It is with pleasure that I read the column 'A chat with Gerry' which appeared in The Gleaner of August 11. I had the privilege of listening to his sermons and receiving Sunday school instruction while attending Bethel Baptist Church as a very young man.

I have never met a more dedicated, faithful and humble servant of God. May God continue to bless him and his family.

- R. Oscar Lofters, Lofters1@aol.com, Kingston 8,

Via Go-Jamaica

The political advertisements have become increasingly harsh. Hard-hitting advertisements from both sides.

It's time for the political parties to cool their heels and present more uplifting and substantial advertisements which show their respective visions for Jamaica andwhat each will do to realise that vision.

If Portia Simpson Miller and Bruce Golding are serious about changing the dirty and divisive political culture of the past, then they must rise above the sort of 'cass cass' which is currently being played out on TV screens in homes all across Jamaica.

- Patrick A. Gallimore, pagalley@hotmail.com, Kingston, Via Go-Jamaica

I listened intently to the debate of the leaders of the two political parties and I must commend them for their participation, and the National Debates Commission must be praised for putting on such an organised programme.

The leader of the Opposition has an excellent grasp of the issues and was a statesman in his handling of the questions. I think finally we have a Prime Minister-in-waiting, and I am anticipating how he will implement those grand plans he has. We will hold you accountable, Mr. Golding.

- Morris McCarthy