Editor, Smithfield Times

    I was interested to see the article about our Delegate Rick Morris’ speech before the general assembly in the paper last week. It caused me to go to the Internet and view it, and I would encourage others to do the same thing. Doing so would clear up some misconceptions presented by Ms. McFarland’s article.

    Yes, it is unfortunate that Del. Morris mis-pronounced the word abolitionist several times, but his intent was to commend historical abolitionists for their stand against the national sin, at that time, of slavery. Del. Morris’ called for similar outcry for what he regards as the national sin of our day — abortion. Many folks, including myself, agree with Del Morris. This article quoted a number of individual democrats offended by the speech, it mentioned that the Republican party had no comment, but how about individual Republican delegates?

    Also, additional information in the article about the actions of Planned Parenthood had nothing to do with the speech. Please give us news with balance, on topics that inform not divide our community.

Fred Walls
Smithfield