*A recent Pew Research Center poll found that 45 per cent of Americans have a favorable view of the soon-to-be ex-Governor of Alaska, Sarah Palin, and that 44 per cent have an unfavorable view of Palin. Reportedly, the remaining 11 per cent said they were incredulous that 45 per cent had a favorable view.
OK, I made that last part up. But only the last part.
*Not to pick on the City Times, but that “Voices on the Web” feature still takes me aback on occasion. Recently a reader weighed in about the closing of the Ybor City Starbucks. Good talking point. And, indeed, some of the observations were valid. But wasn’t there a time when “signing” your name as “downtown suks from Tampa” was a guarantee of NOT making it into print? And shouldn’t that quaint proscription still hold, digital age notwithstanding?
*Not to pick on the Times again – or its good-natured, good-guy columnist Ernest Hooper – but what’s with that house ad featuring Hooper? Granted, the Times’ “Man About Town” often notices the little, seemingly mundane, details in life. But that still doesn’t explain this copy: “I love the train that runs through my NEIGHBORHOOD AT 2 A.M.; the lilting sound of its whistle gently reminds me that the world is still spinning AND WE ARE OKAY…” Perhaps it’s just me, but, frankly, I’d prefer not being awakened at 2 a.m. to ponder a still spinning world.
But maybe it’s more rationalization than reassurance. In which case: nice spin, Ernest.
*Jim Brown may have been the best running back in NFL history. He was that big, that fast, that mobile, that good. But when it comes to racial consciousness and social commentary, he’s always been out of his league. Even with his ethnic hats and dashikis; even with his permanent snarl and grievance agenda.
He has no right to criticize Tiger Woods, as he did on a recent HBO special, for a “terrible” record in helping to effect social change. Woods, who is more Thai than African-American, has contributed millions of dollars to the less fortunate through his Foundation – and influenced millions of kids by his success and classy demeanor. Something Brown’s never been accused of.
Woods has been a solid — not just wealthy — family man. Never a hint of scandal, including assault. Something Brown’s been convicted of.