The best thing about this article from yesterday’s New York Times is probably that photo of Col. Sanders branding a pothole. It certainly isn’t the prospect of cities slapping ads on rescue vehicles and school buses.

Lorra Brown has a terrific post over on Ragan’s PR Daily that provides some tips for reducing stress. As valuable as her 10 suggestions are, it may be her 11th unnumbered suggestion that matters the most: “Finally, laugh. Having a sense of humor about yourself and your business is healthy. Take pride in what you do, but never forget to enjoy it.” Tru dat.

Takeaway for marketers: Lighten up, Francis.

Well, it’s come and almost gone, the big day that All Things Digital called “a major watershed in the history of Microsoft.” What was the Big Damn Deal? Well, after a few minutes of teasing (TechCrunch’s live blog was the place to follow the announcement), Steve Ballmer confirmed what most of the rumors indicated: a new tablet.

Microsoft Surface will have a 10.6-inch screen with full HD display, a built-in cover that serves as a combination touch-typing keyboard and mouse trackpad (nice feature, there, Microsoft), a built-in stand, magnesium case, all in a package just thin enough for a full-size USB port. Software? Think full PC running Windows 8 Pro. Works with a digital ink pen. Available in 32-gig and 64-gig models for Windows RT and 64-gig and 120-gig models for Windows Pro.

CNN Money said that Microsoft’s tablet needed to dazzle. User tests to come (along with release date and pricing) by those who do that sort of thing, of course, but on the face of the announcement alone it sure sounds like they did their damnedest to make sure it does.

Pam Moore nails it over on Social Media Today.

Cision has announced their list of the top 50 marketing and PR blogs in the U.S. I’m guessing LOHAD just missed the cut … again.