Monday, October 8, 2012

Bullied

By now, you've probably heard the story of the overweight news anchor from LaCrosse, WI.

To make a long story short, a viewer sent an e-mail to Jennifer Livingston, calling her a poor role model because she's overweight.

Livingston responded and played the bully card.  She spent four minutes of the station's air time trying to turn the tables-- saying the e-mail writer was a poor role model for his family.  Livingston attempted to prove someone who writes nasty things influences bad behavior on the part of his children.

Really?

Clearly, the viewer's comments were mean.  If Livingston is happy with herself, and if management is okay with it, her weight is not an issue.

Bullies pick on those who cannot defend themselves.  Jennifer Livingston is not in that group.  Leave the kids out of this.

Criticism comes along with the television territory.  Have people said mean things to me?  Certainly.  It's unpleasant, but you learn to live with it.  Women broadcasters have it even tougher.  You should hear and read the things my co-workers, past and present, have been peppered with over the years.

There are many things Jennifer Livingston needs to reassess.

The man who wrote the letter needs to change the channel.