Let’s be civil. The Flathead Beacon encourages vigorous discussion and lively debate, but we will delete comments that attack other readers, make accusations we can’t verify, stray too far off topic, criticize local businesses (call them if you have a problem), convict someone of a crime, use profanity or are simply judged to be in bad taste. We don’t always have someone moderating comments, so we ask for your help: If you see a comment that violates these ground rules, or you simply deem it offensive, please e-mail editor [at] flatheadbeacon.com. The views expressed in the comments section do not reflect those of the Beacon.
By Kalispell Native on 02-16-08
Larry Craig also was formally admonished by the Senate Ethics Comm for his behavior. The letter also chided him for spending $213,000 of campaign funds on his legal representation.
How many more sex deviants are there amongst the party of Family Values yet to be (ahem) exposed?
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By JD on 02-16-08
Nice pun!
This behavior is nothing new. It isn’t contained within any political party lines. It’s been a part of human culture all over the world for a long, long time.
Somehow our own society in America considered it immoral, then made it illegal.
But, something changed. Seems now it’s Okay To Be Gay.
Well nowadays I wouldn’t dare challenge that statement. Could start a war. (I wonder if there’s enough straight people nowadays to win it.) Or get my kids kicked out of school.
A few years ago we Montanans got to have a little vote on how far we would extend the rights of the “proud” people with said “okay” lifestyle.
I guess we aren’t quite ready to go that far, huh?
Wasn’t it so much nicer when there was a “closet” and these people used it? When you had to kind of “wonder” about some people, instead of having them in your face constantly?
What happened? Please tell me, this bugs the crap out of me. Something went very wrong.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Rehburg - the closeted gymnast on 02-17-08
Grow up stupid, the “gay” thing is all in your head (or your closet). This action by Rehberg offends everyone because this guy is supposed to represent us all, equally.
The homos I know are just like any other resident, except that they legally carry concealed weapons.
It’s screwed up closet queens like Rehberg that just don’t get it. Is this man so ignorant that he believes that homos have sex with sheep?
Oh no, it was just a “funny” joke among friends. Maybe he wishes men had sex with sheep. He’s just a home town farm boy, remember?
Maybe he recalls with great fondness having sex with sheep. At least he knows anough to use protection (gloves?).
Another nit-wit republican.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Jerry C on 02-17-08
There are two separate issues here.
1) Is open gay behavior something that is fair game for raunchy humor? No group has asked for an apology relating to the thousands of jokes about the sex that Clinton and Lewinsky did not have.
2) Do gays deserve to be treated as anyone else, or should they be a protected class?
If we took a gay poll we would probably find that 98% couldn’t care less about a Rehberg apology. Gays are real people with some different preferences. We shouldn’t let a few individuals with a political agenda detract us from that fact.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Roark on 02-17-08
I would not apologize. Political correctness’ time has come, and gone, thank god.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Blackfoot Joe on 02-17-08
It was a JOKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A PRANK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MAN GET OVER IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By partyer on 02-17-08
No kidding. The only way I see to be politically correct, while not understanding it, is to think it’s funny and blame it on comedic license. Apparently to have an opinion on it you must either be gay or straight, in either case you are wrong. Like any other issue, you can protect yourself from attack by just not caring. Or pretending not to care.
Man, it’s hard to be moral and ethical anymore. It’s even tougher to take little people and raise them into decent big people.
As far as I’m concerned, it IS okay to be gay. But it is not okay to say so. That may be hard to understand, I had to come up with this opinion in order to explain the only reason that I’d just as soon not have my daughters be around my stepsister. I want them to have very happy lives.
Sorry if your opinions and morals differ from mine, but I’m glad to discuss them in a friendly manner. We can all learn something then.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By donald iarussi mfa on 02-17-08
As a Republican I am embarassed by the bigoted prank made by Congressman Rehberg. I call the Montana GOP, the “Hate Slate”. I came to Montana from Texas , I am sick to my stomach by the outright bigotry I see almost every day agaisnt minorities. This 94% white population that stole thheir land from Native Americans have poisonedthe once clean spirit of Montana.
I have been preceived to be gay and while walking around Bozeman. i ahve had beer bottles thrown at me and called anti gay hateful comments.
I feel sorry for many who live in a state where so many commit suicide and turn to meth at such a young age because of the ignorance in the state. A state that also suffers in education .
