Obama: 'We only have one National Anthem'
Singer: 'I didn't expect that singing the song would garner this kind of attention'
Staffer David Montero contributed to this report.
Published July 3, 2008 at 12:05 a.m.
Updated July 3, 2008 at 4:15 p.m.
Barry Gutierrez / The Rocky
Mayor John Hickenlooper said Marie's actions showed a "lack of understanding" about the power of patriotic symbols.
- VIDEO: Watch the singing of the anthem (14 minutes into video)
- POLL: Was it appropriate to sing the Black National Anthem at the State of the City address in Denver?
- NEW VIDEO: Hickenlooper says he was deceived
- AUDIO: Listen to Barack Obama's response to the controversy
- DNC: No shorter convention, Obama says
- NEW STATEMENT: From Rene Marie
Sen. Barack Obama said today that a jazz performer's decision to sing the "Black National Anthem" at Denver's State of the City speech this week was wrong.
"Well, 'Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing' is a beautiful song that has been sung in African-American churches and other events for a very long time," the presumed Democratic presidential nominee told the Rocky in a telephone interview on his way to North Dakota. "We only have one National Anthem. And so, if she was asked to sing the National Anthem, she should have sung that."
Obama's remarks came as the controversy entered its third day.
Rene Marie, the jazz singer who belted out a surprise performance of the black anthem, triggering a public outcry, said today that it wasn't a "self-centered and calculated publicity stunt."
But in a lengthy statement posted on her Web site, Rene Marie informs people about how they can buy her CDs.
"Once we receive the money order, your purchase will be shipped within 24 hours," Marie said in the statement.
The first half of the statement, however, deals with the anthem uproar.
"I didn't expect that singing the song would garner this kind of attention," Marie said.
"After all, I had sung the exact same song at the Colorado Prayer Luncheon earlier this year before a much larger and wider audience and there wasn't even a ripple," she said.
Marie said she understood how her actions could be perceived as dishonest since the mayor had invited her to sing the national anthem instead.
"But I looked at it a different way: I am an artist," she said. "As such, if I wait until I am asked to express myself artistically, or if I must ask permission to do it, it would never get done."
She also denied that she was trying to make a political statement even though she told 9News that she was trying to express how she left about living in the United States "as a black person."
"I am apolitical, choosing to address social issues through my art, not politics," she said.
Despite the furor, don't expect Marie to apologize.
"The last thing I wanted to do was cause trouble for the mayor and so I have apologized directly to him for any distress that may have resulted from my singing," she said. "As for offending others with my music, I cannot apologize for that. It goes with the risky territory of being an artist."
Finally, Marie said some people's assertions that her actions would hurt Obama's presidential campaign are wrong.
"Believing that would be a serious over-estimation of my influence as an artist," she said.
On Wednesday, Hickenlooper changed his tune about Marie.
Initially, Hickenlooper soft-pedaled the surprise performance. Marie had been tapped to sing "The Star-Spangled Banner."
But by Wednesday, the mayor belted out some harsh words for the chanteuse.
"The city asked Rene Marie to sing the national anthem at (Tuesday's) State of the City event. She agreed to do so. We expected her to sing the national anthem, and she deceived us," the mayor told reporters at a news conference in front of the City and County Building.
"Her actions show a certain lack of understanding for how strongly our community feels about patriotic symbols and traditions, and certainly overshadowed a day of great importance to our city," Hickenlooper said.
Marie's anthem choice immediately triggered public outrage.
Marie sang the first verse of James Weldon Johnson's "Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing," also known as the Black National Anthem, but adapted those lyrics to the tune of "The Star-Spangled Banner."
'Artistic expression'
After Tuesday's ceremony, Hickenlooper called Marie to "understand what happened."
The mayor said Marie told him that her song "was an artistic expression of her love for her country."
But in interviews with the media, Marie provided a somewhat different explanation.
"Her interviews with the media have conveyed different content and tone," Hickenlooper said in a letter to city employees. "While I cannot speak to her intentions, it's now fair to say the city was deceived."
Marie said she started working on the song about three years ago after she toured Russia and an interviewer referred to her as an American. She said she was "startled" by that reference and felt like she wasn't an American.
"I struggled with why I felt that way when I came back to United States because I love living in this country," she said, adding that she decided to rewrite some of the patriotic songs she learned as a child, both as a creative outlet and to reflect her black heritage.
Menola Upshaw, president of the Denver branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, said Marie erred in failing to make the mayor aware of her song choice.
"If she promised to sing 'The Star-Spangled Banner,' she should have," Upshaw said. "I think she knows the difference between 'Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing' and 'O say can you see.' "
Hickenlooper said he respects an artist's freedom of expression.
"But in a tradition-laden civic ceremony that included a law enforcement color guard presenting our flags and the Pledge of Allegiance - making a personal substitution for the national anthem was not an option. We asked for 'The Star-Spangled Banner,' and that's what we expected," he said.
"We will do whatever it takes to ensure that a situation like this never occurs again, even if I have to sing the national anthem myself," Hickenlooper added. "If people feel the city of Denver or the mayor has in any way disrespected them, I'm happy to apologize."
The mayor said it would be "close to impossible" that Marie would be invited to sing at another city function.
Governor: Singer 'disrespectful'
Other elected officials took aim at Marie on Wednesday, too. On talk radio, Gov. Bill Ritter called her actions "disrespectful."
"I think the problem here is that she was invited to do one thing and she chose to do another, and that's unfortunate for a variety of reasons," Ritter said on the "Mike Rosen Show."
"I think it's a fair interpretation to say it's disrespectful," he said.
U.S. Rep. Tom Tancredo, R-Littleton, "condemned" Marie - as well as the mayor - "for the national anthem debacle that took place during the State of the City address," according to a news release from Tancredo's office.
"I hope that this is not indicative of the 'state of the city' and the cult of multiculturalism and anti-Americanism does not hold sway over the majority of the people in Denver," Tancredo said. "It's also distressing because it appears to be another aspect of the racial politics pla guing this nation."
City Council President Michael Hancock, the master of ceremonies at Tuesday's event, said he's been the target of hateful e-mails and phone calls just because he introduced Marie. Hancock didn't know the singer and didn't know she was going to perform the black anthem, he said.
"She made a very bad decision," he said. "And unfortunately, the mayor and (myself) and other City Council people and other elected officials are bearing the brunt of her very bad and inappropriate decision."
July 3, 2008
2:43 a.m.
clyde writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
July 3, 2008
5:18 a.m.
