It’s time to stop reading headlines and get serious.

Today's tids Issue 2,211
Opening Stuff:

Let’s see…”Thirty days hath November, April, June and Septem…”; Hey, It’s the last day of September. Already! Before we know it, the big November election will be over. Will we be happy?

If I’m running the current Asian wars, my main objective is to not allow the Taliban, al-Qaida et. al. to take over the Pakistan Nukes!

The chic new driveways in Rhode Island are a combination of 2/3’s Quahog shells and ½ mussel shells. This creates an elegant black and white appearance. But, not too harsh.

An inherited weaving machine is an Heir Loom

The Question:
The thing I remember most about Tony Curtis’ first movie was Piper Laurie. I think that was my first intense love affair. Name that movie and five other TC films. Also dying yesterday was Arthur Penn. Name three of his great theatrical and film achievements.

The Headlines:

--Pakistan Cuts Vital NATO Supply Route In Retaliation For Across The Border Helicopter Strike That Killed 3 Of Their Soldiers.
--Stocks Rising On Positive Data; Unemployment Claims Fall From 469K to $453K; GDP Growth Revised Upward To Anemic 1.7; Midwest Biz Activity Up More Than Expected.
--Fisher-Price recalls 10 Million Items; 7 Million Trikes Caused 10 Injuries; 1 Million Height Chairs Cause 14 Injuries. Say What?
--Rutgers’s Student Jumps from George Washington Bridge After Being Exposed On YouTube In Hidden Camera Homosexual Act.
--Scientists Discover “Earth Like” Planet That Could Support Life Similar to Ours; Hopefully Without Litterers.
--Congress Flees Responsibility To Campaign.
--European Debt Crisis Continues As Irish Bailouts Grow.

Back to More Stuff:
I always thought an Irish bailout had something to do with over zealous drinkers in the County jail.

If, as it appears and as it has been discussed by cultural observers, we are producing future generations who don’t know how to use a can opener or a washing machine, rake a leaf or shovel a snowflake, press a button to start their day and download everything they need without moving…will they be eager to accept socialism because it appears easier? Be willing to forego personal freedom because it carries with it responsibility?

I never liked that layer of skin on pudding.

Of all the Government liars and cheats who were exposed as the country collapsed around us, I thought that deer in the headlights, sweat on the brow Henry Paulson was the sleaziest. He knew exactly what his pals were doing to us.

And, Bernanke was just inept, as was often reported often in pre-collapse Tids.

When the US auto companies were being eaten alive by the upstart Japanese car companies it was widely agreed in manufacturing circles that Detroit’s products were being designed by accountants. I think today all products are being designed by Lawyers.

One of my favorite times of the week is “Pick-um” morning. There are days when it appears I have my finger up nose, but last week at 11-5 wasn’t too bad bringing our Y-to-D to 33-15 (68.75%). The tougher match-ups tis week is led off by Pittsburgh/Baltimore with Miami/Pats and Chi/Giants close behind. Jax/ Indy and Philly/Wash could be tough too. Here goes nothing: Pitt, Pats, Chi, Indy and Philly for the feature games and for the rest – Tenn, GB, Jets, St. Louis, Atlanta, NO, Cinn, Houston and San Diego. Every expert’s pre-season darling, The Niners, could go to 0-4 along with disappointments Carolina and Buffalo. The Giants could be 1-3 as the sieve like Offensive Line is arrested for manslaughter for abetting relentless attacks on wide–eyed Eli.

You have to believe after watching 0-Man step up his recent church going effort that Bible waving Clinton is his new political advisor!

Have you heard of “Cash for Keys”? This is another government boondoggle that has our taxpayer funded government paying renters $3000 to get out within 30 days so a house can be foreclosed ($2000 for 60 days). By law, foreclosures can’t take place with renters living there and paying rent on time. Even though the home owner hasn’t paid in months. Think of the possibilities for fraud here. And you can be sure that many have already! What a country.

Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 96 continues. –Kent stood up and came over to me. He placed his hands on my upper arms and urged me to stand. It was all so slow that in became an ethereal event. He kissed me ever so softly on the lips. And I felt that warmth I always felt when with Kent. No matter what else my mind was denying. I wanted to respond. Then He said, “I am so sorry about your awful experience. How are you?” Now I didn’t see anybody else in that room. But, a movement caught my eye. I woke from what felt like a dream. I looked at Jack and then Izzy.
I followed their eyes now focused down the hallway where a determined appearing Jeff Symington was walking quickly this way. I looked back at the twosome. They appeared panicked. Of Jeff? I thought. Kent moved away from my vision and towards the door. Jack was quick to rise and join him.
I wanted to retake charge of this group, but something I knew nothing of had taken control. Something they couldn’t control. Controllers don’t like loose ends.
“Jack, get out there and talk to him”. Jack now appearing more and more under the influence of a woman who looked more and more his master lurched forward elbowing Kent aside to one knee.
Izzy looked up at me. “All you had to do was continue advising us financially. Everybody would have been just fine with your cloying presence. Except maybe Symington who had always despised working under your enthusiastic smiling face.
Symington had stopped ten feet from the door where Jack had met him. Jack was yelling at him in whispers. I could see Symington’s chest heaving. He wasn’t listening. Jack brought his hand up to Jeff’s lapel.
Kent had raised him self up again and was moving towards the door.

Still living in caves Department:
You begin to worry about how far we’ve come from those club and animal skin days when you read about bullying kids throwing peanuts at children, fellow students, with peanut allergies.

And then there is the annual trash cleanup day made necessary by littering Cretans who think it is a good idea to deposit their used wrappers, bottles, cups and food remains on streets, lawns and parking lots. I would prefer meeting a liberal before a litterer.

Today’s stock market looks like it’s all about grasping straws.

That Boston tragedy where five people including an infant were dragged form their Mattapan house and executed is being characterized as possibly having something to do with drugs. You think? Hey, I thought the Mexican border was further away.

Note to Linsey Lohan: A wobbly drug and alcohol addicted Judy Garland was elevated to “Icon”status in her last days on stage.

The Answer:
1. I first remember Tony Curtis in The Prince who was a Thief co-starring the ultra cute (to 14 year old me) Piper Laurie. His most memorable role was in Some Like it Hot with Marilyn Monroe and jack Lemon. He also was in 115 other movies including Sweet Smell of Success, Trapeze, Six Bridges to cross, So This is Paris, The Defiant Ones, The Great Imposter, Spartacus and Operation petticoat 2. You may know Arthur Penn for his enormously successful film “Bonnie and Clyde. But he was even better know in theatrical circles for “Miracle Worker” and “Two for the Seesaw”. Other films were The Wild Bunch, Night Moves, Target, Dead of Winter, Four Friends and Little Big man. Ironically Penn’s first film The Left Handed Gun starring Paul Newman was originally intended for James Dean – an actor whose early death we are also remembering today.

The End?
Women are once again in the news as new data showing discrepancies in salaries and executive positions are on the front page. This is a war that will certainly continue. But, I think women are working at more subtle means to usurp the role of men. For instance Kenmore has a new washing machine that can talk to technicians without first calling for a husband and a screwdriver. At the first sign of trouble, the wife calls a service number and enters a code. She then places the phone on the Machine’s “Ear” and machine’s do the talking! On another front, many towns are authoring the raising of chickens in small farms on homeowner’s land…without the use of Roosters! Are men destined to become a museum curiosity?

It's a Public Relations World.

Today's Tids Issue 2,210

Opening Stuff:

You can tell the network “news” is fighting for its existence when the news has become an afterthought and book promotions, saccharine tales and slanted opinion pieces the norm.


The US is in danger of having an economy based on industries full workers doing jobs for people who could easily do the jobs themselves.


It appears to me that the TV show Glee is in danger of succumbing to it’s success by overplaying the visiting celebrities, the antics of the gym teacher, the emotional problems of the cast -- overshadowing the one thing that made it unique and actually very entertaining – the wonderful talents of the kids singing and entertaining. But then Chorus Line didn’t make it big because of the music.


Now…if 0-Man is imploring the Left Wing to wake up and get interested in the elections, it can only be because he wants to keep socialism alive.

The Question:

Name five books written about President Obama.

The Headlines:

--Officials Strictly Monitoring Terror Threats In Europe.

--Obama Retreats To Left Wing Base; Passionately Implores Them To Wake Up.

--Stock Futures Lower; Major Investors Content To Enter Market On Dips.

--Toys ‘r Us To Hire 45,000 For Holidays.

--Financial Gurus Predicting Bloodbath At Bond Trading Desks:

--Anti-Austerity Protests Throughout Europe.

--Pelosi’s Promise Of Cleanest Congress Ever Falls far Short Of Pledge; Lobbyists Continue Unfettered And Two Dems Await Ethics Trials.

--BP Promises New Safety Standards And Stricter Exploration Controls.

--Kim’s Sin Likely To Keep MK On Same Rogue Path.

--Body Found Buried In Stonehenge Came From Mediterranean Region.

Back to More Stuff:

If, (As Massachusetts gubernatorial candidate Charlie Baker proposes) the Bay State changes its tax laws to compete with its northern neighbor New Hampshire, the largest city in its southern neighbor Rhode Island will be Seekonk!!


Nearly nine months ago, the U.S. through Hillary Clinton pledged $1.15 Billion for the rebuilding of Haiti. According to officials at the State Department, UN and US Senate the reason why not a penny has been spent one week before the end of the US fiscal is because of the c omplex bureaucracy, disorganization and a general lack of urgency. These are the same people who will be running your Health care.


Tampa is not a Major League city.


