Below is an excerpt of a Washington Post story that published June 30 under the headline "In Flag City USA, Rumors About Obama Are Flying." It was distributed to 669 news organizations in 56 countries, including The Courier.
The entire story about what folks think about Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama can be read here.
Do you think this story typifies the Findlay community? Are you struggling to determine who Obama really is? What have you heard about him that you think might not be true?
Please feel free to leave a comment on this post, in accordance with our User Agreement.
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NEW CONTENT:
- WFIN interviews with Post reporter Eli Saslow and Courier editor Peter Mattiace
- Local reaction, "National story giving Findlay 'a bad name'" (Courier, 7/1/08)
- Courier editorial, "Hit job" (Courier, 7/1/08)
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"In Flag City USA, Rumors About Obama Are Flying"
By Eli Saslow, The Washington Post
FINDLAY, Ohio -- On his corner of College Street, Jim Peterman stares at the four American flags planted in his front lawn and rubs his forehead. Peterman, 74, is a retired worker at Cooper Tire, a father of two, an Air Force veteran and a self-described patriot. He took one trip to Washington in 1989 -- best vacation of his life -- and bought a statue of the Washington Monument that he still displays in a glass case in his living room.
He believes a smart vote is an American's greatest responsibility. Which is why his confusion about Barack Obama continues to eat at him.
On the television in his living room, Peterman has watched enough news and campaign advertisements to hear the truth: Sen. Barack Obama, born in Hawaii, is a Christian family man with a track record of public service. But on the Internet, in his grocery store, at his neighbor's house, at his son's auto shop, Peterman has also absorbed another version of the Democratic candidate's background, one that is entirely false: Barack Obama, born in Africa, is a possibly gay Muslim racist who refuses to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
"It's like you're hearing about two different men with nothing in common," Peterman said. "It makes it impossible to figure out what's true, or what you can believe."
Here in Findlay, a Rust Belt town of 40,000, false rumors about Obama have built enough word-of-mouth credibility to harden into an alternative biography. Born on the Internet, the rumors now meander freely across the flatlands of northwest Ohio -- through bars and baseball fields, retirement homes and restaurants. ...
Peterman hung the American flag on his porch first, in 1960, and the rest of College Street followed his example. By 1980, patriotic displays had grown into an unspoken contest of one-upmanship. Sixty flags planted in one yard on Memorial Day; a living-room window painted red, white and blue; a Buckeye tree decorated with Christmas ornaments celebrating Americana; a gigantic plastic unicorn perched on a front porch and draped in an American flag.
The entire block -- and, soon, the entire town -- shared in unabashed pride and gratefulness for the country that had given them this place. In 1968, a local congressman persuaded the House of Representatives to officially declare Findlay as Flag City, USA.
But with their pride came a nasty undercurrent, one that Obama's candidacy has exacerbated: On College Street, nobody wanted anything to change. As the years passed, Peterman and his neighbors approached one another to share in their skepticism about the unknown. What was the story behind the handful of African Americans who had moved into a town that is 93 percent white? Why were Japanese businessmen coming in to run the local manufacturing plants? Who in the world was this Obama character, running for president with that funny-sounding last name?
"People in Findlay are kind of funny about change," said Republican Mayor Pete Sehnert, a retired police officer who ran for the office on a whim last year. "They always want things the way they were, and any kind of development is always viewed as making things worse, a bad thing."
When people on College Street started hearing rumors about Obama -- who looked different from other politicians and often talked about change -- they easily believed the nasty stories about an outsider.
"I think Obama would be a disaster, and there's a lot of reasons," said [College Street resident Leroy] Pollard, explaining the rumors he had heard about the candidate from friends he goes camping with. "I understand he's from Africa, and that the first thing he's going to do if he gets into office is bring his family over here, illegally. He's got that racist [pastor] who practically raised him, and then there's the Muslim thing. He's just not presidential material, if you ask me."
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Excerpts from comments posted on www.thewashingtonpost.com:
"Fiendly, OH... Home of the Patriots! AH, to be Old AND Ignorant. Must be nice. These morons don't deserve their Chinese-made flags. Let them vote for Uncle Adolf."
"Considering that the Washington Post is yet another media source with blind love for Obama, how do I know that the Post's version of Obama is right?"
"You've got to remember that these are just simple farmers. These are people of the land. The common clay of the new West. You know... morons."
"Findlay is an example of a broken educational system."
"There is a mindset in Ohio that gives reason for it being a rust bucket state. This is one state in which the people gave up thinking long ago and it shows."
Post displays Peterman has also consumed another edition of the democratic candidate's qualifications, one that is entirely false. Barack blessed in African-American, is a perhaps improper who will not repeat the promise of allegiance.
