DISCUSSING PUBLIC ISSUES

When eight state legislators participated recently in Southeast Missouri State University's first public-issues forum, area residents had an opportunity to learn not only what local state senators and representatives are thinking, but also to see some of the legislative leadership up close.

For example, this was the first visit by House Speaker Steve Gaw to Southeast Missouri since he took over the powerful leadership position last month. Also on the panel was Rep. Mark Richardson of Poplar Bluff, who is the House GOP leader.

Although attendance at the forum was sparse, the discussion on issues ranging from concealed weapons to safer schools was informative.

The forum was organized by Jack Stapleton Jr. of Kennett, a longtime newspaperman who teaches at the university and writes columns that appear twice a week elsewhere on this page.

If future forums are as well-organized and interesting as the debut, area residents can look forward to some worthwhile evenings dealing with important issues.