The Food Nazis will send me directly to hell without passing “Go” for printing this bread pudding recipe made with “Donuts”. We could call it our “Blue” Plate special in honor of US Police departments. –Brush 9” pan with butter and cut 8 cake donuts into 1 ½-2” chucks and put in pan. In bowl mix 4 tbs butter, ½ cp brown sug, ¼ tsp cinnamon and 1/8 tsp nutmeg. Add 4 eggs and whisk to blend. Whisk in 2 ½ cps heavy cream, ¼ cp Jack Daniels and 1 tsp vanilla. Pour over donuts soaking all. Let stand 1 hour (Or cover and fridge over night). Bake at 350 covered (w/alum foil) for 30 mins; 15 mins uncovered. Now for the bad part – The sauce. Combine 1 ½ tbs cornstarch a 2 tbs JD whiskey. In small pan combine ¼ cp heav cream and 2 tbs gran sug. Over high heat whisk 2/3 mins til bubbles form. While whisking ad whiskey mixture and whisk til sauce is blended and thick. Pour sauce over portions and top with whipped cream or caramel sauce or van IC; or all of the above. The devil made me do it.


Anybody who tunes into the new Hawaii 5-0 for a pleasant touch of nostalgia is in for a huge disappointment. It is just another weak police drama with plastic characters. The only difference being that it takes place in the sun instead of bleak alleys near housing projects.


Why do voters disgusted with their government vote for the same old people expecting that they have the capability to change. They'd still be paid by the same special interest groups.


A writer Susan Maushart has an interesting new book that warns of a succeeding generation that literally doesn’t know how to do anything -- kids with no house hold chores, drive-through meals and outsourced basic chores like house-cleaning an lawn care. She says we have college kids who’ve never done laundry, put a stamp on an envelope or taken a bus ride alone. Kids stay in strollers til they’re five and never learn out to open a can with a can opener. And the real tragedy is a future generations of button pushers with a loss of independence and initiative.


Actually, I have to be honest. I don’t think I ever learned the correct way to tie my shoelaces.


Mastering the relatively simple art of making things out of eggs like omelets and frittatas can make you look like a pretty savvy chef.


The intelligence communities around the world are doing a helluva job.


I’m one of those people who wants Kim’s son to keep on doing the same thing because it makes the news more interesting. That is, if the news media still knows how to report it.

The Answer:

The one with all of the hype to, day is of course Obama’s Wars. But we also have the “The Manchurian President”, “The Case against Barack Obama”, “The Obama Nation: Leftist Politics and the Cult of Personality”, and the longest title ever written -- “Fleeced: How Barack Obama, Media Mockery of Terrorists Threats, Liberals who want to Kill Talk radio, The Do-Noting Congress, Companies that Help Iran, and Washington Lobbyists for Foreign Interests are Scamming Us.” (Short and Pithy – I fell asleep reading the title). And this doesn’t include all of the books written about himself by himself.

The End:

Now that all of a sudden, almost out of nowhere the Prez is emphasizing his love for Christianity, it is a sure sign that he doesn’t think things are going well in the elections.


When the Prez says as he did yesterday to his liberal base, “Change is hard, ‘real’ change takes time”, he is saying that just because most Americans think socialism is dumb idea, and I need you more than ever.


Through the Same Eyes will return tomorrow.

Congress: Laughable.

Today's Tids Issue 2,208

Opening Stuff:

Isn’t the current Congress already doing enough to make a mockery out of a once great institution without having to bring in a comedian to pile on? But then, nobody takes congress seriously any more?

Which brings me to the Quote of the Week*: It’s from Peter Schmuck of the Baltimore Sun. “Roger Clements could get 30 years for lying to Congress, but Congress people lie to us and they get re-elected for two years.”

Did you hear about the horse trainer who decided to move over and work with deer to make a fast buck?

Bach’s Brandenburg concerti are a great way to start the day. But, I only listen to four at a time.

“Government Doesn’t Create Wealth; It Uses Wealth Created By Others“ Department:
Last night on Fox, John Stossel -- in a special titled “The Battle for the Future” -- did an excellent job breaking down the ills of an American ideal gone astray and where there is hope for getting the country back into the hands of the people. It looked at “Makers vs. Takers”; The biggest danger in America – Public Employee Unions…the parasite killing the host; A disincentivized workforce; A far too big Government. Look for reruns of this program. It covers all of the reason why the tea party has been successful as an upstart; Why Americans across the land regardless of party, socioeconomic status color of skin, are so angry

The Question: 
What was Andrew Lloyd Weber’s first hit show? Name five other big shows form this master of melody.

The Headlines:

--Failing Levee Frocing Portage Wisconsin Residents To Leave Town.
--Israeli Settlers Cheer Expiration Of Construction Ban.
--Unilever Deal And Other M&A Activing Copuld Push markets Much Higher This Morning.
--US Helicoptors Continue To Effectively Kill Insurgents In Pakistan.
--Only 36% Of Teens Think Texting While Driving Could Kill Them; 55% Think Drinking While Driving Could Kill.
--Powerful Endicott Nips Salve 29-28.
--Unilever Buys Alberto Culver For $3.7 Bil.
--Malls Across Country See Up Tick In Biz After Banning Unaccompanied Teens.

Back to More Stuff:
Did you see that news item about the discovery in Bing Crosby’s basement of a long lost film of the final of the 1960 World Series? I was living in Pittsburgh then and really got into the team, especially when they were facing the dreaded You-Know-Who’s! It was actually a memorable week, work in the morning and make the rounds of supplier hotel parties in the afternoon. It was a week of a wide emotional variation. Huge ups and sudden downs. The worst of downs coming as the e Ya-ya-Ya (WYKWIM) went up in the top of ninth. And then there were two outs. The bottle of Bourbon had enough for 4 shots, enough for four distraught Westinghouse ad guys sitting forlorn in a now empty room. Now the four ready to toast a job well done. And then…and then Tony Kubeck made “The Error”. Man on first. And now the great Bill Mazeroski was at bat. Still last of ninth. Still two outs. We glanced at the screen and lifted the glasses. What!!! Maz hits it out! You could hear a deafening roar of cheers emerging throughout the city. From open windows throughout the city. From the streets below. Our amazing Pirates had beaten down the pompous team from New York. Now we lifted the glasses in a victory toast. It was a grand day.

Best Golf Tip Ever Department:
I pulled up to the designating parking spot and two guys came over and started unloading the back of my Jeep. The older guy, said smiling, “Want us to take the golf clubs too!” We both started laughing. It was the fall “Free Shredding of Old Documents Day”. Golfers know the real problem.

What is more efficient…Millionaires paying more taxes so it can be filtered through a wasteful, bloated bureaucracy? Or leaving the money with them so they can spend it efficiently at their discretion. Creating jobs or distributing it to Charities or for projects throughout the towns and regions in which they live.. Where 100% of the dough gets to the charity unless it is corrupt or has a crook for an executive director. Or a bookkeeper who hits the local casino a little too often. Oh wait a minute, the Gov already doles out what’s left of the tax dollars to suspect local organizations like Acorn.

The AG candidate who says he’s going to root out corruption in the General Assembly and look under the hood of the unions running this state will definitely get my vote. Not a candidate who promises to be tough on elderly abuse. Which is nothing more than pap for a large voting block.

Giving up a seat on a bus for an elderly person is an act of "chairity".

Another funny line from a local columnist suggests that Jets receiver Brayton Edwards probably taunted the police officer when he was arrested for drunken driving.

Doonesbury has been very funny this week. It’s about Warren Buffet visiting a fellow billionaire who has yet to join the group pledging half their assets to combat disease in Africa. The more I think about it, the more it becomes apparent that these self made billionaires have egos big enough to want to stand alone in front of their fortunes and determine where their charity goes with out the help of other Billionaires. And, lets face many of these billionaires give to charity all of the time, and don’t seek credit notoriety. Basically, Buffet and Gates are acting like Big Government billionaires – “I know better,; Let me spend your money.”

Duh Headline of the Week:
“Obama Rejects GOP Plans.”

Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 96. -- I saw the three of them sitting there in the glass bowl office; that of my trusted mentor Jack Wiley as I walked with confidence now next to Trooper Dan. Which one was the biggest manipulator? Jack, the man who’s every instinct I followed on my way to the top of the corporate financial world? Isabelle, a person I now realize I barely knew? My beautiful lover? My Kent? A man who has made feel like I always wanted to feel. A man who has touched, explored, stimulated every part of my body. Surely intimacy would not blind me.
The trooper moved forward and grabbed the door for me. My eyes were riveted on the threesome. Jack looked scared. Isabelle looked like a mad woman. Kent’s eyes looked deeply into mine. Into my heart. And I felt the fever of true love.

I saw a news program lauding a school class for letters they wrote to get money form companies. Are we teaching the next generation to be grant writers? Is that the future of our society? Creating a new middle class of beggars who are experts at getting money from producers. It’s like walking out of your supermarket to hoards of kids essentially begging for money for sports leagues, school trips, scouts or other after school activities. Not too many years ago, kids just went out and did it.

Do you think that moms let kids play things like X-Box because they don’t get as dirty as they would playing outside? Is that because working moms didn’t have time for extra washing? Bill Keane suggested that.

I just read a Wedding Notice that said the Bride had a Masters Degree in Exercise Science! Exercise science?

The Answer:  

Weber’s first hit written with Tim Rice was The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Weber and Rice soon followed up with Jesus Christ, Superstar. The two
some continued with Evita, their last together. Weber’s firsts solo effort was Cats followed by Phantom, Starlight Express, Aspects of Love, Sunset Boulevard, Whistle Down the Wind, Beautiful games, Bombay Dreams, The Woman In White and Love Never Dies. The two people who most influenced his dream to be a songwriter were Frederick Loewe, Lionel Bart and Richard Rogers.

The End:
American starts coming back this Novemeber.

*(I had already written it down for Today, but saw repeated in a Saturday sports column. Which leads me to believe that it is sweeping the country and you may have already seen it!)

my brain is fried.

Today's Tids Issue 2,169
Opening Stuff:

Unnecessary Headlines Department:
“Record breaking heat smothers East Coast.”

