I have voted in every presidential election since 1959, and follow the candidates and their politics very closely in educating myself on who to vote for. I have seen the dumbing down of the American voter first hand, but Barack Obama's candidacy and his following simply amaze me.

When he first announced his intention to run for president, I thought, "Good, a bright and very articulate young man, not much experience, but has other qualities that might be good for this country. Maybe he can run a good campaign, get himself known nationally, and in eight years could make a strong run at the presidency."

Even knowing the ill-informed voter (who has the time to really look into a candidate?), I thought the media would do its job and ask the questions necessary for even the most casual observer to learn something about Obama's thinking. Of course, until the Rev. Jeremiah Wright came on the scene, everything was just dandy. The media didn't ask any questions and he now is poised to be the Democratic nominee for president of this county.

A 46-year-old two-term Illinois state senator, and now in his first term as a U.S. senator. How could anybody with this lack of world knowledge lead the most powerful county on earth?

Never underestimate the American voter. They don't vote with knowledge. They don't know the candidate; they just like the way he or she looks and talks. Well, now we have some insight on Obama's thoughts and character since Wright has appeared on the scene.

Obama and his family have been very involved in a church that really doesn't like this country or the people in it. The things Wright has said and Obama has listened to is no different than the hate-filled message you would expect from al-Qaida. How could you listen for 20 years to this hatred and not be affected by it. What kind of "change" is he talking about? Lead us where?

This father has taken his two young daughters to this church since they were born. How has the hate-filled words they have heard formed their opinion of this country? If given the chance, would he want to expose all of America's children to this kind of rhetoric?

The liberal media and its following can make all the excuses they want about the Wright connection, but hopefully enough voters will stop and think before they allow this man to become our president.

Gene Cobb
Gainesville

Hotel was hospitable to visitors during crisis
I wanted to publicly thank Best Western Lanier Centre for the kind treatment to those of us who needed to get out of the storm last Saturday. As the hail began to fall, I sped to the nearest place where I might get my car under protection. I joined others as we pulled under the awning of the motel.

My daughter and I raced for the doors only to be met by locks. The manager saw us and came running to let us in. He directed us to the hallway where others were waiting out the tornado warnings as well. They offered us towels as we were drenched.

When the first part passed, they told us to wait as long as we needed in their TV area. We waited for 1« hours until the warning passed. My daughter and I appreciate their kindness as we were only passing by and not paying customers.

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" was practiced last Saturday. Thank you to all of the workers who were on duty that day.

Linda James
Clayton