Good Week, Bad Week June 17

. . . for we much-derided naysayers, who feel a bit vindicated this week with the news that Citibank is halting loan payments to Destiny USA because Bob the Builder has signed no tenants to the economic savior of Syracuse. After years of fooling most of the people most of the time, Congel’s feeding from the public trough just might be over.

. . . for downtown shoppers, who have until Saturday, June 20, to take advantage of tax-free week. More than 40 retailers are eating the 8 percent sales tax in an effort to encourage purchases as well as show off what they’ve got. Then, starting Saturday, you can dine downtown through July 3, at participating restaurants for a special price. Two of you will be able to eat three courses for $25 each at 14 eateries. For a list of participating retailers and restaurants, visit www.downtownsyracuse.com.

BAD WEEK

. . . for state residents after the coup last week that transferred power from the Democrats to the Republicans. Not only does it show state politics as the dysfunctional system it is, but to be laughed about on NPR’s All Things Considered hurt as much as weathering the downfall of former Gov. Eliot Spitzer. 

. . . for the apparently former Most Colorful Paper in America. The Post-Standard’s own label has fallen off its front page at the same time black and white has crept back into its pages. Wonder if it’s a cost-cutting move, not having to use as much ink. And with a reported 38 journalists taking the Post’s most recent buyout, the belt-tightening continues.

. . . for Iran President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, whose regime appears to have some chinks in it, but who also is looking like a tanned, Middle Eastern version of former President George W. Bush, right down to the squinty eyes.