I think Imus is getting a 'vacation' - not a 'suspension'. Is it clear that it's unpaid?

In any event, what he said was irresponsible at the least. It was not a parady as you would expect from a Stern or Chappelle. Nor do I believe it was meant to be. I believe his statements were truly how he feels/thinks and he used poor judgement in stateing his feelings.

I'm not sure what kind of policy MSNBC or others have about racial slurs. If they have a 'zero tollerance' policy like they do in many companies, then I think he should be fired. However, if they don't, then whatever alternative policy they have should be implemented.

He 'upset' a lot of people by his comments (including me). I really feel bad for the girls on the team who are not 'public figures' such as politicians, celebs etc. who are natural targets for journalist. I hope that Imus learns something from this and curbs his statements on a go forward basis.

I hope MSNBC get's a balanced approach to how to deal with such matters going forward. Mainly I hope that we can all be more aware and sensitive to others of all walks of life and move forward. Not being too PC, but being more aware of how our words can impact and influence others - so that when we speak, we don't get surprised by how people respond.

What I find most shocking is not that the comments were made, but that Imus didn't know how people would respond. Much like Jimmy the Greek and Rush when they made comments they seemed 'shocked' that they were seen as racist. If it looks like a duck, sounds like a duck, then it's a duck (at least that's what people will believe).

Bottom line, If Imus is a racist - let him be one. And if he continues to make comments like he has, then he and the network should accept the consequences (other networks understood/understand what a Chappelle, Stern, Joyner etc) bring as potential issues. However, any penalty or not is up to the network.