DRUG-TESTING STORY WASN'T NEWSWORTHY

To the editor:

I was shocked and disgusted to see the lead story on the front page of the
Jan. 20 Business Section in the Telegram-Tribune.

It is beyond my comprehension that any responsible newspaper would even
print a story about a person operating a company that produces products to
"thwart drug testing" much less give it such a prominent position.

How would any of your readers feel about traveling in an airplane where the
pilot had not been tested. Or perhaps, in a bus where the driver had not
been given a test. Or working with heavy machinery in a factory, next to
someone who might be on a controlled substance.

Or even worse, be involved in an accident with a semitruck driven by
someone who had not been tested. To make this illegal company sound like a
wonderful entrepreneurial adventure is irresponsible and does a disservice
to us all. Am I mistaken; I thought we were trying to discourage substance
abuse, rather than encourage it?

Since Knight Ridder and the new editor have taken over, the quality of this
newspaper has steadily declined. One of the few worthwhile columns, "Man
About Town," by Dave Congleton was cut, for what I feel were very suspect
reasons. If I had a choice, I would cancel my subscription immediately.
However, since I'm not interested in the Los Angeles or San Francisco
papers, I will renew for three months.

If I see not improvement at the end of that time, I will find another way
to get world and local news. It is time for some accountable reporting and
newsworthy articles that don't insult our intelligence.

Barbara Gilston
Cambria

BUSINESS STORY CHOICE WAS NUTTY

To the editor:

How could you? How can you, in good conscience, print the story of a man
that sells kits to beat drug tests? Are you nuts?

Based on your printing of the article (Business, D-1, Jan. 17) you condone
drug use and the coverup thereof. Do you really think this is responsible
news reporting? In a world that is drug filled?

I am appalled you support it, and facilitate drug-use cover. It is becoming
more obvious to your readers of your extremist liberal views and bent. I
expect drug support from the far left papers, but not from one who
supposedly is a "centrist" publication. You should be deeply, deeply ashamed.

Frank Goodwin
Atascadero