Speak Out 2/21/11

Raise wages

HERE'S a tip for business owners. If you are having trouble getting your part-time employees to work extra, you may want to double check their salaries. When was the last time you gave them a raise? How much was that raise? I work two part-time jobs. One pays a better salary. So when I have a choice between the two jobs, I, of course, will work the one with the best pay.

A different time

IN 1972 Jackson's dress code was strict, except for the hem length of the female dresses. Mini skirts were in style along with maxi coats to keep the legs warm in the winter. Pantyhose and undergarments had to be worn (no cleavage allowed). Girls were not allowed to wear slacks unless the temperature was 10 degrees or colder, and blue jeans were not allowed. When school started in August, there was no air conditioning. How did I survive such torture?

Minimum wage

THE Southeast Missourian's recent front-page article on the Republicans in the legislature starting to repeal the minimum wage failed to mention the percentage by which the people adopted this law in 2006. The people approved this law with 76 percent in favor. When Republicans say they are "business friendly" they mean they are "people unfriendly."

Leash your dogs

DOG owners, please keep your pets on a leash, chain or behind a fence when you allow them outside.

Save courthouses

CAN historical organizations step in and help save our old courthouses before someone decides they are not important enough to save?