Sexism is alive and well in America

Posted: Saturday, Nov 08, 2008 - 08:08:31 pm PST

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Mary Souza

Heart of the Matter

Our United States Presidential election is now over. It has been a long, intense campaign and I join my fellow citizens in hoping for a quiet return to normalcy. But whether the outcome makes you happy or sad, there is a loathsome lesson to take from this 2008 election: Sexism is alive and well in America.

Hillary Clinton started the campaign cycle years ago, positioning herself for the top job, and Democrats were enthusiastic about her potential. Her gender was then honored, her experience and capabilities highlighted. After all, she was the heir apparent and a liberal in every way.

Enter Barack Obama and the gender celebration was quickly pushed aside in favor of race relations. Which minority status deserves higher consideration? The answer was clear as the mainstream media crowned Obama and turned their backs on the formerly emulated Hillary. Their moves were subtle, but the sexist attacks were real: Gradually downplaying the value of Sen. Clinton's experience, raising new questions about her husband wandering in the White House and whether she was strong enough to face foreign leaders.

But when the Republicans chose the governor of Alaska to be their VP pick, the gloves came off. Governor Palin is a conservative woman. She does not share the same values as liberal feminists but holds an impressive list of accomplishments from her 13 years in elected office. No matter, most media outlets went into personal attack mode.

How best to diminish and discount a popular female governor with an approval rating of 80 percent? (Especially when the approval rating of the U.S. Congress was 9 percent?) Talk about her appearance constantly; focus all attention on her hair, glasses, clothing and shoes. Dig up swimsuit photos from a high school beauty pageant and call into question her motherhood.

Do not talk about her fight to clean up corruption within her own political party or becoming the first female governor in Alaska's history. And absolutely do not discuss her responsibilities as the state's chief executive, accountable for 15,000 employees and a nearly $7 billion budget. No, the media said Gov. Palin should be home with her children, while they alternately and incongruously labeled her as "hot" and "sexy." Interviews with liberal journalists, and I use the term lightly, asked about everything except her background, experience and plans as VP.

Oh, but it got worse, much worse. With the perception of public fascination, comedy shows, fringe media outlets and attention-starved celebrities all rushed to create foul, vulgar images or statements about Governor Palin, some pornographic, in an effort to get themselves in the news. It worked. Mainstream stations reported the repugnant fabrications, simply for the shock factor.

Can you imagine the uproar if the same was done to Barack Obama?

An effigy of Sarah Palin was allowed to hang by a noose as a Halloween decoration while two men were arrested for a Halloween effigy of Sen. Obama. The law considers it a hate crime in the case of race but not in the case of gender.

It's depressing to think that our country's leadership choices cannot be made on the credentials and abilities of candidates rather than their gender. We must stop supporting media outlets that resort to these offensive, biased methods. No matter what your political loyalties, sexism should not be tolerated. Nevertheless, throughout this campaign, both Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin continued to carry themselves with grace and dignity. For this they have both earned my respect, and I hope yours as well.

Mary Souza is a 20-year resident of Coeur d'Alene, local small business owner and former Planning and Zoning Commissioner. Her opinions are her own. For a free archive of past columns visit www.marysouzacda.com Comments: marysouzacda@gmail.com. Please visit the local issues Web site www.OpenCdA.com for more discussion.

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Golden Mean wrote on Nov 19, 2008 10:59 PM:

" Of coarse the media treats a female candidate differently -it was exciting to have a woman running for Vice President! And it was exciting to have a half black win the presidency. The reality is that Palin and Obama both received extra attention because of the diversity that they had to overcome to get there.

The country is growing up. "

fun gal wrote on Nov 19, 2008 7:49 PM:

" Like I said before, it's STILL a man's world. Now that we have finally elected a President of color (a man), maybe the next step is to elect a woman "

Mary Souza wrote on Nov 19, 2008 7:44 PM:

" Thanks, "Proof" that is remarkable! This poll asks about the treatment of the candidates. Here are some surprising results:

In general, do you think the media treats male and female candidates... All:
The same 16
Differently 79
Dont know 5

Do you think the media has a gender bias? All:
Yes 57
No 26
Dont know 17

Thinking about the kinds of stories the media ran, please indicate whether you remember
any stories about the following during the campaign.
Showing Yes/No
All:

Sarah Palins appearance-her hair and clothes 81/14
Barack Obamas views about healthcare reform 73/19
Sarah Palins abilities as a parent 71/21
John McCains views about healthcare reform 66/25
Hillary Clintons views about healthcare reform 63/26
Hillary Clintons appearance-her hair and clothes 48/42

It goes on to site others...but Sarah Palin's appearance topped the list of any and all campaign stories! "

Here is the proof Mary wrote on Nov 19, 2008 4:50 PM:

" ht tp://newsbusters.o rg/blogs/noel-sheppard/2008/11/19/
poll-sexist-media-far-harsher-palin-clinton "

glen wrote on Nov 18, 2008 11:46 PM:

" thanks mary for letting us know where you really stand.

GOD DAM THE DEMS FOR USING THE "REPUBLICAN" PLAYBOOK!

maybe YOU and mm should move to ALASKA!

I WAS BORN HERE AND I AM N O T GOING A N Y W H E R E!

LET THE N E X T CIVIL WAR BEGIN! "

Put it up Michelle wrote on Nov 18, 2008 11:31 PM:

" yoHo! Match dis sugar!
ht tp://w ww.idontlikeyouinthatway.c om/2008/11/sarah-palin-gilf.html "

Local wrote on Nov 18, 2008 6:55 PM:

" Sex??? Well I am to sexy for my body and that is the simple truth. "

Doesnt Tubob wrote on Nov 18, 2008 4:48 PM:

" work in Olympia? Didn't DHS try to get him to quit by transferring him across state? 'Unbearable' can't be tubob because the post is at 2:15 and that would mean that he's defrauding the washington taxpayers posting on government time. Now way would he do that. "

Unbearable wrote on Nov 18, 2008 2:15 PM:

" I'm not from Spokane. I'm from Olympia. You know the west side is beginning to grow on me. Like moss! Hahaha. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 18, 2008 12:53 PM:

" Circa Right Now:

Check out my new post in Mary's other story - I made another big boy comment! "

Read it before wrote on Nov 18, 2008 12:15 PM:

" Circa 2006-"That's it. I'm leaving Huckleberries and I'll never be back."
Circa 2008' "But I am a Mary fan. I rarely agree with her but she is a successful business person and that is something for which I have a great deal of respect."

Hahahaha, after showing COMPLETE disrespect for Mary post after post after post. Suddenly, when the parasite realizes that it will have its posts thrown in the richly deserved digital trash, it puts its flaccid little tail between its lardy thighs and wimpers and pleads Mary not to start a blog at the press.

Maybe she'll rethink the issue. "

Mary Souza wrote on Nov 18, 2008 9:05 AM:

" I do appreciate your suggestions about the blog site here. This is what I just posted under my other column's comments on this site:
" Thanks for the idea and followup about a blog on this site, "Suggestor" & "Geez". I really think that OpenCdA is just as available as a blog here. The problem with having both is that I would not have enough time to monitor them and keep the comments fresh--it's more of a commitment than many people realize.

How about this--I'll put up more "Open Session"posts on OpenCdA, which is where any and all reasonable comments are welcome. Then those that want to check the Press articles can just click over to OpenCdA and make remarks. Come on, give it a try. It just takes a minute to sign up, then you don't have to do that part again, ever.

Just go to the upper right-hand corner of OpenCdA's front page, click on "register" and follow the directions. " "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 18, 2008 12:31 AM:

" I'm not from Spokane and I've never done LSD. But I am a Mary fan. I rarely agree with her but she is a successful business person and that is something for which I have a great deal of respect. Reading Mary's column gives me a wonderful clarity of position. I know right where I stand and I like it better over here. Thanks for that Ms Souza. "

See Mary wrote on Nov 17, 2008 10:55 PM:

" By having a blog here, the people who want to comment on your fine columns won't be burdened by LSD-flavored rants from spokane HBO losers.
Think about it. "

Unbearable wrote on Nov 17, 2008 3:48 PM:

" Golden Mean

I sit on my wicker one July afternoon and listen to the boy. Hes four. Daddy, Im from outer space. I chuckle and flick an ash onto a New Guinea impatiens. No, dude, youre not from outer space, youre from Spokane. He shifts. No Daddy! I am too. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 17, 2008 3:31 PM:

" Unbearably Mean

Grown man dont just fall in river said Grand Dad speaking around the gun shot wounds he inflicted into the tree, "Now do the twist boy"

And so I danced. But not outta fear. I danced because I loved ice cream. "

Unbearable wrote on Nov 17, 2008 2:47 PM:

" I refuse pink because it's been so deeply ingrained in me that pink is well, pink. Ain't nothing about repression. I must confess that I once tried to eat quiche and I gagged and couldn't get more than a bite down. But I don't eat eggs cuz eggs make me gag. I'd go to a Broadway show in a New York minute. I also painted my living room mauve. But I would never buy a Mazda Miata. "

A suggestion for Mary wrote on Nov 17, 2008 11:48 AM:

" In addition to open cda dot com, how about starting a blog here like Dave Tolle's 'Soup to Nuts'? That way, you can simply edit out those whose only interest is trolling and sidetracking the issues and readers who don't want to leave the Press site can comment. Win/Win. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 16, 2008 10:00 PM:

" To Its EASY to imagine,

I'm not who you think I am.

