Snow shoveling is fun. And cheaper than joining a gym.

Today's Tids Issue 2,766

Opening Stuff

 

Yesterday I went down to explore the facilities of a health club. After they showed me the sauna, the pool and all of the cardio and muscle building machines, I came home and took a nap. Amazing how deep a sleep can be after thinking about a little exercise!

Yet another Democrat has announced an idea to tax the wealthy, and this time it was in RI...where there are fewer and fewer wealthy left. Do you know why there are fewer wealthy left in this state. Because they have been taxed and regulated out, and have taken there businesses and jobs with them. RI is destined to go from a state in the Union, to a union called a state.

The Question:
1. Name five types of machines found in Gyms/Health Clubs. Bonus: What's the difference between Sunnis and Shiites

The Headlines:
--Snow Total Predictions For Northeast Storm Raised To 3 Feet.
--Catholic Church Rejects Latest Obama Compromise On Contraceptive Coverage.
--Cal Manhunt For Crazed Ex-La Cop Continues.
--US Trade Gap Sinks To 2 Year Low; Big Decline Due To Surge In Petroleum Exports And Jet Planes; US Gap Improves Against All major Trading Regions..
--Hacker Gets Into GW Bush Emails Of Last 3 Years; Stolen Info Includes Pics Of family And Security Code for Ranch.
--34 more Iraqis Killed In Bombings.

An intelligent reader pointed out a big error I made yesterday in my report on the 10 greatest philosophers. He said I forgot Linus Van Pelt. I agreed wholeheartedly. Another keen observer wanted me to add Cicero who warned against officialdom arrogance that could precipitate a fall.

Got an idea that sounds dumb, try it -- Department:
There's a pretty successful web site in the DC area called Politwoops.com that collects politician's deleted Tweets! There's big bucks in information that politicians don't want the people to see.

During the infamous '78 Blizzard, I was working away in my Needham Mass office. I remember looking out the window and seeing a little snow falling. I decided to leave shorly for my 1 1/2 journey home to Glastonbury Conn. My friend in the next office, also from Conn, said he was going to stay a while longer. I got in my '76 Chevy and started. I quickly got to the Mass Pike and went west. I was moving well, until somewhere around Framingham, where the snow began to close over the remaining black. By Worcester I was going about 20 mph, steady but nervous. Watching cars slide offf the road. My knuckles whitened. My body tensed, and I plowed on. It was about 2 oclock. 2 hours for a normally 37 minute trip. The Mass Pike got worse. Emergency vehicles became the norm. Finally, Sturbridge where the storm was raging. Would there be fewer cars on I 84? The first part was icy, slippery. The snow was falling harder., The winds were blowing, My hand often reached out the window to the hard working wipers, clearing away chunks of ice. The roads improved in the hills of Connecticut. Well I made it. Many hours more than usual and one tired body later, I made it, safe infront of the fireplace, with a smiling family. My office friend didn't leave soon enough. He found a motel small room around the corner -- where he was marooned for a week! And, where the Natonal Guard delivered food. Chiken ala King. But, he was one of the lucky ones.

When I read a story about a Delacroix painting at the Louvre being defaced by an asshole, I just go berzerk. I'm am so tired of uncaring irresponsible people. I bet the defacer started out as a litter bug.

I remember the reason why I didn't join a gym the last time I  considered exposing my body to extreme physical pain. they wouldn't let me wear boat shoes.

The Obama Admin still thinks that the controversy over Catholic angst about the contraceptive coverage is not about the First Amendment.

If my writng seems a little down this fine stormy day, it's because a good reader chastised me this morning in an email for waxing poetic about the beauty and peacefulness of God's snow, while forgetting those who may be isolated in a dark, heatless apartment. Then, I'm thinking, why is Thoreau so idolized when all he did was sit in a tree and dream of God's natural beauty while responsible citizens of the world were working hard, contributing to society.

I'll be rooting for John Lester all the way this year.

There are so many numbers floating around these days, delivered conveniently via many new devices, that a lot of it is accepted, stored in minds but not analyzed. Accepted for what they appear to be. Now, I expect just about everybody believes that eCommerce  (Retail buying through the Internet) is going bananas (Not Republic) and will soon dominate all purchases thus making retail Brick and Mortar (B&M) stores obsolete. For instance, the just reported full year retail eCom sales were $186 Billion, up 15%. In addition, the 4th Q's $56 Bil was the first ever $50 Bil Q. No end in sight, right? Not so fast. Experts see signs of slowing among the hoopla. B&M stores are learning the ways of the Internet, cheaper prices, faster shipping -- and even more important a large percentage of the population still wants to "feel" befoe buying. For every Amazon (Over half of all eCom sales) there are many who are failing or slowing. This is just one example of big numbers clouding reality. It's always good these days to be skeptical.

Reading Between the Lines Movie Reviews:
--First, we have a winner, at least from this man's perspective. Side Effects is about a successful uptown NYC couple who's life falls apart after Hubby (Channing Tatum) gets jail time for Stock fraud, and upon release the wife (Roony-Mara) goes to psychaitrist (Jude Law) who prescribes untested medicine that has strange side effects. We can't tell you any more because it would ruin many surprises and plot shifts. Just go and enjoy the tension. You will be entertained.
--Then we have Identity Theft, which, judging by the promo trailers, I would never even consider watching. Then  the add Malissa McCarthy as the buffoon fat lady comic, and you couldn't drag me to it. It just bad movie ruining a story that might have been good. Editors Note: To let you know where I am coming from. Malissa McCarthy is proudly promoted as "the actor who stole the show in Birdesmaids". I thought McCarthy was incredibly annoying there, bordering on disgusting. I would cringe every time she walked on screen.

