Amid discussions of civility and a polarized nation, Bluestem is not surprised to read Matthew Stolle's story in the Rochester Post Bulletin, Why 125 Live pulled the plug on CNN, Fox News:
Confronted with numerous reports of “bad behavior” and arguments among members sparked by the watching of two 24-hour cable news channels, 125 Live executive director Sylwia Oliver decided enough was enough.
On Monday, she announced that she was banning the playing of CNN and FOX News in the center’s common areas.
“To curtail the arguments, I made the decision to suspend CNN and FOX News,” Oliver told members in an email. “I understand that many of you will be upset, but safety of members and staff is a priority to me.”
In an interview, Oliver said members are free to use their personal devices at 125 Live to watch whatever news shows they want. They can also watch cable news on computers in its technology and learning center.
“They can stream whatever they want as long as it’s not in everyone’s faces and not forcing people to watch something they don’t want to watch,” Oliver said.
The airing of political news shows like FOX and CNN in the fitness area and locker rooms was undermining 125 Live’s efforts to create a welcoming environment, Oliver said. A member on a treadmill would resent being forced to watch whatever news station another member had on. . . .
Thank heaven the Mayo Clinic isn't far away in case things get really rough.
125 Live: A Center For Active Adults is “More than a membership, it’s a mission”:
125 LIVE is a state-of-the-art facility specifically designed to focus on the diverse needs of individuals 18+ and provide a wide variety of physical, social and intellectual opportunities to engage the minds and bodies of our community. Through expansive programming, fitness amenities, gathering spaces and personal health resources, 125 LIVE provides opportunities for all adults to embark on their own journey to “aging successfully.”
Graphics: Logos for a divided America.
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