The Lazaro Effect.

Today's Tids Issue 2,812
Opening Stuff:

Ben Carson is getting a fast education on the vast difference between truth and politics.

It isn't often that American Idol appears "above the fold", but last night was significant, where honesty won out over emotion. Lazaro at long last was voted off. He had been decidedly the worst performer for weeks, but was buoyed along by a block of obviously misinformed voters and sympathy. He represented a sad new tendency within the American culture -- it's everybody else's fault but mine. But last night eyes opened wide and said a big gigantic "no" to carrying along mediocrity for another week. Maybe Lazaro is the symbol of an America rising from the dead.

Keep your eyes open for lower priced PC's. The latest sales numbers are so bleak that shortly prices could tumble dramatically. Call Mothers Day, Christmas in May. The problem is that Mom would probably prefer a new tablet over a lower price laptop, even with rose covered covers. Now, if that Lenova "convertible goes on sale, I'm there.

The Question:
Need to get away over the weekend? What do you think, according to Travel and Liesure, would be the best ten European cities to visit.

The Headlines:
--Unexpected Dip In retail sales Has Wall Street Opening Lower.
--Kerry, Obama Denounce NK Rhetoric.
--Iowa Restricts Use Of Drones By Police; Cites Privacy Concerns.
--Starbucks To Lower Price Of Bagged Coffee.
--Bankrupt San Bernardino To Renege On Bond Debts In Favor Of Continuing Payments Into Pensions.
--Dog Killing Epidemic Growing Faster Than potatoes In Idaho.
--Religious Bombings Continue In Iraq.
--Russia Warns US Of Overstepping In Human Rights Restrictions.

At first I thought the Texas college knife wielding slasher of 14 was perhaps a gun sympathizer tying to make a point. I was happy to learn that he turned out to be a stark-raving lunatic exactly like the mad men who kill with guns. I think that might be a clue as to a solution in the mass killiing problem.

Free Lunch, Department:
It seems like I'm seeing more and more TV commercials for products ranging from motorized scooters to car windshield repair, where the main theme is "At no cost to you." As in don't worry, the government or insurance company or some other big donor in the sky will give it to you "free". Kids demand music on the internet free; adults download their movies. No body seems to get the idea that someone somewhere has to pay for all of it. Of, yeah, I forgot, the rich will pay for it. We'll just raise their taxes.

Do you know what I'm not liking today? Professional golfers bringing back white leather belts. What's next, Nehru jackets.

It looks like yesterday we may have generated a Bumper Sticker War. A resourceful reader answers yesterday's 1st Bumper Sticker of the 2016 campaign with his #2 entry: Monica Lewinski's X-Boyfriend's Wife for President.

Changing Times, Department:
Up in enigmatic Michigan, a call to that great state's Human Services Department will get you "Press 1 for English; Press 2 for Spanish; Press 3 for Arabic." Now take your Blood Pressure. It is expected that the most frequent question may be: "What kind of benefits do I get for my three wives?"

In the things we'd be aghast if we knew about it, Department, I give you one of the items in the Obama budget, with a small "b". Did you know that liquor makers get a tax break for adding flavors? In his proposed plan, The Prez is going to eliminate the break, but how did that get in there in the first place. I don't think Congress debated fully on that lobbyist add-on. For instance I would have voted for "Butterscotch in Ice Cream" tax deduction before strawberry in vodka. As we have seen in the past, "marketing" today is getting Congress to pass laws.

I only care about Cuba if we learn that Kim Jung-un has installed  nuke missiles on a launch pad in Havana.

Who last Fall would have imagined a Frozen Four Championship (That's NCAA College Hockey) game between two teams a three wood apart in Connecticut -- Yale and Quinnipiac. How about Brown and Providence College next year? Don't be surprised.

The irony of Government and Unions is that they chase away more jobs than they save.

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--"42" is the big one this weekend. It's about Jackie Robinson's battle to overcome prejudice while keeping his batting average up. He was my hero as a 9-10 year old, and every kid wanted to steal bases like Jackie. I saw him in Ebbets field in 1947. He always lived up to his expectations and the movie lives up to the quality of his reputation. Good acting and well told story.
--I think Disconnect, about people looking for human contact in a wired world, looks like a winner. It involves several stories of lives all affected by cyber happenings. A lawyer who can't get away from his cell phone while the family suffers. A widowed cop whose kid cyber-bullies. A couple who enters a dangerous situation after their secrets are exp[osed on-line. And more. All of these strangers eventually come together.

The Conscience: Chapter 18 continues.
   After the two phone calls, I managed to nurse a martini instead of gulping it down. It was probably a bad idea as I felt agitated ridng up in the Biglietto Building elevator. I was feeling dread, but I didn't know why. As I stepped out of the elevator, I saw Angelica already in the reception room talking the amazing looking executive concierge. I was probably standing there with my lower jaw on my knees. I looked over at Angelica and felt guilty ogling Brianna the beautiful. I think I regained my composure as the boss turned and came over to plant the kiss on my cheek. It helped make up for the lack of alcohol.
   "My parents will be in shortly. They are anxious to meet you. Especially mother. She must have heard of the "Bello Americano". She looked me up and doiwn, smiled approvingly in a sarcastic type of manner and turned. "Today at lunch we will get to the meat of this negotiation. Would you like a drink before they arrive. I said yes at "D-R".
  I was enjoying the mini-rush after two sips when a door in the panelled wall behind Angelica's desk burst open and in walked her mother, followed by papa. Her mother's dark eyes bore into my soul.  She looked like she was reading my inner life. She didn't throw up so she hadn't reached the bad parts. The parents came around either side of the desk, and greeted my warmly with handshakes. "So nice to meet you Mr. Morgan." It was warm and friendly. I was surprised.

The Answer:
Number one is Rome. While there take in  the comedy show in the Federal Office Buildings.The rest in order are Florence, Istanbul, Prague, Venice, Paris, Barcelona, Saltzburg, Vienna and Krakow. I'd probably pick, Vienna, Saltzburg, Prague and Barcelona.

Good news, Carnival Cruise has a Boston to Venice Special, $500 and a auxiliary generator in the bath room. Any takers?

Have terrific weekend wherever you go. See you Monday.

Getting the World Under Control

 

 

Today's Tids Issue 2,587

Opening Stuff:

 

Romney is beginning to do what political observers always thought was his advantage over Santorum and Gingrich: He is winning over the independents, this huge block that is probably the key to the election. In fact, in the newest poll he is 13 % ahead of the 0-Man among Indies.

You're seeing more and more, headlines like "Pension deficit for taxpayers is up $836 Million" atop articles about city and towns walking the tightrope towards bankruptcy. I always say "wait a minute, we paid our taxes." The elected officials mismanaged those funds or got hoodwinked by union officials into over paying for labor. They have to negotiate with the hoodwinkers, not come back to us. If so, the Taxpayer would be effectively fined for elected official's antics -- suspect activities or negligence or dereliction of duty. Plain and simple.

There's something just plain special about Aaron Copeland music -- Rodeo, Pink Pony. And of course, is there better music to underscore the awakening of a new day than his Appalachian Spring? I don't think so!

The Question:
John Cusack has come a long way from his "Actor with promise" days. Name five of his best movies.

The Headlines:
--Stock Rally Stifled As GDP Comes In Lower Than Forecast; Business Spending Slowing.
--Spanish Economy In ICU; One Minister Says Economy "Faces Crisis Of Huge Proportions; Credit rating Downgraded.
--US On Guard For Bin Laden Revenge Attacks May 2.
--Romanian Center Right Government Toppled; Czechs Facing Similar Test.
--Zimmerman Raised In Black-White Household; Had Black Partners In Business.
--Consumer Sentiment Scale Barely Moves.

--Biden Tells Stupid, Poorly Timed Secret Service Joke.

So, did you hear about the dog who was paper trained? He could read the comics.

Don't laugh, people are humanizing their pets at an alarming rate. Many seem to have convinced themselves that dogs are people. I often hear people interviewed saying things like "I have a beautiful four legged daughter named ...". "We have a family of four, my husband and I and Rex and rover." I loved the dogs I owned, but I would never own one again. Too expensive, and no Medicaid. Have to walk them on leashes instead of letting them run free to steal eggs from a neighbor's chicken coop. And of course, there is that dreaded plastic bag. Frankly, I'd have to teach them to read the comics so they wouldn't get bored staying inside at home.

I am really bothered at these small groups who seem to have a plan to pick off one religious appearing monument/remembrance one by one by one. They make a fuss, raise money and then essentially extort cities, towns and states to take down a local institution, "Or else".

How come when the ACLU sues to protect somebody's Civil Liberties they take away everything cherished by another group? How fair is that, Mr. President.

There is no way in my mind that three across the country trips by the President to Universities was a"Official Business" as stipulated by the White House Admin. I was happy to see the RNC finally wake up and challenge one of these transparent campaign trips.

So basically what I'm seeing in commercials for smart phones and the like, is that they new technology is hand writing! Do you think Apple and Samsung our working off of grants form the NEA? Cursive lives.

Last night's "Missing" was a good example of why it is becoming my favorite TV hour. I'm hooked, addicted. Actually, at one point I was thinking this is kind of slow tonight. Then ...Bam!...two totally unimagined surprises in a row. Now I can hardly wait for next Thursday.

American Idol: I've said it before, Holly has surprising staying power because she sings songs with melodies...and her voice is very powerful. Sure she's a little bit unpolished, but her biggest negative is the Judges. I think Phillip is getting a little ordinary, although he is talented and draws a lot of young girl votes. Sanchez is excellent, but doesn't always connect. Joshua is a talent. Skylar needs a couple of better tunes next week.

