We span the gamut from hard news to soft doggie features in the commenting highlights from Patchland. Somehow, taking parents to task always seems to come up. Isn't that interesting? Take a look at this week's list and if you find a topic that moves you, click the link and please add your point of view.

You can sue them; just don't expect anything
Court Date Set for US Fidelis Owners
"Can I still sue US Fidelis for the money I paid to them—the reason is for misrepresentation?"
— Renee' Maechling, Wentzville Patch

Ah, but paying attention is the trick, isn't it?
I-270 Advisory Speeds Begin Today
"The M-25 freeway that circles London, England, has computer-generated speed signs based on the actual real time traffic flow. They WORK and seriously reduce the stop-and-start congestion issues when people follow them. If St. Louis drivers pay attention, and if the computer program is decent, congestion issues will be reduced substantially by this program."
— James C. Walker, Arnold Patch

Let freedom ring — quietly
Event Listing: O'Fallon's Heritage and Freedom Fest
"It was disappointing that even though there are three high schools in O'Fallon, none of them performed in the parade."
— Elizabeth, Lake Saint Louis Patch

Sometimes, adults just need to be kids, too
Activities for Kids During Summer Vacation: How Much is Too Much?
"I believe a certain amount of planned extracurricular activity is good for the child. How much needs to be determined by the individual parent as each child is different. I do believe children need to be left to their own devices to entertain themselves. ...Sometimes kids just need to be kids."
— A. W. Nutter, St. Peters Patch

Do we EVER really know about bratwurst or polish sausage?
Blog Post: Way to Go Cardinals! Gluten-Free Beer at Busch Stadium!
"Great to know, thanks! Are we sure about the bratwurst and polish sausage?"
— Anthony Sodd, Chesterfield Patch

Dear God: Let's be BFFs 4evr
Area Church Takes High-Tech Approach to Communication
"I'm really happy to call (Morning Star Church) my church home. Texting is just one example of how this congregation stays relevant!"
— Sarah Moore, O'Fallon Patch

And now, you don't have to pay to borrow DVDs
Blockbuster To Become Library
"I am so happy to hear about this win-win situation. The library gets a bigger home immediately, and the empty Blockbuster building is filled. Thanks to everyone that made this happen!"
— Trina Priese, Eureka-Wildwood Patch

That narrows it down
Challenging Books: Maryland Heights Parents Can Register Concerns
"Before a parent or guardian initiates a complaint about anything they find offensive in books...(they) should ferret out and gather up all their own, their husbands, boyfriends, friends' Playboy, Playgirl, Penthouse, any vulgar or any other pornographic material, including what their kids view daily, usually unsupervised, on the computer/net, Facebook, Twitter and blogs..."
— Lina Sorbilli, Maryland Heights Patch

We think most people like dogs more than people
Therapy Dog Taught That Being Different Is OK
"I have a number of role models in my view of life, but only one non-people one: that would be Fawn. If you haven't read Susie's wonderful telling of Fawn's tale, do it now before you forget. Good dog, Fawn!"
— John Luzena, Kirkwood-Webster Groves Patch

What's the line we should remember? "Yes, dear"
Moms Talk: When Child Wants BB Gun and You Don't, Who Wins?
"Clashing with the kids isn't an issue. The problem starts when the spouses don't agree."
— Sharon Reid Harris, Ladue-Frontenac Patch

Let's keep them in the stone age
2011-12 Maplewood Budget, By the Numbers
"Why are we buying iPads or notebook computers for city council members? $6,000 for six iPads or two notebook computers? That makes no sense…"
— maylily, Maplewood-Brentwood Patch