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Mary Margaret Clark (Schultheis)

It never ceases to amaze me how there is no article, no video, no presentation of information that can not be accepted as valid by some unless it is cited by the NYT, the Washington Post, the Atlantic ABC, NBC, CBS.  Pretty much all of journalism now leans left, just as do university professors. If this is an untrue statement, please show me the data. And you are right, John, I didn't cite the source because from past experience I knew that the author of the article would be dismissed as "biased" and therefore the content of the article invalid.

There are skeletons in nearly every famous person's closet as the information I posted alludes to......same goes for all those named in the newly released, unredacted documents about the participants in the Russia/Trump collusion lies.  

To Tim's point about those who vote the party of their parents, there is truth in that due to the fact that our parents are our very first teachers from whom we learned our value system and our worldviews. I have been reading and listening to many who have voted that way in the past, but who are switching sides in this election. Republican Voters Against Trump is one organization, and the #Walkaway Campaign (Democrats voting for Trump) is another.     

Michael McLeod

Re: the conservative/liberal question, here's some interesting and I think legit stats from Gallup:

• Slight plurality of Americans in 2019 identified as conservative (37%)
• Moderates nearly as high, at 35%, while 24% were liberal
• Movement toward liberalism has slowed among Democrats, though still top group

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- As Americans continued to lean more Democratic than Republican in their party preferences in 2019, the ideological balance of the country remained center-right, with 37% of Americans, on average, identifying as conservative during the year, 35% as moderate and 24% as liberal.

The 2019 findings are based on combined data from 21 Gallup telephone surveys conducted throughout the year, encompassing over 29,000 interviews with U.S. adults.

The percentage identifying as conservative in 2019 was up two points from the 35% measured in 2018, while the percentage liberal was down two points from 26%. While these changes are statistically significant, some two-point changes in the past were short-lived, so it will be important to see whether these trends continue in 2020.

Regardless, conservatives and moderates remain closely matched in U.S. ideological preferences, as they have been since 2015. This follows several years -- from 2009 to 2014 -- when conservatives consistently outnumbered moderates. Before that, from 1999 to 2008, the two groups were about even, whereas from 1992 to 1998, moderates generally had the slight edge.

Meanwhile, liberal identification has gradually expanded over the past two decades, rising from 16% in 1996 to 19% by the late 1990s, 20% during George W. Bush's presidency, an average 23% during Barack Obama's presidency and 25% since Donald Trump took office.

Mary Margaret Clark (Schultheis)

My post was referring to the overwhelming percentage of progressive/liberal journalists who report for the named media sources (NYT, in particular) and the disparity in the universities, especially in the humanities and social sciences, which hire significantly less conservative instructors.

John Jackson

MM, the sources I cite (New York Times Washington Post, etc) are indeed mainstream which means they are read not only by people like me but also by many on the other side of the fence who are anxious to pounce on the slightest hint of inaccuracy or inconsistency.  Knowing that they are so highly scrutinized makes the mainstream media (MSM as you call them) accountable in a way that right wing websites, that exist in the remotest corners of the internet and which are read only by true believers, are not.

I think we all know by now that just because you can find something, somewhere on the internet to quote in support of your views, it doesn’t make it true.  With that in mind, I’m a bit surprised, that even after prodding, you don’t feel the need to name the source for your previous post.

One of the most exasperating things about the right is that whenever they lose the argument (a good example of this is climate change where the debate is utterly over) or when other uncomfortable facts come to light, they immediately start working the refs, alleging bias, radical left wing collusion, etc.

If the reporting on the news (not the opinion) pages of The New York times, Washington Post etc, is so outlandishly fictional it should be easy for those on the right to document and challenge their lies in much the same way the MSM calls out Trump’s incessant lying.

And the vast majority of “biased“ reporting is not based on “unnamed sources” but on verbatim quotes of Trump public statements or  tweets.  Trump is his own worst enemy – no need for the MSM  to invent facts or statements - the utterly wild and crazy things he says daily are all out there in the public record.

Michael McLeod

I understood your post, mm. I just went in another direction out of my own curiosity.

You are correct about journalists and educators tending to be more liberal but your assumption that conservatives just don't get hired is, I think, presumptuous.

Let me know if you have anything to support it.

I could just as well make another assumption - that smart, educated, well-informed and well-read people who can use their brains to earn jobs in academia or journalism are the kind of broad-minded, progressive people who are more likely to come to conclusions that are characterized by other people as liberal.

Since I was a b- student at best and have managed to eke out a career combining both  journalism and education, I wouldn't exactly be a poster boy for that theory.

My sense of conservatives is that they are absolutists. They have firm and unshakeable beliefs. I may be wrong. All I know is I have discovered different ways of looking at things over the decades as a journalist and as a college professor.

