Wine, Cheese, Bread, & Smokes

France without cigarette smoke in the air!?! I thought that was part of the cultural experience. A ban on public smoking is a wonderful step in terms of the public health experience, but I'm thinking enforcement will be a whole other issue. . . Full Story

North Korea claims they tested a nuclear weapon this weekend. They continue to defy any warnings from the US, UN, & others as they strive to build their nuclear arsenal. The question remains - will there be any recourse? Full Story

Can Rosales oust Chavez in the upcoming elections? Doubtful at this point, but this mass rally was a sign that he may mount a competitive opposition - Full Story

OPEC, the one cartel that flies in the face of economic logic, has called for a massive cut in oil output. If only this cartel would act like all the other attempts & fail! Unfortunately, the forecast looks grim for the consumer, expect prices to stagnate or climb again - Full Story

Another critic of the regime is shot dead in Moscow. Anna Politkovskaya, and outspoken critic of Putin & mother of 2 was shot twice outside her apartment. Full Story

Eating disorders - not just for women anymore. "Manorexia" is on the rise, now estimated to effect over 1 million men. Full Story

Reggie Bush scores his first NFL touchdown, & the surprise team of the year continues to roll in New Orleans Full Story