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    <title>Op/Ed for TriCities</title>
    <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/</link>
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        <title>Op/Ed for TriCities</title>
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    <description></description>
    <dc:language>en</dc:language>
    <dc:creator>TriCities</dc:creator>
    <dc:rights>Copyright 2009</dc:rights>
    <dc:date>2009-07-05T00:55:54-05:00</dc:date>

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         <item>
          <title>&#8216;Times&#8217; Have Changed, But God Has Not</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/times_have_changed_but_god_has_not/28168/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Homosexuals do not have a problem telling President Obama (or anyone who will listen) what they stand for and what they want. It&#8217;s time we as God&#8217;s people do the same.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 05 Jul 2009 00:01:53 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/times_have_changed_but_god_has_not/28168/#When:04:01:53Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Writer Supports Travel Center for Meadowview</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_supports_travel_center_for_meadowview/28167/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Love&#8217;s Travel Center is ready to help our little community in so many ways.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 05 Jul 2009 00:01:50 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_supports_travel_center_for_meadowview/28167/#When:04:01:50Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Our Region Needs King College Medical School</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/our_region_needs_king_college_medical_school/28170/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
There is a growing shortage of physicians and nurses in our region. Our region needs and will support an additional medical school.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 05 Jul 2009 00:01:29 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/our_region_needs_king_college_medical_school/28170/#When:04:01:29Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>UVa&#45;Wise Convocation Center Will Benefit Region</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/uva-wise_convocation_center_will_benefit_region/28166/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The University of Virginia&#8217;s College at Wise took another leap forward when it broke ground last week on a $30 million 
convocation center.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 05 Jul 2009 00:01:27 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/uva-wise_convocation_center_will_benefit_region/28166/#When:04:01:27Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>J. TODD FOSTER COLUMN: Why Newsmen Can&#8217;t Be Used As Police Investigators</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/columnists/article/j._todd_foster_column_why_newsmen_cant_be_used_as_police_investigators/28172/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Virginia State Police made a sly attempt last week at expediting a criminal investigation by going straight to this 
newspaper for documents related to a scheme in the Abingdon-based magistrate&#8217;s office.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 05 Jul 2009 00:01:21 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/columnists/article/j._todd_foster_column_why_newsmen_cant_be_used_as_police_investigators/28172/#When:04:01:21Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Is An Apology to Audobon Society In Order?</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/is_an_apology_to_audobon_society_in_order/28171/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
President may owe an apology for WWII dodo atrocity.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 05 Jul 2009 00:01:06 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/is_an_apology_to_audobon_society_in_order/28171/#When:04:01:06Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Downtown Bristol Looks Good, But Vigilance Needed</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/downtown_bristol_looks_good_but_vigilance_needed/28169/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Let&#8217;s try to clean up our city now.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 05 Jul 2009 00:00:26 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/downtown_bristol_looks_good_but_vigilance_needed/28169/#When:04:00:26Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Steady Growth, Stiff Sentence, Texting Ban</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/steady_growth_stiff_sentence_texting_ban/28130/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
After eight months of recounts and court battles, Republican Norm Coleman conceded to Democrat Al Franken in Minnesota&#8217;s contested Senate race on Tuesday.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:32:36 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/steady_growth_stiff_sentence_texting_ban/28130/#When:04:32:36Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Writer Offers Truck Center Options</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_offers_truck_center_options/28133/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
With all due respect to Debra McCown&#8217;s usual balanced reporting, I feel her coverage of the &#8220;truck stop project&#8221; on June 9 did not truly characterize the public presentations to the Washington County Board of Supervisors.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:18:53 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_offers_truck_center_options/28133/#When:04:18:53Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Plagiarism Claim Called Ridiculous</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/plagiarism_claim_called_ridiculous/28132/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Regarding the column &#8220;Can&#8217;t We All Just Get Along, or at Least Be Civil?&#8221; published June 14: As a Bristol Herald Courier reader of many years, the idea of J. Todd Foster committing plagiarism is absurd.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:14:39 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/plagiarism_claim_called_ridiculous/28132/#When:04:14:39Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Displaying Object Makes Others Want It</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/displaying_object_makes_others_want_it/28131/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Concerning the wolf statues in Abingdon: What a shame &#8211; doing something nice for others seems to be getting harder all the time.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 04 Jul 2009 00:04:24 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/displaying_object_makes_others_want_it/28131/#When:04:04:24Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Many Citizens Urge Income Tax Repeal</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/columnists/article/many_citizens_urge_income_tax_repeal/28060/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Deficit spending has ballooned from $22 billion in 1933 to $10 trillion today. We have a Congress that, like King George, is dictating to us rather than representing us.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:55:09 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/columnists/article/many_citizens_urge_income_tax_repeal/28060/#When:04:55:09Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Writer Agrees With Keeping Gitmo Open</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_agrees_with_keeping_gitmo_open/28064/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We don&#8217;t need to move terrorists onto U.S. soil when we already have a facility at Guantanamo.