Culture, as much as the record, will account for the dismissal of St. Louis Cardinals' manager Mike Matheny on Saturday. A reality that cooks at a slow boil in sport at every level.

Two issues that beg being aired, just because they've worn out their welcome: 1) The NBA Finals, and 2) Do you really care if Terrell (Owens) shows up at the Hall of Fame when he's inducted in July?

Jackie Robinson broke the color line in baseball, indeed, but will we ever reach that point where can we appreciate him, and others, for something more than social pioneers?

It's the only state in the midwest that plays high school baseball AFTER graduation. And in Iowa they make it work for - get this - the sake of the kids.

On the occasion of my 66th birthday I think about all the things I've witnessed over that time - compared to what I see now and for the forseeable future. How to appreciate the journey, and the destination?