Stop the spin.

Today's Tids Issue 2.357
Opening Stuff:

Tid's Alert: Donald Trump wants to see bin Laden's Death Certificate.

Numbers savvy Democrat RI Treasurer Gina Raimondo said in a speech to business people yesterday: "If you remember one thing from me this afternoon, remember this. Fixing the state pension system is not an issue, it is the issue. Our state retirement debt is an anchor holding holding our state back and preventing our growth into the future." If we can allow the facts to drive the discussion for a couple of years we the country will be a better place...again.

A Napa Valley Day Care Center is called a whinery.

Bush refused the Prez invite to join him at the 911 Site Thursday, but thanked 0-Man for it saying it his policy to stay out of the political spotlight. Or, maybe it is because for 2+ years 0-Man has blamed Bush for everything wrong with the country from the economy to Harry Reid's lack of a brain.

The Question: A good movie question always has a chance to be a winner in the hearts of Tidsters. This about Romantic Movies where the beautiful love story ends tragically. Name what you think may be these the top ten sad ending stories.

The Headlines:

--US Adds 179,000 Jobs; Addition below Hoped For Estimates.
--Nate Leaman Promises New Era Of Success For Providence College Hockey.
--Smaller, Gas Saving Cars Lead The Way To Strong April Auto Sales.
--M&A Activity Buoys Markets In Early Trading.
--Congress Expected To Debate Continued Aid For Pakistan.
--Questions Arising On International Court Of Opinion About The US Shooting An Unarmed Man.
--American Indians Complain About using name Of hero Geronimo As Code Name For Mass Murderer Osama.
--Conservatives Win Majority In Canada; PM Harper Says There Is No Hidden Agenda; Relax.
--Downtrodden Portugal Negotiates 3 Yr. $115 Billion Bailout Package.
--US Officials Say The daffy Survived Blast.
--In The Aftermath Of The OBL Killing, RI Gov. Chafee-Lite Says We Shouldn't Celebrate Violence.
--Chaotic Uprisings Continue In Syria, Libya, Yemen, Bahrain.

Back to More Stuff:
Everything I read about the NFL contract problem seems to  revolve around the appeals regarding the lockout decision. Hey, nice little legal puzzle for lawyers, but does nothing to move forward an agreement for a contract. It gives cause for back patting by Union and Management groups, but furthers nothing that may give us a decent football season. Because after all of this legal dust settles they still have to sit down and put together a contract that is good for both sides and doesn't ruin a good formula for a great sports league

Obama is going to Ground Zero. Yet he never visited on the occasion of any of the anniversaries of that dreadful date. He alienated families of the murdered by giving support to the Mosque around the corner. I believe that the people should always come together under the President. Any president. The country just has a chance of working better that way. But, when they are in high political campaign mode, it is just hard to become comfortable about what they are saying.

Almost Near: Chapter 18 continues. --"You are one of the most spectacular woman I have ever met'" Dante, stepped aside and pulled open the door to the lobby of her motel. "Seriously," he went on. He caught up after letting the door swing shut and turned to look at her, not completely as a man in love but as a person respecting another. "Why didn't I ever know you in High school? Who did you date anyway?"
Samantha smiled and nodded at the compliment, and then took in a deep breath. Questions, questions she thought. Stop staring at me she silently warned with her eyes. Her eyes that had lost their glow became forbidding. She noticed Dante's eyes shift away towards the coffee urn on the side table near the front desk. "I think I was too young for you!" She tried to laugh pleasantly to make him feel at ease. As much as she feared getting close to him, she needed him now.
"I kind of remember you. I guess I was too old." Again he turned towards her.
How did you remember me, Dante?, she thought. What was I like?
They sat and had a cup of coffee and made plans for the morning at the police station. After about a half hour, Samantha yawned, looked at her watch , "We've both had long tiring days." He agreed and they rose and walked towards the elevator.
The bell rang announcing the third floor, Samantha's floor. She waited for the door, and as she turned to say "Good Night" to Dante he leaned over and kissed her gently on the cheek. She pulled back quickly and shoved him away with both hands. Dante stumble slightly but his head hit the wall forcing him to one knee. He stayed head bowed for a few seconds, and then while rising his head and un-clinching his eyes, "Wow, you are tough! I'm glad we didn't date in high school." and he laughed as he looked up. But she was gone.

Michelle Obama has created a new group for general discrimination -- the Overweight! The health nut bigots love to sneer down with disdain to their lessor larger. Give people a reason to hate and they will. Sme people just need an underclass to survive in their own narrow minds.

There are too many people who when saying they do morning crunches for their stomach mean they're eating potato chips for breakfast.

Speaking of breakfast, the Food KGB now want to take the fun out of a good old fashioned May breakfasts, particularly delightful annual occasions arond here in RI. One of these haughty nags took the time to add up all of the calories (And the Newspaper co-conspirator gave the column featured space). the writer suggests revisiting the thought to have breakfast fun some Sunday morning. Stupid I say. But here's the real crock in her convoluted reasoning. She warns that your breakfast will add 1,500 calories from eating a stack of buttered syrupy pancakes, several Johnnycakes, scrambled eggs, Bacon, Muffins, white toast Orange juice and coffee. Talk about maliciously stacking the deck. You can't trust these people.

Signs of the Times Department:
The United States Army is testing "Green" ammunition! There is no truth to the rumor that "Green" means that each shell contains vegetable seeds, pretested in Michelle's garden.

In my continuing effort to call out little government actions that morph into new intrusions on a free and unencumbered life, I'm not going to call out the RI Senator who has already introduced 73 bills at the State House. No, this is about the Fed's latest assault on Advertising. It's the Guidelines for advertising to children. In the Fed statement it says "We will let you market...". Let me repeat that, "We will let you market only foods that have significant amounts of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat milk products, fish, extra lean meat, eggs, nuts,seeds or beans." How is a kid ever going to develop a good, comforting diet of Cheetos? Huh? Tell me that.

The Answer:
We start at #10 with The Notebook. Then we have Donnie Darko, Atonement, Titanic, Badlands, Romeo & Juliette, Bonnie & Clyde, Vertigo and Casablanca. And the Number one Romantic Movie with the sad ending is -- Gone with the Wind. "Frankly, I don't give a damn. I just needed a Question.

The End:
The Dem spinners are just going crazy over glamorizing the Obama involvement in the Osama death. Hey Politicos, I think Americans gets it. The more you tout the more your guy starts to look political. He did fine being presidential. And I know most regular Americans appreciate it.

The average of 7 major Polls taken during 4/30 and 5/3 has the Prez at 5o.6% and 43.4% disapprove. The NYT's/CBS and WashPost polls have him way up 57%/37% and 56%/38% respectively. Probably not a good time for Repubs to announce.

What to do. What to do.

Today's Tids Issue # 2,330

Opening Stuff:

As the debt mounts every day and the deficit clock continues click away to the point when creditors stop lending or rapidly increase interest, Congress has come up with a new plan. They'll all gather in a large dark room and repeat 100 times, "It will go away." It will go away..."

As Libya enters it's annual insect infestation season, citizens rejoice over the new "No Fly" zone.

The Question: 
People often wonder about what to do about their jobs/careers. Give me Ten signs that it is time to quit your job.

The Headlines:

--March Jobs Addition Number, 201K Meets Expectations; Feb Number Revised Downward To 208K.
--Stocks Rise On Data And M&A Activity.
--NASA Sends Back First Photo Of Mercury. http://www.space.com/11254-nasa-photos-mercury-orbit-messenger-spacecraft.html
--Libyan Rebels Retreat.
--Japan Nuke Dangers Rise.
--House Kills Obama's Ill Fated Foreclosure Rescue Plan; Left And Right Have Criticized The Plan As being Ineffective And Too Costly.
--Economists Worry That Nations With Strong Economies (China, India) Are Improving Too Fast And Weaker Economies (US) Too Slow.
--Ariz Gov Brewer Signs Into Law First Bill In Nation Banning Abortions Because Of Race Or Gender Of Fetus; Ban Prohibits Parents From Using Abortion As "Selection" Aid.

