ on Christmas. And the C-h-r-s-t-m-a-s Tree was a treasured symbol. And now we are getting Materialism Month, and anything goes. Sanctity be damned. Christ? What does he have to do with anything? To many seem to be able to cede the meaning of Christmas to others. Out of "Fairness". Too many have become more interested in celebrating the growth of the China economy. Count me out.

Speaking of fading American substance, today we learn sadly of the closing of the Steuben Glass Factory, one of the last remaining symbols of true American craftsmanship. I guess the new mantra today is, if you can't cheapen it effectively or make it in China then it's bye-bye -- To grand traditions and the master craftsman employees.

The Question: David Mamet, one of our great theatrical writers, has won numerous awards for plays and movies. For which Tony Award winning play is he best known. Name five other of his more famous works -- in movies and theater.

The Headlines:

--Central Banks In US, EuroZone, Canada, Switzerland, Britain and Japan Take Action To Avoid Global Liquidity Crunch.

--Wall Street Jumps At Central Bank Action; DOW Near 400 At 10:30.

--Islamist Apparent Victory In Egypt Poses New Problems For US.

--S&P Downgrades Credit Rating Of 15 Big Banks; Action Will Add To bank Costs.

--Private Sector Adds 206K Jobs IN November; Biggest Jump Since December 2010; 564,297 Year-to-Date Job Cuts Higher Than 2010.

--UK Expels Iranian Diplomats.

--200 OWS Arrested In LA; 50 In Philly As Cities Try To Clean Up Mess.

--Nutcracker Begins At Newport's Rosecliff.

Black Friday Turns Red China Green Department:

226 million Americans spent $52.5 Billion this past weekend and the happiest group on earth are the Chinese workers and growing middle class in that humongous country. Over fifty percent of all products, including Apple, were made in China factories, while another large percentage of the most popular gifts came from Korea, Japan, Europe and India. There was a time when retail sales were just the tip of the deep American economy. Now US retailing is the indicator for a global economy.

I get Omaha Steak emails all of the time. You know the ones that say "Prices Slashed". So I decided to take a closer look. What a rip off! For instance, 10 6oz Tenderloin steaks for $165 reduced to $114 is reducing a $44/pound steak to $32/lb! No steak is that much better. I mean a well trimmed superior tenderloin in a supermarket may be around $16/lb. Omaha has done a brilliant job of creating the illusion of perfection. Maybe they should start making them in China!

Speaking of agendas, the RI PUC keeps pushing the ocean windmill project, which would produce electricity at a cost "3 times" higher than gas generated or that from other common sources. And nobody in officialdom seems to care that the company that would be hurt most is one of the biggest employers in the state. This in RI with the 6th highest unemployment in the nation and well above its five New England neighbors.

By the way, if anybody is thinking of giving me a gift certificate for the new chi-chi Providence Restaurant - The Dorrance - forget about it.

Somebody is always trying to slip it to us. The little folks with agendas, like changing "Christmas " to "Holiday", use the media to plant subtle messages disguised as humorous asides. For instance, last night on the crime show Body of Proof, a tired Meghan Hunt comes home only to find she must now do battle with her annoying precocious daughter, who in a flippant manner strolls through the kitchen, peeks at her moms meal and mutters "Meat is Murder".

By the way, did I say "Good Riddance" to Barney yet. Despite the fawning of the liberal press, American will be a better place with his retirement.

Almost Near: Chapter 51 continues. --"Well Samantha, ready to do some heavy lifting." Sparrow stopped, looked around. Her chair was empty. He walked towards the table, placed one cup of coffee near her place thinking that she was probably in the Ladies room. He notice the open folder and a large color picture of her father staring up at him. Uh-oh, he thought. He pulled out his internal communications device. "Jessie, have you seen that woman who was in here with me. No?" He slammed the cover shut, and ran from the room to his assistant. "Angie, go into the ladies room and see if there is a woman in there. She's good looking, about five foot four, brownish hair, wearing a dull orangy top.
 "Dull orangy?" Angie smiled at him and seeing is concerned jumped up and ran into the ladies room. He heard the stall doors slamming. Within seconds though she came out, hands extended, palms up, "Nothin' boss."
  Sparrow looked worried now. This was a fragile woman, he knew. The photo of her dad must have triggered something. His phone rang, The desk Sergeant Jessie was calling. "I think I seen her John. She ran out the front door."
  Before Jessie finished, Sparrow was running. His leather shoes slid as he tried to take a corner too fast. He awkwardly stumbled into the front room where Jessie was pointing to the door. "always chasin' the women, eh John." But Sparrow wasn't laughing.
  Hhe opened the door, squinted at the bright sun. And then nearly tripped over Samantha, who was lying on the bottom step. A little blood tickling down her scalp. Sparrow knelt. "Samantha, Samantha."

