[jmitchell]

Originally Posted by Pturner

One thing to keep in mind is that Lauren Ritchie is an opinion columnist, not a news reporter. Like any and all commentors, she expresses her opinions, some of which she supports with facts.

A fact is empiracal and verifiable. An opinion is just someone's belief, often emotional, often based on selective information, often based one the person's interpretation of facts.

Thus, when Ms. Ritchie states that, "The district already has spent more than $209,000 of residents' money so far, nearly all on (attorneys)", she is making a statement of fact as to the amount and source of spending. Although she did not provide the source of this information, the statement itself is verifyable and I personally am inclined to believe it is accurate unless I find out otherwise. (When she states that the money was spent on "high-powered lawyers," she's providing a subjective if probably accurate assessment.

When she states that the IRS wants, "...a promise by community development districts never again to masquerade as a legitimate government," she is stating her interpretation of the facts.

As a commentator, she is entitled to her opinions, assessments and interpretations, just as we are entitled to ours. We should, however, recognize that as a columnist, she is not reporting news per se, but merely giving her commentary.

I agree with JimJoe that Villagers and would-be Villagers should be educated about issues affecting our community. I think a well-rounded education includes understanding the facts, as well as understanding how knowledgeable people on all sides of the issue interpret those facts.

Too often we want to hear the voices of only those with whom we agree. While I do not agree with all of Ms. Ritchie's assessments and conclusions, I feel no need whatsoever to silence her.

Pturner,

Ohhh... I didn't catch that little "Commentary" above her articles! I agree with you that these types of columnists are entitled to their opinions. Online it is hard to tell that you are reading such an article, especically when someone posts them on TOTV. When reading a newspaper it is clear when you are reading the Op Eds - a little harder in this context, but THANK YOU for pointing it out. I hope everyone reads your post and does not take Ms. Ritchies "opinions" for "fact". As I am sure you have read, her opinions (articles) have and are affecting peoples decision to move to TV and I think that is a shame.