If you've seen the news this morning, you know what happened on West 55th St. yesterday.

There was an audition for that reality show "America's Next Top Model". Thousands of hopefuls crowded onto West 55th St. in Manhattan, waiting for their big chance. Apparently a car belching exhaust went by and someone hollered "Fire" . . or someone shouted "Gun". . and some predatory pickpockets started grabbing purses. . and a stampede ensued.

The audition was canceled and people who had come for miles (one interviewee was from South Carolina, I expect there were some from farther) were left on the curb, heartbroken.

Does anyone here remember the movie "They Shoot Horses, Don't They?"

Times are getting so tough that an air of desperation has begun to permeate these "instant fame" shows. The exploitation of misery is getting a little thick out there.