Letter to the Editor

Your View: Three views from 9/13

Friday, September 13, 2002

I just want to let you know that your comments about Darrell Porter were appreciated by all his fans. I was shocked to hear of his last days and hours.

Your article made me reflect on his career and his personal life that he worked so hard at doing what he thought was right. I am sure he was a positive influence for a lot of young people, but we all must realize we are only humans and sometimes the things of the world do bring us down. I am truly saddened by this loss and find it hard to understand, after winning the battle for 20 years, that he did not ask for help at that point in his life.

I always enjoy reading your views on various topics, and even though I don't always agree, you do make a good presentation. Most of the time, you are right on the money and I am glad someone has the courage to speak out about pressing topics. You have a big responsibility to present both sides of all things, and a lot of people believe everything they read, so it has to be presented truthfully.

Sincerely, Jean Cloud Dexter

The Delta Area Economic Opportunity Corporation (DAEOC) held its sixth annual Back to School Fair in August. The fair was held at the Unity Baptist Church in Benton on Aug. 6 and at the YMCA in Sikeston on Aug. 12.

Children in grades K-12 received school supplies, valuable information on seat belt safety, finger printing, a hearing screening, library information, prevention through discipline, 25 free hair cuts, the harmful effects of tobacco products and educational information from the Altrusa Club.

DAEOC's Scott County team members would like to than everyone who contributed to the purchase of the school supplies: Wal-Mart, Altrusa Club of Sikeston, St. Denis Catholic Church, St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Dollar General Store, First Christian Church, Sikeston Elks, Duckett Truck, Center, Stan's Carpet, Sikeston Motor Company, Food Giant, First State Bank, Lambert's Cafe and DeWitt Company; and Trend Setters for donating the free hair cuts.

Booths were also set up by service providers: Miracle Ear, Sikeston Public Library, Sikeston Department of Public Safety, Scott County Sheriff's Department, Altrusa Club, DAEOC Prevention Through Discipline, Bootheel Healthy Start and the Scott County Health Department.

Thanks again to a great county for your time, generosity and support.

Scott County Team members: Margaret Cox, Lois Dirickson, Marlene Anglin, Pat Lowry, Sarah Smith and Mary Nichols.

Dear friends of New Madrid County:

My family and I would like to thank you so much for the honor you have given me.

The votes of confidence which you cast for 19 consecutive terms were always considered as a sacred privilege. It would seem many things do come full circle, and after serving 38 years in the Missouri House of Representatives and four years in the service of our nation in the U.S. Navy, it is gratifying and very special to share a dedication of the library in the City of New Madrid with my fellow veterans.

When my father and mother donated the land for the library, they had no way of knowing the honor you all would bestow on our family years later by naming the building addition after their only child. But they would be so proud and grateful.

We appreciated all the kind words, expressions of friendship and caring; and the great honor of having been chosen to share the name of the Veterans Memorial Library Gene Copeland Annex. As a lifetime member of the American Legion, this is a very special honor in itself.

Thank you, again, from the bottom of my heart for the lovely dedication ceremony and the privilege of serving you.

Sincerely, Gene Copeland