150 years of Darwin

I read Mr. Krebs' "love letter" to Charles Darwin in the Feb. 11 edition. He seems to espouse that without Darwin, scientists would never have been able to figure out how to increase food production in livestock and plants. To figure out that research on animals such as lab rats instead of people was a good thing. And that the staggering advances (his words, not mine) in the life science field should be credited directly to Darwin. Wow, what a guy; I'm surprised that Hallmark doesn't sell "Darwin Day" cards.

Towards the end of his laudation he also implies that viewing Darwin's theories with any doubt can only be explained by a "lack of scientific knowledge." That defense was used by Darwin himself against leading scientists of his time who questioned his work, and continues to this day. You would have thought that after 150 years that method would have evolved into something better.

Ted Salmons, Lebanon

Downtown gratitude

Recently Rick Rogers announced he was retiring from his position as executive director of the Albany Downtown Association to focus on his business and family. We owe Rick a huge debt of gratitude for all he has accomplished for Albany.

Rick has been a tireless and avid promoter of downtown Albany. He worked countless hours on promotional events like the Upstairs Downtown Tour, Crazy Days, Antiques in the Streets, Learn Something New Day, Movies By Moonlight, Veterans Day Parade and other events.

Rick actively sought out and helped people who were thinking about moving a business downtown or purchasing a building downtown.

Rich worked long and hard with city staff and others to get our new Economic Improvement District passed and to successfully apply for Albany to participate in the nationwide Main Street economic development program.

In my own experience, Rick was immensely helpful as my wife and I considered buying the Flinn Block and Ames buildings. He introduced us to neighbors, city staff, and other building owners. He recommended supporting us in our renovation efforts. Rick was always willing to talk with prospective tenants, helping them to see the opportunities and benefits of moving their businesses into the downtown. Rick and Karen moved their Movies & Magic store to the Flinn Block, a key component of the overall improvement in the mall. It has been a pleasure to work with Rick.

The city of Albany is a better place because of all Rick has done. Thank you, Rick Rogers.

Marc Manley, Albany

Republicans want what?

With their speeches and votes it is obvious that the Republicans in Congress are hoping that the stimulus package will fail and they can gain some political advantage as a result.

It is hard to understand their enthusiasm for a situation that will create an economic apocalypse and bring more misery to all of us.

And by the way, how is the economic policy based on tax cuts and hands-off regulation working for you?

LaMont Matthews, Albany