My memories of Montana when i leave will be ugly
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By SG on 02-18-08
O please… stop being so sensitive! It was a prank - I can’t believe that even friends can’t play practical jokes on each other anymore. If Mike Simpson wasn’t offended, who are we to judge?? Policitcal correctness and all that bull, get over it and lighten up a bit.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Tiny member in congress on 02-18-08
Where does Rehberg think the rubber glove goes?
It can’t be that big.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By God, he's ignorant on 02-18-08
Maybe Denny should go talk to the man who got his jaw broken for wearing a hat that was perceived to be “gay”.
Maybe Denny should talk to the girls that got their house burned down. Oh I forgot, the cops said they did it themselves while they solved the mystery of the missing garden gnomes.
Maybe Denny should resign.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Nick on 02-18-08
Just curious… how many of you against Rehberg’s actions have EVER made a joke against ANY minority? If anyone says never, then they are a liar. Im sure no harm was ever meant, but I would be willing to bet my life that all of you Rehberg opposers are guilty of this. Hell, I have gay friends and minority friends that make these jokes too!!! Should they be shunned by their own? Should I tell them that their comments are wrong and only breed more hate and racism?
This is the reason there is more hate than there needs to be… because people can’t figure out the difference between a joke and a hurtful comment. Why aren’t there any PETA people on here getting all pissy about the sheep comments?
I see the same thing out here in Seattle all the time… AGAINST me! Being from MT there are certain stereotypes. How many times have any of you been asked if you ride a horse to school? Or if you have electricity? Do you take this as offense? No! Because you’re an idiot if you do! I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard someone (yes, even other Montanans) make the velcro gloves joke in reference to sex with sheep. Do I take offense? No! because Im smart enough to know when to take a joke!
Seriously, lighten up… all of you are hypocritical because you ALL have made some sort of joke that someone would take offense to. Look at Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton… probably the two most racist guys I know… but it’s against the “majority” so it’s okay… give me a break!
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By RE: The Fruitcake in Washington on 02-19-08
Maybe Denny should go talk to the man that was severely beaten in his driveway on Whitefish Stage Road for being perceived as “gay”.
Maybe Denny should go talk to the girl in Missoula that was beaten by Griz fans for being perceived as a “dyke”.
Denny should resign. We don’t want bigots in Congress.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Nick on 02-19-08
I agree that those EXTREME cases of hate are so very wrong… however, again I will ask… how many of you on here have EVER made a joke about ANYONE who is a minority, of different sexual preference, mental disabilities, anything??? How many of you hypocrites on here are no better than Rehberg??? Huh??? Silence… that’s what I thought… Before you go asking for the head of one man, look in the mirror first
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By What a schmuck on 02-20-08
How many of us are senators or representatives in Congress?
Silence… that’s what I thought
The vulgar behavior started when Dummy Reburgh voted against minorities, them made vile jokes about them.
These folks just don’t get it.
Hey Nick, do you believe that this would play well out where you live in Seattle?
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Apples to Apples big guy on 02-20-08
Cheers to your first point. People in public office need to hold themselves to a higher standard- it comes with the position. Making rude jokes may be as prevalent at all levels as Nicky is doing his best to assert, but because it happens doesn’t mean it’s okay, especially for someone who’s supposed to represent the majority. I bet you anything Denny wishes he never did this; and I’ll wager double he’ll think twice before he does it again. Will that change his personal views or tendencies toward making lewd jokes in the company he keeps? I doubt it. Then again, Denny’s pretty insulated at this point and there may not be much that can change his approach to representing his constituents….at least folks in Nick’s corner can be satisfied Denny’s doing a good job representing them.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Nick on 02-20-08
First of all, I agree that those in office and such should be held to a higher standard. That is fair. But it’s not like Rehberg made this joke publicly to a group of people, or tried to offend a random person! HE MADE A JOKE TO HIS FRIEND!!! How many of you would make jokes in front of your friends but not your parents, grandparents, pastor, teacher, boss, etc.? He didn’t hold a press conference to make the joke, it was just a nonchalant joke that has been blown WAY out of proportion.
