I would like to respond to an Aug. 1 letter to the editor by Stephen J. Banjak, a professor emeritus at Slippery Rock University.

In the letter, he criticizes a brochure sent out by U.S. Rep. Kathy Dahlkemper, alleging hypocrisy in promoting her position to cut spending when she voted for the health care program proposed by President Barack Obama.

Let me list the following benefits of the health care package as passed and supported by Dahlkemper — benefits for just those living in the 3rd (our) Congressional District:

• Improved health care coverage for 394,000 residents with health insurance.

• Tax credits and other assistance for up to 174,000 families and 13,200 small businesses to help them afford coverage.

• Coverage for 17,000 uninsured residents.

• A guarantee that 7,600 residents with pre-existing conditions can obtain coverage.

• Protection for 900 families from bankruptcy due to unaffordable health care costs.

And such benefits go on and on.

I guess Banjak objects to all of the above. Does he want to take away health insurance from those who can't afford it?

We seem to find funds to support two wars, yet the "no" party stresses that we cannot find money to support our own people.

Let's look at Banjak's situation. He has a plush retirement package from SRU. Regarding his own health insurance program, almost everything is paid for by we the taxpayers.

Why should he be concerned about the unemployed, the families facing foreclosure, and those without health insurance? He's got it made.

Dahlkemper is looking out for small businesses in her district and those less fortunate than Banjak.

We need Dahlkemper as our representative in Congress. I feel we must support her in November with our votes.