The Conscience:
Chapter 14 continues.
  "What are you doing here scaring me with a gun," I answered quickly an stupidly.
   She just stood there with that look of incredulity that told me quickly she owned the joint.
   "Ok, I get it, you own the place, but how come you're working in the dark with a flash light?" I smiled the look of a victor. Then I altered trying to appear less smug, which I had no right to be. "Ok, I shouldn't be here. But, the door was open and I walked in."
   Again, she just stood there, a beautiful woman, with that Mediterranean skin and those incredible dark eyes. I decided to look and not speak. I waited.
   "Follow me." She walked towards he door. She stopped and cracked it, and lowered her head to peer through the slit opening. She stood motionless for a good minute. She turned to me and put her finger to her lips. She opened the door just wide enough so she then I could slip through, She motioned d me to go to the other side of the door an stand close to the building. She was very still, looking around and listening. She must be scared of something. Maybe I wasn't imaging a conspiracy down here. She pulled a key out of her pocket and locked the door. She walked urgently to the edge and stopped once more. She whispered that I should go right down that alley -- she nodded her head -- and that she was going straight. She said she would find me, and not to do anything, stupido. She smiled at that and walked , almost ran across the openign to the next hidden ally. I did the same.
  Within a few seconds of my reaching the end of the next large warehouse, she showed up next to my side. almost magical. "Let's go for a drink somewhere." She said. "I think you and I need to be allies," she paused, "for now." She smiled, turned and I followed. This seems to be my new calling. I was thinking I'd follow that smile anywhere.

The Answer:
1. There are many devices for cardio stimulation including treadmills, stationary bikes, elipticals, rowers and stepping machines. For weight lifting you have Power-racks and Smith Machines, Leverage and Pulley Weight Machines and free weights. They all look scary to me. Bonus: Ok, 90% of all Muslims are Sunnis with most of the Shiites living in Iran, Iraq and Yemen. Both sects began in 632 and disagrree on the successor of The Prophet. For the Sunnis it is Abu Bakr, Father of the Prophet's wife Aishah. For the Shiites it is Ali Ibn Abi Tahib, husband of The Prophets daughter Fatimah. Shiites believe that Al Mahdi will come in th future while the Shiites say he is already on earth as the hidden Imam who works through Mutjahids to interpret the Quran. The Sunnis believe their leaders are human and the Shiites say their Imams are infallible manifestations of God. Got it.

I've got to start making these Tids shorter. But then, what else is there to do on a nice snowy day.

I hope everybody in Florida gets a sunburn today.

Love your weekend everybody!

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

Send

The Void.

Today's Tids Issue 2.767

Opening Stuff

 

Well, I feel  like I just finished, the marathon, played sixty minute of football, defense and offense. Or is it that I just am recovering from intense snow shoveling. Actually it feels grrrrrrrrrrrrr-eat!

You could feel the tension while watching the convergence. The incessant roar of what we already knew versus the potential for diversion. As you sat your body rigid in anticipation,you already knew the answer. You had a smidgeon of hope in your heart, but you knew the local TV reporters would not give up their right to stand in the snow, pointing out what you could see out the window -- it was snowing. You knew in your heart, that when the 7:00 Pm hour rolled around, they would preempt Wheel of Fortune. You knew it would happen, but you had hope til the last possible second. Aaaaarrrgh!

How about that Pope? For the first time in 600 years a Pope resigned while in the Holy Seat. I was just getting to know the guy. Many original skeptics were saying, he's now so bad after all. And now, he's going, where, The Villages? Nobody knows, because a Pope just doesn't retire. But, you have to feel for the man who is the leader of 1.6 Billion Catholics. It's a changing world of religion out there, and for sure the Catholic Church is one among all churches that is undergoing or contemplating the effect of many possible changes. Would a new Pope soften the idea of female Priests or Marriage for priests? It will be an interesting three months for Catholic observers.

The Question:

1. What are the qualifiers for the College Of Cardinals who will elect a new Pope? Bonus: What is a Catch 22?

The Headlines:

--Pope Benedict Steps Down; First Pope To Resign In 600 Years; Health, Age Cited As Reasons; Will Be Gone By Feb 28; New Pope Expected By May.

--US Companies Lower Outlook For 1st Q Earnings And Revenue To 1.5% Average; 4th Q Around 6%.

--Anti Gun Crowd Steps Up Propaganda Ahead Of 0-Man State Of Union.

--Poll Says Americans Most Interested In Economy, Deficit.

--Hattiesburg Miss Devastated By Tornado; Northeast Digs Out.

--$1 Million Offered In Reward For ex-LA Killer Cop.

--Freeh Report On Sandusky/Paterno Said To be "Rush To Judgment" Energized By Frenzied Media; Paterno Family Battling Or Joe's Legacy.

--Wa;; Street Lower; Retail Sales Expected To Miss Forecasts.

Does the world really need two months of Spring Training?

What's with this nation's infatuation with the criminal elements of society -- a 12 million Twitter following for wife batterer Chris Brown; Hero worship for LA Cop killer Dormer, fans following on Twitter and building FaceBook pages in his honor. A lone man fighting the establishment.

