China has become such an important support for the Western economy that when it said it wasn't reviewing foreign exchange investments, the markets went up. In fact, when I looked at the newer dollars in my wallet, I noticed they had the imprint "Made in China." They also tested positive for lead ... BP has had trouble plugging the major oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico, butt has had much more success in designing a sea otter that is never low on oil. But on the bright side, the oil slicks are so lovely in the setting sun. ... Read more...

Continental Airlines served lunch on its flight from Newark to Denver, one of those piping hot meals in a sealed plastic bag. This one was called the Turkey Dog Crescent. I think it must be the first breaded product ever made by Goodyear … Combining the trend of sequels and summer movies, there's a new offering coming out this season called "X-Men, Summer Vacation." In a more light-hearted look at the mutant world, the film shows the gang raising some extra cash. Wolverine works as a meat slicer in a deli, Cyclops takes a job smelting iron and Storm goes to work performing simulations for the U.S. Weather Bureau. ... Read more...

With its concrete dome failing to stem the oil pouring into the Gulf of Mexico, BP has begun considering some other nontraditional solutions. These include using millions of pounds of Italian bread to soak up the oil and having most of the boys in Holland stuck their fingers into the hole. Read more...

In a Manhattan visit recently, I spotted a Turkish Restaurant, but its window had a notice that it had been closed by order of the Commissioner of Health and Mental Hygiene. Unfortunately, it wasn't stated if the food was unsanitary or was experiencing emotional issues. ... Read more...