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Letters, 6/16: Front page bias

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Friday, Jun 16, 2006 - 09:33:02 am CDT

I recently read a comment that I am going to pass along because it seems so appropriate to the Journal Star front page of June 14:

 If President Bush could walk on water, the Journal Star would report “Bush can’t swim.”

 Terry Vonderschmidt, Beatrice

Significant fact missing

I was delighted to see the story in the June 9 Lincoln Journal Star about the joint appearance by 3rd District congressional candidates Scott Kleeb and Adrian Smith. As a Boys Stater, I was privileged to attend the forum and found it quite interesting.

However, the story was missing a significant fact on the candidates’ policy positions. In doubting the human role in global warming, candidate Smith is choosing to dismiss the scientific consensus on this issue.

I believe this information should have been shared with the Journal Star’s readers.

Todd Mooring, Lincoln

No discount for veterans

My name is Michael Rider. I am active duty U.S. Navy currently serving in Washington, D.C. I have been on active duty for five years. I have served in Chicago, South Korea, San Diego and now Washington, D.C.  I am originally from Lincoln. 

My letter is regarding discounted movie tickets that are given to college students at almost every theater in the United States and my experiences with the theaters in Lincoln. This same discount that is given to college students is not given to active-duty service members — the service members that make countless sacrifices to keep this country safe and free.

Whenever I make it back to Lincoln, I usually take in a movie, and every time I ask for a military discount, I am turned down. 

I also attend college; however, I do not show my student ID because I feel that my service in the military warrants a discount. I do not feel that college students deserve this discount just for attending school when there are thousands of service members who voluntarily go into harm’s way for this country.

Michael Rider, Haymarket, Va.

Conduct unbecoming

My son plays on an 8-year-old select baseball team. Baseball is extremely popular in Lincoln, and with all the T-ball and little teams competing for practice time, baseball fields can be tough to come by.

Recently, after finding the originally scheduled field already in use when we arrived, we looked for an alternative place for the kids to play. We ended up finding a field near Lincoln Southeast High School. There are two fields there, and one of the fields was being used by an older select team and the other was not in use, so the kids took the field and started practice. 

Near the end of the scheduled practice time, a gentleman who identified himself as the head baseball coach for Lincoln Southeast came screaming onto the field for everyone to get off the field.

The instant he told the team, the boys walked off the field and began packing up their bats, gloves, helmets, catcher’s equipment, etc., but the gentleman continued to stand in the middle of the diamond and yell at them to get off the field.

The kids did nothing wrong; they were not being destructive; they were simply a baseball team looking for a place to practice. I fully understand if Lincoln Southeast owns the field and has a policy that approval must be granted for use of their facility.

But that message could have been relayed in a polite manner and had the same result. It did not require someone acting like a jerk and berating a group of 8-year-old boys while they left the field. Especially from someone who is in a career in which he mentors young adults.

I can assure you, that if my son is still interested in baseball when he is ready for high school, he will not be attending Southeast. 

Todd Rolfes, Lincoln

Lincoln has many parks

I just wanted to say how wonderful it was to attend an event at the newly renovated Holmes Lake. The Waterfest was a family learning adventure that was attended by hundreds of people who were able to walk, bike or drive there and spend a wonderful evening with the family.

I am still waiting for the mayor to acknowledge that we do have other wonderful parts of Lincoln other than the Haymarket area. I would still enjoy the fireworks brought back to Holmes Lake.

I hope when we elect a new mayor that it will be someone who will see all of Lincoln and not just the Haymarket.

Donna Brophy, Lincoln


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Cat wrote on June 16, 2006 12:19 am:
" No discount for veterans Students get a discount because they're generally broke, and if theaters want their patronage, discounts are needed. Then, hooked on movies, they'll hopefully keep going to them when they have to pay full price. While I appreciate what you're doing, it does actually pay. And, should you choose to stay on base, you can watch films there at a discount (or even free, depending). Also, while I appreciate your service, it is a choice nowadays. Just as my father chose to join the military in his day, so you have chosen now. You should not be surprised when your current career choice doesn't reap you huge benefits. "

 Dave K wrote on June 16, 2006 12:35 am:
" Terry, I'm glad I'm not the only one that has noticed the LJS editorial page has spread to all parts of the newspaper. The front page 'News Analysis' pieces are nothing more than editorials. Notice how the 'analysis' is always anti-Bush? It's not a coincidence. Also, the hitpiece on Ann Coulter on page 5A of Wednesday's paper was presented as news. This stuff should be contained to the Opinion page. "