This snow storm was not unlike many with similar accumulations; Storms like we've had all our lives. A power outage made sleeping a little chilly for a couple of days, or disrupted water from wells. But, we survive. It snows, you take a day off. I have to say, that yesterday, Sunday was the most beautiful day of the year.

I think the world began to deteriorate when the Catholic Church eliminated the Latin Mass. It was the beginning of lowering standards which is so prevalent in today's society.

In studying paradoxes, consider this crocodile dilemma: If a croodile steals a child and promises its return if the father can correctly guess what the crocodile will do, how should the crocodile respond in the case that the father correctly guesses that the child will not be returned. Something to think about.

People from Colorado to North Dakota to Michigan and even upper New York State have to be smirking, or is it snickering, watching the incessant broadcasts about the hardship for NYC people getting a foot of snow. Pretty reporters bundled up in the latest outer ware crying the blues over a beautiful snowflakes. If I were a New Yorker I'd be embarrassed to talk to a Midwesterner, who might see two feet of new fallen snow an a daily basis.

It's kind of a paradoxical watching power fail due to falling tree limbs most likely which were still hanging there because of environmentalist protests. And thinking of these hardy outdoors lovers of the woods sitting in their rustic country homes keeping warm with wood stoves.

It must becasue they know how to cut down their trees with tender affection. "Is that hurting, you dear?" Whack!

Wound you be surprised to see an editorial in the NY Times urging the Catholic Church to seek diversity, to elect a transgender, African Pope? 

I was so cloistered by affects of snow this past weekend, I had little chance to to observe the foibles of humanity. I did notice pretty clearly tough, people getting together, helping each other get back together.

And, then there are those who love to complain in general, and the snow provides sniping opportunities at many levels. It's one reason why Governemtn is so expensive.

I did notioce that commercial parking lots were all beautifully plowed while city streets were basically series of ruts. Must be more money in commercial plowing. Or perhaps, the governments aren't spending our tax money wisely. Nah.

On the subject of incompetence, I watched a town employee plow the parking lot behind my downtown abode. First, it was a particularly inadequate job, but the worst was that when I went down stairs outside. The doofus had decided that the opening for our garage door was a great place to deposit all of the snow! Yikes.

A reader reports that Side Effects is a double "WoW!" movie.

The Answer:

1. The College of Cardinals runs the Church between the time of a Pope's death or resignation until the election. There is only one qualification for voting -- Cardinal must be under the age of 80. Bonus: A Catch 22 is a situation in which someone is in need of something that can only be had by not being in need of it.

We had our beautiful Winter for a day or so, and now we will be into slush for a week. But that's life on the Coast. It's just what it is.

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

Send

Diamonds or chocolates. Or just plain love.

Today's Tids Issue 2,764

Opening Stuff

 

Whack! Can you hear it? Can you hear that cracking sound that feels like power? A familiar sound that cuts through the almost silent murmur of hands reaching into popcorn bags. The beautiful sound that overrides the collective snaps of shelled peanuts. The rising shouts, "Get ya cold beeeeer heaya!" The sounds of baseball, The harbinger of Spring. The wizards with mitts. The brutes with bats. The throwers with magnificent arms. Balls curving, jumping, whizzing. Yes the equipment truck just left Boston and other major league cities, heading south and west for spring training. Beautiful baseball is back. Whack! Can you hear that crack of the bat? I can.

I'm having trouble writing the Tids these days, with all of these radio ads for chocolates. My mouth begins to water and eventually some moisture slips between the keys shorting out my computer. As they say, PTI.

The Question:
Where did the Federal get its money before the Income Tax Amendment?

The Headlines:
--Newport RI Named Only US Port Of Call City For 2014/15 Volvo Around The World Sailing Race.
--Continuing Low Interest For Bonds Has Investors Moving Back Into Stocks.
--Obama Names CEO Of Conservation Steward Company, REI (Recreation Euipoment Inc) Secretary Of Interior.
--Post Office To End Saturday Mail By August.
--Ahmadinejad Seeks "Axis" With Egypt.
--America Awaits Word This Morning Of Monopoly Piece Voted Out By Fans.
--Congress CBO Says Debt Could Be 77% Of GDP By 2022; US In For Slow Growth In 2013, And Some Debt Reduction.
--New Demonstrations In Tunisia ("Cradle Of Arab Spring") After Secular Leader Is Killed.
--Pacific Earthquake Generates Tsunami; Kills 6 In Solomons.

Some names being flipped on the table for GOP candidate in 2016 are Jeb Bush, Chris Christie and Marco Rubio. Bush is a good guy, smart politician, but the populace just isn't going to elect a third Bush within 27 years. Christie has had to play the moderate to get things done in a Northeast State. But he's tougher than nails, and I think would make a great President. And I mean great. Marco Rubio is also pretty strong and has the potential of appealing to the broadest mixed group of Republican factions. That's the way I look at my personal slate, but you also have to throw in Rick Santorum who proved himself as a tough competitor last primary. I grew to like him again myself -- oh, let me rephrase that, he came back to that point where I had always liked him. But, he may be too conservative. Remember the Idea here is to beat Hillary.

There's something that always bothered me about having to buy special expensive gifts to show love. To express feelings. Love should just be there.

The Ford Fusion looks like a tough, well built, decently designed car to me. It seems to possess that same "feel" that European car makers have conveyed for years.

Or maybe, It's just the word "expensive" that gets in the way.

Word of the Day -- Illecebrous: Alluring, attractive, enticing; A great word for St. Valentine Day poems.

