Source: San Luis Obispo County Telegram-Tribune (CA) Section: Letters To The Editor Contact: http://www.sanluisobispo.com/ Pubdate: Sat, 30 Jan 1999 Note: Although we do not have the original story, and it is not at the newspaper's website, it is clear from the letters below what it was about. 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 - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake