Searching for the understanding

Dear Editor,

Raised in the South, I was often exposed to, “the old men on the park bench,” who, turning thoughts to politics, would say, “It doesn’t matter who you vote for; they’re all going to promise the moon ‘til they get in the White House, then they’ll spend the next four years doing what they want and taking vacations.”
Watching the Republican caucuses, it has been evermore apparent these “old men” were right. Our president is not elected as much on what his knowledge and integrity can buy but rather, his (or her) dollars.
Thus, regardless of experience and ideas, unless you’re among the wealthiest Americans, you’ll never sleep in the White House.
Unemployed for months, I found Newt Gingrich’s comment to “Occupy” protestors, “Get a bath; then get a job!” an expression of aloofness and arrogance. [He should read, How to Win Friends and Influence People by . . . Marie Antoinette.]
And Mitt Romney? If I knew he would adhere to the tenets of his faith, I’d vote for him. Still, betting $10,000 on a healthcare point of order is far beyond the means and understanding of the average American.
Rick Santorum has captured my attention lately by speaking up against being shunned by interviewers in recent debates as they vie for air-time for the moneyed, his meager campaign funds and showing up for speeches in his personal vehicle—as opposed to a lush tour bus and an entourage. In the American spirit, he’s doing what he can with what he has!
Wouldn’t it be great if each candidate had the same ceiling for campaign expenditures, and were subject to the same truth in advertising laws as pharmaceutical companies and auto makers? That way the electorate could concentrate on substance instead of showmanship—where dollars usually win!
 
William Cook
Lake Stevens

 Thanks to those who helped with winter solstice event

Dear Editor,

I would like to thank the community of Lake Stevens for coming together for the 18th annual Winter Solstice celebration.  It was our seventh year participating in this event, and we’ve seen its growth over the years, from  just a handful of  people to 116 this year. 
A special thanks to the Jones and Morgan families for the wonderful lighted boat parade, thanks also to Mr. West for tending the bonfire that added warmth, light, and special meaning to the occasion.
Thanks to everyone for the great food and the outstanding donations of food, clothing, and toys for charity. 
Thanks to all the children who provided cheerful entertainment with their talent and humor, their rewriting the lyrics of traditional holiday songs was clever and witty. 
Thanks to my own  family, who stepped in and took over my duties when I was unable, due to a fall last month.
Thanks to our neighbors, who although they declined the invitation, due to their Christian faith, did show such kindness and respect and provided the beautiful garlands that decorated the pavilion.
Thanks to Jan and Mike  for taking all the great photos, which will be available for viewing on many of our facebook pages, including my own.
Such community spirit and generosity is greatly appreciated. 
May we all have a happy, healthy, peaceful New Year!

Carolyn Fox-Allen
Lake Stevens