#1. A new study suggests that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and even nuts could help ward off depression. So could a big lottery win, but I digress. There should be a big advertising campaign to spread the word. Some good slogans might include: "An apple a day keeps depression away." How about "Don't go bananas eat bananas." "Blueberries Stop the Blues." For veggies here's one "Carrots improve your mood and your eyesight, too." "If you're nuts they can help." Unlike antidepressant meds the only side effects might be some indigestion or gas.
#2. The California Democrat Party will not endorse Diane Feinstein's run for a 5th term in 2018. She is 84. She should claim age discrimination. I think she was an OK senator and certainly not as appalling as some of the politicians California has sent to Washington. Not exactly ringing endorsement but as some say:"It Is What It Is."
#3. Amazon made a profit of 5.6 billion in 2017 and didn't pay any federal income tax. This was due to using many tax laws available to them. And there are several cities offering more tax breaks in hopes Amazon will locate their second headquarters there. Doesn't seem right Amazon doesn't pay any Federal income tax but neither do half of Americans due to many tax laws available to them. So, of you aren't Amazon or in the right half, you get to help pick up the slack by paying your Federal taxes.
#4. The red jacket James Dean wore in "Rebel Without A Cause" is expected to bring up to $600,000 at auction in Florida. It is far less than the dress Marilyn Monroe wore when she sang Happy Birthday to JFK. That went for 4.8 million in 2016. There was an observation that somebody with more money that sense will pay the $600,000. What about the amount of sense involved with paying 4.8 million for MM's dress?
#5. Last week a guy rode a horse on a freeway in LA. He as arrested and charged with a DUI, Driving under the influence. I think his lawyer should challenge that charge. Technically he was NOT Driving, he was RIDING under the influence.. There is no RUI law. Since so many "walk on technicalities, I think he has a shot. If nothing else it was kind of a funny story.
(Tom Murphy is a writer, humorist, actor, disc jockey and an occasional contributor to CityWatch. He lives in Los Angeles.)
-cw
