I voted early and believe I had all of the information I needed. Many candidates were incumbents running unopposed and others were local candidates who I’m already familiar with or whose views I heard during the primary election. As for the amendments and the state and presidential candidates, I found a sample ballot on vote-ga.org. So, what else did I need?

I am delighted that Mr. Diamond found humor in the cartoon about the graduate with the open-backed gown; however, I think he missed the point of the letters to the editor. It isn't that nurses have no sense of humor. In fact, most of us have a wonderful sense of humor and find humor in things most people would be grossed out about. What offended me was the fact that it specifically named SGMC. Had the cartoon simply said 'maybe he can get a job as a nurse,’ I might not have found it so offensive, but to have named SGMC implied to those of us employed there, that the artist has a problem with our hospital. The cartoon was in poor taste and should not have been printed. I wish Mr. Diamond good health; may he never have to wear an open backed gown again. (Some patients bring their own pajamas from home. You might try this if you have a hospital stay in the future.)

How is canceling your insurance and flooding the ER going to help? Have you been in the ER lately? They are so busy they are barely keeping their heads above water now. You propose an influx that would be unreal. I propose canceling all taxpayer-funded handouts for smokers, druggies, and drunks.

What is the big issue concerning the Echols County Library being closed on Wednesdays? People just need to adjust their schedule to go to the library on another day. We have become too spoiled in this country. We want government services, but don't want to pay more.

The proponents of early voting miss the point. What if, in the month before election day, there were a catastrophic event such as a terrorist attack? Or what if one campaign drops an “October surprise” bomb on the other campaign? In either case, if you voted early for the wrong candidate, it is too late to change your mind.

The news of sending First Fridays indoors is disturbing news. The city is effectively killing First Friday. First Friday is the one event that provides the opportunity for the community to gather, share good times, and provide consistent flow of customers to the downtown businesses. As an outsider who has moved to Valdosta for employment, I have seen many downtown areas die due to lack of business. Say good bye to Valdosta's downtown. I myself will no longer visit downtown because the one event that brings me there is gone.

Even if Cook County starts a recycling program, few will participate. I live in Valdosta and ride around on trash day to see lots of lone cans out without the recycling bin. Wake up, people. The world problems affect you, too. What about reusable shopping bags? I use mine religiously.