 John wrote on June 16, 2006 1:38 am:
" I agree with Michael on the topic of military members not receiving a military discount. The military is needed now more than ever before and they deserve a discount from every place of business. College students do not deserve this discount when most of them are protesting our military and our country. College students have no idea what it is like to serve this country or what it takes. I hope local businesses read Michael's article and act accordingly!!! "

 Jeff wrote on June 16, 2006 5:51 am:
" Todd, if that story pans out, that coach should be suspended or disciplined at a minimum. You are 100% correct that this could have been handled better. I wouldn't doubt if a number of those 8 year olds never play another season if they think that all coaches in the advanced years act like that. You have a duty to report this to the Southeast Administration. Southeast has a duty to act. "

 Taxpayer wrote on June 16, 2006 5:54 am:
" "...if Lincoln Southeast owns the field," it's public property and should be available for use by the public. If it's private property, it should be so posted. "

 Phil wrote on June 16, 2006 6:47 am:
" Todd... there are other 'consensus' opinions, from actual Climate Change scientists that dispute the 'consensus' of Climate Effect scientists. If you are truely interested in fact vs. hysteria, google Professor Bob Carter of the Marine Geophysical Laboratory at James Cook University, in Australia. Global warming has become the 'religion' of the day, and those who refuse to repent and follow the creed are summarily executed for their heretical tendancies. It is a cult, Todd. Open your mind before it is too late for you too! "

 Sean M wrote on June 16, 2006 8:20 am:
" Mr Rider: No disrespect to your service to this country, my father is retired Air Force and I know what people must sacrifice to provide that service, but I believe you are confused as to 'why' the discounts are given. It is not a schedule based on desirability but rather on ability to pay. Most college students are paying many of their own bills while not pulling down much at all with regards to a salary. To get them to be able to pay for a movie they are given a discount. Families attend primarily during the day-time hours, hence the discount for matinees so that their dollars can go farther and that they may attend a movie they wouldn't otherwise. My hunch is that your salary as a full-time member of the Navy (even after removing allowances for living expenses which many students do not get) is higher than that of the average college student who is only able to work part-time most of the year to accommodate their studies. If you're dissatisfied with the recognition and financial benefits you are receiving as a member of the armed forces I would challenge that perhaps you are in it for the wrong reasons. "

 Mark M wrote on June 16, 2006 8:38 am:
" Thats a good one Terry. I'm sure more people would have a little empathy for our beloved president if he didn't act like he DOES walk on water. "

 discount is not a reward system wrote on June 16, 2006 8:47 am:
" Student discounts are not rewards for being in school, but an attempt for businesses to compete for students' time and money. College students are notoriously poor, but with cheap housing arrangements, meal plans, still on parents' insurance, no property taxes, and no family to support, the money students do have is free for entertainment rather than daycare, mortgage payments, or a new refridgerator. Theatres entice students to spend this money at their business rather than bars, bowling, etc. by offering discounts. Students are an easy to identify segment of the population (no one has 'low-income' ID cards) and it is a segment of the population that will probably have income to see lots of movies after college as well. I truly appreciate veteran's contributions to our country, but it is not completely possible, nor in line with the motive of the discount system to reward every honorable occupation with a discount every where they go. "

 Josh wrote on June 16, 2006 9:04 am:
" Terry, I think your comment is really not true. Press is in place to report news- the truth- and the truth is that Bush is a disaster, a failure- and everything he touches becomes a mess. But yet you and many others scream about a "liberal media bias" when press does report the truth about him. Why is this? Why is nobody seemingly allowed to say anything bad about our "beloved leader" this time around, but yet it was always OK to do so with past presidents? "

 CS wrote on June 16, 2006 9:12 am:
" I would, however, generally question the idea that all students are poor. With the amount of free money, student loans, pell grants, etc, and little oversight over where the money left over after costs for tuition goes, there would be no problem for me, for example, a full time student and father of three (and a veteran ) to use my overages for living expenses.Pell grants and student loans can be used that way with no penalty, and it does not count as income-allowing a student to claim low/no income status while still having significant amounts of money left over. The student loan program doesnt care how much you borrow or for what (other than a car or gambling debts, or listing it as collateral)so If my tuition is 10,000 a year and I take out 15,000 n loans plus pell grants, thats 5,000 plus whatever my Pell amount would be that goes nowhere but my pocket. Most schools refund this money to the student upon request. I don't see many poor 'traditional' students walking the streets of Lincoln on bar crawl night or driving around town. "

 disgusted once again wrote on June 16, 2006 9:15 am:
" Thank you Michael, for your courageous service to our country. As for you cold hearted folks here, tell me how many times you put your life on the line in even ONE of your classes? The point Michael was making is that Lincoln is the only place he has been where this discount IS NOT GIVEN. Must be due to the monopoly Douglas Theaters has here in Lincoln. Just how cold hearted can you be, Lincoln? You never cease to amaze me! "