Back to More Stuff:
Have we forgotten the masses of Japanese dead and suffering and the devastated cities as the ADD news media turns its attention to the sexier nuke story? I haven't

Woman's Final Four looks good. UConn overwhelmed Duke on the way to what could be the second three consecutive championship run in the last 9 years. Baylor's loss was a big surprise, making Texas A&M the potential upset king...queen. Baylor has everybody coming back and could go into 2012 as #1. I love the guard play of Notre Dame. Stanford, the only team to beat UConn, could meet again for the championship. Great scripting here.

The powerful Eastern teams were shut out of the "Frozen Four", with mighty New Hampshire the last of the east bowing out in the eight. Much of the country overlooks the NCAA hockey championships, but they are among the most exciting.

Almost There: Chapter 13 continues. --Audrey turned serious and put on her reporter hat. "I went to the files and found what I thought I remembered. The Quimpierre disappearance was actually a fairly popular event about a year ago. You know, one day they are a family living on a street, coming and going. Taking kids to sports events. Occasionally going to church. Having people, over for cookouts. Then one day nobody sees them. Just like that, gone with no word of where they went."
"Family?" Tucker asked.
Audrey shuffled a couple of papers. "Yup, kids about 13 and 14. Two girls." Tucker nodded for her to continue. "There were a lot of interviews with neighbors and friends of Rudy. His friends, male and female, always wondered how he snagged a beautiful, well educated intelligent woman like Samantha. Rudy apparently had a wild childhood and ran with a pretty tough crowd before he became a "model" citizen.
"I met her alone. No husband. No 13 and 14 year old girls. Maybe I have helped you stumble on a book possibility that will make you famous!"
She smiled, "I looked you up on the web and found that you are a pretty good writer yourself." Audrey seemed very comfortable with this stranger.

Something must be going on because one by one NFL Team owners are coming forward saying "There will be a football Season this year." Bud Adams and Arthur Blank are the latest two. They must know something.

If chanting doesn't work, Congress people are expected to don Ruby Red Shoes, close their eyes and click there heels together three times. Yup that should do it. Talk about no heart, no courage and no brain!

My brother -in-law and I played golf with a couple yesterday. The woman said her name was Ruth, but she hated her name so she said, "You can call me Charlie." Golf is better when the atmosphere is relaxed.

The Boston Red Sox have just announced that the name for their new spring training stadium to open next year will be Jet Blue. For me it is much too close to the blasphemous Jet Green.

The Answer:
1. You aren't learning anything new. 2. You never (Rarely) have a day when you wake up excited to go to work. 3. You spend the majority of the time web surfing. 4. You don't like your co-workers. 5. Too little money to pay bills. 6. You spend time looking for other jobs. 7. You haven't had a raise in two years. 8. The boss sucks. 9. The company isn't doing well. 10. You are always stressed.
I would add that you hate the politics, you're stuck in a quagmire and the job doesn't allow you to maximize your personal strengths.

The End:
Jan Brewer for President.

I still can't figure out why I picked the name Audrey for my newest character in Almost Near.

This just in: The entire Congress has voted to resign on mass and leave the deficit problem to successor solons named by Governors.

Fashionable or ugly.

Today's Tids Issue 2,289

Opening Stuff:

"What has four legs, is green, fuzzy and if falls out of a tree it could kill you? A pool table!"

I love the description of EIBaradei as a "Fashionable International Leftist". He is looking like a possible leader to step into the vacuum. But nobody really knows much about this vaguely defined person. And that especially includes Egyptians who have seen little of him since he left 30 years ago. Some say well, he's a Nobel Laureate. But, so are other Fashionable US Democrats. Nobel is beginning to mean, "Ability to put something over on the people".

What is a zebra? 25 sizes larger than an A bra.

The Question:
Two parter! Yippie! 1. A new poll asked Americans which NFL Players they "Hated" most? Name the top 4. 2. In the "lest we forget" column, last week we remembered the Challenger victims. Yesterday was the anniversary of the Columbia re-entry explosion. Who were the seven who lost their lives?

The Headlines:

--"Storm Of The Century" Fizzles In East.
--Private Sector Adds 187,000 Jobs In Jan; Number Down From December 247K But Ahead Of 145K Estimate.
--Wall Street Not Inspired By Jobs Report; Market To Open Flat After Huge Run-up Yesterday.
--Riots Intensify After Mubarak Speech.
--Mubarak Opts Out At His Pace; Speech May Have Cut Legs Out From Under The Muslim Brotherhood Ambitions.
--Yemen Prez And US Ally Ali Abdullah Saleh Joins List of Dictators Wanting Out Before Crowds Get Real Ugly.
--Phil Predicts Early Spring.
--Monster Cyclone Devastating To Northern Australia.
--Daughter Barbara Bush Comes Out In Favor Of Gay Marriage.

Back to More Stuff:
How come the media is so rapturous about the Egyptian crowds, with CBS going the extra inch to say that "These people are not terrorists but regular people like you and me." But these same self-appointed arbiters of society are not so kind to the American Tea Party who were not terrorists but regular people like you and me.

CNBC has named the top "Foodie Cities in America". In case you missed it, this group had to meet a rigorous list of standards: They are Providence RI, Portland ME, San Francisco, Santa Barbara and Santa Rosa CA, Portland OR, Burlington VT, Boston/Cambridge and Seattle.

My ace reporter in Chicagoland tells me that a candidate for the Chicago Mayor job is touting bringing a future Superbowl to that snow filled windy city. Just another lunatic politician trying and saying anything to get a vote. New York should never have had a Superbowl and certainly not this wonderful but super cold snowy in the winter city Chicago. The two are cold ugly places in the winter and there is absolutely no logical reason why the fans should be deprived a warm trip south. But, that's the way it is in today's politics, and the reason the country is facing deficits and cold Superbowls.

Almost near: Chapter 4 continues. --"Did you hear about the woman who went to the doctor about her memory loss? He made her pay in advance!"
Samantha started roaring. Her eyes clenched tight, her mouth formed a gigantic smile and she just started laughing uncontrollably, oblivious to the people in the room now staring her way. After a few minutes, while breathing in and out heavily she regained her composure. "That wasn't that funny. I guess I really was a little up tight." She looked around the room where she saw the rest smiling along with her. "Thank you." She looked at this stranger differently now.
"So, tell me about your life. What do you do? Since you only came here occasionally, where did you grow up?" A kinder, gentler appearing waitress plunked two dishes on the table.
"I didn't think we ordered yet."
"Oh," Tucker explained, "I eat here every morning and have the same thing. I just said 'Two' when we walked in. I hope you don't mind."
"No, definitely not. This looks delicious. And," Samantha smiled a lot now, "I probably wasn't up to making big decisions like over easy or scrambled."
Now it was Tucker's turn to chuckle a bit. He decided not to pin her down with more questions. He decided to just enjoy her company.

Listening to the Egyptians chanting and talking in Arabic, I have to wonder who printed the sign shown on ABC News: "Mubarak: Go to hell!". ABC News?

If a lawyer writes notes on a scrap of paper, does that become a legal pad?

And speaking of "Fashionable"...spare me from the chipolte revolution.

Chafee-Lite has named George Caruolo to head the RI State Board of Regents for Elementary and Secondary Education. The same Caruolo that ushered in the infamous Caruolo Law which allows School Boards to sue their neighbors for more education money.

Delusions of Grandeur Department:
Or...Publicist working overtime department. YUM! Brands announced that their KFC and Taco Bell sales were up 23% in China but down 2% in USA. They add that US sales have recently shown some improvement, an indication that Americans are once again dining out. "Dining"?

