To Roy Exum:

I think that you may be misled in your loyalty and admiration for the sheriff. When he attempted to intervene on behalf of a former deputy (a convicted drug dealer, who dealt drugs in the jail), his creditability should be questioned. Don't you agree?

I don’t not consider any convicted drug dealers among my friends.

Just food for thought, Roy.

Will Austin

* * *

Mr. Austin, earth won't stop rotating around the sun just because you don't like someone. Most of us don't sit in judgment of a person by who they were, but who they strive to become. We know by nature man is inherently flawed and imperfect. That's the great thing about this country. It was built by people who'd goofed up quite a number times. Many of the earlier settlers were criminals. And in today's climate, even Jesus Christ would likely have a criminal record.  

I guess that's what sets me apart, and often place me in the cross-hairs of others around these parts. The simple fact that I know human nature, human failures and all the imperfections that comes along with simply being human and imperfect.  

Remember, whatever imperfections in our fellow man we humans reject, Jesus Christ will gladly and lovingly embrace.

Brenda Manghane-Washington

* * *

I am glad you are Jim's friend.  I  would like to make one thing clear, There was one man who ran Hamilton County without a blemish, Mr. John Cupp.  He was impeccable.  The man is clean as a whistle.  He was not always liked by his staff for different reasons but he ran the sheriff's office with great integrity. 

Jim Hammond seems like a nice guy and a better sheriff than Mr. Long.  He certainly admires H.Q., but no one compares to John Cupp.  We were very fortunate that he gave his services to the  Hamilton County sheriffs department.  John Cupp showed great leadership.  He did not buy into the good ole boy system.  He did not like the back stabbers and for a time we had an honest sheriff to guide us.  

Thank you John Cupp.

Tammy Greene

* * *

I met Jim Hammond early on a Friday morning prayer group in 1980. Since that time I have served in a CBMC group with him. I have found him to be compassionate, helpful and a man of high character. I have never expected him to be perfect or meet my standards. He has proven to be a real friend to me and those that others condemned. 

I have great respect for men and women who do not blow in the wind of peer pressure and first consider the cost of being someone's friend. I will say up front that I hope my friends know I will continue to be their friends no matter what the circumstances. They make mistakes in this life that I may not approve of but will still be their friend. I have a couple of friends that are ex-cons and a couple of guys that are gay. They know how I feel about their past lifestyle and do not approve what they have done, but they also know they are still my friends.  

There is no litmus test people have to meet to be my friend. I am so thankful for the friends I have that take me just as I am, as I am far from perfect.

N.D. kennedy Sr.
Ooltewah