Letter: Old soldier stated plight of elderly

Friday, July 9, 1999 | 9:14 a.m.

Our elected cannot openly advocate that America's aged should be placed on an isolated ice flow, pushed off in a kayak in an Arctic sea -- never to be seen again.

Their way is more subtle. Promise, but don't fund Medicare. Allow drug makers to raise costs way beyond the reach of the seniors who need it most. Disallow COLA increases to an insulting degree, while they enjoy the best of health care, high living, regular salary increases, and "perks" to dream about.

You are correct, sir. Sooner than we think there will be one company store, one bank, one world economy, no more government "of the people, by the people." Until and unless this country can rid itself of the dead wood in government, the old fogies -- way past their prime -- will continue to work for special interests and not for the people who put them in office.

Antitrust laws are out -- mega mergers are in!

Overwhelmingly, voters have asked for term limits and majority leaders refused discussion on a vote -- it just died. Campaign finance reform bills likewise were filibustered and died painfully.

God bless you, old soldier, you helped to save the country when it was an imperative -- you'll never have to answer for that. And, please, don't get too tired -- with a mind as sharp as yours, this great country needs you!

VIVIEN CARDINAL