Bachelors and bachelorettes

There’s little doubt, that like a lot of “seasoned-citizens,” I watch entirely too much television. Some of the shows I view are educational; however, all too often I simply watch programs that tickle the imagination, especially those with human interest. Then we have hour long, weekly programs like “The Bachelor.”

Some programs are simply done for entertainment, some for a lot of good laughs. Just once in awhile, however, along comes one bachelor or bachelorette show that ends with a couple really falling in love and getting married before our very eyes. In one previous show a beautiful young woman had lost to another girl. She was now the contestant in their latest shown hoping to find a husband.

The show began with 25 handsome young men exiting a series of limos one by one. Finally, a tall young fireman man from Vail, Colorado exited. He stood before her and read a beautiful poem. Of course, the rest is history. There were two contestants the audience was rooting for, but the favorite – a very successful businessman – lost to the poem-writing fireman from Vail. Those two nice young people are married and have two children.

This program brings together young folks who, as a group, go on a series of trips all over the globe. I’ve seen them go to London and Paris. Last week they were in Bermuda. Each week the Bbachelor or bachelorette picks one contestant out of the group for a day-long date. Then they have a group date with nine or 10 people for assorted contests. Usually it has to do with a sporting event.

Every so often there’ll be some kind of entertainment show with an audience, and the girls or guys show what kind of talents they possess. During the week the girl or guy gives out roses. But only for some of the contestants for assorted reasons. Usually one is given for the person he or she has found to be the most entertaining or informative for one reason or another.

A rose is usually given on the single date. Once in awhile that doesn’t happen. In that case it means the contestant is going home. At the end of the week roses are distributed to those contestants who will be staying. Anyone left without a rose — usually one or two people — is sent home.

If you enjoy watching a show that tells about the human condition, this is the program to watch.

Before too long personality clashes — which happen with the men as well as the gossipy girls — begin to show who’s that one person nobody likes and should be going home. It doesn’t always happen that way. The human condition being what it is, the bachelor or bachelorette often has a “thing” for the very person they shouldn’t ever consider. Self-centered folks are good at covering their selfishness but in the end often show their true colors.

This show is really fun to watch, especially the last show when the Bachelor got rid of the girl I was afraid he would end up marrying. Of course there’s always something about any program that isn’t pleasant. In this one it’s the use of the word “like” and the entire cast talks like this: “Okay, but like I didn’t mean to “like” say that, but “like” you understand.”

Everybody in the cast seems to pick up this annoying habit. I sit listening, waiting for the next person to use that “like” word and want to scream. About a year ago another annoying speech habit hit television with expressions that people use all too often. It began with a commentator on Fox News using the phrase “ the fact of the matter is.”

Every time my son Doug or I hear that phrase we both let out a moan you could hear in Fernley. Then there’s “at the end of the day” or “for what it’s worth.” These expressions are repeated over and over during news broadcasts. All of the above – and other annoying phrases I’ve forgotten for the moment — are being used during what has become an overzealous group of political newscasters.

Now I remember that last phase! It’s “With all due respect.” Come on, we know it means exactly the opposite. I know that this next election is very important and I’m listening intently. But please, I wish those fine folks would never use these overdone phrases. I’m forecasting that it’s going to be a very long time until November.

Edna Van Leuven is a Churchill County writer and columnist. She may be reached at news@lahontanvalleynews.com