Posted by: כאן | December 04, 2011 at 05:41 PM
Interesting to note that good ole' racist Findlay Ohio has the only Black Heritage Library in the region and that Hancock County had as many stops on the "Underground Railroad" as any county around, before and during the Civil War
Posted by: Round and Brown | June 30, 2010 at 05:03 AM
Thanks for adding the new information, as well as your analysis. This is why your blog is one of the few I read that I also ever bother to comment on. I don't do it to hear myself talk - I do it because I know you actually listen.
Posted by: Air Jordans | April 23, 2010 at 02:46 AM
Really? Is the world of commenters dumb enough to believe that a whole city is racist and ignorant? Do you really all trust the opinion and "research" of a journalist? Wow, who's uneducated the people of Findlay or the people who truly think our whole town is that stupid. For one, we are a college town full of liberal-minded students, young couples, teachers, and many programs in the fine arts and theatre. We are not a run-down hick town. Many people I know are Obama supporters, though it is true that some of them had to have these lies dispelled from their minds. These lies are everywhere. Reverend Wright brought a lot of hurt onto the Obama campaign. The name Barack Obama honestly resonates with a Muslim sound or a different sound. The acquisition of such false beliefs aren't that unlikely. However, the number of people who believe these rumors in Findlay are probably about the same amount as any other town (which hopefully is fewer and fewer as we approach election day). There are quite a few Republicans, true, but that tends to be the older generations throughout many parts of the Northwest. We have the occasional stubborn farmer. As well, there are quite a few families that are well-off financially and often the rich lean Republican (not all of course). However, when Bill Clinton came to speak on Hillary's behalf, there were many people there to support. So, apparently this isn't just a bias-against-Democrats Republican town. Did we all clamor because we are Hillary supporters? No, like many others we want change. A Democrat for president seems the best bet (besides who doesn't want to see Bill, he was an overall great president whether you like it or not). I truly hope that Senator Obama will grace Findlay with a visit and I am sure he will receive a rather friendly welcome. Main Street is lined with Obama 08 signs. In fact, Ole Republican Findlay doesn't have a single McCain sign on Main Street that I noticed. Trust me, we are not all bad here in Findlay. I'm right there with you when we say "Yes, we can."
Posted by: Eric Hertenstein | August 07, 2008 at 09:43 PM
Born and raised in Findlay and the surrounding area. Now living in California where I accept people of every race and religion as my friends. I only know that I am living my life the way I was taught we should live. Be kind to one another. You get back in life what you give in life. God Bless Findlay and all of her friends and citizens. We all need to be blessed. I don't believe there are a bunch of racists or dummies in Findlay. I believe we live the way we were taught to live. Our teachers and parents and church leaders did not teach us to be racist.
Posted by: Marie | July 25, 2008 at 12:20 AM
After reading the Letters to the Editor that are routinely
printed in the Republican Courier, I don't think that Mr.
Saslow had to go to the trouble of actually visiting and
interviewing Findlay residents in person to write his article.
Posted by: Jon Adams | July 14, 2008 at 09:28 AM
Excuse me Mr.James Brown....but it's comments like yours that start problems. People need to think before they open their mouths. You said, the only problems Findlay has comes from Fostoria??? Get real. Part of Findlay's problem...they don't want to face real issues. Like the flooding problem, for one. Findlay has it's share of BAD people too. Fostoria just reports on all of theirs and doesn't try to cover it all up like Findlay does so that their reputation isn't ruined. Get real....
Posted by: sheryl | July 11, 2008 at 08:21 AM
The thing I find most amazing and probably am most disappointed by. Is that so many ignorant people would stereotype a whole population of a city over some article a sports writer turned editorialist wrote.(can't honestly call him a journalist). It is obvious who the man is voting for, and in his way of trying to portray Obama as a victim of some people's prejudices, he comes to Findlay, cherry picks interviews so he can make his point, then slanders the good city of Findlay and most of her residents. (except those who are voting for Obama) It doesn't surprise me how far members of the media go in order to protect Obama. A man that people know so little about that he DOES fall victim to rumors.
Which is more reason not to vote for him. Not because of the rumors, but, because, we know nothing about him. For instance, what can one point to that proves he knows and can handle the economy better than McCain? Change isn't always good, What proves his change would be good?
But, my point was how ignorant people can paint Findlay with such a wide brush over an article, that a shill for Obama wrote. The people of the Post know nothing of us. Neither did Saslow. Most likely all he knew was that Findlay is in a battleground state and strongly votes Republican. I myself, was raised in Findlay, left it, lived in Southern California and Florida, and I still came back. I am not white.
Findlay will always be among the best places I have ever lived. I don't fear gangs at night. I don't know anyone who was robbed waiting for their food at a drive in. I can walk down the street at night. Findlay is clean and prosperous. Is it perfect? Not by a long shot. But, is there any city that is? Not at all
As a child I remember racial slurs against myself and my family. I know they go on. Personally, it's been years since I have heard one. I hear of them but, I haven't heard them. Where would it be different? I would probably just as likely hear them in Lima, Toledo, Cleveland and Washington DC. Does that mean that everyone in those cities are ignorant and racist? According to Mr Saslow, only the ones who believe in rumors about Mr. Obama. I have lived here long enough to know that it reflects the ignorance of a person, not a whole city. But, Mr Saslow would rather his readers feel different.