The Answer:

Of course, Glengarry Glen Ross was his best know play, and a very successful movie (With a fantastic performance by Alec Baldwin). He also received a Tony nomination for Speed-the-Plow and oscar nominations for one of my favorites The Verdict and Wag the Dog. Some other early plays were American Buffalo, Sexual Perversity in Chicago and one with a great title Keep Your Pantheon. He wrote the screen plays for The Postman Always Rings Twice and the Untouchables. He directed movies -- House of Games, Heist and The Spanish Prisoner -- all about con-men and the games they play.

Chinese checkers anybody? I know where you can get some cheap.

Economics 101.

Today's Tids Issue 2,301

Opening Stuff:

This Wisconsin showdown will be watched closely across the country. Many states are on the brink, simply because occupations entirely supported taxes can't have benefits and income rise continually without pause. Basic economic models just don't work that way. With these occupations, worker output has absolutely no direct impact on revenue streams. Yet the demands continue despite the absence of increasing revenue. And those demands will continue to push revenue streams lower as the sources of dollars move away from suffocating tax burdens.

It's sad to see the big book store closings. But, alas, as nice as it would be to have these stores continue, economics say they have to go. The problem is two-fold: 1. Ordering Books on line makes it nearly impossible for the large stores to fund the gigantic inventories, even if pleasant coffee shoppes make the places a comfortable hide-away. 2. The rapid increase of eReading will further diminish the need for books sores, sooner rather than later.

"There is no truth to the rumor that celebrities look cool because they have so many fans!" You want another one. "Dead batteries don't cost anything because they are free of charge!" Are you getting ill yet? And in keeping with today's theme - "Why don't they let government workers look out the window in the morning? So, they'll have something to do in the afternoon."

The Question:
Double Day -- 1. What are the 10 most dangerous cities in America based on "crime risk"? 2. Name five of Michelangelo's greatest works.

The Headlines:

--Bahrain Protesters Mourn Their Dead; Call For The Down Fall Of The King; King's Wife Says "Let them Eat Muhammar!"
--Earthquakes Becoming Frequent In Areas Surrounding Little Rock Arkansas.
--China's Clamp Down On Lending Expected To Dampen Stocks Today.
--Wisconsin Democrats Flee State Legislature To Avoid Voting On Public Employee Union Measures.
--Russia Wants Jointly run (With US) Euro Misssile defense System; US Says Nay As Friction Escalates.--In Advance Of G20 meeting, China Rejects Indicators Of Global Economic Imbalances.
--Campbell Profits, Future In the Soup.
--David Otiz Shows Up Healthy, Eager And With His Classic Smile.

Back to More Stuff:
Is this trend towards higher food prices the latest phase in the admin's war against over weight?

American Idol is getting serious. It is starting to take shape. Frankly I've had it with this fixation on Ashley. I don't need superfluous drama to enjoy a show like this if the talent is good. And, I believe this group of 50 is loaded with talent. It's too early to handicap the show, but I'm in it for the long run. I was impressed with Casey Abrams. And as an aside, while the chunky fifteen year old JC Badeaux has a crystalline voice and an effortless style, I don't see him as much more than a pleasing diversion in these early rounds.

Some really funny images come to mind when reading the headline this morning: "Army trains for 'Don't Ask, Don't tell' repeal"

I love that crackdown on fraud in Medicare that charged 111 in various scams that robbed American Taxpayers of $225 Million. That's A nice start. But now we have to look at casual legal waste (That's the unnecessary fringe treatments, psychological services and rehabs that primarily are growing because of a large pool of available funds) and the legal profession who may be the biggest factor in escalating costs for the health care industry. But the good news here is that it can be done. A little extra effort in the right places can actually make the government a little more efficient.

I had to chuckle this morning at side bar on the front page that read : "Today's Anti-Government Protests". I got the sense that I could tune into the new Cable TV channel "Crumbling Governments" as I would ESPN for live sports of the day.

Almost Near: Chapter Eight. --"Samantha! Are you still sleeping!" Tucker let the door slam shut as he came into his kitchen. He saw that she had eaten what he had left. He smiled hoping that she had smiled along with his notes. She needs some smiles he thought. I don't know what happened to her but, he felt confident he was handling her the best way possible.
"Samantha!" he shouted a little louder. "It's beautiful down at the harbor. Some of the people at Lillies were asking for you." He walked through the downstairs, his eyes scanning corners of the rooms. "I think some of the guys looked at me knowingly. Do you think we've been than obvious?" He came back to the kitchen.
He noticed the back stairway door ajar. His eyes moved to see his keys bowl out of place. He yanked open the door and took the steps two at a time thinking the worst. He saw the open door to his office, the the papers in neat piles around the floor. "Samantha! Sam! I can explain Sam". He shouted but nobody replied.
There was no sound except his breathing. He sat on the top step to compose himself. "This is the worst possible thing that could happen. I've got to find her. I thought I was doing everything right," he said to no one.