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:31:16 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_agrees_with_keeping_gitmo_open/28064/#When:04:31:16Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Energy Act Will Cost Americans Dearly</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/energy_act_will_cost_americans_dearly/28062/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Rep. Rick Boucher has stabbed the working people of Southwest Virginia in the back by his vote for H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:14:12 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/energy_act_will_cost_americans_dearly/28062/#When:04:14:12Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Paramount Center Needs Local Support</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/paramount_center_needs_local_support/28061/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I am writing to let the community know that their support is needed for The Paramount Center for the Arts.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:08:46 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/paramount_center_needs_local_support/28061/#When:04:08:46Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Investigation Clearly Needed</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/investigation_clearly_needed/27926/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We applaud the Virginia State Police for investigating accusations that Abingdon-based magistrates falsified documents to steer bail bonds to a relative.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:31:48 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/investigation_clearly_needed/27926/#When:04:31:48Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Work Crafted Key; Prayer Turned The Lock</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/work_crafted_key_prayer_turned_the_lock/27930/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
While I appreciate your June 30 effort to discern the &#8220;Real lesson for VI,&#8221; I believe you missed a central point.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:22:54 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/work_crafted_key_prayer_turned_the_lock/27930/#When:04:22:54Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Writer Urges Action Against Rate Hikes</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_urges_action_against_rate_hikes/27929/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Appalachian Electric Power is asking for yet another 13 percent increase.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:12:57 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_urges_action_against_rate_hikes/27929/#When:04:12:57Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Library Is Achieving Mission To Expand Minds</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/library_is_achieving_mission_to_expand_minds/27927/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Bristol Public Library hosted author Nicholas Sparks on Saturday, June 13, as part of the 2009 Discovery Series.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:05:23 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/library_is_achieving_mission_to_expand_minds/27927/#When:04:05:23Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Who Else Will Be Responsible For Earth?</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/who_else_will_be_responsible_for_earth/27707/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
My righteous indignation reared its head when I read a recent letter from Lewis Loflin concerning the &#8220;followers of the watermelon cult.&#8221; Mr Loflin claims that &#8220;The earth is not holy, divine, sacred, etc.&#8221; as he rails against the &#8220;pantheistic New Age nonsense&#8221; advanced by those of us who can clearly see and acknowledge global warming.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:32:29 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/who_else_will_be_responsible_for_earth/27707/#When:04:32:29Z</guid>
        </item>
    
         <item>
          <title>Make A Plan For Children And New Jobs</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/make_a_plan_for_children_and_new_jobs/27710/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Placing a truck stop near an elementary school is a bad idea, for many reasons.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:20:10 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/make_a_plan_for_children_and_new_jobs/27710/#When:04:20:10Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Make Clear Decisions To Avoid Regret Later</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/make_clear_decisions_to_avoid_regret_later/27708/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Lately it seems as if most of the comments about the proposed truck center in Meadowview are from people who favor putting it in.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:12:31 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/make_clear_decisions_to_avoid_regret_later/27708/#When:04:12:31Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Real Lesson For VI, Bristol</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/real_lesson_for_vi_bristol/27621/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Two years after a financial crisis threatened to close its doors, Virginia Intermont College has raised nearly $12 million and won back unqualified accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:53:55 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/real_lesson_for_vi_bristol/27621/#When:04:53:55Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Administrator Responds To Sunday Editorial</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/administrator_responds_to_sunday_editorial/27628/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As the spokesperson for Abingdon Health Care Center and as the administrator of its sister facility, Valley Health Care Center, I appreciate your newspaper&#8217;s desire to bring the Department of Health&#8217;s upcoming review of the proposed nursing facilities in the Abingdon area to your readers&#8217; attention.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:27:35 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/administrator_responds_to_sunday_editorial/27628/#When:04:27:35Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Coaches Should Set Example For Exercise, Physical Fitness</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/coaches_should_set_example_for_exercise_physical_fitness/27627/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
During this national obesity epidemic, it&#8217;s more important than ever for coaches to be excellent fitness role models for the young athletes under their stewardship.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:21:29 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/coaches_should_set_example_for_exercise_physical_fitness/27627/#When:04:21:29Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Boucher Hasn&#8217;t Responded To Letters From Couple</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/boucher_hasnt_responded_to_letters_from_couple/27626/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A few weeks after the election, we learned that a number of Rep. Boucher&#8217;s House votes seem inconsistent with his claim that he represents Southwest Virginia values.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:15:49 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/boucher_hasnt_responded_to_letters_from_couple/27626/#When:04:15:49Z</guid>
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          <title>Favorite Campsites Could Be Off&#45;Limits Over Holiday</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/favorite_campsites_could_be_off-limits_over_holiday/27625/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
To my fellow campers who used Observation Knob campground over Memorial weekend: Did you know our Sullivan County Commission has voted to make all the campsites, except the ones on the water, seasonal?           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:09:35 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/favorite_campsites_could_be_off-limits_over_holiday/27625/#When:04:09:35Z</guid>
