Oprah Winfrey can kiss my...

Ladyhawk · 24th June 2005, 02:14 PM

I don't know why but this latest antic of hers really burns me.

Oprah snubbed by Hermes in France

Apparently, Oprah visited the store after it closed and was livid that they didn't drop what they were doing and let her in so that she could buy a gift for Tina Turner. The store explained that there was a PR event of some type going on at the time. Ok, this in itself is no big news, but...

Now the "Big O" (who earns 225 million a year) has called the president of Hermes to complain to him, cancelled an order for a $7000 purse AND, if that isn't bad enough, has claimed that she will do a one hour presentation on her show addressing "racial intolercance". If there's so much racial intolerance, how did SHE become such a big hit?

Is she kidding???!!!

Did it ever occur to the divine Ms. Winfrey that maybe, just maybe, the store was conducting business on its own and not waiting for her and her entourage to show up and make their income statement for the month??? Better yet, maybe Hermes problem with her wasn't her skin color. Maybe it was the fact that she's an American (they've no great love for us, after all). Or maybe they just don't like self absorbed, prima donna divas like Oprah! Or better still, maybe they haven't done anything wrong and certainly not worth this kind of lethal attention from Queen Oprah.

I'm sick and tired of the race card being played so much lately, especially by the likes of O.J. Simpson, Wacko Jacko (who passes more for white than black) and now Oprah. There are far too many African Americans facing real issues with prejudice and racism; like being denied good paying jobs, or a home in a nice neighborhood simply because of their skin color. Winfrey's recent spoiled brat tirade diminishes the real obstacles faced by many African Americans. And I doubt that any one of those obstacles comes even close to a $7000 purse. Jebus Cripes!

So, now she'll do a show rallying Americans to boycott Hermes or something to that effect. Mind you, I don't give a rat's *ss about Hermes. But, I do care when businesses are attacked for something as not-even-slightly-noteworthy as what happened to Winfrey.

Grrrrrrr......

LostAngeles · 24th June 2005, 02:26 PM

I thought they issued an immediate apology? And that the surveillance tapes back them up on saying they had explained the situation to her?

The hell?

Ladyhawk · 24th June 2005, 04:14 PM

Yes, Hermes did offer a very immediate apology and fell all over themselves stating that it was just a 'misunderstanding'. (They lost any respect I might have had for them at that moment)

Nonetheless, seems Ms. O isn't so easily placated. She cancelled the order on her purse and has told Hermes she will never purchase from them again. She also seems to think that she was refused at the door because she was black and that it had nothing to do with the fact that they had another event in progress. She arrived at Hermes at 6:45pm. They close at 6:30pm. But, I guess that's beside the point...

TragicMonkey · 24th June 2005, 04:18 PM

Perhaps it was just shock that somebody didn't recognize her.

Too bad Oprah's entourage isn't more like Leonardo Dicaprio's. They would have smashed the windows and beat some people up, then puked drunkenly all over the shop.

Hint, hint, Oprah, if you want to get some footage that will really boost your ratings.

Lisa Simpson · 24th June 2005, 04:21 PM

Last year I saw part of an Oprah show--"Oprah goes to Costco"--that annoyed the hell out of me. She walked around all wide-eyed at the merchandise and exclaiming that she'd never been to Costco before. I think she's forgotten what it's like to not be rich.

TragicMonkey · 24th June 2005, 04:29 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Lisa Simpson
Last year I saw part of an Oprah show--"Oprah goes to Costco"--that annoyed the hell out of me. She walked around all wide-eyed at the merchandise and exclaiming that she'd never been to Costco before. I think she's forgotten what it's like to not be rich.

That and her "giveaway" of cars turned my mother implacably against her former idol. Oprah sat there and took the credit for her "generosity"....in letting the car manufacturers give their vehicles to people. Oprah didn't spend a dime, but she can use the ratings to finagle another pay raise.

I wonder if those guys with the squirting camera are available to interview Oprah? Maybe she needs to come down a peg or two.

CapelDodger · 24th June 2005, 04:41 PM

The animal that used to be impressed and fascinated by the big cheeses in the clearing has, by way of village, tribe, town, city, troubadour, printed media, radio, film and TV become the same animal i&f'd by global big cheeses. And the animal that got the megalomainiac buzz from being a big cheese in the clearing ... same thing. The next step is that trans-global media-star in Twelve Monkeys.

Of course, while the big cheeses are preening and throwing tantrums, and the lumpen are loving them for it, the entourage - the Alpha-Minus types - are keeping a low profile and taking the cream.

TragicMonkey · 24th June 2005, 04:48 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by CapelDodger
The animal that used to be impressed and fascinated by the big cheeses in the clearing has, by way of village, tribe, town, city, troubadour, printed media, radio, film and TV become the same animal i&f'd by global big cheeses. And the animal that got the megalomainiac buzz from being a big cheese in the clearing ... same thing. The next step is that trans-global media-star in Twelve Monkeys.

