SIDESWIPE – Hollywood’s annual awards boondoggle has been perplexing ever since Julia Roberts won best actress for a run of the mill portrayal of Erin Brockovich in the forgettable 1991 movie of the same name.  Originally instituted as a marketing ploy, Oscars were supposed to transform actors into stars.  By the time Roberts won, they [...]...

SIDESWIPE – With many Americans tired of their leaders’ profligacy, Governor Charlie Crist is facing defeat in the Republican primary for Florida’s vacant U.S. Senate seat.  Once touted as a possible Presidential candidate, Crist epitomizes the view that Republicans should govern like liberals.  A leading state Democrat once said of Crist:  “Isn’t it wonderful to [...]...