You’re right, I know he never wishes he did this because he didn’t realize that a private, personal joke to his friend would be publicized to the entire state and taken WAY too seriously and blown WAY out of proportion. But then again, how many of you have gotten just a little too drunk and made a fool out of yourself? Holiday work party? Trying to impress a girl? Should we all expect you to never drink again? NO! That’s stupid! I would expect you to learn to not get that drunk again, just as I would expect Rehberg to not do something like that where the public might get ahold of it.
God, all of you are so hyper-sensitive these days! A parent can’t spank their kids to make them learn… apparently that’s child abuse. No one can ever make a joke that offends ANYONE, because that’s discrimination and hate. Jesus, why don’t you people just settle down, drink a beer, and enjoy life rather than occupy yours with someone elses!
And you know what… Rehberg has been a great representative for the state. Between him and Baucus, I’d say they’ve put little ‘ol MT on the map in D.C. when we could be stuck with more worthless tools like Tester.
Oh, and schmuck, I work with some very liberal people out here who make those jokes all the time! In fact, I was talking about MT yesterday with one of them and they made the EXACT same sheep joke! Did I get all butt-hurt and go cry to my boss because I was “offended?“ No! I know it was a joke, I know he wasn’t being offensive, and I know how to not take everything in my life so seriously.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By illustr8r on 02-20-08
Well said Nick.
I have friends who’ve attended corporate ethnic/cultural sensitivity training workshops (because it was company policy not because they said something and got sent to the principals office) and the gist of the message was that everyone has the right to complain and be offended- except white males. They are SOL.
It’s the way people think nowadays-everyone is a victim.
Libs call Bush, Hitler, and claim all republicans are ee-vil rich among other things and run down our country- that’s fine and dandy-because they think they are more enlightened and entitled to their opinions than the rest of us.
Well, I’m offended by that attitude! Who can I complain to to get them to shut up?
Anyway, if Denny Rehberg had (D) behind his name would the outcry be more of whisper?
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By The bigots just don't get it! on 02-21-08
If Dizzy Rehbergh had a (D) behind his name, he would have had the intelligence not to insult the people he represents.
Rehberg just cannot be allowed to disparage the groups he constantly votes against.
Rehburg, resign!
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Nick on 02-21-08
Oh really? So please tell me who made this little “gem” of a statement…
“You know education, if you make the most of it, you study hard, you do your homework, and you make an effort to be smart, you can do well, and if you don’t you get stuck in Iraq.”
I’ll give you a hint… he had a (D) behind his name, and he’s even higher in politics than ‘ol Denny. Yeah, talk about “foot-in-mouth” Good job, Kerry (oops!)... way to show your support for our troops and country. Im sure all of you Montana dems weren’t calling for his resignation after this comment… but then again, the Bush/war-haters are now in the majority, so Im sure this comment was “okay” for you… can anyone say, “hypocritical?“
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By anxious for options on 02-21-08
It is ridiculous to compare Rehberg’s actions to getting drunk at the company party or a slip of the tongue. Actions speak louder than words; there is a difference between a making a statement and executing a multi-step process to pull off a tasteless ‘prank.‘ Rehberg’s actions were premeditated and at any point he could have abandoned the idea. He obviously put thought into his plan but lacked the self-control/ insight to recognize that it was a stupid idea.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Nick on 02-21-08
“People in public office need to hold themselves to a higher standard- it comes with the position”
First of all, anxious, my comment was to those who make comments such as the one I have in quotes above. Whether you insult gays or military, it’s STILL an insult and is offensive. If you don’t think so, then why don’t you go make your case about it in Ft Harrison oustide of Helena… you’ll be lucky to walk out alive.
You people think that Im a homophobe myself, when on the contrary I actually know many gays, and some of them are even good friends of mine.
All Im pointing out here is the ridiculousness of the hypocriticals on here who are just pissed because Rehberg is a republican and the “cool majority” these days are the dems and Obama followers. First of all, learn to think for yourselves. Secondly, don’t sit there and chastise a man who made a joke that MANY have made, and I wouldn’t doubt many of YOU have made the same joke… whether just kidding around with close friends or whatever that may have seemed completely harmless.
Yes, he’s a public official and should be held to a higher standard, but for there to be such a backlash by people who have, at least ONCE in their lives, done the same thing is absurd!
And yes, God forbid our elected officials show their “human” sides once in a while and not only make a seemingly harmless mistake…
Oh, and anxious, so are Kerry’s comments AGAINST the military okay because they weren’t “premeditated?“ Is that what you’re saying? You should watch yourself… because someone that says something as a “reaction” says it from PRECONCEIVED notions… that means that Kerry fully believes in what he said, and it just happened to slip out… it still doesn’t make it okay.
