To the Editor:
On the 12th of April this year, and also on 13th of April, this paper, had big headlines stating “La Feria’s Missing Money Mystery” showing a large photo of City Manager Sunny Philip.
The articles inferred that he was fired because he had been caught stealing over 3 million dollars!
I think most will agree that this paper should have been more careful, and equally informative about the fact that an audit revealed he did
not steal the 3 million dollars, in fact nobody stole any money at all.
That was a serious accusation, not based on facts, and to report it as fact when there was no missing money, could be considered irresponsible reporting at best, I like to think this paper is more responsible than that.
I am not a politician, but it seems to me that perhaps the real story might have been the city commissioners that had such little concern for our city funds that such an accusation could have ever existed in the first place.
I think the Morning Star owes Sunny Phillip an apology at least, even if that involves admitting sloppy reporting of events.
The recent small article at the bottom of the page did little to actually set the record straight and did not offer any apology for the earlier reporting.
Donald Schwanke
La Feria
Editor’s Note: The Valley Morning Star never inferred nor stated any money was stolen.
We simply reported accurately and thoroughly the actions, statements and opinions of the La Feria City Commission and its officials regarding the city’s finances both in April and more recently. Mr. Philip has been contacted for every story written and has always been given an opportunity to voice his opinion in these matters as well.
