Bisbort: Fans Say Farewell
As a career journalist I closely follow the transformative developments in the media business, in particular a newspaper's attempt to stay afloat by adopting the "need to go local" mantra—echoed in your November 19 issue as your reasoning for dropping the Alan Bisbort column. To focus on Main Street and avert your gaze from the world is to contribute in some measure to the process in which the American public becomes one that is less and less informed, less knowledgeable, unaware of its history, the victim of demagoguery and misrule. In a country sliding toward fascism, space needs to be given to the remaining small voices of women and men who tell it like it is.
Carl Doerner
Conway
A great disappointment filled me reading "Farewell From a Father" by Alan Bisbort. Upon picking up the Valley Advocate, I turn to the contents to see what Alan is writing about this week. I've clipped his column many times to share with others because of his wide and interesting perspective on whatever is his topic. He is the cream of the crop.
Please reconsider. The effect might not be worth the cost.
Franny Wildflower
West Dummerston, Vt.
I am saddened to hear that Alan Bisbort's weekly editorials are being cut. His well-articulated, impassioned views and sometimes humorous twists are the first that I read when I pick up the Advocate. Many of his themes resonate with me; facets of psychology, politics, history, sociology, culture, personal (family, fatherhood, self in younger days) weave into excellent writing and poignant points not often dealt with in the media. I remember so well the "It's Stupidity, Stupid" article. I'm glad that Alan will still be writing in whatever "vein" is forthcoming. You have an excellent alternative paper, and I send great appreciation for all you do to sustain it.
Linda Babcock
Haydenville
Democrats Can Prevail
In a rare fit of bipartisanship for the benefit of these United States, I recommend that all Democrat voters contact their senators and reps, demanding that they pass President Obama's sweeping healthcare reform. Since they have a majority in both houses, victory is certain. Shortly thereafter, the Dems will be recalled and all their new programs dismantled. Republicans will prevail for a few years. In short order, frustrated Republican voters will again detect and reject the same false facade of phony principles.
It gets monotonous.
Joseph Pasulka
Southport, N.C.
