I have managed numerous campaigns over the years, district races and countywide races. I have also warned the candidates that I have managed that they are to always be factual in their bio and record of accomplishments. Because in previous years, the News-Sentinel reporters have gone to great lengths to determine if a candidate is using their “real” name or if they are taking credit for something that is not factual. I will give you a real example. “Sunshine” Madden was a figure here in Knoxville for years. He ran for City Council and Mayor numerous times. He has since passed on. But the newspaper would list his name as John “Sunshine” Madden.

So, the reporters have either gotten lazy or they ignore the standard protocol when the candidate is known as a Democrat or a Green Party candidate. For example: Ray Abbas, candidate for City Council. My sources have informed me that according to election commission records his name is Riyad H Abbas, not Ray Abbas.

So what has happened to the reporters that work for E.W. Scripps? That would include the News-Sentinel, Metro Pulse (Mike Gibson) and the little ole’ tabloid on the north side of town.