It’s just ridiculous to me that I would be willing to bet that I could prove that every single naysayer on this message board has made some sort of “sheep” joke, or has laughed at one… or even beyond that have made a joke that someone would take offense to… because you thought it was “harmless”... well just remember that the way this hyper-sensitive society is today, you almost can’t say/do anything because you know it’s going to offend someone… geesh… lighten up people!
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Nick on 02-21-08
Oh, and to Donald Iarussi mfa:
You moved from Texas and you’re seriously going to sit there and talk to us about racism against minorities??? Are you F-ing kidding me?!?!?! You’re telling me that Montanans are more racist towards minorities than Texans are against, say Mexicans? Yeah… okay buddy… you keep tellign yourself that.
Here’s what I’ve learned since moving to Seattle. Where is some of the worst racism in the US? The South… why? Because there are a lot of African Americans down there. What about down in So Cal, New Mexico, Texas? They are all pretty racist states (against Mexicans). Why? Again, there is an abundance of them. However MT doesn’t have very many minorities, so we really don’t get to see the “stereotypical” minority that is discriminated against. So many people out here in Seattle claim that they’re not “racist” or anything… but you watch them work with Mexicans who can’t speak English very well, and you see the racism just flow…
So I am going to disagree with you that MT is even HALF as racist of a state as Texas. And as for your comment about stealing the land from the Indians… do some history buddy… how many tribes were “removed” down in your neck of the woods? Texas was bought from Mexico, but how many tribes lived there when that sale went through, and then were “removed?“ What about the surrounding area? Weren’t the “plains Indians” a pretty big group? Think BEFORE you speak and call out our state… in fact, MOVE BACK!!!!
Ah, yes… everyone is all up-in-arms about what Rehberg did, but once someone calls them out and uses exclamation points, that person should all of a sudden “calm down.“ Good job Flathead Hypocrites!
No one has a sense of humor anymore. Everyone looks to be offended so they can be more special than someone else. This all started as a joke between friends…making fun of a (R) from Idaho as well. That should have garnered a gold star for that effort.
“Why is this news?“ is right. It’s amazing how the ones who preach “tolerance” are the most intolerant.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Nick on 02-22-08
Thank you, illustr8r… that story was hilarious! This was my favorite part:
Catbert: “Wally, I have to fire you for posting a comic comparing managers to drunken lemurs. You won’t be eligible for unemployment benefits unless you can prove you were stupid as opposed to malicious. Can you prove you’re stupid?“
Wally: “Is there another explanation for working here?“
-Sometimes I can relate…
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By .357 magnum on 02-23-08
This isn’t a joke, folks are getting assaulted and murderous attempts happen all of the time.
If you believe that this is funny, beware. The faggot you hassle might blow your head off.
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By Nick on 02-25-08
.357… wow, talk about hypocritical in all its essense. Im sure they love to be referred to by the term you’ve felt comfortable with. Calling someone by that name, to me, is much more offensive than the practical joke that Rehberg played on his close friend… but continue to try and convince me that his actions were ghastly while you sit there and use such derogatory language… nice job buddy.
My point of this entire thing is that 1) it was blown way out of proportion by 2) a bunch of hypocrites who CANNOT sit there and tell me that not once in their entire lives have they ever made a joke, even a harmless joke, towards gays or Montanans in reference to sex with sheep… hypocrites, all of you!
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
By How's them apples Denny? on 03-03-08
Rehberg should go talk to Mathew Shepard’s mom.
They hung him from a fence and left him to die. Was this OK or was it funny? Was it just a joke? Huh, Denny?
Rehberg’s just another nazi who needs a dose of reality.
NEVER AGAIN!
Beacon Readers Rated This Comment:
In order to post comments you must register once with the Beacon and be logged in. Log in below or register now.
