I completely disagree with Jerry Battisti’s opinion of Frank Shiers’ editorial cartoons in the Renton Reporter (Aug. 8, 2014). Frank does an excellent job of artistically creating images that reflect local events in our area.

Readers may not all agree with every cartoon that he draws, but he is doing exactly what outstanding editorial cartoonists are expected to do: Produce cartoons that may not coincide with everyone’s opinion, but focus on various topics for conversation and debate.

I am one of the founders of Cartoonists Northwest and, since our beginning in 1981, our organization encourages cartoonists to express themselves through their artwork. We applaud those who are accomplished at this special type of art, and invite many professionals to share their successes with our group, in order to assist others in their personal quest.

Maureen VanderPas,
CartoonistsNorthwest.com