Editor, the Times:

I am never one to assert my opinions on others and I've never felt compelled to write to the local paper to share my opinion. But after reading the 'Piping up over oil article' from G.E. Mac-Donell (Jan. 22), I couldn't resist the opportunity to rebuke this contradictory piece of inflammatory nonsense.

G.E. first tells us that he used to be a reporter and editor (OK, I'm impressed) and as a communications specialist for two large energy corporations (OK, now I'm not impressed).

I like many, am searching for some truth in the endless stream of information, hyperbole and rhetoric surrounding the pipeline issue and the larger global issues that come with it.

Like G.E., I too would compliment Chilliwack Times reporter Paul J. Henderson for his well-written and balanced article. But unlike G.E., I won't then proceed to tear the article down.

G.E. begins by 'defending' Kinder Morgan for the second pipeline spill at Sumas Mountain that occurred under their watch since acquiring the pipeline in 2005.

He also says, "If I recall properly, no one was hurt or killed and no private property was damaged and there was no threat of any kind to the public at large."

But I would much prefer to hear the thoughts of the local residents that were affected that day and continue living in the shadow of those tanks.

And last but not least, G.E. decides to question the "engineering credentials" of Ms. Sheila Muxlow of the Fraser Valley anti-pipeline group PIPE UP.

I couldn't help but notice the lack of engineering credentials listed in G.E.'s self-intro, so what could be his/her point? I have the privilege of knowing Ms.

Muxlow, and I know she has personally witnessed the indisputable and unmitigated environmental impacts of unsustainable tar sands development.

I shudder at the state of our planet were it not for the watchful eye and concern for our future that Sheila and people like her have.

In short G.E., your letter did nothing in helping my quest for some truth. This was a very sad attempt to spin-doctor a cut-and-dry poor safety record. Stick that in your pipeline.

Mike Goold Cultus Lake