Cluin - last night I watched the opening ceremonies in Vancouver before the Canucks played the St. Louis Blues. There was a lot of cheering during the "The Star-Spangled Banner" (which was a relief), but even more heartwarming was when the singer (who was that tenor with the golden voice!) fell silent during the second verse of "O Canada". The crowd carried on a cappella with rising enthusiasm, and by the end of the anthem the whole stadium was on it's feet resounding with cheers.
They certainly knew the words, anyway!

The solemn respect given to both anthems by the players themselves was good to see as well - some looked like they were at prayer even. Not a bad idea, on either side of the border!

Watching that, I couldn't help but think that the NHL might have something to teach MLB re the expression of patriotism at sporting events!

daylia