March 28, 2008
To the Editor:
Thanks to all the Spartans who donated their time and talents to support the “no-on-garbage” effort. We lost in our attempt to stop the utility, but the remolding job isn’t over! 2,467 voters said “no.” We fell short of our victory by a trifle 415 votes. This is significant in light of the fact that we spent less than $200 for our advertising campaign, and the Sparta Township Council and Blue Diamond spent well over $10,000. In addition, contrary to comments from the Mayor of Sparta and his supporters, we never presented any lies or miss-information. Everyone who donated time and effort to this cause should be very proud. You were a significant part of this American process of government. Our grass roots organization reached incredible success and our commitment to contribute meaningfully to the American governmental process has “only just begun”. Several issues regarding this vote have yet to be resolved, however, through this grass roots campaign, we have learned a great deal about our town and our governing officials. As you are aware, three of the councilmen have received notices of intention for recall. In the upcoming weeks, we will be releasing further information relating to this issue.
It is unfortunate that during this campaign, reporters from our local newspapers did not fulfill the responsibilities of unbiased and accurate journalism. It was so easy to report what township officials said and place quotation marks around their comments in order to cover any reporting ramifications. That does not make the information the truth. Journalists require advanced knowledge of subjects reported in order to ask appropriate questions establishing “truth in reporting”. Also, it should not be the role of a journalist to write innuendos into articles in order to create a negative atmosphere regarding one viewpoint or the other. Such was the case when the article referencing Jesse Wolosky’s address was reported. Because a reporter could not comprehend the circumstances, and was too lazy to put in the effort to find the answer, that reporter portrayed Wolosky’s address as a negative slant upon his character. Next time, I suggest keeping the eye on the ball, instead of the air that it passes through!
Finally, let me speak to you about Jesse Wolosky. He is an activist with character, scruples, intelligence, energy and the will to win. I wish to thank him for beginning this process of placing checks and balances upon our local officials and I look forward to the continued efforts he will bring forward on behalf of our township.
Phillip Lid, Sparta
