Fast talkers spoil
Olympic surprises

---

ABC News has adopted a television broadcast practice long familiar in Hawaii: close-your-eyes time. But these network folks don't know how to do it right.

The Winter Olympics in Utah take place in a time zone that permits ABC to report same-day results before rival NBC's exclusive Oly show at night. However, ABC -- not wanting to spoil the fun for those who'd rather remain uninformed -- warns viewers that it's about to spill the beans.

In his usual cerebral style, anchor Peter Jennings advises viewers to ignore the upcoming Olympic segment, then without pause delivers the news verbally accompanied by stills of medal winners. There's not enough time to mute the volume and close your eyes.

Robert Kekaula ought to give Jennings some lessons. Otherwise, why bother? Dan Rather doesn't.

--Cynthia S. Oi

---