(I am wondering if Mr. Saslow wrote an article about the false documents that Dan Rather lost his job over and how many believed those rumors about President Bush.)
For the most part I could care less what Mr Saslow and his elite media crowd thinks of us. I realize to them if you live between New York and Los Angeles, you should be looked down on as uneducated, blue collar and backwards. Especially if you vote Republican. What bothers me most is that so many of his readers would have the ignorance to think that a whole city should be painted as ignorant and racist over an article an editorialist wrote.
Those who think Mr Saslow was right, why do you think he picked Findlay? Do you think there was some stench of racism here that is nationally known that he had to write about? I doubt it. He had a story in his head he had already written and he just needed some names to fill it in with.
Last but very definitely not least. The city of Findlay owes Mr. Obama nothing. We don't owe him a visit and we don't owe him our votes. We have not wronged him. We did not start those rumors.
If Mr. Obama desires our votes he does owe us a reason for voting for him, other than an empty promise of "change", or that if we do not vote for him, we must be ignorant and racist.
Which was Mr.Saslow's point.
Posted by: Frank | July 10, 2008 at 03:10 PM
{not surprised) " >> gasoline is approaching $5 gallon, the stock market
>> in June was the worst month since the Great Depression, the Iraq war
>> is costing around $12 billion a month with no end in sight while some
>> politicians want more tax cuts for the wealthy as our nation spirals
>> deeper and deeper into debt. And the rich get richer ...
And everyone gets all excited about the Washington Post article on
"Flag City." Could have been Van Wert. Could have been Fort Wayne.
Could have been that dreadful place called Fostoria. ha ha
Posted by: Jon Adams | July 09, 2008 at 07:14 PM
I have to say, whether anyone wants to admit it or not, the statements in the post have been fairly accurate from what I have seen. It IS painting with a broad brush, and not everyone is like that....but it is more common than the most of you would like to admit.
Let's talk about some of the rumor mill that is false. Regarding Rev. J. Wright's infamous "Chickens coming home to roost" audio that the media sources stuffed down your throat for months...... Did you know that these were not the words of Rev Wright, but rather a highly decorated republican military official who worked closely to pres Reagan? The infamous speech was a direct quote, and a footnote to his sermon. Hate begets hate, and terror begets terror in return. Instead of bombing someone else for their own issues; take a look at yourself and see what you can do to make yourself a better person/country,etc. Not that I totally disagreed with the statement to begin with, if people would get over themselves and give some real thought, this would make sense.
I am actually a republican, but I REFUSE to vote for anyone who is willing and ready to continue the current rate of spending and death that our current administration is dealing out in spades. Our entire country is in a big mess right now, and something needs to change quick.
Do I think Barack is the best man for the job? Nope, the media discarded Ron Paul from the get go.....thanks. You can either vote in another 4 years of Bush via McCain proxy, or go with the unknown. I'll take my chances with Obama, an educated constitutionalist over 4 more years of our current downward ski slope.
Posted by: Tim C | July 05, 2008 at 01:07 PM
Hello. I am a product of a liberal Boston education. I grew up in its inner city. I am a retiree of 23 years in the United States Army. 16 of those years, I had the privilege of working at the White House. I’ve known every President from Nixon to G.W. Bush and actually had regular contact with 3 of them. I served both Republican & Democrat Presidents. I have traveled the world and lived overseas for several years. I have lived in nine of the fifty states and spent time in all but one. I have a degree in education and spend my retirement years as a teacher and working in my community. I’m no longer young and I am not yet old. I have done some good in my life and I have made many mistakes. In point of fact, many of you on both sides of the political scene now know more about me than you know about Senator Obama. That, as usual, is the fault of our media system. For the last ten years I have lived in Ohio and spent much of that in the city of Findlay and with its people. The Post calls Findlay a part of the Rust Belt. Well as a geographic statement, that may be true, but only marginally. Is it a backward farming community? For those who take their information from the media or those who might have an axe to grind against the city, let me tell you a little about the Findlay I see as a relatively new comer. I see the Flag City, where people aren’t afraid to show their patriotism for their country, and embracing those who embrace that country. But woe-be- tied her enemies. I see a Tree City where I’ve witnessed more volunteer “Green” activities and recycling than I have witnessed in most big cities. I see a city of parks. It’s a city with a University, a Seminary and several Community Colleges as well as a first class public educational system. Farming? Yes, You bet they still have farming in the area, and as you sit down to dinner tonight, you should be grateful to them. But this town also has major corporations based here that anchor the economic structure as well as mom and pop business that are still its historic bedrock. It also has a nationally ranked hospital system. As for a sense of community, this town can boast of having an active service organization base that includes Elks, Moose, Masons, Eastern Stars, Eagles, Optimists, Amvets, VFW, K of C, YMCA, Kiwanis, and Rotary, just to name a very few. Over 80 churches, of various faiths and denominations, Salvation Army, various missions