Katie Couric: Smooth Da Hustla.

According to Lloyd Grove, the elvin NBC Today Show host has more than just pep in her step, she's got soul in her roll:

"... the 'Today' show's barefoot Katie Couric snagged a live interview with the Democratic nominee and his running mate, and the well-shod Gibson got nobody - that he was right to be hopping mad.

"Immediately on arriving at Langone Park, on the banks of the Charles River, (ABC's Good Morning America host Charlie) Gibson noticed that 'GMA's' picturesque site was a good distance away from the rally.

"But 'Today' had claimed a location close to the bus that was to convey Kerry and Edwards on their first cross-country campaign trip.

"According to witnesses, Gibson indicated the 'Today' site, scowled - and barked at a 'GMA' producer: 'We should be here.'"

The Corsiar nibbles on a croissant, sipping coffee, reflecting on the irony of Charlie Gibson's statement, and its relevance to the white hott ratings war currently going on between GMA and Today. Of course Charlie wants to be there, getting the rich smooth Today Show ad revenue cheddar.

"Around 8 a.m. the 'Today' team moved to an even closer location around 30 feet from the candidates' bus - smack-dab in the middle of their escape route - and Couric doffed her fashionable black pumps for greater mobility."

The Corsair ducks, mouthing 'What the f-,' narrowly avoiding a Manolo Blahnik to the chops:

"'... Where are your shoes?' Edwards demanded.

"'I had to jump around to try to grab you guys,' Couric explained.

"Watching miserably, Gibson scorched his producers, 'This should have been us!' and then stormed off.

"The despondent 'GMA'-ers were spotted sulking beside their remote location.

"A few hours later, ABC News spokesman Jeffrey Schneider made no effort to spin (Grove).
'Gosh, that Katie - she's such a hustler,' he said, and I can only hope he meant that in the best sense."

don't hate the hustla, hate the ratings game ...