Suggest removal
happymike44 writes:
Well let's see you hired her to sing one song.
She could not even get the words right.
This should serve as a reminder to anyone who might hire her for their club.
She does it her way no matter,it doesn't matter who she embarasses or upsets.
If I owned a club I would not hire her because she does not seem to remember she is working for someone else.
July 3, 2008
5:29 a.m.
Suggest removal
ham writes:
When I read this woman's comments, I understand better how she could come out there and do what she considers another national anthem. She says "I love living in this country". Well, that says it all, doesn't it? There is a BIG FRICKIN' DIFFERENCE between proudly being an AMERICAN, and simply saying you love living in this country. Shoot, there are millions of people from around the world who are living in this country, but don't consider themselves Americans. I guess she's one of them. Next time, get an AMERICAN to sing the Star Spangled Banner. Somebody who loves America, who loves our principles and appreciates the sacrifices and struggles it took to get here. She is free to live here and not appreciate it, and that's how it goes with some people. She can be angry because of her perceived abuses, or whatever she angry at. JUST DON'T DO IT WHEN I STAND AND REMOVE MY HAT FOR THE NATIONAL ANTHEM, thank you very much.
The more I read about this woman, the angrier I get. I am claiming right now that she gets an invitation to sing at the Democratic National Convention ( it won't be the Star Spangled Banner) just to show how "inclusive" the Democrats are. Myself, I wouldn't want to be associated with somebody who simply "loves living here". I want to be associated with Americans.
July 3, 2008
6:02 a.m.
awhite411 writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
July 3, 2008
6:10 a.m.
Suggest removal
ColoNative writes:
Jazz singer expresses that they became aware of their distain for their native country only when called an American while in foreign country - Blind to her own prejudices gets invited to do a patriotic traditional hymn and changes it to reflect her views and we are suprised? Why are we surprised? I'd been surprised that she would have been faithless to her beliefs and sang a song which stands for everything she hates in this country. Her Dad would have been so proud of her standing firm for her beliefs while insulting the country he loved.
July 3, 2008
6:24 a.m.
Suggest removal
Michael writes:
Anyone see any parallels here with Michelle Obama's statement about not being proud of her country? I know slavery was awful. I know that racial discrimination is awful. I do not know what it is like to be black in America. But when I see people like Bill Cosby, Clarence Page, Thomas Sowell, Clarence Thomas, Condi Rice, J.C. Watts, Magic Johnson, Tiger Woods, Oprah Winfrey, Charles Barkley, and so many more proud, happy, and successful black Americans who appear to be very proud of being an American, I just wonder what drives this stuff.
July 3, 2008
6:56 a.m.
Suggest removal
fiesty writes:
I hope she wasn't paid since she didn't do what she was hired for. There's a time and place for "artistic expression" and this wasn't one of them. She deliberately used the opportunity for her own personal agenda.
July 3, 2008
6:59 a.m.
vudumom writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
July 3, 2008
7:12 a.m.
Suggest removal
sheepherder writes:
Art says: "I have to laugh at the poor who vote republican . If your poor and you vote republican because some singer sang the wrong song . You deserve what the republicans give you . Their crumbs."
Art, the poor have been voting democrat for decades...and they are still poor. Your sense of politics is a little warped. And to argue for either side at this point is fruitless. Mccain is more of a democrat than Obama!
July 3, 2008
7:26 a.m.
Suggest removal
LOUIE writes:
Let's see here Mr. Hinkenlooper, you employed an illegal in your restaurant, who murders one of our city's police officers and runs to Mexico, did he decieve you? Your party's canidate for president doesn't approve of wearing our nations flag, did he decieve you? Now some lady you invite to sing our nations anthem sings some off the wall tune instead. You know, Mr. Hinkenlooper, I think you fit right in with Recreate 68. I hope when you ask the next known radical to run down the traditions of our country, the people throw tomatoes at you and the radical, and they leave them in the cans!
July 3, 2008
7:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
Alive writes:
Did anyone hear a buzzing sound in here?
July 3, 2008
7:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
jason45 writes:
What a pathetic place Denver must be......
July 3, 2008
7:31 a.m.
Suggest removal
MarineGrunt writes:
fartstarzz can read minds now too!
July 3, 2008
7:31 a.m.
Suggest removal
DenverArtist writes:
Yoiti, yadi yadi yadi....you talk too much and say nothing, and Novice??? aka novogk...is " Idiot" the best you got? Sheeeeesh there are people here who have way too much time on thier hands.
Yoiti yadi yadi yadi...it ain't about the Party... STUPID!..loll You missed the point as you missed your boat. You seriously have PERSONAL issues. Talk about the real deal-GOT GAS??? Yoita yadi yadi yadi does... and sure is full of it!
July 3, 2008
7:32 a.m.
Suggest removal
Alive writes:
Our resident jobless, pothead, failed artist is now telling us to "get used to" civil unrest. Who's going to do the unrest Ricky, you? Your thinly veiled threats are a joke and so are you.
July 3, 2008
7:37 a.m.
Suggest removal
SockRayBlue writes:
Vudomom
before you get a rock thrown through your window read this......
The black "lawn jockey". Today considered a sign of poor lawn decoration at best, and overt racism at worst, the lawn jockey was an important signal on the road to freedom on the Underground Railroad.
The name, and the manner of dress, has been corrupted over the years: the first statue of its type was commissioned and owned by George Washington.
The story goes that at the time of Washington's crossing of the Delaware, a 12 year old African American Joque Graves was at camp, a groomsman for Washington. He wanted to make the crossing with the army; however, Washington, aware of the danger, ordered him to stay on the Pennsylvania shore, and shine a light, so upon return the company would know where to come to retrieve their horses. After the surprise attack on the Trenton barracks, Washington returned to find Joque had frozen to death, guarding the horses, the lantern still ablaze and frozen in his hand.Moved by the boys devotion, Washington commissioned a statue, 'The Faithful Groomsman', to stand in honor of Graves at the General's estate at Mount Vernon.
It is ironic that this statue, commissioned and made popular by slave owning Washington, would eventually become a beacon for freedom for runaway slaves.
With spies and bounty hunters everywhere, even safe houses were not always safe. It became necessary to be able to convey, in a low-key fashion, what condition any Underground Railroad stop was in at any given time. The answer was the 'lawn jockey', painted to wear a red cap.
