Speak Out 12/18/03

Nightmare at Mizzou

I AM very upset by the flagrant racism demonstrated by the University of Missouri president's wife. She instructed a former basketball player that he shouldn't date white women. This reflects on her and on her husband. I'm getting tired of this whole situation being paid for with our tax dollars. How many other students at Mizzou has he invited to his home for weekends? He says there was nothing unusual in his situation with Ricky Clemons. It's a nightmare.

Revising history

AFTER READING about the attempts throughout America to desensitize students about America's history and national pride, what is being done to counteract this deplorable sabotage of our country's historical heritage and our students? Surely this anti-American action in schools can be stopped. Loyal American leaders are going to have to take action to protect our young people.

Whining for more

IF I hear "I've paid taxes all my life and am entitled to get taken care of" one more time, I'll throw up. Is that what you want to be: reimbursed and not caring where it comes from? The only people I know who are owed are those who laid down their lives for this country. I'm a senior citizen, and it's disgusting to hear some of my peers whine and curse the government for not treating them fairly.

Tax-free businesses

I THINK money is the answer. If Cape Girardeau wouldn't let companies set up businesses tax free, there would be plenty of money for the schools and fire and police departments. If the city doesn't wake up, businesses will stop coming to town and people will move out due to the educational system and lack of proper fire and police protection. I don't know how many companies in our town do not pay taxes. City officials, give us a list. I think most community members would be shocked and more understanding of the financial problems of our city and schools.

But no influence

WITHOUT SAYING so directly, some Speak Out public-school advocates can make very impassioned pleas for tax increases. The only thing these lyrical pieces lack is the ability to influence voters.

No-smoking policy

JEFFERSON CITY has passed a no-smoking regulation in restaurants if they have less than 50 percent alcohol sales. Will they take away our right to have a drink or eat greasy food? There have always been smoking and non-smoking areas, which never seemed to cause a problem until just recently. Mayor Knudtson, take notice. If you enact some ridiculous plan like this, I will guarantee you will not be re-elected.

Billboards near bridge

I AGREE there shouldn't be billboards next to the bridge. The bridge is so beautiful, yet it is being vandalized by the ugly billboards people are allowed to put up. Someone needs to take action and not allow any billboards within 500 yards of our bridge.