Of course, while the big cheeses are preening and throwing tantrums, and the lumpen are loving them for it, the entourage - the Alpha-Minus types - are keeping a low profile and taking the cream.

I've read this five times and still can't figure out what it means. It's wicked cool, though, and seems to involve monkeys.

LostAngeles · 24th June 2005, 04:52 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by TragicMonkey
That and her "giveaway" of cars turned my mother implacably against her former idol. Oprah sat there and took the credit for her "generosity"....in letting the car manufacturers give their vehicles to people. Oprah didn't spend a dime, but she can use the ratings to finagle another pay raise.

I wonder if those guys with the squirting camera are available to interview Oprah? Maybe she needs to come down a peg or two.

...And why I assumed that she, herself, had bought the cars is beyond me because I'm not surprised.

Mycroft · 24th June 2005, 05:11 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by TragicMonkey
I've read this five times and still can't figure out what it means. It's wicked cool, though, and seems to involve monkeys.

I don't use the laughing dog very often, but that had tears running down my face I was laughing so hard. You nailed it right on the head!

CapelDodger · 24th June 2005, 05:22 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by TragicMonkey
I've read this five times and still can't figure out what it means. It's wicked cool, though, and seems to involve monkeys.

We are all monkeys.

Have you checked out the Great Pyramid? Puts Oprah and her entire entourage in the shade. And if not, she'll want to know the reason why. It gets wicked hot around there, stretch-camel or not.

Tmy · 24th June 2005, 05:38 PM

Its quite common for these stores to make special arrangements for their big clients. How often do stores close to the public so that big stars can shop bythemselves. Its kinda bad business to not placate your biggest customers. Sheeoot, if you got some sucker to spend $5,000 on a handbag, you best keep the doors open a little late.

Ladyhawk · 24th June 2005, 07:23 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Tmy
Its quite common for these stores to make special arrangements for their big clients. How often do stores close to the public so that big stars can shop bythemselves. Its kinda bad business to not placate your biggest customers. Sheeoot, if you got some sucker to spend $5,000 on a handbag, you best keep the doors open a little late.

You're right, but that still doesn't give a celebrity the right to publicly snub the store and then publicly accuse them of being racist. In fact, Oprah refusing to shop there anymore would have been more than payback enough...

Ladyhawk · 24th June 2005, 07:24 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by LostAngeles
...And why I assumed that she, herself, had bought the cars is beyond me because I'm not surprised.

I'm ashamed to admit it, but you're not alone....

Ladyhawk · 24th June 2005, 07:26 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by TragicMonkey
Perhaps it was just shock that somebody didn't recognize her.

Too bad Oprah's entourage isn't more like Leonardo Dicaprio's. They would have smashed the windows and beat some people up, then puked drunkenly all over the shop.

Hint, hint, Oprah, if you want to get some footage that will really boost your ratings.

Tmy · 24th June 2005, 08:12 PM

Is it such a leap to think that a SUPER HIGH END store in PARIS just might have a racist attitude?? Isnt France kinda known for such things. Seems like every now and then we see anti semitism stories from the place.

Lisa Simpson · 24th June 2005, 08:15 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Tmy
Is it such a leap to think that a SUPER HIGH END store in PARIS just might have a racist attitude?? Isnt France kinda known for such things. Seems like every now and then we see anti semitism stories from the place.

The store was closed for a private event. The probably would have turned away Cameron Diaz, too.

clarsct · 24th June 2005, 10:30 PM

Who cares?

KelvinG · 25th June 2005, 12:12 AM

So, if the store closes at 6:30, and it was 6:45, are we to assume that if a white person showed up at the door he would be let in?

I don't know. I'm white, and I'm never let into stores after hours. And I'm not even scary looking. Is it reverse racism?

I'm sure Oprah was more annoyed that she was being treated like common folk. But, screaming racism is always more effective. I doubt she'd be getting much sympathy if she complained that the store treated her "just like everyone else."

Drooper · 25th June 2005, 12:34 AM

This story leaves me wondering about the unfortunate, poorly paid shop assistant/manager who turned her away.

I wonder if that person has found themselves without a job.

At the very least, Ms Winfrey has probably made life very uncomfortable for the person. Isn't it nice to meet a multi millionaire who is a real champion of the "little people" .

CapelDodger · 25th June 2005, 01:31 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by TragicMonkey
I've read this five times and still can't figure out what it means. It's wicked cool, though, and seems to involve monkeys.

That should have been The Fifth Element (Chris Tucker's character), not the monkey-flick. Whisky after wine ... I should employ somebody to remind me not to do that (at which point I could throw a phone at them, or perhaps a handful of faeces).

zenith-nadir · 25th June 2005, 04:13 AM

It only shows everyone Oprah is one character on camera....and a completely different character off camera.

Don't be fooled by these celebrities, they think they are royalty, smart and important. When in fact they are usually drop outs, dumb and spoiled brats. I should know, I've been in the industry for 15 years...

[edited to add]

Quote:

Originally posted by LostAngeles
...And why I assumed that she, herself, had bought the cars is beyond me because I'm not surprised.