If a safe house was 'safe', and prepared to accept visitors, a lantern or an American flag would be placed in the forward reaching hand. If the house was under scrutiny or compromised, the lantern or flag would be removed, signaling the travelers to move to another house down the line. Further south, along the Mississippi, green and red ribbons tied to the statues arm - whether clandestinely or with the owner's knowledge - attested to the status of the owners of the house: red ribbons alerting danger, green ribbon announcing safety.
July 3, 2008
7:40 a.m.
Suggest removal
LOUIE writes:
Jason45, Denver is a great place to live; we don't have ghettos like Detroit, Chicago, New York, Miami, Los Angeles, etc., our worse neighborhood looks middle class even if it is below the poverty level. Rocky Mountains rule! Only setbacks are Boulder and the politicians; everything else is great!
July 3, 2008
7:43 a.m.
Suggest removal
Creative_N_Denver writes:
She got exactly what she wanted, free publicity. By changing the words, she is now part of many discussions and will be placed in Colorado history.
July 3, 2008
7:44 a.m.
Suggest removal
Alive writes:
Hey artystarzzz,
Why don't you cut off your ear and give it to a prostitute? Wouldn't that be all emotional and poetic?
July 3, 2008
7:48 a.m.
Suggest removal
vudumom writes:
SockRayBlue, Thanks for the info on the lawn jockey. I guess I should have looked it up. That is quite interesting. I came across it when I was cleaning out my garage. I didn't realize all the history behind it. My husband did look up how much it is going for in antique shops. Anywhere from $600- $1,200. cool!
July 3, 2008
7:49 a.m.
Suggest removal
LoneTreeLady75 writes:
LOL @ Jason45
I agree with you. It has become a pathetic place. You have more people up in arms about a womans poor judgement call than about the state of the economy and the war in Iraq. Yes, she shouldnt have sang Lift Ev'ry Voice and Sing but the 400+ posts of racism and conspiracy theories linking it to the presidential election that were showcased on the previous story are ridiculous and show the sheer ignorance of some people.
July 3, 2008
7:50 a.m.
Suggest removal
arby writes:
Vudumom
I thought all of those lawn jockeys had been rounded up and recycled. Don't take yours to Junteenth as someone will destroy it and maybe you for being a racist. Only white people are racist you know.
Louie
Good post.
July 3, 2008
7:53 a.m.
Suggest removal
Wolfgang writes:
She’s now front page news locally, and is being mentioned on the national news. This was all just a big publicity stunt on her part, and it seems to be paying off. In the entertainment industry, there’s no such thing as bad publicity.
July 3, 2008
7:54 a.m.
Suggest removal
HolierThanThou writes:
While you were complaining about those lyrics, you were turning black.
The bosses in the executive office have worked out another plan to increase their bonuses this year by laying you off.
More of your neighbors' homes have been foreclosed. The place is becoming blighted with empty trashed-out houses.
Benign neglect has enabled the Taliban and Al Qaeda to resurge into Afghanistan while keeping the pot boiling in Iraq. The military industrial complex is working out the numbers to see how many of your kids will be needed to keep those war profits rolling in.
Might as well admit it now. If your paycheck doesn't have seven digits on the left side of the decimal point, you're black. It doesn't matter where you ancestors lived five centuries ago. In the view of your double-talking leaders, your whole life is a commodity.
July 3, 2008
7:54 a.m.
Suggest removal
LOUIE writes:
SockRayBlue, great post, most people never knew that and see the statue of the black stable boy with the lantern as racist. You still see them in the south, and today many racicts adopted the symbol. It has a lot of history, but most people only concern themselves with current events, thus history is rewritten to suit the day. There are many great symbols that have had thier meanings altered by time. There is an apple orchard in Grand Rapids, Michigan that upon the owners death held an underground room for slaves on the "railroad". The owner was a wealthy man, who for years kept it intact and secret, until his death in the late 1990's. Today it is a historical site. I knew the orchard owner personally, and I never new about it. Great postSockRayBlue!
July 3, 2008
7:57 a.m.
Suggest removal
SockRayBlue writes:
I'm putting this out there just to see if perceptions change a bit...
http://apnews.myway.com/article/20080...
July 3, 2008
7:59 a.m.
Suggest removal
DenverArtist writes:
wow...what a bunch of Racists Tarts....to imagine there are people like you everywhere...that act like you...ummm see I didn't use "THINK" a bit much for you nutt brains. HELLLOOOOO !!!!! Some of you need to get off your lazy arses and get jobs. Better yet..."GET A LIFE" most of you are still wet behind the ears and still wetting your pants. Wouldn't last a day in the streets in New York or Detroit. All this because a person sang her ideal of the American Anthem...get over it already...Stick to the real issues in this country...GOT GAS???? Most of you are like FULL OF IT!!! Ive been reading the Rocky on and off, I noticed it's always the same Racists Jerks, spouting off the same redundant comments. Get over it already, she sang the song her way, it's done, finito. I truelly beleive that we are in a scarey state of affairs if you mindless misfits have spawned children. GOD SAVE US ALL!!!ohhh for you athiests...it S@#*S to be you.
July 3, 2008
8 a.m.
Suggest removal
LoneTreeLady75 writes:
Good job Sock. Some ignorant peasant will still drag it into this story though.
July 3, 2008
8:01 a.m.
Suggest removal
frosty writes:
Louie, thanks, very interesting and informative, rare on these post!
July 3, 2008
8:03 a.m.
Suggest removal
jacka writes:
Hickenlooper and Union City Hall - maybe next year they'll sing Solidarity Forever, Come and Join the Union or Comrade Fettler.
YES on Amendment 47 shouldn't all Coloradans have the Right to Work, paycheck protection and choice.
YES on Amendment 47 because Hickenlooper opposes paycheck protection rights for all Coloradans.
July 3, 2008
8:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
Professor_D writes:
It's sad to see Hickenlooper (and Ritter) join the public lynching.
July 3, 2008
8:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
peter303 writes:
Get a backbone John.
You should have led a group sing of Spangled Banner or America the Beautiful immediately after the lady screwed it up.
July 3, 2008
8:08 a.m.
Suggest removal
MaxInEnglewood writes:
Wow, this story is on the front page again? Must be a slow day for Denver news eh RMN? Hopefully you've locked the accounts of all the simple minds or at the very least will have the common sense to limit the comments today.
July 3, 2008
8:08 a.m.
