Thursday, January 04, 2007

on my radar: american icons

Happy New Year!

Alas, it seems that 2007 is looking a lot like 2006 as we kick things off: Rosie and Trump are still at it; it must mean he's got a show to promote or a new casino to bankrupt; Britney, nothing more needs to be said about her since it can all be seen on film or "Youtube". My one question, when is the last time anyone (besides Liza Minelli) ended up "out" on the floor at a party because they "fell to sleep"? Let's hope at some point someone gives them all resolutions to be a bit less visible....which leads me to...

Over the weekend a couple icons were rolled out in front of the television viewing audience; one had no option, the other probably had no idea. How they were handled gets me to wondering, what becomes of a semi-legend most and how should we salute our icons as they age?

When your husband, a former US President passes away, it won't matter how bad off you are looking, you will be shown on TV! Bless that poor Betty Ford, who's getting along remarkable well for 88! She looked like she could crumble at any moment during Gerald's funeral processions- she probably walked more in these past couple days then she has in the past 2 years combined! Kudos' to those who kept her going! And for all that she did in her time; what I wouldn't do to see Laura Bush kick back a few drinks and be interviewed by Barbara Walters (just don't let her drive)!

On the other hand, dressing up Muhammad Ali and literally (golf) carting him onto the football field to kick off the Orange Bowl was a travesty, unless you are making an argument for why boxing shouldn't be allowed ("Rocky's" 2-6 are another good reason). I was hoping to call Lee Iacocca to see if he'd help fund another landmark restoration project! For being only 65, Ali was a sad sight to behold and it's arguable if he even knew what was going on...Betty Ford might have been able to KO him if they'd been together! Ali's legacy might be better served if these appearances were kept out of the media!

It just me shudder to think in 2050 they might be dragging Britney or Rosie out there...

No comments: