Speak Out 07/14/04

Canadian health

I COULDN'T believe the comment about socialized medicine calling potential voters "uninformed." The author of the comment claims "the average tax rate has climbed almost 50 percent." The truth is that the highest tax bracket in Canada (over $114,000 a year) pays 29 percent. The average cost of health care in Canada is $600 less per person than in America. Canadians on average enjoy a lifespan two years longer than Americans, have a quarter less infant deaths, have 20 percent less heart disease and are less obese.

Discriminating proposal

I THINK that no matter your stance on the issue, the precedent of a constitutional amendment that discriminates against a group of American citizens is wrong.

Heavy issues

THERE ARE more important issues out there than abortion and gay marriage. And these issues need to be weighed heavily come November.

Reader benefits

TWO THINGS I really like about the Missourian. You don't mess with the comics, and the crossword puzzle is above the crease on Sundays, which makes it easy to work. Thanks.

Fair health care

I DON'T think any Democrat anywhere thinks universal health care will be free. What it will be is fair.

Pieces of quiet

IF YOU suffer night after night like I do because of the obnoxiously loud thumping of people's stereos, make the call. Call the police. Call your city councilman. We have a noise ordinance, though it doesn't seem to be enforced. I live two blocks from Capaha Park and am constantly bombarded by other people's music at all times of day and night. This must not be tolerated, and nothing will change until people speak up. We have a right to peace and quiet in our own homes. Don't hesitate to let the police know about it.

Move to the county

I'D LIKE to thank the brain trust in Jackson that decided to ban certain fireworks within the city limits. Now anyone who wants to shoot fireworks just goes to the nearest county road. Ever since the first weekend of fireworks sales, our county road was littered with fireworks debris. Maybe those within the Jackson city limits have more peace of mind now, but what will be done when a farm field, barn or even a home catches fire from those airborne fireworks? Thank you, Jackson, for sending your delinquents out into the county once again.