Jobless News and Propoganda

I heard the jobless report called "good news" on radio this morning and then I saw an article on it. WSJ goes for a happy-faced headline.

Here's what could've been said instead:

"The bad news is we’re still hemorrhaging jobs. The other bad news is we’re hemorrhaging jobs faster than last week. The good news is that we've only hemorrhaged 439,000 jobs this week! It's only ‘a bit’ more than last week! Celebrate!

Let's all say it's a rise of 2,000 although our claim for last week was really 4,000 lower. We'll adjust up last week's claim number by 2,000 and hope you don't notice our slight of hand!"

This reminds me why I've mostly ignored the news in recent years.

Jobless Claims Rise a Bit

American Idol, Season 9: Top 12 Reveal

I was a bit surprised by the results. I was glad Todrick is out. Although Alex did nothing for me, I wanted to send Andrew home.

Hugs and best to our very own deer-in-the-headlights, Alex Lambert!

Without Andrew we could once and for all move beyond “Straight up.” I guess America wants to rub him after all.

I thought Lilly was a shoe-in based on total performances but last night I thought she chose a dud song. I’m stunned Katie hung on but she is 16 and might appeal to young voters. I thought Katelyn was doing better than Paige as well.

Fairly controversial to admit fandom for, I was glad to see Aaron and Tim made it. I’m realistic, though, I know they’re canon fodder and expect both will vanish in the next month.

Mike is clearly the top guy with maybe Lee as the dark horse. Crystal, if she stays healthy, and Siobahn will battle it out for the top girl spot.

Crystal didn’t look well tonight and wasn’t particularly celebratory when she was safe.

Top 12: Didi Benami, Siobhan Magnus, Paige Miles, Crystal Bowersox, Lacey Brown, Katie Stevens, Casey James, Tim Urban, Lee Dewyze, Michael Lynche, Aaron Kelly, Andrew Garcia.