Reading between the Lines Movies Reviews:
The Unknown is a winner. It may seem like a movie you've seen before -- Guy in Europe has accident, loses memory, killers are after him: and he doesn't know anything except that he has to keep on running -- but, this one will keep you anxious and guessing until the last scene. It's on my list.

New evidence shows China exerting its influence as America's largest creditor. For instance, in 2009, the head of China's powerful sovereign wealth fund called Geithner direct and asked him lean on regulators to speed up approval of the $1.2 billion in Morgan-Stanley. The approval happened the next day. China has also been seen as a prime mover behind US treasury auctions which were necessary to keep the US Government running. For now, there is a co-dependency between the two countries. But, when will China outgrow the need for its current trade partner? This will be always in the background of US financial stability.

Warning to ice skaters: You can't always tell a brook by its cover.

The Answer:
1. The top ten are followed by an index number that designates the rate of crime against the national average. For example, in #1 place you don't want to be walking around is St. Louis at 530. This means its crime rate id 5.3 times the national average! The rest are Atlanta (484), Birmingham AL and Orlando (380), Detroit (369), Memphis (361, Miami (346), Baltimore (339), Kansas City MO (337) and Minneapolis and Cleveland (331). You have too wonder if some other cities are upset they didn't make this list as it would have generated more free money from the feds. Unfortunately, negative results are often the impetus for increased revenue for tax supported industries. That 's government style economics. 2. People could look at his best known effort The Sistine Chapel ceiling and think that he had no time left for anything else. But he was prolific. The Pieta is another piece of great fame. As is the giant David. He produced 45 significant sculptures including Moses and Crouching Child. His most accepted easel painting was the Holy Family. He was also a noted architect having designed Saint Peter's Basilica. His mark on grand Italian architecture can be found on 12 other major buildings throughout the country. He was a busy guy.

The (Really) Weakend:
A woman in love with fourteen soldiers has a platoonic relationship.

A guy throwing a bowl of Jello at his wife could be arrested for having a congealed weapon!

I don't know about you, but I'm not going to think too deeply this weekend. Take it easy

So far and yet so close.

Today's Tids Issue 2,234
Opening Stuff:

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

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

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

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

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

The Headlines:

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

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

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

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

A house trailer is a wheel estate.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Valor reflected in Dramatic Seas.

Today's Tids Issue 2,232
Opening Stuff:

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

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

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

The Headlines:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BudaBudaBudaBudaBuda…

Today's Tids Issue 2,209

Opening Stuff:

I believe the key in evaluating the next round of corporate reporting is revenue performance. Profits looked pretty hale so far this year. A rather fast return to profits is generally the first thing you see at the beginning of a recovery. Corporations can easily (Well maybe not easily) accomplish rosy profit pictures through general tightening, reduction in employment, heavy discounting or cost cutting. It’s an old story. But now the test. Are people buying again? Are companies getting good prices? Or, are sales continuing to be sustained through heavy discounting? Let’s check out some top lines on the third quarter reports. This is the test.

Pleasant moments with the second movement of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto Number 2 is like looking deeply into a lover’s eyes.

Countries around the world are starting to wake up to the fact that they are still giving China $2.5 Billion in foreign aid. And wondering why the 2nd largest economy in the world needs it. But, that’s like any other government program. Once instituted, it is almost impossible to get rid of it even in the face of overwhelming conclusive evidence against it.

Doncha kinda get the feeling that the NEA is sponsoring NBC’s week long focus on education?

The Question:
Yesterday we did Andrew Lloyd Weber and Tim Rice. So today, let’s try Frederick Loewe and Alan Jay Learner (In honor of NBC’s Ed Week!). What was this song writing duo’s first hit and biggest hit. Name five shows.

The Headlines:

--World Stocks Pulling Back Over New Concerns About economic Recovery In Europe; US Stock Futures Down.
--US Stocks Continue To Fall After Consumer Confidence Level Dips To Lowest Level Since February.
--NK’s Kim Makes Son 4-Star General; Sets Line Of Secession.
--Gap Between Rich And Poor Widening.
--Obama Wooing college Students Again; Students Expected To be more Selective This Time Around.
--LA Heat Reaches 113F!
--Tids To Boycott First Lady Speeches Until She Stops Talking About Vegetables.
--Red Sox Still In Race After Another Outstanding Effort By Cy Young Contender Clay Bucholtz.

Back to More Stuff:
While strictly against any leniency or compassion for illegal aliens, I have always felt that a work visa plan could work. There is an apparent need for lower cost labor in many industries. And I guess, it is work that is beneath many who are doing just fine on welfare or unemployment checks. Of course there would have to be a lot of restrictions governing such a plan. For example, there would be no government support beyond issuance of the Visa…or the deportation of criminals. The employer would pay for all basic benefits. If the worker was hospitalized and the employer had failed to provide HC, the employer would be billed for all medical services. Unions would not be allowed to organize of the legal temp workers. There would be no Gov benefits for family members. And any worker caught doing anything illegal would be immediately deported.