First off, I'm a chunk younger than 50 and I'm not trying to act like I'm 22 - I'm shooting for 10ish.

Oh well, back to the drawing board. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 16, 2008 9:55 PM:

" To for Golden Mean,

If you're asking if you can sleep over, you can't. I'm still in trouble from the last time.

Somebody (you know who you are) blew the whistle on me for having a pizza with "LCDC Rulz" written in black olives deliverd to Mary's house.

Maybe next weekend. "

Its EASY to imagine wrote on Nov 16, 2008 8:43 PM:

" Just imagine milking the good people of Washington out of their taxes to pay for hippy-logic 'curing' of juvenile delinquents. Sadly, their taxes aren't spent on actual lousy mentoring and rehabilitation but hours and hours and hours spent at taxpayer funded 'blog' time.
Then, imagine a 50 year-old guy acting like a 22 year-old. Follow that wretched thought with 3 kids whose Mother had enough of the sicko to the point of LEAVING HER OWN children.
Wow! That's almost as funny as Golden Mean's usual posts... the exact person I just described.

Pathetic.

...But the hucklefairies who post here LOVE him.

more than pathetic----psychotic. "

For Golden Mean wrote on Nov 16, 2008 8:27 PM:

" Wow...I can only imagine what you must be like to live with. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 16, 2008 7:38 PM:

" Attention G&G and 4 shizzle,

Would you mind keeping your comments on topic? Your antics are making it difficult for me to focus on the issues. "

4 shizzle wrote on Nov 16, 2008 6:48 PM:

" U takin' dance? My gal S Pal got it goin'. J Mac do's it right fo'a ol' white guy.
ht tp://w ww.minimovie.c om/film-128460-McCain-Obama%20Dance-Off "

Attention Gollum and Goldie wrote on Nov 16, 2008 5:57 PM:

" Here's how its done. Wit and Mary's subject together.
Begin:
"Not content with stealing the show at the Republican Governors Association in Miami this week, Sarah Palin cranked it up a notch by lounging by her hotel's pool in some ridiculously short shorts. D*mn, it s*cks McCain lost. Instead of getting to look at this for four years, we get to look at a First Lady who looks like the dad on Good Times in one of my aunt's wigs. Thumbs down, Electoral College. Thumbs down, man.

ht tp://w ww.idontlikeyouinthatway.c om/2008/11/sarah-palin-gilf.html "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 16, 2008 2:20 PM:

" Hey Mary,

Check out your new story. I made a big boy post! Instead of having fun I got real serious 'bout business and taxes. Hope I didn't give away any secrets (wink).

How long do you think it will be until I get pounced on and the whole goofy thing will start all over again? "

To Mary Souza wrote on Nov 16, 2008 1:18 PM:

" I know what you mean about the posters trying to take over, between this Golden Mean and fun girl they have pis sed most people off and just do it intentionally but the moderators won't do anything about it.
They are pathetic and do no good what so ever and have almost destroyed any reason to even read the comment section any more with their idiotic and childish behavior and the sad part is they think they are being funny when they are not. "

Mary Souza wrote on Nov 16, 2008 12:56 PM:

" Dear Readers, this comment thread has been completely overtaken by one blogger posing as many other names and not addressing the issue at all.

If you click on the OpenCdA link at the bottom of my column above, it will take you to our web site, which I help control. (I have no control over this one) We do not allow this type of take-over of a discussion and all comments must be reasonable and respectful.

This same column above, and all my columns, as well as other interesting posts, are there for comment.

As an aside, my Sunday column is posted at OpenCdA on Tuesdays. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 16, 2008 12:36 PM:

" Oldan Gollum,

I'm not sure what's going on here with you, but I'm pretty sure that you got it bad for the tubub. You got it so bad that youre even stalking people that are not a tubob (like me). It's as if Mark David Chapman was so obsessed with Lennon that he began stalking McCartney calling him Lennon.

It seems likely that you know how to contact the real tubob, why don't you and just ask if that's me?

On the other hand, if you want to stalk me, that's fine. Just, please, please, stalk me for me and not who you want me to be.

But I don't expect that to happen. This is what I expect will happen

I foresee my self pulling over to help a stranded driver on the side of the road. While connecting jumper cables to the unknown motorist's car, I'm hit in the back of the head with a tire iron and all turns black. When I come to, I'm someplace dark, damp, possibly an old well. A basket tied to a rope is lowered down to me. Inside the basket is a bandana. A voice from the darkness above begins a chant, the chant. I didn't know it at the time but the chant will go on for a long, long time

It puts the bandana on its head; it puts the bandana on its head

If only I could get a message to Mary, she could save me.

She could get down, to heart of the mattter. Even if, even if, she don't love me anymore. "

Pithy Opiner wrote on Nov 16, 2008 9:44 AM:

" Counter-puncher = intellectual parasite. "

Gollum Mean wrote on Nov 16, 2008 7:37 AM:

" Well, 'My Pretties' I'm here to explain my bandana...my PRECIOUS.
People ask me, "Gollum Mean, why do you wear that stupid bandana on your creepy old noggin?"

I respond thusly, "Because I'm BALD, that's WHY!!. You idiots!!!"
But I'm not powerless..hahahaha..with my bandana on, I have POWER...INCREDIBLE POWER!!!...hahahaha. When I sit at my computer at work (why do I waste so much time with those simpletons?!) I can show the world my POWER!!!! Hahaha.

bu..but I've lost my bandana...my, ah..PRECIOUS. I MUST find it to regain my...

"Stop laughing at me and pointing at my head! Stop it! When I find my PRECIOUS, I'll have my POWER back...and you will PAY, my little darlings...yes, you will PAY..hahahaha..." "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 15, 2008 8:28 PM:

" Dear Lovable Oldan,

Not that I want you to stop encouraging me but I'm feeling a little bit sorry for you right now.

Scroll through the comments below and you will notice that I am mostly a counter puncher (that means that I like to respond to other comments). Mary already knows this and has asked her followers to ignore me on multiple occasions.

With that said, your rants are not in harmony with your intentions. If you want me to stop, all you got to do is stop responding (which I hope you do not do!). I trust that you can grasp this concept but I am afraid that this one is gunna zoom right over your head and that I am only provoking another one of your cut and paste fiestas.

So go forward as you wish but be advised that you are actually part of the same problem that you are complaining about.

Smarter than you,
Golden Mean

Ps: Dare you to respond! "

Oldan Mean wrote on Nov 15, 2008 7:50 PM:

" Oh yeah, I guess I made that part up."
....Probably because Gollum Mean was copying the frequency of LSD, amongst other party treats.
Here's an idea---how about if Mr. Spokane Valley puts some energy into an actual letter-to-the-editor regarding some issue, any issue.
Then, we can all mock, make derisive comments and totally dominate and distract the point he was trying to make. How witty! How fun!
*Note-He probably will never sign his real name because he can't focus due to the LSD thingy. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 15, 2008 12:19 PM:

" Oh yeah, I guess I made that part up. "

Brown Eyes wrote on Nov 15, 2008 10:07 AM:

" To: Golden Mean

I think you're pulling my strings.

By the way, I didn't know I asked you anything??? "

R wrote on Nov 15, 2008 2:04 AM:

" Mary you've been in politics for how long? Think of how many jokes came out of the Clinto camp regarding Palin. They really didn't have to do much the woman did the old mission impossible thing and self destructed. McCain really needed someone with a lot more going for her? him. At times it looked like a father wondering how he was going to put common sence into his child. I'm sure there are some very qualified women out there, the Republicans didn't look very well or do thier homework on the one they chose. Guess we'll have to wait another four years to find out. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 15, 2008 1:17 AM:

" Dear Brown Eyes,

Before you have to ask, I confess. People on the street often come up to me and ask, "Hey Golden Mean, is there any evidence of electromagnetic mind control on the internet and if so what frequencies are employed and is there any defense against it?"

I'll tell you just what I tell them. You see Brown Eyes, If you take a look at string theory it says that everything is made up of tiny strings that vibrate at certain frequencies and combinations to form matter. Every disease emits a subtle energy frequency. This is what the scanner scans for and detects. If you disrupt the frequency of the disease you disrupt the disease.

