The Bigler Bugle Op-Ed Page

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor:

The last time my name was in this newspaper, it appeared in the police blotter. I had been charged with felony theft for forging my grandfather’s signature on a loan application. You all know my grandfather, Garland Newberry. He was publisher of the Bugle for nearly fifty years. He tells me it broke his heart to report my arrest in the pages of his own newspaper, but I know it was already broken because I broke it the day I stole from him.

I have been a fortunate woman. I was born to a well-to-do family in a pretty little town. I have been blessed with outer beauty, determination, and resourcefulness, all of which I cannot take credit for because these are traits I have inherited from a long line of Newberry women. This letter is about the unfortunate ways I chose to use all these gifts and my tendency to never be satisfied with what I have.

Recently, the man I love with all my heart almost lost his life trying to save mine. It put things in perspective for me. It has made me clear-hearted.

I, Tanyalee Marie Newberry, officially apologize to the residents of the Town of Bigler, the greater Cataloochee County area, and the proprietors with the downtown Asheville shopping district. Here are the things for which I am truly sorry, in no particular order:

– Lying repeatedly to my sister, my family, and the general population

– Stealing from my granddaddy

– Being consumed by jealousy for others, especially my sister

– Refusing to take joy in other people’s happiness

– Shoplifting two blouses, a negligee, and three pairs of thigh-highs from the C’est La Vie Boutique in Asheville

– Using men for the pretty things they could buy me, or because they would cover my rent, pay off my car note, take me shopping in Atlanta, or generally make my life easier (you know who you are)

– Being mean to girls who were not as attractive as myself

– Being mean because I thought I was better than other people

– Taking pleasure in how easily I could manipulate men to do my bidding (see above)

– Not being interested in making friends

– Thinking I was above the law

– Many other miscellaneous things, I am sure.

I am trying hard to live a better life now. I am working, volunteering, and preparing to apply to college so that I can work in a profession that helps others in some way. I plan to continue to make new friends and cherish the ones I now have. I am determined to be a better sister, sister-in-law, niece, granddaughter, mentor, friend, employee, fiancée, and citizen. Someday I may even be blessed with a family of my own.

It was quite kind of you to read all the way to the end. I do appreciate your time.

Thank you so very much,

Tanyalee M. Newberry

P.S.: D.C., I must confess that I have, on occasion, used your razor to shave my legs. Please forgive me.