The National Association of Convenience Stores is hosting a trade show in Chicago this week and The Chicago Sun-Times did a piece on all the wacky products found there (energy popsicles, a low-carb malt liquor, etc.) with a side bar about how the NACS trade magazine is doing a story in the November issue about Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, the convenience store owner on The Simpsons.

"There are some retailers who truly think he is one of the worst things that has happened to our industry,'' (industry spokesperson Jeff) Lenard said. But Apu is also one of the most honest, lovable, good-hearted characters on the long-running show, he said.

He's a highly educated family man, Lenard said.

But, Lenard notes: "He often keeps a loaded rifle behind the counter and chases shoplifters, two dangerous practices that increase the likelihood of violence.''

Lenard also pointed out that Apu maintains a poor selection of food.