And another thing …

A few years ago, the Legislature told the Passamaquoddy Tribe it couldn’t build a casino in Calais because casinos are not good economic development. The other day, the Supreme Judicial Court told the Passamaquoddy Tribe it couldn’t build a bingo hall on land it owns in Bethel Township because the Legislature never completed the process of designating the land Indian Territory. Eventually, the Tribe will figure out that, when it comes to gambling in Maine, the state-run lottery is the only game in town.

Some of the most compelling testimony at a legislative hearing the other day on banning smoking in bars came from Deborah Danuski, a singer who complained that bands would be hurt because smoke-free bars can’t afford live entertainment. Besides, a raspy voice is essential for singing the blues.

Atlanta Braves relief pitcher/starting bigot John Rocker is appealing his two-month suspension by Major League Baseball, claiming the punishment far exceeds the offense. Meanwhile, the psychologist hired to get to the root cause of Mr. Rocker’s anti-minority sentiments says things aren’t going to well. He’s trying to reach his client’s inner child, but the inner moron keeps getting in the way.

Speaking of (poor) sports: For the first time in its 149-year history, the America’s Cup finals will be held without a U.S. boat in the race. Paul Cayard, skipper of the AmericaOne yacht that fell to Italy last weekend, says the national effort was hampered by too much competition, too little time — a mere six months — to train, bad judging and having to scrape by on a paltry $32-million budget. World-class whining, though.

Valentine’s Day, the romantic holiday best spent snuggling up with that special someone, is just around the corner. With this cold snap and heating oil at record-high prices, those without special someones are advised to quit being so darned picky.