PHOTO BY TYLER GASKILL
Mayor in tights
Mell Kuhn, mayor of Arkansas City, accepts his Barbie trophy from
Linda Groth, executive director of CASA, after being crowned Miss CASA 2008 at the 10th annual Men In Tights Under The Lights beauty pageant. The pageant is a fund raiser for CASA. His character name was Smellishis Poon.
Posts
112 comments:
Not only was it racially offensive, but vulgar as well. A person of leadership in the community should have more sense, not to mention standards of behavior.
I believe he owes everyone a big apology.
get over it , it has been going on for 10 years , last year wasnt David Allen in the pagent
what is racial about dressing as a women ?
i think the 1st poster owes me a big apology , its thinking like that that is ruining the good ole U S A
Racial because he was dressed as a black woman with a vulgar name.
Where is this GOOD OLE USA you speak of?
I'm sure you Good Ole Boys found it hilarious.
he is not dressed as a black women
how is the name vulgar
maybe your racist for suggesting he was dressed as a black women
sounds like the traveler is tryin to stir stuff up.
"maybe your racist for suggesting he was dressed as a black women"
Good lord, please learn to spell. it's "you're", as in, "you are", and women is plural. Just one is person of female persuation is a "woman" not a "women".
The good ole boys are out today.
The article on Davids blog said that he was in black face. I didn't make it up. And just look at the picture.
And if you don't know why the name "Smellicious Poon", or him referring to "Poon Tang" is vulgar, then I don't want to be the one to have to explain it to you.
I find it hard to believe that your understanding of the language and the 'black face' art is that 'naive'. Either that, or you actually are ignorant.
I'm insulted for both issues. The race (blackface) and the name. He knew perfectly well that what he did would stir up a mess.
Lawdy Lawdy Lawd, you have certainly stirred up the matrix this afternoon Neo.
LooK for the video of him on you tube judgeing a singing cotest at the RED ZONE,
Mr. Kuhn, your choice of costume and name are a very disgrace to the community which you represent. You owe everyone in this town an apology for chosing this costume and this name for what has been a fundraiser that until now has been tastefully hilarious.
CASA is a non-profit organization that is an advocate for children. Your actions and CASA's decision to not only overlook your lack of tasteful costume and "name" but then to crown you the winner will make me take my donations elsewhere.
I hope that in the future when you engage in such outrageous behavior you will choose to not mention the fact that you are from Ark City and specifically that you are mayor.
Please consider the image you are sending to all citizens and be smart enough to know that being that insensitive and crude shows a lack of intellect toward your town. I am honestly embarrassed for you as much as for our town.
awwww it was just good fun,, get a life
awwww it was just good fun,, get a life
I bet you would find it funny to have a hang-mans rope on the tree outside of ACPD RIGHT
N.N.T.R (NO Need TO Respond)
u people are so ridiculously oversensitive. quit blowing everything out of proportion.
As wonderful as this nation is, the feelings and dignity of black folk have always been open season since its birth as a nation. The tenor of this series of posts reaffirm that.
I will say that Mayor Kuhn is not the type of person who would seek to insult or offend a race or a gender. I would also say that Mayor Kuhn lacks a bit of insight as to what might be an offense.
"Get over it" is a phrase most easily uttered in a part of the country where approximately 9 of 10citizens are non-minority. I would offer that a mayor is not only the mayor of voting aged citizens but also of under aged citizens. For that reason, a mayor should have consideration for his impact as a role model and consider whether the mayor might want 3rd graders to embrace and imitate his choice words - perhaps from a little boy third grader to a little girl third grader for example.
News flash!! The less than 1 of 10 who are ethnic minority citizens expect it, live with it and have gotten over it more times than you could count with scientific notation calculator. Same is true as we have listened to the gender slams against both Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin.
Thanks for the "in your face" advice. We already knew to get over it. It's our theme song.
"u people..."
what do you mean? u people?
Anonymous said...
u people are so ridiculously oversensitive. quit blowing everything out of proportion.
September 29, 2008 10:57 PM
Now, you sir or ma'am, sound like a true racist.
We, 'u people' have a right to expect respect from 'you's people' (sound likes you are and Archie Bunker fan).
I teach children to respect all adults. I teach them to guard their words, as to not offend others. And yet, others such as you, think this type of humor is ok. Well, shame on you.
Wonder what the rest of the state would feel to see this on the news.
