February 26, 2004--I knew it was coming, I could feel it in the air, like a storm. The black clouds overhead, the tightening of the rules and wham, like lightning, the FCC finally struck Howard Stern. No, they didn't fine him. But, they put a great hell-fiery fear into Clear Channel, enough fear to get them to throw Howard Stern off the air in 6 cities. He's still on the air on 36 stations, but how long will that continue? How long before censorship wins? It's a sad, sad day to be an American. That's for damn sure.
George Bush, the Idiot in Chief, is looking for re-election. Yes sir, he has to take a stand and fight for our right to hear watered-down radio. But even more, he wants to silence anyone who doesn't support him. Because he wants another term in office. Oh no, wait, that's not it, it's because we have to protect the children. GIVE ME A BREAK!
March 3, 2004--The Media (including U.S. News and several college newspapers) has started to clue in to the fact that there is a very distinct connection between Clear Channel and the Bush Administration.
The Facts?
1. Howard Stern's crazy broadcasts were perfectly acceptable before he turned against Bush.
2. Clear Channel hosted several pro-war rallies after 9/11, which promoted Bush and his plans.
3. Legislation has changed under Bush, favoring large conglomerates like Clear Channel, allowing them to gobble up and monopolize the media.
4. Clearn Channel executives, including John Hogan, Thomas Hicks and founder Lowry Mays all have past business relationships with Bush. There have been large political contributions and Hicks even bought the Texas Rangers from Bush, turning his $600k investment into nearlt $15m. Not surprisingly, Clear Channel is very Pro-Bush.
5. Anti-Bush talk radio hosts, including Stern, have been pulled from Clear Channel stations. While John Hogan was before Congress talking about how bad Howard Stern was and how he is tightening the organization's decency standards, Ryan Seacrest's first broadcast on KIIS FM, a Clear Channel station, included the F-word and many other obscenities never heard on Howard Stern's show. Where is the outcry? Did the FCC take notice?
This morning on the radio, Howard Stern said the FCC is currently looking for a reason to fine him. Even he thinks it won't be long before he's thrown off the air. What is going on? Isn't this still America?
Howard can be crass, crude and nasty. And the fact is people--a lot of people--find him funny. Even me. He's been doing essentially the same outrageous material for years and years, so why is it only now he's considered a threat?
Something is really wrong here. How long before the Thought Police try and patrol our neighborhoods? It's time to support Howard Stern in his fight for free speech. Free speech isn't just for the polite, nonthreatening few... it's for everybody.
As someone trained in journalism, someone who has always believed in free speech, I am truly offended. I will not sit idly by and watch this happen. I will speak up, and so should you.
DO SOMETHING!
Who threatens our freedom?
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Stand Up for
Stern!
Hey So Cal... it's time to stand up for Stern! Join our On-Air support Rally for Howard Stern... Choose freedom... Stand up for Howard Stern... Open your mouth today, before someone says you can't... Tell us why you love and support the Howard Stern Show. Remember any comments can and will be used on the air. Call 213-637-5290 and voice your opinion! |