To the Editors:
We all value and are willing to die to protect our freedoms of speech and the press -- especially in an election year -- and speaking your mind and handing out pamphlets are traditional methods of political participation. But placing pamphlets on cars, called "papering the lots," is not political participation. It's littering, and our parking lots are now full of John Edwards pamphlets. One must act responsibly when representing the candidate or issue they choose to promote or risk alienating the very people they intend to proselytize.
How to prevent this in the future? Make it illegal. Many cities, towns and campuses across America have laws prohibiting the placement of pamphlets and flyers on parked vehicles because of the mess that is usually left behind. OK, decision-makers, put it on your agenda and keep our lots paperless. Hopefully, it will prove more successful than the computer has been at promoting a paperless office!