Anyway, I can see how conservatives would SAY that they are kept out of the two professions, but I'd love to see evidence of it as a definite pattern.  

At the newspapers where I worked, there tended to be lots of conservatives in the sports department and a few elsewhere - including all the high-ranking editors when I worked in Pensacola, and a syndicated editorial writer named Charlie Reese in Orlando, with whom I became friends. The real big shots, the newspaper publishers, were not infrequently conservatives. But overall, yes, conservatives were clearly outnumbered. Which didn't keep me from drinking with them after work. 

David Mitchell

Much as I hate to interrrupt this jovial roundatable, I feel what I have to say is of desperate importance to all readers.

My dear friends, especially those of you non-believing, heathens, and doubters who may be headed straight into the darkness and the eternal wailing and gnashing of teeth, I have just come upon some information that gives incontrovertible proof that there is a God. 

If I may be permitted to go back a ways. 

Some 40 odd (or even) years ago, my wife and I discovered the unique joys of a phenomenon known as "PUBLIC TV".  It was Channel 31 in Denver and it had something I will simply call - "different stuff". (you may substitute a more hip term there is you care to). There was even one night each week when they showed a Japanese language film for a significant Japanese-Americn population in near north side of downtown Denver.

(One of my all-time favorite films was the Japanese language film from WW2 titled "The Harp of Burma". (a B&W masterpiece about a compnay of Japanese soldiers in the Pacific with one member who plays the harp and become a Buddhist monk after they are all in a American Prison camp - exquisite!)

Anyway, Mary and I got really interested in a drama series from olden days in Scotland, but I have no memory of the details at all - we simply liked it. Then came a show that sunk the "hook" deeply into both of our psyche's. It was a series from a book that had become terribly popular, written by a Englishman names James Harriot.  The book and the series was titled, "All Creatures Great and Small". It told the story of three vetinarians between the two world wars in a small town up in the English county of Yorkshire. It was funny, serious, and wonderful!

We quickly grew addicted. And fed off this show for several years. We were so sad to see it end.

It began a life-long addiction to many of the programs. In recent years, "PBS" (and I have two PBS stations down here) reached the peak of their grandeur with a little production you may have heard of - "Downton Abbey". I don't think I have ever enjoyed any series on TV more than "D.A.".

But then followed some good ones - Poldark, Victoria, and another delight - "Doc Martin". They sustained my addiction. Also pretty good were "Grandchester," and "Call the Mid-wife", "Luther", and "Baptiste"

However, in one single year I had to endure the loss of both Downton Abbey and, my Sunday afternoons getting to hear a tall man in a blue helmet stick his hands up between another man's hind end and call out,  "Omaha!, Omaha!  Two tragic losses in the same year!  The losses were devasting!

And so also passed 'Doc Martin", "Victoria" and "Poldark"..... Whoa is me!

I have been brought to me knees, asking God if there would be an end to my suffering? (kind'a Biblical don'cha think?)

But finally, tonight, HE answered my prayers. I have just seen the previews of a "new" PBS British series, with an all-new cast - and it appears to be a good one. 

PBS will soon begin a new production of,,,wait for it,,,"All Creatures, Great and Small" !!!

Surely, there IS  a God !!!!!!!

Frank Ganley

And now the rhetoric is being amped up and that we of the right gave lost our mind, our values and our soul if we choose Our great President , Donald J Trump. Looking back in history such muck-racking and carping against one candidate we would have to go back to the campaign of Andrew Jackson.But at no time in our history has the supporters of one candidate have been castigated , shunned and disrespected such as been hurled at those that support Trump. Friends have been lost over our choice in what we believe in. I cite my plea to my learned friend(as  far as I feel) Mr LaVelle's total rejection of my pleas for even a promised non- political conversation ! Where does this make sense? This is worse than the radically inspired Muslims hatred for the christian world. I am both hurt and confused by this behavior but i ogress . Let us breakdown Mr LaVelle 's latest piece of brilliance . Two footballs tans meet and a an has no mask! These athletic specimens are checked on more than farmer brown's wife watches her prize winning pies as she readies them for the fair! Next he rooted for the team that did not act so brutish. Can you imagine Woody Hayes sending our beloved buckeyes into the field with his last words of encouragement being, now play nice with the other boys! Yea right! Who in their right mind would state that Our Great PresidentTrump does not love America? American is the only place where one can achieve all of what you want. 10 years ago everyone loved him , wanted to be with him , received money from him but now hated because he's a bully, a fighter, a more than equal opportunity employer as more than 50% of his top management are women! Oh he hates blacks, he dated a very dark beautiful woman for years   He's a messaginist, I wonder if he does deep tissue for$50 an hour. Name a piece of legislature he passes that does not benefit all.!!! Oh his tax break helped the very rich , good, eliminate that and soon the rich man quits. Did gates benefit or buffet or and of the other billionaires, of course they did and what did they do with it, put it in their charities. How about his prison reform ? Did he benefit no, did you, no but those that knew that life sure did. The WALL, we don't have that problem anymore , who benefitted , the poor. How say you! He protected the American farm the American farm worker, we would have benefitted with cheaper goods but high welfare.everyone who ran for president (16) hated each other in the race but buried the hatchet when it was over . KarenKaren you can get off your knees now you have the job called Biden every hatefilled term in the book except maybe the Devil Incarnate during their debates now all lovey dovey so Karmela can get off her knees now! When I pull that lever I am protecting our way of life not a communist, socialized country . Be careful on the left what you wish for . Oh I know all you lubbers will have something to say, idiot, how can you say that. Surprisingly we say that about your side but because we fear the loss of friendship , the ability to have an exchange of views even sports we choose to let it be. Whether we hold a 55th year class reunion remains to be seen! But I'll give you a quick picture of it. The room must be large, very large. Not for the numbers but for the separation. Po po you say, I've been to many gathering where this occurs. Few will attend, fighting will take place at least verbal sparing and it will be a quick nite. All this will come to pass unless something is done about this. God bless the USA, God bless Donald Trump and May God keep us and love us, Bless you     