and food pantry programs provide both spiritual as well as physical support to the community. The Main Street of this town is closed several times a year as the community comes together for festivals, sporting events, and cultural activities. Their ongoing cultural outlets in Findlay include every kind of club and organization from barbershop quartets to word-working groups. The performing arts are represented with Live Theater at their Community Playhouse, a Light Opera Company, Summerstock & University productions, Youth Theater, provided through their very active Arts Partnership organization, Art is celebrated at the Mazza Gallery and the Art League. Music? Summer concert in the park series and Bogie on Broadway/Main Street programs bring an eclectic mix of music to the community for free. As well as the wonderful programs put on by the University music department and their High Schools premier choral and instrumental organizations. The towns Library system, Historical Society Museum system and Black Heritage Library & Multicultural Center are more than enviable for any community of their size. Would I consider Findlay a “conservative” town? Yes, I would. Is it a “Republican” town? Possibly, but only by majority registration. But I can tell you without a moment’s reservation that this town is filled with wonderful, passionate people from both parties. They differ in their approach and in many of their issues. But are they ignorant? Not by any interpretation. Are they racist, I haven’t seen it? Do they always agree? Who does? Do many of them like a good controversy occasionally? Who doesn’t? Do, as a people, they pick just one side, rally behind and exaggerate one candidate’s record and potential while denigrating another’s? Do they lie and make up stories for a living? The record doesn’t show this to be the case. If only the Washington Post could say the same.
Posted by: Marty | July 05, 2008 at 10:01 AM
Over 25 years ago, my first visit to Findlay was as a member of my high school's basketball team. At the end of the first period, one of the black kids on our team told our coach that the Findlay player guarding him was calling him a "nigger" repeatedly. Our coach went over to the Findlay bench and was greeted with a "so what" attitude. Even as teens, we all knew that that wasn't an accurate indicator of everybody in Findlay, but that first impression has stayed with many of us over the years.
Posted by: First impressions are lasting | July 04, 2008 at 09:34 AM
It has always seemed funny to me that this so called republican town could have had such a successful democrat serve as mayor & on city council as John Sausser.
While it may be true that this town does tend to lean conservative which usually translates into republican these days, that didn't stop the people of this town from voting for Mr. Sausser several times to mayor or city council.
Posted by: Mark A Shrider | July 04, 2008 at 08:45 AM
Ever hear the phrase "much ado about nothing?" That would describe the reactions of Findlay residents to the Washington Post article. Findlay is well known in the area as a Republican town. In fact, the Courier used to be known as the "Republican" Courier. I don't agree with Mr. Saslow's portrayal of the elder white midwest population being manipulated by the Republican rumor mill. Many of our senior citizens are well-informed and are quite capable of making an intelligent assessment of the political climate. However, it is true that there is a lack of media coverage in NW Ohio that is not Republican-leaning, and Republican talk radio, television news, and newspaper opinion columns tend to promote the "spin" against Democratic candidates, ie Barack Obama, w/o feeling the need for rebuttal against rumors that damage their opponents.
"No Wonder people around here don't understand black people....the only trouble this town has comes from Fostoria. Bar's getting shot up, people getting shot at parties, riots at gus smacker, stabbings a brandy's! Just think what it's going to be like if obama gets elected?
Posted by: james brown"
Mr. Brown, obviously YOU do not understand black people, or Fostoria! Fostoria residents are well aware of the disdain that many Findlay residents feel toward them, yet they are very much a part of the Findlay community through the paying of county, city, and sales taxes which promote the Findlay economy. Fostoria has very few shootings or stabbing incidents, and no riots. You, sir, are no credit to the community! Your comment not only insults Barack Obama, but the local black community, and your neighbor Fostoria. For shame!
Posted by: mamacita | July 04, 2008 at 06:30 AM
Im from findlay ,white love obama yeh this town may suck big time but theres no murder rate at all the no whores on the corner and you can walk at night with out worry sounds good to me
Posted by: adam | July 03, 2008 at 06:25 PM
Some of the commentary on here has been thoughtful, with real insight, and honest opinion. Some has been no more than baiting others to become angry. The Post article simply portrayed the concerns of older Americans who grew up in a time of segregation and when people all lived in the same area, never learning to know those from other towns or churches.
For that reason, the mindset portrayed in the Post article is real. For those who tend to be moderate, it is somewhat disconforting to see how the extreme left and extreme right both claim to be correct. We really don't need a socialist state, nor do we need a police state, both of which are glossed over under the guise of what is best for America.
When you get to be 80, you pretty much can tell it the way you see it....
Posted by: justafan | July 03, 2008 at 05:15 PM
I don't wish to put down someone else's town as I am not happy with how Findlay has been portrayed. I do find it curious though reading a pretty sharp criticism from someone that appears to be from Fostoria. I would be interested in how that person views their own town if they think Findlay is so bad.
