Dec 18th, 2008 · Democratic Sen. Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania says he's sorry for the Polish jokes he told at a luncheon in New York. He was giving a little speech, so he tried to lighten the mood with some jokes. After the New York Post reported his jokes, Specter apologized to Polish groups. The Senator says the jokes went over the line of good taste.
Oct 20th, 2008 · Shalom Auslander believes that life is short and silly and probably ought to be treated that way — which is why he keeps a copy of The Groucho Letters on his bedside table.
Aug 3rd, 2008 · At 24, Willy Mason already sounds like a withered man. Accompanied by a musical saw player and members of his family on stage, his anti-anthems began Sunday's Newport Folk Festival in a somber mood. But a sweet moment came when Mason invited his parents — local to the area — on stage and lightened up the set just before noon.
Feb 2nd, 2008 · Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots is described as a coaching genius. Tom Coughlin of the New York Giants is credited with rallying his team after a dismal start. But both men are taciturn and stone-faced with the media. Do they ever lighten up?
Apr 11th, 2007 · If you think of chowder as heavy, cold-weather fare, think again. The word describes any thick, rich soup containing chunks of food, and they often have few ingredients, which makes them a perfect way to enjoy springtime's bounty.
Feb 18th, 2007 · Our cultural concierge, Jesse Kornbluth, recommends checking out the late standup comedian Mitch Hedberg if you need some laughs to brighten the dark winter days.
Dec 2nd, 2005 · There's a town in Austria where the sun doesn't shine in the winter. Rattenberg is surrounded by the Alps and specifically a 3,000-foot hill that blocks the sun. But there's a new plan to lighten things up by borrowing sun from a neighboring town using mirrors.
Mar 19th, 2005 · Danny Boyle, a director known for taking on dark subjects in films such as Trainspotting and 28 Days Later, lightens up a bit with Millions. It's the story of a gym bag full of stolen money, found by two boys who try to put it to generous uses. Boyle discusses the film and his change in tone.