Just Asking...

As the Olympics go into their final weekend, there are still some questions about the Games, and about China, that remain unanswered.

For instance.

1. Wouldn't the U.S. medal count be swell if we would just, say, offer statehood to Jamaica? Provided, of course, we could catch their politicians to make the offer.

2.  Why didn't the U.S. Olympic baseball team, which needs hitting, offer a spot to Barry Bonds? And wouldn't THAT have made things interesting over here?

3. When Chinese children play in the pool, do they play "Marco Polo?''

4. Why didn't Confucius make it on any of the money?

5. Because of the Tampa Bay Lightning, can we count Usain Bolt as a local?

6. Shouldn't it tip off the IOC that the Chinese gymnasts were too young when they had a "team baby-sitter?''

7. Rhythmic gymnastics in? Softball out? Please explain.

8. Why haven't they tried the LZR racer, the full-bodied swimsuit, in beach volleyball?

9. Isn't it time we added 'home run derby'' to the decathlon?

10. Considering that those Chinese critter carts look like something the contestants eat on Fear Factor, don't you wonder what the contestants eat on the Chinese version of Fear Factor? Peanut Butter?

11. Don't you think the Lopez family was having a great Olympics until Jennifer opened her mouth?

12. Has Marion Jones been watching?

-- Gary Shelton