Thanks, but ...

Live 8 has come and gone. Musicians around the world have focused the spotlight on Africa, how it is being suffocated by crushing debt, how HIV and AIDS are ravaging the continent.

Now, the question. Will all the posturing do any good?

I'm cynical: I doubt much more will be done after the concerts.

Consider this from -- of all people -- Muammar Qaddafi via The Associated Press: he told African nations to stop "begging" from the rich and to cooperate more in a blunt speech before a summit of the continents' leaders Monday.

"Pleading to the G-8 to lift debts won't make a future for Africa," Qaddafi, wearing his traditional robes, said.

Has the temperature dropped in Hell or am I just feeling a chill?

BTW, loyal reader(s), I'd like you to check out a fellow blogger's work. Todd of Broken Arrow, Okla. -- who I have known almost 20 years going back to Barnes & Noble in the pre-superstore era in Forest Hills, N.Y., can be read at http://secularmiddle.blogspot.com.

There is a link to the right along with a blog by Lyndy -- Topeka's favorite "shiksa" ... hey, if I can teach a Midwest gal the wonders of "Oy" and matzo ball soup, she can be an honorary member of the Tribe!

And -- as always -- let me know what you think. I'd like to know.