Posted by: wgr85 | July 03, 2008 at 04:02 PM
i rather be from a racist town that is clean and has jobs then from a town your from like fostoria that is full of crime, crack and unemployment. Maybe you should look around your town befor you judge my town!
Posted by: james brown | July 03, 2008 at 02:17 PM
Findlay is a racist town and full of whiners and water. It's not a pretty town.
Posted by: Fostoria | July 03, 2008 at 12:16 PM
Oops, typo, republicans.
Posted by: Gene Rupp | July 03, 2008 at 11:26 AM
How about this Robert George. Why don't you become more accepting of my beliefs. Why is it that only repulicans or conservatives have to become more accepting of your beliefs. If you remember Findlay so well, then you know it is a prosperous town, especially compared to similar towns around it. Maybe the conservative mindset in Findlay has something to do with that, don't you think? If you remember 1964 so well, you would know that 5 Ohio counties voted for Goldwater. What difference does that make? LBJ rode a tidal wave of support into office due to the assasination of JFK. I happen to think Goldwater would have made a better president than LBJ. We are still trying to clean up the welfare state that he created. The majority of Ohio counties have voted republican every since 1964. Hancock county didn't just blindly vote for LBJ because it was the popular thing to do following 1963. Just because I don't agree with your political views does not make me any more close minded than you are by not agreeing with my views. Just because I don't support Obama does not make me a racist. I doubt if you lived in Ohio that you would have voted for Ken Blackwell. Why not? Is it because you don't think a black man can be governor, or is it because you are a democrat and don't agree with Blackwell's views? Give me a break!
Posted by: Gene Rupp | July 03, 2008 at 11:25 AM
Thank you Lori. It needed to be said. Whatever happened to respect for your elders?
Posted by: Gene Rupp | July 03, 2008 at 10:51 AM
I don't know where to start. I lived in Findlay until 1991 and graduated from both Van Buren highschool and the University of Findlay. I am neither surprised nor shocked about the comments from the Findlay community. I remember when Goldwater ran for president Hancock county was the only county in the state of Ohio that voted for him. My parents (one of only a few Democrats in Hancock County} often stated that you could run a mule and it would win any office if it was a Republican. Even though I live in California, I am still a Buckeye and I still have wonderful memories of Findlay and my friends. I am just disappointed that Findlay has not moved on and become more of centered and accepting community.
Posted by: Robert George | July 03, 2008 at 10:47 AM
Well said Gene!
Posted by: Lori | July 03, 2008 at 10:38 AM
Something here needs to be said. One thing that is really bothering me is the treatment of our older citizens in these posts. I have seen them referred to as unintelligent, uneducated, and too traditional. Thank God my grandpa is still alive at 93. He became an adult during the depression. High gas prices were the least of his concerns. There were no jobs. Credit was impossible to get. Banks literally closed their doors and people lost all of their savings. People 70-90 went through World War II. Many products were rationed to make sure the military had what it needed to fight the war. We couldn't defeat an enemy like Hitler today with the mindset of most Americans. 4000 dead in 5 years? Try 4000 dead in a day. There is no sense of honor or duty with most Americans today. These people went through the heart of the cold war when the threat of nuclear holocaust was very real. They lived within their means. They didn't have their hands out constantly asking for more "free" benefits. They understood that benefits were never "free". Through it all, they built prosperous, peaceful communities like Findlay all over the country and shaped the modern peaceful country that you enjoy and take for granted everyday. Now the last few generations that have not seen REAL adversity are turning this country into the lazy, greedy, immoral human cesspool that you see around you today. These older folks are not unintelligent. They are not uneducated. They don't have a Harvard Law degree and that is a big PLUS! Their way was truly better than the new way. Have a little respect and thank them for the blessings and priveleges that you now have instead of calling them old fashioned and stupid. Some of you people should be absolutely ashamed of yourselves.
Posted by: Gene Rupp | July 03, 2008 at 09:55 AM
Funny thing about rumors. Sometimes they prove to be true. Bill Clinton proved that with Monica Lewinsky. Regardless, I don't believe much of what I read about Obama. I don't care about the rumors anyway. Obama is a very left leaning liberal. I will not support a liberal no matter what color. He has the most liberal voting record in the senate. That is all I need to know. He has done nothing of substance in his life but run for a different office every couple of years. There is not one major accomplishment. Fidel Castro was change. Lenin was change. Stalin was change. Mao was change. Hugo Chavez was change. Mugabe was change. Change is not always a good thing. The post article did not say the town was racist, but it implied it. The response from many has been to paint the town racist. It is not racist to not support a black man that you do not agree with. I voted for Ken Blackwell for governor of Ohio. Ken Blackwell is a higher percentage african than Obama. I happen to agree with Ken Blackwell's political views and values. I don't care that he is black. I don't care that Obama is black. Obama is welcome at my dinner table. I would be glad to have a beer with him at Frickers. I'm sure he's a nice guy. I don't like his IDEAS. I would never vote for him. Don't try to twist that into racism.
