December 29, 2003

Dear Sir:

I am writing regarding the Tyler Whitley article in today’s edition, Cantor defends council letter.

A Marie Lynch, who lives in Chesterfield, was lamenting what she saw as the true nature of Congressman Cantor’s Advisory Council letter. I would ask Ms. Lynch, and others, to remember that Mr. Cantor is a Washington politician. Please do not be surprised by the request for money. It is part and parcel of being a politician today.

I received the same letter. I must tell you that before I even started reading it I knew that it was to end with a request for funds. How did I know this? Because EVERY letter I get from a politician asks for money. This is nothing new. I did return the letter stating that I would be happy to offer my opinion by being a member of the council. I also included a note telling Mr. Cantor and his staff that the only support that any politician could hope for from me was my vote. I have never, and will never, give any of my hard-earned money to a politician or political party.

So to Ms. Lynch and my fellow citizens I would just say, Don’t pass up any chance to have your voice heard. You don’t have to send money, just your opinion and your vote.

Sincerely,

Floyd C. Bayne