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          <title>Meadowview Truck Center Would Benefit Community</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/meadowview_truck_center_would_benefit_community/27623/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As a longtime resident of Meadowview, I want to urge the Washington County Board of Supervisors to approve the Love&#8217;s Truck Center proposed for Exit 24.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:01:45 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/meadowview_truck_center_would_benefit_community/27623/#When:04:01:45Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Writer: Truck Center Not a Good Idea</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_truck_center_not_a_good_ideal/27485/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I would like to point out just a few of the many reasons a truck stop is not a good idea.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:44:53 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_truck_center_not_a_good_ideal/27485/#When:04:44:53Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Reader Rebuts Letter, Suggests Writer Make Changes</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/reader_rebuts_letter_suggests_changes_for_writer/27486/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I find it incredulous that our new president could be single-handedly blamed for Cooper&#8217;s predicament.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:40:30 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/reader_rebuts_letter_suggests_changes_for_writer/27486/#When:04:40:30Z</guid>
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          <title>Smith/Packett Eldercare Proposal Covers All the Bases</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/smith_packett_eldercare_proposal_covers_all_the_bases/27321/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Smith/Packett Med Com LLC has spent more than three years mounting a coalition of support for its plan to build a tiered elder-care project in Abingdon.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 2009 00:15:02 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/smith_packett_eldercare_proposal_covers_all_the_bases/27321/#When:04:15:02Z</guid>
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          <title>Aid To Food Bank, Life Bans In Soccer</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/aid_to_food_bank_life_bans_in_soccer/27088/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Patrons of the Barter Theatre in Abingdon donated 1,550 pounds of food to the Southwestern Virginia Second Harvest Food Bank by bartering their way into several shows in June.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:44:21 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/aid_to_food_bank_life_bans_in_soccer/27088/#When:04:44:21Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Graham Wants To Micromanage Library Board</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/graham_wants_to_micromanage_library_board/27091/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Recently, the public got a glimpse into the unprofessional and political wrangling of Library Board chairman and recalled councilman Kelly Graham.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:18:06 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/graham_wants_to_micromanage_library_board/27091/#When:04:18:06Z</guid>
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          <title>Truck Center Would Benefit Meadowview</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/truck_center_would_benefit_meadowview/27090/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Some trucks in small fleets pay $7,000 in road taxes each quarter.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:15:28 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/truck_center_would_benefit_meadowview/27090/#When:04:15:28Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Region Needs Jobs Travel Center Would Offer</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/region_needs_jobs_travel_center_would_offer/27089/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I live in Meadowview.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 27 Jun 2009 00:03:12 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/region_needs_jobs_travel_center_would_offer/27089/#When:04:03:12Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Lessen Greed To Make Universal Care Possible</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/lessen_greed_to_make_universal_care_possible/26817/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Universal, affordable health care for all Americans is incredibly simple to develop.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:25:01 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/lessen_greed_to_make_universal_care_possible/26817/#When:04:25:01Z</guid>
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          <title>Writer Knew Little About Confederacy</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_knew_little_about_confederacy/26819/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It was obvious that her knowledge of the Civil War is very, very limited. It was relative to that of a sixth-grader.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:15:51 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_knew_little_about_confederacy/26819/#When:04:15:51Z</guid>
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          <title>Writer Wants To See President Removed</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_wants_to_see_president_removed/26818/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Barack Obama can be removed from office if the voters come to their senses.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:03:08 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_wants_to_see_president_removed/26818/#When:04:03:08Z</guid>
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          <title>Reviews Will Help All Breathe Easier In Va.</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/reviews_will_help_all_breathe_easier_in_va/26514/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Increased ozone and soot pollution is sickening Virginians with breathing problems and keeping them indoors, especially in summer.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:57:35 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/reviews_will_help_all_breathe_easier_in_va/26514/#When:04:57:35Z</guid>
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          <title>Truck Center Opposition Scaring People</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/truck_center_opposition_scaring_people/26518/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
There is a lot of hot air blowing around Meadowview about the proposed travel center, and it is coming from those who oppose the project.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:25:38 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/truck_center_opposition_scaring_people/26518/#When:04:25:38Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Melvin Missed Point Of Confederate Event</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/melvin_missed_point_of_confederate_event/26516/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
In response to Gary Melvin&#8217;s letter to the Bristol Herald Courier, I have to say he is missing the point of what our event was about.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:13:38 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/melvin_missed_point_of_confederate_event/26516/#When:04:13:38Z</guid>
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          <title>Citizens Should Take Back Lives, Liberties</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/citizens_should_take_back_lives_liberties/26515/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Czar comes from Caesar, the name used by the emperors of Rome.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:02:34 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/citizens_should_take_back_lives_liberties/26515/#When:04:02:34Z</guid>
