Speak Out 3/5/06

Boundless tyranny

I NEVER thought much about syndicated columnist Walter E. Williams' extreme right-wing hype, but his op-ed on "No democracy for Iraq" was some of his best work. The tyranny of the majority knows no bounds. He should now retire.

Back-alley system

PEOPLE NEED to understand that desperate women will always seek abortions. The only difference restrictive laws would make is that poor women would not have access to safe procedures they want and need, but wealthy women will always be able to get an abortion. We would be moving backward and revisiting an old system of back-alley nightmares. I thought we had learned our lesson, but people forget. We should focus on avoiding unwanted pregnancies in the first place.

Costly legislation

CONGRATULATIONS, STATE Sen. Jason Crowell, for jumping on the "ban all abortions" bandwagon. Sure, you got beat by two or three other states that will lose in court as well, but now you'll get your name in the headlines. The taxpayers thank you in advance for wasting money on the ensuing legal battle that will declare your legislation unconstitutional.

Christian agenda

BASING ANTI-ABORTION legislation on science and technology is a new hypocritical low for extremist Christians. When it comes to teaching evolution, funding stem-cell research or warning of global warming, scientists are regarded by the Christian right as godless hacks trying to push an agenda. It's a vile misuse of science, but it's to be expected from the fundamentalists, who seem to be taking this country over.

Can't please everyone

AS A resident of Cairo I applaud Gov. Rod Blagojevich for his commitment to the whole state of Illinois and not just one small town. Everyone will never be pleased no matter what is done, or where.

Where there's smoke ...

IT'S NOT a non-smoking section if you can smell and see the smoke. One of my biggest beefs is having to walk through the smoking section to get to the non-smoking section and then back through it to get out. I've stopped going to many restaurants because of this.

Advance warning

I HAVE to commend Bio-Kyowa for informing its employees a year in advance of their layoff. Most companies inform employees way in advance, while there are still a few that do not. This way the laid-off employees can be looking for employment elsewhere and not have to struggle between jobs. They will be ready.

Taking on Roe

WHERE WILL Jason Crowell's power trip end? Now he's taking on Roe v. Wade. Who's going to feed all the children born if his proposed legislation passes? The Republicans have made it clear they won't.