Speak Out 9/10/13

Freedom

I don't believe many of our citizens really know what's going on in Syria. A huge number of American citizens have given their lives in all of the past and present conflicts, and they served honorably. Syria must be stopped or you could wake up some morning or night to find you and your family suffering from such an attack. I served in Vietnam and I would go back again if our country was in danger. I did not get a hero's welcome, but you know what? I am still a proud American. I would fight anywhere to preserve our freedoms today.

Common ignorance

Percentage of Americans who have never heard of Common Core standards for public education? 67 percent.

President's power

An odd coalition of tea party Republicans -- Ted Cruz -- far left Democrats and libertarians -- Rand Paul -- may prevent the passage of a resolution authorizing the president's strike against Syria. If so, I strongly advise the president to proceed anyway, since there is no doubt he has the authority.

Band battle

It's a crying shame that a winery in Southern Illinois can book Lynyrd Skynyrd the week of the SEMO District Fair, but the best rock band the fair board can find to play is Three Dog Night.

Moon blame

The U.S. Postal Service denies assertions by a local postal union leader that the transfer of mail processing from Cape Girardeau to St. Louis is causing significant delays in mail arrival and delivery mishaps. Sure is strange that our mail is running several hours later than it had been before. Would it be because of the moon?