Two nights ago it was Eric Anderson. Eric Anderson? Last night it Niuman Romaro. Niuman Romaro? Yes, the Red Sox are quilting again, sending out another patchwork line-up full up people unheard of a minute before “Play Ball”. It’s the big lottery Line-up. Sometimes you get a winner like Anderson who has been crushing the ball for two days. And then last night you get Romaro who the TB Rays marked down as an automatic out. Actually it’s kind of fun rooting for the no names. Because, when they come through the excitement and emotional reward is that much better than when the highly paid players do what they are suppose to do.

If you don’t pay your exorcist, you get repossessed.

The Question:
Today, I should be asking a question about number of deaths from shipping accidents where ice bergs were involved. So think about those giant blocks of cooling ice while you try to remember the most devastating U.S. fires with the highest loss of lives.

The Headlines:
--Stocks Back In Slide Mode After Momentary Break From Free-Fall Tuesday.
--China Says It will Not Use Trillion It Holds In US Debt As Political Hammer In Ideological Disputes.
--Pieces Starting To fall In NBA free Agent Lottery; ESPN Reports Wade And Bosh Going To Miami.
--June Service Sector Growth Slowest Since February.
--Manson Follower And Participant In Gruesome Tate Murders, Leslie Van Houton, Denied Parole Again.
--Perky Little Lohan Gets Time In Slammer.

Back to More Stuff:

Lebron James will announce where he is going in a one hour ESPN show tomorrow night. One hour! What could they possibly do that takes an hour? It sounds like a 30 second news flash to me.

BTW, I'm rooting for Cleveland.

After watching World Cup soccer team players acting, flopping and feigning injuries and fouls I came to the conclusion that they must have been coached by Duke U. Basketball’s Mike Krzyzewski.

This hot sun is bad for grown veggies and flowers in gardens, but terrific for growing seaweed in oceans near beaches.

Often in the summer I’m off before the newspaper arrives. This forces me to read the paper on-line which reinforces my belief that reading a live newspaper is much easier and more relaxing than the electronic version. And, the real tragedy here is that young people may never have the opportunity to compare and learn for themselves.

We can see the growing lunacy in many Americans by the way they are willing to give up their privacy to the Internet social networks. But, that is probably just the tip of the iceberg. As more and more people give up brick and mortar shopping and opt for click buying, personal purchase patterns will be available for all eyes, including the big eye in Washington DC.

I’m finding today as try to write convoluted theories that the high humidity has my cerebellum stuck to my eyeball and I can’t see my way towards logical conclusions. This is one of the “It-was-a-good-idea-at-the-time” days.

I should just write down a lot of lightweight puns that have absolutely no socially redeeming powers. So just remember that condoms should be used for all conceivable occasions.

The Answer: 1st we have Chicago’s Iroquois Theater fired that killed 602 people. Next is Boston’s Cocoanut Grove fore (492), New London TX School Explosion (296-3190, Hartford (CT) Circus Fire (168), Winecoff Hotel, Atlanta (119), Station Nightclub West Warwick RI (100), Our Lady of Angels School, Chicago (92) and MGM Grand LV (87). In addition to fatalities, thousands in these fires were marred with devastating injuries. So don’t worry about the heat.

Shoot me.
So, finally I leave you…and I leave with this one thought. A boiled egg in the morning is hard to beat

Don't worry; Stand out in the rain.

Today's Tids Issue 2,163
Opening Stuff:

Our California watchdog informs us that California welfare recipients are allowed to use their state issued debit cards to withdraw money at casinos for gambling. Is this a great country or what!

“Free Balloons” Department:
I can hear the first graders asking, “Now exactly what am I supposed to do with this” as the school nurses in Provincetown, Massachusetts hand condoms!! Yikes. But that is the requirement of a new law in this quaint Tip-O-the-Cape town which is well known as a haven for the gay. Are the minds of residents so attuned to flamboyant sexual activity that they have lost sight of the possibility of rational behavior among their youngest? Maybe we could ask Elena Kagan about that.

The Question:
Name the five top characters on “The Love Boat” and the actors who played them. What was the real name of the boat?

The Headlines:
--RI Dem Convention Snubs Powerful Lynch Brother team; Endorses Caprio (Gov.), Cicilini (Congress); History Shows That Endorsed Candidates Not Sure Things In Primaries.
--Kagan Questioning Begins In Earnest Today.
--10 Long Time Soviet Moles Arrested.
--High Court Rules Hand Guns Ok.
--Stocks Expected To Go Lower On World Worries.
--Poor Housing, Jobs Reports Combined With continuing Large Retail Sales Indicate Declining Economy Or A Recovery That never Happened; Economists Crying New Blues.
--Supreme Court Says Ok To Proceed Against The Vatican In Sexual Abuse Case; Vatican Maintains It Has No Liability.

Back to More Stuff:

I heard the question asked on a radio program, “Is Bill Clinton worried that the Al Gore sexual dalliance with a massage therapist will place a stain on his administration?” It’s one of those things I wish I thought of first.

The stuff about the health care program is leaking out like a slow water board to Abu Grabe. The latest I have heard is a 3.5% tax on real estate transactions beginning after the next Presidential election in 2013.That means that if you sell your house for $400K the government gets $14 Thou! That’s great news for downsizing retirees.

Meat and Potatoes Department:
Remember when potato based Vodka was the favorite of alcoholics because it was odorless. But then came fruit flavored vodkas and it became hard to tell if a person was drinking too much or just a health nut. Now you have to wonder if vodka makers are drinking too much. With the introduction of “Smoked Salmon” and “Bacon” vodkas you can shortly expect “Meat “ flavored vodkas. “Don’t you think Bob smells a little like ground chuck?” Beef breath will become the new term of disfavor. And a how about Sally got porked last night? Whoops.

Russian Roulette Department:
One of the more relaxing places in this universe is the summer outdoor shower. That is, until you hear distant thunder. And you have just begun. You start counting the seconds between rumble and flash. 11seconds! Toes, ankles, calves. 10 seconds. Thighs, waste, butt. 9 seconds. Arms, chest, back. 7 seconds. Time to wash the hair. Where is that shampoo? Damn! 6 seconds. Wash. Rinse. 4 seconds. You take a deep breath. Is there time for a shave. Go for it. Oops a nick. No time to stop the bleeding. Get the chin. Oh no, I missed some on the neck. Phew! Finished. Flash!! 2 seconds. Time to dry. It’s starting to rain. Can’t dry any how. Don’t for get to wrap the towel around your waste. Don’t panic. Run…now. Inside. EeeeeHah! Crrrrrrrrack!

Of course…I could just stand out in the rain and lightening and get washed and dried at the same time! Ouch.

George Will wonders how Elena Kagan would react to the observation by James Madison: “The powers delegated by the proposed Constitution to the federal government are few and defined. Those which remain in the state governments are numerous and indefinite.”

Actually, Will raises and suggests many good questions for the woman who has an “Aversion to vapid and hollow” (Confirmation hearings) devoid of “Legal analysis.” Like, what would be her opinion on whether or not the fed’s enumerated powers on interstate commerce could cover just about everything from obesity to poor student testing to mandates for carrying health care insurance. Will wonders what her opinion might have been on watching “equal opportunity” under the new1960’s Civil Rights Law transform immediately into “Unequal” Opportunity for minorities. It could be lively if Senators were capable of asking questions with real substance.

Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 80: --I sat looking at the steering wheel for minutes. I really don’t know how long I sat there after Kent left. He leaned warmly against me as he gave me a high five. I hate high fives and I know he does too. He was acting again for Marie. A charade. Were my tears a charade too? No, this time they were real. I am confused. I wanted to go home with him. I wanted to jump into that bed and make love even better than it has been these past two months. But, for the first time I had thoughts about my deceptions. I thought about Paul. I felt the love of the kids. I knew also that I had an ulterior motive. I had to manipulate Kent to stay close to him. At first I thought Kent was doing the same to me. But, there was something real about him. His caring seemed real. His concern about my reputation seemed earnest. His desire to be with me seemed overwhelming. Yet he was measured. Looking for something. Guarding something. What? My cell phone rang. It was Paul.
“Why, Hi Paul”, I said cheerily. How easy it is for me to switch emotions. ‘Do you miss me?”
“I always miss you”, he answered pleasantly. And it made me feel good inside. Stronger. Needed. What’s wrong with me.
“Me too,” I muttered softly. Too softly?
“How’d you like to have a cup of coffee with me out here at BiEm. I have some interesting new stuff about Bromsky and his niece.
Something real for a change I thought, and I smiled inwardly. “Of course Paul. I don’t even need an excuse to have a cup of coffee with you during the day.” He agreed totally with me. I have no morals I thought. I hung up and started the car. I backed out and started home to clean up before going to meet Paul. I didn’t notice the Ford Focus as I left Maries parking area.

I don’t know about you, but with the spate of daytime retail establishment robberies, I always look around at other people when entering a convenience store. Actually the thieves are behind the counter charging $1.84 for a 20oz. soda pop.

I fear we will live in uncertain economic times up til the November elections. The Dems will send out favorable recovery reports and the GOP will counter with doubtful recovery reports. The traders will make bundles off the confusion and the average guy who really needs it will flounder. Just be prepared to be cautious. These are the days when it is possible to twitter an economy.

The Answer: The characters on the Pacific Princess were Captain Merrill Stubing (Gavin McCleod), Julie McCoy (Lauren Tewes), Adam Bricker (Bernie Kopell)< Burl “Gopher” Smith (Fred Gundy), Isaac Washington (Ted Lange), Vicki Stubing (Jill Whelan), Ashley “Ace” Covington Evans (Ted McGinley) and Emily Heywood (Marion Ross). Bonus Q: What did Ashley “Ace” Covington Evans do on the boat?

The Big Finish:
The Supreme Court is one of America’s greatest safeguards. You would hope it was always sound and sensible in the face of the loonies in Congress and consumate politicians in White House . But in the wake of all too many 5-4 decisions, I fear that this august body is just another group of politicians. And Kagan appears to be the most ostensible Pol of them all.