‘The Defining Story of This Band’
Glacier’s Quick Road to the Top
Giving Comfort When There is No Cure
Schweitzer Rejects NMAR’s Request for Special Session
Political, Agriculture Leaders React to Buffett’s BNSF Purchase
Comments on: Gay Community Asks for Apology for Rehberg’s Prank
Let’s be civil. The Flathead Beacon encourages vigorous discussion and lively debate, but we will delete comments that attack other readers, make accusations we can’t verify, stray too far off topic, criticize local businesses (call them if you have a problem), convict someone of a crime, use profanity or are simply judged to be in bad taste. We don’t always have someone moderating comments, so we ask for your help: If you see a comment that violates these ground rules, or you simply deem it offensive, please e-mail editor [at] flatheadbeacon.com. The views expressed in the comments section do not reflect those of the Beacon.
By Kalispell Native on 02-16-08
Larry Craig also was formally admonished by the Senate Ethics Comm for his behavior. The letter also chided him for spending $213,000 of campaign funds on his legal representation.
http://www.cqpolitics.com/wmspage.cfm?parm1=5&docID=news-000002670679
How many more sex deviants are there amongst the party of Family Values yet to be (ahem) exposed?
By JD on 02-16-08
Nice pun!
This behavior is nothing new. It isn’t contained within any political party lines. It’s been a part of human culture all over the world for a long, long time.
Somehow our own society in America considered it immoral, then made it illegal.
But, something changed. Seems now it’s Okay To Be Gay.
Well nowadays I wouldn’t dare challenge that statement. Could start a war. (I wonder if there’s enough straight people nowadays to win it.) Or get my kids kicked out of school.
A few years ago we Montanans got to have a little vote on how far we would extend the rights of the “proud” people with said “okay” lifestyle.
I guess we aren’t quite ready to go that far, huh?
Wasn’t it so much nicer when there was a “closet” and these people used it? When you had to kind of “wonder” about some people, instead of having them in your face constantly?
What happened? Please tell me, this bugs the crap out of me. Something went very wrong.
By Rehburg - the closeted gymnast on 02-17-08
Grow up stupid, the “gay” thing is all in your head (or your closet). This action by Rehberg offends everyone because this guy is supposed to represent us all, equally.
The homos I know are just like any other resident, except that they legally carry concealed weapons.
It’s screwed up closet queens like Rehberg that just don’t get it. Is this man so ignorant that he believes that homos have sex with sheep?
Oh no, it was just a “funny” joke among friends. Maybe he wishes men had sex with sheep. He’s just a home town farm boy, remember?
Maybe he recalls with great fondness having sex with sheep. At least he knows anough to use protection (gloves?).
Another nit-wit republican.
By Jerry C on 02-17-08
There are two separate issues here.
1) Is open gay behavior something that is fair game for raunchy humor? No group has asked for an apology relating to the thousands of jokes about the sex that Clinton and Lewinsky did not have.
2) Do gays deserve to be treated as anyone else, or should they be a protected class?
If we took a gay poll we would probably find that 98% couldn’t care less about a Rehberg apology. Gays are real people with some different preferences. We shouldn’t let a few individuals with a political agenda detract us from that fact.
By Roark on 02-17-08
I would not apologize. Political correctness’ time has come, and gone, thank god.
By Blackfoot Joe on 02-17-08
It was a JOKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A PRANK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MAN GET OVER IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By partyer on 02-17-08
No kidding. The only way I see to be politically correct, while not understanding it, is to think it’s funny and blame it on comedic license. Apparently to have an opinion on it you must either be gay or straight, in either case you are wrong. Like any other issue, you can protect yourself from attack by just not caring. Or pretending not to care.
Man, it’s hard to be moral and ethical anymore. It’s even tougher to take little people and raise them into decent big people.
As far as I’m concerned, it IS okay to be gay. But it is not okay to say so. That may be hard to understand, I had to come up with this opinion in order to explain the only reason that I’d just as soon not have my daughters be around my stepsister. I want them to have very happy lives.
Sorry if your opinions and morals differ from mine, but I’m glad to discuss them in a friendly manner. We can all learn something then.
By donald iarussi mfa on 02-17-08
As a Republican I am embarassed by the bigoted prank made by Congressman Rehberg. I call the Montana GOP, the “Hate Slate”. I came to Montana from Texas , I am sick to my stomach by the outright bigotry I see almost every day agaisnt minorities. This 94% white population that stole thheir land from Native Americans have poisonedthe once clean spirit of Montana.
I have been preceived to be gay and while walking around Bozeman. i ahve had beer bottles thrown at me and called anti gay hateful comments.
