MediaWatch: September 1997
Table of Contents:
- MediaWatch: September 1997
- ABC Morning Anchor Leaves a Legacy of Cheerleading for Socialism and Feminism Joan
- NewsBites: Targeted Droughts
- Admiring Diana but Hitting Mother Teresa
- DNC Chairman Downplayed, National Security adviser Ignored by Nets
- Espy's 39 Indictments? Yawn What Sleaze Factor
- Caldwell's Gospel
- Defining Away Bias
- Janet Cooke Award: "Dumbing Down" the NEA Debate
Caldwell's Gospel
On the August 22 NBC Nightly News, Tom Brokaw profiled a black minister who matched his faith with values of self-reliance and empowerment. Brokaw inducted the minister into his "American Spirit" segment: "He’s been called a bridge-builder, a visionary. However you chose to describe him, this much is certain: The Reverend Kirby John Caldwell is no ordinary preacher. What makes Caldwell unique is his message. A gospel that is equal parts religion and economic empowerment."
After airing a soundbite from a Wall Street friend recounting Caldwell’s call to the church, Brokaw recited the private-sector good works of the entrepreneur: "He started out as pastor to one of the poorest churches in Houston. Now almost 20 years later Caldwell has proven that his career change was no mere mid-life crisis, but a higher calling. The showcase for Caldwell’s ministry is called The Power Center. It was built with investment from the business community and financing arranged by Caldwell. It’s home to a health clinic, a bank, a community college and a private school. It’s emphasis is on self-reliance. The Power Center is transforming the neighborhood. 200 jobs have been created and over the next two years Caldwell expects millions to be pumped into the community. Not a bad investment."
Matthews vs. Morris
CNBC Hardball host Chris Matthews kicked ex-Clinton consultant Dick Morris off his show for religious insensitivity on September 12. Matthews was disturbed by how Morris made Jesus Christ sound less like a savior than a calculating social climber: "In the last analysis, what [ex-Gov. Bill] Weld is trying to do is become the poster boy for moderate Republicans, and he’s trying to get gaveled down, to be screwed over by Jesse Helms. It’s a little bit like getting to lead a church after being crucified."