Mind control works in the same fashion. For example, drugs have their own subtle energy frequency. If you were to copy the frequency of LSD for example and amplify and send that frequency to a person's brain they would experience the effects of the drug even though it is not physically present. You could also do this with pain. Copy a frequency combination that represents pain and amplify and send that to someone.

You could esentially torture them 24/7 and there would be no "downtime" for them to heal up again. This form of mind control uses frequency harmonics. The pain stimulated by these harmonics can be used to program someone also.

Thanks for asking and have a great day. "

Cherry Hill Girl wrote on Nov 13, 2008 11:04 PM:

" I agree, but maybe she has too much class and better things to do than to waste her time with people who try to distract us from the important issues. "

Cindee wrote on Nov 13, 2008 10:49 PM:

" Mary, where are you? Please do not let these hooligans chase you out of your own column. Come back and show them what you got!!! "

Brown Eyes is really wrote on Nov 13, 2008 9:50 PM:

" ....Barry obama! Those anti-Sarah jokes have paid off. Tubobmandingofest 'o8 will make the Burning Man look like Mr. Whipple naked at a 6AM weight watchers weigh-in.
Tubob..'so hot.' Hahahaha. "

Brown Eyes wrote on Nov 13, 2008 8:32 PM:

" Hey Golden Mean, it's me, the one who thinks you're hot. Tubob is a pseudonym from the Spokesman's HBO. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 13, 2008 7:42 PM:

" What's a tubob? I've been called a tubob for quite a while and never thought much about it until I took the time to check out the HBO program guide but was unable to find anything about a tubob.

Is it a North Idaho slang type thing? Kinda like how fry sauce is slang for mayo and ketchup?

What is a tubob?!? "

Actually wrote on Nov 13, 2008 7:22 PM:

" Golden Mean can be quite entertaining, you just have to give him/her a chance. "

fun gal wrote on Nov 13, 2008 6:58 PM:

" When people take life to "seriously".... they lose out.

fun n. anything that induces enjoyment, esp. mirthful; amusement; sport; joking.

On my death bed, I will most remember the "fun times" and never say to myself, "I wish I was more serious", because, seriousness doesn't make you live longer, only harder. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 13, 2008 6:48 PM:

" Dear Unknown Critic,

Quid pro quo, I will consider your request after you provide me with the following...

1) The names, dental records and favorite beers of all of those included when you say "we" - That is unless your "we" proclamation takes place entirely between your ears. If that's the case, let's just forget about this conversation. I'm sure it will put the lotion on it's skin, ok?

Still steamin'
Golden Mean "

Tubob the dreamer wrote on Nov 13, 2008 6:39 PM:

" tubob/golden mean probably should spend more time with his 'clients' and children than troll posting. Perhaps his addiction to trolling is why his ex ran off and he can't maintain a relationship. Fear of strong women disguised in a sopho-moronic attempt at humor. Seek therapy, chunky fellow...seek therapy. "

To Golden Mean wrote on Nov 13, 2008 6:25 PM:

" Also, would you please post your schedule so I know when I can expect new stories?

Thank you,
GM "
==============================
Yeah but could you go away and NOT post since you are out of steam and NOT funny and just a waste of posting space.

We really are getting tierd of you and if you hadn't notice I am NOT the only one that has been letting you know that...Please go away and post in your own state. "

To Mary Souza wrote on Nov 13, 2008 6:21 PM:

" "Sexism is alive and well in America"

You are very correct and I love sex. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 13, 2008 6:10 PM:

" Hi Mary,

Looks like this story is runing out of gas. Do you have another story in the works?

Also, would you please post your schedule so I know when I can expect new stories?

Thank you,
GM "

Clarification wrote on Nov 13, 2008 9:36 AM:

" Hot as a man "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 13, 2008 12:05 AM:

" For clarification purposes only, am I hot as a woman or as a man?

You know readers; I spent most of today as a woman and gained a greater respect for the more developed gender.

As a man, I am motivated by beer, bacon and sex.

As a woman, life was more complex with greater depth and width. So much more to worry about.

Yes Hillary could have been president. But I don't think Palin could have been because I think that she likes beer, bacon and sex as much as I do which is why I would rather hang out with her.

Clinton seems like a drag. I bet she always turned in her homework on time and always did the extra credit too. I bet that she would have told on me a lot, sometimes to make herself look better but mostly because she was jealous of me and Palin. "

For Golden Mean wrote on Nov 12, 2008 7:25 PM:

" you're hot "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 12, 2008 7:14 PM:

" I lean more towards Hartman as Sinatra or bette yet, Ed McMahon.

Yes Mary, you are correct ma'am. Gender, yesssss... "

fun gal wrote on Nov 12, 2008 6:11 PM:

" I really miss Phil Hartman, especially his Frankenstein grunting X-mas music. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 12, 2008 6:08 PM:

" Dear Large Marge,

Haven't we met before? I think that we have...

(cue dream senquence music)

On this very night, ten years ago, along this very stretch of road in a dense fog just like this. I saw the worst accident I ever seen. There was this sound, like a garbage truck dropped off the Empire State Building. And when they pulled the driver's body from the twisted, burning wreck...

You're on Marge, let's do it! But hope you don't mind a little Jimmy Buffett music. I had to make deal with Fun Gal so that Mary would join us too. We're gunna drink us some beers and talk gender.

Let me warn you ahead of time Marge. At or around beer number 7, I turn into the ghost of Phil Hartman. "

fun gal wrote on Nov 12, 2008 5:55 PM:

" I think I've seen you slug 'em down Large, uh I mean Marge. "

Large Marge wrote on Nov 12, 2008 5:44 PM:

" Golden Mean, I'll accept your beer drinking challenge. When you show up at the agreed pub, tell 'em Large Marge sent ya! "

jf wrote on Nov 12, 2008 12:47 PM:

" Mary, I so agree with your opinion. I have great respect for Sarah and look forward to seeing her presence all over Washington. On another note, I read this morning that a group of 'african americans' said that Obama doesn't have to look for a 'diverse' cabinet now, because it doesn't matter what color faces are 'ruling' with him now that a 'black' man is president....which he isn't until Feb. and a lot can happen between now and then....the article stated that in past elections it was required of the president to nominate diverse people to bring fairness to the government, but now it's ok to just bring in people who are qualified! I am sincerely amazed at how racist this election has been compared to any in the past. Oprah is the biggest offender and the sight of her is disheartening. I know I am not the only one that feels that way, and as far as racism being a thing of the past, it's only just beginning. "

fun gal wrote on Nov 12, 2008 12:16 PM:

" I saw Mary on the Parrotfest cruise, so I bet if you play Jimmy Buffet, she'll agree. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 12, 2008 12:13 PM:

" Ladies, Ladies!!!

Remember, I'm one of you right now. I won't be a man again until I get home tonight from the gym. So please don't start with me right now; I'm exploring my new range of emotions while watching a lovely old movie on Lifetime Network with my box of Kleenex and cup of chamomile tea.

And as far as the beer drinking goes, I love it when the girls try to keep up, which they never can. No, not because I think that the girls can't keep up with the boys. It's because I'm way bigger than you girls are. Consequently, it takes more to put me down.

But, I'm always open to a challenge. Maybe we can have an online contest sometime. You guys need to get Mary's permission first though cuz this is her blog. Please tell her that I invited her and if she participates, I'm buying too. "

fun gal wrote on Nov 12, 2008 11:56 AM:

" Gotta agree with Bonnie on this one GM. I can put down my share "

Bonnie lass wrote on Nov 12, 2008 11:49 AM:

" So, Golden Mean, are you saying women can't drink lots of beer? How incredibly sexist of you? Is beer for man folk only? Maybe if I put an umbrella in my beer I could have a sip, maybe, huh? You need the clock turned back all right. To the stone age. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 12, 2008 11:44 AM:

" I was happy to read this morning that I am woman. I can't wait to try out my new gender at the gym today as I heard that us girls have a much nicer locker room than those stinky boys.

Another thing has happened too since I'm a girl now. I agree with Mary. I think that McCain lost the election because Palin was a girl.

I wonder what would have happened if Mary's readers turned Palin into a man like how they turned me into a woman, I bet they would have won the election.

Oh yeah, one more thing. Can somebody turn back into a man after I get home from the gym? I've got a lot a beer to drink tonight. "

comment 2 wrote on Nov 12, 2008 11:25 AM:

" Mary I guess what you were trying to say was that you are upset that these poor women were not given a free ride to the top? We should have more choices? I agree with the second part. America always seems to be given limited choices to the "good old boys network" for national elections and we who live on the west coast dont even get the full compliment of choices because they disappear before the vote makes it west. If you want to dwell on something how about the fact that most candidates running for Pres. dont make it to our local ballots???? "

Curious wrote on Nov 12, 2008 9:49 AM:

" So golden mean is a woman? This'll set women'a lib back a few decades. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 11, 2008 11:42 PM:

" Excerpt from an imaginary phone call that never took place

Ring

Ring

Ring

We can't take your call right now, so please leave a message at the blatantly self righteous tone

Hey Mary, it's me Gee Mean. Hey, did you catch that last post? I know that you don't support stalking outside of the LCDC but this is getting nuts. Are you sure don't know this guy? My friend thinks that it's Niles but I (Beeeep)

End of message (click) "

B alding O ld B abbler wrote on Nov 11, 2008 9:52 PM:

" You hear that everybody?
I'm funny! Finally, I'm funny!"