I feel sorry for many who live in a state where so many commit suicide and turn to meth at such a young age because of the ignorance in the state. A state that also suffers in education .
My memories of Montana when i leave will be ugly
By SG on 02-18-08
O please… stop being so sensitive! It was a prank - I can’t believe that even friends can’t play practical jokes on each other anymore. If Mike Simpson wasn’t offended, who are we to judge?? Policitcal correctness and all that bull, get over it and lighten up a bit.
By Tiny member in congress on 02-18-08
Where does Rehberg think the rubber glove goes?
It can’t be that big.
By God, he's ignorant on 02-18-08
Maybe Denny should go talk to the man who got his jaw broken for wearing a hat that was perceived to be “gay”.
Maybe Denny should talk to the girls that got their house burned down. Oh I forgot, the cops said they did it themselves while they solved the mystery of the missing garden gnomes.
Maybe Denny should resign.
By Nick on 02-18-08
Just curious… how many of you against Rehberg’s actions have EVER made a joke against ANY minority? If anyone says never, then they are a liar. Im sure no harm was ever meant, but I would be willing to bet my life that all of you Rehberg opposers are guilty of this. Hell, I have gay friends and minority friends that make these jokes too!!! Should they be shunned by their own? Should I tell them that their comments are wrong and only breed more hate and racism?
This is the reason there is more hate than there needs to be… because people can’t figure out the difference between a joke and a hurtful comment. Why aren’t there any PETA people on here getting all pissy about the sheep comments?
I see the same thing out here in Seattle all the time… AGAINST me! Being from MT there are certain stereotypes. How many times have any of you been asked if you ride a horse to school? Or if you have electricity? Do you take this as offense? No! Because you’re an idiot if you do! I can’t count the number of times I’ve heard someone (yes, even other Montanans) make the velcro gloves joke in reference to sex with sheep. Do I take offense? No! because Im smart enough to know when to take a joke!
Seriously, lighten up… all of you are hypocritical because you ALL have made some sort of joke that someone would take offense to. Look at Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton… probably the two most racist guys I know… but it’s against the “majority” so it’s okay… give me a break!
By RE: The Fruitcake in Washington on 02-19-08
Maybe Denny should go talk to the man that was severely beaten in his driveway on Whitefish Stage Road for being perceived as “gay”.
Maybe Denny should go talk to the girl in Missoula that was beaten by Griz fans for being perceived as a “dyke”.
Denny should resign. We don’t want bigots in Congress.
By Nick on 02-19-08
I agree that those EXTREME cases of hate are so very wrong… however, again I will ask… how many of you on here have EVER made a joke about ANYONE who is a minority, of different sexual preference, mental disabilities, anything??? How many of you hypocrites on here are no better than Rehberg??? Huh??? Silence… that’s what I thought… Before you go asking for the head of one man, look in the mirror first
By What a schmuck on 02-20-08
How many of us are senators or representatives in Congress?
Silence… that’s what I thought
The vulgar behavior started when Dummy Reburgh voted against minorities, them made vile jokes about them.
These folks just don’t get it.
Hey Nick, do you believe that this would play well out where you live in Seattle?
By Apples to Apples big guy on 02-20-08
Cheers to your first point. People in public office need to hold themselves to a higher standard- it comes with the position. Making rude jokes may be as prevalent at all levels as Nicky is doing his best to assert, but because it happens doesn’t mean it’s okay, especially for someone who’s supposed to represent the majority. I bet you anything Denny wishes he never did this; and I’ll wager double he’ll think twice before he does it again. Will that change his personal views or tendencies toward making lewd jokes in the company he keeps? I doubt it. Then again, Denny’s pretty insulated at this point and there may not be much that can change his approach to representing his constituents….at least folks in Nick’s corner can be satisfied Denny’s doing a good job representing them.
By Nick on 02-20-08
First of all, I agree that those in office and such should be held to a higher standard. That is fair. But it’s not like Rehberg made this joke publicly to a group of people, or tried to offend a random person! HE MADE A JOKE TO HIS FRIEND!!! How many of you would make jokes in front of your friends but not your parents, grandparents, pastor, teacher, boss, etc.? He didn’t hold a press conference to make the joke, it was just a nonchalant joke that has been blown WAY out of proportion.
