BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'

Subject: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: saulgoldie
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 05:58 PM

http://mediamatters.org/items/200512010017

I heard about this, and I was struck with an idea: Why don't we all send him "Happy Holidays" cards and messages?

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 06:09 PM

Would that be for Christmas?
G. ☺

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Peace
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 06:09 PM

I just did. Thanks for the idea.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: GUEST
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 06:11 PM

Nah, send him a kwanzaa card.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 06:22 PM

Answering one extreme with another does not balance things. Living in the UK I don't know the climate that O'Reilly is railing against, though some of his statements do sound extreme (like the one suggesting all corporations in the US should be on their knees thanking Jesus for being born).

But is there really such a "religiophobia" in the States nowadays? Would I be offending people if I decorate a Christmas tree visible through my window, for example? Or if I have a store and put up a "Merry Christmas" banner (or "Happy Hanukkah" or "Peaceful Ramadan" or "Happy Festival of Light" as appropriate?). It seems silly, but then weird things do happen.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Peace
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 06:27 PM

The Little Angel on the Top of the Christmas Tree!

One particular Christmas season a long time ago, Santa was getting ready for his annual trip but there were problems everywhere. Four of his elves got sick, and the trainee elves did not produce the toys as fast as the regular ones so Santa was beginning to feel the pressure of being behind schedule. Then Mrs. Claus told Santa that her Mom was coming to visit; this stressed Santa even more.

When he went to harness the reindeer, he found that three of them were about to give birth and two had jumped the fence and were out at heaven knows where. More stress.

Then when he began to load the sleigh one of the boards cracked and the toy bag fell to the ground and scattered the toys. So, frustrated, Santa went into the house for a cup of coffee and a shot of whiskey. When he went to the cupboard, he discovered that the elves had hid the liquor and there was nothing to drink.

In his frustration, he accidentally dropped the coffeepot and it broke into hundreds of little pieces all over the kitchen floor. He went to get the broom and found that mice had eaten the straw it was made of. Just then the doorbell rang and Santa cussed on his way to the door. He opened the door and there was a little angel with a great big Christmas tree.

The angel said, very cheerfully, "Merry Christmas Santa. Isn't it just a lovely day? I have a beautiful tree for you. Isn't it just a lovely tree? Where would you like me to stick it?

Thus began the tradition of the little angel on top of the tree.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: GUEST
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 06:35 PM

Maybe his ratings are falling or he has a book coming out now.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: GUEST
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 06:48 PM

The climate in the US is so the opposite of "religiophobia".

This is backlash directed at Jews, Muslims, Mexican Americans, and African Americans in particular, some of whom celebrate the birth of Christ (though certainly not the way White WASP Christians celebrate it), some of whom celebrate their own winter holidays.

What these Christian fascists are seeking is nothing short of a White Christmas in the Anglo American sense.

They refuse to tolerate anyone, including themselves I believe.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Ebbie
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 06:49 PM

The one thing that O'Reilly said in that interview that I agree with is that stores could hang banners with every conceivable message: Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukah! Happy Holidays! Happy Kwanzaa! Worship the Buck! Spend until it Hurts! GIVE until it Hurts! Remember The Kids Who Have Less! Whatever message they're trying to get across. I have no problem with any family, any nationality, any culture, going public with their celebrations.

Yes, George, the 'average' person and family still says Merry Christmas and not only is there a Christmas tree, many people decorate live trees on their lawans right alongside the Nativitiy scene with Santa and his reindeer skittering across the rooftop. (Santa and Jesus- good friends, you know.) It is only on the public and governmental level that it is frowned upon. The reason, of course, is that many, many people don't ascribe to the sentiment

I remember when I was a kid I was bemused at and envious of the 'normal' community's response to Christmas. Within our family we drew names for a gift exchange and we had a holiday dinner but we never had a Christmas tree nor did we decorate for the season. Sad to say, I even remember when I suspected that there really *was* a Santa Claus but that my family just didn't know it.

I, of course, went on to teach my daughter the usual fibs. When she was about 5, my daughter came to me solemnly and said, Mommy, I know about Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny- but there IS a Tooth Fairy, isn't there?

Knowing that I couldn't lie to her outright, I hedged. I said, Well, what do YOU think? Mournfully, she said, Oh, no.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Peace
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 06:51 PM

Ebbie, that is a VERY funny story. Thank you.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: GUEST
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 06:54 PM

The worst of it is, this attitude is so intolerant of the rich traditions Christians around the world have created for their winter holidays. Some cultures and nations put a greater emphasis on Epiphany, for instance. And what could be more beautiful than Las Posadas? But I'm sure O'Reilly, Jerry Falwell, et al consider those to be deviant "happy holidays" too.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Peace
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 07:03 PM

I think Jerry Falwell considers anyone who ain't him to be somewhat deviant--to say nothing of the Holydays they observe.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: GUEST
Date: 10 Dec 05 - 09:28 PM

Or you could send him this lovely card for Christmas.

