From our readers

Sixth-graders in Sarah Pruden's summer class at Scott City Middle School tell why they love America:

Women in America have more rights and opportunities than anywhere else in the world. Women in America can be astronauts, stay-at-home moms or president. -- Kaitlyn Twidell

We have freedom of speech and are encouraged to form our own opinions in life, and we have the strongest and bravest military forces in the world. -- Robert Matheny

We have state-of-the-art technology, which enables us to learn a great deal of information and makes video games such as "Grand Theft Auto" that are fun to play. -- Ethan Woods

I can spend my birthday money on whatever I choose, like art supplies, toys and video games. -- Deanna Warren

We have the freedom to dress the way we want and in comfortable clothing like T-shirts and shorts. -- Zach Pobst

Food is plentiful and good tasting. We can dine out at places like CiCi's Pizza, Long John Silvers and Taco Bell. -- Craig Enderle

People can buy their own land, build their own homes and live their own lives. -- Greg Hale

We can buy and listen to whatever music we choose, and we have the right to vote and live in a democratic society where we choose our government officials. -- Emily Wright

I can praise and worship my God when and where I choose without fear of religious persecution. -- Kelly Holder

We can get quality medical care, even if you don't have a lot of money or health insurance. -- Susan Pendergrass

I can watch and admire Edgar Renteria for turning an amazing double play or Dallas Drake score a hat trick on the ice. -- Troy Phegley

We can fall in love and marry whomever we want, whenever we want, or not at all, it's our CHOICE. We have the right to a free and public education, no matter how boring or difficult it is. -- Angela Pendergrass

We can drive at 16 and dream of someday owning the car of our dreams. -- Elizabeth Ward

I can wake up every morning, earn a living by teaching a diverse group of children what they need to know to be productive members of this country and go to bed each night with my own children tucked safely in their beds praying I've made a difference in all of their lives. -- Sarah Pruden