About today's music... Last night on Idol Katy Perry and last year's Stefano Lagano performed. Aside form the lavish sets, the words and techno-activity, the songs sounded exactly the same to me. We're are living in this hear-one,-you've-heard-em'-all-world. I guess it's all about the dancin' beat. Oh, and Stefano, who I didn't like last year, was far better than the highly regaled Perry. That's just the opinion of one tin ear.

A day or so ago the National Plagiarist Laureate described Romney as "Uniformed". Oh, that holds a lot of weight -- opinions of Joe Biden, the Veep that WH handlers would love to send out with a gag in his mouth. Save me.

Reading between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--In Five Year Engagement we have a pretty predictable romantic comedy starring Jason Segal and Emily Blunt (Great In Salmon Fishing) as a couple who have fallen in love and are engaged. But incidents keep putting off the marriage, and it goes on and on. Some observers are saying "Break up already", "I can't take it any more". My guess is that it will be entertaining with a pleasant ending.
--John Cusack stars as Edgar Allen Poe in The Raven. Poe helps a detective solve a series of murders that are similar to his stories -- the Pit and the Pendulum et. al. It is pretty good and draws a realistic picture of Poe, the drunk and always out of cash writer. I'd go.
--Safe is a "B" movie about a second-rate Cage Fighter who leads a life of beatings for chump change. It changes when the Russian Mafia kills his family after he blows a rigged fight. The mob banishes him to the Streets of NYC. He is aimless until he witnesses a frightened 12 year old Chinese girl being pursued by the gangsters who killed his wife. His life changes as he gets involved in a giant conspiracy. It will be great some evening on FX.

The Answer:
I first remember Cusack  in a movie with Angelica Houston called the Grifter. He was in plenty of others like True Colors, City Hall, Grosse Point Blank, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, Pushing Tin, America's Sweethearts, Runaway Jury and Grace is Gone. You probably have your own faves.

Well, it is Friday. For retired people it means it's Saturday tomorrow, which will be pretty much like Friday except for the date on the newspaper. For every body else it will be a welcome and wonderful repsite from the weekday pressures. Enjoy every minute of it. That's an order.

--

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

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Keep your chin high, EVP.

Today's Tids Issue 2,561
Opening Stuff:

The Repubs should start spending more time thinking about getting Senators and Representatives elected. It is not only the best protection against the possibility of four more years of you know who, but will greatly enhance a Repub President's chance of edging around this drifting ship of state.

[Note: If there is a giant blank space above, it was supposed to be a humorous cartoon that said: (Woman) "Well it's about time Obama started running some campaign ads." (Daffy Duck) "This isn't an ad...It's 'NBC Nightly News'..."]

Old athletes never die, they just relive old injuries.

Last night proved once again that on American Idol, mediocre male singers will always beat a good woman.

The Question:

Hunger Games advance ticket sales are the highest in history. Which movie held the previous honor as highest all time advanced sales. Which five movies have the Highest box office total sales?

The Headlines:

--S&P,Dow Continue Flatness.
--RI Unemployment Inches Up To 11%.
--Prez Says, "If I Had A Son, He Would Look Like Trayvon."; Weird.
--Hunger Games Could Set Pre Premier Ticket Sales Record.
--"0" Taps Dartmouth Prez Jim Yong Kim For World Bank Post.
--Swiss Jewelry Company Creates 150 Carat, All Diamond Ring Worth $70 Million; NBA Stars Trading In Cars To Buy.
--Sarkozy Asks For Jail Time For Those who Surf Terrorist Sites.
--Rhetoric Up As supreme Court begins To Tackle ObamaCare.

OWN (Oprah Winfrey Network) proves once again that one brand doesn't necessarily rub off on another. OWN would have worked if the Queen was on 20 hours a day. I have seen many times over the years where a company tries to use a strong brand to build up a newer or lagging brand. It almost never works. Consumers are smarter than you think.

Mel Parnell died Wednesday night. He along with Ellis Kinder were the aces on the Red Sox 1940's-50's pitching staff that was bolstered by some of the best hitters in baseball. I remember Mel Parnell well. He must look askance at today's 5 inning starters. For instance in 1949 when he made 40 starts, he went 27-7 and had an Era of 2,7 with 27 complete games and 295 innings! 27 complete games, against pre-expansion, high quality line-ups. You were da man Mel Parnell. Enjoy the big mound in the sky.

In Boston in the 40's the Braves had "Spahn and Sain and pray for rain." The Red Sox had Kinder and Parnell, but they didn't rhyme with anything, so they had to fight for their own history. Kinder made most of his history by being able to stay out drinking til 4:00 AM, and then pitching and winning games. Probably ate red meat too.

I could never bring myself to investing in Home Builder Corporation Stocks. When they are successful, it means we are losing a lot of beautiful landscapes.

I'm only casually paying attention to the Republican primaries now.

I'm surprised that more bicyclists aren't hit by cars.

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--This week is all about Hunger Games. People have been buying advanced tickets for weeks based on the popularity of the book trilogy. The movie is a combination of Truman and the Roman coliseum -- controlled mayhem for entertainment money. This giant reality show has teen age teams fighting each other til death under the control of hidden TV producers with the prize being food for the districts they represent. It is good and while it is kids killing kids, the violence, while obviously there, is visually minimized. It's a well made movie, but you have to hope kids don';t start doing this in the back yards. Or, are city neighborhood gangs already doing it in the streets.
--In 4:44 - Last day on Earth, we watch a couple face the end, getting beyond the anxiety by enjoying their havens of sex, art and skyping good-byes to family and friends, It's fair fare, and probably depressing.
--In Brake, CIA Agent Jeremy Reins (Stephen Dorff) wakens in side a sealed trunk in a moving car. He has no idea about how he got there. But soon realizes that he is the center of attraction for a group who want to mentally torture him into revealing secrets about the President -- which he has sworn never to reveal. A potential catastrophe on the brink.

Almost Near: Chapter 65 continues. --Tucker turns back towards the window, blocking out Samantha's rants. He doesn't like screaming. She is yelling something about how she left him before they were to get married and ran away because he was molesting little girls in town. He only heard noise now as he looked down and watched detective Sparrow walk into their hotel. He turned. "Hi Sheila, Mom's noisy, isn't she?" Sheila latched onto her Moms leg. He puled a small revolver out of his jacket. "I think it's time we all go over to see Rebecca. Don't you think that's a good idea, Sheila. She looked at him with fear in her eyes, and slowly shook her head. "Good. I thought you'd agree. Little girls always agree with me."
Samantha stopped talking when she saw the gun. She reached down and wrapped her arms around Sheila. "Don't do anything crazy Tommy.
"Don't call me Tommy."
"Ok, Tucker. Let's just go and see Beck." Samantha looked calm. but inside she was terrified, not necessarily about the danger, but about what she just remembered about her Tommy Lambert. The awful truths this man and even her father, which she had been blocking out since the day she left for any place not like New Castle. She ended up in Little Rick, and thought Rudy was her savior. "Comon' Sheil," She turned so she wouldn't have to look at that man she thought she was gone forever.
"Wait!" The mother and daughter stopped. Tucker came over and cracked the door. He turned to Samantha. "Let's go. He shoved the gun into her ribs. To the Stairwell, Run."

The Answer:

--Hunger out did Twilight Saga in Advanced Sales. The top five all time box office giants are Avatar, Titanic, The Dark Knight, Star Wars IV, Shrek 2, ET, Star Wars I, Pirates of the Caribbean Dead Man's Chest, Toy Story 3 and Spiderman.

Frankly, I never felt hot one bit during this week of weatherman rants.

Have a spectacular weekend.

Anything is possible, and it ain't always good.

Today's Tids Issue #2,556
Opening Stuff:


Do you get the feeling gold owners are selling off to buy Apple -- the new world currency?

How interesting is the parallel between Goldman Sachs customers who say they don't care about morals as long as they make money, and Rhianna who says she partnered with Chris Brown, the guy who beat her to a pulp, because it will be good for the sales of her new album? Am I still on the same planet?

Close the bridges! Nancy Pelosi is trying to get on our Island.

The Question:
We are long past the era of great comedy teams. name five.

The Headlines:

--Tornado Rip Through Michigan.
--Global Mood On Financial Ills Improving.
--Netanyahu Makes Argument To Defy US Calls For Restraint Against Strike On Iran; Says Israel Can Go It Alone.
--Karsai Lashes Out At US Over Recent Killings; Says US Is Not Cooperating.
--North Korea Announces Plans To Launch Long Range Rocket.
--PIMCO's Bill Gross Believes Possibility For QR3 And QE4; World Private Economies Too Weak To Support Robust Growth; Bond Markets Uneasy.
--People With Nothing to do Line Up for "New" IPad.
--Santorum Would Ban Hard Core Pornography.
--Mysterious Honeybee Deaths Linked To Corn Insecticide.

Last night, what many think about American Idol's demographics was clearly reinforced when 3 women were in the bottom three. Heejun, the so-called comedian and dreary singer, who just about everybody put on the bottom of the post Wednesday night list, didn't make the bottom. Frankly, for the most part, the woman this year are much stronger and generally more entertaining. But,,we will have to succumb to the whims and dreamy eyes of teen girls who just love the guys. Can you say Sanjaya Malakar?

Of course, the good news is that RI's Erika made the top 10. Interestingly, while grabbing a quick bite last night couple came in and sat next to us. The woman asked if they would turn on American Idol. I asked if she was rooting for Erika. She said Erika was her best friend, and that she and her man often sang together with her in plays. She said, she used to get inside tips form Van Pelt, but now rules strictly forbid loose lips.

Greg Smith is sleeping with Sandra Fluke.

