There is a cure to pro sports salaries without caps. Make it all pay-per-view. I don't watch any pro sports, so why should some of the money I spend on damn near everything go to them? I buy a truck - every auto mfg advertises during sports games. Some of that is making it's way back to players. They are NOT making it off ticket prices.
Make it pay-per-view and what ever people spend on tickets. Then we'll find out exactly how much they are worth using open market supply/demand. I bet it is a lot less then the millions they make now.
On everything else - I agree with you guys. I'm not sure how we change course from where we are now. But I too hope it is not too late.
Sled, I believe that the best things we can do are also the simplest things.
First, If we take personal responsibility for our actions, and hold those around us personally responsible for their actions, that is the first step.
Second, if you have kids, step up and be a real Parent.
Third, take an active role in the education system if your kids are in it, and even if you don't have kids, you pay taxes to support your local school. In a way, the childless/ones whose kids are grown, have more at stake in the education system, because you are paying for something you aren't getting benefit from.
Fourth, get involved in politics at the local level, and very involved in the primary process for state and federal elections. We can't afford to allow those with money to dictate to us who our candidates are. I know this is a tall order, but with full engagement, it can be influenced and eventually changed. Grass roots is where it is at.
It will be a long and painful fight, but I believe it's worth it.
I am not saying any poster on this thread hasn't done their part in any of these things, merely encouraging everyone not to give up hope. Remember, "A Journey of 1000 Miles begins with the First STEP."