If I were allowed to only complain about one single thing about President Obama, it would be his constant damning of the rich by asking for higher taxes. Higher taxes have little or no impact on the big problems of the country. His constant barrage of the rich is classic socialism. Pure and simple. Forget the cliched replies by the haughty left.

TV Department:
--Smash came back last night, and it was good, Te storyline moved into new areas and a different kind of music. The Marilyn stuff was becoming boring to me. The one time sweet Katherine McPhee character is becomng annoying. --Tonight returns the Cold War spy drama The Americans on Fx at 10:00. Could be my new favorite.

Speaking of income redistribution, I'm going to the taxman today. It's the day that reminds you that you really aren't free, after all.

BTW, how come a Constitution laced with Freedoms allowed an amendment that took away a person's ability to spend their money as they wished? Huh?

The Conscience:
Chapter 14 continues.
   I was breathing hard, and beginning to feel a little queazy. My bravado was fading fast. It must have n-been those booze bar nips that gave me the false imp[ression that i should be standing here under the shadow of a building that I know for sure harbors at least one possible hit-man, or thug. I reached into my hip pouch for a nip of, ah bourbon this time. Nice change I thought as I inhaled it. Oe n left in my rescue pack.
  I stood stone still for a couple of moments enjoying the sensation of the liquid course through my body, and finally signalling ot my brain -- you are once again brave. I slid around, staying close to the wall to the side opposite the more populace walkway I just left. It was blacker here. A better place for a surprise mugging. I could see for several hundred feet in three directions, and I had just come from the fourth direction. I walked towards the middle of the building to a spot that looked like a door, ducking beneath two darkened windows as I went.
   I was particularly brave now, knowing thatthe door was most possibly locked. I pt my hand on the latch. and lifted. The door popped open from the rpessure of being jammed shut. Shit! I thought. I  inhaled deeply again, pulled the door open to body width and entered. I immediately backed to the black wall next to the door, awhile pulling the door shut. I could not see a thing. What did I expect to find, anyhow? Why am I here.
   What was that? Every thing stopped including my heart. It couldn't be anybody, right? Nobody else would be standing in the dark? Would they? I decided to move before the bourbon wore off.

The Answer:
Before 1913, the Feds got their money from indirect taxation like tariff duties, corporate and various excise taxes. As it would be if we enacted a  Value Added Tax over the current system. *Now get this: In 1894, Congress passed a law that would impose a 2% tax on people earning over $,000 (That was less than 1% of the population). However, barely a year after it was enacted, the Supreme Court declared the tax unconstitutional. In a 5-4 ruling in Pollack v. Farmers’ Loan & Trust Co., 158 US 601, the high court decided that the income tax, as a direct tax, was forbidden by Article I, Section 9, of the Constitution. This ruling prohibited direct taxes on individuals unless apportioned on the basis of the population of each state.

If we changed to a VAT, value added tax, the Government would become the chief promoters of conspicuous consumption, and US factories would be humming again!

So folks, that's why we have happy accountants. Unsung heroes who go to battle each spring to give hope to Americans everywhere. The guys in trenches with green eyeshades who really contribute every year, their own sweat and blood into making the Governemtn "Fair". It is why every hour before the taxman I put on the CD honor the men and women who make up the Legion of USA Tax Accountants:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dGoJxZqyFAc

LUSATA all the way!

Is Fairness, Freedom?

Today's Tids Issue 2,765

Opening Stuff

 

Often a person who leaves the crowd is classified a loner; Yet, an individual often found beating new paths through unknown landscapes; An innovator who millions will follow, and who will thrive because of it.

Maybe we should broaden the scope of the 2nd Amendment. The way I see it, the original purpose of that amendment was to protect citizens against tyranny in government. Freedom from monarchies and government over-reach was paramount in the minds of those fresh from the revolution, now crafting a new and better society. Assuring that all could retain and bear arms was certainly a most meaningful symbol of enabling citizen protection. Today, though, the government threatens on so many more fronts. Drones watching from above, cameras on street corners and programs within computers following every move, reporting every action. The government today with technology could deaden a population without a shot being fired. The 2nd Amendment should also arm the populace against all Government intrusion; The ability for every citizen to neutralize any and all aggression by a government subverting inalienable human rights.

Hey, wait a minute, we already have protection against cyber scrutiny in the fourth amendment.

During WWII the population often found certain products rationed. One was for leather in general and shoes in particular. The Government decreed that one person could only buy three pairs of shoes per year. Three pairs of shoes per year! That's a luxury to me.

The Question:
I seem to be a bit philosophical today. Who are considered the ten greatest all time philosophers?

The Headlines:
--Leon Penetta Testifying About Benghazi.
--New Apps For Unemployment Bennies 366,000; Retailers Post Strong Sales Revenue For January.
--Euro Tumbles.
--CIA Nominee Brennan Expected to be Grilled Over "Kill Americans" Edict.
--American/ US Airways To Combine; Would Form Largest Airline.
--Northeast Gearing Up For Blizzard.
--Iran's Highest Authority, Ayatollah Ali Koumenei, Slaps Down Idea Of Direct Talks With USA.
--Florida Python Population At 100,000; Tids Editor Expected To Stay In North.
--90% Of Americans Support Background Checks Before Gun Purchases.