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          <title>Writer Calls Mumpower Hubris Victim</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_calls_mumpower_hubris_victim/25871/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Jason Mumpower was the chief sponsor of Tennessee House Bill 0363, a bill that would allow for a person who holds a concealed-gun permit to carry a firearm in any public park, playground, civic center, or other public recreational area or facility.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:12:40 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_calls_mumpower_hubris_victim/25871/#When:04:12:40Z</guid>
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          <title>Earnhart Becoming Most Popular Driver</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/earnhart_becoming_most_popular_driver/25870/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
In this ever changing world we live in, it&#8217;s more and more difficult to be amazed, surprised or astounded by anything we hear about, read about or even see.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:03:54 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/earnhart_becoming_most_popular_driver/25870/#When:04:03:54Z</guid>
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          <title>Writer Believes Truck Center Will Be Harmful</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_believes_truck_center_will_be_harmful/25625/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Though we now live in Abingdon, we raised our children in Meadowview, where they attended Meadowview Elementary School.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:17:52 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_believes_truck_center_will_be_harmful/25625/#When:04:17:52Z</guid>
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          <title>Virginia Important To Federal Government</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/virginia_important_to_federal_government/25624/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I&#8217;ve been a sizable grower for years.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:06:11 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/virginia_important_to_federal_government/25624/#When:04:06:11Z</guid>
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          <title>Universal Care Would Benefit All</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/universal_care_would_benefit_all/25576/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Single payer universal health care will not come about unless we convince our legislators to shed the lobbyists, influence and money.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 21 Jun 2009 00:50:32 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/universal_care_would_benefit_all/25576/#When:04:50:32Z</guid>
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          <title>Commandments as a Historical Document?</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/commandments_as_a_historical_document/25577/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A few years ago there was a confrontation in Alabama concerning the placement of a Ten Commandment monument in a courthouse.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 21 Jun 2009 00:30:37 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/commandments_as_a_historical_document/25577/#When:04:30:37Z</guid>
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          <title>ROTC, Callous Signs, Lost Business, Hypocrisy</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/rotc_callous_signs_lost_business_hypocrisy/25558/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The University of Virginia&#8217;s College at Wise will offer an Army Reserve Officer Training Corps program this fall, now that it has partnered with East Tennessee State University to provide commissioned and non-commissioned officers for the program.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2009 00:51:41 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/rotc_callous_signs_lost_business_hypocrisy/25558/#When:04:51:41Z</guid>
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          <title>Volunteers Thanked For &#8216;Wall&#8217; Help</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/volunteers_thanked_for_wall_help/25560/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Rolling Thunder Tennessee Chapter 4 would like to thank everyone who visited the Vietnam Memorial Traveling Wall, &#8220;The Wall that Heals.&#8221;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2009 00:15:04 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/volunteers_thanked_for_wall_help/25560/#When:04:15:04Z</guid>
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          <title>Two Questions On Truck Center</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/two_questions_on_truck_center/25559/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I really do not care if Exit 24 gets the Love Truck Center or not, but two items which I have not seen addressed: Why will truckers bypass the existing Petro for Love&#8217;s and what guarantee is there Meadowview residents will get employment?           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 20 Jun 2009 00:03:27 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/two_questions_on_truck_center/25559/#When:04:03:27Z</guid>
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          <title>Police Botched Investigation</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/police_botched_investigation/25470/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When a journalist breaks his word to a source, he loses all credibility and ceases to be a viable prober for the truth.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:55:26 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/police_botched_investigation/25470/#When:04:55:26Z</guid>
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          <title>Why Should We Include Confederate Veterans?</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/why_should_we_include_confederate_veterans/25471/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Since the Veterans Park was created to honor veterans who fought for the United States, I don&#8217;t see how the Confederates could be included, if they even wanted to be.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:10:26 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/why_should_we_include_confederate_veterans/25471/#When:04:10:26Z</guid>
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          <title>Everyone Will Pay For Poor Choices Now</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/everyone_will_pay_for_poor_choices_now/28042/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
President Barack Obama based his entire campaign on the issue of &#8220;change.&#8221;           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:55:23 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/everyone_will_pay_for_poor_choices_now/28042/#When:20:55:23Z</guid>
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          <title>Meadowview Not The Place For Truck Center</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/meadowview_not_the_place_for_truck_center/28041/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I am appalled that any of our Washington County, Va., supervisors would ignore the recommendations of its entire school board, the school superintendent, the county Planning Commission and 800 (and growing) citizens to even consider allowing a truck stop to be located a mere one-third of a mile from the county&#8217;s largest elementary school.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:54:49 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/meadowview_not_the_place_for_truck_center/28041/#When:20:54:49Z</guid>
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          <title>Racist E&#45;mail Warrants Firing</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/article/racist_e-mail_warrants_firing/25442/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It&#8217;s only been six months since Tennessee&#8217;s Chip Saltman was taken to the woodshed for his Christmas CD that included the racist ditty &#8220;Barack the Magic Negro,&#8221; which cost him a shot at the chairman&#8217;s position for the Republican National Committee.