Michael McLeod

I may have problems with what you say, Frank, but I gotta stand back and slowly shake my head and compliment you for how you say it. It's damn sure nobody can say we didn't have a colorful class. If I come to the reunion I'll be sure to bring a bodyguard. You think I'm going to risk having Mary Margaret kick my ass?

Mary Clare Hummer (Bauer)

We are better people than that, Frank. Every reunion committee I've ever been on has worked tirelessly to make sure it is a fun, memorable time. People like Janie and Toni and Lynn and MM and Fred and Kathy W. and Bonnie and Mike Boulware and many more. If we ever get to have another one, I'm sure you will find friends with whom you can share past fun, mischief, and kindnesses. I hope you wouldn't come looking for "fighting" or "verbal sparing"(sic).  We are, you know, getting too old for too much excitement!!!  
 Clare

David Mitchell

HEAR!   HEAR!

James Hamilton, M. D.

Friends,

 Many years ago the military, in response to problems resulting from cases of sexual harassment (language or otherwise), instituted the "Red Flag" call wherein a person feeling uncomfortable with a situation or conversation need only to state "Red Flag! " to warn that this needs to stop right now. In federal or military service not heeding that warning would have consequences.

My question to all of our classmates is: Should we all agree that at our reunion (hopefully we will be able to celebrate one)  political discussions will be off limits and, if someone feels the need to do so, to offer a ​​​​​​pleasant "RedFlag" request? Of couse, without any miltary type consequences 😁!

Is this a good or bad idea?

Jim 

John Jackson

I heartily endorse Jim’s idea because, like Mike M, I can’t even imagine standing up to MM in person.

Michael McLeod

Just thinking about it makes me tinkle.

David Barbour

Hey, MM is a sweetheart.  I don't think she deserves to be cut down here.  Perhaps we could disallow

pens and paper and screens of any sort.  But I love her, she is always polite and even helpful.  Let us 

remember we are christian( most of us) and grew up with parents who gave their best that we might be

good and just people.  I won't be bringing a bodyguard although maybe I'll need to wear my glasses and a 

dress( she wouldn't hit a poor nearsighted woman!!)  Just kidding, MM, about the glasses, not the dress!

Nice chance to wear those new pumps.

Many blessings,

DB

Frank Ganley

You have all missed my point,  with the air of political animosity hanging over our heads at the present time ,my fear is that it could put a damper on the reunion. As I stated Mr LaVelle has decided to not to communicate with me over my political views.  If anyone really knows me I am not interested in confrontation, I have dedicated my entire life to fun!  Why do you think I chose the PGA OFAMERICA as my career I taught a game, played the game and all I did was have an enormous amount of FUN doing it. School subjects I liked history, English  the reading classes fun, hated all math and Latin and Spanish not fun so I created my own fun ergo ( Latin word) I had a very long relationship with Fr Durbine and thee Mouse. So to think that I would come to reunion with the idea of confrontation knows me not. My life today consists of going to the golf club where I belong and have all day fun,daily snooker games. It's a pocket bill yard game but a little more demanding; and giving almost nightly musical concerts to my wife playing one of my many guitars. All of these activities are fun and most can be played with beer; bourbon or bongs to add to its fun. My discussions of politics comes after I have read and have been bracketed  as stupid, immoral and other unfavorable names due to my belief. So if you see me it's going to be somewhere having fun,making jokes, and most likely have a bourbon nearby. I close with this thought, I believe as fervently and passionately as you on the left, you are convinced you are right as we on the right I just won't drop a friend because you think differently. . So stop with the you're right and Trump is this or that. Discuss not fight, if you want to solve world problems smoke a big blunt and a bourbon on the rocks and enjoy life, and remember don't sweat the small stuff and all problems are the small stuff. 

