Pakistan President Zardari Yodels for Immunity

Last night, I stopped by the Round Robin Bar for a drink or two after work.  There I found Shaughnessy, of the State Department Pakistan Desk, drinking – well, drinking like an Irishman trying to drown his sorrows, actually. “Things at Foggy Bottom getting to you?” I inquired as I took a seat on the… Continue reading Pakistan President Zardari Yodels for Immunity

Bo Xilai and Bo Guagua – Beaux Yeux or Bo Zeux?

He began calling early Thursday, trying to get a telephone consultation appointment, but I was booked solid.  Since we were working this weekend, Gretchen finally managed to fit him in on Saturday afternoon. Bo: Hello?  Tom Collins? Tom: Yes. Bo: This is Bo Guagua.  How are you? Tom: Fine, thanks.  And you? Bo: I’ve been… Continue reading Bo Xilai and Bo Guagua – Beaux Yeux or Bo Zeux?

Secret Service Bedroom Video Scandal Avoided

Last night, before taking in Arias with a Twist at the Woolly Mammoth Theater, Cerise and I were relaxing over tapas at Jaleo.  While we waited for our order to arrive, Beaumont noticed me and sidled over.  He’s a very decent sort, and works for the Secret Service.  Some people, of course, might wonder about… Continue reading Secret Service Bedroom Video Scandal Avoided

The GSA – Uncle Sam’s Landlord Knows How to Live

Ballantine and I went to college together, which is to say, we attended it at the same time and were in several of the same classes.  The last I knew, he was in the Senior Executive Service with GSA Region 9, which is out on the west coast.  So I hadn’t seen him in quite a while… Continue reading The GSA – Uncle Sam’s Landlord Knows How to Live

Solyndra Hides from Sunshine Behind the Fifth Amendment

Late yesterday while I was alone in my office, working on an analysis of Italian bond price effects on exchange rates for the Euro, Gretchen opened one of the oak doors leading to the reception area and poked her head in. “I’ve got Vice President Joe Biden on Line Two,” she informed me.  “He says… Continue reading Solyndra Hides from Sunshine Behind the Fifth Amendment