following nearly a year of unpredictable "episodes", BIG MIKE has consented to participate in a rehabilitation program. Pending successful completion of the program, should BIG MIKE desire to return, I've agreed to hold his job (we'll even rename the facility - the Dr. notes that "The Dungeon" may conjure less a than desirable image for BM of HIS work environment).

In the meantime, I will have the keyboard to myself (for at least 12 weeks) while BIG MIKE undergoes treatment, which will include a fair amount of time in the fresh air, toiling as a common laborer (I've told him, countless times, that bullet making wasn't so bad): he'll also learn all about plumbing, electricity and general construction . . and we've requested a course on  social skills, along with a refresher course in elementary English.

Hopefully, BIG MIKE will survive AND emerge a NEW man - if not, it's probably for the better . . . . only time will tell. R.G.