Free press

The free press is a blessing but it can be a curse. Case in point, the latest attempt by some deranged person trying to terrorize the country. The news media needs to keep the public informed but in a reasonable manner. Their good judgment seems to be overly influenced by ratings. Phases like, terror strikes fear in the hearts”, “there was panic in the streets” and “body parts were everywhere” do not help matters. The press should realize that there is a difference between terror and terrorism. When they exaggerate the damage with hyperbole they aid and abet the enemy. They should emphasize the calm and collected way that citizens reacted when they set about to help the wounded.