Opinion Line (Jan. 12)

After all the money Western cultures have spent on spying on private citizens, the only bang for the buck we’ve gotten is that from the muzzles of the weapons of terrorists. What if we built friendships instead of fortresses?

If the president’s No. 1 task is our nation’s security, why is everyone’s fear exactly that?

It’s amazing after the attack in Paris how much of the world showed its support and belief in the concept that is the foundation of our Constitution and Bill of Rights, freedom of speech. It’s too bad that Obama and the Democrats don’t show that same support and belief.

“Muhammad is avenged”? I don’t think so. Muhammad is ashamed.

Is the free, civilized world crippled by Islamist terrorists? If not, then why don’t all the leading newspapers print comics of controversy in a show of support for free societies? What’s the matter? Cat got your tongue?

Characterizing nonconformity as “mental illness” is a hallmark of totalitarian government.

If you’re pro-gun in an attempt to protect yourself in the event of a government takeover, equal firepower isn’t the answer. Money is. Becoming a millionaire or billionaire is the only way to alleviate takeover fears. That way you can buy your own politicians and elections to serve your personal agenda.

Is there no limit to the evil? Now companies are imposing “non-compete clauses” in order to chain their low-wage workers to their jobs. The things going on in this country are starting to resemble what happened in France just before the French Revolution.

To help pay for the city’s snowplow GPS equipment and save possibly millions, clock out the employees associated with the vehicles that are stationary at a convenience store longer than five minutes, then clock them back in after leaving the area.

With all the salt brine being put on our streets, I’m wondering why the EPA hasn’t raised the issue of this salt running into our rivers and streams.

Overkill of salt and brine is far better than ice. Take it from someone who has had a serious accident caused by an icy street. A trip to the car wash is far less traumatic than injuries and a totaled car. To our street crews: Keep up the good work.

If there’s something you don’t want to hear about on the news, just claim it’s a distraction. If it’s just a distraction, then you also need to quit talking about it.

Bill Cosby joked that women should be careful drinking near him. For someone who is pretty funny, that is not funny.

This story was originally published January 11, 2015 at 6:04 PM with the headline "Opinion Line (Jan. 12)."