Ruminations

FOOLS: In an otherwise limp criticism of Wanda Sykes (BTW, has she ever been funny?) Mike Lupica wants you Rush Limbaugh listeners to know that you're mean-spirited. The search for an original insight from the Daily News's resident rabblerouser continues.

PROPS: Eminem valiantly trying to restart his career will take 200 laid off auto workers to see his performance on the Jimmy Kimmel program. In addition to losing their jobs, it seems that they may have also shed their dignity.

YOU'RE FIRED: First, it was Rick Waggoner, now it's David McKiernan. Joe Biden would be wise to keep looking over his shoulder.

THE OTHER SHOE: Little seems to be said about the State Department's role in securing Roxana Sabieri's release which suggests that they were quite involved. The New York Times helpfully spins a tale to the Administration's liking. We have seen the "quid" and time will indicate what the "quo" may turn out to be.

THE DODGER: Roger Clemens broke his silence to advertise, er, criticize a new unflattering book about him. He took the opportunity because he was going overseas on vacation next week. The key question -- does his travel destination have an extradition treaty with the United States?

LONG ARM: A sportswriter suggests a way for Manny Ramirez to make amends to his fans. I suggest he keeps the money. Lawyers to defend him from fraud charges won't come cheaply.