Sad news from the world of satirical heavy metal as Flattus Maximus has given up the ghost(and the horns). The bass player from GWAR was apparently found dead by his fellow Lords & Masters this morning somewhere near the Canadian border. In honor of his death check out this hilarious short documentary of GWAR terrorizing greater Austin during SXSW.

This just in, Massachusetts is still corrupt and finding new ways to make Lousiana look like a paragon of ethical government practice. It's amazing how seedy the state is in the supposedly enlightened Northeast corridor. Not to mention Boston mayor Thomas Menino who is perhaps the biggest elected doofus in municipal government and an embarrassment to his citizens. How does this guy keep winning re-election ? I understand a mayor, Bloomberg aside, is largely a ceremonial position but a semi-intelligent/coherent person should be a must for Boston.

A new study on poverty suggests 1 in 15 Americans are officially poor reports the New York Daily News
but the criteria may be skewed counters the New York Times. Apparently the measure of poverty is antiquated and does not factor in variables such as food stamps, tax credits, and other voucher programs. The net result  actually raises most poverty stricken families income to a whopping $18,000. Or 1,800 cheese pizzas from Godafathers as Herman Cain would point out.

What's up with ESPN sideline reporter Erin Andrews and her ability to turn men into self pleasuring Neanderthals? First a whack job cuts a peephole into her hotel room and films Andrews getting dressed and now we have reports that an ESPN executive was fondling himself on an airplane while sitting next to her. What's next? Joe Paterno stuffing her into a Borat marriage bag during a halftime interview ? Somehow I don't think fellow ESPN personalities  John Clayton or Sal Palantonio have these types of problems.

The mystery of the Lincoln County Courthouse ghost continues with this WCSH report that clearly shows an image moving through the halls after hours. The guy featured at the end is none other than my former colleague Greg Latimer who apparently moonlights as a certified ghost hunter. Who knew?

The city of St Louis is experiencing a rise in craft breweries in the shadow of Anheiser Busch writes Joe Stange. In other beer business a new blog devoted to Maine craft beer is rumored to be under construction. According to the editor, the blog will focus not only on Maine microbrews but also interesting bars in the state. "Part Frugal Traveler, part Zagat with  a serious analysis of the trends, people and places that make Maine an attractive place to drink ," said the man who didn't want to be identified. Can't wait.

Image:  Big Al's Kitchen For The Needy. A Chicago relief spot operated by gangster Al Capone in the 1930's.