Of course, the real issue is how will the Red Sox continue to be competitive with all of the injuries and a line up of aging journeyman and untested rookies?

Poor man's meditation.

Today's Tids Issue 2,162
Opening Stuff:

I love being mesmerized by boats at anchor bobbing in the water.

One of the little disappointments of life is anticipating a great flavor awakening from a just bought new brand of coffee and having it fall flat. Let’s say failing to perk up your senses. But then, that’s a little like life in general, isn’t it? Is their a bigger what of time than worrying yourself into a frazzle about things that have yet to come. Over overestimating the positive effects of a new venture. Stay cool at all times.

The Question:
Personally, I have always liked French classical composers. Often obscured by the German, Austrian, Italian and even English these tunesmith consistently produced some of the most pleasant melodies and inventive orchestrations ever. (To me, a person who’s only musical asset is ears.) Name the 5 most prominent French composers.

The Headlines:
--Rest Of World Says Nay To 0-Man Spending Plea; Majority Of US Citizens Agree That It Is Time To Start Reducing Debt.
--CIA Says Iran Has Enough Nuke Grade Uranium For Two Bombs.
--Kagan Hearings Set To begin; Arguments Against Will Center Around Activist Judges.
--First tropical Storm Alex Expected To miss Oil Slick.
--Pledges On World Deficit Reduction Could Bolster Stock Market.
--Wall Street Awaiting New Jobs reports: Anticipate Lost Governemtn Jobs And Gained Private Sector Jobs.

There’s nothing like sitting on a park bench on a tree shaded esplanade, breeze gently rattling leaves, sun dancing on the quiet brick walk and the aromas of all natural, organic cucumber/pine scented candles wafting neath your nose from the candle shop. Ahh, the great outdoors.

Gangways for boats were handicap friendly before handicap friendly was invented.

A local columnist points put that Judge Judy has jumped ahead of Oprah as Queen of afternoon TV viewing. This tends to say that Americans prefer watching losers getting hammered rather than enabled.

The Health Care dragon will begin breathing fire in 2011 when the value of employer sponsored healthcare programs (Public and Private for workers and retirees) are added to W-2’s. It isn’t going to be pretty. This will allow the insured to pay for the 30,000,000 new democrat voters. And make them feel really good about themselves.

Among the most disingenuous people I have ever heard are those in support of illegal immigrants. Often they call anti-“Illegals” Xenophobes or against an American way built upon the backs of immigrants. Nothing could further from the truth as many are from immigrant families who fully appreciate earning citizenship. Those who think “Illegal” is a good thing are no different than any of the “zealot” groups like Peta or those G-0 protestors. Frankly, I just find them kind of humorous in their creative attempts to be dishonest.

In the back of my mind something is telling me that now that it is out from under the accountants at GM, Saab may become a big seller again. Saab has always maintained great loyalty among fans, even during the darkest of the GM days. Why do I think that Saabs come with a free ABBA CD?

I cut the grass on Thursdays and my fingernails on Sundays. Good thing I’m not a creature of habit.

One thing we know for sure is that the New Financial Overhaul Bill will create yet another monster government agency. And over time will have little effect on the irresponsible high stakes Wall Street gamblers. It is a big piece of window dressing that will mainly drive up the cost of running a government. But then, what else is new.

The Aswer:
The giants (In my mind) are the drug saturated and slightly crazed Hector Berlioz who wrote the amazingly beautiful Romeo and Juliet and the acclaimed Symphony Fantastique; an the very imaginative Camille Saint-Saens. Jaques Offenback will come to the mind of many as will Claude Debussy, Maurice Ravel and Georges Bizet (Carmen). I personally like Gabriel Faure. There is also Eric Satie, Jules Massenet (Meditation), Francis Poulenc, Edouard Lalo, Charles Gounod, Ernest Chausson and the Cecile Chaminade who wrote many beautiful pieces for piano and is one of the best know early female composers.

And I’ll finish with another of those headlines that make me stit up and say “What now!”: “You don’t have to eat badly this July the 4th.” What’s so bad about cheeseburgers, bratwursts, baked beans, potato salad, corn on the cob and home made ice cream. Plus a few brewskis. Are newspaper trying to put them selves out of business by being totally offensive.

Special People; Special days

Today's Tids Issue 2,159
Opening Stuff:

Some days are more special than others. And I have learned that the truly special days aren’t about what you do, or what you eat…but about the special people who are there with you.

There ain’t no lady in Gaga!

One thing that’s for sure, there will be two schools of thought on the McChrystal mess. One that says “I told you so – Obama doesn’t know what he is doing”. And the other who will look far and wide for ways to defend the President at any cost. It’s just the way it is.

The Question:
Give me five of Frances McDormand’s best movies.

The Headlines:
--World Stocks Fall On Worries About US recovery.--Federal Judge Lifts Gulf Fishing Ban; Judge Has Oil Investments; White House To Appeal.
--McChrystal Expected To Step Down; Move Comes As Kandalar Offensive Set To Go.
--Prince Albert To marry South African Swimmer.
--Virgin Atlantic Airlines Imprisons Passengers In Oven Like Cabin For Four Hours At Hartford CT Airport
--Providence RI Schools Say they Can’t Afford Labor Contracts.
--US Soccer Could Move Into Next Phase With Victory over Algeria Today.

Back to More Stuff:

American Idol Update:
It looks to me as though the music on future AI telecasts will become more and more indecipherable. The ratings behemoth is lowering the age for talent to 15 years old. This is an obvious attempt to bring in the kids to bolster sliding ratings. But my fear is that this show, which can very entertaining, will become too youthful over time for the geezers.

It seems to me that a lot of businesses these days are looking for the government to protect them from risk. It’s part of the new Harvard MBA program – Wimp 101.

Nothing bother’s me more than those times when Spell-Check goes into its stupid mode.

I hear that Plain M&M’s are in psychotherapy. They say it’s peanuts envy! (Thanks to Mike Peters).

Don’t you just love love, Department
Hey, that Khloe Kardashian must be quite a gal. Did you hear that as a NBA victory gift, she gave her hubby Lamar Odem a $400,000 White Rolls-Royce. How great is that!. Obviously she got Lamar’s checkbook was part of the wedding package.

A door to door bicycle salesman is a pedal-er.

I tend to find books with author’s names in small print and movies with no stars better than many of the big time promotional whiz-bangs (And that includes many Oscar winning films too). That is particularly true of the 3rd or 4th books of so-called Hot! Authors. It must be an ADD thing.

One thing that is for certain, the McChrystal-Obama war will be great for Cable news ratings.

Is it me, or do soccer players get an inordinate amount of rest between games?

Whoever thought of spelling Crystal…Chrystal? Score one for Obama.

The Answer:
There are few performances I have enjoyed more than that of Frances McDoprmand in Fargo. Which is also one of my all time favorite movies (Along with Being There). Her other’s are Burn after reading, North Country, Almost Famous, Wonder Boys and Friends with Money.

People who have nothing to do have very complicated days…and this is one of them!

National Demagogues Day.

Today's Tids Issue 2,155
Opening Stuff

Some days you wake up and all of your thoughts are incredibly beautiful.

I have to be honest with you…when it’s Henry Waxman asking questions of BP CEO Tony Hayward, I find it very easy to root for Hayward.

The Question:
Give me 10 great uses for Baking Soda!

The Headline:
--Stocks Wallow In Pool Of Questionable Economic Recovery Reports;
--Texas GOP Rep Joe Barton Accuses White House Of $20 Billion BP Shakedown.
--Rising Jobless Claims And Poor Manufacturing Report Cripple Early Markets.
--New Estimates Put Afghan Mineral Wealth At $3 Trillion.
--Sea Animals Moving Towards Shore to Escape Oil.
--Congress Playing White Knight’s Against Oil Smeared BP Head; TV Watchers Seeing Congressional Demagoguery At Its Best

Back to More Stuff:

A couple of days ago I did a little tongue in cheek piece about the interesting correlation between the decline of American culture as we knew it and the rise in popularity of Soccer. Yesterday, a couple wanted to rent our little cottage for a week as their son was getting married in the area. Nice people. I learned that he had been in RI (He’s from Arkansas for a convention of US Soccer officials of which he is President. I told him I loved soccer!

Declining towards general cultural lunacy Department:
A teacher at a Coventry RI, Tiogue Elementary School gave is 8 year old students an assignment to create a hat that would honor the “Armed” forces. Good idea. On young boy proudly walked in with his camouflage baseball style cap – and American flag on the frond and a 2 inch plastic pin next to it that was a soldier carrying a weapon. The kid balloon was burst violently as he was rushed to the Principal’s office by an aggrieved teacher and then sent home. Kids are not allowed to bring guns to school…even for an “Armed” Forces day celebration by showing member of the “Armed” Forces with arms! I can’t take it any more.

It looks like the only double dips we can we look forward to during the next few months are ice cream cones. There will be plenty of double dip recession forecasts popping up, but most economists are calling for a slow growth economy with little sharp downward risk. – 2.3%-3.5% growth with about 5 Million new jobs over two years. The economy will be sluggish, but not dead, they say. I would stay really, really conservative.

Who woulda thunk it, that Kendrick Perkins absence would be a major determent to the Boston Celtics chances of taking home the Trophy. After all, they are loaded with big named stars. But, a guy like Kendrick is the essence of what the word “Team” really means. He clogs the middle, blocks out, sets picks, all of the little things that few ever notice yet are so meaningful to a winning team. Champions have always been made up of starts and well integrated contributing team members. Too often in our celebrity world we forget how things really work. How takes highly skilled, yet faceless “stars” to make things work. Perk reminds us of that.

Have you noticed how when there is a huge media consuming event like this endless oil slick drama, that there is a dearth of other news. Maybe there really just isn’t a lot of real news. Ya think?

