Speak Out 5/21/06

Procession law

I WOULD like to know what drivers are supposed to do when a funeral procession approaches -- not what is thought of as being respectful, but what the law is to ensure safety for everyone involved. I understand on a city street, if the procession is coming toward you from the other direction, you should pull to the side and stop. But what is the rule on a major highway such as Kingshighway where there are up to five lanes? I think it's absurd to be expected to pull to the side if you are going the opposite direction of the procession. If it is safe to do so, by all means do it out of respect. But let's have some respect for the living by not creating a bigger traffic problem than is already occurring on Kingshighway every day.

Moment of respect

THE ITEM about motor-ists disrespecting a funeral procession hit a chord. When my grandfather passed years ago, everyone pulled over. A few even got out and took off their hats and stood until the procession passed. Now people cut in line. I'd like to know what people think is so important that they feel they can't pull over for a minute.

Awesome concert

I ATTENDED Scott City's fifth- and sixth-grade rock concert, and it was awesome. I have never seen the kids enjoy themselves more. Great job to the kids and the student teacher, Mr. Carver.

No hard work

THE PERSON who thinks teenagers could work in the orchards must be dreaming. You can't get them to mow the lawn anymore, let alone do hard work like picking fruit. Most of the teens I know want little work and high pay.

Arrogant action

THE CITY'S attempted seizure of property on Broadway with the intent of giving it to a different property owner is an interesting development. Voters here are pretty conservative, and I imagine they would be very interested in finding out who is responsible for this abuse of power. How arrogant and ignorant of voters' wishes. This will make for good discussion come election time.

Dangerous crossing

I WISH the Southeast Missourian would come down to Chaffee and see firsthand the mess the Gray Street railroad crossing is in. It is apparent the big-dollar railroads are not going to repair the crossing, which has become dangerous to the traveling public. We all know that no help is going to come from the mayor or the council. Maybe if the Missourian would follow up on this we might get our crossing repaired before someone either severely damages a vehicle or someone gets hurt.

Small amount

SO CAPE Girardeau does not want to participate in the sales-tax holiday due to fiscal responsibility. They city brings in $8.35 million of sales-tax money each year. Last year the city lost $30,000, or 0.36 percent of its sales tax income. The city is making a big deal out of nothing.

Too dirty?

SOME OF the water we drink comes from the Mississippi River. Not long ago all of it did.

Dangerous racing

RED AND the black cars were drag racing on Main street near Red Star Baptist and all the way up the hill. Thankfully, I was walking with my husband on the sidewalk. Slow down. No one is invincible. Do not wait until you have a wreck and kill someone or die yourself. Death is final.