I don’t look good in form fitting clothing.

I think we are into a long period of a “Hand-to-Mouth” economy. Like now, when summer bursts of employment are winding down and we enter a lull before Christmas/Halloween rehiring. Loyalty on both sides of the employment spectrum has been waning for a couple of decades now. Many of the new middle class jobs require less critical skills, so that the layoff/rehire seesaw has less effect on operations.

The wealthy will slow down domestic investment because over time they can’t see the middleclass as sustaining as high a level of purchases as they have in the past. While the statistics show that the wealthy pay an overabundance of the total tax bill, they also show that the economy we have enjoyed for so many years is because of the unrelenting purchasing power of a consistently strong middle class. A middle class where the future for consistently high earning power is cloudy at best.

Frankly, doncha kinda get the feeling that the current Admin is being run by the NEA?

Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 96 continues. –I quickly averted Kent’s piercing eyes. I needed to control my soul myself now. The fear of an hour ago had strangely morphed into resolve. I waved away Dan, and walked into the den. I heard no growls, but I felt aggression.
“Sorry I’m late,” I looked at them with the confidence of someone totally in charge, “But, thanks for waiting for me.” I saw Jack’s face relax ever so slightly. I was assuming that my favorite lackey Jeff was in charge of hiding the greasy one. I walked to the wall and pulled a chair to the center of the room. “I’m glad you thought of an extra chair or two Jack.” He rose, and started towards me, hand out. Ready to shake my hand and pull me in for a fatherly hug. Which he did. Izzy alone, sat like on an island, trying to plot out her next series of moves. Kent sat calmly unaffected by my little drama. But I felt his soft glance. I can feel the presence of this man who knows me so intimately.
“A funny thing happened on the way to this forum.” I said it matter of factly, informatively, but I knew they knew. “Yeah, I was chased by a couple of goons. And when they couldn’t find me, they beat the crap out of my friend Billy.” I stared at the blank expressions of the Izzy/Jack duo. God what psychopaths. I thought Jack felt for me. Like a daughter he never had. “What do you all think happened?”
Nobody spoke, which is not surprising. Finallly, I heard Kent.
“I am happy you weren’t hurt. His voice was soft, almost like he was contradicting some inner emotion.

Something strange happened Saturday night on the East Side of Providence RI. The stadium for the Brown/Harvard night game was packed to the rafters! With frenetically cheering people and…students. The last time Brown U probably saw a full house with enthusiastic students was in the sixties before campus radicalization., When the big game became mass protesting as opposed to “Root, root, root for the home team”. When a foot ball game became too clichéd, too establishment for the anointed elite. Before the late sixties, Ivy League powers like Yale and Princeton had SRO 70-80,000 packed houses…almost every Saturday afternoon. These were events! Could it be that good old fashioned, heart on the sleeve enthusiasm has a chance to be once again in vogue?

There’s a couple of good neighboring states races that I believe are terrific indicators for the depth of the mood of cirizens everywhere.. Charlie Baker, a Republican in Massachusetts, is running against a well known Obama pal, Deval Patrick. Baker is a business man in the mold of Scott Brown. He seems to know how to make things work. And why businesses are finding it harder to stay in Mass. On the other side of the “Hinge” state is Connecticut where the states AG Blumenthal is running against wrestling biz owner McMahon’s wife. She is for real. Knows the issues and has the money to get out the message. Blumenthal is exactly the kind of person we are trying to rid ourselves of; Big government give-away artist. If Blumenthal, and others like him get in, then you will know that all of the anger has accomplished nothing.

Our first lady has been extolling the virtues of the way early Native Americans (Indians) planted corn. Excuse me, but I think we have come a long way in 390 years.

The Answer: 
I don’t think many would argue about picking “My Fair Lady” as the duo’s biggest hit. Since it is also perhaps one of the all time Broadway favorites. Brigadoon was their first substantial hit. Camelot soared off of the success of “Lady”. Other big hits for the duo were Paint Your Wagon and the wonderful Gigi (Movie only.)

The End is Near:
So what’s this BudaBudaBudaBuda…thing all about? It’s about me turning into a mindless blatherer. And it’s the fault of all politicians good and bad. The airwaves are fraught with conflict. Overpromises. It is becoming as hard to watch programming featuring people I support as it is watching those I think are complete fools. I think it is an incumbent conspiracy. Throw as many issues at the people as you can and confuse them to the point where there only means to continuing sanity is to vote for the person they know…the dreaded incumbent. My mind is exploding. I’m turning off the TV. Changing the radio’s dial. BudaBudaBudaBudaBuda.

