National anthem

Several graduating SEMO students did not stand up when the national anthem was played. That is their prerogative but for me it put a damper on an otherwise wonderful ceremony.

Emergency funds

What percentage of the American people could not come up with $400, even in the direst of emergencies? 52 percent.

Secular principles

The content of Dr. Kamath's recently published Guest Commentary piece is so contrary to the conventional wisdom of the people in this area that he deserves the highest praise for writing it and the Southeast Missourian deserves a profile in courage award for publishing it. I certainly agree with his thesis that religious fanaticism of all creeds has historically and currently brought death and destruction to societies around the world and mankind would be so much better off it believed in and practiced the principles of secular humanism.