Please settle down Ms. HBO trollyte.
There's nothing here for you to celebrate. Thinking you finally succeeded one time in a facetious slam-down doesn't count. What counts is if you can raise your writing talents to Orange TV or Sweet Herb's level...or your 'guy friend' Ollie.

Meanwhile, Governor Palin is still "hitting 'em out of the Park."
(That's a term that a REAL man can explain...assuming you know any). "

fun gal wrote on Nov 11, 2008 9:09 PM:

" You're right. You CAN'T compare the two (race/gender) Like I said before, It's STILL a man's world and will remain that way for now. "

cant compare the two wrote on Nov 11, 2008 8:50 PM:

" Enter Barack Obama and the gender celebration was quickly pushed aside in favor of race relations. Which minority status deserves higher consideration?

What the heck kind of comparison is that? Both had their struggles, but overall white women had considerable more rights than black Americans. Hey, I am for equal rights. 200yrs of slavery, poverty, education gap, 3/5 citizen rule, poll tax, jim crowe laws, lynchings, church bombings, red shirts, kkk, assasination of our political leaders. Both have had their struggles, but don't try to compare the two. There is no comparison. Even today all you have to do is to read through some of the posts on this website. "

Mahiun wrote on Nov 11, 2008 6:13 PM:

" Well, if you can't say anything nice..........then come sit next to me! [[LOL]]

Meanwhile, back on topic: Mary, I have sincerely tried to raise several valid and salient points regarding your article, and you have responded to none of them. Did you forget, did they get buried and forgotten in the back-and-forth on here, are you ignoring them, or........? "

Who is Mean wrote on Nov 11, 2008 6:01 PM:

" I read through the posts below. What does Mary have against GM? He seemed to bring up a couple of good arguments only to be dismissed as being of all things fragmented by Mary herself all while getting pounded by her supporters.

Why would Mary single out and try to ban somebody? This seems very unreasonable. Perhaps she is jealous, but I suppose that we\'ll never know.

One thing is for sure, I can\'t wait to see what happens next. Thanks GM for your witty and hysterical posts!!! "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 11, 2008 5:46 PM:

" You know, if getting slammed by off topic posters was a crime, then I would have endured by far more injustice than the typical poster.

Luckily, I kinda like it and have no problem defending myself. And instead of insulting people when I do, I try to have some fun with it.

Scroll down below for proof. I comment on topic, I get slammed, I have fun, I win.

I think that when it comes down to it, there aren't very many people here who can stand toe to toe with me in an intellectual debate, exceptions being Fun Gal, Mahiun, Mary Budd and a few others who's posts I actually enjoy and look forward to reading because they have the courage to post their honest, straight forward opinions.

Now let the slamming begin... "

fun gal wrote on Nov 11, 2008 5:20 PM:

" Huh?? It doesn't mean it's "womens" fault. Just making a point. It's REALITY. "

hey fun gal wrote on Nov 11, 2008 5:18 PM:

" Uh, ok, we have to have a little discussion here. According to the last census, women made up well over half the population. If we're not electing women, it's y'all's fault, ok? "

fun gal wrote on Nov 11, 2008 5:08 PM:

" Back on topic.

Mary, Mary, Mary. I can't beleive your column. It's STILL a man's world. That's why Hillary didn't get to go
"all the way". That is why Obama didn't pick her or any other woman as a running mate. That is why McCain lost. People would rather have a MAN of color than a woman. It's just the way it is right now. "

to moderator wrote on Nov 11, 2008 5:05 PM:

" By the way, how's that IP blacklisting working for you?

GRIN. "

Moderator wrote on Nov 11, 2008 5:02 PM:

" Okay.... Corralling content for topic relevance is not our purpose. We do track individuals who seem to troll up threads with inane comments. But generally we look to keep personal conflicts between posters to a minimum and to remove offensive posts that contain a wide and creative variety of profanity. Even staying within such simple guidelines we're routinely accused of bias, etc.... My suggestion would be to ignore the foolish content and respond to the pertinent material. "

Observer wrote on Nov 11, 2008 4:49 PM:

" I think many here have some excellent
comments ... then there's Golden Mean ... whom always tries to light the fires -
literally!
Mary ... interesting comments ... have
my own thoughts but at this point I'd rather just observer.
"

To Moderater wrote on Nov 11, 2008 4:48 PM:

" Most of the below "off the topic" comments are nonsense! How can anyone have a good discussion with all the comments that are meant to be distractions and move readers away from the topic of discussion.

I request that the Cda. Press to delete all posts that do not stay on the subject discussed. "

fun gal wrote on Nov 11, 2008 3:58 PM:

" Sometimes these blogs get a little too serious. You can here it in peoples comments. Golden Mean does a good job of "lightening things up". It's appreciated. "If we can't laugh at ourselves............... "

Mary Souza wrote on Nov 11, 2008 3:55 PM:

" Chris, my understanding is that if there is an offensive comment--one that is obviously inappropriate or foul--then the moderator can be asked to intervene. Golden Mean, and his many derivations, is not typically vulgar, just fragmented and off-topic. It becomes difficult for readers to ignore his comments and stick with the real discussion. "

Chris wrote on Nov 11, 2008 3:34 PM:

" Mary - I thought the Press has moderaters for comment postings. I thought the new setup would help alleviate the stupid and purposefully ridiculous comments because the moderater could delete. Why is this not happening on your column? "

fun gal wrote on Nov 11, 2008 3:26 PM:

" Mary, Mary, Mary. I can't beleive your column. It's STILL a man's world. That's why Hillary didn't get to go
"all the way". That is why Obama didn't pick her or any woman as a running mate. That is why McCain lost. People would rather have a MAN of color than a woman. It's just the way it is right now. "

oprah wrote on Nov 11, 2008 2:22 PM:

" Barack said, "Only in America can one be whatever they want to be with hard work."

Does that mean we can get rid of affirmative action, the united negro college fund and other racist affitiations?

Oporah said "we now have the color purple in power."

A woman AND a racist! "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 11, 2008 12:03 PM:

" You hear that everybody?

I'm funny! Finally, I'm funny!

Now you have to answer all of my posts. And always remember to say please and thank you. "

heh wrote on Nov 11, 2008 10:57 AM:

" And people wonder why women don't get elected as much as they should? Just go look at the 24x7 self-pity party Palin's throwing up in Alaska to anyone in the media willing to listen.

Disgusting. "

Finally wrote on Nov 11, 2008 10:55 AM:

" And regarding the paying gig, no thanks. All they could offer me is money, I prefer to play with you here for free."

Hahahaha. Now, THAT'S funny!!! Thanks for the laugh. "

Let us get going on this wrote on Nov 11, 2008 8:26 AM:

" Can you imagine the uproar if the same was done to Barack Obama?"

Next column? "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 10, 2008 11:15 PM:

" Hola Oldan,

Thanks for the correction. I did make a mistake when I wrote that a Mexican woman could be president one day. I should have said that a Mexican American woman might be president one day. But contrary to your assumption, it wasn't the consumption of illegal drugs that caused me to blow it. Rather, I falsely assumed the existance of a functional amount of common sense. Oh well, you know what happens when you assume, partner.

As for calling my humor high school humor. That's what I'm going for because as you know, being a crabby adult in Coeur d'Alene is not fun or very funny.

And you know that list of people that you listed in your list, they are all fans of my work. And regarding the paying gig, no thanks. All they could offer me is money, I prefer to play with you here for free.

Adios,
Golden Mean "

R wrote on Nov 10, 2008 10:12 PM:

" There would be a reasonable debate regarding Clinton and Palin. One ran the country for eight years while hubby was do other things. One allowed her power to be used against another who's only mistake was a big clash with her family. Some would call it abuse of power. People roared all kinds of things when Kennedy was elected and some almost broke thier necks looking away when Watergate was the main interest. There will always be one who will find issues with what has occured. I wasn't impressed all the time with Palin's performance or Obama's either. And yes there were times when I thought McCain really needed to put more spin on his actions. But I suppose we could always find interferance by the Canadains if we looked hard enough. Now we should give our new President a chance to prove he really was the best pick. "

Oldan Mean wrote on Nov 10, 2008 9:54 PM:

" "Who knows, maybe next time the better person would be a Mexican women?"
That's the problem with copious amounts of illegal drug consumption during the logic forming years. " A Mexican woman could only be president of MEXICO.

and check this drivel: "I for one enjoy Golden Mean and the logical and humorous way that he adresses the issues and I do not think that it is fair or reasonable the way that Mary and followers slam and dismiss his posts."
Hahahah. Nice try Goldie locks with Not on Top. It's still high school humor. If it's so 'humorous' where's the paying gig, or even a column? Orange tv, family Phil, Mary Souza, tyler Wilson, Sweet Herb--all picked before you. Must suque to be you. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 10, 2008 8:48 PM:

" What is the issue? That one lady (Mary) was upset because another lady (Palin or Clinton) didn't get voted into office?

