December 7, 2006

StreetTalk

by Carol Rosen

What do you think of Michael Richards’ (Kramer from ‘Seinfeld’) reaction to heckling at a comedy club last month and the subsequent media response? (Asked at Starbucks, Almaden Plaza)

“What he said was wrong. I’ve heard it said by many, many comedians of all colors; they all use it. But when it comes out as part of anger, that’s wrong. It doesn’t make it right just because a lot of people use the word. But it [all the coverage] still seems like an overreaction.”

Frank Alvs, 55
Almaden
History/social studies teacher at Independence High


“It’s kind of a shame. I really liked him; he was one of my favorite characters. He always makes me laugh. He’s a comedian and he probably didn’t mean it. But it’s unfortunate because it works against him. He needs to be able to control the words that come out of his mouth. It’s unfortunate that he wasn’t able to control himself.”

Linda Salah, over 21
Almaden
Realtor


“Actually, I try not to listen to most media coverage because it’s sensationalized, and I don’t think a person can be judged by one incident.”

Amy Swenson, 26
Willow Glen
Therapist


“I think it was terrible; not just his vocabulary as much as the meaning and the anger behind it. He used a word that’s such a flash point and totally derogatory. Any time you demean a group of people you lower the standard for everybody. It’s too bad a celebrity said it because it’s not debatable, it’s just wrong.”

Dennis Jordan, 56
Almaden
Self-employed


“I think it was really unfortunate; it wasn’t good for anybody. Had he thought more about what he did, he probably would not have done it. It’s far easier to apologize than just stop and think. How serious should we take his apology anyway?"

Jessica Shirley-Donnelly, 22
Almaden
Photographer


“I really don’t know much about it. I’m not informed; I have an 8-week-old baby that keeps me occupied.”

Inna Politseymako, 35
Almaden
Business development manager


"I don’t think it’s acceptable. Just because he’s a star, he shouldn’t have done it. He didn’t need to stoop to that level. I’m really disappointed in him because I really liked him before. I’m surprised he would do something like that.”

Trisha Mudwilder, 43
Almaden
Homemaker


"I don’t think anyone should ever use the ‘N-’ word. There’s no need to hurt people. I teach my kindergartners they have to grow up to create world peace."

Natalia Lasher, 65
Almaden
Kindergarten teacher at Simonds Elementary