Feels there was lack of facts in coverage

Editor,

Thank you for running the letter from Bernadine Lovell, July 14. I like many Mission Valley residents have been frustrated with the lack of solid information regarding the Jore-Windham legal case. A case that whether we ask for it or not, is being thrust in our faces. Bernadine's letter regarding the legal fees decision was exactly the type of explanation needed to diffuse a situation that has soured the public discourse in our community.

I would also like to ask The Leader why it required a citizen's letter to bring this clarifying information to light? The most basic of reporting groundwork should have turned up this explanation, i.e. a phone call to Windham's attorney. A bias of omission is just as damaging and just as irresponsible as an expressed bias.

Our community newspaper has been a welcome diversion from the polarizing debates of national politics and religion, a place to check up on local news and sports, and yes, local politics. Unfortunately, a disturbing bias has emerged recently, in particular, an inordinate number of letters to the editor spewing hateful religious diatribes. I recall one confused individual claiming that if a woman's right to choose were outlawed then the social security problem would be solved. Huh?

Editor, you are new to our community and are most likely passing through on your way to bigger and better journalism positions. However, we have lived here for generations and plan on living here for generations to come. With your help we can face these disputes, analyze them and move on. Without your help we'll eventually do the same thing. But it would be easier if you pitched in and did your share of presenting the whole story.

Carlene Engstrom

Pablo