COVERAGE OF NOELLE BUSH WAS UNFORTUNATE AND DISGUSTING

The editor's decision to publish the news about Noelle Bush (front page,
Jan. 30) was both unfortunate and disgusting.

The paper pandered to the public's penchant for gossip, especially when it
involves the locally rich, famous and powerful. Its content did little if
anything to increase the public's understanding of the nature and course of
having a substance abuse disorder that impairs judgment and emotional
control which, in turn, produces social, psychological and legal problems.

John Winn Miller's defense (column, Jan. 30) reflected little understanding
and compassion for Ms. Bush, who suffered from what is likely a serious
mental health and/or substance abuse condition.

It was unfortunate the articles were published because they may be harmful
to the well-being and health of Ms. Bush and other members of the Bush
family. Possible negative outcomes affecting Ms. Bush and/or family members
include ostracism from the community, estrangement among family members,
clinical depression, homelessness, intensified substance abuse, suicide
attempts, job loss and protracted unemployment in the community.

Don Bertoch