Sunday, August 2, 2009 4:23 pm
It has been reported in other blogs and newspapers that Jack Conway’s quote of Wendell Ford’s SOB comment was offensive to some in attendance.
Various news organizations, including a particularly gleeful account in the Paducah Sun, reported that locals were not happy that mouth-washing-out language was used in front of the St. Jerome Parish’s new priest and their beloved bishop emeritus.
Various news organizations, including a particularly gleeful account in the Paducah Sun, reported that locals were not happy that mouth-washing-out language was used in front of the St. Jerome Parish’s new priest and their beloved bishop emeritus.
While not shocked at four letter words or in this case a five letter one(I would sell my television if I were), the venue was inappropriate. Conway owes an apology to the people of St. Jerome Parish.
Conway also owes an apology to veteran retired Senator Ford. I heard Ford give many a fiery speech at Fancy Farm. Not once did Ford use four letter words-or that word for a female dog. Yes, his language was offensive – to Republicans brave enough to express their opinions while he was at the podium. Ford was the master of putting down hecklers. His quips and snappy comebacks were funny and smart. I have no doubt that Ford's quote was accurate. I also have no doubt the setting was secular and the audience adult.
Attorney General Conway may aspire to be a Ford someday – but he isn’t there yet. His hide will have to toughen to that of an old bull elephant before Ford’s fighting words stop sounding like a little boy repeating his father’s blue language at school to shock his teachers and classmates.
As classy and savvy a fellow as the Attorney General is, I expect the apology has already been tendered. If so, he is on his way to becoming more like the man he quotes.