Our electric company just announced a 5.6% rate increase due to the increased costs resulting form renewable energy certificates. The company says this is just the beginning, It is expected, they say, that speculators will be jumping into trade these certificates, pushing up electricity costs way past where it has been for a century. It looks as though tis is another attempt to force up the cost of standard energy to justify the high expense for the more inefficient alternative energy. Alternative energy is an decent idea, but not necessarily a sensible one.

The best new food thrill in town is "Risotto Thursday Nights" at 180 on Broadway!

At least, I would have expected the "New" IPad to add "Flash". Pixels! Ho-Hum.


Back in the fifties Jerry Lewis made everybody laugh with his clean, wholesome stupidity. Today's kids are getting crass, degenerate stupidity.

Last week I wrote that Iran is following the North Korea game plan. That is, agree to anything to buy time. So what do you read this morning after the most recent US/NK agreement, a mere two weeks old? NK is testing long range rockets.

I think labeling beef fillers as "Pink Slime" is an injustice to something that may be perfectly ok.

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--21 Jump Street is about two guys Schmidt and Jenko who are ready to leave adolescence and become adults on the police force. Because of their youthful looks, they are asked to go undercover investigate a violent and dangerous High School drug ring. They quickly learn that their greatest anxiety and terror come from being a teenager again. This will do well at the box office.

Almost Near: Chapter 65 Continues. --"We'll hear from Tucker." Audrey was giving Samantha a pep talk. But, she was starting to believe that her new friend Sam was emerging from that cocoon which had hidden her from the world for many years. She could see a fire in the eyes. Maybe it was just because of the nature of any mother to develop a sense of controlled violence when children are in danger. But, something seemed deeper than that. They stopped before Audrey's room. Audrey actually turned and gave Sam a huge hug. "Spruce up, and we'll get a bite to eat when Sparrow arrives. I'm just a couple of doors away."
"Thanks Audrey. You have given me a lot in a short time. I feel things entering my mind which have been missing for a long time. And some of it makes me cringe. But," she looked into Audrey's eyes, "Some how now I feel like I want to face it rather than run away." She smiled at Audrey, and inserted her key.
She quickly entered the room, and immediately bolted the door. I haven't overcome all my fears, she thought.
"Surprise Mommy!" Samantha shrank back to the door. Sheila ran smack into her stomach with a big hug. She looked over and saw Tucker, Calm. Smiling.
"Welcome home, Sam."

The Answer:

Several come to mind immediately -- Abbott and Costello, Laural and Hardy, Martin and Lewis, Rowan and Martin. George and Gracie, Elaine May and Mike Nichols, Stiller and Meara, Marx Brothers, Pryor and Wilder, Belushi and Achroyd and Obama and Biden.

We live in a surprise a minute world. That's why so many people seem inert.

Have a great weekend, and love the Irish tomorrow and the Italians Monday.

Stifle it America.

Today's Tids Issue 2,533
Opening Stuff:

I hear that the various snooper agencies of the USA are asking for software that would allow them to monitor all Americans using Social Networks, and more. Isn't this analogous to wiretapping without court orders. Isn't that an egregious act against the privacy of Americans. Or, don't citizens count anymore.

The White House strategy to minimize their obvious strategic error in attacking the Freedom of Religion amendment is something like "Wouldn't it be better for the country if the roar over this incident were to simmer down." In other words, you're only allowed to protest of it meets with our agenda. But, this country needs to keep the noise at high levels on this one. And against anything that is evidence of even the slightest intrusion of a Government breaking down, ot attempting to break down, the inalienable rights of Americans. And you know for sure, one fact: The media won't jump in, even though they treasure Freedom of The Press as their own religion. As long as their god is safe, the rest don't seem to matter. More than ever Americans need to unite to assure that America will be what it has been for over two centuries.

The betting in New England is about how long it will take the Boston Red Sox players to revolt against new Manager Bobby Valentine.

The Question:

Name five movies that starred Rene Russo. Hmm, that's a weird kid of question.

The Headlines:

--Gas Prices Ratcheting Up Inflation Worries.
--NY Times Correspondent Killed In Syria; US Immigration Agent Murdered In LA Office Building.
--Chinese Official To Visit Syria In Show Of Support For Assad,
--Italian Police Seize $6 Trillion In Fake US treasury Bonds; Seized Bonds Equal 1/3 Of National Debt.
--Dutch Prince In critical Condition After Avalanceh Accident In Alps.
--0-Man Haul In $29 Mil In Jan.
--Nearly 1000 Turn Out At Cranston ROI School Board Meeting On Appealing School Prayer Decision; Throng Sings "God Bless America."

I'm enjoying American Idol, maybe because of the good nature of the judges who seem to enjoy judging with each other instead of staged bickering and imagined rivalries. I just think it is better for a society to see poeple working together for a suppose instead of going for ratings based on anger and hostility, real or imagined. Sound like a formula for a better Government.

It's too early for me to start picking favorites on AI, though. I see some talent and I expect it will be good entertainment when the season really begins. But so far, nobody rocks me. Although, I'm rooting for the Rhode Island wedding singer. So I'm a hometown yahoo. Shoot me.

The Repubs are going to have a problem arguing about the apparent success of GM. No matter how logical their arguments maybe, there is now a perception out there that Big Gov's involvement in private biz is good for helping put money in an average Joe's pocket. Of course, I look at the GM profit performance (They still owe Us $48 Billion) as a bad precedent for the future. The company made money because the Unions came back to earth. The unions were one of the main problems with GM (In addition to mediocre designs and some arrogant management), and a bankruptcy and recovery would have accomplished the same. And preserved the integrity of the free enterprise system that should survive or fail on decisions they make that the should enjoy the success or suffer the damages of a risk and reward system. The government is intent on rewarding bad behavior, especially where unions are the biggest part of the problems.

Did you see where somebody ordered a mega sized coffee at Starbucks that cost $23.60! First of all, it comes in a 31oz cup called a "Trenta", a cup bigger than the stomach; a cup so large an elephant couldn't finish it. The drink started with a Java Chip Frappachino, and then the Texas College student added 16 shots of espresso, soy milk, caramel, scoops of banana and strawberry puree, a few vanilla beans, matcha powder, protein powder and a carmel and mocha drizzle. This is coffee? Sounds absolutely dreadful to me. This was actually a one time event for this kid. But coffee order out can be a big hit on small budgets. It costs me about $150 a year for coffee. A daily single visit to Starbucks or other elitist premium joint coffee could cost at a minimum $1300-1500/year. You could buy a couple of IPads a good smart phone for that!

I could handle Paul Ryan as President.

Obama is complaining that the thing he hates most about politics is that his family is dragged into he conversation. Didn't they just announce Michelle's campaign schedule? Haven't we seen her appearing constantly on TV, everything from Late Night comedians to ICarly? Is this the most disingenuous President of all time or not.

Barny Frank's old district runs for the outskirts of Boston to the outskirts of Providence RI. So we around here were happy with his resignation since he was on our TV as much as in Boston. But, it isn't working out so well. We are possibly getting another Kennedy. Yup, a grandson of Bobby. Camelot returns. With all of the 30-50 year old memories of their heyday, memories of everything about the clan except Teddy's drive off a bridge. Maybe his dad can get Hugo Chavez to endorse him.

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews.
--This means War is a story of two of the CIA's crack agents, best friends and how they handle their both falling in love with the same woman. They use all of their highly tuned fighting skills and Tech gadgetry to fight their biggest enemy -- each other.
--In Bullhead a cattle farmer often pumped up on steroids initiates a shady deal with a mafia meat trader. Things go awry when a federal agent is killed, and an old girlfriend resurfaces. He fights to confront his demons and the far reaching consequences of his decisions. Not bad.

Almost Near: Tucker and the girls have become great friends in just a few short hours. He had the kind of pleasant, nonthreatening charm, and the girls were probably starving for a friend. Especially this man who knew their Mom. They missed their mom. The more they talked and he reminded them of her, the more their desire to see her grew.
"Hey, you guys look great in those clothes. Your mom is going to love them!"
"Are you sure?" asked Sheila. "Are you sure you know where she is?"
"Am I sure?...I could take you their," he looked at his wathc, "In 4 hours."
Rebecca looked at the two of them. "Florence will want us home."
"Don't worry about Florence, She knows where we are and what we are doing. She really wants you to see your Mom. She likes your mom too."
"But, still." Rebecca caught the eyes of a couple of passing Teen boys. "Her face had reddened a little as she turned back. "But, ya know, we just can't leave."
"I'll tell you what. You guys go inot the dressing room and change, and by the time your back I'll have called Florence and I'll tell you what she said. The girls trundled off, and he pulled out his cell phone and punched in a couple of numbers. He waved and smiled as they turned back before entering the changing area. When they disappeared, he slipped the phone back into his pocket.

The Answer:

Rene was active when she was hot. Of her 23 movies, I rememeber her mostr for Tin Cup, Get Shorty, Ransom, Major League, Two for the Money and the Thomas Cr0wn Affair

It feels like spring, No winter's zing. So do your thing, A weekend fling, May blue birds sing, And good times bring.

I can see clearly now.

Today's Tids Issue 2,529
Opening Stuff:

Every once in a while you have to stop and wash the potato chip grease off your glasses.

Have you noticed how murky life gets when you try to filter reality through political correctness?

Hey, you gotta talk about Greece on regular basis, doncha. After all, it is the poster child for what America does not want to be. Our public employee unions, however, seem intent on bringing us there. There was a suppressed reaction yesterday on the news about the Greek Gov reaching an agreement. And with good reason. First the Euro Central Bank Chief yesterday pointed a finger at the Greek leadership where he essentially said "I don't believe you until you take some action. Sell an airport. Words. We've heard your empty words before". Couple that with the fact that there will be an election in April where an entirely new set of officials could come into office and squash any agreement. Second, having listened this morning to several analysts in London who say the problem is more immense than what is driveled out in the news. There is no industry. Athens is the most expensive city in Europe. I can see it taking generations before they can clean out the muck in the great black hole called Pensions. Everything about the Greek economy is a mess. And believe me, there are many here who think the Greek social economy was a good idea.