The Answer:
1. In the latest survey the top four are Brett Favre, Michael Vick, Tom Brady and Ben Rothlesberger. Yes, beautiful Brady is sandwiched between a dog mugger and a serial assaulter woman . It is also mildly eyeopening that Americans hold in slightly higher esteem a man who brutalizes woman over a man (Who BTW has paid his dues in jail) who engages in dog fighting. 2. How sad was the day when a peaceful re-entry resulted in the deaths of Rick Husband, William McCool, Michael Anderson, Dr. Kalpana Chawla, David Brown, Laurel Clark and Ilan Ramon. Remember those names?

The End:
Where are the kinder and gentler discourse people condemning the "Go to hell Mubarak" sign? I guess it pays to be fashionable.

What a crock! Fashionable. Please!

Deja Moo

Today's Tids 2/1 Issue #2,288

Opening Stuff:

If you are wondering about the title of Today's mess, it is an expression meaning "You may have heard this bull before." And thus begins another new month of quiet observations about the insanity, perplexities and triumphs of man...and other stuff.

February is that month in which you can say Happy Holidays and be proud of it. Or, at least be proud if you mean Happy George Washington's Birthday and Happy Abe Lincoln's B-Day. And, not just Happy Presidents day which includes several rascals and hails car dealers schemes. Of course we have Valentine's day which is sacred for romantic fools. And, procrastinators day, Feb 29...every four years. It's a month when you can really expect the cold and snow. But hopes are high since March is just around the corner with mud. So in joy the hard ground the drifts and red hearts.

I was on a long line at the Apponaug Post Office yesterday and observed that the most often requested mail priority was "Whenevah."

It is beginning to appear that the big fear in Egypt could be the emergence of the highly organized Muslim Brotherhood. This coupled with an undercurrent of growing anti-Americanism could push this radical group into a position of leadership after Mubarak leaves. In case you have missed it over the years, the Muslim Brotherhood was founded in Egypt and is known as the "Godfather of al-Qaida". This global Muslim organization is also the founder of the terror group Hamas. Think that the admin is walking on eggshells? This has the potential of being a lose-lose situation -- about as tough as it gets in diplomacy. And a time when the Government is actually relevant and earns its tax payer money.

The Question: 
Prolific Hollywood composer John Barry is dead. He wrote some of the most memorable music in film history. And won five Oscars for it. Name some of his most famous works, Oscar and other.

The Headlines:
--Florida Judge Calls Pelosi-Palooza Unconstitutional; Backs AG Lawsuits From 26 States.
--Middle East Tyrants racing To Inaugurate Reforms; Jordan's King Abdullah Fires His Cabinet.
--Obama's China Ambassador Huntsman Resigns Post; Observers See Him Has Serious GOP Prez Candidate.
--Bigger Crowds Flooding Cairo; Evacuations At Airport Ramping Up.
120 Million Americans Gird For New Large Snow Storm.
--Stock Market Looks Positive This Morning As Strong Profit Reports Continue.

Back to More Stuff:
The Lunacy of Greed Department:
The raging snow storm this Superbowl week has just closed the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport and the resultant ice could make the Sunday affair a logistical mess. And this ina so-called warm weather state. So you have to wonder what was in the NFL Boardroom coffee the day they decided that NYC's The Meadowland's Domeless Stadium would be a ge=reat day for the most important game. Or were they just blinded by dollar signs in teir eyes?

So now that it is obvious that there is little wisdom in the brains of the Top NFL'ers, it gives credence to the opinion here that upping the schedule to 18 is as dumb as it gets. Or haven't the power brokers noticed that teams are already limping to the finish line after 16 games.

Restaurant owners have to be hating the recent rash of newspaper features touting the joys of "Cheffing-it-up" at home. Cooking is fun and it certainly is a lot cheaper than eating out all of the time. And probably a lot less fattening too.

Of course, I have heard from a lot of wives who are also hating this urging of more home cooking.

There is no group in this world happier about the US involvement in the Iraq and Afghan wars that Iran! Yup, the US is spending the dough and losing the lives to keep at bay Iran's two most historic and troublesome foes, Sadaam and the Taliban. That's about as good a reason as any to leave Afghan as any, the war that origiabnlly looked great but became what Russia said it would become: Un-winnable.

Almost near: Chapter 4 continues. --"So you are Ginny's niece..."
Samantha jumped in saying, "Well, I thought she was, but I don't think she had any idea about who I was." Sam paused and turned her head to look at the boats bobbing in the harbor. "It was a terrible shock to me. My memories of her house, her cooking and good nature were so alive for me. Well, I just can't talk about it."
  She looked at Tucker and he looked back., It was an awkward moment for a man who had known this woman for about 12 minutes.
  "Ginny isn't what she used to be. She has become reclusive, and very ornery here even to eh lifelong friends. I feel bad that you went up there not knowing how much things had changed."
  Samantha smiled a little. Her chin raised up. "Thanks. I do remember people here giving me a blank look when I mentioned that I was Ginny's niece. I am so confused, I'm not sure who I am. Maybe we should just eat and tell jokes."
Tucker laughed and raised his hand, So, did you hear about the guy..."

I have about 400 perfectly good CD's and I see absolutely no need for a new system to produce music.

A lot of web sites make their money skimming of the top from the real producers. They're the new wholesalers. But they do very little other than exist with an URL.

I still think that big companies like Goldman should have used the billions they pay in bonuses to stay afloat after the risky behavior downturn instead of begging for dollars from the taxpayer. After all, isn't that the way biz is supposed to work. The excess for employee rewards is the result of having something left over after expenses or other business losses. And spare me the excuse that the bonuses are part of a promised salary. If there ain't no money, you don't get paid just like every other person who has ever worked.

The Answer: 
 John barry is often associated with the driving, haunting music behind James Bond. he started with Dr. No and gained fame when Shirley Bassey sang Goldfinger and Diamonds are forever. Barry won Oscars fro his work on "Born Free" (Maybe his most popular song), "The Lion in Winter", Out of Africa" and Dances with Wolves". He is also remebered fro Midnight Cowboy, Robin and Marion, The High Road to China and Somewhere in Time. And many more. He probably made many of our hours in the theater a lot more pleasant. The problem is that the music credits are always at the very end.

The End;
There is no truth to the rumor that in a new case of extreme nannyism the Government is planning on forcing homeowners into hiring HazMat teams when CFL's (Compact Fluorescent Lights) are broken. This GW Bush initiated intrusion will also require that families move to a Motel for a day. or until the yellow tape is removed from the front door. Doncha love progress?

And, it has been learned that tomorrow's Ground Hog observations may have to be postponed as Punxitawny officials can't locate Phil's den in snow.

What flew over the cuckoo's nest?

Today's Tids Issue 2,250
Opening Stuff:

Happy Hanukkah everybody!

A WikiLeaks item reveals that Arab people felt better about America because of "Desperate Housewives" and David Letterman. I don't know about you but I feel worse for America becasue of David Letterman and Desperate. Let's hope they don't think Jersey Shore is America. I really hate being defined abroad by US Television.

You have to wonder about the sincerity of the newly empowered Republicans when they name "The Prince of Pork", Kentucky Rep Hal Rogers, as Chairman of the powerful House Appropriations Committee. He says that the people voted and I hear them! Yeah, sure! Lets hope the tax payers aren't getting barbecued...again.

The Question: 
A new poll this week had GW Bush approval ratings up to 47%, far above his exit ratings. The poll also rated all modern day Presidents starting with Kennedy. How do you think they rate?

The Headlines:

--Market Looks Up After Better Jobless Report.
--Democrats Reluctantly slogging Towards Obama Compromise Tax Plan That Serve All Americans.
--New Jobless Claims Fall Again.
--WikiLeaks Payment Processor To Sue Credit Card Companies For Their refusal To Process Donations To Company.
--Chasen Murder Mystery Apparently Solved; Lone Man On Bicycle Who Later Took Own Life Named As Killer; Police Say Not A Murder for Hire Conspiracy But Robbery Gone bad.
--Morgan-Stanley will Pay 10-25% Less In Bonuses This Year Due To Volatile Market Conditions.
--FBI Stings Averts Bombing Disaster At Maryland Recruitment Center

Back to More Stuff:
Now Obama knows what every recent President has learned. Peace in the Middle East is a nice idea, but love isn't the answer. Yesterday the US esentially thorough up their hands and walked away.

