Baseball: As to the NY closer opening music "controversy," Billy Wagner has rightful ownership. He was the first one to use the song, on the advice of a teammate, and actually is a fan of the music. Mariano admitted to liking "christian music" (talk of him being a minister after retiring) and the music was chosen for him by the sound crew for effect -- Trevor Hoffman's "Hell's Bells" being so popular with the fans, they wanted something similar for the Stadium.
In fact, though no one apparently cares, another Pacific Coast team (Mariners) closer uses Hoffman's music. Thus, BW has first claim. At any rate, the real point is success, and he blew his second save. Brian Bannister also went no hitter to the sixth, but then gave up a three run homer. [No decision.] Reminds of the two perfect attempts by Rick Reed, both resulting in losses.
Silly commercial alert: Checking out a Cubs game, I caught a commercial involving a little boy getting ready to play with his kite, attaching a note on it. It was promoting returning to faith/belief by the Methodist Church -- see he apparently was sending letters to God or something. That's what prayer is for, kid. Well, whatever works ... thin line between creativity and silliness actually. In the long run, maybe it's a way to go though it does make religion look a bit well childish. I know Jesus was (is) said to like believers to have child-like enthusiasm, but a bit dubious.
And Also: Supreme Court justices [Kennedy/Thomas] had their usual testimony yesterday respecting budget matters and whatever the legislative peons wish to ask them. Again, they said "no" to television. How about audio? It protects privacy, they did it already apparently without incident a few times, and it is less intrusive than television.