The Question:

Robert Wagner is know for a successful man and Wife sleuth TV series. Name it. Name his co-star. What is she doing now since the series?

The Headlines:

--EuroChiefs Wary Of Greek Austerity Goals; Unions In Troubled Country Striking In Streets; Violent Activity Mars Day.
--US Markets Down After Another Greek Disappointment; DOW down 115 At 11:18.
--China Shows Signs Of Slowing Domestic Economy.
--Banks Agree On Homeowner Help Program; NYT's Analyst Says Settlement Is Murky And Will take 6/12 Months To See Who Qualifies; May Take 2-3 Years To Show Results.
--White House To Offer "Accommodation" To Ameliorate Assault On religious Freedom.
--CPAC Expected To Be Setting for Sorting Out Repub Candidates.
--Former NYT CEO Janet Robinson Named Chairman Of Board Of Trustees For Alma Mater Salve Regina University.

I thought President PrimeTime laid out the problems and culprits associated with the housing crunch that strangle the pocketbooks of many good, well intentioned innocent citizens. However, there seems to be more questions than answers about how the injured will be rewarded, and how much of an effect this will have on huge overall mortgage problem. Maybe he designed it all that way to make Congress look bad when they dawdle over moving it forward becasue it just doesn't seem plausible. (Those questioning the reality of this as a solution come from both sides of the spectrum.)

One of the Tids brilliant observers of the world sends in this form a sign by the side of the road: "Islamic terrorists are like King Salmon -- Life is good until the Seals show up!"

Yahoo news published photos with the teaser headlines "McCaulay Culkin seen walking in NYC looking gaunt and scruffy." I thought he looked gaunt and anemic when appearing Home Alone.

I was thinking of re-upping, getting back into the military to serve my country in my waning years. And then I had this vision, a vision inspired from a news item yesterday the new soldier diets. Here was Mrs. "0" standing at the front of the army dining hall with big S...Eatin' grin holding the "New Mess", a plate overflowing with Broccoli, salad greens and whole grains. SOS!! This is true.


Correction Department:
A particularly keen Tids observer noted that Mia Farrell was not in the first True Grit. Upon further review I notice I had left out the words "Hal Wallis originally wanted Mia to play Mattie in True Grit. Actually, Robert Mitchum warned Mia away saying Director Hathaway was awful to work with. Interestingly, Kim Darby said she was afraid of horses and unlike Steinfeld (Whom she admired as her replacement), she was afraid of horses. Get this: "The woman who was my double," she said "was about 65 years old!" See, you can learn from typos and editorial mishaps.

I originally thought that No Child Left behind was a good idea primarily becasue I believe there is a need that standards for all aspects of American life should be raised. But also, NCLB is a great example of why the Feds should stay out of our schools. Period!


"The Spoilers" is what I like to call the current crop of political publicists and P/R people. They take clearly defined positions and muddy them to the point where it is impossible to see a solution or any chance for agreement and understanding.

The NCAA is exactly the type of organization we should not want governing the USA.

Reading between the Lines Movie reviews:
--Safe House starring Denzel Washington as Tobin Frost and Ryan Reynolds as Matt Weston looks like a winner to me. CIA agent Weston has a nowhere posting in a So Africa Safe House and has never seen an occupant. He startled out of his relaxed, playful existence when Tobin, the most dangerous man he has ever met, is brought in for his safeguarding. All hell breaks out, and Matt and Tobin become an unlikely duo who entirely distrust each other but must stay rely upon each other to elude bad guy killers.
--In The Vow, Channing Tatum plays the loving husband trying to regain the affection of his wife Rachel McAdams who has lost her memory of him after a car accident. Add in her annoying parents and former lover for whom she still has yearnings and you have s decent romantic drama.
--Journey 2: The Mysterious Island is a predictable adventure story with a big cast. An adventurer sets out with his step-father and besutiful daughter to answer a distress call from an island that should not be where it is. They find strange life forms and others secrets and the soon to blow volcano looms above. Eh!

Almost Near: Chapter 60 continues. "Florence, this is Audrey. Remember me?"
"Of course, deary. The kids never stopped talking about you after you left. You can't imagine how happy you made my little twosome."
Audrey now smiling to herself, almost forgetting the urgency of the call, "Thanks. Jeez, thanks."
"But, I have tell you Awdray, it's real weird that ya called. That Tucker friend of yours," Audrey stopped breathing, "was here this monin' and he's out now with the kids. Takin em for ice cream and ta buy some toys at the mall.
"What!" Audrey hoped she didn't scare Florence. She tired to soften her reaction. "Wha, What time did they leave?"
"Hope that's ok." Audrey was thinking in overdrive.
"I was just worried about Tucker. He seemed a little sick when he left, and I noticed he forgot some of his medicine. But," she laughed to sound relaxed. "I certainly didn't expect to find him there. That's an amazing coincidence. I was just calling to say hi. When he returns," Audrey didn't expect Florence would ever see him again. "Have him call me." And under her breath she said. If he doesn't come back call the police...or get out that big gun of yours and shoot him. "I'll be talking to ya Florence."

The Answer:

Stefanie Powers was the co-star in Hart to Hart. Betcha didn't know that her birth name was Stefania Zofya Federkiewicz! She was in many TV, film and stage roles after the hits series, but is still really best know for H2H. She spends time now in touring and local plays. Mostly though she as President of the William Holden Wildlife Foundation and Director of the Mount Kenya Game ranch, she spends her time working with zoos and speaking on wildlife preservation.

This will be a great weekend. Promise.

Well, here we go!

Today's Tids Issue 2.524

Opening Stuff:

For all of you out there beyond New England and NY Metro who have yet to pick your team in the Super Bowl, consider this: If the Giants win, Charlie Schumer will be happy. Go Pats!


I'm really starting to feel sorry for daffodils. They think it's spring and many are several inches above ground in some areas. It's a little like relying on the Government instead of your own instincts.

An observer noted that Tom Brady and wife Giselle's new super sized mansion described as being "Eco friendly", probably should be more appropriately called "Ego Friendly".

The Question: The newest data says that 750 US banks are at risk of failing! Which states do you think have the most at risk?

The Headlines:

--Unemployment Drops to 8.3%: 235K Additions Surprise Experts.
--Thirty bales Of Marijuana Float In Upon California Beaches.
--Dem Senators Urge Susan G. Koman Foundation To Reinstate Funding To Planned Parenthood.
--Heavy Snowstorm Hits Colorado; Moving East.
--Egypt Gunman Kidnap Two Woman US Tourists.

The woman who sued Honda about gas mileage and won $10K has opened a real can of worms. Everybody who owns a car could probably sue. It appears that the car manufacturers are relying on government statistics which are noticeably higher than reality as tested by private research groups which actually factor in real driving habits like the dreaded lead foot. The Hummer owner could scream, "Hey, you promised 10mi/gal and I'm only getting 9". Everything is relative.

If the unemployment number keeps on dropping (Which is actually fairly natural after three years), let's hope the Repubs are developing Plan B to use against the 0-Man. And no, not the birth certificate.

At the annual DC Prayer breakfast 0-Man suggested that God tells him to raise taxes. Where's the ACLU when you need them! There is an unwritten rule that says leave your politics at the door when you enter this annual, thoughtful gathering. But then, 0-Man doesn't follow the rules, written and unwritten.


Don't go barefoot in parking Lots Department:
Do you ever wonder how much coffee with cream and sugar has been poured out in parking lots? I do.

If you are looking for a a Super Bowl team to root for, consider the Bill O'Reilly segment "Patriots and Pinheads". Go Pats!

I think this new TV show "Smash" could be a winner.

Donald Trump is an odd duck.

Warren Buffet threw a meaningless monkey wrench into the electoral process with his seemingly naive tax differential comments. And, you know he's smart enough to know the difference between his tax payments and his secretary's. And how much in taxes he paid on his original money. Yet we keep on getting badgered with references to the "Buffett Rule". How unctuous is that.

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--Dan Radcliff effectively moves away from his Harry Potter identity and is very could in this scary movie about strange deaths in a little coastal town in Edwardian England. Radcliff plays a mournig young husband who becasue of his loss is also in jeopardy at his law firm. He is given one more chance to save his carreer and it brings him to this town where all are hiding a terrible secret. He moves into the manison of the towns wealthiest man whee the ghost of the woman in black roams. It's petty good.
--A SciFy thriller follows three high school students with uncanny powers beyond their understanding. As they learn more about them and how to control the Kinetic mind) powers they must also learn to face the reality of an adult world to keep their own from spinning out of control. I'd probably go.

Almost Near: Chapter 60. --"Hi Audrey, this is Samantha Wilcox, again. Any word about Tucker?"
"Not a peep, but then I had the feeling he was near you. That seems to be his pattern lately. Maybe we should be talking more, but honestly..."
"Honestly, you probably think I'm nuts. And maybe I am. But, I feel that more and more things are making sense to me. And then," Samantha paused, "there's the darkness".
Andrey sensed the eerie quiet. "I've learned a lot about you Samantha. Maybe a lot that you don't even know yourself. It must be difficult knowing that so much has happened around you and not really knowing what it has been. I think Tucker, he was Tommy then, has loved you since he was 12 years old.
"Yes, I think I have learned some of that these past several weeks. I don't feel anything deeply about that past, but at least I know it was, and has been an important part of why I am what I am. Whatever that is?" Samantha laughed.
Audrey was laughing when she broke in. "I think I'd like you Samantha..."
''Call me Sam."
"Ok...Sam! You must have some kinda indomitable spirit to have lived through your years with that Quimpierre family." Audrey heard an intake of breath.