Oprah didn't spend a dime on those Pontiacs, Pontiac donated the cars and the people who got one had to pay $7,000 in taxes to take one home.

Kerberos · 25th June 2005, 04:35 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by KelvinG
So, if the store closes at 6:30, and it was 6:45, are we to assume that if a white person showed up at the door he would be let in?

I don't know. I'm white, and I'm never let into stores after hours. And I'm not even scary looking. Is it reverse racism?

I'm sure Oprah was more annoyed that she was being treated like common folk. But, screaming racism is always more effective. I doubt she'd be getting much sympathy if she complained that the store treated her "just like everyone else."

Well I was once let into a library ten minutes after it should have closed, as they were letting the last people out and were locking the door, ohh the joys of being white.

a_unique_person · 25th June 2005, 06:11 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by TragicMonkey
I've read this five times and still can't figure out what it means. It's wicked cool, though, and seems to involve monkeys.

I read it once and I can only conclude that CD has had even more to drink than I have.

Skeptic · 25th June 2005, 06:16 AM

AND, if that isn't bad enough, has claimed that she will do a one hour presentation on her show addressing "racial intolercance".

She seems to be taking a page out of Jesse Jackson's shakedown tactics: "give me what I want or I'll call you racists."

The Central Scrutinizer · 25th June 2005, 07:42 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ladyhawk
So, now she'll do a show rallying Americans to boycott Hermes or something to that effect.

I've been boycotting Hermes my entire life. Especially since I never heard of them.

Cleon · 25th June 2005, 07:50 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by The Central Scrutinizer
I've been boycotting Hermes my entire life. Especially since I never heard of them.

If they're selling $7,000 purses, chances are pretty good that even if I had heard of them before this, I never would've shopped there to begin with.

KelvinG · 25th June 2005, 10:03 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by The Central Scrutinizer
I've been boycotting Hermes my entire life. Especially since I never heard of them.

I've also been boycotting Hermes my whole life. Oh no, wait, I'm thinking of Herpes.

billydkid · 25th June 2005, 10:10 AM

It is inevitible that the rich and famous develop an exagerated sense of self worth and entitlement. And I would think that in the case of someone like Oprah who is disproportionately rich and famous that this inclination becomes even more pronounced. I can't imagine how you maintain a realistic sense of self when you are essentially worshipped by the common folk and virtually every person you encounter treats you with extreme deference.

The Central Scrutinizer · 25th June 2005, 10:15 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by billydkid
I can't imagine how you maintain a realistic sense of self when you are essentially worshipped by the common folk and virtually every person you encounter treats you with extreme deference.

Believe me, I struggle with it.

KelvinG · 25th June 2005, 12:52 PM

The Chicago Tribune article linked in the OP of this thread gives mininal details.
A CNN article about this story expands a bit more on the incident.

http://www.cnn.com/2005/SHOWBIZ/TV/06/22/oprah.apology/

Quote:

The New York Post, in its Monday Page Six gossip column, reported she was turned away because the store had been "having a problem with North Africans lately."

In comments to CNN, an Hermes spokeswoman categorically denied that allegation.

"There was never any discussion of North Africans," she said. "The story is not true."

If she was in fact turned away because of the North Africans comment, then I can understand her being pissed.
If she was turned away solely because the store was already closed then she is just an arrogant, whining wanker.

But, it looks like it's a case of he said/she said.

Drooper · 25th June 2005, 01:22 PM

It seems beyond the credible to claim that they would turn away Oprah Winfrey because she is black.

Oprah's "spokewoman" claims that they new it was Oprah, so the racism claims is a little hard to swallow,

renata · 25th June 2005, 01:33 PM

According to a Washington Post article the security video supports the site of the store

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn...062302086.html

Quote:

A Hermes spokeswoman said Winfrey arrived about 6:45, accompanied by three other people. A clerk and security guard were at the door and there was no discussion of North Africans or anyone else, according to the store's security videotape, which the company inspected after the incident. The guard explained that the store was closed. The clerk offered up her business card with an invitation for Winfrey to return the next day. The store manager, preparing for that evening's event, was not at the door.

....

People have argued that no matter what was going on inside the store, no matter what time it was, Winfrey -- the billionaire with millions of devoted fans who ask "How high?" when she says "Jump" -- should have been allowed to shop. It certainly would have been beneficial for the Hermes bottom line. But after-hours shopping is a favor, a perk. Not a right. There's nothing wrong with a store saying not tonight, madame, as long as the reason doesn't have anything to do with skin color. It's okay to say no to a celebrity, even when her name is Oprah.

Rob Lister · 25th June 2005, 01:44 PM

Have the security guard and/or clerk and/or manager been fired yet?

They will be.

TragicMonkey · 25th June 2005, 02:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Rob Lister
Have the security guard and/or clerk and/or manager been fired yet?

They will be.

That sounds so sinister. It gave me a mental image of Oprah standing over the security guard's body and saying to another security guard "You will find the rebels, Admiral Piett."