 Ben wrote on June 16, 2006 9:21 am:
" Wow - just reading a few of the comments here and I had no idea that people in my own town have such little regard for the military. I served four years active in the Marine Corps, and I can tell you that every place I went to offered at least a 10% military discout - and not just theaters either. The reasons for the college discount are exactly the same as the reasons for the military discount. TO try and entice them to spend waht little money they have at the theater instead of the bar, or whatever else. My first year in the service I only made $11,000.00. You try and live on that. The sailor that wrote the letter, Mr. Rider, is not asking for a handout - just a little recognition for the worthwhile contributions or every member of the military. Imagine also for a second, that for that 11 grand, you were required to be on call 24-7-365, and spend months overseas in combat zones, and live in substandard conditions on most bases in the U.S. Yes, everyone in the military volunteered, but give 'em some credit, understanding, and if it doesn't break your cold heart, a little help every now and then. "

 Debunk wrote on June 16, 2006 9:26 am:
" Todd Mooring, check out your facts. The scientific consensus on global warming does not support that it is occurring. See this link for a recent article from a global study backed by the Canadian government. http://www.canadafreepress.com/2006/harris061206.htm "

 Matt wrote on June 16, 2006 9:48 am:
" Phil: Professor Bob Carter is contributing writer to the "Tech Central Station" website, which has received funds from ExxonMobil. Coincidence? Check for yourself in the 2003 corporate giving report from ExxonMobil: http://www.exxonmobil.com/Corporate/files/corporate/giving_report.pdf Most of the climate experts that you speak of, that supposedly hold a different consensus other than what most mainstream climate scientists believe, have been funded by groups like ExxonMobil. Big business knows that in order to take the heat off themselves, they need to change an issue from scientific consensus to some form of debate. They want people to believe that there are two sides to the story, each with equal validity. In reality, the majority of climate scientists agree that human activity is causing global warming. There is a small minority that disagrees (and are paid well for it). Unfortunately, in our media that strives for "balance", they will present one opinion that humans are causing global warming and will cause climate change, and one that disagrees. This is misleading, because a more accurate portrayal would be 100 opinions that global warming is caused by human activity for every one that says it isn't. "

 Gary wrote on June 16, 2006 9:53 am:
" John, you do realize that some college students are in the ROTC, and will be joining the military upon graduation? And that some went through the military to pay for college...don't group all college students together as worthless. While I greatly appreciate Mr. Rider's service to this country, I am a little disappointed with his sentiment. I have many friends from high school who went into the military, and I've never once heard them talk about, or ask about, a military discount when spending time with them. As a former poor college student, I can attest to the fact that college leaves you with very little entertainment money, and if your parents don't have much money either, you're budget becomes very restricted. I very rarely went to movies while in college because I usually couldn't afford the outrageous price Douglas Theaters charges (maybe if they had some competition...oh wait, this is Lincoln after all), the rates would be a little more reasonable, and neither students, nor Mr. Rider, would NEED a discount. "

 BR wrote on June 16, 2006 10:04 am:
" As an LSE grad, I can definitely see the baseball coach acting like that. I guess I thought our fields were public property. "

 been there wrote on June 16, 2006 11:04 am:
" College students are too broke to pay full price for a movie because they spend hundreds of dollars the rest of the week at the bars and on new clothes to wear to the bars. Many of them also don't sit down every night to a dinner they cooked themselves, so they are also spending money on dining out on an almost daily basis. I really doubt that Douglas Theatres would lose money by offering a discount to those that serve in the military. Besides, none of the discounts apply at the concessions, and isn't it the concessions that brings in the bulk of the money? "

 Erik wrote on June 16, 2006 11:21 am:
" Donna, there's a reason why the fireworks were moved in the first place. MORE PARKING. It's that simple. You cannot find parking around Holmes Lake unless you're the type of person who'd want to camp out all day for a 30 minute fireworks display. The Haymarket area is a great place to have a 4th of July celebration. I think the majority of Lincolnites support it. "

 TH wrote on June 16, 2006 11:26 am:
" Terry I am glad to see you now a good LBJ quote. Although when he said it he said "If I walk across the Patomic river they would say I was afraid of swimming or couldn't swim." See my point is every president is harped by the press. It is the presses duty to be hard on the leaders. You can come to you own opinion, but I like having a press that is very critical of our leaders. Also my being a progressive populist democrat I find LJS more favorable to the President and more favorable to the republicans. So it is nothing new and that saying is nothing new. And that the press is hard on the President now matter the party affiliation. "