Gin or chocolate.

Today's Tids Issue 2,194

Opening Stuff:

One of my favorite all time songs is “The Big Rock Candy Mountain.” Not only did put stars in the eyes of kid who loved sweets, but was a great country western tune. And I was then and am today a big fan of the pluckers and twangers.

I had to laugh when reading the bios of principals at a financial planner firm I saw that one of the younger people had come directly from the Mashantucket-Pequot Gambling Casino. How appropriate is that?

And this note from the Tids resident statistician: “If you stood next to a single file line of everyone in china, and they started to walk by you at a reasonable walking pace, the line would never end because of their rate of reproduction.” So you have to know that China is deadly serious about becoming the worlds largest economy.

The Question: Who was the first Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Name 5 other Chairmen. (Hint Harry S. named number one). Which two Presidents haven’t named any? How many each did the other 10 presidents since Harry name?

The Headlines:

--WWF’s Linda McMahon Leads Group Of Washington Outsiders Who Won Primaries Last Night.
--Stocks Retreating As Fed Goes Conservative On Growth Estimates; China Reports Smaller Manufacturing Gains.
--US Trade Deficit Widened By Huge 18.8% In June.
--11 Killed North Of Baghdad.
--Muslim Holy Time Of Ramadan Begins This Week.
--Ice Island ff Greenland Could Be Major Shipping Hazard.
--Fires In Russia And Mudslides In China Overwhelm Populations.
--Record Low Mortgage rates Have Little Effect On Home Sales.
--SB Champs Saints Practicing With Pats In Foxboro.

Back to More Stuff:

What all of these new government programs are proving fairly conclusively is that good companies that used to work very well are now looking very inefficient as they act as middlemen for government programs. Simply…Things used to work and now they don’t. And if things keep on going the weay they are, nothing will work.

OK, let’s call it what it really is. The “Jobs” bill is in reality the “Public Employee’s Union Bill. And, it is the latest in a series of moves where 0-Man and his congressional henchmen pay back the big campaign investment from the Unions. This presidency is all about the unions, pure and simple.

I saw a story in the newspaper expressing amazement at the new and rapidly expanding collection of spy, conspiracy shows and movies. Did these geniuses ever stop for a moment to think that there are millions of apoplectic, depressed ex-“24” fans huddled in dark corners hungering for a glimpse of anything that might resemble Jack and Chloe in action?

Are you starting to get the idea that Separation of Church and State is not operative when dealing with Muslims? I am.
,
Poetry Department:
You’ve got to love this from a 15 year old student in Arizona: Now I sit me down in school, Where praying is against the rule, For this great nation under God, Finds mention of Him very odd. // If scripture now the class recites, It violates the Bill of Rights. And anytime my head I bow, Becomes a Federal matter now. // Our hair can be purple, orange, green, That’s no offense; it's a freedom scene. The law is specific, the law is precise. Prayers spoken aloud are a serious vice. // For praying in a public hall Might offend someone with no faith at all.. In silence alone we must meditate, God's name is prohibited by the state. // We're allowed to cuss and dress like freaks, And pierce our noses, tongues and cheeks... They've outlawed guns, but FIRST the Bible. To quote the Good Book makes me liable. // We can elect a pregnant Senior Queen, And the 'unwed daddy,' our Senior King. It's 'inappropriate' to teach right from wrong, We're taught that such 'judgments' do not belong.. // We can get our condoms and birth controls, Study witchcraft, vampires and totem poles.. But the Ten Commandments are not allowed, No word of God must reach this crowd. // It's scary here I must confess, When chaos reigns the school's a mess. So, Lord, this silent plea I make: Should I be shot; My soul please take!

Is Levi Johnson on track to become the next Kim Kardashian?

When making your favorite Quiche it is always a good idea to bake your crust before pouring in ingredients.

Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 89 continues. –I nodded to the security guy as I walked into the house where they were keeping Laura. “She’s upstairs”, he offered as he barely looked away from “The Price is Right”. Looking at a slug like that made me wonder what I had really gotten myself into.
I didn’t understand my feelings as I got involved in a scheme that I could rationalize scientifically, but not in terms of human life. And I knew Isabelle was driven, but not heartless.
Laura made me feel good, but I didn’t particularly like her. I opened the door and she sprang up from the bed where she was lying and stormed towards me. Her fist slammed my chest, and my arms came up to grasp her upper arms. “Where the hell have you been? Out with the old woman?”
“Laura, Laura, my love…”
“Don’t you give me that ‘Love Me’ crap”, she screamed. Just get me out of here.” And then surprisingly she laid her head on my chest and felt the heaving of sobs. I didn’t know what to say. I just lifted up her head and looked into her tearing eyes. Eyes that were reddened well beyond her current emotions. This stone hearted woman had something else in side her. I kissed her. And she responded.
After a few moments, I was getting aroused. She would be dragging me over to the bed.
“Not now”, I whispered reluctantly. Two times in the last two hours I’m saying not now. “Look, we have to get you out of here without calling attention to your absence.
“You’re getting me out of here?” She sounded like a little girl. Maybe form a childhood she never had. Was Laura always an adult? She hugged me harder, but it wasn’t sexual anymore. It was something she may have never experienced.

