Ups & Downs

Ups & Downs

Jay Leno's Garage

UP: To Jay Leno, for bringing viewers into his “Big Dog” garage and on the road with him through his website, www.jaylenosgarage. com. Each week, eschewing showbiz hair and makeup, “The Tonight Show” host rolls up his shirt sleeves and details in plain wordsno cue cards needed-the history and mechanical workings of one of the cars or motorcycles from his wide-ranging collection. “Your Garage” page provides a space for fans to submit photos of their personal vehicles.

DOWN: To CBS Evening News, for its December 23 report stating that motorcycle deaths have been steadily rising in recent years. The brief segment failed to acknowledge that motorcycle sales had also steadily risen over the same period, putting significantly more riders on the road. The report implied that the absence of mandatory helmet laws in most states is largely to blame for the increased fatalities, backing up that claim with sound bites from a couple of riders who choose not to wear helmets. “They’re uncomfortable,” said one, while another said, “I don’t plan to drive that way”-although the “that way” part of his statement was not explained. With this kind of stilted, incomplete, no-new-news reporting, it’s no wonder CBS Evening News languishes at the bottom of the ratings barrel.

UP: To Valentino Rossi, for taking his licks. The seven-time world champion has agreed to pay the Italian government 35 million euros (about $51 million) in back taxes. Originally, the fine was alleged to be more than 112 million euros. “Valentino is not a tax evader and the proof is his decision to pay,” said Lucio Monaco, Rossi’s lawyer. “He did not want a war, only a fair accord.”