Frankly, I love a good blizzard. The fury of the snow blurring the horizon. Piling, piling up. After the rage, silence. Mounds of snow that seem to absorb all sound. After the rage, beauty. A cleansed world. The world as a virgin, untouched. The peace of being quietly alone. A time to turn off the intruders and live in an unfettered world. For a moment

Dems are well known for answering the questions by inventing circumventing excursions that are not there. For instance, many have a problem with defining groups of people who unlawfully enter the USA with the phrase, "Illegal Immigrants", saying it is offensive or racist. How do you apply the racist slur to defining as illegal, Canadians sneaking in? And offensive...how offensive is it to all of those millions of immigrants who came to America legally not to call the lawbreakers illegal. The dismissal of the phrase "illegal immigrants" just drives me utterly out of my mind. And even more-so, labeling people who refuse to dilute legal standards -- anti-immigration.

The fours college majors with the highest unemployment percentage today are #1 Architect followed by Information Services, Philosophy and Religious studies and Liberal Arts. The Architect decline are just a result of the slow housing problem. Information Services is a meningless description which is now better served by majors in Computer Sience. Of course, Liberal Arts and Philosophy are great mind training options, often the basis for higher degrees in Law or teaching.

I am a big proponent in Liberal Arts education. Building a thinking mind helps people create, weather painting a masterpiece or writing a novel; repairing a leaky pipe or examining a tax return. More often than not colleges today are emphasizing "How to be" rather than "To be".

Preserving freedom is much more important than assuring fairness. Because freedom is the fairest philosophy of all. It enables people to be who they are, to exhibit their talents, to forge their own way, to achieve on their own. What isn't fair is putting people at the head of the line. Definng which talents, which type of person is more acceptable to society. Freedom enlivens. Fairness dampens.

The Dems and left really don't like the Obama/Holder memo authorizing US Drones to kill US citizens without due process. Everybody doesn't like this violation of the Constitution. Just think of the furor if George Bush had issued the same.

Testifying today, Panetta said that there was no way to overcome distance and time to save the Benghazi mission and Ambassador Stevens and three others. I believe him. But, that isn't the question, is it? The questions is and always has been, why didn't Hilary's State Department respond to a series of requests for more security? That's the question.

I love the thought of a raging blizzard bearing down on our quiet island. Running out before the mounting snows close our world. Gathering bags of Cheetos for a long winters Day.

Few ever see the bruises the stumbles, and that pain a true leader has endured.

The Answer:
Aristotle is list  as number One. Next is Plato and he is followed by Paul of Taurus (Yes, that Saint Paul), Rene Descartes, Confucius, Thomas Aquinas, Avicenna, Zeno of Citium, Epicurus and #10, John Locke. So, where is the teacher of Aristotle, Socrates?

Plato said that Governments only work well for citizens when leaders are wise? That common man democracies will never work as well as a strong, well educated, culturally adept, caring, honest, fair, head of Government. Philosophy and reality often do not cross paths.

What lies beneath.

Today's Tids Issue 2.763

Opening Stuff:

 

I was really happy this morning, snowflakes drifting down; that intense quiet that only occurs when the earth turns white again. And then, I had a small bout with local government logic, and now I'm mad as hell. Rats!

There's a lot of rationalization going on by both sides of the political spectrum on what exactly the economic numbers really mean. The left says that the rise in unemployment is good, and of course the right says we're doomed. The fact is that we are in a slow growth mode no matter the rationalization. And it may be worse. Nobody is talking about the effects of the low interest rate as an impediment to growth. That the 1% interest rate is the number one concern of many companies, forcing them to shift large amounts of cash reserves to shore up no growth pension funds; cash last year that was used for plant expansion and capital improvement. For instance, Ford just shifted $5 Billion into a weakened pension portfolio, about the same amount hey spent last year to build factories...for, you guessed it, workers.

Venture capital companies are also under the gun, as their sources for capital dry up, and there are fewer good investment opportunities. The total amount of capital for all VC companies has fallen from $40 Bil in 2007 to $20 Bil today. Here's the point about the two stories, capital sources are thin despite the Fed continuing low rate. Yesterday I wrote about the new Dem "Make It In America" Bill proposal where companies could apply for Government grants. Do you see where I'm headed with this Conspiracy theory? The Fed keeps the rate low, and Big Brother emerges as a favored financier. Is my paranoia showing.

The Question:

Double "Q" Bonanza. 1. What are Alabama Shakes, Fun, Hunter Hayes, The Lumineers and Frank Ocean? 2. This question will force people to go back a ways, and it may be too far for some. The classic 1938 Benny Goodman Carnegie Hall live recording of Sing, Sing, Sing featured three trumpet players, a pulsating drum performance with a memorable solo and a piano solo which is considered classic, a one of kind in history. Name the musicians. Who wrote Sing, Sing, Sing?

The Headlines:

--Justice Department Memo Says It Is Ok To Kill US Citizen Abroad IF Believed They Are al-Qaida Linked; Document Provides Legal Rational To Support Drone Attacks.

--Improving Home Price report Has Stocks Moving Upward.

--Dell Going Private In $24 Billion Deal; As PC's Decline, Company Wants Wall Street Off Back.

--0-Man To Offer Small Package Of Spending Cuts, ta reform To Satve Off "Sequester"; Plan Is To Offer Congress More Time.

--North Korea Threeatens Stronger Measures Than Nuke test.

--Iran's Ahmadinejad Visits Egypt's Mursi In Historic Meet; Iran, Egypt Union Would Squeeze Israel.

--Japan, China At Odds After China Aims Weapon Radar At Japan Warship.

