To say the least, I am appalled to read the article concerning the anti-Obama betting pool.

My husband and I moved to Maine from a Southern state 2 1/2 years ago. To read in the newspaper where we used to live such racial ideas would not have been surprising, but up here in Maine. What a horrific awakening!

Bets on the assassination of our President-elect Obama seems unreal – in Maine? Dear me!

Steve Collins, the owner of the store, took the easy way out to avoid the onslaught of those of us who believe, like him, in freedom of speech, but using intelligence and some kindness in our words. Shame on him for allowing his store to spew hatred!

I guess “the good old boys” live up here, too, but in beautiful, quiet “live and let live” Maine – those who try to live peacefully are not happy with them.

Mr. Collins and all “gamblers” need to apologize to the rest of us who aren’t tolerant of your actions.

Shirley Danielson

Blue Hill