I just can't decide if O'Reilly is the reincarnated King Billy or Oliver Cromwell.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Greg F.
Date: 11 Dec 05 - 01:03 PM

O'Really is a delusional psychotic or a complete asshole (or both?) and anyone that pays the least notice to him and/or his vomit is an even bigger asshole.

Happy Holidays.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: saulgoldie
Date: 11 Dec 05 - 02:13 PM

He may be all that and more. But he DOES have power, and simply cannot be ignored. Not that I may am NOT be an asshole. But for other reasons But THAT is another thread...

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Ebbie
Date: 11 Dec 05 - 02:53 PM

I've never seen B O' on his own show - I have seen him being interviewed on other shows - so I don't know how perception-accurate they were but last night Saturday Night Live did a takeoff on him with guests on his show. According to it, he posits absurd questions and doesn't listen to any rebuttal. Has anyone listened to him? How about telling us his mode of operation?

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: CarolC
Date: 11 Dec 05 - 03:08 PM

From the O'Reilly interview...

This is America. This (Christmas) is the big commercial holiday.

I think this statement says pretty much all we need to know about O'Reilly and his religious beliefs. This is a man whose religion is money.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: saulgoldie
Date: 15 Dec 05 - 11:33 AM

Is anyone sending him "Happy Holidays" messages or cards?

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: CapriUni
Date: 15 Dec 05 - 04:01 PM

From what I understand, this rant of his started after President Bush sent out cards from the White House with the "Happy Holidays" message instead of "Merry Christmas," and one Catholic Bishop protested and got on the news and got interviewed about it (anything related to any current president gets on the news, here, it seems).

My father caught that interview, and reported to me that when asked: "Well, what if we elect a Jewish president, should that president still send out cards that say 'Merry Christmas?'" the bishop answered: "Yes!"

O'Reilly heard it from there, I think, and just ran with it.

As for his modus operandi, one time, Terri Gross had him on as a guest on her radio show "Fresh Air", and when he didn't like one of her questions, he accused her of bullying him, and walked out in the middle of the program.

What gets me is that the phrase "Happy Hollidays" has been fairly popular, I think, ever since the film "Holliday Inn" came out in 1942.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Wolfgang
Date: 15 Dec 05 - 04:09 PM

Knowing that I couldn't lie to her outright, I hedged. I said, Well, what do YOU think? (Ebbie)

I had to laugh in recognition. These are exactly my words in the same situation. Maybe I should look if someone has a copyright on those words and if not I could...

Wolfgang

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Ebbie
Date: 15 Dec 05 - 05:36 PM

Ah ha. It appears that we have some things in common, Wolfgang.

My daughter is now 43 years old. I should think that she predates youRS so I'm sure that the copyright is mine. Mine, I tell you. MINE.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: robomatic
Date: 15 Dec 05 - 08:44 PM

Yes, Santa Claus, there IS a Virginia!

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: GUEST
Date: 21 Dec 05 - 12:57 PM

For all of those who are interesterd in O'Reilly and why his pompous ass gets away with his one-sided, public lashings and doesn't allow his guests to get a word in edge-wise, watch Outfoxed. Outfoxed is a documentary that chronicles the bias that exists in the media, especially Fox, which is controlled by Rupert Murdoch. Fox, is and always has been dictated by the right/conservative views of Murdoch and his people. Everyday, Fox anchors and staff receive a memo informing them what should be dispersed and what should not. Liberals are portrayed negatively and are always made to appear stupid and ignorant, while conservatives are portrayed positively and only their good qualities/views are presented.

Refrain from watching Fox, it is biased media and feeds into mass stupification of America. On a final note, Murdoch has a special admiration for Reagan and if you watch closely, Reagan's birthday has become some kind of national celebration for Fox network. Don't be spoonfed biased news. Open your eyes and start watching for the truth,not the half-truths that media moguls want us to see.

Happy Holidays.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: WFDU - Ron Olesko
Date: 21 Dec 05 - 01:54 PM

John Gibson, another Fox hack, just wrote a book about this subject. He feels that it is a liberal consipiracy to destroy Christmas in this country. I think he has a few squirrels nesting in his hairpiece.   For someone so concerned about what his happening to Christmas, it is nice to know that this clown can make a few bucks by selling a $26 hardcover book with matching hats and junk on his website.

There is nothing wrong with saying Merry Christmas or Happy Holiday or a greeting for any of the other holidays taking place this month.   

What has happened here is that rightwing media has decided to divert public attention from what is really happening in this country and start a debate on something as silly as this.

No one is stopping or destrying Christmas except for the religious extremist and right wing nuts that have gone off the deepend and neglect the real teachings in the bible. I thought this was supposed to be a season of "Peace on Earth, Goodwill towards Men". Maybe they never read that far into the book and are waiting for the movie.