How about this for an issue... A female didn't make it into office this year because America did something amazing and wonderful - We elected our first African American President!

For Mary's argument to work, she would actually be saying that America likes black people more than they like women and that doesn't make any sense at all.

This time, the better human being won. Who knows, maybe next time the better person would be a Mexican women?

That would be cool, huh Mary? "

Mary Souza wrote on Nov 10, 2008 8:20 PM:

" Thank you to those offering supportive advice. I do appreciate it very much. You are absolutely right--we need to keep our focus on the issues and let everything else roll off. "

Doug wrote on Nov 10, 2008 8:00 PM:

" Well, you are talking to people who believe that you have foreign policy credentials if you can see another country from your state. I guess that makes me an expert on Canada. Oh! I been in a hospital too, so I guess that makes me qualified to practice medicine. I guess I will go prescribe myself some penicillin for my herpies. "

Female wrote on Nov 10, 2008 7:42 PM:

" Don't worry Doug, it's just more unfounded sensationalism from the defeated right.

I always make em double bag it anyways! ; ) "

Female wrote on Nov 10, 2008 7:38 PM:

" You know what I find interesting? Whenever I argue a point in a clear and logical manner (no name calling, just grown up debate kinds of words), people start making personal attacks against me. Is it because you aren't smart enough to argue my point, but are driven to "get me" so you resort to stupid accusations about my person?

Just curious "

To Saracuda Fan wrote on Nov 10, 2008 7:32 PM:

" Political experience alone does not make a candidate qualified. It's obviously a part of it, but not the whole thing. Actual knowledge of government structure is good too. Intelligence and general knowledge of the country are helpful. The ability to handle the pressure of media interviews, and the ability to calmly explain your position without resorting to hysteria driven attacks against your opponents....I don't know, do you think that's asking too much?

""and the fact that he's just plain crazy. ""

You don't think attending witchcraft banishing rituals is crazy? That says a lot about you....I understand you better now.

Maybe John Edwards is a female then, since people made such a big deal about the cost of his haircut?

Just trying to follow your logic. "

Doug wrote on Nov 10, 2008 7:29 PM:

" Herpies? Why didn't you tell me!! "

Sarahcuda Fan wrote on Nov 10, 2008 7:20 PM:

" Palin was actually THE MOST qualified cast member in this strange play. Obama the least, Lyin'Biden unqualified, and McCain somewhere between Palin and Obama.
Mary is right. If the press was really equal, they would have been merciless about Biden's hair plugs, botox injections, tooth whitening, the plastic surgery, his plagiarizing of Neil Kinnock and the fact that he's just plain crazy. "

Just Another Viewpoint wrote on Nov 10, 2008 6:39 PM:

" I for one enjoy Golden Mean and the logical and humorous way that he adresses the issues and I do not think that it is fair or reasonable the way that Mary and followers slam and dismiss his posts.

I know he can defend himself but thought that this should be said. We can have fun and talk about the issues without a hall monitor directing traffic. "

Peter wrote on Nov 10, 2008 6:04 PM:

" Mary - I would like you to site specific examples of MSM sexism towards VP candidate Palin. I am not talking about opinion columns or commentary. I mean real news that blantantly showed sexism from organiztions like AP, Reuters, BBC, ABC, FOX, CBS, NBC, NPR, and CNN. During the campaign the McCain/Palin ticket was challenged by these news organizations to site specific examples of sexism towards their respective candidate and to date they have been unable to do so. Can you? "

Female wrote on Nov 10, 2008 5:41 PM:

" Mary, you should listen to amazed. Don't let constructive criticism make you question or re evaluate your position. Above all you must stick to your beliefs. The best way to learn and grow as a person is to just assume that everyone else is crazy and you are without fault. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 10, 2008 5:36 PM:

" Mary,

What about racism? Do you think that some (lots) of people in Idaho voted for McCain/Palin mostly because Obama is half African American?

As for Clinton, she lost because her last name is Clinton.

I bet it's true that many female Americans voted for Palin because she is a female. I bet that you are defending her because you are a female, which is ok and legal.

It gets so tiring reading scolding stories from writers who are guilty of exactly what they complain about.

Smotherly yours,
Golden Mean "

amazed wrote on Nov 10, 2008 5:33 PM:

" Mary, you were right on the mark and perfectly articulate. Please don't make the mistake of letting the idiots commenting here get you on the defense. You're right and I suspect they know you're right, and just love to give you crap. Put yourself above it and carry on. "

Female wrote on Nov 10, 2008 4:32 PM:

" ""Anyway, my column was about sexism in this election diminishing us as a country. The treatment of Hillary Clinton to some extent and Sarah Palin more dramatically, by most media outlets was unconscionable.""

I think "sexism" affected Palin more dramatically because she is less intelligent and has less substance as a candidate than Clinton.

Maybe America is plagued by 'stupidism' rather than sexism.

I get what you are trying to say, Mary, but Palin is a bad example. You say your column was not motivated by the McCain/Palin loss, but the more you stubbornly stick to the position that Palin was judged on her sex rather than her qualifications the more transparent you become.

It's pretty obvious that Palin was a bad pick, not because of her sex or her appearance, but because she was not sufficiently knowledgeable or prepared for the position. "

to Mary wrote on Nov 10, 2008 4:09 PM:

" Then you're ok with the way the press treats male candidates? "

Mary Souza wrote on Nov 10, 2008 4:00 PM:

" Chris, there is a commenter here that takes over and smothers all reasonable discussion with gibberish. I wish the Press would disallow that type of thing.

Anyway, my column was about sexism in this election diminishing us as a country. The treatment of Hillary Clinton to some extent and Sarah Palin more dramatically, by most media outlets was unconscionable.

I am not speaking to this issue because neither Clinton nor Palin were chosen by the public, I'm bringing it forward because it's a terrible way to treat any candidate and it robs our country of serious leadership options. "

Chris wrote on Nov 10, 2008 3:14 PM:

" Mary - in one sentence, could you please re-state the point of your column? This topic has spawned some immature responses and I believe you stated that we have missed your point. So, Mary - could you get to the heart of the matter for us? "

Swift wrote on Nov 10, 2008 8:01 AM:

" It's not hard to have an 80% approval rating when no matter who's governor, you get paid for living in the state of Alaska. If I got paid for living in Idaho I'd be a lot happier too. "

to ugh wrote on Nov 10, 2008 7:28 AM:

" " Yeah, I have worked for women too and I just love it when they are on the RAG...NOT"

-- This is exactly what I meant by the generational difference. This is so old school, it's fossilized. That might be ok for you old people, I'd like to hope that my generation is a little more evolved than that. A little more adult.

You OBVIOUSLY have not worked for a woman on the rag! If you cannot keep your emotions or hormones out of business decisions then DONT BE IN BUSINESS! "

Gail wrote on Nov 10, 2008 2:20 AM:

" Another spot on column, Mary. Palin is the type of woman that the NOW gang, the media and other liberals are afraid of, so they attack,attack attack. Hillary received the same treatment even though it wasn't so blatant. How else would a MAN with little impact at the state level and only 143 days of actual time in the Senate get the party nod? Gender and skin color. Gender and skin color. Gender and skin color. "

Gee Me Mad wrote on Nov 9, 2008 10:56 PM:

" I have sat back and watched long enough.

Who do you people think you are? If you are so smart why don't you write your own column? I can't imagine how hard it must be to take the time to create an original, fantasy based story almost every week only to have it torn a part by a few knowledgeable and well informed hooligans who have nothing better to do than to see through the smoke and mirrors of the bourgeois alarmist sect.

I demand that you stop this nonsense right now!

Just kidding everybody, hi, it's me, Golden Mean, I'm in disguise. It's Family Phil, he's stalking me again. I'll be back as the real me on Monday, after the pharmacies open and Phil gets his meds refilled. "

Family Phil wrote on Nov 9, 2008 10:35 PM:

" My god tubob. You're out of your mind! I'm so sorry for smacking you down the other day in our little tryst. I'm sooo sorry- I wouldn't have savaged you so deeply if I'd have known you'd go to the 'EVIL HATE BLOGS.' Plus, I didn't realize you were so sensitive. I'd assumed you were straight.
I'm so sorry for you. I didn't know....(sob)... "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 10:02 PM:

" Ha, ha, ha, etc...

Blank makes a funny! Run witch, run!!!

