Tell It Like It Is

The N&O has two strong stories today, juxtaposing budgetary priorities that Chris has already written about. Namely, that Health and Human Services will see their lean budget slashed by 12%, while university booster clubs keep their overly generous financing – all of it. My only complaint is the headline:

Out-of-state athletes keep tuition break

This really confuses people, they start to think, “Oh, come on, we can afford to give an athlete a break, can’t we?” Yes, why not help these students get the educations to which they’re soooo dedicated. Without delving too deeply into the mockery that is big-time college-level sports, this funding is NOT for athletes, out-of-state or otherwise. They get their scholarship money whatever their tuition status.

This money benefits athletic booster clubs. They offer the scholarships, and could certainly afford to continue doing so even in the face of recessions, downturns, shortfalls, and all other manner of financial snafus. Why? Because their wealthy members will pay no matter what the economic weather. They certainly don’t need my help, or yours. They’ve got all the friend they need in my boy who would gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today. The mentally ill citizens of North Carolina could really do with a big cool bud like him. They’ll just have to suck it on the streets and in the jails, though, ’cause they don’t finance campaigns – hell, they probably don’t even vote – and running and winning are the only things he cares about. The Wimp is obviously not alone because there weren’t enough leaders in the legislature to stand up for the people. Too many are too busy boostering boosters. Remember that as you step over the forgotten on the streets on your way to a sporting event.