John Gibson, Bill O'Reilly and Roger Ailes should spend the holiday locked in a room toghether festering in their own filth. May they someday spend time in a very warm eternal home.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Midchuck
Date: 21 Dec 05 - 01:55 PM

'Ya ever notice how many knee-jerk conservatives yell about the media being "controlled by knee-jerk liberals," and how many knee-jerk liberals yell about the media being "controlled by knee-jerk conservatives?"

And meanwhile those of us in the Radical Middle can only observe that the media are controlled by dimbulbs.

Peter.

(and a pleasant solistice to all...)

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: WFDU - Ron Olesko
Date: 21 Dec 05 - 02:43 PM

"Everyday, Fox anchors and staff receive a memo informing them what should be dispersed and what should not."

To be fair, every major network - radio and TV as well as newspapers do the same thing. Each organization has editors who meet with their staff to determine what are the major stories and they cover it as such.   You won't find a single memo telling their staff to portray liberals in such a fashion, although it can be couched so that the outcome will be pre-determined.

I have no love for Fox News. They have created a circus, and a very successful one at that.   News used to be a losing proposition for networks, they only aired it because they basically had to.   Once people like Ted Turner showed that news could be a commercial success, then others began jumping on the bandwagon.   Fox came out of nowhere - the network did not have the infrastructure of an NBC and they had to build from scratch.   They developed news personalities and sold the network that way.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: GUEST,petr
Date: 21 Dec 05 - 08:43 PM

I only thought mouth-breathers watched Fox ..
(their take is always slanted, if theres an discussion with an opposing side there are always 2 conservatives and one liberal)

I would call O'Reillys viewpoint not only idiotic, but also hypocritical
there are in fact 2 holidays (Christmas and New Years)

on the second when he points out that Jews and others who
dont celebrate Christmas should not be offended by the greeting Merry Christmas and reasons that they probably arent (which I would agree with) but he is totally offended by happy holidays

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: dianavan
Date: 22 Dec 05 - 03:04 PM

My Sudanese student, who happens to be Muslim, printed these words on a card for me-

Have a holiday
Happy Winter

I thought it was quite astute for a six year old.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Amos
Date: 22 Dec 05 - 03:25 PM

O'Reilly is worse than a fool -- he's a vicious fool.

He doesn't recognize the difference between the Federal government recognizing Christmas and Walmart trying to be global in its greetings.

And he hates far too easily.

A

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: harpmolly
Date: 22 Dec 05 - 11:07 PM

*shiver*

I just had a horrible thought.

What if there's a secret government laboratory where they're creating a Bill O'Reilly/Zell Miller love child? He could be the Anti-Anti-Christ, and go around slapping "Happy Holidays"-wishers with his glove and demanding that they meet him at dawn with pistols.   ;)

I may never get over the Zell Miller thing. I still giggle thinking about it. Oh, Jon Stewart, you wicked, bad influence. ;)

Molly

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: leftydee
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 08:05 PM

Fox News shouldn't be allowed to use the word News. Fox Nutcase Opinion would be fine though.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: dick greenhaus
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 10:39 PM

Let's put the X back in Xmas!

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: DougR
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 11:49 PM

I still say Merry Christmas, and a Merry Christmas to all Mudcatters.

DougR

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: WFDU - Ron Olesko
Date: 23 Dec 05 - 11:54 PM

Nothing wrong with either Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays. Season's Greetings works well too. All the same.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Bee-dubya-ell
Date: 24 Dec 05 - 12:26 AM

"Happy whatever it is you celebrate. And if you choose not to celebrate it, happy whatever it is you ignore."

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: saulgoldie
Date: 24 Dec 05 - 07:28 AM

I appreciate receiving greetings of the season. I accept that the giver is trying to be friendly. However, I wonder what some people are thinking when they wish me a "Merry Christmas" knowing I am Jewish. What if someone wished them "Joyous Ramadan" or some such.

I have taken to saying "Chappy Cholidays" (where the "CH" is the Hebrew ch that no one can prounounce) which conveys seasonal greetings and also gently and humorously reminds people that not everyone is celebrating (or whatever it is with all that commercialism) the birth of their lord. (Christmas is, for Jews, the day we go to the movies and eat Chinese food.)

Far from being political correctness run amuck, it is an issue of sensitivity to the sensibilities of others. We do not need to ridicule or demean others' beliefs or conditions to be strong in our own. Well, some people do, and that is the problem.

I sincerely wish everyone a wonderful season in whatever way is personally meaningful. And I wish once again for whirled peas, an end to all suffering, and more acoustic music.

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: Amos
Date: 24 Dec 05 - 08:41 AM

Not celebrating Christmas should not prevent you from having a happy one. Please see to it... :D


A

Subject: RE: BS: 'O'Really' and 'Happy Holidays'
From: leftydee
Date: 24 Dec 05 - 02:08 PM

I guess I still don't get all the flap about holiday greetings. No matter if they wish me Merry Christmas, CHappy CHolidays, Happy Kwanza or whatever, I understand that they are wishing me well. What's to be offended by? Lighten up!! Accept it as it's meant.

Happy Holidays to you all!