The last two Sundays featured major cultural happenings in America: the Oscars and the Daytona 500. Each drew similar television audience numbers, about 23 million viewers, but the events themselves couldn't have been more different. The Oscars celebrate America's filmmaking yet always toss in a good deal of moaning.  This year, viewers heard about the problems of too many white people, too many men, impeachment, and the discrimination against black hairstyles.  We heard Joaquin Phoenix rail against inseminating cows and drinking milk and even got to hear a quote from Karl Marx. Julia Reichert, who won best documentary for American Factory, produced by the Obamas' new production company, reminded us that "working people have it harder and harder these days — and we believe that things will get better when workers of the world unite."  The Daytona 500, even with its rain delay, was a stark contrast and full-throated...(Read Full Post)