What Andy Betterton Tells Us about Bullying

 

What's the definition of bully? One who is habitually cruel, insulting, or threatening to others who are weaker, smaller, or in some way vulnerable. 

Why would Florence mayor Andy Betterton support anyone who was a bully? That's a good question, and every citizen of Florence should be concerned about the mayor's behavior.

In the past, Betterton has shied away from controversy. If there's an unpleasant task on the calendar, the Florence mayor has been known to schedule a vacation. Why would Betterton now support a bully, bringing the abuser closer to the heart of city government?

Anyone who keeps up with Florence politics knows that Brian Murphy and David Carson are polar opposites. We don't agree with either of them in their attempts to influence municipal government. At one time, we had both men banned from our Facebook page. 

Yet there is a marked difference between the two activists - Brian W. Murphy is a city employee, one whose salary is paid by the citizens of Florence. For that reason, Murphy should be careful of his actions. Is he? 

No. Murphy has chosen to ridicule and insult Carson. Does Andy Betterton care? It would seem he doesn't. It appears that Betterton supports Murphy's bullying behavior...even rewards it by choosing Murphy to become a department head in the city.

Lest you think David Carson is Murphy's only victim in the bullying department, let's consider his actions concerning former Pope's Tavern director Wayne Higgins. While Murphy was employed at the Rosenbaum Home, he wrote a scathing review of activities at Pope's Tavern under Mr. Higgins' directorship. ("Educating Allies," first published in Garden Spices.)

In an era where young people kill themselves over bullying, is Andy Betterton the example you wish to see run your city?

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This is Belinda. She's four months-old and waiting patiently for her new home. Breed isn't specified, but you have to admit she's super cute. You can meet Belinda at the Florence shelter just off Chisholm Road: