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An utterance you might expect when a relatively unathletic actress is slated to play a superheroine, arguably the most common Hollywood casting blunder. This comes from Scarlett Johansson, who is trying to transform herself so she can play Black Widow in Iron Man II, and finding it not an easy thing.

I have tremendous respect for Johansson; she is, in my view, among the finest actors of her generation. But I also know there are women far better suited to play Black Widow. Her getting the role, then, is another unfortunate instance of athletic actresses being passed over for bad reasons.

In this case, however, I do side somewhat with Johansson. Her recent piece on Huffington Post does a good job making clear the inanity of tabloid journalism's obsession with body weight. Furthermore, her new, deeper appreciation for the importance of fitness rings true: "I've realized through this process that no matter how busy my life may be, I feel better when I take a little time to focus on staying active. We can all pledge to have healthy bodies no matter how diverse our lifestyles may be."

And what brought forth her wrath is, indeed, nothing but pure drivel (even worse, their response). It's easy to see why she is upset.

Much as I wish someone else were playing Black Widow, I find myself rooting for Johansson in her battle against tabloid imbecilities.

Tax Day draws near. This may be a difficult time for some of you. If you're a politician, I'm guessing probably not. The rest, however, might be needing some relief.

The New York Liberty, so aptly named for a post close to tax time, is doing its part to help by giving away free popcorn to fans who purchase tickets $34.50 and up. Mention code SHAMEKA when you order tickets at ticketmaster.com, 877-WNBA-TIX, or the Garden Box Office, and you'll get a free small popcorn to enjoy while watching some great WNBA action (offer expires September 14).

Visit the Liberty website to see what else is planned for the upcoming season.

Kym (Saigh) of Championing Ourselves has written a piece that goes beyond the hoopla and sets forth the most plausible reason for the recent attention paid to Michelle Obama's arms—often missed, despite all the talk—along with several other worthwhile observations. I will add only two things.

First, there are the disparaging remarks about Madonna. I find these particularly absurd. There may be things Madonna can fairly be criticized for, but her commitment to fitness and nicely muscled arms aren't among them.

Then, a thought that occurred to me. What if Michelle Obama had Tina Lockwood's pythons? Can you imagine what talk there would be then?