Speak Out 4/4/13

School computers

The Cape Girardeau public school's apparent decision to buy large numbers of laptop or tablet computers so that each student can have one is a stupendous move in a public relations sense. It matters little to parents that there is not one iota of proof that computers help make students smarter or help improve scores on all important standardized tests, including college entrance exams. What matters is that computers are cool and that there is a widespread misperception that they are the key to ensuring that our students catch up with those in so many other countries in the world.

Gun laws

Syracuse University, which tracks enforcement of federal gun laws, reported that under Obama "weapons prosecutions declined to the lowest level in a decade." And this guy wants to take away law-abiding citizens' guns. He is nuts.

Dog park drivel

I am really turned off to dogmatic Speak Out drivel opposing a dog park.

JV basketball team

Because of the excessive amount of sports news, high school junior varsity teams often get little, if any, coverage. Still, I think in some instances, special attention should be paid. One example would be the undefeated (20-0) Notre Dame Regional High School's boys junior varsity basketball team. Thus, a very sincere Speak Out congratulations to Coach Paul Unterreiner and his team for a truly outstanding accomplishment.

Medicaid expansion

Missouri citizens are getting bamboozled. Because of their knee-jerk opposition to anything associated with the Obama administration, the Missouri General Assembly's ongoing opposition to the best Medicaid expansion proposal, the Show Me State may be doomed to economic dysfunction for decades.

Not a lobbyist

Jo Ann Emerson's firm declaration that she is not a lobbyist and will not register as one should lay to rest the uninformed, knee-jerk opposition to her departure.

Obamacare taxes

Just wait until Jan. 1, 2014. You think your taxes are high now? Wait until Obamacare fully kicks in. Taxes are going to go sky high. All you people who thought your health care would be free are going to get a rude awakening.

Jensen column

Hoo-ray for Michael Jensen's column. I agree, its time the government checks out its poverty policies and help the needy not the greedy.

Government workers

I heard a statistic that 1 out of every 6 Americans works for the government on some level. That's what, 50 million people? If they are truly productive, wouldn't we see the effects of what that many people can do each day in our society?