Freedom to read or look away

Dear editor:

I read, with interest, Mr. Thomas’s recent letter of what might be termed as pontification. The fact that he points out that certain individuals, Mr. Isherwood being one, seem to get preferential treatment as to submission of letters, is interesting.

Perhaps if he feels this strongly about such things, he should apply for a managing editorial position with the Herald as he doesn’t seem to feel that the role of same is being carried out properly. Freedom of the press and freedom of speech are just that: freedoms fought for by many brave men and women so that we might all enjoy such things.

The editorial process is one that the valley editor of the Herald has set up and follows. The conditions of such are plain and simple. If a letter is deemed appropriate, there is a good possibility that it will see print. What gives Mr. Thomas the right to challenge how things are done? The answer, freedom of the press! He has stated his beliefs and had them printed. The editor has offered him the space to air his opinion. He should be satisfied with that. His letter, though blatantly critical, got published didn’t it?

Mr. Thomas needs to realize that the managing editor’s job is to evaluate submissions sent in for consideration. That’s the mandate given.

Mr. Thomas, to think otherwise, is a poor gesture on your part. The bottom line is that no one is forcing you to read the paper and the letters to the editor from Mr. Isherwood and others. If you don’t like what you see, don’t read the paper! Ron Barillaro Penticton