Tribune Thumbs

To Albert Lea High School boys’ hockey coach Roy Nystrom.

Congratulations on becoming ranked fourth nationally for the most wins. Many hockey organizations and news media thought Nystrom went from fourth to third, but he went from fifth to fourth because another’s coaches record had not been factored. It turns out that Nystrom will reach third on the list with his 624th win, which ought to happen later this year.

To comedian Kathy Griffin.

Making fun of someone’s weight is a cheap shot. That’s what Griffin did Dec. 3 while hosting VH1’s “Divas Salute the Troops” concert, which aired Dec. 5. She said Bristol Palin (who recently went far on “Dancing with the Stars”) “is the only contestant in the history of the show to actually gain weight … She gained, like, 30 pounds a week. I swear to God, it was fantastic. She’s like the white Precious.” Thankfully, the soldiers in the crowd booed Griffin. If Griffin wants to bust on Bristol, don’t resort to fat jokes. That’s just mean. And she’s not fat, for goodness sake.

To Barbara Walters.

Featuring the cast of MTV’s “Jersey Shore” in her most fascinating people of 2010 really lowers her credibility. Yes, this group of obnoxious 20-somethings has the most watched show on MTV, but giving them props for drunken idiot behavior week after week sets a bad example for America’s youth. And the sad part is, several of these cast members had successful careers before being cast in the show. One is a small business owner, another a pre-law student and yet another studying to be a veterinary tech. These are not stupid people, so don’t glorify them — they are just acting. It’s not a reality show about real people.

To Santa Claus.

Sources say the jolly, old elf who lives at the North Pole is coming to Albert Lea later this month to bring toys for good girls and good boys. This generous act reminds parents and grandparents just how blessed they are to have children around. Kids brighten our lives. Thank you, Santa. Have a safe sleigh ride on Christmas Eve.