There's nothing better with which to regain the promise of morning's happy glow, than a giant bowl of ice cream. For me, it's vanilla. Personally, I believe all Ice Cream makers should judged on how they use the basic vanilla bean, and not by stuff they put into it. "Epicurious" judged 13 makers and here's how they rate on vanilla. #1 Whole Foods! The First Runner-up was Breyers Natural and Third was Ben & Jerry's. The rest of the thirteen in order were: Lasalle, Turkey Hill, Haagen Dazs, Graeters, Stoneyfield Farm, Ronnybrook Farm, Edy's Slow Churned, SoCo Creamery, 365 Organic and Blue Marble. The judges were particularly disappointed with Blue Marble becasue they like their other flavors. They described Blue Marble as "Bad Vanilla Frosting". Hmmmm.

But then, I come from that school of thought that also believes that pizza makers should be judged on their ability ot make a good basic cheese pizza, just as ice cream makers be judged on basic vanilla. And Fried Chicken makers on rich creamy gravy.

How come liberals seem to like naming their cats Atticus?

Obama continues to trumpet his Tax the Rich slogan. It's pretty well known among those with brains that more taxes from the rich will not reduce the deficit, but will cover Obama's pet programs which are in creases to a budget, if the Senate ever decides to wake up.

In their SB commercial, Subway gave us a good idea about their target demographic -- people who think it's hard to say February! I guess if you can isolate a dumbed down customer base, you can sell them anything. 

Actually, I'm on a health kick. I notice that brown rice is better for you, so I took white rice and stirred in dark chocolate syrup.

With advancing technology, the 2nd Amendment should be expanded to allow citizens to own drones to protect themselves against a rambunctious government assault form the sky. Or at least ground to air missiles.

Israel may have elected a more moderate government calling for attention to domestic issues, but surrounding developments may soon revive a call for tough Netanyahu style aggressiveness. Iran and Egypt talking plus Hezbollah reactivating, threaten any possible peaceful environment. We can all wish for nirvana, but reality keeps on getting in the way.

The Answer:

1. The five names are the nominees for the Grammy Best new Performer award. Huh?  2. Sing, Sing ,Sing was written by Louis Prima and is still performed today. But nothing will ever compare to the improvisational Carnegie Hall event. The piano player was Jess Stacey and the drummer was Gene Krupa. The trumpet players were Harry James, Ziggy Elman and Chris Griffin. Interestingly, the original title was Sing, Bing, Sing -- for Bing Crosby.

Sing, Sing, Sing got all of the publicity, but another Carnegie Hall concert featured an equally exciting improvisational moment for "Honeysuckle Rose". It sneaks up on you, and soon you're just bouncing along to the beat.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtWlkbShmG8

Loading ...

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

Send

Let the hangover begin.

Today's Tids Issue 2,762

Opening Stuff:

 

The Big Game: --So the main question lingering in my mind post super bowl: "Did Ray Lewis really retire or will he come back to haunt us ad nauseum ala Brett Favre? --The game was good, but I have to tell you, without an inkling of feeling for either team, I was pretty inert throughout. --During the game I sensed that the Raven Harbaugh was the nicer guy, so I was pulling for them at the end. --Kapernack is going to be a player of the future. --I thought the blackout might have been a very cool maneuver by Chinese computer hackers. --My three favorite commercials were Audi, Jeep and Dodge. Paul Harvey does have the voice, Doesn't he? --The Sandy Hook kids were just great without Jennifer Hudson. Not that Hudson was bad. --I have to tell you that while Alicia Keys gave an excellent performance, I don't like the cocktail lounge version of the National Anthem. I prefer national anthems like a Tenor stepping onto the ice in Vancouver belting out "O' Canada" from the heart. Or a soprano singing God Save the Queen at Wembley Stadium. Why does America always have to be a music video? --I learned that buying tickets for a Beyonce concert would be a waste of money. How boring was that performance. --The most annoying part of the SB was the CBS panel of Cowher, Marino, Sharpe and Essaison. For me, it has always been a tedious group to watch, and I always avoid them even when preceding my Pat's games. They just shout out little diatribes. Rarely exhibiting a sense f humor or even a minimal fondness for each other. They were particularly horrendous during the Blackout. CBS should hire the Fox NFL group of Long, Johnson, Strahan  and Bradshaw for big events. --Training Camps open in about six months.

One of the more agonizing chores in life is trying to open a new music CD case.

Men used to emerge from their caves and go resolutely into the jungles to hunt food for their wives and families. Now husbands are handy for pushing the heavier shopping carts around stores*.

The Question:
1. It's now post Christmas sales rush, and big chain retailers are making a list an checking it twice...on how many and which stores to close. What 8 retailers do you think will close the most stores? Bonus: Name five Big Time college basketball teams with City names.

The Headlines:
--Baltimore 34, San Fran 31.
--EuroWoes Return To Knock US Stocks Off Highs.
--Insiders Say Hilary 2016 Candidate For Sure; Must Overcome Not Understanding Why Government Lying To people Isn't Big Problem.
--Hero Bus Driver In Alabama Mourned; New Report Says He saved All Other Children From Killer's Initial Intent.
--Hero Seal Sniper Chris Kyle And Friend Gunned Down By Veteran They Were Trying To Help.
--Iran Says Israel Will Regret Syria Strike.
--Suicide Bombers In Iraq Continue To Kill Militia And Civilians.
--Richard III Skeleton Found Under England Parking Lot; Skull Shows Wounds from 1485 battle Of Bosworth.
--Four Bus Crash Kills 8 In Cal; Death Toll Could Rise.
--Ed Koch Eulogized As Politician Who Never Said "No Comment".

