GETTING STRONGER: As for the weekly medical update: I'm feelin' stronger every day (how could I not

GETTING STRONGER: As for the weekly medical update: I'm feelin' stronger every day (how could I not slip in a 1970s music reference every now and then?). Actually, the Botox shots and medication are starting to kick in, and although I'm still working from home, I hope to be back in the office next week. Again, thanks to everyone who has called, mailed and e-mailed me with encouragement as I battle cervical dystonia, a painful neck condition. Your support means a great deal to me.
MVP Ryan: The Democrats finally won something in Washington, D.C., and U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan of Niles, D-17th, was a key reason for the victory. The Dems played the Republicans last week in the 11th Congressional Basketball Classic, with the Democrats winning for the first time since 1991. (The game's been played since 1987, but not every year.) The final score was 27-26, with Ryan scoring the winning basket and being named the game's most valuable player. Ryan is a former captain of the John F. Kennedy High School basketball team in Warren, so the Republicans could accuse him of being a ringer. With such a low score, the esteemed members of Congress probably didn't bother trading in their wing tips for pairs of Converse Chuck Taylors (70s reference, Part 2).Ryan was also the keynote speaker earlier this month at the Manchester, N.H., Democrats' annual St. Patrick's breakfast. Ryan received his law degree from the Franklin Pierce Law Center in New Hampshire.
skolnick@vindy.com