Jed, I agree that it's silly to try to ignore 9-11 in this year's July 4th celebration, and I will let PBS know that.  "Upbeat" is fine, but they sing "The Star Spangled Banner," don't they?  That one is about a battle, and they do usually include a few songs that are kinda slow and schmaltzy.  Not knowing the full text of Daniels's song, though, I can't comment on its appropriateness for the "Capitol 4th."

Doug R, I agree that PBS is about the ONLY mass medium where you hear any views that are really "leftist" any more.  But I'd hardly characterize their overall slant as far left just because it's closer to the center than the corporate dominated commercial media--or because they are more likely to present an actual two-sided discussion of issues.  And I don't think the term "politically correct" applies to this decision.  If anything, the "politically correct" position in the US today is to plaster Old Glory all over your house, lapel, and car [and one on your wife's forehead] and not question anything the current administration is doing, "because we are at war."

Maybe PBS should use Tom Paxton's song "The Bravest" as a 9-11 tribute.

Genie