On To Mars?

Do you support Trump administration’s goal to renew space program?

There was a time when Americans were enthralled by the idea of space exploration. The late 1950s into the early 1970s were exciting times. families were glued to their TV sets to see rockets lift off, astronauts return to Earth and, on July 20, 1969, to see the first man walk on the moon. In difficult and turbulent times, America was unified at least behind this cause, this goal.

Our space program has been in the doldrums for a long time. But that may change.

In an op-ed piece written for The Wall Street Journal, Vice President Mike Pence says the Trump administration will “refocus America’s space program toward human exploration and discovery. That means launching American astronauts beyond low-Earth orbit for the first time since 1972.”

Plans include a “renewed American presence” on the moon and eventually, landing astronauts on Mars.

It’s an ambitious undertaking—if it gets off the ground. There have been calls for a renewal of the space program before. But not all agree it’s the best use of our tax dollars and NASA is an easy target for budget cuts.

We want to know what you think. Should the U.S. pursue renewed efforts in space exploration, including an eventual manned Mars landing? Or do you think there are better uses for the money?

Send your response (50 words maximum) to opinion@texarkanagazette.com by Wednesday, Oct. 11. You can also mail your response to the Texarkana Gazette Friday Poll, at P.O. Box 621, Texarkana, TX 75504 or drop it off at our office, 101 E. Broad St., Texarkana, Ark. Be sure to include your name, address and phone number. We will print as many responses as we can in next Friday’s paper.

Last Week: Uber

The private car hire service Uber recently made its debut in the Twin Cities. Are you likely to use Uber here in Texarkana? Or is it unlikely you will make use of the service?

Will I likely use Uber? No, not likely. However, I like the concept and would use this unique service if needed.—B.J., Texarkana, Texas

I will definitely use the service. Most importantly, everyone that goes out without a designated driver should use Uber if they have been drinking. Safer and cheaper option than driving under the influence or riding with someone that’s been drinking. We should be happy that Texarkana has Uber now.—J.J.C., Texarkana, Texas

I will not use Uber. They are a parasite trying to take jobs away from the taxi service. We have good taxi/bus service, have no need for Uber. Uber is a solution looking for a problem and there ain’t one.—D.M., Texarkana, Texas From www.facebook.com/ texarkanagazette Yes! I’ve used it a lot in other cities. Even my children (they are teenagers) have used Uber. Absolutely, if the need comes up, we will use it. They do background checks—not just anyone can drive for them. The drivers are local too. So by using Uber, you are definitely helping locals. If more people used the service, the price would go down. The price is based on availability and peak hours.

In Texarkana, I don’t know … maybe if I was having my car worked on and wanted to spend the time at the mall or something. I did use Uber once in Dallas this past summer and loved it!

Yes because I have no friends or family here to pick me up from surgery and they will not let you leave in a cab.

I wish I could say yes, but Texarkana has been so dangerous lately. I can just see getting in the car with some stranger … You may never reach your destination. Just saying!

Yes, if my personal transportation is unavailable.

Yes I have used it in Chicago, San Diego, Honolulu and Washington, D.C. I have had nothing but good experiences without long waits for taxis.

Lol. I’m sure most if not all cities Uber works in already had public transportation. More expensive, yes, but if you’ve used public transportation, you’ll pay that extra.

If needed, I would try the local taxi first. Only because I believe in supporting the local biz and their employees.

I never say never. Maybe in case of car trouble. I could see where it would be a great service to those that don’t drive or need a designated driver. Nope, the bus or taxi. Yep. If need be. Rather be safe than DWI.

I doubt I will use Uber. Only time I might use it is if I am getting my oil changed and want to leave and go somewhere. Use them all the time when traveling. Yes! Absolutely. They screen all drivers. Extensively. My husband and I would love a night out on the town without having to worry about who gets to have a drink and who doesn’t. Not that we drink that much, but one and you’re done behind the wheel.

Uber to the airport? Uber if want to go to a club dinner or any events you don’t want to park! It supports local people who are doing the driving! It’s not that expensive and worth it!

Probably not, but I hope I never have to find out. Yes I would them! No, not at their current charges. Also reluctant to ever “work” for them since they get a healthy cut of the proceeds.

If they are offering a coupon for $15 off first ride, then it doesn’t seem cost effective.

More then likely not. Their prices are almost double what other cities are.

I use them in DFW area and Little Rock. Nope. Not in Texarkana. Noooo way. I don’t trust people. No, not even a taxi cab. Sure. Free enterprise.