Speak Out A 12/20/03

Hiding in a hole

THE HOLE that Saddam Hussein was staying in shows the extremes he would go to thwart the United States military. Congratulations to the troops for finding him. This stunning achievement shows that our troops are dedicated, disciplined and will be ultimately successful. By the way, if Saddam would hide himself in such a way, you have to believe he would also hide weapons of mass destruction in such a concealed manner too.

Bragging on the band

THE CAPE Girardeau School District was ranked in the top 100 school districts for music in the United States. Does the school board expect Cape schools to make it ever again if they remove the third band director? I have watched the band program grow over the years. On the district Web site, the district brags about the No. 1 rankings of the music programs. What are they going to brag about next year? It won't be about teacher morale, and it won't be about happy students. But let's be stereotypical and take away from the arts.

Cuts affect students

MARK BOWLES, superintendent of the Cape Girardeau School District, has stated over and over again that he wanted to cut the budget and not affect the students. He created this big show of concentric circles. But his suggested budget cuts directly affect every child in the district. He certainly didn't hurt his perks. I am very disappointed over his leadership at this time. I think his contract should be seriously considered by the school board.

Comments on racism

THREE COMMENTS about three recent instances involving racism: First, shame on the Southeast Missourian for implying that having a higher minority population is the reason for higher discipline problems. Second, if you don't like foreign food, don't eat it. Apparently enough people in this area are cultured enough to try other flavors Otherwise, these restaurants would not stay open. There are more than enough American restaurants around here. Lastly, University of Missouri president Elson Floyd made no racist remarks, nor did his wife. I've heard pastors telling people interracial dating is wrong, and all Mrs. Floyd suggested was that Ricky Clemons stop dating white women.

Rational but macabre

I STRONGLY disagree with Gary Rust's view that Saddam Hussein is irrational. Like Hitler, Hussein and his henchmen kept very accurate and detailed records of their atrocities. Though what Hussein did reflects a serious personality disorder, psychopathy or sociopathy (lack of a conscience or the ability to feel remorse or guilt), it also mirrors the mindset of one who is very rational in a very macabre way.

Biggest need

WHICH COULD you do without: more police cars so they can drive them home at night, a second new fire truck or not having your streets plowed when the first snow comes? Think about it. If the Cape Girardeau City Council wants a tax increase for just the fire and police, they are the ones who need it the least.

Need for discipline

WHEN SCHOOL officials suspend a student, they should not have to look and see how much money it is costing the district. Problem students need to be punished, not slapped on the hand because the district is broke.

Backpack pain

I JUST had back surgery. My son left his backpack at home when he almost missed the bus. I could not take it to school because it weighs too much for me to carry. I have two older children who have both seen chiropractors because of their bad backs. I guess my son and your sons and daughters will be next. Next time you hear your child complain of back pain, think back to school days. I weighed my child's backpack: 28 pounds. Something has got to be done.

Don't blame citizens

HERE WE go again: a tax for the Cape Girardeau Fire Department. The city council dictates where all revenue gets spent. If the fire department and police department are underpaid and don't have the equipment they need, it's the fault of the city fathers, not the citizens. You work for us. We don't work for you.

Excellent program

I WANT to say how much I enjoyed the Jackson Junior High School winter music program. We have an impressive group of talented young people here in Jackson, and I'm proud to be the parent of one. Thanks to the teachers and students for a very enjoyable program.

Spend the money

I AM a resident of the Fruitland Area Fire Protection District. I want to know why the board of directors is sitting on money. The budget should reflect spending money on equipment to keep the department operating. This money the department has in the bank is taxpayers' money.

Thanks, Jim Drury

I ADMIRE Jim Drury for standing up for the taxpayers. I want to say "Thanks, Jim" for doing the right thing. I suggest Drury run for public office and restore some common sense in our government.