Suggest removal
fiesty writes:
DenverArtist/artstarzz-
I haven't seen one racist comment here EXCEPT yours! If you don't want to hear the "same old white song", then don't listen or go! The situation has nothing to do with her choice of an ethnic song, and everything to do with the fact she did NOT sing the song she agreed to. She engaged in unethical behavior and disrespected the national anthem; we call her on it, and you say it's racist? Baloney!
July 3, 2008
8:09 a.m.
Suggest removal
bushmaster writes:
she deceived you as obama will deceive you
July 3, 2008
8:10 a.m.
Suggest removal
SockRayBlue writes:
Arby
I read further into the lawn jockey thing....
Some folks have reduced the impact of the story by trying to state "facts" and arguments to the contrary. I like the first legend. Another thing that I've come across is that in the 60's the black face had to be painted white. African -Americans still saw the, (I'm quoting this so don't get P O'd) "big watermelon eating lips" as offensive. The statues fell into disuse. Now, I've posted the 7:57 webpage and I'm very curios if things will change just a bit since this whole racial thing has been going on far too long.
July 3, 2008
8:10 a.m.
Suggest removal
fiesty writes:
btw, for all you slamming on the opposite political party, get a grip! This incident has nothing to do with politics, but rather one woman's stupid and unethical actions; you're just looking for an excuse to interject your political opinions. Sheesh.
July 3, 2008
8:14 a.m.
Suggest removal
MaxInEnglewood writes:
Welp I spoke too soon, some of the simple minds (Fiesty, Artstarzz and Busmaster) have awaken! Im not interested in the stupidity that will be displayed here today as I have a life and am off to enjoy my day off! Great job RMN, you've successful added to making this story something it really shouldnt have been, which is a big deal! Have a safe and fun 4th all!
July 3, 2008
8:20 a.m.
Suggest removal
SockRayBlue writes:
DenverArtist
"Racists tarts"? Certainly not a skilled word smith.
July 3, 2008
8:25 a.m.
Suggest removal
hragle writes:
Because of all the renditions, some fairly good, and some extremely terrible (Rosanne Barr), we will someday be listening to a canned version of our National Anthem. The honor of singing the National Anthem will no longer be offered to people someone deems worthy of singing it and singing it properly.
July 3, 2008
8:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
JackieMC writes:
Thought for the day..........
A taxpayer voting for Barrack Obama is
like a chicken voting for Colonel Sanders.
July 3, 2008
8:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
fefe writes:
wow you people are simply gone, gone ,gone ha ha toooooooo funny !!!! GOD BLESS AMERICA
July 3, 2008
8:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
DenverDan writes:
Get Over it people, we all made it to the next day.
July 3, 2008
8:36 a.m.
Suggest removal
DavefromDenver1971 writes:
I grew up in Denver in a racially mixed neighborhood where I lived with my grandparents for most of my childhood. My grandfather was a German immigrant and my grandmother was of Hispanic dissent. Because my grandparents were considered to be a racial mixed couple they faced discrimination during most of their marriage. I myself, I look pretty much Caucasian, have faced racism while playing at the neighborhood park. I, being the minority in this neighborhood, was ridiculed, beat up and made to feel as less of person than that of the other kids. This treatment was how I first discovered what racism was. Now I know I will never know the brutality that the black slaves knew nor will I know how it feels to be segregated on a bus or in school, but I do know what it feels like to be a victim of racism. I can't say that I have walked a mile in Rene Marie's shoes but I can say I know what it means to be an American. I believe most true Americans believe that being an American comes with the belief that we have been called by a higher authority to be the last great hope of humanity on this planet. I believe our history and laws show that we have grown to be a society of tolerance and acceptance. I can't speak for Rene Marie but if she believes that she is not American, what does she believe she is? Has her hate for what her race has been through become an all consuming thought to where she can't distinguish between what it means to be an American and what it means to be a person that has been victimized by America. I think she is missing the point of what America should be and can be. The land of the free!!
July 3, 2008
8:41 a.m.
Suggest removal
boomer writes:
When Lee Evans and Tommy Smith raised their fists on the medal stand in the 1968 Olympics in Mexico City, it was an awesome thing in those times of civil unrest...things were a LOT different then. They were not being racist, they were fighting for equality. I can't help but feel in our time here in the new mellenium, people doing these sort of attention drawing things are either 1) trying to draw attention to themselves for some selfish reason, or 2) racist.
Maybe Ms. Marie should form a trio with Louis Farrakan and Al Sharpton and go on tour...I'm sure it would be very lucrative for all of them.
July 3, 2008
8:46 a.m.
Suggest removal
Shaggy writes:
artstarzz,
Serious man, you have to be the most uninformed person I have ever ran across. You have absolutely no idea what Obama has planned.
You sound as though he is going to help the middle class and the poor. You couldn't be farther from the truth. Do you even know that Obama wants to double the tax on Capital gains? Or do you even know what that is? Do you know he plans to put additional taxes on Oil? How is that going to help the poor and middle class? Do you know the health care system under Obama will not only won't work but will deplete the quality and efficiency? Do you know under Obamas plan that we all will be taxed to pay for health care for about 20-25 million illegals? Who is going to pay to open all these new hospitals and how is he going to find hundreds of thousands of qualified Doctors to fill them and who is going to pay them?
It is just amazing how many ignorant people have no idea what Obama has planned but think he is somehow going to solve the Worlds problems miraculously..
July 3, 2008
8:51 a.m.
Suggest removal
Dhakala writes:
SockRayBlue, you're spreading an urban legend. Here are a few holes in your lawn jockey theory, courtesy of Wikipedia:
Neither the Revolutionary War nor the Civil War legends are documented. Mount Vernon's librarian Ellen McCallister Clark wrote in a letter to Baltimore's Enoch Pratt Free Library: "No record of anybody by the name of Jocko Graves, nor any account of somebody freezing to death holding Washington's horses, exists in the extensive historical record of the time." Nor do any of the many historical inventories and descriptions of Washington's estate mention any such statue. Moreover, stories about the Underground Railroad using lawn jockeys as signals are rendered suspect by the fact that red and green as signal colors meaning "stop" and "go" (or "danger" and "safe") were standardized by railroad signals during the World War I era.
July 3, 2008
8:52 a.m.
Suggest removal
parker805 writes:
artstarzz: Republican, Democrat, it doesnt matter. What this selfish woman did was wrong and I hope people will think twice about hiring her or even going to see her sing.
July 3, 2008
8:54 a.m.