Through the same Eyes: Chapter 78 continues. –I sent the kids scurrying and then reluctantly pressed the talk button on my cell phone. I took a deep, deep breath to ease my nerves and apprehension. “Hi Kent!” I said in a little more upbeat manner than I thought I felt at the moment. “I was hoping you’d call.” I continued.
“I thought you were avoiding me.” I couldn’t tell how he sounded. He has that ability to be inert.
“I think of you all the time.” That’s what I said -- I think of you all the time. “You know what you do to me, don’t you.” But does he know what he’s doing to me now, I thought.
“You sound good, Sarah/Maggie. You sound very good.” He changed the subject. Got softer. I have to be strong. I have to stay in control.
“Thanks, Kent” I had a long day and I feel surprisingly great after it.” Stay in control I said to myself. Stay calm. Lead like I always do. “How about having breakfast with me at Marie’s tomorrow morning.” I never thought that such a small remark could affect me so positively.
“I’d love to see you now,” he responded, again softly. I’ve missed your warm body and soft skin against mine.”
He was having an effect on me. I felt that wonderful familiar warmth spreading throughout my body. ”I can’t talk now.” I lowered my voice. “I feel you too.” I did. But I need to stay in control. What will I do when I see him in the morning.
“Ok, Morning it is,” he snapped unemotionally. And then, “I will have trouble sleeping tonight.”
“We’ve had some wonderful mornings together’” I said in a now raspy voice. Then I hung up before I lost my control

One congressman on the Oil panel suggested that governemtn regulators should be sitting along side Hayward too. I couldn’t agree more. Just as Fannie and Freddie officials should have been sitting along side the Goldman characters during that inquisition.

The Answer:
It makes great toothpaste. Dabbed under the arms it neutralizes body Oder. It can be an effective antacid or relieve the itches from insect bites. Mix it with shampoo for your hair or with gentle liquid soap for washing hands. You can clean sponges or polish silverware. It can take the odor out of refrigerators or sports equipment. And it can put out kitchen fires.

The Final Score:
This is the beginning of a great four days of sports. The NBA final is tonight. The US Open at Pebble Beach starts this afternoon for four days. And if you think soccer is worth watching you can find lots of that. Amd there is always your favortie baseball team. In Boston the fans are taking bets on whether the return of Manny will genrate more cheers or boos. It should be boos. Unfortunately, too many people seem to like rewarding bad behavior. I think they feel it makes them kinder.

Look for it. it's there.

Today's Tids Issue 2,153
Opening Stuff:

As you drive around through city streets or comfortable country lanes; As you look at houses big and small or rich and poor or urban and country; As you see a housewife getting into her car or a man walking across a field or a woman jogging on a rural lonely road. You are always looking at something that could turn into a novel or a great story. Just let your imagination run wild.

There is absolutely no restaurant to which “I just have to go!” It probably costs too much anyhow.

A tip of the helmet to those remaining Big 12 College conference members who are saying “No!” to expansion offers, and working hard to keep their own traditions alive.

The Question:
What are the two most heavily regulated industries in America?

The Headlines:
--European Stocks Up.
--Hitmen Kill 10 Mexican Police; 28 Die In Jail Riot.
--Brown Rice Eaters Less Likely To get Diabetes.
--America On Edge Of Seats Awaiting 0-Man Talk In Prime Time.
--US Demand For Oil Ups Barrel Price To $76.
--5.7 Earthquake Rattles San Diego Baseball Fans During Game.
--Rates On US Short Term Treasuries Fall In Auction To Lowest Levels Since January.
--Obama Mouthpiece Gibbs Says, “We Have To Get BP Out Of The Claims Business.”; New US “Change” Government Poised To take Over Another Private Responsibility.

Back To More Stuff:

I just changed the layout and appearance of this "The Tids" blog. – Check it out and let me know what you think and send your opinion: --I hate It. --It makes me sea-sick. --It’s confusing. –You have no taste. –It’s soothing and makes me want to pay you good money for the Tids. –I never read the old blog anyhow, so I don’t care.

The Novel.
Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 78 continues. –I still didn’t know how I felt when I walked into my beautiful Fosterville home and saw Jill and Jax standing there; With smiles on their faces; Just as though nothing at all happened and there were no traumas that could affect their entire lives. I just saw my two wonderful children waiting to welcome me home.
“Hi Mom!” Jill said cheerily. Naturally.
I looked at that smile and her handsome brother standing next to her. And I started crying. Uncontrollably. Then I felt through my teary mist four arms wrapping around my thighs and waist.
“Was your first day back to work too much for you mom,” I heard Jax say in a loving, consoling almost manly tone. “Huh Mom?” And then quiet except for my sobs. “Mom?”
I’m Maggie the Magnificent I told myself. The strong one. Nothing bad ever happens to me. I ride in on white horses.
I stooped down and wrapped my arms around them. But still didn’t, couldn’t, say anything.
The phone rang.
Jax left me and ran to it. Jill hugged me tighter.
“Hello,” I heard Jax’ voice. A take charge voice. “Mom’s crying’” I heard him say.”I think work was too hard for her today.”
That made me smile. I stood picking up with me a much too heavy Jill. I felt the sobbing slow. I had strong people who knew how to take care of me. I couldn’t lose with that kind of love.
“Who is it Jax.” I rubbed my eyes with the back of my hand.
“It’s Mr. Middleton,” he said proudly.
My heart leapt. Or was it a stab of pain?

Signs of the Times Department:
In gigantic letters in front of a neighborhood BP gas station: ”Locally Owned!”

The left were the first to shout, “Get out of our bedrooms”…but they are the first to rush into people’s homes and tell parents how to raise their children.

Just as drug users have been the reason for the growth of now violent Drug Cartels, environmental activists rushing around the world in trains, planes and automobiles have contributed to manic deep water drilling. Celebs in private planes can’t say that the fuel they use doesn’t affect demand.

I could get stoned for this, but I’m beginning to think that Trader Joe’s is overrated. Except for Two Buck Chuck.

One of the newest fast growing intrusions into a persons life is in the area home selling and buying. The government will soon be all over that. In fact I just read a little squib that offered a state sponsored “Course on Home Buying” which when completed would “entitle the participant to a certificate of completion that would be necessary before being able to buy a house” under certain circumstances. Shoot me.

I’d like to have the chance to vote for Michelle Bachman for something.

It’s starting to appear that the new Health Care monster was designed to eventually force corporations into breaking the rules so they (Big Gov.) can take over company supported healthcare too. And then BG can say that they tried to keep the promise: “If you like your current program you can keep it”. But corporate greed forced them to step in to protect the common person. This is because the way the plan is written, it gives little leeway for companies to make changes based on sound business practices.

The Big Government propaganda seems to be working as I have heard stories of seemingly intelligent people in business saying that America should do a way with big corporations and make all business individually or family owned.

The Answer:
The two Big’s encumbered with the most Government handcuffs are the Nuclear and the Financial industries. Well , at least they stopped the contamination from the nuclear industry.

A Simple Observation:
I have always been the master of the obvious, and many years ago a friend coined a term to describe my simple utterisms: “Huntisms”. One I remember saying and him being astonished over the simply stated logic was “Health is Good.” So there you have it; Today’s problem in a nut shell. Everybody wants health, and could be easily fooled into overlooking the grave potential injustices of our current Big Government monster. That is why we have to be especially vigilant and not bow to emotional urges based on mainly anecdotal evidence. There is no better way to control the masses than by telling them “We are going to help you not die.” We need to make a change in November just to vote out this expensive intrusion into the American way of life.

Oil or "0": Which is slicker?

Today's Tids Issue 2,147
Opening Stuff:

The other day I nudged my sundial with the lawnmower and I’ve been late for dates ever since.

A larger than life, true American cultural hero died Saturday night. John Wooden, a basketball coach set a record that will probably never be broken and established principles for leadership and living that should govern for the course of history. A strong Christian, he once said: “If I were ever prosecuted for my religion, I truly hope there would be enough evidence to convict me.” His “Pyramid of Success” book is considered not only manual for coaching success but a basic handbook for every leadership level. Oddly, his life espouses the virtues that many religious conservatives value, but he declared himself to be a liberal democrat. 3 of his favorite leadership maxims are “Failing to prepare is preparing to fail”, “Flexibility is the key to stability” and “Be quick, but don’t hurry.”

And then…there are politicians Department:
GOP Senator Corker proposed a mandatory 5% down payment as requirement for Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac backed mortgages. The Dems voted it down which was lunacy itself, but it is the words of the Chairman Dodd that really are truly disturbing: ”Passage of such a requirement would restrict home ownership to only those who can afford it.” Read that again. Is he aware of the current recession and the reasons behind it? Did he get paid off by mortgage bundler thieves? Will the final resting place of the Conn senator be memorialized with a headstone in the shape of a dunce cap? And, you think there is hope for this country? Oh yeah, there is if we vote out the scoundrels in November.

Unfortunately, maybe because of his long association with government only style jobs, 0-Man does not seem to realize that businesses have to be managed with an eye towards cost control for the benefit of those who provided the capital though investment.. And while the oil leak is a disaster, and a disaster against which BP will end up spending billions, the company still must stop the leak and repair the damage within a framework of keeping the entity alive. It is appalling that the Prez denounces paying dividends (Which retirement funds of many of his citizens must rely) and advertising that puts the company’s efforts in perspective. A cost they must endure only to battle against governmental demagoguery.

The Question:
Wooden, who never asked for a raise and often turned down luxury awards, lived by a 7 Point life’s Creed given to him by his father. How many of the seven can you name?

