1. New word from gigli (new COAL operative) is that many of USM's newest faculty are completely disillusioned by their first year at USM.  Many are reportedly "going the extra mile" to get the word out in the various disciplines to avoid USM at all costs.  They are also doing all they can to "help each other get out of here.."  Thanks gigle, and welcome aboard.

2.  News from bunson that some in COST know about their merit raises by now.  This adds to the ongoing word that the COAL and CEP recipients are also known (thanks for that artsy). 

3. The latest from doughboy is that there is some acecdotal evidence that the USMFCU has lost some depositors since the end of last year.  Nothing to worry about (safetywise) he reports, just another interesting angle to this whole mess (and one we hadn't considered before).  Thanks very much for that infobit doughboy.

4. More talk out now about PP/MB/CC.  Word is now that the MB is now sponsoring give-aways of some pretty expensive giftpacks just to get bodies back inside the walls there.  Thanks artsy.

5. "These new students are going to 'party like 'it's 0099.'"  You're right, that's a spin on the old Prince song, and it's making the rounds over in admissions this week.  Thanks gorod.