 NaSo wrote on June 16, 2006 11:36 am:
" i completely sympathize with way Todd and his team of youngsters was treated. Clearly, the team was in a place they shouldn't have been with asking permission (you don't hunt CRP without permission or signs stating public access welcomed do you?), but from Todd's account, the Southeast person was definitely out of line. I don't think it sets a very good example, though, by sending a letter to the editor to complain before actually contacting the coach privately. Call him to aplogize for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Ask him why he behaved the way he did. Was the grass just treated with chemicals? Did they have a practice in five minutes? Was he just having a bad day with lots of folks trying to use a reserved field without asking first? A true man of character would resolve this one incident privately without a knee-jerk reaction. If this type of incident happens several times with no resolution with the coach or the school, then maybe it would be appropriate to inform the general public of your issues. "

 Kris wrote on June 16, 2006 12:07 pm:
" I completely sympathize with Todd. My son has played select ball for 4 years and fields are always an issue. We too have used high school fields many times. We too have had dealings with the LSE coach, only our dealings with him were through select baseball. As he has been affliated with a select organization in the past, he should well understand the field issue. There's no reason to be rude...if you need permission to use a field..please post it. Otherwise, that's be thankful that these boys are doing something construction and destructive. And quite possibly these are future LSE players...or maybe not now. "

 The Norm wrote on June 16, 2006 12:10 pm:
" College students and veterans? Come on... This goes way past apples and oranges here. It is one thing to recommend discounts for veterans. That's awesome. Our veterans are awesome. Let's not berate college students. Also to taxpayer: Even if SE owns the field, it does not mean that anyone can do whatever on that property. I do feel sorry for those boys. Comparison: you can't just walk in and set up an office in a classroom. Taxpayer funded does not mean personal use for everyone. There are plenty of good arguments in favor of those boys, but that is not one of them. "

 Jeremy wrote on June 16, 2006 12:14 pm:
" Michael: How about a discount for teachers? They serve the public and often have low pay. How about for social workers? For police officers? For firemen? Just because you don't receive a $1.50 discount on a ticket for "X-Men 3" does not mean that you are not appreciated or respected. "

 Marv wrote on June 16, 2006 12:31 pm:
" One would think as long as their not tearing up the fields they would be aloud to use them. It is after all public property. If the field was being treated maybe there should of been some signs posting it. As for the language the coach used that is unexcusable no matter the circumstances. He does not OWN the field the public does "

 Phil wrote on June 16, 2006 12:42 pm:
" Matt... your foil hat is leaking. Exxon Mobile gives millions of dollars to just about everybody. They contribute millions of dollars to research universities far and wide. So, I guess we must discount all research from institutions that receive charitable giving from an oil company, because they automatically are beholden to the oil company. Give me a break! If you drive a car Matt, pull over right now, throw your keys into the storm sewer and walk away. Otherwise, you are supporting the evil Exxon Mobile Council on the Destruction of Earth. Shame on you! "

 Matt wrote on June 16, 2006 1:01 pm:
" debuk: The scientists cited in the article you provided a link to all have ties to the energy industry, and again, ExxonMobil. An example of one, Tim Patterson, can be found here: http://www.exxonsecrets.org/html/personfactsheet.php?id=1163. Most of the others also look to be part of the same think tank. I would suggest you check the sources cited in an article before taking it at face value, and also, realize how easy it is for the public to be mislead when it comes to articles such as this. "

 Christi wrote on June 16, 2006 1:10 pm:
" So what about the Senior discount at movie theaters that starts for persons over age 60? Most of those are still working, a lot are living in homes where the mortgage is paid off and if they were able to retire at 60 would have a more than adequate retirement nest egg or pension. There are always going to be cases where someone is poor or disabled or whatever else. There are community programs in Lincoln that hold free movie days for families who utilize their services as well. Bottom line, with current processes the only way for a veteran or active duty military person to get the theater discount is to be over 60 or have a student id. With what Douglas charges they could easily knock off a dollar or two for military personnel not meeting those requirements. "