What short memories Tennessee Republicans seem to have.
On Monday, Sherri Goforth, a legislative aide for Republican state Sen. Diane Black, admitted sending a racist e-mail about President Barack Obama to staff for other Republican state senators. The e-mail, which was sent last month, included a collage of photographs of all U.S. presidents, except Obama, who is depicted with white eyes on a black background.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2009 11:31:51 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/article/racist_e-mail_warrants_firing/25442/#When:15:31:51Z</guid>
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          <title>An Apology To Community Of Sugar Grove, Smyth Co.</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/an_apology_to_community_of_sugar_grove_smyth_co/25374/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
There&#8217;s a reason why daily newspapers historically have been called the &#8220;daily miracle.&#8221;            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:48:47 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/an_apology_to_community_of_sugar_grove_smyth_co/25374/#When:04:48:47Z</guid>
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          <title>Writer Warns Of Placement Of Ash Landfill</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_warns_of_placement_of_ash_landfill/25377/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has received from Dominion Power an application for a permit to build a coal waste landfill on top of abandoned underground mines.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:26:18 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_warns_of_placement_of_ash_landfill/25377/#When:04:26:18Z</guid>
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          <title>Deerfield Golf Course Caters To Families</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/deerfield_golf_course_caters_to_families/25376/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I love to play golf, especially with my 12-year-old son.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:14:39 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/deerfield_golf_course_caters_to_families/25376/#When:04:14:39Z</guid>
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          <title>Writer Offended By Sign, Reaction That Followed</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_offended_by_sign_reaction_that_followed/25375/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I was appalled Friday morning, after reading about the juvenile and inappropriate actions of the Hi Lo Burger Drive In that put up disparaging messages on its sign.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 2009 00:05:24 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_offended_by_sign_reaction_that_followed/25375/#When:04:05:24Z</guid>
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          <title>Truck Center Not Best use For Property</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/truck_center_not_best_use_for_property/25334/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
On June 9, I attended the Washington County Board of Supervisors&#8217; public hearing regarding Love&#8217;s Travel Stops &amp; Country Stores&#8217; request for a zoning variance that would allow them to erect a large travel center at I-81&#8217;s Exit 24 in Meadowview.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:45:53 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/truck_center_not_best_use_for_property/25334/#When:04:45:53Z</guid>
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          <title>Writer Doesn&#8217;t Need Graphic Details</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_doesnt_need_graphic_details/25335/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Several years ago when our satellite TV company changed its menu, we decided to drop it. We did so with little regret, as it seemed every program was becoming more suggestive with increased sex or violence.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 2009 00:40:46 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_doesnt_need_graphic_details/25335/#When:04:40:46Z</guid>
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          <title>Tobacco Regulation Will Save Lives, Money</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/tobacco_regulation_will_save_lives_money/25314/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
We strongly support the measures in the new federal tobacco legislation because the FDA will be able to regulate the contents of tobacco products, make their ingredients public, prohibit flavoring, require larger warning labels and strictly control or prohibit marketing campaigns, especially those geared toward children.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 14 Jun 2009 00:01:56 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/tobacco_regulation_will_save_lives_money/25314/#When:04:01:56Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>J. Todd Foster Column: Can&#8217;t We All Just Get Along? Or At Least Be Civil?</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/columnists/article/j._todd_foster_column_cant_we_all_just_get_along_or_at_least_be_civil/25313/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Newspaper editors and reporters get used to reader abuse, but if you want to incur my wrath, knowingly lie by accusing me of a journalistic death-penalty ethics violation &#8211; all because my politics don&#8217;t mirror yours.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 14 Jun 2009 00:01:26 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/columnists/article/j._todd_foster_column_cant_we_all_just_get_along_or_at_least_be_civil/25313/#When:04:01:26Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Writer Clarifies Stand On Earlier Letter On Torture</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_clarifies_stand_on_earlier_letter_on_torture/25316/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
In answer to a May 30 letter from Thomas Olmsted, wherein he mentions my letter concerning an article by David Broder, I feel I must clarify my position.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 14 Jun 2009 00:01:11 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_clarifies_stand_on_earlier_letter_on_torture/25316/#When:04:01:11Z</guid>
