Good Writing-Good Listening

I am not a particularly good writer, but I know good writing when I read it. After years of reading the Burlington Free Press, I was directed to the Rutland Herald Editorial Page. Frankly, I was humbled -- the writing was insightful, fresh and interesting, all of which are traits that are in short supply at the Burlington Free Press.

The Burlington Free Press editorial on the proposed merger between Verizon and Unicel is a prime example.( http://www.rutlandherald.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071028/OPINION01/710280301/1018/OPINION)

Most of the information and commentary is reworked press releases. The opinions echo what US Senator Sanders said at his press conference.

Since this is a blog on Governor Douglas’s travels around the state, I thought I would use two recent Rutland Herald editorials which clearly highlight the high level of commentary.

Climate Action

http://www.rutlandherald.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071031/OPINION/710310311/1018/OPINION

This editorial cuts right to the heart of the matter. Governor Douglas knows we have a problem with our environment; he has even in his own half-hearted way begun to do something about it, but it highlights the fact that Governor Douglas clearly has selective hearing. It is one thing to talk about high taxes keeping businesses away, but no snow, no leaves and no recent college graduates will do the same thing.

Echo Chamber

http://www.rutlandherald.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071028/OPINION01/710280301/1018/OPINION

This editorial really speaks to the inherent problem with Governor Douglas’s “listening tours”. If you travel around the state and limit the attendance at this events to supporters, then you aren't really listening, but gathering people in a room to tell you what you want to hear.

The Governor publishes his schedule. Click on the link to the right. If he is in your area, go and ask him about climate change, telecommunications etc and what he is going to do about it. Maybe his hearing will get better.