Posted by: Gene | July 03, 2008 at 09:26 AM
No Wonder people around here don't understand black people....the only trouble this town has comes from Fostoria. Bar's getting shot up, people getting shot at parties, riots at gus smacker, stabbings a brandy's! Just think what it's going to be like if obama gets elected?
Posted by: james brown | July 03, 2008 at 06:43 AM
Waldo's comments make me realize that the Post's story is essentially accurate. Right wing nut jobs always get their knickers in a twist when facts upend fiction.
Posted by: Bill | July 02, 2008 at 11:06 PM
The saddest part of the whole story is that politicians count on much of the citizenry to be uninformed voters.
Be ware of any information you get about politicians that seems far fetched; no matter where it comes from.
Since the Post was so concerned about how the folks in Findlay viewed Barack Obama maybe they can come back & interview me about the people who stole my American Flag & vandalized my John McCain yard sign.
I doubt it was done by some conservative living on College Street.
But then again, that story wouldn't help with the agenda that the writer clearly came here with.
Someone mentioned race & pointed out the article didn't mention race. Although, the line about a candidate who looks different certainly implies race. Maybe the Post could come back & ask how many College Street residents voted for Ken Blackwell. He got my vote.
I don't know what baseball field the reporter was referring to but I am out at baseball fields everyday in this town & I have yet to hear these kinds of rumors there. Sure, I've gotten the Emails but like all Email rumors I check them if I don't already know the status of the rumor.
And, as for the flag pin...for a time Obama did refuse to wear it & even spoke in public about it.
I am willing to talk with anyone who comes to my door about who I may vote for. I expect something more than a rehearsed statement like I got from a few folks during the last election who couldn't answer a single question other than to repeat their rehearsed lines.
Sorry to inform some of you folks but neither candidate is going to end the war upon taking office. The dems promised that in the '06 election & you see the result of that. They kept funding it. Both candidates will talk with advisors & the generals on the ground & they'll likely ask for more time so as not give up all of what they've fought for during the surge & both candidates will grant that time. That's the reality of politics.
As the election draws near I plan to cover some issues on my blog Right On The Mark here at The Courier's Virtual Village. And, I'm sure Flag City Politico will give some coverage as well. Folks, please get informed as much as possible. Not voting should not be an option. Maybe you'd like to check out candidates like Bob Barr or Chuck Baldwin. Although, another poltical reality in the United States is that we really have just two viable candidates. And, they are Barack Obama & John McCain.
Posted by: Mark A Shrider | July 02, 2008 at 10:26 PM
The breaking news headline on the Courier home page says that Mayor Sehnert is inviting Obama to come to Findlay to speak during the the 1 year anniversary and healing time of our historic flood. Will Mayor Sehnert also give the College St. residents a large forum to clarify their comments which were blatantly misquoted and used out of context in the Washington Post article? Will they get time to ask Mr. Obama about his past? I would like to see John McCain invited to speak during this time as well. Why don't we begin healing the hate that has been projected onto the residents who were being honest about their search for a qualified President?
Posted by: patsyk | July 02, 2008 at 07:41 PM
I am just sad about all this. I was born and raised in Findlay and I think I turned out to be a pretty decent human being -- or so my friends, family, and hundreds of students have told me. When I've spoken of Findlay to others, I have always had a gleam of pride in my eye. Findlay is NOT white-trash, racist, or stupid. It is a beautiful town full of people who care deeply about their community. Yes, there are some very traditional folks in town, some of whom just happened to be interviewed by the Post. But, Findlay has also changed quite a bit over the years and has become much more open to new ideas and new people.
I think that if we are honest with ourselves, we have all listened to rumors that we found scary or interesting and passed them on to others. It just so happened that this time, it was, unfortunately, recorded by the press. I truly hope that rather than destroying the amazing city I call 'home,' this article will inspire Findlay's citizens to become more educated about the political choices facing them. I think that Findlay has learned its lesson about appearing ignorant. Now, let's teach a lesson to all those who are ignorant about how wonderful, caring, and intelligent Findlay really is.
Posted by: Jules | July 02, 2008 at 07:29 PM
Nat - say what you want, BHO is still not qualified to run for anything other than city council. No experience, no track record, no accomplishments...just hot air. Not what the country needs right now.
Rev. Jeremiah Wright Rules!
God Bless America!
Posted by: waldo | July 02, 2008 at 07:10 PM
I am offended at the people who assume all of us in Findlay are racist. I would have no problem voting for an African American to be president, I just have different values than Mr. Obama. In my opinion Condi Rice or Colin Powell among others would be excellent choices for president. I do take issue with the free pass the media is giving Mr. Obama. I remember the night of the election when I was hearing all of the glowing media reports about the new Senator from Illinois telling my wife that he was being highlighted as a future presidential contender. If only we could buy stock in such information.