The new "jobs" bill is the latest bailout that will encourage bad budgeting and and general all around irrationality. Just as the first bailout ensures a continuation of destructive risk taking on Wall Street, this latest dole will justify inefficient management of government and education.

I loved that Big Rock Candy Mountain because I envisioned lakes of chocolate, lemonade streams and peppermint trees. In actuality, the composer Harry McClintock was writing about gin, cigarettes and how to get by on other people's money by avoiding work at all costs.

The Answer: 
 There has been 17 between Harry’s choice of Omar Bradley and today’s Adm. Michael Mullen. In between we have had Colin Powell, Maxwell Taylor, Nathan Twining, Earle Wheeler, Arthur Radford, Lyman Lemnitzer, Thomas Moorer, George Brown, David Jones, John Vessey, William Crowe, David Jeremiah, John Shalikashvili, Hugh Shelton, Richard Meyers and Peter Pace. Ford didn’t and 0-Man hasn’t named a Chair. Harry – 1, Ike – 3, JFK – 1, Big Spender Lynden – 1 Nixon – 2, Carter – 1, Reagan -- 2, GHWB – 1, Monica’s Pal – 3, GW – 3. There were 12 Generals and 5 Admirals…and Shalikashvili was the hardest to pronounce. Kind of a dumb question, wasn’t it.

The End:
Did you ever have one of those mornings when your computer just sat there and looked t you. It didn’t -do nothin’. Just an hour glass sitting there. It must be a humidity-in-the-sand thing.

Good stocks in small coves.

Today's Tids Issue 2,088
Opening Stuff:

The stock markets are sluggish right now and may continue that way for a while. Most of the 70% stock price gain has merely corrected an over reaction 35% drain a year and a half ago. The market is still short of highs by 400 points!. And the news that in Feb investors were pulling out of stock mutual’s in favor of the bond variety indicates slower going for the stock markets. There will probably be little general rising on incoming tides as was the case in recent history. If you want stocks to work for you, you will have to do the work picking winners and losers based on sound financial data as opposed to whimsical news. If I was rich, these words would be more meaningful. But it’s the way I see it.

Last night I had a big decision to make: Fill out my Census report, or do my NCAA Bracketeering. I chose the brackets. This March annual is creeping right up there with mom, Chevrolet and apple pie. And I figure, from what I’ve been seeing in the Government census commercials, that the census has just become the basis for the justifying the picking of citizen’s pockets.

The Question:
Name five Broadway musicals that were based on classic literature.

Today’s Headlines:
--US Investors In February Pull $3.7 Billion From Stock Based Mutual Funds; $19 Billion Poured Into Bond Based Funds.
--Pelosi Considering Passing Health Care Without A Vote; Speaker Would Use Lawmaker’s Ploys Called “Self Executing Bill” Or “Deem And Pass”; Procedural Slight Of Hand Has House Members Voting On Small Package Of Fixes To Senate Bill And Then Deeming Entire $849 Billion Monster Passed; Procedure Designed To Protect Dems At Voting Time.
--Housing Construction Fell 5.9% In February.
--Israel States That It Has No Intention Of Stopping West bank Construction; US Envoys Cancel Meetings.
--FCC Presents Plan That Would Greatly Expand Broadband.
--Archeologists In Egypt Unearth Massive 3,400 Year Old Statues.

Back to More Stuff:

The rioters in Greece are visible proof that economies based on out of control debt will expire over time. The state workers are rioting to preserve income and benefits that they should lose and which would never would have been available if achieved under realistic economic standards. Its like generations today in America expect everything because they were given everything through debt accumulation. Debt masks reality. Even in this US economy, the greatest in history some say, its current levels would never have been achievable if people didn’t go deeply into debt spending way more than they could afford. And it appears that the only way back to old levels is to encourage reckless behavior again.

Did you hear about the immigrant from Warsaw who was concerned that his new American wife was going to poison him to death when he found a bottle in the medicine chest labeled Polish Remover.

The story line read “(Dakota) Fanning is trying to shed her good girl image with ‘The Runaways’…” What’s wrong with a “good girl” image? Does this mean she will be found dead in a seedy motel room in five years? Seems to be the trend. Maybe like Lindsay, she can get a couple of states to pay her royalties for the use of the name. I wish her the best on her move to the dark side, but I have to wonder why?

Cars that are “hard to keep on the lot” probably have defective brakes.

You know that old phrase, “Kids don’t have the sense to come in out of the rain.”? They still don’t.