Suggest removal
Deano writes:
This was a pretty decent publicity stunt. You can't buy this kind of attention. Look, what makes this country great is that Rene can say things like this and not face retribution from the government. We are all free to say things like this. What is ironic concerning Rene's point is that if she did a similar stunt in say, Zimbabwe, she would likely be jailed or worse by a murderous mob.
I think she gets her 15 minutes of fame here and then we should move on to more important issues. There are millions of African Americans who do amazing things every day in and for this country. I think we should be giving them an equal if not more substantial amount of attention. And we should celebrate the fact that just like Rene, we all have the right to express our feelings for this great nation, without fear of retribution.
July 3, 2008
8:57 a.m.
Suggest removal
Retread writes:
Folks, if you have not heard of it, the first amendment grants anyone the right to speak, sing, or write freely. If she wants to sing R-E-S-P-E-C-T on the capitial steps in place of the Star spangled Banana, so be it...
July 3, 2008
9:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
Sicnarf77 writes:
I agree with hragle at 8:25 a.m. There was a big controversy when Rosanne Barr did her take of the National Anthem and it upset a lot of people. Just think of all the poor baseball fans that were upset when Ozzy murdered "Take Me out to the Ball Game". Just imagine if they had invited Ozzy to sing the National Anthem someplace and forgot the words part way through? Who cares that this woman is black. Who cares what part of the political spectrum she is on. She did something wrong at a civic function, it's ok to do it at a night club, record, at a park, etc and be artistic, but if you are hired to do something and do something else isn't that the issue? She sure did make a name for herself doing this though.
July 3, 2008
9:07 a.m.
Suggest removal
temurlan writes:
Retread, No.
She was invited to sing the national anthem, nothing else. She said afterward the national anthem "doesn't work for her". If so then she should have declined the invite. So this has nothing to do with free speech and everything to do with deception, disrespect and inappropriate behavior.
She deserves all the criticism and consequences as a result.
I personally think she did this stunt only for publicity to help her career. That makes her an opportunistic and selfish loser in my book. We have all seen what happens to the careers of people who pull crap like this.
July 3, 2008
9:15 a.m.
Suggest removal
dirty writes:
Retread, You miss the fact that she was asked to, and agreed to sign a particular song, and decided to sing something different.
Nothing to do with the 1st Amendment.
What she wants to sing on her on time and one her own dime, is her business alone. But this wasn't the case.
Nice try at trying to muddy the waters though.
July 3, 2008
9:15 a.m.
Suggest removal
HSTOWEL writes:
Hey artstarzz, if you are going to continue with your mindless dribble would you at least attempt to use correct English and spelling in your posts?
July 3, 2008
9:19 a.m.
Suggest removal
fiesty writes:
temurian- hear, hear! This has nothing to do with freedom of speech, but rather a lying woman who agreed to something but then did another for her personal agenda and selfish gain.
July 3, 2008
9:20 a.m.
Suggest removal
PonchoVia writes:
Did half the people griping about this even know about the State of the City address before it happened? I think most gripers didn't even know there was a state of the city address, but once they heard about the National Anthem fiasco they got their panties all in a bunch.
July 3, 2008
9:21 a.m.
Suggest removal
jacka writes:
Hickenlooper and Union City Hall - maybe next year they'll sing:
Solidarity Forever,
Come and Join the Union, or
Comrade Fettler.
July 3, 2008
9:24 a.m.
Suggest removal
Cowboy63 writes:
Democrats can't even get the national anthem right and they think they can run the country?
I loved the line in the article that says she "probably wouldn't be invited back"!! No one takes democrats seriously - that's why she felt she could get away with this high school stupidity.
I'll take McCain.
July 3, 2008
9:24 a.m.
Suggest removal
jacka writes:
This official event was held in the Wellington Webb building lobby, it is an annual event, I believe they faced north with their backs to the old city building.
July 3, 2008
9:24 a.m.
Suggest removal
jr_mcmillin writes:
I consider myself conservative, therefore vote mostly republican. for this issue, I see no reason why the Mayor or city officials should receive heat for the inappropriate action of a requested singer. She made a poor decision, very unprofessional on her part. I do believe they expected this singer to perform the Star Spangled Banner. Her performance will give her 15 min. of fame, but she most likely has lost any chance of future city sponsored performances. But hey! she did it, so now she'll live with the repercussions of her decision. And while I like the man, Tancredos' comments were senseless. It's childish to make a political issue out of a performers dumb decision. Liberals give us conservatives enough ammo to take issue with them. We don't need to mimic their reactions to our blunders. They got duped by a singer. Maybe they'll be more cautious in the future.... Then again, maybe not. Time will tell.
McCain in 2008
July 3, 2008
9:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
temurlan writes:
PonchoVia, for what it's worth, whether people knew about it or not is completely irrelevant.
It could be the State of the City, State of the Union, baseball game or whatever.
July 3, 2008
9:27 a.m.
Suggest removal
DenverDan writes:
McCain is older than dirt. When he farts dust comes out. He is older than Mr. Burns.
Obama 08
July 3, 2008
9:28 a.m.
Suggest removal
jacka writes:
mcmillin, the democrats foster this type of un-american activity.
July 3, 2008
9:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
fiesty writes:
jr_mcmillin - I agree in some particulars. It makes no sense that Hancock is receiving hateful calls and emails; they didn't KNOW what she was going to do. Nor should Tancredo be making this a political issue for the same reason.
July 3, 2008
9:31 a.m.
Suggest removal
jacka writes:
McCain 08
Hickenlooper and Union City Hall - maybe next year you'll have the Teamster Barbershop Quartet in to sing:
Solidarity Forever,
Come and Join the Union, or
Comrade Fettler
July 3, 2008
9:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
O_TRAIN writes:
Can I get a "racist tart" with frosting?
July 3, 2008
9:34 a.m.
Suggest removal
jacka writes:
Hancock was thrown under the bus by Hickenlooper. Hancock is also a known union butt kicker - he is for educational change.
Hickenlooper and Union City Hall (except Hancock) - maybe next year they'll sing:
Solidarity Forever,
Come and Join the Union, or
Comrade Fettler
July 3, 2008
9:37 a.m.
Suggest removal
jacka writes:
Hickenlooper and Union City Hall (except Hancock) - maybe next year they'll sing:
Solidarity Forever,
Come and Join the Union, or
Comrade Fettler
July 3, 2008
9:38 a.m.
Suggest removal
DenverDan writes:
All people on the right do is talk crap about Obama, never talk up the old man. Why is that?
July 3, 2008
9:39 a.m.
