A Few Quick Observations

--Contrary to popular rumor and speculation, Tom Menino will not declare his re-election intentions tonight in his speech, according to a spokesperson.

--Felix G. Arroyo raised some $5000 at his fundraiser this past weekend, which I think is more than his father raised in his last campaign.

--Further evidence that Boston is not a normal city: In normal cities, the naming of a new school committee chair, especially after a 12-year run by the current chair, is a really, really big deal. Admit it, you didn't even know that Rev. Gregory Groover has taken over for Liz Reilinger.

--Further evidence of Senator Ted Kennedy's vast influence: His beloved Portuguese Water Dogs (Splash and Sunny) are reportedly a finalist breed for Obama family pet.

--Now that four GOP Senators have announced that they won't run for re-election in 2010, the betting can begin on who's next. My money would be on Judd Gregg of New Hampshire.