A Stinkin' Idea
In the April 6 issue in the "Ear to the Ground," you summarized the Senate Bill 2155 that permits the disposal of solid waste without governmental supervision or input from the citizenry. Your final comment was, "Smells kind of funny."
I find that comment to be overwhelming, and at the same time, an understatement! Death, plagues, and an assortment of infectious diseases are genuine possibilities that deserve serious consideration.
For some inconceivable motive, Tim Burchett is trying to relate an impression that Tennesseans are a bunch of illiterate, stupid people. His legislative attempts portray us [as] scavengers, surviving from the land (remember the road kill bill he introduced in '99) without the benefits of pasteurization, USDA inspections, or customary health concerns.
When the national media gets "wind" of Burchett's latest trash-centered "stinkin'" idea, they'll have a field day with this garbage bill as they did with the road kill fracas.
Is he trying to get name recognition for these suggestions? Is the egocentric urge to create legislation so intense that Burchett casts common sense aside in devising these disgusting bills? Where is the honor associated with representing the people? Does he delight in having us appear as a state of fools? Is he simply trying to "push the envelope" of revulsion?
When I think of Tim Burchett as a state senator, I am personally embarrassed that he represents my district. He does not appear to have the seriousness of purpose, efforts of determination, and concrete accomplishments that I instinctively expect of an individual who represents me or my interests to improve the lives of Tennesseans... especially the lives of our children.
Barbara Rasmussen
Knoxville
Well, There's Always the Internet
When public officials are "afraid to talk to reporters," it may on rare occasion be due to the reporter's excellence in fact finding and because the public official conceals some nefarious secret ["Ear to the Ground," Vol. 10, No. 16, in reference to former News-Sentinel reporter John North]. It is far more likely because the reporter has demonstrated a disregard for the facts, an unwillingness to consider both sides of an issue, or is clearly in pursuit of an agenda that requires he or she reach a particular conclusion. The reporter has an outlet for his or her opinions, the public official does not.
Dwight Van de Vate
Chief Deputy, Knox County Sheriff's Department
Knoxville
Party On
I'd like to nominate the Metro Pulse for the overlooked category of "Best Party for the City." The "Best of Knoxville" party held last week at the Jockey Club deserves kudos for having been a tremendous event celebrating so much of what makes Knoxville a great place to live.
Thanks for throwing the party and for letting your readers share in the fun.
Michael Haynes
Knoxville
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