News - Editorial - Letters

Friday, Oct. 30, 2009

Oct. 31 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Amid all the political bickering, the work of America goes undone

I believe that it is time, in America, to stop the bickering of political parties and the spending of so much time on their own party agendas that nothing is getting done for the benefit, as a whole, of the American people!

We all know about the health care mess going on in Washington and that only a handful of people are involved in the decision-making. We also know that the only plan getting real attention is apparently being sponsored by one political party (and the acting president).

There are many of us in the United States who are opposed to this plan.

I believe that Congress is only considering votes in future elections. They do practically everything for the good of their respective parties and not, in many cases, for the good of the American people. “What can I do to get re-elected?” is the mindset! And don’t dare go against the party or you will be committing political suicide.

Well, in my viewpoint, it is time to say to blazes with political parties and bring on what is best for the American people! What if, as an example, we had plans (three perhaps) to vote on? That’s right, for us to vote on! Let the people decide.

Our country is a laugh to many nations because of the bickering and the games and the backroom deals that are being made. I previously worked for an educated man who said: “Somewhere in the world, at any given time, there is a committee meeting to decide your fate.” I am starting to believe this!

What I want is for people in Washington to have the backbone to do what is right and not what is beneficial only for themselves and their parties. I want them to understand that their job doesn’t end after election day. They must roll up their sleeves and work for us.

RICHARD VERMEULEN

Ocean Springs

‘Inherit the Wind’ disinherits the truth

“Inherit the Wind,” the movie depicting the famous trial of John Scopes for teaching evolution, at which William Jennings Bryan defended and Clarence Darrow was brought in to help with the prosecution, aired recently on TV. Although it is a classic by Hollywood standards, it is deceptive, historically inaccurate, and obviously intended to make Christianity look ridiculous.

For instance:

n “Bryan was not emotionally dependent on his wife in the unhealthy manner portrayed. On the contrary, he was a caregiver ... to his wife, whose health was declining.

n “Bryan did not die in court. He died in his sleep eight days after the trial. His death was not due to emotional devastation. On the contrary, his wife and friends spoke of Bryan being in jovial spirits and being very excited about carrying on his writing and speechmaking.