The Answer: 
The 758 possible failures projected for the next two years is double those that have failed over the past three years! The slow recovery has tested the staying power of these banks to the breaking point. The fact that the Fed is assuming very slow growth through 2014 makes this dire situation real the worst states are Florida (72), Illinois (69), Geiorgia (66), Minnesota (37), Missouri (33) and Tennessee (31). The only states with no banks at risk are Alaska, Hawaii, new Hampshire and South Dakota. Rhode Island has one. I wonder who it is?

There are wars, births, and an inconceivable amount of varied interactions at any given moment being carried out among the billions of citizens on this Earth, and yet only one thing really matters. We will abide the world around us for the next two days until life begins again at 6:40, February 5 in the year of a our Lord 1012. To say that I'm not a quivering mass of raw nerves is to say that 0-Man is bowing out, conceding that Mitt is the only person who can turn around the country.

Go Pats! May the Tids be a happy Monday morning column.

Yikes, it's Friday.

Today's Tids Issue 2,519
Opening Stuff:

The fog horn blows. The air is still. The seas are calm. We enter the morning in peace caressed by the soothing mist.

Every once in a while you need a good fog to block out the incessant noise of childish political bickering

But how about that ABC "News" interview with 0-Man last night. Talk about a carefully orchestrated campaign kick-off. I think that every Repub candidate in Fla should demand equal time. It was blatant favoritism by a so-called news organization -- 10 or 12 minutes of carefully crafted softball questions which would enable the the Prez to blunt criticisms with no follow up Q's, "What" are you kidding me. C'mon Mr. President, You're jokin' aren't ya?"

The Question:

1. Who was the creator Of Fannie Mae? 2. Bonus Q: Why is today known as Let their be Light day?

The Headlines:

--Greece Must Act on Austerity Before IMF Will Commit to More Funds.
--After Strong 2011 Q4 Finish, Economists Hinting At Slower Growth In early 2012; Higher Inventories And Lower Capital Goods Spending Main Reasons.
--Romney Increasing Lead In Fla Primary Polls.
--Egypt Barring Travel For US Pro-Democracy Advocates.
--Tired And Broke Santorum heading Home To Do Taxes.
--Costa Cruise Group Offers Each Passenger $14,460 For Ruined Cruise.
--Bus Sized Asteroid To Pass Within 35,oo Miles Of Earth Tonight. No Danger, Scientists Say.
--Thousands Spend Hours Saying Good-Bye To Joe Pa.
--Is Colt's Irsay Building Case Against Manning 1 To Avoid $28 Mil Payoff?

You have to wonder...why would the Fed just announce that they are extending their low rates out til 2014 if they didn't think that the economy was going to suck til then.

People often talk a lot about the US not being like it used to be. Today's aggressive youth typically attribute that to the nostalgic memories of the old rather than reality. Hey, everybody wants their own era's to be unique and memorable. But I remember mortgage rates on the late fifties early sixties at always being stable, and around 5-5.5% and for a while in the 80's-90's thinking rates will never be stable again like the "good ole days' when you didn't have to rate hunt much less renegotiate. But, now they are in the low 4's and high 3's. Yikes. That's really, really low. It is probably the main indicator of just how fragile the current economy is today.

Newt is beginning to sound like a grasping, gasping, nonsensical blasting politician about ready to die.

No matter how many awards Zuckerman gets, I still don't get FaceBook.

I'm really glad that I don't have to eat school lunches anymore.

The headline read, "Paula Dean caught eating a hamburger." What in hell is that all about. What a small minded world we have become. Let her eat cake!

Frankly, I'm at that point where it is hard to believe any words from the mouth of the President of the United States. that's a sad day for me.

It is inevitable. The internet will be come the center of life. Hulu, YaHoo, Netflix and YouTube are commissioning their own programming -- scripted dramas and reality "TV". There is going to be a lot of sorting out between the networks, Cable and Internet as they continue to grow and duplicate each other's work. Expect a lot of mergers and acquisitions. After all, all America really wants is entertainment.

Someday I'm going to learn never to use information that originated in broadcast emails. Ed Freeman died 3 1/2 years ago.

And, I'm not going to turn off Celtic's games at half time. 27 points down and they win by 10! Zowie! And, three starters out of the game in street clothes.!

Reading between the lines Movie Reviews:
--The Gray is a pretty tense survival tale about when after a plane crash in remote Alaska, a group of oil rig workers set out towards safety pursued by a band of fierce, bloodthirsty wolves. One by one the men are knocked off, as the audience goes white knuckle waiting for stuff to jump out of rocks.
--Albert Nobbs is one of those actors dream movies. In this one Glenn Close plays an introverted man who is a staffer at a posh London hotel. he dreams of finding a woman and getting married. Pretty good surprise ending they say. I think it will hold your interest.
--Man on the Ledge actually looks tedious to me in the trailers. I guess it really isn't much better than what I see. A guy on a building ledge is there not to jump but to divert attention form two of his pals trying to prove his innocence with an overly complex scheme. As the movie wears on you would hope he did jump.

Almost Near: Chapter 58 continues. --Sparrow looked down at the now trembling woman. "What was that all about? People I have been interrogate generally don't jump into my arms."
Samantha moved back, face reddened, "I'm sorry." She looked down now embarrassed. She shouldn't be she thought. "He was here. He just left down that stairway" She turned her head and pointed to the red Exit sign. I mean just here, Less than a minute before your elevator reached this floor."
"Elliot, Jim, take the stairway." He was pulling out his phone as he directed the two officers. "Mike, Mike. pick up now! It 's Sparrow.
A second later, "John, what's up?" Get around to the rear entrance of the hotel, now! The guy in the picture I gave you just left this floor. I'll call the hotel security to watch the lobby. He turned towards Samantha, slightly out of breath. You want to come with me or stay in the room.?
With you, definitely with you." She started running with him. "But, you knew that already, didn't you?
Of course," he said as they reached the elevator and he pushed the button." That's why I'm the detective!". He smiled broadly at her, and she finally relaxed.

The Answer:

1. FDR gave us Fannie Mae. Before that, interest rates varied around the country according to the needs of local banks. But FM was brought on board to help people keep their homes in the Great Depression. Sound familiar. 2. Tom Edison invented the Light Bulb 132 years ago today.

Do you realize how much extra money people have to spend for events to make them "Green". I think I'm going to become a "Green" consultant for my retirement job.

Have a terrific weekend!

Hey, leaders are humans too. Whoops!

Today's Tids Issue #2,514

Opening Stuff:

What a magnificent moment. You don't need fireworks and orchestral crescendos to feel the beautiful magic of the world around you. Pure quiet, standing at the end of a dock in the Winter, alone in a chilling wind may be as heart warming and exhilarating than sitting amidst 10's of thousands cheering Pats or Michigan fans in a giant stadium. I didn't think it could get better as I stood their yesterday, occasional snowflakes bouncing off my nose, the quiet frigid waters below; the huge harbor with bobbing empty moorings, devoid of the magnificent sailing machines. Just the quiet cool waters and the gentle ripples. suddenly I heard a splas to my rights. I turned. Eyes peered back; A whisker covered nose. A small seal, down for the winter from Maine. he looked at me with what looked like a smile, Nice to see you human! It turned its head. darted away. The ripples faded. It was quiet again, except for my beating heart.

There may be a primary in South Carolina I hear, but the only thing that really matters this weekend is the NFL Playoffs. Actually anticipating the Pats-Ravens game, my body and mind are a physical and mental mess trying to interpret the opinions of so-called experts. But, it appears my heart trumps everything else -- that and the focus of Tom Brady which is becoming contagious in the New England locker room -- so I'm picking, guess who, in a dogfight. The other game is equally distressing from a pickers point of view too, The giants they a ll say are playing better than everybody. But then the voices in NYC are always a bit louder than normal human beings, so you have to discount that a bit. I'm going for an SF "upset", even though they are favored by 2 1/2.

The actions of the captain in the wreck of the Costa Concodia further reinforces people's growing distrust of leadership.

The Question:

Name five famous cast members form teh TV show "Laugh In".

The Headlines:

--Last Night's Debate Winner: Santorum; Romney Stronger But Stumbles Again On Tax Return Segment; Gingrich Gets Standing "O" For Attack On Distrustful Media; Paul Inert; Conclusion: Santorum Could Take Away Enough Newt Votes To Give Mitt Win.
--Bell-weather GE Revenue Levels Lower Than Expected; Google Also Disappoints; Wall Street Lower.
--6 Marines Killed In Afghan Helicopter Crash.
--US/Iran Relations Continue To Deteriorate; Iran Amping Up Rhetoric Against Israel..
--RI Unemployment Creeps Back Up To 10.8%; RI Leaders Propose Tax Increases.
--20 Homes Destroyed In Reno Wildfire.
--New England Patriot Cheerleaders Named #1 Team In NFL; Cowboy Gals Second; NE Team Loaded With RI'ers

Don't you think the extent of the housecleaning at The Indianapolis Colts is a little weird? The front office, the head coach and now the 8 assistant coaches are gone. This after one losing season following a decade of championship level teams. But, of course, we're talking about the Irsay's here. Maybe they're lightening the load so when they sneak out of town to LA, they won't be noticed.

The five "most Useless College Degrees" probably look good to kids on paper, but there just aren't that many career opportunities. The five are: 1. Agriculture -- 64,600 fewer jobs in next decade; 2. Fashion Design -- Better as a minor so you'll have something to fall back on. Very few of the "Glamour " jobs exist; 3. Theater -- Erratic earnings for most and lots of down time, unemployment; 4. Animal Science -- Only 3,800 Animal Science Jobs in US!; 5. Horticulture -- In decline despite how pleasant Farmer's Markets appear to be.