:(
p.s. then you think our city can grow. hahahahaha
The vulgar name is offensive. The black face is offensive. He is representing our city and definitely showed a lack of respect for many people and that is offensive.
Some people may like Mr. Kuhn but what he did was in poor taste and telling us to get over it shows that you also lack sensitivity.
If a student had called anyone by the name he used they would have been censored. I think Mr. Kuhn deserves at least that. The example he sets is far below the standard a public official should be held to.
This "pageant fund raiser" can be a fun spoof. This fell far short of that and CASAS needs to evaluate how this name and costume ever got on stage. I am embarrassed for the community and an apology is not enough for the damage this "mayor" continues to do to this community.
I hate to break it to Charles, but I am a white man, and I wrote the first post on this subject at the top of this page, condemming Kuhn's actions.
"We" are not ALL out to get "you". The majority of "Us" have the same sensibilities, and kindness toward other races, that you, and everyone, should strive for.
I hate being lumped in with the ones who do not.
Unbelievable and shocking is all I can say after seeing the photo and reading the caption.
In the spirit of fairness, I would challenge the Traveler to quickly interview Mayor Kuhn and see what exactly he was thinking and see if he can spin his way out of this.
I know it is all in fun but I would really like to hear Mr. Kuhn's thought process that allowed him to be made up the way he was. And the name he went by... well I can't believe he could be that naive.
Under the present scrutiny the commisioners face with the pending sales tax initiative for the hospital, I would have thought the mayor would have shown much more class than what is portrayed in this picture.
This is going to gain steam and I think we deserve some sort of explaination straight from the horse's...err, mayors mouth.
Words cannot explain how dissapointed I and my family is in the actions of our Mayor. He represents all of us. To be that insensitive and vulgar is beyond comprehension for someone who is a pillar of the community.
He just lost a home full of former supporters.
"I hate being lumped in with the ones who do not."
Seriously, how did that even remotely lump you in with people of a racist nature?
He was responding to people saying to "get over it". He neither referenced your post nor mentioned anonymous 4:11.
He didn't even say all white people or anything remotely of the sort- geez.
He was merely saying that minorities pretty much deal with racism a lot and do "get over it" more times than they would care to count. Hardly lumps you in with people of a racist nature.
First, going in black face was absolutely and utterly disgusting and, second, the name was totally horrific.
Even if he didn't intentionally mean to be offensive his sheer lack of awareness is unfathomable.
Maybe I am just too sleepy, but could someone puhleeze explain to me why it is so offensive to dress up as a black women?
now that you mention it.
would it have been better, or worse, if he had been a white, indian, asian .... ?
The costume is bad but the name is a female body part. It is a term that is vulgar and that may explain why you did not know its meaning.
Dressing as a black woman with a vulgar name and saying that you are the mayor of Ark City. Wow, how classy.
If you haven't yet, check out the front page of the Winfield Courier's website (www.winfieldcourier.com) and see Cowley County's laughing stock... the honorable Mayor Mel Kuhn of Ark City.
You gotta love the internet where anyone and everyone can see you at your absolute best and in this case... worst!!
Ms...I mean Mr. Mayor... I would suggest you come out and explain this quickly or pack your things and get out!!
I have lived in this community for over 35 years and want to continue to believe in our city. I can't with this kind of nonsense going on with someone charged with representing all of us in city hall.
What a disgrace he has brought to our town.
Step Down Mr Mayor, and let someone with some sense be on the council.
I agree that he should step down.
Doesn't this seem a bit like a conspiracy? At the least something about it seems a bit fishy. I for one am deeply offended by they damage the Mayor did to the reputation of fine upstanding transvestites.
Great. We needed another reason for outsiders to think we are inbred morons. Way to go Mayor Poon.
If anybody wants to talk on the record about this call me or James at 442 4200
David Allen
lighten up Frances
it was for fun
no one got hurt
let it go
We cant talk on the record. Most of us have to work with him on committees and know the repercussions. Good luck.
No one got hurt? That is crazy. The guy is representing our community. We all got hurt. Many of us are hanging our heads in total disgust.
We have already had to let lots of things go because of this mayor. Now letting this go. What will be next? If this hits the news we will all look awful for having elected him.
JJ post somnething I send you I do thuink that Charles Has br***s and those who work eith just smile in h9is face and try to stabb him in the back by not at least letting him really knowhow they fell about this stuff when they are in thier committe meetings
NNTR
What makes you think they were being trite? Maybe they were serious. I think that you are looking so hard for perceived slights to you and your race that you see them where they don't exist.