 Jodi wrote on June 16, 2006 1:26 pm:
" I think the whole discount thing isn't supposed to say that students do or don't need a student discount (which at the Douglas Theatres, means charging matinee price all day.) Student discounts are offered at a handful of places across town--most located near high schools or colleges and typically frequented by students. It's an incentive to get students' patronage. Trust me, places wouldn't offer student discounts if they were losing a lot of money on them. Typical student discounts require a student to show a valid student ID--which includes high school and probably junior high school IDs, too. Stores aren't stupid--tweens, teens, and college students have a lot of buying power because they don't have as many other financial obligations. Also, since most students are young, if they get hooked on $4 smoothies at Juice Stop (but get a 10% student discount!) or going to movies every week or two at $6 (instead of $8) then the students will become 20-somethings who still maintain many of the same buying habits. As to military people receiving discounts, if it's a matter of Lincoln not offering them when almost everyone else does, then we have to wonder why. But if it's a matter of why more places don't offer military discounts because people in the military are so deserving, I would argue why give discounts based on whose career is more deserving. I mean, it seems to me that a surgeon who works on children has a pretty worthy job. Or how about teachers, who educate bright young minds? What about police officers, who put their life on the line, too? Or firefighters? Discounts shouldn't be given based on value of that person's career or because as a society we "should" be so grateful to people who take on a particular career. So if Lincoln is denying active military discounts when other places honor them, maybe more active military need to be requesting discounts--I assure you that if there is enough demand for them, there is a reasonable likelihood that they are granted. "

 Michael wrote on June 16, 2006 1:32 pm:
" No matter what you all said, college students do not deserve a discount. Over half of them still live at home and live off on Mommy and Daddy. I never said anything about taking away senior citizen discounts and I also think Law Enforement and Fire Fighters deserve a discount. We can go on all day about who "deserves" a discount. The fact is the military is out there 24/7/365 protecing our freedoms and taking on dangerous missions to ensure your safety. America is so ungrateful for the sacrifices made by our military. It's not about the money! College students do not deserve this discount for attending school, while most of them are protesting our military or our country. "

 BR wrote on June 16, 2006 2:09 pm:
" Michael, I don't know where you're getting the idea that most college students hate America. And please realize that we're not all bar hoppers. A great deal of us have full-time jobs, volunteer, vote, and yes, serve in the military. I'm not addressing the question of who deserves discounts or not in this letter. I just take offense to generalizing a very diverse student community. "

 Gerry wrote on June 16, 2006 2:12 pm:
" -- "the outrageous prices that Douglas Theaters charges"? Has anyone compared ticket or concession prices between DTC and non-DTC theaters? On a recent visit to an AMC theater, the ticket prices were definitely higher and I found their concession stand to have fewer beverage choices and higher prices overall. How about comparing ticket prices at DTC versus Chicago or Los Angeles? Eight bucks for an evening show here versus around $10 to $12 elsewhere. I'm 100% in favor of other theater companies coming to Lincoln and getting rid of this stupid "no more than 6 screens outside of downtown" policy, but I think some people need to do some research before spouting off. "

 Ben wrote on June 16, 2006 2:16 pm:
" Micheal - Right on, right on. Very well said and I couldn't agree with you more. Our very way of life and the freedoms we enjoy exist today because brave men and women have signed up to fight for and possibly die for their country. Who else can make that claim? Shame on Douglas for catering to students but not military. I would be happier if they offered no discounts. "

 Matt wrote on June 16, 2006 2:17 pm:
" Phil: I trust climate scientists, who are in the majority, that are not funded by corporate special interests. It's simply that the dissenting voices cited here today have a common thread: They're all attached to organizations that have received funding from the energy industry. This becomes important when the research in question can have a potentially disastrous effect on the entity's business. If, for example, there were more dissenters who were not attached to these organizations(or if there were even more dissenters in general since most climate scientists believe humans to be the cause of global warming), I would put more stock in their conclusions. Also, I would think we could keep the debate on the issue and not get into asides or start any ad hominem attacks, please. "

 Josh wrote on June 16, 2006 2:32 pm:
" Michael, the military is NOT protecting anybody's freedom- that is an old tired line that we can all see through now. Our military is the strongarm tool of our government, used to enforce policies around the world that our leaders see fit- however those are almost all politically motiviated, in no way are they ensuring my safety. (in fact, one would argue that it is making you and I more UNSAFE because of the anti-american sentiment that our military escapades around the world are stirring up). And don't get me wrong- I hold our government at fault for this- the military is doing their job in following orders, I do not place blame on the men and women in uniform who volunteered for this duty. Protesting how our government uses our military IN NO WAY denotes a hatred or disrespect for this great country, please do not confuse those issues. People in the miltary are doing a job they volunteered for, yes it is dangerous, but so do fire fighters, police, doctors, nurses, etc, etc, etc. Should all of the groups listed above get discounts- why would military personnel be more deserving than any of these other groups? "

