Letter to the Editor

Letter: YMCA has succeeded beyond expectations

Saturday, October 16, 2021

Dear Editors:

I read with interest and great appreciation your excellent story on the 25th anniversary of the creation of the YMCA in Sikeston. There have been few projects during the last quarter century — the building at SAHEC and the Three Rivers campuses, the purchase of the industrial park properties, and the recent passage of the school bond issue are others — which have been more important to our current positive outlook in Sikeston.

The YMCA has succeeded beyond all expectations. It is truly amazing that the Y currently has over 4,000 members. If you enter the facility, you will note that the facility and its programs serve the entire town and are open and available to everyone.

While many persons have contributed to the Y’s success as staff members, board members, volunteers, and contributors, you were correct to recognize the key contributions of Steve Sikes, Alan Keenan, and Richard Montgomery in getting the Y off the ground and in keeping it moving forward. We are also extremely lucky to have had Jeff Partridge serve as the director of the Y since its inception and Jim Hux co-chair the major capital campaign with Montgomery for the building of the current facility.

Thank you for recognizing this key institution.

Best regards.

Very truly yours,

Joseph C. Blanton Jr.