Ha, ha, ha, etc... "

wrote on Nov 9, 2008 9:43 PM:

" GM, that's just what a member of the secret society of Pastafarianism would say. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 9:17 PM:

" If I was, it probably happened last Saturday night during that blackened out part of my memory.

I'm so ashamed (not that there is anything wrong with it).

But on the other hand, why would somebody want to touch me with a noodle? Did I miss something? Is this what Christians do now to make up for the loss of Halloween? And am I expected to tip the al dente savior? "

to GM wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:53 PM:

" Have you been saved by the touch of His Noodly Appendage? "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:45 PM:

" to Sarah Palin has accomplished,

I too have had it with the Trustafarians and their dreadlocks and their reggae music.

But I'm not sure that Palin can claim being Jah free an accomplishment.

If it is, then you should high fiving me too because, no matter how many times that they have knocked on my door, I am still JehovaWitnesstarian free. "

Sarah Palin has accomplished wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:25 PM:

" many things. One of which isn't a being a narcissistic trustafarian troll from the Spokane Valley who is still wondering where his wife and life is. "

to GM wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:22 PM:

" Hope, that when that day comes, the people of CdA won't burn me at the stake for being a witch."

-- it depends on whether you weigh the same as a duck "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:14 PM:

" To uhg Golden says that my comments aren't very funny which means that they are still funny, just not very funny. And that's ok, as long as they are even a little bit funny there's hope.

Hope, that one day, with hard work I will be funny.

Hope, that one day, I will make people laugh.

Hope, that when that day comes, the people of CdA won't burn me at the stake for being a witch. "

ugh wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:09 PM:

" I've had 4 female bosses since entering the work force. Never had a problem.

You've obviously got some real problems with gender, dude, I'm sorry for you. It has to really 5uck. "

To uhg Golden wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:06 PM:

" This is exactly what I meant by the generational difference. This is so old school, it's fossilized. That might be ok for you old people, I'd like to hope that my generation is a little more evolved than that. A little more adult.
===========
Bottom line is then you haven't worked for a woman and / or seen first hand what they are like when they are on the RAG or you just try to have that dumbocratic feel sorry for me feeling.

No wonder Osama Obama got elected by a bunch of ghetto garbage that didn't have a clue what the issues were about...
Why do you insist on posting in Idaho instead of posting in some comment section in your own state since your not wanted here and your comments are not very funny...Please answer this question. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:58 PM:

" Great post ugh!

I went to and was eventually expelled from the old school. Still I learned enough on the streets to know that things are getting weird around here.

Please take over our country soon before us old farts wreck it for good. "

ugh wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:44 PM:

" Yeah, I have worked for women too and I just love it when they are on the RAG...NOT"

-- This is exactly what I meant by the generational difference. This is so old school, it's fossilized. That might be ok for you old people, I'd like to hope that my generation is a little more evolved than that. A little more adult. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:30 PM:

" Great post Golden Mean! "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:29 PM:

" To B the LH,

I would have posted sooner but that would have been too vulgar a display of power.

And to you, To Golden Mean, nice try but I don't respond to my own posts. "

To Bob the Leadhead Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:28 PM:

" Please go away and back to Spokane where you will be loved,,,,OR NOT "

Bob the Leadhead wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:24 PM:

" 11 minutes for a limp rebuttal? I'm impressed.
Everyone must have some skill they're good at in life. No matter how dismal. "

To Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:24 PM:

" You think way to highly of yourself and even post back to yourself,,,,Sad but true, They do have mental help for people like You and Mahiun you know... "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:15 PM:

" To Bob the Leadhead,

Thanks for your letter. If you're just tuning in you might want to scroll down through the comments below as I'm sure that you'll pleased to find some of my best work.

I gotta say that after reading your letter I am impressed and I must confess that a little tear ran down my face, just like when that cool old Indian dude got bummed out because of all of the litter in that old commercial.

If you ever decide to use your talents for good instead of evil please post your email address and besides flooding your mailbox with spam about Viagra and Russian brides you just might find an offer to join our team.

Fashionably mean,
Golden Mean "

Bob the Leadhead wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:04 PM:

" You know gang, I get cards and letters from all over the country asking Gee Dumnazz, where do you get the stupidity to let the world know you're an idiot because you post nonsense every day of the week? Great question, the truth is that I'm inspired by copious amounts of drugs, which I allude to on my blog; and my penchant for nailing 'weatherd' old hippy chicks. Without you, my fans, my friends, there would be no Golden Mean and I dedicate this feeble and pathetic writing effort to you.

Stay mean! " "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 6:15 PM:

" Thank you, thank you, you're all so very kind

You know gang, I get cards and letters from all over the country asking Gee Golden Mean, where do you get the courage to fight hypocrisy and nonsense every day of the week? Great question, the truth is that I'm inspired by you, Blue Collar America. Without you, my fans, my friends, there would be no Golden Mean and I dedicate this victory to you.

Stay mean! "

To uh no wrote on Nov 9, 2008 6:15 PM:

" Yeah, I have worked for women too and I just love it when they are on the RAG...NOT "

uh no wrote on Nov 9, 2008 6:05 PM:

" I think Mary must be from an older generation. Folks in my generation don't much care about gender when selecting leaders - most of us have had both male and females bosses and have had men and women working for us ever since we entered the workforce. It's not a big deal to us.

It's the old farts that have all the issues with it. "

Gold to Lead wrote on Nov 9, 2008 6:02 PM:

" In my world hot and sexy is a complement!

Mary, your column is not hot and sexy. "
HBO is now boring. With Balding Old Bob, it's boring and obnoxious. His obsession with Mary and Coeur d'Alene makes one wonder about his actual interest in his own family and his effectiveness at work. Although it's entertaining seeing a grown man act like a High school class clown, spokane valley bob(as far as I'm concerned) can take his 'Golden Mean' drivel back to his adoring sycophants at the sea of Red Spokesman...or his stupid blog that no one reads. "

To Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:59 PM:

" How do you think Osama Obama would do working BEHIND the bars in a zoo.? "

To Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:57 PM:

" How do you think Mary would do working at hooters.? "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:53 PM:

" THIS IS A GMTV BREAKING STORY

"Sexism should not be tolerated" says a hypocritical Mary in a recent blatantly anti-male story.

Outraged men from all across America demand that Mary formally apologizes while wearing one of those bunny rabbit cocktail waitress uniforms.

AMA (Alfa Males of America) founder and president Golden Mean said that Mary should be forced to buy, open and serve beers to every man in America. And she better bring snacks too said an obviously distraught Golden Mean.

Representatives for Mary refused to comment but were last seen buying buffalo wings and Heineken at Costco.

We now return to your regularly scheduled squabble. "

To The truth wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:11 PM:

" And maybe the ghetto rats should have done the same thing also since Osama Obama sure isn't qualified to be president.
The BID EARED CHIMP WITH BLUE LYING LIPS is all he is. "

The truth wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:08 PM:

" geto = ghetto, you ignorant bigot. "

The truth wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:07 PM:

" "I'm looking for the best person to fill the job."

Maybe John McCain should have done the same thing. "

Embarassed wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:05 PM:

" "What is central to the argument is that she was not judged on her experience, background and abilities. The major media did not examine these issues"

You're mistaken. The media did examine these issues and Gov Palin was found lacking in all areas. To be true it was not her fault that John McCain snatched her from obscurity without vetting her, but trying to sell Alaska's proximity to Russia as foreign policy experience or her time as mayor of a town of 6,000 people as "executive" experience, was just plain silly. She inquired about policies for banning books from the library, she left her town with $23 million dollars in debt when she left office and she embraced the age old political patronage system by appointing her high school buddies to state jobs, regardless of whether the possessed the required skills or experience. Her abilities appeared to be limited to reading divisive and inflammatory attacks of her opponent off of a teleprompter. "

Tina wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:04 PM:

" Mary - It was not sexism that beat the McCain/Palin ticket. Much of their demise was done to themselves. No one put that blank stare into Palins eyes when Gipson was interviewing her on ABC. No made her flub when she couldn't answer Katie Courics questions. She did it to herself. Many of the same conservative critics that say sexism played a major role in her demise are the same one who bashed Senator Clinton when she was down. Fox and Bill Kristol had some pretty sexist things to say to her when she swelled up with tears before the New Hamsphire primary. I don't doubt that there were some aspects sexism. But, not to the extent that the conservatives are whining about. Get over it! "

Hank wrote on Nov 9, 2008 5:02 PM:

" ***"You are makeing me laugh, Look at Osama Obama with NO experience and he got voted in ONLY because he was black so it is obvious that experience makes NO difference to the UNINFORMED voters of the geto."***

Actually it is spelled ghetto. Obviously, Obama has enough experience to beat the Clinton political machine. That is no small task. Yet with the attacks over his birth certificate, Rev Wright, Ayers, and so on he still beat the GOP political machine. Again, no small task. 65mil voters is quite an accomplishment. Just look at the voter demographics and you will see that he got majority of the voter except those over 65yrs of age. Considering that blacks make up only 13% of the country should tell you that he still would have more than likely win even without them. There is more to it than "white guilt" or "just because he is black". 65mil should also tell you that a considerable number of GOP voters of Bush in 04 crossed over to Obama this election. Obama won because he earned it. You may disagree, but those are the facts. As I have said on another blog, you can try to vote him out in four years. That is the power that we the people hold. "

Here we go again wrote on Nov 9, 2008 4:56 PM:

" "" An interesting array of responses, many of which missed the point entirely."

