Tim Russert Must Be Spinning in His Grave

I miss Tim Russert, the late host of NBC's "Meet the Press," whose untimely death in June 2008 opened the door to a free-for-all in the political commentary arena.  Russert's tough but fair interviews, coupled with his insightful analysis of the political events of the day, made politics accessible for the average "Joe."  Always respectful, Russert was  the consummate professional who loved his country and his family ... especially his father "Big Russ" and son, Luke.  He was also a cheerleader for his hometown of  Buffalo, New York.  (And no one ever cheers for Buffalo.)

In watching the events of the 2012 election season, I can only surmise that Tim Russert must be spinning in his grave, as today's so-called journalists and quasi-journalists sink to new lows as they try to destroy the opposing party -- regardless of whether their information is true or fallacious.  The mudslinging is on both sides of the aisle.  It is hard to imagine that intelligent and educated professionals are engaged in this type of behavior.

Tim Russert was one of a kind.  I miss him and the high standards he set for political reporting and commentary.   RIP Tim ... if you can.

A Perspective on the Olympics

It's been years since I've been even moderately excited about watching the Olympics.  Although I am in awe of the athletic prowess of these young competitors, I am also suspicious that some of the amazing feats they perform may be aided by some form of banned substances (i.e. performance-enhancing drugs).  However, I still enjoy watching the gymnastics, even though the networks manage to ruin the continuity by cutting back and forth between unrelated events, therefore extending the amount of time I have to spend in front of the TV.

Although the men's gymnastic team did not get the results they wanted, the women's team has done phenomenally well. Kudos to Virginia's own Gabrielle Douglas, who is an amazing powerhouse of strength, athleticism and beauty.  And at only 16 years old!  She has a bright career ahead.

I really miss the "old" Olympics, though, when the judges held up scorecards and the announcers would boom the numbers over the venue loudspeaker.  It was less complicated and a more "pure" event.  Today's scoring system needs the analytical mind of a mathematician to understand all the subtle nuances.

Regardless of the medal count, none of the legitimate athletes that perform in good faith are losers.  They should be proud to be part of the elite representing their countries. I just wish the news media would realize that, too, and stop calling anything less than a gold medal a "disgrace."   Their commentary is a disgrace -- NOT the loss of a first place prize.