Speak Out A 10/26/02

Economic blame

HOW RIDICULOUS it is for the Democrats and Republicans to claim credit for the economy. The American people are responsible for the economy. It goes up and down in cycles. The market can't continue to climb. It has to level. World events and world problems often sway the economy. Yet these two parties blame, accuse and point fingers. Bill Clinton helped the economy, Ronald Reagan helped the economy, Jimmy Carter and George W. Bush hurt the economy. What hogwash. Politicians ride these lies and claims into office, and the poor sucker voter listens with his mouth open, hoping for a miracle fix. What politician wouldn't want a perfect economy? What fool in office would want a bad economy?

Thanks for prayers

I WOULD like to thank the person who writes us a prayer every day on the Opinion page. It is short, and you will be surprised how much it helps to start the day right.

Carter's record

I READ the Speak Out response about The Wall Street Journal's article about Jimmy Carter and his Nobel prize. This person seems to have not lived through the history of the Carter administration, or he would know that it was accurate. In fact, it left out some things that I don't consider that were good that Carter did such as giving away the Panama Canal. I think it was very fair to Carter, and I think it was very factual.

Tired of vandalism

IN REGARDS to the vandalism and the destruction in Jackson: My husband and I have lived in three states, have traveled all over the United States and never have had vandalism whatsoever in any home, condo or anything we owned. We would winter away, come back and our homes would be intact. But not so in Jackson. We've had seven vandalisms since we've been here. Parents, you think the police can't handle your spoiled brat kids under 16. I've got news for you. The people who are suffering the property damage can sue you when we get enough evidence. So you better start asking your kids, "Where were you last night?"

Black marks on parade

I THINK it's bad enough that we get our street blocked off on West End Boulevard every year for the homecoming parade. What's even worse is a couple of years ago I found someone urinating in my back yard. This year, they've left a big box of trash out in the middle of the median on West End between Broadway and Normal. I'm going to call the university and complain, but I'm sure I won't get any help there.

School safety

A BIG thanks to the persons cutting back the shrubs and undergrowth along the tennis courts at Central Middle School. It looks a whole lot better and lot safer for fifth and sixth graders there. Every school needs to become more alert to where predators might victimize the innocent. Perhaps the school district would be wise to designate a safety officer to spend some time checking all the schools that need work. Thanks again to those who did the job at the middle school.

Increase isn't enough

I TOTALLY disapprove of our Social Security 1.4 percent raise we're getting. I challenge anyone who gets less than $900 a month to pay all their bills plus the upkeep on a home to call Speak Out. There are people who can't get Medicaid. Medicare is also rising, and we are paying outrageous prices.

Asphalt on the bridge

THERE ARE so many articles in the paper about how safe our bridge is. Why can't we throw a layer of asphalt on top on it? It would make me feel more secure. At least I couldn't see the water through the bridge.

Working for the public

THIS IS in regards to the headline about firefighters toiling selflessly in the public interest. Give me a break. Almost everyone who works is doing something for the public. They are factory workers, farmers, construction workers, health personnel and teachers to name a few.