Mary, have you noticed how often you write those words? Do you think that maybe people 'miss the point' is because you do such a poor job making your point. Week after week, after week? "

Comment wrote on Nov 9, 2008 4:38 PM:

" Sarah was NOT qualified for the job of Vice President or President. Hillary had her own problems. You can cry for them if you want to but I am glad they are both out of it for a while anyway. "

To Female wrote on Nov 9, 2008 4:27 PM:

" You are makeing me laugh, Look at Osama Obama with NO experience and he got voted in ONLY because he was black so it is obvious that experience makes NO difference to the UNINFORMED voters of the geto. "

Chris wrote on Nov 9, 2008 4:20 PM:

" You stated, "So, while women may not be a "minority" of our country's population, they make up just 17% of the U.S. House of Representatives; 16% of the U.S. Senate and 16% of all governors."

So are you saying that Congress should be proportionately divided by gender to better reflect society, which is more like 51%? I would think you would be for voting on the best qualifications. The current gender ratio in Congress may be because of sexism, but I suspect the reality is that a qualified woman didn't run.

Finally, Mary, isn't it a little late in the game to make a point out of anything regarding the election? What you miss is to point out for us why, as a woman, I should care now? "

Mahiun wrote on Nov 9, 2008 3:36 PM:

" Joe Biden made gaff [sic] after gaff, even claiming FDR went on TV to reassure the public right after the great stock market crash of 1929! (FDR was not president then, and people didn't have TVs yet.) But did you hear that he was stupid? Incompetent? Uneducated?

Yes! Yes, we did hear that --- that was EXACTLY what we heard, for days on end! The media went to town with it, it was gleefully seized on by every comedian in the country, it made the rounds of Web sites faster than the latest drivel about Lindsey Lohan.

Repeating your assertions will not increase their veracity, Mary. You know that; you're an intelligent person. You assert that Ms. Palin was judged solely on the basis of her sex, but you provide no credible evidence to back up your assertion. In contrast, you have received numerous posts here rebutting your argument and providing many more specifics than you have done to date.

Your argument appears too broad to have much merit, at this point. Are you arguing that the American public judged Sarah Palin solely on the basis of her sex and her appearance? That has already been effectively refuted, even within the tiny sampling represented by this blog. For you to assume and assert that the public is incapable of divorcing Ms. Palin's qualifications from her gender is, in itself, a condescending attitude on your own part, wouldn't you say?

Now on the other hand, if you are asserting that Ms. Palin was the victim of a concerted and coordinated, or even accidental but widespread, effort by the media to trivialize her based solely on her sex, then you will need to provide a much more solid body of evidence than you have, so far, managed to do. "

racism wrote on Nov 9, 2008 2:49 PM:

" Barack said only in America can one be whatever they want to be with hard work.

Does that mean we can get rid of affirmative action, the united negro college fund and other racist affitiations?

Oporah said "we now have the color purple in power." A woman AND a racist! "

Female wrote on Nov 9, 2008 2:36 PM:

" For the record, I do think sexism is alive and well in America but I don't think Palin was a victim of it. I think the conclusions people came to about her were based on the presentation she made regarding her abilities.

I'm actually kind of surprised that people didn't respond better to Palin than they did based on her appearance. To me that says sexism and 'appearanceism' are less prevalent than I had thought. "

Female wrote on Nov 9, 2008 2:21 PM:

" I disagree with you Mary. I believe that Palin was judged on her experience, background, and abilities (or lack thereof, actually.) I know several other republicans who agree that Palin was not ready to be VP. This has nothing to do with her looks at all. I think her looks are the one area she WAS prepared in (apparently she needed some help in this area to).

I think the media moved on the "silly fluff" because she wasn't giving them anything else to work with. Maybe they would have focused more on her policies and ideals if she would have gone out and done the circuit, and talked to the press as often as possible. If she had the substance as a candidate that you seem to think she did, then she could have handled that. With her appearance and apparent charm she could have made the media her b!tches!

But she clearly didn't have the background, experience, and abilities required to make the situation work for her. "

Hard Truths wrote on Nov 9, 2008 2:15 PM:

" The last Republican ditz, if memory serves, was Dan Quail. He too suffered at the hands of the media. Was reverse sexism responsible for his shortcomings, or was he also perceived as a lightweight, in over his head? "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 2:12 PM:

" Well said Golden Alpha Male Mean, that was very hot and sexy!!! "

Golden Alpha Male Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 2:10 PM:

" Mary Souza,

As a man, I do not appreciate your sterotyping of men.

Although it is true that I thought that Palin was hot and sexy, I did not vote for her to win anything except the award for the Only Woman in Alaska That I Wouldn't Mind Seeing Nacked. Clinton on the other hand is not hot and sexy and I didn't vote for her nor would I want to see her naked.

As you can see, hot and sexy does not my vote get. Except for the case of Dan Gookin who I voted for only because he is hot and sexy, but I'll pass on seeing him naked.

I am expecting an apology. "

Mary Souza wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:53 PM:

" An interesting array of responses, many of which missed the point entirely. Whether Gov. Palin was the best choice for VP, or even an appropriate choice is not the point.

What is central to the argument is that she was not judged on her experience, background and abilities. The major media did not examine these issues, they quickly focused the silly fluff that you would never hear about a male candidate. It's a sexist tactic to dismiss and demean.

Yes, Gov. Palin blanked out on a question about which Supreme Court decisions she disagrees with. Mind you, she did not give an incorrect answer, she said she'd get back to Couric later. Joe Biden made gaff after gaff, even claiming FDR went on TV to reassure the public right after the great stock market crash of 1929! (FDR was not president then, and people didn't have TVs yet.) But did you hear that he was stupid? Incompetent? Uneducated?

So, while women may not be a "minority" of our country's population, they make up just 17% of the U.S. House of Representatives; 16% of the U.S. Senate and 16% of all governors.

I am not looking for a woman president or VP. I'm looking for the best person to fill the job. And a level playing field for the competiton. "

Female wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:16 PM:

" To To Female

""I would vote for Palin any day over Bidden or the worthless Osama Obama and she has a very good grassroots appeal to me because she is honest and open and not a lying vicious monster like Osama Obama and Bidden are. ""

No, you would vote for Palin because she APPERARS to you to be open and honest.

Maybe you should think about what makes Palin APPEAR to you to be open and honest.

Was she open and honest when she hid her pregnancy? Was she open when she refused to give interviews or even stop and talk to the ever present press? Was she honest when she said she was giving the clothes purchesed for her to charity but now several pieces are 'missing'?

Souza, do you think sexism is still a bad thing when it helps the sex in question? I know of a few people who would vote for Palin BECAUSE she is an attractive woman. "

I Live Next to Zombies wrote on Nov 9, 2008 1:04 PM:

" Perhaps Mary feels a special feminine kinship to American's Favorite Cocktail Waitress because Mary had also entered a political race in which she was in deeply over her head, did not have the bona fides to be running, and got her behind handed to her by a young, vibrant Democrat with a compelling vision for the future. "

To Female wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:48 PM:

" I seen Palin on many interviews on various national TV stations, She was on Saturday night live "not the fake one either", She did many campaign speeches in various states.

Could it be that she is better looking than you that turned you off to her since jealousy is a vicious thing with you women you know.

I would vote for Palin any day over Bidden or the worthless Osama Obama and she has a very good grassroots appeal to me because she is honest and open and not a lying vicious monster like Osama Obama and Bidden are. "

Female wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:38 PM:

" Sexism is something I knew existed, but until recently it hadn't really sunk in as something that applied to myself, so I was kind of excited when I saw this headline.

But then I clicked the link and was disappointed to find that this article was written by Mary Souza and it's B.S.

""How best to diminish and discount a popular female governor with an approval rating of 80 percent?""

Sarah Palin made herself look stupid. She did not have the knowledge or poise needed to keep that 80% approval rating. The ONLY thing she had going for her was her looks and she is lucky that people chose to put the main focus on them rather than her painful lack of intelligence. Maybe if Palin was a respectable candidate she would have been treated with more respect. Maybe we would have respected her more if, after her initial interview blunders, she would have set out to as many interviews as possible to redeem herself and show us that she is unstoppable. But she chose to hide. That's the funny thing about women, they always want respect but dont want to act respectable.