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          <title>Writer Urges a Thoughtful Plan For Meadowview</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_urges_a_thoughtful_plan_for_meadowview/25315/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When it comes to giving serious consideration to an issue that will impact traffic safety on Virginia State Road 80 and increased risk of health and safety issues for our elementary children, we resort to imaginary community boundaries and to old high school football rivalries from before 1960 to dismiss our neighbors and their concerns.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 14 Jun 2009 00:01:05 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_urges_a_thoughtful_plan_for_meadowview/25315/#When:04:01:05Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Life Lessons, New Look &amp;amp; D.C. Horror</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/life_lessons_new_look_d.c._horror/25301/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
An elderly gunman, who authorities said has a long history of violence and anti-Semitism, shot and killed a security guard inside the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum on Wednesday before being shot by other officers.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 13 Jun 2009 00:54:28 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/life_lessons_new_look_d.c._horror/25301/#When:04:54:28Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Consider How Far We Have Already Come</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/consider_how_far_we_have_already_come/25304/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
When the abortion controversy turns violent, those who take the position that legal abortions should remain available can recall that in May of 1986, when the Supreme Court reaffirmed its decision.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 13 Jun 2009 00:17:27 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/consider_how_far_we_have_already_come/25304/#When:04:17:27Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Writer Opposed To Love&#8217;s Truck Center</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_opposed_to_loves_truck_center/25303/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I am strongly opposed to the Love&#8217;s Truck Center coming to Meadowview.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 13 Jun 2009 00:16:38 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_opposed_to_loves_truck_center/25303/#When:04:16:38Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Bristol Election Coverage Appreciated</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/bristol_election_coverage_appreciated/25302/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I want to thank the Bristol Herald Courier for the valuable coverage of the recent Bristol City Council election.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 13 Jun 2009 00:03:13 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/bristol_election_coverage_appreciated/25302/#When:04:03:13Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Tear Down This Marquee!</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/tear_down_this_marquee/25263/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A reader alerted us late Wednesday to this sign, photographed Thursday outside the Hi Lo Burger Drive In, on Lee Highway in Abingdon. It reads: &#8220;Kevins a retard.&#8221;            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:50:43 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/tear_down_this_marquee/25263/#When:04:50:43Z</guid>
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         <item>
          <title>Some On Council Stay True To Goals</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/some_on_council_stay_true_to_goals/25267/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
It is refreshing and encouraging to witness Councilmen Guy Odum and Jim Heaney struggling to serve the best interests of our city while remaining true to their campaign promises.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:27:19 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/some_on_council_stay_true_to_goals/25267/#When:04:27:19Z</guid>
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          <title>Sotomayor Will Be An Asset To High Court</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/sotomayor_will_be_an_asset_to_high_court/25266/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Columnist Leonard Pitts hit the nail on the head Wednesday.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:18:24 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/sotomayor_will_be_an_asset_to_high_court/25266/#When:04:18:24Z</guid>
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          <title>Online News Can&#8217;t Replace Newspaper</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/online_news_cant_replace_newspaper/25265/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Just the thought of not having &#8220;my newspaper&#8221; to look forward to is so sad &#8211; what a loss it would be.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:12:55 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/online_news_cant_replace_newspaper/25265/#When:04:12:55Z</guid>
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          <title>Knights Killed Becket, Roeder Answered Call</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/knights_killed_becket_roeder_answered_call/25264/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
King Henry II was at odds with a priest, Thomas Becket.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:02:39 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/knights_killed_becket_roeder_answered_call/25264/#When:04:02:39Z</guid>
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          <title>Writer Says Country Getting What It Deserves</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_says_country_getting_what_it_deserves/25223/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Writer Says Country Getting What It Deserves           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:05:50 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_says_country_getting_what_it_deserves/25223/#When:04:05:50Z</guid>
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          <title>&#8216;Nice guy&#8217; Deeds crushed competition</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/nice_guy_deeds_crushed_competition/25222/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
After appearing for months to be running from behind, Creigh Deeds crushed two Democratic rivals Tuesday to garner the Democratic nomination for governor.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:01:28 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/nice_guy_deeds_crushed_competition/25222/#When:04:01:28Z</guid>