The Novel:
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 60 continues. –“Sarah, great to see you. And wonderful to see you walking so spryly!” Isabelle was all aglow about my recovery. It’s one of the reasons I liked her from the start – she is genuine in addition to being smart and aware.
“I’m not quite there yet,” I replied smilingly, “But being here with you is going to be my best medicine to date.” I pulled out a chair to the right of her desk and sat. I always sat to the right of clients when I their offices. “I expect Bill, Gloria and Jeff have been taking good care of their new favorite client?” Izzy smiled, but she could never be overwhelmed by flattery.
“They have been excellent. Our financial and accounting guys think highly of them. We are totally happy to be a part of your fine company family.” She couldn’t flatter me either. “But, that is ongoing and going well. I know you want to talk about our technology and the Bromsky affair. Maybe I should call Kent Middleton into the meeting.” My heart leapt a bit. But then, I actually remained cool. Hmmmm.
“No, I’d like to talk to you alone.” I’ve had a couple of weeks to think about this mess by myself. I’ve had all of the input I need form Kent. It is Izzy I need to hear from. I can’t have potential fallout from the scam jeopardizing our investment. I have a feeling that Kent loves the data that fell out of the heavens into his team’s lap. “What do…” I started, when I heard a soft rap on the door, “I heard you were in the building.” I turned and saw a smiling Kent. I smiled. My body stiffened.

Back to More Stuff Again:

Peter Graves entertained us in many ways, from Mission Impossible to comedic adventures like Airplane. But, what I liked what I just learned about this brother of Gunsmoke’’s James Arness was that when he died he was still married to his college sweetheart of 60 years, Joan Endress. See, Hollywood isn’t totally corruptive. I guess it depends on the hearts of the players.

And then there is Charlie Sheen who yesterday pleaded Not Guilty to domestic abuse. And I wouldn’t be surprised one bit if his confidence came from knowing that his mate wouldn’t talk knowing that if she did she’d have at least have two broken legs.

Back in the 80’s when the “brightest” were touting the new and exciting service economy, didn’t they realize that they were also the dooming the viability of the health care system.

American analysts and economists based in outposts like Hong Kong and Shanghai are seeing signs coming from the US admin of a potential trade war. And they are reporting distress about from officials inside China and other Asian countries. It isn’t a secret that Big Labor has been very upset at so little being delivered for their big $400 Million investment in the 0-Man election. Stay tuned on this one.

The Answer:
First to my mind was megahit My Fair Lady based on “Pygmalion”. Then there was West Side Story loosely based on “Romeo and Juliet” and Kiss Me Kate based on “The Taming of the Shrew”. Wicked is based on the book “Wizard of Oz”. Then there are the big hits with the same title as famous books. The hugest of these is Les Miserable’s. Also in that category is Oliver, Dracula and Little Women. Interestingly, Cats was based on a collection of poems by T.S. Elliot – “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats.”

The Small, Tidy Finale':

This is one of those great days when everybody just walks aimlessly around the town with their heads looking up at the sun.

My "24" addiction

Today's Tids Issue 2,061
Opening Stuff:

A lot of cameras are going to be aimed at Ice dancer Tanith Belbin during the Olympics. She will be the next overdone media phenom. But, this partner of Ben Agosta is a great looking skater. http://z.about.com/d/goeurope/1/0/u/X/tanith-belbin-picture.jpg

How do you ever get an economy back to realistic normalcy after it has been propped up artificially with government dollars? Especially when the big money these days is made by the skimmers and over charging for fairly unskilled services. This isn’t your grandfather’s manufacturing value-added economy. Historical patterns may not be as relevant. Be careful.

The Question:
Yesterday was the Birthday of the great Author Charles Dickens. He was born in Portsmouth England. How many cities or towns in the US of A are named Portsmouth?

The Headlines:
--Toyota Recalls 437,000 Prius Hybrids, Globally.
--Second Major Snowstorm Bearing Down On Mid Atlantic; Northeast Expected Also To Get Hit This Time Around.
--State Farm Insurance Says It Warned The NHTSA Safety regulators In 2007 About Disturbing Trend In Unexpected Acceleration For Toyotas.
--Senator Shelby Releases Hold On 70 Obama Appointees.
--Medical Myth News: Sugary Soft drinks Bad For Pancreas; Beer Good For Bones.
--Afghan Avalanches Roar Into Kabul Killing 28, Stranding 100’s.
--US Futures To Open Higher With Hope That Europe Will Aid Greece.

More Stuff:

While we weren’t looking China has not only been owning our debt but buying up the stock of our companies. For instance, they own over 2 Billion of Morgan Stanley. During 2009, the world’s largest country quietly snapped up $9 Billion in US company ownership including stakes in Citi, BofA, Apple, Coke, J&J, Motorola and Visa. This could be the first step, say knowledgeable observers, to diversify its more than $2 Trillion in foreign currency holdings away from the US Treasury Bonds. Not only that…but they always get the Pandas back!.

