For the first time in 75 years, Mattel is making a major change to its iconic “Scrabble” board game. Why? To make it more appealing to Gen Z gamers. The new version is “less competitive, provides clues, and can be played according to the players chosen level of difficulty”. Oh… and there’s no more scoring! Critics are calling it “Scrabble for Snowflakes” and “Woke Scrabble”.

- I call it S-T-P-I-D. (Well… I’m missing a “U”, but you get the idea…)

*****

Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano delighted tourists and locals by blowing almost perfect smoke rings into the blue skies over Italy over the weekend.

- That, or Liz Warren is vacationing in Rome.

*****

“Strictly Confidential” star Elizabeth Hurley says that having her son direct the sensual love scenes in her new movie - in which she makes out with another woman - was “Liberating”.

- Her son, meanwhile, described the experience as “Gross”.

*****

A new survey finds that more Americans now prefer the hybrid work model - where they go into the office one or two days a week - over being fully remote.

- So it looks like people are finally ready to put their pants back on… Only on Monday’s and Wednesday’s maybe… but hey, it’s a start!

*****

A new restaurant chain in New York City is outsourcing staff to the Philippines, using screens with hostesses on Zoom calls instead of in-person employees. And here’s the kicker: When customers check out, they’re still prompted to add a tip of up to 18% on top of their bill - for the person 1800 miles away.

Here’s a tip for FREE: If you go to that restaurant… Don’t leave a tip!

*****

According to canine experts, when it comes to being Vocal… the #1 Dog Breed is… The Beagle.

- Charlie Brown was like, “Good Grief!”

*****

Have a great day and I’ll see you back here Thursday!

-Dick