PEROT SIGNATURE EFFORT MEETS SUCCESS SATURDAY

Supporters of an independent presidential bid by Texas billionaire H. Ross Perot held a petition drive kickoff Saturday in several counties of the 8th Congressional District.

Mike Ponder, 8th District coordinator, said Saturday afternoon he was optimistic that before the day was over supporters would be close to the 4,048 signatures needed in this district to have Perot's name placed on the November ballot.

"The overall effort today was outstanding," said Ponder, who made visits to several towns where signatures were being gathered.

"I'm not sure if we'll be over the top, but we're sure going to be close."

A major rally was planned Saturday night in Poplar Bluff and a large crowd of potential signers was expected.

In Cape Girardeau, Alberta Jones, a Perot supporter, reported that well over 500 signatures were gathered from the effort at Cape Girardeau County Park. Supporters stood along Kingshighway with signs encouraging people to stop by a shelter at the park to sign a Perot petition.

Besides Cape Girardeau and Butler counties, organized efforts were under way Saturday in Bollinger, Scott, Mississippi and Dunklin counties.

Although just over 4,000 signatures must be gathered in the district, Ponder said the goal for the 8th District is 10,000 signatures.

Statewide, a total of about 24,000 signatures are needed, but Ponder said the goal is 100,000.

Ponder said the higher goals have been established to "set the stage for the campaign. We want to encourage people to participate now so they will also participate in November."