Oct. 16, 2011: Our readers write

GOP field is lacking
When will bold leadership emerge from the Republican Party?
Last November, the Republican Party swept elections at the state and federal levels. Two months later, members replaced the chairman of the Republican National Committee.
Today, the Republican slate is weak compared to prior fields. At the national level, candidates and prospective voters are campaigning against President Barack Obama’s landmark legislation, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
However, party members are stuck with candidates such as Ritchie Farmer, Bill Johnson, John Kemper, Rick Perry, Todd P’Pool, Mitt Romney and David Williams.
Perry and Romney famously supported healthcare mandates in Texas and Massachusetts, respectively. Farmer, Kemper and Williams allegedly mishandled money, while Johnson and P’Pool are essentially single-issue candidates. The two strongest Republican candidates are James Comer and K.C. Crosbie, and they are running for offices on the bottom of the ticket.
Kentuckians already know the Beshear/Abramson slate is stronger than the Williams/
Farmer ticket. However, many voters do not recognize how valuable Conway and Hollenbach are at the state level.
Conway has openly opposed for-profit colleges such as Brown Mackie, Daymar College and National College of Kentucky. His investigations will help thousands of civilians, soldiers and veterans against misleading marketing methods. As treasurer, Hollenbach has helped return lost property to families and has served as an advocate and promoter of job fairs.
On Nov. 8, I encourage registered voters to elect Steve Beshear, Jerry Abramson, Jack Conway, Todd Hollenbach, Alison Lundergan Grimes, Adam Edelen and James Comer. Please note that Nov. 1 is the last day to apply for a mail-in absentee ballot.
Kendrick Bryan
Elizabethtown

Congratulations, Hardin County Playhouse
You have done it again — another marvelous evening of theatre entertainment. Of course, this is no surprise. Every play you have presented has been first class. And Hardin County and Elizabethtown residents, you are indeed missing the boat if you don’t take advantage of this local excellence.
The theater itself is charming, and the acting superb. And the price may be the biggest bargain in the area — only $15 for adults.
Deathtrap was wonderful this past weekend. And Josh Logsdon, a local young man, did a fine job directing.
So, come on Hardin County residents, if you love theater. Come out and enjoy this local excellence with your support. You will not be disappointed.
Jo Bailey
Elizabethtown