How the mighty have fallen ("Allen admits to affair with employee," Aug. 26). So Hamilton County Prosecutor Mike Allen admits to an affair with a co-worker? But there's more to it as it seems; he heard there might be a lawsuit against him.

Amazing how contrite people can be when backed into a corner. Equally amazing is the chorus of local Republicans throwing around words such as "forgiveness" and "healing" in the light of Allen's confession. I suspect this sympathy from the right would do an about-face had Allen been a member of the Democratic Party. Where is Phil Burress and the Citizens for Community Values on this one?

Steve Rawlins

Hyde Park

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Allen should consider resigning

The allegations of sexual harassment and dishonesty made against Prosecutor Mike Allen, if true, are appalling. At best, Allen used taxpayer facilities and financial resources to engage in a consensual sexual relationship with one of his employees. At worst, he seriously abused the power of his office. Of course, this alleged activity by a boss is not unique and, unfortunately, happens every day in the work place.

However, when you consider that Allen holds the most powerful public office and trust in the county, the use of that power over Rebecca Collins is particularly disgusting. Beyond the sexual part, there are further allegations of dishonesty by the chief law enforcement officer of Hamilton County. If these allegations against the always self-righteous Allen are remotely true, then he should immediately resign.

Steven Shane

Newport

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Police seem to have two sets of laws

Regarding the article "Newport cop stopped, driven home" (Aug. 27): I assume I am correct in believing that if an individual who is not a police officer is stopped for drunken driving by Fort Thomas police, that individual will also not be arrested and will be permitted to be driven home by a friend - not!

This is the type of behavior by police that makes citizens question if there are two sets of laws, one for special groups (such as police), and one for all others.

Joe Richard

Covington

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Delta can find ways to save money

In light of Delta's problems and the claim of probable bankruptcy, what's the purpose of electing another, new member to the board? I am sure that these "necessary additions" do not work for free. I am tired of hearing how bad this company has it when there seems to be no shortage of vice presidents. It seems that if they cut about half of them from their ranks, there would be enough money to eliminate the necessity of cutting jobs, pay, and benefits. I understand the need for advertising, but a flying Mini Cooper? Isn't that a $15,000 car w/ a $5,000 paint job?

If they would invest in the employees just half of the money that they waste on ridiculous items, they would be closer to breaking even.

Mary McGregor

Price Hill

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Yesterday's Guard not same as 2004's

In regard to the letter ("Cartoon dishonors National Guard," Aug. 25) about Jim Borgman's Aug 24 editorial cartoon, those of us who came of age in the '70s know that there is no comparison between the National Guard of then and today. Today's guard is routinely deployed on combat assignments. In the '70s, the guard was where many people with low draft numbers went because they knew they would never go to combat in the National Guard.

Many co-workers told me at the time that their weekends on duty in Wilmington were a great chance to get away from the wife and kids, play cards and drink beer. Sound like anyone in Washington we know?

Jim Taylor

Milford

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Political name-calling must end

I'm already tired of the political name-calling that is getting out of hand ("Youth vote efforts just another liberal sham" (Aug. 22). Seems anyone that doesn't toe the president's line is a moron (and worse). That editorial declared all young people too moronic to vote. A shock rocker declared all opinionated musicians morons. Shut up, quit thinking should be the 2004 slogan.

Sen. John Kerry questioned authority upon his return from Vietnam. How dare he think not everything was going well? His being there speaks louder than disgruntled opinions when comparing the candidates service at that time. The name-calling (see Dick Cheney) speaks volumes about the real opinions of this administration.

Gina Dew

Newport