THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, January 27, 1995 TAG: 9501270010
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A12 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 27 lines
Regarding Beth Barber's supposed editorial comment ``When Allen's critics lob mortars, why does Allen return BBs?'' (Jan. 21): I was distressed to read language and cliches which I had grown accustomed to hearing from Governor Allen's press secretary.
Ms. Barber's rhetoric and ideological hyperbole are suited for a politician but not an editor, unless she is intentionally exaggerating for point/counterpoint.
I saw no counterpoint to her extreme rhetoric in your newspaper. How can an editor justify using the terms ``fat-cat, sassy and spendthirft'' to inflame the public discussion of spending cuts that are by their nature emotional?
I hope calmer and more thoughtful voices will prevail in your offices in the future.
HENRY E. HOWELL III
Virginia Beach Jan. 21, 1995 by CNB