Watch what you say if you're in Chicago.  No, I'm not talking about Big Brother and Alias-esque bugging techniques.  I'm talking about choosing your words carefully; if you don't, you could pay a fine.

CHICAGO, Nov. 14 (UPI) -- A lot of Chicagoans are going to be mighty POed over the city's latest move to increase revenue without raising taxes but cussing out the nearest alderman will only net a big fine.  The City Council is considering a measure, to be voted on next month, that would increase the cost of a well-chosen curse word to as much as $300. [...]

And for those who prefer more traditional Old World curses like, "May you be stricken with cholera," there's no need to give the evil eye . . . those are safe.

The full text is here, and the article was spotted here.

Hehehe.  It's a funny news day, folks. 

Apparently a preacher in Maine has a problem with Harry Potter.

Rev. Taylor said he had wanted to burn the Potter books in protest, but the city would not issue him a permit. He settled for the book-chopping party Thursday night at the Ramada Inn.

See the article (from the AP) in the Globe and Mail here. 

Sheesh.  I, on the other hand, am heading out to see Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in about two hours.  I am Very Excited.