Mayweather Again

Those who accuse the villainous and offensively arrogant Floyd Mayweather, Jr. in sucker punching himself to a fourth round knockout over Victor Ortiz are off-base in their criticism. First, Ortiz in an apparent fit of desperation resorted to head-butting in an effort to turn the tide; and second, attempting to apologize for the infraction, he failed to adhere to the admonition fighters have been reminded of since time immemorial, namely, "protect oneself at all times." Indeed, the referee said that the time was in and that Mayweather hadn't done anything illegal.

Sonny Rollins, 2011 Kennedy Center Honoree

The Kennedy Center announced that tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins is among the artists recognized in 2011 for contributions to American culture. Meryl Streep, Neil Diamond, Yo-Yo Ma, and Barbara Cook round out the group.

Happy Birthday Bird

The genius Charlie Parker was born August 29, 1920.

McCain's Gift

Senator John McCain should never be forgiven for selecting Sarah Palin as his vice presidential running mate and thereby providing her with national prominence. That McCain still holds her in high regard is testament to his enduring stupidity.

Bachmann and Elvis

Rep. Michele Bachmann opened her South Carolina campaign for the Republican presidential nomination by asking the crowd to join with her in wishing Elvis Presley happy birthday. The only problem is that August 16th is the date Presley died. The congresswoman has a rather curious habit of making up shit.

Pathetic Newt

Former House speaker Newt Gingrich, who bears an uncanny resemblance to the Pillsbury doughboy, finished far back in the back of the over-hyped but meaningless Aimes straw poll. With campaign advisors exiting his campaign, not unlike sailors trying to save themselves from a sinking ship, and with a message that hasn't gained much traction among the party faithful, Gingrich is a politician whose best days are behind him. He should follow Tim Pawlenty's example and exit stage right.

A New Low

According to a Gallup poll, President Obama's approval rating now stands at an anemic 39%, which is even lower than his predecessor George W. Bush at a comparable time in his presidency. A bus tour through the Midwest isn't likely to change the situation.