Sharpton really is a buffoon. He might have done some good things for the cause in the past but that was a LONG time ago. I've heard both of them (Jesse and Al) referred to as race baiting poverty pimps.
I like Charles He Has ba##s. He puts his name out there for what he believes, but what is his race and does everyone here no him, but are afraid to let him know who is backstabbing him cause you want him to think you are his friend, if you do call him your friend then let him know who is responding to his comments a real friend would speak straight and let him know how you really feel when not in his presence.
Now to the 91% of you who does not have a real good friend of the other 8% of Ark Citizens go out and talk to them and see how they feel about this type of joke today!!
Jesse and Al are sort of like the police but better for minorities they get the news after the fact but they try very very hard to find the right solution for the country/ I do not understand how you can race bate if you only respond to a crisis. Bating requires you put some thing in the water first. I am sure they did not say hook him to a truck a drag him to death or out an illegal hangman’s loop on a tree to discourage blacks so we can come make us popular in AMERICA (RIGHT RIGHT RIGHT i THINK SO)
you people take yourselves too serious NO ONE GOT HURT and that is that , you can read anything you want in to it ,
its only racist if a white guy says it !!!!
wichita eagle has a great cartoon today page 7a mallard and filmore , read it , now thats your great leaders there
first it was because he is dressed as a black woman, then because of his name, now its because he dressed as a black woman with that name , give me a break
Thanks Mayor Poon , You made me laugh out loud
Thanks Mayor Poon , You made me laugh out loud
Race is only one part of the mayor's perceived slight with the costume and name. The use of vulgarity is the other as he represents the town is the other.
The race issue is huge but the idea that a mayor can do this without an apology or repercussions is horribile. People can not come forward because they work on city projects with Mr. Kuhn and to stand up in public to him is not wise.
I am sure Mr. Kuhn knew what he was doing and was not sensitive to how it would be perceived. What can we do about it? The community will have to decide.
Mr. Jordan, will the mayor be welcoming guests to the festival this weekend? It might be wise to discuss "appropriate behavior" with him first. For that matter, anytime he is going to represent the city again someone needs to have that discussion with him. Not sure he will get it but that is a beginning until we can find a way to get him to step down. The whole incident did not hurt me but it did make us look bad and that hurts all of us. Bet he can recruit some top names employers with his class.
how did the word poon ever become vulguar??
Can i be offended everytime a black child dresses up as a white character?
And the last issue here is if he has committed these offences who do you think he has to anwser to,,,, There is no one in this city that has one ounce of power over him.. he is invinceable and he knows it, so go moan and grown about something you can fix or change and quit turning a sqeeky wheel,, it is going to get no grease
will the mayor be welcoming guests to the festival this weekend?
>>>>>>>>>>>>
Long as he doesn't wear a dress.
No we believe in separation of church and state, especially separation of festival and politics.
No politicians allowed unless they check their party affiliation at the ;... gate.
"how did the word poon ever become vulguar??"
It has been a vulgar word since I was a wee lad. When did the f word become vulgar? Who cares. It IS vulgar, and should not be used in a family oriented show.
"Can i be offended everytime a black child dresses up as a white character?" Only if you are very dumb. So, yeah!
"And the last issue here is if he has committed these offences who do you think he has to anwser to,,,, There is no one in this city that has one ounce of power over him.. he is invinceable and he knows it, so go moan and grown about something you can fix or change and quit turning a sqeeky wheel,, it is going to get no grease"
Seriously? You think a MAyor is above any recourse for actions unbecoming a mayor? You call him invincible? He is just a citizen like the rest of us. He has ZERO power under law. It is we the people who elect the mayor, and we the people who can recall him, or simply vote him out at his next re election bid.
I think he should step down. He has brought disgrace to our town. I hope the Wichita media does pick this up and run with it. Anybody with such horrible judgement and taste should not be Mayor of our town.
This is so sad.
I would never have thought that this would be the legacy of 2008, in our fair city.
Sorry, but those of you who question and belittle the feelings of the people of color seem to reflect a sick outlook of the country in which we live.
Again, I stand amazed. And yes, I am truly disappointed.
Why don't you people ask him directly instead of griping about it.
I have never been able to understand the entertainment of watching any man dress up as a woman with the aid of padding or balloons. Is it equally entertaining to have women pad out as a man? I find the whole thing offensive!
