Speak Out 8/14/08

Take the oil

SOME PEOPLE are suggesting that we confiscate Iraq's oil as payback for liberating the country. Liberating the Iraqis was never one of our goals in that war. The goals were to rid Iraq of nonexistent weapons of mass destruction and destroy the nonexistent-at-the-time al-Qaida presence in Iraq. Given that track record, I suppose we should take the oil, thereby strengthening the American empire.

Enhancing achievement

DISPERSING STUDENTS from the lower economic strata among schools with students from predominately middle-class socioeconomic backgrounds would enhance the academic achievement of those from the lower socioeconomic segment of society. This is a class-based (not race) solution to the glaring failures of some schools.

Good orientation

I WAS impressed with the orientation at Jackson Junior High School. The lines were short, and everything went smoothly. The student council students and faculty were helpful and friendly. Thanks.

Handicapped fans

I WISH the Jackson School Board would take a look at the seating arrangements for handicapped, wheelchair-bound people during their football games. It's level with the field where these fans can't see the field very well. They should be where it's elevated.

Rules of the road

YES, SCOOTER and motorcycle riders need to know our place in traffic. We have the same rules of the as other motorists. We do not skim around the sides of the vehicles. A wheelie would be difficult to do on a scooter, but a wheelie also isn't cool. No matter who is on the road, all motorists need to obey all the laws. Everybody respect everybody else and we'll be OK.

Great reading

I WOULD just like to let the paper know how much I'm enjoying this SE Live magazine that tells you what's going on in town, rates the movies and tells you all about the restaurants. It's fun to read and a great addition to the paper. I also enjoy the columns by Bob and Callie Clark Miller. I can't wait to open my Sunday paper and read what they have to say. Just an idea, What about an advice column from the Millers? They have a unique take on the issues of life, and I'd love to read what they have to say.

Cars for kids

I GREW up dirt poor, and I don't understand parents who buy their children brand-new sports cars or trucks and expect them to have any respect for those vehicles.

Four wars at once

IT LOOKS like we have four wars going on in the world. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have been dragging on for quite some time, as well as the invasion of the U.S. by Mexico. Now we have the invasion of Georgia by Russia. Each war has its own characteristics. For example, the invasion of the U.S. by Mexico requires no significant weaponry or battle tactics because there is virtually no resistance.