 Gary wrote on June 16, 2006 2:41 pm:
" Michael, I think you should look into a new line of work, this one doesn't seem to suit you well. I was a college student just a few short years ago...I hung the flag in my dorm room window for all to see, I send care packages overseas to our soldiers on the front lines, and I pray for our fighting men and women regularly. I appreciate grately the sacrifices being made by our military personnel, but don't come here and start bashing on college students because you think you know something about them. True, many of them are idealistic, naive, and just plain dumb, but they also don't have time for full-time jobs, and often work poor paying jobs just to make ends meet. Never forget that you VOLUNTEERED to serve your country, and if you did it with the sole intention of reaping the discounts available to soldiers, then I feel sorry for you. Furthermore, it's not about what the college students do or do not deserve...it's about what the theaters are willing to concede to get college students to show up. A night on the town with a date (which, I assume, you agree they are allowed to have) can cost them a whole night's pay, if not more. If you feel you need to be praised and showered with gifts and discounts because of your service, then, dare I say, you are a disgrace to the uniform, and our soldiers deserve better representation than that. "

 Debunk wrote on June 16, 2006 2:45 pm:
" I have Matt. Those and more. Looks like we have to disagree on this one. Kudos to you for doing exactly what you accuse me of. Exxonsecrets? You don't think they have an agenda? You don't think all the environmental groups are all business first? You're talking about BIG money, and these groups don't want to lose it, so they sell you global warming to keep themselves in the money and you in ignorance. "

 Granny again wrote on June 16, 2006 3:37 pm:
" Let's just stop respecting EVERYBODY on the planet- servicemen, the elderly everyone. Seems to be the thing to do here. How pathetic you are to say these things about our military. Like the war or not, our service people will be here for us if we are ever invaded, and don't forget it! With Veteran's Affairs treating the vets so poorly lately, seems to me a discount movie ticket is the least we can do for them. Shame on those of you with no compassion. You young folks are the future of America I am told. The thought terrifies me! "

 Pah wrote on June 16, 2006 3:59 pm:
" Michael, just understand that many of the posters here are not local, and are in fact activists, probably organized by someone like MoveOn, or some other left-wing clan. Lincoln citizens do support you. The vile attitudes are from the Hate-the-Military, America is Evil, don't tell me what to do crowd. Hang in there, and thank you so much for your service. You make me proud, no doubt! "

 Jerry wrote on June 16, 2006 4:01 pm:
" The conduct of the Southeast coach (if indeed he was a coach) is not appropriate, but understandable. Do you realize that school groups have to PAY to use their own fields? I'm am not kidding. I know that marching bands in town have to pay to use the school's property for contests etc . . . In fact I know of one band that had to hold a fundraiser to pay for the "rent" they were charged for rehearsing on the school property. The band held the fundraiser at the school and THEN had to pay "rent" for the building in which they held their fundraiser. THEY HAD TO PAY "RENT" FOR A FUNDRAISER HELD TO PAY FOR "RENT." It is no wonder the coach was ticked. He probably would've had to pay for the field being used. "

 M wrote on June 16, 2006 4:41 pm:
" I think it's about time for Lincoln to have more than one fireworks display. I have lived in two other cities besides Lincoln. Topeka and Seattle. Both have multiple shows. The Haymarket and Holmes Lake are far enough apart that they would not distract from each other and would ease the traffic congestion for both. Just a thought. "

 mp wrote on June 16, 2006 5:03 pm:
" Ben, Wow you made 11,000 annually when you were first in the service and you had a hard time living on that? Don't forget you did not have to pay for foood, housing and clothing and couldn't afford full ticket price. The only place I received discounted movie prices when I was in the service was on post. I had to pay full price off post. I guess I had it made compared to you, when I was in the service I earned $1,200 a year (that was $100.00 a month) and that was with hazzard duty pay! Get real! You knew what you were getting into when you enlisted! M... Lincoln does have multiple fireworks displays on the 4th. Look at the skyline and you will see several large displays put on by private organizations. "

 Marketing choice... wrote on June 16, 2006 5:09 pm:
" Going to a movie, Michael, in a commercial movie theatre has nothing to do with being patriotic or supporting the military. This is a marketing decision by a corporation, a business decision, not an honor decision. By the way, MOST college students are not what you described at all. Also I'm sick of the perception that supporting the military and supporting a cause can't be distinguished from one another. Most people (students are people) support and love our country AND our military individuals, but choose not to support mass occupation of multiple countries. All comments aside, thank you to all of our military personnel who are making multiple sacrifices daily for our great country. The 90% of America who consider themselves moderate, not strong left or right, do support you. "