If he won, does that mean CASA was not offended?
If he won, does that mean CASA was not offended?
>>>>
Apparently
and, what does it say about the judges, and casa, that he won?
then I have the right to be offened, and right to voice it.
You certainly do.
But I don't think you should take it as a reflection on you or other women.
I don't see how he was calling other women that name.
But I do understand why people are offended.
I would like to know how many of the people that have posted are either black, or a woman? OR are a black woman? I know I am offended because he is an elected official. Our kids look to him as the mayor, and now we are telling them it is ok to use vulgar names when it comes to women. As I have stated before (in my own blog) it is hard enough to be a woman in this world, and to teach our kids that women are an equal part of our work force, but to place us in that kind of light is horrible.
I do not know if Mr.Kuhn meant to offend people, and at this point I don't care, because he did. Do I want an appology, no I want him to explain to our kids why it is ok to be an elected official and represent your community that way. I want him to teach me how to talk to my two girls and explain why the name that he used, and the paint that he used is funny. How exactly do the teachers that use newspapers in the classrooms explain it to the students that are in there classes? Really, is it ok for this to be socialy accepted? Maybe I am taking it too much to heart... but really if he has the right to do that, then I have the right to be offended, anda right to voice it.
(And, I do realize that not all of the grammer I have in the above is correct, but I am not the editor. I am not a writer, nor do I ever claim to be, so please stick to the issues, and not the grammer.)
You know, its downright comical the irony in some of these posts.
Some of you that claim to work with Mel are saying that what he did was a shame/poor taste ,etc. being that he is Mayor and represents the city.
But... what message/image are YOU sending to others by coming on a blog, ripping him to shreds but NOT willing to say anything to him because you got an arse to protect??!! [or some other fill in the blank excuse for NOT doing the right and responsible thing]
On a darker note...Neo the hacker could have loads of fun and lots of dirt from this.
Outsider looking in
We dont need no steenkin grammer
I am so glad that this story was picked up. I think someone should get a statement from the Mayor!
I reported this story on my blog as well, please drop by: http://bytedaily.blogspot.com/
Well stated Super Mom. I don't see how anyone can NOT be offended by this.
I would like to know how many of the people that have posted are either black, or a woman? OR are a black woman?
I am both, black and a female.
I am also an instructor of young people of various ages and races.
I was greatly offended, by the actions- and AM offended by the posts of many people on this subject.
I know that many do not understand the outrage, but the deal is:
Where is the moral character of our nation, and now even those in leadership of our quaint city.
We can see... a lack of character in leadership is not a good thing.
Well, I am neither Black, nor Female, yet I was and AM offended by our mayor's actions.
Does the paper plan to ask him about it, or will we just act like it didn't happen?
The hypocrisy in this town amazes me.
That downright offends me more than anything Mel is currently being accused of.
outside looking in
It will be in today's paper.
Mell's comments.
Ill put on here as soon as the paper comes out.
Should be soon.
But ill tell ya this.
He is sticking to his guns and not admitting to any wrong-doing.
I think with the fact that CASA represents children in cases of abuse, That this ironically happens. Kids should
not be exposed to perverts and that's just what Mr. Kuhn is. He can stand by this all he wants, But you can't spin this one
mayor. You did a major uh-oh and you're classless and tacky. I think we've lost point in the fact that this was for children, How
in his mind does he think this was okay? We should all treat this fund raising event with delicacy and tact, We can have fun when raising monies for abused children, But we don't have to be tacky, racist and sexist- To get a laugh. As a female, As a mother to a little girl- How dare you Mr. Mayor. You had every chance to pick another name.
If some female made up a name calling herself "Sharonsome
Peter's" or " Johnson Ohjoy" there would be MAJOR outcry! She would be hanged out to dry.... So why not bring this up and dicuss it? It was degrading and discusting and the mayor was the one disclosing that behaviour- Which makes that even worse! Kids look up to him and he should respect OUR town a lot more than to behave in a manner of " I can do no wrong!!! I'm Mr. Mayor"- I can be tacky and gross and get by with it.. Because after all I was doing this for the kids"- That's right FOR kids.
I think it doesn't really matter how he dressed or what name he chose, someone would have been offended.
Not everyone knows that poon is a vulgar word. I thought he was making a play on his name.
When you gutless folks say he owes the community an apology, please leave me and my family out of that. We thought it was funny and reminded me of a SNL skit.