You’re right, I know he never wishes he did this because he didn’t realize that a private, personal joke to his friend would be publicized to the entire state and taken WAY too seriously and blown WAY out of proportion. But then again, how many of you have gotten just a little too drunk and made a fool out of yourself? Holiday work party? Trying to impress a girl? Should we all expect you to never drink again? NO! That’s stupid! I would expect you to learn to not get that drunk again, just as I would expect Rehberg to not do something like that where the public might get ahold of it.
God, all of you are so hyper-sensitive these days! A parent can’t spank their kids to make them learn… apparently that’s child abuse. No one can ever make a joke that offends ANYONE, because that’s discrimination and hate. Jesus, why don’t you people just settle down, drink a beer, and enjoy life rather than occupy yours with someone elses!
And you know what… Rehberg has been a great representative for the state. Between him and Baucus, I’d say they’ve put little ‘ol MT on the map in D.C. when we could be stuck with more worthless tools like Tester.
Oh, and schmuck, I work with some very liberal people out here who make those jokes all the time! In fact, I was talking about MT yesterday with one of them and they made the EXACT same sheep joke! Did I get all butt-hurt and go cry to my boss because I was “offended?“ No! I know it was a joke, I know he wasn’t being offensive, and I know how to not take everything in my life so seriously.
By illustr8r on 02-20-08
Well said Nick.
I have friends who’ve attended corporate ethnic/cultural sensitivity training workshops (because it was company policy not because they said something and got sent to the principals office) and the gist of the message was that everyone has the right to complain and be offended- except white males. They are SOL.
It’s the way people think nowadays-everyone is a victim.
Libs call Bush, Hitler, and claim all republicans are ee-vil rich among other things and run down our country- that’s fine and dandy-because they think they are more enlightened and entitled to their opinions than the rest of us.
Well, I’m offended by that attitude! Who can I complain to to get them to shut up?
Anyway, if Denny Rehberg had (D) behind his name would the outcry be more of whisper?
By The bigots just don't get it! on 02-21-08
If Dizzy Rehbergh had a (D) behind his name, he would have had the intelligence not to insult the people he represents.
Rehberg just cannot be allowed to disparage the groups he constantly votes against.
Rehburg, resign!
By Nick on 02-21-08
Oh really? So please tell me who made this little “gem” of a statement…
“You know education, if you make the most of it, you study hard, you do your homework, and you make an effort to be smart, you can do well, and if you don’t you get stuck in Iraq.”
I’ll give you a hint… he had a (D) behind his name, and he’s even higher in politics than ‘ol Denny. Yeah, talk about “foot-in-mouth” Good job, Kerry (oops!)... way to show your support for our troops and country. Im sure all of you Montana dems weren’t calling for his resignation after this comment… but then again, the Bush/war-haters are now in the majority, so Im sure this comment was “okay” for you… can anyone say, “hypocritical?“
By anxious for options on 02-21-08
It is ridiculous to compare Rehberg’s actions to getting drunk at the company party or a slip of the tongue. Actions speak louder than words; there is a difference between a making a statement and executing a multi-step process to pull off a tasteless ‘prank.‘ Rehberg’s actions were premeditated and at any point he could have abandoned the idea. He obviously put thought into his plan but lacked the self-control/ insight to recognize that it was a stupid idea.
By Nick on 02-21-08
“People in public office need to hold themselves to a higher standard- it comes with the position”
First of all, anxious, my comment was to those who make comments such as the one I have in quotes above. Whether you insult gays or military, it’s STILL an insult and is offensive. If you don’t think so, then why don’t you go make your case about it in Ft Harrison oustide of Helena… you’ll be lucky to walk out alive.
You people think that Im a homophobe myself, when on the contrary I actually know many gays, and some of them are even good friends of mine.
All Im pointing out here is the ridiculousness of the hypocriticals on here who are just pissed because Rehberg is a republican and the “cool majority” these days are the dems and Obama followers. First of all, learn to think for yourselves. Secondly, don’t sit there and chastise a man who made a joke that MANY have made, and I wouldn’t doubt many of YOU have made the same joke… whether just kidding around with close friends or whatever that may have seemed completely harmless.
Yes, he’s a public official and should be held to a higher standard, but for there to be such a backlash by people who have, at least ONCE in their lives, done the same thing is absurd!
