I am writing in response to your article in the comment section of May 3rd edition of the Advocate. The alleged behavior outside the town office could be classified as unprofessional. However, to liken it to the comments and behavior of Rob Ford is an absurd stretch. It is also a grave insult to the councillors involved.
I would also like to comment on the controversial article in question, “Town Mess Spills Onto Streets” printed on April 26th. I was confused by the section subtitled “Off Message.” According to the dictionary “Off Message” is used to describe a politician who expresses opinions that are different from the official opinions of his or her political party. That part of the article was a rather jumbled account of text messages regarding a town councillor who had the good sense not to drive after a couple of drinks. How is that “Off Message?” How is this news? In what ways does it go against the official opinions of town council?
After reading the article I felt a great deal of sympathy with councillor Verhaeghe. I know him to be a highly educated individual. He is a lawyer and as such has to represent his clients in court. I assume that means he is very capable of putting together a coherent, grammatically correct, well-articulated argument. The quote that was attributed to him regarding “the downward spiral” was disjointed and garbled. I think you did him a grave disservice. Is it your intent to make all the town councillors look ridiculous?
A tabloid is newspaper dominated by headlines, photographs, and sensational stories. Your article certainly qualifies as such. I expect a higher standard from our local paper.
Sincerely,
Sharon Harding
Athabasca, AB
