Patriotism in America — is it really still existing today? I see a lot of American flags displayed at people’s homes, businesses, on cars, etc. I feel that it represents hope for this country, and that is a good thing.

I deeply regret that most of the time I don’t see such patriotism from the government and people in power. I am sure that there are many good politicians, businesspeople and corporation owners who really care to be creative and generous in their endeavors to support the common good, but I don’t think they are in the majority.

I don’t believe that anything will change until the values of the citizens of this beautiful country change from a spirit of competition to cooperation.

A government for the people and by the people, to me, means that the popular vote should exist so that the people would, together, direct the country in the right direction.

I believe that a flat tax, a percentage of everyone’s income without exemption, should be in force. It would be fair for everyone and would provide the necessary income to support the country and everyone’s basic needs, such as a universal health care system and a living wage.

I feel that we are all equal as a people, and we really need to decide to become willing to respectfully recreate ourselves anew, becoming one nation, under God, again, regardless of one’s beliefs.

Lou Giard, Turner