John Jackson

My post about not standing up to MM was not meant to be unkind, but instead an attempt to make light of our disagreements and extend an olive branch.  Apologies to all if I was clumsy.

And I was serious about seconding Jim's suggestion.

Michael McLeod

Let's just all hope that one way or the other there's less background radiation of animosity in the country at large by the time our reunion comes around.

Hoping we can all meet under the one flag that counts by then.

Kathleen Wintering (Nagy)

We have had such fun at our reunions! I am sure we will continue to do so. Janie puts in so much time for our class! I think everyone is old enough to keep politics out of this  friendly get - together!!  Stay well everyone!! God bless the Class of 1966!  Kathy Wintering Nagy  10-13- 20

David Mitchell

Speaking to this very point......

Interesting timing for a remark from one Senator Romney in today's USA Today 

I quote in part;

WASHINGTON — Former Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney said on Tuesday that he is "troubled" by the state of American politics today, calling on leaders from both sides of the aisle to "tone it down."

"I have stayed quiet with the approach of the election," Romney said in a statement posted to Twitter. "But I'm troubled by our politics, as it has moved away from spirited debate to a vile, vituperative, hate-filled morass that is unbecoming of any free nation – let alone the birthplace of modern democracy."

He goes on to call out both the Pres. and Nancy.

Wouldn't it be interesting to see how he might "poll" in today's political atmosphere?  His credibility has skyrocketed in my book.

Frank Ganley

I for one am looking forward to our 55th year of graduating from high school  and as always look forward to reconnecting with old not aged friends as 70 is the new 50 but unfortunately 9pm is the new midnight. I look forward endless laughs , maybe some great golf somewhere and as spignoli said in fast times cool tunes and tasty buds! I paraphrase. Looking forward t  on comparing scars from procedures and rousing sports and what will the buckeyes have next year. As Mary claire said all those on the too little appreciated and thanked reunion committee always surpass the last party weekend. Cry over friends who have passed and talking grandchildren!    

Mary Margaret Clark (Schultheis)

A friend shared this story with me today:

WOMAN SHOT IN THE HEAD
Linda Burnett, 23, a resident of Arkansas, was visiting her in-laws and while there went to a nearby super-market to pick up some groceries. Later, her husband noticed her sitting in her car in the driveway with the car running and the windows rolled up. Her eyes closed with both hands behind the back of her head. 
He became concerned and walked over to the car. He noticed that Linda's eyes were now open and she looked very strange. He asked her if she was okay; Linda replied that she had been shot in the back of the head and had been holding her brains in for over an hour (at least it seemed that way to her, it actually had been 15 minutes, she blamed the inability to tell time on her head injury). 
The husband called the paramedics, who broke into the car because the doors were locked and Linda refused to move her hands. 
When they finally got in, they found that Linda had a wad of bread dough on the back of her head. From the back seat a biscuit canister had exploded from the heat, making a loud noise that sounded like a gunshot, and the wad of dough hit her in the back of her head. 
When she reached back to find out what it was, she felt the dough and thought it was her brains. She initially passed out, but quickly recovered. 
Linda is blonde, a Democrat, and a Biden supporter; but that could all be a coincidence.
The defective biscuit canister was analyzed and it was determined to be Trump's fault.
~~ If you read all of this you have been cooped up in your house too long. You need to get some sunshine. 🙂
 

David Mitchell

Ha!

Sounds like a Yeast-German Communist plot to me.

Michael McLeod

Sure, you laugh, but I think it makes perfect sense to blame Trump. He's the one with all the dough.

Julie Carpenter

Thanks MM for a really good laugh! It made me laugh out loud--thankfully, no one was around to report me to the white coats!

Michael Boulware

The last two books that I have read were authored by Mary Trump and Michael Cohen. I am currently reading RAGE by Bob Woodward. Good reading, well written, and I feel an accurate description of our current president. I have attempted to find something that portrays our president as a kind and unselfish man, perhaps even a patriot.i Iike to see both sides. Any suggestions from my Red friends?

I went back and checked google.com about Trump's medicine coming from an aborted fetus. My account was accurate, however, you can find other accounts that reject what I did read. That has been pointed out to me and it is valid.

By the way, it seems that some Trump supporters don't believe in wearing masks during this pandemic; I hope they change their minds about that immediately. Stay Safe!!!