I thought the NFL season ended Monday night after the Pats firmly beat the Jets! But there's a quarter of the season left and it is meaningful to more teams than ever. And this week's picks are as tough as they get, and what makes them tougher are that many of the slightly favored teams are visiting teams. Like the Pat's at Chi, Denver/Ariz, TB/Wash, Phil/Dallas and Balt/Houst. I think home teams Buffalo, Pitt, Jax, NO, SF, NYJets and San Diego (KC's Cassel had an appendectomy last night) will win. As will Visitors, Indy, Giants, Atlanta and Green Bay. So now the tougher ones: I got to go with my heart and pick the Pats over "da Bears". Then I go Arizona, Tampa Bay, Dallas and Baltimore. Last week's 10-6 brought us to 128-63 (67%). I hate to think what next week looks like.

Among the many records achieved during Monday night's Pats-Jets game was the most arrests ever of intoxicated Pats fans after the game. What do you expect in 20 degree weather? It was all medicinal.

An insightful reader with consistently keen observations on Tid's remarks, yesterday sends this reply to a piece about Tea Party power gains: "Or. this means that the insiders are setting them up to get crushed by the system so they will be gone in four years...". Yes, you never know what's really happening in Washington...especially when they say they are being open and honest with you!

There's talk going around that points out that the US didn't really get serious about Wiki until it was revealed that the next big leak was to be about big banking and financial institution operations. We know where the real power lies.

I debated yesterday on whether or not to add to the Elizabeth Edwards onslaught. I decided that this pleasant women with nice children and relatives who will miss her dearly had had enough, and I couldn't add to it. I received several notes thanking me for not adding to the pile-on. I wouldn't be surprised to hear that her sleazebag husband would announce for the President in 2012 "Because Elizabeth would want that way". He is that low.

I actually had another Q for today, but I'll just use it as an informational piece for all of us who get confused at Dog Shows. The AKC divides all breeds into 8 groups. For instance, the big show in RI this weekend expects 5,000 dogs including 160 breeds. You have your Sporting dogs (Setters, Retrieves, Spaniels). You got the Hounds, the Terriers, the Toys. Then there are the Working dogs (Boxers, Dobermans, Huskies) and the Herding Dogs (Collies et. al.). A big catch-all category, Non-Sporting Dogs, includes poodles (Originally a hunter), Alaskan Eskimo, Dalmatians and French Boxers. The eigth group is called "Miscellaneous" and includes breeds that nobody understands like the ever popular Xoloitzcuinili! These dogs can compete in that category but do earn any Championship points. It is expected that they will be included in the new "Dream Act working its way through Congress. So...feel smarter?

Vegetarians will probably be dismayed knowing that animal products are widely available and indeed critical to many products they all use regularly. 1. Plastic shopping bags and in the future disposable diapers and hispital gowns. 2.Animal stearic acid help bicycle and car tires hold shape under surface friction. 3. Wood glue in instruments like violins and furniture. 4. BioFuels. Yes veggie people, it's not just corn and sugar cane. There's Beef bio-diesel and chicken bio-dieesl Yum. 5. Fireworks! (No hot dogs or firecrackers on the 4th! Gadzooks. 6. Fabric Softener. 7. Shampoo and Conditioner. Manufacturers have removed the word "animal" from ingredients lists to fool the vegans. 8. Toothpaste. 9; White and brown sugar. Wouldn't life as a vegetarian be an awful thing...always doubting what you touch or wear or eat. God, life is tough enough.

At this reading only Buffalo, Denver, Cincinnati, Carolina, Detroit and Arizona are dead in the NFL Playoff picture. 4-8 Dallas is near death, yet 4-8 San Fran has a decent chance in the NFC West. That's why picking games has been so tough this year. Anybody can win and that includes Buffalo and Cleveland who actually look quite strong at times. Unless the bottom drops out for some current leaders, the final 12 looks like the Pats, Jets. Pitt, Balt, KC, Jax and Indy. The next best to make it in the AFC are SD and Oakland. In the NFC I'm seeing the Giants, Eagles, St. Louis, Bears, Packers, Saints and Atlanta. Tampa Bay and Seattle are hanging around and Seattle has a real chance to get in. In the meantime there are four games left and they will be wars throughout the leagues.

Has there been a more threatening lame duck session of Congress than this one? This so called dream act just incentivizes illegal behavior. It says, "hey common' over. You can't lose." On the other hand, it is refreshing to see that the Supreme Court seems to be leaning in favor of Arizona's Law that would require employers to check documentation. Let's face we already have plenty of immigration laws fair to people throughout the world. Frankly I'm tired of being called an immigrant hater because I believe in laws.

The Answer:
JFK actually had relative low approval ratings while in office but his dramatic martyrdom combined with pleasant positive memories make him the Prez with the highest approval rating at 85%. Ronald is second at 74% followed by Clinton (69 - Way up from "most dishonest" after Monica), GHW Bush (64- With Clinton, Johnson, up the most since 2006 poll), Ford, (61), Carter (51 - Most and only down since last poll), Johnson (49), "W" (47) and Milhouse (Still a lowly 29).

The End:
Has Congress ever been nuttier? The left is typically illogical, but they get irrational when they lose. It must be the old cornered animal thing. Kum bye ya.

John Matson for Congress.

Today's Tids Issue 2,209)

Opening Stuff:

There’s no Truth to the rumor that as the NY State nanny government passes more and more laws banning foods, drinks and activities, gangland leaders are knocking off each other to gain control of black markets for sweet soda and transfats. If successful with these products, Gang and organized crime leaders are expected to use the profits to open a chain of smoking huts on beaches…disguised as Ticketron booths for the Eliot Spitzer show.

Which leads me to my main topic of the day…turning our government back over to citizen leaders instead of career politicians. Neighbors who enter the fray without the big money backing; People who see the need to change a declining system; Who have the guts to sweat out raising money from real people; Who want to restore a sensible, limited government. Independent thinkers without cluttered minds being pulled astray from the people by special interests. I’m talking about a guy like John Matson, a hard working carpenter from the rural South County in RI. A good man who is just tired like many of his neighbors of watching Party Puppets elected to Congress year after year. Lifetime politicians joining in with other members of an out of control congress who just don’t get it any more. Whom somehow think that Government built this outstanding country of ours. A congress that has seemed to stop listening to those who really built the country. The people. Matson, and I know many other new candidates like him around the country, have the brains and the courage to question, and then stop, the accepted antics of these apologists for agendized parasites.

My body seems to loose its edge when the Patriots are in Bye Week.

The Question:
Since a lot of people enjoy celebrating the Discovery of America and have some leisurely time, here’s an anagram Q to test your minds. Rearrange the letters in the following phrases or words to make new phrases. 1. “Dormitory”. 2. “The Eyes”. 3. “George Bush”. 4. “Election results”. 5. “Eleven plus two”

The Headlines:

--World Applauds As Chile Rescue Breaks Through To Trapped Minors; Steel Reinforcing Tube Installed. First Minor Expected To See Daylight Tomorrow.
--No Cost Of Living Increase For Social Security Recipients For Second Consecutive Year.
--Chinese Arrest Wife Of Jailed Dissident Who Won Nobel Peace Prize.
--Microsoft Expected To Enter Phone Biz With Partner AT&T; New Competitor To Google And Apple Will Use Windows.
--Stocks Rise As benanke Utters “S” Word.
--Chinese Buy 1/3 Control Of 600,000 Acre Huge Chesapeake South Texas Oil Field.
--Peter Diamond, Dale Mortensen and Christopher Pissarides Win Nobel Economics Prize For Theories On Unemployment/Available Jobs Dichotomy; Some Note They May Have developed Prize Winning Theory While Reading The Tids.

