Speak Out 2/24/06

Doing his job

AS A resident of Oran, I'd like to tell the rest of you to grow up and let the police chief do his job. If you'd obey the law, you wouldn't have to worry about getting citations. He doesn't tell you how to do your job. If you can't see what good has come from having a new chief, then get rid of him. But don't complain when your store gets robbed or a child gets run over by someone who failed to stop at a stop sign while speeding.

Thanks for safety

I WANT to thank the police officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians who are fighting for our safety and medical care. There has been a lot of thanks sent our military's way, and justly so, but we should never forget to thank those who put their lives on the line every day here at home. I am pleased that during the recent shooting incidents in Cape Girardeau the shooters were quickly found and arrested. Great job.

Talented cartoonist

DON GREENWOOD: Now I have a reason to buy the newspaper. Keep it up, Don. Last week's cartoon should be on the cover of Newsweek. What talent and intelligence -- and right here in Cape Girardeau.

Be like Rod

I WISH Missouri had a governor like Rod Blagojevich of Illinois. He seems to be taking care of his people well. The only time we hear from our governor in Missouri is when he wants money for something.

Pavers are good option

THIS IS in response to the comment made by the Cape Girardeau Planning and Zoning Commission member Bill Hinkley in the article about the Fountain Street renovations. When pavers are installed correctly, they'll outlast concrete by 25 to 30 years, plus pavers look a lot better than concrete. In the long run, pavers save a lot of money.

Pushing prescriptions

PHARMACEUTICAL companies put thousands of commercials on TV daily and convince seniors that every aging problem from dementia to toenail fungus has to be fixed by drugs. The problem is, these drugs can cause even worse problems. Seniors go to their doctors asking for certain medications, and drug companies push doctors to prescribe them. Who wins in the end? Follow the money.

Sensible plan

I WOULD like to thank state Sen. Jason Crowell for a sensible approach to sexual offenders. It's long overdue. I've always felt that someone who is guilty of statutory rape shouldn't be branded as a sex offender for the rest of their life. Taking someone off the registry after 10 years is sensible.

Thanks for purse

I LOST my little black coin purse at Schnucks Feb. 17. I would like to thank whoever turned it in. Everything was there. May God bless you.

Wasted money

I READ in the Southeast Missourian that New Orleans spent $2.7 million to cover expenses of a Mardi Gras parade. I don't want to help them anymore if that's the way they want to spend money. What a waste.