The Headlines:
--Two New Jersey Men Planning Fort Hood Style Massacre Arrested On Way To Somalia For Training.
--Hungary Latest Economically Precarious Euro-Nation; Markets Drop.
--Oil Continues To Ooze; Coats Nearing $1.5 Billion.
--Tornados Ravage, Kill In Ohio.
--Gunman Mows Down Five In Miami Restaurant.
--India Courts After 25 years Convict 7 Union Carbide Employees Of “Death By Negligence” In Bhopal Tragedy.
--The Sun Comes Up Once Again On Monday Morning.
--Celts Even Series.

Back to More Stuff:

For a couple of months now, the RI Department of Motor Vehicles has been closed on Wednesdays so its employees can attend classes to learn the new computer system. Sounds moderately intelligent, doesn’t it? That is, until you learn that AAA, which also provides similar DMV services for members, received their instructions about using the new system in a single email! And it seems to be working perfectly.

Scenes while sitting on a bench at a high traffic Factory Outlet Mall, Department:
--I decided to do a footwear survey. After a healthy sample of over 500, I found that 99% of women wore flip-flops or sandal style shoes. Almost all of the rest wore sneakers. I was hoping that my boat shoe style would show up well, but I found overwhelmingly that sneakers of one kind or another were the heaviest for men at about 95%. Sandals were definitely next. Boat shoes were about 0.6%. –Of the occasional people who spoke English, intelligent conversation by walker’s-by weren’t apparent. One well, dressed decent looking twenty something said to her boy friend, “Yeah…but she has a big butt.” Other’s were like, “Call Ruby, there’s a sale at Coach”, or “Where did I park my car?” –Most interesting, however, were the fairly large number of Indian women in traditional garb walking around. I’m thinking…”Why are they here?” I didn’t see a Saree’s Are Us!

Did you see where the kids national Spelling Bee was interrupted by a protest urging simpler spelling of US words. Me, the typo king should certainly be in favor of that. But, once again it is yet another step in the march towards the softening of brain cells. Enabling the lazy to get away with not demanding the best of themselves. I wonder what John Wooden would think of that? Or is this all about making it easier to text with out criticism?

And, how unfortunate that the rabble-rousers chose a special day for talented teens to vent their anger. It is just one more example of “Me First”.

Yesterday our beloved “Prime Time” urged against optimism for a solution to stopping the big leak. This was just after a disastrous negative jobs report when he said, “This report is a sign that our economy is getting stronger by the day.” That’s the Chicago Two Step in action!

It could have been done 30 years ago, but at least they may be getting the message up at the RI State House. A new law reduces the highest tax level from 9.9% to 5.8% and could put the company back in the race for move-ins instead of move-outs. Maybe they have figured out, or more likely forced to recognize that government jobs based economy is not an economy at all. Maybe they are listening to the anger of the people. Or at least until the election is over in November. We’ll see.

Providence RI is pulling out all stops to become the “Second City” of fashion! You heard that right. The city of wiseguys, wonks and wieners is drawing on its considerable design talents, old world city charm and amazing collection of eateries to build a major “Fashion Week” Center between NYC and Boston. The key: Young designers who like the opportunity and the deep talent at RISD. And maybe…the new lower taxes for top wage earners.

Reader Outrage of the Week Department:
Having barely gotten over the lack of a traditional Red Sox game on Memorial Day, he was astonished to hear that “New York, New York” was no longer the main song for the Belmont stakes. Some 16 year old rock star sang the memorable “Empire State of Mind.” But then, I remember when they used to sing “East side, West side, all around the town…”, a long standing musical tradition like The Derby and Preakness. But alas, when you go commercial you give up your soul.

Frankly, I have not liked the post Beetles McCartney’s music. And have really never gravitated to the arrogance associated with his stardom. But, he is a legitimate cultural innovator and probably deserves all of the awards he gets…like the one at the White House last week. However, in stead of being gracious, and thanking Americans for all of the millions he has made on this soil, he took the moment to berate a former President: “After the last eight years, it’s great to have a President who knows where the library is.” Disgraceful. And they called him “Sir Paul” all night long. You can take the boy out of Liverpool, but you can’t take the Liverpool out of the boy.

Hey Paul! You don’t end sentences with “is”.

BTW…did you know that many music and cultural historians consider John Lenin’s tune “Imagine” the Communist Manifesto?

Joran Van der Sloot is starting to look like one of those truly evil people of history.

How come the world pays so much for beauty?

The Answer: Simple yet luxurious in their value and often hard for many to achieve especially in a more conflicting world…when maybe they are needed more than ever: --Be true to yourself. –Make each day your masterpiece. –Help others, --Drink deeply from good books, especially the bible. –Make friendship a fine art. –Build a shelter against a rainy day. –Pray for guidance and give thanks for your blessings every day. Hey, how can you argue with that?

The End, John:
With all of that Wooden wisdom buoying up my character, I should have a great day today. Hope you all do too.

But to all of those who battle through the weekend while anticipating the next segment of TTSE, sorry. It just didn’t flow this morning. But the good news is that it didn’t flow with character!

A genius dies.

Today's Tids Issue 2,143
Opening Stuff:

Every year around this time I burst out in that wonderful Rogers and Hammerstein song: “June is Busting Out all over”. (It gets pretty annoying in my household.) But, that’s just the way it is with this month that is typically among the finest in the Northeast. When the temperature is consistently moderate yet the sun is bright and the days are the longest. Brides love it and kids who finally see the school doors shut behind them love it most of all. And of course the world is treated to the wisdom and understanding of Gemini’s! Sleep well.

Mark Malcovich died Sunday night in a single car crash in Minneapolis. So? Well, Malcovich was the impresario of perhaps the finest music festival in the Country, if not the world. Where truly amazing classical performers from countries everywhere, often for their US première, would come to the City of Newport and for three weeks and charm, move people with music. It is impossible to describe with mere words the grandeur of the event set in the gilded mansions of Vanderbilt and Astor.. Malcovich was a wonder. And, he will be missed.

Trying to watch The Celtics on TV is a little like watching my stock portfolio on-line. Based on past performance during the year I am always expecting the worse. So consequently I spend most of the time not looking.

One of the worst things you can do for weight control is to buy pants with elastic waists.

The Question:
I have to be honest…if I heard that a movie was coming starring the late, very capable Dennis Hopper my immediate reactions was that it would be goofy and probably undecipherable. Name five of hs films.

The Headlines:
--China/Euro Worries Have World Stocks Down; This After World Stocks Gain While US remembeed.
--Oils Dips To $72.
--US Missiles Kill Number al-Qaida’s Three.
--McChrystal Says Taliban Insurgents Coming From Iran.
--Israel Says Those Wanting To ban Nukes In Middle East Are Hypocrites.
--Israel Raids Convoy To Palestine; Netanyahu Cancels Obama Meet.
--Oil Problem Remains A Problem; Finger Pointing Continues.
--June Begins On Time.

Back to More Stuff:

Now with the down grading of Spain, it is becoming quite clear that all of these European models for the Obama dream are or will be crumbling socialist experiments.

Dismantle the government before it dismantles the nation.

Financial Advice ruse department:
It was reported that the five favorite companies of hedge fund managers are Apple, Bank of America, Google, Microsoft and JP Morgan/Chase. It suggested that small investors might use this list from the smartest people in the world as and investment guide. What it didn’t say is that Hedge fund managers have two months in which to make holdings public. In other words, by the time the people see them, they could easily have been sold. And as usual the folks are left holding an empty bag.

And then, there are the synonyms for the word “Hedge”! – Circumvent, dodge, duck, elude, evade, fudge, parry, put-off, sidestep and skirt. Maybe the new symbol of Wall Street should be the hedgehog.

I always thought that Gary Coleman was pretty funny. But he led a sad life after the glory years.

Is the traffic sign “SLOW Children Playing” politically incorrect?

I realize that it doesn’t bother many when over paid athletes and celebs lose all their money. But it does for some odd reason bother me. I wonder why advisors to the first time rich are so inept. It bothers me that people can be sucked into bad investments and frivolous spending. And that they can’t see all of the good they could do with new found riches, while sill living a luxurious life.

For a taxicab driver, a rainy day is fare weather.

How come the news media reports that the new Dem sponsored stimulus bill as passing largely along party lines when 14% of democrats voted against it?

And why would they think that wasting an additional $70 Billion is going to be a solution after $750 Billion gave us a steady 9.9% unemployment?

It will probably come out that Sesteck was offered the Secretary of the Navy job by Joe Biden. And Biden will get off with the plea “I didn’t know I was doing it”. (Chortle, Chortle) Actually, I plagiarized that line from Newt Gingrich. But then, I guess plagiarism is ok when Biden is involved.

Meanwhile, the Brown university women crew who can be seen laboring on the mighty Seekonk River in downtown Providence RI, continue to be on of the great sports programs in America.

Through the Same Eyes: Chapter74 continues. –“Yes.” I answered quickly again. Then I hedged “Well maybe I’d say we were acquaintances out of habit.” Was I looking odd to her? When the vandalism started in Fosterville, we worked together pretty closely with sheriff. I liked his intellectual side and enjoyed discussing the case with him.” She and Michael showed now emotion. “Have you talked to him?”
“Yes,” Michael answered.
“He is hard to read,” added Josie, “But, I would call him quietly charming.” She looked up at me. “How would you classify your acquaintance?” S he didn’t smile.
‘I would say he is stonily cold when he wants to be, but in reality he is fairly pleasant. But,” I added, “When you are talking about serious matters than he is interesting all of the time.”
“How are you feeling?” Michael asked out of the blue.
I looked at him and he appeared sincere. “I get tired,, but I’m happy to be back in the swing of my business” I paused. “Although this is definitely not what I expected”. Jack laughed. I decided that I should only answer what they ask. Primarily because Siegal was sitting there, and that’s what I knew she liked best. It isn’t me though.
Josie broke in. “We realize you have a new and perhaps important future client who needs your help. And we realize that you aren’t going to tell us everything unless we pull it out of you. And we know that you probably don’t like the prospects today of baking a tinged business that looked like a winner a month ago.” I looked at jack and he was expressionless. As was I. “But, the fact is that the more we look around we think something really quite odd is going on. And one of those things is your accident Mrs. Durham. It tells us that you might have known something. That said,” she continued and now rather emphatically while looking at Siegal, “We know you will play the legal game a
D we will attempt to be fair with you. But, the more you fight us, the more this episode will start ot air out in the public.”
Josie Rivera was no pussycat, I thought.