Suggest removal
skz writes:
Wasn't slavery initially abolished by some Republican white guy? I think I even remember hearing or seeing a speech about it. Anyone every heard of such a thing?
Move away from politics and racism on this one. It boils down to patriotism. Remember how the Nation Anthem was sung and how you felt about it pre-9/11? And how did that feeling change post-9/11? I was pro-country before that tragic day and now you couldn't get me to say anything negative about this great country no matter who is in charge!
We all need to be proud of the place we live and work to keep it the great place that it is. Don't bring this country down with cheap shots about race or by rewriting our national heritage for your own benefit. It's just a slap in the face to anyone, of any color and of any background who fought and died for your freedoms!
July 3, 2008
9:40 a.m.
Suggest removal
Francesca writes:
vudu: I also have one of those. RaySock is correct, there is a huge misconception about the statue. Has nothing at all to do with racism.
July 3, 2008
9:43 a.m.
Suggest removal
FlyfishDude52 writes:
This is not a dem/repub issue people. It is an issue about respect for our national anthem. Yes, the singer made a very poor judgement call in this case by ignoring what was requested of her. I wonder why no one in the audience didn't either stop her (pretty difficult to do cause they were wondering if this was on purpose by order of hick's office) or immediately after her song begin our one & only national anthem???
July 3, 2008
9:46 a.m.
Suggest removal
SockRayBlue writes:
Dhakala
I read that too. What went through my mind was that someone somewhere will always try to minimize or change something that is nice. Now, be it legend or fact, I like the story. I'll retell it. Everything in life can't have "the air taken out of it". Sure, throughout history the "truth" comes out much later. Again, if it is fantasy, so be it. We all need something nice to believe in or at least think about.
Reading through the posts in this blog there is some pretty strong feelings and obvious missed points. Some folks make mistakes and others try to goad others either for fun or sheer cussedness. My attempt was to defuse the situation and at least show that human beings are different and perceptions change. The web page I posted was an attempt to show that something that was seen as bad would or could be viewed as something quite positive and who, or what, would be the first to claim it.
In other words........I'm throwing stuff against the wall as fast as I can to see what sticks.
July 3, 2008
9:47 a.m.
Suggest removal
Cowboy63 writes:
DenverDan writes: "All people on the right do is talk crap about Obama, never talk up the old man. Why is that?"
Maybe spending 5+ years as a POW prematurely aged him? Perhaps daily torture for his country aged him as well?
They wanted to let him go because he was the son of an Admiral - he didn't want to be shown favoritism and he stayed.
Integrity, Honor, Courage.
Obama talks about serving the country - McCain lived it.
July 3, 2008
9:47 a.m.
Suggest removal
vudumom writes:
YIOTA, YOU ROCK!!!!
July 3, 2008
9:48 a.m.
Suggest removal
Sicnarf77 writes:
artstarzz writes : she wasn't hired . She did not get paid . There was no contract .
She was hired, it does not make any difference if she was paid or not, being hired to do something does not mean you are paid. She didn't just show up and say, "Hey, can I sing?", she was asked (or hired) to sing the National Anthem long in advance and didn't do it. She was introduced as going to sing the National Anthem, and didn't. I still say it was a great stunt for her, I'd never heard of her before and probably won't listen to her now but I bet she makes money off of this in some way. Now if there was a contract, and she was paid a deposit for her services, I think the city can sue her for whatever was paid as she did not adhere to the contract. :)
July 3, 2008
9:53 a.m.
Suggest removal
Thetrainer090 writes:
If she was born here then she IS an American. I don't agree with a lot of the politics that go on either, but I'm still an American. I don't agree on a lot of the PC stuff as well. we all are part from other countries as well. The only true Americans are the Native Americans. I know The PC way is Aferican American. Does that mean I'm a Brititsh German Irish American and my cousins are Polish Irish Americans. NO we all were born her so WE ALL ARE AMERICANS.
I see that the mayor changed his tune when he found out how the public felt about it. Typical politican
July 3, 2008
9:54 a.m.
Suggest removal
BERSERKER writes:
I respect the woman for creating her own song of patriotism that she felt was very powerful for her.....
BUT
I DO NOT RESPECT this woman for failing to abide by what she agreed to sing. If someone pays me to do a job, and I get "creative", then I get fired. The fact is, you're brought in to do something, you DO IT.
If she was paid for this, she needs to step up and get the money back. Or be sued by the City of Denver for breach of contract.
And the sad part is that now the bigots (black AND white) will start calling it a "race issue". It's not about RACE, it's about the failure to perform a simple task that you agreed on. I'm disgusted.
July 3, 2008
10 a.m.
Suggest removal
momof5 writes:
I'm trying to figure out what is so difficult about this for anyone to figure out.
1. She was asked to sign the national anthem which is the Star Spangled Banner.
2. She didn't sing the Star Spangled Banner, she sang another song.
3. It was an official function and she agreed to perform the song they requested.
4. On her own, she changed the song. Now, this is where it gets interesting. She says she was using her artistic license. She says she wanted to share her feelings about this country.
Okay, well, I say if you have the courage of your convictions. If you believe so much in what you did then why did you not explain to the mayor's office when they called and asked you to sing that you would be happy to sing another song, just not the Star Spangled Banner. That it was against your CONVICTIONS to sing that song.
You know why you didn't do that? Because they would have found someone else to sing. And you would have lost your 15 minutes of fame, your free publicity.
It isn't about race. I don't care if you are white, black, or anywhere in between. It isn't about politics. It isn't about heritage. It is about pride. Pride in this country and what the national anthem means to people.
You were asked to sing a song. You didn't. AND you didn't have the courage of your convictions to discuss your shady plan beforehand because you knew you wouldn't be on that stage if you did.
What you did was disrespectful. Self centered. Selfish. I agree, you should never be asked to sing at another city or state function.
Oh, and by the way, if you have so little respect for this country, perhaps you would feel happier living somewhere else.
July 3, 2008
10:02 a.m.
Suggest removal
DenverDan writes:
Cowboy
Yes he is a war hero. No doubt about it. Yes he will bring us war, war and war. What else will he do different than Jr. Maybe your better off talking trash about Obama. He dont like white people and dont wear a pin on a coat the real stuff we vote on.
OBAMA 08 Biticches
July 3, 2008
10:03 a.m.
Suggest removal
Cowboy63 writes:
artstarzz writes -
"Viva René'
Viva La Raza
vote Obama in 08"
That's why you're going to lose come November. The American people prefer
USA! USA! USA!
go McCain!