 Luke wrote on June 16, 2006 5:11 pm:
" The only person (or group of them) that "deserves" a discount are those persons that the business CHOOSES to give one to. If a business only wants to offer a discount to people who happen to have large cats on their heads, then only people with large cats on their heads deserve a discount. "

 Craig wrote on June 16, 2006 5:13 pm:
" The job of the military cannot be compared to a teacher or a surgeon. Yes they are important jobs; however, teachers and surgeons go home every night to a warm and safe home. This is not a sure thing for a military member. They VOLUNTARILY go into harm's way to ensure the safety of this country. A member of the military is on duty 24-7, they don't get a 3 month summer vacation. There job doesn't end at 5PM. They deserve a discount. The job of a service member cannot be compared to any civilian career, the military is apart of the foundation of this country. The military is a symbol of how powerful the United States is. Everyone should be grateful for what they do for you!!!! "

 Matt wrote on June 16, 2006 5:22 pm:
" Debunk: The source I cited is a non-profit group, and they do not stand to benefit from exposing scientists with ties to an industry. Yes, I suppose we'll have to disagree on this one. I'll take my majority scientific consensus over minority voices protecting corporate special interests anyday, however. Say what you will about having checked your sources, but anything published out of these groups should be taken with a grain of salt. Again, the majority consensus is that global warming is anthropogenic. No one has produced independent, peer reviewed data suggesting a different conclusion. "

 DM wrote on June 16, 2006 5:30 pm:
" This discount conversation is so ridiculous. It seems sick that people really believe that they have a more important job than anyone else. The military is an excellent career choice. So is teaching. So is being a lawyer. Is there anyone except for drug dealers who has a job that does not have the potential to be beneficial to society? Are high school and college students really just worhtless, or are they preparing to benefit society in their own ways. As for John and Michael's postings that college students protest the military so should not get a discount... thank god people are still fighting for what they believe in, whether you agree with them or not. That how this country started and how it has progressed (If people did not do this we would still be a British colony, we would still have racially separated bathrooms, and women would still not get the vote). I feel like I am just as valuable in a job helping children, as any four star general in the airforce. I believe that when I protest a policy in this country, whether it is the military, a women's rights issue, or GLBT rights, I am doing my patriotic duty, just as much as people who stand by every one of our foriegn or domestic policies believes they are. I know that the military is here to protect our rights to protest, but we are not to be ruled by the military, and if we disagree with something that is happening even in that sector of society, or we feel that their actions are not necessarily geared toward the important purpose they are supposed to serve, it is wrong not to protest. If you want to pay six dollars for a movie, petition douglas theatre to lower their prices, otherwise, you can get military discounts elsewhere in town. If you are looking for entertainment, Dr. John's, and ABC offer military discounts on videos, and Shakers will let you in for half price with a military ID on wedensday nights. Seems like they know how to market for those serving in the military better than douglas theatres does, or maybe that is where the profit from at least men in the military truly is. "

 Gary wrote on June 16, 2006 5:32 pm:
" On a side note, Michael and Ben talk about fighting for freedoms...and indeed, they do fight to defend the freedom of American citizens. However, they should recognize that those freedoms should not be used as a bargaining chip by military personnel. Recognize the fact that the very freedom our soldiers fight to protect is the freedom being exercised by theater businesses...they are exercising free enterprise. "

 Stan wrote on June 16, 2006 5:48 pm:
" Terry Vonderschmidt, So you're apparently one of the dwindling number of Bushies. Well in regards to your letter, W better hope that he can swim because he's in way over his head right now. In my opinion, George W. Bush is a failure and and a disgrace to the office he holds as well as a complete embarrassment to this country. "

 Bill wrote on June 16, 2006 6:11 pm:
" Its so interesting the younger (college age) generations that know it all about retirement. Mommy and daddy didn't put me thru school nor buy me a car, and not even able to buy me a watch for graduation. When your pay for years was $75.00 a week and you had to buy food, make rent payments, buy nice clothes to go to work (didn't wear jeans and the trash they wear today) make car payments if you could afford it, ride the bus most of the time, and more, I'm sure we could retire like millionaires. Course you probably wouldn't know at 60 + about M.S., arthritis, heart problems and all the rest. Your day will come. "

 not your grandpa's military wrote on June 16, 2006 6:43 pm:
" Gee mp, maybe Ben had to send his $11,000 home to support his wife and newborn. That's the way it works nowadays. Many of our military have families at home struggling while their loved ones take care of your sorry self. YOU try supporting your family on that! I have never been so embarrassed to live in Lincoln- reading some of these comments. Fortunately, Michael, knowing you are from Lincoln makes me proud. Thank you! Ignore the morons- they are clueless. "

