Cry freedom! A people emerge from darkness into light as they throw off the tyrannical yoke of the usurping oppressor. It is a new day, when all can work and worship as they will, go where they please, and speak as they believe; without fear of censure or imprisonment. Their freedom is both blessing and benefaction -- and too, it is a beacon of hope, for if it can happen in Afghanistan, then why not here?
 
Ah, one day, one day...
 
In the meantime, Congressional Republicans remain dogged in their determination to deliver early holiday presents to a handful of mammoth (and GOPistically generous) American corporations -- without any of those irksome strings of social responsibility clinging to the gifts. This charity takes place in the context of a long-standing party tradition: Republicans have been giving America the business for years.
 
Say, did we just hear a campaign slogan?
 
This week's Pulitzer hopeful is presented as part of an international simulcast. In the offering to hand, our Maximum Leader is stirred but not shaken as he tracks down a shadowy political saboteur in a tale we're calling "Dunderball." Then, hurry over to Liberal Slant to read Canadian spymaster Lisa Kadonaga's alternate take on Executive Branch intrigue in her rendition of "Smirky's People."
 
Next week, a change of pace, as we consider the motives and methods of those who presently clutch the reins of government. Read -- if you dare -- "The Winter Men."
 
Oh, and Staff Cinemaniac, W Collection, is still on line waiting to see Amelie, the latest Gallic import, and a harbinger of America's soon-to-be-realized fanatic obsession with large-eyed, luminously amiable French women. The Popcorn Poltergeist expects to fend off the film's charm, but is taking insulin just to be sure.
 
Until next week, stay as snug as a bug in a rug -- or wherever John Ashcroft has put it this time.
 
Hank