We can do something

To the editor: Recently a program presented by CNN about earmarks was an extremely disturbing bit of information. The 360 Anderson staff called every congressional representative with one question: Will you post your earmarks? Sixteen representatives said they will or had all ready done so; the remaining majority either ignored, refused or simply did not respond. I was amazed. I decided to get some additional information. In 1994 - the last year of Democratic control (of Congress) - the earmarks number was a little more than 4,000 with - get this - a cost to the taxpayers of $16 billion dollars. Quite a tidy sum. Wait, here are the latest facts: Under Republican control for the past 12 years the earmarks now number 16,600 with the cost to the taxpayers $64 billion dollars. That’s an increase beyond comprehension. Here is what I intend to do: When a Democratic or Republican request for a contribution comes through the mail, I will print on the face of the donation card the phrase “STOP EARMARKS,” return the request at the sender’s expense, the return mail is usually prepaid and of course without a donation. If they do not get the message they should not get the money. What about you? Do something. Hank Fortmuller Warwick