Posted by Warning Saunders on February 03, 2009 at 10:23:05:
In Reply to: Re: Feder fiasco posted by bean on February 03, 2009 at 10:19:04:
I agree that Saunders was totally unprofesional to use the forum as a chance to vent his obviously frustration with Feder. However, I must tell you that of the many, many journalists of color (and not just black), that I've had the pleasure of knowing and partying with over the years, I've heard the same sentiments expressed over and over again. That being said, few if any, would have ever engaged in such a public display of disdain for Feder...probably not out of respect for Feder...but for themselves, and concern about their image. I guess Warner just felt what the hell, I'm outta here soon anyway.
: 'Tis true, and 'twas a surprising (to say the least), unbecoming showing for a 40-year veteran broadcaster in this market. Following John Calloway's follow-up interview to what was aired on Ch. 11 after Feder announced his retirement, when they told delightful stories and then asked if the crowd had any questions, Saunders bizarrely chose that opportunity to get up at the mic and hurl accusations and insults at Feder which had apparently been brewing in Saunders' head for years.
: Feder was the guest of honor; Saunders couldn't have emailed him, written him a letter, or called to meet him privately, as opposed to involving other present members in his personal issues with the man?? Thankfully Tom Shaer got up and and said that though Feder wrote some negative things about many broadcasters over the years (including Saunders whom he called his friend) he also wrote many positive things, including calling Saunders "a local treasure" on many occasions. Shaer said he wished Feder would be back on the beat to act as a watchdog who takes some people to task when needed.
: Until Shaer got up, it was one of the most shocking, unexpected, uncomfortable things to watch, a) because of the tasteless way Saunders chose to air his beef with Feder and b) because most of it was petty stuff that had no basis in race for his criticism at all. He was trying to put Feder on trial or something, and Feder was merely a guest interviewee at a union meeting, for pete's sake.