How come rental car rates are going up, when the lessee is the party paying for the higher priced gas?

Of all the composers, Beethoven and Saint Saens in their piano concertos seemed to have the knack of blending, matching orchestra and piano for maximum effect. But that's just me talking.

Our less than honest local Congressman, David Ciciline, has teamed with NY's Senator Kirsten Gillibrand to propose a "Made in America" Bill. The idea is that US businesses would apply for "Grants" for capital expansion and other assorted business needs. Sounds like another intrusion into US business by Government, another move to sidestep American's engine, capitalism. Grants are what museums, artists and the vast social services industry use for financing. Business goes to Wall Street.

You know it's time to change the soap in the shower when it gets so thin you start cutting your face. Ouch! "Cut yourself shaving?"

If heat rises, how come attics are so cold?

The 0-Man must be chagrined watching French President Hollende riding triumphantly into Timbuktu as the conquering hero. It reminds me of those days when the US was so admired. Like the days when our troops rode into Paris after evictng the Nazis.

If you were at a car dealership, and a salesman named Harry Reid came over and started talking to you in a sing-songy voice, would you by a car from him?

Does anybody pay that much attention to the Davis Cup any more. Before the big bucks, National Pride was the big prize in Tennis.

* Note, I was going to say, "Now men emerge from their Man Caves...", but frankly I just can't bare to say the phrase "Man Cave" at all. It should be banned.

I think what makes the left seem so arrogant is they can't figure out that with all of their intellect, how conservatives grasped the idea of dominating talk radio before them.

Then again, maybe it was the Beyonce show that used up all of the power.

"Say Watt?" Department:

The one fact I know about alternative energy is that it costs considerably more than non-alternative energy. It always has, because it isn't, at this moment, not very efficient at all. That means it costs more to deliver a watt. As an engineer friend of mine once said, "A watt is a watt is a watt". If you plug in a space heater, the cost of those watts is more expensive than those from gas or oil sources. If you put windmills in the middle of the ocean, the cost of that watt is even more-so. So basically, alternative energy people have to figure a way to make non-alternative energy sources more expensive. That is just the way it works. And if they do, it still isn't better for the American pocketbooks.

The Conscience: 

Chapter 14 continues.
   I must be getting familiar with this place, because it didn't seem that long before I was wandering in and out of shadows of warehouses on the docks. I was only interested in one of these dreary buildings. the Baglietto building with that nasty old guard. It wasn't entirely spooky. There were people walking everywhere, as the old waterfront buildings were now bars and late night clubs.
   I moved away from the shadows into the middle of a large open space between the warehouse and cocktail lounge rows. I seemed to be able to smell the gin through the brackish air of the harbor. Should I fortify myself? I was musing at the idea of sitting with a glass in my hand, water lapping at the pilings below the building, when a large group of happy people moved my way. It is exactly what I was waiting for, especially since they were headed towards the verbotten builindg. After they passed me, one of the woman eying me, I stepping behind, just another straggler weaving along on the way home.
   It wasn't long before I saw "Baglietto" in big black letters against the gray shadowed walls. The group walked past, and nobody emerged from the building or looked out through a window. I dropped off the back of the group and moved quickly to the side of the wall. The same woman looked back at me. I waved her away. Within seconds it was deadly silent.

The Answer:
First, based on the stories I've read, Best Buy must be one of them,, and it is with 200-250 shutterings! After that we have in order, Sears - 175/2225, , JC Penny - 300/350, Office Depot - 125/150, Barnes and Noble - 190/240, GameStop - 500/600, Office Max - 150/175 and Radio Shack - 450/550. Bonus: There are many downtown colleges like St. Johns, Penn or UCLA, but to find five of the best with City names, you only have to look at he Top Twenty Five rankings to find Syracuse, Miami, Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and Louisville. Some others with historic programs are Dayton, Providence, Boston, St. Louis, Houston and Detroit. One of the great little teams of the 50's which came out of nowhere was Seattle featuring the O'Brien Twins. Two little guys who often left the bigs with their jaws on the floor.

Reviewer after reviewer this morning has used words from Terrific to Electrifying to "Kick-ass" in describing the Beyonce half time extravaganza. And I used "Snoozer" and "Catch up on nap-time". I think time has passed me by.

So, the superbowl crammed in what, 72,003 fans? That's nothing compared to the Waste Management Phoenix Open where about 525,000 went to watch golf! That's about 131,000 per day. I guess there's nothing like a walk in the sun in the dessert? Actually, the attendance from Saturday -- 175,000! -- fell to 59,000 for the final day. I guess they were all out buying Doritos for the big event in NO.

Only 5 more days til Pitchers and catchers report to training camp! Who needs football anyhow.

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

Send

Is the Superbowl over yet?

Today's Tids Issue 2,761

Opening Stuff:

 

Is your heart athumpin'? Are you feeling romance in the air, seeing little red hearts wherever you go? Of course, because it is February and candy manufacturers are commercializing pure unadulterated love and imagined infatuation with heart shaped everything every where. What would our two great Presidents Abe and George think as they see their own February celebrations transformed into one giant car sale. Ah February, that begins with the Superbowl and a furry little animal that would rather stay sleeping in a hole, and ends a little short of enough days, with lots of ways to spend money in between. 

One of the great little joys of life is that whole new beautiful world that appears before you after cleaning your glasses.