I don’t like all of this politicization of disasters. That goes for Bush and Katrina as well as The Great Mocker and The Oil Spill. They can’t stop the disaster nor are governments designed and equipped to repair the damage. All the pointing of fingers does is give Congress ideas about how to expand an already overwhelming big brother.

It is becoming obvious that too many people in 2008 voted for credible grammar and correct pronunciation over realistic thinking. Presidents cannot deny the existence of wars. Nor can they unilaterally dismiss practical solutions to difficult problems like housing of terrorist. It is impossible for Presidents to stop natural disasters or change human emotions. Rhetoric is the killer of societies.

I’d call eating a Tim Horton’s sausage, egg and cheese on a biscuit while sitting in a car going through a car wash uncomplicated living.

Could the “Pad” be the undoing of the great Microsoft Company. Big companies disintegrate pretty quickly these days. PC leaders H-P and Dell are starting to believe that the Pad is the way of the future, and they aren’t turning to Seattle for answers. H-P bought Palm for it’s smart phone software and Dell is s proposed Pad. going to use Google’s Droid software for it.

The Answer:
Hopper just finished Alpha and Omega. His alpha was Rebel without a Cause which launched James Dean. He also played along with Dean in The Giant. He is probably best known for his breakthrough movie Easy Rider. But I always, for some strange reason, remember him for the mind boggling Blue Velvet. You may also remember Rumble Fish, Apocalypse now and Speed which launched Sandra Bullock. He received an Oscar for Hoosiers. Hopper appeared in well over 100 films, so your choices may be far from mine.

Weird End:
As I look back on yesterday I am think of launching a new campaign for the betterment of Shut-ins. TV, radio and sports teams somehow forget about big weekends there for leaving all of those with no friends or family with out their favorite company…the TV. I think that Congress should pass a law to force networks to play their best every weekend, all year long. The friendless deserve it. Humans have to speak out…”we’re cuddly like pets too!”

Believe in your heart.

Today's Tids Issue 2,140
Opening Stuff:

Let’s hear it for thoughtful people. You know the kind of people…nice people who decided to so something nice for another human being just because it is a nice thing to do. It could be a small gesture for a husband or wife, sister or brother, lover, friend or complete stranger. Something a thoughtful person knows he or she does for someone else who may not even see it but somehow senses their life is a little better in some way. Without question, unrewarded thoughtfulness is one of the finest of human traits. Oh, did I say unrewarded? A thoughtful person always has the greatest of rewards…the goodness in their hearts.

On the other hand we have Wall Street. The losing turn-around yesterday was ascribed to “Euro Jitters”. I’m thinking that euro jitters is just the latest excuse of the day for traders who, in the face of increasing skepticism by the general public, want to justify taking profits. Remember when the market was supposed to reflect an economy 6 months down the road?

Diet books are successful because they reach a wide audience.

The Question:
Name the four terms used to define the severity of a declining stock market. And what are the percent of decline represented by each? Bonus Question: The Tilapia has become ubiquitous in seafood counters everywhere. What exactly is a tilapia?

The Headlines:
--Oil Leak Plugged.
--Stocks Rise As Large Debt Holder China Shows Confidence In Europe.
--Economic Rebound Slowed Last Quarter.
--9th Chinese IPhone assembly Line Worker Jumps to Suicide In Protest Of Bad Working Conditions At Job’s Factory.
--NK Rips Up Military Agreements With SK.
--Many States Set To Ban “Silly Bandz” In Schools; Child Bracelets Said To be disruptive.

Back to More Stuff:

The energetic BoSox (Chrystal Bowersox) overwhelmed the retiring DeWyze during last night’s AI finale. I will say that week after week leading up to the final choice, Lee D was consistently solid. But in this observers eyes BoSox grew each week and during the final two shows when the rubber meets the road, she was the power. I would say also after watching last night’s extravaganza that the finals could easily have been Bosox and Casey…and even Siobhan who was strong and professional. DeWyze may have been the fifth best performer on that stage last night. It’s all about the demographics of the voters. Plain and simple. He’s looked at as a “Heartthrob”. Why? I have no idea.

“Hang on Sloopy” by The McCoys is still one of those songs that gets my juices aflowin’.

How come it takes a recession to get the roads fixed? I and all others have been paying taxes for our entire working lives and one of the things most think we should be getting is decent roads. It couldn’t be that the government officials are squandering our money? Nah!

I like to read those little columns entitled something like “On This Date in History”. I have noticed of late that many of the most exciting accomplishments occurred in 1937. Kudos to those born in that year.

Writing handwritten notes on the steering wheel while driving is much more dangerous than texting. I cringe at the many little acts of stupidity of my life time which today have been declared criminal acts.

I don’t think the majority of hard working Americans ask for much from their taxes. Good roads, garbage pick-up, police, fire and education. And on the national side defense and…and…and…jeez, I don’t know what else we need from the Feds.

Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 74 continues. Just as I started to say Hi to our own smiling receptionist, Bill came around the corner. His eyes reflected the mood of the environment I felt as he elevator doors opened. Molly said “It is so nice to see you back here Mrs. Durham. I wish it was a happier day.”
“Why? What happened,” I started to ask. But, Bill interrupted and said let’s go to your office. I made a funny grimace at Molly and she actually smiled a little more cheerily.
Bill wasn’t so cheery. In fact Bill was not in the slightest like the boy I promoted two months ago. I placed my laptop next to the desk, looked around to see that everything seemed to be the way I left it. That was comforting. I always look for comfort just before the storm. I sat and spun my chair towards Bill who was now sitting to my left in front of the desk. “Well, it’s nice to see you too, Bill!” I said with syrupy sarcasm.
“Sorry, Boss,” He answered quickly but still somberly. “I’m a little nervous. The FBI showed up here this morning. You couldn’t have picked a worse day to ease your way back into work.” The phone rang. “That is probably Jack”, advised Bill. He watched me pick up the Phone.
FBI I thought as I placed the receiver to my ear. “Maggie, get down here.” Then dead air. “Oh, and welcome back.” Jack hung up.
I looked up quickly into Bill’s eyes. “So?”
“The FBI wants to talk to us about BiEmbryo. They have been with Jack most of the morning. I have a feeling Jack is dying in there and will throw everything your way as soon as you walk in.”
“He should!”. I stood up. “This isn’t going to be a walk down the Main street of Fosterville.” I smiled down at Bill. I think he enjoyed it.

The new Governor of New Jersey hit it on the nose when he told a complaining teacher that if the amount of salary wasn’t sufficient that maybe she should seek another career. And explained that the revenue to support government style jobs is finite. Do they still teach economics in High School?

Is the ragin’ Cajon Carvelle starting to beat the drum for his candidate Hillary for 2012? His blasting of Obama yesterday over the oil spill certainly looked like the first salvo against The Hill’s opponent. Then of course, he went on to beat unmercifully BP, which made it also appear that he was on the payroll of oil spill litigation lawyers.

The Answer: The four levels of a declining stock market are “Noise” (0-4.9%), “Pullback” (5-9.9%), Correction (10-19.9%) and Bear Market” (20%+). Bonus Q Answer: Tilapia is a fresh water, warm climate bottom feeder that grows fast and big and is ideal for aquaculture. Not only does this fish have the commercial advantage of reaching edible size quickly, its fast growth and relatively short life assures minimum amount of mercury in the system. This popular fish is also herbivorous assuring that there are plenty of edible delicacies for other fish and less algae and oxygen sucking plants that undermine pond or lake health. But, as most New England fisherman say, “It isn’t Seafood”.

End Tids:
The Celtics are making me really, really nervous.

Hey Arlen Spector…the American Idol job is open.

I thought Paul Abdul was excellent in last night’s tribute to Cowell.

The real uncontrollable "Spill".

Today's Tids Issue 2,131
Opening Stuff:

Among the many problems in the world, there is one going on under the radar and it is about how fast the US of A is approaching “Critical Mass”. That moment when the number of people who are getting something for nothing from the government is a larger voting block than those contributing to the economic growth. When that point is reached, it will be impossible to cap the slippery flow.

Have you noticed that the big problems in Europe are the result of attaining another critical mass: That point where it has become impossible to finance the promises of socialism.

Friday always makes me hungry. Mention Friday and I start thinking Grillday, Broilday, Boilday, Sautéday and Roastwithgravyday. Oh, it hurts.

The Question:
Frank Sinatra died 12 years ago today. Name five of his top songs…Fast!...no thinking allowed.

Weekend Bonus Q: In honor of the anniversary of the last Seinfeld show, name the ten most frequently seen “secondary” characters. Fast!

The Headlines:
--Celtic Oust Cavs.
--Small Business Lobby Protests In DC Against health care Implementation.
--Space Shuttle Atlas Fueled For Last Launch.
--Oil falls Back To $73; Demand Way Down.
--Billboard In Buffalo Greets Obama: “Get Me a Freakin’ Job.”
--Consumer Spending Up More Than Expected; Though Far Lower Than March, 7th Consecutive Month Good News; Industrial Production Up.
--European Economy Still Major Concern; Stock Futures Down.

Back to More Stuff:

Remember that a return to our manufacturing greatness that inspires visions of building rockets to the moon and sleek non-polluting automobiles, also means hiring people who put silly puddy in little plastic eggs.

It is kind of a sad testimony to today’s national leadership vacuum problem when, as one wag pointed out, Kalgan’s strongest points are no experience and no paper trail. In other words it is no longer whether or not you are good, courageous or responsible…it is merely a matter of not being tied to something bad.