CapelDodger · 25th June 2005, 03:24 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Rob Lister
Have the security guard and/or clerk and/or manager been fired yet?

They will be.

Isn't this the socialist France with inflexible labour laws that make it almost impossible to fire anyone?

Lisa Simpson · 25th June 2005, 04:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by TragicMonkey
That sounds so sinister. It gave me a mental image of Oprah standing over the security guard's body and saying to another security guard "You will find the rebels, Admiral Piett."

Hmmm...

Mephisto · 26th June 2005, 04:02 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by TragicMonkey
That and her "giveaway" of cars turned my mother implacably against her former idol. Oprah sat there and took the credit for her "generosity"....in letting the car manufacturers give their vehicles to people. Oprah didn't spend a dime, but she can use the ratings to finagle another pay raise.

I agree about the car "giveaway." It ended up being a HUGE problem for most of the guests that got one as Oprah DID NOT pay tax, title and license for any of the vehicles and some guests couldn't afford the $7,000 price tag that came along with the "free" vehicle.

Certainly, the recepients of the vehicle could have sold the vehicle and paid the taxes, but that still puts a price tag (all the time and trouble) on the vehicle.

(edited to add)
"NBC5's Lisa Tutman said that the 276 audience members who received Pontiac G-Sixes on Winfrey's show will need to come up with thousands of dollars to cover taxes on their winnings."

http://www.nbc5.com/news/3750669/detail.html

Flo · 27th June 2005, 02:59 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Rob Lister
Have the security guard and/or clerk and/or manager been fired yet?

They will be.

No, they won't be. This is France, where unions would raise hell if someone was fired over some celebrity having a tantrum

Another point: nobody in France knows who Oprah is, except the 27 who had to wait for more than 7 hours in some US airport after the bars closed and had therefore to rely on leftover magazines

a_unique_person · 27th June 2005, 03:10 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Skeptic
AND, if that isn't bad enough, has claimed that she will do a one hour presentation on her show addressing "racial intolercance".

She seems to be taking a page out of Jesse Jackson's shakedown tactics: "give me what I want or I'll call you racists."

Must....resist....urge...to....type.....reply.....

24th June 2005, 02:14 PM	#1
Ladyhawk Muse Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Somewhere over the rainbow Posts: 848	Oprah Winfrey can kiss my... I don't know why but this latest antic of hers really burns me. Oprah snubbed by Hermes in France Apparently, Oprah visited the store after it closed and was livid that they didn't drop what they were doing and let her in so that she could buy a gift for Tina Turner. The store explained that there was a PR event of some type going on at the time. Ok, this in itself is no big news, but... Now the "Big O" (who earns 225 million a year) has called the president of Hermes to complain to him, cancelled an order for a $7000 purse AND, if that isn't bad enough, has claimed that she will do a one hour presentation on her show addressing "racial intolercance". If there's so much racial intolerance, how did SHE become such a big hit? Is she kidding???!!! Did it ever occur to the divine Ms. Winfrey that maybe, just maybe, the store was conducting business on its own and not waiting for her and her entourage to show up and make their income statement for the month??? Better yet, maybe Hermes problem with her wasn't her skin color. Maybe it was the fact that she's an American (they've no great love for us, after all). Or maybe they just don't like self absorbed, prima donna divas like Oprah! Or better still, maybe they haven't done anything wrong and certainly not worth this kind of lethal attention from Queen Oprah. I'm sick and tired of the race card being played so much lately, especially by the likes of O.J. Simpson, Wacko Jacko (who passes more for white than black) and now Oprah. There are far too many African Americans facing real issues with prejudice and racism; like being denied good paying jobs, or a home in a nice neighborhood simply because of their skin color. Winfrey's recent spoiled brat tirade diminishes the real obstacles faced by many African Americans. And I doubt that any one of those obstacles comes even close to a $7000 purse. Jebus Cripes! So, now she'll do a show rallying Americans to boycott Hermes or something to that effect. Mind you, I don't give a rat's *ss about Hermes. But, I do care when businesses are attacked for something as not-even-slightly-noteworthy as what happened to Winfrey. Grrrrrrr......
	__________________ "Does George Bush remember that he put his hand on the Bible and swore to uphold the Constitution ...not the other way around"? ~ Bill Maher

24th June 2005, 02:26 PM	#2
LostAngeles Anti-WM Jihadist Join Date: May 2004 Location: Having a cup of tea. Posts: 10,159	I thought they issued an immediate apology? And that the surveillance tapes back them up on saying they had explained the situation to her? The hell?
	__________________ "There is also a likelihood that the settlement will fall between two biomes, potentially hazardous if the player expects a peaceful oceanside meadow, without realizing the ocean is full of amphibious zombie whales." - Dwarf Fortress Wik