That Senator Hagel is one surly lookin' ole' bastard

The Question:

Double "Q" Friday: 1. Name the ex-American Idol Stars who have made the most money?  2. Generally RI leads polls in negativity. But, alas, their Governor Lincoln Chafee is only number 2 Worst Governor. What governor has lower approval numbers that Chafee-Lite? Bonus day: Give me 8 synonyms for "Surly".

The Headlines:

--Bombing At US Embassy In Ankara Turkey Kills Two; Entrance To Embassy Damaged.

--Unemployment Rises To 7.9%; US Adds Modest 157,000 New Jobs.

--Wonderful NYC Mayor Ed Koch Dead At 88.

--DOW Up Big.

--The Hill Slams Critics On Way Out; Sen Lindsay Graham, "(Clinton) Getting Away With Murder."

--Gina Raimondo Leading In Polls For Next RI Gov. 

--Blast At Mexico City's Pemex 50 Story Tower Kills 25; Was Probably A Mechanical Failure.

--Street Violence Continues In Egypt.

A new Pew Study tells us what employees dislike most about their employers. 1. Lack of Communications  2. Unfair Pay  3. No Job Security  4. Under Appreciation  5. Favoritism  6. Overworked  7. Micromanagement  8. Incompetent Managers  9. No Opportunity For Advancement  10, Overbearing Boss. The underlying fear and concerns affecting employees are globalization, outsourcing, downsizing; having to take on more work for less pay as companies get lean. More stress and less of a feeling of security. Otherwise, they are all happy as quahogs.

In a related story today, more and more people in their forties and fifties are reevaluating retiring goals; Pushing back their dates for the hammock. The politicians can shout Huzzahs, and pat each other on their backs, but the people feel and see what is actually happening.

You know the Superbowl writers are running out of things to talk about beyond Harbaugh when you see the headline, "3 ways to Watch the Superbowl". Excuse me! Let's see, standing sitting, lying down? Yup that's three alright. How about --  In your home, at the stadium, in church on your smart phone? Three for sure. But they must mean something deeper. Peering over the shoulder of someone who wants to talk about global warming at an SB cocktail party; Through two squirming legs while you change a diaper; In a locked room full of popcorn, Cheetos, potato chips and chocolate chip cookies. God love our watchdog media.

Here's a good example of the disconnect between investors and people. Investors are scapping up Portugal bonds, while in that country, consumer confidence is at an all time low, unemployment is at an all time high and the country is about to launch the highest tax increase in memory. And the financial community wonders why they are such a great target for anybody who wants to rile the populous.

There are about 220,000,000 unemployed in the world. Can you say riots in the streets?

I'm thinking of starting a Greeting card Company with celebration cards for the Left and the Right. I like writing little ditties. For instance, for the left: "My good Birthday wish sings, Like a gay marionette, And the best part yet, You're pulled by government strings." And for the Right. "May you hear drums, trumpets and saxes, As you get news of lower taxes." So, what'd you expect in a quickie morning newsletter written under enormous pressure.

Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox continue to pick up players from the trash heap.

Hilary says Repubs are confused by the facts. But the only known fact is that Lefty Dems treat the facts as a communicable disease, and runaway as far from them as humanly possible. Facts to the left are like Krypton to Superman. The fact remains, that the Admin purposely misled the public over Benghazi and this Presidential candidate doesn't get it...doesn't understand why lying to the public is bad. At least, that's what she said.

The "Waste Management Phoenix Open". Has a nice aroma about it.

The Conscience: Chapter 14 continues:

   I sat there on bed, TV noise in the back ground, drinking my third nip from the booze bar, which unfortunately had to be a mixture of what was available, Scotch, Gin and Vodka. To help my stomach negotiate the trio, I had some healthy food by my side -- a can of Original Pringles and an opened dark chocolate bar. I figure if I'm going to drink while thinking about what to do next, I'd better have some sustenance. It wasn't much booze for a reprobate like me, so my brain was still functioning pretty well.

   Why not, I thought an idea popped into my head. I sat up, put my feet on the floor and walked over to the clothes I had piled neatly on the chest by my suitcase. I picked some comfortable dark pants and put on navy blue, high neck sweater over my gray business shirt. I looked in the mirror. Nice, I thought. I went to the bed, took a piece of chocolate, and put the rest of the bar in my pocket while sliding the delectable sinful food of the gods into my mouth. This is a good sign, I thought to my self, I'm eating and moving.

    The street looked really lonely as I retraced my steps to the water front. The only difference is now I had a little understanding about where I should and shouldn't go. It was the shouldn't go part that intrigued me.

The Answer:

1. Kelly Clarkson tops the list at $7.5 Mil. Next we have a tie between Chris Daughtry and Carrie Underwood at $5. Scotty McCreery is at $4 Mil, followed by Jennifer Hudson , $3, Jordan Sparks $2 and Adam Lambert who fell from the top echelon to 7 at $1.5 Mil. Look out for Phillip Phillips who should be near the top of the list next year. 2. Pat Quinn of Illinois is lower than Chafee because the folks there are probably wondering when he'll go to jail like his predecessors. Bonus: Brusque, irascible, splenetic, choleric, sullen, grumpy, grouchy and generally unfriendly. "Splenetic, I'll have to store that one away.

Regardless of the commercialism in February, this Tidster's heart is always beating for his readers. Thanks for keeping me honest with your notes!

Love your weekend.

Reply to: Reply to RICHARD W HUNT

Send