Back to More Stuff:
Over the weekend I was in a group of people who were talking about how well the “Recovery Act” was repairing local roads. I guess I’m not that smart, because I always thought that one major reason for our state and local taxes was the maintenance of roads, streets and country lanes. I guess I have been living under a misconception. Silly me. I must be from another planet.

If Whitman and Firorino win in California, you can bet that somebody will ask the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals to place an injunction on the results. And the court will do it.

Our Nobel Peace Prize dissident is living in the White House.

Tonight’s NFL pre-game will be dominated by sex, Moss and video phone photos. But in reality, it should be an exciting games by two good teams. The Je-Je-Je (WYKWIM) are unfortunately a formidable team, but the Vikings have more urgency. That said, I’m looking forward to the fans signs.

You know the country Is in trouble when you realize that RI Senator Whitehouse is on the “Intelligence“ committee.

When an athlete says, “I got to get me some of that Bling”, he is by definition saying “I got to become showy and tasteless.”

Through the Same Eyes: Epilogue. –The days following the slaughter at HR&L were hectic and confusing…and heart wrenching for me. My heart went out the door with the stretcher carrying Kent’s body. I don’t remember how long I sat on the floor with blood pooled around my thighs; clutching the cooling body that will always be warm to me. I only remember arms lifting me as other arms took Kent and laid him flat on the floor. I felt arms encircling me from behind and realized it was Paul. Paul tying to give me strength as I stared transfixed into Kent’s now lifeless eyes. But filled with the life of memories past. An EMT walked over and placed a sheet over Jack Wiley and then Kent. I slowly expanded my arms to gently break the grasp of Paul. I took a step, bent to a knee and pulled back the sheet to take one last look at that face. I then pulled the sheet back up knowing that Kent’s image will never leave my mind, and will always affect my body. I stood, turned and looked at Paul, who showed me loving concern. I reached my arms behind him and laid my head on his chest. I felt my friend Henry’s hand warmly touch my back and give it an anxious rub. Now for the first time I wondered what Paul was thinking. Knew.
Hours later I was still there talking to police. Dan, was not hurt badly and joined me filling in the blanks as law enforcement people tried to put together the events. Dan said that Kent was the hero of the day and probably saved the lives of many in addition to mine.
The people in the office were all sent home for the rest of the day. It was obvious I realized even as sat there rattled trying to remember details of a tragedy, that was going to be up to me to put everything back together. I was going to have to be Maggie the Magnificent again. But then as I thought about Jack using me as well as Isabelle and maybe even Kent, I wasn’t so sure I could ever be again what I thought I was.
Finally, I was able to leave, worn but still living on memories of my deceased lover. Paul was sitting by the elevator. He looked tired. His eyes rose up. He smiled. A loving smile. “Ready to go home to Fosterville?”

There is no truth to the rumor that Will Travers, shocked by the in ability to stop the Houston Harbor terrorist attack, will spend the next year in the series looking for Jack Bauer.

It would be nice if on my computer there was also a little thermometer reading down near the time. To warn me that I’ve been sitting in the cold too long.

I get it, our taxes pay for brainy people who set up the circumstances that cause recessions so that our tax federal money can be returned to local governments to fix roads. I knew there was a plan in there somewhere.

The Tids goes to great lengths to bring opinions and facts about just about everything that is going on in the world. But, I’m sorry to say that I just don’t have the stomach to tune into the Eliot Spitzer show. You’ll have to figure it out yourself. Sorry.

The Answer:
I think these are pretty clever and kind of amazing: 1. “Dirty Room”. 2. “They See”. 3. “He Bugs Gore”. 4. “Lies – Let’s Recount. 5. And Truly amazing…”Twelve plus One”. And, you have to wonder if the original Presbyterians knew the anagram of the name was “Best In Prayer”!

The End:
Remember, there is a John Matson in your Congressional district too. Don’t let a good candidate, who will work for you, get lost in the morass of party bosses and biased media politics as usual.

Hey, I’m a little late. So what. It’s a holiday.

What rhymes with Incumbent?

Today's Tids Issue 2,218
Opening Stuff:

I like my days to be skies of blue…To have that sun a shining through…But mostly I wake and just say rats!...This country’s run by Democrats*. (*I could have said “politicians”, dems and republicans too, because it rhymed with skies of blue.)

There is something special about standing outside in these cooler evenings, with Autumn like winds swirling around you blowing in change. Life is good again.

I wasn’t thinking much about the upcoming labor talks between the Players and NFL owners…until I saw that solidarity thing on the Field last Thursday and then repeated throughout Sunday. The players look resolute. And, the owners don’t have the likable and understanding Gene Upshaw to deal with any more. 2011 could be a long cold winter. The problem to me is that the players probably want something more like baseball and basketball, while I believe those two leagues would be far better for fans if they were more like football. I don’t care about the salaries of players one wit or the needs of owners. I care about what’s good for fans, and the NFL is currently better structured for that today…perhaps with some major tweaking of the rookie salary structure.

It now appears that our fearless leader is “hemming and hawing” on the merits of the health care Pelosi-palooza. In a review of his Friday press conference where a reporter asked about the new much less than optimistic “Official” estimates for reducing the cost health care versus his glowing predictions of Shangri-La at the bill signing, the Prez responded to each of his former proclamations with answers that sounded a lot like, “Not Really”. [Read about 0-Man’s misgivings about former HC praise in the facts-checker column found at the site listed at the end of Today’s Tids and marked by (**).]

We have been duped again! But “not really”, because most of the readers here and the loyal opposition never believed a word of it in the first place.

The Question:
Who was the first “Miss America” to be crowded on TV? Miss America’s have come and gone, but a handful of winners and near misses gained a little fame. Name three. Name five well known woman who got education money or a career kick-start with a Beauty Pageant win?

The Headlines:

--Congress Returns; Citizens Rush To 1950’s Bomb Shelters.
--Tea Party Gatherings Around Country Peacefully Rally Against Overbearing Big Governemnt.
--NATO Airstrikes’ Kill 14 Insurgents In Afghanistan.
--Iran Now Says US Woman Will be Released On $500K Bail.
--San Bruno Residents Return Home To Devastation.
--Start of New Banking Rules Raises Levels Of World Bank Stocks.
--Randy Moss Rant Overshadows Great Patriots Win.

Back to More Stuff:
Sportscasters in Love Department:
Since the beginning of my pro football watching career it has been “Graham, Baugh, Unitas, Staubach, Montana, Manning, Brady drops back to pass…evades a rusher…finds a receiver deep…scrambles for a first down. But Thursday night something new happened. Oh, it was still Brees drops back and finds Meecham on a slant. No, it was when the other team took the field. It became ”Brett” in the pocket. Brett on the sidelines. Brett getting up slowly. Do I detect a little man love going on here Al Michaels? And the Favre Farce keeps on beating.

Remember how backwards baseball caps made college boys appear to be 50 points lower on the IQ scale? Make that 80 points for backwards flat brim hats.

I went into the kitchen the other day and found myself walking around in small circles. As I did this, I thought, maybe I am solving one of the great mysteries of the universe – why dogs walk in circles before laying. They don’t know why they are there and just walk around in a small circle looking for a clue. Then they say “Oh hell!... this looks nice. I think I’ll take a nap.”

When I read that the average wait at the RI DMV was 1-3 hours compared to 15 to 30 minutes at the neighboring states of MA, ME, NH and VT, the only thing that jumped into my head was “RI Public Employee Unions”.

If you don’t drink so that no waiter or waitress ever asks for your license, do you ever know if you are really old enough?

Do you ever get the feeling that all of these Mideast protests they flash on TV are really the same people with different signs?

The Greek society is a great example of why you can never overpay somebody or group and expect to get it back someday in the future.

Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 93. –The dark gray 700 series BMW slid into the open space in front of the building at Post Office Square. A man jumped out of the front seat and another out of the street side back seat. The first one opened the rear sidewalk door. A man got out and nodded to the door holder. The man turned to help out a brownish-blond haired woman dressed severely in a tweed business suit. She smiled at the man and they entered the building. The painted gold letters on the glass door read Rosenthal, Lenox and Havilland. The door holder closed the door and got back into the car. The car left immediately and was swallowed by the earth as it took a right turn to the underground parking garage. The second man on the street loosened his tie, removed a newspaper from is side pocket and sat on a public bench about 10 feet from the door.
Inside the building the man Jason Cotter turned to Isabelle Phillips, “Is your scientist on the way?”
“You worry too much Jason.”
“You pay me good money to worry Izzy.” She smiled at him.
As they approached the elevator to the Penthouse office suite, a door to the garage stairway opened and a somber Kent Middleton moved towards them. “What’s this all about Izzy?”
“You’ll find out Kent my dear. But, mainly it is about doing something about your girlfriend which you aren’t able to do.” She looked ahead and got on the elevator. Without looking at him, she said sarcastically, “I would have expected that you would have “performed” better.” The rest of the trip up was silent. Kent Middleton never liked Cotter.

I read just about everything in the newspapers…except probably articles about “Fashion”. Experience tells me that 99% of the pap is just about creating an illusion about some perceived need

The Answer:
Miss America it the Tube for the first time in 1955 when Lee Meriwether won it. Other winners or runner’s ups you may have heard of are Bess Myerson, Mormon Coleen Hutchins, Vanessa Williams, Anita Bryant (Runner up), Phyllis George, Mary Hart (Finalist), Vera Miles (RU), Mary Ann Mobley and Susan Anton (RU). Among notable women who gained early fame and education money from pageants were Oprah Winfrey, Diane Sawyer, Imelda Marcos, Cloris Leachman, Delta Burke, Debora Norville, Haille Berry, Kathy Lee Gifford and Sharon Stone. I’m entering the Aquidnick Island Senior Mr. Swimsuit competition to see if I can launch a second career.

The End:
I see where poverty experts are predicting an increase of those considered poor from 13.2% to 14.7/15% this year. This does not bode well for incumbents. But, I frankly have never cottoned to stats like those that arbitrarily quantify “the poor”. Maybe this goes back to a story about an Idaho town that was besieged by government officials forcing them to accept government money because they were below the Federal poverty line. “Who says we’re poor they countered. We have everything we want and then some. And, we don’t want to be beholden to the Government: (as the paraphrase goes). Arbitrary guidelines cost taxpayers a lot of money.


**Click out:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100911/ap_on_go_pr_wh/us_obama_fact_check;_ylt=Aj6.MrsJVe2po5VHPoXurOus0NUE;_ylu=X3oDMTNubHFjMjFrBGFzc2V0A2FwLzIwMTAwOTExL3VzX29iYW1hX2ZhY3RfY2hlY2sEY2NvZGUDbW9zdHBvcHVsYXIEY3BvcwM1BHBvcwMyBHB0A2hvbWVfY29rZQRzZWMDeW5faGVhZGxpbmVfbGlzdARzbGsDZmFjdGNoZWNrb2Jh

New economic model: Big Weddings.

Today's Tids Issue 2,186
Opening Stuff:

What did the zero say to the eight? “Nice belt!”

The opening day of NFL training is for sports nuts what Christmas Eve is for kids. It’s all about hope and nothing about reality.

When the Tids Editorial board decided to dub the new President “Prime Time”, little did they know that he could also be known as “Daytime”, “Night Time” and “Good Time”. And of course now, many say it should be “Time to go”.

We need some kind of a new economic engine. The great depression ended with the start of the war effort. We had home building for the post war baby Boom. We've had dot coms. And of course we had the misguided attempt to make homes available for all, even if they couldn't afford it. Hey... how about government subsidized up-to-a-million-dollar weddings for all.
The Question:
Groups of animals are not just all called herds. In fact they have some pretty strange designations. Give me the group names for the following animals: Cats, Coyote, Rabbits, Clams, Crows, Crocodiles, Elephants, Foxes, Gnus, Giraffes, Hummingbirds and Rhinos. Friday Bonus Q: Today marks the 50th anniversary fo the first exhibition football game of the American Football League (AFL now AFC) Name the two participants.

The Headlines:
--GDP Reports Out Today Likely To Show Economic Slowdown In July.
--Government Admits recession Deeper Than Previously Thought; 2.6% Economic Shrinkage Said To Be Worst declein Since 1946.
--China Overtakes Japan As World's Second Largest Economy; Is US Next?
--Ellen Rumored To be Out At American Idol; Jennifer Lopez Top Candidate.
--Gates Calls Release Of Secret War Docs Potentially Treasonous Acts.
--July Deadliest Month For US Troops In Afghanistan After Nine Years Of War.
--Head Of Mexico’s Largest Drug Cartel Killed.
--Rangel Charged; Congressional Trial Likely To be Campaign Season Sideshow The Dems Don’t Want.
--Wild Fires Explode North Of LA; Thousands Flee Homes.
--Calcium Supplements Linked To heart Attacks In Elderly Women.

Back to More Stuff:

You hear a lot of groaning about the weakness of TV lineups this summer. (Including my own) But within the cable network schedules are some real winners. Of course Mad Men is a favorite of many. As is Closer and HBO standards Entourage and True Blood. And there are plenty more. USA’s Burn Notice, Hot in Cleveland (Betty White Show), The Gates (Another attempt at scary – See 2009 Harper’s Island), Scoundrals (Family of small time crooks), Memphis Beat and Boston Med. Boston Med has become a fast favorite of many. (One new show Good Guys with Tom Hanks kid may be the worst show eve brought to TV.) But…Rubicon (On AMC) is the show I may have been waiting for all summer. Mainly because the program promotion relies heavily on the word “Conspiracy”. I’m ready for Sunday at 8:00PM!

Henny Youngman upon finishing golf said, “I hit two good balls today.” I stepped on a rake.” Ouch.

I see no reason why Kerry should pay up to Massachusetts. He was perfectly legal keeping his boat in Newport, Rhode Island. And besides…as any sailor worth their salt knows…the best sailing in the world is off the coast of Newport.

An observant reader writes to ask why I didn’t combine this question: "What will the people do when they get bored with YouTube?" with the Tids from the other day featuring "Stupid is as stupid does". It would have reminded me, he says, that the answer to the question would be: The stupid people will never get bored with YouTube.

Another respected reader wrote to inform me that immigrants sneaking into the US isn’t technically a crime, because sneaking into the US to suck money out of the Treasury isn’t a prosecutable action. It is only a deportable action. But is just plain wrong and if allowed to continue will lead to chaos. So, we can’t prosecute them. They doesn’t explain why we aren’t rounding them up and deporting them.

Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 86 continues. –I just sat there a moment and looked at him. The fast fading, false sense of bravado was leaving me flat. My resolve to return to my life of six months ago was dissolving with each beat of my loving heart. I tried to think of my children, but I only saw Kent’s imploring eyes. I tried recapture last night in bed with Paul, but I was overcome with my yearning for Kent. What do you want me to do Kent I said silently to myself? Do you want me to abet in whatever you are involved?
Kent looked over towards Marie and then reached across the table and caressed my hand. Which opened warmly to receive him. He smiled incredibly lovingly. “I want to take you home right now. I want to fly away with you to a place where we will never be found.” He was imploring me to understand something I couldn’t see. Something untold. He didn’t have to worry, I would. “I should have not asked you here tonight. I thought I could just talk and then leave quietly.” He looked sad. Not in control. Like he always was. Like I always am.
“You’re leaving,” I said plaintively. Weakly.
“But, Sarah/Maggie, this very moment has made me know that I am totally in love with you. You deserve to have your own beautiful life back. And I could let you do that because my love is so great that I want you to be happy most of all. Wherever you go you would always have my heart with you. But my happiest life would only be one where you are always by my side.”
I felt stunned. Yet entirely rapturous. I couldn’t speak. I could only look into those eyes that saw the world and loved the world the way I do.
“I have to leave. Believe me Sarah/Maggie, I want to be with you forever.”
He squeezed my hand. I felt his love to the core of my body. I couldn’t say a word. My eyes must have said it, because his smile was the perfect response to my state of exotic luxury. He got up and left. He didn’t finish his pie. He always finished his pie.

