I'm almost afraid to watch the news anymore. Let's face it - there's awful, horrible, tragic news everywhere, and most of the time, that's what the networks focus on. Are they TRYING to get us all depressed? Because it's working!

But I might start watching ABC News because they're launching a series called "Spirit of America" that will air weekly during World News With Charles Gibson. Ok, so it's only two- to three-minute segments once a week, but hey, it's a start. I'll give 'em that.

"Even with the economic crisis and the problems that affect so many people, we're trying to show that people can make a difference, both big and small," said World News executive producer Jonathan Banner.

There's been speculation about who will replace Tim Russert on NBC's Meet the Press. David Gregory, Keith Olbermann, Chris Matthews and Katie Couric were a few of the rumored possibilities. Jovie Baclayon of E! Online reports that Tom Brokaw will be temporarily replacing the tragically-lost news anchor. NBC announced today that the former Nightly News anchor and South Dakota native would take over moderating responsibilities on Sunday mornings. He will guide discussions through the November presidential elections.

Steve Capus, NBC News President, made this statement about Brokaw's decision to step in: "To have someone of Tom's stature step up and dedicate himself to ensuring its ongoing success is not only a testament to his loyalty to Tim, but his enduring commitment to NBC News and our viewers."

After 21 years helming the program, Tom Brokaw retired from NBC Nightly News in 2004.

Tim Russert died of a heart attack last week on June 13th. He was 58.

[via Yahoo TV]

There's been a lot of talk lately about the state of network news. With the resignation of Dan Rather, the retirement of Tom Brokaw, and the death of Peter Jennings, along with the coverage of news we get with CNN, MSNBC, and FOX, many feel that the days of the dinnertime nightly network news shows are just about over. But not so fast: Verne Gay at Newsday gives his ten reasons why we need those network news shows.