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          <title>Quit squabbling over codes, pass energy bill</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/quit_squabbling_over_codes_pass_energy_bill/25221/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Tennessee Clean Energy Future Act returns to the floor of the Tennessee House today and we urge members to get behind it.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 2009 00:00:59 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/quit_squabbling_over_codes_pass_energy_bill/25221/#When:04:00:59Z</guid>
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          <title>Veteran Sees Things Differently Today</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/veteran_sees_things_differently_today/25133/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I am an Operation Enduring Freedom veteran and now I am a disabled veteran.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:31:50 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/veteran_sees_things_differently_today/25133/#When:04:31:50Z</guid>
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          <title>Truck Stop Opponents Use Scare Tactics</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/truck_stop_opponents_use_scare_tactics/25135/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Many of the voices in opposition to the Exit 24 truck stop proposal point to the nearby Meadowview Elementary School as the main reason the development should not be allowed.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:22:27 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/truck_stop_opponents_use_scare_tactics/25135/#When:04:22:27Z</guid>
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          <title>Harding Deserves Praise, Recognition</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/harding_deserves_praise_recognition/25134/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I just wanted to comment on Honaker High baseball coach Tom Harding.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2009 00:12:26 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/harding_deserves_praise_recognition/25134/#When:04:12:26Z</guid>
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          <title>FOSTER HUMOR COLUMN: My Brush with a Pothead Parachutist and His Coonskin Hat</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/my_brush_with_a_pothead_parachutist_his_coonskin_hat/25083/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
I recently marked the 20th anniversary of the dumbest thing I&#8217;ve ever done. There were no champagne toasts or high-fives or whatever the kids are doing these days, just appreciation that I lived to recount this event.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 07 Jun 2009 00:30:23 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/my_brush_with_a_pothead_parachutist_his_coonskin_hat/25083/#When:04:30:23Z</guid>
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          <title>Glade Spring Growing, but Holds Key Values</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/glade_spring_growing_but_holds_key_values/25084/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Like many small towns built on Lee Highway, (after the completion of I-81) Glade has had its share of good and bad, but through it all the people of this fine southern town have held steadfast and loyal to the town they call home.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 07 Jun 2009 00:25:05 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/glade_spring_growing_but_holds_key_values/25084/#When:04:25:05Z</guid>
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          <title>Writer Supports McAuliffe, Signer in Dem Primary</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_supports_mcauliffe_signer_in_dem_primary/25087/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
There is a primary Tuesday for Democratic candidates for governor and lieutenant governor.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 07 Jun 2009 00:23:56 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_supports_mcauliffe_signer_in_dem_primary/25087/#When:04:23:56Z</guid>
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          <title>Meadowview Needs More Development</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/meadowview_needs_more_development/25085/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As a lifelong resident of Meadowview, I was starting to think we&#8217;d never see any new business at Exit 24.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sun, 07 Jun 2009 00:20:04 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/meadowview_needs_more_development/25085/#When:04:20:04Z</guid>
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          <title>Selfless Bride, Rolling Meth Lab &amp;amp; Swine Flu Death</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/selfless_bride_rolling_meth_lab_swine_flu_death/25066/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A Connecticut bride, who was traveling home after her wedding reception, rushed inside a burning house to help save a family, while still wearing her wedding gown.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Sat, 06 Jun 2009 00:47:59 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/selfless_bride_rolling_meth_lab_swine_flu_death/25066/#When:04:47:59Z</guid>
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          <title>Moran Pick A Ploy By OpenCarry.org</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/moran_pick_a_ploy_by_opencarry.org/25025/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
A gun-rights group is encouraging Republicans, libertarians and independents to vote for Brian Moran in Tuesday&#8217;s Democratic primary for governor, claiming Virginians deserve two gun-rights advocates to face off in the fall election.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:27:32 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/moran_pick_a_ploy_by_opencarry.org/25025/#When:04:27:32Z</guid>
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          <title>Terry McAuliffe Has Shown Big Ideas, Abilities</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/terry_mcauliffe_has_shown_big_ideas_abilities/25029/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
The Democratic gubernatorial primary election will be held Tuesday, June 9. Polls open at 6 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. with all registered voters eligible to participate.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:17:34 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/terry_mcauliffe_has_shown_big_ideas_abilities/25029/#When:04:17:34Z</guid>
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          <title>Keep Pushing For Reasons About Ending Football</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/keep_pushing_for_reasons_about_ending_football/25028/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