24th June 2005, 04:14 PM	#3
Ladyhawk Muse Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Somewhere over the rainbow Posts: 848	Yes, Hermes did offer a very immediate apology and fell all over themselves stating that it was just a 'misunderstanding'. (They lost any respect I might have had for them at that moment) Nonetheless, seems Ms. O isn't so easily placated. She cancelled the order on her purse and has told Hermes she will never purchase from them again. She also seems to think that she was refused at the door because she was black and that it had nothing to do with the fact that they had another event in progress. She arrived at Hermes at 6:45pm. They close at 6:30pm. But, I guess that's beside the point...
	__________________ "Does George Bush remember that he put his hand on the Bible and swore to uphold the Constitution ...not the other way around"? ~ Bill Maher

24th June 2005, 04:18 PM	#4
TragicMonkey Poisoned Waffles Pither Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: Monkey Posts: 30,061	Perhaps it was just shock that somebody didn't recognize her. Too bad Oprah's entourage isn't more like Leonardo Dicaprio's. They would have smashed the windows and beat some people up, then puked drunkenly all over the shop. Hint, hint, Oprah, if you want to get some footage that will really boost your ratings.
	__________________ One cannot expect wisdom to flow from a pumpkin.

24th June 2005, 04:21 PM	#5
Lisa Simpson THE Lisa Simpson Administrator Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: 123 Fake Street Posts: 20,045	Last year I saw part of an Oprah show--"Oprah goes to Costco"--that annoyed the hell out of me. She walked around all wide-eyed at the merchandise and exclaiming that she'd never been to Costco before. I think she's forgotten what it's like to not be rich.
	__________________ That's what the Internet does -- you get a free bonus prize of Stupid Lies with every box of Delicious Facts. - cracked.com Facts are satanic litter on the heavenly highway to blind faith! - Betty Bowers

24th June 2005, 04:29 PM	#6
TragicMonkey Poisoned Waffles Pither Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: Monkey Posts: 30,061	Quote: Originally posted by Lisa Simpson Last year I saw part of an Oprah show--"Oprah goes to Costco"--that annoyed the hell out of me. She walked around all wide-eyed at the merchandise and exclaiming that she'd never been to Costco before. I think she's forgotten what it's like to not be rich. That and her "giveaway" of cars turned my mother implacably against her former idol. Oprah sat there and took the credit for her "generosity"....in letting the car manufacturers give their vehicles to people. Oprah didn't spend a dime, but she can use the ratings to finagle another pay raise. I wonder if those guys with the squirting camera are available to interview Oprah? Maybe she needs to come down a peg or two.
	__________________ One cannot expect wisdom to flow from a pumpkin.

24th June 2005, 04:41 PM	#7
CapelDodger Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Cardiff, South Wales Posts: 16,740	The animal that used to be impressed and fascinated by the big cheeses in the clearing has, by way of village, tribe, town, city, troubadour, printed media, radio, film and TV become the same animal i&f'd by global big cheeses. And the animal that got the megalomainiac buzz from being a big cheese in the clearing ... same thing. The next step is that trans-global media-star in Twelve Monkeys. Of course, while the big cheeses are preening and throwing tantrums, and the lumpen are loving them for it, the entourage - the Alpha-Minus types - are keeping a low profile and taking the cream.
	__________________ It's a poor sort of memory that only works backward - Lewis Carroll (1832-1898) God can make a cow out of a tree, but has He ever done so? Therefore show some reason why a thing is so, or cease to hold that it is so - William of Conches, c1150

24th June 2005, 04:48 PM	#8
TragicMonkey Poisoned Waffles Pither Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: Monkey Posts: 30,061	Quote: Originally posted by CapelDodger The animal that used to be impressed and fascinated by the big cheeses in the clearing has, by way of village, tribe, town, city, troubadour, printed media, radio, film and TV become the same animal i&f'd by global big cheeses. And the animal that got the megalomainiac buzz from being a big cheese in the clearing ... same thing. The next step is that trans-global media-star in Twelve Monkeys. Of course, while the big cheeses are preening and throwing tantrums, and the lumpen are loving them for it, the entourage - the Alpha-Minus types - are keeping a low profile and taking the cream. I've read this five times and still can't figure out what it means. It's wicked cool, though, and seems to involve monkeys.
	__________________ One cannot expect wisdom to flow from a pumpkin.

24th June 2005, 04:52 PM	#9
LostAngeles Anti-WM Jihadist Join Date: May 2004 Location: Having a cup of tea. Posts: 10,159	Quote: Originally posted by TragicMonkey That and her "giveaway" of cars turned my mother implacably against her former idol. Oprah sat there and took the credit for her "generosity"....in letting the car manufacturers give their vehicles to people. Oprah didn't spend a dime, but she can use the ratings to finagle another pay raise. I wonder if those guys with the squirting camera are available to interview Oprah? Maybe she needs to come down a peg or two. ...And why I assumed that she, herself, had bought the cars is beyond me because I'm not surprised.
	__________________ "There is also a likelihood that the settlement will fall between two biomes, potentially hazardous if the player expects a peaceful oceanside meadow, without realizing the ocean is full of amphibious zombie whales." - Dwarf Fortress Wik

