We wish to express our deep appreciation and gratitude for the generous coverage of One River Mississippi provided by the River Cities' Reader. The article, photos, map, and survey printed in the June 21 issue provided clear and accurate information. The cover was dynamite, as well! The countdown ads that began in May helped to create early interest in this event. Thanks for being with us every step of the way.

Should citizens of this state have a right to know whether their governor and his administration are under criminal investigation?

According to the Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich, the answer is "no."

Kathleen McCarthy, in her "Donkey in Elephant's Clothing" opinion piece (see River Cities' Reader Issue 584, June 7-13, 2006), invited dues-paying members of local chambers of commerce to consider whether their interests as small-business owners were being served by the chambers' support for Governor Tom Vilsack's recent veto of House File (H.F.) 2351, and the governor's call for a special session of the legislature to modify this act. I have been a dues-paying member of the Davenport Chamber of Commerce and its corporate successor for nearly 25 years, and I am in total accord on these issues with both the governor and business leaders' support for the governor.

When last we heard from state Senator James Meeks, he had dropped out of the governor's race and endorsed Governor Rod Blagojevich's much hyped education/lottery plan. With the proposal currently under fire from almost all corners, I thought it might be a good time to check back in with him.