The man searched for the truth, and showed budding journalists that putting people of power on the hot seat was both doable, and so, so neccessary. That art is fading away, and with Russert’s death, of heart attack, at age 58, has been diminished significantly. We all enjoy the spectacle and entertainment value of the sweet science, but all of us have a stake in paying attention to, and influencing matters, of greater import than mere sport. Russert was one who helped us sift through all the spin and propaganda, and in this day and age, that is needed as much as it ever was. I only hope that a few young journos will be moved to step up their game, and follow his path, and speak truth to power, making it their reason for being, as Russert did. News journalism lost a giant today, on Friday, June 13, 2008. RIP, Mr Russert.