Posted by: Tony | July 02, 2008 at 07:06 PM
I thankfully no longer live in Findlay, but I want to let you know that the rest of the country is laughing at you. The day this article was printed countless people approached me looking for the truth. Now you look just like the stereotypical white trash town I always knew you were. Great going! This article is dead-on and I will do everything in my power to let people know that.
Is anybody there smart enough to figure out that Obama couldn't be both Muslim and have a racist Baptist preacher? I don't care who any of you vote for (none of you matter in the great scheme of things and articles like this just propagate that) but at least have an intelligent reason as to why you vote. You think he's unqualified? Great, don't vote for him. But don't mask your ignorance and racism.
I will never, ever live down the embarrassment of being raised in this redneck Bartertown (yes, that's a Road Warrior reference and it's INCREDIBLY fitting), but at least I was smart enough to get out and do something with my life.
Posted by: Natalie | July 02, 2008 at 06:47 PM
To the Obamaphiles and their Web minions:
I am not voting for him because HE IS NOT QUALIFIED.
He has no track record, being a one-term US Senator.
His background is sketchy and questionable at best.
He can't speak before any group without using TelePrompters.
What will he do when push comes to shove? The answer is, 'we don't know'.
In my business, I would not hire home for these reasons. I have to see a track record and some sign of performance history. He would not even warrant an interview with me.
This country can't afford any 'don't knows' right now.
Posted by: waldo | July 02, 2008 at 06:19 PM
To Jeff Ede: Obama is actually pro-choice. There is a fine line between pro-choice and pro-abortion. As someone who is pro-choice, I don't approve of being tied in with a "pro-abortion" title. I personally would never participate in an abortion, but it is not up to me to decide what others a can and can't do with their bodies. I wish this town would finally understand this.
Posted by: Joe | July 02, 2008 at 11:50 AM
Lived here five years, met some very nice people. Regardless, I've never heard anyone speak out loud in a public place that homosexuals should be killed before I moved here. The saddest things was the nods of agreement from these hypocritical christians standing around. Or the restaurant I work that demands people of color present a credit card for a tab, yet a white person does not need to be asked. Findlay on the outside can pretend it's progressive, but inside it's a hateful little town.
Posted by: When The Shoe Fits | July 02, 2008 at 11:12 AM
Check out Virtual Village community blogger Ron Knopf Jr.'s take on this issue at Flag City Politico:
http://thecourier.typepad.com/flagcitypolitico/2008/07/do-the-right-th.html
Posted by: ONLINE EDITOR | July 02, 2008 at 09:21 AM
Based on the so predictable outcry from self-proclaimed "conservatives," and my own first hand experience living in NW Ohio for more than 20 years, it's obvious that Saslow got it right. And the truth sometimes hurts. By the way, where in the story does it label Findlay a "racist" town? It doesn't. Funny thing is the "conservatives" who bash Senator Obama are the same big thinkers who gave us 8 years of Bush/Cheney. Way to go! I'll be sure to consider your viewpoint going into the fall election, and then do the complete opposite! Our country can't take four more years of your neo-con lies and fear mongering. By the way, what ever happened to all those oil revenues that Republicans five years ago told us would pay for the Iraq war? Ooops, sorry. Forgot I'm not supposed to let the facts get in the way of neo-con spin! You're right, things are going great!
And the rich get richer ...
Posted by: Not Surprised | July 02, 2008 at 08:33 AM
Well, after having read all the stuff in the paper about Obama & Findlay, it's just more of the same garbage that democrats & liberals dish out. As far as I know, you are only racist if you hate blacks, and it doesn't sound like these people in Findlay hate blacks. Just because a person might have a problem with Sen. Barack Obama doesn't mean they're racist. This isn't really about Findlay at all, it's more about pro Obama people who just can't stand someone having a problem with their beloved Barack Obama. So if you have a problem with him, well, we'll just say you're racist or something. Yeah, but it's not true. Why would you say something that's not true? C'mon. Who's the real dummy here? Barack Obama, born in Africa, is a possibly gay Muslim racist who refuses to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Or at least that's what the rumors say. Well, so what! Whether it's true or not, it's his position on abortion that I'm concerned about. He is pro-abortion, folks. And that's a bad thing. So as far as I'm concerned, he was bad news from day one, and not because he's black, you know? Why should the democrats care about what some people think about Barack Obama? If you like the guy and plan on voting for him, then do it and give the rest of us some respect for what we believe. Don't be calling someone crazy just because they may not vote for him.
Posted by: Jeff Ede | July 02, 2008 at 03:31 AM
Hopefully this article will provoke a higher level of dialogue in Findlay, Ohio. No community likes to be embarrassed on the national stage. To those who are embarrassed, do something about the lack of political awareness in your community. Educate your community. Hopefully you have locally produced print and more importantly, radio coverage. Many of your older residents get many of their opinions from radio talk shows. Much of nationally distributed talk radio, traffics in ridiculous rumours and is useless to educate the public. The like of Rush Limbaugh continuously; portrays Obama as someone who thinks USA has 57 states, Michelle Obama has a scandalous video tape to imminently be released and regularly mixes up Obama and Osama.
