(UNEDITED)Two Standard Examiner staff writers should practice more credible journalism. I refer to two recent statements which reflect absurdity and the need for a refresher course in Journalism 101. First, the heading for an editorial page column (10/24/10) by Rick Stewart stated, "Republicans care only about the wealthy." Really?! That's all Republicans care about? The term "only" is both singular and exclusive in it's meaning. I'm a Republican who is well acquainted with many other Republicans and have never had a discussion about caring for the wealthy. The statement is both false and ludicrous. Stewart should have been ashamed to let that statement be the heading of his article.
Second, Charles Trentleman asserted in his "Wasatch Rambler" article (11/14/10) that "Tea Partiers are claiming it was a victory because they have a high opinion of themselves." What?! I am not a Tea Partier, but in discussions with them I have found them to be from every walk of life, ethnically diverse, intelligent, concerned about moral and economic issues, patriotic, decent average Americans, and definitely humble.
Gentlemen, on what facts do you base your claims and comments? Your characterizations are simply opinionated political "scat." Here is a basic journalistic tenet for both of you and the Standard Examiner editorial board: Preface such comments with, "In my opinion..."
In my opinion (See, that's how it's done!) Stewart and Trentleman owe Republicans and Tea Partiers an apology, but, in my opinion (See, it's not that difficult!) neither have the journalistic character to do so.
Speaking of having a high opinion of one's self, this is well illustrated by an individual who thinks that his "ramblings" (which I refer to as "bumbling mumblings") merit routine publication. How self important can an individual be who thinks that his musings are that significant?
As to the recent elections results which Trentleman referred to as "smoke and mirrors," therefore diminishing them, I'm reminded of a mouthy student in my high school who spouted off too often and was knocked on his derriere. When he got up from the ground and brushed himself off he said, "That wasn't much of a punch." Charles, I think Obama's term for the election results was "shellacking" (Webster: a whipping; flogging; a thorough defeat).
Michael Reddin
Plain City
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