Editor: I would like to respond to the letter to the editor published on Oct. 1 and written by Mary Kathryn Luis. The words "elite" and "elitism" have been thrown around a lot during this year's presidential campaign. These words are meant to be insulting, but when you check the definitions you might be surprised.

According to wikipedia, Elitism is the belief of attitude that those individuals who are considered members of the elite -- a select group of people with outstanding personal abilities, intellect, wealth, specialized training or experience, or other distinctive attributes -- are those whose views on a matter are to be taken. Also, when checking Answer.com, I found the definition of "elite" as follows: (a) a group of persons or a member of such a group, enjoying superior intellectual, social, or economic status, and (b) The best or most skilled member of a group (i.e. an elite athlete)

The word "snobbery" was also used in that letter, however, since it seems that Ms. Luis does not know the "professor of politics" nor Ms. Leonard personally, she is making a judgment with little or no basis for truth. I do not know who the professor was who angered Ms. Luis, but I do know Mrs. Leonard. She is a retired elementary school teacher who values education and has always worked to make higher education available to all citizens.

As I look forward to our upcoming elections, it is my hope that we elect the most intellectual and talented candidates that are available. Just as we strive to send out most "elite" athletes to represent us in the Olympics, we should elect the very best candidates to higher office. The future of my children and grandchildren depends on it. The future of our great country and the world depends on this election.

Cathy Jorgensen

Hanford

(Oct. 7, 2008)