Hey JJ, Are you sure he was trying to be a black woman, it sure looked latino to me. [Not that I have anything against latinos, blacks, nuns, little old ladies, cheerleaders or anything else he could have dressed as]
Everyone would be wanting to tar and feather him except no one would show up!
I am not crazy about the idea of a drag event, but hey, at least he was creative about it and if it raised money for a good cause, then cool.
I may regret the latino comment, but in all seriousness, I said it to make a point. I truly think it doesn't matter what he went as, people would be offended anyway.
The example/image/message to our kids, etc.
Pulleeeze....what a load!!
THAT whole aspect to all of this smacks of hypocrisy!
Jump all over Mel for what he did, but lets overlook all the tweens in daisy dukes and t-shirts with vulgar terms.
Then when they get pregnant [because its cool/fun and all my friends are] we can throw our hands in the air and say 'we don't know how this happened'
Get confronted about why you let your kids do this and respond with 'boys will be boys' and 'thats how kids are these days, what are you gonna do'
So let me get this straight.....its NOT Ok for Mel to dress the way he did, but you have 101 reasons why kids do what they do in this town and just as many for you ALLOWING it.
Someones gonna have to explain THAT one to me!
outside looking in
Hey Mr. mayor- Don't you have some toilets to unplugg instead of being on JJ's blog? No one would post that long of a post unless you are him or a family member- You should of picked the name POO Unplugger instead of the one you did pick!!
If you are referring to the 1:55 post from Outside Looking In , that would be me and no I am not related to Kuhn [or a city worker for that matter].
I stand by what I said about the hypocrisy and agree with Mel about the PC BS in this town!
JJ knows who I am.
outside looking in
How can you even compare this to a SNL skit? He is a REAL mayor, They are actors!! Let's not confuse the two.
Outside looking in,
Boys will be boys, but Mayors should be Mayors. They shouldn't go on a stage, representing a city, and act like 12 year olds flaunting vulgar jokes to make people laugh. If he would have had the brains to realize that, we wouldn't be having this discussion.
People in the audience were offended, and more people were offended after reading about his behavior.
Did anyone get video of the even that they can post on youtube?
And the people who act or play in those movies aren't real people ACTING?!
The drag event was a spoof from what I gather.
He had a COSTUME.
Oh, I get it, the mayor isn't allowed to do anything outside of looking bored at the podium,
but its ok for the rest of us to act like idiots. [as long as no one sees or knows, right?]
outside looking in
outside looking in----
I have no idea what to say to you, NOT because I think that you made sense in all your comments. I have never seen such stupidity in print.
I'm speechless!
duh.......
I guess what I am trying to say is that why are we [as a community] holding our mayor to moral standards that we are not willing to live out ourselves?
outside looking in
Outside looking in,
Mayors, and Council members, and Police Officers, and anyone else who represents a city and all of it's citizens, SHOULD be held to a higher moral standard than the rest because they REPRESENT ALL OF US!
Why is that so hard for you to understand?
I work for Mel, and even i thought it was offensive and dumb for him to do that. please don't print my name.
It is true that we should ALL hold ourselves to a higher standard than we do. We have all slipped away from decency and honor. I think that when our mayor acts this way, it is a slap in the face. It is that last step as we fall from grace.
We DO expect more from our city leaders. They set the standard and examples of our community. Kuhn's action is a wake up call for us all.
Recall? Apology?
It seems that there is always something to gripe about.
NO one was hurt, no one is bleeding, no one is in a cast,or a wheel chair because of this skit.
You need something to whine about, find something of some importance.
Your federal government is getting ready to blow,(take that anyway you like) your hard earned money on some wall stree big wig who is calling you much stronger things, and will contiue all the way to the Caymens, and the set there and laugh at you because you let it happen, instead of spending all this energy and outrage with your elected representatives in DC who could do something about it, you vent against a man who did nothing to harm any of you, instead he was trying to help a charity.
Grow up and get a life.
Hmmmmmmmmmm....
Leadership is the principle word.
We should expect more from our leaders.
Talk about hypocrisy, we hold men of God and women of God to standards. We hold the President accountable for every word and deed. And now, our great (?) mayor,
is above it all.
ha
Everybody really needs to get over this situation. Yes he may be the mayor of this "Christian Community" LMFAO!!! But he did this to raise money for children. All I see is you guys complaining and doing nothing. I don't see you guys doing anything to help raise money for any reason. Everyone should be more worried about our economical crisis.