July 3, 2008
10:13 a.m.
Suggest removal
American100 writes:
Yes Rene-thanks for letting Artstarzz show us how ignorant and useless your types are.
Artstasrzz just admit it. The republicans hired you to turn democrats into republicans.
You're so effing stupid it's funny.
July 3, 2008
10:15 a.m.
Suggest removal
Sicofdoublestandard writes:
Let's take this to the next step. They have their own 'National Anthem' Let's give them their own Country! Then they can try and sit around unemployed all day playing basketball and butchering the English language in Hip-Hop and see how long they can survive without the 'man' paying his EARNED money in taxes so they can be the sicophants on the world that they are!
July 3, 2008
10:24 a.m.
Suggest removal
Hyperbole writes:
There is a place called Iraq, which was invaded by America in 2003. Last month - the month of June - there were more than 40,000 jobs lost. Just yesterday, it was reported that Starbucks would close over 600 of its stores. Gas is at an all time high, along with increased prices in food and medication.
Now tell me, why are we being bothered with this nonsense? I am a Christian and not one of you neither on this message board nor in my private personal life can say or do anything that would cause me to question my beliefs. I have been married for more than 14 years and have always been faithful to my spouse, and again, no one could say nor do anything to make me leave or to cause me to stray [from my marriage.] Why? Because my strong faith in my God and dedication to my marriage is not easily questioned because of what someone says or does. Therefore, for this to be a problem or an issue is a strong indication that some people have issues about their own patriotism.
Just because I do not agree with everything our government says or does, does not mean that I am less patriotic it just simply means that I have an opinion that differs from theirs. And because I am an American, I have that right - a right to express myself as well does anyone one else.
July 3, 2008
10:26 a.m.
Suggest removal
parker805 writes:
Sicofdoublestandard, well said. The scary thing is we are on the verge of giving them their own country; this is if Osama gets in.
God help us all then...
July 3, 2008
10:26 a.m.
Suggest removal
Hyperbole writes:
After reading the sour notes from our government officials, I am reminded again why our Country is in the mess that it is in today. It is because of their reckless indecisive ways, we are now paying record prices for oil and our children are more attracted to gangs and violence.
Was Rene Marie paid prior to her own patriot song? Was there a contract between her and the government officials? I am so certain that Ms. Marie just wanted to sing; a song that was true and meaningful to her; an indication of her deep love for the Country that SHE KNOWS. I am almost certain that her devotion to the Country that SHE KNOWS and is aware of, differs from those with nothing but time on their hands. And so what if it does? Are we that weak???
Did I tell you that our children are still coming home in body bags and those that do arrive alive, their benefits are being cut?
Councilman Charlie Brown said that Ms. Marie's performance "puts everyone in an awkward position." The only thing that I would see "awkward" is that it would force everyone to discuss/face the awkwardness of emotions, feelings, and beliefs and to top it off, race. Is it so "awkward" to have Blacks and Whites to be united? What is the pledge of the allegiance?…"United we stand." My personal understanding of the meaning "National Anthem" means to pull together. Welllllllllll, isn't that what we as a nation is supposed to do? To pull together in spite of race color or creed and/OR choice, beliefs and ideas. After reading/hearing all this nonsense, it is so obvious that we are more divided and that the words that Ms. Marie was expected to sing, truly means nothing! Patriotism? Samuel Johnson said it best: "Patriotism is the last vestige of a scoundrel."
July 3, 2008
10:29 a.m.
Suggest removal
davies writes:
Obama blah blah blah. McCain blah blah blah.
Hickenlooper got an education as to what happens when your philosophy is 100% tolerance and diversity, and 0% personal consequences. Someone came to his party and did whatever she frickin' felt like doing.
That's all that happened here folks.
July 3, 2008
10:29 a.m.
Suggest removal
denverone writes:
SKZ good post, with good points. I have directed my anger over this issue to many innocent people of race, and for this I apologize. I would encourage people of all races to stand together as Patriots, and to not support ANYONE that disrespects what our Flag and our Nations song stand for. Just in the last 6 years alone, so many brave men and women of all races have died together for me to have the freedom to post here, that I must say I feel a bit ashamed today.
We need to stand together like our military hero's do, as One Nation, Under God, Indivisible, with Liberty and Justice for All.
The reality is folks, none of us are going anywhere, and together we are an unbeatable force.
Thank you to all the White, Black, Hispanic, Asian, and Indian men and women of our Armed Forces for your service and your sacrifice. You are great Americans and a tremendous example of what the rest of us could and should live by.
July 3, 2008
10:30 a.m.
Suggest removal
Justin_Credible writes:
Artstarrz,
You're (notice the correct usage, something you have not mastered) an ignorant boob. If you don't know the difference between the possessive "your" and the conjunction of "you are" which is "you're", you have no business posting with the adults here. Now go back to remedial English and at least try to use "your" little mind in an exercise that will better yourself.
No matter how insightful (or not) "your" comments, any credibility and consideration is lost when you can't use the language properly. So just shut up.
July 3, 2008
10:35 a.m.
Suggest removal
davies writes:
justin: What about Sasquatch's post about Hick's "slopy" appearance? Oh, the irony...
July 3, 2008
10:36 a.m.
Suggest removal
WestminsterJ writes:
Yiota- Her actions are very representative of your party beliefs.
Sure, just like former Rep. Mark Foley (the intern molester)'s actions are representative of YOUR party beliefs.
What crap. Quit just pulling assertions out of your @$$.
July 3, 2008
10:37 a.m.
Suggest removal
Sicofdoublestandard writes:
I thought the 'black national anthem' was sung by "lil Yung" or "yung lil" or some other mispelled variation of Young or Little, and that it contained the actual important lyrics to their society- Rims,Ho's,Glocks,gold teeth, and thumping their chest like Gorillas.
July 3, 2008
10:41 a.m.
Suggest removal
Justin_Credible writes:
Davies,
...and it cuts deep, wide, and often.
July 3, 2008
10:44 a.m.
Suggest removal
Citizen21 writes:
To all who support this woman, she disrespected our country. The National Anthem covers ALL Americans. By singing the "Black National Anthem" she asked for the very division and segregation which her parents fought to rid. I don't care how nice of a person she is, or about her artistic vision, what she did was VERY UNPATRIOTIC and disrespectful. Every American should be offended by her actions!
July 3, 2008
10:44 a.m.
