Essay 542

Getting into other people’s business with a MultiCultClassics Monologue…

• The pro-immigration rallies have been receiving a lot of press lately. But the anti-immigration enthusiasts have been growing in numbers too. The Minuteman Project is drawing new recruits, unofficially boasting about 200,000 members. “Over 5,000 people have come forward [recently] and said, ‘I’ll do anything,’” said a Minuteman participant. “Right now, about 200 people that we have contacted look pretty serious.” Like serious borderline racists, that is.

• Black-owned businesses are booming in Chicago and Washington suburbs, according to the latest U.S. Census Bureau report. But despite the rapid growth, these enterprises are still a small part of the economy, accounting for just 5 percent of all U.S. businesses. Maybe folks should start Black Minuteman organizations.

• Sprint/Nextel Communications was fined $295,000 by New York for printing “confusing and misleading” ads. Wonder how much the company should pay for printing “confusing and misleading” phone bills.

• The New York Times reported Mickey D’s has been experiencing significant growth, thanks mostly to cheaper menu items. Despite criticism that the fast feeder is contributing mightily to the global obesity epidemic, the burger joint continues to thrive. “We’re proud of the choices we offer customers,” said Mickey D’s chief marketing officer in the U.S. “You can come in and order Apple Dippers, salads with low-fat dressing, yogurt, or you can order an Egg McMuffin, which is a very nutritious sandwich. People can make the decisions about how to eat for themselves.” Sounds suspiciously like statements from booze and tobacco lobbyists.

• Mickey D’s plans to distribute exercise videos during the launch of new adult Happy Meals. The on-camera roles traditionally played by folks like Jane Fonda and Suzanne Somers will probably feature Mo’Nique and Rosanne Barr.