Mass. gov suggests goalie's DC snub was rude

The governor of Massachusetts says a Boston Bruins goalie's decision to skip a White House ceremony with President Barack Obama honoring the Stanley Cup champions points to the country's growing loss of "basic courtesy and grace."

Tim Thomas has said he skipped Monday's event because the federal government was "out of control," but he blamed both parties.

Gov. Deval Patrick was asked about the snub Thursday during his monthly program on WTKK-FM. He didn't directly criticize Thomas, but suggested the snub showed disrespect toward the presidency.

The Democratic governor says while he disagreed with many of former President George W. Bush's policies, he was always respectful when he met with the Republican president.

Patrick added Thomas is a "phenomenal" player and is entitled to his views.

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