Some interesting issues are brought up in this week’s Dig. For example, the issue of expectoration. That’s what the pros call spitting, kids. I don’t want to brag, but I have a friend who is currently in training for Beijing ‘08! At least he seems to be, since every time I see him he expels about forty pounds of phlegm from the back of his throat over the course of an hour or so. I have to admit, his technique is impressive.

But the city doesn’t see it that way. It discriminates against expectorationists. Regardless of their skill level, there’s a potential twenty dollar fine for spitting on the streets of Boston. The other day we were strolling along the avenue, and by my count my friend racked up $3,280.00 from one end of Newbury Street to the other. I mean, of course, he wasn’t fined, but if he had been, we probably could not have afforded dinner and drinks that night.

I think about the only thing that takes more skill on the street is the Farmer’s Blow. It’s like the Nordic Combined of post-nasal drip relief techniques.

This week’s issue of the Boston Courant (serving Back Bay, Beacon Hill, Fenway and South End) features a fascinating front page story: “Wealthiest Bostonians Are Our Neighbors”. Pictures of Boston’s billionaires, and approximate addresses are provided. All for free! So pay your rich neighbors a visit! I’m sure they’ll be happy to welcome you in (re-gift a fruit basket or a cheap bottle of wine, though, just to be neighborly).