During the Fourth of July week, I watched a spirited and well-run 5K road race and fireworks display at the Winthrop public beach. Why, I wonder, do people take their dogs to such events?

Let’s suppose that, by some chance, our politicians decide on a 2 percent cost of living adjustment next year, and we get $1,000 per month in our Social Security check — oops, sorry about that, a big boo boo on my part, it’s now known as a “Federal Benefit Payment” check — every month. That would amount to $20 per month increase for us, but that 2 percent would amount to more than $1,000 per month for our politicians.

Solvent government must be a priority. It serves also as an example to us. There will always be vote seekers who cater to those who want a soft berth in life. Divided authority can be a handicap to progress.