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Jury hears Trump and Cohen Discussing Hush-Money Deal on secret recording; Nature-based solutions help solve Mississippi River Delta problems; Public lands groups cheer the expansion of two CA national monuments; 'Art Against the Odds' shines a light on artists in the WI justice system.

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President Biden defends dissent but says "order must prevail" on campus, former President Trump won't commit to accepting the 2024 election results and Nebraska lawmakers circumvent a ballot measure repealing private school vouchers.

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Bidding begins soon for Wyoming's elk antlers, Southeastern states gained population in the past year, small rural energy projects are losing out to bigger proposals, and a rural arts cooperative is filling the gap for schools in Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

The Roar Over Tropic Thunder: Disability Advocates Boycott Film

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Monday, August 18, 2008   

Nashville, TN – The summer film "Tropic Thunder" has prompted some lightning of its own at movie theatres, igniting controversy with its portrayal of people with intellectual disabilities.

The movie contains several uses of the word "retard" to refer to individuals, as well as a catch phrase ("full retard") that disability advocates find particularly offensive. Many are worried that it could lead to widespread use of insulting terms that they have worked hard to eliminate as public jargon, according to Alan Bolick, president of Special Olympics Tennessee.

"Quite a few of us see this whole reference to 'full retard' being the next saying, the next catch-line, particularly among many youth."

Despite the film's "R" rating, many young people will see it eventually, Bolick says, but he thinks this week's attention has at least provided an opportunity to reach out to moviegoers in a positive way.

"Hopefully we can educate a lot of people before they go in. Then, when they see the movie, they'll have a different feeling coming out."

"Tropic Thunder" is a comedy spoof about a group of actors making a war movie. Its production company, DreamWorks, and distributor, Paramount Pictures, say the film's intention is to poke fun at Hollywood, not at folks with disabilities. But Bolick says his athletes find the language hurtful and demeaning.

Local groups are circulating a Statement of Solidarity and Support to express their outrage at the language used in the film. It is available online at www.specialolympicstn.org.



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