24th June 2005, 05:11 PM	#10
Mycroft High Priest of Ed Join Date: Sep 2003 Posts: 16,105	Quote: Originally posted by TragicMonkey I've read this five times and still can't figure out what it means. It's wicked cool, though, and seems to involve monkeys. I don't use the laughing dog very often, but that had tears running down my face I was laughing so hard. You nailed it right on the head!
	__________________ Surely Israel is the party to blame? -a_unique_person I do have Mycroft on ignore, he is pretty much the Matt Giwer of your side. -a_unique_person Palestinian Refugees

24th June 2005, 05:22 PM	#11
CapelDodger Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Cardiff, South Wales Posts: 16,740	Quote: Originally posted by TragicMonkey I've read this five times and still can't figure out what it means. It's wicked cool, though, and seems to involve monkeys. We are all monkeys. Have you checked out the Great Pyramid? Puts Oprah and her entire entourage in the shade. And if not, she'll want to know the reason why. It gets wicked hot around there, stretch-camel or not.
	__________________ It's a poor sort of memory that only works backward - Lewis Carroll (1832-1898) God can make a cow out of a tree, but has He ever done so? Therefore show some reason why a thing is so, or cease to hold that it is so - William of Conches, c1150

24th June 2005, 05:38 PM	#12
Tmy Philosopher Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Republic of Massachusetts Posts: 6,489	Its quite common for these stores to make special arrangements for their big clients. How often do stores close to the public so that big stars can shop bythemselves. Its kinda bad business to not placate your biggest customers. Sheeoot, if you got some sucker to spend $5,000 on a handbag, you best keep the doors open a little late.
	__________________ "Common sense is something that skeptics can and should do without." -shanek

24th June 2005, 07:23 PM	#13
Ladyhawk Muse Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Somewhere over the rainbow Posts: 848	Quote: Originally posted by Tmy Its quite common for these stores to make special arrangements for their big clients. How often do stores close to the public so that big stars can shop bythemselves. Its kinda bad business to not placate your biggest customers. Sheeoot, if you got some sucker to spend $5,000 on a handbag, you best keep the doors open a little late. You're right, but that still doesn't give a celebrity the right to publicly snub the store and then publicly accuse them of being racist. In fact, Oprah refusing to shop there anymore would have been more than payback enough...
	__________________ "Does George Bush remember that he put his hand on the Bible and swore to uphold the Constitution ...not the other way around"? ~ Bill Maher

24th June 2005, 07:24 PM	#14
Ladyhawk Muse Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Somewhere over the rainbow Posts: 848	Quote: Originally posted by LostAngeles ...And why I assumed that she, herself, had bought the cars is beyond me because I'm not surprised. I'm ashamed to admit it, but you're not alone....
	__________________ "Does George Bush remember that he put his hand on the Bible and swore to uphold the Constitution ...not the other way around"? ~ Bill Maher

24th June 2005, 07:26 PM	#15
Ladyhawk Muse Join Date: Feb 2002 Location: Somewhere over the rainbow Posts: 848	Quote: Originally posted by TragicMonkey Perhaps it was just shock that somebody didn't recognize her. Too bad Oprah's entourage isn't more like Leonardo Dicaprio's. They would have smashed the windows and beat some people up, then puked drunkenly all over the shop. Hint, hint, Oprah, if you want to get some footage that will really boost your ratings.
	__________________ "Does George Bush remember that he put his hand on the Bible and swore to uphold the Constitution ...not the other way around"? ~ Bill Maher

24th June 2005, 08:12 PM	#16
Tmy Philosopher Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: Republic of Massachusetts Posts: 6,489	Is it such a leap to think that a SUPER HIGH END store in PARIS just might have a racist attitude?? Isnt France kinda known for such things. Seems like every now and then we see anti semitism stories from the place.
	__________________ "Common sense is something that skeptics can and should do without." -shanek

24th June 2005, 08:15 PM	#17
Lisa Simpson THE Lisa Simpson Administrator Join Date: Mar 2004 Location: 123 Fake Street Posts: 20,045	Quote: Originally posted by Tmy Is it such a leap to think that a SUPER HIGH END store in PARIS just might have a racist attitude?? Isnt France kinda known for such things. Seems like every now and then we see anti semitism stories from the place. The store was closed for a private event. The probably would have turned away Cameron Diaz, too.
	__________________ That's what the Internet does -- you get a free bonus prize of Stupid Lies with every box of Delicious Facts. - cracked.com Facts are satanic litter on the heavenly highway to blind faith! - Betty Bowers

24th June 2005, 10:30 PM	#18
clarsct Humor Impaired Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: The Cultural Desert Posts: 4,910	Who cares?
	__________________ When Religion becomes State, and breaking the Law becomes Sin, then Dissenters will become Heretics. Oh nonsense. Still not hugging you. -Kiless Forum Tosser and Skirt Chaser

