This week: Patriotism

The Good:

Bald Eagles. Yes, the stately bald eagles made their appearance at Opening Days all around the country. We remember their dwindling numbers in the ‘70s, sometimes dipping as low as 100. Now, there's thousands, and their resurgance is reason enough to stand tall. Why, you can even see these birds in the wild nowadays, and not just clutching the arm of an animal trainer as he sings the National Anthem. All hail Eagles!

 

The Bad:

The moment of silence at 9:11 pm. If we heard correctly, there will be a moment of silence for the victims of the September 11th terrorist attack at every night game, precisely at 9:11 pm. Creepy. What is the point? There is no connection to the attacks regarding that time, morning or evening, save for the numbers. So, using that logic, should we pause and reflect if our hot dog and beer purchase comes to $9.11? Observe this event when it's appropriate—on September 11th. Anything else is morbid, and, quite frankly, disturbing.

 

The Ugly:

Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA" in the seventh inning. In the Metrodome, we're being forced to endure Greenwood's god-awful 'anthem', right after "Take Me Out to the Ballgame". Written as a response to the protests of the Vietnam war, it's "Love it or leave it" message is divisive, not unifying. (Consider: "For I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free". So good that "at least" you're free). Not only that, but it's a lousy song. The seventh inning stretch is supposed to be a fun time—stick with the baseball, please.