I heard some politician saying the price of gas is not an issue. I didn't pay much attention to who was saying it because I wrote it off as crazy talk. But now I am not so sure. People are not nearly as upset about $3 per gallon as I expected them to be. In some countries they strike or riot over high gas prices. Seems here we just pull out the cash and buy the gas.

 

Immigration seems to be an issue. I don't know why all of a sudden it is such a big deal. People have been sneaking in to the U.S. for as long as there has been a border. There have been migrant workers picking lettuce, cherries and probably pretty much everything that grows for ever too.

 

I hear Mexico is considering a law to decriminalize the possession of small amount of marijuana, cocaine, heroin and other drugs for personal use. That my become quit a border issue.

 

Staying healthy always seems to be an issue. A recent medical study said the American way of life may be harmful to our health. The study compared Americans age 55 to 64 to a similar group in England and across the board Americans did worse. Interestingly Britain spends about 40% as much per person on health care as the United States. England has never been noted for healthy eating of for a healthy lifestyle. Britain's National Health Service in spite of its limited budget, actually provides better all around medical care than out system because it takes a broader, longer-term view then private insurance companies.

 

Eating a couple of tiny slabs a day of this new dark chocolate could lower cholesterol, relax your blood vessels and help ward off heart disease. Sounds interesting. The CocoaVia line of healthy chocolates are available in select locations such as Target and Walgreen.

 

I always believe getting out having fun, dancing and listening to music is good for you. The big band sound is alive and swinging every Wednesday night at Seldom Blues dinner club in the Renaissance Center. Trumpeter Johnny Trudell's 17-piece band hits the stage. Made up of veterans whose roots extend back to the Tommy Dorsey band and the Motown Funkbrothers recording heyday. There is no cover. For more information or dinner reservations call 313 567 7301.

 

Detroit Tigers are having fun. Has anyone noticed the Tigers are flirting with being the league leading team? Maybe because it has been so long since we have a respectable team, no one I willing to believe it is happening. But a quarter of the way into the season and the Tigers are very near the top. The mix of young power pitchers and few good hitters and a new coach seems to be the answer. I feel bad for Alan Trammel but the current Tigers are a noticeably better team.

To reach Ben E. Jet call (313) 730-1627 via e mail benejets@aol.com and see the web sites www.bennyandthejets.com and www.reverendguitars.com.