To the Editor:

In his book, FantasyLand: How America Went Haywire: A 500-Year History, Kurt Andersen discusses the “strange, post-factual, fake news moment we’re all living through” and how it is not new and has been with us since those trials in Salem.

Fantasy was readily apparent at the May 4 Haywood County Commission meeting during the public comment period on re-opening Haywood County. Speakers ranged from the sincere business owner from Maggie Valley to the DDs (Data Deniers) from around the county, who were often anecdotal and inaccurate in their statements. While not speaking, several were “Amening” others making inaccurate statements. While sitting near the rear, I observed the assorted head shaking and tut-tutting from the DDs, as well as muted outbursts as health officials made their presentations( including one off-color name calling by one of the public comment speakers). Since they chose to whisper back and forth (six feet apart and maskless), I heard a number of factually incorrect statements as well as insults directed at the health department speakers.

I am a firm believer in Daniel Moynihan’s quote, “Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, just not their own facts.”

Finally, for those of us who stayed for the entire meeting (the re-opening proclamation was the next to last item), we were able to hear the opinions of the board members on the upcoming vote. I found them reasoned and respectful of all citizens. I also noted that only the sincere business owner from Maggie Valley stayed until the vote. The DDs made their speeches, scoffed at the health officials and departed before the discussion of the proclamation. It would probably have conflicted with their “narrative.”

Richard Gould

Waynesville