Ole Pappy

I grew up reading the sports and news columns of Jim Klobuchar, who covered everything like a glove. Jim has passed away, and his daughter Amy Klobuchar has become a U. S. Senator from Minnesota.

Recently Amy wrote, “In Minnesota, we understand the importance of a free press. It’s hard to forget in our state — Minnesotans are among the most engaged citizens in the country.

Last year, we again ranked first in the nation in voter turnout. Minnesotans volunteer at the second highest rate in the country. And we usually look to our local newspapers as the first stop for the information we need.”

She brought back a ton of memories for me when she said, “In my house growing up, it was impossible to forget the importance of a free press. My dad was a journalist.”

I always looked up to Jim Klobuchar because he wouldn’t say no, wouldn’t quit, until he had what he thought was the truth. He felt the news was worth fighting for.

And Amy added, “So, from a very young age, I understood the important role the press has played in our democracy.

And today, I understand a free press is as important as ever.”

Today, social media, among other things threatens the very fabric of newspapers.

Even Amy Klobuchar wrote, “I’m determined to protect journalists and defend freedom of the press.

My dad expects me to. The oath I took to ‘support and defend the Constitution’ demands that I do.”

Enough said!

LAUGH A LITTLE: What’s your name? A man went to the coffee shop and asked for a regular cup of coffee.

“What is your name?” the clerk asked. The man answered, “Marc, with a C.”

The clerk returned with a coffee cup with the name written on the side. It said: “Cark!”

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK: As my Ole Pappy used to say, “If you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”

Thanks Ole Pappy!