And yes, God forbid our elected officials show their “human” sides once in a while and not only make a seemingly harmless mistake…
Oh, and anxious, so are Kerry’s comments AGAINST the military okay because they weren’t “premeditated?“ Is that what you’re saying? You should watch yourself… because someone that says something as a “reaction” says it from PRECONCEIVED notions… that means that Kerry fully believes in what he said, and it just happened to slip out… it still doesn’t make it okay.
It’s just ridiculous to me that I would be willing to bet that I could prove that every single naysayer on this message board has made some sort of “sheep” joke, or has laughed at one… or even beyond that have made a joke that someone would take offense to… because you thought it was “harmless”... well just remember that the way this hyper-sensitive society is today, you almost can’t say/do anything because you know it’s going to offend someone… geesh… lighten up people!
By Nick on 02-21-08
Oh, and to Donald Iarussi mfa:
You moved from Texas and you’re seriously going to sit there and talk to us about racism against minorities??? Are you F-ing kidding me?!?!?! You’re telling me that Montanans are more racist towards minorities than Texans are against, say Mexicans? Yeah… okay buddy… you keep tellign yourself that.
Here’s what I’ve learned since moving to Seattle. Where is some of the worst racism in the US? The South… why? Because there are a lot of African Americans down there. What about down in So Cal, New Mexico, Texas? They are all pretty racist states (against Mexicans). Why? Again, there is an abundance of them. However MT doesn’t have very many minorities, so we really don’t get to see the “stereotypical” minority that is discriminated against. So many people out here in Seattle claim that they’re not “racist” or anything… but you watch them work with Mexicans who can’t speak English very well, and you see the racism just flow…
So I am going to disagree with you that MT is even HALF as racist of a state as Texas. And as for your comment about stealing the land from the Indians… do some history buddy… how many tribes were “removed” down in your neck of the woods? Texas was bought from Mexico, but how many tribes lived there when that sale went through, and then were “removed?“ What about the surrounding area? Weren’t the “plains Indians” a pretty big group? Think BEFORE you speak and call out our state… in fact, MOVE BACK!!!!
By Joepa on 02-21-08
Why is this news?
By Calm down Nicky on 02-21-08
You’ll break your closet door.
By take a deep breath on 02-22-08
http://www.selfhelpmagazine.com/articles/glb/glbtphobia.html
By Nick on 02-22-08
Ah, yes… everyone is all up-in-arms about what Rehberg did, but once someone calls them out and uses exclamation points, that person should all of a sudden “calm down.“ Good job Flathead Hypocrites!
Joepa,
Exactly! Why is this news???
By illustr8r on 02-22-08
Gimme a break…this story is more appropriate.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,331543,00.html
No one has a sense of humor anymore. Everyone looks to be offended so they can be more special than someone else. This all started as a joke between friends…making fun of a (R) from Idaho as well. That should have garnered a gold star for that effort.
“Why is this news?“ is right. It’s amazing how the ones who preach “tolerance” are the most intolerant.
By Nick on 02-22-08
Thank you, illustr8r… that story was hilarious! This was my favorite part:
Catbert: “Wally, I have to fire you for posting a comic comparing managers to drunken lemurs. You won’t be eligible for unemployment benefits unless you can prove you were stupid as opposed to malicious. Can you prove you’re stupid?“
Wally: “Is there another explanation for working here?“
-Sometimes I can relate…
By .357 magnum on 02-23-08
This isn’t a joke, folks are getting assaulted and murderous attempts happen all of the time.
If you believe that this is funny, beware. The faggot you hassle might blow your head off.
By Nick on 02-25-08
.357… wow, talk about hypocritical in all its essense. Im sure they love to be referred to by the term you’ve felt comfortable with. Calling someone by that name, to me, is much more offensive than the practical joke that Rehberg played on his close friend… but continue to try and convince me that his actions were ghastly while you sit there and use such derogatory language… nice job buddy.
My point of this entire thing is that 1) it was blown way out of proportion by 2) a bunch of hypocrites who CANNOT sit there and tell me that not once in their entire lives have they ever made a joke, even a harmless joke, towards gays or Montanans in reference to sex with sheep… hypocrites, all of you!
By How's them apples Denny? on 03-03-08
Rehberg should go talk to Mathew Shepard’s mom.
They hung him from a fence and left him to die. Was this OK or was it funny? Was it just a joke? Huh, Denny?
Rehberg’s just another nazi who needs a dose of reality.
NEVER AGAIN!