Oh my gosh, I could not believe what I was reading about Billy Long and Ward Crutchfield. Here again, our local governments are not doing what they are suppose to do. The good ole boy network is still alive and well.

My questions are, how in the world can you receive money for retirement when you are convicted for a federal crime while in office? Does this not warrant being fired? If you are fired, dismissed (whatever), then it would be common sense that you would not continue to receive benefits. This is ludicrous and should be embarrassing to all of Chattanooga that pension payments are made to convicted criminals.

The only reason Ward Crutchfield is not in prison is his health and age, and all the strings that were pulled. If I am correct after reading the article, Steve Curry said this was an error on our local government's part for not reporting. The only thing I can figure is that Ward Crutchfield had some input regarding "the new section of the law" since he is an attorney.

Chattanooga is quickly becoming a totally corrupt town. Crime out of control...on the streets and in our local government.

I would also like to know what Mr. Crutchfield's daughter (Missy) does to deserve the $103,000 a year salary. She makes more than our city engineer who has worked for years with the city. I think his job is much more important than the "art" that we are paying for over and beyond her salary. I also assume, that she will also have the same ridiculous retirement. I have inquired what her role really is with the city and no one seems to be able to give me an answer.

Marsha Thompson

* * *

The judge says of Ward Crutchfield as he grants restoration of full citizenship to him: he "shows the character of a person of honesty, respectability and veracity."

You have got to be kidding me. Would he do the same for Love and Cotton - I think not. None of them deserve it.

This is the same judge to rule in the recall issue. Well, my gut feeling is right on target. The taxpayers have got the shaft again between the politicians, Election Commission and the judge is my bet.

Don't forget a whole new department established for Crutchfield's daughter with a nice big salary on the taxpayers' back as a political payoff for sure.

Our society is broken. Just watch what goes on in this town is proof enough. God help us.

Cheryl Ramsey

* * *

I must say that I'm glad to read that Tennessee has a law that prohibits convicted politicians from drawing benefits. Too bad the federal government does not follow Tennessee's lead. From what I understand, the feds pay benefits to disgraced, tried, and convicted politicians.

Get elected, indicted, tried, and convicted and get paid while you're doing your time.

Ronnie "Rock" Land
rock@roadrashmag.com