Fill parades with fun, not politicians

In his response to my letter about the Wheaton parade, Dave Diersen not only misses my point, but also reaffirms my assertion that the GOP is patting itself on the back for the parade.

First of all, I must note that this discussion is about the Fourth of July parade, not taxes, zoning issues, or other more important matters. I mention this because of the tone of Mr. Diersen's reply. "Outrageously" is used as a term to describe my assertions, as well as "the Democrats and RINOs." Moreover, Diersen sounds like an elitist when he proclaims that I could be an "excellent spokesman for the Democrats and Republicans In Name Only who have invaded DuPage County".

I guess I invaded when my parents moved us here from Massachusetts in 1970. I was only a boy, but I don't think my parents moved here because the GOP had created a safe and prosperous county all on their own. Sorry to inform you, Mr. Diersen, but I am neither a Democrat or RINO. I am a proud Libertarian.

My argument only took issue with the GOP because of Mr. Diersen's original letter, which praised the GOP up and down for its involvement in the parade. I would argue the same thing has happened with Chicago Parades, only there the Democrats have a bloated presence.

As I pointed out in my letter, it is the focus on politicians that has caused the parade to become bloated and boring. Parades were once primarily sirens, bands, drum corps, clowns, candy, musical acts, with a few dignitaries. Basically they were fun. This is one citizen who is not "overjoyed" with the new emphasis on politicians, of any party, in the Fourth of July Parade.

David Scott Thayer

Wheaton