“Obama doesn’t wear a flag pin,” “McCain is old,” “Biden is a hot head,” “Palin believes the Flintstones is nonfiction.” All of this is funny and makes one laugh, and so do a couple of the latest letters to the editor.

First, a fellow tried to argue that because his kids all have good jobs, the economy just has to be great! Using his foolish logic, does he also question if Hurricane Ike or the flooding in Iowa are real because it didn’t rain and he doesn’t have any water in his basement? Ha! Can you say $700 billion?

Another writer complained that people were running up to Alaska digging up dirt and picking on Sarah Palin. Good! Mr. McCain met her once and talked to her once before he was told that she would be his running mate. We have been learning about Obama, McCain and Biden for well over a year. We know them all pretty well. This lady might be one heartbeat away from being the leader of the free world. She has not held a single press conference. If she is supposedly the best, most-qualified person available, don’t you think we should find out as much about her as we can? Isn’t that our duty? Those that start crying sexism over this public vetting should talk it over with the folks at the Republican National Convention that were wearing those “Hoosiers for the Hot Chic” buttons.

A person did write in and made some sense when she explained that the silent need to speak up. She also said when you vote for a person you are voting for their party and their platform. This is sooo true. If you think the last eight years have been good, then speak up for four more. If you have had enough of Bush policies and want change speak up. Look closely at the parties. One wants to give you a tax cut if you make less than $120 per hour ($250,000 a year). One party fought for and passed the G.I. Bill. One wants to privatize Social Security. One wants to make health care available to all. One party is for a women’s choice. One says “Drill baby drill.” One party has continually fought for workers’ rights, unions and raising the minimum wage. One has fought for tax cuts for the wealthy and big business. One has fought for equal rights, equal pay and laws to strengthen violence against women. There are some very stark differences. List what is important to you. Do some research, laugh at the funny stuff. Watch out for “Witchcraft,” don’t be fooled, and don’t be silent.

Al Helgerson

Albert Lea