Newt is starting to appear quite Clintonesque, isn't he? Maybe that's a great strategy for election. He'll at least get the Kardashian and Dr. Phil vote.

Kicking the Can Down the road Part 1, or How to hide the bad stuff for 2012 Department:
"The per person Medicare insurance premium will increase from the present monthly fee of $96.40 to: 2012 - $104.20; 2013 - $120.20; 2014 - $247.00. These provisions; incorporated in the Obamacare legislation, are purposely being delayed so as not to 'confuse' the general public in
the 2012 re-election campaigns."

Kicking the Can down the road Part 2, Department:
Our mild mannered, often confused Governor said yesterday in what was for him a simple unencumbered statement: "I'll tell you, it's not good." Six words that have an Armageddon tone about them. This after the Gov last Fall was accepting the accolades for Gina Raimondo's courageous work that our deepest financial problems are over. Nope, it was apparently just one of those now common governmental band-aides. Oh Yeah, and the chief Union guy says it's only fair to raise taxes to keep pensions secure -- raises taxes to many who can't afford them; to many who have already paid the taxes that were misspent by union owned legislators over-promising gov employees.

Irresponsibility was illustrated again by a couple in new Mexico where the man took to the dunes in the dessert for a romantic proposal. Nice mood except that the doofus groom got lost and a very expensive helicopter had to be sent in for a rescue. Make them pay!

NASA just reported that 2011 was the 9th warmest year since 1980, and that 9 of the top 10 have been since 2000. But, The US Oceanic and Atmospheric Admin (NOAA) says it was 23rd warmest year on record. So what is it? When it comes to climate change, there's a report for everybody.

I guess Government reports are designed to confuse. Take poverty for example. The Census released in November a new measure of lower income called the Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM) which did not show more poverty, but redefined middle income levels as "near poverty. The media left hyped up this new apples to oranges comparison beyond reason, encouraging unthinking lawmakers and poor people proponents to demand more food stamp payments. And basically little had changed. Except of course, we had to ask China for more money.

Reading Between the Lines Movie reviews:
--Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close is an interesting titole for a movie that could have been better. It is a chance to be a heart warming family story, as an introverted son tries to uncover his Dad's secret after the Dad dies in the 911 WTC attacks. Along the way he develops a better understanding of the world around him.
--Red Tails is certainly a film about true American heroes, but somehow this Hollywood offering about the famed all black Tuskegee Airmen is part of glitter-town's contribution to "O's" 2012 PR campaign. That aside, it is a good WWII action war flick with a lot of on the ground drama about race problems of the day.
--Haywire is one that's on my list. It features a super woman CIA style agent working for an Independent security firm. Along the way she realizes she is the target of an assassination. She must find the truth about who authorized the killing or die. Good cast and a lot of body blows. Men fear her.
--Carnage is a tedious one room film where a discussion between four adults deteriorates into childishness arguing about the childishness of the kids. Afet a hal hour you'll just want to get up and leave. It's the waste of a cast -- Kate Winslet, Jodi Foster, Christoph Waltz and John C. Reilly -- and show that a bad idea cannot be saved by star power.

Christoph? Aaah Hollywood.

Almost Near: Chapter 58 --Samantha sat on the bed in her small hotel room thinking about all that happened this past hour. Most of all she thought that it all was starting to make sense. Even though she felt that there were huge holes in what she knoew about her life, she now knew who she was. She knew that Tucker had been Tommy and her first love. She stopped and felt a little awakening in her heart. She now remembered the comfort she had felt over the years from Tucker's poems and writings about Lobster Cove. She wondered why she had accepted his fantasies. What was she running from. Why did her parents really die? And her husband Rudy? That's a fear that shook her most. But she knew she had to face it. Just as she had to face the new Tucker. That Tucker who that ran down a nice man who she knew. The quiet in the room was interrupted by the ringing phone.
"Hi Samantha, Miss me?" It was Tucker. She sucked in air and held her breath. Sammy, Sammy, are you there?"
She squeezed the phone until her knuckles turned white. Shje let out that breath.
"Hi Tucker, she said in a very friendly way. "Sorry, I tripped as I picked up the phone. You know me...kind of a doofus." She laughed a little.
"I only know you as a beautiful woman who I loved watching eat dinner on my boat in the cove. That's a special place, isn't it Sam?"
This rattled Samantha. Where was he trying to take me? "It was nice Tucker. Where did you go? One minute you were here and then nobody could find you." Sam knew he was out somewhere with Audrey, whoever Audrey is.
"Oh I had an appointment with my publisher. I'm coming back to Dalesford now. You sound great. See you soon!' The phone clicked off

The Answer:

The most famous alum of "Laugh In" is probably Goldie Hawn with Lily Tomlin a close second. Of course Dan Rowan and Dick Martin led the way and were great. The others are Gary Owens, Ruth Buzzi, Henry Gibson, Arte Johnson, Jo Anne Worley, Judy Carne, Alan Sues, Teresa Graves, Chelsea Brown, Dave Madden, Pamela Rogers, Jeremy Lloyd and Dick Whittington. There were many repeating guest performers from John Wayne to Flip Wilson to Johnny Carson to Richard Nixon. "Sock it to me?"

Why do I have this feeling in my mind that the political climate is ruining the Tids?

Go Pats! What more can I say.

Have we lose truth along the way?

Today's Tids Issue 2504
Opening Stuff:

I guess I have to say that the most relaxing place I know is standing at the end of a dock on a cold Winter's day. The water is a deeper, slightly threatening, blue. Yet its is some how more relaxing. The air is so clean. And the skies reflacted upon the ripples below, brighter, crisper than that of the oppressive summer. And of course, there are no people, and maybe that's the best thing, There is, though, a chug, chug, chug of fishing boat pushing icy waters aside as it heads to the grounds afar; hardy men aboard bundled to meet the winds at sea. Watched intently by Gulls wishing good luck for a big catch. But, that is all part of the comforting scene.

I may have to go back on my blood pressure medicine. The half truths and exaggerations about opposing candidates may set a national all-time record for hypocrisy and misrepresentation. There are just too many psychopaths at the top of the food chain these days.

Debbie Wasserman Schultz Will Become the Single Most Annoying American Over The Next 10 Months

The outlook for the day always looks brighter when you wash your glasses first thing in the morning.

The Question:

Everybody loves to eat, and many would love to have their own personal chef or be taught by one of the culinary stars. Who do you think are the Top Ten TV Chef Teachers?

The Headlines:

--15 Year Old Texas Girl Mistakenly Deported to Columbia As Illegal.
--DOW Opens Up 35; Bullish Sentiments Could Carry the day.
--Unemployment Now At Lower 8.5%.
--IRS Cranks Up Audits On $1 Mil Earners.
--Over 200 Million People World Wide Use Illegal Drugs; Number Does Not Include Those Using Ecstasy, Hallucinogenic Drugs, Inhalants, Benzodiazepines Or Anabolic Steroids.
--Bombers Blast Syrian Police Bus.
--Democrats Ignoring Santorum Rise.
--Iran Holding More War Games At Hormuz.
--Pope Names 22 New cardinals.

This Admin has shown itself to be singularly minded, and seems to spend an inordinate amount of time trying to circumvent Congress -- You know, the Czar thing, Executive orders, recess appointments. So, the news that the IRS has drastically increased audits on those making a million or more is not at all surprising. If you can't get the tax past legitimately, get punitive. Definitely not the American way.

If Michael is pronounced Mykel, why isn't Rachael pronounced Raykel?

I got one of those political emails we all get every day, but this one was new, one I had never seen. It tagged the useless OWS as "The Flea Bag Party standing for Freeloading Liberals Encouraging Anarchy versus The Tea Party -- Taxed Enough Already. It featured a series of pictures depicting the usual street urchin protestors. "Have pithy sign - will travel."

Kim's 72 hour marriage sent the Hollywood gossip mongers to find other veneer H-Wood unions. Kid Rock and Pam Anderson made love for four months and said boring, I'm outta here. Britainy Spears and Jason Alexander lasted 55 hours! The rest -- Dennis Rodman/Carmen Electra 6 days, Mario Lopez/Ali Landry 2 weeks, Charlie Sheen/Donna Peele 5 Months, Colin Ferrell/Amelia Warner 4 months, J-Lo/Cris Judd, Drew Barrymore/Tom Green, Eddie Murphy/Tracy Edmunds, Helen Hunt/hank Azaria 11 Months, Lisa Marie Presley/Nicholas Cage 3 months and Rene Zellweger/Kenny Chesney 4 Months. The alimony settlements were mild but the cost of getting rid of those "I'll Love You Forever" tattoos was enormous, and painful! Ouch.

Almost near: Chapter 57 continues. Audrey felt the vibration from her phone nestled in the side pocket of her tweed jacket. She avoided it, but it kept on ringing. Too long she thought. "Tucker, I hate to break this beautiful mood, but I have to go to the ladies room for a minute. You wouldn't want me squirming around in my seat, would you." He smiled rather nicely, as he had been all night.
He reached for a piece of bread, "I know the gotta-go feeling well!" He half stood as she pushed back my chair.
Audrey imagined his eyes intensely following her across the room. She shivered a littrle, but didn't know why. A reporters imagination, she thought. The phone had stopped ringing half way across the dinning room floor. She entered the ladies room and pulled out the phone. The missed call number wasn't familiar. Was it just a credit card company urging her to get a lower rate. Was this odd jittery feeling making her more suspicious of everything? She pressed the reply call-back button.
"Dalesford Police Station". She reflexively looked to see if the door was still closed. Her nationalistic memory bank told her this was the town where Samantha's parents lived, and died.
"My name is Audrey Johnson. I just received a call from this number," --She thought, I should have checked voice mail first so I knew who I should-- ask for. "I don't who actually called. I only know one named associated with that town. Samantha Wilcox."
"Oh," the voice said quickly, "You'll want Detective Sparrow. old on."
Audrey's toe started tapping the floor like a jackhammer.

