I guess that Knoxville’s elected officials want to make sure they end 2007 with the same level of controversy that they enjoyed most of the year. Yes, I think they are enjoying this. The same way that celebritarts are repeatedly photographed with no underwear and run people over with their cars, our local politicians have embraced the “no such thing as bad publicity” model. How disappointing and embarrassing. Southerners may bear the brunt of redneck jokes, but we used to pride ourselves on our manners. I hope each and every politician experiences a sleepless night on Christmas eve because of the company of three spirits.