To the Editor:

I was both saddened and appalled to read the letter to the editor in last week’s paper by Mr. Ed Cowley, “Bring back historic punishment.” Calling on the members of the village board, planning board, and zoning board of appeals to resign because you oppose their actions regarding Stewart’s is one thing, but suggesting they be “pilloried in a public place” and submitting a drawing of such pillorying is a whole different matter.

Is Mr. Cowley aware that the punishment he is suggesting be brought back often went way beyond public humiliation and involved physical abuse and violent acts against those who were in the stocks?

Given the current social climate in our country, to call for something that even hints at such punishments against people (many of whom are volunteering their time and effort to serve their community) is irresponsible and reckless.

What was The Enterprise hoping to accomplish by publishing this letter? And oddly without the customary “last word” by the editor that might have explained that The Enterprise does not condone such things and this form of punishment is absolutely uncalled for and unwise.

But then again, I guess you could chalk it up to the usual motive — controversy sells papers — and The Enterprise certainly does its best to fan those flames in every community it covers.

Victoria Vattimo

Knox