South Bend Tribune / Voice of the People

I had submitted an e-mail to our local newspaper, and it was published in the 'Voice of the People' section over the weekend. To my dismay, it appears that it was slightly edited (i.e. a couple of sentences were omitted). Below is the restored version of the entire body of what was actually submitted to them. Once again, mainstream media does indeed breed ignorance. If the powers that be do not like being questioned, then they should do one of two things. Either, speak the truth and gain the power of our respect. Or, come to the realization that their power is built upon a foundation made of sand during a wind storm and concede to the truth

As we all know, through The Tribune's strong support of South Bend Civic Theatre, the 50th anniversary season has been, for the most part, a highly successful season. The Tribune has made a consorted effort to preview and review virtually every single production that this local professional theater group has presented with the exception of the most recent, "The Glass Menagerie" by Tennessee Williams.
As an active member of this mostly volunteer community theater group, I find it a bit out of character that the Tribune would suddenly decide after ten months that local talent does not deserve to be acknowledged. Really? Is The Tribune suggesting that non-local professional touring troupes, cinema and other artistic events take precedent over the local community professional troupes, cinema and artistic events (especially on an anniversary year)? If the answer is "yes," The Tribune should take a serious look at it's priorities and commitment to all of the local arts and make that kind of decision across the board. If it is "no", then the Tribune should take this opportunity to review "The Glass Menagerie" and restore it's commitment to one of the most prominent professional local theater troupes in the area.
Jody O. Thorla
South Bend Civic Theatre's
2007 Volunteer of the Year
South Bend