07.Jul.2009 Cursing for a Cause

Earlier this year, the Editorial Department at West Hawaii Today realized it had an explosive problem — the verbal kind.

In particular, certain co-workers had been dropping the F-bomb every time they got off the phone, had computer problems, or dealt with an unreasonable person or issue. In stressful situations, their vulgar ranting rose.

“Frustration. Joking. We don’t need a reason. We just do it because we want to,” said Kim Eaton, universal desk person and reporter, explaining the swearing. “Perhaps, we were all sailors in another life.”

Editor Reed Flickinger decided to transform the outbursts of foul language into a fundraiser for Special Olympics West Hawaii because “it’s a good cause.”

Now every time a reporter, editor, photographer, page designer, copy editor, visitor or interviewee uses the infamous F-bomb in the newsroom, he or she must pay 25 cents. That money goes into “The F-Bomb Kitty” — a bank sitting on Flickinger’s desk. Carolyn Lucas, reporter and SOWH blog editor, often thanks participants for their expletive and contributing to SOWH. When the kitty is full or deemed “heavy enough,” the money — usually between $10 to $25 — is given to SOWH.

In a June 29 letter addressed to the West Hawaii Today Editorial F-Bombers, SOWH Area Director Dave Ross wrote, “It’s nice to see dirty words make for happy things. Your stress-induced cursing is a great help so we can carry out the mission of Special Olympics Hawaii: to provide year-round sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. Our program helps athletes to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skill and friendship with fellow athletes, families and the community.”

“Oddly enough we frown on our athletes dropping the F-Bombs on the field. When they do, they get to run laps and do push-ups. But your zingers get us a shiny quarter! Sweet,” Ross’ letter stated. “Your support honors their accomplishments and encourages the efforts of our dedicated volunteers. On behalf of the athletes, families and volunteers who partipate in SOWH events throughout the year, thank you for your continued support. Remember to let it all out when those deadlines come crashing down.”