Suggest removal
denverrma writes:
As a music educator here in the metro area, my students prepare and perform may different styles of vocal music. Artistic freedom is very important but an artist MUST realize that they are messing with, sometimes, beloved song material. There are some types of music in which the singer is expected to improvise...Broadway, Standards, Jazz. And then there are official, patriotic songs that should not be changed. Really, it comes down to the fact that Ms. Marie was HIRED to perform a song for an offical state gathering. She chose to deceive her employer. I hope it come back to bite her in the @$* and she looses some business and respect in our community. There are just somethings that we as Americans, yes a very diverse population, need to use some common sense with stand together on.
July 3, 2008
10:46 a.m.
Suggest removal
davies writes:
Sicof: As a white conservative, I wish to disassociate myself from the kind of content you are currently flushing down the "comments" toilet here. The black people I work with are as competent, decent and hard working as everybody else.
You sir exert vacuum forces.
July 3, 2008
10:46 a.m.
Suggest removal
gs writes:
Does that mean I can fly my Confederate flag?
July 3, 2008
10:47 a.m.
Suggest removal
DenverDan writes:
All the people on the right are white freaks.
July 3, 2008
10:58 a.m.
Suggest removal
Retread writes:
You have the right to speak out against the singing, and I have the right to back her play..Now remember, where these rights came from? Her redition could not have been as bad as some of the other black, white, and others I have heard murdering the song with warbling, twang, speedy, slow, and otherwise disrespecful renditions...I have read the lyrics and found nothing wrong with her redition, it did not show any disrespect towards this nation, only truth..Some cannot handle the truth...
Where was the outrage when we all found out that our leaders sent over four thousand men and women to their deaths on false pretense? Where is the outrage finding that our leaders have led us into our enemys hands? Not here, we have to whine about a rendition of the Star spangeled Banana, sung at a function no one has ever attended, let alone heard of!
I and others have fought and died for the rights of Americans to speak freely, to be able to stand up for what they believe! If we let our own narrow minded, misguided ideas of patriotism overwhelm common sense in the application the rights granted to us by our forefathers, we have betrayed them, ourselves, and this great country...
July 3, 2008
11:01 a.m.
Suggest removal
Shaggy writes:
Artstarrz likes Obama because Obama has voted against making English the official Language and Obama wants to make all us legal tax payers to pay health insurance premiums to 20-25 million illegals.
To hell with the people who want to earn their citizenship.
Our ancestors assimilated into society.
The illegals from our southern border don't assimilate, they turn certain areas of our Country into looking like their s--t h--e.
They bankrupt just about every service meant for Legal citizens and don't honor our flag or laws.
Report and Deport, it is every Legal citizens job to protect our Country from the invasion and destruction...
Obama wants to give all these illegals drivers licenses and Citizenship.
Obama is an American sell out..I even question the "American" part.
July 3, 2008
11:02 a.m.
DenverDan writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
July 3, 2008
11:03 a.m.
Suggest removal
Citizen21 writes:
ReTread - If you are American and patriotic, you sing the National Anthem! I cannot emphasize enough - The National Anthem covers ALL americans. By singing the "Black National Anthem" she is supporting division and segregation. The truth - TIMES HAVE CHANGED! Deal with it.
July 3, 2008
11:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
GladysKravitz writes:
So that we can move on from this controversy...I would recommend a listen to comedian Albert Brooks' "Rewriting the National Anthem" http://www.divshare.com/download/7448....
Have a laugh, and enjoy our July 4th weekend. After all, we are celebrating our freedom this weekend, even the freedom to sing other so-called anthems at inappropriate times/places, and make critical comments about it. GAWD BLESS AMERICA!
July 3, 2008
11:04 a.m.
Suggest removal
my3pugs writes:
A Republican wouldn't have asked a black person to sing the National Anthem, is that the solution? Only the certified patriotic are to be permitted to partake in civic life? Only the singer knew what she was going to sing. The party in power doesn't matter. Perhaps a quicker thinking member of the Council might have said "Thank you, and now remain standing while we all sing the National Anthem." Then move on, we weren't there to sing and recite loyalty pledges anyway.
July 3, 2008
11:08 a.m.
Suggest removal
davies writes:
Hey DenverDannyBoy: It's kind of funny that my 10:46 comment posted just one minute before yours, isn't it?
July 3, 2008
11:20 a.m.
Suggest removal
danirobi writes:
Obama is an opportunist. He'll say and agree with just about anything in order to get elected.
July 3, 2008
11:22 a.m.
Suggest removal
ShakedownCrews writes:
This is just the beginning. In my opinion, this is the result of the Obamination of the country: that is to say, that the left’s ongoing racially charged politics, inspired by the “would-be uniter” Barack Obama, is triggering a ground swell of Black Pride that will reveal how a large portion of American blacks do not feel American, have been indoctrinated with anti-American sentiment by so-called leaders such as Reverend Wright, Reverend Jackson, Minister Farrakhan, and so many others.
This will not be an isolated incident: it’s the beginning of what will become a divisive period in American history. In the same way that Hugo Chavez ran on a platform of being a moderate, democratic, “Christian socialist”, but later—as his power and celebrity stoked his ego and fed his messianic complex—so too we run the risk of having Barack Obama become increasingly radical as time goes on. It will become a feedback loop: his popularity will goad him into saying and doing things that will create a conflict, and the instinctual response of blacks will be to throw rebellious behavior in our faces, provoking more outrageous behavior like this, and in turn he will continue to think that his popularity makes him invincible.
The advances of previous generations are going to be thrown out by a bitter minority.
July 3, 2008
11:22 a.m.
Suggest removal
DenverDan writes:
I will bet all the money I have that Gene, joff, shag, yiota,sas are all white. They come unglued anytime there is a hint of color on any issue.
July 3, 2008
11:22 a.m.
Suggest removal
jlstaud writes:
Obviously this woman doesn't give a rip about being an American. She said so herself. We shouldn't be surprised that she changed the words to fit her own selfish motives. Somebody probably should have been aware of this before all this broke out. What we should be surprise at is her lack of respect for the event she was attending. Who shows up to sing the National Anthem anywhere wearing a tank top. For crying out loud! It's a civil event. At least wear a shirt!
July 3, 2008
11:26 a.m.
Suggest removal
Betty writes:
It is so unfair to blame Mayor Hickenlooper for this womans unprofessionalism. The mayor wanted her to sing the The Star-Spangled Banner and she choose to go against that. Its easy to say now that Mayor Hickenlooper should of stepped in and had his secu