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--I think I already reviewed the out today Mailer, Tinker, Soldier Spy. It is based on the well known John LeCarre novel; novel which would often have my head nodding. But all in all a superior spy novel based in the cold war 70's. I think counterespionage fans will like the realistic movie where former retired spy Smiley searches for a mole in M5. Others may have troubel sticking to it.
--The Artist is receive rave reviews. It will be nominated for everything. It's about a silent film era matinee idol losing his fame to talkies. He drifts downward until a dnacer in the new era musical movies lifts him up. It's like A Star is Born.

The Answer:

Nobody makes cooking appear simpler than Sam Zein. The rest in order are Ina Garten, Bobby Flay, Alton Brown, Tom Colicchio, Curtis Stone, Gordon Ramsey, Rachael Ray, Martha Stewart and Anthony Bourdain.

"Gentlemen and ladies, start your blathering!" Earplugs anybody.

Have a great Weekend!.

Newport Art Museum Winter Lecture Series Department:
If you are in Newport, stop by the Newport Art Museum for a great lecture by Brookings Institute Political VP Darrell West. It is the kick off for the season that represents the 100th anniversary of this great institution housed in the magnificent building designed by Richard Morris Hunt. Other lectures are 100 Years of Jazz. What's Next after the Arab Spring by an Navy expert in Middle East Security, the greatest American collection of Impressionist Art, Cultures effect on RI Dairy farms to today's artisan farms, Historic Roots of Newport foods, 100 years of Newport Art and Great movies made in RI.

Christmas.

Today's Tids Issue #2,494
Opening Stuff:

Linus, dragging his blanket, walked to center stage.

"Ahem."
"And there were in the same country shepherds, abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shown around them! And they were some afraid...And the Angel said unto them, 'Fear not. For, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all my people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the King. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly Host praising God and saying, Glory to God in the Highest, and on Earth peace, and good will toward men."

"That's what Christmas is all about Charlie Brown."

Santa's Sack:

While the RI Governor was declaring it a "Holiday tree", employees throughout the Statehouse were erecting creches and menorahs. In fact there are this morning (Pre ACLU) over twelve scenes of the Birth of Christ, each representing one of the many ethnic groups in RI. You can pass the edict but you can't take the truth our of the heart.

Former Cleveland Browns wide receiver Brayton Edwards has become known for some of his off-field antics. But it should be his off-field heart that gets the notice today. About six years ago he told youngsters in schools across the city that if they worked hard and achieved a 2.5 GPA, he would give them $10,000 towards college. Yesterday he made good on that promise giving 79 kids a head start to a better life. In case you are multiplying, that's about $800,000.

The Question:

What is the more popular name for "Account of a visit by Saint Nicholas"? Who wrote it? When?

The Good News:

--New Polls: APgF Poll 1 On Christmas Says that 71% (Up From 58%) Of US Moms Believe In The Magic Of Santa Clause, For Themselves And Kids. Men Also Believe. Adults Says Big Guy Reminds Them Of Trust; APgF Poll 2 - 77% Of Americans Believe In Angels; 92% Of all Adults believe In God.
--Teen Comes Out Of Coma And Miraculously Heads Towards Regaining Full Life; Boy Had Been Prepped For Organ Donations; Docs Amazed.
--House Agrees To Continue Reduced Social Security/Medicare Contributions.
--Christ Church New Zealand Hit Again by Strong Quakes.
--Paul May Run As 3rd Party "Antiestablishment Candidate.
--Violence Continues In Streets In Lands Of Christs Birth.
--November Retail Sales Mediocre.

Lets hope all of those people who were pushing each other around on Black Friday find piece on Christmas day.

Melanie Amaro winning the X-Factor last night restores my faith in the judgement of mankind. And Josh Krajcik taking second place is a great choice too.

As a Christmas gesture, I promise to say nothing about Obama's inept leadership today.

Reading between the lines movie Reviews:
--You may have seen War Horse before -- Lassie, Black Beauty, Flipper. But none of these bring history to lefie as does tis picture abotu boys horse going off to World War I. This is very well done as we follow the boy's search for his best friend, the horse.
--Hollywood actually did a great job keeping the authenticity of the resignal The Girl with the Dragon tattoo alive and well, and exciting and tense. In fact the only difference is the absense of sub titles. I saw the original and loved it.
-- We Bought a Zoo won't do well with the critics I hear, and frankly I wasn't captivated by the trailers. But, I have a feeling that families with kids will like it a lot. Just so long as they don't overdo the animal rights thing. It's predictable and the title is the plot.
--The Adventures of Tintin is an English classic tail of a cautious reporter and his dog snowy who discover a model ship carrying an explosive secret. The bad guy Sakharine has him in his sights bu snow saves the day. Better than average Kids movie.

Almost Near: Chapter 55 continues. --That felt strange thought Tucker as he walked into the hotel.He normally felt comfortable, very comfortable with Audrey. I'll have to do something about that he thought.
His mood was interrupted by the flickering of lights to his right. He smiled immediately at the gigantic Christmas tree before him, with red and blue and green and yellow lights. With everything going on, he had totally forgotten about his favorite day.
He stopped, and sat in one of those cozy, leather lobby chairs and just exhaled at the view. His mind raced back to those childhood days in New Castle. And most prominent in those scenes he now created in his mind, was a smiling, laughing, beautiful Samantha. How he loved that girl of 12. He thought back pleasantly at how they grew together in love until that fateful day ten years later, when she walked away. Just said good-bye and walked out of his life. But, he thought Samantha will never be out of his life.
"Hark the Herald Angels Sing..." Tucker looked over at the carolers now singing robustly of good cheer, stood and started to sing along, remembering how beautiful his life used to be.

The Answer:

Of course I'm talking about Clement Moore's "Twas the night before Christmas", written in 1823. Moore's house is up the hill around the corner from here. It looks like the perfect Christmas house! Wtih frilly gingerbread woodwork on evry of the 12 eaves.

Merry Christmas everybody. What "Moore" can I say. Oh yeah... "And to all a good night!"

Happy Birthday Ludwig!

Today's Tids Issue 2,489

Opening Stuff:

At any given moment, any Beethoven piece could be one of my favorites. That was part of his genius. He could write to many moods. I think that is where he changed the music world. As brilliant as some of his composer predecssors may have been, they could never get out of their own way. Luddy, broke molds. Reached higher, and delivered majesty never heard before. Luddy?

How come the Fed keeps on boasting a decline in or a holding steady inflation rate at a time when the average person fears going to the Supermarket. It gets harder and harder to believe government stats.

Europe is on the brink of a recession, and those new austerity programs will contribute to the continent's downward spiral into a full recession in early next year. This will drag down the world economy and suck the air out of the USA already moribund GDP growth rate. So be prepared to feel the gloom for six months or so, according to leading London economists. But, China will emerge after the first quarter with very robust growth rate and pull along much of the rest of the world...except EuroZone. You can't put walls around your country any more.

The Question:

Steven Bochco was a prolific and inventive writer. Name five of his TV shows.

The Headlines:

--Markets will keep People Guessing Today.
--House And Senate Agree On Governemnt Funding Deal.
--New AP-GfK Oll: Americans 52 to 43 Say "Obama Should Be Voted Out Of Office"; It's 50-50 On Whether He Will Win; Job Performance -- Overall - Approve/Disapprove 44/54, Economy - A/D 39/60.
--Fitch Cuts Ratings Of Goldman, Deutshe Bank, Barclay, Credit Suisse, Citi, BNP Paribas, BoA.
--Popular SC Gov Nikki Haley Endorses Romney.
--Russian Customs Seize Iran-Bound Radioactive Material.
--World Court Says Killing Of Quadaffi May Have Been War Crime.

Some how the Tids Entertainment Editor muscled the Sports Editor aside, and the pig skin picks missed yesterday. (For the record, our crackerjack team included the Thursday Florida Championship -- and the winner we picked was Atlanta.) Last week was a little better and raised the year to 139-69 (67%). The puzzlers this week are Seattle-Chi, Miami-Buff, Det/Oak, Jets-Igles, Balt-SD and Pitt-SF. And because of the Tebow effect versus the porous NE defense, that too. Chi, Buff, Oak, Phil, SD and SF are my winners, mostly based on need to win versus nice to win. The rest are NO, Cinn, Houston, GB, Tenn, NYG and Ariz. Oh yeah, the Pats are the best team that Denver has faced this year. So, with a roll of Tums in my hand, I go with my guys. But something inside says that if Tebow starts rallying I could root quietly against myself.

Years ago when you forgot or failed to send out a Christmas card, people would think you didn't like them any more. Today, people think you died.

Debate Department:
Well, the Newtster continually under asault at the big debate last night, seemed to weather the storm pretty well.Hhe used self depretiating humor and facts to blunt the attacks primarily by Bachman and Santorum about Fannie/Freddie loot and ProLife stance. He brought down the house with his belittling of Obama over the Canada pipeline decision. Even though he was the focus, it wasn't all Newt. Romney and Paul looked very strong as did Santorum. Life marches on in Republand as all on the stage agreed with Paul's assessment -- "Everybody on this stage is capable of beating Obama."

The front page of the Prov Journal had in Gigantic black agate type -- "War Over". With all due respect to our fallen heroes, the headline for a war that most thought ended several years ago didn't seem to have the impact like it did for WWII.