You know what would make me respect Palin more? If she made the decision to stay home and raise the children she PURPOSFULLY brought into the world. Why is taking responsibility for the lives you have created a bad thing? Why is it anti-feminist to expect a woman to MOTHER her children?

I think Palin was treated better during the campaign because she is a woman. The McCain camp sheltered her from the media and took her on a shopping spree. She was handled with Kidd gloves.

Bad example Souza. "

Observation wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:25 PM:

" John McCain selected Sarah Palin because she was young, conservative and female, not because she was the most qualified individual to be Vice President of the United States. I believe it was Gov. Palin's very own Alaska delegation at the GOP Convention that first started sporting the "Coldest State, Hottest Governor" pins. Seems sexism is a live and well in the Republican Party "

GOP Insider wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:21 PM:

" "The MSM did a hatchet job on the women and they are still trying to ruin Gov. Palin."

I take it you mean Fox News, because they are the ones that are running over Sarah Palin and then backing up and running over her again. And all the info is being fed to them by McCain insiders. Hint: look at the Romney camp. "

A pledge for Mary wrote on Nov 9, 2008 12:19 PM:

" I promise that I am only looking at your inability to use actual facts in order to base your opinions as to why you are not credible. It has nothing to do with the fact you are a woman. "

People wrote on Nov 9, 2008 11:58 AM:

" The funny thing is that it is the McCain people that are dumping on Sarah. "

Just Me wrote on Nov 9, 2008 11:56 AM:

" "Governor Palin is a conservative woman. She does not share the same values as liberal feminists but holds an impressive list of accomplishments from her 13 years in elected office."

Oh my, Mary. I appreciate that you are discouraged because your candidate was not nominated by the Democrats to run for President. That is understandable. But, let's be honest here in response to your article: Gov. Palin cannot speak in complete sentences. She fails to use proper words in proper places in the manner necessary to communicate with world leaders who have far more wit and savvy that she possesses. The world could care less about a soccer mom who fell into the job of VP or perhaps President. Worse, when Gov. Palin was asked by Katie Couric about Supreme Court cases that she disagreed with, Gov. Palin looked like a deer in caught in headlights and either spaced or ignored the Supreme Court verdict overturning billions of dollars in punitive damages to Alaska for the Exxon-Valdez oil spill. Gov. Palin gave a press conference at the time of the high court's ruling and posted her great dissatisfaction with the decision as well as photos of her related press conference on her governor's office website. It is a fact, you can look it up. Of course, Gov. Palin, as a good GOPer was probably not going to bash Exxon on national television even though she did so in Alaska at the time: She cannot be trusted.

The list goes on and on, but there is no point in trying to persuade you any differently. You want a woman in the white house so badly that you appear willing to advance the merits of any woman in the hunt regardless of their party affiliation. (i.e, you find fault with the reasons behind why both Sen. Clinton (Demo) AND Gov. Palin (GOP) were not elected as VP or President). That said, one final example must be brought to light: You would support a woman, Gov. Plain, who all but called President-elect Obama a domestic terrorist for associating with a well-resepected man who changed his ways and now teaches at the very prestigious University of Chicago (you must not know that this university ranks at the top of all universities in the nation) -- why not call out the school as well?

Pick a team and platform, then vote for the sharpest mind. It is debatable between Sen. Clinton and President-elect Obama, but don't undermine your own argument by referencing Gov. Palin, a woman who is not entitled to as much reverence and deference as her title would seem to indicate. "

Chris wrote on Nov 9, 2008 11:54 AM:

" Technically, Mary, women are not minorities. According to the US gov't, your terminology is incorrect. Minorities are in fact based on race and women do not fit that definition. The eyes of the law still protect women, of course. But to ask which minority is more deserving of higher consideration assumes that women are also a minority. Women are not a minority, under government classification (archives.gov/eeo/terminology.html) or in reality as the census bureau states that women still outnumber men. "

Golden Mean wrote on Nov 9, 2008 11:53 AM:

" In my world hot and sexy is a complement!

Mary, your column is not hot and sexy. "

Along came Mary wrote on Nov 9, 2008 10:51 AM:

" Another brilliant column. Souza cut to the chase and explained the real nature of the election. The sexist and overt media hatchet job on Governor Palin revealed how 'un-united' the country is. For me, the biggest loser in this whole experience is the mainstream media. I don't trust them at all and find myself going outdoors and reading books more as I don't relate to them, or their government in Washington, DC.. The disgusting treatment of Governor Palin was the last straw.
This all leads to larger questions, one of which is this: Should we somehow drop our views of how our families should live after an election and 'pull together' as one Nation 'united'... when we aren't?
What makes this country so 'united'? I see nothing but a growing misery index with Rham, Barney, Harry and Nancy leading their 'new messiah' into a socialist utopia. Are there options? "

Sexist Josh wrote on Nov 9, 2008 10:26 AM:

" Mary....how did you have time to write this article? Shouldn't you have been in the kitchen cooking or cleaning or something more constructive!!! "

Mahiun wrote on Nov 9, 2008 10:24 AM:

" TM, your ADD diagnosis is not my fault or my problem....

And why would you think I "have no need for a woman"? Sexually, that may be true, but is that really all you think a woman is good for? That's more than a little sexist, wouldn't you say?

If I want to be treated as a human being, how could I possibly not grant the same thing to women? Despite what you seem to think, they're human, too ----- really! "

To Mahiun wrote on Nov 9, 2008 10:18 AM:

" There you go again with your long boaring posts and why wouldn't you hate women since you are an open homosexual man you have no need for a woman. "

JB wrote on Nov 9, 2008 9:57 AM:

" Hey Mary...perhaps you can get a job on Palins knew quest for (out of Alaska) politics. It would at least get you out od CDA..... You could be in wardrobe purchasing... "

I live next to Muslims wrote on Nov 9, 2008 9:53 AM:

" LOL. What a sore loser. Palin was a lightweight with crazed views and America sanely rejected her. I'm always amused when right wing extremist whites at the CDA Press like Fortier and Souza dabble in race politics. Like playing Russian Roulette with a fully loaded revolvers. What pros. Aim for your feet. "

Mahiun wrote on Nov 9, 2008 9:35 AM:

" Mary, how then do you account for those of us who were ardent Hillary supporters (I count myself as one of them) who saw nothing but bad news in Sarah Palin? Is one of them more "female" than the other, and thus the target of more unwarranted attacks?

I find the "crowning of Obama" argument specious (at best). Hillary Rodham Clinton was the odds-on favourite, the nominee presumptive, essentially from 9 November 2004. If anyone had prematurely been "crowned", it would have been Hillary Clinton, and Obama's early and repeated successes in the primaries and caucuses appeared to catch the press off-guard as much as anyone else. As any candidate --- male or female --- begins to ascend in the polling and see his/her star begin to shine more brightly, it is only natural that that candidate begins to attract more and more press attention, more and more public scrutiny. (I don't recall hearing or reading any WAG rumours about Hillary Clinton's place of birth, religion, ancestry, relatives, or national allegiances...)

It was not Sarah Palin's sex that troubled those of us who found her completely unacceptable. It was her staggering ignorance of the most fundamental elements of American government, of geopolitics, of science (her father was a science teacher, for crying out loud!). It was her enthusiastic embracing of religious fundamentalism and her obvious penchant for using that as the basis for making public policy. It was her disingenuousness about her own political background. It was the repeated accounts of her tendency to bully and harass anyone with whom she disagreed. It was the way she brazenly insulted the EIGHTY PERCENT of Americans who do not live in the small, rural communities she characterizes as the only places worthy of being deemed "real" America. That her sex eventually became part of the dialogue was probably inevitable, given that she herself had begun to act and appear as if she were treating the entire endeavour as a glorified pageant....

The effigies of Palin and Obama were not in the same place, so local law (and law enforcement) would naturally have dictated how the cases were handled. Each of them was wildly inapprpriate, but to make a direct comparison is to engage in a classic "apples & oranges" juxtaposition.

I agree with you that sexism should not be tolerated, but it does not serve the cause to see sexist bogeymen where they may not exist. Nor is sexism the only "--ism" that should not be tolerated. Would it not have sufficed to make the point that a candidate's qualifications, positions, policies, and demeanour should trump any other "--ism" associated with that person? "

Charlie wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:26 AM:

" Mary,

I normally do not agree with all that you write in your columns but you did a fair one today. The MSM did a hatchet job on the women and they are still trying to ruin Gov. Palin. If the MSM does not like you for whatever reason, true or false, they will kill you. "

wow wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:11 AM:

" You're quite the whiner, aren't you, Mary? "

Hard Truths wrote on Nov 9, 2008 8:09 AM:

" Serious people get taken seriously. "

LTR wrote on Nov 9, 2008 7:52 AM:

" Mary,

I totally agree with you. It was very sad that citizens allowed this to happen. "

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