If this TRADITION was going to be beaten down apon you would have thought it would have happened when it first started...with the crossdressing situation. Our supposable "Christian Community" finds it ok for people to crossdress? Wow, I guess I had a different view on what a "Christian Community" was.
If you all are going to complain about something because you have no life's, then complain about the drugs in your town. The meth, weed, coke, extasy, and all of the abuse that goes on in this town. It's everywhere! Kids can't make it through high school in this town without being offered to try atleast one of these things. And on top of that these girls getting pregnant in high school? Do parents not teach their kids about protection? O wait... cause it's the cool thing to do... go out and have sex with as many people as they can. Sorry, Forgot.
Fight for something usefull people. Don't waste your time on somebody helping to raise money... Can you say "ignorant"??
Wow, were to begin. With the above post, its upon not "apon" and lives not "lifes."
Ark City may have problems but that DOES NOT mean we dont have christian values. Winfield undergoes the exact same. The fact of the matter is that when it comes to any charitable organization raises money for a good cause a great deal can be overlooked. But theres a very distinct line drawn. The face you can't see it is whats part of an ongoing issue that America as a whole faces.
Whats inexcusable? A person in an elected position using innapropriate terms and posing as a member of another race. I truly applaud Mr. Kuhn for his willingness to assist in helping those less fortunate. With that said, he does owe the citizens of Ark City and CASA an apology for the smear that we've all suffered. His reactions logged by all media outlets in Cowley County show that he has alot of growing up to do and honestly has no idea what role politics play on ones life. Welcome to the fish bowl Mr. Kuhn. Every now and then you have to take a bite of the crap sandwich and take one on the chin even though you may feel you've done nothing wrong. Alot of people are angered by a mundane act thats starting to snowball. The other option would be to relinquish your position on the commission. Besides, I still have not forgotten about the Lowes blunder...alot of money continues to flow past our community to Ponca or Derby.
So you really wanna get technical idiot? I'm not a writer, or english teacher, but before you start criticizing people's grammer... look at your own.
Examples: it's "don't" not don't
it's "there's" not theres
it's "what's" not whats
it's "inappropriate" not innapropriate
a lot is two seperate words
again a lot is two seperate words
it's "that's" not thats
and again a lot is two seperate words...
So don't criticize other people's grammer when yours ultimatley sucks as well... sting a little??
Now that that's over... Get on with your life
And it's "separate" not "seperate"as well.
;)
And "ultimately" not "ultimatley". We all make mistakes in spelling and grammar when we're more focused on making a point, huh?
;)
You should have taken your own advice about criticism...
it's "grammar" not "grammer" and there should have been a comma between technical and idiot!
Can we please get back to the issue at hand?
Ok, first I would like to say that this isn't a comment about Mel's costume or name. I have no opinion on that matter because it did not offend me but everyone has a right to speak their mind! My comment is just about the CASA pageant! I think CASA is a good cause and the pageant is a major fundraiser for CASA. Wellington even began doing it after Cowley County did. It has been going for 10 years so I wouldn't blame CASA for any of this. They put their trust into the participants and trust they will use good judgement. A lot of the participants are leaders in the community so shouldn't CASA be able to trust them? If you want to be mad a Mel, then that's your right but I wouldn't blame CASA!!!
And as far as correcting Grammar...come on people, we aren't in grade school anymore! At least I hope most of us on ehre aren't! Lets talk about the isses!! Not about, "What's" "A lots" "Upons". If you want to argue about the issue then cool but arguing about spelling is kind of retarded. You don't need to go back to grade school!
Despite how he feels, he has obviously offended many people. As an elected public official, he must make a public apology. He does not need to apologize for what he did, if he truly feels there is no need. A simple "I apologize if I offended anyone" is what most people in the public eye say. That way he can address the problem, while still "sticking to his guns."
Maybe Mel should just apologize or step down as mayor!! And maybe Casa should take the crown away from him to show that in the future they won't support behavior like that!
As a woman, I was not in the least bit offended. I can't speak for the black face part (if his costume was even truly black as opposed to some other race). What I do know is we all need a little thicker skin and the ability to laugh at ourselves and take things in the context with which they were intended.
I think CASA should be held accountable too.
The Mayor may have gone overboard with his act, and with his comments afterwards. However. He was doing what CASA asked im to do, and CASA apparently liked what they saw and gave him FIRST PLACE.
I just think this whole thing is overblown.