25th June 2005, 12:12 AM	#19
KelvinG Master Poster Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Vancouver, BC Posts: 2,379	So, if the store closes at 6:30, and it was 6:45, are we to assume that if a white person showed up at the door he would be let in? I don't know. I'm white, and I'm never let into stores after hours. And I'm not even scary looking. Is it reverse racism? I'm sure Oprah was more annoyed that she was being treated like common folk. But, screaming racism is always more effective. I doubt she'd be getting much sympathy if she complained that the store treated her "just like everyone else."
	__________________ Science is like a blabbermouth that ruins the ending to a movie. There are some things we don't want to know. Important things - Ned Flanders

25th June 2005, 12:34 AM	#20
Drooper Guest Join Date: Nov 2002 Posts: 1,983	This story leaves me wondering about the unfortunate, poorly paid shop assistant/manager who turned her away. I wonder if that person has found themselves without a job. At the very least, Ms Winfrey has probably made life very uncomfortable for the person. Isn't it nice to meet a multi millionaire who is a real champion of the "little people" .
Drooper Guest Join Date: Nov 2002 Posts: 1,983

25th June 2005, 01:31 AM	#21
CapelDodger Penultimate Amazing Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Cardiff, South Wales Posts: 16,740	Quote: Originally posted by TragicMonkey I've read this five times and still can't figure out what it means. It's wicked cool, though, and seems to involve monkeys. That should have been The Fifth Element (Chris Tucker's character), not the monkey-flick. Whisky after wine ... I should employ somebody to remind me not to do that (at which point I could throw a phone at them, or perhaps a handful of faeces).
	__________________ It's a poor sort of memory that only works backward - Lewis Carroll (1832-1898) God can make a cow out of a tree, but has He ever done so? Therefore show some reason why a thing is so, or cease to hold that it is so - William of Conches, c1150

25th June 2005, 04:13 AM	#22
zenith-nadir Illuminator Join Date: Feb 2004 Posts: 4,500	It only shows everyone Oprah is one character on camera....and a completely different character off camera. Don't be fooled by these celebrities, they think they are royalty, smart and important. When in fact they are usually drop outs, dumb and spoiled brats. I should know, I've been in the industry for 15 years... [edited to add] Quote: Originally posted by LostAngeles ...And why I assumed that she, herself, had bought the cars is beyond me because I'm not surprised. Oprah didn't spend a dime on those Pontiacs, Pontiac donated the cars and the people who got one had to pay $7,000 in taxes to take one home.
	__________________ The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled. -- Plutarch

25th June 2005, 04:35 AM	#23
Kerberos Illuminator Join Date: Aug 2003 Posts: 4,608	Quote: Originally posted by KelvinG So, if the store closes at 6:30, and it was 6:45, are we to assume that if a white person showed up at the door he would be let in? I don't know. I'm white, and I'm never let into stores after hours. And I'm not even scary looking. Is it reverse racism? I'm sure Oprah was more annoyed that she was being treated like common folk. But, screaming racism is always more effective. I doubt she'd be getting much sympathy if she complained that the store treated her "just like everyone else." Well I was once let into a library ten minutes after it should have closed, as they were letting the last people out and were locking the door, ohh the joys of being white.
Kerberos Illuminator Join Date: Aug 2003 Posts: 4,608	__________________ Bible code: A method for obtaining hidden messages from texts that contains none, for the purpose of predicting events after they happen. "When the facts are on you side, but the law is against you, stress the facts. When the law is on your side, but the facts are against you stress the law. When both the facts and the law is against you, pound the table and yell like hell". Laywer maxim

25th June 2005, 06:11 AM	#24
a_unique_person Director of Hatcheries and Conditioning Join Date: Jul 2002 Location: Mt Disappointment Posts: 33,317	Quote: Originally posted by TragicMonkey I've read this five times and still can't figure out what it means. It's wicked cool, though, and seems to involve monkeys. I read it once and I can only conclude that CD has had even more to drink than I have.
	__________________ *Continually pushing the boundaries of mediocrity.* Everything is possible, but not everything is probable. For if a man pretend to me that God hath spoken to him supernaturally, and immediately, and I make doubt of it, I cannot easily perceive what argument he can produce to oblige me to believe it. Hobbes

25th June 2005, 06:16 AM	#25
Skeptic Banned Join Date: Jul 2001 Location: Behind the chessboard Posts: 18,361	AND, if that isn't bad enough, has claimed that she will do a one hour presentation on her show addressing "racial intolercance". She seems to be taking a page out of Jesse Jackson's shakedown tactics: "give me what I want or I'll call you racists."

25th June 2005, 07:42 AM	#26
The Central Scrutinizer Penultimate Amazing Pither Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: The White Zone Posts: 42,264	Re: Oprah Winfrey can kiss my... Quote: Originally posted by Ladyhawk So, now she'll do a show rallying Americans to boycott Hermes or something to that effect. I've been boycotting Hermes my entire life. Especially since I never heard of them.
	__________________ If I see somebody with a gun on a plane? I'll kill him.