There may be, many people in your community who wish to spend billions of dollars in Iraq each month and at the same time ensure that the wealthiest citizens get more extensive tax breaks. However lets make sure everyone can make an informed judgement before they go to the ballot box in November.
Posted by: p. artkin | July 01, 2008 at 11:30 PM
Actually, I pride myself in knowing quite a bit my town's history. I'm just saying that this information would not have fit with the story.
Posted by: Joe | July 01, 2008 at 09:55 PM
Too bad 'Joe' doesn't have a clue about this community and it's history.
Typical of the liberal left.
Posted by: waldo | July 01, 2008 at 09:03 PM
After reading the postings so far it appears to me that the sample is pretty indicative of the way many of Findlay's citizens feel about Senator Obama. You can almost see the Rush, O'Reilly, and Hannity talking points jumping right off the page. Mr. Saslow's premise that many people believe this type of propaganda without doing their own research is well taken. Unfortunately, there are real issues and monumental problems which face this country that are going to take an extraordinary "decider" to solve. God help us if we don't elect him this time.
Posted by: Mary | July 01, 2008 at 07:29 PM
Editor. I was wondering, if you could go back through your previous letters to the editor, both published and unpublished (if there are any) and see if anyone had written in concerning these rumors. After all these rumors were the talk of the town, from one end to the other, so many people couldn't believe their co workers and neighbors believed such things. Then I would think that they would have writen in and point out the problems with these rumors.
Posted by: Mike | July 01, 2008 at 05:33 PM
I think Findlay has just been "punked" by the Washington Post, followed by the left-wing blogosphere.
Posted by: Dave | July 01, 2008 at 05:12 PM
As of 5 p.m. Tuesday, this article on www.washingtonpost.com has generated 103 pages of comments:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/06/29/AR2008062901871_Comments.html#
Posted by: ONLINE EDITOR | July 01, 2008 at 04:55 PM
This entire Washington Post article aside, what I find to be thoroughly interesting is the pile of double-standards growing all around the country.
For the past eight years, all I have listened to are jokes about President Bush's intellect. Horrible, mean, slanderous statements have been made about his character and his intentions.
Now, the Democrats have a front runner who has a few rumors swirling and they're jumping to his defense and calling out anyone who dares question him or who may believe the rumors bear a degree of fact.
Folks, what's good for the goose is good for the gander.
I believe it's wonderful to live in a country where we can openly debate. We have the ability to question leadership without some of the retaliatory measures taken in other countries. However, it's high time we all start respecting the position of our leaders -- not just when it's "our party" in power.
You might not respect the person, but hold respect for their position.
Posted by: Brian Whitta | July 01, 2008 at 03:49 PM
After rereading the story...again, I don't honestly think that the point of the story was to show Findlay as a racist and ignorant community but to instead show how rumors can escalate quickly producing an unstoppable snowball effect. While the Black Heritage library and the Underground Railroad stops are great, adding them to the story would essentially disrupt the flow of the piece. Whether you believe he got all of the facts or not, putting in unnecessary information that creates wordy sentences also gets you an 'F' in journalism.
Posted by: Joe | July 01, 2008 at 03:38 PM
I've only lived in Findlay for 5 years, or so, but, I'd have absolutely no problem finding these same rumors being talked about as if they had any credence. I've heard them all, and always asked where the person "heard" the rumor; it's usually something someone else told them, but, I've also been told they "heard it on the radio." When I've asked if they've bothered to check to see if the rumor is true, I've usually gotten a quizzical look, as if to say, why would I do *that*?
And, it's propagated by the editorial writers at the Courier. Just look at their outraged editorial. All they could focus on was some strangely perceived claim that Findlay was "racist"...funny, I read the same article, and thought it was all about how folks hear rumors that agree with their basic politics and don't bother to check. And, then, the Courier editorial writer throws out this gem: "Just in case you're wondering, Saslow tells you "the truth" early on in his story: "Sen. Barack Obama, born in Hawaii, is a Christian family man with a track record of public service." That's certainly the line that the Democratic Party would like everyone to believe. But Obama's record is more complex than that."
By putting "the truth" in quotation marks, the writer is calling into question the veracity of the statement. The writer then adds "...that's certainly the line that the Democratic Party would like everyone to believe." Again, making it sound like there is a lie somewhere in the "...born in Hawaii, is a Christian family man with a track record of public service." Of course, the editorial writer doesn't have the courage to then dispute any of that with actual facts. Simple innuendo is SO much easier.
I can think critically; I can examine the many sides of an issue and determine what *I* believe. I can also read an editorial like the one in today's Courier and see the dishonesty in it.
Posted by: David Tyce | July 01, 2008 at 03:32 PM