Public disagreement and personal opinion are at the very heart of any democracy.

Personal attacks and defamation are not.

It is unacceptable for the Journal to publish letters (5-12-2014) that are gratuitous and crude ad hominem slurs such as the one directed at Mr. Barnes and his comments regarding those who share the roads of our island.

The writer of the reply to his low-keyed concern can feel anything she wants. That is her privilege.

However, there is editorial discretion that needs to be applied when the tone and content verge on libel.

This is far from the first time that editorial oversight has been lacking in the Journal and further undermines its credibility. We need responsible public discourse, not this continued descent into the gutter.

Shame on you!

Mark Fishaut/Friday Harbor