Poor publicity-starved Loudoun Supervisor Ken “Ken” Reid (R-Leesburg) sometimes tries just a bit too hard to get his name in the paper, as was apparently the case earlier this week when he told the Washington Times that people who oppose religious displays on publicly owned property like the Loudoun Courthouse were “terrorists”. He explained:
“It’s strictly this group of terrorists. They’re fanatics who basically want to stamp out religion in all public life and property.”
“Ken” yesterday was trying to explain that when he used the word “terrorist,” it “was not meant to disparage anyone.” (Silly us for not grasping that subtle nuance in the meaning of the word “terrorist.”) He also blamed the media. After saying on Channel 4 with his usual winsome smirk that he “guess” he apologizes for his remarks, he sent the following e-mail to a citizen who took exception to his views:
> Thank you for your email.
>
> I already told the community that I regret the word “terrorist.” It was a poor choice of words and was not meant to disparage anyone who does not believe in God. I have no qualms with any person who is an atheist or agnostic; my concern the last three years has strictly been about the tactics used by certain atheist groups in the past. This is what I told the Washington Times, but it was not reported.
>
> In fact, I also told the newspaper I have no qualms with what Mr. Wingrove’s group plans for the courthouse lawn next month with his “attended display.” The County has approved of this and the Board of Supervisors is not intervening. Again, this was not reported by the media and Channel 4 did not air my complete remarks.
>
> Feel free to call me any time.
>
>
> Thank you and kind regards,
>
> Ken Reid,
> Supervisor,
> Leesburg District
> Loudoun County Board of Supervisors
> (703) 777-0203
> Ken.Reid@Loudoun.Gov
> http://www.KenReid.org
>
realloudoun 