Take it easy on Smokey Bear

To the editor:

I was deeply affronted to read your story about the rise and fall of Smokey the Bear. Not because you didn't make a valid point concerning the Forest Service and the need for a new angle on environmental awareness. You definitely did.

Instead, I take offense that you are landing the entire blame for the agency's deficiency on Smokey himself. Many people still exist, such as myself, who will always love and cherish Smokey the Bear, and who can look past what the Forest Service says through him to the true message that they are trying to get across, whether they do it well or not. Instead of trashing a great American icon, why don't you use your journalistic persuasion to rally ideas and support for a new campaign for environmental awareness.

Be it Smokey the Bear or Woodsy the Owl, these loveable characters play a vital role for Americans, especially children, to become aware of the environment that surrounds them and the important role they can play in preserving such a treasure for all of those to come. Have some respect, please.

April Lewis

Bonners Ferry, Idaho