I read with great interest of Steva Stowell-Hardcastle's traumatic journey through the Susquehanna Valley while campaigning for Obama. The writer expressed shock over the racism in the Valley. Selective outrage is pretty standard for Obama supporters. Especially with a letter on racism in the Valley printed the same day that Congressman John Lewis, a black Democrat, accuses John McCain of being the same as George Wallace. Race-baiting many liberals excuse as understandable, not to be condemned. The same politically correct attitude that not only tolerates, but often encourages the racism, bigotry, sexism and anti-Semitism of Farrakhan, Jackson, Waters, Sharpton and the Rev. Wright.

However, I did note that Stowell-Hardcastle seems well enough to submit a nicely written letter. A letter about words. Unpleasant words, but words all the same. Apparently she was able to campaign around all these Valley racists and come home safely. Now, for a real experience in racism, I offer a challenge. Go to any major city to campaign for John McCain and the Republicans. If the campaigner was white, chances are he'd not be well enough to write about it soon, or ever. Of course, the cause wouldn't be blamed on racism. The blame would go to the campaigner for being stupid enough to go there in the first place, especially to campaign for a Republican. Just remember, you can campaign freely and safely in this Valley where you see so many racists.

For years, many of us in this Valley fought and bled alongside men of every race and social background. To survive, we all considered ourselves green. Everyone was held to the same standard, no tolerance for excuses, and no one excused. It's a shame so many liberals despise the military, that they can't learn from the soldier's ability to live side by side as friends, without the need to be anything but green.

William J. Folk,

Northumberland