But if you're going to be mad at the Mayor, I think you shouldn't be giving CASA a free pass.
If you take them as HE intended I am offended. He was asked to participate in this event as our mayor. He represented us using a chosen vulgar name. I can turn my head away as can many others except that somewhere a line has to be drawn on what we will accept from our leaders. I think we are saying he crossed the line.
He thinks what he did was fine and refuses to acknowledge that he offended anyone. His ability to listen to those asking for an apology shows that he doesn't care what people think. Leaders have to listen, leaders have to acknowledge the people they represent.
This is not the first time he has not listened to the people he represents and in the next two years it will not be the last time. I think that is why everyone is so upset. We expect someone with some class and decency to represent our community. I don't care what he does in his spare time but I do care what he does when he wears the title of mayor.
He works for the citizens and at any other job this would have meant serious repercussions. He knows that we don't have the ability to recall him without funds to support the legal issues. Consequently, we saw the interview in the paper saying that all of us that disagree with him are full of ..well you get it.
MY problem with CASA stems from the director saying ONE thing to the Traveler then going to Newscow and saying something different. I think everyone should write her a letter. You know Mel, A simple " I'm truly sorry if I offended anyone with my actions, That was not my intent" would of been all I needed. But for him to admit that he KNEW what he was doing shows me he IS racist and sexist! And for him to say he doesn't care what we think, You better start mayor. Anyone wanna protest at his business?
Great...Now KWCH has got hold of this. Man up, Mel, and be accountable. Yeah, we know, you're a maverick. Good for you. Now consider how your actions are reflecting on our city, and stop acting like an 8 year old.
If enough people got behind this, something would happen. However, nobody in this town is passionate enough about anything to get the right thing done. Hospital, big box, bond issue (how much do you suppose those bonds are worth now?)...I could go on and on with the wrongs that could have been righted had enough people got involved. But they'll just sit idly by as sentiment in this town continues to flounder.
What can be done seriously? We sent polls, we called, we went to meetings about the big box and Mel and friends didn't listen. We actually vote on the other issues.
They aren't listening now either and that is the point. Mel knew it was offensive and he didn't care. He can do what he wants and we can't do a thing to make it right for the community. We look like we support this. We elected him and that is the way it is. What can we really do? We can talk to Mel as has been suggested and I am sure he will listen. RIGHT!!!
To all of you on this blog that is embarassed by Mr. Kuhn's behavior and the fact that it is now being picked up by news stations only have yourselves to blame. If I had a bunch of people mouthing off about me, I would be a little on the defense too. The bloggers sit in here and talk about values, maybe some should take a hard look at their own behavior. Instead of acting like an angry mob, things could of been done a little quieter with phone calls and a meeting. Maybe it some of you in here that should be embarassed with your own behavior.
Now,I don't really condone Mr. Kuhn's behavior, but it is not the end of the world. I was more troubled by his response in his interview with the Traveler in which he resorted to using cuss words. That was an immature act on his part and he needs realize he is an adult representing the people of AC.
@Donna
I am one of the bloggers who posted about this story.
I feel entitled to speak my mind about the Mayor's actions, right or wrong. I feel that he was given ample opportunity to make this situation right but instead choose to badger the community for being too "PC".
He is a public official and should be held accountable for inappropriate behavior - bottom line.
The fact that Mr. Kuhn refused to apologize or take responsibility for his actions was the sole reason this issue ended up at a news station.
Quit rationalizing bad behavior.
On that note, I am glad he apologized.
I found out today that David Allen KNEW about all of this BEFORE it happened just like the CASA organizers. IF there was any "wrongdoing" doesn't this make you every bit as culpable? Quit stirring things up unnecessarily unless you want to admit your own failure in this.
Mel DID NOT do this to offend. His performance was purposefully over the top and it was in context like many of the other acts.
There IS video. IT will serve to exonerate the mayor to the extent that he is no more guilty than anyone else who was their laughing, who approved his act in advance, or who participated in this or past CASA drag-queen events.
If you want to be offended that something like this could happen in Cowley County, what should offend you is that this type of cross-dressing takes place at all and people laugh at it. As for the race-related aspect, I don't believe there is any. He was NOT in "black-face." He had on bronzer. That is NOT the same as black shoe polish.
I can see why some of the public is angry but it is not because of what happened. It is because of what this is being made into that it never was. IF all of the things that were alleged to have happened actually did happen, we would be looking at a different set of circumstances entirely and we'd have some REAL issues to deal with.