Hey, the Clintons can spend their money any way they want. After all, this couple who never had the chance to participate in the American dream of owning their own home until 2000, deserve to spend wildly like any good American. And, if they can manage to put it on their credit card, good for them. Keep the irresponsible spirit alive in well in the world’s greatest economy.

The Clintons didn’t invite the Prez and wife Sleeveless because they wanted the wedding to personal for their daughter. Now in my lifetime I have seen the marriage of many Presidential daughters and I have never seen $2-3 Million dollar affairs, closing of NY Hudson River area airways for about 16 hours or a steady stream of major publicity about private and personal wedding. I wonder how much money the Clintons will make on their book about the wedding.

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--Charlie St. Cloud is really a vehicle for the career path growth of teen fave Zac Efron. He actually doesn’t do so well in this film that often struggles. But, it may be interesting. Zac plays a super high school sailor who gets a scholarship to Stanford. And then, something goes terribly wrong. He becomes a recluse living in an out of the way cottage as a caretaker of a cemetery. But, he is eventually saved from is own torments. What happened and who will save him. That is the question.
--Dinner for Schmucks sounds terrible but could be very entertaining. The latest Steve Carell vehicle also stars Paul Rudd. (So many of the Carell movies have been mediocre it is hard to start believing again). This one is good and quite funny. The essence of the plot is about Rudd a career hungry young exec and a bumbler Carell. The big event is where young execs look for losers to bring to a big corporate dinner so the rest of the high powered crowd can laugh at them. But something happens along the way.
--Cats & Dogs is a not so funny sequel. It tries to be a “Roadrunner” style cartoon but the antics just doesn’t measure up. It is a hodgepodge that amay amuse those with half a brain or under the age of three.
--The opening line of the review for The Kids Are Alright says it is a perceptive, funny, tearful, dramatic, offbeat look at the American family today. Offbeat is the operative word as the family is headed by two lesbian parents each with an artificially inseminated child. The oldest child at 18 decided to find dad, and that’s where the gnashing of teeth begins. Dad turns out to be a free-spirited, marginally irresponsible, motor cycle riding owner of a restaurant called Local Food. Obviously the kid gravitates to dad, much to the dismay of mom and mom II. But I guess what really bothers me about this movie is that dad raises organic vegetables for his restaurant. God, how clichéd can a movie be?

The Answer:
Cats – Clowder or Pounce; Coyote – Pack or Train; Rabbits – Warren; Clams – Bed; Crows – Murder; Crocodiles – Congregation or Float; Elephants – Parade; Foxes – Skulk; Gnus – Implausibility; Hummingbirds – Charm; Giraffes – Kaleidoscope, Journey or Troop; Rhinos – Crash.
Check em’ all out at http://www.hintsandthings.co.uk/kennel/collectives.htm (That is if you have npo life); Bonus: The 1st two teams from the old AFL to have a go at it were the Boston Patriots and Buffalo Bills. The Pats won.

The Beginning of the Weekend: 
Maybe the newest reality show for next summer will be about a wedding and will be called Chelsea. Sounds like a distinct possibility to me.

It's going to be perfect weather in the east. It will be perfect down here if all of the tourists and day trippers to enjoy the weather in there back yards.

Love your day!

Stupid is as stupid does.

Today's Tids Issue 2,184
Opening Stuff:

One of the ongoing problems contributing to the continued collapse of what was once the greatness of the US of A is American’s addiction to stupidity! In fact, one of the fastest growing industries in America has as its basis Americans doing stupid things and other Americans paying to watch it. And of course, the hottest industry of all requires people to put all of their most personal thoughts and data on the world wide web for all to see. I mean God just has to love all of this creativity from his beloved humans.

It’s a good thing I’m perfect!

Uh-Oh! Lincoln Chafee just lost my vote. And I expect many others. How inept can a politician be? In case you missed it, the former Senator now Independent front runner for the RI Governor’s office said Monday that Curt Shilling’s famous “Bloody Sock” was a fake. It’s one thing to make a false claim about one of the most memorable events in Red Sox history, but to say it in a stronghold for Red Sox Nation -- insanity. His claim was 100% wrong. And more than that, stupid. It appears that his wife may be retracting some of her campaign funding.

Remember that one of the big contributors to the Scott Brown upset was his opponent Martha Coakley’s dissing of the Red Sox fans.

The Question:
People also pay enormous sums of money for art. The prices equal sums that could be used to start five or six good industries. Name the five most expensive paintings ever sold.

The Headlines:
--152 Die In Fiery Pakistan Air Plane Crash; 2 Americans Among Dead.
--Judge Expected To Rule On Arizona Law Today.
--Surprise: Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Comes Out In Support Of Tax Cheat Rangel; Pelosi Agrees; Ethics Panel, Rangel Lawyers Talking Settlement.
--Jury Mulling Blago Case.
--30 Homes Near Majave Destroyed In California Wildfire.
--Factory Orders For Big Ticket Items Down 1% In June; Market Down Slightly On Durables Report.
--French First Lady Carla Bruni-Sarcozy To Make Acting Debut In Next Woody Allen Movie Midnight In Paris.

Back to More Stuff:

After listening to comments from the CBC about their view of the lyin’ and cheatin’ by Charles Rangle, it appears that race is destined to become a big and growing part of the equation, It is now likely that the Billy Daniel’s effect is going to get him off -- That old Black Magic!

The American Civil Liberties Union has to be one of the most dishonest organizations in the country. But, that’s what happens when you get a bunch of lawyers defining honesty.

In case we have forgotten, the nation got this current Democrat Congress mess because the Republicans failed miserably.

So maybe we should be looking for only independents and mavericks to vote for in the next election. It can’t be any worse than it is now. And besides it would take them at least a few years before they became professional liars and cheaters.

NFL camps open today. So at least something is going right in the country. I think the Jets are going to be a bust. And, I am going to love watching them go down.

Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 85 continues. --Now what am I going to do for a half an hour. I called Cotter and he confirmed what I already knew, Sarah was at the police station. Then I asked him about Laura, and he suggested that she was a pain in the ass and that I should tale to her. He gave me the number of their so-called safe house. Calling her was a bad mistake. She reamed me out for ten full minutes. I didn’t say anything. When she was finished I said, So? She paused for about fifteen seconds, probably to catch her breath and slow down her pulse. Finally she asked me to spend the night with her at the rat trap. I told her I’d try. She said wrong answer. So, I decided it would be a good idea to spend some time with her. And it wouldn’t be so bad anyhow. But, I’d have to alter my plans for Sarah.
Laura’s angry voice was still playing with my serenity when I drove into Marie‘s parking lot. No Sarah. I walked in, smiled at Marie, Again, she looked at me strangely. “I think I’ll have blueberry pie with vanilla ice cream.” I was actually moderately ebullient.
“And a Diet Coke” she added. Her eyes sparkled a little.
Just as the DC arrived, my beautiful Sarah/Maggie breezed in. She had that look that I love, and her eyes penetrated mine to the back of my brain all the while she moved confidently to me. She didn’t sit opposite, but came and kissed me on the cheek, while firmly grabbing my upper thigh. The glow in her eyes was amazing.
She sat. “You look beautiful, Kent.” She had me.

If you sit on a beach for a long time you begin to realize that most people, including myself, look far better in clothes.

