First, regarding “Speakout” criticism of pre-election editorial in support of Joe Biden, I too felt it was entirely one-sided in its assertion of Biden’s character, integrity, and fitness for leadership. Such attributes cannot possibly be confirmed and are entirely based on personal opinion — hence, baseless and worthless.

Such comments are far from neutral, which should be the primary objective in any newspaper reporting. Objectivity is imperative as the media shifts away from responsibly reporting the news so that their readers and viewers can cull for themselves the wheat from the chaff. It is inappropriate for any news agency to influence their readers and viewers.

As a result, many in the electorate accept, like sheep, what is fed them; and propaganda research has proven that if the same message is repeated again and again, the subjects lose the ability to question logically that false message. They can no longer determine “fake news” from fact.

The media has lost sight of its primary job in a democratic society. In this particular editorial, no mention was made of recent allegations concerning Biden and son Hunter’s corrupt political involvement with foreign countries. More than any other agency, newspapers and reporters should rely on verifiable facts and allow their subscribers to deduce their own conclusions. To do otherwise, is to insult the intelligence and sensibilities of common Americans

In the same publication, David Scarpino asserts that history cannot be changed or re-interpreted, as it is essentially immutable. To attempt to “modify” or “alter” them is an effort in futility, as in omitting the term “Providence Plantations” in our state’s original title.

Although it behooves us to recognize any past injustice or “sins of the fathers,” that is our legacy, like it or not. In addition, rather than changing names of streets, public areas, universities, and states like ours, tearing down statues, defacing public spaces, setting buildings afire, and other derelict and violent measures, greater effort should be given to more constructive problem-solving techniques to achieve progress toward a better, fairer society with opportunity for all.

In this vein, it was refreshing indeed to read the intentions of those re-elected to our town council – Mary Parella and Nathan Calouro, in particular – to pursue a moderate course while giving ear to all who seek to plead their cases. While I would have liked to see Mike Byrnes, a veteran and patriot with small business experience, added to that group devoted to the smooth maintenance of our community, I feel confident with those elected and entrusted with the stewardship of Bristol. Theirs is such a refreshing attitude in the midst of the current antagonistic and divisive approach.

Finally, I am impressed by the intellectual acumen of many Bristolians. Some of the letters to “The Phoenix” depict a membership of highly intelligent individuals of sound reasoning who use their logic, not emotions, to discern what is crucial to the continuation of our democratic society. They are a boon, as well as an asset to our town.

Donna DeLeo Bruno
Bristol