The Blount County United Way has made much of it's kickoff. And, as most know it strives to do a lot of good with many deserving organizations. But it sure seems strange how a non-profit organization would lead its fund-raising charge with a host of politically-charged Republicans. The object is to bring in as many dollars as possible to help the UW's member agencies, not to politicize the campaign and risk losing donations from those who have serious issues with the highly questionable financial shenanigans of the group unaffectionately being tagged "Bennett & Co."

Let's see, Bennett, Blount Republican party chair, is "chair" of the United Way campaign. Julie Talbott, who works in Bennett's office, is chairing the United Way Day of Caring. Disgraced Circuit Court Clerk, Tom Hatcher, also a Republican, is chairing the UW's Hamburger Luncheon. Now, you'll note Commissioner Mike Lewis is chairing the UW's Golf Tournament, and yes, he is a Republican. But, in his defense, he's been involved in charity golf tournaments for many years, and is a relative newcomer to politics. He's still trying to figure out all this political stuff.

With all due respect to the United Way, this smells kinda stinky. And, the UW administration and Board of Directors should have seen the writing on the wall. Then again, maybe they did, and went with the political angle anyway. Either way, this year, donations from this wallet will be given directly to the member-agencies. It doesn't make sense to send money through an organization that leads a major campaign with politics instead of keeping its eye focused on its mission of helping those with real needs.