Letters to the editor for Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2013

Wheeler learned a lesson, but he’s a good lawmaker

Assemblyman Jim Wheeler upholds the Constitution’s government of, by, and for the people. This is a novel idea. The unfortunate “slavery” illustration should have been diffused at origin, but like so many politicians (including Obama, Reid, Heller, Sandoval), he got his foot in his mouth during the heat of the moment.

Would he vote for slavery? Of course not. Slavery was not the issue. Hearing from his constituents, exploring the issues, making an informed decision and voting was! I believe this outrage is an organized political assassination. Why was the issue not brought up to the media when it occurred some time ago? Why did some conservatives suddenly look up a YouTube video now and take the “slavery” illustration out of context to share with the media? Could it be that Wheeler just does not kowtow to the special interests, lobbies, PACs? Why is Kelly Kite, whose record as a commissioner and assemblyman leans to the special interests, lobbies and PACs, digging up issues against Wheeler long past addressed? Wasn’t Kite the one during the last election who went to Las Vegas seeking the support of the power players? Now he says he’s running against Wheeler in 2014. This stinks.

Anyone — Democrat or Republican — who can honestly judge Assemblyman Wheeler by an unfortunate illustration which originated with Chuck Muth, should be ready to judge themselves. All of us at some time have put our foot in our mouths. Assemblyman Wheeler has learned a good lesson, but that does not make him a poor legislator.

Elaine Smith

Minden

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The fourth grade at Aviston Elementary, located in Southern Illinois, is learning about the United States and the different environments, climates, resources and highlights found in each region. The kids in the class think it would be fun to receive postcards, souvenirs, resources or any information about our great country from each of the 50 states.

We hope that people who read this letter will be interested in mailing our class items pertaining to their state. Our address is: 4th Grade at Aviston Elementary, 350 S. Hull St., Aviston, Illinois 62216.

A sincere thank you to anyone who is able to contribute! We appreciate the excitement you will add to our learning experience.

Fourth grade at Aviston Elementary

Aviston, Ill.