In 2003 during economic hard times, football was dropped at East Tennessee State University because the administration refused to raise the athletic fee and put the cost of maintaining the program &#8220;on the backs of students.&#8221;            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:11:50 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/keep_pushing_for_reasons_about_ending_football/25028/#When:04:11:50Z</guid>
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          <title>Writer Urges Pro&#45;Lifers To Continue Protests</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_urges_pro-lifers_to_continue_protests/25027/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
George Tiller was a controversial figure in both the pro-life and abortion rights communities.            ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:01:38 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_urges_pro-lifers_to_continue_protests/25027/#When:04:01:38Z</guid>
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          <title>D&#45;Day Museum Needs Support, More Funding</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/d-day_museum_needs_support_more_funding/24979/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
After six long years of a bitter world war, suffering setbacks and achieving some victories, the Allied Armies executed the largest amphibious invasion that modern military has ever seen.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:29:09 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/d-day_museum_needs_support_more_funding/24979/#When:04:29:09Z</guid>
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          <title>Should Consider Early Voting, Mailing Ballots</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/should_consider_early_voting_mailing_ballots/24978/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
You indicated that only about 15 percent of registered voters in Bristol and Kingsport, Tenn., recently voted in local elections.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:16:59 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/should_consider_early_voting_mailing_ballots/24978/#When:04:16:59Z</guid>
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          <title>Stop Dumping Unwanted Kittens For Others To Find</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/stop_dumping_unwanted_kittens_for_others_to_find/24977/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Just stop leaving kittens in the woods for predators.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Thu, 04 Jun 2009 00:06:30 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/stop_dumping_unwanted_kittens_for_others_to_find/24977/#When:04:06:30Z</guid>
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          <title>Prickly Questions On Race, Gender</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/prickly_questions_on_race_gender/24922/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Looking at her strong academic background and 17 years on the federal bench, Judge Sonia Sotomayor, the first Hispanic woman nominee for the U.S. Supreme Court, appears to be an exceptionally qualified candidate.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:36:16 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/editorials/article/prickly_questions_on_race_gender/24922/#When:04:36:16Z</guid>
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          <title>Freedom Works In Friendships, Politics, More</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/freedom_works_in_friendships_politics_more/24925/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Freedom works! In the political arena we need freedom to select our leaders.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:17:36 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/freedom_works_in_friendships_politics_more/24925/#When:04:17:36Z</guid>
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          <title>Puckett Supports Deeds In Primary</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/puckett_supports_deeds_in_primary/24924/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
As your Senator, representing the 38th Senatorial District in Southwest Virginia, I wanted to tell you about my friend Creigh Deeds.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:12:41 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/puckett_supports_deeds_in_primary/24924/#When:04:12:41Z</guid>
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          <title>Tent Stolen From Laundromat While Man Was At Mall</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/tent_stolen_from_mall_while_man_eating/24923/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Does anyone know who these people are? Call me if you&#8217;d like the poles that go with the tent.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:03:37 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/tent_stolen_from_mall_while_man_eating/24923/#When:04:03:37Z</guid>
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          <title>Writer Backs Truck Center At Meadowview</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_backs_truck_center_at_meadowview/24869/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Give work to the towns of Meadowview, Abingdon and other properties that are available for businesses to be built on.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:22:25 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/writer_backs_truck_center_at_meadowview/24869/#When:04:22:25Z</guid>
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          <title>Food Drive Successful Thanks To Postal Carriers</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/food_drive_successful_thanks_to_postal_carriers/24868/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
Thank you for giving to our National Association of Letter Carriers Food Drive on May 9.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:12:33 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/food_drive_successful_thanks_to_postal_carriers/24868/#When:04:12:33Z</guid>
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          <title>Student Seeks WWII Veterans For Grad Project</title>
          <link>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/student_seeks_wwii_veterans_for_grad_project/24867/</link>
          <description><![CDATA[
This summer I am completing my master&#8217;s degree in American history.           ]]></description>
          <pubDate>Tue, 02 Jun 2009 00:04:47 EDT</pubDate>
<guid>http://www.tricities.com/tri/news/opinion/letters_to_the_editor/article/student_seeks_wwii_veterans_for_grad_project/24867/#When:04:04:47Z</guid>
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