To the Editor:

We would like to express appreciation to editor Melissa Hale-Spencer and staff for the excellence in journalism exhibited weekly in The Altamont Enterprise.

In our humble opinion, the recent letter (with cartoon) to the editor that raised the ire of some was obvious satire and not intended to intimidate [“Bring back historic punishment, June 4, 2020].

Sadly, nationally and locally, much of contemporary journalism and news reporting reflects advocacy journalism rather than classic liberal journalism that seeks to represent all sides of an issue.

Advocacy journalism can only reinforce the growing national cultural divide. It contributes to a less informed community, heightened intolerance of the viewpoints of others and, ultimately, a loss of freedom of the press and speech.

For those who may be inclined otherwise, we suggest a careful rereading (hopefully) or reading of George Orwell’s “1984.”

Kudos to editor Melissa Hale-Spencer for a weekly newspaper that is a community treasure reflecting the highest standards of journalism — a standout among New York State weeklies.

John E. and Kristin Smith

Altamont