College for all is basically a bad idea. Advanced skill training for all is another story.

Lobbyists Rule Department:
Here is a little, current congressional event that indicates why the voter is becoming more and more helpless. Congress is considering passing a law than would ban direct shipments of wine from vineyards to consumers or small retailers under the guise of it being bad for teens. Of course small retailers laugh saying “when was the last time you saw a teen buying $30/bottle wine, or waiting for a two week delivery to get soused”. It is all about the lobby for Booze distributors anteing up to disingenuous lawmakers. Just one more, small example of how the people are no longer represented.

Did you hear about the heir to the family business who got ahead on will power?

One of the hardest words to define any more is “Normal”. What is normal? As in what is a normal family any more. Or fine dining to one maybe Sake and Miso Caramelized Chilean Sea Bass while to another it is the irresistible Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy. To most illegal means criminal while to others it means unfortunate masses looking for opportunity. Or how about a son who is an athlete versus one who is a chef. And of course there are Women’s and Black groups who don’t consider conservative women or blacks…women or black. The point is that in these times Normal is among the most paralyzing words of our day. Tomorrow we will work on the word “Understanding”.

BTW, in a new AP/ Univision Poll Hispanics voted overwhelmingly to allow illegal’s in the country, saying that they consider Illegal immigration a “Boom” as opposed to a burden to the taxpayer. I guess they also have read up on the theory of Critical Mass.

One of my favorite colomnists Kathleen Parker must be reading the Tids. She picked up on our last week’s columns that wondered why the 0-Man doesn’t regard Geography as part of that overworked word “Diversity”. She went on to wonder as we how it could be considering diversity if the three women on the court would all be considerably left leaning and all from the heart of New York City.

Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 72 Continues. –I tried to bring myself back to normalcy. “Glad to hear you had a productive morning,” I started. “You are much more than my loving husband,” I said lightly, almost amusingly. I looked up. Sally looked more comfortable, although Paul seemed still a little tense. “..what you are doing technically is part of what gives our people confidence that we are going to turn BiEm into a big winner.” That made Paul smile a little. Success in his work has always been so important to him.
“Thanks Sarah,” He said simply. But now he was settling in.
“Before we were interrupted abruptly by Mr. Middleton,” I looked at Paul but showed no reaction, “Sally and I were trying to understand more about Bromsky.” I paused. And maybe his relationship, if any with Middleton.”
Sally jumped in, “Oh, I don’t think there a was ever a relationship between Kent and Seymore, just an irreconcilable competition. While I like Kent a lot, and love working for him, he is nearly a megalomaniac. And,” she continued now a little embarrassed, “hated this challenge thrown at him by Isabelle.”
Very interesting I thought. All of a sudden I have gotten over my temporary emotional breakdown. “I’m glad we weren’t talking about Laura when Kent sneaked in”.
“Laura!” Paul said quickly. “I often saw her with Bromsky, but never thought much about it since she was his niece. I have to admit now that I look back that she looked much more serious than a flighty teen as I watched through the glass walled office her talk, almost lead Seymour in discussions.”.

I have probably mentioned this before, but I laugh every time our local newspaper hails in a headline that our two US Senators, “The Puppet and the Dunce” are firmly behind this admin issue. Like…so?

Reading between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--Robin Hood is not your father’s Robin Hood. It is gritty, which is about what I expected. It is more of a prequel to the story that most of us know. Robin is an archer in Richard’s crusading army. Marion is a rugged farm housewife fighting off thieves while hubby is off with Richard. No Friar Tuck. No tights. No caps with cute feathers. So don’t go to reminisce. But go and enjoy a good middle ages film with plenty of bad guys and excitement.
--Letters to Juliet looks like a nice romantic tale. In Verona, home of one of the great all time love stories, a group of women called Juliet’s Secretaries answer letters from the forlorn. A soon to be married American women, Sophia, decides to join the group and discovers a fifty year old letter from a then 16 yo. who was forced by parents to give up the quest of her lover. Sophia invites her to come to Verona so she could help her find this now 50 year older man of her dreams. The older women brings along her son, a wisecracking arrogant boy who soon uses Sophia as his target for barbs. Will they find the rejected lover? Will Sophia and the nasty son find true love? Pretty good yarn.
--Just Wright starring Queen Latife is a very predictable romantic comedy…with little resemblance to anything comedic or romantic. You could avoid and not feel guilty.

The Answer:
One Sinatra expert picks these five best ballads and five best toe-tappers Ballads : One for My Baby, Angel Eyes, It Never Entered My Mind, I’ve Got a Crush on You and You Go to My Head. Toe-Tappers: I’ve Got You Under My Skin, I Get a Kick Out of You, From this Moment On, How About You and I won’t dance. Check out the entire list of 50!: http://cinepad.com/sinatra/best_songs.htm

Weekend Bonus: Ruthie Cohen tops the list with 101 appearances. Newman is a strong second with 48. The rest are Frank Costanza, Estelle Costanza, Susan Ross, Monty Seinfeld, Jacopo Peterman, George Steinbrenner, Uncle Leo and Mr. Wilhelm.

Time for Nothin':Congratulations on great answers! Isn’t great to know you have accomplished something on Friday?

Love lolling this weekend!

Procrastinate or die.

Today's Tids Issue 2,128
Opening Stuff:
This morning was so spectacularly beautiful that you almost forgot that the stock market sucks.

I went to Ben’s Hot Dogs for lunch yesterday. A couple of days earlier there was a story about Jerry, younger brother of Ben selling the local institution to some other relatives…after forty three years of serving up nothing but hot dogs and mustard, chili, onions, cheese or relish. And I mean nothing else. O, maybe a coffeemilk or two. So I said to Jerry, “I thought you were leaving?” He answered, which is rare in itself, “I’m still helping out, but I come in a few less minutes each day.” I replied, “I see, you have to “wiener” yourself away!”. He smiled for the first time that I ever saw.

The Question:
“The Pill” turns fifty today. What are the most popular forms of birth control methods by percentage of usage by women?

The Headlines:
--Deadly Tornados Rage In Midwest.
--Stocks Fall Dramatically In Opening Trading; I Guess A trillion Doesn’t Buy What It Used To.
--European Euphoria Fizzles.
--Toyota Sales Up; Q Profit At $1.2 Bil.
--SEC begins Investigation Of Moody’s On Charges Of Misleading Public.
--Fannie Mae Wants You To Reach In Pocket For $8.4 Billion More After $13.5 Billion Loss.
--New Congressional Hearings Kick Off Oil Spill Blame Game.
--RI’s Portsmouth Abbey Takes New England Sailing Championship Again: Top Four After Abbey Are Hotchkiss (CT) Darien HS (CT) and St George (RI).

Back to More Stuff:

Looks like a trillion can do wonders for the stock market…for a day or two anyhow. Or maybe 18 hours.

24-um: –The big questions now is how does Jack rehab his reputation and ride quietly off into the sunset with only three hours left and everybody against him? Actually, they need to set it up for the planned movie. Which will probably begin with him escaping from jail or a mental hospital. –President Allison has slid into a morass.

So Babwa, what’s this heart trauma for ratings bit all about. I thought you might be above this kind of crass commercialism. And the episode was really over the top as a featurette on the Nightly News programs.

America will really hit bottom when Congress passes a law mandating the wearing of helmets by golfers.

I'm thinking that the geniuses on Wall Street are impotent unless governments can tap into taxpayers wallets for their benefit. A trillion is a lot for a temporary thrill. Hey, but at least it keeps the Clueless Laners standard of living up.

A bailout by any other name is still a bailout.

So basically this new Supreme Court to better represent the American People may have as its last two woman from New York City. It there a more narrow minded group than New Yorkers, especially New York elitists. Somehow balance has become to mean race and gender. But how about geography. How does another Bronxite represent the thoughts of an Oklahoman or an Alaskan or an Alabaman? Kagan may be the smartest, fairest person on earth, but I doubt if she sees into the heart of Willie Buzzard sittin’ on his rocker on a front porch in West Virginia.

Crooked Politician Tricks Department:
Three members of the North Providence RI Town Council, including the Chairman have been charged with serious bribery misconduct in dealings with developers.. One of their last big boondoggles was a $10,000 trip to Disneyland for a town government conference where they heard many helpful talks including “Guarding the Public Checkbook” and Local Economic Development: the Good, the bad and the ugly.” No kidding. I didn’t make that up.

Through the Same Eyes: Chapter 71 continues. –Sarah/Maggie didn’t see or hear me as I walked into Sally’s office. Sally’s eyes flicked my way, but she didn’t react. I stood quietly 3-4 feet behind Sarah.
“So,” Sarah continued her inquiry, “Bromsky was a very competitive man. And would do just about anything to get ahead. Is that about right”. Sally answered yes.
“So,” continued Sarah, most people knew of Bromsky’s intensity,” she paused, “almost uncontrollable need to win.”
“Need is a good word,” affirmed Sally. Sally never glanced my in my direction.
Sarah slouched a little in her chair. She looked comfortable. Sally may have been comfortable too, if I wasn’t there. “Would you say that Kent Middleton was smarter that Seymore, or the other way around.” Sally, obviously didn’t want to answer this. So I did.
“Why Sarah, I’m surprised you would even ask such a question.” Her head spun so fast I thought she might have hurt herself. Now she looked very tense. Too tense.
“How long have you been there,” she said quickly gaining composure.
“Oh, just a minute or so. I saw you walk in here, I came over but didn’t want to interrupt. Sorry if I scared you.” I walked up behind her, close behind her, and put my hands on the back of the chair. Out of the sight line of Sally I moved my thumb in a caressing manner over the back of her neck. I felt her shudder.

The Answer: Women like it this way. The pill at 31% leads the way. Next is tubal sterilization at 27% followed by condoms at 18% and vasectomy 8%

The end, I think:
I used to be a pretty good procrastinator, but reality is becoming much more intrusive.