Poser of the Day: Would you feel comfortable dating or having as a friend, Amanda Knox?

Putin seems to be a remnant of the old Us versus the evil West regime. In fact he seems to genuinely hate the the US. Now I'm no conspiracy theory guy, but I'm thinking that the CIA is organizing those protests.

Well, maybe Bach was pretty fantastic.

Some of the people down at ESPN are saying it's refreshing to be telling positive stories about Tim Tebow. They admit a certain level of being disturbed when mired down, as they often are with sports "heroes", in the mud with ongoing deplorable stories about slugs like Rothlesberger and Vick.

The culture didn't get any better when NBC decided to pick Howard Stern as a judge for America's Got talent. Stern was one of those early TV icons whose basic recognition was a result of a devotion to obscenity. Well, at least he didn't take off his clothes like some of our newer pop divas.

I was surprised to read that in the Latest Brown U Survey Gina Raimondo had but a 52% approval rating among RI'ers. But digging down you see that only 37% of Dems approve versus 60-61% for Indies and Repubs respectively. I guess Dems don't want to be saved from a deteriorating RI. Other RI stats: 85% approve voter ID's; It's 77% to 11% for the Christmas tree. And the best news of all- Cicilline has an approval rating in the low twenties!

Reading Between the Lines movie Reviews:
--I have enjoyed all of the Mission Impossible movies, and the new one, :Ghost Protocol, they say is even good! Blamed for the terrorist bombing of the Kremlin, Ethan Hunt's gang must go under the radar to clear their name and prevent another attack.
--There is so much action in the new Sherlock Holmes offering that it is nearly impossible to find the plot. It is another H-Wood effort that sacrifices a solid mystery for over the top action. Professor Moriarty is at large and his intellectual capacity may be equal of Holmes. His moral depravity eliminates any sense of logic in solving the case. That is the struggle.
--Alvin and the Chipmonks: Chipwrecked is...well...Alvin and the Chipmonks.

Almost Near: Chapter 56.
--I reached out with loving arms across the glistening skies.
To feel the warmth we knew as budding flowers blossomed.
To be your rock upon which to cling in the surging seas of life.
Now I see you running free, amidst the sandy dunes.
Will I disappear beneath the tides; Will I be hurled upon your shore.
  Tucker looked concerned as he sat in the window seat on the flight back to Little Rock. He would see the face of Samantha in the clouds, and then see it disappear, drawn apart by winds outside the rushing plane. He could feel the plane shudder has the face of Samantha disappeared. And then it would return. It bothered him
After the call from Audrey, he went back to the table and sat for a another half hour telling Sparrow pretty much nothing. Even though he knew everything. He could tell by Samantha's expression that she knew there was more. He had looked at his watch, and declared "Gotta catch a plane." Samantha rose and took his hand, quite tenderly he remembered, but not with that need she had shown these past months. Sparrow shook his hand, smiled, "Keep in touch," he said. Then Tucker/Tommy left not looking back. He had wondered what Sam may have looked like as he walked away. But he didn't turn. Sparrow could be a problem he thought.

The Answer:

Bochco got ink in his pen while working on a team that wrote shows like Columbo, McMilland and Wife and Ironsoide. He became a hit-maker with critically acclaimed Hill Street Blues. His other big hits were LA Law and NYPD Blue. He also wrote a series of lesser successes like Hooperman, Murder One, Brooklyn South, City of Angels, Over There, Philly and Most recently Raising the Bar.

I usually start pacing the floor Sunday morning in anticipation of the Patriots game. It seems that today I can't sit still awaiting the clash of two dissimilar quarterbacks. Brady the All pro who is 1-5 in Denver and who will be dodging two great edge rushers. And the miracle man Tebow, in reality still an unknown, facing the most porous defensive backfield in the league.

Love your weekend!

December hash.

Today's Tids Issue 2,484
Opening Stuff:

Are you getting the feeling that baseball salaries are bigger than the Greece GDP?

There are a lotta folks who coulda bin, but only a few who is.

You may not have noticed, but my aching fingers have -- The Tids is creeping up on its 2,500th Fun Packed issue! If I'm up to it, I may do something special, like know tyypos!

If you want to be "In" during 2012, stock your wardrobe with Pantone Color Institute's "Color of the Year" -- "Tango Tangerine". It's like a vibrant, redder, coho salmon with zing. Before cooking. Much more red than orange.

The Question:
Which National stock markets, both emerging countries and so-called established markets did best to date?

The Headlines:

--Big Countries Compromise Nationalist Views; Move to Save Euro.
--Consumer Confidence Best Since June'
--Markets Rising On Euro Action And Confidence.
--Putin Consulting With Image Makers.
--US Defense Experts Fear Iran Selling Stealth Drone Secrets To China, Russia.
--SC Meeting Today To Determine Whether Or Not To Rule On Arizona Immigration Law.
--African Nations Say Obama Push For Gay/Lesbian Human Rights Is "Abhorrent"; Uganda Senior Advisor Says "I Don't Like Her (Hillary) Tone At All"; Almost All Of Africa's 54 Nations Ban Homosexuality.


Illinois, California and the United States seem to think that the only problem with their near disaster deficit ridden budgets is that people aren't paying enough taxes. All of the other US entities seem to be gaining an inkling that perhaps they may be spending too much. It takes a while for politicians to wake up...or is that, have the guts to get honest with themselves.

At 25, Lindsey Lohan is just another average wasted blond has-been. Actually, it is kind of sad. Any time a human goes down the tubes it's sad.

It's early, but it appears that new URI Pres Dooley is the leader they've needed for a long, long time down there in beautiful Kingston. So far he looks up to turning the state university into one of the great learning institutions.

The food manufacturers are doing a good job with their quickie meal sides of rice, pasta or mash pots. As fast as advertised and quite tasty.

It's tough to get the Christmas spirit when there are so many people arguing amongst themselves over just who has the better idea about the Christmas spirit. But then, think about that great letter to a little girl who wanted to believe from "The Sun's" Francis Pharcelius Church, "Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus." "He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist; And they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy." Believing without seeing is the faith that moves the world. Bah-Humbug to the mathematicians.

Jon Stewart delivered a humorous bit the other night featuring RI Gov. Chafee-Lite and slamming those who worry about the sancitiy of Christmas. In a snide reference about Congress historically being open on The Day just like a 7/11, he used the ACLU and an agendized History Channel special "Christmas Unwrapped" as his sources. Bad idea. An examination of actual Congress records showed he was 100% incorrect. "But Jeez Mom, it was on TV. It must be right because Jon Stewart is famous."

Goosebumps don't count on the X-Factor. Frankly the program has become totally unwatchable, especially the histrionics of the judges. They have done one thing well, they have connected with a demographic totally opposite that of AI.

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--Tinker, tailor, Soldier, Spy is, yes, that Great Jon LeCarre series of cold ar novels that often left my mind boggling and my eyelids heavy. But, the great story, the great intrigue was always there. You just had to catch up and keep pace. The movie seems to pull it all together as Famed M16 (The Circus) intelligence officer George Smiley narrows down a list of suspects who may be a mole...including himself.
--The episodic movie New Years Eve has one thing going for it -- if one story gets tedious there's always another around the corner. With stars aplenty tghis film looks at the stories of people as the dorpping of the ball approaches, including Hillary Swank as the woman in charge of the ball dropping. Some of the stories are quite connected and others lead to a connection. I tend to like that style, but I'm not sure this one isn't too much.
--The Sitter is probably pretty stupid with annoying precocious foul mouthed tykes (A new H-Wood trend?). Loser college student gets sitting job, but must take kids along on quest for sexual adventurer which gets dangerous. I think you can write the plot. Just get low and superficial.

I think I'm getting real tired of the new genre of movies featuring misfit, foul-mouthed kids coming home from rehab.

Trump is trying to create a controversy over the fact that several Repub candidates aren't showing up for his Newsmax debate. Do you think maybe that the Candidates are thinking the debate would only be about Trump?

Almost Near: Chapter 53 continues. --
"I met the kids and they are fine. Nice kids, leading me to believe they were raised buy somebody other than a Quimpiere. The Quimpiere Aunt, Florence, who has them is a nice woman who actually moved away from here to avoid the antics of her family. And she feels sorry for the boy's mother. But, You know all about that twosome."
"Everybody does. Keep going. But, I warn you I may hold you in contempt of detective!" He smiled. John is a nice guy, he's just a power mad pain in the ass. She stared back at him.
"The kids said the their mom hid them because their dad beat the crap out of mom, and Florence said she became worried he would go after them now that the were older."
"So, around the time she secures the kid's safety, the abuser gets whacked with a shovel. Doesn't look good for your woman."
"I'm telling you this John, because you are smarter than the average cop." She smiled an exaggerated smile. "The kids love that suspect of yours. And, she has a much bigger story than just that in which you're involved. I've been trying to get more out of Tucker, because I have this feeling he knows a lot. I'm beginning to believe he has been manipulating this poor woman for years."
John handed her the phone. "Call him. Get him down here."
"Uh-huh, I see. When. No kidding." Audrey looked up. He checked out!"
"For some reason , that doesn't surprise me."

The Answer:
The best average for the "Deveoped Stock Markets is the 2% gain for Ireland. For those emerging it is Indonesia with 4%. All of the rest are negative for the year. The rest of the developed in order are US (-2%), Spain (-15), Germany, France, Japan, Italy and Greece (63). On the emerging side it's Mexico, Russia, China, Turkey, India , Brazil and Egypt (42)

It's getting to be that time of year when I start wearing socks again. It's been a great ride while it lasted.

Go Lehigh, Beat South Dakota State.