Do you know what’s making me happy today? Mike Lowell hit three home runs for the PawSox last night. I really want good things to happen for Lowell.

The Answer. The most expensive painting eve sold cost $140 Million – Jackson Pollack’s #5. next ios William De Kooning – Woman III ($137Mil); Gustav Klimt – Adele Block-Bauer I ($135); Pablo Picasso – Nude, Green Leaves and Bust ($106); Pablo Picasso - Gargon a la Pipe ($104); Andy Warhol – Eight Elvises ($199); Pablo again – Dora Maar au chat #95.2); Titian – Dina and Actaeon (#91); Klimt = Adle Block-Bauer II ($87.9); Francis bacon – Tryptich ($86.3). Want to see the rest of the sales over $50 Mill? Check out http://www.theartwolf.com/10_expensive.htm

The End:
So, I guess having a lot of money just means you can pay a lot for things that probably should cost a lot less.

And, so what does Forest Gump's "Stupid is as stupid does" mean. It means you are defined by your actions no matter how smart you are. Even if you read the NY Times.

The subversion of common sense.

Today's Tids Issue 2,181
Opening Stuff:

The good thing about the upcoming elections is that Congress will probably start passing less costly bills. The bad thing is that we know they do it grudgingly and don’t believe a word of what they are saying and can hardly wait for November 3 after they are re-elected and can start spending again. This is not a time to be lulled.

Unfortunately, retirement today means that it is your investments that stopped working.

Meanwhile down in Arizona, Clinton appointee US District Judge Susan Bolton asked the Obama Justice Department lawyer Edwin Kneedler, “Why can’t Arizona be as inhospitable as they wish to people who have entered the US illegally?” That sums it up nicely for me.

And…How about the name “Kneedler” for an annoying federal prosecutor.

The Question: In a short Period of time Phillip Seymour Hoffman established himself as one of the better actors for a variety of complex roles. Name five of his best movies.

The Headlines:
--Congress Extends Jobless Benefits.
--“Bonnie” Halts Work On Oil Spill.
--Ford Continues To Post Strong Profits; Pays Down More Debt Without Government Assistance.
--Rangle To Face Congressional Trial On Ethics Charges.
--India Company Introduces $35 Version Of iPad; Device Expected To be Available In 2011.
--US Confronts North Korea Over Ship Sinking.
--Senate Forces House To Pass Afghan Funding Bill Minus $20 Billion In Domestic Spending!

Back to More Stuff:

To that person who asked me the name of the architect for the historic Trinity Church in Newport: It was Richard Munday (1685-1739), who was influenced by England’s great Christopher Wren. In fact Trinity is akin to Wren’s St. James at Piccadilly in London. He also did the Old Colony House and many fine Georgian homes still standing in the City.

I’ve been watching America’s Got Talent” and I have just one question – When do they start bringing out the talent?

The big local news is that Government regulators have stepped back from their plan to ban lobsterin’! It’s a huge relief for the local fishing industry, which steadfastly maintained that the Government reports of the death of the lobster population were greatly exaggerated. So, for the time being, a reprieve. I say time being because the power hungry little people in the environmental regulation business don’t like to be called wrong. And they are probably working already to get even. Hard working fisherman be damned. For one thing in life is for certain – Builders got to build; developers got to develop; regulators go to regulate. And iron clad facts and logic never stops them.

This an important day for sports fans and NFL fans in particular. You may not have known that up until this morning no first round draft pick had been signed. It all had to do with uncertainties about a new NFL contract and possible lockouts and strikes. But last night the Dallas 1st rounder Dez Bryant signed. This will signal other agents to release the apron strings and get their guys under contract for a good training season. Let’s hope.

Isn’t it interesting that “u” is the difference between a guy and a gay

Two women were out for a Saturday stroll.. One had a Doberman and the other, a Chihuahua. As they walked down the street, the one with the Doberman Said to her friend, "Let's go over to that bar for a drink." The lady with the Chihuahua said, "We can't go in there. we've got dogs with us." The one with the Doberman said, "Just watch, and do as I do." They walked over to the bar and the one with the Doberman put On a pair of dark glasses and started to walk in. The bouncer at the door said, "Sorry, lady, no pets allowed." The woman with the Doberman said, "You don't understand. This is my seeing-eye dog." The bouncer said, "A Doberman?" The woman said, "Yes, they're using them now. They're very good." The bouncer said, "OK, come on in." The lady with the Chihuahua thought that convincing him that a Chihuahua was a seeing-eye dog may be a bit more difficult, but thought, "What the heck," so she put on her dark glasses and started to walk in. Once again the bouncer said, "Sorry, lady, no pets allowed." The woman said, "You don't understand. This is my seeing-eye dog." The bouncer said, "A Chihuahua?" The woman with the Chihuahua said, "A Chihuahua? They gave me a freaking Chihuahua?!"

I could never make it as a screen writer. I just couldn’t bring myself to a continuous cacophony of “F” words.

Reading between the Lines Movies Reviews:
--Salt is a Angelina Jolie spy thriller, and typically right up my alley. It’s the type of film I go to despite the favorability of reviews. This one has everything I like – intelligence, hopelessness and tension. Jolie a loyal CIA agent is accused of being a Russian sleeper spy. She goes on the run using her covert operative skills to protect her husband and stay one jump ahead of her “friends” at the agency. I’m hooked. It may not be great for people who like excellent movies.
--The critics love Ramona and Beezus, film about the humorous exploits of two children, sisters caught up in the family madness of today’s times – Family layoffs, foreclosures and small family tragedies. They say it is funny and heartwarming. What kind of name is Beezus?

47% of all movie ticket buyers earn over $75K. 12% earn less than $25K. 19% earn between $50 and $74 and 22% between $25 and $49. The way prices are going up, it may take a 100K to enjoy a movie.

Through the same Eyes: Chapter 84 continues. –Isabelle hung up from her necessary evil security expert and immediately dialed the extension for Sally Orstein. “Hi Sally, Izzy, here,” she said comfortably. Before Sally could answer, she added, “Please come up to my office.” Sally was mumbling something when the CEO placed the phone back in the cradle. She stood up, walked to her door and signaled Kent to join her in the office.
Within moments after Kent had seated himself to her left and before Isabelle could tell him what she was doing, Sally Orstein walked in. “You look nice this morning,” Izzy said pleasantly.
“Thanks,” came the immediate reply as Sally eased into one of her gigantic smiles. Kent said nothing which was not unusual. But it was obvious that he was wondering why he was there and what was going on.
Isabelle didn’t waste time. “It’s crunch time around here, Sally. With the merger of the Bromsky/Middleton groups we have to think about efficiencies.”
Sally was quick to interrupt. “I have been thinking of ways to use all of the people in our,” she nodded towards Kent, “Program. There are many great people coming over from the Bromsky crew. And…” Isabelle raised a halting hand and Sally stopped in mid sentence.”
“I know there are many good people from the Bromsky group. I’m sad to say that one is going to replace you, Sally.” Kent Middleton’s jaw tightened.
Sally’s head turned quickly towards her boss, “Kent?”

The Answer:
Hoffman was first noticed in film in Scent of a Woman and became a major factor after The Talented Mr. Ripley. Of course he received critical acclaim as the annoying Truman. He Also is recognized for great work in Doubt, Charlie Wilson’s War and Before the Devil Knows You’re Dead. He also was in The Savages, Synecdoche, Boogie Nights, The Big Labowski, Magnolia, Almost Famous, 15th Hour, Punch Drunk Love, Cold Mountain and Pirate Radio. You probably have other favorites. His mother was a liberal activist and his father was a corporate executive. They divorced. How odd.

The Weekend Begins:
I seemed to have used the word “annoying” a few times today. But, it doesn't mean I'm in a bad mood. I'm just being accurate. Besides, I would never end the Friday Tids in a bad mood. So instead, I leave you with ,the "Bumper Sticker" of the Week: "If Obama's the Answer, How stupid was the Question."