25th June 2005, 07:50 AM	#27
Cleon King of the Pod People Moderator Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Atlanta, GA Posts: 20,506	Re: Re: Oprah Winfrey can kiss my... Quote: Originally posted by The Central Scrutinizer I've been boycotting Hermes my entire life. Especially since I never heard of them. If they're selling $7,000 purses, chances are pretty good that even if I had heard of them before this, I never would've shopped there to begin with.
	__________________ "People like me are what stand between us and Auschwitz." - Newt Gingrich

25th June 2005, 10:03 AM	#28
KelvinG Master Poster Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Vancouver, BC Posts: 2,379	Re: Re: Oprah Winfrey can kiss my... Quote: Originally posted by The Central Scrutinizer I've been boycotting Hermes my entire life. Especially since I never heard of them. I've also been boycotting Hermes my whole life. Oh no, wait, I'm thinking of Herpes.
	__________________ Science is like a blabbermouth that ruins the ending to a movie. There are some things we don't want to know. Important things - Ned Flanders

25th June 2005, 10:10 AM	#29
billydkid Illuminator Join Date: Aug 2002 Location: Blanchester, OH Posts: 4,930	Rich and famous It is inevitible that the rich and famous develop an exagerated sense of self worth and entitlement. And I would think that in the case of someone like Oprah who is disproportionately rich and famous that this inclination becomes even more pronounced. I can't imagine how you maintain a realistic sense of self when you are essentially worshipped by the common folk and virtually every person you encounter treats you with extreme deference.

25th June 2005, 10:15 AM	#30
The Central Scrutinizer Penultimate Amazing Pither Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: The White Zone Posts: 42,264	Re: Rich and famous Quote: Originally posted by billydkid I can't imagine how you maintain a realistic sense of self when you are essentially worshipped by the common folk and virtually every person you encounter treats you with extreme deference. Believe me, I struggle with it.
	__________________ If I see somebody with a gun on a plane? I'll kill him.

25th June 2005, 12:52 PM	#31
KelvinG Master Poster Join Date: Sep 2001 Location: Vancouver, BC Posts: 2,379	The Chicago Tribune article linked in the OP of this thread gives mininal details. A CNN article about this story expands a bit more on the incident. http://www.cnn.com/2005/SHOWBIZ/TV/06/22/oprah.apology/ Quote: The New York Post, in its Monday Page Six gossip column, reported she was turned away because the store had been "having a problem with North Africans lately." In comments to CNN, an Hermes spokeswoman categorically denied that allegation. "There was never any discussion of North Africans," she said. "The story is not true." If she was in fact turned away because of the North Africans comment, then I can understand her being pissed. If she was turned away solely because the store was already closed then she is just an arrogant, whining wanker. But, it looks like it's a case of he said/she said.
	__________________ Science is like a blabbermouth that ruins the ending to a movie. There are some things we don't want to know. Important things - Ned Flanders

25th June 2005, 01:22 PM	#32
Drooper Guest Join Date: Nov 2002 Posts: 1,983	It seems beyond the credible to claim that they would turn away Oprah Winfrey because she is black. Oprah's "spokewoman" claims that they new it was Oprah, so the racism claims is a little hard to swallow,
Drooper Guest Join Date: Nov 2002 Posts: 1,983

25th June 2005, 01:33 PM	#33
renata Illuminator Join Date: Jan 2002 Posts: 3,334	According to a Washington Post article the security video supports the site of the store http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn...062302086.html Quote: A Hermes spokeswoman said Winfrey arrived about 6:45, accompanied by three other people. A clerk and security guard were at the door and there was no discussion of North Africans or anyone else, according to the store's security videotape, which the company inspected after the incident. The guard explained that the store was closed. The clerk offered up her business card with an invitation for Winfrey to return the next day. The store manager, preparing for that evening's event, was not at the door. .... People have argued that no matter what was going on inside the store, no matter what time it was, Winfrey -- the billionaire with millions of devoted fans who ask "How high?" when she says "Jump" -- should have been allowed to shop. It certainly would have been beneficial for the Hermes bottom line. But after-hours shopping is a favor, a perk. Not a right. There's nothing wrong with a store saying not tonight, madame, as long as the reason doesn't have anything to do with skin color. It's okay to say no to a celebrity, even when her name is Oprah.
renata Illuminator Join Date: Jan 2002 Posts: 3,334	__________________ The 2006 Skepchick Calendar Smart is sexy. Who is this renata person?... the local nutcase?- GP 2/15/05

25th June 2005, 01:44 PM	#34
Rob Lister Suspended Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Virginia Beach, VA Posts: 8,523	Have the security guard and/or clerk and/or manager been fired yet? They will be.

25th June 2005, 02:51 PM	#35
TragicMonkey Poisoned Waffles Pither Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: Monkey Posts: 30,061	Quote: Originally posted by Rob Lister Have the security guard and/or clerk and/or manager been fired yet? They will be. That sounds so sinister. It gave me a mental image of Oprah standing over the security guard's body and saying to another security guard "You will find the rebels, Admiral Piett."
	__________________ One cannot expect wisdom to flow from a pumpkin.