 CS wrote on June 16, 2006 6:44 pm:
" Here we go again. Where does the idea that teachers get a 3 month vacation originate? I really get tired of ignorant people that don't know a teacher or don't teach thinking that they get a 3 month vacation. Most of it is used to go to class on their own or to work a second job, or preparing the semesters worth of lesson plans that are due the first week or two of school. There are also school district meetings, planning seminars, required in services, and knowing that 9 months pay for the year is divided by 12. They arent getting paid in the summer-its money they have already been given on contract. "

 Randy wrote on June 16, 2006 6:45 pm:
" I am a LSE grad Class of 82. The Head Baseball Coach is the same one now as when I attended. He is a fantastic person and a great teacher and coach. I have long since moved from Lincoln and one of the reasons was all the cry baby libral freaks who love to run to the LJS. Mr.B hang in there. "

 Michael wrote on June 16, 2006 6:53 pm:
" Gary, I like your statement. I did not join the military expecting gifts. That's not why I serve. Your telling me though, for the job the military does, the movie theatres or other local business's shouldn't praise them by giving them a small discount to show their gratitude? My article did not insult college students in anyway. I simply stated college students do not deserve a discount just for attending school. I don't ask for handouts, I just wanted to bring this issue to light to get feedback from the community. So take it easy. "

 Lily wrote on June 16, 2006 10:19 pm:
" Do the schools teach history anymore? Has anyone ever heard of Viet Nam? Did anyone learn a thing about the way our soldiers were treated when they came home? Does anybody care? History is supposed to teach us not to make the same mistakes twice. We're talking about movie tickets here for heaven's sake. Have a heart! (Thanks Michael!!) "

 JJ wrote on June 16, 2006 10:30 pm:
" Here's an idea, everyone quit paying $8 for movies and the multi-millionaire actors will not get multi-million dollar contracts. We pay their salaries and we keep going to the trash that they feed us. It's that simple. As for the military discounts just make everyone pay the same price. If we as consumers can band together and force down the price of tickets, it won't be an issue anymore. "

 Michael wrote on June 17, 2006 12:31 am:
" Josh---I agree that Fire Fighters and Law Enforcement also deserve a discount. I don't think being a nurse or doctor is dangerous. The military is keeping you and everyone safe. You are way off on that statement. If we didn't have the military power we have, who knows what this country would be like. The military protects our country. That is why almost every country in the world has a military, to protect their citizens. Since we are not protecting our freedom, we should just lay down our weapons, stop standing the watches around the world and we all should come home? Wow...that is a great idea! I guess we have thousands of service members standing the 24/7 watches for no reason?! Get your facts right! I think it's funny that most people are against the government and the measures the intelligence community takes to protect this country until they catch or kill a leader in the terrorist community, then they change their view. Josh, stop being a simple minded follower. "

 mp wrote on June 17, 2006 5:23 am:
" not your grandpa's military...Did you ever think that I may have had to send money home to support my family when I was in the service too on that salary? Give me a break. The point I was making was that don't complain about how hard it is to live on a military salary because people who served in the military before you did the same as you on far less. We never expected discounts on anything. You knew what you would be making when you enlisted. If you couldn't live on that, why did you join or why not get a second job when you can? To me, you are the clueless one. BTW, I support all our members of the military. "

 Michael wrote on June 18, 2006 1:19 am:
" The discount isn't about the money or a handout. I do not complain about my salary, military salary once you get more seniority is not bad at all. Sure the basic pay chart doesn't look appealing, but that is BASIC. Military has extra pay for everything that they do not show. So this isn't about not affording a ticket or asking for a handout. If I were asking for a handout I would ask for a free ticket! I simply stated college students are offered a discount for going to school. Tough job. mp...congratulations..I'm so proud you didn't ask for a discount. I never once mentioned in the article, I deserve a discount because I can't afford it. Re-read the article, think of something more clever to come up with and we can start over again. Thanks MP for being a great American citizen! "

 Yupper wrote on June 18, 2006 8:18 am:
" mp- your argument is exactly the same one we use regarding teacher pay. Good job! "

 not your grandpa's military wrote on June 18, 2006 8:30 am:
" I do apologize mp. I was under the impression that back in my day, when there was a draft, the bulk of our military was composed of 18 year old males. Back then, one could usually get an exemption for being married with a family, or for attending college. It appears to me that we have a lot more family men and WOMEN today in the military. Back in the day- the folks with families were usually the officers, and many times their families lived on base with them. Of course, I'm sure you will correct me if I am mistaken. Thanks so much! "

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