Snow does what the Tea Party movement wants to do – slow down Washington.

In case you are interested, the Colts have been installed as the favorite to win next year’s SuperBowl. They are followed by the Chargers, Saints and Patriots. Rams are called least likely to win it all. The Patriots?

I’m already tired of constant news reports about happy New Orleansans. That’s what happens when you be come a curmudgeon.

24-um:
Wow! Another good hour. I think it is one of the better days for the 8 year series. Although the President is starting to annoy me with her sing-songy attitude. And that Dana and the sleezeballs episode, while interestingly done, doesn’t seem to make much sense in the grand scheme of things. But, Jack and Renee are great. Don’t you like the way a pair of dark rimmed glasses changed the demeanor of Jack? Annie Wershing, the actress portraying Renee is doing a fantastic Emmy winning style job. You have to know what Jack was thinking as Vladimir fondled Renee in front of Jack, who obviously has feelings for her. I thought Jack might commit more when Renee broke down and he initially responded “You have me”. But, he quickly went back to the business at hand. Send in your comments. Now I have to wait another week. Help me. Kthunk. Kthunk. Kthunk.

The Novel:
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 53 continues. –“These are serious accusations, Sherriff. And it seems somewhat circumstantial.” She stopped and looked at me. I was about to respond when the phone buzzed, her assistant announced that she might want to take this call…”It’s Jack Wiley of RL&H.” Isabelle said “Put him on”, and immediately switched off of speaker phone. “Jack, what a pleasant surprise.” She listened. “Of course I do. I feel for Sarah, How is she doing. She listened. “I’m glad you are taking over for Mrs. Durham.”, she hesitated, “It makes me feel important”. She laughed that executive phone laugh. “This afternoon? Things are a little crazy here.” Then “Oh.” She was listening again. “Ok, I can squeeze you in by 3:00. Thanks jack.” “Me too”. She hung up and was silent. It was like that lull after a hurricane. The staties and I just sat and waited. She finally turned. “So, what do you want to do now?” “We would like you to bring us down to Seymore Bromsky’s department. Obviously, we had to talk to you first. We could have gone there first but, as a courtesy…” “As a courtesy? It seems like I’m the last to hear. That was Jack Wiley President of our most likely investor company who seems to know everything. Don’t you think this Durham connect is odd?” Now she glared.

More Stuff:

The Clintonistas are back! And they are here to rescue the ObamaHealth. That’ll help. Sure.
The cost of living has never affected its popularity.

Did announcer Robin Roberts when interviewing Michelle Obama about her new overweight children program actually ask: “They are saying people are making light of your husband’s campaign promise…”

Who are “they” anyhow? And was Robin Roberts named after a baseball player?

Be sure to check in and take a peek at http://todaystids.blogspot.com You will find weekend gems in there. Well, maybe not gems…perhaps little pebbles from Stone-head.

I have never been terribly concerned about reforming health care. But I imagine it has grown a bit unwieldy and we should be taking a look at it. But, should the government be the group taking a look at it? Then…maybe it has become so huge and unwieldy because so much of it through Medicare and Medicaid is already funded by the deepest pockets in the land. If it had been funded by people who had to watch what they spend, it may never had reached its current unwieldiness state. What makes me more leery of this entire affair is the presidents apparent addiction to the passage of some kind of bill. Addictions are not good and tend to make people do and say irrational things to feed their habit. Watch out!.

One sign that never gets tired: “If Pro is the opposite of Con than what is the opposite of Progress – Congress?”

The guy who was acquitted thought it was a “grand” jury.

Great…now the government is laying the groundwork to take over the way your kids eat. It used to be Uncle Sam – “I want you.” Today it’s Nanny Obie: “I want your children”.

The Answer:

Portsmouth England was founded in 1194. There are also Portsmouth’s in Iowa (Pop. 225; est 1851), Ohio (Pop 20K), New Hampshire (Pop 23K; est. 1623), Rhode Island (Pop. 18K; est. 1638. The largest Portsmouth is the Virginia version with a Pop of 101K. The Ohio version was built as a result of Ohio River traffic. New Hampshire’s jewel is the third oldest city in America. Portsmouth RI is the first town founded by a woman – Anne Hutchinson – and regarded by many as the first democracy. There was a post office named Portsmouth in Michigan.

The End:

The headline on the entertainment page shouts “Queen of Mean” Lisa Lampinelli returns this summer. Why would I want to subject myself to the insults of some angry loudmouth, who will probably use too many four letter words which will send a brain dead audience into riots of laughter. I’d lean over and ask “What’s so funny and the clod next to me with tears in his eyes would say “She said I was a dumb F---“. Ah humor. Spare me. Whatever happened to funny?