I am unalterably opposed to a pre-emptive strike on Iraq. The Bangor Daily News staff would truly help its readers if it would research the reasons against the war being published in journals and independent magazines. There are more words being written against the war than an open and inclusive White House could possibly withstand.

I live in a Republican area and the talk is mostly against the war. I know of no one in my area who believes the statistic that 70 percent of people support the war. Just having this figure repeated on television and in newspapers has united us as few other statements could. We remain Republicans and Democrats, peaceniks or war supporters, but no one believes that statistic.

Bucksport, a town with possibly more young men in the service than surrounding towns, is supportive of the small numbered public vigils against the war. We get more thumbs-up gestures than middle fingers as cars drive by. If nothing else, the meager few willing to stand in public against the war give people a chance to voice an opinion.

There is a great malaise in the country, a feeling that the government, the church and the media have failed us. We have a church that has bishops talking only to other bishops, a government that only talks to Washington insiders and a media obedient to power. The BDN could widen the array of ideas to more honestly report the thoughtful opinions of its readers. A newspaper is still our best way of communicating on a local level.

Barbara Larson

Brooksville