He looked more hispanic or eastern indian than anything else, but certain members of our community are making this into much more than that. This is not a justification so much as it is an explanation. You have only yourselves to blame for passing judgement on what seem to be the facts but are only hearsay. You don't see any members of the audience or judges coming out and condemning this other than Mary Jarvis who may have some ulterior motives. Those who were there are the best to judge. Me, I'll watch the video and decide for myself.
Donna said- "To all of you on this blog that is embarassed by Mr. Kuhn's behavior and the fact that it is now being picked up by news stations only have yourselves to blame."
Are you really that silly? Donna, Donna... I think that Mr. kuhn should be embarassed about what he did. So now everyone is to blame for his actions, But him? The reason news stations picked this up is because a city offical, Our mayor decided to act in degrading manner, From his name, to the name he gave the back up dancers, to painting his face dark. It was racist and sexist and he KNEW what he was doing. The reason he was on the defense was because he did something wrong- Get it? Not because people are "mouthing off about him" which we have the right to do, Even city officals have to act right and we who elect them have the right to ask that our mayor acts in a better fashion. And your a typical type- Just sweep it under the rug, Be quite about it, Do behind closed doors- NOT happening! When my mayor acts in a racist and sexist manner- You better believe that I want to know about it and have EVERY right to discuss it.
"Mel DID NOT do this to offend." is an incorrect statement.
By hiw own admission (twice, in fact) he did!
Traveler quote: "The connotation was absolutely intentional"
newscow.net quote: "The whole thing was meant to be offensive in a funny way."
As wonderful as this nation is, the feelings and dignity of black folk have always been open season since its birth as a nation. The tenor of this series of posts reaffirm that.
I'm calling reverse racism on this one. Africans sold their people into slavery- white people merely purchased them. Blame your self and your ancestors and take accountability for your life and future. Quit looking for a chance to play your race card all the time please- it makes you look bad.
Ok, so people are arguing about the skin tone saying he did or didn't look black! He darkened his skin tone and he himself stated that he was inspired by Eddie Murphy's movie "Norbit" and the "Big Momma". So that should tell you what he was trying to do!
Mel Kuhn should not have had to go to Wichita to apologize to anyone. That is BS!!! I'd like to see the NAACP apologize for their constant reverse racism and just one time time accountability for themselves instead of always pointing fingers. NAACP you make me sick!!!
I'd like to see the NAACP apologize for their constant reverse racism and just one time time accountability for themselves instead of always pointing fingers.
I agree!
"To all of you on this blog that is embarassed by Mr. Kuhn's behavior and the fact that it is now being picked up by news stations only have yourselves to blame"
That's true. This would not be on the Wichita News stations if the conservative residents of Arkansas City hadn’t turned into an angry mob, attempting to lynch the Mayor and consequently drawing negative state wide attention to out lovely city.
LOL! Do I not have a right to my opinion? My point was that SOME people are acting like some kind of angry mob ready to attack any thing in its path that is in the way. Exactly one of the reasons I rarely comment on these blogs anymore.It is so easy to comment in here and have so many people turn everything around what one says. YOu can sure bet your boots, that if it was one of the commissioners that a majority seems to like on this blog, it wouldn't of been near a problem with everyone. Yes, I respect others opinion that they are angry. Call me SILLY but basically out of all the comments I have been reading here and on acflipside, I get that people are personally embarassed. I am not personally embarassed myself, because it is Mr. Kuhn himself that should be, not me. I am not going to go somewhere wondering if I am going to be spotted as that girl from AC that has a mayor with no values. Exactly the way SOME here are behaving. I don't know, I was not there at the show, so I suppose that is why I feel I should be a little on the neutral side. Also,I have my serious doubts that the stations would of said jack on this if it wasn't for someone sending a newstip to them. But I could be wrong, whatever.
Well you all got your apology. Are you happy yet? Or you all just waiting in the shadows to think of something else he should do???
Well alrighty here...I am not responding back anymore to be dragged into something that is on the bottom of my list to worry about. Slam it all you want peeps!
We'll Kake picked up the " headless engineer in the park" story- And I doubt anyone tipped them on that one. :)
Ha please, I'm not even close to being conservative, But I do have good ole common sense and I know when to draw the line- And he didn't.
October 2, 2008 2:15 PM
typed in my name, but forgot to fill the circle so it came out anonymous.
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